SMadison29
What Sherman aspires to be
First Round
1. Hou - RB – Reggie Bush*, USC
With the #1 pick you have to take the BPA & now that Carr’s option has been picked up there is no question what Houston will do. The Texans lack playmakers on offense & that's exactly what Reggie will provide. They still have Domanick Davis but he's nothing special. He could eventually be used as trade bait if the Texans feel like he'll be a problem, but I don't think he’ll mind sharing carries since he did so in college with LaBrandon Toefield. Reggie would also create a two headed monster on kick returns with All-Pro Jerome Mathis, who would you kick to? Other possibilities: The Texans could trade down & position themselves for LT D'Brickashaw Ferguson, their most glaring weakness.
2. NO - QB – Matt Leinart, USC
The Saints are a team that are in the most desperate need of a franchise QB, & a face of the team. Aaron Brooks is most likely gone as the rebuilding process begins with Sean Payton & a mistake free QB that has big game experience. Leinart doesn’t possess the greatest arm but he’ll get enough air underneath his deep ball for Horn & Stallworth to go after. Other possibilities: They could go with Vince Young but I don't think Payton wants to wait 2-3 years until his first pick sees the field. If for some reason Payton thinks Brooks is his QB then trading down & positioning themselves for A.J. Hawk would be optimal.
3. Tenn - QB – Vince Young*, Texas
Though I don't think he's anywhere near the 3rd best player in the draft, Vince Young will provide the Titans with their heir to Steve McNair. With McNair said to be returning with a restructured deal it would give Fisher the opportunity to bring Vince along slow, just like he did with McNair behind Carlson & Chandler. Other possibilities: With the rumor of how much Fisher & Chow liked Cutler at the Senior Bowl he could be the surprise pick here, though it would not be a value pick. LT Brad Hopkins is nearing the end & D’Brickashaw is still on the board.
4. NYJ - LT – D’Brickashaw Ferguson, Virginia
The Jets are in a great position. They get whoever is left of the big 4, & they could use any of them. D'Brick is a can't miss LT that would man the LT spot for 10-15 years. D’Brick dominated everyone at the Senior Bowl, including fellow first rounder Mathias Kiwanuka so his stock couldn’t be higher. With D'Brick, possibly, protecting Pennington's blindside maybe he can stay healthy for more than 3 games. Other possibilities: Any of the 3 guys above. It also appears that Pennington will be cut soon, so if neither of the QBs are available the Jets could trade down a couple spots & take Jay Cutler.
5. GB - OLB – A.J. Hawk, Ohio St
The Packers have a decision to make, no not at QB, but which defensive player comes off the board first. The Packers are said to be searching for two new starting OLBs, & A.J. Hawk would be a step in the right direction. Other possibilities: Mario Williams is a superb pass rusher with great size & would do great opposite of KGB. The underrated Aaron Kampmann is an UFA, so provided they resign him the Pack could use Hawk a little more. A surprise pick of either RB DeAngelo Williams or LenDale White could happen since Ahman Green & Najeh Davenport are UFAs.
6. Oak^ - DE – Mario Williams*, NC State
The Raiders bring back Art Shell but what has he gotten himself into? The Raiduhs simply have all kinds of problems but the BPA is a good one in Mario Williams. All-Pro DE Derrick Burgess would become even more dangerous & the pass rush provided by these two would help a young secondary that is losing veteran Charles Woodson. Other possibilities: A.J. Hawk or whoever is left from the other four players above.
7. SF^ - WR – DeAngelo Williams, Memphis
The Niners could go in a number of directions but Mike Nolan seemed to grow attached to DeAngelo Williams at Mobile, so I wouldn't be overly surprised if Nolan did like Gruden did last year with Cadillac. Notice how little DeAngelo played in the Senior Bowl? Other possibilities: DB Michael Huff would bring some credibility to a horrendous secondary riddle with injuries & back ups & OLB Chad Greenway would fit Mike Nolan’s 3-4 nicely.
8. Buff - DT – Haloti Ngata*, Oregon
Ngata is a major need up front for the Bills who lost Pat Williams last off-season & may see Sam Adams become a cap casualty this off-season. Ngata has loads of potential & will need to be constantly double teamed, provided he doesn't become lazy as he's been accused of this season. Other possibilities: The Bills don't have a LT right now so Winston Justice could become a cornerstone to help settle JP Losman down in the pocket. TE Vernon Davis could be another option as the Bills don't have a receiving presence over the middle with speedsters Moulds, Evans, & Parrish on the outside. A big target like Davis could also work wonders as a failsafe for the happy feet QB.
9. Det - DB – Michael Huff, Texas
Huff is simply the best player available & Matt Millen can’t afford to gamble here with a QB with his job constantly being on the line. Huff is being compared by some to Millen’s former teammate Ronnie Lott. The Lions secondary was middle of the road last year following a broken collarbone that put Fernando Bryant down early in the year. Huff could fill in at corner if Bryant isn’t ready or move right into the starting gig at FS. Other possibilities: Jay Cutler has been rumored to go here & it’s not out of the question. Harrington has yet to prove himself & Cutler would be just the man to push him similar to the way Rivers pushed Drew Brees. Marinelli is a former dline coach, & though Millen makes the personnel decisions, he could be pulling for DE Tamba Hali or a trade up for Mario Williams or Haloti Ngata. OT Winston Justice is another possibility at right or left tackle, depending on whether Backus leaves.
10. Az - QB – Jay Cutler, Vanderbilt
The Cardinals could go a number of ways here with a plethora of talent still available. Kurt Warner just signed a 3 year deal & he wants the Cards to bring in more talent, but I don’t think this is the direction he’d want them to go. With Warner locked up there won’t be any pressure on Cutler to be the starter right away. Other possibilities: Dennis Green’s infatuation with J.J. Arrington proved to be a mistake thus far, as I predicted, so Arizona could opt for a RB like LenDale White or DeAngelo Williams. TE Vernon Davis, LT Winston Justice, & OLB Chad Greenway are also options here.
11. SL - TE – Vernon Davis*, Maryland
With Scott Linehan in the fold the Rams will need to get more out of their TE over the middle as the receivers go vertical. Brandon Manumaleuna is just not a starter in this league. Davis would be a handful for anyone to cover & he’s the BPA here. Other possibilities: DB Jimmy Williams & Tamba Hali would each fill huge needs for the Rams on the defensive side of the ball but they have to be hoping Michael Huff falls to them.
12. Cle - LT – Winston Justice*, USC
The Browns finally find themselves in a position to draft a LT in the first round that would not be a major reach. Justice can play both left & right tackle & the Browns desperately need him at LT with LJ Shelton being an UFA. Other possibilities: Crennel could use a LB that fits his scheme in OLB Chad Greenway or DeMeco Ryans or find an upgrade at corner with Jimmy Williams. A surprise pick here could be NT Gabe Watson.
13. Balt - DB – Jimmy Williams, Virginia Tech
With the retirement of Deion Sanders, Dale Carter going into free agency, & the rumors of a Chris McAlister trade it’s going to leave Baltimore a little short at CB. However, if McAlister is not traded then Williams would be moved to FS, a position better suited for his skills. He’d provide an upgrade to Will Demps, who is also an UFA. Other possibilities: The Ravens desperately need olineman. Ogden doesn’t play like an All-Pro anymore & the rest of the line couldn’t run block or keep Boller off his back. They’d love to get Justice here but Newsome won’t reach for oline help. If the Ravens also decide to let RB Jamal Lewis walk then that would open the door here for either LenDale White, DeAngelo Williams, or Laurence Maroney.
14. Phi - WR – Santonio Holmes*, Ohio St
Terrell Owens is long gone & the remainder of the receiving corps is one of the worst in the league. Reggie Brown will be a very good receiver in the league but he can’t take it on by himself this early. That leaves Todd Pinkston, who can’t catch, & Greg Lewis, who overachieved last year. Santonio Holmes will bring them another consistent receiver with speed. Other possibilities: A power back like LenDale White could also help out the Eagles offense that doesn’t have a true RB or a big man to get the tough yards, which is the reason they lost the Super Bowl last year. Chad Greenway could go here as well as a weak side replacement for UFA Keith Adams.
