Current 2005 NFL Mock Draft (2 rounds)
ContractBud.com Mock Draft 2004
Pre-combine edition
PLEASE NOTE THIS IS THE OLD MOCK DRAFT. PLEASE CLICK THE LINK BELOW TO SEE THE NEW MOCK DRAFT.
NEW: 2004 Post-combine Mock
The fireworks from the Super Bowl eminating from Janet Jackson's right breast continue to smolder. The groundhog has come out and has told us there is six more weeks of winter, but just a couple until the NFL Combines. As the athletes bone up for their Wonderlics and 40s, we slam down our 40s and being to speculate who will get drafted by whom.
Just a note that all of these picks were done before the beginning of free agency and the lifting of the no-trade veil. We encourage feedback from our readers. We'd also like to hear what you think San Diego should do with the number 1 pick? Trade? Go QB? Go WR? O-Line? With that, San Diego is on the clock....
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- San Diego Chargers: The Chargers are a team with so many holes they should strongly consider trading down to acquire more picks. The team has needs along both the offensive and defensive lines as well as at wide receiver and linebacker. That being said, the last time the Chargers had the first overall selection they passed on Michael Vick. The organization was still wincing from missing out on Peyton Manning and ending up with Ryan Leaf.
The Bolts quarterback situation is up in the air, with Drew Brees regressing last season and Doug Flutie on the wrong side of 40 for a pro athlete. With their current situation and draft history, the Chargers will bite the bullet as they find the allure of another top quarterback prospect too strong; especially a prospect with the last name Manning.
The San Diego Chargers select QB Eli Manning, University of Mississippi (ESB)
NEW: 2004 Post-combine Mock
- Oakland Raiders: The Raiders went from the Super Bowl to the Stupid Bowl in one year, from the second best team in the league to the second worst. After firing Bill Callahan, Al Davis replaced him with Norv Turner, a coach who has taken more abuse from the league's worst owners (Snyder and Jones); one more shouldn't impact him. But will Davis allow Turner the time this franchise needs to rebuild?
Oakland will look to trade this pick for several reasons — there's enough talent in the top ten picks to fill holes. They need Roy Williams, Larry Fitzgerald, Ben Roethlisberger, Kenechi Udeze, and Sean Taylor. But Al Davis doesn't want to spend top 5 money on one player. I see two potential trade scenarios: with the Patriots for the 21st and 32nd pick (Oakland doesn't have an early 2nd round pick, so this would qualify) or with Cleveland (for Fitzgerald if he's available at #2, or Gallery if he isn't). If New England can trade a second round pick for Corey Dillon, I see them executing a trade to snag Fitzgerald and truly make a dynasty.
Al Davis would like Robert Gallery here. He's a mean but smart offensive lineman who would fit the Raiders image and strength. But with Barry Sims at LT and Langston Walker at RT, the need isn't as big. Norv Turner will trust in Rich Gannon for one more season and pray Marques Tuiasosopo can pan out as a number two as they pull the trigger.
The Oakland Raiders select WR Larry Fitzgerald, University of Pittsburgh (APC)
NEW: 2004 Post-combine Mock
- Arizona Cardinals: The Cardinals recently dismissed their most recent victim — errr — head coach, Dave McGinnis, and replaced him with Dennis Green. Green's track record as a coach is fairly well-proven, as is his predilection toward big and mobile quarterbacks.
When last we saw the Cardinals, Nathan Poole was catching a quasi-bullet from Josh McCown in the corner of the end zone, and a dagger was stuck in the collective hearts of Green's former employer. McCown is one of the aforementioned big and mobile quarterbacks, but he is still raw and doesn't carry the star power that Roethlisberger's name does.
Green's offense should be a good fit for Roethlisberger and a full season of Marcel Shipp, though I really do believe that a defensive stud (Sean Taylor, perhaps?) might be a better fit here.
The Arizona Cardinals select QB Ben Roethlisberger, Miami University (Ohio) (BSW)
- New York Giants: The Giants were a team that was just demolished by the injury bug in 2003. From the offensive line to the defensive line to the secondary, over half of the starters missed at least some time, if not most of the season. As a result, the Giants had one of their worst seasons in years.
Going into the season, the Giants' weakest point was their offensive line. They lost two starters in the 2003 offseason, and did little to try to replace them. As a result, Kerry Collins was forced into a lot of bad throws, and Tiki Barber's hands were exposed; he has a problem holding onto the ball before his run is established. With Luke Pettigout coming back from injury, Robert Gallery makes the most sense to help guard Collins and open holes for Barber.
