Current 2005 NFL Mock Draft (2 rounds)
ContractBud.com Mock Draft 2004
Post-combine edition
Looks like everyone agrees that Eli Manning will be the number one pick overall... but will it be San Diego making the selection. In a draft filled with first-round caliber defensive backs and wide receivers, will teams looking elsewhere keep trading down for slightly cheaper but just as good players. And where are the running backs and offensive linemen?
| 
Get your "Body By BALCO" memorabilia today! |
| ContractBud.com's cracked staff takes a look at the upcoming NFL draft after the combine and during the early stages of a wild free agency scramble. Needs are changing by the day, as players get signed, dumped, and asked for their hat size... |
Start the clock... and watch the sweat fly...
Note: this draft was completed before the trade between Houston and Dallas involving Drew Henson
|
- San Diego Chargers: It's no secret that the Chargers would like to trade out of the top spot so they can address their multiple weaknesses. General Manager A.J. Smith won't say much about San Diego's off-season plans. It would make sense for the Chargers to trade down if they can keep a top five pick that would allow them to pick Iowa lineman Robert Gallery. The 6'7", 310-pound tackle would give the Chargers a blocker with All-Pro potential for their only established offensive star, LaDanian Tomlinson.
The only thing Smith has said about this off-season is the Chargers will address the quarterback position. Since no team has stepped up with an offer, the Chargers will take Ole Miss quarterback Eli Manning if they remain in the top spot. Like his older brother Peyton, Eli has prototypical size and arm strength as well as a great work ethic. Miami of Ohio's Ben Roethlisberger might have better physical tools, but Manning is considered the safer choice of the two. Something very important to the Chargers after the Ryan Leaf experience.
The San Diego Chargers select QB Eli Manning, University of Mississippi (ESB)
- Oakland Raiders: What a perfect year to hold the #2 pick in the draft. With gaping needs due to age at wide receiver and quarterback, the Raiders can't lose. If Eli Manning somehow doesn't go #1 overall, Oakland will snag him. With Mike Williams and Larry Fitzgerald both on the board, the Raiders will have joy in their heart.
While conventional wisdom might lean on Larry Fitzgerald here, I forsee the Raiders looking the other direction. Williams has been nothing but a big-time playmaker since hitting USC, and is a large reason why Carson Palmer went #1 last year. I think Williams' 8 catches in the Rose Bowl over #4 Michigan trumps Fitzgerald's 5 against Virginia in a loss. Williams is 6'5", 230 lbs, Fitzgerald is 6'3", 225. Williams had 176 catches, 30 TDs in two years. Fitzgerald had 161 catches, 34 TDs during the same two. While Larry Fitzgerald had the more impressive season in 2003, I think Williams will make a slightly better pro. Both will be superstuds, and deserve to be top 5 picks.
The Oakland Raiders select WR Mike Williams, University of Southern California
(APC)
Help us keep our content free. Make a donation.
- Arizona Cardinals: The Cardinals recently dismissed their most recent victim — errr — head coach, Dave McGinnis, and replaced him with Dennis Green.
Green tends to have a wide-open offense, and Arizona needs another weapon to team with Anquan Boldin on the outside to protect him from a potential sophomore slump. The fact that Green has a history with this player only helps to cement the selection.
The original course of action pointed toward a quarterback, but with Josh McCown being locked up long-term, and Shaun King coming in to serve as his backup, this now appears to be a non-issue.
Green brings back one of his former ball boys to be a future "ball boy" in Arizona, which leads to...
The Arizona Cardinals select WR Larry Fitzgerald, University of Pittsburgh. (BSW)
- New York Giants: The Giants have a tough decision here. Three of their four guys atop their draft board, offensive tackle Robert Gallery, quarterback Ben Roethlisberger and safety Sean Taylor, are all still available. All three could possibly be among the best at their respective positions within the next few years. Which to take?
All of them fit in the Giants' plans. The case for Roethlisberger is that Kerry Collins' contract is up this year. Give Big Ben a clipboard for a year, let him learn the system, and then give him the ball in 2005. Robert Gallery would immediately step into the offensive tackle position opposite Luke Pettigout. Taylor would start with Shaun Williams and the Wills in the defensive backfield.
But which to take?
All of the above positions were hurt by injuries in 2003. All had above average starters, except one. The Giants' offensive line got a lot worse last year, even with starters playing. Dave Diehl, Shaun O'Hara and Luke Pettigout will form the core of the line in 2004, and if Rich Seubert can come back from a broken leg, there's one spot open.
The New York Giants select OT Robert Gallery, University of Iowa
(MJP)
- Washington Redskins: PROJECTED TRADE WITH CLEVELAND. Cleveland trades picks #7 and #68 for #5 and a fifth-round pick in 2005.
Cleveland Browns: Butch Davis appears to be molding this team more in his own shape, and he will have two of his former recruits from which to choose at #5.
With the recent addition of Jeff Garcia, the Browns would be wise to add the offensive player of the two, and the Browns fear that the Redskins — or maybe the Lions — would snap him up here at #5. They will be willing to trade two picks to get the man they feel can be a difference-maker in this draft. They want the next Jeremy Shockey, and Garcia gets an additional "signing bonus" here.