15. Atl - DE – Tamba Hali, Penn St
Other than Patrick Kerney the only other pass rushing threat is DT Rod Coleman. Brady Smith is in his mid 30s, coming off a season ending injury, & is no longer a starting caliber DE. Hali could serve two purposes, as a starter & provide depth to a very shallow collection of unheralded DEs. Other possibilities: The Falcons have 4 safeties entering free agency & none of them had a major impact in the secondary. DeAngelo Hall could use some FS help from either Michael Huff or former Va Tech teammate Jimmy Williams. Winston Justice, Mathias Kiwanuka, & Ashton Youboty are others to be considered.
16. :dolphins: - OLB – Chad Greenway, Iowa
We’re looking for our QB of the future, he’s not here. The best players remaining on the board are from positions we don’t have a great need for. Chad Greenway is a hell of a linebacker that fits Saban’s mold. He has speed, is tough, & is a good tackler. Greenway would be an excellent replacement for the aged Seau. Other possibilities: Jay Cutler would be the QB of the future, strong armed pocket passer, but he’s not here. Santonio Holmes would be a little bit of surprise but we need another receiver with speed opposite of Chambers. Saban is hell bent on reforming our secondary with physical corners that are good tacklers. Will Poole & Travis Daniels fit that role & are already in place, if Antonio Cromartie proves he’s healthy & does well in workouts he could shoot up the boards. Ashton Youboty is another corner to keep in mind.
17. Minn - RB – LenDale White*, USC
The constant rotation of smaller speed backs isn’t working in Minnesota. Michael Bennett is an UFA & Mewelde Moore just isn’t much more than a third down back. The combination of LenDale & Moore should work out well. Onterrio Smith is capable of being their man but who knows how long it’ll be until he’s suspended again, he can’t be trusted. I like Ciatrick Fason too but he’s gonna have to do a lot in the mini-camps to prevent the Vikes from taking another RB early. Other possibilities: Hometown boy Laurence Maroney, but he fits into the category of backs Minnesota already has. OLB Ernie Sims or DeMeco Ryans, the Vikes just can’t seem to find the right mixture of backers.
18. Dal - DT – Gabe Watson, Michigan
Gabe Watson improved his stock drastically at the Senior Bowl, it’s Parcells job to determine if Watson can keep up the effort & energy. La’Roi Glover is too small to be a NT in the 3-4, Watson would be a natural fit. Other possibilities: It sounds like Keyshawn will be a cap casualty so the Cowboys could really use Santonio Holmes to pair with Terry Glenn. Dallas’ defense could also use a playmaking LB with Dat Nguyen retiring due to a neck injury so Ernie Sims & DeMeco Ryans could be in the picture. Also, Ko Simpson in centerfield next to Roy Williams would help.
19. SD - WR – Chad Jackson*, Florida
San Diego is in search of another weapon on offense to pair with McCardell & Gates. Jackson has blazing speed & great size, around 6’1 205, to be a #1 receiver in this league. He comes from the sand trap of WRs as Florida has produced many recent day one failures including Reidel Anthony, Ike Hilliard, Travis Taylor, Taylor Jacobs, & Reche Caldwell… Other possibilities: San Diego’s D let them down this year, losing their first 5 games by a combined 14 points. Their pass defense was one of the worst in the NFL & they only tallied 10 interceptions as a team, a total two players had alone this year. Quentin Jammer & Drayton Florence have held their own while Sammy Davis has yet to live up to expectations of the late John Butler so Ashton Youboty, Antonio Cromartie, or Tye Hill could be options as could FS Ko Simpson. Marcus McNeill is also appealing as the Bolts search for an anchor on the oline.
20. KC - CB – Ashton Youboty*, Ohio St
Their defense was better this year but it’s still not where it needs to be as they were once again near the bottom in pass defense. Surtain, Knight, & Wesley are great back there together but both Eric Warfield & Dexter McCleon are nothing more than nickel backs. Other possibilities: Santonio Holmes, Chad Jackson, or Sinorice Moss, the Chiefs are in desperate need of a #1 WR. It’s amazing that their passing offense has been in the top 6 each of the past three years without a top flight receiver. DE Mathias Kiwanuka or Tamba Hali could help out a pretty dismal pass rush. DT Gabe Watson, Brodrick Bunkley, or Orien Harris next to Ryan Sims to help stop the run could help too.
21. NE - RB – Laurence Maroney*, Minnesota
Corey Dillon is an excellent All-Pro back but he seems to be getting hurt an awful lot here the past three years. The Patriots need to find a good back up because Faulk, Pass, nor Evans are capable of carrying the Pats run game. Dillon isn’t that young anymore either, he’ll be 32, & he has a lot of carries, 2400+, the only active back with more is Curtis Martin. Selecting Maroney would also keep their #1 rival, the Colts, from getting another franchise back to replace Edge. Other possibilities: New England’s secondary got picked on a lot this year as they were next to last in pass defense. They sorely missed Ty Law & Rodney Harrison this year. Harrison will return but the Pats still need to replace Law with some talent. CBs Ashton Youboty, Antonio Cromartie, or Tye Hill could help. The Patriots receiving corps seems like it’s going to be overhauled this off season with David Givens, Tim Dwight, Troy Brown, & Andre Davis all being UFAs, they may focus on Chad Jackson or Sinorice Moss.
22. Den (Was) - DE – Mathias Kiwanuka, Boston College
Denver’s dline overachieved vastly last year & didn’t provide much of a pass rush. Courtney Brown can’t seem to stay healthy & Ebenezer Ekuban is not much more than a rotational player. Mathias’ stock has slipped a bit after a sub par performance at the Senior Bowl, greatly attributed to the fact that he squared off against D’Brickashaw most of the time. Other possibilities: Denver needs to start searching for a replacement for Rod Smith. T.O. could be the answer before the draft but if they don’t get him they are said to be looking hard at Florida’s Chad Jackson. Denver still hasn’t replaced Shannon Sharpe in their offense either so they could eye Leonard Pope.
23. TB - OT – Marcus McNeill, Auburn
There’s nobody on the Bucs oline worth mentioning. They’re the reason Brian Griese was lost for the year & it’s amazing Cadillac had as good year a year as he did. Marcus McNeill projects as a RT which would be good for the Bucs since projected starter Chris Simms is left handed. Other possibilities: Joey Galloway had a great year but he’s now 34. Michael Clayton was disappointing but is still capable of being the team’s #1 WR. Sinorice Moss would complement Clayton’s size & skills well. FS Ko Simpson could also be looked at as a replacement for Dexter Jackson.
24. Cin - DT – Brodrick Bunkley, Florida St
The Bengals dline is flooded with average players, save for Justin Smith. Their run defense needs a serious upgrade because they ranked near the bottom, even though teams were in catch up mode most of the time thanks to the Bengals’ dynamic O. Other possibilities: The offense is great but TE is the one position that can be upgraded. A large target like Leonard Pope or, Carson’s former USC teammate, Dominique Byrd over the middle would be a nice addition. Improvement in the secondary is still needed too but SS Darnell Bing would be a bit of a reach here.
25. NYG - OLB – Ernie Sims*, Florida St
Past the Giants All-Pro defensive ends their defense doesn’t strike fear into anyone. Ernie Sims is a smallish but very quick & fast OLB that would provide speed on the outside that Nick Greison & Carlos Emmons don’t. It’s a start for the Giants but they need help on all levels of the defense badly. Other possibilities: Anybody on defense who the Giants feel is the best player available would work, whether it be Sims, OLBs DeMeco Ryans or Bobby Carpenter, CBs Antonio Cromartie or Tye Hill, FS Ko Simpson, or DTs Brodrick Bunkley, Orien Harris, or Claude Wroten.
26. Chi - TE – Leonard Pope*, Georgia
The Bears real question is at QB but they’re both young & have talent so they need to surround them with better talent on offense. Muhsin Muhammad is still very good on the outside & youngsters Mark Bradley, Bernard Berrian, & Justin Gage are talented but need a little time to develop. They need to get more production out of their TEs. Desmond Clark is decent but Leonard Pope is a mammoth target at 6’7 & runs a modest 4.6. There can’t be any excuse for the Bear QBs completing less than 52% of their passes. Other possibilities: RT Fred Miller is 33 & LT John Tait is better suited for the right side so either Marcus McNeill, Eric Winston, or Jonathan Scott could be options. As great as the Bears D was they could use another big DT next to All-Pro Tommie Harris so Orien Harris or Claude Wroten could get looks here.