The Giants' draft board likely looks like this:
1. Robert Gallery
1a. Sean Taylor
1b. One of the two elite QBs
If Gallery is off the board, Taylor makes a lot of sense as a great playmaker in the secondary. Kerry Collins is also on the last year of his contract, so Manning or Roethlisberger would fit in nicely as the 2005 starter. Any way you slice it, the Giants will fill a need at #4.
The New York Giants select OT Robert Gallery, University of Iowa (MJP)
- Washington Redskins: The player picked here will no doubt be from the University of Miami. At
this point, the two picks that make the most sense are TE Kellen Winslow
II and S Sean Taylor. Both have huge potential in positions that new/old
coach Joe Gibbs like to utilize.
What it comes down to here is need. Do the Redskins need to open up their
pass game more with Winslow? Or do they need to shut down the pass more
with Taylor?
In 2003, the Redskins were a respectible 7th in the NFC against the pass.
On the other hand, Zeron Flemister led the Washington tight end corps with
an astonishing 9 catches. I do not see how that can fit with a Joe Gibbs
offense.
The Washington Redskins select TE Kellen Winslow II, University of Miami (Florida) (MJP)
- Detroit Lions: Detroit has three serious needs. Defensive line, preferably end since Robert Porcher has reached the end of days. Running back, since let's face it, James Stewart is noone's idea of a great running back. Defensive backs — safeties Corey Harris and Brian Walker aren't putting fear into guys coming over the middle.
Let's look at the schedule. Hmmmm. Two weeks against Randy Moss. Two weeks against Brett Favre. And in 2004, Payton Manning comes north once. Detroit needs to beef up its D-line by drafting Kenechi Udeze, Vince Wilfork, Tommie Harris, or Will Smith or look at their defensive backfield. With Dre Bly, Chris Cash, and Andre Goodman at corner, Detroit needs to address their safeties, and one name on the board stands out — Sean Taylor
Matt Millen, who somehow still has his job, will pick a player who will make impact immediately. He needs someone who will put some big highlights on the board. Steven Jackson will be a reach at this point unless he stuns at the combine; defensive line will be filled with the 37th pick overall or through free agency, unless Kevin Jones is still on the board in round two.
The Detroit Lions select S Sean Taylor, University of Miami (Florida) (APC)
PLEASE NOTE THIS IS THE OLD MOCK DRAFT. Please see the new 2004 Post-combine Mock
- Atlanta Falcons: This selection should be an obvious one for the Falcons. They were last in the league in total defense in 2003 and need help along the line and in the backfield. Jim Mora Jr. should be bringing in several new faces on the defensive side of the ball to improve the Falcons 27th ranked run defense and 30th ranked pass defense.
Currently the top two interior linemen on the Falcons roster are Ed Jasper and Ellis Johnson who were nose tackles in Wade Phillips 3-4 scheme. With Mora's arrival, the Falcons should switch to the 4-3 and have to improve the defensive tackle position. Tommie Harris of Oklahoma has great size and quickness and would give the Falcons a dominant defensive tackle.
The pick is made easier because Sean Taylor is off the board, limiting the Falcons choices at defensive back. If Atlanta does go with a defensive back with this pick, they would take Ohio State's Chris Gamble. Gamble has the size to match up with bigger receivers and the speed to stay with anyone and could develop into a shutdown corner. However, Gamble was used in several different roles at Ohio State and last year was his first strictly at cornerback.
The Falcons play in the NFC South, a division with running backs like Stephen Davis and Deuce McAllister. Atlanta needs a defensive player who can come in and contribute right away. Harris started at Oklahoma as a freshman and expect him to start for the Falcons in 2004.
The Atlanta Falcons select DT Tommie Harris, University of Oklahoma (ESB)
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- Cleveland Browns: This team went from a playoff appearance to being rather inept on both sides of the ball in a short year. They had numerous problems off the field (Kevin Johnson) and on it (Kelly Holcomb).
Cleveland needs a defensive playmaker, a spark plug in the return game, and a receiver who can get the ball down the field. If this selection is willing to do so, he may provide all three. Combine that with his being a (somewhat) local boy, and this pick is a no-brainer.
