#

Top Needs:

Team Moves:

OLT, DE, TE, LB, OG, WR

Key F.A. Signings:

Anthony Weaver DE

Eric Moulds WR

Jeb Putzier TE

N.D. Kalu DE

Sage Rosenfels QB

Sam Cowart LB

Wali Rainer LB

Michael Staone SS

Jameel Cook FB

Kevin Walter KR/WR

Key F.A.  Loses:

Jabar Gaffney.WR

Gary Walker DE

Corey Bradford CB

Bush is simply the best player in this draft, but everybody knows they would be better off with D'Brickashaw Ferguson. Starting LT- Chester Pitts is the pits, and his back-up Seth Wand is further behind, and starting Right Tackle Todd Wade was a complete disaster in Miami. I have been begging Houston to take a Left Tackle prospect with their first pick for three years. Now they are in the prime position to trade down and score some extra picks, but nobody wants to trade up with them because the top twelve players in this draft are all going to be great players. A lot of noise being made about a trade or taking Mario Williams, but I believe it's just contract negotiations. However, I have been saying for months the player that helps this team the most is D'Brickshaw Ferguson, and now it looks like the Jets may be interested in trading up for Bush. I think if they can get 4 and 29 they should take it and smile.

OC, OT, DT, OG, WR, DT, OL

F.A. Signings:

Drew Brees QB

Johnathon Goodwin OC

Mark Cambell TE

Michael Bennett RB

Scott Fujita LB

Anthony Simmons LB

Omar Stoutmire S

Key F.A.  Loses:

Aaron Brooks QB

Fakhir Brown CB

Darren Howard DE

Wayne Gandy OLT

LaCharles Bentley OC

Saints are dedicated to moving Brown to Left Tackle and draft Mario Williams, but who is going to play Right Tackle? Jon Stinchcomb? He was a 2nd Round pick in 03 and hasn't done a thing. Mario Williams is clearly the 2nd best player in this draft, and many have him rated number one above Bush, but Saints need to protect Brees. But it appears they wil happily take Mario Williams here and then grab an O-Tackle at pick number 34. That could give them two impact defenders to start the draft off with. Williams is a Defense-changing type DE.  Matt Millen said he is the player he would like to build his defense around. He had as good a combine as any player since Julius Peppers. He is big and strong enough to hold up the line against the run, and quick and fast enough to be a pass-rushing force.  Since football starts in the trenches, I have them starting off with a D-Lineman. Williams may be a Reggie White defense changing type player.

Since the signing of Drew Brees, NO can now concentrate on drafting the best player available. There are four super impact players, before the QB's, in this draft, the Saints will have their choice of three of them. A lot of people have Ferguson going here, which makes a lot of sense, and I keep seesawing back and forth. The loss of Howard seems to signals a need at DE, but many in the Saints hierarchy think Will Smith is their best defensive player. He will step into the starting line-up next season without any loss, and most believe with a bonus. Charles Grant emerged as a force his 3rd year where his run-stopping abilities significantly improved, and he still managed 10.5 sacks. Grant is a Free Agent after this season, so finding a back-up who may have to step into the starting line up after next season is a reasonable need. This is not Mario Williams. Williams is a step-in-dominator, who should be the second player taken in this draft. He has the size to play DT, which is where Saints really need help, but it will limit his amazing athletic abilities. The worst part is if the Saints don't take him he could slide down to 5 or 6, where he would be a steal for Green Bay or San Fran. However, the Saints trade of Wayne Gandy has to signal their commitment to drafting D'Brickashaw Ferguson. New Orleans O-Line is in desperate straights, and may be one of the worst in the league. 

QB, MLB, S, CB, WR, OLB, OL, LB, CB

F.A. Signings and Trades:

Chris Hope S

David Givens WR

David Thornton LB

Kevin Mawae OC

Key F.A.  Loses:

Rocky Boiman LB

Justin Hartwig OL

Tank Williams SS

Apparently there is dissension in the ranks, the coach like Leinert and the GM likes Young. Titans are now talking about Vince Young over Leinart. Which makes sense for this team, because if everything goes well for Young he could be the next McNair. He big, fast, has a strong arm, but he has mechanical issues and will need a few years to develop, just like McNair. They have ties to both Young and Leinart. Norman Chow was Leinart's coordinator at USC, and is as responsible for his progression as anybody. But in the end the GM makes the choice, and I think it's Young. In this case he will be right if he take Young. I believe they will have their choice of Leinert and Young. I believe Young is the better player, because of the level of competition he faced. He carried Texas to a championship last year with his underrated arm and overrated legs. His play in the Championship game was perfect. 

QB, OLT, RB, DT, CB, DE, TE, S, RB, WR, S

Key F.A. Signings:

Kimo von Oelhoffen DE

Monsanto Pope DE

Andre Dyson CB

Tim Dwight WR

Trey Teague OL

Patrick Ramsey QB (6th)

Brad Kassell LB

Key F.A.  Loses:

John Abraham DE/OLB

Jason Fabini OT

Kevin Mawae OC

Jonathon Goodwin OC

Ty Law CB

Leinart is more of the prototype NFL QB, and so I believe he will go here. His championship experience against the highest level of competition for the past four years is unparalleled. That is what separates him from Young and Cutler. However, word is they really like Cutler over Leinert, and may just trade down and take Cutler.

