Dolfan
Footballguy
The first post combine FBG mock draft with trades is [finally] completed! 
Now all we need is some Mel Kiper-type post-draft grades and commentary.
I'll pick the best commentary for each team and post it on the front page next to the team. Please provide a letter grade (A-F) and a 1-2 line commentary.
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Team (GM) - Draft - Grade - Commentarry:
Miami (Dolfan) - 1.2 D Johnson, OLB, Texas; 3.6 V Morency, RB, Oklahoma St; 4.3 J Butler, FS, Georgia Tech
NY Jets (Chase Stuart) - 1.26 F Washington, CB, Nebraska; 2.07 D Ware, LB, Troy State; 4.26 R Fields, DT, Miss St
New England (jgb95) - 1.32 C Crowder, MLB, Florida; 2.32 R McCune, ILB, Louisville; 4.32 J Brimmer, S, UNVL
Buffalo (Aaron Rudnicki) - 2.23 A Terry, OT, Syracuse; 3.22 J Dreesen, TE, Colorado St; 4.21 G Sensabaugh, S, North Carolina
Cleveland (Chaos) - 1.07 A Barron, OT, FSU; 2.02 B Rudd, ILB, Nebraska; 3.3 R Bartell, CB, Howard; 3.14 C Colmer, OT, NC St; 4.2 M Boley, OLB, Southern Miss; 4.19 D Fox, FS, OSU
Cincinnati (Kirby) - 1.20 E James, DE, Wisconsin; 2.06 E Shazor, SS, Michigan; 3.19 CJ Mosley, DT, Missouri; 4.18 R Ingonito, C, Nobody
Pittsburgh (Drunken Cowboy)- 1.30 E Brown, OG, Virginia; 2.30 C Henry, WR, WVU; 3.29 M Munoz, OT, Tennessee; 4.30 T.A. McLendon, RB, NC St
Baltimore (ravnzfan) - 1.25 K Barnes, OT, Washington; 2.21 C Thorpe, WR, FSU; 3.20 D Nicholson, SS, Oklahoma; 4.23 A Perkins, CB, Oaklahoma
Tennessee (Colin) - 1.06 C Williams, RB, Auburn; 1.28 J Miller, CB, Clemson; 3.4 J Campbell, QB, Auburn
Houston (pgreenfan) - 1.11 C Benson, RB, Texas; 2.15 O Thurman, ILB, Georgia; 3.9 A Ellison, DT, Missouri; 3.16 M Jones, TE, Arkansas
Jacksonville (JaxBill) - 1.21 H Miller, TE, Virginia; 2.20 S Wilson, CB, Stanford; 3.23 J Haye, DE, Vanderbilt; 4.22 A Snyder OT Oregon
Indianapolis (ColtsFreak) - 1.29 M Jackson, CB, Michigan; 2.28 J.J. Arrington, RB, Cal; 3.28 J Welsh, LB, Wisconsin
San Diego (bicycle_seat_sniffer) - 1.01 M Williams, WR, USC; 2.05 B Browner, CB, Oregon State; 4.7 R Petitti, OT, Pitt; 4.29 J Jefferson, DT, Wisconsin
Kansas City (Arrowhead Nation) - 1.16 D Pollack, DE, Georgia; 2.08 D Blackstock, OLB, Virginia; 4.15 D Orlovsky, QB, UCONN
Denver (pinda) - 1.22 M Clayton, WR, Oklahoma; 2.24; J Davis, DE, Virginia Tech
Oakland (radballs) - 2.16 C Webster, CB, LSU; 3.5 J Babineaux, DT, Iowa; 4.4 A Seward, ILB, UNLV; 4.13 K Everett, TE, Miami
San Francisco (Football Jones) - 1.12 M Spears, DT, LSU; 2.19 J Mathis, WR, Hampton; 2.29 C Canty, DE, Virginia; 3.1 A McPherson, QB, FSU; 3.25 D Williams, CB, Oklahoma St; 4.1 S Young, OG, BYU
Arizona (beef) - 1.08 A Rodgers, QB, Cal; 2.12 E Green, CB, Virginia Tech; 3.8 C Spencer, OL, Mississippi; 3.11 B McFadden, CB, FSU
St. Louis (Rayderr) - 1.19 C Rogers, CB, Auburn; 2.04 M Roth, DE, Iowa; 3.2 W Britt, OT, Alabama; 4.16 R Parrish, WR, Miami
Seattle (fridayfrenzy) - 1.23 T Johnson, DT, FSU; 2.22 R Wallace, OLB, Temple; 3.21 B Swancutt, DE, Oregon St; 4.20 R Moats, RB, Louisianna Tech; 4.25 T Murphy; WR Texas A&M
Chicago (RBM) - 1.04 R Brown, RB, Auburn; 2.25 M Bradley, WR, Oklahoma; 3.24 C Kemoeatu, OG, Utah; 4.5 A Walter, QB, Arizona St
Minnesota (Atomic Punk) - 1.03 B Edwards, WR, Michigan; 1.18 D Cody, DE, Oklahoma; 2.17 C Fason, RB, Florida
Green Bay (UFFL Commish) - 1.24 S Cody, DE, USC; 2.01 D Baas, OG, Michigan; 2.26 J Bullocks, S, Nebraska; 4.24 K Morrison, ILB, San Diego St
Detroit (loser) - 1.10 A Jones, CB, WVU; 2.09 J Tuck, DE, Notre Dame; 3.10 L Mankins, OT, Fresno St; 4.12 F Gibson, WR, Georgia
Tampa Bay (Punchie) - 1.05 A Smith, QB, Utah; 2.18 M Barber III, RB, Minnesota; 3.7 A Smith, TE, Stanford; 3.17 L Tatupu, ILB, USC; 3.27 D Buenning, OG, Wisconsin; 4.6 C Roby, WR, Indianna
Carolina (crazygutgut) - 1.14 T Williamson, WR, South Carolina; 2.13 A Hawthorne, DT, Wisconsin; 3.15 E Shelton, RB, Louisville; 4.14 K Orton, QB, Purdue
New Orleans (valhallan) - 1.15 T Davis, S, Georgia; 2.14 C Frye, QB, Akron; 3.18 S Routt, CB, Houston; 4.17 J Goddard, OLB, Marshall
Atlanta (The Dirty Word) - 2.03 B Pool, FS, Oklahoma; 2.27 M Patterson, DT, USC; 3.26 M Nugent, K, Ohio St; 3.30 E Mathis, OG, Alabama; 4.27 G Gause, DE, South Carolina
Washington (ATW22) - 1.09 A Rolle, CB, Miami; 3.12 L Mitchell, ILB, Oklahoma; 4.11 V Jackson, WR, Northern Colorado
Dallas (Joe Kidd) - 1.13 S Merriman, DE, Maryland; 1.17 J Brown, OT, Oklahoma; 2.10 R White, WR, UAB; 4.8 O Atogwe, FS, Stanford
Philadelphia (Jason Wood) - 1.27 M Johnson, OL, Mississippi; 1.31 K Burnett, OLB, Tennessee; 2.31 L Castillo, DT, Northwestern; 3.13 K.J. Harris, RB, WVU; 4.31 A Bryant, DT, Alabama
NY Giants (Kleck) - 2.11 R Brown, WR, Georgia; 3.31 B Wilkerson, C, LSU; 4.9 A Alabi, OT, TCU; 4.10 CJ Brooks, OG, Maryland
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The 2005 NFL Draft pick-by-pick commentary...
Round 3:
3.1 San Francisco - Adrian McPherson, QB, FSU
I think everybody knows his story by now. You can't dismiss his character concerns, but he was really young when he got into trouble. He's since kept his nose clean & has matured a great deal.
McPherson dominated the AFL despite being the youngest player in the league. He also had what was generally regarded as the best workout among the QBs at the combine. Outstanding athlete with all the tools. Unlimited potential.
I considered taking him as early as 51, but chose to wait it out until this pick. If he was gone, I likely would've tried to trade down again. Hopefully, McPherson will develop quickly & be a productive starter in '06 . The sooner Rattay is the backup, the better off we'll be. That said, Rattay will make a fine #2.
