bigkev401
04-25-2006, 04:55 PM
I do believe that the guy that wrote this was trying to be serious, which is the hysterical part. it was updated today, and it still has denver picking at 22. but its what he says about our pick that made me post this.
http://dumpingpost.com/pb/wp_c47f358d/wp_c47f358d.html?0.36014620130164643
For now, here’s our NFL mock draft courtesy of the guys at dumpingpost.com
1st Round
1 Houston Texans - Reggie Bush, USC, RB, 6-0, 200 lbs
Houston needs to start winning. What better for a team that has lost 23 games in 2 years than to get a guy that has only lost 1 game in the same time frame? The Houston Texans had problems on both sides of the ball. Defensively they could not stop the run and were on the field way too much. Offensively they could not stay on the field long enough. Mainly they could not win the ball control game. David Carr has proven that he has the skills but cannot handle the pressure of carrying the team. Bush carried the USC Trojans for 2 years, and he will take the pressure off Carr and the defense by helping the Texans control the ball more than their opponents.
2 New Orleans Saints - AJ Hawk, Ohio St, LB, 6-1, 238 lbs
I don’t necessarily agree with the signing of Drew Brees, but at least now the Saints can use their draft pick on the best defender in the 2006 class. Scouts are comparing AJ Hawk to Brian Urlacher, which is exactly what the New Orleans defense needs. Hawk has sideline-to-sideline speed, solid tackling skills, and winner-like leadership. I have heard rumors that the Saints might trade down, but I am not sure they will get the deal they want. Hawk will not only fill a major hole in their D, but will make each player better.
3 Tennessee Titans - Matt Leinart, USC, QB, 6-5, 225 lbs
Goods things happen to those who wait. With the Saints choosing Brees, the top QB has fallen into Tennessee’s lap. If I were Fisher and Chow, I would pick Leinart as my QB for the future. QB might not be the immediate need for the Titans, but with the QB position solidified for the future, the team is free to make moves helping other pressing needs like defense. The winning ways of Leinart and Norm Chow will reign again – this time in the NFL.
4 New York Jets - Mario Williams, NC State, DE, 6-7, 291 lbs
The New York Jets have had one of the most impressive 2006 off seasons. They have had a little help from others, like the Siants, and have also help themselves but trading DE John Abraham and getting another 1st rounder, 29th overall, in return. With the 4th pick, the Jets will replace John Abraham and choose DE Mario Williams. With the Saints choosing Brees, Leinart slips to the Titans, and the Jets wind up with the best DE in the draft. Williams will not only replace Abraham, but will also increase the production at that spot. Mario is the most over-looked stud in this draft. He is 6-7, 291 lbs, and can run the 40 faster than most linebackers. In his final year at NC State he racked up an impressive 62 tackles, 24 for loss, and 14.5 sacks. I have heard that new head coach wants to use a 3-4 defensive scheme with the Jets. Mario Williams is also perfect for this role because scouts are comparing him to Julius Peppers or Richard Seymour. No matter what defense the Jets play, they need a freakish defender like Mario Williams to win more games. I have heard some scouts say that OT D’Brickashaw Ferguson should be chosen here; but I don’t see the logic. Mario Williams has way to much potential to pass up, and plus the Jets have another 1st rounder to get a stud at offensive tackle.
5 Green Bay Packers - D’Brickashaw Ferguson, Virginia, OL, 6-6, 297 lbs
Green Bay has not drafted an offensive lineman in the first round since 1996, which leads me to believe they should choose the highest rated tackle since Orlando Pace. In 2005, the Packers were plagued by turnovers and a non-existent running game. Brett Favre had one of his highest totals in INTs and their top 2 running backs were injured for the year. The Pack will continue their current downfall with this current weak O-line. The winning formula is simple: play good defense, run the play, and give Brett Favre time to throw. This formula will be more complete with D’Brick in the fold.
6 San Francisco 49ers - LenDale White, USC, RB, 6-2, 235 lbs
The 49ers will not be good this year. I can’t believe they did well enough to even get the 6th pick this year. In my opinion they out-performed themselves to get the 6th pick. The next 2 years will be rebuilding time, therefore they need use each pick to take the best player available. In this draft, NFL-ready RB’s are rare, and good defensive players are many. The 49ers should address the RB problem now in the 1st round, and use their 2nd rounder to pick a defensive player. I have a feeling this team will have a top 5 pick next year, in which case they can go defense in the 1st round. As for now, LenDale will be a touchdown machine for years to come, just like he was at USC. White has potential to be the next Shaun Alexander.
7 Oakland Raiders - Vince Young, Texas, QB, 6-5, 229 lbs
The Raiders have made it obvious that Kerry Collins will not be the QB of tomorrow. Therefore Vince Young is a perfect fit. I said before that Young is too risky, but in Al Davis’ eyes nothing is “too risky.” Young is a freak of nature, and in my opinion the best college football player I have ever seen. In his last year at Texas, he completed over 65% of his passes, threw for over 3,000 yards, ran for over 1,000, and finished with 38 total TD’s. Young thrives in an offense that puts him in control, and the Raiders offense will fit into his strengths. With LaMont Jordan, Randy Moss, Joey Porter, Courtney Anderson, and Robert Gallery, Young’s potential will be maximized. Young will be the Raiders’ needed spark to push them to the next level. I know one thing; I wouldn’t want to play against Young and those weapons.