For some reason the Jets appear happy with their QB situation? Could be a smoke screen, like the Titians, all teams in the top ten that needs a QB must be terrified that some team will trade up and grab one at 1 and 2. Jets trade of Abraham's may signal that they will take Jay Cutler here, and take McNeil, Winston, or Scott at 29. Word is they are enamored with Ferguson and Cutler, which is easy to understand as more and more GM's are enamored with Cutler as we get closer to the draft and some now have him as the top QB prospect in the draft. I still cannot believe they can go into next season with Ramsey and Pennington as their top QBs? Ramsey was a failure in Washington, and Pennington appeared to have lost his fast ball last season, and this was before he broke his collarbone, again. I find that rumors before the Combine often hold some truth, while rumors after the combine are often smoke screens. Well before the Combine the Jets hierarchy where enamored with Cutler, and since the Combine they have denied any interest in Cutler. I am not Cutlers biggest supporter, I believe Young will turn out to be the better Pro. But taking Cutler here would not be the biggest mistake the Jets have ever made. Cutler is being talked up by a LOT of NFL insiders, he could easily go three to the Titians or fall all the way to the Vikings at 17. He has all the measurables you want in a QB, and is constantly compared to Brent Favre. 

DE, CB, S, LB, DB, LB, RB, OL, OG

Key F.A. Signings:

Ryan Pickett DT

Ben Taylor LB

Marquand Manuel SS

Key F.A.  Loses:

Mike Flanagan OC

Ryan Longwell K

Grey Ruegamer OL

A.J. Hawk is another athletic freak. With his passion and instincts he should step in and dominate right away. Linebacker is not Packers top priority, but it clearly is not their least as well. Hawk is a defense changing type player. Once he starts playing for the Pack no one will question this pick. His speed is unmatched at the Linebacker position. He ran a 4.38 at 245 pounds at his Proday at Ohio State. With the abilities he shows on the field, his leadership, and production he should be sure fire top five pick. However if Packer sign LaVarr Arrington they will not take Hawk here.

The Pack will have a tough time passing on Mario Williams if he falls. They have locked in on A.J. Hawk, as there is no reason to believe that a player as highly rated as Williams will fall to them at 5. Both there starting Defense End are good and played well last season, but did not dominate as expected. 

F.A. Signings and Trades:

Walt Harris DB

Antonio Bryant WR

Bryan Gilmore WR

Larry Allen OG

Sammy Davis CB

Key F.A.  Loses:

Brandon Lloyd WR (3rd)

Andre Carter OLB/DE

Julian Peterson LB

Rashaun Woods WR

Fred Beasley FB

49ers are sitting pretty here, and will be ecstatic with either Davis or Hawk. Their TE's are average at best, and they lost their two starting OLB to Free Agency. They may be better off taking Michael Huff, because their secondary is in complete disarray. However, Vernon Davis is just to great to pass here. Davis is the best pure athlete in this years draft, he actually tested out as more athletic than Ben Watson! His size, speed, and strength ratio is unparalleled in the journals of Draftnics. He should be a dominate player for years to come, and Alex Smith will enjoy this pick for years to come.

QB, LB, OL, DL, QB, DB, OL, DL

F.A. Signings and Trades:

Aaron Brooks QB

Duane Starks CB

Tyrone Poole CB

Key F.A.  Loses:

Kerry Collins QB

Renaldo Hill CB

Ed Jasper NT

Ted Washington NT

Al Davis is delusional if he thinks that Brooks is the answer at QB so you have to think he's just picking up a veteran to start until the rookie is ready, but he did think Kerry Collins was a great QB? PLus he drafted Andrew Walter in the 3rd Round last season. He is a classic Raider QB, big and with a big arm to throw down field. But Aaron Brooks is not any better then Collins, they are both below average QB's who flash great skill but can neither can sustain it. With all that being said, Oakland gets lucky that so many teams above them are happy with their QBs. They must take one of the top three QBs here. Cutler seems more of a Raider's QB then Young and Leinert. His strong arm makes going down the field to Moss an interesting idea. Cutlers biggest negatives are his level of completion and the fact that he was never able to lead his team to a Bowl Game, and his horrid win/ loss record.

D'Brickashaw Ferguson OLT Virginia

QB, OT, DT, OL, DL, RB, S, OL

F.A. Signings and Trades:

Matt Bowen S

Melvin Fowler OC

Larry Tripplett DT

Robert Royal TE 

Andre' Davis WR 

Key F.A.  Loses:

Lawyer Milloy SS

Eric Moulds WR

Sam Adams DT

Ron Edwards DT

Trey Teague OL

Mike Williams OT

I know this looks silly, but if the Jets don't him at 4, where does he go? Greenbay has Chad Chifton at LT, and he has developed into a very good LT. the 49ers have LT Jonas Jennings and Kwame Brown, who is starting at RT as he develops, and I still think he will develop into a good LT. The Raiders have LT Barry Sims and Robert Gallery, who is starting at RT as he develops, and has more potential at LT than Brown. They now have no choice but to take Ferguson. Wayne Gandy OLT and Bennie Anderson OLG were overmatched all season, and the entire left side of the O-Line needs to be rebuilt. Ferguson, who I believe will step right in at LT and start for the next 12-15 years. Ferguson is an instant impact player on the O-Line, which means he will make everybody better on Offense. His technique is flawless. His feet are the best to come out of the draft since Walter Jones, which is his closest comparison in the NFL. He has similar size, weight, height, passion for the game, and athletic ability as Jones when he came out of college. If Ferguson doesn't slip this far, they will take a DT depending on who they like more Ngata or Bunkley, as their interior D-Line needs to be rebuilt as well..