The Cleveland Browns select CB Chris Gamble, Ohio State University (BSW)
PLEASE NOTE THIS IS THE OLD MOCK DRAFT. Please see the new 2004 Post-combine Mock
- 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: Charlie Casserly has to be grinning right now. He holds the rights to Drew Henson, which could be worth as much as a first rounder, as low as a third rounder. He finished the end of the season $12 million under the cap, with only two starters as unrestricted free agents. He's got his quarterback of the future, a decent receiver corps, and a surprisingly decent defense.
What doesn't he have? An offensive line to keep David Carr upright. Houston will be seeking at least one tackle or guard in free agency, and will be looking to move up in the draft to grab Robert Gallery if possible. Oakland would be the most likely trading partner at #2, unless Arizona decides to make another blunder down the board like last year. Shawn Andrews is the second best offensive lineman in the draft, but has potential bust all over him. Nat Dorsey could move up at the combine to shake Andrews loose from this spot, or Houston will trade down to grab him. But for right now, let's put a big 360 pound hunk of meat in front of David Carr.
For me, I see Seth Wand moving over to start at left tackle over Chester Pitts and Shawn Andrews moving into the right tackle position. This would provide some great meaty run blocking right, and smarter backside protection from the left.
The Houston Texans select OT Shawn Andrews, University of Arkansas (APC)
- Pittsburgh Steelers: 2003 saw the Steelers forget how to run the football. Pittsburgh ranked 29th in the league in rushing yards per game and were last in the league in yards per carry with a paltry 3.3. This team doesn't have a prolific passer as Tommy Maddox has remembered that he's Tommy Maddox and Charlie Batch was paid more than Maddox to sit on the bench. The Steelers need to solidify their running game as Jerome Bettis is on his last legs and Amos Zereoue didn't take advantage of his opportunity as a feature back.
With USC defensive end Kenechi Udeze available, coach Bill Cowher could strengthen the defensive line. Udeze would fit well as a defensive end in a 3-4 scheme and give the Steelers a playmaker along the defensive line in the mold of the Patriots' Richard Seymour.
However, the Steelers must improve their running game in order to have any chance at the playoffs in 2004. Virginia Tech's Kevin Jones has the size, speed and quickness to be a feature back in the NFL and breathe some life into the Steelers running game.
The Pittsburgh Steelers select RB Kevin Jones, Virginia Tech (ESB)
- New York Jets: As far as the Jets go, they lucked out a bit in this draft. Their two biggest needs are cornerback and wide receiver, and they are probably the
two deepest positions in the draft. Their first and second round picks
will likely both be very important to the team this year. Their third
biggest need is an outside linebacker, but with John Abraham agreeing to
switch to OLB, and Victor Hobson likely starting at MLB in 2004, this can
wait.
The Jets will likely look at both WR and CB to see what talent is
there. If Chris Gamble had not been taken earlier, he would be their pick
here. As there isn't a cornerback worth picking here, it's possible that
the Jets will trade down to the low teens. Barring that, the Jets go WR
here.
The New York Jets select WR Reggie Williams, University of Washington (MJP)
- Buffalo Bills: The Bills have a few holes that they can fill. The problem is that there
are no worthy picks on offensive line at #13, and that is their biggest
need. Travis Henry got worse as the year went on, but that was likely
more a function of the line than of the back himself.
Another way the Bills could go is tight end. Ben Troupe would be a
serious reach here, but if Kellen Winslow gets by the Redskins, his fall
will stop here. They could also go WR with Michael Clayton, but they have
bigger needs, and may want to give Josh Reed another season to develop
beside Eric Moulds.
That leaves the defense. The linebacking corps nor the secondary are
immediate concerns, but defensive end is. Of course, there's a possiblity
of a trade down here.
The Buffalo Bills select DE Kenechi Udeze, University of Southern California (MJP)
- Chicago Bears: PROJECTED TRADE WITH NEW ENGLAND. Chicago receives #21 and #32 in this draft; New England receives #14 and a 2005 mid-round draft selection.
New England Patriots: The Patriots have two #1s and two #2s, which they would love to pick, but they are over the cap by $400k with numerous crucial folks free agents (Compton, Woody, Hamilton, Washington). Ty Law ($9.5mm impact) will need to take a cap cut, as will Troy Brown ($5.1mm). Willie McGinest will most likely be gone ($4.3 million recovered), Antowain Smith as well ($2.5 million recovered), and so will Rosevelt Colvin ($2.1 million) if his hip hasn't healed. They simply won't have enough cap space to pay for such a big rookie pool.
