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Pats Fan Mock Draft 2005

With The 32nd Pick, In the 2004 NFL Draft, The New England Patriots Select ...

This years draft is a very interesting one for fans of the World Champion New England Patriots. The first round is no where near the level of talent as last year. This can help or hurt a mock draft. I have found that when a draft is lower in talent teams will go for needs more then players. Now we just have to find the teams top needs:

Barrett Rudd Inside Linebacker  6-2, 240 Nedraska Kevin Burnett OLB/ILB  6-3, 236   Miami

Lance Mitchell Inside Linebacker  6-2, 245 Oklahoma

Lofa Tatupu ILB/ST 6, 224 USC

Mike Goolsby Inside Linebacker 6-3, 248 Notre Dame

Darryl Blackstock Outside Linebacker 6-3, 233 Virginia

Rian Wallace  Inside Linebacker  6-2, 245 Temple 

Alfred Fincher Inside Linebacker Connecticut 6-2, 237

The Pats are in a tough position this year with less draft picks and more needs and uncertainties. Inside Linebacker is the teams top need, and the player I believe should be their top priority is Barrett Rudd. There are not a lot of great players in this draft, and most of the potential great players have issues. This draft however, has a lot of very good players with interesting potential. There is a talent drop off after the first ten players. Then the next 20-30 players are are similarly rated. Then there is another drop off, and the next 20-30 players are rated about equal. So after the top ten there is not a real big drop off in talent for This is a good deep draft, but not a great draft like last seasons draft, where a 260 pound TE who ran 4.46 forty fell to the 32nd pick, this year WR's running sub 4.5's are the hot commodities. All teams are looking to trade sown to acquire more depth, but none are looking to trade up.

# Team My Picks:

Top Needs:

Team Moves:

1. 49ers Aaron Rogers QB
California

QB, WR, DT, DE, FS, LB, DB

 

F.A. Signings and Trades:

Jonas Jennings, LT

Joe Nedney, K

Key F.A.  Loses:

Ronnie Heard, S (ATL)

Todd Peterson, K (ATL)

Brandon Whiting, DE

Cedrick Wilson, WR (PIT)

The 49ers just need to hunker down and take the best QB in the draft. I believe that is Aaron Rogers, but barely by a measurable margin and that margin keeps shrinking. Rogers has a quicker release, better footwork, and superior arm strength to Alex Smith or else Smith would be he top QB. His biggest concern is his tendency to stare down his number one receivering option. This is a death sentence in the NFL. The first thing he will have to learn as a Pro is not to stare down his top receiver. He is a ridiculously accurate passer who completed 66 percent of his attempts in 05. Rogers biggest negative is that he is Jeff Tedford disciple. Tadford has a strange list of QB's he's worked with in college that have great numbers, in college, yet their impressive production has translated into some of the biggest busts in draft history. If Rogers had Smiths size he would easily be the highest rated player and the consensus number one pick in this draft. That being said, Rogers has worked in a more Pro-style offense, has a stronger arm, and has better accuracy on his throws. He reminds me of a right handed and slightly taller Mark Brunell, that is not a bad QB to have. Smith completed 68% of his passes for 32 Touch Down and a minuscule 4 INTs. If he had Rogers arm he would be one of the top rated QB's ever. Where Smith is superior to Roger is in his decision making ability. He just doesn't make many mistakes on the field, as shown by having thrown only 4 INTs last season. He reads the defense as fast as any college QB ever has, and makes his decision where the ball should go almost instantly. And maybe more importantly is that his decision are right. In the NFL the mental aspect of a QB's game is the most important aspect of the game. The game is so fast and so complicated that a QB's brain has to work faster then the pass rush, and that is a very difficult skill to acquire. Again both QB's appear to have the brain to be able to handle it, it just appears that Smith is ever so slightly ahead of Rogers here. Smiths biggest negative is that he played in a Shot-Gun only offense for the past three Seasons.

2. Dolphins Alex Smith QB Utah

QB, RB, OLT, DB, DB, WR, DB, LB

F.A. Signings and Trades:

Kevin Carter, DE

Damion Cook, G

Heath Evans, FB

Gus Frerotte, QB

Vonnie Holliday, DE

Tebucky Jones , S

Stockar McDougle, T

Donnie Spragan, LB

Travares Tillman, S

Key F.A.  Loses:

David Boston, WR

Jay Fiedler, QB (NYJ)

Arturo Freeman, S

Morlon Greenwood, LB (HOU)

Sammy Knight, S (KC)

Rob Konrad, FB

James Newson, WR

Bryan Robinson, DT (CIN)

Jay Williams, DE (STL)

