This years draft is a very interesting one for fans of the New England Patriots. It is the deepest draft I have ever seen, and especially deep at the Defensive Line positions. They have obvious needs along the Defensive Line, and this years draft is the best for Defensive linemen I've ever seen. There could be as many as 13 Defensive linemen taken in the first round, including as many as Seven Defensive Tackles in the first 20 picks. I believe the Pats should take two defensive linemen with their first two picks. They will probably be choosing from these Eight Defensive Linemen:
| *Jonathan Sullivan Defensive Tackle 6-3.5 298 Georgia | Michael Haynes Defensive End 6-4 274 Penn State |
| *Dewayne Robertson Defensive Tackle 6-3 310 Kentucky | Kevin Williams Defensive Tackle 6-4 295 Oklahoma State |
| *Rien Long Defensive Tackle 6-5 290 Washington State (Injury concern) | William Joseph Defensive Tackle 6-4 290 Miami (Fla.) |
| Kenny Peterson Defensive End 6-3 280 Ohio State | *Chris Kelsey Defensive End 6-4 270 Nebraska |
The hardest part of this years first round is the Quarterbacks. There are 5 QBs who could or should go in the first round, and like the draft of 1983 there is an interesting Lefty QB who appears to be second round material (Boomer)- David Ragone. But none of these QBs seem to have a set position in the draft, even Carson Palmer who seems to be another victim of the Bungals miss-management. Although it does appear that Cincinnati is just pre-draft smoke screening to confuse the other teams, at least I hope so. If they don’t take him they should be thrown out of the league. Leftwich who was the top rated QB at the beginning of the season appears to be sliding down the charts as teams grow concerned about his fragile legs. He may be available to Arizona at 6, although I think Parcell’s maybe looking at him, although I have no proof just a feeling;-) Then Carolina appears to not be interested in grabbing a QB. They signed some guy I never heard of and gave him starters money? I am wrestling with giving them Boller, who has moved into the third QB spot with an amazing off season. He is big strong fast QB with maybe the strongest arm in the draft, but he sometimes appears confused on the field, and he will need some time to develop. Then comes Grossman, Green Bay wants him at 29, and it appears he’ll make all the way down to them when last month he appeared to be a top ten pick. I thought Simms would end up in Denver, but then they signed Plummer and it now appears he will be available in the second round. But none of them could go to any of the teams I mentioned? The only thing I know for sure is that none of them will be playing for the Patriots next season, which is all that really matters;-)
The Patriots want to get younger and faster on defense, and will certainly have the chance. Plus the three players I from LSU I profiled in the last Mock appear to be moving down:
Pilfered from On
The Clock. Thanks to Matt Gambill, of All Pro Scouting for the
following:
LSU CB Demetrius Hookfin measured in at 5-10 3/4 and 175 pounds.
He ran a 4.72 40-yard dash, 31 1/2” vertical jump, 9-foot-6 broad
jump, 4.37 short shuttle and a 7.38 three-cone drill.
LSU LB Bradie James measured in at 6-foot-2 5/8 and 238
pounds. He ran the 40-yard dash in 4.75, 4.65 and 4.65 times. He also
had a 9-foot-5 broad jump, 4.38 short shuttle, 7.30 three-cone drill and
did 16 reps in bench press drills.
LSU CB Damien James measured in at 5-foot-10 1/4 and 179 pounds.
He hade a 4.55 40-yard dash time but suffered a pulled hamstring.
LSU LB Jeremy Lawrence measured in at 6-foot-2 3/8 and 239
pounds. He had a 4.93 40-yard dash, 9’ broad jump, 4.50 short shuttle
and 7.51 three-cone drill.
LSU S Norman LeJeune measured in at 6-foot-0 1/4 and 199
pounds. He had a 4.54 40-yard dash, 34” vertical jump, 9-foot-10 broad
jump, 4.13 short shuttle and 7.10 three-cone drill.
LSU WR Jerel Myers measured in at 5-foot-10 1/2 and 178 pounds.
He ran a 4.53 40-yard dash, had a 31” vertical jump, 9-foot-6 broad
jump and 4.03 short shuttle.
LSU RB Elice Parker measured in at 5-foot-10 1/2 and 225
pounds. He ran a 4.64 40-yard dash, had a 29” vertical jump, 9-foot-6
broad jump, 4.42 short shuttle and a 7.22 three-cone drill.
LSU WR Reggie Robinson measured in at 6-foot-0 3/4 and 203
pounds. He had a 4.52 40-yard dash, 36” vertical jump, 9-foot-10 broad
jump, 4.15 short shuttle and 7.09 three-cone drill.
LSU RB LaBrandon Toefield measured in at 5-foot-10 7/8 and
228 pounds. He ran the 40-yard dash in 4.53, 4.56 and 4.62 times. He
also had a 9-foot-7 broad jump, 29 1/2” vertical jump, 4.32 short
shuttle and 7.22 three cone drill.