New England has been looking for a dominating back to accompany Tom Brady's steady arm and smart reads. At 6'2", 230 lbs, underclassman Steven Jackson will provide the bruising back this franchise has missed since the departure of Curtis Martin. While he needs to learn how to block at the pro level, he'll make a fantastic splash his rookie year. But don't rule out Corey Dillon coming to New England for the #63 pick.
The New England Patriots select RB Steven Jackson, Oregon State University (APC)
- Tampa Bay Buccaneers: Season two of the Gruden era frequently sputtered, culminating in one of the more bizarre events in recent memory, as Keyshawn Johnson was deactivated after causing a considerable problem for the team in almost every facet imaginable.
Tampa has a lot of ways they can go with this pick, but I think they may look for a downfield threat to replace Keyshawn. Keenan McCardell had a tremendous year, but he cannot be counted on to produce the same numbers without any help on the opposite side. Charles Lee and Joe Jurevicius have shown flashes, but not much more.
The Tampa Bay Buccaneers select WR Michael Clayton, Louisiana State University (BSW)
- San Francisco 49ers: The Niners could go in several directions with this
pick. Terrell Owens and Tai Streets could leave as free agents, making
Brandon Lloyd the #1 wide receiver on the roster. However, with Michael
Clayton and Reggie Williams off the board, the Niners will look elsewhere
with the pick.
Terry Donahue and Dennis Erickson could select an offensive lineman to
eventually replace all-pro Derrick Deese who will be entering his 13th NFL
season. Like wide receiver, no prospect makes sense for the Niners in this
position and they could trade down if they covet an offensive lineman that
is still available.
The other glaring need for San Francisco is cornerback. Ahmed Plummer could
be another free agent loss which would leave Mike Rumph and 5'8'' Jason
Webster as the starters. The Niners need a shutdown corner to combat
receivers like Torry Holt, Isaac Bruce and Anquan Boldin twice a year.
South Carolina's Dunta Robinson has good speed and was consistently matched
up on the opponent's best receiver this past season. At nearly six feet
tall, Robinson will provide a more physical presence than Webster who is
physically dominated up by bigger receivers. Robinson could be starting in
2004.
The San Francisco 49ers select CB Dunta Robinson, University of South Carolina (ESB)
- Cincinnati Bengals: With all the improvement the Bengals made last season,
there was one area where the team still struggled. Cincinnati allowed almost
140 yards per game on the ground with opponents averaging nearly five yards
per carry. The Bengals need help on the defensive line where they need an
inside presence to go with former first rounder Justin Smith.
Head Coach Marvin Lewis knows the importance of defensive tackles as Tony
Siragusa and Sam Adams anchored his Super Bowl winning defense in Baltimore.
Miami's Vince Wilfork is nearly 360 pounds but is extremely quick for
someone that size. He had six sacks and 23 hurries last season and should
only get better with Lewis' coaching and better conditioning.
The Cincinnati Bengals select DT Vince Wilfork, University of Miami (Florida) (ESB)
- New Orleans Saints: Once again, the toughest team to read is left with a mid-first selection.
The Saints seem to continually fade late and miss the postseason, and could be one defensive impact player away from finally making that last leap into the playoffs.
Their outside linebacker position could use some help, what with aging Derrick Rodgers manning the right side, and one of the best available athletes on the board right now could assist that weakness.
The New Orleans Saints select OLB D.J. Williams, University of Miami (Florida) (BSW)
- Minnesota Vikings: Minnesota started the 2003 season they way they finished 2002 — winning. But the number 1 offense in the league couldn't overcome the atrocities in the defensive backfield. Nowhere was this more apparent than in the final game of the season, where the Vikings rolled over on 4th down, allowing Arizona to play the spoiler. This team also needs a fanatic at defensive end and a young, groomable outside linebacker.
While all signs should points towards the Vikes picking a defensive player in the first round, I believe Mike Tice has a better vision for what this team needs. This team needs Mike Tice on the field. A ferocius tight end with size who can catch the ball under pressure. He needs to be able to block, but have speed too. This makes the choice pretty clear.
Look for the Vikings to also woo Keith Traylor northward, and to make the remainder of their selections focus on defensive positions.
