HarveyWallbangers
05-04-2007, 11:15 PM
Sorting out the winners and losers
By ProFootballWeekly.com
We don't like the idea of prematurely assigning grades before the true evaluators are fairly given a chance to show whether their selections were good. There is, however, an art to understanding the value of a player and where a player could be drafted. And an art to making shrewd trades on Draft Day. Based on our analysis of the draft, we will use an abbreviated scouting scale with four terms - outstanding, good, average and questionable - to evaluate draft classes. Specific letter grades will be assigned in PFW's post-draft print edition, which will be printed next Monday.
Arizona
The philosophy of building inside out is a wise one, and the Cardinals improved both of their lines with their first two picks. Edgerrin James got a lot better when the Cardinals made their first pick, as should the rest of their elite skill talent, and DT Alan Branch will make the job of their linebackers much easier by clogging the middle. Their draft was more need-oriented than value-oriented, as evidenced by the fact they passed on Adrian Peterson, and they may have found potential starters in ILB Buster Davis in the third round and TE Ben Patrick in the seventh. WR Steve Breaston should contribute on special teams.
Grade: Good
Atlanta
Bobby Petrino's first order of business was to get bigger up front, and with the selections of DE Jamaal Anderson and OG Justin Blalock, they did. Anderson has a lot of upside and filled a pressing need. I think they found one of the draft's more underrated gems in the fourth round in South Florida OLB Stephen Nicholas, but the rest of the draft was shaky. CB Chris Houston and Laurent Robinson, at best, will be average pros, in my opinion. They acquired QB Matt Schaub through a trade and acquired two second-rounders, including one next year, which make this draft look better. But Washburn DT Trey Lewis and Auburn CB David Irons could struggle to make the team. Overall, this draft has boom-or-bust potential and featured more risk on the first day than I'd like. Considering where they were drafting, they could have fared better.
Grade: Average
Baltimore
Ben Grubbs has Pro Bowl potential and with the price of guards rising and the Ravens' needs inside, he should start from Day One and develop quickly, improving Ozzie Newsome's outstanding track record of first-round hits. In Yamon Figurs, the Ravens landed an outstanding special-teams player at the least, and a potentially game-breaking receiver. Marshal Yanda should provide depth on the offensive line, inside and outside. OLB Antwan Barnes is not as big as Adalius Thomas, but he is a phenomenal athlete with potential to develop into a jack-of-all-trades. FB Le'Ron McClain should be able to replace Ovie Mughelli with little drop-off. QB Troy Smith and OLB Prescott Burgess have developmental potential. Given that they also acquired Willis McGahee in exchange for picks, the Ravens improved through the draft as they seem to do every year.
Grade: Outstanding
Buffalo
One would expect the Bills would have learned from their mistakes in the past and not tried to fit an inner-city kid into the humble life of Buffalo, but after sending Willis McGahee packing, the Bills drafted a very similar player in Marshawn Lynch, and the same issues they had with McGahee could resurface quickly. Ignoring their need at cornerback and passing on both Darrelle Revis and Leon Hall could prove to be costly. Although their scheme does not call for shutdown cornerbacks, coming away without a cornerback seems odd. Their first four picks all have eventual starter potential, but four starters should be on par for an average football team. S John Wendling and FB-TE Derek Schouman are better in workouts than in pads. Taking a chance on a shaky-character talent such as DE C.J. Ah You, even if only in the seventh round, would seem to go against Marv Levy's philosophy. Given that they did not come away with much in exchange for dealing McGahee, this draft does not look like it will be very good in the long run.
Grade: Average
Carolina
The Panthers' draft strikes me as one of the best in the league. Trading down in the first round and still being able to land Jon Beason, a versatile linebacker with Pro Bowl potential who can start from Day One, was a sharp move. Drafting WR Dwayne Jarrett, with former Trojan Keyshawn Johnson able to groom him, and with Steve Smith opposite him, could turn out to be the perfect situation for Jarrett. C Ryan Kalil vastly upgrades the offensive line and could be a 10-year starter and future All-Pro. He could make the type of impact Nick Mangold did as a rookie in New York a year ago. DE Charles Johnson has the motor and tenacity to start right away if Mike Rucker is not ready. On the second day, the Panthers seemed to concentrate on upgrading the bottom of their roster with core special-teams-type talent. Ryne Robinson is an exciting returner. Dante Rosario and Tim Shaw could play on every special teams.
Grade: Outstanding
Chicago
Landing the draft's top tight end after failing to address the need a year ago and giving Rex Grossman another playmaker can upgrade the offense. However, the Bears reached with their next three picks and likely could have landed DE Dan Bazuin, RB Garrett Wolfe and LB Michael Okwo at least a round later, if not two. Bazuin plays with great energy, but he is not the type of athlete it would seem Lovie Smith has tended to favor. Wolfe, while he has great vision and run instincts, is no Warrick Dunn, but in a situational role, he could excel. Okwo fits the scheme and provides an option if Lance Briggs chooses not to play. OG Josh Beekman could eventually will himself into the starting lineup. The Bears may have found some secondary depth on the second day with DBs Kevin Payne, Corey Graham and Trumaine McBride. Robbing San Diego by trading the 37th overall pick and acquiring four picks, including a third-rounder next year, may have been their most valuable move of the day. Altogether, drafting where they were, this draft could eventually turn out three starters and has some promise despite too many reaches.
Grade: Good
Cincinnati
Character was clearly weighted more heavily this year, as the Bengals addressed some primary needs and landed as clean of a class as they have in a long time. CB Leon Hall could start right way. RB Kenny Irons could be groomed. SS Marvin White could turn out to be a solid pick if he could adapt to the scheme. QB Jeff Rowe has developmental potential. Matt Toeaina should be able to contribute in a rotation. OG Dan Santucci could provide versatile interior depth. And S Nedu Ndukwe could make it on special teams. All seven players could make the roster.