3.2 St. Louis - Wesley Britt, OT, Alabama
I had hoped to grab Adam Terry here, but no such luck. Tackle is the last big need for the Rams. Pace is locked in at LT, but the Turley experiment at RT has gone awry and will most likely be cut before the season begins. Hopefully, he can learn from Pace and develop into an excellent RT.
3.3 Cleveland - Ronald Bartell, CB, Howard
so many directions could be taken here. I was very unhappy to see many of my targets taken so close in front of me.
I am however very glad to have to the opportunity to shore up a big glaring Defensive weakness, namely Conerback.
So without further ado, Bartell has great speed (4.37), great height (6' 1 3/8), brains (wonderlic of 35), and outstanding strength (21 reps of 225). We can put him on an island and move the safety elsewhere. He has the size and strength to dominate in the red zone. This will also allow us to move McCutcheon to slot corner where he is better suited.
3.4 Tennessee - Jason Campbell, QB, Auburn
Campbell matured a ton in the last year. WHile we are usually weary of players who made huge strides in one season, but Campbell seems to have made progress for a while now. 2 steps forward, 1 step back kind of progress. However, he has GREAT size, good arm strenght, good speed, and he can make big throws (See: 2nd Half of 2004 SEC Champ Game). A year or two studying film with Chow and McNair should help with his decision making troubles (which, in spite of, he was a career 63% passer at AU). We are excited to add him to our team, particularly this late in the draft.
I saw a comparison to Aaron Brooks, and I think its a good comparison.
3.5 Oakland - Jonathan Babineaux, DT, Iowa
A bit undersized at slightly shorter than 6'2" and 280 lbs. But, he's very quick for a DT (sub 4.75 40) and has a great first step. If he can put on a little weight without sacrificing too much speed, Babineaux could be a good player for a D line that needs an injection of youth.
3.6 Miami – Vernand Morency, RB, Oklahoma State
Love this kid's size and explosiveness! Most Oklahoma State fans believe he is a better back than Tatum Bell. Would have gone at least a round earlier in any other draft not so chalk full of good RB prospects. Morency is the 4th RB on my board and I don't see a lot of drop off between Cadillac (who I would have selected #2 if I went RB) and Morency => great value for a 3rd round pick! Morency sitting here at this pick is the exact reason if the Dolphins do go offense in the 1st round, I'd rather see them grab one of the QBs or Braylon Edwards than a RB.
3.7 Tampa Bay – Alex Smith, TE, Stanford
Strange that we draft two guys with the same name, but I suppose weirder things have happened.
Gruden's offense relies heavily on the tight End position, which has been a very poor position historically for Tampa. We recently signed Anthony Becht, but he is more of a blocking TE. Gruden would love to groom a tight end that can spread the field for his running backs and Michael Clayton. After I drafted Marion Barber in the 2nd round I figured that Smith would be gone by my next pick, with him sitting here, it was just too much value to pass up.
** Detroit trades pick #72 to Arizona for pick #74 **
3.8 Arizona (From Detroit) - Chris Spencer C/G, Ole Miss
I consider Spencer an early second round talent and am amazed he dropped this far. He brings tremendous strength and excellent athletic ability to the table. He played Center his senior year, but has experience at both guard spots, and should fit in at LG right away, thus bringing the Dave Loverne era to an end.
The upside is tremendous, and with a little bit of polishing, Spencer should be the best interior lineman to come out of this draft.
3.9 Houston - Attiyah Ellison, DT, Missouri
I had really hoped that Chris Canty would be available at this pick however with him gone, I see no value at the DE position and a tremendous value pick remaining at DT. Attiyah should be able to provide a pass rush from the NT position and joined with the addition of Odell Thurman in the middle could vastly improve the Texans run defense. edit to add not that the Texans rush defense was terrible last year, but the middle is going to be missing most likely both starting inside linebackers from last year so this area really needed to be addressed I feel.
3.10 Detroit (From Arizona) - Logan Mankins OT Fresno State
The hole in the interior was filled with Demulling. Now we turn our attention to the tackle spot. Mankins may not have the upside of Spencer, but you know you're gonna get effort every down with good intangibles, and a mean streak to boot.
The talent may not be top of the line, but he demonstrates good footwork, and is strong as a bull. Mankins is an anachronism, the classic overachiever, and should fit into the Lions plans right away.
3.11 Arizona - Bryant McFadden, CB, Florida State
McFadden has dropped a bit in this draft. Most mocks that I haved viewed have him going in the 2nd round and a couple as high as a top 40 pick. Arizona had taken a CB in the early 2nd (Eric Green) so this wasn't really a need, but since McFadden was on my short list then and he happened to fall, the value was too good to pass up. And it's never a bad idea to have plenty of CB's on a team, for depth or trading perposes.
I actually like McFadden talents a lot more than some of the CB's already taken, including Green who I took at #44. He has good size (6' 185), is plenty tough, and can bring down the ball carrier in the open field. Technique, athleticism, and tackling are probably his greatest strengths. He has the talent and skill to be a late 1st round pick, but his speed (4.51) and consistent play will knock him down a few spots. There have been times when it looked like McFadden hadn't played to his potential. Whoever does draft McFadden will need to keep a fire under his ####. And if McFadden does apply himself and workout and show what he can do and keep it at a high level, he could easily be a starting CB in the NFL for quite a few years.
3.12 Washington - Lance Mitchell, ILB, Oklahoma
The skins look to Lance Mitchell to replace the departig Atonio Pirece at MLB. A strong smart player with great skills and a nose for the ball. Will fot well into Greg Williams attacking defensive scheme.
3.13 Philadelphia - Kay-Jay Harris, RB, West Virginia
The Eagles benefit from a deep RB draft by grabbing Harris in the middle of the 3rd round. Harris is the potential perfect complement to Brian Westbrook in that he's a bruising inside runner with great size (6'0", 243 pounds). Despite his size, Harris has above average speed (4.5 40 at his Pro Day), exceptional burst, and welcomes contact inside. To quote NFL Draft Scout, "Kay-Jay shows very good tilt and pad level working in-line, keeping his feet while generating more than enough lateral agility and awareness to pick and slide. He runs with good body lean and knows how to distribute weight attacking the holes."
Harris showed surprising ability catching the ball at the Senior Bowl (he was rarely asked to be a receiver at WVU); and is an adequate blocker. Clearly he'll need to continue to improve both of those facets if he's to some day play a major role in the Eagles offense.
** TRADE ALERT **
The Houston Texans trade pick #78 to the Cleveland Browns for pick #80 and the Browns 5th round pick.
3.14 Cleveland - Chris Colmer, OT, NC State
Colmer will provide awsome depth all along the line but primarily at ROT behind Tucker.
HE battled some nerve damage which has hindered his position. Before this he would have been considered a top 5 OT prospect last year. He has a mean streak and plays "nasty". This will be a usefull infusion to Cleveland's O-line.
With Carolina's troubles at O-line and that fact that Colmer played his ball in NC I was a bit afraid they might look in this direction.
3.15 Carolina - Eric Shelton, RB, Louisville
2004 stats are 146 attempts 954 yards 6.5 avg 20 Tds
With Shelton, we are adding more depth at RB just in case. Some mocks have him going in the 2nd so we are happy to have him in the 3rd.
3.16 Houston - Matt Jones, TE, Arkansas
Although I feel that the Texans have greater needs at other positions and there are a couple of players that I rate well above Jones , I am going with him because of his potential. At this time I am unsure of where he will play I feel that his upside is to great to pass up. 6'5" 239 lbs 4.39 40, close to a 40" vertical leap and almost 11' broad jump. Quite possibley the best athlete in the draft who will create matchup nightmares for linebackers and safeties if he plays tight end because of his speed while he will be so much larger than corners if he plays WR.
By trading down and picking up another 5th round pick I feel that this allows me to gamble a bit with this pick and try for the home run. Matt's success in the NFL will be in a large part dependent on his desire to be great. Good reports from the Senior Bowl and combine should have his draft stock rising more than he has so far.
I really have a hard time making this pick because of some of the other players left on the board but just don't see this amount of upside with anyone left in the draft.