*LaBrandon Toefield and Domanick Davis maybe around in the forth. Bradie James maybe available to the Patriots in the 3rd round, although with the signing of Colvin he may be less of need. It appears the Pats will move to 3-4 as there base defense and need to pick up an inside linebacker to play with Bruschi and Johnson on the inside. They were now weakest at the Fullback position, but the signing of Fred McCrary has strengthen this position, but may have to address that need earlier then they would like. Here is a list of the top five fullbacks according to football.com:
2. Andrew Pinnock Sr. South Carolina 5-10 265
3. BJ Askew Sr. Michigan 6-2 240
4. Casey Moore Sr. Stanford 6-2 240
5. Brandon Drumm Sr. Colorado 6-1 225
The Patriots currently have too much money invested in the secondary, but a good young corner would be nice. The shift to the 3-4 lessens the need for a Defensive Tackle, but they really only have one NFL quality D-Tackle on the roster, which brings up the most difficult decision Belichick will be facing on draft day. I think he will be staring at Jonathon Sullivan and one of the three top Offensive Tackles: Gross, who is the most ready to step in a Left Tackle; Harris, who maybe the most talented but at 20 years old may need the most time to develop; and Steinback, who is a guard who is big enough to play tackle, but he is changing position and that is another adjustment he will have to make. An all-pro Left tackle would change the entire offense and make every position, especially Brady, better. Light could move to right tackle or guard and help solidify the whole line. But if Sullivan is there they have to take him, and none of the 3 O-Linemen will be there at 19. San Diego is desperate for an OT, and will be doing a jig if one of the big three is there at 15. However another DT, like Joseph, Peterson, or Williams will be around at 19. So what would You do? Here's what I'd do:| # | Team | Top Needs | My Picks | Reasons for my Picks. |
| 1. | Cincinnati | A Clue, A QB, An Owner
Key Loses: Takeo Spikes LB |
Carson
Palmer QB
Alt: Trade? John Thornton DT Tory James CB Kevin Hardy LB Reggie Kelly TE |
For some reason they don't want the best player in the draft. Will probably trade pick?????? Should have traded for Bledsoe at last years draft?? Hopefully Lewis will do the right thing. Word lately is that Cincy has come to their senses and will grab the obvious best player in the draft. Brown has been under tremendous pressure from all side to start doing the right thing, and he could start by draft they player most likely to be a franchise QB in this draft. |
| 2. | Detroit | RB,LB,OL WR,CB | Charles
Rogers WR Alt: Kennedy Dre Bly CB |
This is to perfect a fit for it to work. Young QB gets great young hometown WR. Mariucci gets his Owens without the attitude, and yes he is that good. He'll speed up the development Harrington tremendously. He caught a TD in an amazing 12 straight games to set an NCAA record. He has it all size, speed, ad hands. |
| 3. | Houston | OL,WR,DT S,TE,RB | Jordan
Gross OT
Alt: Kennedy DT Zach Wiegert OL |
Gross is a big, strong, and most importantly mean LT prospect, and solidified his rank as the top Left Tackle in the draft with great workouts during position drills at the combine. He amazed scouts with his quickness setting up in pass protection. He also showed great foot quickness and footwork. He improved his stock and was already considered a top 7 pick. Ironically he may have actually dropped a little because he didn’t improve his stock enough as Johnson, Newman, Kennedy, Suggs and Trufant just blew GM’s away. He demonstrated the quick feet needed for for pass-protection in the pro's. Still Texans maybe forced to take Suggs or Kennedy here if they can't trade down, and pick up Offensive tackle in the second round, like George Foster. However with the amazing depth in this draft teams are reluctant to trade up and give up extra picks. |
| 4. | Chicago | QB,TE,LB, DL | Terrell
Suggs DE
Alt: Jimmy Kennedy DT Desmond Clark TE |
As strange as it sounds Chicago apparently doesn't want Leftwich. I still think they are bluffing in hopes nobody trades up to 3 to snag him, however with the signing of Stewart it appears they really are not interested in Leftwich, and if we take him at his word then Kennedy or Suggs will be taken here. Suggs seems to have moved ahead of Kennedy on the board of most draftnics, Kiper moved him up to 3rd on his list, so I'll stick him in here. I just can't believe that they would pass on Leftwich. |
| 5. | Dallas | QB,RB,TE, DE,CB,OL
Key Loses: Raghib Ismail WR |
Byron
Leftwich QB
Alt: Terence Newman Rich Anderson FB Dan Campbell TE |
Parcell's has been talking about Newman which makes me thinking he's looking at Offensive Players. The year the Pats drafted Ty Law they only talked about Offensive players. The TE that went to the browns, O-linemen, and a couple of RB's. I never heard them mention Law's name once. He was always talking about adding to the offense. If he's talking about Newman I would think he was looking at Suggs or Kennedy. If he is talking about improving the Defense I would think he was planning on improving the Offense. If no one trades up to Number three, or Chicago is really not interested in Leftwich, I think he will be a Cowboy. Leftwich is a big strong pocket passer, and the toughest QB to come out since McNair, and I mean that as the ultimate compliment. Parcell's KNOWS that he cannot win with out a QB, RB and strong defense. Look at his track record, he always gets a good QB and RB in his first two season in charge and ridesd them to the Super Bowl. |
| 6. | Arizona | QB,WR,RB, DB,LB,DT | Terence
Newman CB
Alt: Leftwich Emmit Smith RB Dexter Jackson S James Darling LB James Hodgins FB Russell Davis DT
|
Who the hell knows what these idiots will do? They lost Plummer so they should trade up for Leftwich. They lost Boston could stay here and take Johnson. Kennedy is the best player on the board and I can't imagine him going lower then this. Then the Cards could pair him with last years good decision Bryant, and make running up the middle against them a No-No. However, Newman blew scouts away at the combine and most have him as a lock for the top five, and he probably won't make it past Dallas. He may actually be a shut down corner, which is the most over used term currently going around. A shut down corner is an extremely rare commodity, and how many teams really have one 4 or 5? His age may cause him to drop so he will be available here. |
| 7. | Minnesota | CB,LB,DL, DEFENSE! | Jimmy
Kennedy DT Alt: Trufant Denard Walker CB Moe Williams RB |
Minnesota MUST look to its defense. They have to get at least one starting corner in this draft. Signing Walker was good start in the rebuilding of the Vikings terrible secondary. Trufant maybe a great option here for their horrid secondary. But Kennedy is a monster. He is just so big and strong at the most difficult position to get quality players. He actually lost weight to improve his stock by showing up at the combine at a muscular 322 pounds. He really has the talent to be a dominate DT for a long time, and we all know how valuable an all-pro D-Tackle is in the NFL. |
| 8. | Jacksonville | CB,WR,DB, LB,DE,OL | Andre