Grade: Good
Cleveland
The Browns clearly made the right decision to pass on Brady Quinn, and it made a lot of sense to mortgage next year's first-rounder to allow Quinn to develop sooner. He could start from Day One and could prove to be an outstanding value where he was drafted. Making the pick more exciting is finally having a bookend to keep their quarterback healthy. CB Eric Wright, if he stays out of trouble, has potential. Browns GM Phil Savage, who is adept at finding scheme fits, landed many on the second day, finding some big-bodied defensive linemen (Melila Purcell and Chase Pittman) who can stack the point, a zone corner (Brandon McDonald) and a potential returner (Syndric Steptoe). The first two picks were great, but the rest of the draft was just OK.
Grade: Good
Dallas
Jerry Jones was at his best, wheeling and dealing, and being able to land what could be a high first-round pick next year from the Browns and moving back up to secure the pass rusher they coveted. That was impressive. Anthony Spencer could be paired with DeMarcus Ware to bring a ton of pressure off the edges. Investing in their offensive line was wise, and landing James Marten in the third round and Doug Free in the fourth could improve the athleticism on their offensive line and provide much-needed depth. Washington QB Isaiah Stanback is a Jerry Jones type of quarterback, and he should be able to contribute as a receiver and provide depth under center.
Grade: Outstanding
Denver
The Broncos have historically been bold going after their target, and they had reason to believe that Cincinnati was interested in Jarvis Moss. Marvin Lewis was infatuated with Moss' talent. But collectively, with the character concerns present, the Bengals had decided to address their secondary first, as did the Jaguars, and the Broncos did not have to give up the back half of their draft to get him. Nor did they need to give up three more picks, including a third-rounder next year, to land DT Marcus Thomas, a player with very shaky character who very well could have been available a round or two later. Losing George Foster, Tatum Bell and a fifth-rounder in a pre-draft trade for CB Dré Bly and a sixth would appear to be a wash, given the inconsistencies of all three players, especially given that Foster and Bell had worn out their welcome. The two best picks of the day were DE Tim Crowder, who very well might turn out to be a more consistent and better pro than Moss, and OT Ryan Harris, who might start from Day One in their scheme. If Shanahan can keep Moss and Thomas in line, he could have four starters, but the Broncos get downgraded for unnecessary trades.
Grade: Good
Detroit
Matt Millen deserves credit for having the confidence to follow his draft board and select their highest-rated player despite it being a receiver. Calvin Johnson could make Jon Kitna, Roy Williams and the Lions' running game a lot better. However, I do not think Drew Stanton will ever develop into a reliable starter, and Ikaika Alama-Francis is an underachiever with durability issues - both reaches in the second round. DB Gerald Alexander, if used properly, could be a solid pro. Their best pick on the second day was selecting Alabama CB Ramzee Robinson as Mr. Irrelevant. He has a better chance to contribute than fourth-round CB A.J. Davis. Altogether, they might land three starters, but not in the places where they typically would come, and considering where they were drafting at the top of the order, their draft could have been better.
Grade: Average
Green Bay
DT Justin Harrell's stock had steadily been climbing in the postseason, but the Packers very likely could have traded down and still landed him ahead of the Chiefs. Second-rounder Brandon Jackson and seventh-rounder DeShawn Wynn both fit their stretch running game. San Jose State WR James Jones was a reach in the third round. Fifth-rounder David Clowney could have a better chance of contributing than Jones. Landing a placekicker as strong-legged as Mason Crosby in the sixth round could turn out to be a steal. The best thing the Packers may have done, as they tend to do every year, was trade down several times and acquire value in the form of more picks. Missouri Southern OT Allen Barbre fits their zone blocking scheme and could be a versatile backup. Overall, considering how many picks they secured, they tended to increase their chances of hitting on at least three starters.
Grade: Good
Houston
DT Amobi Okoye is clearly talented, but whether he is able to maintain his focus remains a question mark that definitely will not be fairly decided for three years. The Texans had planned to trade down until Okoye slid to them, and the concept of improving their pass rush by creating an interior pass rush to free up Mario Williams and get after Peyton Manning is a good one. Landing a receiver such as Jacoby Jones who can also contribute in the return game should help Andre Johnson, and South Carolina CB Fred Bennett was a good value in the fourth round. They may have found some depth on the second day, and Brandon Frye is a very good fit for their blocking scheme. Potentially landing their quarterback of the future (Matt Schaub) via pre-draft trade is what could make this draft a good one.
Grade: Good
Indianapolis
With their first pick, the Colts may have reached on a receiver who may never be more than a great No. 2, but it worked when they drafted Reggie Wayne at the back end of the first round in 2001 and they desperately needed a slot receiver. OG-OT Tony Ugoh is set up to fail with a demanding O-line coach who will struggle to tolerate his ways. With their next four picks, the Colts found great scheme fits in Cal CB Daymeion Hughes, Ohio State DT Quinn Pitcock, Troy S Brannon Condren and Pittsburgh LB Clint Sessions, and they could all reap the benefits of playing in Indy, as could seventh-rounder Keyunta Dawson.
Grade: Good
Jacksonville
The Jaguars made a wise decision to trade down in the first round and still land their target, FS Reggie Nelson, but with Brady Quinn available and no surefire solution at quarterback, they made a mistake by passing on Quinn. OLB Justin Durant is a good fit for their scheme but could have been had a round later. Central Florida WR Mike Walker fits the big, athletic receiver profile they desire. Given their need at punter, they were not out of line making one the first at his position drafted this year, and Adam Podlesh should be solid. Missouri DE Brian Smith was a big-time reach, but the Jaguars found some solid value in Purdue OG Uche Nwaneri, Wake Forest S Josh Gattis and Notre Dame DT Derek Landri, all of whom could make the team.
Grade: Questionable
Kansas City
The Chiefs did a good job of filling needs and adding depth to their roster. They hit on their first two picks (WR Dwayne Bowe and DT-DE Turk McBride), but their third (DT Tank Tyler) is likely to keep their percentage of hitting on defensive tackles low. Selecting a kicker when there was no great need is curious, unless the Chiefs know something about Lawrence Tynes we don't. RB Kolby Smith, TCU OT Herbert Taylor and Whitworth (Wash.) TE Michael Allan could make the team. Not addressing a serious O-line need sooner is also curious.