8 Buffalo Bills - Haloti Ngata, Oregon, DT, 6-5, 338 lbs
Buffalo was the second worst team against the run in 2005. Ever since Pat Williams left, there have been more holes on the D-line than in a block of Swiss cheese. Now with Lawyer Milloy possibly leaving, the Bills need a big physical presence on defense. At 6-5 and 338 pounds, Ngata more than fits that hole, (probably many more). Last year, Ngata received double-teams almost every snap, and still had 60 tackles and 3 sacks. Out of every draftee this year, Ngata might have the biggest impact this year.
9 Detroit Lions - Michael Huff, Texas, CB/S, 6-1, 205 lbs
The best off-season move might have been adding Mike Martz as the Lions offense coordinator. Putting Martz with those WRs is like giving nuclear bombs to G.W… simply dangerous! Martz will also improve Harrington’s decision-making. On the other side of the ball, however, is a different story. They need a player that can jump in and be a leader. Michael Huff is that guy. He was the glue on D for the national champions. Along with his versatility, Huff will bring much needed leadership to a poor Detroit Lions defense.
10 Arizona Cardinals - Jay Cutler, Vanderbilt, QB, 6-3, 225 lbs
Why not RB you ask…because they wasted a top-pick last year on one. I would give Arrington one more year before I replace him. A more pressing need is QB, and Jay Cutler is a perfect fit. Cutler is going to have the best job in the NFL. He will be the gunslinger to the best WR-core in the league. However, I am not one of those crazies that say Cutler is the next John Elway. I think he has physical talent to be a top tier QB, but his weakness will be his decision making. Lucky for Cutler, it doesn’t matter which WR he decides to throw to because each WR will bail him out of trouble.
11 St. Louis Rams - Jimmy Williams, Virginia Tech, CB/S, 6-3, 206 lbs
The Rams have proven they can score, but have not proven they can stop the opposition from doing the same. Recently, the Rams lost SS Archuleta, but signed Corey Chavous from the Vikings. The Rams have also added Will Witherspoon from Carolina. With Chavous, Witherspoon, and now by adding Jimmy Williams, the center and foundation of the defense will be much improved. Williams is very versatile; he has the 40-yard speed of under 4.5 seconds to play corner, and the strength of 6-3 and 206 lbs to play safety. He is the best defensive player available at this point, and that is exactly what the Rams need.
12 Cleveland Browns - Tye Hill, Clemson, CB, 5-10, 185 lbs
In Romeo Crennel’s defense, DT, OLBs, and cover CBs are the key. In New England, Romeo’s defense was performing at its best when Ted Washington was DT, Willie McGinest was the OLB/DE, and Ty Law was the shut down corner. In 2006, Romeo will have close to the winning formula he had in New England. Recently the Browns signed Ted Washington and Willie McGinest. The only missing piece is a shutdown corner; and that is where Tye Hill comes in to play. Hill is the best cover CB in the draft. He has amazing speed and great knowledge of the game, which is needed in Romeo’s schemes. The Browns were last in sacks in 2005. McGinest and Washington will improve that stat in obvious ways, but Hill will be the guy that gives the D-line team to get to the QB. In the end, the overall defense will be much improved.
13 Baltimore Ravens – Brodrick Bunkley, Florida State, DT, 6-4, 296 lbs
The biggest knock on the Ravens last year was their offense. That is because Boller was too young, and Jamal Lewis was hurt. Now that Boller has been groomed into a more experienced QB, and Lewis was signed to a new contract, the Ravens offense will be much improved from last year. So now that their biggest problem is solved, the Ravens need to solve their 2nd biggest problem, which was D-line. The Ravens have not had a dominant player on the D-line for too long. Bunkley fixes this problem. He is a lot like Richard Seymour, meaning he can play both DE and DT. With Bunkley, the already good Ravens D will be that much better for years to come.
14 Philadelphia Eagles - Manny Lawson, NC State, DE/OLB, 6-6, 245 lbs
Philly could choose a WR here, but defense is a more important issue. Philly was toward the bottom of the NFL in sacks last year. I realize that Manny Lawson might not be as high on your charts, but after the combine, which he ran the 40 in 4.43 seconds, I am convinced that Lawson is the second best DE prospect in the draft. He has the combination of size and speed that will fit perfectly into Jim Johnson’s blitz filled defensive schemes. Lawson will be a triple threat as a pass rusher, run stuffer, and in pass coverage. The Eagles were close to last in sacks in 2005. Lawson will improve that stat, as well as the overall defense.