Johnson WR
Alt: Marcus Trufant CB Mike Peterson LB Hugh Douglas DE Keith Mitchell LB Kevin Lockett WR |
Johnson just blew everybody away at the combine and at Miami’s pro-day. He may not last to the 8th pick, but this is one of the deepest drafts ever. He was running sub-4.4’s at 230 pounds, that’s just not right;-) He did drop some passes during position drills, so questions about his hands and concentration will cause him to drop just enough to fall into the Jags hands. The Jags have to be craving Newman, and they must know he won't make it past Vikes, which puts them in a tight spot. They need quantity as well as quality and can't afford to give up a 2nd rounder to move up a couple of spots to grab Newman. So they may have to take Trufant here. |
| 9. | Carolina | QB,WR,CB, RB,LB,OL | Kwame
Harris OT
Alt: Tryfant CB Stephen Davis RB Doug BrzezinskiOG Ricky Proehl WR |
The signing of Jake Delhomme, apparently has quenched Carolina’s thirst for a QB. I still desperately want to give them Boller, and I still think they will pounce on him. They really need help on offense but the best players on the board on defensive players. Their secondary really needs an upgrade and Trufant just keeps impressing everybody everywhere he goes. The loss of Chris Terry will make Harris rather attractive, he is only 20 years old and in three years could be the best O-linemen taken from this draft. Harris will step right in at RT and stay there for the next 15 years. He has the pass protection skills of a LT, and is the best athlete of the big three O-linemen. Carolina has good young defense that will lead them no where until they get a decent QB! |
| 10. | Baltimore | DT,OL,QB, CB,LB,RB, S |
Kyle
Boller QB
Alt: Kwame Harris OT Riddick Parker DL Corey Fuller CB
|
Ravens would like to draft Robertson for the same reason I'd like to see him in a Pats uniform, He has the ability to play Nose-Tackle. Robertson is huge and strong and at 6-2 squats low to the ground which is a huge asset foe a NT. Finding a NT is the most difficult aspect of playing a 3-4. Most college lineman are DT's or DE's, and can't play the nose. A lot of people have the Ravens taking on O-lineman with this pick, and Steinback would not be a reach here. However, Boller has been the best QB in the off-season and has moved himself into the top ten. He is 6-3 234 pounds and reportedly kneeled down on the fifty yard-line and threw the ball through the goal posts! The Ravens QB’s stink, and he could back up Blake for a season or a half a season and then take over. |
| 11. | Seattle |
LB,DL,WR, CB,OL,OL |
Alt: Marcus Trufant CB Damien Robinson S
|
If 'Hawks lose Walter Jones they may have to take Harris or Grossman. So much of this pick depends on Free Agency, Seattle resigned Anthony Simmons. If they lose Walter Jones Harris would be a huge addition for them, and Rien Long seems to have a connection here. Okay, I have no idea what these guys are going to do. I really think they’d like Trufant, but Robertson is just to good to pass up. Robertson is huge and quick prospect who has also produced over the past two seasons. When coaches see him in person at the combine, and then review the tapes of him in games controlling the middle of the line, he will be considered a bargain at 11. He ran a 4.75 at 321 pounds and has benching over 30 reps. |
| 12. | St. Louis | CB,CB,TE,DB,
RB,DE Key Loses: Aeneus Williams cb Dre Bly CB |
Marcus
Trufant CB
Alt: Jerome McDougle DE Kyle Turley ORT Dave Wohlabaugh C |
Free agency and one trade has changed this pick completely. Cards lose two Corners Williams and Bly and if Trufant is here they will take him. They have 7 free agency on the offensive line, but Wohlabaugh is underrated, and Turley will step right in at Right Tackle and be god send. Trufant has enough size and speed to be a very good corner, and he has exceptional Man-on-man cover skills. I have been comparing him to Ty Law, and I mean that as the ultimate complement. |
| 13. | Jets | CB,LB,DT,
WR,OL Laveranues Coles WR Randy Thomas |
Boss
Bailey LB
Alt: Eric Steinback OG Tom Nutten OG |
Okay so who is picking here? Jets don’t match offer, but sue for alleged offer sheet violations. Steinbeck would step right in for Randy Thomas, and can back up the LT. No player has improved his stock more then Williams, but with Bailey on the board and the Jets aging LBers they have to grab him. If he is really running 4.3’s at 220 pounds he would not be a reach here. Edwards saw what Derrick Brooks did in Tampa, and Bailey has a chance to be just as great a player. I'm a big Bailey fan. I think he is just a superior athlete who plays to his speed, which most player don't. Jets may have to go for Kevin Williams here. |
| 14. | New England | DT,FB,OT, CB,DE, ILB,WR,RB, | Jonathan Sullivan DT
Alt: Marcus Trufant CB Alt: Kwame Harris OT Alt: William Joseph DT Alt: Eric Steinbeck OL Key Additions: Roosevelt Colvin!!!! OLB Rodney Harrison!!! SS Tyrone Poole CB Chris Akins S/ST |
With Jonathan Sullivan moving up the board quick, if he's still here the Pats will take him. Sullivan is 6-3 308 pounds young fast strong and a great athlete. It's almost a cliché to compare him to Seymour, but they come from the same team play the same position and both are known for their hustle and hard work. Sullivan is a little smaller but quicker. It is starting to look like he will not be available. These two picks (14 and 19) will go long way to showing what the Patriots defense will look like next season. If they take two D-linemen then they will be staying in a 4-3. If they take Bailey or Henderson either here or at 19 then they will be switching to a 3-4. The signing of Colvin is a strong indicator that they will be switching to a 3-4. I think he will be the blitzing linebacker in Belichicks 3-4 defense. I now do believe that the rumors of Belichick wanting to switch to a 3-4 full time is true. The signing of Tyrone Poole lessens the need for a corner in this draft, although I would have preferred Cory Fuller, yikes! So what does that mean? I believe it means they are not planning on drafting two DT in the first round. It has been rumored that they are interested in Stienback. Belichick and Poili were down in Miami and Kiper said they were paying a great deal of attention to McDougle and Joseph, and honestly if they draft those two players I think you could consider that a very good draft, although Fuller reported ran 5.0 forty and maybe falling further then he should. Boss Bailey is not a Belichick type linebacker. He prefers the big, strong, tough LBers who can stand up at the point of attack. However, Bailey is so fast and so athletic that he has to be interested in him, especially if he is drifting towards the 3-4. The Colvin is huge! I can't believe they got him. I thought if they were switching to a 3-4 that he would be the top free-agent out there for the Pats. Also Harrison is the equal of Milloy, and I don't say that lightly. In the Sporting News Football Preview book, for last season, they had Harrison rated as the number one safety in the league, ahead of Milloy. I always disagreed with that, but to say that they are equally is a fair statement. It looks like they are going to trade Tebucky. However, The Pats must have a DT to play next to Seymour, which supercedes the need for a pass-rushing DE. They already have four average DE on their roster now, of course only McGinest has a chance of hitting a QB with consistancy, and he didn't do it last season. They have only one NFL caliber DT on their roster currently. Sullivan is a superior athlete, and would start next to Seymour next season even if he's not quite ready because their is nobody else. I also believe if either Gross or Harris slips down Belichick will surprise and take either big LT prospect. However in the end, I truly believe the best thing for the Pats would be to take 2 defensive linemen in the first round, and sort out the rest of the needs later. |