The Cleveland Browns select TE Kellen Winslow II, University of Miami (Florida) (BSW)
- Detroit Lions: Detroit has been quite busy rebuilding their defense this off-season, dumping Corey Harris and adding Fernando Bryant and Dainon Sidney. With Kim Herring following Marv Lewis to the Bengals, free agency isn't going to be the way to finish solidifying the defensive backfield. Since the NFC North mysteriously became a passers paradise over the last few years, Detroit will have to butch up even more this draft.
Detroit will need to look at a running back in round two, but could look at a TE like Ben Troupe if he drops out of the first round. Detroit would have been happy to snag Winslow here, but will "settle" for someone they'd consider trading up to #5 for. Matt Millen could even trade up as high as #3 to get this guy, but should remain patient to snag him at #6.
The Detroit Lions select S Sean Taylor, University of Miami (Florida)
(APC)
Help us keep our content free. Make a donation.
- Cleveland Browns: PROJECTED TRADE WITH WASHINGTON. Cleveland trades picks #7 and #68 for #5 and a fifth-round pick in 2005.
Washington Redskins: First, the Redskins traded out of #5, where they could have potentially picked Sean Taylor. They will also look to possibly trade this pick to go down a few more; perhaps Buffalo wants to take Roethlisberger ahead of Pittsburgh? I don't think they'll get the interest that they're looking for for this pick. Including the previous trade, they only have three picks in the draft, and won't pick again until #68.
That being said, Washington must fill a big need with this pick. Yes, they just lost Champ Bailey, but they signed Shawn Springs to compensate. They no longer need a running back with the addition of Clinton Portis. They just picked up Cornelius Griffen, late of the Giants, to help out at defensive tackle. They got Marcus Washington to fill the hole left by Jessie Armstead.
While they did sign DE Philip Daniels after he was cut from the Bears, he and Regan Upshaw, the remaining starter at DE, have combined for 10.5 sacks... in the last two years combined. This is not good for Joe Gibbs.
The Washington Redskins select DE Kenechi Udeze, University of Southern California (MJP)
- Atlanta Falcons: Atlanta has a new head coach in Jim Mora Jr. and he needs some new pieces in order to improve the Falcons leaky D. The biggest weaknesses are along the defensive line and in the defensive backfield. With Sean Taylor taken at #6, drafting any other defensive back would be a reach at #8.
The Falcons have a huge need a defensive tackle with Mora switching the team from a 3-4 to a 4-3 scheme. Right now the Falcons starting defensive tackles would be Rod Coleman and Ellis Johnson, which tells you how badly they need to upgrade that position. In addition, the Falcons play in the NFC South, which means facing Stephen Davis and Deuce McAllister twice a season. The Falcons need a run stuffer to bolster their 27th ranked run defense.
Tommie Harris is the perfect solution for Atlanta. Harris isn't going to simply clog the middle like Ted Washington. At 6'3", 280 lbs he has the quickness to get off the ball well and shed blocks to make plays. Harris consistently drew double and triple-teams at Oklahoma and can occupy those blockers even if he can't make the play, allowing his teammates to run freely to the football. He'll also use his quickness to provide a good pass rush and collapse the pocket, which will help the equally bad pass defense.
Harris started at Oklahoma as a freshman and he'll start in Atlanta in 2004.
The Falcons select DT Tommie Harris, University of Oklahoma (ESB)
- Jacksonville Jaguars: The first piece of the Jaguar offensive
renaissance was put in place in 2003, with the selection of QB Byron
Leftwich. He predictably struggled at times, but did not have a
tremendous amount of offensive weapons on the outside. The Jags tried
reclamation projects J.J. Stokes and Matthew Hatchette, and neither
provided a worthy target for Leftwich.
The addition of Kevin Johnson last year gave Leftwich a surprising
playmaker, considering his production in Cleveland, and this year will
add another offensive weapon on the outside.
The Jacksonville Jaguars select WR Roy Williams, University
of Texas (BSW)
- Houston Texans: Through free agency, the Houston Texans solved the right tackle issue by picking up Todd Wade from Miami to play right tackle. Seth Wand will probably move over to left tackle now. They also snagged Robaire Smith for defensive tackle. This, plus Udeze being taken, makes this pick very tradable. A team hungry for Steven Jackson or Kevin Jones, such as New England, could pop up to #10, as could a team looking for a defensive front man or a quarterback.
Charlie Casserly made it a priority to re-sign Gary Walker to keep him on one side of the defensive line. Now he needs a big brute on the other side. Vince Wilfork, at 6'1" 323 lbs could be moved over to end, but Will Smith does provide a more natural end. Wilfork could provide some heavy power to go with the big combo of Robaire Smith and Walker.
The Houston Texans select DE Will Smith, Ohio State University (APC)
Help us keep our content free. Make a donation.
- Pittsburgh Steelers:
Christmas has come early for Bill Cowher and the Steelers organization. The 11th spot in the draft was going to make for a very tough decision for Pittsburgh because they would have to reach for the best available offensive tackle in Shawn Andrews of Arkansas.