3.17 Tampa Bay - Lofa Tatupu, ILB, USC
Monte Kiffen knows the USC defense better than anyone else considering his son coaches there, and USC happens to run the exact same scheme as Tampa. With Shelton Quarles nearing the end of his career we have a big hole in the Middle of our linebacker corp.
3.18 New Orleans - Stanford Routt, CB, Houston
CB is not as pressing a need for the Saints as some might think, so I believe we can take a chance on this guy. He has good size, 6-1 193, and runs a blazing 4.3 40. If we can keep Stanford away from the fire and let him take notes from vets like Joe Horn and Mike McKenzie, he could develop nicely and become a premier corner in this league.
3.19 Cincinnati - C.J. Mosley, DT, Missouri
Major steal here... They are saying late first or second... can't pass him up here. Would have been All-American/Outland Trophy canidate if he would have returned to school. Regarded by most as the top player on Mizzou's defense last year. 314lbs on a 6'2" frame and quick. Gets in the backfield to blow up plays. Definitely helps shore up the D. I think James, Shazor, and now Mosley would make the new D-Coord quite happy.
3.20 Baltimore - Dante Nicholson, SS, Oklahoma
Big tough SS (6'1'-216), rated in the second tier after Davis-Georgia, on our board---same class as Shazor-Michigan (#38)
JuCo transfer in '03, Nicholson stepped in and was named All Big-12 Defensive Newcommer of the Yr
Loves action at the line of scrimage, logged 90 tackles, 10 for a loss in '03...recorded 6 sacks, 4 passes defended and grabbed 2 pickles
Quick enough(4.5-ish 40) to cover RB's and TE's in coverage
We feel strongly about Nicholson, as the Raven "plan-A" had them signing Gary Baxter to a long term deal with the hopes of moving him over to SS in time...by paying Samari Rolle the same as Baxter to actually play corner, Dante Nicholson could step right in and complete what many say is the best secondary in the NFL
3.21 Seattle – Bill Swancutt, DE, Oregon State
3.22 Buffalo - Joel Dreesen, TE, Colorado State
He's a blue collar guy who showed great hands during senior week and at the combine. He's got good size and is a willing blocker. I think he'll fit in perfectly in Buffalo and compete for a starting spot right away. Season-ending knee injuries to Mark Campbell and Tim Euhus last year have created a big need at the position, and having a reliable receiver at TE should help JP Losman's progress as he takes over the reigns of the Bills offense.
Would have seriously considered Matt Jones here, as I think Mularkey would drool to have a player like that at his disposal.
Other big need here was DT, but I think similar talent can be had in the next round or two.
3.23 Jacksonville – Jovan Haye, DE, Vanderbilt
He's 6-2 284 and he turned pro after a disappointing junior season where he attracted double-teams and only registered one sack. He has only played a total of five seasons of organized football (including HS) and is considered very raw. He had a great sophomore year where he registered 8.5 sacks. He had an outstanding combine where he ran a 4.74 40 and did 33 reps at 225 on the bench-press.
Although the Jags have signed Hayward, there's still a need at the position. Paul Spicer and Rob Meier are coming back from injury. Last year converted LBs Akin Ayodele and Greg Favors had to play significant down there.
3.24 Chicago - Chris Kemoeatu, G, Utah
Bears need to improve, and get younger on the inside of the line. Reuben Brown is old and couldnt stay healthy last year, Rex Tucker is a mess who should be cut, then you have some guys that really dont get anyone too excited like Qasim Mitchell, Steve Edwards, Terrence Metcalf.
3.25 San Francisco - Darrent Williams, CB, Oklahoma State
The 9ers are planning on moving Mike Rumph to FS. In doing so, the CB position needs to be re-stocked. It could stand to be upgraded, as well.
Williams is a tremendous athlete. Cat-quick/super-fast (4.31 at the combine) with great instincts & good ball skills. Outstanding cover man. Fantastic combine performance has him shooting up draft boards. Also a quality punt returner. Only real negative is lack of size (5'8-5/8" 176).
I considered another player of need here, but decided to go with the all-important CB position. I'm hoping the other guy is there at the top of the 4th.
3.26 Atlanta - Mike Nugent, K, Ohio State
The Falcons have replaced Jay Feely with Todd Peterson. While an OK stop gap measure, he was signed on the cheap and does not kick off. For that, the Falcons waived Chris Mohr and signed Toby Gowin who can kick-off (punt isn't a great punter).
So the Falcons have gon on the cheap to address their kicking situation for the 2005 season but in Nugent, the Falcons secure a K who in his last 3 years at Ohio State had an 88% conversion rate including 8/9 from beyond 50 yards.
Rich McKay is not afraid to grab kickers early as he did so years ago with Martin Gramatica. Nugent has the leg and the accuacy to make the Falcons dangerous from anywhere inside the 40, especially inside the Georgia Dome, a place Feely had inexplicable trouble with.
3.27 Tampa Bay - Dan Buenning, OG, Wisconsin
Dan is Bill Muir's type of lineman, smart and an overachiever.
Strengths: Very smart player...Displays excellent technique on a consistent basis...Has loads of experience...Overachiever who always gives 100%...Has led the way for a very successful Badger run game.
Weaknesses: Not a great athlete...Mobility is lacking...Needs to get stronger, especially in the lower half...Will get pushed around by massive defensive tackles at times...Limited upside and what you see if what you get.
Notes: Typcial Wisconsin lineman in that he doesn't have all the physical tools you look for but he gets the job done...May never be a star but should develop into a solid pro.
3.28 Indianapolis - Jonathan Welsh, LB Wisconsin
3.29 Pittsburgh - Michael Munoz, OT, Tennessee
Was looking at 3 players here, but just had to go with Munoz. He has just unreal upside. Has had problems staying healthy, but was healthy last year and showed some of his potential. Has the talent and athletic ability to be a pro bowl left tackle. That is hard to find at the end of the 3rd round.
3.30 Atlanta - Evan Mathis, OG, Alabama
Mathis has become one of my favorite players in this draft. The nephew of former Dolphin great Bob Baumhower, Mathis has a desire to suceed in the NFL like very few. So much so that he played through the pain of two different stress fractures in his legs to amass 47 straight starts on Alabama's O-Line (one which included Wesley Britt and Justin Smiley). He seems to drive alot of motivation from pundits saying he 'can't do'.
He absolutely blew the doors off at the combine earlier this month from a speed, quickness and strength standpoint (his 20-yard shuttle time was 4.16...Brandon Browner's was 4.24). He has played pretty much every position on the line so while he's projected at OG, he could be moved outside to OT and maybe spot at C. His versatiliy is a plus. All in all, I think this is one of the better "under the radar" players in the whole draft and quite frankly, I'd be surprised if he made it this far. But today he does...
3.31 NY Giants - Ben Wilkerson, C, LSU
Injury concerns because of his knee may cause Ben to slide a bit, but he's arguable the best center in the draft. Doesn't quite have the strength teams might like but shows great technique and leverage. Very athletic and smart and is fundamentally sound. Should make a great center for many years if the knee checks good and is great value and a steal at the end of the 3rd.
4.1 San Francisco - Scott Young, OG, Brigham Young
The 9ers could use a G & this 6'4" 312-pounder will be a good one in time. Might have the best speed/strength ratio of anybody in this class. Ran a 4.93 with 43 reps at the combine. The 43 reps broke the combine record.
4.2 Cleveland - Michael Boley, OLB, Southern Mississippi
Boley is 6' 3", 236 lbs, runs a 4.59, 4.12 shuttle and a wonderlick score of a 30!
This is the kind of athlete that Cleveland can use and mold to fit wherever they need him most. You can never have too many good LB/DE in the 3-4.
4.3 Miami - James Butler, FS, Georgia Tech
The Dolphins lost both starting safeties in free agency. Tebucky Jones was brought in to play SS and former LB Tony Bua was moved to safety as well and could pick up the slack if Tebucky fails to meet expectations. Miami needs a starting-caliber FS, and who would have thought one would be there waiting for them in the FOURTH ROUND!
Butler is the 2nd best FS in the draft according to most scouts and gets a high 3rd round grade. Butler is a playmaker who has the intelligence to be a team leader, the range that you look for in a FS and is the ideal size for the position.