27. Car - OLB – DeMeco Ryans, Alabama
The weakness of Carolina’s D lie’s in their OLBs. With Witherspoon a free agent & Short being just average, DeMeco’s slide stops here. DeMeco is neither big or fast but he’s an instinctive football player. Other possibilities: The Panthers would really love to find their franchise back here but their just isn’t one here. A LT, such as Eric Winston or Jon Scott, or an interior offensive lineman is needed as well.
28. Jac - CB – Antonio Cromartie*, Florida St
Terry Cousin & Kenny Wright are not starting caliber CBs in the NFL & both are free agents. Antonio is coming off an ACL tear but if he’s completely healthy he’s a hell of a steal here. Had he been healthy this year he could have possibly been a top 10 or top 5 pick. Not quite the Willis McGahee story here because Antonio will be able to play this year. Other possibilities: The Jags defense was very good last year but they could still use a DE like Mathias Kiwanuka or an OLB like Ernie Sims, DeMeco Ryans, or Bobby Carpenter. They have plenty of young offensive weapons (Reggie Williams, Matt Jones, & Ernest Wilford), though they could use a successor to Fred Taylor, but you know what they say, defense wins championships.
29. Den - FS – Ko Simpson*, South Carolina
Both of Denver’s safeties are over 32. Ko Simpson could step in start right away at FS & slide John Lynch to SS or he could sit & learn a year. Other possibilities: WR Sinorice Moss could move in & take the disappointing Ashley Lelie’s place as a speed receiver. Moss has superior hands to Lelie. Denver again is still looking for Shannon Sharpe’s replacement, Leonard Pope or Dominique Byrd could be pinpointed. LT Matt Lepsis is a free agent & may follow Kubiak to Houston. This is the part of the draft where Eric Winston & Jonathan Scott come off the board.
30. Ind - OLB – Bobby Carpenter, Ohio St
The Colts have cap issues & may not be able to keep David Thornton. Bobby Carpenter is a fierce LB & could play the Derrick Brooks role in Dungy’s defense. Other possibilities: Rumored to be enamored with Laurence Maroney as a replacement for Edge the Colts could trade up to secure him. The Colts interior oline was exposed during the divisional playoff round versus the Steelers. A team can only go so long with late day two & undrafted free agents in the middle so keep an eye on Taitusi Lutui, Max Jean-Gilles, & Nick Mangold.
31. Sea - WR – Sinorice Moss, Miami
Darrell Jackson is a good #1 receiver & Bobby Engram is a solid third down receiver. It’s going to be tough for Seattle to retain Joe Jurevicius with Shaun Alexander & Steve Hutchinson also being free agents. Sinorice will provide Hasselbeck with a deep threat & give Jackson more opportunities versus one on one coverage. Other possibilities: Though Seattle led the NFL in sacks they don’t have that staple pass rusher. It may be a little high but Kamerion Wimbley or Manny Lawson could possibly sneak in. Taitusi Lutui, Max Jean-Gilles, or Nick Mangold could also factor in with Hutch being an UFA & other starting guard Chris Gray in his mid 30s.
32. Pitt - CB – Tye Hill, Clemson
Tye Hill had an amazing Senior Bowl. He may be slight of size but he makes up for that in speed, agility, & ball skills. Pittsburgh has been lacking good corners for a many years now, which is the weakest part of their defense. If Polamalu wasn’t all over the place in the secondary the Steelers would have had trouble making the playoffs. Other possibilities: Antwaan Randle-El appears to be heading out of town so they should be looking at Sinorice Moss. If off field problems don’t scare Pittsburgh away Claude Wroten would be a nice addition as a 3-4 DE & eventual replacement to Kimo von Oelhoffen who’s in his mid 30s & also an UFA.
Second Round
33. Hou - LT - Eric Winston, Miami
Finally a LT to protect Carr’s back.
34. NO - DT - Orien Harris, Miami
The Saints were near the bottom in rush defense, again.
35. NYJ - DT - Claude Wroten, LSU
The Jets weak run D gets a boost.
36. GB - G - Taitusi Lutui, USC
A year without Wahle & Rivera proved costly.
37. Oak^ - CB - Johnathan Joseph*, South Carolina
Woodson is gone, Joseph has great speed & potential to replace him.
38. SF^ - TE - Dominique Byrd, USC
Still adding talent to surround Alex Smith, he needs all the help he can get to make up for his deficiencies.
39. Tenn - LT - Jonathan Scott, Texas
Scott would be the heir apparent to the 36 year old Brad Hopkins.
40. Det - QB - Brodie Croyle, Alabama
Brodie is the future starter if Harrington doesn’t survive make or break season.
41. Az - DT - Rodrique Wright, Texas
Rodrique strengthens the Cards run D.
42. Buff - TE - Marcedes Lewis, UCLA
He’ll provide a safety valve for J.P. over the middle.
43. Cle - OLB - Manny Lawson, NC State
Manny gives Crennel a pass rushing DE/OLB, though he could move up the boards following his workouts.
44. Balt - G/RT - Max Jean-Gilles, Georgia
Baltimore has to add talent to their porous oline.
45. Phi - OLB - Thomas Howard, UTEP
Thomas is a speedy LB that would be a force in Jim Johnson’s blitz scheme.
46. SL - DE - Kamerion Wimbley, Florida St
The Rams need a respectable pass rusher to pair with Leonard Little.
47. Atl - SS - Darnell Bing*, USC
Atlanta is looking to replace both safeties.
48. Minn - RT/G - Ryan O'Callaghan, California
The Vikings oline is weak on the right side; they could experiment with O’Callaghan & Johnson at both RG & RT.
49. Dal - ILB - D'Qwell Jackson, Maryland
Dat Nguyen retired & other than Ware the Boys’ LBs are average.
50. SD - FS - Donte Whitner*, Ohio St
Donte gives the Chargers are versatile & athletic safety to help Jammer & Florence.
51. :dolphins: - C/G - Nick Mangold, Ohio St
We need help up the middle. Mangold & Hadnot are both run blockers that can play center or guard.
52. NE - CB - Kelly Jennings, Miami
The Pats need more talented bodies in the secondary; they ranked next to last in pass D.
53. Was - WR - Maurice Stovall, Notre Dame
Stovall was a late bloomer & is a big target that complements Moss’ talents.
54. KC - WR - Derek Hagan, Arizona St
New regime, new type of offense, new type of receivers needed.
55. Cin - TE - Anthony Fasano*, Notre Dame
Cincy needs more production over the middle from their TE.
56. NYG - CB - Richard Marshall*, Fresno St
Will Allen is gone & Will Peterson can’t stay on the field.
57. Chi - G/RT - Charles Spencer, Pittsburgh
Spencer would play guard & be a possible replacement for Miller down the road.
58. Car - WR - Demetrius Williams, Oregon
Colbert disappointed this year so some competition needs brought in.
59. TB - ILB - Abdul Hodge, Iowa
Quarles led the team in tackles but he’ll be 35 this year.
60. Jac - DE - Ray Edwards*, Purdue
The Jags can’t rely on Spicer overachieving again.
61. Den - LT - Andrew Whitworth, LSU
Lepsis may be leaving & would leave a huge hole.
62. Ind - RB - Brian Calhoun*, Wisconsin
A potential replacement to Edge that has excellent hands.
63. Sea - G/C - Jason Spitz, Louisville
Tobeck & Gray will both be 36 this year. Spitz & last year’s first rounder, Spencer, are the future.
64. Pitt - DT - Kyle Williams, LSU
Williams would be a 3-4 DE to replace Kimo should he leave via free agency.
Third Round
65. Hou - DE - Darryl Tapp, Virginia Tech
They’re switching to the 4-3 so they need a new type of dlineman.
66. Hou (NO) - WR - Martin Nance, Miami Ohio
Nance is a big end zone target for Carr. He’s the possession type to go along with Bush & Johnson’s speed.
