2009 NFL Draft - Cox Grading Himself
by Gregory Cox
Senior Writer
5/1/09

Grading the draft is sometimes amusing. It’s as much of a guessing game as mock drafting. The one thing I can truly judge is how well I did at estimating what needs teams would address in the draft. So I did. The average score I came up with was 86, or the equivalent of a B+.


ARIZONA CARDINALS

Pre-draft Picks (8): 31, 63, 95, 131, 167, 204, 240, 254* -
*-compensatory pick cannot be traded
Actual Picks: same

Linebacker – Bertrand Berry is going to be 34 when the season starts. Coupled with his freshly signed one year contract even Inspector Gadget could figure out this is it for him. Chike Okeafor just turned 33. He might be best known for touring the NFC West. The Rams are the only team he has yet to play for. Clark Haggans is 32 and injury prone. Karlos Dansby is their rock and he is playing this season under the franchise tag. At last report he has been quoted as saying long term contract negotiations were “not close”. Combine these question marks with new defensive coordinator Bill Davis’ desire to play a more traditional 3-4 and this area will get some attention in the draft. The emphasis will be on the outside. 

DRAFT: Early pickup at #63 Cody Brown (Connecticut) is one of many DE/LB hybrids from this draft and the Cards will use him at outside linebacker.

Running Back – There has been no rush to cut Edgerrin James because the team has no one better on hand. Everyone knows both parties would like to move on even if “Edge” played a key role in their run to the franchise’s first Super Bowl. Tim Hightower was given a chance as a rookie. He proved to be nothing more than a touchdown vulture with 11 scores in 177 carries including the playoffs. His only two scoring receptions came in playoff games. The bad news was a dreadful 2.8 average rush in the regular season. J.J. Arrington has been mostly a kickoff return man since being taken in round two when Dennis Green was giving great news conferences. The Cards need a true feature back capable of carrying the football 15-25 times in any given game. Somewhere in the first 100 picks they need to address this problem.

DRAFT: This was addressed at #31 with Ohio State’s Chris Wells who dropped just a little because of a combination of teams not needing a lead rusher and others considering him an injury risk. James was cut which is an indication they figure to lean on Wells heavily as a rookie paired with Tim Hightower. They also took Larod Stephens-Howling (Pittsubrgh) at #240.

Cornerback – Dominique Rodgers-Cromartie’s stock shot up in the 2008 draft partially because of his name. Now the team has to hope the comparisons to his cousin Antonio end because while both stood out as rookies the Chargers are suddenly worried after what they saw in year two. Bryant McFadden was signed from Pittsburgh which signifies an upgrade on the depth chart over Eric Green who left for Miami. The trouble here is depth. Roderick Hood was a starter before the McFadden signing and still might be. If “DRC” can avoid his cousin’s sophomore slump the team should be in better shape than season’s past, but given how dreadful their pass defense has been in recent seasons someone will be added on draft weekend.

DRAFT: The issue was depth and the addition was Greg Toler (St. Pauls) at #131.

Tight End – In 2006 the team drafted Leonard Pope early in the third round. His 48 receptions for 476 yards and 5 touchdowns since would barely represent one productive season. In 42 games he has had enough time to figure it out and obviously has not. He just signed a one year contract. Stephen Spach was a nice reclamation project and his last name provided color commentators something to talk about in the team’s wild card win over Atlanta. Coming back from fixing his ACL casts doubt over his development as their top receiving threat at the position. Ben Patrick was retained and has been average (when healthy) as a seventh round pick in 2007. Anthony Becht has been added on a one year deal and coupled with Patrick should provide blocking options. It is debatable how important this position need is given their propensity to spread the ball around to wide receivers, but if the opportunity arises certainly a pass catching threat has to be considered.

DRAFT: None

Offensive Line (interior) – Center Lyle Sendlein made a name for himself in the playoffs, just not in the way he wanted. The image of Kurt Warner tripping as he took the snap was repeated several times including the Super Bowl. The team signed him, and also held onto guard Elton Brown. However, these are not exactly vote of confidence deals considered the terms were not even announced. Arizona has struggled mightily to run the ball effectively. The middle of the offensive line is what fuels the rushing game so the Cards should be looking for a power guard and center in the draft.

DRAFT: Herman Johnson (LSU) was a massive pickup at #167 and should be used at guard. Trevor Canfield (Cincinnati) at #254 is definitely a guard.

Defensive Line – In consecutive drafts the team took tackles from Michigan. Gabe Watson (fourth round, 2006) has held a spot on the depth chart and signed a one year deal as a restricted free agent. Alan Branch (second round, 2007) was considered a “steal” at the time. However, he has barely seen the field with just 15 games played in two seasons and is heading towards another cliché draft term – bust. It is worth noting he appears to have seen the light where his weight (roughly 343) is concerned and therefore might turn things around if he can drop 15-20 pounds. Over at end Bryan Robinson joined the team this season and was in the mix on the defensive line all season. He turns 34 in June. Antonio Smith bolted for the Houston Texans. Last year’s draft produced Calais Campbell and Kenny Iwebema in the second and fourth rounds respectively. Conventional wisdom leads me to believe that pair is responsible for the Smith departure and inevitable Robinson decline. However, teams running a 3-4 are constantly adding parts. I would expect an interior addition to be considered in the middle rounds and possibly an outside addition late or even after the draft (rookie free agent).

DRAFT: Will Davis (Illinois) at #204 gave them another piece up front.

Quarterback – They signed Kurt Warner. Congratulations on keeping him away from San Francisco where he clearly never wanted to be. The jury is very much out on Matt Leinart and because of the Warner signing (two years) his future might be in a different uniform. Career clipboard holder Brian St. Pierre is their other option. It would be a savvy move to bring in someone (late rounds) who can at the very least light a fire under Leinart. Someone needs to figure out what while Warner is playing out the string no one really knows if Leinart is a viable NFL starter. Even if he is, a rookie addition would liven up the depth chart.

DRAFT: None

Special Teams (returns) – Some of the needs discussed above will double up as help on special teams early in their careers. The big question is the return game. J.J. Arrington was their best kickoff return threat (25.6 yard average) and nearly half of the team’s returns during the regular season. He is gone to Denver. Steve Breaston was not as good (20.2 average) while accounting for almost as many returns. His skills were also used bringing back punts. All 33 punt returns in the regular season were handled by Breaston. It’s fine to assume he will take on a larger role in the return game, but the wild card is Anquan Boldin. Arizona had three receivers over 1,000 yards. If Boldin exits via trade as rumors continue to swirl then Breaston takes on a larger role as a receiver as well. The man can only do so much. He returned 62 kickoffs in 2007 and caught 77 passes in 2008. He will not be able to do both in the same season. I expect the team to keep an eye out for a player capable of helping return both kickoffs and punts.

DRAFT: None

Other players drafted:

Safety: Rashad Johnson (Alabama) #95

SUMMARY: The Cards added talent for 5 of the top 6 needs I listed. With not a lot of picks to work with it was not surprising to see them avoid tight end, quarterback and a return threat. While picking up two guards to bolster the interior line they did not directly address center. The secondary adding Johnson was a nice move considering he had been rated a value in that spot late in the third round. GRADING MYSELF: 90


ATLANTA FALCONS

Pre-Draft Picks (7): 24, 55, 90, 125, 138, 143, 176
Actual picks (8): lost 143, added 156, 210

Linebacker (outside) – The signing of Mike Peterson, who to put it mildly fell out of favor in Jacksonville, was the least they could do at the position. Peterson turns 33 in June. His career peaked in 2005 and presumably he will be counted on for experience in the wake of losing mainstay Keith Brooking. The unit also watched speedy free agent Michael Boley sign with the Giants. Behind closed doors, even as popular as Brooking was I’m not sure the team is losing sleep with either departure. Nevertheless, an outside linebacker on both sides of stud Curtis Lofton has to be viewed as a high priority in the draft.

DRAFT: After waiting deep into the proceedings finally Spencer Adkins (Miami, FL) at #210 was added to their group of linebackers. He might be best known as the only Hurricane taken, therefore extending the streak for “The U” which dates back to 1975.

Tight End – In the Michael Vick years some people tried to cite the team’s lack of star wide receivers as the reason his passing numbers were poor. Breakout star rookie Matt Ryan has proven how ludicrous that assertion was. Now there is a slightly different challenge. Even as Ryan led this team to 11 wins and a playoff berth their trio of tight ends combined to catch just 19 passes. According to guys who track these things only 7% of their passes on the season were intended for a tight end. Alge Crumpler where are you? Their 2001 draft pick amassed over 4,000 yards receiving in seven seasons before exiting prior to this past season. Let’s be nice and say Ben Hartsock did not exactly fill that void with three receptions. This is now a glaring deficiency in an offense with a lead rusher, confident quarterback and #1 receiver. Even without any production at the position their offense was #6 in yards per game, but the lower ranking in scoring (#10) is an indicator of being unable to cash in touchdowns. A receiving tight end would help the cause.

DRAFT: After this went to “press” the Falcons traded for Kansas City’s Tony Gonzalez.

Defensive Tackle – The Raiders drafted Grady Jackson way back in 1997 and Detroit will be the sixth NFL team he suits up for. He’s well traveled and no spring chicken. Still, his presence will be missed on the Falcons. Their run defense struggled in 2008 even with him back in the fold after spending half the 2007 season with the Jaguars. The $64,000 question is how effective Trey Lewis, a 2007 sixth round pick, can be after missing 2008 completely with knee surgery. Jason Jefferson has been signed for another season to take up space on the depth chart, but honestly Jonathan Babineaux is the only integral piece at the position. This is clearly a problem and could be addressed early considering the stiffest competition in the NFC South comes from a Carolina team with two effective running backs.

DRAFT: Mississippi’s Peria Jerry at #24 gave them a strong boost in this area, and at #210 they took Vance Walker (Georgia Tech).

Offensive Line – One of the surprise picks in round 1 of the 2008 draft was USC’s Sam Baker going #21. I was higher on him than most because he anchored a Trojan line littered with talent. His rookie season was baby steps and now he dives into the deep end of the pool because tackle Todd Weiner has retired. Now Baker has to hold down the crucial left tackle spot. Tenders were made to restricted free agents Tyson Clabo (tackle) and Harvey Dahl (guard) to hold down the right side. At center Todd McClure is now backed up by free agent signing Brett Romberg (Rams). However, in a draft rich with centers look for them to make a move. Depth at tackle needs to be considered late in the proceedings. In 2008 the Falcons had the good fortune of keeping their line healthy. Other needs are more pressing, but now that the franchise quarterback is in place there should be a priority placed on protecting him.

DRAFT: The Falcons took Garrett Reynolds (North Carolina) at #156 which was the late addition I anticipated at tackle.

Defensive Back – At strong safety Lawyer Milloy’s leadership and production will be missed. The man has over 1,300 career tackles in 202 regular season games played. Father Time has caught up and last year’s third round pick Thomas DeCoud (Cal) will be given every opportunity to fill his spot. A little bit of insurance makes sense in the latter portion of the draft. At cornerback Domonique Foxworth is gone after just one season with the team. Chris Houston, Brent Grimes, Chevis Jackson, Glenn Sharpe and David Irons are the youngsters trying to solidify the position going forward. More than anything the unit lacks experience and leadership which obviously cannot be obtained in the draft. It is possible the team parts with a draft pick to obtain an established player in the secondary.

DRAFT: William Moore (Missouri) at #55 helps their safety situation. Christopher Owens (San Jose State) at #90 and William Middleton (Furman) at #138 come in at cornerback.

Defensive End – Maybe right now Jamaal Anderson is just happy he is not Jamal Anderson. That bad joke aside, the former #8 overall pick has exactly two sacks in 31 appearances. They came in consecutive games during October 2008. Let me remind the casual fan that this production comes on the opposite end of the line from sack master John Abraham. If Anderson is unable to thrive while offensive lines focus on Abraham what does that say about his ability? The team smartly locked up Chauncey Davis (4 years) which to me sends a signal Anderson is not seen as a future force. Another signal will be when they spend a late draft pick trying to gather more talent and perhaps a gem capable of starting. This defense is being rebuilt.

DRAFT: Lawrence Sidbury (Richmond) at #125 is precisely the kind of move I expected to spark Anderson.

SUMMARY: Throwing out the tight end I hit in every area, with a ½ miss because no center was added. Instead they hit cornerback and defensive tackle twice. Considering every player they picked fit into these needs I can live with it. GRADING MYSELF: 96


BALTIMORE RAVENS

Pre-Draft Picks (6): 26, 57, 88, 123, 162, 198
Actual Picks (6): lost 26, 123, 162, 198 gained 23, 137, 149, 185

Wide Receiver – It was a great story. Joe Flacco led this team into the playoffs as a rookie. No one seemed to notice he fell short of 3,000 passing yards or his pedestrian 14/12 touchdown to interception ratio. Flacco is capable of more if the team can acquire a vertical threat. Mark Clayton had a solid 17.0 average per reception, but caught only 41 passes. Derrick Mason has been their rock. Now he is reluctant to play out the final year without a longer term tacked on by the team. This exasperates an already dire situation at the position. Demetrius Williams is considered a factor on the depth chart. He has caught just 33 passes over the past two seasons and appeared in only half the team’s games. Baltimore has to look at this problem early in the draft and possibly even add more than one player before the weekend is over. Another factor to consider is that along with Mason both Clayton and Williams are in the final year of their contract.

DRAFT: None

Cornerback – Mainstay Chris McAlister was a cap casualty after missing basically half the team’s games each of the past two seasons. Corey Ivy signed with Cleveland so Domonique Foxworth was given a fat free agent deal to stop the bleeding. Chris Carr (Titans) is another depth chart addition although his presence will be felt much more returning kickoffs. Injuries caught up to them in a big way last season and now the challenge is to find starter talent worthy of filling the shoes of McAlister. I am not buying Fabian Washington starting on one side and Foxworth on the other. Samari Rolle is locked down for four years after being cut. He’ll be 33 by the time this season begins so this is really a move to insure some sense of continuity. Rolle will never see the end of that deal and no longer has what it takes to start.

DRAFT: Ladarius Webb (Nicholls State) at #88 might not be a household name, but Ozzie Newsome paid attention to this need.

Defensive End – This is just about it for Trevor Pryce. He has 83 ½ sacks in what has been a great career, the last three seasons of which have been with the Ravens. At 34 this August he is very likely done after the 2009 campaign. Marques Douglas returned to the team in 2008 after three years with the 49ers. After a season without a sack, he was released. There is a need to get a push up front off the edge and no one in the fold to fit that role effectively.

DRAFT: We will see exactly how #57 pick Paul Kruger (Utah) will be used, but he was an end in college and might see time in that spot.

Center / Right Tackle – When Jason Brown left and Matt Birk was signed the Ravens got essentially 7 years older at the center position. Did Birk learn about playing deep into his 30’s at Harvard? If not the team has to be fishing for his successor. Having to retain Ray Lewis and tag Terrell Suggs at linebacker certainly cost them a more appealing future. Over at right tackle they might be interested in upgrading Willie Anderson. Last year’s third round pick Oniel Cousins has to be given a chance to develop unless they are already convinced he is not a potential answer. Normally his presence and their lack of current picks (6) would mean this is not a big issue in the draft. However, if they are able to trade down at some point and add a selection it is likely for them to dip into this deep tackle class.

DRAFT: When tackle Michael Oher (Mississippi) was within striking distance they got to #23 and took him.

Kicker – It is definitely the end of an era saying goodbye to Matt Stover. He actually spent five seasons with the franchise before their move to Baltimore. The stories he could tell. On the field, however, he has made just one field goal from 50+ yards during the past four seasons. Being accurate from inside of 40 yards, which Stover absolutely was, can be a good thing. At some point it is just not enough. Steven Hauschka is already on the roster as a long range option and while the draft is not rich with talent at the position it makes sense to find someone to compete with him.

DRAFT: None

Tight End – This is a strange one. Todd Heap had a great run from 2002-2006. Then he suffered through an injury shortened season and when Cam Cameron took over the offense failed to fit in. One indicator of the team’s desire to pursue other options was giving a one year deal to L.J. Smith (Philadelphia). Heap just turned 29 and has plenty of life left in his career. It remains to be seen if he finishes up with the Ravens or somewhere else. A blocking option is another part of the equation given the team’s strong running game. Their best case scenario would be a strong blocker capable of picking up around 20-30 receptions per season. 

DRAFT: At #149 Davon Drew (East Carolina) fit into their plans.

Other players drafted:

Linebacker: Jason Phillips (TCU)
Running Back: Cedric Peerman (Virginia)

SUMMARY: The Ravens were serious about liking their receivers, and must like Hauschka at kicker although considering they had no seventh round pick it is not surprising to see them not make an addition there. Adding another running back after three players all had 107+ carries was interesting. I’m not sure why I failed to list linebacker as a need out of habit given they run a 3-4 and they got a nice value in Phillips. GRADING MYSELF: 77


BUFFALO BILLS

Pre-Draft Picks (9): 11, 28, 42, 75, 110, 121, 147, 183, 220
Actual Picks (8): lost 75, 110 gained 51

Offensive Line – If this line does not get their stuff together new wide receiver Terrell Owens will turn radioactive running routes as Trent Edwards is throwing the ball away. The latest news is their disgruntled left tackle Jason Peters being traded to Philadelphia. Starting left guard Derrick Dockery was released after two seasons. Seth McKinney (Browns) has been signed to compete for that starting spot and also has experience at center where he spent his collegiate years. That could come in handy. Center Melvin Fowler was beaten out by Duke Preston during the season. Now both are gone and Geoff Hangartner (Panthers) was signed to start. Cal’s Marvin Philip, a former sixth round pick by the Steelers, is the backup. The shuffling inside seems to be enough of an upgrade although a late addition at guard would not be surprising. The bigger issue is at tackle. Langston Walker is not exactly a standout starting on the right side. It appears they will need to grab a left tackle prospect in the first round and take another shot later looking for a backup.

DRAFT: It was not the conventional way to go about it, but the Bills certainly gave this area attention when center/guard Eric Wood (Louisville) was taken #28 and guard/tackle Andy Levitre (Oregon State) got the call at #51

Defensive End – Fans certainly view this as a dire need and the statistics back them up. There are two issues I see beyond the obvious lack of a pass rush. Can Aaron Schobel recover from his foot injury? How much of an impact is last year’s third round pick Chris Ellis going to make? The team might feel differently than fans and analysts projecting not only an early addition, but a first round pick. Because the team runs a 4-3 defense some of the top rookies will not fit into their plans. It is going to be interesting to see how the Bills attack this problem, but indisputably their pass rush is sorely lacking.

DRAFT: Everyone knew this was a top priority and Penn State’s Aaron Maybin was the choice at #11.

Outside Linebacker (weak) – Angelo Crowell spurned the Bills to sign with the Bucs after missing 2008 with chronic knee problems. The good news is that Paul Posluszny put up 110 tackles in the middle after playing only three games as a rookie in 2007. Kawika Mitchell did his job on the strong side despite playing for his third team in as many seasons. For now Keith Ellison is the weak side starter. It would be smart business to draft someone to press him for that honor. Even better would be selecting a player capable of filling more than one role just in case the injury bug strikes one of the other starters.

DRAFT: Although he mostly played safety in college Oklahoma’s Nic Harris at #147 was probably added as a linebacker.

Tight End – Robert Royal was third on the team with 351 yards receiving. He was released and picked up by Cleveland. The arrival of T.O. at wide receiver should push a lot of passes outside to a suddenly solid group of players – at least on paper. Therefore I’m not even sure the team cares if Derek Fine goes into the season as their #1 at the position. As a rookie taken with a supplementary fourth round pick out of Kansas he caught 10 passes. I am not suggesting he is the next big star of the league, but when the offense is spreading the ball to Owens, Evans, Reed and possibly a healthy Hardy how important is a receiving tight end? There is a chance the Bills are not as anxious as most assume they are to jump on this position early. If a player capable of blocking and receiving well enough to be on the field for a lot of plays is on the board when they pick certainly the war room will discuss it. Otherwise, the priority might shift down to the later rounds or even not at all.

DRAFT: Shawn Nelson (Southern Miss) was the choice at #121.

Defensive Tackle – Picking up Marcus Stroud (Jaguars) paid dividends in 2008 and he has just signed a two year extension. Trying to dump first round bust John McCargo off on the Colts was a good idea too. Obviously the failed trade illustrates he is not exactly considered a future star. The run defense has been below average the past four seasons. At the very least their rotation needs a boost because allowing well over 4 yards per carry year after year does not work. If someone crosses their path in the draft capable of pairing with Stroud this might be a surprise pick fairly early. Establishing better play on the interior of the defensive line certainly will help the cause of pressuring the passer on the outside.

DRAFT: None

Running Back – This was not a consideration until Marshawn Lynch joined a growing group of players expected to be disciplined by Roger Goodell for various transgressions. I have this strange vision of Goodell’s office and players waiting outside in a long line. It’s like grammar school all over again and he is the principal. Lynch’s suspension (just announced at 3 games) opened the door for backfield mate Fred Jackson to complain about his low salary. Overpaying him makes no sense, but he has at least a little bit of leverage thanks to Lynch. The team’s response to this drama could be selecting a running back late in the draft or signing a rookie free agent. Another wise alternative would be drafting a relatively sleek fullback capable of carrying the rock occasionally. I recognize the team signed veteran Dominic Rhodes recently, but he is 30 and over the past four seasons has averaged just 3.52 yards per carry. If a better option is around late in the draft the team might strike and later cut Rhodes.

DRAFT: None

Other players drafted:

Cornerback/Free Safety: Jairus Byrd (Oregon) #42
Cornerback: Cary Harris (USC) #183
Cornerback: Ellis Lankster (West Virginia) #220

SUMMARY: Buffalo went after my top 4 needs. Given their youth in the secondary it was a bit strange to see them take three players on that line of defense and not add a single defensive tackle, but it speaks to off the field issues of players on their roster. Speaking of which, at running back they apparently feel comfortable with Rhodes holding down the fort while Lynch serves his suspension in the unlikely event Jackson is a holdout. GRADING MYSELF: 89


CAROLINA PANTHERS

Picks (5): 59, 93, 128, 163, 202
Picks (7): lost 202, gained 43, 111, 216

Defensive Tackle – Maake Kemoeatu and Damione Lewis could use some help. Both have crossed the age of 30 which is not considered too old to play the position, but where is their relief? The loss of Kris Jenkins was definitely felt and his “replacement” Darwin Walker was inactive for the playoff loss. Getting rolled over by Arizona exposed their front line as extremely thin when it matters most. Something has to be done. They gave up 4.4 yards rushing per carry in the regular season.