If he has a weakness, it would be his inexperience or less than ideal strength. Nevertheless, Miami is thrilled to have Butler at this point in the draft.
4.4 Oakland - Adam Seward, ILB, UNLV
This guy is a true linebacker and football player. He will not get any accolades for his speed, athleticism, or coverage skills. But, he's tough and agressive, has a nose for the ball, and flat out knows how to play.
4.5 Chicago - Andrew Walter, QB, Arizona State
Who knows what we have in Grossman. He showed mere glimpses in a few of his 6 starts I believe, but hasnt been able to stay healthy. I do think if the o-line stays healty, combined with a strong, dependable running game and go-to-guy in Muhammed, Grossman can be a good qb in this league, but he has to be able to stay on the field for a longer stretch than 3 games. So with the fact that there are still questions, and Chad Hutchinson being basically the only other qb on roster (forget Krenzel and Kittner), we will take Walter and his very nice potential here.
4.6 Tampa Bay - Courtney Roby, WR, Indiana
We really need a speed guy to stretch the defense a bit and make room in the middle for Clayton. Roby is a very fast player (4.33 40) who is a college track star with great intangibles (work ethic character etc.) Gruden loves speed and will jump all over this guy in the 4th.
4.7 San Diego (From Tennessee) - Rob Petitti, OT, Pittsburgh
I really just wanted to add some depth for a unit that needs improvement. Last year the starting line was: Oben,Goff,Harwick,Fonuti,Olivea. 2 rookies, 1 FA, a training camp trade and a 2002 rookie. Its a wonder that Brees & LT aren't dead at this point. Courtney van Buren returns from IR this year to add a little more depth.
4.8 Dallas - Oshiomogho Atogwe, FS, Stanford
4.9 NY Giants - Anthony Alabi, OT, Texas Christian
4.10 NY Giants (From Arizona) - C.J. Brooks, OG, Maryland
4.11 Washington - Vincent Jackson, WR, Northern Colorado
He doesn't have the experience to be a 1st or 2nd rounder but he definately has the size 6'5 235 and speed 4.53 to go in the first couple of rounds. He will immediately add size to the smurf like WR corps of the skins and also provide a great red zone target for ramsey. He had a great Senoir Bowl showing where he took advantage of his size, speed and hands to move up the draft board.
The skins also considered aonther big WR from a big school that was a great athlete, but a questionable work ethic. A TE with 2nd round talent and a Guard/Tackle from the Pac 10 that would provide depth along the OL for the skins.
It came dopwn to depth vs playmaking ability. and thw WR won out.
4.12 Detroit - Fred Gibson, WR, Georgia
4.13 Oakland (From Cincinnati) - Kevin Everett, TE, Miami
4.14 Carolina - Kyle Orton, QB Purdue
With this pick, again its BPA and gaining depth. Heaven forbid anything happens to Delhomme. We have Peete and Weinke (who the staff doesn't seem to like anyway).
Orton's totals for 2004 were 3090 yards 31tds 5 ints. With those stats and Orton being 6-4 230 pounds, I think he is a good value pick. He would not have to rush to play at Carolina and could learn for a year or two.
4.15 Kansas City - Dan Orlovsky, QB, Connecticut
Carolina made this pick much easier for KC. We were debating between Orlovsky and Orton and once Orton was off the board, the QB from UCONN was the obvious choice.
Trent Green will be 35 when Training camp starts, and the CHiefs are in dire need of a young QB to groom for a year or two to replace him. Orlovsky grabbed a 30 on the Wonderlic, and ran consistently good times in nearly every facet of the combine.
With his smarts, and his 6'5 225 lb frame, KC sees him as a nice young QB that will fit well in Al Saunders' system and having Green as a mentor will only help.
4.16 St. Louis - Roscoe Parrish, WR, Miami
4.17 New Orleans - Jonathan Goddard, OLB, Marshall
I looked for BPA but couldn't find much. With Colby Bockwoldt and James Allen being shaky starters at best, Goddard fills a need at OLB. He's a little undersized at 6'0" but makes up for it with 4.75 speed. Should be able to compete for a starting job.
4.18 Cincinnati - Richie Ingonito, C, Nobody
He has NFL strength and speed, and the mean streak you look for in a lineman. He also has that mean streak off the field, which could be a problem. He was kicked off two teams and decided to enter the draft early. He is one of the better run blockers in this draft, needs to work on pass blocking though. He had one of the best combine performances of the linemen this year. His 4.91 - 40 and 1.70 - 10 were the best. He also did 27 reps. He hurt his knee at the end of the combine but it doesn't look too serious. First day talent, but off the field problems and the injury at the combine have made him slip to day two. Marvin can turn this kid around.
4.19 Cleveland (From Minnesota via Oakland) - Dustin Fox, FS, Ohio State
Fox has adequate size, great speed and coverage skills. He played both Corner and Free Safety at a major program (The Ohio State University). He is also tough against the run.
Grabing Fox will allow Sean Jones to move to Strong Safety where he has the requisite toughness to excel.
The defensive backfield should be more fearsome than those past and might be reminicent of the mid 80's in a couple of years.
CB: G Baxter, McCutcheon, Bartell Jr
FS: Fox
SS: Jones
4.20 Seattle - Ryan Moats, RB, Louisianna Tech
4.21 Buffalo - Gerald Sensabaugh, S, North Carolina
He was a JC transfer who played 3 years at East Tennessee State and once blocked 3 punts in 1 game. He transferred to North Carolina in January 2004 after ETSU dropped its football program and had a great senior season. Was UNC's defensive MVP and a big hitter. As you would expect from someone with his background, he doesn’t have great technique and is pretty raw. However, he is blessed with excellent athleticism and speed. He turned a lot of heads at the combine with the top vertical jump (46-inch), top broad jump (11-1), and was the fastest safety with an official 4.50 forty with an explosive 10 yard split time of 1.56.
Pierson Prioleau was already cut, and Coy Wire may also be released for cap reasons. The Bills are in good shape with Milloy and Vincent as their starting safety tandem, but quality depth is needed. Sensabaugh should also be able to contribute on special teams right away while learning behind the two vets.
4.22 Jacksonville - Adam Snyder, OT, Oregon
Although there is some debate about whether he'll play guard or tackle in the NFL, Snyder has the size to do either (6-6 325). Snyder had a so-so combine with a lsow 40 time but a decent three-cone drill. He scored a 27 on the Wonderlic. The Jags have a need for someone to come in and compete at LT with Pearson. There is also a need for OL depth. E. Salaam was horrible after Pearson was hurt. Both guards struggled last year as they played with injury.
4.23 Baltimore - Antonio Perkins, CB, Oaklahoma
4.24 Green Bay - Kirk Morrison, ILB, San Diego St
4.25 Seattle - Terrence Murphy, WR, Texas A&M
4.26 NY Jets - Ronald Fields, DT, Mississippi State
The Jets need a young, bit DT and they found him in Fields. Playing alonside John Abraham, Shaun Ellis and Dewayne Robertson, the Jets don't need a playmaker at the second DT spot. What they need is a guy that will take up space, and Fields fits the bill at 320 lbs. This is a pretty good spot for Fields to get drafted, and he'll benefit from playing along the Jets playmakers. Fields is strong against the run, and he'll battle Josh Evans for playing time in training camp this year.
4.27 Atlanta - George Gause, DE, South Carolina
4.28 Indianapolis - ** Time expired March 24, 5:07pm EST ** Waiting for vote on pick
4.29 San Diego - Jason Jefferson, DT, Wisconsin
4.30 Pittsburgh - T.A. McLendon, RB, NC State
Need to get some young blood in at RB. Is a big back who could do very well in the Steelers system.
4.31 Philadelphia - Anthony Bryant, DT, Alabama
A huge, space eating defensive tackle (6'3", 335 pounds) that struggled with his weight in the past fits in perfectly with the Eagles long-term needs. An ideal replacement for Hollis Thomas in 2006 and beyond, the Eagles will work on getting Bryant's dietary issues in check in 2004 while using him sparingly at the tail end of their tackle rotation.