15 Denver Broncos (from Atlanta Falcons) - Vernon Davis, Maryland, TE, 6-3, 255 lbs
The Denver Broncos luck out and move up 14 spots by trading with the Atlanta Falcons. Denver’s needs are slim. During the off-season they solidified their defensive line by adding Kenard Lang and signing Gerard Warren. So the Broncos will use their first rounders for offensive help. If Vernon Davis is still available, the Broncos should take the TE from Maryland because he will automatically improve the offensive arsenal. With Rod Smith getting older, and TE Jeb Putzier’s release, Vernon Davis will help improve the future of the Broncos O. If Vernon Davis is already off the board, than I expect the Broncos to go with a WR or the best available CB/S.
16 Miami Dolphins - Chad Greenway, Iowa, LB, 6-4, 243 lbs
Nick Saban transformed the Dolphins into a winning team in 2005. But the transformation is not complete. Saban has said he wants to move to a 3-4 defense. With all the free agent moves the Dolphins have made, adding QB Culpepper, OT Sheldon, and CBs Allen and Hill, the team should expand their arsenal at OLB. Chad Greenway would be the perfect fit based on these needs. Greenway is perfect for the 3-4 defense. He is strong enough to stop the run, and quick enough to be effective as a pass rusher. Greenway will allow Miami’s defensive coordinator to run more diverse schemes. If Greenway plays up to potential, I think Miami is the favorite to win the AFC East. The Dolphins could also go for DT Gabe Watson here, but Keith Traylor and Manuel Wright are fine for now.
17 Minnesota Vikings - Darnell Bing, USC, SS, 6-2, 220 lbs
I have to say the Vikings defense is one of the better defenses based on potential. They used free agency and the draft last year to improve their defense from worst to middle of the pack. The Vikings should continue to improve their defense. This year they lost Corey Chavous to St. Louis. The Vikings need a replacement, and also a player that will be the glue in the secondary. Darnell Bing was just that at USC for 3 years, while obtaining All-American honors in 2005. Bing is a playmaker and a leader and is exactly what the Vikings secondary needs.
18 Dallas Cowboys - Winston Justice, USC, OL, 6-6, 305 lbs
The Dallas Cowboys were one of the worst at protecting their QB last year by giving up 50 sacks in 2005. That is not typical for a Bill Parcell’s team. Bill will immediately fix this problem and choose the 2rd best O-lineman in the draft. Justice has the strength to rack up the pancakes, and the speed to block down field. He helped Leinert and Bush become one of the highest scoring tandems in college. He will bring the same protection and dominance to Dallas.
19 San Diego Chargers - Ashton Youboty, Ohio St., CB, 6-1, 190 lbs
San Diego’s weakness in 2005 was their inability to create turnovers. They were close to the bottom of the league in interceptions and forced fumbles. The GM for the Chargers has been quoted as saying he wants to beef up the secondary. With this main goal in mind, I would choose Ohio States’ Ashton Youboty. He has the potential to be like his old teammate Chris Gamble. Youboty has the special package of size and speed, which not many CB’s have today. With the addition of ex-Panther free agent Marlon McCree, the Chargers goal will be accomplished: a strong and feared secondary.
20 Kansas City Chiefs - DeMeco Ryans, Alabama, LB, 6-2, 230 lbs
KC’s offense is one of the most dangerous in the league; their defense however is not. The Chiefs offense can actually reveal the problem of the D. KC’s offense strives on speed and aggressiveness. This is what the D lacks…SPEED. The D needs an LB with sideline-to-sideline speed, and at the same time a big time sack threat. This hole is filled by DeMeco Ryans. DeMeco was the SEC Defensive Player of the Year. His 40 time was 4.35 seconds. Ryans will replace Shawn Barber, who was recently cut, and bring some much-needed speed to the defense. Ryans is drawing comparisons to Derrick Brooks of Tampa Bay. Sounds good to me!
21 New England Patriots – Abdul Hodge, Iowa, ILB, 6-1, 236 lbs
The biggest needs for the Pats this year are at LB, CB, S. For what is left on the board, Abdul Hodge has the most value. Hodge is the top MLB in this year’s draft. In 2005 he teamed with Chad Greenway in forming one of the top LB cores in college football. Last year, the Patriots showed their defensive weakness when losing Teddy Bruschi. The Pats need to add depth to the MLB position, which will let Vrabel move back to his more natural position of OLB. Hodge might not be this high on most boards, but the Pats never follow normal prospect ranking. Belicheck uses draft picks to fix the team’s problems. This year will be more of the same when the Pats choose Abdul Hodge to be their MLB for the future.
22 Denver Broncos - Chad Jackson, Florida, WR, 6-0, 210 lbs
With the first of two picks, the Broncos will choose the best WR in the draft to be the future replacement for Rod Smith. Chad Jackson has good size, but even better speed (ran the 40 in 4.32 seconds). He is a big-time playmaker, but can also be the ball control receiver the Broncos like to utilize. Jackson will provide more fire power to the Broncos O which stalled last year against Pit in the AFC Championship.
23 Tampa Bay Buccaneers - Marcus McNeil, Auburn, OL, 6-8, 336 lbs
Tampa Bay needs beef on the O-line. Tampa’s offense stalled many times last year because of sacks, and rushes for no gains. Their O-line was consistently getting pushed back. A good example was when the Bucs played at New England. Tampa gave up 7 sacks, and had an average per rush of 1.7. Also, if Williams is going to be carrying the ball between 25-30 times a game, he is going to need some help. McNeil was the protecting force behind Williams, and Ronnie Brown at Auburn 2 years ago. He has great size, and is labeled the best right tackle in the draft. Marcus will lead the way for Cadillac just like he did in college. Another possible pick would be TE Marcedes Lewis, but the draft is too deep for TEs to choose Lewis in the 1st round.