Grade: Average
Miami
This draft, more than any other, stood out as being poor. Ted Ginn is hurt entering the league and, at 177 pounds, will likely have the same problems in the pros. If the Dolphins wanted him, they could have traded back a ways and still got him. Passing on Brady Quinn for John Beck, an NFL backup at best, is questionable, although it may be somewhat understandable if they are still able to land a veteran starter such as Trent Green. Samson Satele fits their power blocking game, but he's raw as a run blocker, and RB Lorenzo Booker could be a solid complement to the overweight Ronnie Brown. There was not much to like about the Dolphins six second-day choices. Paul Soliai is a classic underachiever, and Reagan Mauia was a reach.
Grade: Questionable
Minnesota
Anytime a team is able to land an elite, blue-chip talent (RB Adrian Peterson) at the No. 7 slot, its draft instantly looks like a success. That the Vikings were also able to come away with potential starters such as WR Sidney Rice, CB Marcus McCauley and DE Brian Robison, given their lack of depth, their draft looks even better. A need-oriented drafting team, the Vikings filled many needs and may have added some depth on the second day with WR Aundrae Allison, LB Rufus Alexander, Coastal Carolina QB Tyler Thigpen and return specialist Chandler Williams. Given the injury concerns of Peterson and Rice, McCauley's confidence issue and the mental makeup of Allison, however, this draft does have a boom-or-bust factor to it more than most others. If they hit, it could be outstanding. If injuries continue, it could be questionable.
Grade: Good
New England
Anytime any team can add a veteran blue-chip talent like WR Randy Moss in exchange for a fourth-round pick, the draft would appear to be a success. Adding Moss and Wes Welker for picks should vastly improve the Patriots' receiving corps with proven, veteran players better-suited to digest their offense. The Patriots have the ideal environment for a versatile, back-end defender like Brandon Meriweather to succeed. The second day featured a number of players who may not otherwise have been drafted at all, such as LBs Justin Rogers and Oscar Lua. However, the Patriots do a very good job of utilizing inside information -as they clearly have done with CB Mike Richardson (who played collegiately for former Patriots coordinator Charlie Weis), Central Connecticut RB Justise Hairston (Scott Pioli's alma mater), OG Mike Elgin (coached by former Patriots colleague Kirk Ferentz) - and might hit on one of these picks as they have a history of doing.
Grade: Outstanding
New Orleans
Sean Payton seems to have a Bill Parcells type of feel for talent evaluation. WR Robert Meachem should be able to contribute right away and be an upgrade to the departed Joe Horn. CB Usama Young was a solid value in the third round and could also contribute readily as he did from Day One at Kent State. The Saints found solid depth for their offensive line and, a la Parcells, took some chances on some small-school talent, as they found in Marques Colston last year, selecting Towson OT Jermon Bushrod and Wingate (N.C.) CB David Jones, two developmental prospects with upside. Landing RB Antonio Pittman in the fourth round could turn out to be a great value. He could be one of the best No. 3 backs in the league and give Payton more options when Reggie Bush is split out wide, as he often is.
Grade: Good
New York Giants
The Giants addressed their biggest needs early, and CB Aaron Ross and USC WR Steve Smith should be able to contribute right away. Jay Alford was a reach in the third round. Zak DeOssie is a classic Tom Coughlin pick and improves the special teams. TE Kevin Boss could help replace Visanthe Shiancoe, but their final three picks - OT Adam Koets, S Michael Johnson and RB Ahmad Bradshaw - while all talented, will take a lot of intense coaching to maximize their potential, and they may never get it. With Coughlin's coaching staff, they might have a chance. Altogether, this draft would be lucky to produce more than a pair of starters, and there is little exciting about it.
Grade: Average
New York Jets
Sensing that this draft class was not very deep, the Jets may have been justified in giving up most of their late-round picks to move up and secure two players - CB Darrelle Revis and LB David Harris - who could start right away. In OT Jacob Bender, they landed a solid developmental prospect. WR Chansi Stuckey, if he can stay healthy, could turn out to be a solid, little player. Given the quality of the players they landed and the addition of RB Thomas Jones for a swap of second-round picks, this draft is more certain than most others to produce at least three starters, maybe four if Bender ever reaches his potential.
Grade: Outstanding
Oakland
Yes, JaMarcus Russell is talented, but in my humble opinion, he will never prove worthy of the first overall pick, and I think it was a big mistake for Al Davis to go against the wishes of his head coach right out of the gate. This draft seemed to fluctuate between Davis and Lane Kiffin making decisions, with TE Zach Miller, DE Quentin Moses and SS Eric Frampton better fitting the mold of high-character Kiffin selections, and WR Johnnie Lee Higgins, RB Michael Bush, CB John Bowie and DE Jay Richardson seeming more like Davis' "measurable" picks. Davis likely made them all, and like most Davis drafts, this one definitely has boom-or-bust potential. It very well may produce three starters, but with the high bust factor at the No. 1 slot, it is much too risky for my liking. When taking into consideration how they let disgruntled superstar Randy Moss walk all over them, and settled for only a fourth-round pick in return, it makes the addition of Josh McCown and Mike Williams for a fourth-rounder look average, even if Kiffin has a prior relationship with Williams that might enhance his development.
Grade: Questionable
Philadelphia
The Eagles wanted FS Brandon Meriweather and, when the Patriots beat them to the punch, chose to trade down. Selecting QB Kevin Kolb where they did, 36th overall, was not only a major-league reach but seems like an indictment of Donovan McNabb that could disrupt the chemistry of the locker room. I did not like the pick at all. The Eagles' next three picks - Notre Dame DE Victor Abiamiri, Nebraska LB Stewart Bradley and Penn State RB Tony Hunt - were all solid and add great depth and eventual starters. My favorite pick of the draft might have been CB Rashad Barksdale in the sixth round. I think the Eagles found themselves a diamond in the rough. Overall, it was a solid crop.