If the Steelers wanted to address the cornerback position, there are several talented players to choose from but there is no consensus on who the best corner is. Cornerback is the deepest position in the draft so the Steelers could still get a quality player at that position in the second round.
Instead of having to choose between players that might not be worthy of the 11th selection, a top three talent has fallen to them. Findlay, Ohio quarterback Ben Roethlisberger has a stronger arm, is bigger and more athletic than Eli Manning. According to reports, he also looked better at the combine. The Steelers might have needs at offensive tackle and cornerback, but Tommy Maddox remembered that he's Tommy Maddox last year and a talent like Roethlisberger is just too good to pass up.
The Pittsburgh Steelers select QB Ben Roethlisberger, Miami University (Ohio) (ESB)
Help us keep our content free. Make a donation.
- New York Jets: The Jets came into the offseason with two huge holes: one at wide receiver, one at cornerback. Luckily for them, these are the two deepest positions in the draft. They went out and traded their second round pick for Justin McCareins of the Titans.
While the Jets could still use help on the defensive line and in the linebacking corps, this pick is really a no-brainer as far as positions go. They essentially picked their WR with their second rounder; the CB comes here. Last year, they featured one of the worst defensive backfields in the NFL. Although they lost out on Antoine Winfield, this is a step in the right direction. I actually wouldn't be surprised if they took another CB in the 3rd and had both of them get significant time this year.
The New York Jets select CB Chris Gamble, Ohio State University (MJP)
- Buffalo Bills: The Bills have a few needs. They could improve the offensive line, even though they signed Chris Villarriel. They will likely want to improve their wide receiving corps, with Josh Reed not living up to their expectations. With the departure of Antoine Winfield, they could use help at the corner. Also, they could use a defensive end to bookend Aaron Schobel, and give help to the aging defensive tackles.
It is entirely possible that this pick will go to Dunta Robinson or DeAngelo Hall. However, this draft is one of the deepest in years in the cornerback position, and the Bills could easily spend a 2nd on one, and not go down that far in talent. The same goes for WR; the receiver they select could easily go in the third.
A tough call between the CBs and Shawn Andrews. Which do they need more?
The Buffalo Bills select OT Shawn Andrews, University of Arkansas (MJP)
Help us keep our content free. Make a donation.
- Chicago Bears: Chicago needs a lot of help. They need defense. They need offense. They need special teams. Just about anyone they draft will help out right away. With John Tait signed to an offer sheet, and Thomas Jones in the backfield, Chicago can focus on certain big needs. With Rex Grossman signed as the QB of the future, the Bears will take a pass on Philip Rivers and J. P. Losman. Signing Jones will probably keep them from snagging Steven Jackson or Kevin Jones here as well.
Most likely, if Chicago doesn't trade down to someone thirsting for a quarterback or running back, the Bears will look at the defensive side. Vince Wilfork, Dunta Robinson, Will Poole, and DeAngelo Hall all rate for the Bears. If the Bears can drop down 5 to 8 slots and pick up a second round pick, they'll jump at the chance. With the depth at cornerback and wide receiver extending deep into the second round, the Bears will snag a big man who made a nice splash at the combine by dropping a ton of weight.
The Chicago Bears select DT Vince Wilfork, University of Miami (Florida) (APC)
- Tampa Bay Buccaneers: Warren Sapp is out the door, and the Bucs will need help to spell and/or play alongside Anthony McFarland.
Randy Starks is a speed guy that will be good in run contain and may even record a few sacks.
The Bucs may have their next impact d-lineman without the headaches Sapp brings. The choice here is pretty obvious, based on where Tampa has a need.
The Tampa Bay Buccaneers select DT Randy Starks, University of Maryland (BSW)
- San Francisco 49ers: What an off-season it's been for the Niners offense so far.
Gone are pro-bowl linemen Derrick Deese and Ron Stone. Gone are two-thirds
of the starting backfield from last season with Garrison Hearst cut and Jeff Garcia now a Brown. Both starting wide receivers are also gone with Tai Streets in Detroit and Terrell Owens a Raven.
With that much talent leaving the Bay Area, the Niners need to find some
replacements. Kevan Barlow will take over for Hearst and Tim Rattay will
step in for Garcia, but San Francisco is thin at the wide receiver position.
The Niners could go with a cornerback here but with a talented wideout like
Reggie Williams available, he is a logical pick. Williams is 6'3", 230 lbs. and
can use his size even against the bigger cornerbacks in the NFL. He might
not have blazing speed but he should be able to contribute and possibly
start in 2004.
The San Francisco 49ers select WR Reggie Williams, University of Washington (ESB)
|
Get your "Body By BALCO" memorabilia today! |
- Cincinnati Bengals: Let's see, head coach Marvin Lewis spent almost all of his time at the combine looking at cornerbacks. The Bengals just released
experienced corners Jeff Burris and Artrelle Hawkins. I think we all see
where this is heading.