Shawn Wooden, S

Dolphins need a QB and Saban would be a fool to Pass on Alex Smith, but word is he has no intention of taking Smith here. In my opinion Gus Frerotte is the best QB on their roster, and is not a special QB by any means. Both Shaun Alexander and Edgerrin James have said they want to play in Miami. Taking Brown here and passing on these two is a mistake. They could take Smith and Alexander and have a completely revamped offense. That being said I am a Ronnie Brown fan. I kept watching Auburn play this year to see Cadillac Williams play, and I kept being more impressed with Brown then Williams. So I was happy that he has jumped over Williams in most peoples ratings, because it makes me feel more confident in my scouting ability. Okay with all that being said I am reminded that Saban is from the Belichick school of draft paranoia. So any player associated with him is probably not going to be taken. So my pick is the one player Saban appears to have no interest in, Alex Smith. Smith reads defenses exceptionally well, and has a great feel for the game. He is a winner with every intangible. Is an average athlete, but is big and strong. Has a quick release, and pretty good arm strength. After lining up in shotgun much of college career, must adjust to taking snaps under center. Snith earned his Bachelors Degree in two and a half years. He already reads defenses like an NFL QB. He knows how to manipulate the Safety, by looking one way and throwing the other. That is a very rare ability for a college QB. He can take in a ton of information and translate it to the field. There is a gigantic learning curve for a rookie QB entering the NFL. Okay, I just convinced myself Smith is the top QB in this draft. QB'S on this level all have tremendous physical skills and abilities. What separates the good from the great is an ultra quick brain and toughness. Both Smith and Rogers have both, but Smith appears to be a little faster mentally.

3. Browns Derrick Johnson OLB Texas

LB, DT, DE, OT, DE, QB, DB, DB, LB

F.A. Signings and Trades:

Joe Andruzzi, G

Gary Baxter, CB

Cosey Coleman, G

Jason Fisk, DT

Kyle Richardson, P

Matt Stewart, LB

Trent Dilfer QB

Key F.A.  Loses:

Gerard Warren DT

Courtney Brown, DE

Damion Cook, G (MIA)

Jeff Garcia, QB (DET)

Barry Gardner, LB (NYJ)

Kelvin Garmon, G

Robert Griffith, S (ARI)

Kelly Holcomb, QB

Anthony Henry, CB (DAL)

Lewis Sanders, CB (HOU)

Ebenezer Ekuban DE

Michael MyersDT

Phil Savage is banking a lot in Trent Dilfer. The good news for our old friend Romeo is that Dilfer can manage an Offense and won't lose the game for you with consistent mistakes. The Browns allowed the most rushing TD's in the league last season. So defenders who can stop the run are very important for this team. I am a huge Derrick Johnson fan. He has tremendous speed and tenacity. He is a 240 pound Linebacker with 4.5 speed. He set a school record with 9 Interceptions, and with his speed he will be a fierce pass rusher in the Pro's. And we've all seen him make tackles from sideline-to-sideline. The Brown's have had a fierce need for LBers for the past 2 drafts. If they switch to a 3-4 they will have to take Johnson. The other concern is the Broncos bizarre acquisition of their entire Defensive Line, but there are no real top ten D-Linemen in this draft. Antrel Rolle is a strong possiblity here as well. Some think he is the best defensive prospect in the draft. He appears capable of playing both Corner and Safety.

4. Bears Ronnie Brown RB Auburn

WR, QB, OT, LB, WR, RB, DB

F.A. Signings and Trades:

Eddie Berlin, WR

Roberto Garza, G

Fred Miller, T

Muhsin Muhammad, WR

Key F.A.  Loses:

Jonathan Quinn, QB

David Terrell, WR

Yes I know everybody and there brother has Braylon Edwards slotted here, and they could very easily take him. But Smith has a young talented interesting defense, and said he wants to gear his Offense around a power running game. To me Brown is the perfect back for that. He has 4.4 speed at 233 pounds and was a power running at Auburn. The signing of Mushin Muhammad allows the Bears to take a great runner rather then Edwards and dramatically improve two aspects of the offense rather then just one. Word is Smith wants to build his Offense around a power running game. If Ronnie Brown is here still here he will not pass on him. He has everything you want in a RB. Plus he was had less carries then the other two top RB, so he has less wear and tear on his body. Playing RB in the NFL is like getting in a major car crash each week, and the body can only take so much punishment. Brown can block like a Fullback, where he pulls like a OG to the outside. He has also lined up wide like a Wide Receiver last season. He is the most complete back in this draft, and a legitimate three down RB.