DRAFT: The Panthers nabbed Corvey Irvin (Georgia) at #93.

Defensive End – Julius Peppers caught the “contract year” bug and set a career high with 14 ½ sacks one season after registering a career low 2 ½. Now he wants to get paid and there is considerable drama surrounding his franchise tag status. If the team can find a trading partner willing to give up similar compensation to last year’s Jared Allen deal then Peppers is gone and the priority goes up. Otherwise the need turns into insurance against running into this same problem after the 2009 campaign. In Tyler Brayton’s first season with the team he had almost as many sacks (4 ½) as his five full seasons in Oakland (6). His value is in showing up for work every day having missed just two games as a pro. Charles Johnson and Hilee Taylor represent the youth. Let me summarize this. Without Peppers this pass rush is sunk. Even with him the Panthers would be wise to select someone else to groom, preferably a speed edge rusher as if those really grow on trees.

DRAFT: For better or worse Florida State’s Everette Brown was their choice at #43, costing them a first round pick in 2010.

Offensive Line – Let’s face it everyone is looking for depth on the offensive line. Any analyst could write this down as a team need and call it a day. In the case of the Panthers it is a little more than that. Their line was ravaged in free agency as a trio of backups left the building in the span of a few days. Worse yet, two of those players offered invaluable versatility. Jeremy Bridges was cut (off the field issues) and Geoff Hangartner signed with the Bills. They were both capable of playing guard or center. It was huge retaining Jordan Gross at left tackle of course because last year’s rookie Jeff Otah is a keeper on the other side. Their starting five is fine, but any significant injury would turn their block of Cheddar cheese into Swiss in a hurry if you catch my drift. Anywhere in the draft they feel like an addition fits their system you can expect the Panthers to strike for depth.

DRAFT: When his stock slipped Carolina snatched up guard Duke Robinson (Oklahoma) at #163.

Wide Receiver – The return of Muhsin Muhammad was a great boost. Amazingly his 2008 stat line reads almost identical to the production he put up in 1998 which was his breakout third season in the NFL. He does turn 36 shortly after the draft and years of history indicate the end will be near. Muhammad is a rare talent in that he can catch his 60+ passes while contributing his blocking skills to the running game. In terms of straight receiving production the team is trying to pump up Dwayne Jarrett. This will be his third season which is typically when the proverbial light bulb goes on, but with 16 receptions while playing basically half the time in years one and two it is just talk until proven otherwise. Dante Rosario was third on the team with 209 yards receiving. Steve Smith has done that in a single game before. D.J. Hackett was a bust and is out after his first season with the team. The offensive philosophy is clearly centered on the running game, but they must take a shot now at another receiving option.

DRAFT: None

Cornerback – Ken Lucas will not be around for Steve Smith to fight with, which can only lead to improved chemistry in practice right? Anyone can see why the move was made. Richard Marshall is younger and cheaper. He will move into the starting lineup. C.J. Wilson is now the primary backup and at this position in a pass-happy NFL it is really unfair to even use the word “backup” given how much a nickel corner gets on the field. The Panthers will definitely be sniffing around for more depth.

DRAFT: On their final pick the Panthers sought depth by taking Captain Munnerlyn (South Carolina) at #216.

Quarterback – I am adding this as a need because I personally feel it is. The team might disagree. For me it is much more than Jake Delhomme going color blind in the playoff loss. He has never really recovered from shoulder surgery for one thing. The running game took away the need for him to pass much this season. However, he threw just 15 touchdown passes and completed a pedestrian 59.4% of his throws. If they do not add a quarterback now, he will be 40 when they are pondering an addition in the 2010 draft. Josh McCown and his career 71.6 quarterback rating as a journeyman provide no comfort if Delhomme fizzles out. Matt Moore was able to win two of three starts at the end of the 2007 season, but does not have the look of a franchise player even on a team heavily invested in the run. If they are able to move Julius Peppers to increase their chip stack then this position might be addressed late. If not the Panthers will likely go searching in the priority free agent market.

DRAFT: None

Other players drafted:

Safety: Sherrod Martin (Troy) #59
Running Back: Mike Goodson (Texas A&M) #111
Fullback: Tony Fiammetta (Syracuse) #128

SUMMARY: Rather than grabbing a developmental quarterback or reloading the wide receiver position the Panthers stuck with what has worked by adding another rusher and blocker to the backfield. I can’t argue with this strategy, but seriously question the logic of depending on Delhomme at quarterback. It’s not just the playoff meltdown. Did anyone watch him play in Oakland? GRADING MYSELF: 79


CHICAGO BEARS

Pre-Draft Picks (8): 49, 99*, 119, 140, 154, 190, 246*, 251*    *-compensatory picks cannot be traded
Actual Picks (9): lost 49 gained 68, 105

Wide Receiver – Now that a quarterback who can sling the ball is in place there can be a renewed emphasis on quality receiving options. It is no wonder the offense struggled considering converted cornerback/return man Devin Hester led the team with 665 yards receiving. Tight end Greg Olsen had a good second season and rookie rusher Matt Forte accounted for over 1,700 total yards. Having talent in those spots is helpful, but it is difficult to draft a receiver who will make an impact as a rookie. Perhaps being reunited with Jay Cutler will spark Earl Bennett who had a horrible first season. Then again, the team thought bringing Marty Booker back to the Windy City would work out. After one season he has been released. The words early and often come to mind. 

DRAFT: It was no secret they had to give new franchise quarterback Jay Cutler options. They took three. Juaquin Iglesias (Oklahoma) at #99, Johnny Knox (Abilene Christian) at #140 and Derek Kinder (Pittsburgh) at #251 were the selections.

Cornerback – Nathan Vasher has only played a dozen games in two seasons since the Bears lost Super Bowl XLI. He certainly has not lived up to his current contract. Zackary Bowman might develop into a steal after being taken in the fifth round last April. He is one of a handful fifth round or later picks from the past two drafts on the depth chart. Generally there is a reason teams pass on these guys. It might be time to seek out someone a little earlier in the proceedings who can nail down the nickel spot and eventually slide into the starting lineup. By the way, the Bears gave up 3,859 yards passing last year.

DRAFT: The Bears did not wait too long to shore up this spot, taking Vanderbilt’s D.J. Moore at #119.

Defensive End – Fresh off steering the first ever team to go 0-16 Rod Marinelli is charged with fixing the defensive line and it starts with the pass rush. Their failures in pass defense can be blamed in part on a low sack total (28). There are capable players on hand including Adewale Ogunleye, Alex Brown and Mark Anderson. The trouble is that this group has not produced and is generally in decline. Someone needs to come in and put a charge into the rotation.

DRAFT: I’m considering Gilbert a tackle and early indications are that the team agrees. However, Henry Melton (Texas) at #105 is going to play end.

Linebacker (strong) – Even after the historic Jay Cutler trade Brian Urlacher remains the face of this franchise. He is coming off a down season, the first full campaign of his career south of 100 total tackles. Lance Briggs is chugging along nicely on the weak side. The issue is their third starter Nick Roach. He took over for Hunter Hillenmeyer whose new claim to fame is hailing from Cutler’s old college (Vanderbilt) or no one would mention his name these days. Roach might turn into a solid contributor or he might not be up to the task. Either way it makes sense for the Bears to draft someone who can be on his heels in practice trying to take his starting spot.

DRAFT: They went relatively local with Ohio State’s Marcus Freeman at #154.

Offensive Tackle – I am adding this because experience has taught me that adding an aging veteran is often chased by a late round draft pick. Orlando Pace turns 34 during the season and while he helps replace John St. Clair (Browns) what happens if he is injured? Suddenly it becomes imperative that last year’s barely used first round pick Chris Williams is healthy. The plan is to use him at right tackle. In a disaster scenario Pace and Williams are both hurt. What then? Kevin Schaffer (Browns) and Frank Omiyale (Panthers) were also added, but this is a lot of turnover. With turnover there is also much uncertainty and the more the merrier when it comes to competing for starting jobs. A late addition seems in order as they focus on keeping Cutler protected.

DRAFT: First of all, I am not trying to force “credit” with this. At #246 Lance Louis (San Diego State) was taken. He started 11 games at tackle which is why I put him here. The Bears are looking to move him to tight end and he was previously a guard in college. Technically this is a “miss”, but he might provide tackle insurance in a pinch which was what I was projecting anyway.

Other players drafted:

Defensive tackle: Jarron Gilbert (San Jose State) #68
Safety: Al Afalava (Oregon State) #190

SUMMARY: When a team goes after the top need 3 times I can overlook the position debate regarding Louis. They took another defensive lineman and another defensive back, which were levels of defense I listed as needs. GRADING MYSELF: 96


CINCINNATI BENGALS

Pre-Draft Picks (11): 6, 38, 70, 98*, 106, 142, 179, 209*, 215, 249*, 252*    *-compensatory picks cannot be traded
Actual Picks: same

Offensive Line – At tackle Stacy Andrews is off to play next to his brother with the Eagles while Levi Jones has trouble staying healthy. Last year’s fourth round pick Anthony Collins is in the mix, but this already thin offensive line gave up 51 sacks last season. If play in the trenches is an indicator of success take note of the Bengals being -34 in the sack department while going 4-11-1. It was by far the biggest disparity in the NFL. Improving the talent at tackle is the first priority and adding a center is close behind because failed starter Eric Ghiaciuc is out.

DRAFT: Straight away the Bengals made their move and took Alabama’s Andre Smith at #6. They added their center with Jonathan Luigs (Arkansas) at #106.

Defensive End – Losing Justin Smith following the 2007 season was immediately reflected in a dismal sack total (17) and more than that there was no pressure on opposing quarterbacks. The key players on hand have a few years under their belt, but none are making an impact worth talking about. It is somewhat deceiving to look at their overall defensive ranking (#12, 325.5 yards/game) because they were dead last on offense in scoring and yardage. Teams didn’t need to pile up a lot of yards against them to win. Someone capable of sacking the quarterback would be helpful. On the interior their starting tackles Domata Peko and Pat Sims gained some support with the signing of Tank Johnson. If that trio can plug up the rushing lanes it will make it easier for a pass rushing end to thrive.

DRAFT: No one doubts #70 overall pick Michael Johnson (Georgia Tech) from a potential standpoint.

Running Back – It is ironic to think that former #4 overall pick Cedric Benson is coming off his most productive NFL season. After three disappointing years in Chicago he set new highs in rushes (214) and yards (747). Most of his damage came in December against disinterested opposition. Still, he was given a two year contract and is clearly the team’s best option. Chris Perry pretty much secured his status as a bust by averaging 2.6 yards per carry although on the plus side he did score the first two rushing touchdowns of his career. I’m thinking the team was counting on a little more than 1,080 total yards in 35 games for a player they selected in the first round of the 2004 draft. Most teams have multiple backs to apply pressure on the opposing defense. The Bengals need to secure an impact player to pair with Benson. 

DRAFT: Signing Gary Russell (Steelers) was only a short term deal as he was cut after the draft. They added talented and troubled Bernard Scott (Abilene Christian) at #209.

Middle Linebacker – Dhani Jones is quite a character. He definitely has a career in television when he hangs up the cleats. At 31 he can certainly still be productive, but no one is going to confuse him with Ray Lewis. Keith Rivers returns to the fold outside after missing half of his rookie season. I chalk this up to a weird curse affecting any linebacker the Bengals pick. They have to keep trying and a dominant man in the middle would go a long way towards making this defense respectable for the first time in a long time.

DRAFT: When Rey Maualuga (USC) was there at #38 they might have thought they were dreaming.

Tight End – After being signed away from the Colts Ben Utecht was not productive. Reggie Kelly is 32 and nearing the end of an extraordinarily average yet lengthy NFL career. Changes are in the works at the wide receiver position and Carson Palmer returning healthy definitely impacts the passing game. Finding an impact tight end would give Palmer someone to lean on in the red zone. Kelly has 3 touchdown receptions in 6 seasons with the team. Utecht has taken 51 career games to haul in his 3 scores. Considering their bounty of picks they are bound to draft someone who can thrive in scoring range.

DRAFT: Another high need they gave attention to early in the form of Missouri’s Chase Coffman at #98.

Fullback – Their offense has really fallen off the map. It was not long ago the team could score 4 touchdowns without breaking a sweat and lose 35-31. Now they are struggling to keep the chains moving at all. The running game needs a blocking back. Someone who can do the dirty work certainly will be considered late in the draft. This is not a strong crop at the position.

DRAFT: It was almost a foregone conclusion they would select Fui Vakapuna (BYU) according to our own Michael Abromowitz, and sure enough they took him at #215.

Punt Returner – There are bigger fish to fry for sure, but the Bengals have some picks to work with. Antonio Chatman only gave them 7.5 yards per return on his 21 efforts. On a team dead last in scoring and yardage this could not have come at a worse time. T.J. Houshmandzadeh returned 8 punts and is no longer an option having signed with Seattle. Cornerback Leon Hall was a bit of an experiment (3 returns) but is not exactly Devin Hester. There are certainly athletic players on the roster who might try their hand. However, an experienced punt return threat could be targeted.

DRAFT: None

Wide Receiver – This only becomes a need if the player currently wearing #85 is in fact traded which seems unlikely. He has gone as far as letting former professional and collegiate teammate Houshmandzadeh complain for him on NFL Network. Laveranues Coles (Jets) was added to ostensibly replace the guy with the long name who signed with Seattle, but he is obviously a much different player. Jerome Simpson and Andre Caldwell were top 100 picks last year who should be allowed time to develop. However, Chris Henry is always a risk to draw a lifetime suspension for doing something off the field. If Chad is dealt Henry’s 220 receiving yards will lead all returning players.

DRAFT: Freddie Brown (Utah) was taken at #252.

Other players drafted:

Punter: Kevin Huber (Cincinnati)
Cornerback: Morgan Trent (Michigan)

SUMMARY: The only thing missing from this draft was someone to return punts, but the Bengals addressed the other side of that equation with a top shelf punter. GRADING MYSELF: 98


CLEVELAND BROWNS

Pre-Draft Picks (5): 5, 36, 50, 104, 177
Actual Picks (8): lost 5, gained 21, 52, 191, 195

Linebacker – Willie McGinest is a pen stroke away from retirement. Andra Davis has left for Denver. Others have also departed including Antwan Peek (released) and the “big” addition is Eric Barton. He is a solid veteran, but turns 32 early this season and is more of a supporting character in this movie. Kamerion Wimbley was supposed to be a star when they drafted him #13 overall in 2006. He responded with 11 sacks as a rookie, but that production has dropped to 9 in two seasons since. The other linebacker taken in that draft, D’Qwell Jackson, is coming off a rather tiring 154 tackle performance so at least the team can count on him. Beau Bell and Titus Brown have spots on the depth chart after their rookie seasons, while new coach Eric Mangini has spoken well of another rookie Alex Hall . Summing this up, the pass rush is just a shade up from calling out “one alligator, two alligator” in a game of street ball. Someone to really get after the passer on the outside is going to be sought early in the draft. Inside they can probably get by hoping Barton still has some tackles left and Bell can get healthy. There is definitely youth, but while fans tend to talk about “potential” when clamoring for another position to be addressed the teams must improve the roster constantly.

DRAFT: He was overlooked in a loaded Trojan defense, but Kaluka Maiava (USC) was taken at #104 to address this need.

Running Back – Scout’s honor this is a true story. Early in last year’s mock draft season I had projected Steve Slaton to the Browns in the third round prior to the team trading away the pick. I received an angry email from a fan clamoring about Jamal Lewis coming off a big season and already having a Slaton type in the form of Jerome Harrison. Sometimes it takes a year of reflection for people to realize I am right. Think ahead people. Lewis has returned to his dismal 3.6 yards and a cloud of his breath panting for a break. He will turn 30 just prior to the opener, which is historically the beginning of the end. Harrison managed two big runs last year (72, 33) and on his other 32 carries totaled 141 yards. You can do the math on that average. This is another great draft at the running back position and because so many teams landed a quality player last year (like, uh, Slaton) there should be an opportunity for the Browns to be a bit patient while filling their need. 

DRAFT: I’m not getting too much into picks I like/dislike, but it’s hard not to get behind adding Clemson’s James Davis at #195.

Cornerback/Safety – The team parted ways with aging Terry Cousin and ineffective Travis Daniels. In free agency Corey Ivy (Ravens) and Hank Poteat (Jets) were signed to one year deals. Both will be 32 when the season kicks off and obviously do not represent long term options on the depth chart. Teams more or less ran over this defense in 2008 which masked their lack of talent in the secondary. There are also problems at free safety where Mike Adams starting is not the most appealing option. At strong safety Sean Jones (Eagles) exited after starting in 2008. One strategy could be drafting an impact cornerback and sliding Brandon McDonald over to safety. Then there is the issue of talent at strong safety. This team mortgaged too much of their future by trading away 2008 draft picks and now needs to stockpile more selections. If they do, some of these issues can be addressed. If not, they will be going bargain hunting after the draft (priority free agents) and when the June cuts are made.   

DRAFT: They took small school prospect Don Carey (Norfolk State) at #177 and Coye Francies (San Jose State) at #191. As for safety, Abram Elam (Jets) was part of the deal that helped Sanchez land in the Big Apple.

Wide Receiver – It is worth noting that I have not forgotten the team traded away receiving tight end Kellen Winslow. Adding Robert Royal (Bills) and counting on last year’s second round pick Martin Rucker seems to be the game plan there. The bigger issue is outside at wide receiver. Braylon Edwards is the subject of trade rumors and at odds with the team and fans. It appears he is going to be dealt to the Giants on draft day for a couple of picks and a player to fill up the depth chart. Disappointing free agent Donte’ Stallworth caught only 10 passes in 2008 and now has a legal matter hanging over his head. Adding David Patten screams desperation considering he turns 35 in August. Paul Hubbard at least has potential if healthy. It might be time to get return specialist Joshua Cribbs more into the mix although he has caught just 16 passes in four seasons. Currently he is utilized mostly as a rusher for the quarterback spot in the “Wildcat” formation. There is also buzz about him moving to defense (safety) which shows how starved this team is for talent. Back to our story, the situation at wide receiver is pretty dire at the moment, especially considering the team is unsettled at quarterback.

DRAFT: I can’t resist mentioning that #36 pick Brian Robiskie (Ohio State) will never say the fans are against him because he went to a “rival” college. The pick was followed up at #50 with the addition of Mohamed Massaquoi (Georgia).

Quarterback – By the time this is read it is possible the depth chart for the Browns will be changed at the quarterback position because the new regime is allegedly not sold on the current duo. In 2007 Derek Anderson exploded onto the scene in week 2 with five touchdown passes during a memorable 51-45 win over rival Cincinnati. He kept it up all season with 3,787 passing yards and 29 scoring strikes. His success kept then rookie Brady Quinn, a first round pick, on the sidelines. As 2008 began with high expectations Anderson had nine starts throwing 24+ pass attempts and just six of those produced more than 166 yards passing. An injury mercifully ended his season. Quinn had a short stint spanning 2 ½ games before also landing on injured reserve. Rumors swirled about him before Jay Cutler was traded from Denver to Chicago. In fact, some believe Quinn (or Anderson) might still be shipped. The fact is their passing game was #31 out of 32 teams and when a new coach comes in a new quarterback typically follows.

DRAFT: Keiwan Ratliff (Jets) was acquired in a trade on draft day.

Offensive Line – Even while the passing offense crashed and burned this line gave up just 24 sacks. John St. Clair (Bears) being signed to play right tackle addresses the main weakness. Other than the left side, anchored by Joe Thomas, age is a concern. Young, Shaffer and McKinney all exited and their other addition was another veteran Floyd Womack. It is always wise to add youth for an aging offensive line. Best case scenario the team finds a future starting right tackle. At the very least a versatile type capable of backing up at guard and tackle would be good.

DRAFT: The Browns surprised at #21 and landed a future star with center Alex Mack (Cal).

Defensive Line – I know this appears like lazy analysis citing both lines late, but stay with me. The centerpiece to their 3-4, nose tackle Shaun Rogers, is complaining about wanting out. At this time last year Ahytba Rubin (Iowa State) was considered a good fit for the spot while and the Browns grabbed him in the sixth round. Obviously he is not going to step into the shoes of Rogers if he is traded, but a player to compete with him in that role surely will be sought in the event a trade materializes. At end pick either Smith, Robaire or Shaun, to be dumped off the depth chart. A 3-4 can be tough to find talent for in the draft, but the Browns might be looking for three additions (including rush linebacker) when all is said and done.

DRAFT: David Veikune (Hawaii) was added at #52 to play end, and Kenyon Coleman (Jets) was acquired via trade.

SUMMARY: I listed way more needs than they had picks, and the team responded by attacking every area save nose tackle. I can’t go perfection, but this was pretty close. GRADING MYSELF: 99


DALLAS COWBOYS

Pre-Draft Picks (11): 51, 69, 101, 117, 156, 166, 172*, 197, 208*, 210, 227   *-compensatory picks cannot be traded
Actual Picks (12): lost 51, 117, 156, 210 gained 75, 110, 120, 143, 229

Wide Receiver – Losing a #1 like Terrell Owens is going to force a change in your offense. Roy Williams has only been over 850 yards in a season once in his five year career. Owens went 936+ in 10 of his past 12 campaigns. Assuming Williams and his two touchdown receptions during his past 15 games played will slide into the featured role easily is a dangerous assumption to say the least. The better strategy is shifting the emphasis to the running game and continuing to utilize star tight end Jason Witten, who oh by the way led the team in receptions (81) last year. If that is the plan I can get behind it and will accept Dallas waiting for the right wide receiver to fill up their depth chart. There is simply no way to replace T.O. in terms of his touchdown production in this draft. Trying to do that is futile. However, at some point a player needs to be added to supplement Miles Austin and Patrick Crayton behind Williams.

DRAFT: Maybe the Cowboys didn’t like this rookie class because they waited until their final choice to select Oklahoma’s Manuel Johnson at #229.

Secondary – I am clumping cornerback and free safety here for good reason. At cornerback Anthony Henry was traded to Detroit. His spot will be filled by committee at first. Obviously last year’s first round pick Mike Jenkins is the guy they want starting although fifth round gem Orlando Scandrick is also a factor. Teams are certainly going to steer the action away from Terence Newman on the other side. The best strategy here is probably a veteran in case the development of last year’s rookie duo sputters. Their next problem is safety. Roy Williams has been cut which solves the problem of having two players with the same name on the same team. Keith Davis is still loitering in free agency. Gerald Sensabaugh (Jaguars) was a good addition on a one year deal to play the strong spot, but this group is thin on talent. In the draft I could see them targeting a corner/safety ‘tweener. Someone who for the moment is able to get on the field in nickel or dime situations and eventually find a home would be ideal, with an emphasis on safety. Look for the Cowboys to hit this area more than once because a hard hitting strong safety, given their large stack of picks, is a strong possibility.