67. GB - SS - Daniel Bullocks, Nebraska
The NFL’s #1 pass D is misleading. They could use an upgrade at SS.
68. Oak^ - DT - John McCargo*, NC State
Oldland is trying to get younger at all levels on defense.
69. SF^ - CB - Cedric Griffin, Texas
Ahmed Plummer can’t stay healthy & Mike Rumph appears to be a bust, Griffin is a physical presence.
70. Buff (Tenn) - RT - Jeremy Trueblood, Boston College
Buffalo really needs a LT & could give Trueblood a try there first.
71. NYJ - WR - Cory Rodgers*, TCU
Chrebet retired so they need a possession slot receiver.
72. Az - ILB - Kai Parham*, Virginia
Cards need LB help, Parham can play inside or strongside.
73. Buff - RB - Joseph Addai, LSU
If McGahee goes down who plays in his place? Addai is a must have.
74. Det - LT - Daryn Colledge, Boise St
Some project Colledge as a guard but is an excellent pass blocker.
75. NE (Balt) - G - Davin Joseph, Oklahoma
A major need along their oline, Steve Neal is an UFA.
76. Phi - CB - DeMario Minter, Georgia
He’s too good to pass up here, a physical man to man corner.
77. SL - CB - Anwar Phillips, Penn St
They’re still trying to find that right mix of corners.
78. Cle - DT - Babetunde Oshinowo, Stanford
It’s time to add some beef to their 3-4 dline.
79. Atl - RB - Maurice Drew*, UCLA
He’s a Warrick Dunn type back behind the 32 year old Warrick Dunn.
80. Dal - DB - Jason Allen, Tennessee
Coming off a hip injury but could play center field beside Roy for years to come.
81. SD - ILB - Gerris Wilkinson, Georgia Tech
He can play ILB or OLB, potential replacement for Godfrey who’s retired one minute & not the next.
82. :dolphins: - QB - Charlie Whitehurst, Clemson
The classic strong armed, pocket QB, exactly what we need & a great value pick.
83. Minn - SS - Bernard Pollard*, Purdue
Corey Chavous is a good player & leader but he doesn’t appear to be a good fit.
84. Was - DE - Elvis Dumervil, Louisville
Biggest thing they lack is a pass rush from the end, Dumervil set the record in that category.
85. KC - QB - Omar Jacobs*, Bowling Green
Looking for an heir, Jacobs would have a couple years to learn behind Green.
86. NE - LB - Roger McIntosh, Miami
Looking to replenish an old group of LBs. Rocky can play ILB or OLB.
87. NYG - DT - Jesse Mahelona, Tennessee
Adding another big man to the middle of the D should help out the Giants & the constantly hurt William Joseph.
88. Chi - FS - Anthony Smith, Syracuse
Chris Harris is their starting FS, enough said.
89. Car - DT - Titus Adams, Nebraska
They need some help because the best DT in the NFL, Jenkins, keeps getting hurt.
90. TB - CB - Alan Zemaitis, Penn St
He struggles in man, so this is a natural fit in the Bucs cover 2 zone scheme.
91. Cin - SS - Dwayne Slay, Texas Tech
Marvin still has much to add to make Cincy’s D championship caliber.
92. Jac - OLB - A.J. Nicholson, Florida St
Off the field issues have pushed A.J. way down but he’s talented & at this point is probably worth the gamble.
93. Den - DT - Jonathan Lewis, Virginia Tech
Lewis is a high energy guy that should help the Broncos improved their 4.0 ypc against.
94. Ind - G/C - Chris Chester, Oklahoma
It’s time for the Colts to invest in their offensive line & protection of Peyton.
95. Sea - DE - Stanley McClover*, Auburn
Seattle was #1 in the NFL in sacks but don’t have a DE that strikes fear into anyone.
96. Pitt - WR - Greg Lee*, Pittsburgh
Randle El appears to be moving on to greener pastures.
Fourth Round
97. Hou - TE - David Thomas, Texas
He’s very consistent & is a good value. Home town product.
98. NO - OLB - Stephen Tulloch*, NC State
He’s undersized but a sure tackler. They have a lot of free agent LBs to replace.
99. Oak^ - Ath - Devin Hester*, Miami
The Raiders aren’t afraid to take a chance on talent. In the least he would provide an exciting return game.
100. SF^ - ILB - Spencer Havner, UCLA
They have five free agent LBs & Havner has the versatility to inside or outside.
101. Tenn - SS - Greg Blue, Georgia
He’s a very fast run supporting safety, a no brainer with Tank being a free agent.
102. NYJ - C - Ryan Cook, New Mexico
Beginning the youth movement on the interior of the oline.
103. GB - DT - Dusty Dvoracek, Oklahoma
The Packers don’t have any depth on the dline.
104. Buff - CB - Darrell Hunter, Miami Ohio
He’s a big corner with good speed & value.
105. NE (Det) - OLB - Cameron Vaughn, LSU
Still rebuilding their LBs corps, coming from LSU Vaughn should pick up B.B.’s defense quickly.
106. Az - DE - Victor Adeyanju, Indiana
They need to add another pass rusher with Berry. Adeyanju is a sleeper.
107. Phi - WR - Jason Avant, Michigan
They get Santonio in the first, Avant in the fourth, speed & possession to go with Reggie Brown.
108. SL - DB - Daniel Manning*, Abilene Christian
A small school DB that probably a FS in the NFL where the Rams could use him.
109. Cle - CB - Dee Webb*, Florida
The Browns don’t have much talent or depth at corner.
110. Balt - DE - Mark Anderson, Alabama
They’re trying to add more traditional type dlineman after switching back to the 4-3.
111. Atl - C - Greg Eslinger, Minnesota
He’s a zone type blocker that fits what the Falcons do well.
112. SD - CB - Charles Gordon*, Kansas
He comes in as a dimeback with the playmaking skills to supplant Sammy Davis as the nickelback.
113. :dolphins: - DB - Marcus Hudson, NC State
Hudson has starting experience at both CB & FS, probably a FS in the NFL, good tackler.
114. Minn - QB - Reggie McNeal, Texas A&M
He is a young developmental QB with great talent & could go higher. A potential replacement for the disgruntled Culpepper.
115. Phi (Dal) - OT - Derek Morris*, NC State
Runyan is old & a free agent.
116. NYJ (KC) - CB - David Pittman, Northwestern State
Jets take a gamble on the small school product who had a decent showing at the Senior Bowl.
117. NE - WR - Greg Jennings, Western Michigan
He’s a nice unknown possession receiver with great hands but is a tad small.
118. Den (Was) - WR - Jonathan Orr, Wisconsin
Orr has all the measurables but lacks the killer instinct. Denver’s WR coach has a lot of young talent (Lelie & Watts) but he just needs to develop them.
119. Chi - DT - Montavious Stanley, Louisville
Stanley is massive & full potential next to Tommie Harris.
120. Car - G - Fred Matua*, USC
He’s a riser amongst draft circles. Carolina has a couple free agents on the interior of their line.
121. TB - WR - Travis Wilson, Oklahoma
Wilson had a surprisingly good showing at the Senior Bowl. Has some time to learn behind Galloway.
122. Cin - DE - James Wyche, Syracuse
The Bengals still need a pass rusher if Pollack isn’t moved back to DE.
123. NYG - Ath - Michael Robinson, Penn St
They don’t have anything to work with being Plaxico & Amani. Robinson has talent, it just needs molded.
124. Jac - G - Rob Sims, Ohio St
Naeole is no spring chicken & Sims could play RT if needed.
125. Den - TE - Joel Klopfenstein, Colorado
Joel is a local product, he has excellent size. His blocking needs work but he should be able to fit in Denver’s zone blocking.
126. Phi (Ind) - ILB - Oliver Hoyte, NC State
Oliver gives Philly size in the middle & a legit option as ILB if Trotter goes down.
127. Sea - RB - Jerome Harrison, Washington State
Harrison had a very productive senior year & a decent showing at the Senior Bowl. He would be Alexander’s back up if Morris leaves.
128. Pitt - RB - Gerald Riggs, Tennessee
Riggs is a power back whose stock is down because of an injury filled senior year. He could become Pitt’s short yard runner in place of Bettis.