| 15. | San Diego |
DL,OL,WR, OL,LB,S Key Loses: Curtis Conway WR
|
Eric
Steinback OT Atl: Kevin Williams DT David Boston WR Lorenzo Neal FB |
Stienbach would be their first choose. Their O- tackles really need upgrade more then their interior line. Steinbeck has improved his stock as much as Boller, and he would be the starting LT for the Bolts next season. He is 6-6 with great feet and quickness and has perfect technique. Signing Boston is huge. He is a great player on the field, but lots of trouble off the field. Getting Steinbeck will help Bree’s on the field as much as Boston. If they strengthen the O-Line this could be one of the best offenses in the league! However, losing Seau and the loss of Harrison will really hurt this defense. So they may have to take a D-line or linebacker here. I think Bolts will be choosing between Steinback and Williams. I keep going back and forth. They may have the best bookend tackles in the game, but the interior line needs help. Steinback has all-pro talent at Guard, and can play Tackle if necessary. However, Williams can get to the QB from the DT position, and he really dominated at the Senior Bowl. |
| 16. | Kansas City | CB,LB,S,LB | Dennis
Weathersby CB
Alt: Andre Woolfolk CB Alt: E.J. Henderson LB Dexter McCleon CB Shawn Barber LB |
Vermiel was rumored to be interested in Grossman, but then they sign Green to a fifty million dollar contract extension. KC’s secondary is a disaster and Weathersby has shown great speed, running a 4.38 forty at the combine. He is 6-1 and 210 pounds and demonstrated great cover skills at Oregon, and every team is looking for a big corner with any kind of cover skills. Woolfolk has bust written all over him. He maybe the best athlete in the draft, but has no clue about technique. If he can learn the nuances of coverage he could be the best corner to come out of this draft 3 or 4 years down the road. The signing of McCleon lessens the need for a CB, and may pave the way for A linebacker or a D-Linemen. |
| 17. | New Orleans | CB,LB,S,DL, CB,LB,OL | William
Joseph DT
Alt: E.J. Henderson Wayne Gandy OT Orlando Ruff |
Joseph has thin legs that really worry me, that's why I had him drop. But he is another pass-rusher from the DT, and he brings leadership to a group of underachieving DT who need some leadership desperately. However, Henderson was a man amongst boys last season. His bad back has kept him out of the top ten, and he will be a dominate player for as long as his back holds up. I was overwhelmed by his talent and smarts in Marylands bowl game this year. |
| 18. | New Orleans | CB,LB,S,DL, CB,LB,OL | Rashean
Mathis DB
Alt: Andre Woolfolk CB Ashley Ambrose CB Orlando Ruff LB |
Mathis is dominating the postseason ran a 4.43 at 202 pounds and bench 225 an amazing 22 times. Has the speed to play corner and the size and strength to play Safety. The saints secondary in shambles after loss of Knight, and they may have to draft both a safety and a corner. However Ambrose solves a lot lot of problems and he will allow Mathis to play safety where he had most of his 25 interception. From the immortal Buchsbum, "Bethune-Cookman’s Rashean Mathis was the best cornerback in the MEAC, but when he played corner, teams just would throw away from him. For the second time in three years he was moved inside to free safety and he has picked off eight passes in six games. In 2000, when he played inside, Mathis had 11 interceptions and has 25 for his career. At almost 6-1, 195, Mathis is big enough to play inside, yet also has the speed and quickness to play out on the corner on the next level. If he goes to the Senior Bowl and does well, he could wind up right up there with the big-name defensive backs in the draft." good enough for me. |
| 19. | New England | DT,FB,OT, CB,DE, I LB,WR,RB, |
Alt: Dennis Weathersby CB Alt: E.J. Henderson
Alt: Michael Haynes DE
Fred McCary |
The signing of Colvin has convinced me completely they have switched to the 3-4. With Sullivan in the fold the need for an inside linebacker becomes paramount, unless you believe Ted Johnson can hold up for a whole season, it was great to see him healthy and playing well for the first time in years, but he is a part-time player, and I believe Belichick sees Bradie James as an inside linebacker he can pick up in the third round, and maybe Vrabel can play inside now that Colvin has taken his position on the outside. Henderson maybe the 5th or 6th best defensive player in this draft, on the field, but his bad back and lack of track speed will hold him back. He could step in and start as a rookie on this team in the 3-4. And if the Pats take an O-linemen at 14 Peterson will be drafted here. I think the Pats could take Weathersby here if he slips past KC or NO. Which brings up my montra for the Patriots, “Just take 2 D-linemen in the first round and sort out the rest later.” So if the draft goes like this there is no way Belichick can pass on Williams twice. He has added 15 pounds of muscle since last season, he showed up at the combine at 304 pounds. He was also the best D-Linemen at the senior bowl. He is more of a one-gap penertrator, but has no problem holding up against the run. This would give the Pats a HUGE D-Line. Also Haynes would make a great DE in Belichick’s defense. Each year there always is a Defensive End who does everything well and nothing great and so he falls into the second round, and develops into a pretty good to great player: Mike Strahan, Phil Hanson, Hugh Douglas, Tony Brackens, Vanden Bosch, Anthony Weaver, Aaron Schobel, Mike Rucker, Darren Howard, …. Personally I just can’t wait to see what they do in this draft!!!!!!!!! This years draft could turn out to be the best draft for defensive linemen ever! Mel Kiper predicted that as many as 13 defensive linemen could go in the first round, and he may be right. I have never seen so many Defensive Tackle prospects project in the top 20 picks, and we still have had only one Defensive End taken. Larry Johnson will not be taken here. |
| 20. | Denver | DL,OT,CB | Jerome McDougle DE
Alt Michael Haynes Daryl Gardner DT |
Oops, the signing of Plummer means they won't be taking Simms or Boller. If the Pats don’t take Peterson he may just land at Mile-high. They appear set to take the top D-line left on their board whose left, and word they really like McDougle. He could turn into a Pass-rushing monster. But he will have to give a consist effort. He was non-existent at the beginning of last season and ended up with only 6 sacks. His height is also a concern. |
| 21. | Cleveland | LB,LB
OL,TE,LB |
E.J.