DRAFT: DeAngelo Smith (Cincinnati) at #143 is a corner and return threat while #227 selection Mike Mickens (Cincinnati) is another pickup at corner. Their #166 pick Michael Hamlin (Clemson) helps at free safety while Stephen Hodge (TCU) is an addition on the strong side at #197.

Linebacker – Bobby Carpenter is a flat out bust. As a former #18 overall pick he has just 50 tackles in 42 career appearances. There is always a chance the proverbial light bulb goes off in his fourth season. No one is holding their breath on that. Kevin Burnett was another disappointing early pick (second round) and left for San Diego in free agency. The team response has been adding veteran Keith Brooking who displaces last year’s veteran addition Zach Thomas as the elder statesman among the linebackers. At 33 he still has something left and his leadership definitely adds to their locker room. On the field they need someone athletic to get after it, and will be seeking that player in the draft.

DRAFT: Their first choice was not until day 2 and Jason Williams (Western Illinois) took that honor at #69 overall. Victor Butler (Oregon State) at #110 projects to outside linebacker, as does #120 pick Brandon Williams (Texas Tech).

Offensive Line – This is always a priority for the Cowboys. At left tackle Flozell Adams has seen his play drop off and turns 34 in May. How much does he have left? Next to him at left guard Kyle Kosier could be upgraded. There are definitely players waiting in the wings as I am always reminded by Dallas fans when I bring up the offensive line. The reason for this is that the team continues to emphasize it, and like most teams will again pick up some help in the draft.

DRAFT: Did I say they emphasize it? At #75 they took tackle Robert Brewster (Ball State).

Quarterback – The position has already been improved with the removal of team headache Terrell Owens making starter Tony Romo’s life easier and addition of veteran backup Jon Kitna. The missing element is a young player to groom for the future. Smart teams draft for the future. It is better to “waste” three sixth round picks in consecutive seasons searching for a potential gem than throwing crazy first round money at a player who could bust. Dallas can mine the late round talent for someone to sit behind Tony Romo. Kitna turns 37 the first month of the season and what they would really be doing is selecting someone capable of unseating him as the primary backup for the 2010 or 2011 season.

DRAFT: Did I say smart teams draft for the future? They went with Texas A&M’s Stephen McGee at #101.

Others players selected:

Kicker: David Buehler (USC) #172
Tight end: John Phillips (Virginia) #208

SUMMARY: It can be argued my top need was not addressed until late, but they hit two of my five areas of need with 7 players. I can’t say I saw kicker coming considering Folk was gone 31/33 from 30-49 yards in two seasons, 4/7 from 50+ and is 87% total. The Phillips move must be insurance against Bennett doing too much blogging. GRADING MYSELF: 97


DENVER BRONCOS

Pre-Draft Picks (10): 12, 18, 48, 79, 84, 114, 149, 185, 225, 235
Actual Picks (10): lost 79, 84, 149, 235, gained 37, 64, 141, 174

Linebacker – Making the transition to a 3-4 alignment will require some work. D.J. Williams is a very good player. Other than that there are a lot of question marks. The players on hand were mostly small, fast types. Some, like rookie free agent Wesley Woodyard, will find a home. Others up front are shifting from end to linebacker. Andra Davis (Browns) was added in free agency and has experience in the formation. Jamie Winborn has been released after leading the team in tackles. It is possible the team will draft a player inside and outside as they attempt to build their defense basically from scratch.

Draft: None (see Ayers)

Defensive Line – First and foremost the need is for a nose tackle to stick in the middle of their new 3-4. Dewayne Robertson was released after one disappointing season. The best current option is Ronald Fields (49ers) who was given a two-year deal. It is tough to address this issue in the draft, but they have to try. Another signing Darrell Reid (Colts) will shift outside to end. Remember the 2007 draft class of three defensive linemen out of their four picks? They’re all backups and worse yet probably all out of place in a 3-4. That means an end is likely to be sought in the draft as well. There is quite simply not much talent on this defense in general and especially on the defensive front line. Fields and Reid are starters by default at the moment.

DRAFT: Robert Ayers (Tennessee) at #18 addresses their need at end, or at outside linebacker but obviously I’m only crediting him in one area officially.

Quarterback – It is debatable how viable Kyle Orton can be. He has been a winner, especially at home, in his career. Calling for him to compete with Chris Simms is a bit ridiculous. Simms threw two passes in Tennessee’s season finale and prior to that had not thrown one since 2006. His father Phil might be a bigger threat to win the job. It’s Orton, a rookie or another trade. Josh McDaniels is painted into a corner with a horrible defense and career 55.3% passer running the show. Maybe he feels Orton can be molded. Maybe he will try to scour the draft crop for another late round steal. This situation is a mess and fans are ready to light up the phone lines on talk radio if he fails to pull a rabbit out of his hat.

DRAFT: Tom Brandstater (Fresno State) at #174 now has more burden than any man should bear. His first name is Tom (uh, Brady) and he was drafted in the sixth round (as Brady was). I mean seriously Josh Daniels did you read his name and see “Tom Bra…” then stop? Let the comparisons begin, although they are totally unfair and ridiculous.

Center – It is a formality that Tom Nalen will be retiring although at the moment it is not finalized. Casey Wiegmann will be 36 this summer and someone needs to take his spot. Last year’s fourth round pick Kory Lichtensteiger was a candidate to move to guard until the team signed Matt McChesney and Scott Young to fill up the depth chart. Now it appears he could be the heir apparent. However, this is a very good year to mine for talent at the center position. The Broncos are likely to draft a player to contend with Lichtensteiger for the starting role.

DRAFT: I’m stretching this slightly with #132 pick Seth Olsen (Iowa) who played guard. He has expressed willingness to learn at center, which is exactly the kind of project I was anticipating them to add. He also might play tackle. True center Blake Schlueter (TCU) was taken at #225 though.

Running Back – In New England Josh McDaniels ran a committee of backs. Trading Jay Cutler derails what had been a potent passing attack. Will the offense respond by slanting heavily towards the run? LaMont Jordan comes “with” McDaniels from the Patriots, having struggled with injuries while totaling 80 rushes last year. An injured, aging back? Well, that’s just what they need after sending just about every running back in the NFL to the IR last season. Correll Buckhalter, who has missed three entire seasons due to injury, was another addition. Are they trying to be ironic or honestly trying to shore up the position? J.J. Arrington is a pickup strictly for special teams. He had 71 rushes in his final three seasons with Arizona, and is a kickoff return threat. I suppose there is strength in numbers, but two guys over 30 and a clear backup is their plan? Someone is going to “remind me” they have rookie fullback Peyton Hillis running like a “beast” and that Ryan Torain has “potential”. Let’s not enshrine Hillis in Canton for running wild on the Raiders, Jets and Chiefs late in the season and Torain had 15 carries before getting hurt (again). This is a long diatribe and I can see them playing this one of two ways. First would be locking up an early talent capable of waiting in the wings for the team to inevitably cut Buckhalter and/or Jordan this time next year. Second is fishing for a late round gem, as was the team’s strategy under the previous regime, and going with another committee. Of course they may simply decide to roll with their current crew.

DRAFT: The decision was made to go with a star and the Broncos took Georgia’s Knowshon Moreno at #12.

Cornerback – Not long ago the tandem of Bailey and Bly was considered the NFL’s best. Bailey might have peaked in 2006 and has just 4 interceptions in his past 24 games although some of that naturally is teams avoiding him. He can still play at a high level assuming he remains healthy. Bly was released and replaced with veteran Andre’ Goodman (Dolphins). Karl Paymah (Vikings) left and he was the last of a trio of corners drafted in 2005. Domonique Foxworth had already moved on last year and of course tragically Darrent Williams was killed. The end result is a failure. Fourth round pick Jack Williams should be a competent backup, as might fellow rookie Josh Bell who was not drafted. However, someone to throw a charge into the depth chart should be sought because at every level this defense struggled. Adding veteran Brian Dawkins (Eagles) and Renaldo Hill (Dolphins) at safety will help, but it’s not enough.

DRAFT: This need was important enough to trade away a 2010 first round pick to select Alphonso Smith (Wake Forest) at #37.

Kicker – Matt Prater tried to fill the kicking shoes of Jason Elam and struggled with field goals Elam would have made. He missed twice inside of 40 yards, and was just 5/11 from 40-49. He showed leg strength going 5/6 from beyond 50, but the sum total was a disappointing 73.5%. Only one player in the NFL with more than 10 attempts had a worse percentage. Undoubtedly competition will be sought.

DRAFT: None

Other players drafted:

Safety: Darcel McBath (Texas Tech) #48
Tight End: Richard Quinn (North Carolina) #64
Safety: David Bruton (Notre Dame) #114
Wide Receiver: Kenny McKinley (South Carolina) #141

SUMMARY: I do not regret emphasizing the defensive front 7 and scratched my head at them adding just one player in that area. Instead they hit the secondary twice more with safeties and gave McDaniels two more parts on offense. I can get behind the blocking tight end given their quarterback situation, and in retrospect you can see why he would want another receiver. GRADING MYSELF: 83


DETROIT LIONS

Pre-Draft Picks (8): 1, 20, 33, 65, 82, 174, 192, 255* 
*-compensatory pick cannot be traded
Actual Picks (10): lost 65, 174 gained 76, 115, 228, 235

Middle Linebacker – After acquiring Julian Peterson their starting outside linebackers are set. Former #9 overall pick Ernie Sims has already piled up 372 tackles in three seasons on the other side. Jordon Dizon did not light it up as a rookie and is by all accounts not the answer in the middle as a starter. Someone capable of starting immediately will be their goal in the draft. After that a backup outside linebacker in the middle rounds is likely.

DRAFT: It lacks the sizzle of other players rumored they might select, but at #76 DeAndre Levy (Wisconsin) is going to be used in the middle for them.

Quarterback – Their best option, Jon Kitna, was dealt to Dallas. Dan Orlovksy bolted for Texas as well, signing with Houston. For some reason Drew Henson is still drawing a paycheck. Perhaps it is a payroll error. Drew Stanton might not be around much longer. Daunte Culpepper is the expected starter because of his history with new offensive coordinator Scott Linehan. Let’s add up his last 16 games played spanning three seasons with Miami, Oakland and Detroit. The grand total is 3,046 yards passing with 11 touchdowns against 14 interceptions. He has completed 57.2% of his passes. Not since the day before Halloween in 2005 has he been a serious threat. On the final play of the first quarter against the Carolina Panthers his knee was injured and the rest is history. His monster 2004 season is legendary, but this is not a videogame. The Lions will be deciding if either Matthew Stafford (Georgia) or Mark Sanchez (USC) can end the curse of Bobby Layne. If so one of them will be selected at #1 overall. If not they might need to pull the trigger on a trade because going into the season with this depth chart is not an option.

DRAFT: I hear they drafted some guy named Matthew Stafford (Georgia) at #1.

Offensive Line – There will be some shuffling to be sure. George Foster’s awful stint with the team is over. Jeff Backus is slated to start at left tackle, but if one can be landed in the draft might slide to guard. The right side is settled with Stephen Peterman having signed a new deal at guard while rookie Gosder Cherilus showed enough to hold down the tackle position. At center Dominic Raiola needs a backup, and preferably someone to beat him out. Damion Cook and newly signed Daniel Loper (Titans) fill reserve roles. Most importantly there is no one to carry this line and after giving up 52 sacks clearly improvement is needed. The first priority is a left tackle. Then a center with starting potential and the flexibility to be used at guard would make sense. 

DRAFT: They waited, but finally at #228 picked up tackle Lydon Murtha (Nebraska).

Cornerback – Leigh Bodden managed the only interception at the position last year and was cut. Free agent pickup Eric King (Titans) makes sense. He has yet to pick off a pass in 52 career games spanning four seasons. On the plus side
Phillip Buchanon (Bucs) and Anthony Henry (Cowboys) are decent additions to the mix. They are definitely missing a standout to anchor the group and should be looking for one solid player early in the draft to fill that role.

DRAFT: None

Defensive Tackle – Shaun Cody and Cory Redding are out, veteran Grady Jackson (Falcons) is in. Chuck Darby was not exactly a boost to this unit considering the team gave up an NFL high 172.1 yards rushing per game. He is also into his 30’s and the new regime is likely to seek his successor in the draft. Jackson is even older and with a starting duo inside that is currently almost 70 years old combined a little youth would do them some good. Even more unfortunate for fans of the Lions is factoring in that two guys they selected just last year, Andre Fluellen (third round) and Landon Cohen (seventh round), were taken to fit the old defensive scheme.

DRAFT: Sammie Lee Hill (Stillman) was selected at #115 to play tackle.

Running Back (situational) – This is well down the laundry list of needs, but I think it has to be mentioned. Last year rookie Kevin Smith showed signs he can be the primary rushing, chewing up a lot of carries and wearing down the opposing defense. In today’s NFL that means 250-275 carries. Maurice Morris (Seahawks) was a savvy signing and will back up the youngster. However, he is not the ever popular “home run” threat analysts like to talk about. As if hitting a baseball 400 feet equates to running your rear end off 80 yards down the field. Anyway, Morris has never gained 50+ yards in any of his 604 career rushes. In the late rounds, or the rookie free agent market if anyone wants to sign with this franchise, Detroit could get a quicker option. If that player is able to return kickoffs and/or punts it’s a bonus.

DRAFT: Clearly Aaron Brown (TCU) at #192 fits the description of “change of pace” back.

Wide Receiver – Even if the quarterback situation is a mess, Calvin Johnson has the #1 spot at receiver nailed down for the foreseeable future. Bryant Johnson (49ers) was signed to help offset the loss of Roy Williams, who was traded to Dallas. He has been nothing if not steady over his six years in the NFL, averaging 42.5 receptions for 537 yards with a grand total of 12 touchdowns. As a complementary threat he is serviceable. However, the rest of the depth chart is bare. Someone able to work the slot effectively would be a huge boost to the passing game. To put this need in perspective, “CJ” led the team in receiving by 999 yards over Shaun McDonald. A late signing of Ronald Curry (Raiders) provides them with another veteran, but he struggled with injuries early in his career. On the plus side he might give them a “Wildcat” quarterback option. Another under the radar move was signing 2008 fourth round pick Will Franklin (Chiefs) off waivers. There are options certainly, but no one to attract any defense away from Johnson.

DRAFT: Derrick Williams (Penn State) was taken at #82.

Other players drafted:

Tight end: Brandon Pettigrew (Oklahoma State)
Safety: Louis Delmas (Western Michigan)
Linebacker: Zack Follett (Cal)
Tight end: Dan Gronkowski (Maryland)

SUMMARY: I kind of like the way they addressed their woeful offensive line, by picking up two blocking tight ends. The lone surprise for me was not getting a corner. Instead they went free safety and took the consensus #1 at that position. Follett is going to be a monster on special teams for them. Given their many needs I would say I did pretty well. GRADING MYSELF: 94


GREEN BAY PACKERS

Pre-Draft Picks (9): 9, 41, 73, 83, 109, 145, 182, 187, 218
Actual Picks (8): lost 41, 73, 83 gained 26, 162

Defensive Line – It goes without saying a true nose is the most important element of a 3-4. The Packers are changing from a 4-3 and therefore will be forced to select their best available talent, Ryan Pickett, and put him in that role. He is there in part because no one else on the roster is close to being able to fill the role. Therefore the importance of finding someone who can in the draft jumps up in priority. Colin Cole might have been able to give it a shot, but he signed with Seattle. As for the players at end, for the moment Cullen Jenkins and Johnny Jolly are penciled in to start. Jenkins is a question mark while he comes back from a pectoral injury that ended his 2008 campaign. Jolly has an issue off the field, and is moving from tackle in this new alignment. Switching alignments is always risky and the more talent on hand to compete for starting roles the better.

DRAFT: The top need was addressed immediately at #9 with tackle B.J. Raji (Boston College). Later they picked up an end at #182 with Jarious Wynn (Georgia).

Offensive Tackle – The days of having Chad Clifton and Mark Tauscher as bookend tackles are over. Clifton might have a little left in the tank at left tackle, but Tauscher is recovering from a knee injury and in free agency limbo. Now the task could be to emulate the 2000 draft that brought this pair into the fold with second (Clifton) and seventh (Tauscher) round picks. Last year’s fifth round selection Breno Giacomini is a factor on the right side, and there will be no panic moves made to shore up this position. Patience and careful selection will be the strategy. Of course it would be great to land a future left tackle, but I expect them to be seeking a quality sleeper while their young talent develops.

DRAFT: T.J. Lang (Eastern Michigan) at #109 helps their tackle situation, as does #162 pick Jamon Meredith (South Carolina).

Cornerback – There is simply no overlooking the fact that Charles Woodson (32) and Al Harris (34) are reaching the end of the line. The pair has combined to play in 324 games and pick off 55 passes. Pat Lee (Auburn) was drafted late in the second round last year and Will Blackmon took on a larger role in his third season. Those players are part of the equation, but a future starter needs to be sought out sooner than later. There is constantly talk of Charles Woodson sliding to free safety although the signing of Anthony Smith (Steelers) for depth at that spot might put off the switch. Any way this pie is cut up a true corner must be added.

DRAFT: They had to add someone and Brandon Underwood (Cincinnati) was the choice at #187.

Outside Linebacker – Aaron Kampman will stand up and step back from his end position to fill one rush linebacker spot. The other side needs to be addressed aggressively. Anyone who places outside linebacker in a 3-4 has to be able to get after the passer. It is a crucial element to the formation being effective. Right now they have too much mediocrity inside and not enough dynamic talent outside.

DRAFT: They gave up a lot so obviously the team feels USC’s Clay Matthews at #26 can get it done on the outside.

Tight End – I’m not sure exactly where Donald Lee went wrong, but he really fell off the map. In 2007 he was on the fantasy football map with 575 yards receiving. This past season his average yardage per reception dropped from 12.0 to a pitiful 7.8. Of that 4.2 yard difference, 2.7 came after he had the football in his hands. Jermichael Finley could be the answer, but in the late rounds someone who can block a lot and catch a little will be sought.

DRAFT: None.

Inside Linebacker – Nick Barnett, currently rehabbing from tearing his ACL, and A.J. Hawk will be the starters in the team’s new 3-4. When pressed into duty Desmond Bishop had a couple of good outings. As the defense tries fit players into this formation adding talent is inevitable. Rookie free agent Spencer Havner might have a future, and Brandon Chillar did manage to finish third on the team in tackles with a modest 69. I could see the team standing pat until they really evaluate these players, but I always look for additions when a switch is made.

DRAFT: Brad Jones (Colorado) was also taken at #218 and might see some time on the inside.

Punter – Derrick Frost really struggled to the point that he was replaced in the final month of the season by Jeremy Kapinos. The good news for Kapinos was landing 7 of 17 punts inside the 20, but his average (39.2) was even worse than Frost (42.1). There is little chance the Packers will not bring in another punter to compete. Come to think of it, kicking a frozen football far might be so easy. Good luck to the next guy who earns this job.

DRAFT: None.

Other players drafted:

Fullback: Quinn Johnson (LSU)

SUMMARY: They hit the top four needs I pointed to. Trading away picks might have cost them the opportunity to go with a tight end, and often punters can be had after the draft. It was a nice move to add a fullback. GRADING MYSELF: 92


HOUSTON TEXANS

Pre-Draft Picks (8): 15, 46, 77, 112, 122, 152, 188, 223
Actual Picks: same

Outside Linebacker – There is quantity, but quality is another question. Morlon Greenwood was released which paved the way for youngsters Zac Diles and Xavier Adibi to take on larger roles. Then free agency brought veteran Cato June and well traveled third year player Buster Davis. June is a nice veteran presence, but his best plays are behind him. He is not going to attack anyone and overwhelm an opposing player. His value is being a steady presence. Davis was knocked coming into the draft for his lack of height (5’9”) and has already spent one season in Arizona and another in Indianapolis. It is worth taking a look at him for depth, but what this team needs is an attacker. I’m talking about someone who the other team is afraid of facing. DeMeco Ryans is a star in the middle (although he is unhappy about his contract) and one more stud alongside him would make this group lethal.

DRAFT: With their first pick they took care of my top need with Brian Cushing (USC) at #15.

Running Back – Late third round gem Steve Slaton finally satisfied the need for a playmaking back. He rolled up over 100 total yards per game and hauled in 50 receptions. Although he churned out an average of 21.7 rushes per start over the final six games he is better served staying closer to the 14-17 range. He was forced into that work load because there is really no one else to do it. Mercifully Ahman Green was cut loose following two uneventful seasons totaling 144 carries for 554 yards. The back they seek is going to be a wide load (read: ~220 pounds) capable of picking up short yardage situations, and able to fit into their zone blocking (one cut and go) system.

DRAFT: None.

Safety – This has been a sore spot since the inception of the team. Gone are C.C. Brown (Giants) and Will Demps (released). Nick Ferguson and Eugene Wilson were retained in free agency. Last year’s late round pick Domonique Barber could factor in as a replacement for Ferguson at strong safety. This is one of those situations where the losses dictate an addition and it is a guessing game how early that player is selected. Everyone seems to be convinced the team will draft a game breaker, but this is the wrong draft to seek such a rookie early on.

DRAFT: It wasn’t as early as most expected, but they did get Troy Nolan (Arizona) State at #223.

Cornerback – One thing the Texans definitely have at this position is youth. Their top concern is Dunta Robinson playing under the franchise tag and not being pleased about it. The team is being smart forcing him to play one season healthy enough to warrant a long term deal. Obviously the player wants the security (read: signing bonus) of a long term deal. This negotiation weighs into their strategy, as does the development of middle round picks from the last two drafts, Fred Bennett and Antwaun Molden. No one knows the depth chart like their war room. If they are confident in this group developing no additions will be made, but to prepare for the worst an addition could be made as somewhat of a luxury pick.

DRAFT: Glover Quin (New Mexico) was the choice at #112 and Brice McCain (Utah) was picked up at #188.

Offensive Guard – Slowly the line has been built up. In the 2008 draft Duane Brown was a surprise first rounder and has nailed down the left tackle spot. The most glaring problem now is right guard where Mike Brisel keeps the refs busy with the flags and whistles. Their offense is starting to really take over and one more cog at guard would solidify the line.