1. Hou - RB – Reggie Bush*, USC
With the #1 pick you have to take the BPA & now that Carr’s option has been picked up there is no question what Houston will do. The Texans lack playmakers on offense & that's exactly what Reggie will provide. They still have Domanick Davis but he's nothing special. He could eventually be used as trade bait if the Texans feel like he'll be a problem, but I don't think he’ll mind sharing carries since he did so in college with LaBrandon Toefield. Reggie would also create a two headed monster on kick returns with All-Pro Jerome Mathis, who would you kick to? Other possibilities: The Texans could trade down & position themselves for LT D'Brickashaw Ferguson, their most glaring weakness.
2. NO - QB – Matt Leinart, USC
The Saints are a team that are in the most desperate need of a franchise QB, & a face of the team. Aaron Brooks is most likely gone as the rebuilding process begins with Sean Payton & a mistake free QB that has big game experience. Leinart doesn’t possess the greatest arm but he’ll get enough air underneath his deep ball for Horn & Stallworth to go after. Other possibilities: They could go with Vince Young but I don't think Payton wants to wait 2-3 years until his first pick sees the field. If for some reason Payton thinks Brooks is his QB then trading down & positioning themselves for A.J. Hawk would be optimal.
3. Tenn - QB – Vince Young*, Texas
Though I don't think he's anywhere near the 3rd best player in the draft, Vince Young will provide the Titans with their heir to Steve McNair. With McNair said to be returning with a restructured deal it would give Fisher the opportunity to bring Vince along slow, just like he did with McNair behind Carlson & Chandler. Other possibilities: With the rumor of how much Fisher & Chow liked Cutler at the Senior Bowl he could be the surprise pick here, though it would not be a value pick. LT Brad Hopkins is nearing the end & D’Brickashaw is still on the board.
4. NYJ - LT – D’Brickashaw Ferguson, Virginia
The Jets are in a great position. They get whoever is left of the big 4, & they could use any of them. D'Brick is a can't miss LT that would man the LT spot for 10-15 years. D’Brick dominated everyone at the Senior Bowl, including fellow first rounder Mathias Kiwanuka so his stock couldn’t be higher. With D'Brick, possibly, protecting Pennington's blindside maybe he can stay healthy for more than 3 games. Other possibilities: Any of the 3 guys above. It also appears that Pennington will be cut soon, so if neither of the QBs are available the Jets could trade down a couple spots & take Jay Cutler.
5. GB - OLB – A.J. Hawk, Ohio St
The Packers have a decision to make, no not at QB, but which defensive player comes off the board first. The Packers are said to be searching for two new starting OLBs, & A.J. Hawk would be a step in the right direction. Other possibilities: Mario Williams is a superb pass rusher with great size & would do great opposite of KGB. The underrated Aaron Kampmann is an UFA, so provided they resign him the Pack could use Hawk a little more. A surprise pick of either RB DeAngelo Williams or LenDale White could happen since Ahman Green & Najeh Davenport are UFAs.
6. Oak^ - DE – Mario Williams*, NC State
The Raiders bring back Art Shell but what has he gotten himself into? The Raiduhs simply have all kinds of problems but the BPA is a good one in Mario Williams. All-Pro DE Derrick Burgess would become even more dangerous & the pass rush provided by these two would help a young secondary that is losing veteran Charles Woodson. Other possibilities: A.J. Hawk or whoever is left from the other four players above.
7. SF^ - WR – DeAngelo Williams, Memphis
The Niners could go in a number of directions but Mike Nolan seemed to grow attached to DeAngelo Williams at Mobile, so I wouldn't be overly surprised if Nolan did like Gruden did last year with Cadillac. Notice how little DeAngelo played in the Senior Bowl? Other possibilities: DB Michael Huff would bring some credibility to a horrendous secondary riddle with injuries & back ups & OLB Chad Greenway would fit Mike Nolan’s 3-4 nicely.
8. Buff - DT – Haloti Ngata*, Oregon
Ngata is a major need up front for the Bills who lost Pat Williams last off-season & may see Sam Adams become a cap casualty this off-season. Ngata has loads of potential & will need to be constantly double teamed, provided he doesn't become lazy as he's been accused of this season. Other possibilities: The Bills don't have a LT right now so Winston Justice could become a cornerstone to help settle JP Losman down in the pocket. TE Vernon Davis could be another option as the Bills don't have a receiving presence over the middle with speedsters Moulds, Evans, & Parrish on the outside. A big target like Davis could also work wonders as a failsafe for the happy feet QB.
9. Det - DB – Michael Huff, Texas
Huff is simply the best player available & Matt Millen can’t afford to gamble here with a QB with his job constantly being on the line. Huff is being compared by some to Millen’s former teammate Ronnie Lott. The Lions secondary was middle of the road last year following a broken collarbone that put Fernando Bryant down early in the year. Huff could fill in at corner if Bryant isn’t ready or move right into the starting gig at FS. Other possibilities: Jay Cutler has been rumored to go here & it’s not out of the question. Harrington has yet to prove himself & Cutler would be just the man to push him similar to the way Rivers pushed Drew Brees. Marinelli is a former dline coach, & though Millen makes the personnel decisions, he could be pulling for DE Tamba Hali or a trade up for Mario Williams or Haloti Ngata. OT Winston Justice is another possibility at right or left tackle, depending on whether Backus leaves.
10. Az - QB – Jay Cutler, Vanderbilt
The Cardinals could go a number of ways here with a plethora of talent still available. Kurt Warner just signed a 3 year deal & he wants the Cards to bring in more talent, but I don’t think this is the direction he’d want them to go. With Warner locked up there won’t be any pressure on Cutler to be the starter right away. Other possibilities: Dennis Green’s infatuation with J.J. Arrington proved to be a mistake thus far, as I predicted, so Arizona could opt for a RB like LenDale White or DeAngelo Williams. TE Vernon Davis, LT Winston Justice, & OLB Chad Greenway are also options here.
11. SL - TE – Vernon Davis*, Maryland
With Scott Linehan in the fold the Rams will need to get more out of their TE over the middle as the receivers go vertical. Brandon Manumaleuna is just not a starter in this league. Davis would be a handful for anyone to cover & he’s the BPA here. Other possibilities: DB Jimmy Williams & Tamba Hali would each fill huge needs for the Rams on the defensive side of the ball but they have to be hoping Michael Huff falls to them.
12. Cle - LT – Winston Justice*, USC
The Browns finally find themselves in a position to draft a LT in the first round that would not be a major reach. Justice can play both left & right tackle & the Browns desperately need him at LT with LJ Shelton being an UFA. Other possibilities: Crennel could use a LB that fits his scheme in OLB Chad Greenway or DeMeco Ryans or find an upgrade at corner with Jimmy Williams. A surprise pick here could be NT Gabe Watson.
13. Balt - DB – Jimmy Williams, Virginia Tech
With the retirement of Deion Sanders, Dale Carter going into free agency, & the rumors of a Chris McAlister trade it’s going to leave Baltimore a little short at CB. However, if McAlister is not traded then Williams would be moved to FS, a position better suited for his skills. He’d provide an upgrade to Will Demps, who is also an UFA. Other possibilities: The Ravens desperately need olineman. Ogden doesn’t play like an All-Pro anymore & the rest of the line couldn’t run block or keep Boller off his back. They’d love to get Justice here but Newsome won’t reach for oline help. If the Ravens also decide to let RB Jamal Lewis walk then that would open the door here for either LenDale White, DeAngelo Williams, or Laurence Maroney.
14. Phi - WR – Santonio Holmes*, Ohio St
Terrell Owens is long gone & the remainder of the receiving corps is one of the worst in the league. Reggie Brown will be a very good receiver in the league but he can’t take it on by himself this early. That leaves Todd Pinkston, who can’t catch, & Greg Lewis, who overachieved last year. Santonio Holmes will bring them another consistent receiver with speed. Other possibilities: A power back like LenDale White could also help out the Eagles offense that doesn’t have a true RB or a big man to get the tough yards, which is the reason they lost the Super Bowl last year. Chad Greenway could go here as well as a weak side replacement for UFA Keith Adams.