GM, LB, OL, DB, OL, DE, TE

F.A. Signings and Trades:

Josh McCown QB

Rex Tucker OL

Barry Stokes OL

Idrees Bashir S

Dan Campbell TE

Jon Kitna QB

Key F.A.  Loses:

Jeff Garcia QB

Wali Rainer LB

R.W. McQuarters CB/KR

Joey Harrington QB

Kyle Kosier OL

Matt Millen did play Linebacker in the Pro's. This may be a little early for Sims, but he is tough, super productive, and fast. Earl Holmes is a free agent and Boss Bailey is an injury concern, plus James Davis and Alex Lewis have not impressed, leaving a large hole at the Line Backer position. Everybody has Huff in their top 8 Defense Prospect List. Huff inexplicably falls this far, I just could not find a place for him in the top 8. He is a phenomenal athlete who is a great player as well. He has the skills, speed, and athleticism to play a Cover Corner, but his great play and production came at safety. The the past four years he has 318 tackles, 7 INTs, and 44 Passes Broken Up. Fernando Bryant was their big FA pick up last season, but he did not play as well as expected, and Kenoy Kennedy needs to be replaced. Huff could step into either one of these positions, or step in at Nickel Corner as he learns the CB position for a year.

Ernie Sims LB Florida State

QB, OL, OL, DT, LB, DB, OL, DB

F.A. Signings and Trades:

Edgerrin James RB

Millford Brown OG

Kendrick Clancy NT

Key F.A.  Loses:

Josh McCown QB

Russell Davis NT

Card's appear to have decided to take Ernie Sims, but we know they like also like Ngata, and Davis. Kurt Warner is nearing the end at 35, and has had injury concerns for a while. If the Raiders take Cutler you have to suspect them of wanting Winston Justice, as O-Line must pick up multiple starters this off season. Leonard Davis is not a Left Tackle, but he may be a nice O-Guard. This pick allows them to strengthen two positions on the O-Line. 

Sims is flying up the charts, and will probably be a top 15 pick come draft day. I personally would not draft him because of his serious history of concussions, which is not going to go away it is only going to get worse in the Pro's. But he plays with such heart and instincts that he demoralizes Offenses. He has everything you want in a Line Backer except size, and he gets away with it by using amazing speed and quickness, and by sacrificing his body and brain, which brings us back to the concussions. He leads with his heart and his head. The first is commendable the second has been very detrimental to his health. Ernie Sims seems a better fit here. He can play  inside or outside. He is slowly regaining the speed he played with before the injury. He is one of the most popular picks in Mocks everywhere, and many now have him in the top ten.

S, DT, LB, CB, TE, OL, S, DE

Key F.A. Signings:

Gus Frerotte QB

Fakhir Brown CB

Will Witherspoon LB

Corey Chavous S

Raonall Smith LB

La'Rio Glover DT

Key F.A.  Loses:

Ryan Pickett DT

Damione Lewis DT

Adam Archuleta S

Rex Tucker OL

DB appears to be top priority for a lot of people, but last years draft was loaded with DB's: CB Ronald Bartell (2nd), FS O.J. Atogwe (3rd), and SS Jerome Carter (4th). So while Jimmy Williams is a huge temptation here, loss of Pickett and Lewis put pressure on Rams to take a DT. The signing of Glover lessons the need at DT a little, so now they must come up with one DT instead of two. Bunkley only started for one year at Florida State so his stock was very low at the beginning of the process, but: he had a terrific senior year (66 tackles, 9 sacks, and was constantly fighting in opponents backfield), a strong senior bowl, and dominated the Combine. He has been placed ahead of Ngata on a lot draft charts. He has great upper body strength, excellent One-Gap quickness, but some think he might be a best suited for as a Two-Gap NT, but I see him as a One-Gap DT. You want this man charging through the double team and destroying blocking schemes in the backfield. If he is still here the Rams have to take him.

NT, LB, OT, DE, OT, DE, DB, LB

F.A. Signings and Trades:

Willie McGinest OLB

LeCharles Bentley OC

Joe Jurevicius WR

Kevin Shaffer OT

Ted Washington NT

Key F.A.  Loses:

Antonio Bryant WR

Kenard Lang DE

Jon Kitna QB

L.J. Shelton OLT

Ben Taylor LB

Aaron Shea TE/FB

This may be a little early for Greenway, but he is tough, super productive, and fast. He is the best cover Linebacker in the draft at 6-3 and 245 pounds. Winston Justice or Jimmy Williams would fit nicely here as well, but I think the Linebacker position must be addressed in this draft. If Bunkley or Ngata are not available Romeo will turn to Justice. If Bunkley and Ngata drift past the Bills it looks like one of them will be available here. I like Bunkley a little better, but Ngata is the better Nose Tackle prospect. He is a Ted Washington type NT, and I do not say that lightly. Washington was not only able to hold up against the double-team, he was able to push both blockers back and often split them with his freakish strength. Ngata has that type of freakish strength. He not only has handled the double team, he actually consistently pushes two opposing O-Lineman backwards with a display of Ted Washington-like strength. The only reason I have Bunkley rated higher is the obvious loss of speed Ngata had after his knee injury, speed he has not gotten back. This has to leave lingering concerns about that knee. Other then that he is the best run-stopping D-Lineman to come out in a long while.