Henderson
Alt: Terry Pierce Barry Gardner LB |
Butch Davis released all three starting Linebackers from last years team. if Bailey or Henderson drop to 21 they have to take them. Bailey would be perfect for the Browns defense. But he also recruited McDougle when was coach at Miami, and McDougle looked good at teams workout running a 4.66 at over 260 pounds. He seems more suited for pass-rushing Right D-end, but did play Left D-end in college, of course the LB situation is so bad he may have to switch to outside LBer;-) Haynes is a great football player who can play Left-D-End, stop the run and still rush the passer. He is enormously underrated and appears to have fallen into the second round. A TE is a need and Whitten would be a great pick up. They may have to trade up for Henderson or Bailey, because if neither of them last to this pick they may have to reach for Terry Pierce. They have released all three starting linebackers from last season, so don’t be surprised if they really reach for a desperate need position. Terry Pierce would start for them right away as a rookie next season. Ironically, there desperate need for linebackers may actually put them in a power position to trade down, because trading down to say San Fran’s spot would not hurt them at all as Pierce will still be there and they could pick up an extra third rounder. |
| 22. | New York Jets | DT,CB,S, OL,WR,LB | Andre Woolfolk CB
Alt: Kenney Peterson DE/DT |
Grabbing Bailey at 13 was lucky. Woolfolk is rated much higher by most draftics. He has amazing athletic ability, and can get anywhere he wants to on the field, but doesn’t appear to know what to do when he gets there, but you can’t coach speed and quickness. I had him go here because I’m not a big fan, and the Jets secondary needs help. He is very green, and needs some work, but he may be the best athlete in the draft. Passing on Peterson would be tough, but Woolfolk and Boss would add tremendous speed and athleticism to this defense. |
| 23. | Buffalo | DT,CB,DE,
WR,TE
Key Loses: Peerless Price WR |
Kenney
Peterson DE/DT
Alt: Kenney Peterson DE/DT
Takeo Spikes LB |
I'm still working on the Bills needs. If Peterson is here he would fit in nicely. He has experience at DT and DE, which may make him a versatile D-Linemen that all teams want. He was great in the Championship game for Ohio State, and added 20 pounds of muscle since that game! He looks more like a DT now then a DE, and the Bills should be looking for more of a DT. |
| 24. | Indianapolis | CB,OG,DT, LB,DE
Key Loses: Mike Peterson LB |
Rein
Long DT Alt: Jerome McDougle DE Brandon Stokley WR |
Rein Long is an undersized pass-rushing D-tackle, does that sound like a perfect fit for a Dungy Defense or is it just me? His knee is not as fit as teams would like, and that caused him to drop further then he should, running a 5.4 at the combine and appearing stiff. He was the Outland Trophy winner as the best linemen in the country last season, and his 12 sacks from the DT position is very impressive. Dungy has lots of options for his defense here. Woolfolk would certainly step right into this sad secondary. |
| 25. | New York Giants | OL,WR,DL, LB,OG | Chris Kelsey DE
Alt: Larry Johnson |
Opposite Strahan, Kelsey should turn into a pure pass-rushing right D-End to help take the heat off of Strahan. I’m not as high on him as most others. I didn’t see Nebraska play this season, and he was terrible at the senior Bowl game. He just ran straight up field on every down and essentially ran himself out of every play. However, with Strahan on the other side he could be a monster. |
| 26. | San Francisco | TE,OL,LB, S,DT
Key Loses: Dana Stubblefield DT J.J.Stokes WR |
Jon
Stinchcomb
Alt: Teyo Johnson TE |
To me there are two players who fit what the 49ers do perfectly. Stinchcomb but he has really risen in the charts. He worked hard this off season to raise his weight and strength which were his two biggest concerns. He showed up at the combine at 304 and benched 225 pounds 30 times. He would be a tremendous addition to this 49er team who needs to protect Garcia better if they want him to last a few more years. Teyo Johnson just seems to be the perfect 49er Tight End, but word is he wants to play WR and that will drop him into the second or third round. |
| 27. | Pittsburgh | CB,S,RB, QB,CB |
Alt: Larry Johnson RB |
Steeler may go for a QB here and surprise everybody. Maddox is no spring chicken and he has to prove he’s not a one year wonder. Grossman has a great arm and appears to have a good handle on the passing game, so don't be surprised if he goes here. I still like Larry Johnson going here. But the secondary really needs to be addressed, and Could take any of number of Defensive Backs here: Wilson, Dennis Weathersby, Mile Doss, Rashean Mathis, Polamala, Shane Walton Terrence Holt. I like the idea Larry Johnson going here. But Steelers really must retool their sad secondary if they wish to cry in the Play-offs again next year. |
| 28. | Tennessee | WR,LB,OL, DL
Key Loses: John Thornton DT |
Taylor
Jacobs WR
Alt: Jason Witten WR |
Titians don't have a lot of needs besides a healthy McNair, but giving McNair some more weapons is easily the most important. Jacobs has been a productive receiver in a pro-style offense for a number of years, and a lot of people like him. He ran a 3.34 of his pro day, so he has the speed to justify a first selection. They may have to take local product Washington, but being local they maybe more privy to his indiscretions and refuse to take him. Washington has proven his physical health, but not his mental. I would not want him on my team. I’m not a big Jacobs guy either but getting help at WR appears to be their top need. However, Whitten maybe to good to pass up. |