DRAFT: Centers often open at guard in the NFL so I’ll consider #77 pick Antoine Caldwell (Alabama) a hit here.

Defensive Tackle – I am acknowledging this because others have pointed to the interior defensive line as a sore spot. The youth is abundant. Their 2007 first round pick Amobi Okoye is still only 21 years old, and two years into his NFL career is younger than most of this year’s rookies. The only question is soreness in his knee, but as of now it is not considered too problematic. Travis Johnson is another former first round pick (2005) slated to start. The slack given to him is considerably less considering he turns 27 on draft weekend and his play has been lackluster. Massive project Frank Okam was taken in the fifth round last year. As I’ll say often “potential” is tricky because it does not win games now. Shaun Cody (Lions) was added in free agency and the team passed on him in 2005, when he was an early second rounder, to select Johnson. Perhaps they regret the decision and hope he can perform better for them than he looked in the Motor City. The youth is there, which usually means that even if the area is a problem the draft is not the place to address it. We will see what path they take.

DRAFT: None.

Other players drafted:

Defensive end: Connor Barwin (Cincinnati)
Tight end: Anthony Hill (N.C. State)
Tight end: James Casey (Rice)

SUMMARY: Houston added talent in most of the areas I expected them to, and also avoided defensive tackle for the reasons I pointed out. The exception was running back where they failed to get support for last year’s rookie Steve Slaton. An area they paid a lot of attention to was tight end. If you throw Barwin into that mix (he used to play TE) they have surrounded Pro Bowl stud Owen Daniels with three situational additions. They certainly added options and also insurance because Daniels does not have a long term deal. GRADING MYSELF: 92


INDIANAPOLIS COLTS

Pre-Draft Picks (8): 27, 61, 92, 127, 136*, 165, 201, 236
*-compensatory pick cannot be traded
Actual Picks (8): lost 61, 165 gained 56, 222

Defensive Tackle – The Colts are a team normally adept at assessing talent so going after someone else’s castoff (Buffalo’s John McCargo) in a failed trade a while back is a major indicator of the many problems at this position. Quinn Pitcock retired on them suddenly, which explains all of the mental prodding NFL teams do at the scouting combine. Ed Johnson was released prior to the 2008 season. Darrell Reid had issues away from the field and signed with Denver. Right now Keyunta Dawson and Eric Foster represent two tendencies. First, as I just mentioned the Colts can scout. Dawson was almost Mr. Irrelevant and Foster was not drafted. Second, neither player tips the scales at even 270. Indy might have gotten too much confidence after winning the Super Bowl with athletic as opposed to the guys who look like they should be contestants on The Biggest Loser. In the draft I expect them to look for a player who fits in between. Not a lead foot weighing 340 pounds, but a little bulk to do battle with the opposing guard or center.

DRAFT: Unlike years past the Colts did not wait long to fill this need, taking USC’s Fili Moala at #56. They also added Terrance Taylor (Michigan) at #136.

Wide Receiver – Every rookie coming into the NFL this season would be lucky to wind up with the Colts. Reggie Wayne is an established #1. Anthony Gonzalez is emerging as the next great slot receiver with Peyton Manning throwing rockets. Dallas Clark is a solid pass catching tight end. An outside starter is all they are missing. Usually it takes time for an elite collegiate player to make a mark in the NFL, but this situation is unique to put it lightly. Indy has nothing in the cupboard to replace Marvin Harrison which is why I suggested addressing this in last year’s draft. Now the problem sticks out just a little more. The best solution might be convincing Harrison, still a free agent, to sign on for his swan song while drafting someone to train from one of the best ever. Roy Hall and Pierre Garcon were late picks from the past two drafts and how the team assesses their progress factors into their decision to draft early or late. Intelligent, disciplined route runners will be sought. Peyton wants a player who is where he is supposed to be.

DRAFT: BYU’s Austin Collie at #127 definitely fills the description of the receiver they wanted to add.

Running Back – A lot of the blame for the lack of a running game falls on the offensive line. Joseph Addai was coming off two seasons with 1,400+ total yards to open his NFL career. Fantasy owners were expecting even bigger things. Instead they watched his average per rush continue to plummet. From 2006 (4.8) to 2007 (4.1) was one thing, but 2008 (3.5) put up red flags about his ability to work for the tough yardage. He also had just one game with a run longer than 15 yards all season, and a 2.8 yard average in the playoff loss. Dominic Rhodes returned to the roost and had an almost identical stat line to Addai in the rushing department. In other words not good, and he has signed with Houston. Last year the team added Mike Hart (sixth round) and Chad Simpson (free agent) as rookies. Obviously neither move helped the situation because the Colts were #31 out of 32 teams with 79.6 rushing yards per game. Also, Hart is rehabbing from knee surgery. Lance Ball is a wild card and might factor in. Better blocking up front when the talent gets healthy could turn this around. So might a player capable of extending the legacy of greatness started by Marshall Faulk and Edgerrin James. It was once believed Addai was the next in line, but at the moment not so much.

DRAFT: Their first pick at #27 was Donald Brown (Connecticut).

Offensive Tackle – The concern here is that on the left side Tony Ugoh is injury prone and on the right side Ryan Diem is average. The interior was loaded up with reinforcements in last year’s draft. Mike Pollak (second round) starts at right guard, while Jamey Richard (seventh round) is a backup guard and Steve Justice (sixth round) a backup center/guard. Jeff Saturday signing at center for 3 years is a relief. Evaluating their depth chart tackle is the position I expect them to go after, possibly even twice with late picks. They have demonstrated an ability to hit on late round choices. Extra bodies to ward off injury concerns and lackluster play should revitalize this line.

DRAFT: None.

Cornerback – Kelvin Hayden is happy. He has his stack of money. Marlin Jackson is a developing talent, but is coming off an injury and will be a free agent next year. Dante Hughes has not been able to make the transition thus far. Entering his third season he has only 1 interception in 24 games as a reserve. At Cal he was able to sit back and wait for his opportunity to take advantage of a college quarterback’s mistake and then turn that interception into a touchdown with his return skills. Tim Jennings, a second round pick the year before, has made a bigger impact. It is not necessary to strike early. All that is needed here is to keep the talent flowing in. If they were that worried about their depth chart Keiwan Ratliff would not be in free agency limbo, for example. Finally, Michael Coe is also coming off knee surgery.

DRAFT: The Colts picked up Jerraud Powers (Auburn) at #92.

Punt Returner – This will likely be doubled up in the form of a cornerback or wide receiver with return skills. It simply has to be mentioned though that Keiwan Ratliff, rattling around in free agency by the way, averaged a horrific 5.6 yards per return on 16 attempts. He fair caught 43% of the 28 directed at him. Someone to attack punt returns with a little more of an aggressive nature might be considered in the draft.

DRAFT: This is an almost considering Collie also has kickoff return experience.

Quarterback – I am going to panic every fan of the team by saying this, but Peyton Manning did just turn 33. His knee issues did not prevent him from extending his consecutive starts streak to 176. He also registered his ninth season with 4,000+ passing yards. Jim Sorgi has been Mr. Week 17 having seen significant action in four of the team’s five finales since he joined the team in 2004 as a sixth round pick out of Wisconsin. While he knows the system, let’s just say the phones to the front office are not exactly burning up with trade offers to make him a starter elsewhere. His value is to them in a mop up role. Manning has shown the first chink in his armor recovering from this knee injury. It is going to get harder for him to keep starting every game. Unless he is a character from The Terminator sent back in time to solidify the quarterback position, at some point he will reach the end of the line. The time is now to start fishing around for a potential backup who might development into a future starter. Manning has at least two years left, possibly three and maybe more. Wouldn’t it be smart to let someone learn behind him who has a chance to take over the throne?

DRAFT: Interesting. They picked up Curtis Painter (Purdue) at #201.

Punter – After a decade of remarkable consistent production Hunter Smith is on the outs. It was overall the second best season of his career. The average was there (44.2) and 43% landed inside the 20 while 19% ended up inside the 10. He set a career low in touchbacks (2) as well. Whatever the reasons, now the team also has to figure out who is going to be their holder. Maybe they could train backup quarterback Jim Sorgi to do it. Shouldn’t he be used for more than just week 17 games? At any rate the Colts should be one of a few teams targeting a punter late in the draft and prefer one with holding experience.

DRAFT: West Virginia’s Pat McAfee at #222 can be considered both a punter and kicker. He can also, ahem, hold.

Linebacker (middle) – This is one of those positions where a case can always be made for depth. The only move made to provide a backup for Gary Brackett was signing Adam Seward (Panthers) to a one year deal. Do I really need to explain why this is not an ideal option? Seward appeared in 40 games during four seasons and is credited with 40 tackles. He has experience in an NFL uniform, but if the lower injury that prematurely ended the 2008 season for Brackett resurfaces they want to add another option. Brackett himself was not drafted so the Colts will not feel any pressure to make this move early.

DRAFT: None

Other players drafted:

Guard: Jaimie Thomas (Maryland) #236

SUMMARY: The Colts made strong moves in the top three areas I expected them to, and hit on most of the needs I outlined. One exception was grabbing a guard instead of a tackle. The other was not getting their hands on a backup linebacker. GRADING MYSELF: 93


JACKSONVILLE JAGUARS

Picks (9): 8, 39, 72, 107, 144, 180, 232, 250*, 253*
*-compensatory picks cannot be traded
Picks (9): lost 232, gained 73

Defensive Tackle – Parting ways with Marcus Stroud has come back to haunt them. John Henderson’s play suffered mightily without Stroud. The defense still managed to do a decent job stopping the run, but would like to get back to stifling the run. An elite talent capable of elevating the play of the surrounding players, including the fading Henderson, will be considered in the draft. This kind of thing happens often in the NFL. Rob Meier being elevated to a starting role did not work out and now the Jags need to make this a higher priority than they expected this time last year.

DRAFT: Terrance Knighton (Temple) was taken at #72.

Offensive Tackle – It is no secret that signing Tra Thomas, who will turn 35 during the season, from Philadelphia to replace the departed Khalif Barnes is not a real solution at left tackle. The Jags might be able to get by this season with Thomas starting there, but it would only be a last resort. Preferably they will look at one of the top tackle prospects early in the draft. Quarterback David Garrard, who is on a bit of a hot seat at the moment, blames himself for the 42 sacks he suffered in 2008. Those sacks cost the team nearly triple the yardage (288) of the previous season (99) so Garrard slimmed down his frame considerably. It is admirable of him to put this on his shoulders as a team leader and attempt to help the situation, but an anchor at left tackle is a serious problem.

DRAFT: There was no doubt the Jags planned to address this problem. They selected Virginia’s Eugene Monroe at #8 and Arizona’s Eben Britton at #39.

Wide Receiver – I have almost run out of jokes to describe their problems at this position. Suffice it to say their decision making at this position has been questionable. Jerry Porter was a free agent disaster and was cut. His confidence swelled when playing behind a legendary duo of players, Tim Brown and Jerry Rice, and the ego never matched his performance. Troy Williamson was a bust as a #7 overall pick for Minnesota and 5 receptions this season with the Jags did nothing to modify that label. Making matters worse, Matt Jones and Reggie Williams have run into off-field issues to end their runs with the team as former first round picks. The pair has been criticized, but did combine for 102 receptions for 1,125 yards and 5 touchdowns. Some of that slack will be picked up by former star Torry Holt (Rams) who might or might not be able to succeed in a new environment. The team is trying to battle the history of failed early picks as I just discussed, and the bigger problem is having no time to develop a rookie. Adding Holt takes some of the pressure off, but they need more help.

DRAFT: I said they needed more and they went after it in the form of #107 pick Mike Thomas (Arizona) followed by Jarrett Dillard (Rice) at #144 and Tiquan Underwood (Rutgers) at #253.

Secondary – Without knowing where Brian Williams will play and how Sean Considine (Eagles) fits into the equation it is hard to figure out if cornerback or safety is going to be the call on draft day. Reggie Nelson, a first round pick in 2007, is of course still very much in the mix. At cornerback Rashean Mathis locks down one spot securely, but this is where the story winds back to Williams. He might move back to cornerback from safety which would hurt the safety situation where Gerald Sensabaugh (Cowboys) and Pierson Prioleau (Saints) have signed elsewhere. If his best fit is at safety there is a big hole at starting cornerback. Drayton Florence was a free agency failure at cornerback and is gone. Scott Starks just signed a two-year deal, but is not starter material. Conceivably a safety and cornerback could be drafted, but it is tough to get it nailed down without knowing how the team will handle Brian Williams.

DRAFT: They picked up Derek Cox (William & Mary) at #73.

Offensive Line (interior) – The strategy will be to hope injured starting guards Vince Manuwai and Maurice Williams will return healthy enough to assume their roles in the lineup. Obviously the powerful running game from 2007 fell on hard times when that pair got hurt. It would make sense to draft someone to help the depth chart if the injury bug strikes again. Chris Naeole is lingering in free agency, but he’s 34 and is not the sort of insurance solution they should be seeking to solve this problem. It has already been illustrated that Uche Nwaneri and Dennis Norman were unable to handle starting roles. At center Brad Meester is 32 and also prone to injury. The sum total of this situation might lead the team to consider a player capable of playing both guard and center. There are some of those types available in any draft.

DRAFT: None.

Running Back – Maurice Jones-Drew learned from a good one. The time finally came for Fred Taylor to part ways with the team. Last year Chauncey Washington was in my opinion a quality seventh round pick out of USC with some potential. If the team agrees that he can pair with a former UCLA grad (Jones-Drew) in a harmonious all-LA backfield they might stand pat. Otherwise searching for another option capable of chewing up carries makes sense. Jones-Drew has never carried the ball 200+ times in his three seasons and ideally would be in the 220-250 range. He has been inked to a new deal and the team has to protect their investment by not overusing him.

DRAFT: Rashad Jennings (Liberty) represents a nice complement to MJD at #250.

Defensive End – I have not lost my mind. Well, maybe I have but that’s not the point. Last year’s draft strategy was to address their pass rush hard. Derrick Harvey (Florida) was taken in the first round and Quentin Groves (Auburn) in the second round, not to mention a certain trade up and holdout where Harvey is concerned. The results were disastrous. A year later, I would look at the releasing of Paul Spicer as an excuse to add someone in the late rounds or even a rookie after the draft. The philosophy here would be to get a player willing to fight for a roster spot and therefore light a fire under Harvey and Groves who clearly struggled to make the transition into the NFL.

DRAFT: None.

Quarterback – This need has to be included because of the rampant speculation about the team possibly drafting USC’s Mark Sanchez. The salary associated with such a selection combined with the recently inked extension of incumbent starter David Garrard to me would make such a move highly unlikely. Never mind the fact that head coach Jack Del Rio’s seat is warm. Drafting a quarterback in the first round under such circumstances is strange. If the team decides to take another shot in the later rounds I can get behind that decision. Cleo Lemon is an affordable backup, which is a nice way to say he provides no pressure to Garrard. Last year’s rookie free agent addition Paul Smith threw for oodles of yards at Tulsa, but a lot of that came via screen passes against lesser competition in Conference USA. When you consider this depth chart, other than Garrard’s extension and Del Rio’s tenuous position it would be easy to see why quarterback could be addressed. In defense of Garrard (as I stated above) he has slimmed down to increase his mobility hoping to eliminate costly sacks.

DRAFT: None.

Others players drafted:

Tight end: Zach Miller (Nebraska-Omaha) #180

SUMMARY: I suppose it is possible Miller actually plays quarterback. Nah, I’m joking. They are sticking with Garrard which is a decision I understand. At defensive end they will hope last year’s rookie duo develops and that’s another easily defensible strategy. Their interior line is healthy and while no depth was obtained it is conceivable Britton slips inside to guard in a pinch. GRADING MYSELF: 84


KANSAS CITY CHIEFS

Pre-Draft Picks (7): 3, 67, 102, 139, 175, 212, 256*   
*-compensatory pick cannot be traded
Actual Picks (8): gained 237

Linebacker – On the outside the second stint for Donnie Edwards has ended. This was an obvious move. In the Matt Cassel trade the Chiefs also acquired veteran Mike Vrabel. Then former Patriot Monty Beisel (Cardinals) was signed. Let’s see now. Two guys familiar with the Patriot 3-4 defense are on board. Scott Pioli is the new GM. I wonder if this team is going to stick with the 4-3. Their talent definitely does not match the system well enough to run the 3-4 exclusively, but I have a very hard time believing the change will not be made very soon. This draft will be part of the process. First and foremost will be a rush linebacker outside. There is no player on this roster capable of getting after the quarterback on a team coming off totaling 10 sacks. I would say this is a problem. Inside they signed up veteran Zach Thomas (Cowboys) who is saying all the right things, but is clearly playing out the string. All of this adds up to typical “Patriot Way” behavior. Get the veterans in there and put them in the position to make plays. However, they need that one spark outside to complement Johnson inside going forward.

DRAFT: None.

Offensive Tackle – Flat out Damion McIntosh needs to go on the right side. Last year’s sixth round pick Barry Richardson (Clemson) was seen as a project this time last year and might turn into a serviceable backup down the line. On the left side Branden Albert was a dream as a rookie. Because his college teammate from Virginia Eugene Monroe is a top prospect there has been talk about shifting him inside to left guard if Monroe is selected. When the dust settles I don’t see this happening. I would expect the Chiefs to strictly draft for a starting right tackle as opposed to messing with a good thing having Albert at left tackle.

DRAFT: While they passed on pairing Albert with his ex-teammate they did select Colin Brown (Missouri) at #139.

Defensive Line – The parts are not available to immediately switch up to a 3-4, but again this change is coming whether or not it has been formally announced. Most notably former first round picks Tamba Hali (2006) and Glenn Dorsey (2008) would struggle to find roles commensurate with what the team has invested in them. Trading players away is always an option, and this includes Dorsey. I would not rule this stunning move out because I keep thinking about Warren Sapp who was a train wreck when he moved to 3-4 end with Oakland at one point. There are quite simply a ton of young players on this defensive line. They are so good the defense finished in the bottom 5 of all the major statistical categories. A lot of player evaluation has to be done and tough decisions are coming. The defense will likely run mostly a 4-3 this season as a matter of necessity, but the additions will be ready for a 3-4 alignment.

DRAFT: They struck early on day 1 with Tyson Jackson (LSU) at #3 and early again on day 2 with Alex Magee (Purdue) at #67.

Offensive Line (interior) – Mike Goff (Chargers) was added to shore up the right guard spot, but he is 33 and Brian Waters is 32. He is also the subject of trade rumors after a reportedly poor first meeting with new head coach Todd Haley. The line in general is in the process of being made over. They might be seeking additions in the rookie free agent market because this team has too many holes to fill, but a solid young guard is nowhere to be found on this roster. The closest thing is Cal’s Brian De La Puente. At center Rudy Niswanger is not exactly lighting the world on fire. They need talent.

DRAFT: None.

Running Back – There is drama surrounding former fantasy football god Larry Johnson. Will he stay? Does he want to stay? Is the team interested in him staying? Let me consult my crystal ball for a minute. Yep, it still doesn’t work. Jamaal Charles was drafted last year and looks to have a future as a change of pace back. He carried Texas in college, but the NFL is a different story. In relief he averaged a healthy 5.3 yards per carry on 67 attempts for a struggling offense. Kolby Smith is still around, but has not been able to hit the hole with any semblance of urgency as evidenced by his 3.4 average carry mostly as a backup during his two seasons. He is also recovering from a serious knee injury. Last year’s rookie free agent Dantrell Savage is a diminutive complementary player. If Larry Johnson is shipped out someone has to be brought in who can carry the football on first and second down. 

DRAFT: The Chiefs took Javarris Williams (Tennessee State) at #212.

Wide Receiver – I’m not sure this position will get attention. Dwayne Bowe is a viable #1 receiver. Mark Bradley is a bit of a reclamation project at this point as a former Top 40 draft pick. Bobby Engram (Seahawks) will be coming in mostly to provide a veteran presence. They certainly do not expect him to repeat his crazy 2007 season (94 receptions). Fourth round pick Will Franklin (Missouri) saw limited action as a rookie, and surprised me by showing up unprepared for the offseason program. So much for the “hometown” factor, he was cut. Suffice it to say that before Randy Moss and Wes Welker showed up in New England the Patriots got by with roughly this amount of talent while winning Super Bowls. Therefore Pioli might not be too adamant about pursuing talent even after the acquisition of quarterback Matt Cassel.

DRAFT: Quentin Lawrence (McNeese State) was drafted at #175.

Cornerback – The Chiefs signed Travis Daniels (Browns) after releasing Patrick Surtain (Dolphins). This move solidified the rookie duo of “The Two Brandons” Carr and Flowers as the starters. The task now is to settle up the depth chart and the answer could come when a veteran is cut in June because going into the season this young at the position would be dangerous.

DRAFT: Donald Washington (Ohio State) was added at #102.

Other players drafted:

Tight end: Jake O’Connell (Miami OH)
Kicker: Ryan Succop (South Carolina)

SUMMARY: Their draft did not go in the way I expected. There were no linebackers and no nose tackle for the new 3-4. The interior of the offensive line was ignored as well. Even late picks have value and those were used on a special teams threat at tight end and a kicker to compete with Barth. Not being able to trade down from #3 or get 2009 compensation for Gonzalez handicapped them quite a bit. GRADING MYSELF: 74


MIAMI DOLPHINS

Pre-Draft Picks (9): 25, 44, 56, 87, 108, 161, 181, 213, 237
Actual Picks (9): lost 56, 213, 237 gained 61, 165, 214

Wide Receiver – If not for missing the team’s final 5 games unheralded Greg Camarillo would have led the team in receptions for sure and likely in yardage as well. Instead the honor belonged to former #9 overall pick Ted Ginn Jr. whose career seems to be arcing upwards heading into his third season. The ball was spread around liberally because there was no true #1 to lean on. Rookie Davonne Bess, who was not drafted, turned into a nice surprise with 54 receptions. The aforementioned trio wound up with a healthy 165 receptions. That’s the good news. The bad news is they totaled 5 touchdown catches and none of them weigh over 190 pounds. Insert your own nickname for these lightweights. A big, physical threat is a priority. Free agent addition Ernest Wilford (Jaguars) was supposed to fill that role, but caught just 3 passes in 7 appearances. Although it is well known Bill Parcells is not keen on drafting a receiver in the first round, the team needs to add someone to battle physical corners in tight spaces. Inside the 20 these small guys are sunk.