The Minnesota Vikings select TE Ben Troupe, University of Florida (APC)
- Miami Dolphins:
Even though Dan Marino recently resigned from the job he held with the
Miami Dolphins for about a week, I think his mere presence got the ball
rolling on this pick. Let's face it; Miami has been just short for the
last 10 years or so, seemingly never able to get over the hump to
greatness.
The Dolphins have one weakness that has become more pronounced as the
seasons have gone by — quarterback. Jay Fielder and Brian Griese are not
cutting the mustard with their improved receiving corps. It is time for
them to get over the hump.
The Miami Dolphins select QB Philip Rivers, North Carolina State University (MJP)
- Chicago Bears: (from Baltimore through New England) What happened to the Bears? The team made its reputation on defense, but lacked the big presence on the defensive line. All year long, it was clear that Brian Urlacher didn't have a team around him. He needs somebody on the defensive line disrupting the plays so he can make the tackles. The Bears, thanks to their trade with the Patriots, will try to use both picks in that direction.
With Vince Wilfork gone to Cincinnati, the Bears might be tempted to go for Maryland's Randy Starks. But one name has slipped down the draft board, and the Bears will fill their hole here. They'll take the best corner or defensive back remaining at #32, and take the other position for the #45 pick.
The Chicago Bears select DE Will Smith, Ohio State University (APC)
- Dallas Cowboys: Having seen several of the men they could really use go before them, Dallas will look at their offensive backfield.
Parcells did not seem overly enamored with Quincy Carter before the season, and as the season wore on, Carter clearly became a liability, as his ineffectiveness in leading the passing game not only slowed his own production, but also that of seemingly-resurgent RB Troy Hambrick.
Parcells will look to bring in a man to compete with Carter and Chad Hutchinson, and Losman seems to have all the tools (mobility, strong arm, good head) that Parcells covets in a signal-caller.
The Dallas Cowboys select QB J.P. Losman, Tulane University (BSW)
- Seattle Seahawks: Last year Head Coach Mike Holmgren's offense finally started to click in Seattle. Quarterback Matt Hasselbeck performed like Holmgren expected when he brought him west from Green Bay. With the offensive pieces in place for this team, the Seahawks need to fill holes on the defensive side of the ball.
The defense was greatly improved in 2003 but could use improvement in several areas. One of the most glaring is linebacker. The Seahawks don't have much depth at linebacker and starting middle linebacker Randall Godfrey might leave via free agency. Chad Brown is still an effective player but needs some help.
Defensive coordinator Ray Rhodes can adjust his scheme to fit his players and needs to add talent to his defense. Linebacker Jonathan Vilma of Miami is similar in size and speed to Ray Lewis when Lewis was drafted. The Seahawks hope he can continue the tradition of great Hurricane linebackers.
The Seattle Seahawks select LB Jonathan Vilma, University of Miami (Florida) (ESB)
- Denver Broncos: There are a few ways that Denver can go here. They need more athletic
cornerbacks. They could use a wide receiver. They could use a tight end
that Shannon Sharpe could groom.
One thing to take into account, though, is free agency. Ian Gold and Al
Wilson are both free agents, and Gold, at least, has a good chance to sign
elsewhere. This is a position that will likely get filled here.
The Denver Broncos select LB Karlos Dansby, Auburn (MJP)
- Green Bay Packers: Last year I would have selected DT Randy Starks to plug up the gap left by Gilbert Brown. But Grady Jackson and Rod Walker filled that position well. Joe Johnson should come back from injury and KGB rules the other end of the line. The linebacker corps looks very fast and athletic, and should continue to grow together.
The Packers need a knockout safety (such as Sean Taylor) on defense but could do with another CB. DeAngelo Hall would be tempting as he could return punts. But I think the Pack will give Brett Favre a reason to stay for another couple seasons — a big wide receiver who will go over the middle to run over folks. Michael Jenkins isn't fast but he has great hands and is 6'4", 210 lbs. He'll be a great possession receiver in a possession receiver offense.
The Green Bay Packers select WR Michael Jenkins, Ohio State University (APC)
- St. Louis Rams: In their playoff loss to Carolina, the Rams defensive line was manhandled while the Panthers moved the ball at will when it mattered. During the regular season, St. Louis' speedy defense was weak against the run too, giving up almost 5 yards per carry.
The Rams need help on D but the player drafted with this pick will depend on which players the Rams can re-sign. On offense, Orlando Pace and Adam Timmerman are unrestricted free agents. As are Grant Wistrom and starting defensive tackle Brian Young.