4.32 New England - Jammal Brimmer, S, UNVL
Now all we need is some Mel Kiper-type post-draft grades and commentary.
I'll pick the best commentary for each team and post it on the front page next to the team. Please provide a letter grade (A-F) and a 1-2 line commentary.
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Team (GM) - Draft - Grade - Commentarry:
Miami (Dolfan) - 1.2 D Johnson, OLB, Texas; 3.6 V Morency, RB, Oklahoma St; 4.3 J Butler, FS, Georgia Tech
NY Jets (Chase Stuart) - 1.26 F Washington, CB, Nebraska; 2.07 D Ware, LB, Troy State; 4.26 R Fields, DT, Miss St
New England (jgb95) - 1.32 C Crowder, MLB, Florida; 2.32 R McCune, ILB, Louisville; 4.32 J Brimmer, S, UNVL
Buffalo (Aaron Rudnicki) - 2.23 A Terry, OT, Syracuse; 3.22 J Dreesen, TE, Colorado St; 4.21 G Sensabaugh, S, North Carolina
Cleveland (Chaos) - 1.07 A Barron, OT, FSU; 2.02 B Rudd, ILB, Nebraska; 3.3 R Bartell, CB, Howard; 3.14 C Colmer, OT, NC St; 4.2 M Boley, OLB, Southern Miss; 4.19 D Fox, FS, OSU
Cincinnati (Kirby) - 1.20 E James, DE, Wisconsin; 2.06 E Shazor, SS, Michigan; 3.19 CJ Mosley, DT, Missouri; 4.18 R Ingonito, C, Nobody
Pittsburgh (Drunken Cowboy)- 1.30 E Brown, OG, Virginia; 2.30 C Henry, WR, WVU; 3.29 M Munoz, OT, Tennessee; 4.30 T.A. McLendon, RB, NC St
Baltimore (ravnzfan) - 1.25 K Barnes, OT, Washington; 2.21 C Thorpe, WR, FSU; 3.20 D Nicholson, SS, Oklahoma; 4.23 A Perkins, CB, Oaklahoma
Tennessee (Colin) - 1.06 C Williams, RB, Auburn; 1.28 J Miller, CB, Clemson; 3.4 J Campbell, QB, Auburn
Houston (pgreenfan) - 1.11 C Benson, RB, Texas; 2.15 O Thurman, ILB, Georgia; 3.9 A Ellison, DT, Missouri; 3.16 M Jones, TE, Arkansas
Jacksonville (JaxBill) - 1.21 H Miller, TE, Virginia; 2.20 S Wilson, CB, Stanford; 3.23 J Haye, DE, Vanderbilt; 4.22 A Snyder OT Oregon
Indianapolis (ColtsFreak) - 1.29 M Jackson, CB, Michigan; 2.28 J.J. Arrington, RB, Cal; 3.28 J Welsh, LB, Wisconsin
San Diego (bicycle_seat_sniffer) - 1.01 M Williams, WR, USC; 2.05 B Browner, CB, Oregon State; 4.7 R Petitti, OT, Pitt; 4.29 J Jefferson, DT, Wisconsin
Kansas City (Arrowhead Nation) - 1.16 D Pollack, DE, Georgia; 2.08 D Blackstock, OLB, Virginia; 4.15 D Orlovsky, QB, UCONN
Denver (pinda) - 1.22 M Clayton, WR, Oklahoma; 2.24; J Davis, DE, Virginia Tech
Oakland (radballs) - 2.16 C Webster, CB, LSU; 3.5 J Babineaux, DT, Iowa; 4.4 A Seward, ILB, UNLV; 4.13 K Everett, TE, Miami
San Francisco (Football Jones) - 1.12 M Spears, DT, LSU; 2.19 J Mathis, WR, Hampton; 2.29 C Canty, DE, Virginia; 3.1 A McPherson, QB, FSU; 3.25 D Williams, CB, Oklahoma St; 4.1 S Young, OG, BYU
Arizona (beef) - 1.08 A Rodgers, QB, Cal; 2.12 E Green, CB, Virginia Tech; 3.8 C Spencer, OL, Mississippi; 3.11 B McFadden, CB, FSU
St. Louis (Rayderr) - 1.19 C Rogers, CB, Auburn; 2.04 M Roth, DE, Iowa; 3.2 W Britt, OT, Alabama; 4.16 R Parrish, WR, Miami
Seattle (fridayfrenzy) - 1.23 T Johnson, DT, FSU; 2.22 R Wallace, OLB, Temple; 3.21 B Swancutt, DE, Oregon St; 4.20 R Moats, RB, Louisianna Tech; 4.25 T Murphy; WR Texas A&M
Chicago (RBM) - 1.04 R Brown, RB, Auburn; 2.25 M Bradley, WR, Oklahoma; 3.24 C Kemoeatu, OG, Utah; 4.5 A Walter, QB, Arizona St
Minnesota (Atomic Punk) - 1.03 B Edwards, WR, Michigan; 1.18 D Cody, DE, Oklahoma; 2.17 C Fason, RB, Florida
Green Bay (UFFL Commish) - 1.24 S Cody, DE, USC; 2.01 D Baas, OG, Michigan; 2.26 J Bullocks, S, Nebraska; 4.24 K Morrison, ILB, San Diego St
Detroit (loser) - 1.10 A Jones, CB, WVU; 2.09 J Tuck, DE, Notre Dame; 3.10 L Mankins, OT, Fresno St; 4.12 F Gibson, WR, Georgia
Tampa Bay (Punchie) - 1.05 A Smith, QB, Utah; 2.18 M Barber III, RB, Minnesota; 3.7 A Smith, TE, Stanford; 3.17 L Tatupu, ILB, USC; 3.27 D Buenning, OG, Wisconsin; 4.6 C Roby, WR, Indianna
Carolina (crazygutgut) - 1.14 T Williamson, WR, South Carolina; 2.13 A Hawthorne, DT, Wisconsin; 3.15 E Shelton, RB, Louisville; 4.14 K Orton, QB, Purdue
New Orleans (valhallan) - 1.15 T Davis, S, Georgia; 2.14 C Frye, QB, Akron; 3.18 S Routt, CB, Houston; 4.17 J Goddard, OLB, Marshall
Atlanta (The Dirty Word) - 2.03 B Pool, FS, Oklahoma; 2.27 M Patterson, DT, USC; 3.26 M Nugent, K, Ohio St; 3.30 E Mathis, OG, Alabama; 4.27 G Gause, DE, South Carolina
Washington (ATW22) - 1.09 A Rolle, CB, Miami; 3.12 L Mitchell, ILB, Oklahoma; 4.11 V Jackson, WR, Northern Colorado
Dallas (Joe Kidd) - 1.13 S Merriman, DE, Maryland; 1.17 J Brown, OT, Oklahoma; 2.10 R White, WR, UAB; 4.8 O Atogwe, FS, Stanford
Philadelphia (Jason Wood) - 1.27 M Johnson, OL, Mississippi; 1.31 K Burnett, OLB, Tennessee; 2.31 L Castillo, DT, Northwestern; 3.13 K.J. Harris, RB, WVU; 4.31 A Bryant, DT, Alabama
NY Giants (Kleck) - 2.11 R Brown, WR, Georgia; 3.31 B Wilkerson, C, LSU; 4.9 A Alabi, OT, TCU; 4.10 CJ Brooks, OG, Maryland
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The 2005 NFL Draft pick-by-pick commentary...
Round 3:
3.1 San Francisco - Adrian McPherson, QB, FSU
I think everybody knows his story by now. You can't dismiss his character concerns, but he was really young when he got into trouble. He's since kept his nose clean & has matured a great deal.
McPherson dominated the AFL despite being the youngest player in the league. He also had what was generally regarded as the best workout among the QBs at the combine. Outstanding athlete with all the tools. Unlimited potential.
I considered taking him as early as 51, but chose to wait it out until this pick. If he was gone, I likely would've tried to trade down again. Hopefully, McPherson will develop quickly & be a productive starter in '06 . The sooner Rattay is the backup, the better off we'll be. That said, Rattay will make a fine #2.