24 Cincinnati Bengals - Mathias Kiwanuka, BC, DE, 6-5, 265 lbs
Cincy’s head coach Marvin Lewis has done wonders with improving the Bengals D. He must stick true to this goal and now improve his defensive line. His secondary is amazing, racking up a league leading 31 Ints, but the sack volume and run defense doesn’t match up. Kiwanuka is a big body that will bring more balance to the Bengals’ defense. In all 4 years at Boston College, Kiwamuka average over 10 sacks per year. This DE stud from the Big East will be one of the finishing touches to Marvin Lewis’ defense.
25 New York Giants - Bobby Carpenter, Ohio St., LB, 6-3, 255 lbs
What do the Giants need to improve? I think it’s their defense, either at safety or linebacker. With current FS, Brent Alexander, staying with the team, I would choose Bobby Carpenter from OSU. Carpenter was the second-leading man behind Hawk in the NCAA’s top LB crew. Carpenter has Shockey-like looks, and a Shockey-like impact on the other side of the ball. Carpenter will make the Giants LB core one of the most dominating in the NFL.
26 Chicago Bears - Santonio Holmes, Ohio St., WR, 5-11, 193 lbs
Which side of the ball the Bears should pick is a no brainer. What player to choose is not so easy. Looking at Chicago’s depth chart, WR is a bigger need than TE. Desmond Clark is good enough at TE, but Gage as your second WR is not. Santonio Holmes is the top WR on some draft boards. In 2005, Holmes had the same amount of TDs as all of the Bears’ receivers combined (11 TDs). Most players that come out of Ohio St are NFL ready, which is exactly what the Bears need. Their defense is ready for a Super Bowl, now with Holmes, Chicago’s O will have much needed fire power to win the big game.
27 Carolina Panthers – Thomas Howard, UTEP, OLB, 6-3, 240 lbs
The Panthers signed DeShaun Foster, which was a great decision in my book. Foster has the same injury-problem as the remaining RB’s in the draft, except he has much more experience and talent. So there is no need to waste their 1st rounder on an RB. Therefore they must fill other more important needs, such as OLB since Will Witherspoon left for St. Louis, and Brandon Short was released. Their shoes however will be easily filled by drafting Thomas Howard, who some say could be the 2nd best LB coming out of this years draft. Howard fits the Panther D mentality – quick pursuit and punishing hits. Howard will keep the Panthers from missing a beat after losing key players from last year.
28 Jacksonville Jaguars – DeAngelo Williams, Memphis., RB, 5-10, 215 lbs
The Jaquars defense is one of the best in the league, and during free agency they got better by adding CB Brian Williams from the Vikings. They have a young stud at QB, the WRs are fine for now, but RB is a position of concern. Fred Taylor is not getting any younger. Williams has Taylor like play-making ability. The Jags should nab the NCAA leader in all-purpose yardage to continue adding players for the future.
29 New York Jets (from Denver Broncos) – Eric Winston, Miami, OT, 6-7, 310 lbs
For the second 1st round pick, the New York Jets need to improve their Swiss-cheese-like offensive line. In 2005, the Jets gave up the 3rd most sacks, which would explain Pennington’s multiple injuries. The best offensive lineman at this point in the draft is Miami’s Eric Winston. He brings strength and speed to the tackle position, something the Jets have needed for some time. Games are won and lost in the trenches. With Mario Williams and Eric Winston anchoring both sides of the ball, the Jets will be on their way to winning ways.
30 Indianapolis Colts - Ernie Sims, Florida St., LB, 6-2, 230 lbs
The Colts must address their defense. They made many improvements last year but must continue. I feel their biggest need is a ball-hawk at the LB position; one that is a run and pass stopper. Sims fits this need. He has great speed to make tackles sideline to sideline, he can match up against any RB, and he has the instincts to be a big time playmaker.
31 Seattle Seahawks – Ko Simpson, South Carolina, FS, 6-2, 220 lbs
After the Super Bowl loss to Pitt, I realized that Seattle needs more punch coming from the secondary. Ko Simpson will bring that punch and more. In 2005 at South Carolina, Simpson racked up over 100 tackles from the free safety position. With Seattle, he will be teamed up with Lofa Tatupu and newly acquired Julian Peterson from the 49ers. Simpson will thrive in this defense. Another possible pick could be DT Rodrique Wright from Texas University, but I think Simpson will have more of an immediate impact.