Jimmy Williams S/CB Virginia Tech

QB, OG, OT, SS, DE, DT, CB, WR, CB

Key F.A. Signings:

Mike Anderson RB

Trevor Pryce DE

Juston Bannan NT

Gary Stills LB

Key F.A.  Loses:

Will Demps S

Anthony Weaver DE

Chester Taylor RB

Ma'ake Kemoeatu DT

Jimmy Williams has shot up the charts since he showed the hips to play Cornerback, but character concerns have dragged him down a little. Williams is another freakish athlete in this draft. His size, speed, and quickness ratio is unprecedented. At 6-2 210 pounds, he is a legitimate shutdown corner prospect, and he can play Safety as well. Billick has to be hoping Cutler falls to him. Since he will not the Ravens have to hoping for huge improvement from Kyle Boller. Ravens have been known to take the best available athlete, and  that is currently Jimmy Williams, or Ernie Sims. The player Williams most compares to is Chris McAllister in physical talent and temperament. When McAlister he was regarded as the top Corner Prospect in the draft, and the most likely to be a shut down Corner. His size (6-1 208), speed (4.4), and cover abilities had rarely been seen in other Drafts, but he had a lot of character concerns and he slipped down the draft because of his character concerns. William sis in the same boat. His size (6-2 210), speed (4.35), and cover abilities are more impressive than McAlister's. Plus, he has played both Corner and Safety in college. So if he cannot play CB he should be able to step in at Safety. But it looks like Williams can start at Nickel Corner, and back-up McAlister and Rolle, where old-timers Sanders and Carter failed last season. If he struggle to much early he can start at Safety, or he could back-up all four Defensive Backfield positions. That maybe to much of a luxury for the Ravens. But Williams is a very versatile player who will play for a lot of years. If he can mature and stop all the shenanigans. 

OLB, WR, RB, OL, DT, TE, WR, LB, OL

Key F.A. Signings:

Jabar Gaffney.WR

Jeff Garcia QB

Matt Schobel TE

Darren Howard DE

Ed Jasper NT

Shawn Barber LB

Key F.A.  Loses:

Terrell Owens WR

N.D. Kalu

The three players the Eagles are deciding between are Justice, Sims, or Jackson. Reid loves to take big Lineman in the 1st Round, but Justice should not be here, and come draft day he probably won't. Jon Runyan is not a spring chicken, and Tra Thomas has a bad back, and has blood clot issues, and many believe he is on the down side of his career, and we will find out if Reid agrees with them. I believe Reid is very concerned with the depth of O-Line and will not pass on Justice here. Justice has the ability to be a great Right Tackle. Plus, he can play left tackle and be a pretty good one, probably better than Shelton. He is a phenomenal athlete. He played RT in college, but protected Leinert's blindside. He has the feet to play LT in pro's. He did 38 reps on his Proday, and has exceptionally long arms which he uses as weapons, since he took up boxing during his Junior year when he was suspended for the season. He made a lot of Money at USC's Proday, where he was nearly as impressive as Bush. 

RB, WR, TE, DE, S, OL, CB, LB

F.A. Signings and Trades:

Kenard Lang DE

Key F.A.  Loses:

Quentin Griffin RB

Mike Anderson RB

Jeb Pulzier TE

Monsanto Pope 

Word out of Denver is that they made the big trade up specifically to grab Chad Jackson, and his stock is roaring up the charts. He was seen as a possession-type WR after his Senior year when he had 88 catches for 900 yards and 9 TDs, that is an 10.2 yard average. But as a Sophomore in 04 he caught 29 balls for 648 yards and 6 TDs, for a whooping 22.3 yards per catch. Showing he can catch the deep throw and can play to possession-type receiver to help the team. He is the hardest working WR in the draft who was seen as too slow, then he ran a 4.35 forty yard dash. He has the best hands in the draft and runs great routes. Failure of WRs from Florida might hurt his status, but the Eagles signing Jabar Gaffney has shown they are not afraid of Florida WRs. Bronco's make steal of the draft, by trading up 14 spots in the first round for only a 3rd and 4th round picks. Denver doesn't have a lot of needs, but they really want to pick up a RB, WR, and a TE to help spark the Offense. DeAngelo Williams is tempting here, but with three top Running Backs still on the board, and only two first round quality Wide Receivers available, the Broncos take Jackson. 

 Holmes is a speed guy who may never develop into a number one Receiver, but he could cause a lot of problems as a number two. Broncos are looking for a number three receiver who will be able to step in for Rod Smith in a few years. Holmes looks like a good fit for this need. He is pure speed and quickness on the field, but his toughness and willingness to go over the middle have been questioned. He is similar in a lot of ways to Terry Glenn.

OL, LB, S, DT, WR, DB

F.A. Signings and Trades:

Daunte Culpepper QB (2nd)

Renaldo Hill DB

L.J. Shelton OLT

Sedrick Hodge LB

Will Allen CB

Andre Goodman CB

Justin Peele TE

Deke Cooper FS

Key F.A.  Loses:

Gus Frerotte QB

Stocker McDougle OT

Tebuckt Jones S

Reggie Howard CB

Sam Madison CB

Junior Seau LB

Okay, I serious doubt Justice will fall this far, but if he does Saban has to take him. Miami had already addressed their two biggest needs by trading for Culpepper and signing Shelton, but they still must improve O-Line. I'm not sure Shelton is the answer at LT. Culpepper is coming back from reconstructive knee surgery, and needs to be protected. With that being said, their Defensive Back field is a complete disaster. They could have four new from last season. Reggie Howard is not a bad player, but he has makes too much on the Salary Cap and may still be released. Travis Daniels was a god send, but is still a little slow for a starting corner. Will Allen was a nice pick-up, as was Goodman. They need two replace both starting safeties. But Hill and Cooper are both Safeties. The signing of the 4 Free Agent Defensive Backs allows Dolphins to go in another direction. This pick signals the start of the shift to a more 3-4 Belichick type defense. Wimbley appears a perfect fit as a large pass rushing Out Side Linebacker in the 3-4. He ran a 4.58 at 6-3.5 and 252 pounds, and he is flying up the charts. He has past Manny Lawson as the top 3-4 OLB in the draft. Some even think he has the frame to add another 20 pounds and be a full-time Defensive End. He seems tailor-made for the Patriots/Browns 3-4. He has great character and is a team leader. He is smart and loves football. He arrived on campus as a 210 pound Freshman, and out worked everyone in the off season until he had gained forty pounds of muscle in four years at FSU. I believe he can step right in at Right-OLB for the Browns next season.