Grade: Good
Pittsburgh
Scheme flexibility clearly was high on the agenda of the Steelers with OLB Lawrence Timmons and DE LaMarr Woodley both becoming Steelers in the first two rounds, and they could both turn out to be versatile starters. TE Matt Spaeth perfectly fits the town of Pittsburgh and should contribute readily as a blocker in their multiple-TE packages. P Daniel Sepulveda might have been worth trading up to land, given the Steelers' punting woes. They found some solid scheme fits on the second day, and Florida WR Dallas Baker could turn out to be a bargain in the seventh round.
Grade: Good
St. Louis
The Rams first two picks were very solid. DT Adam Carriker and RB-FB Brian Leonard should make a difference from Day One. CB Jonathan Wade has the speed that defensive coordinator Jim Haslett loves, but his lack of discipline could make it difficult for him to ever be a steady pro. C Dustin Fry and OT Ken Shackleford should give the offensive line much-needed depth and versatility. Seventh-round DT Keith Jackson has a better chance to make the team than fifth-round DL Cliff Ryan. The Rams could have found better value on Day Two, but I like the two safe picks at the top.
Grade: Good
San Diego
The Chargers were not able to land their target in the first round and winded up reaching on LSU WR Craig Davis in the first, surprisingly overlooking questions about his toughness. Then, after failing to select a safety in the first, they gave up the house and grossly overpaid to move up early in the second round to select a player, S Eric Weddle, who may have fallen to them at the back end of the round, anyway. With a need at linebacker, they were able to land two big, physical, instinctive pluggers in Anthony Waters (third) and Brandon Siler (240), both of whom could contribute. TE Scott Chandler and WR Legedu Naanee have better character than talent and might make it by virtue of their work ethic. With the Chargers being one of the most talented teams in the league, they could afford to reach to fill needs, but when evaluated as a whole - including the loss of next year's third-rounder, which they sent to Chicago - the Chargers got little value.
Grade: Average
San Francisco
The Niners started out on fire when LB Patrick Willis fell to them at the 11th slot, and the decision to sacrifice a first-rounder next year to improve the offensive line with OT Joe Staley is understandable. It's even better that they were able to come back around in the second round and get the pick back from the Colts, although it will likely be at least 10 spots lower than where they will be drafting. DT Ray McDonald is an all-out warrior who plays through injuries and could prove to be an outstanding value in the third round. He fell only because of injury, not talent, and may turn out to be the Niners' equivalent of Frank Gore in this draft. WR Jason Hill could be a decent value in the third round, but like Brandon Williams in the third round last year, he could also struggle transitioning to the pro game. LB Jay Moore was a questionable selection in the fourth round, and they may have reached on S Dashon Goldson and DT-DE Joe Cohen later in the fourth. If they can surround CB Tarell Brown with the right people, he could turn out to be a steal in the fifth round. RB Thomas Clayton can be expected to wear out the coaching staff and teammates with his ego in due time. Overall, the 49ers have a good chance to land at least three starters, and securing WR Darrell Jackson for a fourth-rounder made this a very productive draft.
Grade: Outstanding
Seattle
Considering they gave up a first-rounder last fall for WR Deion Branch, who has yet to prove worthy of the pick, and traded WR Darrell Jackson for a fourth-rounder over the weekend, the Seahawks' draft needed to be outstanding to warrant a high mark. In CB Josh Wilson, OG Mansfield Wrotto and WR Courtney Taylor, the Seahawks landed three players who could become solid contributors. The rest of their draft, they bet on the come. DT Brandon Mebane looks like a reach, although GM Tim Ruskell has a good eye for finding scheme fits, and maybe Mebane will fit better than we expect. DE Baraka Atkins is a talented underachiever who might not have the passion to ever be very good. OLB Will Herring could make it on special teams and will himself into a job. Oregon WR Jordan Kent and Wake Forest OG Steve Vallos have a lot of upside to be molded. Considering the net result of their WR trades, the Seahawks may not have come out ahead.
Grade: Average
Tampa Bay
The Buccaneers did a great job of selecting scheme fits throughout the draft and definitely got better. They took a little bit of a risk with DE Gaines Adams, but he enters a good situation, learning behind Simeon Rice. Tennessee OG Arron Sears is a solid value in the second round and gives what was a very banged-up offensive line last year more versatility. Oregon State SS Sabby Piscitelli and New Mexico LB Quincy Black upgrade team speed on the back seven, and Syracuse DB Tanard Jackson provides versatility to play safety or corner, where he could excel in the Tampa-2, as could seventh-rounder Marcus Hamilton.. DT Greg Peterson is a great fit and has tremendous upside if he ever figures it out. LB Adam Hayward was a reach and could have been landed after the draft. OT Chris Denman and RB Ken Darby are better football players than athletes and could fight for jobs. This draft could produce at least three-plus starters, but it should have, considering where they were drafting. They deserve a plus for finding players who fit their scheme.
Grade: Good
Tennessee
Given the impact S Michael Griffin could have on special teams, he was a good value at No. 19 and would not have lasted much longer. RB Chris Henry has some upside but may never reach it and, in my opinion, will not prove worthy of a second-round pick. WR Paul Williams has first-day talent if the team can get it out of him. The Titans' best picks came on the second day, starting with North Carolina State C Leroy Harris, who could be a 10-year starter. Florida State WR Chris Davis could also contribute readily. Mississippi State DT Antonio Johnson, given the presence of taskmaster DL coach Jim Washburn, could prove quite worthy of a fifth-rounder. Texas Tech WR Joel Filani could make it on special teams, and in a depleted secondary, Florida CB Ryan Smith could see playing time.
Grade: Average
Washington
The Redskins landed a blue-chip talent in the first round in FS LaRon Landry. Their sixth-rounder, Pittsburgh LB H.B. Blades, may have a better chance of contributing than fifth-round LB Dallas Sartz. With depth needed in many other places, why the Redskins wasted a pick on a developmental quarterback like Jordan Palmer is questionable. Having traded away two mid-round picks (one last year, one this year) for a No. 3 receiver, Brandon Lloyd, and failing to address their need on the defensive line, the Redskins clearly do not value the draft, nor do they know how to build through it. They will struggle to win until they figure out that buying talent in the free-agent market will always force them to overpay and eliminate any chance of having depth.