DRAFT: Two middle round picks addressed this problem with Patrick Turner (USC) at #87 and Brian Hartline (Ohio State) at #108.

Cornerback – Andre’ Goodman signed with Denver and the team’s response was grabbing Eric Green from Arizona. They got younger in the process, but Green has only 2 interceptions in 51 games and has struggled to stay healthy in his four year career. He also lost his starting job when it mattered most in 2008. Will Allen is in a contract year and his play will reflect it, but a hot shot rookie taken early on would be a nice addition to this situation. At safety the team retained Yeremiah Bell at the strong spot and at the free spot signed Gibril Wilson (Raiders). There is definitely talent on this secondary and that’s the best way for a rookie addition to thrive early on – as a situational role player. Look for good height and the ability to press.

DRAFT: Their first choice was Vontae Davis (Illinois) at #25, and later on day 1 they added Sean Smith (Utah) at #61.

Nose Tackle – This is nothing new. They run a 3-4 and need someone to plug in the middle of it. Jason Ferguson just completed a successful first season with the team, but he is 34 with failing knees. Players have been known to stick around into their 30’s on the interior defensive line, but finding a nose tackle is extremely difficult. It is not a position to ignore until one is desperately needed, and at this point I do not feel like the Dolphins would be comfortable in the event Ferguson was injured. Notably their 2007 fourth round pick Paul Soliai was suspended twice in 2008 for violating team rules.

DRAFT: None.

Outside Linebacker – There is no doubt Joey Porter enjoyed a tremendous surge as part of the team’s dramatic turnaround. He is also 32 and has been talking to reporters about repairing his sometimes questionable image in preparation for life after football. This does not mean 2009 is it for him, but the team also needs to do some preparing. Even with him going at a high level someone on the other side to help would be nice. The chatter about Jason Taylor returning is probably just that – talk. He is not the player he once was. Age caught up to him in a hurry. Now the Dolphins need to search in this draft for a rush linebacker to learn from Porter. It is worth noting they added Cameron Wake out of the CFL and believe Charlie Anderson has some potential. However, they have a lot of picks and with so many players capable of fitting this spot from the college ranks I find it hard to imagine them not selecting one in the draft.

DRAFT: Totally under the radar prospect J.D. Folsom (Weber State) was taken at #214.

Center – It was a good move swapping centers with Oakland and landing Jake Grove. When healthy he can play at a high level and was simply stuck on a bad line and struggling offense in general. However, trading Samson Satele and losing Al Johnson (Patriots) leaves Miami thin at the position. Luckily for them this draft is very deep at the position. This is a golden opportunity for them to draft insurance against Grove struggling with injuries. The line overall has really been fortified in free agency and now has a lot of talent. Backup center is really the only hole I see.

DRAFT: None.

Tight End – I had to laugh this time last year when I was speculating “The Tuna” Bill Parcells would seek out another “Rambo” which was Mark Bavaro’s nickname. Instead he traded for Anthony Fasano. Both players went to Notre Dame. Unfortunately there are no “Golden Domers” available in this draft at tight end. Fasano’s deal expires after this season and the same is true for David Martin. They do have Joey Haynos developing after signing him last year as a rookie free agent, but in the later rounds expect Miami to target someone who looks a little reckless, hasn’t shaved in a month and would be able to survive in a jungle for days on end.

DRAFT: John Nalbone (Monmouth) at #161 was the selection.

Other players drafted:

Quarterback: Pat White (West Virginia) #44
Safety: Chris Clemons (Clemson)
Offensive tackle: Andrew Gardner (Georgia Tech)

SUMMARY: They have their WildPat offense after picking up White to play wherever he may fit in. In retrospect they might regret not trading up for nose tackle prospect Ron Brace (Boston College) who went #40. The slot was for sale because the Patriots moved up to get him there. Instead they never did address the need although I contend they wanted to. The other position ignored was center where new addition Grove is unlikely to be a rock for a full season of work. They did add a tackle and chased their two corners with a safety. GRADING MYSELF: 80


MINNESOTA VIKINGS

Pre-Draft Picks (6): 22, 54, 86, 158, 221, 231
Actual Picks (5): lost 158, 221 gained 150

Wide Receiver – Despite having a handful of players capable of producing at this level the Vikings lack a star. Bobby Wade led the team with 53 receptions. In his first year as a free agent addition from the Bears Bernard Berrian was a big play threat leading the team with 964 yards. However, he had no games with 5+ catches after October 19. Darius Reynaud, Sidney Rice and Aundrae Allison represent young talent to fill up the depth chart. None of those guys are going to give an upset stomach to the opposing defensive coordinator. Rice has fought injuries and Allison might be cut. Reynaud could stick for his value returning kicks. Someone steady to pile up a lot of receptions is what this offense needs, which is exactly why they went after T.J. Houshmandzadeh. Now the task is to find someone in the draft with similar skills.

DRAFT: Way back in January I pegged Percy Harvin (Florida) to them at #22, but pulled the pick when issues arose off the field. They took a chance on his ability.

Offensive Tackle – Marcus Johnson (Raiders) drifted off without a fight. He was the final remnant from their abysmal 2005 draft. In actually important news Bryant McKinnie always seems to be on the brink of doing something to jeopardize his career. He is solid on the left side though. The right side is the issue. Ryan Cook is a possibility back at center, which is another way for the team to say he is not starter material at right tackle. Drew Radovich was a good signing as a rookie free agent last year out of USC and might develop down the road. They can’t wait. There is enough talent in this draft to find someone capable of competing to start on the right side.

DRAFT: Phil Loadholt (Oklahoma) was lost in the shuffle in a solid tackle class and they took him at #54.

Cornerback – The first concern is Antoine Winfield. He is in a contract year, but turns 32 in June. Usually this combination of age and skill conclude with a change of scenery. Cedric Griffin is a starter they believe in because he just inked a lengthy extension. Marcus McCauley might be a bust. Karl Paymah (Broncos) was a nice addition for depth. Charles Gordon was retained on a one year contract. There is youth here, but would they be able to field another starter across from Griffin if this is it for Winfield? I would say absolutely not and the time to hedge their bets is now so the team has leverage in those contract negotiations. Or to put it another way has a plan if he walks.

DRAFT: They added Asher Allen (Georgia) at #86.

Center – How do you replace Matt Birk? You don’t. You just move forward. John Sullivan, a sixth round pick last year, is the guy penciled in to start. I find this to be a dangerous plan, as is hoping right tackle Ryan Cook is able to create competition in house by returning to his collegiate position. Given the shuffling on this line a versatile addition seems to be a good option. Or if the team grabs a pure right tackle and pure center Ryan Cook can back up both spots.

Defensive Tackle – I have been saying a successor to Pat Williams should be sought for a while now. The bizarre positive drug test courtroom drama, which also involves his line mate Kevin Williams, adds some urgency to the situation. Pat can still play at a high level, but what is behind this Williams Wall? Had they actually been suspended for December by the NFL there is little doubt the team would not have made the playoffs. In fact, maybe Detroit can petition for their 20-16 loss to be overturned and therefore erase their winless season from the history books. Okay, maybe not. I digress. The point is that Letroy Guion is a project and Jimmy Kennedy barely has a career as a first round bust. They need a backup plan to keep this shut down run defense going strong.

DRAFT: None.

Running Back – Adrian Peterson is on track to go down as one of the all-time greats at the position. He is discussing putting on weight to help him absorb the inevitable pounding. I have a better idea. He should not be carrying the ball 383 times as he did last season, including the playoff loss. History is not kind to players who have had similar totals in a single year. Chester Taylor has been a nice backup option the past two seasons, but will turn 30 in September and while his career spans a reasonable 934 carries the decline is usually swift at this age. This might be a nice spot to draft a play maker at the position capable of changing it up. A true successor to Taylor is one consideration. Another is a “scat back” smaller type to bust off a long run against a defense worn out from facing “All Day” Adrian Peterson.

DRAFT: None.

Quarterback – All indications are that trade acquisition Sage Rosenfels (Texans) and Tarvaris Jackson will compete for the starting job. Rookie John David Booty has done nothing to show he was actually a starting quarterback at USC which has been a factory at the position the past half dozen years. Perhaps the fans would like to see a better counter punch to rival Chicago trading for Jay Cutler, but this is not really the draft to pull off such a move. Would they trade up for USC’s Matt Sanchez? He was beat out for the starting job by Booty in 2007 remember. There is only one other player to consider and Georgia’s Matthew Stafford would require a huge package commensurate to what the Bears just gave up for Cutler. He is no Cutler and therefore the team is likely to stand pat.

DRAFT: None.

Other players drafted:

Linebacker: Jasper Brinkley (South Carolina)
Safety: Jamarca Sanford (Mississippi)

SUMMARY: After using all three of their top 100 picks to fill needs I outlined, that was it. They ignored quarterback as I expected, but also failed to do anything for depth at defensive tackle and running back. This surprised me because their recipe for success is a huge advantage in rushing yards. GRADING MYSELF: 72


NEW ENGLAND PATRIOTS

Pre-Draft Picks (11): 23, 34, 47, 58, 89, 97, 123, 170, 199, 207, 234  
*-compensatory picks cannot be traded
Actual Picks (12): lost 23, 47, 89, 199 gained 40, 41, 83, 198, 232

Linebacker – Let’s be realistic. Pierre Woods is not filling the void created outside by trading Mike Vrabel to Kansas City. Neither is Tully Banta-Cain (49ers) who was signed for his second tour of duty with the team. Rookie Shawn Crable, a third round pick, is a future option. Another rookie, Angelo Craig, was barely drafted last year by Cincinnati and has made his way onto the roster. Other than Adalius Thomas, who turns 32 just prior to the season starting, they have no reliable options outside. The prospects inside got a serious boost with Rookie of the Year performer Jerod Mayo living up to his first round status and then some. However, stroke survivor Tedy Bruschi turns 36 in June and by all accounts the end of his career is in sight. Bo Ruud, whose brother plays for Tampa Bay, was drafted in the sixth round to help shore up the depth chart, but special teams ace Larry Izzo (Jets) left in free agency. Rookie free agent addition Gary Guyton also factors into the future. An outside attacking linebacker is a more pressing need, but I can see another inside player taken later in the draft as well. Within two seasons Banta-Cain, Thomas and Bruschi are likely all gone and the time is now to solidify this position for the future.

DRAFT: With the last of their six top 100 picks they picked up Tyrone McKenzie (South Florida) at #97.

Cornerback – This has been a need for years. Season after season short term solutions are sought in free agency or off the scrap heap. Troy Brown roaming around in their secondary became a symbol of their ability to plug in just about anyone and make it work. Players signed big deals elsewhere and the defense kept clicking along. Finally it might have caught up to them as Asante Samuel was missed. At 34 Shawn Springs (Redskins) is the latest veteran signing to patch up the position. Last year’s draft picks Terrence Wheatley (second round) and Jonathan Wilhite (fourth round) did not stand out as rookies. Leigh Bodden (Lions) was signed to a one year deal. The most interesting part of that might be that he played for a team that just went 0-16 and now joins a team that recently went 16-0. The missing element here is an anchor. I use that term a lot for various positions, but in this case they really need that one guy to stand out the way Samuel did and earlier this decade Ty Law. With a player like that their secondary is much better. If it’s not a future starter, or even star, I expect them to pass altogether.

DRAFT: As was long rumored the team wanted Connecticut’s Darius Butler and got him at #41.

Safety – Whether or not Rodney Harrison plays one more season is irrelevant to me. Former first round pick Brandon Meriweather and James Sanders factor into the equation. Who else do they have back there? Tank Williams? I guess since this is an odd year he might play a little. The last two even years, 2006 and 2008, he missed entirely and has yet to actually suit up in a game for this team. The Pats by their own rules and can certainly adjust their scheme to fit their talent, but this is an area they need to add some talent.

DRAFT: Patrick Chung (Oregon) was the first player they selected at #34.

Running Back – The committee of veterans worked well enough in 2008 for the team to rank #6 in the NFL with 142.4 yards rushing per game while breaking in a new quarterback. Although it is commonly believed running backs are finished at age 30, Sammy Morris just led the team in rushing and had a solid average (4.7). He is now 32. Kevin Faulk managed an even better average (6.1) and turns 33 in June. If I told you a team got 239 rushes for 1,234 yards (5.16 average) and 10 touchdowns out of two players I’m pretty sure Faulk/Morris would not be the tandem that came to mind. Their effectiveness overshadowed the short lived season of Laurence Maroney. The team’s thirst for veterans led them to sign Fred Taylor, 33, who has been a fixture in Jacksonville with 11,271 career rushing yards to replace the departure of LaMont Jordan. Is there something the rest of the NFL needs to know about? Why are they the only team able to get production from running backs who are over 30? It stands to reason most teams might draft someone to carry the load. I would not be surprised to see them pass altogether unless a player they really like is out there. They did lose big back Heath Evans (Saints) in free agency. A bruising “fullback” type is the addition I would expect if anything.

DRAFT: None.

Wide Receiver – If you are looking to the future, as smart teams often due, it is worth noting that Randy Moss will be 33 shortly after this season ends. How long will he be able to maintain his speed and be an effective #1? Perhaps his model will be newly acquired Joey Galloway. At age 33-35 he achieved a career renaissance with the Bucs by rolling up 1,000+ yards in three consecutive seasons while totaling 23 touchdown receptions. Now 37 his job is to use whatever speed he has left to offset the departures of reliable Jabar Gaffney and disappointing Kelley Washington. Greg Lewis was acquired in a trade from Philadelphia. He should thrive given the surrounding talent. The missing element in all of this is any youth whatsoever. Wes Welker will be just shy of 29 when next year’s draft rolls around, and that’s the youngest receiver of their best five. It takes a few seasons for players to develop, especially when choices like Chad Jackson flame out. This is just the right time to sneak in a late round addition with some size. The rookie would have to earn a roster spot, and likely would battle Sam Aiken. If this move is not made this season it could lead to problems in 2011 when almost assuredly Galloway and Moss will not be in the fold.

DRAFT: Even with a red flag on his record the Patriots still took Brandon Tate (North Carolina) at #83 and added Julian Edelman (Kent State) at #232.

Long Snapper – Yes, I’m serious. Lonie Paxton (Broncos) was snatched up. Perhaps former offensive coordinator Josh McDaniels is aware how important this position can be. Just to give you an idea about the value of long snappers consider Paxton’s deal. He signed for $5,380,000 over 5 years including a Survivor winning sign on bonus of a million bucks. Just to snap the ball? It is clearly a specialized trade and while very few are drafted there are some who stand out in college enough to warrant a selection. The Patriots have a need and might pull the trigger.

DRAFT: I was serious and so were they, adding Jacob Ingram (Hawaii) at #198.

Offensive Line – The right side of this line is an area of concern. Things honestly started to fall apart a bit in the Super Bowl loss. Everything was rainbows and pots of gold when they were 18-0. Then Strahan and company rattled Tom Brady’s cage and pulled off one of the all-time upsets in any sport. At right tackle starter Nick Kaczur and primary backup Ryan O’Callaghan could stand to be upgraded. Preferably with someone who can crack the lineup. At right guard Stephen Neal turns 33 in October and this is his contract year. Clearly his future with the team is in doubt. I’m not sure Billy Yates is really going to get anyone excited moving into his spot full time. Teams are constantly adding offensive linemen so this becomes a bit of a broken record, but expect a guard and tackle to be added before the season starts. It is even possible the Patriots could shake things up by seeking a new left tackle to unseat Matt Light. Let’s not forget that while Matt Cassel was a first year starter he was sacked 47 times. Yet another issue is starting left guard Logan Mankins being in a contract year.

DRAFT: Tackle Sebastian Vollmer (Houston) was added at #58. At guard Rich Ohrnberger (Penn State) went #123 and George Bussey (Louisville) went #170.

Defensive Line – Their main concern here is money. Richard Seymour, Vince Wolfork and Jarvis Green are in contract years. This can be good during the season because players are giving extra effort to ensure top dollar in free agency. It can be harmful after that when trying to retain all of them. Tough decisions will need to be made as far as which players are offered extensions, and when those deals will be put on the table. Players can be extended at any time, but this is listed as a team need because I expect the Patriots to at least sniff around reinforcements for depth in advance of potentially thorny negotiations. A good recent comparison is the Ravens dealing with 3 free agent linebackers. They tagged one, signed one and lost one. Another issue to factor in is the injury situation with Ty Warren as he attempts to return to 100%.

DRAFT: The Pats added tackle Ron Brace (Boston College) at #40. Late picks Myron Pryor (Kentucky) at #207 and Darryl Richard (Georgia Tech) at #234 also joined the party.

Tight End – Again, this is more about depth and a contingency plan if players exit in free agency. The Patriots have a ton of players with expiring contracts and are unlikely to throw money at them when younger models are coming off the assembly line. Here we have Benjamin Watson and David Thomas. They might already be planning for them to depart with the signing of Chris Baker (Jets) and also have rookie free agent Tyson DeVree entering his second season. It is nearly impossible to figure out where New England will go in this draft, but if they spy a tight end they like there is no reason to pass. If I was guessing I would say Watson and Thomas will not be on this roster in 2010.

DRAFT: None.

SUMMARY: Everyone they picked out of a dozen selections fit into a need I outlined. The only spots they did not add talent were running back, which I suggested they might not, and tight end, which was my lowest need. This was the only team I put long snapper on the team needs and they took one. Not too shabby. GRADING MYSELF: 96


NEW ORLEANS SAINTS

Pre-Draft Picks (4): 14, 116, 118, 222
Actual Picks (4): lost 222, gained 164

Cornerback – There is some sort of curse on this position. Outlining all of their failures trying to shore up this position would take up most of this paragraph. Remember when Jason David was going to bolster their pass defense? Mike McKenzie has been cut because of age and injury concerns. Randall Gay is a rare free agent success story as their nickel back. Tracy Porter did a nice job as a rookie, but was lost to injury (broken wrist) after just 5 games. If you consider Porter a potential second starter and Gay third on the depth chart what are we missing? Oh, just at true #1 capable of going heads up on the opponent’s best receiver. The curse should continue because this draft is really light in terms of elite talent. They need to get lucky, for lack of a better word, and land lightning in a bottle. Without a lot of picks to work with they have to figure out if a player is worth the #14 overall slot, trade down as far as possible or find a veteran after the June 1 cuts. None of these scenarios are promising.

DRAFT: Everyone and their mailman had Malcolm Jenkins (Ohio State) going to them at #14 and it came to pass.

Free Safety – Two players with brothers also in the NFL, Josh Bullocks and Terrence Holt, are gone. Holt was just brought in for couple of games. Bullocks was a poster child for the team’s inability to cover players running down the field. Veteran Darren Sharper is a nice signing. He was a staple during his 8 seasons with Green Bay and 4 seasons with Minnesota. In total he has seen the field in 183 of a possible 192 games. Still, that kind of experience obviously means he is old (33) and while he brings his football IQ to a struggling secondary the time is now to draft his successor. They also picked up veteran Pierson Prioleau (Jaguars). Both guys are on one year deals and it would be a major upset for the Saints to walk out of draft weekend without an addition even with limited picks.

DRAFT: Chip Vaughn (Wake Forest) was the choice at #116.

Linebacker – The defense struggled overall. Jonathan Vilma has been locked up to a big five year contract. There is talk of moving him to the WILL which might maximize his impact even coming off a season with a team leading (by far) 132 tackles. Currently he is flanked by the “Scott” brothers Fujita and Shanle. This unit as a whole is light on talent. If the emphasis on this draft is truly on defense someone should be brought in to help Vilma. It is also worth noting that Fujita is in a contract year. I guess I should also bring up that Dan Morgan, who last played with the Panthers in 2007, is attempting a comeback, and 2007 third round pick Anthony Waters (Chargers) is on hand.

DRAFT: They added Stanley Arnoux (Wake Forest) at #118.

Running Back – Deuce McAllister gave a lot to this franchise. He came in with a little bit of controversy because the team already had Ricky Williams. He leaves the team needing a bruiser willing to take one for the team. Reggie Bush has been bashed as a bust, but much of this is a perception problem. Injury struggles are one problem. When healthy he is not and never will be a guy to run the ball 20-25 times in any given game. Pierre Thomas has had some nice moments and with 181 rushes over his two year career averages a solid 4.8 yards per carry. Still, he is not viewed as a lead running back either. The dire need is picking up a single yard when the game is on the line. Someone who can be added to this potential three-headed monster as a punisher should be sought. Mike Bell essentially takes the reserve spot that had been occupied by oft-injured Aaron Stecker. It is possible the team tries to make due with Bush, Thomas and Bell while continuing to focus on the dynamic passing game.

DRAFT: None.

Wide Receiver – What? Did this team not lead the NFL with 410.7 yards passing per game? Yes, they did. The leading receiver was Lance Moore who blew up with 928 yards receiving and 10 touchdowns in his third year working the field as a sneaky (read: 5’9”) speed threat. Marques Colston is the anchor having averaged a gaudy 73.2 yards per game when healthy. No one knows how knee surgery will impact his game. Perhaps he is going to be right as rain, and perhaps not. Devery Henderson might not be retained because despite a ridiculous career average of 21.6 yards per reception he has caught just 106 passes in four seasons. The wild card is former first round pick Robert Meachem, who might take the typical third year jump. At best Colston and Meachem start outside and Moore works the slot. At worst Colston has injury troubles, Meachem does not develop and teams figure out how to cover Moore. Another complication is that Moore is a restricted free agent and has not signed his tender. He is also recovering from a shoulder injury suffered lifting weights. Putting all of this together another addition makes sense and I look for the team to go fishing for another Colston late in the proceedings or shortly thereafter.

DRAFT: None.

Quarterback – This could be a perfect time for the Saints to look for a project who might develop into a backup or possibly even the successor to Drew Brees. Mark Brunell is basically a coach at this point in his career. Who is he coaching though? It’s nice to have his experience to bounce ideas around, but anyone who witnessed Brad Johnson playing for the Cowboys this past season knows Brunell under center in an actual game is a bad idea. Joey Harrington is signed to a deal for 2009. This will be his fourth team in as many seasons and his value is at best as an experienced backup. Drafting a player capable of pushing Brunell to retirement would be a smart move. Given their lack of picks this move might be made by signing a rookie free agent.

DRAFT: None.