DeAngelo Williams RB Memphis

QB, RB, OG, LB, OL, S, LB, DE, WR, DB, Ol, DL

Key F.A. Signings:

Steve Hutchingson OG

Jason Whittle OC

Tony Richardson FB

Chester Taylor RB

DeQuincy Scott DE

Ben Leber LB

Tank Williams SS

Key F.A.  Loses:

Daunte Culpepper QB

Nate Burleson WR

Sam Cowart LB

Melvin Fowler OL

Brain Williams CB

Toniu Fonoti OG

Michael Bennett RB

Daunte Culpepper QB (2nd)

Corey Chavous S

Vikings desperately need to trade up and pick up one of the young QB's. Brad Johnson is entering his 14th season, and you have to wonder how much he has left. He was picked up as an emergency start in case Culpepper got injured, and now he is expected to lead this team for? How long? One year? Two years? If they cannot trade up then they must take White or DeAngelo. Williams to take pressure off of Johnson. I thought White would be a lock here, but with his terrible work-out at his Proday. Williams however looked spectacular at his Proday. He weighed at 212 pounds and looked like the Roman God Mercury.  Williams should be picked in the teens, and there are not a lot of candidates for a starting back later on in the draft. Word out of Minnesota is that they want a pass-rushing Line Backer, so don't be surprised if Ernie Sims goes here. He is really picking up steam, and some have him listed as a top 12 pick. 

Jason Allen S/CB Tennessee

OL, S, LB, NT, OL, DB, OL

Key F.A. Signings:

Kyle Kosier OL

Ryan Hannam TE

Rocky Boiman LB

Akin Ayodele LB

Terrell Owens WR

Jason Fabini OT

Key F.A.  Loses:

Dan Campbell TE

Larry Allen OG

La'Roi Glover DT

Keyshawn Johnson WR

Scott Fujita LB 

If has been reported by more than one source that the Cowboys are interested in Jason Allen S/CB from Tennessee. But I just see this as to early form him. In my opinion Hip injuries are the worst sports injury. I just have trouble believing that an athlete can overcome a hip injury. I am still amazed by Rosevelt Colvin played as well as he did last season. I would say that this is a prime pick to trade down with, as San Diego, KC, and the Pats are coming up in the next three picks. All three need a Wide Receiver, and if Santonio Holmes is here, KC or the Pats will have to trade up over San Diego to get him. But all three teams also need Defensive Backs, and Jason Allen is the hottest commodity right now, so he may not get past San Diego or KC. However, I just have trouble believing that a player who dislocated his hip just last season could be a top 20 pick, even a player as good as Jason Allen. And yes I saw him run a 4.35 at the Combine, where he looked spectacular. 

If I where the Cowboys GM I'd trade down and pick up another 2nd round pick and take Nick Mangold in the late 20's. Then use the extra 2nd round pick on another O-Lineman, like Max Jean-Gilles. Cowboys needed an upgrade at three O-Line position before they lost Larry Allen. Kosier will help, but he been a utility guy his whole career, and Fabini is coming off a season ending injury. 

S, OT, WR, DB, DB, DT, LB

Key F.A. Signings:

Rashaun Woods WR

Aaron Shea TE/FB

Marlon McCree S

Key F.A.  Loses:

Dew Brees QB

Reche Caldwell WR

Justin Peele TE

Ben Leber LB

Sammy Davis CB

Chargers are in the position to draft the best available athlete. They have spent a lot of draft picks on DBs that did not work out as planned. They also want a LT who they can develop and can eventually step in for Roman Oben. Next comes WR, Keenan McCardell is the only reliable WR currently on their roster. Holmes is a short, 5-10, receiver, and the Chargers have history of taking big receivers.  they would really like to pick up a starting safety in this years draft who can produce, Tye Hill will never be a Safety, but he has elite speed and the quickness and recovery speed to cover anybody. Quentin Jammer has been a disappointment in the cover department, and could be moved to Free Safety in a pinch. But they currently have only 3 Cornerbacks on their team, and Hill will develop into a starting CB very soon. He was easily the best Corner at the Senior Bowl. He is a track man who bring tremendous speed to the field. But he can cover and is not just a track guy. Many questioned his hands and ability to play the ball, but last season he got contact lenses, and has improved 100% in locating and playing the ball in the air. I really like this guy.