| 29. | Green Bay | DT,DB?, CB,S,DE,OL
Nate Wayne LB
|
Alt: Troy Polamalu S Cletidus Hunt DT Nicolas Luchey FB |
Word is Favre is done, and they have no replacement. They have been saying for months they want Grossman, well watch what you ask for because you might just get it. He will also have a year or to behind Favre to develop, and watching Favre for a year or two would not hurt any QB. This is one of those picks that just seems to perfect to work. But with Grossman gone Haynes is just to good to pass up. He has the size, and ran a 4.7 at Penn's pro day. DE is not the biggest need, but getting a passrusher from the Left D-End spot is a always a huge advantage. |
| 30. | Philadelphia | WR,TE,OL, LB
Blaine Bishop S |
Jason
Whitten TE
Alt: Chris Kelsey DE Nate Wayne LB Jon Ritchie FB |
Eagles hoping one of the WR or TE's fall to them, and Whitten does. He has the size and the hands to be a good one. EAGLES.COM has them taking Kelsey so I’m reluctant to argue with them. I just think there top priority is getting help for McNab. They may have to go with the Malcontent Washington, who I wouldn’t draft in the 3rd round. If they lose Hugh Douglas they may have to draft a pass-rusher here, there are three top pass-rushers left on the board. |
| 31. | Oakland | OC,Youth
Key Loses: Sam Adams DT |
Larry
Johnson RB Alt: NONE Dana Stubblefield DT |
The Raiders maybe in the same position as the Pats, just take two D-Linemen and sort the rest out later. The salary cap purge really hurt this team, but they could replace Upshaw and Adams right here. But the raider MUST come away from this draft with an O-Center, but Al Johnson and Bruce Nelson have proven to be solid second or third round choices, and either one of them look like they could step right in and start for the Raiders. Larry Johnson Ran a 4.45 at Penn's pro day, and that has made his slipping out of the first round very unlikely. I would think the Steelers, Titians, and Raiders would be very interested. |
| 32. | Oakland | Youth,DL, RB,LB | Cory
Redding DE
Alt" Larry Johnson RB Alt: Terry Pierce LB |
If Redding is still here the Raiders may have to take him. I can't decide if they go for a Pass rusher, a Pierce, or Johnson. I think all three player could come in next season and contribute if not start. They have a lot of age on the Defensive Line and almost no pass-rush, so I will have to go with Redding, who is a pass-rusher form the left side. |
| # | Team | Top Needs | My Picks | Reasons for my Picks. |
| 1.
33 |
Cincinnati | QB,DL,DB,C,FB
Key Loses: Takeo Spikes LB |
Jeff
Faine OC
Alt: Mike Doss Earlier Choice(s) |
Bengal's did a good job addressing their main needs in the off season. Now they just need a Center to push Rich Braham, who had a bad season last year. Faine would easy start over Braham here. |
| 2.
34 |
Detroit | RB,LB,OL WR,CB,LB | Terry Pierce
LB
Alt: Onterrio Smith Earlier Choice(s) |
I really like Onterrio Smith going here, but Lions need Linebackers and may have to get two in this draft. If Pierce is still on the board here they may have to take him. |
| 3.
35 |
Chicago | QB,TE,LB, DL |
Chris Simms QB Alt: Dewayne White Earlier Choice(s)
|
Well the bears didn't want Leftwich and now they have to take Simms, who could win against strong competition. He has a pathetic record against top 20 teams and in Bowl games. |
| 4.
36 |
Houston | OL,WR,DT S,TE,RB | Brandon
Llyod WR
Alt: Justin Gage WR Earlier Choice(s) |
SMOOOOTH. Houston waits until second round to get receiving help for Carr, and it pays off. |
| 5.
37 |
Arizona | QB,WR,RB, DB,LB,DT
David Boston WR |
Dave
Ragone QB
Alt: Chris Simms Earlier Choice(s) |
Cards must get a QB, and Leftwich may be there when they pick in the first round, he is sliding rapidly and may fall out of the top ten if he doesn't work out for teams before the draft. |
| 6.
38 |
Dallas |
QB,RB,TE, DE,CB,OL Key Loses: Raghib Ismail WR
|
Onterrio
Smith RB
Alt: Sammy Davis CB Earlier Choice(s) |
It looks like the Cowboys are going to take Newman in the first round, but if they don't they will have to take Davis here. If they do take Newman I think Parcells graps a QB or RB here. |
| 7.
39 |
Jacksonville |
CB,WR,DB, LB,DE,OL |
Mike Doss
S
Alt: Sammy Davis CB Earlier Choice(s) |
I think Jags will be looking at helping their secondary here and Doss is just to good to pass up. |
| 8.
40 |
Minnesota | CB,LB,DL, DEFENSE! | Sammy
Davis CB
Alt: Earlier Choice(s) |
Rumor has it Vikings will take Robertson in the first round. If they take him or Kennedy I believe they will grab a corner here. Davis has been very impressive in workouts and is soaring up the charts. He may have worked himself into the first round with an interesting combination of size and speed. |
| 9.
41 |
Baltimore | DT,OL,QB, CB,LB,RB, S |
Ty Warren DT
Earlier Choice(s) Kyle Boller QB |
I know have the Ravens take Boller is crazy, he only completed 47.8 percent of his pass in college, but it could happen. In fact Leftwich may still be on the board when the Ravens pick at 10. This leave NT or DT as their biggest need, and Warren would be good pick for them here. |
| 10.
42 |
Seattle |
LB,DL,WR, CB,OL,OL |
Dewayne White DE Earlier Choice(s) |
Could go for Hunter or Foster here if they lose Jones, but White is too good to pass up. He showed he could rush the passer and stop the run in college. He slumped a little his senior and that caused him to drop into the second round.+ |
| 11.