15. Atl - DE – Tamba Hali, Penn St
Other than Patrick Kerney the only other pass rushing threat is DT Rod Coleman. Brady Smith is in his mid 30s, coming off a season ending injury, & is no longer a starting caliber DE. Hali could serve two purposes, as a starter & provide depth to a very shallow collection of unheralded DEs. Other possibilities: The Falcons have 4 safeties entering free agency & none of them had a major impact in the secondary. DeAngelo Hall could use some FS help from either Michael Huff or former Va Tech teammate Jimmy Williams. Winston Justice, Mathias Kiwanuka, & Ashton Youboty are others to be considered.
16. :dolphins: - OLB – Chad Greenway, Iowa
We’re looking for our QB of the future, he’s not here. The best players remaining on the board are from positions we don’t have a great need for. Chad Greenway is a hell of a linebacker that fits Saban’s mold. He has speed, is tough, & is a good tackler. Greenway would be an excellent replacement for the aged Seau. Other possibilities: Jay Cutler would be the QB of the future, strong armed pocket passer, but he’s not here. Santonio Holmes would be a little bit of surprise but we need another receiver with speed opposite of Chambers. Saban is hell bent on reforming our secondary with physical corners that are good tacklers. Will Poole & Travis Daniels fit that role & are already in place, if Antonio Cromartie proves he’s healthy & does well in workouts he could shoot up the boards. Ashton Youboty is another corner to keep in mind.
17. Minn - RB – LenDale White*, USC
The constant rotation of smaller speed backs isn’t working in Minnesota. Michael Bennett is an UFA & Mewelde Moore just isn’t much more than a third down back. The combination of LenDale & Moore should work out well. Onterrio Smith is capable of being their man but who knows how long it’ll be until he’s suspended again, he can’t be trusted. I like Ciatrick Fason too but he’s gonna have to do a lot in the mini-camps to prevent the Vikes from taking another RB early. Other possibilities: Hometown boy Laurence Maroney, but he fits into the category of backs Minnesota already has. OLB Ernie Sims or DeMeco Ryans, the Vikes just can’t seem to find the right mixture of backers.
18. Dal - DT – Gabe Watson, Michigan
Gabe Watson improved his stock drastically at the Senior Bowl, it’s Parcells job to determine if Watson can keep up the effort & energy. La’Roi Glover is too small to be a NT in the 3-4, Watson would be a natural fit. Other possibilities: It sounds like Keyshawn will be a cap casualty so the Cowboys could really use Santonio Holmes to pair with Terry Glenn. Dallas’ defense could also use a playmaking LB with Dat Nguyen retiring due to a neck injury so Ernie Sims & DeMeco Ryans could be in the picture. Also, Ko Simpson in centerfield next to Roy Williams would help.
19. SD - WR – Chad Jackson*, Florida
San Diego is in search of another weapon on offense to pair with McCardell & Gates. Jackson has blazing speed & great size, around 6’1 205, to be a #1 receiver in this league. He comes from the sand trap of WRs as Florida has produced many recent day one failures including Reidel Anthony, Ike Hilliard, Travis Taylor, Taylor Jacobs, & Reche Caldwell… Other possibilities: San Diego’s D let them down this year, losing their first 5 games by a combined 14 points. Their pass defense was one of the worst in the NFL & they only tallied 10 interceptions as a team, a total two players had alone this year. Quentin Jammer & Drayton Florence have held their own while Sammy Davis has yet to live up to expectations of the late John Butler so Ashton Youboty, Antonio Cromartie, or Tye Hill could be options as could FS Ko Simpson. Marcus McNeill is also appealing as the Bolts search for an anchor on the oline.
20. KC - CB – Ashton Youboty*, Ohio St
Their defense was better this year but it’s still not where it needs to be as they were once again near the bottom in pass defense. Surtain, Knight, & Wesley are great back there together but both Eric Warfield & Dexter McCleon are nothing more than nickel backs. Other possibilities: Santonio Holmes, Chad Jackson, or Sinorice Moss, the Chiefs are in desperate need of a #1 WR. It’s amazing that their passing offense has been in the top 6 each of the past three years without a top flight receiver. DE Mathias Kiwanuka or Tamba Hali could help out a pretty dismal pass rush. DT Gabe Watson, Brodrick Bunkley, or Orien Harris next to Ryan Sims to help stop the run could help too.
21. NE - RB – Laurence Maroney*, Minnesota
Corey Dillon is an excellent All-Pro back but he seems to be getting hurt an awful lot here the past three years. The Patriots need to find a good back up because Faulk, Pass, nor Evans are capable of carrying the Pats run game. Dillon isn’t that young anymore either, he’ll be 32, & he has a lot of carries, 2400+, the only active back with more is Curtis Martin. Selecting Maroney would also keep their #1 rival, the Colts, from getting another franchise back to replace Edge. Other possibilities: New England’s secondary got picked on a lot this year as they were next to last in pass defense. They sorely missed Ty Law & Rodney Harrison this year. Harrison will return but the Pats still need to replace Law with some talent. CBs Ashton Youboty, Antonio Cromartie, or Tye Hill could help. The Patriots receiving corps seems like it’s going to be overhauled this off season with David Givens, Tim Dwight, Troy Brown, & Andre Davis all being UFAs, they may focus on Chad Jackson or Sinorice Moss.
22. Den (Was) - DE – Mathias Kiwanuka, Boston College
Denver’s dline overachieved vastly last year & didn’t provide much of a pass rush. Courtney Brown can’t seem to stay healthy & Ebenezer Ekuban is not much more than a rotational player. Mathias’ stock has slipped a bit after a sub par performance at the Senior Bowl, greatly attributed to the fact that he squared off against D’Brickashaw most of the time. Other possibilities: Denver needs to start searching for a replacement for Rod Smith. T.O. could be the answer before the draft but if they don’t get him they are said to be looking hard at Florida’s Chad Jackson. Denver still hasn’t replaced Shannon Sharpe in their offense either so they could eye Leonard Pope.
23. TB - OT – Marcus McNeill, Auburn
There’s nobody on the Bucs oline worth mentioning. They’re the reason Brian Griese was lost for the year & it’s amazing Cadillac had as good year a year as he did. Marcus McNeill projects as a RT which would be good for the Bucs since projected starter Chris Simms is left handed. Other possibilities: Joey Galloway had a great year but he’s now 34. Michael Clayton was disappointing but is still capable of being the team’s #1 WR. Sinorice Moss would complement Clayton’s size & skills well. FS Ko Simpson could also be looked at as a replacement for Dexter Jackson.
24. Cin - DT – Brodrick Bunkley, Florida St
The Bengals dline is flooded with average players, save for Justin Smith. Their run defense needs a serious upgrade because they ranked near the bottom, even though teams were in catch up mode most of the time thanks to the Bengals’ dynamic O. Other possibilities: The offense is great but TE is the one position that can be upgraded. A large target like Leonard Pope or, Carson’s former USC teammate, Dominique Byrd over the middle would be a nice addition. Improvement in the secondary is still needed too but SS Darnell Bing would be a bit of a reach here.
25. NYG - OLB – Ernie Sims*, Florida St
Past the Giants All-Pro defensive ends their defense doesn’t strike fear into anyone. Ernie Sims is a smallish but very quick & fast OLB that would provide speed on the outside that Nick Greison & Carlos Emmons don’t. It’s a start for the Giants but they need help on all levels of the defense badly. Other possibilities: Anybody on defense who the Giants feel is the best player available would work, whether it be Sims, OLBs DeMeco Ryans or Bobby Carpenter, CBs Antonio Cromartie or Tye Hill, FS Ko Simpson, or DTs Brodrick Bunkley, Orien Harris, or Claude Wroten.
26. Chi - TE – Leonard Pope*, Georgia
The Bears real question is at QB but they’re both young & have talent so they need to surround them with better talent on offense. Muhsin Muhammad is still very good on the outside & youngsters Mark Bradley, Bernard Berrian, & Justin Gage are talented but need a little time to develop. They need to get more production out of their TEs. Desmond Clark is decent but Leonard Pope is a mammoth target at 6’7 & runs a modest 4.6. There can’t be any excuse for the Bear QBs completing less than 52% of their passes. Other possibilities: RT Fred Miller is 33 & LT John Tait is better suited for the right side so either Marcus McNeill, Eric Winston, or Jonathan Scott could be options. As great as the Bears D was they could use another big DT next to All-Pro Tommie Harris so Orien Harris or Claude Wroten could get looks here.