If the Rams resign Wistrom, it still leaves a hole in the middle of their line. Defensive tackle Randy Starks is a 300 pounder who has been compared to another Maryland product, Carolina's Kris Jenkins.
If Wistrom decides to leave, Alabama defensive end Antwan Odom could be selected to take Wistrom's place. In the end, look for the Rams to push hard to re-sign Wistrom and draft one of the many talented defensive tackles in this draft.
The St. Louis Rams select DT Randy Starks, University of Maryland (ESB)
- Tennessee Titans:The Titan franchise has been sorely lacking a mauler on the offensive line since the retirement of Bruce Matthews. With Brad Hopkins and Fred Miller both getting up in age (and declining in productivity, hauling around tremendously large cap numbers, etc.) at the tackle spots, and a converted guard (Justin Hartwig) at center, the Titans need some flexibility and power on the offensive line.
While Alabama's Antwan Odom, UCLA's Dave Ball, or even Texas' Marcus Tubbs may look to be palatable picks in this slot to replace possible free-agent departures, the real need for this organization will be filled with the #27 selection.
The Tennessee Titans select OL Vernon Carey, University of Miami (Florida) (BSW)
- Philadelphia Eagles: The Eagles have relied on their strong defense for the last few years, with the lone star on offense being Donovan McNabb. While he has obviously shone, to the obvious chagrin of Rush Limbaugh, the people that are supposed to be making plays around him have not.
Before the season, this pick may have gone to a running back. However, Brian Westbrook really started to emerge as their guy before his injury that kept him out of the post-season. McNabb has needed improvements at wide receiver for years. Freddie Mitchell is turning out to be a bust; hopefully for them, this pick will not be.
The Philadelphia Eagles select WR Rashaun Woods, Oklahoma State University (MJP)
- Indianapolis Colts: The Colts are a team that will be concentrating on their defense in this
draft. There is no need to look at their offense. Although Peyton
Manning is a free agent, you can bet that he will be back in Indy next year. Along with his complement of Marvin Harrison, Reggie Wayne, Marcus Pollard, Dallas Clark and Edgerrin James, the Colts will once again have an offensive juggernaut.
Surprisingly, the Colts had the #5 pass defense in the NFL. They have serviceable corners will very promising young safeties; this pick could go to Will Poole. However, they were 20th against the rush, so they will likely focus on the defensive line. Antwaan Odom will provide them with a bookend to Dwight Freeney, and they'll be set at defensive end for years to come.
The Indianapolis Colts select DE Antwan Odom, University of Alabama (MJP)
- Kansas City Chiefs: After being shredded in the playoffs, the Chiefs know that they have to improve their defense if they want to go deep into the playoffs. While Kansas City could use a wide receiver, offense wasn't the problem for this team.
Carl Peterson could go a few ways with this pick. Cornerback Will Poole of USC is still available. Poole went from nickel back to starter last season and shot up draft boards in the process. Kansas City has needed a shutdown corner ever since Dale Carter left and Poole could be that player. Cornerback is a very deep position in this draft with Poole, DeAngelo Hall and several corners from smaller schools still available.
The other option is to upgrade the defensive line with tackle Dwan Edwards from Oregon State. The Chiefs were the only team in the NFL to allow more than five yards per carry. Edwards improved dramatically every year at Oregon State and possesses the strength to control a gap and clog the middle of the line. Several quality defensive tackles are still available and the Chiefs could look for a player like Darnell Dockett or Marcus Tubbs with their second round selection.
The depth of the defensive tackle position in this draft makes Poole the best selection for the Chiefs. Shutdown corners are hard to find and Poole has all the tools to be a great cover man.
The Kansas City Chiefs select CB Will Poole, University of Southern California (ESB)
- Carolina Panthers:The NFL runners-up head into the offseason with $12 million in cap room and some potential holes to fill. If they are unable to lock up Steve Smith, they would really love to see a Michael Clayton or Michael Jenkins drop to them here.
If they are unable to lock up Smith and/or CB Reggie Howard, DeAngelo Hall becomes an option, because of his game-breaking abilities in the kicking game and his coverage ability.
However, the one place Carolina will really look to make some hay is at safety. Deon Grant is a free agent, and while he is a solid player, his likely asking price will be out of Carolina's range.
There is a player on the board here that can step in, play alongside Mike Minter, and provide shutdown ability in the defensive backfield. This man will bring leadership and ferocity to an already-good Panther defense.