WR, DL, DB, DT, DB, OT, DE, WR, DB, LB

Key F.A. Signings:

Ron Edwards DT

Key F.A.  Loses:

Tony Richardson FB

Gary Stills LB

Shawn Barber LB

Eric Warfield CB

Another team hoping that Holmes or Jackson lasts this long. They also really need a Corner, but the depth in this draft is at DB, so they can wait a round and still pick up a starter. Holmes is a terrific WR who was overshadowed a little in college. He is pure speed and quickness on the field. In fact, if he is available at 21, look for the Pats to take him, and I'll even go so far as to say the Pats could trade up to grab him. He has great hands, great attitude, and loves the game. He is a TD machine and has produced 26 Touchdowns (1 on a punt return) in 3 seasons at Ohio State. I think he will come in next season and start for KC or New England. He The unreliable Eddie Kenison and the flashing Sammy Parker are KC's starting Wide Receivers, yikes! 

Manny Lawson OLB/DE NC State

WR, LB, CB, WR, OL, DB, OL, TE, LB

Key F.A. Signings:

Reche Caldwell WR

Tebucky Jones S

Martin Gramatica PK

Eric Warfield CB

Mel Mitchell S/ST

Key F.A.  Loses:

Tom Ashworth OT

Tim Dwight WR

Adam Vinatieri PK

David Givens WR

Christian Fauria TE

Willie McGinest OLB 

Chad Brown LB

Ty Poole CB

Michael Stone SS

Duane Starks CB

Manny Lawson is an athletic freak and similar to Willie McGinest, he plays with more strength and speed then quickness, and I think he looks like McGinest on the field. Obviously McGinest is more built up than Lawson currently, but a few years in the weight room and I think you could see a similar type player. Lawson is not as quick as Demarcus Ware, but is bigger and faster. Lawson has experience dropping back into coverage, something he did often at NC State. He played Outside Linebacker his first two seasons at NC State. So the Pats do have a lot of film of him playing OLB, and it is not pure projection of how he'll convert from D-End to OLB. Some have called him a faster Carl Banks, do you think that interests Belichick?  To me with Colvin and Lawson on the outside, it just completes this defense. They will give Bill two large and fast pass rushing Outside Linebackers to rush the edge that Belichick can play with. I am getting more and more convinced that the Patriots are interested in a Running back or a Wide Receiver here. Belichick loves the surprise. He sees his ability to surprise people as a sign of superior strategy. All the football writers and reporters in this area who cover the team are now all saying that they would be shocked in the Pats took a WR or a RB. Belichick is always leaning towards doing the unexpected, and right now the most unexpected option is a WR or RB. It goes against all their philosophies and draft track record. I think they really want Santonio Holmes. I think he could easily step in next season be our number two WR. To me the choice comes down to Greenway and Lawson. Greenway being an Inside Linebacker who is tough against the run and the best cover Linebacker in the draft, or Lawson the passrushing Outside Linebacker.

Patriots still need to pick up at least two WRs, hopefully one will be Eric Moulds. Reche Caldwell was a nice pick-up, but he is not a starter. Troy Brown is getting rather old, and is no longer a starter. Bethel Johnson has regressed and now looks like he will never be a starter, and may be cut before the season begins. If Chad Jackson is still on the board I believe they will take him. He is a Patriot-type player, smart, tough, and the hardest working player at his position. Belichick and Pioli together have only drafted TEs and D-Lineman in the first round. I don't think they will draft a TE here, and they really don't need a D-Lineman (other than a back-up for Wilfork which will not be a first day pick). But if you look at last seasons starting Linebackers you see that all four starters played DE in college. Tedy Bruschi, Rosevelt Colvin, Mike Vrabel, and Willie McGinest where all drafted out of college as DEs. They need a big, strong, fast, pass-rushing OLB to replace McGinest. The two candidates are Manny Lawson and Kamerion Wimbley. Lawson ran an amazing 4.43 Forty at 245 pounds at the combine. So I have him going to Dallas at 18.  If DeAngelo Williams slides down this far I think they will take him, but I'm not sure if they take Maroney here. As for Corner Back, there is incredible depth at DB. Patriots have obvious interest in Richard Marshall in the second round, and Belichick had a great interview with Kelly Jennings, the CB from Miami (granted news of the interview you know came from Jennings agent and not Belichick). So look for one of those two corner to be taken in the second round. Although, Jennings has really been moving up the charts, and he slide into the first round. Pro Football Weekly now has him rated as there 5th Corner, ahead of Jimmy Williams. Jennings is a small, 5-10.5, 178 pound, fast, 4.38, natural cover corner. He is scrappy competitor who doesn't back down to anyone. He is so smooth out of his cuts that it is truly amazing. As for RB, they have also interviewed Jerious Norwood the Running Back from Mississippi State. He 5-11.5, 210 pound Back who ran a 4.37 at the combine. He is not the most creative runner, but he follows his blocker well, and has terrific straight-ahead speed, he could be a nice pick in the 3rd or 4th round. The Patriots have stayed completely away from Maurice Stovall. He is big and strong, and make the amazing acrobatic catch. However, he lets his concentration slip and he drops the easy one more than you would like, and many question his straight line speed. Pats need a WR who can step in immediately, and his name is at the top of the list, because he spent last season working in Charlie Weis's offense all last season. He already knows the plays the Patriots run on offense. So for that reason they may have to take him in the Second Round. The question is, because of his deficiencies, does he drop to the Third Round? He is more valuable to the Pats than any other team. If the Pats wait, he could slide down to 75, or better yet they could use some of their extra pick to move up from 75into the second round and secure him early. If the Pats can get Marshall or Jennings in the 2nd Round, and Stovall in the 2nd or 3rd Round, and Norwood in the 3rd or 4th round this would be a very successful draft, no matter who they took in the first.