32 Pittsburgh Steelers - Derek Hagan, Arizona St., WR, 6-1, 201 lbs
With the free safety void left by Chris Hope and filled by Ryan Clark of the New York Giants; and Antwan Randle-El leaving for Washington, the champs will have a huge hole at WR. Hagan is a huge target with great speed. His style fits well into the Steelers mentality. Hagan could be a mirror image of Hines Ward; not afraid to go over the middle, and always working hard to be a better player
http://dumpingpost.com/pb/wp_c47f358d/wp_c47f358d.html?0.36014620130164643
For now, here’s our NFL mock draft courtesy of the guys at dumpingpost.com
1st Round
1 Houston Texans - Reggie Bush, USC, RB, 6-0, 200 lbs
Houston needs to start winning. What better for a team that has lost 23 games in 2 years than to get a guy that has only lost 1 game in the same time frame? The Houston Texans had problems on both sides of the ball. Defensively they could not stop the run and were on the field way too much. Offensively they could not stay on the field long enough. Mainly they could not win the ball control game. David Carr has proven that he has the skills but cannot handle the pressure of carrying the team. Bush carried the USC Trojans for 2 years, and he will take the pressure off Carr and the defense by helping the Texans control the ball more than their opponents.
2 New Orleans Saints - AJ Hawk, Ohio St, LB, 6-1, 238 lbs
I don’t necessarily agree with the signing of Drew Brees, but at least now the Saints can use their draft pick on the best defender in the 2006 class. Scouts are comparing AJ Hawk to Brian Urlacher, which is exactly what the New Orleans defense needs. Hawk has sideline-to-sideline speed, solid tackling skills, and winner-like leadership. I have heard rumors that the Saints might trade down, but I am not sure they will get the deal they want. Hawk will not only fill a major hole in their D, but will make each player better.
3 Tennessee Titans - Matt Leinart, USC, QB, 6-5, 225 lbs
Goods things happen to those who wait. With the Saints choosing Brees, the top QB has fallen into Tennessee’s lap. If I were Fisher and Chow, I would pick Leinart as my QB for the future. QB might not be the immediate need for the Titans, but with the QB position solidified for the future, the team is free to make moves helping other pressing needs like defense. The winning ways of Leinart and Norm Chow will reign again – this time in the NFL.
4 New York Jets - Mario Williams, NC State, DE, 6-7, 291 lbs
The New York Jets have had one of the most impressive 2006 off seasons. They have had a little help from others, like the Siants, and have also help themselves but trading DE John Abraham and getting another 1st rounder, 29th overall, in return. With the 4th pick, the Jets will replace John Abraham and choose DE Mario Williams. With the Saints choosing Brees, Leinart slips to the Titans, and the Jets wind up with the best DE in the draft. Williams will not only replace Abraham, but will also increase the production at that spot. Mario is the most over-looked stud in this draft. He is 6-7, 291 lbs, and can run the 40 faster than most linebackers. In his final year at NC State he racked up an impressive 62 tackles, 24 for loss, and 14.5 sacks. I have heard that new head coach wants to use a 3-4 defensive scheme with the Jets. Mario Williams is also perfect for this role because scouts are comparing him to Julius Peppers or Richard Seymour. No matter what defense the Jets play, they need a freakish defender like Mario Williams to win more games. I have heard some scouts say that OT D’Brickashaw Ferguson should be chosen here; but I don’t see the logic. Mario Williams has way to much potential to pass up, and plus the Jets have another 1st rounder to get a stud at offensive tackle.
5 Green Bay Packers - D’Brickashaw Ferguson, Virginia, OL, 6-6, 297 lbs
Green Bay has not drafted an offensive lineman in the first round since 1996, which leads me to believe they should choose the highest rated tackle since Orlando Pace. In 2005, the Packers were plagued by turnovers and a non-existent running game. Brett Favre had one of his highest totals in INTs and their top 2 running backs were injured for the year. The Pack will continue their current downfall with this current weak O-line. The winning formula is simple: play good defense, run the play, and give Brett Favre time to throw. This formula will be more complete with D’Brick in the fold.
6 San Francisco 49ers - LenDale White, USC, RB, 6-2, 235 lbs
The 49ers will not be good this year. I can’t believe they did well enough to even get the 6th pick this year. In my opinion they out-performed themselves to get the 6th pick. The next 2 years will be rebuilding time, therefore they need use each pick to take the best player available. In this draft, NFL-ready RB’s are rare, and good defensive players are many. The 49ers should address the RB problem now in the 1st round, and use their 2nd rounder to pick a defensive player. I have a feeling this team will have a top 5 pick next year, in which case they can go defense in the 1st round. As for now, LenDale will be a touchdown machine for years to come, just like he was at USC. White has potential to be the next Shaun Alexander.
7 Oakland Raiders - Vince Young, Texas, QB, 6-5, 229 lbs
The Raiders have made it obvious that Kerry Collins will not be the QB of tomorrow. Therefore Vince Young is a perfect fit. I said before that Young is too risky, but in Al Davis’ eyes nothing is “too risky.” Young is a freak of nature, and in my opinion the best college football player I have ever seen. In his last year at Texas, he completed over 65% of his passes, threw for over 3,000 yards, ran for over 1,000, and finished with 38 total TD’s. Young thrives in an offense that puts him in control, and the Raiders offense will fit into his strengths. With LaMont Jordan, Randy Moss, Joey Porter, Courtney Anderson, and Robert Gallery, Young’s potential will be maximized. Young will be the Raiders’ needed spark to push them to the next level. I know one thing; I wouldn’t want to play against Young and those weapons.