Other players drafted:

Punter: Thomas Morstead (SMU) #164

SUMMARY: They had more needs than picks. There is no question about that, but my top 3 needs were addressed in order which means I got it right. A punter was added late and Sean Payton must have been uneasy not adding anyone on offense. GRADING MYSELF: 86


NEW YORK GIANTS

Pre-Draft Picks (10): 29, 45, 60, 91, 100*, 129, 151, 164, 200, 238
*-compensatory pick cannot be traded
Actual Picks (9): lost 91, 164 gained 85

Wide Receiver – There is not much I can say about this situation that has not already been said, other than to add a rumored Braylon Edwards (Brown) draft day trade acquisition to this analysis. Plaxico Burress is now completely out of the picture which ends a months long drama following his bizarre self-inflicted gunshot incident during the 2008 season. Veteran mainstay Amani Toomer, a contributor for 13 seasons with the team through both Super Bowls and 9,497 receiving yards, is also out. His departure barely made a ripple given the grand state of the Burress drama, but while Toomer has not had a season with over 800 yards since 2003 he did contribute almost as much to the stat sheet this past season as the team’s leader in yardage (Domenik Hixon) and receptions (Steve Smith) while finishing behind only tight end Kevin Boss in touchdown receptions (4). His numbers were modest, but now the depth chart is led by Hixon and Smith who combined for 100 receptions and 1,170 yards and 3 touchdowns. Let’s be honest Sinorice Moss is a draft bust and his claim to fame is being Santana’s brother at this point. David Tyree made one great catch and that’s it. Mario Manningham, a third round pick last year, has potential. They need a big, fast #1 in the mold of Terrell Owens who they wisely steered clear of in favor of team chemistry and locker room morale. Guys like this just aren’t readily available in the draft and if they are rarely can contribute from the jump. I said this before the Edwards situation broke and now everyone sees why they are likely to acquire him rather than draft an untested, unprepared rookie to be their #1 receiver.

DRAFT: A rumored trade for Braylon Edwards (Browns) never happened. Instead they picked up Hakeem Nicks (North Carolina) at #29 and Ramses Barden (Cal Poly) at #85.

Linebacker – The defensive line for the Giants is in good shape to say the least. Justin Tuck, Mathias Kiwanuka and now healthy Osi Umenyiora represent a standout trio of ends. The tackle spot was infused with free agent talent in the form of Chris Canty (Cowboys) and Rocky Bernard (Seahawks) who both signed long term deals. Having a talented group up front makes it easier to deal with having a relatively average group of linebackers. On the weak side Michael Boley (Falcons) was signed as a speedy option to start ahead of Bryan Kehl. The fourth round pick saw action as a rookie, but obviously the team decided he is a backup at the moment. Aside from that, Gerris Wilkinson has now missed 11 games the past two seasons so an addition made sense. This spot is now in good shape. However, on the strong side veteran Danny Clark is a starter for the moment. He has found steady work in the NFL, but his first season with the Giants in 2008 marked his fifth team in the last six seasons. At 32 (in May) a successor needs to be sought soon anyway. Finally there are concerns in the middle with Antonio Pierce. His play on the field seems to be on the decline and as part of the Burress fiasco he might be suspended by the NFL which could exasperate the situation. Jonathan Goff, a fifth round pick, showed some skill in limited time as a rookie before getting injured. He is likely a backup. I don’t know how much Chase Blackburn really factors in. If a player capable of manning the middle is there I would not put it past the Giants to strike early. I am certain one linebacker will be added to this mix and very possibly two. I could also see the team seeking the proverbial “best available” regardless of inside/outside so long as the player suits their 4-3 alignment.

DRAFT: Doing exactly as I said they went BPA with Clint Sintim (Virginia) at #45.

Running Back – I have mixed emotions about this need. The band has been broken up with Derrick Ward (Bucs) exiting in free agency. If not for the lack of talent at wide receiver this is a position I would probably feel like the Giants can get away with not addressing. However, there is going to be a lot more pressure on this running game without a real threat in the passing game to distract the opposing defense. Beyond that, the style used by Brandon Jacobs has limited him to 202 and 219 rushes over the past two seasons respectively and caused him to miss 8 games in that span. I think it is unrealistic to simply assume Ahmad Bradhshaw, with just 90 carries in two NFL seasons, can step into Ward’s shoes and thrive. Bradshaw succeeded behind a pair of 1,000 yard rushers. Can he operate as well in a two-back system over a full season? Danny Ware is an option. As a rookie free agent out of Georgia he stuck. His role is going to be expanded as well. Maybe this trio gets their own fancy nickname. Let’s hope it is more creative than Run DBD. However, I would look for the Giants to target a versatile back capable of catching some passes. Ward had 41 receptions in 2008. The rest of the backfield combined for 19. Who is going to pick up that slack?

DRAFT: Their new Ward is going to be Andre Brown (N.C. State) who was chosen at #129.

Cornerback – Veteran Sam Madison was released and fellow old timer R.W. McQuarters is loitering in free agency. Their departures leave the team very young at the position, but also lacking quality depth. Their top three players are set with Aaron Ross, Corey Webster and last year’s second round pick Terrell Thomas. Beyond that they tendered Kevin Dockery as a restricted free agent. Mind you there are teams in a lot worse shape and all of their guys are young, but on a team with few needs why not take a shot? A fifth corner seems frivolous. Maybe this goes to show how talented their roster really is.

DRAFT: Late picks were used on New Mexico’s DeAndre Wright at #200 and South Carolina’s Stoney Woodson at #238.

Safety – As with the cornerback spot this is not a bad situation. Kenny Phillips, last year’s first round pick, steps into the starting lineup next to 2007 seventh rounder Michael Johnson. It is possible rookie cornerback Terrell Thomas slides over to safety as well. C.C. Brown (Texans) was signed to a one year deal. Houston is known for never having anything at the position so this is not exactly a big move. The signing did help ease the loss of James Butler (Rams) Sammy Knight (released) and Craig Dahl (Rams). Even if Thomas does change positions a safety should be added to this mix given their net loss.

DRAFT: None.

Tight End – Trading away a high profile player like Jeremy Shockey was an acceptable loss in the wake of their Super Bowl victory. In that win Kevin Boss, who our own Michael Abromowitz hyped up before he was even drafted out of “nowhere” (also known as Western Oregon) in 2007, blew up. Now, I wonder if the Giants might be missing an extra player who can catch the football, even with Shockey’s wild side disrupting team chemistry at times. New York is going to figure something out at receiver, but also needs to back up Boss with another threat. It’s obvious that player would have to be able to do some blocking and deal with poor weather.

DRAFT: Travis Beckum (Wisconsin) was their choice at #100.

Offensive Line – For some reason I left this off the team needs in my first run, probably because the starters as a group are in the top echelon of the NFL. It gets a little redundant to keep talking about every team “adding depth”. One thing I brought up last year is that David Diehl does not cut it at left tackle. It seems like there is a growing group of us who feel this way. The sentiment is he would be better suited slipping inside to left guard. It really doesn’t matter what analysts think about this situation, but I’m throwing it out there. My stance on this line is that any injury would be very harmful. The Giants need to carefully target quality backup prospects. This is still a talented roster and with free agency bolstering the defense I feel like they can afford to grab one or two players to provide support for this team’s strength.

DRAFT: Tackle William Beatty (Connecticut) lasted longer than expected and they got him at #60.

Kicker/Punter – It was a bit painful to watch John Carney fight the wind with those missed field goals in the playoffs. He was brought in to replace injured Lawrence Tynes. I have to wonder if Tynes is really their answer himself. Kicking outdoors he is only 60.5% from beyond 40 yards in his career. He almost missed twice from 43 and 36 yards in the 2007 NFC Championship Game’s final seven minutes of regulation, nearly costing the team before redeeming himself by hitting the winner from 47 yards out in overtime. New Yorkers, given the Super Bowl win the following week, probably don’t even remember the two misses by now. Competition should be sought out in some form. Meanwhile, Jeff Feagles is not your father’s punter. Wait, he actually is. This guy played his first NFL game while Ronald Reagen was still in office. Someone needs to look this up, but how many players have spent 4+ seasons with 4 different teams? Obviously both spots deserve attention and possibly will warrant a draft pick.

DRAFT: None.

Other players drafted:

Quarterback: Rhett Bomar (Sam Houston State) #151

SUMMARY: It’s never easy to target needs on a team with so much talent, but the Giants pretty much hit on the areas I outlined. An exception was kicker/punter and generally those can be signed after the draft. The other “miss” was free safety which I indicated was not a big need. Instead they picked up another project at quarterback. GRADING MYSELF: 94


NEW YORK JETS

Pre-Draft Picks (6): 17, 52, 76, 115, 193, 228
Actual Picks (3): lost 17, 52, 76, 115, 228 gained 5, 65

Tight End – Dustin Keller lived up to expectations in his rookie season as a first round pick. He is a great option in the passing game and learning the ropes as a blocker. The new regime is going to utilize multiple tight end sets and emphasize blocking. Even if Keller could be cloned it would not solve their problem after parting ways with Chris Baker and Bubba Franks. They need a second tight end with an eye on blocking.

DRAFT: None.

Running Back – Recent history has illustrated it is better to draft a player than to deal with the salary of a veteran. When a kid who is 22 years old can produce at a fraction of the cost it is easy to see why this strategy is employed. Now consider the situations of primary rushers Thomas Jones and Leon Washington. Jones is under contract for two more years, which is halfway through the four year deal he signed. From his perspective you can see why he wants more money now rather than at the end of his commitment. Would you want to be 32 ½ years old and clearly in decline when asking for cash? He wants to be paid at a premium like he is in his prime. His past four seasons (two of those with the Bears) have proven him to be extremely durable and productive. You just don’t see many guys averaging 302 carries and 1,244 yards these days. Jones was a bust as the #7 overall pick in Arizona and spent an uneventful season in Tampa Bay which makes this revival unusual. Also of concern is play maker Leon Washington entering the final year of his contract. They share a position, but not much else. Washington is a jack of all trades. He caught 47 passes last season, has a career 4.9 average rush in relief over 298 attempts, and is a top shelf return threat for punts and kickoffs. Of 90 total returns in 2008 Washington was responsible for 77 including all punts. He is younger, but while he might be willing to carry a bigger load his size precludes him from being the featured back. All of this leads us to their draft. If a lead rusher is available to provide leverage and get Thomas Jones back in line the Jets will take that player. If Jones wants to play ball he’s obviously talented enough to perform this season and likely 2010 as well, but giving in to his demands is a bad idea.

DRAFT: Despite having only three picks, and most people not seeing this as a glaring need the Jets traded up for the first pick of day 2 in order to draft Shonn Greene (Iowa) at #65.

Quarterback – Will they or won’t they? Rex Ryan comes over from a team that won a Super Bowl with Trent Dilfer and came to the brink of the big game on the arm of a rookie who didn’t even pass for 3,000 yards. I’m not sure he’s as anxious as the fan base to make a splashy move on the heels of Brett Favre’s swan song. Kellen Clemens is the leading candidate to manage this offense. Brett Ratliff is the wild card who has created “buzz”. Erik Ainge was taken in the fifth round of last year’s draft out of Tennessee and has big time collegiate experience. They will need to give up on one of these players if they make another move in the draft. I see two draft options – a strong move early on or none at all. There is also the possibility of a trade which I’m sure thrills the incumbents.

DRAFT: Needless to say they went with my “strong move early” option. As one of three teams (Denver, Washington being the others) I projected I was convinced would trade up their move was nevertheless riveting even to me. At #5 Mark Sanchez (USC) becomes the new face of the franchise.

Wide Receiver – Looking back it was not such a good idea to trade Santana Moss after the 2004 season to reacquire Laveraneous Coles. Now Coles has signed with Cincinnati and there is no big play threat left. On the plus side their offensive philosophy will be changing under defensive minded head coach Rex Ryan. Part of this is out of necessity considering their quarterback situation. Jerricho Cotchery would be a #2 ideally, but in this scheme it might not turn into a glaring problem. He has been very productive the past three seasons with 235 receptions for 2,949 yards although his TD total (13) is low which is what makes him a #2 type. Chansi Stuckey’s career seems on track after picking up 32 receptions in his second season and scoring 3 times and will be decent in the slot. Former quarterback Brad Smith is still hanging in there, which might not be the case if this team had respectable talent at the position. The flirtation with restricted free agent Miles Austin (Cowboys) was an indicator of their serious interest because signing him would have cost them a second round pick if Dallas did not match. My feeling is that this need is filled in the draft and probably given less attention than most would think because the offense will be geared towards running the ball and utilizing the tight end position in the passing game like Rex Ryan’s old team (Baltimore) has done. If an addition is made it would be a player with speed.

DRAFT: None.

Defensive End – In the second half of the season Shaun Ellis had just one sack after racking up 7 during the first half. He will turn 32 in June and this might be an indication of an impending decline. Marques Douglas (Ravens) was added to the position, but he is not going to generate sacks. Kenyon Coleman is not strong on the other side either. This problem needs to be addressed with a player capable of pushing back offensive linemen.

DRAFT: None.

Inside Linebacker – Quantity was replaced by quality when Bart Scott (Ravens) was signed and Eric Barton (Browns) Brad Kassel (released) Cody Spencer (Lions) and David Bowens (released) left. The other addition is Larry Izzo (Patriots) but this is just the latest barb in a vicious rivalry. Izzo will turn 35 early in the season, and has been a backup/special teams contributor his entire career. Stealing him from New England was the motivation of that move. Their depth chart needs to offset their losses. A change in philosophy from sitting back and reacting to really attacking means the team probably was fine with so many departures. They will draft another good fit inside to back up Bart Scott and David Harris, who is coming back from a broken ankle in the season finale.

DRAFT: None.

Right Tackle – There is no doubt this offensive line played better in 2008 and was a big reason the team almost made the playoffs. If one position stood out as a weakness it would be Damien Woody at right tackle. In his first season coming over from Detroit he allowed 6 ½ sacks, committed 5 penalties, was oft-injured and struggled in pass protection. Other than that he was great. Because the team addressed so many defensive issues in free agency they might be able to sneak in an addition at tackle. For better or worse they cut right guard Brandon Moore and then signed him to a four year contract. Figure that one out, especially with him recovering from sports hernia surgery. Nevertheless, it secured every position to Woody’s left for now.

DRAFT: Considering their lack of picks I’m sliding Nebraska’s guard Matt Slauson, who has tackle experience, at #193 into this section.

Kicker/Punter – Jay Feely is going to have some sort of career when he is done kicking field goals, but he is on his fourth franchise and third in the past three seasons. His lone season with the Jets went well. In fact, his post-Atlanta career has gone well. Looking at the numbers it is hard to figure out why the Giants moved on after two seasons of 83.3% and 85.2% conversions. Even more bizarre was the Dolphins passing after he banged home 21/23 during the team’s dismal 1-15 campaign. This past season he was sharp again at 24/28 so why am I bringing this up? He is only 70% from 40+ yards (outdoors) during his career which is troublesome, but 76% (all games) over the past four seasons. Mike Nugent didn’t make it as a second round pick in 2005 and he has now latched on with Tampa Bay. Going 3/9 from 50+ yards probably sealed his fate. Maybe they bring in a strong leg to compete with Feely on kickoffs. I know they will add another punter because Reggie Hodges is not going to cut it. This new regime will emphasize battling for field position and that puts pressure on the punter and kicker. Quality will be sought. 

DRAFT: None.

SUMMARY: In fairness to me I listed more needs than picks, and at that their stash was reduced from 6 to 3. Even at that they still addressed two of my top three. The only glaring “miss” was at tight end where only a couple of players could have fit into their system. The Sanchez trade made it basically impossible to do so. GRADING MYSELF: 88


OAKLAND RAIDERS

Pre-Draft Picks (5): 7, 40, 71, 126, 217
Actual Picks (7): lost 40, 217 gained 47, 124, 199, 202

Safety – This position has been a sore spot for a long time. Legendary Rod Woodson’s career finale stint from 2002-2003 marked the last time there was much skill presented from the last line of defense. Michael Huff is running out of chances as a former #7 overall pick. During the Texas spring game festivities he was reminiscing about his part in helping the Longhorns defeat USC in the BCS title game in 2006. Has he brought the lumber since? The team has tried him at both the free and strong spot. Free agent disappointment Gibril Wilson could not adapt to the volatile atmosphere off the field and his play on the field was not what the team expected when they gave him a big contract. Releasing him was the only option and he quickly signed with Miami. Rashad Baker (Eagles) is gone too. It looks like Hiram Eugene will be retained as an exclusive rights free agent. Last year’s fourth round pick Tyvon Branch also figures prominently assuming he gets healthy. The cornerback situation was handled with the retention of star Nnamdi Asomugha and also Chris Johnson who came on strong out of nowhere. The Raiders always add someone to the secondary in the draft, usually early. Looking at the depth chart safety seems much more likely to be at safety.

DRAFT: Was there a bigger shocker than drafting Ohio’s Michael Mitchell at #47? Several high profile analysts have backpedaled since draft day as to how much of a reach it might have been. Time will tell.

Wide Receiver – Their wide receivers remind me of the cast of a bad reality show on VH1. Javon Walker is trying to get his career back on track and reworked the outrageous contract he signed last year to stick around. In 7 seasons he has put together two big years, 2004 in Green Bay and 2006 in Denver. Other than that his other 64 games have produced a total of 1,545 receiving yards and 11 touchdowns. This is their anchor? If I have to hear one more person tell me they “like Chaz Schilens” there is going to be a fight. Last year’s seventh round pick shows promise, but let’s be honest he caught 15 passes. Out of his 226 yards on the season 98 came in the final two games. As for the other “big threat” Johnnie Lee Higgins most of the big plays he produced came on punt returns. He did almost win the Buffalo game with an 84 yard touchdown which represented 23% of his yardage for the season. Like Schilens a lot of his production came late, namely 12 of his 22 receptions. If you have not figured it out yet these numbers are a joke. This team had two of the best receiver the NFL has ever seen, Jerry Rice and Tim Brown, lining up for them not that long ago. Now tight end Zach Miller is coming off leading the team with 778 yards which is almost what Higgins, Schilens and running back Darren McFadden (the next three on their receiving leaders) managed combined (877). I’m out of material. They need someone – badly.

DRAFT: Darrius Heyward-Bey (Maryland) at #7 and Louis Murphy (Florida) at #124 give them two more options.

Defensive Tackle – The same cast of characters are sticking around for what continues to be a miserable run defense. Tommy Kelly is an elite player in contract only. Gerard Warren is a former #3 overall pick so he must be good right? William Joseph, also another team’s former first round pick, was retained. Terdell Sands is perhaps best known for punching star punter Shane Lechler in a scuffle. This group comes nowhere close to getting the job done. Because of the existing salaries it would be difficult under the salary cap to draft a player in the first round, but someone has to provide an impact for this porous run defense.

DRAFT: None.

Defensive End – Trevor Scott was taken in the fifth round and came up with 5 sacks. He was considered a project, but might be a factor sooner than later. Jay Richardson, a fifth round pick in 2007, looks to be on the right track. It is one thing to have potential, quite another to produce at the NFL level and right now Derrick Burgess is the only difference maker. This brings us to the next problem. Burgess has seen his sack and tackle totals dwindle since his monster 2005 season, his first in a Silver & Black uniform. Now he is in a contract year and will be putting his best foot forward looking for another big deal. This has to be a point of emphasis in the draft. Burgess could be slapped with the franchise tag if he has a good season, but even at that more talent is needed after failed free agent Kalimba Edwards was cut. A bigger player who can hold up against the run might be sought by the Raiders as well.

DRAFT: Everyone seems to be infatuated with Raider reaches and Matt Shaughnessy (Wisconsin) at #71 might have been. Stryker Sulak (Missouri) at #199 has one of the most awesome names in this draft class.

Offensive Line – I am addressing this because it is a perceived need. There is a very strong possibility the team feels pretty good about their situation. At left tackle the Kwame Harris experiment is over. Now new addition Khalif Barnes (Jaguars) and incumbent Mario Henderson will be battling it out for the most important spot. Erik Pears (Broncos) and Marcus Johnson (Vikings) were also added to shore up the depth chart. Last year’s starter on the right side Cornell Green has run into issues off the field and it remains to be seen if that will impact his status. However, this group is capable of handling the position if need be. At guard the situation is solid with Robert Gallery on the left side and Cooper Carlisle just signed a long term deal to play on the right side. At center Jake Grove (Dolphins) was lost, but a fairly inexpensive trade brought Samson Satele (Dolphins) into the fold in what amounted to a player swap. John Wade is still around as long as he holds up and Chris Morris provides interior depth having just been retained. The biggest factor in all of this is new offensive line coach Jim Michalczik. He has been responsible for an excellent line at Cal since 2002 and it is no coincidence the team rose to national prominence with him guiding the blockers. Along with head coach Tom Cable the philosophy could be to “coach up” the talent rather than make any drastic additions early in the draft. Unless of course a “must have” player falls to them because it is worth noting both Pears and Barnes are signed on one year deals. Cable referred to the top four elite tackle prospects as “Cadillacs” when noting it would be nice to coach one.  

DRAFT: None.

Outside Linebacker – It seems as if mediocrity has been accepted for a while on the strong side. Sam Williams is kept around because Al Davis likes him. His play on the field certainly is not commensurate with a third round pick and most teams would not consider Williams to be a potential starter. Ricky Brown was retained and is slated to start. It is strange to have such talent in the form of Kirk Morrison and Thomas Howard in two spots and a carousel of average players joining them on the field. They could use someone to stand out in that spot. 

DRAFT: Oregon State’s Slade Norris at #126 will be lining up at linebacker.

Other players drafted:

Tight end: Brandon Myers (Iowa) #202

SUMMARY: My only true miss was at defensive tackle because while I pointed out the offensive line I approached it as a perceived need. The one player they added from outside of these needs was a blocking tight end they felt so strongly about they traded up for him. GRADING MYSELF: 90


PHILADELPHIA EAGLES

Pre-Draft Picks (10): 21, 53, 85, 141, 153, 157, 159, 194, 195, 230
Actual Picks (8): lost 21, 85, 141, 195 gained 19, 213

Tight End – I suppose it is better for the team to have thrown the franchise tag on L.J. Smith last year and watched him flame out rather than actually give him a contract. He has signed with Baltimore. Brent Celek assumes his playing time and on the back of his strong playoff showing should have no trouble as the receiving threat. His blocking is a work in progress. The Eagles will be looking for someone with more ability in that area and if that player can catch a few passes that would be fine too.

DRAFT: Their choice was Cornelius Ingram (Florida) at #153.