27. Car - OLB – DeMeco Ryans, Alabama
The weakness of Carolina’s D lie’s in their OLBs. With Witherspoon a free agent & Short being just average, DeMeco’s slide stops here. DeMeco is neither big or fast but he’s an instinctive football player. Other possibilities: The Panthers would really love to find their franchise back here but their just isn’t one here. A LT, such as Eric Winston or Jon Scott, or an interior offensive lineman is needed as well.
28. Jac - CB – Antonio Cromartie*, Florida St
Terry Cousin & Kenny Wright are not starting caliber CBs in the NFL & both are free agents. Antonio is coming off an ACL tear but if he’s completely healthy he’s a hell of a steal here. Had he been healthy this year he could have possibly been a top 10 or top 5 pick. Not quite the Willis McGahee story here because Antonio will be able to play this year. Other possibilities: The Jags defense was very good last year but they could still use a DE like Mathias Kiwanuka or an OLB like Ernie Sims, DeMeco Ryans, or Bobby Carpenter. They have plenty of young offensive weapons (Reggie Williams, Matt Jones, & Ernest Wilford), though they could use a successor to Fred Taylor, but you know what they say, defense wins championships.
29. Den - FS – Ko Simpson*, South Carolina
Both of Denver’s safeties are over 32. Ko Simpson could step in start right away at FS & slide John Lynch to SS or he could sit & learn a year. Other possibilities: WR Sinorice Moss could move in & take the disappointing Ashley Lelie’s place as a speed receiver. Moss has superior hands to Lelie. Denver again is still looking for Shannon Sharpe’s replacement, Leonard Pope or Dominique Byrd could be pinpointed. LT Matt Lepsis is a free agent & may follow Kubiak to Houston. This is the part of the draft where Eric Winston & Jonathan Scott come off the board.
30. Ind - OLB – Bobby Carpenter, Ohio St
The Colts have cap issues & may not be able to keep David Thornton. Bobby Carpenter is a fierce LB & could play the Derrick Brooks role in Dungy’s defense. Other possibilities: Rumored to be enamored with Laurence Maroney as a replacement for Edge the Colts could trade up to secure him. The Colts interior oline was exposed during the divisional playoff round versus the Steelers. A team can only go so long with late day two & undrafted free agents in the middle so keep an eye on Taitusi Lutui, Max Jean-Gilles, & Nick Mangold.
31. Sea - WR – Sinorice Moss, Miami
Darrell Jackson is a good #1 receiver & Bobby Engram is a solid third down receiver. It’s going to be tough for Seattle to retain Joe Jurevicius with Shaun Alexander & Steve Hutchinson also being free agents. Sinorice will provide Hasselbeck with a deep threat & give Jackson more opportunities versus one on one coverage. Other possibilities: Though Seattle led the NFL in sacks they don’t have that staple pass rusher. It may be a little high but Kamerion Wimbley or Manny Lawson could possibly sneak in. Taitusi Lutui, Max Jean-Gilles, or Nick Mangold could also factor in with Hutch being an UFA & other starting guard Chris Gray in his mid 30s.
32. Pitt - CB – Tye Hill, Clemson
Tye Hill had an amazing Senior Bowl. He may be slight of size but he makes up for that in speed, agility, & ball skills. Pittsburgh has been lacking good corners for a many years now, which is the weakest part of their defense. If Polamalu wasn’t all over the place in the secondary the Steelers would have had trouble making the playoffs. Other possibilities: Antwaan Randle-El appears to be heading out of town so they should be looking at Sinorice Moss. If off field problems don’t scare Pittsburgh away Claude Wroten would be a nice addition as a 3-4 DE & eventual replacement to Kimo von Oelhoffen who’s in his mid 30s & also an UFA.
Second Round
33. Hou - LT - Eric Winston, Miami
Finally a LT to protect Carr’s back.
34. NO - DT - Orien Harris, Miami
The Saints were near the bottom in rush defense, again.
35. NYJ - DT - Claude Wroten, LSU
The Jets weak run D gets a boost.
36. GB - G - Taitusi Lutui, USC
A year without Wahle & Rivera proved costly.
37. Oak^ - CB - Johnathan Joseph*, South Carolina
Woodson is gone, Joseph has great speed & potential to replace him.
38. SF^ - TE - Dominique Byrd, USC
Still adding talent to surround Alex Smith, he needs all the help he can get to make up for his deficiencies.
39. Tenn - LT - Jonathan Scott, Texas
Scott would be the heir apparent to the 36 year old Brad Hopkins.
40. Det - QB - Brodie Croyle, Alabama
Brodie is the future starter if Harrington doesn’t survive make or break season.
41. Az - DT - Rodrique Wright, Texas
Rodrique strengthens the Cards run D.
42. Buff - TE - Marcedes Lewis, UCLA
He’ll provide a safety valve for J.P. over the middle.
43. Cle - OLB - Manny Lawson, NC State
Manny gives Crennel a pass rushing DE/OLB, though he could move up the boards following his workouts.
44. Balt - G/RT - Max Jean-Gilles, Georgia
Baltimore has to add talent to their porous oline.
45. Phi - OLB - Thomas Howard, UTEP
Thomas is a speedy LB that would be a force in Jim Johnson’s blitz scheme.
46. SL - DE - Kamerion Wimbley, Florida St
The Rams need a respectable pass rusher to pair with Leonard Little.
47. Atl - SS - Darnell Bing*, USC
Atlanta is looking to replace both safeties.
48. Minn - RT/G - Ryan O'Callaghan, California
The Vikings oline is weak on the right side; they could experiment with O’Callaghan & Johnson at both RG & RT.
49. Dal - ILB - D'Qwell Jackson, Maryland
Dat Nguyen retired & other than Ware the Boys’ LBs are average.
50. SD - FS - Donte Whitner*, Ohio St
Donte gives the Chargers are versatile & athletic safety to help Jammer & Florence.
51. :dolphins: - C/G - Nick Mangold, Ohio St
We need help up the middle. Mangold & Hadnot are both run blockers that can play center or guard.
52. NE - CB - Kelly Jennings, Miami
The Pats need more talented bodies in the secondary; they ranked next to last in pass D.
53. Was - WR - Maurice Stovall, Notre Dame
Stovall was a late bloomer & is a big target that complements Moss’ talents.
54. KC - WR - Derek Hagan, Arizona St
New regime, new type of offense, new type of receivers needed.
55. Cin - TE - Anthony Fasano*, Notre Dame
Cincy needs more production over the middle from their TE.
56. NYG - CB - Richard Marshall*, Fresno St
Will Allen is gone & Will Peterson can’t stay on the field.
57. Chi - G/RT - Charles Spencer, Pittsburgh
Spencer would play guard & be a possible replacement for Miller down the road.
58. Car - WR - Demetrius Williams, Oregon
Colbert disappointed this year so some competition needs brought in.
59. TB - ILB - Abdul Hodge, Iowa
Quarles led the team in tackles but he’ll be 35 this year.
60. Jac - DE - Ray Edwards*, Purdue
The Jags can’t rely on Spicer overachieving again.
61. Den - LT - Andrew Whitworth, LSU
Lepsis may be leaving & would leave a huge hole.
62. Ind - RB - Brian Calhoun*, Wisconsin
A potential replacement to Edge that has excellent hands.
63. Sea - G/C - Jason Spitz, Louisville
Tobeck & Gray will both be 36 this year. Spitz & last year’s first rounder, Spencer, are the future.
64. Pitt - DT - Kyle Williams, LSU
Williams would be a 3-4 DE to replace Kimo should he leave via free agency.
Third Round
65. Hou - DE - Darryl Tapp, Virginia Tech
They’re switching to the 4-3 so they need a new type of dlineman.
66. Hou (NO) - WR - Martin Nance, Miami Ohio
Nance is a big end zone target for Carr. He’s the possession type to go along with Bush & Johnson’s speed.