5. Buccaneers Cadillac Williams RB Auburn RB, TE, QB, WR, OL, DL

F.A. Signings and Trades:

Anthony Becht, TE

Juran Bolden, CB

Matt Bryant, K

Josh Buhl, LB

Akili Smith, QB

Key F.A.  Loses:

Keith Burns, LB (DEN)

Cosey Coleman, G (CLE)

Chartric Darby, DT (SEA)

 Mario Edwards, CB

Brad Johnson, QB (MIN)

Joe Jurevicius, WR (SEA)

Matt O'Dwyer, G (GB);

Dwight Smith, S (NO)

 

I saw Gruden tell Williams that is he was there at five he would  take him. So I'm sticking with this pick, even though I know illusions and smoke screens are just as much a part of the draft as speed evaluations and talent. Williams is a athletic patient runner, who reads and follows blocks skillfully. He has that innate ability to make defenders miss him in the open field, and he can still run over people. This is an interesting combination. He can pick up the blitzer, and catch the ball smoothly. He can run, block, and catch the ball, and he is also a legit three down back. He is a short strider with quick juke moves in traffic and the ability to cut back on a dime. He gets outside well very well, and can turn the corner. He changes speeds brilliantly and keeps his feet moving, and can get to high gear quickly through a hole. Plus he is as tough as they come, and has added 10-15 pounds of muscle in preparation for the NFL wars. Bottom line Buccs need to improve ground game and Gruden has experience coaching Williams and gave him his word he would take him here.

6. Titans Mike Williams WR USC

CB, WR, WR,  OT, QB, LB, CB

F.A. Signings and Trades:

Ola Kimrin, K

Key F.A.  Loses:

Eddie Berlin, WR (CHI)

Kevin Carter, DE (MIA)

Robert Holcombe, FB

Derrick Mason, WR (BAL)

Shad Meier, TE (NO)

Fred Miller, OT (CHI)

Joe Nedney, K

Samari Rolle, CB (BAL)

I believe that if either QB Rogers or Smith falls here they will take him. McNair threw more INT's then TD's for the first time in his career last season. The starting ORT is gone and the starting OLT is embroiled in an off the field issue, and McNair got the crap beat out of him last season. Get where I'm going? An Offensive Tackle, or two is a strong need in this draft. Trading down for Barron would be a wise decision. Otherwise this pick is dedicated to replacing Free Agent loses. Antrel Rolle would be a terrific fit here, and if WIliams is gone it would be an easy pick for them. But I just like how Mike Williams fit here. Williams is USC all-time leader in Touch Downs scored. Think about that. Think of all the great running backs that went to school at USC. Williams scored 30 TDs in two seasons, more then any of those great runners scored in 3 or 4 seasons. He wasn't even a football player in high school, he was a basketball player. His potential has to be considered on the Jerry Rice/Marvin Harrison- best of all-time level, since he is still only 21. Norm Chow is the new Offensive Coordinator for the Titans. He coached Williams for two seasons at USC. I don't believe the Titans can hire Chow and pass on Williams. Williams doesn't have top end speed, but in this league it is all about making plays. He destroys Corners physically, catches TD's like no other WR I've ever seen, and can catch the ball in traffic like a basketball player. I don't believe his year off will hurt him. He was a basketball player in High School and stepped right onto the USC team and started as a Freshman. Remember, the top receiver from last years daft was Mark Clayton (80 receptions last season) from LSU. He ran a 4.59 at last years Combine. Williams just ran a 4.58 at USC's Pro Day.

7. Vikings Braylon Edwards WR Michigan

WR, LB, DL, WR, DB, OL, DL

F.A. Signings and Trades:

Brad Johnson, QB

Darren Sharper, S

Fred Smoot, CB

Travis Taylor, WR

Pat Williams, DT

Key F.A.  Loses:

Gus Frerotte, QB (MIA)

Chris Claiborne, LB (STL)

Randy Moss WR

Edwards is big strong fast and was very productive at Michigan, plus he was a combine star. This is a recipe for a top ten pick. Edwards showed he was a top five pick with an amazing Pro-day workout. He was a three year starter, who had his best season as a Senior (97 rec, 1,330 yards and 15 TDs), and that is saying something if you look at his Junior stats (84 rec, 1,138 yards and 14 TDs). Edwards could solidify this offense. He has everything you want in a WR: size, speed, hands, and production. He'll get the dropsies sometimes because of concentration issues, but he has Randy Moss type triangle numbers (6'3; 211, 4.45). The Vikings get a steal here at 7. GM's have called him, "the cleanest player in the draft". He catches the difficult pass like a circus acrobat. H eunderstands how to string together moves and work a CB into embarrassment.