Lewis used shutdown corners like Chris McAllister on his Ravens' defense
that won a super bowl title. In this draft loaded with talented corners,
Lewis is looking for another top prospect to groom.
The best available is Dunta Robinson. At 5'11", 190 lbs, he has good size for a
cornerback and has consistently shown 4.4 speed. Robinson is also a good
tackler and was always matched up against the opponents' best receiver
during his Gamecock career. Robinson is ready for the NFL now and should
start for the Bengals in 2004.
The Cincinnati Bengals select CB Dunta Robinson, University of South
Carolina (ESB)
- New Orleans Saints: This is always the hardest team to project each year, because it seems as though there is no definite direction in which they will be looking in the draft.
This year, however, they will look to address one of their skill positions. Jerome Pathon is aging quite a bit, Donte Stallworth is likely to break if he is touched improperly, and Joe Horn is travelling the company asking people over the phone if they can hear him now.
There's a local boy that not only addresses these issues, but gives the Saints a tall, athletic wideout, which is something they haven't had in a long while.
The New Orleans Saints select WR Michael Clayton, Louisiana State University (BSW)
- Minnesota Vikings: PROJECTED TRADE WITH DALLAS. Minnesota trades #19 for #22 and either a 4th or 5th round pick in 2004, or a 3rd round in 2005.
Dallas Cowboys: Combining the downright anemic offensive performance of the Dallas Cowboys at times during the 2003-04 season, and Bill Parcells' apparent desire to strangle Quincy Carter during the playoff game with the Panthers, the choice appears obvious for the Cowboys here.
Thwarted in their effort to move to #10 in the Texans' slot to take Ben Roethlisberger, they will go for the next best available man on the board. The question now remains whether the Cowboys will give Quincy Carter another year under center, sign Tim Couch to a front-loaded deal, sign Jay Fiedler to a one-year deal, or bring in another man to "mentor" their choice at 19.
Don't let the wacky release point fool you — this guy can play.
The Dallas Cowboys select QB Philip Rivers, North Carolina State University
(BSW)
Help us keep our content free. Make a donation.
- Miami Dolphins:
Originally, this pick was going to go to Philip Rivers. Two things happened: 1) the Dolphins picked up A.J. Feeley, and 2) the Cowboys jumped ahead and got him anyway.
It appears that the Dolphins will at least give Feeley the chance to become the starter. That's good, because they can then concentrate on the rest of the offense in this draft. The Dolphins' offensive line really let them down last year. Ricky Williams, one of the most talented running backs in the league, only averaged 3.5 yards in his almost 400 carries. That's too many times giving Ricky the ball to gain too little.
The other big hole is at wide receiver. Chris Chambers continued to develop last year, and should be their #1 WR for years to come. The problem is the other side of the field. Oronde Gadsden is an unrestricted free agent, and James McKnight was released. This team could use a wide receiver.
If Shawn Andrews is available, expect the Dolphins to scoop him up here. If they want to improve their OL with this pick, they may try to trade down, because Jake Grove or Vernon Carey would be a reach here. Instead, they take the man whose knee problems are a thing of the past, as proven by a 4.40 at the combine.
The Miami Dolphins take WR Lee Evans, University of Wisconsin (MJP)
- New England Patriots (from Baltimore):
Sometimes it's just not enough to win the Super Bowl, or win it twice in three years. Once you have two, you want number three. With Antowain Smith gone and Corey Dillon unlikely to move East, Kevin Faulk moves to number one on the depth chart in New England... until the end of April.
New England needs a dominant, big-sized running back to punish defensive lines. But he needs to able to catch the screen pass and block as well. He doesn't need to be a juke-and-jive type back, but one who can put his nose down and play 3-yards-and-a-cloud-of-dirt football. Steven Jackson put in two 1500+ yard seasons at Oregon. In 2003, he caught 44 passses this past season for 2000+ combined yards with 22 TDs. He's bigger than Kevin Jones and much more proven. New England also has the nicety of another first-round pick, as well as two second-round picks to continue to improve. Jackson makes them the prohibitive favorite entering the season.
The New England Patriots select RB Steven Jackson, Oregon State University (APC)
- Dallas Cowboys: PROJECTED TRADE WITH MINNESOTA. Minnesota trades #19 for #22 and either a 4th or 5th round pick in 2004, or a 3rd round in 2005.
Minnesota Vikings:
Had the Vikings not been able to wrap Jimmy Kleinsasser up, I would have pointed towards Big Ben Troupe being the pick here. With Marcus Robinson in the fold, and Randy Moss still around, the Vikings are set at wide receiver as well.
The Vikings have a very good team, and were a fluke away from the playoffs. All they had at corner was Brian Williams. With the addition of Antoine Winfield, the Vikings can wait until the second round to draft a cornerback if they so choose, and they could snag a free agent such as Jeff Burris as a nickelback.