Previous Pick:

Vernon Davis TE

F.A. Signings and Trades:

Walt Harris DB

Antonio Bryant WR

Bryan Gilmore WR

Larry Allen OG

Sammy Davis CB

Key F.A.  Loses:

Brandon Lloyd WR (3rd)

Andre Carter OLB/DE

Julian Peterson LB

Rashaun Woods WR

Fred Beasley FB

The 49ers are also interested in a pass rushing D-Line, and they will be tempted by Kiwanuka. They could still go for a D-Tackle if they want to reach for Gabe Watson. but they are desperate for Linebackers, and they will be doing jumping jacks if Greenway falls to them. they lost both starting OLB, and have two other LBers, Brandon Moore and Derek Smith, are Free Agents. They could draft as many as 4 Linebackers in this draft. Greenway is big, fast, and smart. He is a great Cover Linebacker, and is the best Cover LB in this draft. He was the Team Captain for two years. His Sophomore year he produced 132 Tackles, 13 TFL, and 2 sacks. As a Junior he produced 113 Tackles, 8 TFL and 3 sacks. He was on the fast track to top five pick. But than came his Senior year, where apparently his play slipped. Though he was still 6-2.5 and 243 pounds. He was still Captain, and still played faster than he timed. He still had graceful hips, and moved fluidly enough in pass protection that he could cover a slot receiver down the seam like a 200 pound DB. He produced 156 Tackles, 10 TFL and 2 sacks, and he broke up 8 passes and had 1 INT. 

F.A. Signings and Trades:

Toniu Fonoti OG

Torrin Tucker OT

Jamie Winborn LB

Key F.A.  Loses:

Dexter Jackson S

Brian Griese QB

Could easily take Youboty here, and nobody would complain. However, I just have that feeling that Winston is the guy Gruden wants. He was projected as a top ten before the season started, but he didn't play well because he didn't trust his knee. He has spent the off season showing he is over his knee injury. Bucc's really need a LT prospect to step in and play well. I really don't like McNeil. So Winston is the choice if they want a LT. Tampa has a reputation of going for the best available athlete rather than drafting for need. So Youboty, Donte Whitner, or Ernie Sims would not be shocks here.

TE, DB, QB, DE, DB, OT, LB

Key F.A. Signings:

Dexter Jackson S

Sam Adams DT

Key F.A.  Loses:

Matt Schobel TE

Jon Kitna QB

Kevin Walter

The Bengal will look to address other concerns now that Sam Adams is signed, and this is a good spot for a Corner or a Tight End. He plays a little high, so blocking will never be one of his strengths. But he can catch the ball and is a terrific athlete. He a huge target with huge hands and he knows how to use his body to shield defenders from the ball. Caught 64 passes for 1,023yards and 10 TDs over the past two season. From here on out Youboty, Johnathon Joseph, and Antonio Cromarie could go at any time.

.

WR, OT, DT, WR, LB, OL

Key F.A. Signings:

Grey Ruegamer OC

LaVarr Harrington LB

Will Demps S

Sam Madison CB

R.W. McQuarters CB

Jason Bell CB

Quentin Harris S

Key F.A.  Loses:

Shaun Williams S

Ryan Clark S

Will Allen CB

Speed, speed, speed, Moss is all speed and quickness. His horrid lack of production at Miami scares me, but there is no question he made a fortune at the Senior Bowl where he looked like the best Wide-Out on display. Giants sign Lavarr Harrington and screw up my whole 1st Round;-) Moss is not exactly a Giants type receiver, but they did face his brother twice last season and must have liked what they saw.  He has good hands and plays the ball very well when it is in the air. He is not just a sprinter out there on the field. He is a great Special Teams player. Giants have a need at WR, like a said last season Burress was the worst Free Agent pick up last year. He is vastly over-rated and will not come through when he is needed. Toomer is starting to slow down a little, and there is not depth behind them. Moss lacks size, experience, and production, and may slip out of the 1st Round. But he could slide in next season and be a terrific number 3 receiver. And if all gos well he could be a starter in a couple of years. This may be the perfect situation for him.

TE, CB, OL, LB, WR, DB

F.A. Signings and Trades:

Brian Griese QB

Wesley Dante CB

Key F.A.  Loses:

Jerry Azumah

Bears have to be thinking Offense again this draft. Winning games with Defense all last season, but it killed them in the Play-Offs. But word out of Chicago is that they really want a Linebacker, and if Carpenter is still available they will take him. Carpenter is a strong fierce leader on defense, and many felt he was the leader of Ohio States defense and not Hawk. He plays the run better then the pass, which is fine because I think he would play inside next to Bruschi. Carpenter looks like a Linebacker. He is strong and muscular. He loves the weigh room and has a great work ethic. Has been very productive. He was named team captain in 04. Last season, before he broke his ankle, he had 49 tackles, 10.5 TFL, and 8 Sacks. He is friends with Mike Vrabel and works out with him in the off season at Ohio State. Many scouts think his best position in the Pro's will be as a 3-4 Inside Linebacker. Came on as a pass rusher as a Senior, he only had 6.5 sacks his first three years.