43 |
New Orleans | CB,LB,S,DL, CB,LB,OL | Eugene
Wilson CB
Earlier Choice(s)
|
Eugene Wilson for Kyle Turley, Yikes! But with the signing of Wayne Gandy it becomes much more palpable. I see Mathis as more of a safety so N.O. has to go corner here. Wilson may not have the speed to be the top guy, but he's smart and should at least be the nickel corner as a rookie. |
| 12.
44 |
Washington | DT,WR,S TE,DE,QB | Dallas
Clark TE
Randy Thomas OG WR Laveranues Coles Dave Fiore OG DT Brandon Noble DE Regan Upshaw WR Patrick Johnson RB Trung Canidate |
Skins have addressed all their major needs in the off season except Saftey. Polamalu was running sub-4.4's and would be an excellent pick this late. Dallas Clark is another interesting choice. He looks like he is ready to step in and start for this team. |
| 13.
45 |
Carolina | QB,WR,CB, RB,LB,OL | Lee Suggs
Earlier Choice(s) |
Panther have to do something to help their QB's. Suggs appears to be completely healed from his knee injury. He is a bit small, but plays stronger then his weight, and has great quickness. Panther could be looking at the next Curtis Martin. |
| 14.
46 |
San Diego |
DL,OL,WR, OL,LB,S Key Loses: Curtis Conway WR |
Troy
Polamalu S
Earlier Choice(s) |
Charger really want a D-Tackle, and will probably have to take Williams in the first round. Then hope Foster falls to them here. As he does in this scenario. But Saftey and LB have become need |
| 15.
47 |
Kansas City | CB,LB,S, DE,LB,CB | Calvin
Pace DE
Earlier Choice(s) |
Chiefs really need someone to rush the passer and take some pressure off weak secondary. A lot of differing opinions on Pace. But most agree that his best position as a pro maybe as a pass-rush specialist. |
| 16.
48 |
Buffalo | DT,CB,DE, WR,TE
Key Loses: Peerless Price WR |
Bryant
Johnson WR
Earlier Choice(s) |
This is a tough call, no real good corners or DE left. Johnson was running sub-4.4's at 6-2 and could be a steal in the second round. |
| 17.
49 |
Miami | QB,OLT,LB DT,S,WR | George Foster OT | I would hate to see him slide to Dolphins. He appears ready for the NFL, the only question is his durability. He Has to stay healthy. I think this risk will slide him down further then his talent should allow. A lot of draftnics have him going in the first round. |
| 18.
50 |
New England | DT,FB,OT, CB,DE, ILB,WR,RB,DT | Wayne Hunter LT Alt: Justin Gage WR Alt: Chris Brown RB Alt: Kindal Moorehead DE Alt: Lee Suggs RB Alt: Calvin Pace DE Alt: George Foster OT Alt: Eugene Wilson CB Okay that's enough!
Earlier Choices |
In some respect Belichick does this backwards, he finds a player he likes in the second round and that influences what he does in the first round. He finds a player that fits in with his personality and focuses on him for this pick. I believe that player is Wayne Hunter Offensive Tackle from Hawaii. Ran 5.07 in the 40... at 6-foot-6, 303 pounds... did 37 reps of 225 pounds... very enjoyable kid to interview... has a great deal of athleticism and upside... he could be the next guy to come off the board after the first few big names. Len Pasquarelli, "Observations from one AFC general manager: "Everybody likes the guard from Hawaii (Vince Manuwai) and, heck, so do I, OK? But the tackle from over there, (Wayne) Hunter, is a really good player, too. He's a big, rangy guy, a blocker with natural pass protections skills. Pretty good feet for a guy with his dimensions. I mean they throw the ball over there so much in the run-and-shoot (offense), you'd better be able to pass-block, right? But June (Jones, the Hawaii head coach) seems to do a good job getting his kids ready for the combine. In Hunter's case, you'll have to project a little bit about how he'll be as a run blocker and how he will handle playing in a more conventional offense. But he's got a really nice upside to him. Well coached and a solid prospect." He can do the splits as well! He is the best athlete at the Tackle position in this draft. In fact, the Pats may have to give up one of their 4th rounders to move up 10 or 15 spots to get him. Apparently he blew away Belichick during his interview, like Matt Light and Deon Branch. If Hunter is here Belichick will take him, in fact that's why I have them passing on Steinback in the first round. The only problem is that Hunter may have worked himself into the first round! |
| 19.
51 |
Denver | DE,OT,CB LB,DT,S | Julian
Battle FS/CB
Earlier Choice Jerome McDougle DE |
Broncos need a nickel corner and a safety. I don't think Battle can be a starting corner in the NFL, but he might be a huge nickel corner, and he certainly looks able to play Free Saftey. |
| 20.
52 |
Cleveland | LB,LB
OL,TE,LB |
Antwan
Peek OLB
Earlier Choice |
Browns get lucky in the first round, and then get lucky again. May go O-line or TE here, but Peek looks like he could be a pass-rushing demon from the LB position. |
| 21.
53 |
New York Jets | DT,CB,S, WR,OL,LB | Justin
Gage WR
Earlier Choices Andre Woolfolk CB |
Jets weak At WR, and size at WR. Gage is a huge reciever, 6-4, who was considered 2nd round material because he was seen as slow. Then he went out a ran a 4.45. The Pats may not be able to pass on him with their pick. |
| 22.
54 |
New Orleans | CB,LB,S,DL, CB,LB,OL | Matt
Wilhelm LB
Earlier Choice Eugene Wilson CB |
Saints will be looking for a corner with this pick, if they don't grab one in the first round. I would think a LB would be a nice fit here, and I think Matt Wilhelm is very underrated. He was an excellent LB in college and may questioned his speed. He ran a 4.66 at the combine, which I think does warrant second round consideration. Saints will have to consider this a great draft if they get these four players. |
| 23.
55 |
Atlanta | WR,CB,LB S,DT,C | Kelly Washington WR | I will give the Falcons credit for picking up Coles, although I still can't believe they didn't Ashley Lelie last year? Reeves has to give Vick more people to throw to. He may have to take a chance with Washington, who I hate: big mouth, completely selfish, and NO PRODUCTION! But he has the triangle numbers that make GM's and draftnic's drool. |
| 24.