Running Back – For as often as Correll Buckhalter was hurt he still served as Brian Westbrook’s primary backup. Now that he has signed with Denver there is no one on hand to pick up those 75 or so carries. Ideally the new addition would contribute even more, and be capable of solving their short yardage conversion issues. Lorenzo Booker was acquired via trade from Miami, but his first season with the team was uneventful to put it mildly. Just about everyone assumes the Eagles will make an addition early on. They could care less how the fans or analysts think they should approach this draft at the position. It seems very unlikely for the Eagles to pass on a significant addition though considering Westbrook is aging and constantly on the injury report. 

DRAFT: LeSean McCoy (Pittsburgh) at #53 fills their need.

Center – The play of Jamaal Jackson leaves a lot to be desired. His run blocking in particular has suffered of late. There is not an heir apparent on the roster and it is not as if the team is short on draft picks. This is a draft rich with potential starting centers and after addressing the tackle position with the Peters trade I am no longer ruling out striking early. Nick Cole, a starter at time last year at right guard, will be given a shot to compete. The Eagles love versatile linemen anyway and someone who can play guard and center is going to be considered.

DRAFT: I don’t really count this here, but I’m noting guard Paul Fanaika (Arizona State) at #213. If I had it to do over again I would have been better served with simply listing “offensive line” at the bottom, but wanted to avoid that when possible.

Cornerback – Lito Sheppard was dealt to the Jets. This move coupled with safety Brian Dawkins signing with Denver has weakened a previously stout secondary. Rashad Baker (Raiders) and Sean Jones (Browns) were picked up at safety, but reserves at cornerback are needed. Jack Ikegwuonu was taken in last year’s draft with an eye on the future. A knee injury damaged his stock and he fell to the fourth round, but he could develop into a contributing player. Still, they need more. Finally, mix in Sheldon Brown chirping about wanting to be traded – or get a new contract. Reports are that management has told him to ostensibly get back to work and like it. Nevertheless, it does boost the need for help at the position a little.

DRAFT: Victor “Macho” Harris (Virginia Tech) saw his stock slip and went #157. They also traded for Ellis Hobbs (Patriots).

Defensive End – I think the standout secondary has really helped the line create pressure. When players are covered bad things happen for the offense – like sacks. Darren Howard must be a fan of the Olympics because every four years, and Olympic years no less, he goes big. His sack totals in 2000 (11) 2004 (11) and 2008 (10) were the best of his career. From 2005-2007, however, he totaled just 9 ½ and turns 33 this November. He might have some life left as a sack specialist if someone convinces him 2009 is really 2012. Chris Clemons had 4 sacks in his first season with the team. It remains to be seen if Victor Abiamiri is going to justify his status as a second round pick in 2007 although he has the ability to play inside or outside. Signs point to no at the moment. Juqua Parker has been steady if not spectacular in recent seasons. The fixture of course is Trent Cole and the point is that if someone could really stand out on the other side this defense would be even scarier. My concern would be Howard fading due to age and Abiamiri not developing into starter material. 

DRAFT: None.

Wide Receiver – The Eagles like to spread the ball around. They utilize a lot of players in their passing game. Greg Lewis was traded to New England because they really did not need another player who is too short to enjoy all the rides at Disneyland. Someone 6’2” or above who can work the red zone is much needed in this offense. Hank Baskett is the only one who fits that profile at the moment. Speed is not an issue with DeSean Jackson coming off leading the team in receiving as a rookie and Kevin Curtis returning from injury. There was a point last season that the team realized featuring too many receivers was a bad idea. It seems counterintuitive then to draft another player, but a big body with possession skills can really help out Donovan McNabb. Given the combination of their team needs and total draft picks it certainly makes sense to go after Anquan Boldin (Cardinals) in a trade, but I’m sure they would rather not deal with the team they just played in the NFC Championship Game. Braylon Edwards (Browns) seems destined for the rival Giants and #85 (Bengals) does not appear to be on the block. So while I would suggest pursuing a trade it is debatable if they can pull it off.

DRAFT: They double dipped with Jeremy Maclin (Missouri) at #19 and Brandon Gibson (Washington State) at #194.

Other players drafted:

Offensive tackle: Fenuki Tupou (Oregon) #159

SUMMARY: I am relatively pleased here. My main regret is the order I listed these needs, but mostly they stuck to the areas I outlined. The lone player completely out of the box is Tupou, and I removed tackle from team needs after Peters was acquired. The defensive end spot was not addressed and this is not alarming. Philly has a lot of talent and it’s tough to project what they will do. GRADING MYSELF: 87


PITTSBURGH STEELERS

Pre-Draft Picks (9): 32, 64, 96, 132, 168, 169*, 205, 226, 241       
*-compensatory pick cannot be traded
Actual Picks (9): lost 64, 132 gained 79, 84

Offensive Line – The primary need is at center. Justin Hartwig allowed an NFL high 6 sacks. The franchise has a rich tradition at the position and could find a player to live up to the likes of Webster and Dawson in this draft. At guard/tackle they somehow managed to keep their starting lineup intact. The losses were guard Kendall Simmons (released) and tackle Marvel Smith (49ers). Tackle Max Starks is playing under the franchise tag. Reinforcements in the form of backups will be picked up in the draft. Overall it is nice for quarterback Ben Roethlisberger to stand up for his guys while hoisting the Lombardi Trophy. If they draft quality talent he might be lifting it up again with healthy ribs and minus the cobwebs in his head.

DRAFT: Guard Kraig Urbik (Wisconsin) was chosen at #79. Center A.Q. Shipley (Penn State) was the choice at #226.

Defensive Line – Of their top six players on the line, five are on the wrong side of 30 years old. The exception, Nick Eason, turns 29 next month. I would say an infusion of youth is coming. Finding talent for a 3-4 defense is never easy. The Steelers have the luxury of coming into this search with the NFL’s top defense. They are not in panic mode obviously and can simply reload.

DRAFT: A strong move was made at #32 with the drafting of Evander “Ziggy” Hood (Missouri). With more of an eye on the future Ra’Shon Harris (Oregon) was taken at #205.

Wide Receiver – Their top three receivers accounted for 69% of the passing game in 2008. The starters are back. Santonio Holmes is polishing his Super Bowl MVP trophy. Hines Ward just turned 33 and given his willingness to throw blocks figures to be nearing the end. Nate Washington (Titans) is gone and takes his chunk of the aforementioned production with him. Second round pick Limas Sweed caught just 6 passes as a rookie, but obviously will be given an opportunity to develop. There is really no other talent to speak of which means they need to add talent. A return threat would be an added bonus.

DRAFT: An under the radar choice given the flashy names at the top, but at #84 Mike Wallace (Mississippi) was a quality addition.

Cornerback – The concern here is depth. Bryant McFadden (Cardinals) is gone. Fernando Bryant was signed for another season and at 32 it might be his last in the NFL. Speaking of which starter Deshea Townsend turns 34 two days before the regular season opener. Young, fast receivers enter the league every year. They will be looking to add someone in the middle rounds.

DRAFT: Keenan Lewis (Oregon State) at #96 and Joe Burnett (Central Florida) fill this need.

Free Safety – I just don’t know what the team is going to do without Anthony Smith (Packers). Who is going to talk trash? In actually important player news Ryan Clark is in a contract year. Last year’s sixth round pick Ryan Mundy did not see any action and grabbing a rookie to offset the departure of Smith and somewhat prepare for the possibility Clark moves on would be something to ponder.

DRAFT: None.

Linebacker – This is a position the Steelers always pay attention to, and the reason is obvious. They win with defense and run a 3-4. Larry Foote nearly departed for his native Detroit and 2009 will be it for him. James Farrior’s production has been incredibly consistent since joining the team in 2002 and he has missed just 4 games in that span. However, if they play in the Super Bowl again he will be doing so at age 35. Don’t misunderstand my vibe here. This is not doom and gloom. James Harrison is locked up and ready to go while LaMarr Woodley and Lawrence Timmons are still very young. They are not hurting even if Foote and Farrior hang up their cleats at the end of the season, but the time is now to prepare for that possibility because it is very likely.

DRAFT: None.

Quarterback – Again, let’s not go off the deep end Steeler fans. The starter is set. There is an experienced if not exciting backup in the form of Charlie Batch who knows this system well. They also have dynamic former Heisman Trophy candidate Dennis Dixon although I consider him as a threat only in the “Wildcat” formation used in conjunction with another player. They wanted Byron Leftwich (Bucs) to stay, but also failed to offer him much money. The dilemma is that drafting a rookie means carrying four quarterbacks or deciding between the rookie and Dixon, right? I could see them added a priority rookie free agent. There are some under the radar guys to choose from.

DRAFT: None.

Others drafted:

Running back: Frank Summers (UNLV) #169
Tight end: David Johnson (Arkansas State) #241

SUMMARY: Given the number of picks, and post-draft discussions about cutting Larry Foote I stand stunned to see the Steelers walk out of the draft without another linebacker, well, just because. They also decided against drafting a backup quarterback which is a vote of confidence in Dixon’s ability to progress, Roethlisberger’s ability to stay healthy and Batch’s ability to do anything should the first two things fall through. I can get behind a short yardage back and another tight end certainly. They added two cornerbacks which bolsters the secondary enough to overshadow my miss at free safety. GRADING MYSELF: 82


SAN DIEGO CHARGERS

Pre-Draft Picks (8): 16, 78, 113, 133*, 134*, 148, 189, 224 
*-compensatory picks cannot be traded
Actual Picks: same

Running Back – Their short term problems are solved. Ladainian Tomlinson is coming off the least productive season of his career, partially due to playing hurt. He also turns 30 in June. This created some tension when rumors swirled he might be released, but the two sides came together on a restructured contract and he likely will finish his career with the Chargers. His backup Darren Sproles was hit with the franchise tag to prevent him from getting rich in free agency. His strong showing in the playoff win over Indianapolis had a lot of analysts gushing about the possibility of an expanded role. It is true he piled up 150 yards on 27 touches, but last I checked he is still 5’6” and NFL defenders are, well, huge. When they hit him a lot it is going to hurt and common sense dictates he will not be able to stay healthy. As a change of pace player and return threat he does have value, but the Chargers need to figure out what that is worth in a long term contract. They also need to decide how to approach drafting Tomlinson’s true replacement as the featured back. Do they make a splash early? Wouldn’t that undo some of the good will created by retaining him in the first place? It is a delicate situation, but they need someone else to carry the ball.

DRAFT: It was wise to wait until #134 to address this area with Colorado State’s Gartrell Johnson.

Offensive Line – The problems are on the right side. Starting guard Mike Goff (Chiefs) moved on and there is no one to take his place. Starting tackle Jeromy Clary was signed to a one year deal for $460,000. Does the salary give you an idea of his talent level? This problem existed last year too and unless you include seventh round pick Corey Clark the Chargers ignored it. Now they have two spots to fill. At center Nick Hardwick is trying to stay healthy, which means drafting a little insurance makes sense there as well. Last year veteran Jeremy Newberry filled in, but unless something changes he is not returning. An addition at every spot is possible.

DRAFT: Louis Vasquez (Texas Tech) at #78 gives them an option at right guard. Tyronne Green (Auburn) at #133 is a guard/center.

Strong Safety – The defense certainly lost their bite last season. The pass defense was tortured for almost 4,000 yards. One of the problems was not having an enforcer at the strong safety position. Free safety Eric Weddle is a developing talent. However, Clinton Hart is merely average and turns 32 in July. He is not striking fear into anyone running routes down the field. A hard hitting addition is needed.

DRAFT: Kevin Ellison (USC) at #189 gives them another body at strong safety.

Defensive Line – At nose tackle Jamal Williams will turn 33 later this month. Defensive end Igor Olshansky (Cowboys) left in free agency. It will be a great boost to the defense if linebacker Shawne Merriman returns healthy, but they need some reinforcements up front or he will not be as effective.

DRAFT: Vaughn Martin (Western Ontario) at #113 is a versatile down lineman from Canada.

Other players drafted:

Linebacker: Larry English (Northern Illinois) #16
Cornerback: Brandon Hughes (Oregon State) #148
Wide Receiver: Demetrius Byrd (LSU) #224

SUMMARY: Everyone was taken by surprise with the English pick. Now it looks like pure genius. Phillips was just charged with striking a security guard in the face and while I’m not putting him on trial here (just allegations currently) obviously this is not good. Merriman is coming off a serious injury. On the plus side all of my needs were addressed save right tackle, which is nitpicking since I outlined offensive line and they took two linemen. Obviously Byrd, who is recovering from an unfortunate accident, is a luxury pick. GRADING MYSELF: 91


SAN FRANCISCO 49ERS

Pre-Draft Picks (9): 10, 43, 74, 111, 146, 171*, 184, 219, 244*
*-compensatory picks cannot be traded
Actual Picks (7): lost 43, 111

Running Back – Just because I put this need high does not mean it equates to drafting someone early. Obviously Frank Gore is their primary back. Nagging injuries the last two seasons have prevented him from carrying a bigger load, but truth be told 260 and 240 carries is just about where he should be. The problem is having no other effective threat when he is not the one carrying the football. Veteran DeShaun Foster was signed from Carolina, but produced a dismal 3.1 yards per rush on 76 attempts. Converted college quarterback Michael Robinson took a serious step back in his third year and managed only 50 yards on 19 rushes (2.6 average). When you combine their efforts it’s 2.99 yards per rush which is a huge drop from Gore (4.32) running behind the same line. The touchy part of this equation is Gore’s ego. If the team drafts a player too early it would be considered a slight. However, waiting too long could put them in danger of not getting an effective contributor. This season the offensive philosophy will be to run the football early and often. If Gore is not given help that plan will not work.

DRAFT: Glen Coffee (Alabama) at #74 fits this need.

Outside Linebacker – First of all head coach Mike Singletary wants to give former first round pick Manny Lawson a chance to rush the passer. Out of the 5 ½ sacks he has recorded in 32 career games over three seasons two of them came in his second outing, which has justifiably led to the “bust” label following him. It is nice that Singletary believes in the player and wants to give him a chance, but the NFL waits for no one. In the same 2006 draft when Lawson was selected Parys Haralson was taken in the fifth round. Now he is the solid piece looking for someone to complement him after he led the team with 8 ½ sacks. This is known as irony. Haralson just signed a four-year extension to solidify his position with the team. Tully Banta-Cain’s two year stint with the team is over. He went back to New England.

DRAFT: None.

Quarterback – There is justified debate over how important the team feels about adding a rookie. Departed offensive coordinator’s pet project J.T. O’Sullivan (Bengals) is gone. The journeyman veteran role Jamie Martin filled now belongs to Damon Huard (Chiefs) who is on a one year contract. He has just a little value as a mentor and emergency third stringer. Former #1 overall pick Alex Smith restructured his contract to remain with the team, much to the chagrin of many 49er fans. Shaun Hill has been the rock through all of this turmoil. Very quietly he guided the team to a 5-3 record in the second half. Some believe given the shot to hold down the job for a full season he could effectively manage this offense. He is never going to pass for 3,500 yards one would think, but the stats from his 10 appearances in 2008 translate to 3,637 over a full season. His likeability factor as an “average guy” works against him because the perception of a franchise starting quarterback is someone who commands attention. There are two of those flashy types available in the draft. They might be able to get their hands on one, or grab another competitor.

DRAFT: They know the limitations of Nate Davis (Ball State) but at #171 it was worth it.

Offensive Tackle – This was a bigger problem before Marvel Smith (Steelers) signed, but he is injury prone. Remember Jonas Jennings? 49er fans certainly do (he was just released) which is why the team has to be looking at drafting some insurance. Damane Duckett (Patriots) is gone and at 34 Barry Sims does not appear to have much left to offer. Adam Snyder and Joe Toledo are now their primary backups. Their current situation is more settled than it was before Smith was added, but I would not rule out a draft pick in any round.

DRAFT: None.

Free Safety – The signing of Jimmy Williams, who did not play in 2008 and was formerly with Atlanta as a 2006 second round pick, is either savvy or desperate. However, Mark Roman has no interceptions in the past 2 ½ seasons and at 32 looks to be fading out as a viable option. Their 2007 fourth round pick Dashon Goldson is looking like the new starter although he has no interceptions in 19 appearances. Can someone please pick off a football or two? It is unclear to me exactly what the future holds for former free safety/cornerback ‘tweener Reggie Smith who they picked in the third round. His development and where he fits could change their strategy in the secondary. However, someone needs to take the ball away from the other team. 

DRAFT: The choice was Curtis Taylor (LSU) at #219.

Cornerback – Last year at this time I was accused of ageism (seriously) by one particularly unhappy fan for saying the 49ers should plan ahead for Walt Harris’ retirement. It’s not the point that he had another good season. The point is that when he suits up in week 1 he will be 35 years old. Decades of NFL history illustrates that this is about the time a player simply can’t do it any more at a high level. Their 2007 fifth round pick Tarell Brown took on a larger role, but now Donald Strickland (Jets) has sought greener pastures. I know, bad pun. Shawntae Spencer has struggled to stay healthy having missed 22 games over the past three seasons including almost all of 2008. Cornerback is a spot where a constant flow of talent makes sense considering three, sometimes four players can get on the field in certain situations. They need to take a hard look at someone who can be that starter when Harris is done, and if that player can’t be found just add another body to make up for Strickland leaving.

DRAFT: None.

Wide Receiver – The signing of Brandon Jones (Titans) offsets the loss of Bryant Johnson (Lions). Jones has 112 receptions for 1,380 yards and 9 touchdowns. Some of the lack of production can be blamed on playing in Tennessee, but it took him four seasons and 51 games to amass those totals? I’m skeptical of this signing. At best he is a complementary player on a team dying for a #1. Isaac Bruce has offered up his services for one last season. His value is in the locker room more than the playing field although he did lead the team in receptions (61) yards (835) and touchdowns (7). Even if he is productive this season and stays healthy this is the end for him. Josh Morgan is definitely a keeper and 2007 third round pick Jason Hill showed signs of life with 30 receptions. Can the young talent keep developing? It is a whole lot of mediocrity at this point, but given their inclination to run the football and play defense it might not be much of a priority in the draft.

DRAFT: Fans by the Bay rejoiced when Michael Crabtree (Texas Tech) was there for the taking at #10.

Tight End – I was a little sad to see Billy Bajema (Rams) go. You see, I did a full 7 round draft in 2005 and with pick #249 I projected him to the 49ers. Apparently someone in the front office saw this and thought it would be funny to actually take him in that spot, so they did. Crazy coincidences aside, he was an effective blocking tight end for them. The stat line sort of indicates what his strengths are. He played in 61 games and caught 7 passes. Flashy first round pick Vernon Davis is still trying to find his way as the primary receiving option. Joe Jon Finley is looking like the best blocking threat, but he was signed as a rookie free agent. They will be keeping an eye out for more blocking talent. It fits their offensive strategy and helps their currently less than stellar situation at offensive tackle.

DRAFT: Bear Pascoe (Fresno State) offers support here at #184.

Other players drafted:

Linebacker: Scott McKillop (Pittsburgh) #146
Defensive end: Ricky Jean-Francois (LSU) #244

SUMMARY: Two picks were traded away which left fewer picks than the needs I listed. Jumping on Crabtree might have taken them away from their strategy going in, and I would love to know if the 49ers might have taken a rush linebacker or specifically offensive tackle at #10 otherwise. The two players taken outside my list of needs bolster their front 7. While I felt going in I had a fairly good grasp on where they would go, the results say otherwise. GRADING MYSELF: 68


SEATTLE SEAHAWKS

Pre-Draft Picks (10): 4, 37, 68, 105, 137, 178, 214, 245*, 247*, 248*
*-compensatory picks cannot be traded
Actual Picks (7): lost 37, 68, 105, 137, 214 gained 49, 91

Offensive Tackle – The new zone blocking scheme engineered by Greg Knapp will bring changes and the timing is probably good because turnover was inevitable anyway. All five preseason 2008 projected starters finished the season on injured reserve. Franchise left tackle Walter Jones is 35 years old and coming off knee surgery. This is not a good combination of facts for the most important position. Ray Willis was retained on a two year deal, but he’s a backup on the right side. They need a left tackle and would be hard pressed to pass on this need at #4 overall.

DRAFT: None.

Outside Linebacker – There are two issues here. Julius Peterson is gone having been traded to Detroit. More complicated is franchise tagged Leroy Hill moping and skipping workouts. Is he going to be in the fold long term? There is not much time to figure that out prior to the draft. Given their current situation it seems extremely like one player is drafted to push for work at the weak side, and if the team believes Hill is not going to be on board then insurance on the strong side could also be added. This uncertainty might lead them to draft someone early, but the whole point of trading Peterson was to avoid salary overload because the man in the middle Lofa Tatupu is well paid. Three highly compensated linebackers on a defense that was #30 in total yards allowed last season made no sense to management and I can see why.

DRAFT: If I had known the team would remove the tag from Leroy Hill it would have certainly made me consider projecting Wake Forest’s Aaron Curry to them at #4. As it turned out they got their cake (Curry) and ate it (signed Hill) too.

Quarterback – Some are calling it a smoke screen that the team is interested in a quarterback. I really like the attitude and demeanor of Seneca Wallace. The team was 3-5 when he was primarily in charge. When Matt Hasselbeck, struggling with a balky back, started they were 1-7. Sometimes these numbers get thrown around, but also consider Wallace was on the road in 5/8 while Hasselbeck obviously was home for 5/8. Against division foes Wallace was 2-1, Hasselbeck 1-2. Does this mean that when the receivers are healthy Wallace gives them a better chance to win? Maybe in short spurts it does. Hasselbeck might never be right physically again. That’s just the reality of life and the human body. He has been a great quarterback for this franchise and led them to their only Super Bowl appearance. However, when he turns 34 the first month of the season people are going to wonder about the future at the position. Wallace epitomizes a quality backup to me, which is intended as a compliment. He can step in and win a few games. He is not going to weather the storm of a full season and therefore the time to draft a future replacement is now. The Seahawks are in position to do so with the #4 overall pick in the draft. Whether they do it or not is another story.

DRAFT: Rumors swirled about them taking Sanchez. Instead they passed and later added Mike Teel (Rutgers) at #178.

Offensive Guard – Their running game fell apart and injuries on the line certainly contributed to that. Chris Gray (retired) and Floyd Womack (Browns) are gone. Mike Wahle is 32 and oft-injured. They will be looking for players who fit into the new zone blocking scheme to fill up the depth chart.

DRAFT: Max Unger (Oregon) at #49 gives them a versatile threat on the line.