The Carolina Panthers select S Stuart Schweigert, Purdue University (BSW)
- Chicago Bears: (from New England)
The Bears could look to snag DeMarco McNeil, Marcus Tubbs, or Chad Lavalais here and really improve the defense, but that would mean sticking by RW McQuarters for punt returns and nickel packages. If that occurs, look for teams to get away with a lot of quick snap routes away from Brian Urlacher and fly patterns straight past the corners.
Given that McQuarters was benched halfway through the season and will most likely be cut (within 10 minutes of this pick, if he hadn't been by draft day), the Bears hope they find a little bit of Dante Hall when the opposition puts foot to leather.
The Chicago Bears select CB DeAngelo Hall, Virginia Tech (APC)
Round 2
- San Diego Chargers: The Chargers drafted several defensive backs in the past few seasons. Now they'll focus on their defensive front seven and improving on the 140
rushing yards per game allowed in 2003.
The San Diego Chargers select DT Marcus Tubbs, University of Texas (ESB)
Houston Texans: from Oakland (used in the 2003 supplemental draft to select RB Tony Hollings, Georgia Tech)
- Arizona Cardinals: Having drafted a skill player in round 1, they need to now grab an anchor on the offensive line to hold down the center of Dennis Green's offense.
The Arizona Cardinals select C Jake Grove, Virginia Tech (BSW)
- New York Giants Two of the Giants' three starters in their linebacking corps are free agents, including Brandon Short and Dhani Jones. Look for them to replace
Jones here.
The New York Giants select OLB Michael Boulware, Florida State University (MJP)
- Washington Redskins: The Redskins have to rebuild a defensive line that underperformed in 2003. This is the first step.
The Washington Redskins select DT Dwan Edwards, Oregon State University (MJP)
- Detroit Lions: Last year's #1 pick brought local star Charles Rogers to fill the seats at Ford Field. This year's #2 will make the Lions resemble the USFL Michigan Panthers (except for the championship) and help pack fannies. But was he overused in college, like every Michigan running back before him? Time will tell.
The Detroit Lions select RB Chris Perry, University of Michigan (APC)
- Cleveland Browns: The Browns need to add depth to their badly struggling passing game, and while it will be truly tempting to go with a replacement for the ill-tempered William Green here, they will not go that route... yet.
The Cleveland Browns select TE Ben Watson, University of Georgia (BSW)
- Atlanta Falcons: The Falcons need someone to replace Ray Buchanan who will be cut because of his huge cap number.
The Atlanta Falcons select CB Ricardo Colclough, Tusculum (ESB)
- Jacksonville Jaguars: Jack Del Rio is a defensive guy himself, and he is going to want a speed guy who can tackle to team with Mike Peterson.
The Jacksonville Jaguars select LB Teddy Lehman, University of Oklahoma (BSW)
- Houston Texans: The "keep David Carr alive" campaign rolls along (YEAARGH!), as the Texans pick up another 360 lbs of offensive line.
The Houston Texans select OT Nat Dorsey, Georgia Tech (APC)
- Pittsburgh Steelers: After going with a running back in round one, the Steelers look to get some blocking for Mr. Jones in round 2.
The Pittsburgh Steelers select OT Jacob Rogers, University of Southern California (ESB)
- New York Jets: The Jets corners would play 5 yards off the line last year and would still get beat on deep routes. They need speed at that position desperately.
The New York Jets select CB Derrick Strait, University of Oklahoma (MJP)
- Buffalo Bills: Josh Reed will likely be given one more year to prove himself before the #2 WR position is up for grabs. He's in for some stiff competition.
The Buffalo Bills select WR Lee Evans, University of Wisconsin (MJP)
- Chicago Bears: The Bears wanted to pick up three things on defense. A speedy defensive end, a cornerback who could return punts, and a huge piece of meat to stuff the run. Three for three.
The Chicago Bears select DT DeMarco McNeil, Auburn (APC)
- Oakland Raiders: from Tampa Bay Oakland really wanted McNeil at this slot, but the Bears were one step ahead of them. But they really need linebackers more, with Romonowski a goner and Eric Barton and Eric Johnson free agents. Building around Napolean Harris isn't a bad thing to do.
The Oakland Raiders select OLB Dontarrious Thomas, Auburn (APC)
- San Francisco: Henderson's ability to run after the catch makes him a good fit for San Francisco. Especially with Terrell Owens and Tai Streets likely to leave.