Grade: Questionable
By ProFootballWeekly.com
We don't like the idea of prematurely assigning grades before the true evaluators are fairly given a chance to show whether their selections were good. There is, however, an art to understanding the value of a player and where a player could be drafted. And an art to making shrewd trades on Draft Day. Based on our analysis of the draft, we will use an abbreviated scouting scale with four terms - outstanding, good, average and questionable - to evaluate draft classes. Specific letter grades will be assigned in PFW's post-draft print edition, which will be printed next Monday.
Arizona
The philosophy of building inside out is a wise one, and the Cardinals improved both of their lines with their first two picks. Edgerrin James got a lot better when the Cardinals made their first pick, as should the rest of their elite skill talent, and DT Alan Branch will make the job of their linebackers much easier by clogging the middle. Their draft was more need-oriented than value-oriented, as evidenced by the fact they passed on Adrian Peterson, and they may have found potential starters in ILB Buster Davis in the third round and TE Ben Patrick in the seventh. WR Steve Breaston should contribute on special teams.
Grade: Good
Atlanta
Bobby Petrino's first order of business was to get bigger up front, and with the selections of DE Jamaal Anderson and OG Justin Blalock, they did. Anderson has a lot of upside and filled a pressing need. I think they found one of the draft's more underrated gems in the fourth round in South Florida OLB Stephen Nicholas, but the rest of the draft was shaky. CB Chris Houston and Laurent Robinson, at best, will be average pros, in my opinion. They acquired QB Matt Schaub through a trade and acquired two second-rounders, including one next year, which make this draft look better. But Washburn DT Trey Lewis and Auburn CB David Irons could struggle to make the team. Overall, this draft has boom-or-bust potential and featured more risk on the first day than I'd like. Considering where they were drafting, they could have fared better.
Grade: Average
Baltimore
Ben Grubbs has Pro Bowl potential and with the price of guards rising and the Ravens' needs inside, he should start from Day One and develop quickly, improving Ozzie Newsome's outstanding track record of first-round hits. In Yamon Figurs, the Ravens landed an outstanding special-teams player at the least, and a potentially game-breaking receiver. Marshal Yanda should provide depth on the offensive line, inside and outside. OLB Antwan Barnes is not as big as Adalius Thomas, but he is a phenomenal athlete with potential to develop into a jack-of-all-trades. FB Le'Ron McClain should be able to replace Ovie Mughelli with little drop-off. QB Troy Smith and OLB Prescott Burgess have developmental potential. Given that they also acquired Willis McGahee in exchange for picks, the Ravens improved through the draft as they seem to do every year.
Grade: Outstanding
Buffalo
One would expect the Bills would have learned from their mistakes in the past and not tried to fit an inner-city kid into the humble life of Buffalo, but after sending Willis McGahee packing, the Bills drafted a very similar player in Marshawn Lynch, and the same issues they had with McGahee could resurface quickly. Ignoring their need at cornerback and passing on both Darrelle Revis and Leon Hall could prove to be costly. Although their scheme does not call for shutdown cornerbacks, coming away without a cornerback seems odd. Their first four picks all have eventual starter potential, but four starters should be on par for an average football team. S John Wendling and FB-TE Derek Schouman are better in workouts than in pads. Taking a chance on a shaky-character talent such as DE C.J. Ah You, even if only in the seventh round, would seem to go against Marv Levy's philosophy. Given that they did not come away with much in exchange for dealing McGahee, this draft does not look like it will be very good in the long run.
Grade: Average
Carolina
The Panthers' draft strikes me as one of the best in the league. Trading down in the first round and still being able to land Jon Beason, a versatile linebacker with Pro Bowl potential who can start from Day One, was a sharp move. Drafting WR Dwayne Jarrett, with former Trojan Keyshawn Johnson able to groom him, and with Steve Smith opposite him, could turn out to be the perfect situation for Jarrett. C Ryan Kalil vastly upgrades the offensive line and could be a 10-year starter and future All-Pro. He could make the type of impact Nick Mangold did as a rookie in New York a year ago. DE Charles Johnson has the motor and tenacity to start right away if Mike Rucker is not ready. On the second day, the Panthers seemed to concentrate on upgrading the bottom of their roster with core special-teams-type talent. Ryne Robinson is an exciting returner. Dante Rosario and Tim Shaw could play on every special teams.
Grade: Outstanding
Chicago
Landing the draft's top tight end after failing to address the need a year ago and giving Rex Grossman another playmaker can upgrade the offense. However, the Bears reached with their next three picks and likely could have landed DE Dan Bazuin, RB Garrett Wolfe and LB Michael Okwo at least a round later, if not two. Bazuin plays with great energy, but he is not the type of athlete it would seem Lovie Smith has tended to favor. Wolfe, while he has great vision and run instincts, is no Warrick Dunn, but in a situational role, he could excel. Okwo fits the scheme and provides an option if Lance Briggs chooses not to play. OG Josh Beekman could eventually will himself into the starting lineup. The Bears may have found some secondary depth on the second day with DBs Kevin Payne, Corey Graham and Trumaine McBride. Robbing San Diego by trading the 37th overall pick and acquiring four picks, including a third-rounder next year, may have been their most valuable move of the day. Altogether, drafting where they were, this draft could eventually turn out three starters and has some promise despite too many reaches.
Grade: Good
Cincinnati
Character was clearly weighted more heavily this year, as the Bengals addressed some primary needs and landed as clean of a class as they have in a long time. CB Leon Hall could start right way. RB Kenny Irons could be groomed. SS Marvin White could turn out to be a solid pick if he could adapt to the scheme. QB Jeff Rowe has developmental potential. Matt Toeaina should be able to contribute in a rotation. OG Dan Santucci could provide versatile interior depth. And S Nedu Ndukwe could make it on special teams. All seven players could make the roster.