3.2 St. Louis - Wesley Britt, OT, Alabama
I had hoped to grab Adam Terry here, but no such luck. Tackle is the last big need for the Rams. Pace is locked in at LT, but the Turley experiment at RT has gone awry and will most likely be cut before the season begins. Hopefully, he can learn from Pace and develop into an excellent RT.
3.3 Cleveland - Ronald Bartell, CB, Howard
so many directions could be taken here. I was very unhappy to see many of my targets taken so close in front of me.
I am however very glad to have to the opportunity to shore up a big glaring Defensive weakness, namely Conerback.
So without further ado, Bartell has great speed (4.37), great height (6' 1 3/8), brains (wonderlic of 35), and outstanding strength (21 reps of 225). We can put him on an island and move the safety elsewhere. He has the size and strength to dominate in the red zone. This will also allow us to move McCutcheon to slot corner where he is better suited.
3.4 Tennessee - Jason Campbell, QB, Auburn
Campbell matured a ton in the last year. WHile we are usually weary of players who made huge strides in one season, but Campbell seems to have made progress for a while now. 2 steps forward, 1 step back kind of progress. However, he has GREAT size, good arm strenght, good speed, and he can make big throws (See: 2nd Half of 2004 SEC Champ Game). A year or two studying film with Chow and McNair should help with his decision making troubles (which, in spite of, he was a career 63% passer at AU). We are excited to add him to our team, particularly this late in the draft.
I saw a comparison to Aaron Brooks, and I think its a good comparison.
3.5 Oakland - Jonathan Babineaux, DT, Iowa
A bit undersized at slightly shorter than 6'2" and 280 lbs. But, he's very quick for a DT (sub 4.75 40) and has a great first step. If he can put on a little weight without sacrificing too much speed, Babineaux could be a good player for a D line that needs an injection of youth.
3.6 Miami – Vernand Morency, RB, Oklahoma State
Love this kid's size and explosiveness! Most Oklahoma State fans believe he is a better back than Tatum Bell. Would have gone at least a round earlier in any other draft not so chalk full of good RB prospects. Morency is the 4th RB on my board and I don't see a lot of drop off between Cadillac (who I would have selected #2 if I went RB) and Morency => great value for a 3rd round pick! Morency sitting here at this pick is the exact reason if the Dolphins do go offense in the 1st round, I'd rather see them grab one of the QBs or Braylon Edwards than a RB.
3.7 Tampa Bay – Alex Smith, TE, Stanford
Strange that we draft two guys with the same name, but I suppose weirder things have happened.
Gruden's offense relies heavily on the tight End position, which has been a very poor position historically for Tampa. We recently signed Anthony Becht, but he is more of a blocking TE. Gruden would love to groom a tight end that can spread the field for his running backs and Michael Clayton. After I drafted Marion Barber in the 2nd round I figured that Smith would be gone by my next pick, with him sitting here, it was just too much value to pass up.
** Detroit trades pick #72 to Arizona for pick #74 **
3.8 Arizona (From Detroit) - Chris Spencer C/G, Ole Miss
I consider Spencer an early second round talent and am amazed he dropped this far. He brings tremendous strength and excellent athletic ability to the table. He played Center his senior year, but has experience at both guard spots, and should fit in at LG right away, thus bringing the Dave Loverne era to an end.
The upside is tremendous, and with a little bit of polishing, Spencer should be the best interior lineman to come out of this draft.
3.9 Houston - Attiyah Ellison, DT, Missouri
I had really hoped that Chris Canty would be available at this pick however with him gone, I see no value at the DE position and a tremendous value pick remaining at DT. Attiyah should be able to provide a pass rush from the NT position and joined with the addition of Odell Thurman in the middle could vastly improve the Texans run defense. edit to add not that the Texans rush defense was terrible last year, but the middle is going to be missing most likely both starting inside linebackers from last year so this area really needed to be addressed I feel.
3.10 Detroit (From Arizona) - Logan Mankins OT Fresno State
The hole in the interior was filled with Demulling. Now we turn our attention to the tackle spot. Mankins may not have the upside of Spencer, but you know you're gonna get effort every down with good intangibles, and a mean streak to boot.
The talent may not be top of the line, but he demonstrates good footwork, and is strong as a bull. Mankins is an anachronism, the classic overachiever, and should fit into the Lions plans right away.
3.11 Arizona - Bryant McFadden, CB, Florida State
McFadden has dropped a bit in this draft. Most mocks that I haved viewed have him going in the 2nd round and a couple as high as a top 40 pick. Arizona had taken a CB in the early 2nd (Eric Green) so this wasn't really a need, but since McFadden was on my short list then and he happened to fall, the value was too good to pass up. And it's never a bad idea to have plenty of CB's on a team, for depth or trading perposes.
I actually like McFadden talents a lot more than some of the CB's already taken, including Green who I took at #44. He has good size (6' 185), is plenty tough, and can bring down the ball carrier in the open field. Technique, athleticism, and tackling are probably his greatest strengths. He has the talent and skill to be a late 1st round pick, but his speed (4.51) and consistent play will knock him down a few spots. There have been times when it looked like McFadden hadn't played to his potential. Whoever does draft McFadden will need to keep a fire under his ####. And if McFadden does apply himself and workout and show what he can do and keep it at a high level, he could easily be a starting CB in the NFL for quite a few years.
3.12 Washington - Lance Mitchell, ILB, Oklahoma
The skins look to Lance Mitchell to replace the departig Atonio Pirece at MLB. A strong smart player with great skills and a nose for the ball. Will fot well into Greg Williams attacking defensive scheme.
3.13 Philadelphia - Kay-Jay Harris, RB, West Virginia
The Eagles benefit from a deep RB draft by grabbing Harris in the middle of the 3rd round. Harris is the potential perfect complement to Brian Westbrook in that he's a bruising inside runner with great size (6'0", 243 pounds). Despite his size, Harris has above average speed (4.5 40 at his Pro Day), exceptional burst, and welcomes contact inside. To quote NFL Draft Scout, "Kay-Jay shows very good tilt and pad level working in-line, keeping his feet while generating more than enough lateral agility and awareness to pick and slide. He runs with good body lean and knows how to distribute weight attacking the holes."
Harris showed surprising ability catching the ball at the Senior Bowl (he was rarely asked to be a receiver at WVU); and is an adequate blocker. Clearly he'll need to continue to improve both of those facets if he's to some day play a major role in the Eagles offense.
** TRADE ALERT **
The Houston Texans trade pick #78 to the Cleveland Browns for pick #80 and the Browns 5th round pick.
3.14 Cleveland - Chris Colmer, OT, NC State
Colmer will provide awsome depth all along the line but primarily at ROT behind Tucker.
HE battled some nerve damage which has hindered his position. Before this he would have been considered a top 5 OT prospect last year. He has a mean streak and plays "nasty". This will be a usefull infusion to Cleveland's O-line.
With Carolina's troubles at O-line and that fact that Colmer played his ball in NC I was a bit afraid they might look in this direction.
3.15 Carolina - Eric Shelton, RB, Louisville
2004 stats are 146 attempts 954 yards 6.5 avg 20 Tds
With Shelton, we are adding more depth at RB just in case. Some mocks have him going in the 2nd so we are happy to have him in the 3rd.
3.16 Houston - Matt Jones, TE, Arkansas
Although I feel that the Texans have greater needs at other positions and there are a couple of players that I rate well above Jones , I am going with him because of his potential. At this time I am unsure of where he will play I feel that his upside is to great to pass up. 6'5" 239 lbs 4.39 40, close to a 40" vertical leap and almost 11' broad jump. Quite possibley the best athlete in the draft who will create matchup nightmares for linebackers and safeties if he plays tight end because of his speed while he will be so much larger than corners if he plays WR.
By trading down and picking up another 5th round pick I feel that this allows me to gamble a bit with this pick and try for the home run. Matt's success in the NFL will be in a large part dependent on his desire to be great. Good reports from the Senior Bowl and combine should have his draft stock rising more than he has so far.
I really have a hard time making this pick because of some of the other players left on the board but just don't see this amount of upside with anyone left in the draft.