The Vikings can therefore draft for talent and depth, which is a very nice thing if you missed the playoffs. The Vikings could use an interior offensive lineman as well as a linebacker. DJ Williams, Jonathan Vilma and Daryl Smith are nice outside linebacker candidates, Vernon Carey might be a flexible enough lineman to draft as well, but his ankle may scare Tice away. Jake Grove might be a stretch here, especially with Matt Birk entrenched at center.
|
Get your "Body By BALCO" memorabilia today! |
With Miami going QB and New England going RB, the Vikings could disrupt both of their plans by trading down to Dallas. This pick could be CB DeAngelo Hall, but the Vikes look set for their kickoff positions with Onterrio Smith and Keenan Howry. While Vilma was a middle linebacker at Miami (in the tradition of Ray Lewis, Dan Morgan, and Nate Webster), he'll go outside in the Metrodome.
The Minnesota Vikings select OLB Jonathan Vilma, University of Miami (Florida)
(APC)
- Seattle Seahawks: The Seahawks could go several ways with this pick. They need help all over their defense including both defensive tackle and end. Unfortunately, no prospects are worth taking here. Even a defensive end like Antwan Odom from Alabama is talented, but not enough so to use this pick on him. Seattle also could use help at corner with Shawn Springs going to the Redskins but they have the opportunity to draft an extremely physically gifted player at another position of need.
Middle linebacker Randall Godfrey left the team via free agency and the linebacker position has been unstable in Seattle for the past half decade. D.J. Williams is a player with great size (6'1", 242) and speed (4.58 at the combine). The only knock on his is his limited experience at linebacker. He was a running back in high school. Teammate Jonathan Vilma might have been a better fit because he is more polished and ready to contribute but the Seahawks can't afford to pass up a player as gifted as Williams. Especially with defensive coordinator Ray Rhodes around to teach him to maximize his talent.
The Seattle Seahawks select LB D.J. Williams, University of Miami (Florida) (ESB)
- Denver Broncos: The Broncos have made one of the major moves of the offseason in acquiring former Washington cornerback Champ Bailey for running back Clinton Portis. They are confident that Quentin Griffen, who played well in limited time, will be another product of their system which has produced great running backs over the last 10 years. However, a big part of that system, offensive line coach Alex Gibbs, is now in Atlanta. Even so, the personnel is still there.
They could use a wide receiver, after the retirement of Easy Ed McCaffery and the sub-par play of Ashley Lelie. They could also use some help at defensive tackle. However, one of their best playmakers, Shannon Sharpe, is near retirement. He needs a successor, and he'll be taken here.
The Denver Broncos select TE Ben Troupe, University of Florida
(MJP)
- Green Bay Packers: It's not often that a team with as many titles can be considered a cinderella story. Green Bay had the most bizarre ending to the season, starting with Brett Farve's father dying, finishing in overtime against the Eagles after a blown 4th and 26 defense.
With Brett Farve returning for another year, the Packers do have to consider succession. Is J. P. Losman the guy? Whomever replaces Farve will suffer the constant comparison, and will be set up to fail. Better to suffer a couple seasons with Craig Nall or a journeyman QB than waste a number one pick on a guy who, no matter how good he is, will never compare to the great one. In this era of instant star, Green Bay cannot afford to clipboard a high-priced first-rounder. If he's available in round two, J. P. Losman will be watching from Lambeau's sidelines.
Green Bay has a great offensive line, a steller backfield, and some high potential wide receivers. If Ben Troupe were here, he'd be a nice addition. But Green Bay has had terrible luck on defense, with the injury to Joe Johnson and a host of other injuries. Green Bay goes either defensive end here, or cornerback. Antwan Odom is a strong possibility here for the end, but the Pack have an intriguing choice between DeAngelo Hall and Will Poole. I think Hall's flexibility as a punt returner will be attractive, since Green Bay has struggled since Desmond Howard changed his pants.
The Green Bay Packers select CB DeAngelo Hall, Virginia Tech (APC)
Help us keep our content free. Make a donation.
- St. Louis Rams: Going into this off-season, the Rams had 3 key players to try and re-sign: offensive linemen Orlando Pace and Adam Timmerman along with defensive end Grant Wistrom. Pace and Timmerman were both re-upped but Wistrom signed a six year deal with Seattle created a void along the defensive line. The defensive line took another hit with the loss of tackle Brian Young to New Orleans. In addition, cornerback Jerametrius Butler has signed a six-year offer sheet with the free spending Redskins. The Rams haven't decided if they'll match that offer yet.
If the Rams want to go with a defensive end, Antwan Odom of Alabama is available along with a workout wonder like Jason Babin of Western Michigan. There are concerns about both players like Babin coming from a small school and Odom not putting up great numbers at Alabama last season. Neither seems like a sure thing for the Rams here.
Assuming the Rams don't match the six-year offer to Butler, cornerback is where they need to look. This is the right draft to have that need as there are several good options out there. Will Poole is the best remaining. Even though he didn't start until the third game last year, he led USC in pass breakups and interceptions. He should be able to step in for Butler right away.
The St. Louis Rams select CB Will Poole, University of Southern California (ESB)
- Tennessee Titans: The Titans have suffered some pretty crippling losses on the d-line this offseason, with the departures of Jevon Kearse (Eagles) and Robaire Smith (Texans).