Grade: Good
Cleveland
The Browns clearly made the right decision to pass on Brady Quinn, and it made a lot of sense to mortgage next year's first-rounder to allow Quinn to develop sooner. He could start from Day One and could prove to be an outstanding value where he was drafted. Making the pick more exciting is finally having a bookend to keep their quarterback healthy. CB Eric Wright, if he stays out of trouble, has potential. Browns GM Phil Savage, who is adept at finding scheme fits, landed many on the second day, finding some big-bodied defensive linemen (Melila Purcell and Chase Pittman) who can stack the point, a zone corner (Brandon McDonald) and a potential returner (Syndric Steptoe). The first two picks were great, but the rest of the draft was just OK.
Grade: Good
Dallas
Jerry Jones was at his best, wheeling and dealing, and being able to land what could be a high first-round pick next year from the Browns and moving back up to secure the pass rusher they coveted. That was impressive. Anthony Spencer could be paired with DeMarcus Ware to bring a ton of pressure off the edges. Investing in their offensive line was wise, and landing James Marten in the third round and Doug Free in the fourth could improve the athleticism on their offensive line and provide much-needed depth. Washington QB Isaiah Stanback is a Jerry Jones type of quarterback, and he should be able to contribute as a receiver and provide depth under center.
Grade: Outstanding
Denver
The Broncos have historically been bold going after their target, and they had reason to believe that Cincinnati was interested in Jarvis Moss. Marvin Lewis was infatuated with Moss' talent. But collectively, with the character concerns present, the Bengals had decided to address their secondary first, as did the Jaguars, and the Broncos did not have to give up the back half of their draft to get him. Nor did they need to give up three more picks, including a third-rounder next year, to land DT Marcus Thomas, a player with very shaky character who very well could have been available a round or two later. Losing George Foster, Tatum Bell and a fifth-rounder in a pre-draft trade for CB Dré Bly and a sixth would appear to be a wash, given the inconsistencies of all three players, especially given that Foster and Bell had worn out their welcome. The two best picks of the day were DE Tim Crowder, who very well might turn out to be a more consistent and better pro than Moss, and OT Ryan Harris, who might start from Day One in their scheme. If Shanahan can keep Moss and Thomas in line, he could have four starters, but the Broncos get downgraded for unnecessary trades.
Grade: Good
Detroit
Matt Millen deserves credit for having the confidence to follow his draft board and select their highest-rated player despite it being a receiver. Calvin Johnson could make Jon Kitna, Roy Williams and the Lions' running game a lot better. However, I do not think Drew Stanton will ever develop into a reliable starter, and Ikaika Alama-Francis is an underachiever with durability issues - both reaches in the second round. DB Gerald Alexander, if used properly, could be a solid pro. Their best pick on the second day was selecting Alabama CB Ramzee Robinson as Mr. Irrelevant. He has a better chance to contribute than fourth-round CB A.J. Davis. Altogether, they might land three starters, but not in the places where they typically would come, and considering where they were drafting at the top of the order, their draft could have been better.
Grade: Average
Green Bay
DT Justin Harrell's stock had steadily been climbing in the postseason, but the Packers very likely could have traded down and still landed him ahead of the Chiefs. Second-rounder Brandon Jackson and seventh-rounder DeShawn Wynn both fit their stretch running game. San Jose State WR James Jones was a reach in the third round. Fifth-rounder David Clowney could have a better chance of contributing than Jones. Landing a placekicker as strong-legged as Mason Crosby in the sixth round could turn out to be a steal. The best thing the Packers may have done, as they tend to do every year, was trade down several times and acquire value in the form of more picks. Missouri Southern OT Allen Barbre fits their zone blocking scheme and could be a versatile backup. Overall, considering how many picks they secured, they tended to increase their chances of hitting on at least three starters.
Grade: Good
Houston
DT Amobi Okoye is clearly talented, but whether he is able to maintain his focus remains a question mark that definitely will not be fairly decided for three years. The Texans had planned to trade down until Okoye slid to them, and the concept of improving their pass rush by creating an interior pass rush to free up Mario Williams and get after Peyton Manning is a good one. Landing a receiver such as Jacoby Jones who can also contribute in the return game should help Andre Johnson, and South Carolina CB Fred Bennett was a good value in the fourth round. They may have found some depth on the second day, and Brandon Frye is a very good fit for their blocking scheme. Potentially landing their quarterback of the future (Matt Schaub) via pre-draft trade is what could make this draft a good one.
Grade: Good
Indianapolis
With their first pick, the Colts may have reached on a receiver who may never be more than a great No. 2, but it worked when they drafted Reggie Wayne at the back end of the first round in 2001 and they desperately needed a slot receiver. OG-OT Tony Ugoh is set up to fail with a demanding O-line coach who will struggle to tolerate his ways. With their next four picks, the Colts found great scheme fits in Cal CB Daymeion Hughes, Ohio State DT Quinn Pitcock, Troy S Brannon Condren and Pittsburgh LB Clint Sessions, and they could all reap the benefits of playing in Indy, as could seventh-rounder Keyunta Dawson.
Grade: Good
Jacksonville
The Jaguars made a wise decision to trade down in the first round and still land their target, FS Reggie Nelson, but with Brady Quinn available and no surefire solution at quarterback, they made a mistake by passing on Quinn. OLB Justin Durant is a good fit for their scheme but could have been had a round later. Central Florida WR Mike Walker fits the big, athletic receiver profile they desire. Given their need at punter, they were not out of line making one the first at his position drafted this year, and Adam Podlesh should be solid. Missouri DE Brian Smith was a big-time reach, but the Jaguars found some solid value in Purdue OG Uche Nwaneri, Wake Forest S Josh Gattis and Notre Dame DT Derek Landri, all of whom could make the team.
Grade: Questionable
Kansas City
The Chiefs did a good job of filling needs and adding depth to their roster. They hit on their first two picks (WR Dwayne Bowe and DT-DE Turk McBride), but their third (DT Tank Tyler) is likely to keep their percentage of hitting on defensive tackles low. Selecting a kicker when there was no great need is curious, unless the Chiefs know something about Lawrence Tynes we don't. RB Kolby Smith, TCU OT Herbert Taylor and Whitworth (Wash.) TE Michael Allan could make the team. Not addressing a serious O-line need sooner is also curious.