The San Francisco 49ers select WR Devery Henderson, Louisiana State University (ESB)
- Cincinnati: Jeff Burris needs to be replaced and Vasher is a good, physical corner that can also return kicks.
The Cincinnati Bengals select CB Nathan Vasher, University of Texas (ESB)
- New Orleans Saints: The Saints are getting a bit old at corner, as evidenced by 227-year old Dale Carter playing quite a bit in 2003. The key to turning around the Saints will be a rebirth on D, and this will continue to fuel that rebirth.
The Saints select CB Keiwan Ratliff, University of Florida (BSW)
- Minnesota Vikings: Sure they'd love a CB who could erase the touchdown in Arizona. But Minnesota will strip a page from rival Green Bay's book and bring in a KGB-like rookie on end to harrass opposing passers. KGB is 6'4", 255 lbs; this pick is 6'6", 245 lbs.
The Minnesota Vikings select DE Bobby McCray, University of Florida (APC)
- New England Patriots: from Miami Congratulations, you won the Super Bowl, Tom Brady. Here's your present, and a present for the local rowdies. At 6'3", 331 lbs, he'll be a little harder to roll over.
The New England Patriots select OG Chris Snee, Boston College (APC)
- Baltimore Ravens: While this pick should go to a WR, there's no one worth taking here; they could reach for Keary Colbert. Sanders provides them with a partner for Ed Reed for years to come.
The Baltimore Ravens select S Bob Sanders, University of Iowa (MJP)
- Dallas: With Troy Hambrick a free agent, Parcells will look to secure an insurance policy in case he doesn't return.
The Dallas Cowboys select RB Greg Jones, Florida State University (BSW)
- Seattle Seahawks: The Seahawks need to improve the defensive line. Hill will provide size and athleticism on the edge or could be moved inside.
The Seattle Seahawks select DE Marquise Hill, Louisiana State University (ESB)
- Denver Broncos: Since Denver didn't go with a corner in the first round, they must here. Jeremy LaSeuer's performance during Senior Bowl week made him the top
CB on the board.
The Denver Broncos select CB Jeremy LaSeuer, University of Michigan (MJP)
- Green Bay Packers: Green Bay may wind up wasting... errr... trading this pick for Drew Henson or pick him or Virginia's Matt Schaub. Let's go under the pretext that the Packers are sane and draft for need and depth, not headlines.
The Green Bay Packers select S Brandon Everage, University of Oklahoma (APC)
- New Orleans Saints: from St. Louis The Saints need a big receiver to go along with the 94-year-old Jerome Pathon, the frailer-than-thou Donte Stallworth, and Mr. Cell Phone.
The New Orleans Saints select WR Devard Darling, Washington State University (BSW)
- Tennessee Titans: With Justin McCareins and Drew Bennett as likely free-agent departures, and fellow MTSU Blue Raider Tyrone Calico (sadly) not being able to be trusted yet, the Titans will look to draft a proven wideout with gamebreaking ability.
The Tennessee Titans select WR James Newson, Oregon State University (BSW)
- Philadelphia: The Eagles need an OLB, but none are solid picks here. Instead, they look to improve their offensive line, which gave up 43 sacks last year.
The Philadelphia Eagles select OG Justin Smiley, University of Alabama (MJP)
- Indianapolis Colts: Indy could improve on their CB situation here with someone like Keith Smith, but they can't pass up taking a better talent at a need position.
The Indianapolis Colts select LB Daryl Smith, Georgia Tech (MJP)
- Kansas City Chiefs: After shoring up their secondary in the first round, the Chiefs need to improve their run D. Dockett was unblockable at the senior bowl and should bolster a weak defensive line.
The Kansas City Chiefs select DT Darnell Dockett, Florida State University (ESB)
- Carolina Panthers: Jake Delhomme is the feel-good story of the year, but one look at the men behind him, and the Panthers could have gotten really bad really quickly. Once Rodney Peete goes back with his wife to 21 Jump Street, here's the man to take the reins — or the clipboard.
The Carolina Panthers select QB Matt Schaub, University of Virginia (BSW)
- New England Patriots: Say hello to my little friend. Okay, maybe he's not so little. Oh Mr. Brady, would you like an offensive lineman who knows the Michigan fight song? You would? Sweet.
The New England Patriots select OT Tony Pape, University of Michigan (APC)
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