8 Buffalo Bills - Haloti Ngata, Oregon, DT, 6-5, 338 lbs
Buffalo was the second worst team against the run in 2005. Ever since Pat Williams left, there have been more holes on the D-line than in a block of Swiss cheese. Now with Lawyer Milloy possibly leaving, the Bills need a big physical presence on defense. At 6-5 and 338 pounds, Ngata more than fits that hole, (probably many more). Last year, Ngata received double-teams almost every snap, and still had 60 tackles and 3 sacks. Out of every draftee this year, Ngata might have the biggest impact this year.
9 Detroit Lions - Michael Huff, Texas, CB/S, 6-1, 205 lbs
The best off-season move might have been adding Mike Martz as the Lions offense coordinator. Putting Martz with those WRs is like giving nuclear bombs to G.W… simply dangerous! Martz will also improve Harrington’s decision-making. On the other side of the ball, however, is a different story. They need a player that can jump in and be a leader. Michael Huff is that guy. He was the glue on D for the national champions. Along with his versatility, Huff will bring much needed leadership to a poor Detroit Lions defense.
10 Arizona Cardinals - Jay Cutler, Vanderbilt, QB, 6-3, 225 lbs
Why not RB you ask…because they wasted a top-pick last year on one. I would give Arrington one more year before I replace him. A more pressing need is QB, and Jay Cutler is a perfect fit. Cutler is going to have the best job in the NFL. He will be the gunslinger to the best WR-core in the league. However, I am not one of those crazies that say Cutler is the next John Elway. I think he has physical talent to be a top tier QB, but his weakness will be his decision making. Lucky for Cutler, it doesn’t matter which WR he decides to throw to because each WR will bail him out of trouble.
11 St. Louis Rams - Jimmy Williams, Virginia Tech, CB/S, 6-3, 206 lbs
The Rams have proven they can score, but have not proven they can stop the opposition from doing the same. Recently, the Rams lost SS Archuleta, but signed Corey Chavous from the Vikings. The Rams have also added Will Witherspoon from Carolina. With Chavous, Witherspoon, and now by adding Jimmy Williams, the center and foundation of the defense will be much improved. Williams is very versatile; he has the 40-yard speed of under 4.5 seconds to play corner, and the strength of 6-3 and 206 lbs to play safety. He is the best defensive player available at this point, and that is exactly what the Rams need.
12 Cleveland Browns - Tye Hill, Clemson, CB, 5-10, 185 lbs
In Romeo Crennel’s defense, DT, OLBs, and cover CBs are the key. In New England, Romeo’s defense was performing at its best when Ted Washington was DT, Willie McGinest was the OLB/DE, and Ty Law was the shut down corner. In 2006, Romeo will have close to the winning formula he had in New England. Recently the Browns signed Ted Washington and Willie McGinest. The only missing piece is a shutdown corner; and that is where Tye Hill comes in to play. Hill is the best cover CB in the draft. He has amazing speed and great knowledge of the game, which is needed in Romeo’s schemes. The Browns were last in sacks in 2005. McGinest and Washington will improve that stat in obvious ways, but Hill will be the guy that gives the D-line team to get to the QB. In the end, the overall defense will be much improved.
13 Baltimore Ravens – Brodrick Bunkley, Florida State, DT, 6-4, 296 lbs
The biggest knock on the Ravens last year was their offense. That is because Boller was too young, and Jamal Lewis was hurt. Now that Boller has been groomed into a more experienced QB, and Lewis was signed to a new contract, the Ravens offense will be much improved from last year. So now that their biggest problem is solved, the Ravens need to solve their 2nd biggest problem, which was D-line. The Ravens have not had a dominant player on the D-line for too long. Bunkley fixes this problem. He is a lot like Richard Seymour, meaning he can play both DE and DT. With Bunkley, the already good Ravens D will be that much better for years to come.
14 Philadelphia Eagles - Manny Lawson, NC State, DE/OLB, 6-6, 245 lbs
Philly could choose a WR here, but defense is a more important issue. Philly was toward the bottom of the NFL in sacks last year. I realize that Manny Lawson might not be as high on your charts, but after the combine, which he ran the 40 in 4.43 seconds, I am convinced that Lawson is the second best DE prospect in the draft. He has the combination of size and speed that will fit perfectly into Jim Johnson’s blitz filled defensive schemes. Lawson will be a triple threat as a pass rusher, run stuffer, and in pass coverage. The Eagles were close to last in sacks in 2005. Lawson will improve that stat, as well as the overall defense.
15 Denver Broncos (from Atlanta Falcons) - Vernon Davis, Maryland, TE, 6-3, 255 lbs
The Denver Broncos luck out and move up 14 spots by trading with the Atlanta Falcons. Denver’s needs are slim. During the off-season they solidified their defensive line by adding Kenard Lang and signing Gerard Warren. So the Broncos will use their first rounders for offensive help. If Vernon Davis is still available, the Broncos should take the TE from Maryland because he will automatically improve the offensive arsenal. With Rod Smith getting older, and TE Jeb Putzier’s release, Vernon Davis will help improve the future of the Broncos O. If Vernon Davis is already off the board, than I expect the Broncos to go with a WR or the best available CB/S.