Grade: Average
Miami
This draft, more than any other, stood out as being poor. Ted Ginn is hurt entering the league and, at 177 pounds, will likely have the same problems in the pros. If the Dolphins wanted him, they could have traded back a ways and still got him. Passing on Brady Quinn for John Beck, an NFL backup at best, is questionable, although it may be somewhat understandable if they are still able to land a veteran starter such as Trent Green. Samson Satele fits their power blocking game, but he's raw as a run blocker, and RB Lorenzo Booker could be a solid complement to the overweight Ronnie Brown. There was not much to like about the Dolphins six second-day choices. Paul Soliai is a classic underachiever, and Reagan Mauia was a reach.
Grade: Questionable
Minnesota
Anytime a team is able to land an elite, blue-chip talent (RB Adrian Peterson) at the No. 7 slot, its draft instantly looks like a success. That the Vikings were also able to come away with potential starters such as WR Sidney Rice, CB Marcus McCauley and DE Brian Robison, given their lack of depth, their draft looks even better. A need-oriented drafting team, the Vikings filled many needs and may have added some depth on the second day with WR Aundrae Allison, LB Rufus Alexander, Coastal Carolina QB Tyler Thigpen and return specialist Chandler Williams. Given the injury concerns of Peterson and Rice, McCauley's confidence issue and the mental makeup of Allison, however, this draft does have a boom-or-bust factor to it more than most others. If they hit, it could be outstanding. If injuries continue, it could be questionable.
Grade: Good
New England
Anytime any team can add a veteran blue-chip talent like WR Randy Moss in exchange for a fourth-round pick, the draft would appear to be a success. Adding Moss and Wes Welker for picks should vastly improve the Patriots' receiving corps with proven, veteran players better-suited to digest their offense. The Patriots have the ideal environment for a versatile, back-end defender like Brandon Meriweather to succeed. The second day featured a number of players who may not otherwise have been drafted at all, such as LBs Justin Rogers and Oscar Lua. However, the Patriots do a very good job of utilizing inside information -as they clearly have done with CB Mike Richardson (who played collegiately for former Patriots coordinator Charlie Weis), Central Connecticut RB Justise Hairston (Scott Pioli's alma mater), OG Mike Elgin (coached by former Patriots colleague Kirk Ferentz) - and might hit on one of these picks as they have a history of doing.
Grade: Outstanding
New Orleans
Sean Payton seems to have a Bill Parcells type of feel for talent evaluation. WR Robert Meachem should be able to contribute right away and be an upgrade to the departed Joe Horn. CB Usama Young was a solid value in the third round and could also contribute readily as he did from Day One at Kent State. The Saints found solid depth for their offensive line and, a la Parcells, took some chances on some small-school talent, as they found in Marques Colston last year, selecting Towson OT Jermon Bushrod and Wingate (N.C.) CB David Jones, two developmental prospects with upside. Landing RB Antonio Pittman in the fourth round could turn out to be a great value. He could be one of the best No. 3 backs in the league and give Payton more options when Reggie Bush is split out wide, as he often is.
Grade: Good
New York Giants
The Giants addressed their biggest needs early, and CB Aaron Ross and USC WR Steve Smith should be able to contribute right away. Jay Alford was a reach in the third round. Zak DeOssie is a classic Tom Coughlin pick and improves the special teams. TE Kevin Boss could help replace Visanthe Shiancoe, but their final three picks - OT Adam Koets, S Michael Johnson and RB Ahmad Bradshaw - while all talented, will take a lot of intense coaching to maximize their potential, and they may never get it. With Coughlin's coaching staff, they might have a chance. Altogether, this draft would be lucky to produce more than a pair of starters, and there is little exciting about it.
Grade: Average
New York Jets
Sensing that this draft class was not very deep, the Jets may have been justified in giving up most of their late-round picks to move up and secure two players - CB Darrelle Revis and LB David Harris - who could start right away. In OT Jacob Bender, they landed a solid developmental prospect. WR Chansi Stuckey, if he can stay healthy, could turn out to be a solid, little player. Given the quality of the players they landed and the addition of RB Thomas Jones for a swap of second-round picks, this draft is more certain than most others to produce at least three starters, maybe four if Bender ever reaches his potential.
Grade: Outstanding
Oakland
Yes, JaMarcus Russell is talented, but in my humble opinion, he will never prove worthy of the first overall pick, and I think it was a big mistake for Al Davis to go against the wishes of his head coach right out of the gate. This draft seemed to fluctuate between Davis and Lane Kiffin making decisions, with TE Zach Miller, DE Quentin Moses and SS Eric Frampton better fitting the mold of high-character Kiffin selections, and WR Johnnie Lee Higgins, RB Michael Bush, CB John Bowie and DE Jay Richardson seeming more like Davis' "measurable" picks. Davis likely made them all, and like most Davis drafts, this one definitely has boom-or-bust potential. It very well may produce three starters, but with the high bust factor at the No. 1 slot, it is much too risky for my liking. When taking into consideration how they let disgruntled superstar Randy Moss walk all over them, and settled for only a fourth-round pick in return, it makes the addition of Josh McCown and Mike Williams for a fourth-rounder look average, even if Kiffin has a prior relationship with Williams that might enhance his development.
Grade: Questionable
Philadelphia
The Eagles wanted FS Brandon Meriweather and, when the Patriots beat them to the punch, chose to trade down. Selecting QB Kevin Kolb where they did, 36th overall, was not only a major-league reach but seems like an indictment of Donovan McNabb that could disrupt the chemistry of the locker room. I did not like the pick at all. The Eagles' next three picks - Notre Dame DE Victor Abiamiri, Nebraska LB Stewart Bradley and Penn State RB Tony Hunt - were all solid and add great depth and eventual starters. My favorite pick of the draft might have been CB Rashad Barksdale in the sixth round. I think the Eagles found themselves a diamond in the rough. Overall, it was a solid crop.