67. GB - SS - Daniel Bullocks, Nebraska
The NFL’s #1 pass D is misleading. They could use an upgrade at SS.
68. Oak^ - DT - John McCargo*, NC State
Oldland is trying to get younger at all levels on defense.
69. SF^ - CB - Cedric Griffin, Texas
Ahmed Plummer can’t stay healthy & Mike Rumph appears to be a bust, Griffin is a physical presence.
70. Buff (Tenn) - RT - Jeremy Trueblood, Boston College
Buffalo really needs a LT & could give Trueblood a try there first.
71. NYJ - WR - Cory Rodgers*, TCU
Chrebet retired so they need a possession slot receiver.
72. Az - ILB - Kai Parham*, Virginia
Cards need LB help, Parham can play inside or strongside.
73. Buff - RB - Joseph Addai, LSU
If McGahee goes down who plays in his place? Addai is a must have.
74. Det - LT - Daryn Colledge, Boise St
Some project Colledge as a guard but is an excellent pass blocker.
75. NE (Balt) - G - Davin Joseph, Oklahoma
A major need along their oline, Steve Neal is an UFA.
76. Phi - CB - DeMario Minter, Georgia
He’s too good to pass up here, a physical man to man corner.
77. SL - CB - Anwar Phillips, Penn St
They’re still trying to find that right mix of corners.
78. Cle - DT - Babetunde Oshinowo, Stanford
It’s time to add some beef to their 3-4 dline.
79. Atl - RB - Maurice Drew*, UCLA
He’s a Warrick Dunn type back behind the 32 year old Warrick Dunn.
80. Dal - DB - Jason Allen, Tennessee
Coming off a hip injury but could play center field beside Roy for years to come.
81. SD - ILB - Gerris Wilkinson, Georgia Tech
He can play ILB or OLB, potential replacement for Godfrey who’s retired one minute & not the next.
82. :dolphins: - QB - Charlie Whitehurst, Clemson
The classic strong armed, pocket QB, exactly what we need & a great value pick.
83. Minn - SS - Bernard Pollard*, Purdue
Corey Chavous is a good player & leader but he doesn’t appear to be a good fit.
84. Was - DE - Elvis Dumervil, Louisville
Biggest thing they lack is a pass rush from the end, Dumervil set the record in that category.
85. KC - QB - Omar Jacobs*, Bowling Green
Looking for an heir, Jacobs would have a couple years to learn behind Green.
86. NE - LB - Roger McIntosh, Miami
Looking to replenish an old group of LBs. Rocky can play ILB or OLB.
87. NYG - DT - Jesse Mahelona, Tennessee
Adding another big man to the middle of the D should help out the Giants & the constantly hurt William Joseph.
88. Chi - FS - Anthony Smith, Syracuse
Chris Harris is their starting FS, enough said.
89. Car - DT - Titus Adams, Nebraska
They need some help because the best DT in the NFL, Jenkins, keeps getting hurt.
90. TB - CB - Alan Zemaitis, Penn St
He struggles in man, so this is a natural fit in the Bucs cover 2 zone scheme.
91. Cin - SS - Dwayne Slay, Texas Tech
Marvin still has much to add to make Cincy’s D championship caliber.
92. Jac - OLB - A.J. Nicholson, Florida St
Off the field issues have pushed A.J. way down but he’s talented & at this point is probably worth the gamble.
93. Den - DT - Jonathan Lewis, Virginia Tech
Lewis is a high energy guy that should help the Broncos improved their 4.0 ypc against.
94. Ind - G/C - Chris Chester, Oklahoma
It’s time for the Colts to invest in their offensive line & protection of Peyton.
95. Sea - DE - Stanley McClover*, Auburn
Seattle was #1 in the NFL in sacks but don’t have a DE that strikes fear into anyone.
96. Pitt - WR - Greg Lee*, Pittsburgh
Randle El appears to be moving on to greener pastures.
Fourth Round
97. Hou - TE - David Thomas, Texas
He’s very consistent & is a good value. Home town product.
98. NO - OLB - Stephen Tulloch*, NC State
He’s undersized but a sure tackler. They have a lot of free agent LBs to replace.
99. Oak^ - Ath - Devin Hester*, Miami
The Raiders aren’t afraid to take a chance on talent. In the least he would provide an exciting return game.
100. SF^ - ILB - Spencer Havner, UCLA
They have five free agent LBs & Havner has the versatility to inside or outside.
101. Tenn - SS - Greg Blue, Georgia
He’s a very fast run supporting safety, a no brainer with Tank being a free agent.
102. NYJ - C - Ryan Cook, New Mexico
Beginning the youth movement on the interior of the oline.
103. GB - DT - Dusty Dvoracek, Oklahoma
The Packers don’t have any depth on the dline.
104. Buff - CB - Darrell Hunter, Miami Ohio
He’s a big corner with good speed & value.
105. NE (Det) - OLB - Cameron Vaughn, LSU
Still rebuilding their LBs corps, coming from LSU Vaughn should pick up B.B.’s defense quickly.
106. Az - DE - Victor Adeyanju, Indiana
They need to add another pass rusher with Berry. Adeyanju is a sleeper.
107. Phi - WR - Jason Avant, Michigan
They get Santonio in the first, Avant in the fourth, speed & possession to go with Reggie Brown.
108. SL - DB - Daniel Manning*, Abilene Christian
A small school DB that probably a FS in the NFL where the Rams could use him.
109. Cle - CB - Dee Webb*, Florida
The Browns don’t have much talent or depth at corner.
110. Balt - DE - Mark Anderson, Alabama
They’re trying to add more traditional type dlineman after switching back to the 4-3.
111. Atl - C - Greg Eslinger, Minnesota
He’s a zone type blocker that fits what the Falcons do well.
112. SD - CB - Charles Gordon*, Kansas
He comes in as a dimeback with the playmaking skills to supplant Sammy Davis as the nickelback.
113. :dolphins: - DB - Marcus Hudson, NC State
Hudson has starting experience at both CB & FS, probably a FS in the NFL, good tackler.
114. Minn - QB - Reggie McNeal, Texas A&M
He is a young developmental QB with great talent & could go higher. A potential replacement for the disgruntled Culpepper.
115. Phi (Dal) - OT - Derek Morris*, NC State
Runyan is old & a free agent.
116. NYJ (KC) - CB - David Pittman, Northwestern State
Jets take a gamble on the small school product who had a decent showing at the Senior Bowl.
117. NE - WR - Greg Jennings, Western Michigan
He’s a nice unknown possession receiver with great hands but is a tad small.
118. Den (Was) - WR - Jonathan Orr, Wisconsin
Orr has all the measurables but lacks the killer instinct. Denver’s WR coach has a lot of young talent (Lelie & Watts) but he just needs to develop them.
119. Chi - DT - Montavious Stanley, Louisville
Stanley is massive & full potential next to Tommie Harris.
120. Car - G - Fred Matua*, USC
He’s a riser amongst draft circles. Carolina has a couple free agents on the interior of their line.
121. TB - WR - Travis Wilson, Oklahoma
Wilson had a surprisingly good showing at the Senior Bowl. Has some time to learn behind Galloway.
122. Cin - DE - James Wyche, Syracuse
The Bengals still need a pass rusher if Pollack isn’t moved back to DE.
123. NYG - Ath - Michael Robinson, Penn St
They don’t have anything to work with being Plaxico & Amani. Robinson has talent, it just needs molded.
124. Jac - G - Rob Sims, Ohio St
Naeole is no spring chicken & Sims could play RT if needed.
125. Den - TE - Joel Klopfenstein, Colorado
Joel is a local product, he has excellent size. His blocking needs work but he should be able to fit in Denver’s zone blocking.
126. Phi (Ind) - ILB - Oliver Hoyte, NC State
Oliver gives Philly size in the middle & a legit option as ILB if Trotter goes down.
127. Sea - RB - Jerome Harrison, Washington State
Harrison had a very productive senior year & a decent showing at the Senior Bowl. He would be Alexander’s back up if Morris leaves.
128. Pitt - RB - Gerald Riggs, Tennessee
Riggs is a power back whose stock is down because of an injury filled senior year. He could become Pitt’s short yard runner in place of Bettis.