Floyd Reese is continuing his preference of leaving one major need position to be addressed in the draft as opposed to a number of need positions, and he will fill it up with the man who will be counted on to share reps at the inside position with Albert Haynesworth and Rien Long.
The Tennessee Titans select DT Darnell Dockett, Florida State University (BSW)
- Philadephia Eagles: The Eagles' off-season has been full of turmoil. Starting LB and defensive leader Carlos Emmons has gone to the enemy Giants, effectively swapping places with Dhani Jones. Starting CBs Troy Vincent and Bobby Taylor are both unrestricted free agents, and will not be back. They signed the Freak, Jevon Kearse, in the first big signing of the off-season.
What's the constant? They still need a WR. They came very close to getting Terrell Owens, except they didn't offer the 49ers what the Ravens did. This pick will likely go to a WR, simply because the CBs available in the 2nd round will still have the talent they're looking for, and they need a star WR as soon as possible to compliment Donovan McNabb.
The Philadelphia Eagles select WR Rashaun Woods, Oklahoma State University (MJP)
- Indianapolis Colts: The Colts know that they don't need anything on the offensive side of the ball. The whole unit is entact; the only guys that saw significant playing time that may go are the guards that are RFAs, but that won't affect this unit much. If one of them does go, they could take a look at Vernon Carey.
Obviously, this pick is going defense. With the release of Marcus Washington, they could take a linebacker such as Karlos Dansby. They could also go to a cornerback, but, again, the talent at that position is so deep that they could probably get a similar player in the 2nd than they can here. The other need position is defensive end; Chad Bratzke was also cut by the team.
It's a matter of talent between Karlos Dansby and Antwan Odom.
The Indianapolis Colts select OLB Karlos Dansby, Auburn University (MJP)
- Kansas City Chiefs: I think we all can still clearly see guys in white jerseys being chased by guys in red all the way to the end zone. Yeah, the playoff game where Indianapolis never punted. The Chiefs need help on defense at tackle and cornerback.
The best available tackles are Dwan Edwards of Oregon State or Marcus Tubbs of Texas. Igor Olshansky from Oregon has gotten a lot of attention after his 41 bench press reps at the combine. None of these players really stand out as the best available at the position.
The other option is cornerback and there is a good talent available at that position. Derrick Strait of Oklahoma won the Nagurski award, recognizing the top defensive player in college football and will be an upgrade over Eric Warfield and Dexter McCleon. The Chiefs corners still will struggle next year if Kansas City doesn't upgrade its defensive line, but Strait will definite raise the talent level at one of the Chiefs' weakest positions.
The Kansas City Chiefs select CB Derrick Strait, University of Oklahoma (ESB)
- Carolina Panthers: The Panthers finished off a magical Super Bowl run with the inability to stop anyone from New England on third down. Mark Fields was signed to be a run stopper, and he was tragically forced out last year due to cancer.
Carolina will look to upgrade this unit in a big way with a man that can stop the run and pass with speed and ferocity.
The Carolina Panthers select LB Daryl Smith, Georgia Tech (BSW)
- New England Patriots:
New England came into the offseason looking to add a
running back, a defensive tackle, a linebacker, offensive line, and perhaps another wide receiver. With the depth of wide receiver and the emergence of Bethel Johnson, the Pats will be happy to use a later pick that direction. With the first pick, the Pats snagged Steven Jackson. The Patriots could use this pick to get a 2005 first rounder out of a running back hungry team if somehow Kevin Jones falls this far.
With the departure of Damien Woody and Mike Compton, the Pats need a big time mean offensive lineman. While Dan Koppen has emerged as the center for the Patriots, moving him over to guard could provide the depth that could embolden the running game the Patriots are about to find with Steven Jackson. While Vernon Carey could play both tackle and guard, I think he's not quite as good as the guy the Pats are about to pick.
If an o-line guy isn't the pick here, look for the Pats to use their late second rounder for Nick Leckey or Chris Snee.
|
Get your "Body By BALCO" memorabilia today! |
The New England Patriots select C Jake Grove, Virginia Tech
(APC)
Help us keep our content free. Make a donation.
Round Two
**Houston from Oakland (used in 2003 supplemental draft)
- Arizona: I know how everyone is expecting this selection to transpire... but it won't happen. Here's why. Dennis Green loves speedy backs with some downfield savvy. Robert Smith worked for him in Minnesota for years, and is very comparable to the man that slips to them with this selection.
Marcel Shipp has been a disappointment of late, and Emmitt Smith is on his last leg, literally. They've committed to franchise receivers (Boldin and Fitzgerald), a franchise quarterback (McCown), and now it's time for the franchise back.
The Arizona Cardinals select RB Kevin Jones, Virginia Tech
- N.Y. Giants: With Kerry Collins in the last year of his contract, the Giants need to draft his successor. Other possibilities include defensive backs Matt Ware, Stewart Schweigert and defensive tackle Dwan Edwards.
The New York Giants select QB J. P. Losman, Tulane University
- San Diego: With Eli Manning now in the fold the Chargers need to start improving their defense. Randall Godfrey's signing fills one hole at
linebacker but the defensive line is very thin. In 2003 the Bolts gave up
140 yards per game on the ground and need a big body that can fill gaps.