16 Miami Dolphins - Chad Greenway, Iowa, LB, 6-4, 243 lbs
Nick Saban transformed the Dolphins into a winning team in 2005. But the transformation is not complete. Saban has said he wants to move to a 3-4 defense. With all the free agent moves the Dolphins have made, adding QB Culpepper, OT Sheldon, and CBs Allen and Hill, the team should expand their arsenal at OLB. Chad Greenway would be the perfect fit based on these needs. Greenway is perfect for the 3-4 defense. He is strong enough to stop the run, and quick enough to be effective as a pass rusher. Greenway will allow Miami’s defensive coordinator to run more diverse schemes. If Greenway plays up to potential, I think Miami is the favorite to win the AFC East. The Dolphins could also go for DT Gabe Watson here, but Keith Traylor and Manuel Wright are fine for now.
17 Minnesota Vikings - Darnell Bing, USC, SS, 6-2, 220 lbs
I have to say the Vikings defense is one of the better defenses based on potential. They used free agency and the draft last year to improve their defense from worst to middle of the pack. The Vikings should continue to improve their defense. This year they lost Corey Chavous to St. Louis. The Vikings need a replacement, and also a player that will be the glue in the secondary. Darnell Bing was just that at USC for 3 years, while obtaining All-American honors in 2005. Bing is a playmaker and a leader and is exactly what the Vikings secondary needs.
18 Dallas Cowboys - Winston Justice, USC, OL, 6-6, 305 lbs
The Dallas Cowboys were one of the worst at protecting their QB last year by giving up 50 sacks in 2005. That is not typical for a Bill Parcell’s team. Bill will immediately fix this problem and choose the 2rd best O-lineman in the draft. Justice has the strength to rack up the pancakes, and the speed to block down field. He helped Leinert and Bush become one of the highest scoring tandems in college. He will bring the same protection and dominance to Dallas.
19 San Diego Chargers - Ashton Youboty, Ohio St., CB, 6-1, 190 lbs
San Diego’s weakness in 2005 was their inability to create turnovers. They were close to the bottom of the league in interceptions and forced fumbles. The GM for the Chargers has been quoted as saying he wants to beef up the secondary. With this main goal in mind, I would choose Ohio States’ Ashton Youboty. He has the potential to be like his old teammate Chris Gamble. Youboty has the special package of size and speed, which not many CB’s have today. With the addition of ex-Panther free agent Marlon McCree, the Chargers goal will be accomplished: a strong and feared secondary.
20 Kansas City Chiefs - DeMeco Ryans, Alabama, LB, 6-2, 230 lbs
KC’s offense is one of the most dangerous in the league; their defense however is not. The Chiefs offense can actually reveal the problem of the D. KC’s offense strives on speed and aggressiveness. This is what the D lacks…SPEED. The D needs an LB with sideline-to-sideline speed, and at the same time a big time sack threat. This hole is filled by DeMeco Ryans. DeMeco was the SEC Defensive Player of the Year. His 40 time was 4.35 seconds. Ryans will replace Shawn Barber, who was recently cut, and bring some much-needed speed to the defense. Ryans is drawing comparisons to Derrick Brooks of Tampa Bay. Sounds good to me!
21 New England Patriots – Abdul Hodge, Iowa, ILB, 6-1, 236 lbs
The biggest needs for the Pats this year are at LB, CB, S. For what is left on the board, Abdul Hodge has the most value. Hodge is the top MLB in this year’s draft. In 2005 he teamed with Chad Greenway in forming one of the top LB cores in college football. Last year, the Patriots showed their defensive weakness when losing Teddy Bruschi. The Pats need to add depth to the MLB position, which will let Vrabel move back to his more natural position of OLB. Hodge might not be this high on most boards, but the Pats never follow normal prospect ranking. Belicheck uses draft picks to fix the team’s problems. This year will be more of the same when the Pats choose Abdul Hodge to be their MLB for the future.
22 Denver Broncos - Chad Jackson, Florida, WR, 6-0, 210 lbs
With the first of two picks, the Broncos will choose the best WR in the draft to be the future replacement for Rod Smith. Chad Jackson has good size, but even better speed (ran the 40 in 4.32 seconds). He is a big-time playmaker, but can also be the ball control receiver the Broncos like to utilize. Jackson will provide more fire power to the Broncos O which stalled last year against Pit in the AFC Championship.
23 Tampa Bay Buccaneers - Marcus McNeil, Auburn, OL, 6-8, 336 lbs
Tampa Bay needs beef on the O-line. Tampa’s offense stalled many times last year because of sacks, and rushes for no gains. Their O-line was consistently getting pushed back. A good example was when the Bucs played at New England. Tampa gave up 7 sacks, and had an average per rush of 1.7. Also, if Williams is going to be carrying the ball between 25-30 times a game, he is going to need some help. McNeil was the protecting force behind Williams, and Ronnie Brown at Auburn 2 years ago. He has great size, and is labeled the best right tackle in the draft. Marcus will lead the way for Cadillac just like he did in college. Another possible pick would be TE Marcedes Lewis, but the draft is too deep for TEs to choose Lewis in the 1st round.