3.17 Tampa Bay - Lofa Tatupu, ILB, USC
Monte Kiffen knows the USC defense better than anyone else considering his son coaches there, and USC happens to run the exact same scheme as Tampa. With Shelton Quarles nearing the end of his career we have a big hole in the Middle of our linebacker corp.
3.18 New Orleans - Stanford Routt, CB, Houston
CB is not as pressing a need for the Saints as some might think, so I believe we can take a chance on this guy. He has good size, 6-1 193, and runs a blazing 4.3 40. If we can keep Stanford away from the fire and let him take notes from vets like Joe Horn and Mike McKenzie, he could develop nicely and become a premier corner in this league.
3.19 Cincinnati - C.J. Mosley, DT, Missouri
Major steal here... They are saying late first or second... can't pass him up here. Would have been All-American/Outland Trophy canidate if he would have returned to school. Regarded by most as the top player on Mizzou's defense last year. 314lbs on a 6'2" frame and quick. Gets in the backfield to blow up plays. Definitely helps shore up the D. I think James, Shazor, and now Mosley would make the new D-Coord quite happy.
3.20 Baltimore - Dante Nicholson, SS, Oklahoma
Big tough SS (6'1'-216), rated in the second tier after Davis-Georgia, on our board---same class as Shazor-Michigan (#38)
JuCo transfer in '03, Nicholson stepped in and was named All Big-12 Defensive Newcommer of the Yr
Loves action at the line of scrimage, logged 90 tackles, 10 for a loss in '03...recorded 6 sacks, 4 passes defended and grabbed 2 pickles
Quick enough(4.5-ish 40) to cover RB's and TE's in coverage
We feel strongly about Nicholson, as the Raven "plan-A" had them signing Gary Baxter to a long term deal with the hopes of moving him over to SS in time...by paying Samari Rolle the same as Baxter to actually play corner, Dante Nicholson could step right in and complete what many say is the best secondary in the NFL
3.21 Seattle – Bill Swancutt, DE, Oregon State
3.22 Buffalo - Joel Dreesen, TE, Colorado State
He's a blue collar guy who showed great hands during senior week and at the combine. He's got good size and is a willing blocker. I think he'll fit in perfectly in Buffalo and compete for a starting spot right away. Season-ending knee injuries to Mark Campbell and Tim Euhus last year have created a big need at the position, and having a reliable receiver at TE should help JP Losman's progress as he takes over the reigns of the Bills offense.
Would have seriously considered Matt Jones here, as I think Mularkey would drool to have a player like that at his disposal.
Other big need here was DT, but I think similar talent can be had in the next round or two.
3.23 Jacksonville – Jovan Haye, DE, Vanderbilt
He's 6-2 284 and he turned pro after a disappointing junior season where he attracted double-teams and only registered one sack. He has only played a total of five seasons of organized football (including HS) and is considered very raw. He had a great sophomore year where he registered 8.5 sacks. He had an outstanding combine where he ran a 4.74 40 and did 33 reps at 225 on the bench-press.
Although the Jags have signed Hayward, there's still a need at the position. Paul Spicer and Rob Meier are coming back from injury. Last year converted LBs Akin Ayodele and Greg Favors had to play significant down there.
3.24 Chicago - Chris Kemoeatu, G, Utah
Bears need to improve, and get younger on the inside of the line. Reuben Brown is old and couldnt stay healthy last year, Rex Tucker is a mess who should be cut, then you have some guys that really dont get anyone too excited like Qasim Mitchell, Steve Edwards, Terrence Metcalf.
3.25 San Francisco - Darrent Williams, CB, Oklahoma State
The 9ers are planning on moving Mike Rumph to FS. In doing so, the CB position needs to be re-stocked. It could stand to be upgraded, as well.
Williams is a tremendous athlete. Cat-quick/super-fast (4.31 at the combine) with great instincts & good ball skills. Outstanding cover man. Fantastic combine performance has him shooting up draft boards. Also a quality punt returner. Only real negative is lack of size (5'8-5/8" 176).
I considered another player of need here, but decided to go with the all-important CB position. I'm hoping the other guy is there at the top of the 4th.
3.26 Atlanta - Mike Nugent, K, Ohio State
The Falcons have replaced Jay Feely with Todd Peterson. While an OK stop gap measure, he was signed on the cheap and does not kick off. For that, the Falcons waived Chris Mohr and signed Toby Gowin who can kick-off (punt isn't a great punter).
So the Falcons have gon on the cheap to address their kicking situation for the 2005 season but in Nugent, the Falcons secure a K who in his last 3 years at Ohio State had an 88% conversion rate including 8/9 from beyond 50 yards.
Rich McKay is not afraid to grab kickers early as he did so years ago with Martin Gramatica. Nugent has the leg and the accuacy to make the Falcons dangerous from anywhere inside the 40, especially inside the Georgia Dome, a place Feely had inexplicable trouble with.
3.27 Tampa Bay - Dan Buenning, OG, Wisconsin
Dan is Bill Muir's type of lineman, smart and an overachiever.
Strengths: Very smart player...Displays excellent technique on a consistent basis...Has loads of experience...Overachiever who always gives 100%...Has led the way for a very successful Badger run game.
Weaknesses: Not a great athlete...Mobility is lacking...Needs to get stronger, especially in the lower half...Will get pushed around by massive defensive tackles at times...Limited upside and what you see if what you get.
Notes: Typcial Wisconsin lineman in that he doesn't have all the physical tools you look for but he gets the job done...May never be a star but should develop into a solid pro.
3.28 Indianapolis - Jonathan Welsh, LB Wisconsin
3.29 Pittsburgh - Michael Munoz, OT, Tennessee
Was looking at 3 players here, but just had to go with Munoz. He has just unreal upside. Has had problems staying healthy, but was healthy last year and showed some of his potential. Has the talent and athletic ability to be a pro bowl left tackle. That is hard to find at the end of the 3rd round.
3.30 Atlanta - Evan Mathis, OG, Alabama
Mathis has become one of my favorite players in this draft. The nephew of former Dolphin great Bob Baumhower, Mathis has a desire to suceed in the NFL like very few. So much so that he played through the pain of two different stress fractures in his legs to amass 47 straight starts on Alabama's O-Line (one which included Wesley Britt and Justin Smiley). He seems to drive alot of motivation from pundits saying he 'can't do'.
He absolutely blew the doors off at the combine earlier this month from a speed, quickness and strength standpoint (his 20-yard shuttle time was 4.16...Brandon Browner's was 4.24). He has played pretty much every position on the line so while he's projected at OG, he could be moved outside to OT and maybe spot at C. His versatiliy is a plus. All in all, I think this is one of the better "under the radar" players in the whole draft and quite frankly, I'd be surprised if he made it this far. But today he does...
3.31 NY Giants - Ben Wilkerson, C, LSU
Injury concerns because of his knee may cause Ben to slide a bit, but he's arguable the best center in the draft. Doesn't quite have the strength teams might like but shows great technique and leverage. Very athletic and smart and is fundamentally sound. Should make a great center for many years if the knee checks good and is great value and a steal at the end of the 3rd.
4.1 San Francisco - Scott Young, OG, Brigham Young
The 9ers could use a G & this 6'4" 312-pounder will be a good one in time. Might have the best speed/strength ratio of anybody in this class. Ran a 4.93 with 43 reps at the combine. The 43 reps broke the combine record.
4.2 Cleveland - Michael Boley, OLB, Southern Mississippi
Boley is 6' 3", 236 lbs, runs a 4.59, 4.12 shuttle and a wonderlick score of a 30!
This is the kind of athlete that Cleveland can use and mold to fit wherever they need him most. You can never have too many good LB/DE in the 3-4.
4.3 Miami - James Butler, FS, Georgia Tech
The Dolphins lost both starting safeties in free agency. Tebucky Jones was brought in to play SS and former LB Tony Bua was moved to safety as well and could pick up the slack if Tebucky fails to meet expectations. Miami needs a starting-caliber FS, and who would have thought one would be there waiting for them in the FOURTH ROUND!
Butler is the 2nd best FS in the draft according to most scouts and gets a high 3rd round grade. Butler is a playmaker who has the intelligence to be a team leader, the range that you look for in a FS and is the ideal size for the position.