Grade: Good
Pittsburgh
Scheme flexibility clearly was high on the agenda of the Steelers with OLB Lawrence Timmons and DE LaMarr Woodley both becoming Steelers in the first two rounds, and they could both turn out to be versatile starters. TE Matt Spaeth perfectly fits the town of Pittsburgh and should contribute readily as a blocker in their multiple-TE packages. P Daniel Sepulveda might have been worth trading up to land, given the Steelers' punting woes. They found some solid scheme fits on the second day, and Florida WR Dallas Baker could turn out to be a bargain in the seventh round.
Grade: Good
St. Louis
The Rams first two picks were very solid. DT Adam Carriker and RB-FB Brian Leonard should make a difference from Day One. CB Jonathan Wade has the speed that defensive coordinator Jim Haslett loves, but his lack of discipline could make it difficult for him to ever be a steady pro. C Dustin Fry and OT Ken Shackleford should give the offensive line much-needed depth and versatility. Seventh-round DT Keith Jackson has a better chance to make the team than fifth-round DL Cliff Ryan. The Rams could have found better value on Day Two, but I like the two safe picks at the top.
Grade: Good
San Diego
The Chargers were not able to land their target in the first round and winded up reaching on LSU WR Craig Davis in the first, surprisingly overlooking questions about his toughness. Then, after failing to select a safety in the first, they gave up the house and grossly overpaid to move up early in the second round to select a player, S Eric Weddle, who may have fallen to them at the back end of the round, anyway. With a need at linebacker, they were able to land two big, physical, instinctive pluggers in Anthony Waters (third) and Brandon Siler (240), both of whom could contribute. TE Scott Chandler and WR Legedu Naanee have better character than talent and might make it by virtue of their work ethic. With the Chargers being one of the most talented teams in the league, they could afford to reach to fill needs, but when evaluated as a whole - including the loss of next year's third-rounder, which they sent to Chicago - the Chargers got little value.
Grade: Average
San Francisco
The Niners started out on fire when LB Patrick Willis fell to them at the 11th slot, and the decision to sacrifice a first-rounder next year to improve the offensive line with OT Joe Staley is understandable. It's even better that they were able to come back around in the second round and get the pick back from the Colts, although it will likely be at least 10 spots lower than where they will be drafting. DT Ray McDonald is an all-out warrior who plays through injuries and could prove to be an outstanding value in the third round. He fell only because of injury, not talent, and may turn out to be the Niners' equivalent of Frank Gore in this draft. WR Jason Hill could be a decent value in the third round, but like Brandon Williams in the third round last year, he could also struggle transitioning to the pro game. LB Jay Moore was a questionable selection in the fourth round, and they may have reached on S Dashon Goldson and DT-DE Joe Cohen later in the fourth. If they can surround CB Tarell Brown with the right people, he could turn out to be a steal in the fifth round. RB Thomas Clayton can be expected to wear out the coaching staff and teammates with his ego in due time. Overall, the 49ers have a good chance to land at least three starters, and securing WR Darrell Jackson for a fourth-rounder made this a very productive draft.
Grade: Outstanding
Seattle
Considering they gave up a first-rounder last fall for WR Deion Branch, who has yet to prove worthy of the pick, and traded WR Darrell Jackson for a fourth-rounder over the weekend, the Seahawks' draft needed to be outstanding to warrant a high mark. In CB Josh Wilson, OG Mansfield Wrotto and WR Courtney Taylor, the Seahawks landed three players who could become solid contributors. The rest of their draft, they bet on the come. DT Brandon Mebane looks like a reach, although GM Tim Ruskell has a good eye for finding scheme fits, and maybe Mebane will fit better than we expect. DE Baraka Atkins is a talented underachiever who might not have the passion to ever be very good. OLB Will Herring could make it on special teams and will himself into a job. Oregon WR Jordan Kent and Wake Forest OG Steve Vallos have a lot of upside to be molded. Considering the net result of their WR trades, the Seahawks may not have come out ahead.
Grade: Average
Tampa Bay
The Buccaneers did a great job of selecting scheme fits throughout the draft and definitely got better. They took a little bit of a risk with DE Gaines Adams, but he enters a good situation, learning behind Simeon Rice. Tennessee OG Arron Sears is a solid value in the second round and gives what was a very banged-up offensive line last year more versatility. Oregon State SS Sabby Piscitelli and New Mexico LB Quincy Black upgrade team speed on the back seven, and Syracuse DB Tanard Jackson provides versatility to play safety or corner, where he could excel in the Tampa-2, as could seventh-rounder Marcus Hamilton.. DT Greg Peterson is a great fit and has tremendous upside if he ever figures it out. LB Adam Hayward was a reach and could have been landed after the draft. OT Chris Denman and RB Ken Darby are better football players than athletes and could fight for jobs. This draft could produce at least three-plus starters, but it should have, considering where they were drafting. They deserve a plus for finding players who fit their scheme.
Grade: Good
Tennessee
Given the impact S Michael Griffin could have on special teams, he was a good value at No. 19 and would not have lasted much longer. RB Chris Henry has some upside but may never reach it and, in my opinion, will not prove worthy of a second-round pick. WR Paul Williams has first-day talent if the team can get it out of him. The Titans' best picks came on the second day, starting with North Carolina State C Leroy Harris, who could be a 10-year starter. Florida State WR Chris Davis could also contribute readily. Mississippi State DT Antonio Johnson, given the presence of taskmaster DL coach Jim Washburn, could prove quite worthy of a fifth-rounder. Texas Tech WR Joel Filani could make it on special teams, and in a depleted secondary, Florida CB Ryan Smith could see playing time.
Grade: Average
Washington
The Redskins landed a blue-chip talent in the first round in FS LaRon Landry. Their sixth-rounder, Pittsburgh LB H.B. Blades, may have a better chance of contributing than fifth-round LB Dallas Sartz. With depth needed in many other places, why the Redskins wasted a pick on a developmental quarterback like Jordan Palmer is questionable. Having traded away two mid-round picks (one last year, one this year) for a No. 3 receiver, Brandon Lloyd, and failing to address their need on the defensive line, the Redskins clearly do not value the draft, nor do they know how to build through it. They will struggle to win until they figure out that buying talent in the free-agent market will always force them to overpay and eliminate any chance of having depth.
Grade: Questionable