Key F.A. Signings:

Keyshon Johnson WR

Justin Hartwig OC

Shaun Williams S

Damione Lewis DT

Keith Adams LB

Maake Kemoeatu DT

Reggie Howard LB

Kevin McCadam SS

Key F.A.  Loses:

Will Witherspoon LB

Marlon McCree S

Jeff Mitchell OC

Brentson Buckner DT/NT

Brandon Short LB

Marlon McCree S

Panthers look to be in pretty good shape for next season, but it looks to me like their biggest need is a RB, but they appear to be on the verge of losing Ricky Manning Jr.  Linebacker is a concern, so start looking for Bobby Carpenters name to starting popping up around this pick. Is it just me or does LenDale White seem made for this team. He is big bruiser who wear down a defense and bring those Safeties in so Delhomme can suddenly go deep to Smith. But he has personally destroyed his draft stock. Maroney is the highest rated player still on the board at their biggest need position, sounds to good to be true. He is a Broncos-type back, he follows blockers very well and then cuts once and is gone. He has the speed and instincts to be a good one. I have him rated lower than most Draftnics, because he ran behind a great O-Line who opened huge holes for him all season, similar to the Broncos line. But he is big and fast and quicker than I originally thought, and would make a nice back up/spot starter for DeShaun Foster. 

Antonio Cromarie CB Florida State

LB, OL, TE, CB, WR, SS, WR, LB

Key F.A. Signings:

Mike Williams OT

Stocker mcDougle OT

Brian WIlliams CB

Key F.A.  Loses:

Mike Williams OT

Akin Ayodele LB

Deke Cooper FS

I am making this choice because of Matt Jones. He was a QB who they Projected as a WR. Cromarie started one game in college, so any team that takes him must Project where they think he will play. He is similair to Jimmy Williams and has the size speed and athletic ability to play any position in the Defensive Backfield. He is simply an amazing athlete and has everything you want in a CB. He hurt his knee last season, so any evaluation of him has to be a projection. Typical boom or bust player. If he plays up to his athleticism he could be the steal of the draft, but if he doesn't put it all together he could break your heart. He is 6-2, 207 Cover Corner, who can cover anybody and has tremendous ball skills. In fact, some GM's have projected him as a Wide Receiver. 

Previous Pick:

Matt Leinert QB 

QB, OLT, RB, OC, DT, CB, DE, TE, S, RB, WR, S

Key F.A. Signings:

Kimo von Oelhoffen DE

Monsanto Pope DE

Andre Dyson CB

Tim Dwight WR

Trey Teague OL

Patrick Ramsey QB (6th)

Brad Kassell LB

Key F.A.  Loses:

John Abraham DE/OLB

Jason Fabini OT

Kevin Mawae OC

Jonathon Goodwin OC

Ty Law CB

Jets needed to draft an O-Lineman early, and that was before they lost Fabini and Mawae. Now they may have to draft three straight O-Lineman in this draft. If they somehow don't take a QB at number four, I know think that Cutler is a legit NFL starter, then they may have to take Kellen Clemens or Brodie Coyle here. Mangold is going to be great player in the NFL. He is a much better player than McNeil, and there is a chance McNeil could still be on the board at 35. Mangold will not make it to 35.

RB, LB, OL, K, LB, WR, OL

Key F.A. Signings:

Adam Vinatieri PK

Key F.A.  Loses:

Matt Bowen S

David Thornton LB

Edgerrin James RB

David Thornton LB

Larry Triplett DT

Colts usually looking for faster Linebackers but DeMarco Ryans is a real concern here. Running Back is the most obvious need, and Colts may have to reach for Joseph Addai, the RB from LSU. Addai is way to good to pass up here, and the need at RB is desperate as well. Addai is the best third down back in the draft, and he has the size and strength to be a starting RB as well. He may be the best blocker at the the RB position in the draft, and he has great hands. I question is natural running skills a little, but he is quick and fast and would be a good pick up for this team. Still I'm not sure he can be more than a 3rd down back, and his size and speed will fool people.

.

DE, S, WR, CB, LB, FB

Key F.A. Signings:

Nate Burleson WR

Tom Ashworth OT

Russell Davis DT

Julian Peterson LB

Key F.A.  Loses:

Steve Hutchinson OG

Joe Jurevicius WR

Andre Dyson CB

This pick appears to perfect to happen. Seahawks really want ot pick up a starting Free Safety in this draft in case Hamlin is not healed. FS is Whitners natural position. They also are unhappy with the speed of Boulware at Strong Saftey, which Hamlin can play as Whitner shifts to FS. Plus, they are looking for help at Corner, and many think Whitner can play Corner. I think this is a mistake where he will be an average at best cover Corner. I think he is a natural Safety with he is an exceptional cover skill for a Safety. Moving him to Corner will cause problems. Whitner appears ready to step in at Free Safety somewhere next season and he displayed the speed to play Corner and the toughness and physicality to play Safety. He may be the fastest riser on the boards right now. I have seen him placed as high as 19 to the Chargers. I think his lack of size and great depth at DB will cause him to fall further than he should.

LenDale White RB USC

WR, DL, RB, LB, DB, OL

Key F.A. Signings:

Ryan Clark S

Rodney Bailey DE

Key F.A.  Loses:

Chris Hope S

Kimo von Oelhoffen DL

Antwaan Randle El WR

Steelers need help help along the D-Line and are desperate for a WR. Sinorice Moss would be an interesting choice here if he somehow drifted down this far. LenDale White is a similar player to Bettis, and will make a nice back-up/replacement for the Bus. Pittsburgh really does need a replacement so they are desperate enough to take chance here. White should have a top 15 pick, but displayed bizarre behavior during the whole off season, and many think he is mature enough to be a Pro. Plus he has a serious hamstring tear, and will not be able to run until May. If he puts it all together mentally he would be a super steal here. 

Showed up at Proday fast, slow, and disinterested. But he is Big, bruising, strong, and has just enough field speed. He ran for more yards and TDs then Bush, and is USC's all-time leader in rushing TDs.