If he has a weakness, it would be his inexperience or less than ideal strength. Nevertheless, Miami is thrilled to have Butler at this point in the draft.
4.4 Oakland - Adam Seward, ILB, UNLV
This guy is a true linebacker and football player. He will not get any accolades for his speed, athleticism, or coverage skills. But, he's tough and agressive, has a nose for the ball, and flat out knows how to play.
4.5 Chicago - Andrew Walter, QB, Arizona State
Who knows what we have in Grossman. He showed mere glimpses in a few of his 6 starts I believe, but hasnt been able to stay healthy. I do think if the o-line stays healty, combined with a strong, dependable running game and go-to-guy in Muhammed, Grossman can be a good qb in this league, but he has to be able to stay on the field for a longer stretch than 3 games. So with the fact that there are still questions, and Chad Hutchinson being basically the only other qb on roster (forget Krenzel and Kittner), we will take Walter and his very nice potential here.
4.6 Tampa Bay - Courtney Roby, WR, Indiana
We really need a speed guy to stretch the defense a bit and make room in the middle for Clayton. Roby is a very fast player (4.33 40) who is a college track star with great intangibles (work ethic character etc.) Gruden loves speed and will jump all over this guy in the 4th.
4.7 San Diego (From Tennessee) - Rob Petitti, OT, Pittsburgh
I really just wanted to add some depth for a unit that needs improvement. Last year the starting line was: Oben,Goff,Harwick,Fonuti,Olivea. 2 rookies, 1 FA, a training camp trade and a 2002 rookie. Its a wonder that Brees & LT aren't dead at this point. Courtney van Buren returns from IR this year to add a little more depth.
4.8 Dallas - Oshiomogho Atogwe, FS, Stanford
4.9 NY Giants - Anthony Alabi, OT, Texas Christian
4.10 NY Giants (From Arizona) - C.J. Brooks, OG, Maryland
4.11 Washington - Vincent Jackson, WR, Northern Colorado
He doesn't have the experience to be a 1st or 2nd rounder but he definately has the size 6'5 235 and speed 4.53 to go in the first couple of rounds. He will immediately add size to the smurf like WR corps of the skins and also provide a great red zone target for ramsey. He had a great Senoir Bowl showing where he took advantage of his size, speed and hands to move up the draft board.
The skins also considered aonther big WR from a big school that was a great athlete, but a questionable work ethic. A TE with 2nd round talent and a Guard/Tackle from the Pac 10 that would provide depth along the OL for the skins.
It came dopwn to depth vs playmaking ability. and thw WR won out.
4.12 Detroit - Fred Gibson, WR, Georgia
4.13 Oakland (From Cincinnati) - Kevin Everett, TE, Miami
4.14 Carolina - Kyle Orton, QB Purdue
With this pick, again its BPA and gaining depth. Heaven forbid anything happens to Delhomme. We have Peete and Weinke (who the staff doesn't seem to like anyway).
Orton's totals for 2004 were 3090 yards 31tds 5 ints. With those stats and Orton being 6-4 230 pounds, I think he is a good value pick. He would not have to rush to play at Carolina and could learn for a year or two.
4.15 Kansas City - Dan Orlovsky, QB, Connecticut
Carolina made this pick much easier for KC. We were debating between Orlovsky and Orton and once Orton was off the board, the QB from UCONN was the obvious choice.
Trent Green will be 35 when Training camp starts, and the CHiefs are in dire need of a young QB to groom for a year or two to replace him. Orlovsky grabbed a 30 on the Wonderlic, and ran consistently good times in nearly every facet of the combine.
With his smarts, and his 6'5 225 lb frame, KC sees him as a nice young QB that will fit well in Al Saunders' system and having Green as a mentor will only help.
4.16 St. Louis - Roscoe Parrish, WR, Miami
4.17 New Orleans - Jonathan Goddard, OLB, Marshall
I looked for BPA but couldn't find much. With Colby Bockwoldt and James Allen being shaky starters at best, Goddard fills a need at OLB. He's a little undersized at 6'0" but makes up for it with 4.75 speed. Should be able to compete for a starting job.
4.18 Cincinnati - Richie Ingonito, C, Nobody
He has NFL strength and speed, and the mean streak you look for in a lineman. He also has that mean streak off the field, which could be a problem. He was kicked off two teams and decided to enter the draft early. He is one of the better run blockers in this draft, needs to work on pass blocking though. He had one of the best combine performances of the linemen this year. His 4.91 - 40 and 1.70 - 10 were the best. He also did 27 reps. He hurt his knee at the end of the combine but it doesn't look too serious. First day talent, but off the field problems and the injury at the combine have made him slip to day two. Marvin can turn this kid around.
4.19 Cleveland (From Minnesota via Oakland) - Dustin Fox, FS, Ohio State
Fox has adequate size, great speed and coverage skills. He played both Corner and Free Safety at a major program (The Ohio State University). He is also tough against the run.
Grabing Fox will allow Sean Jones to move to Strong Safety where he has the requisite toughness to excel.
The defensive backfield should be more fearsome than those past and might be reminicent of the mid 80's in a couple of years.
CB: G Baxter, McCutcheon, Bartell Jr
FS: Fox
SS: Jones
4.20 Seattle - Ryan Moats, RB, Louisianna Tech
4.21 Buffalo - Gerald Sensabaugh, S, North Carolina
He was a JC transfer who played 3 years at East Tennessee State and once blocked 3 punts in 1 game. He transferred to North Carolina in January 2004 after ETSU dropped its football program and had a great senior season. Was UNC's defensive MVP and a big hitter. As you would expect from someone with his background, he doesn’t have great technique and is pretty raw. However, he is blessed with excellent athleticism and speed. He turned a lot of heads at the combine with the top vertical jump (46-inch), top broad jump (11-1), and was the fastest safety with an official 4.50 forty with an explosive 10 yard split time of 1.56.
Pierson Prioleau was already cut, and Coy Wire may also be released for cap reasons. The Bills are in good shape with Milloy and Vincent as their starting safety tandem, but quality depth is needed. Sensabaugh should also be able to contribute on special teams right away while learning behind the two vets.
4.22 Jacksonville - Adam Snyder, OT, Oregon
Although there is some debate about whether he'll play guard or tackle in the NFL, Snyder has the size to do either (6-6 325). Snyder had a so-so combine with a lsow 40 time but a decent three-cone drill. He scored a 27 on the Wonderlic. The Jags have a need for someone to come in and compete at LT with Pearson. There is also a need for OL depth. E. Salaam was horrible after Pearson was hurt. Both guards struggled last year as they played with injury.
4.23 Baltimore - Antonio Perkins, CB, Oaklahoma
4.24 Green Bay - Kirk Morrison, ILB, San Diego St
4.25 Seattle - Terrence Murphy, WR, Texas A&M
4.26 NY Jets - Ronald Fields, DT, Mississippi State
The Jets need a young, bit DT and they found him in Fields. Playing alonside John Abraham, Shaun Ellis and Dewayne Robertson, the Jets don't need a playmaker at the second DT spot. What they need is a guy that will take up space, and Fields fits the bill at 320 lbs. This is a pretty good spot for Fields to get drafted, and he'll benefit from playing along the Jets playmakers. Fields is strong against the run, and he'll battle Josh Evans for playing time in training camp this year.
4.27 Atlanta - George Gause, DE, South Carolina
4.28 Indianapolis - ** Time expired March 24, 5:07pm EST ** Waiting for vote on pick
4.29 San Diego - Jason Jefferson, DT, Wisconsin
4.30 Pittsburgh - T.A. McLendon, RB, NC State
Need to get some young blood in at RB. Is a big back who could do very well in the Steelers system.
4.31 Philadelphia - Anthony Bryant, DT, Alabama
A huge, space eating defensive tackle (6'3", 335 pounds) that struggled with his weight in the past fits in perfectly with the Eagles long-term needs. An ideal replacement for Hollis Thomas in 2006 and beyond, the Eagles will work on getting Bryant's dietary issues in check in 2004 while using him sparingly at the tail end of their tackle rotation.
4.32 New England - Jammal Brimmer, S, UNVL
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One of my favorite things about this place is that one of the resident "experts" is a Titans fan. 