24 Cincinnati Bengals - Mathias Kiwanuka, BC, DE, 6-5, 265 lbs
Cincy’s head coach Marvin Lewis has done wonders with improving the Bengals D. He must stick true to this goal and now improve his defensive line. His secondary is amazing, racking up a league leading 31 Ints, but the sack volume and run defense doesn’t match up. Kiwanuka is a big body that will bring more balance to the Bengals’ defense. In all 4 years at Boston College, Kiwamuka average over 10 sacks per year. This DE stud from the Big East will be one of the finishing touches to Marvin Lewis’ defense.
25 New York Giants - Bobby Carpenter, Ohio St., LB, 6-3, 255 lbs
What do the Giants need to improve? I think it’s their defense, either at safety or linebacker. With current FS, Brent Alexander, staying with the team, I would choose Bobby Carpenter from OSU. Carpenter was the second-leading man behind Hawk in the NCAA’s top LB crew. Carpenter has Shockey-like looks, and a Shockey-like impact on the other side of the ball. Carpenter will make the Giants LB core one of the most dominating in the NFL.
26 Chicago Bears - Santonio Holmes, Ohio St., WR, 5-11, 193 lbs
Which side of the ball the Bears should pick is a no brainer. What player to choose is not so easy. Looking at Chicago’s depth chart, WR is a bigger need than TE. Desmond Clark is good enough at TE, but Gage as your second WR is not. Santonio Holmes is the top WR on some draft boards. In 2005, Holmes had the same amount of TDs as all of the Bears’ receivers combined (11 TDs). Most players that come out of Ohio St are NFL ready, which is exactly what the Bears need. Their defense is ready for a Super Bowl, now with Holmes, Chicago’s O will have much needed fire power to win the big game.
27 Carolina Panthers – Thomas Howard, UTEP, OLB, 6-3, 240 lbs
The Panthers signed DeShaun Foster, which was a great decision in my book. Foster has the same injury-problem as the remaining RB’s in the draft, except he has much more experience and talent. So there is no need to waste their 1st rounder on an RB. Therefore they must fill other more important needs, such as OLB since Will Witherspoon left for St. Louis, and Brandon Short was released. Their shoes however will be easily filled by drafting Thomas Howard, who some say could be the 2nd best LB coming out of this years draft. Howard fits the Panther D mentality – quick pursuit and punishing hits. Howard will keep the Panthers from missing a beat after losing key players from last year.
28 Jacksonville Jaguars – DeAngelo Williams, Memphis., RB, 5-10, 215 lbs
The Jaquars defense is one of the best in the league, and during free agency they got better by adding CB Brian Williams from the Vikings. They have a young stud at QB, the WRs are fine for now, but RB is a position of concern. Fred Taylor is not getting any younger. Williams has Taylor like play-making ability. The Jags should nab the NCAA leader in all-purpose yardage to continue adding players for the future.
29 New York Jets (from Denver Broncos) – Eric Winston, Miami, OT, 6-7, 310 lbs
For the second 1st round pick, the New York Jets need to improve their Swiss-cheese-like offensive line. In 2005, the Jets gave up the 3rd most sacks, which would explain Pennington’s multiple injuries. The best offensive lineman at this point in the draft is Miami’s Eric Winston. He brings strength and speed to the tackle position, something the Jets have needed for some time. Games are won and lost in the trenches. With Mario Williams and Eric Winston anchoring both sides of the ball, the Jets will be on their way to winning ways.
30 Indianapolis Colts - Ernie Sims, Florida St., LB, 6-2, 230 lbs
The Colts must address their defense. They made many improvements last year but must continue. I feel their biggest need is a ball-hawk at the LB position; one that is a run and pass stopper. Sims fits this need. He has great speed to make tackles sideline to sideline, he can match up against any RB, and he has the instincts to be a big time playmaker.
31 Seattle Seahawks – Ko Simpson, South Carolina, FS, 6-2, 220 lbs
After the Super Bowl loss to Pitt, I realized that Seattle needs more punch coming from the secondary. Ko Simpson will bring that punch and more. In 2005 at South Carolina, Simpson racked up over 100 tackles from the free safety position. With Seattle, he will be teamed up with Lofa Tatupu and newly acquired Julian Peterson from the 49ers. Simpson will thrive in this defense. Another possible pick could be DT Rodrique Wright from Texas University, but I think Simpson will have more of an immediate impact.
32 Pittsburgh Steelers - Derek Hagan, Arizona St., WR, 6-1, 201 lbs
With the free safety void left by Chris Hope and filled by Ryan Clark of the New York Giants; and Antwan Randle-El leaving for Washington, the champs will have a huge hole at WR. Hagan is a huge target with great speed. His style fits well into the Steelers mentality. Hagan could be a mirror image of Hines Ward; not afraid to go over the middle, and always working hard to be a better player