Oregon State's Dwan Edwards fits perfectly.
The San Diego Chargers select DT Dwan Edwards, Oregon State University
- Detroit: Two years ago, Detroit got their QB of the future. Last year, their WR. Even if James Stewart resigns a sweetheart deal, drafting Perry will help their past two #1s get better. If they pass on Perry, they might be inclined to snag Maurice Clarrett in round 3.
The Detroit Lions select RB Chris Perry, University of Michigan
Help us keep our content free. Make a donation.
- Cleveland: The Browns would not make an investment in Jeff Garcia only to watch him get killed. The man who will protect their investment's blind side for years to come goes to Cleveland with this selection.
The Cleveland Browns select OT Jacob Rogers, University of Southern California.
- Atlanta: In 2003 the Falcons had the league’s worst pass defense, giving up almost 240 yards per game through the air. Jason Webster has been signed from the 49ers but he isn’t a starting cornerback, especially at 5’8’’. The Falcons can get a prospect with ideal size and speed who can also return punts. He’ll get a chance to learn on the job in 2004.
The Atlanta Falcons select CB Ricardo Colclough, Tusculum
- Jacksonville:
Jack Del Rio is continuing to rebuild the defense in Jacksonville, and being a former linebacker, that position is his "domain".
This selection could go in several different directions, but Del Rio will look for a very quick linebacker, with Lehman and the man they will select being very good possibilities. Williams ran a 4.50 at the combine and was reportedly very impressive. He also had a better season statistically than did Lehman in 2003.
The Jacksonville Jaguars select LB Demorrio Williams, University of Nebraska.
- Houston: Houston filled two huge holes through free agency, and plugged the end in the first round. Big Ben Watson could be a nice snag here, as could Vernon Carey. Watson was too much of a non-factor last year, and Carey was dinged as well. Matt Ware and Teddy Lehman are possible here too. But Houston needs to keep the franchise off his back and make sure that the offensive line has enough folks to back them up. Here's a plugger.
The Houston Texans select OL Vernon Carey, University of Miami (Florida)
- Denver from Washington:
The Broncos need to replace OLB Ian Gold, need a WR, and a DT. Two of the
three will be taken this round.
The Denver Broncos select OLB Teddy Lehman, University of Oklahoma
- Tennessee from N.Y. Jets:
With the retirement of Frank Wycheck, and the puzzling disappearance of Shad Meier after a hot start, the Titans will need to draft a reliable guy for their two tight end sets. This pick has improved his standing considerably of late, and now he'll be heading northwest on I-75 to join his new team.
The Tennessee Titans select TE Ben Watson, University of Georgia
- Buffalo: The Bills could improve their defensive line here, but with the departure of Antoine Winfield, they have a pressing need at CB.
The Buffalo Bills select CB Jeremy LeSeuer, University of Michigan
Help us keep our content free. Make a donation.
- Pittsburgh: Dewayne Washington is gone to the Jaguars and cornerback is the biggest position of need for the Steelers right now. With Ben Roethlisberger falling to them in round one, the Steelers will address that need here. Ahmad Carroll might be a little short being in the 5'9" – 5'10" range but has a 40 inch vertical jump. He also runs a consistent 4.3 and was a shutdown corner during his junior year at Arkansas.
The Pittsburgh Steelers select CB Ahmad Carroll, University of Arkansas
- Oakland from Tampa Bay:
Cincinnati wants this pick, but Oakland wants to only give up a third-rounder at best for Corey Dillon. Oakland might take a flier on Justin Smiley. Oakland will be looking for a veteran back, but Al Davis has to like that Maurice Clarett sued the NFL. But this guy fits physically and emotionally.
The Oakland Raiders select DT Marcus Tubbs, University of Texas
Help us keep our content free. Make a donation.
- San Francisco: The Niners picked up a solid defensive end through the draft a couple years ago in Andre Carter. Carter consistently draws double teams or will have running back help with him. On the other side, the re-signed John Engleberger would be better as a sub than a starter. Last year’s signing of Chidi Ahonotu attests to that. Jason Babin is 6'3", 265 lbs runs a consistent 4.6 40 and shows good strength. Babin should be disruptive enough to make teams think twice about always doubling Carter.
The San Francisco 49ers select DE Jason Babin, Western Michigan University
- Chicago: Chicago needs a wide receiver or a cornerback here. Devery Henderson has some nice speed and is two inches taller than Carlos Francis. But Francis has 4.3 speed and will catch on with special teams right away. If the Bears don't get Wilfork in round one, this becomes Lavalais or a DT.
The Chicago Bears select WR Carlos Francis, Texas Tech University
- New Orleans: New Orleans has a lot of guys in the defensive backfield who took their most recent team meal at the Last Supper, and it's about time for New Orleans to get some youth and leadership on that side of the ball. They'll do it with a ferocious hitter with speed and leadership ability.