Wide Receiver – It was a good move signing T.J. Houshmandzadeh (Bengals). Their biggest problem last year was a rash of injuries. He has only missed 5 games total in the past 6 seasons and never more than two during that span. Deion Branch is totally unreliable since being required in a 2006 trade. He has played in just 33 of 48 team games including missing half of last year. This is not what you want from a #1 receiver. Nate Burleson is still on the mend and even before essentially missing the 2008 season had been struggling. Most of his paycheck has been predicated on his 2004 campaign in Minnesota (1,006 yards). He was decent in 2007 (694 yards) but those two seasons represent 62% of his production during a six year career. If he returns healthy does it really matter? As much as I like the Houshmandzadeh signing for the reliability factor, it is almost a break even deal with Bobby Engram (Chiefs) gone. The past three seasons while Burleson and Branch were disappointing Engram averaged 55 receptions for 642 yards. While I expect Houshmandzadeh to far exceed that production the point is that he can’t hold down the position by himself and is merely an upgrade from Engram. The team still needs someone to fill the gaps where Burleson and Branch fail. Rookie tight end John Carlson led this team in receptions (55) yards (627) and touchdowns (5) last year. What does that tell you? It might not be an early addition, but someone to develop and step in down the line is a good idea.

DRAFT: They picked up Deon Butler (Penn State) at #91.

Running Back – Offensive coordinator Greg Knapp reunites with new head coach Jim Mora Jr. The pair worked together in Atlanta and incumbent habitually underachieving T.J. Duckett was part of that mix with the Falcons. As a fan of fantasy football I always loved Duckett’s ability to score touchdowns (8 last year on just 62 carries) but loathe the fact that he never assumes a larger role. The man is over 250 pounds and yet in the past three seasons (with Washington, Detroit and Seattle) has totaled just 165 carries over 38 games. I’m not sure yet if he will see an expanded role with longtime Seahawk backup Maurice Morris (Lions) gone. The lead back is going to be Julius Jones unless something changes. He fell out of favor with former head coach Mike Holmgren and after a promising first month of the season really fell off. In three September starts he had 312 yards rushing on 61 attempts (5.11 average) and 2 touchdowns but saw his use limited to 97 rushes for 386 yards (3.98 average) the rest of the way and never scored again. Still, he has over 1,000 rushes of experience in the NFL and will be given a chance in the new “one cut” system. I see the team sniffing around possible additions in the draft. Mike Holmgren abandoned the run late last year, but I assure you this new regime will not and the departure of Morris (132 rushes last year) opens up a spot. Rookie Justin Forsett, a late seventh round pick out of Cal, failed to make much of an impression in his first year.

DRAFT: None.

Cornerback/Free Safety – There are some players in the draft who can shuffle between these two spots and it might be what the Seahawks need in their secondary. At cornerback 2006 first round pick Kelly Jennings has been a disappointment. Josh Wilson is pretty average. Both have youth on their side and could develop into better players. At free safety Brian Russell is what he is and that’s not a good thing. This is the third stop in his NFL career and he has just 1 interception in two seasons with the Seahawks. It’s hard to believe he got his hands on 9 interceptions in 2003 with Minnesota, his second season in the NFL. In his other 92 career games he has a total of 7, and only one additional season (2005 in Cleveland) has he had more than one. If they can find someone with ball skills at either cornerback or free safety expect them to strike.

DRAFT: None.

Fullback – Is this position still around? You would hardly know it. Last year they drafted hard hitting Owen Schmitt in the fifth round. He was last seen running through a brick wall head first at West Virginia. Okay, not really. Veteran Leonard Weaver (Eagles) has moved on. It is certainly possible to stand pat with Schmitt this season. The point here is that two members of their backfield have departed in free agency, running back Maurice Morris being the other. For a team intent on getting back to running the football this seems like something to consider. In the case of a fullback perhaps a rookie free agent is in order, or a veteran.

DRAFT: None.

Other players drafted:

Safety: Courtney Greene (Rutgers) #245
Defensive end: Nick Reed (Oregon) #247
Tight end: Cameron Morrah (California) #248

SUMMARY: Losing three picks certainly did not help my chances to match up their needs to picks. Neither did passing on an elite left tackle in favor of Curry. Other than that first choice, however, four of my top five areas were addressed. The players who fell outside of my team needs were all seventh round compensatory picks. GRADING MYSELF: 75


ST. LOUIS RAMS

Pre-Draft Picks (7): 2, 35, 66, 103, 160, 196, 211
Actual Picks: same

Offensive Tackle – They are really in trouble at the tackle spots. It is one thing to lose mainstay Orlando Pace, who was released and signed with Chicago. Now the problem is compounded by even thinking of moving former first round pick Alex Barron to the left side in a contract year. If he does halfway decent he will demand to be overpaid, and up until this point of his career he has done nothing to demonstrate he can be a dominant force on the left side. He can barely hold up starting on the right side. If that is the plan Adam Goldberg will take the starting spot at right tackle.

DRAFT: Even with late swirling rumors they stuck to the plan and took Baylor’s Jason Smith at #2.

Middle Linebacker – The situation outside improves with Will Weatherspoon changing positions. Unfortunately that opens up a huge hole in the middle. Their projected starter is Chris Draft who is 33 and simply the best available man on the roster. They need to get their hands on someone who can handle an important spot on the defense and there are a limited number of rookies who appear ready. Will any of them be available for them in the second round?

DRAFT: At #35 the choice was James Laurinaitis (Ohio State) and I am really tired of spelling his name.

Wide Receiver – Let’s just say the Greatest Show on Turf is a thing of the past. This group of receivers is not even worthy of a nickname. Longtime stud Torry Holt (released) is gone because he is too old and paid too much to be on a team going nowhere. Drew Bennett (released) is out after two seasons as a free agent signing bust. Rookie Donnie Avery, who stunned the draft community by being the first receiver off the board early in round 2 last year, is a bright spot. He finished with 53 receptions for 674 yards which are good numbers for a first year player. The transition is not easy at the position in general, and especially coming out of Houston from Conference USA. Fellow rookie Keenan Burton, a fourth round pick from Kentucky, saw some action on the field as well. He will be counted on more than a young middle round selection usually would because there are no better options available. A quiet deal was struck to acquire Laurent Robinson (Falcons). He was unable to produce in Atlanta as a third round pick in 2007, but because current St. Louis general manager Billy Devaney was in that organization when the Robinson was taken he obviously saw something. Hamstring issues ruined his 2008 season and at this point it is unclear what he can bring to the table. This team is in need of a solid #1 to play on the outside and will be taking a shot at finding one early in the draft.

DRAFT: If all had gone well for the Tar Heels can you imagine their passing game in 2008? I digress. The Rams took Brooks Foster (North Carolina) at #160.

Defensive Tackle – This defense could not stop the run. Teams piled up almost 2,500 rushing yards against them in 2008. Sure, Adam Carriker and Clifton Ryan are developing young players from the 2007 draft, but at what point do you start to plan in case they never become great? I think the time is now considering their lack of effectiveness at job #1 which is stopping the run. The situation outside at end is in decent shape anchored by young stud Chris Long although Leonard Little and James Hall could be retiring soon. I would expect to see them take another shot at an impact interior player. It takes three who can play to really get the job done and I am not seeing it on their roster.

DRAFT: Dorell Scott (Clemson) was added at #103.

Center – Quantity was swapped for quality with the acquisition of Jason Brown (Ravens) and departures of Nick Leckey (Saints) and Brett Romberg (Falcons). Backup center is not a crucial need until your starter gets hurt. Then panic sets in. Guard Richie Incognito, who has been been tendered as a restricted free agent, has the ability to play the position in a pinch. Another versatile guard/center type sounds like a good idea to me late in the draft, but it is worth noting there is definitely some youth available at guard on this roster after John Greco (third round) and Roy Schuening (fifth round) were taken last year. This could mean a straight center is sought in the rookie free agent pool. It is just something to consider for insurance because this line has struggled so much overall.

DRAFT: None.

Other players drafted:

Cornerback: Bradley Fletcher (Iowa) #66
Quarterback: Keith Null (West Texas A&M) #196
Running back: Chris Ogbonnaya (Texas) #211

SUMMARY: They went after the top four needs I outlined and three of them aggressively. The fifth need was backup center, which I’m not losing any sleep over missing. They might not either unless their starter gets hurt. The players added outside of my team needs were backups. GRADING MYSELF: 90


TAMPA BAY BUCCANEERS

Pre-Draft Picks (8): 19, 81, 120, 155, 190, 216, 229, 233
Actual Picks (6): lost 19, 120, 190, 216, 229 gained 17, 117, 217

Wide Receiver – There is a reason they slapped the franchise tag on Antonio Bryant and signed Michael Clayton to a hefty four year contract. Without those moves what would they have at receiver? Aging veterans Joey Galloway and Ike Hilliard were released as part of the team’s new youth movement. Last year’s rookie Dexter Jackson, a second round pick, is looking like mostly a kickoff return threat at best. Maurice Stovall has only 20 receptions in his three year career as a third round pick. It is uncertain who will win the starting job at quarterback, and Byron Leftwich (Steelers) has been added to the competition. Whoever it is will definitely need one more reliable threat. Having Kellen Winslow to rely on at tight end helps assuming he can stay healthy and live up to his potential.

DRAFT: They went with potential with the late addition of Sammie Stroughter (Oregon State) at #233.

Defensive Tackle – On the positive side Ryan Sims was locked up for 4 years and they just drafted Dre Moore in the fourth round. On the negative side Jovan Haye (Titans) left in free agency and by all accounts Chris Hovan is tailing off. The Sims move is not a big one and it is still unknown what Moore can do in the future. They are going to look for a player capable of being their anchor. Sort of like Warren Sapp. He has been missed since he helped them win a Super Bowl. They will be adding size over speed as they rebuild the defensive line from the inside out.

DRAFT: Roy Miller (Texas) was selected at #81.

Cornerback – Last year’s first rounder Aqib Talib should hold down one starting spot. The other is currently manned by Ronde Barber. How long he can continue to run with NFL receivers is very much in doubt. His switch to a supporting role appears imminent considering he just turned 34. Phillip Buchanon (Lions) is gone after two fairly productive seasons. They should be looking long and hard at another potential starter because right now there is not much behind Talib and Barber. Jermaine Phillips was retained for what that is worth.

DRAFT: Western Michigan’s E.J. Biggers was picked up at #217.

Linebacker – Long time star Derrick Brooks was released along with Cato June. In their place the team signed Angelo Crowell (Bills) and Niko Koutouvides (Broncos). The hope is that younger players currently on the roster will fill the shoes of their departed veterans while the newcomers provide depth. Two guys counted on for an increased role are Quincy Black and Geno Hayes from the past two drafts. They might be up to the task. Time will tell. However, counting on Crowell is a risky proposition. He missed the entire 2008 season due to injury and is signed to a one year deal. Koutouvides has never stood out in five NFL seasons, the first four with Seattle. The Bucs are going to be on the prowl for another linebacker just in case.

DRAFT: None.

Defensive End – Greg White, or whatever he wants to be called, is a marginal player. Maybe that’s why he seeks attention by making a ridiculous name change. Gaines Adams appears to be on track and holds down one starting spot firmly. Although at 35 Kevin Carter does not fit the youth movement it makes sense in the short term to keep him on board. Jimmy Wilkerson had a productive first season with the team after signing as a free agent from Kansas City. In the final analysis it feels like another impact player to groom for pairing with Adams is in order.

DRAFT: They picked up USC’s Kyle Moore at #117.

Quarterback – Here we go again. After signing Byron Leftwich (Steelers) it was thought their flirtation with drafting Kansas State’s Josh Freeman in the first round was over. Is it or isn’t it? I thought when Jon Gruden hit the road this team was done collecting quarterbacks like stamps. They already have two and the new regime has signed off on two of them, Leftwich and Luke McCown. If the Bucs go after another player it would mean not only giving up on their most experienced option, Brian Griese, but also their developmental option Josh Johnson unless they plan on carrying four. I know Gruden left them in a bit of a spot in the position. However, I’m not sure this was the way to go about getting out of it.

DRAFT: To really no one’s surprise they selected Josh Freeman (Kansas State) and traded up to #17 to do it.

Kicker – It was a particularly difficult season for Matt Bryant for personal reasons. For purposes of this I will stick to the performance on the field. The problem is long range. He is just 2/10 from 50+ yards in his career and that simply does not cut it. The past two seasons he has missed all 6 long range attempts. Inside of 40 yards he is pretty much money at 91% for his career, but at what point is 65% from 40+ yards unacceptable? We will see if the Bucs seek out someone with a stronger leg for camp competition. They have already signed former second round pick Mike Nugent (Jets) to a one year deal. His long range success is also in question. He is 3/9 from 50+ in three seasons, and is only 64.5% from 40+ in his brief career.

Draft: None.

Other players drafted:

Offensive tackle: Xavier Fulton (Illinois) #155

SUMMARY: Other than the order of priority and not addressing linebacker this went as I expected. The kicker was more about competition and considering they were -2 picks due to trades I can live with missing on those areas. The only player off my team needs was help on the offensive line and every team can justify a pick there. GRADING MYSELF: 92


TENNESSEE TITANS

Pre-Draft Picks (10): 30, 62, 94, 130, 135*, 173*, 203, 206*, 239, 242* 
*-compensatory picks cannot be traded
Actual Picks (11): gained 89

Cornerback – For now the starting tandem of Cortland Finnegan and Nick Harper is fine. A future starter for Harper needs to be mined right away though. He turns 35 the first month of the season and will not be able to carry on much longer. Cary Williams was a seventh round pick out of Miami, FL last year and his collegiate teammate Tanard Davis was not drafted at all. Both are young, but neither has the look of a future starter. Eric King (Lions) is gone. Ineffective Reynaldo Hill and aging Tyrone Pool are also in free agency limbo. On the plus side backup free safety Vincent Fuller was locked up as a nickel option. This position needs to be addressed by seeking a potential starter.

DRAFT: Ryan Mouton (Hawaii) at #94 helps this area, and they also picked up Jason McCourty (Rutgers) at #203.

Wide Receiver – Maybe letting Derrick Mason get away a few years back was not such a good idea. In 2004 he was their last receiver over 1,000 yards (Drew Bennett also did it that year) and they have struggled to find talent since. Justin Gage provided some big plays and managed to lead the team in receiving with 651 yards despite catching just 34 passes and missing four games. He also had half of the team’s 12 touchdown receptions. Brandon Jones (49ers) was a subtraction and Nate Washington (Steelers) filled his spot. Other than last year’s third round pick Lavelle Hawkins there is no one else worth talking about. After literally years of trying they need to evaluate the rookie talent and pick up someone who can catch the football. Attacking the problem earlier in the draft would be a good way to get better talent. This sounds simplistic, but just look at their history of failed middle round picks and you’ll see what I mean.

DRAFT: The Titans finally struck early, making Kenny Britt (Rutgers) their first pick at #30. They also added Dominique Edison (SFA) at #206.

Quarterback – Patrick Ramsey (Broncos) is already on his fourth team since being a first round pick in 2002 so the term journeyman fits. He fills the roster spot of Chris Simms (Broncos) but more than that is a threat to knock Vince Young down the depth chart. VY is also a former first round pick (2006) as is current starter Kerry Collins (1995) half a generation later. There seems to be a clear order here. Collins is locked in for two years to be “the guy”. At the end of that arrangement he will be 38 and presumed finished. Ramsey is not a future starter. Young’s place on the team is tied to the hefty contract he signed as a #3 overall pick. This has become a bit of a cluster considering no one is in place to lead this team in 2010 or 2011 when Collins is either washed up or retired. They could make a surprise move in the draft and suddenly cut ties with Young.

DRAFT: None.

Linebacker – In the middle starter Stephen Tulloch and backup Ryan Fowler are average. On the outside David Thornton turns 30 in November and Keith Bulluck just turned 31. Both have been incredibly durable over the course of their careers. Of course that means they also have a lot of wear on their bodies. There is not much behind them and it would make sense for the Titans to look for someone who can take over down the road when this duo wears down.

DRAFT: Gerald McRath (Southern Miss) at #130 boosts the outside situation.

Defensive Line – At tackle it is simply not possible to truly replace Albert Haynesworth, who signed with Washington. At least they filled his roster spot with an experienced talent Jovan Haye (Bucs). Tony Brown and last year’s second round pick Jason Jones will be counted on just a little more with “Fat” Albert out of the picture. Both can play, and this is not an indictment on them as much as it is an indication of what Haynesworth meant to this defense. Another solid complementary piece for the rotation would help them get closer to where they were with him in the fold. Another factor is Tony Brown being in the final year of his contract, which leads us to the issue outside. Kyle Vanden Bosch and Jevon Kearse are also only tied up through 2009. I don’t feel the need at end is as important as the need at tackle, but with so many picks adding both is likely in this draft.

DRAFT: I wouldn’t want to be tackle Sen’Derrick Marks (Auburn) at #62 trying to fill those big shoes.

Offensive Tackle – Daniel Loper (Lions) has moved on. The line overall is very young, other than center where is appears Leroy Harris is being groomed to take over for Kevin Mawae. The one questionable area is depth at tackle. This has to be addressed and likely will be in the draft.

DRAFT: Troy Kropog (Tulane) was the choice at #135.

Other players drafted:

Tight end: Jared Cook (South Carolina) #89
Running back: Javon Ringer (Michigan State) #173
Guard: Ryan Durand (Syracuse) #239
Safety: Nick Schommer (North Dakota State) #242

SUMMARY: With so many picks it is to be expected they addressed all of my needs other than a quarterback of the future. Perhaps Vince Young is not out the door just yet. Safety and guard border two of the needs I outlined. The only real surprises then were value picks. I’m sure they did not expect Cook or Ringer to be available in those spots and both can help the offense. GRADING MYSELF: 90


WASHINGTON REDSKINS

Pre-Draft Picks (5): 13, 80, 150, 186, 243*       
*-compensatory pick cannot be traded
Actual Picks (6): lost 150, gained 158, 221

Defensive End – There is big drama surrounding the impending competition between Phillip Daniels and Renaldo Wynn. It’s a race to retirement as much as deciding who will be able to contribute on this season’s defense. Daniels “lost” $1,300,000 by being cut and then later signed. He seems to be over it. Wynn is back after spending 2007 with the Saints and last year with the rival Giants to help them through the Osi Umenyiora injury. The two veterans are friends, but good feelings and bad jokes aside neither of them will be around in 2010. Demetric Evans (49ers) bolted and Jason Taylor was released after one failed season with the team. There is literally no one to put on the other end of the line from Andre Carter on this defense unless you count the CFL’s Chris Wilson or seldom used rookie Rob Jackson. Carter led the ‘Skins with a miniscule 4 sacks, but also garnered most of the attention from opposing blockers. Their first priority in the draft is someone to rush the passer from this position.

DRAFT: They sprinted to turn in their pick for Brian Orakpo (Texas) at #13.

Linebacker – This unit is in serious need of reinforcements. They have no one of consequence to start on the strong side. Marcus Washington was cut and the negotiations for his return at a reasonable price are not going well. In the middle London Fletcher is flat out a freak of nature. He turns 34 in May and I get the feeling someone will have to tear the uniform off his back for him to quit. He has reached 90 solo tackles in each and every season since 2000. Where are the guys waiting in the wings to step in? They will have to be found in the draft or the next wave of free agency.

DRAFT: Cody Glenn (Nebraska) is new to the linebacker position so they took a chance on him at #158 on the outside. On the inside the choice was Robert Henson (TCU) at #186.

Offensive Tackle – Jon Jansen does not have much more left to offer. Plus, head coach Jim Zorn is not his biggest fan. Zorn promoted Stephon Heyer into his spot before Heyer gave it back due to injury. They could definitely add someone capable of locking down this starting job with authority. If that player is able to eventually take over the left side for Chris Samuels (who is almost 32) they would be thrilled, but with so few picks I would not hold my breath on that possibility Redskin fans.

DRAFT: None.

Offensive Line (interior) – Derrick Dockery is back to play guard which is good because last season’s play at the position was very poor. Well, it’s good if he can elevate his play. There is a reason Buffalo cut him, but they are expecting him to start which is why Pete Kendall’s stint with the team appears over. Kendall is lingering in free agency. Randy Thomas could be the other starter and just turned 33. Last year’s third round pick Chad Rinehart figures into the future. Another injury, or two, would be devastating given their current depth chart. At center Casey Rabach gave up 5 ½ sacks. I get the feeling if a versatile guard/center is available the Redskins would take that player in the middle rounds.

DRAFT: None.

Quarterback – It has to be considered a need if the owner mulls over trading the current starter right? Jason Campbell to his credit took the slight well. I would too if as a former first round pick I had 35 career touchdown passes in 36 games with a career quarterback rating of 80.4. He has gradually improved on the stat sheet, and perhaps most importantly did not hurt the team with turnovers (6 interceptions, 1 lost fumble) last season. He also didn’t help them much passing the football, which I hear is what quarterbacks do occasionally in the NFL. Over the team’s final 12 games he had 7 touchdown passes including no games with more than one. Colt Brennan was taken as a possible project and Todd Collins is just playing out the string of his career. It is conceivable the Redskins draft another quarterback, but I would not bank on it happening given their current stack of chips on draft weekend.

DRAFT: None.

Kicker/Punter – Both of these positions were troublesome in 2008. Kicker Shaun Suisham was signed to a one year deal, but that was just to be sure someone was on the roster in case a better option failed to come along. He was an ugly 12/20 (60%) from 40+ yards out. None of his misses directly resulted in losing a game, but that’s not NFL material. He was 11/15 in 2007 from distance putting his two year total at 66%. Someone with a more range will be brought in to press him. At punter Ryan Plackemeier was released after averaging 41.7 yards on 55 punts. Only three teams had a lower team average than Washington’s 41.0. Rookie Durant Brooks was even worse (39.6) and is now in Green Bay. At the moment it looks like Dirk Johnson is the incumbent. He managed just 41.8 yards on 20 attempts for Arizona last year. Someone with a big leg will definitely be sought out.

DRAFT: None.

Other players drafted:

Cornerback: Kevin Barnes (Maryland) #80
Tight end: Eddie Williams (Idaho) #221
Wide receiver: Marko Mitchell (Nevada) #243

SUMMARY: We can disregard kicker/punter because given their lack of picks they could not afford to go there, but they did sign punter Hunter Smith (Colts) after the draft. Obviously they want a new quarterback, but continue to strike out. The offensive line apparently lost out in the war room in favor of tight end they’ll convert to fullback, and another receiver because they whiffed (apparently) twice last year. I can understand the addition at corner. You can never have enough. It was hard to gauge their draft given the lack of picks. GRADING MYSELF: 65