56 |
New York Giants | OL,WR,DL, LB,OG | Ian Scott
DT
Earlier Choice Chris Kelsey DE |
Giants add second D-Linemen to help Strahan. |
| 25.
57 |
San Francisco | TE,OL,LB, S,DT
Key Loses: Dana Stubblefield DT J.J.Stokes WR |
Teyo
Johnson TE
Earlier Choice Jon Stinchcomb OLT |
I would think 49ers thrilled Johnson is still here. Johnson wants to be a WR, but I see him as a prefect West Coast offense TE. |
| 26.
58 |
Indianapolis | CB,OG,DT, LB,DE
Key Loses: Mike Peterson LB |
Vince
Manuwai OG
Earlier Choice |
Vince Manuwai will probably go much higher then this, but sometimes Guards slip in the draft and he does here. |
| 27.
59 |
Pittsburgh | CB,S,RB, QB,CB | Torry
Holt S
Earlier Choice |
I would think Cowher would be looking for more of a CB, but Holt is much better then any corner currently available. He step in at FS and start on this team. |
| 28.
60 |
Tennessee | WR,RB,OL, DL,LB
Key Loses: John Thornton DT |
Justin
Fargas RB
Earlier Choice Taylor Jacobs WR |
More help for McNair. Fargas works out loike a lottery pick, but gets injured more then is comfortable to take in the first round. this maybe a perfect situation for him. Let huim heal another year behind George and Holcombe. |
| 29.
61 |
Philadelphia | LB,WR,TE,DE, OL,LB
Blaine Bishop S |
Anquan
Boldin WR
Earlier Choice Jason Whitten TE |
Philly really wants a DE to replace Douglas, But I think they still need a WR to help McNabb. Boldin appears to be the best of the rest. |
| 30.
62 |
Philadelphia | WR,TE,OL, LB
Blaine Bishop S |
Gerald
Hayes ILB
Earlier Choices Jason Whitten TE Anquan Boldin WR |
Eagls needed a Linebacker before they lost Barber. Nate Wayne will help, but Hayes is a monster against the run. He should have gone much higher then this, but concerns about his size cause him to fall. |
| 31.
63 |
Oakland | Youth,DL, RB,LB | Al
Johnson C
Earlier Choices Larry Johnson RB Cory Redding DE |
raiders take risk they will still be able to get a Center this late, and it pays off. Johnson is a tall center who keeps rising up the charts every time a team looks at him. One of the most underrated players in the draft. |
| 32.
64 |
Tampa Bay | LB,FS,RB QB,OT,TE | Ken Hamin S | He is the best Saftey, but has had a lot of oss the field problems. |
| # | Team | Top Needs | My Picks | Reasons for my Picks. |
| 1. | Cincinnati | A Clue, A QB, An Owner
Key Loses: Takeo Spikes LB |
Jarrett
Johnson DL Earlier Choices |
Jarrett Johnson is the top rated D-Linemen left on the board. Lewis has to be desperate for a defensive player. |
| 2. | Detroit | RB,LB,OL WR,CB | Chris
Brown RB
Earlier Choices Terry Pierce LB |
Lions must take a running back and I think Brown will be a good one. He had great production at Colorado, and played his best games in the Bowls. |
| 3. | Houston | OL,WR,DT S,TE,RB | Nick
Eason DT
Earlier Choices Brandon Llyod WR |
|
| 4. | Chicago | QB,TE,LB, DL |
Benny Juppru TE Earlier Choices Chris Simms QB |
Underrated TE who had a good carreer at Michigan. |
| 5. | Dallas | QB,RB,TE, DE,CB,OL
Key Loses: Raghib Ismail WR |
Drayton
Florence CB
Earlier Choices Onterrio Smith RB |
If no CB has been taken yet, Cowboys must help the secondary. Florence is a small college sleeper who is steadily move up the charts. |
| 6. | Arizona | QB,WR,RB, DB,LB,DT | Tyrone
Calico WR
Earlier Choices Dave Ragone QB |
Another small college player who is moving up the charts. He's 6-4, 220 pounds and runs a 4.37 forty. |
| 7. | Minnesota | CB,LB,DL, DEFENSE! | Shurron
Pierson LB
Earlier Choices Sammy Davis CB |
A another small college player shooting up the charts. He played DE at South Florida, and ran a 4.5 at 6-3 245 pounds. He will play LB in the NFL, and he could be great one. |
| 8. | Jacksonville | CB,WR,DB, LB,DE,OL | Kevin
Garrett CB
Earlier Choice(s) Mike Doss S |
Another small college player looking to make an impact in the NFL. He ran a 4.37 at 5-9 190 and really open some eyes. |
| 9. | Baltimore | DT,OL,QB, CB,LB,RB, S |
Tony Pashos ORT
Kyle Boller QB Ty Warren DT |
Ravens really looking for more of a RT, and Pashos is a big RT at 6-5 325 pounds. |
| 10. | St. Louis | CB,CB,TE,
RB,DE Key Loses: Aeneus Williams cb Dre Bly CB |
Robert
Johnson TE
Earlier Choice |
Not the most exciting pick, but Rams may have to trade up if they want another CB. |
| 11. | New England | DT,FB,OT, CB,DE, ILB,WR,RB, | Bradie James LB Alt: Andrew Pinnock FB Earlier Choices Wayne Hunter LT |
Belichick gets his LSU player right here, and he could be a good one. He looks stiff in coverage sometimes, as though he's focusing to much on the instruction the coaches are giving him rather then just playing. He doesn't have the greatest track speed, but he did run down Roy Williams the WR from Texas. He played outside LB at LSU, but most GM's think he'll move to ILB, which is perfect for the Pats. He could split time with Ted Johnson and he could learn, while Johnson doesn't get worn out. Pinnock woul dbe a interesting choice here as well. He is a monster at 265 pounds. He was more of a runner in college, but he said he is more then willing to be a blocker in the Pro's. He just wants to win. |