The New Orleans Saints select DB Bob Sanders, University of Iowa
- Cincinnati: The Bengals picked up a nice corner with their first
pick and need to add a big, physical, run-stuffing tackle. Last season,
teams were able to run up the middle against Cincinnati. Big and physical is
a good way to describe Oregon defensive tackle Igor Olshansky. He's 6'5",
315 lbs and posted 41 bench press reps at 225 at the combine. He projected to be
a first rounder if he had gone back to school.
The Cincinnati Bengals select DT Igor Olshansky, University of Oregon
- Minnesota: Even though they re-signed Jimmy Kleinsasser, look for the Vikings to pick TE Ben Hartsock out of Ohio State in round 3. He could be a Mike Tice-like player. In round two, however, they steal a big underclassman from LSU to help Chris Hovan apply pressure. Had Ty Carter not signed, I would have selected Matt Ware here. As is, they could go with another linebacker as well.
The Minnesota Vikings select DE Marquise Hill, Louisiana State University
Help us keep our content free. Make a donation.
- San Francisco from Baltimore: The Niners have managed to address two major needs at wide receiver and defensive end. The defensive backfield is still unsettled with the departure of Jason Webster to Atlanta. Former first rounder Mike Rumph hasn’t developed as expected but has improved. Still the Niners need talent and depth at corner. Matt Ware gives them a big corner who also has the ability to play safety.
The San Francisco 49ers select DB Matt Ware, UCLA
- Dallas: Dallas really needs another end to take advantage of the double teams that will undoubtedly be drawn by Greg Ellis on the left. There are two possibilities here — Ohio State's Darrion Scott, and the actual pick. The Cowboys go after the "upside" guy with the "good motor" (yay for draft terminology).
The Dallas Cowboys select DE Travis LaBoy, University of Hawaii
- Seattle: After getting a solid linebacker in round one, the
Seahawks still need help with their interior line. They need a big run
stuffer with good strength to clog the middle. Chad Lavalais was productive
in college and can be productive in the northwest for Ray Rhodes and Mike
Holmgren.
The Seattle Seahawks select DT Chad Lavalais, Louisiana State University
- Denver: With Igor Olshansky and Chad Lavalais off the board, a DT pick may be
surprising here. Michael Jenkins and Devery Henderson are also still
available. This pick could either go to one of them, or a DT who is
moving up the boards. At this point, they're likely going to give Ashlie
Lelie more time, or take a WR later.
The Denver Broncos select DT Donnell Washington, Clemson University
- Green Bay: Brett Favre loves him some tight end... hmm... that should be rephrased. Ben Hartsock is a very nice candidate here. Michael Jenkins fell off the board when he didn't run at the combine due to his groin. DE Isaac Hilton of Hampton is a sleeper, and a potential third round pick. While Darren Sharper will remain at free safety, this guy could crack the line-up at strong safety or be an injury replacement.
The Green Bay Packers select S Sean Jones, University of Georgia
- New England from Miami: The offense was taken care of in round one with the selection of Steven Jackson and Jake Grove. New England has their eye on a fast-moving, all-over-the-field linebacker, one that will drive offenses nuts as he gets in on every play.
The New England Patriots select ILB Courtney Watson, Notre Dame
- Tennessee: After the departure of Jevon Kearse, the Titans will need an end to spell Kevin Carter and Carlos Hall. They got their tackle with Dockett in 1, and now will rebound with Scott, an athletic and versatile end.
The Tennessee Titans select DE Darrion Scott, Ohio State University
- Philadelphia: The Eagles' offensive line gave up 45 sacks in 2003. Sure, some of that was because of McNabb's scrambling, but the number is still too high.
Their CB situation will be left to their 2002 draft picks, Lito Shepperd and Sheldon Brown.
The Philadelphia Eagles select G Justin Smiley, University of Alabama
Help us keep our content free. Make a donation.
- Indianapolis: The Colts have needs at two positions, defensive end and cornerback. There really aren't any defensive ends worth picking here.
The Indianapolis Colts select CB Keiwan Ratliff, University of Florida
- New Orleans from St. Louis: Deuce McAllister needs a backup, and James Fenderson obviously isn't going to cut it. Bell is a quality runner with a number of athletic gifts, and will provide a nice presence on third downs.
The New Orleans Saints select RB Tatum Bell, Oklahoma State University
- Kansas City: The Chiefs need to improve their defense but they do
have a need a wide receiver as well. Michael Jenkins is projected as a first
round pick by some and Kansas City won't pass up a value like that here.
The Kansas City Chiefs select WR Michael Jenkins, Ohio State University
- Carolina: With the departure of Deon Grant for greener (literally and figuratively) pastures in Jacksonville, the Panthers will need an impact safety. This is the best man left on the board — possibly at any position.
The Carolina Panthers select S Stuart Schweigert, Purdue
- New England: You win the Super Bowl. You have two low first-rounders and two low second-rounders. And you haven't needed to trade anything to get what you need. What do you do? Keep building your team's depth by taking the best athlete on the board here. Ted Washington was instrumental to the Patriots run last year, and replacing him is necessary.
The New England Patriots select DT DeMarco McNeil, Auburn
|