8. Cardinals

Cedric Benson RB Texas

QB, RB, CB, TE, OL, DL, DL, OL

F.A. Signings and Trades:

Robert Griffith, S

Orlando Huff, LB

Rhett Nelson, DB

Chike Okeafor, DE

Oliver Ross, T

Kurt Warner, QB

Key F.A.  Loses:

Shaun King, QB

Michael Stone, DB (STL)

Karl Williams, WR

 

Benson is just a terrific football player. He has good size speed amazing production and was considered the top back in this draft right up to the combine where Ronnie Brown stole the show. Green intends to start Warner. If he is serious he better have a better O-Line or a better ground game. Benson will provide a better running game. His ability to get yards after contact is just amazing. he may be the best at doing that in this draft, although Brown has amazing power as well. This pick is already being contested. If Cardinals trade for Travis Henry they will not take a running back here, and Antrel Rolle will not slide by them. So look for Rolle or Benson to be taken at this spot. Plus, Benson has had some off the field issues and appears to be the one out of the top three runners to be falling. He has rushed for over a thousand yards in each of the four seasons he spent at Texas. He has a lot of carries on his legs. 58% of his yards came after contact. Not a good blocker so he isn't a 3 down back. He is a disinterested blitz pick up blocker, so he can't play on third down until he acquires this ability. 

9. Redskins Antrel Rolle CB Miami

WR, CB, DE OC, OG, TE, CB

F.A. Signings and Trades:

David Patten, WR

Pierson Prioleau, S

Casey Rabach, C

Sanata Moss WR

Key F.A.  Loses:

Laveranues Coles (NYJ)

Ola Kimrin, K (TEN)

Antonio Pierce, LB (NYG)

Fred Smoot, CB (MIN)

Skins hope Williams or Edwards falls to them, and one just might do that. Erasmus James would also fit rather snugly here as well. However, the loss of Bailey and Smoot over the past two years make CB a priority, so Gibbs grabs the best corner in the draft. Antreel Rolle has everything you want in a DB. Good size good speed and great athletic ability. Rolle very athletic corner with excellent speed. Has good height for a top prospect. Muscular with long arms. Has the frame to play Safety. Physical in press coverage and does a good job jamming receivers. Very smooth in his pedal with loose hips to turn and run. Agile and quick footed, which gives him great change-of-direction and allows him to plant and drive explosively.

10. Lions Erasmus James DE Wisconsin

DL, LB, OL, DE, TE

F.A. Signings and Trades:

Rick DeMulling, G

Jeff Garcia, QB

Kenoy Kennedy, SS

Marcus Pollard, TE

 

Key F.A.  Loses:

Stephen Alexander, TE (DEN)

Stockar McDougle, OT (MIA)

Mike McMahon, QB (PHI)

Brian Walker S

The Lions have one of the youngest developing Offenses in the league. They are desperate for defense, and especially pass rushers. So Lions get lucky as the  best Defensive End in the draft falls to them. More important is that many consider James to be the best pass rusher in the draft. Has had some medical concerns , which slowed his progress in college, so last season was his best. If he can stay health and is not a one year wonder he could be a much needed pass rusher for this team for a long time. Lames would make a huge difference on this team. He has excellent speed for a DE and enough size to not be a detriment against the run. I think James will be a great pass-rusher for years to come. He could be averaging double figures in sacks in a year or two. He ran an very interesting 4.74 at 267 pounds at his individual workout. James has added size and muscle to his great quickness, power and speed. He is a senior whose maturity and experience will show next season when he starts as a rookie

11. Cowboys

Shawne Merriman OLB/ DE Maryland

LB, DE, DT, OT, CB, WR, OL

 

Key F.A. Signings:

Drew Bledsoe, QB

Jason Ferguson, DT

Anthony Henry, CB

Marco Rivera, G

Key F.A.  Loses:

Dexter Coakley, LB (STL)

Gennaro DiNapoli, C

Marcellus Wiley, DE

                                     

Word is that Parcells has had his eye on Merriman for a while, and thinks he can be the center piece in the Cowboys switch to the 3-4. He may not be LT, but Parcells will use him like he used LT. He'll just keep rushing him from the right side of the Defense. Merriman has the unique blend size speed and athletic ability to make a huge difference on this team. He has amazing speed for a DE and enough size to not be a detriment against the run. I think Merriman will be a terrific pass-rusher for years to come. He could be averaging double figures in sacks in a year or two, plus he ran an 4.65 at 274 pounds at his individual workout. I thought he was much smaller then that and that OLB would his natural position, but at 274 pounds DE maybe his natural position. He has added size and muscle to his great quickness, power and speed. He uses his hands well to get into blockers. Holds his ground well and usually stays on his feet. Good ballrusher for an end, because of her terrific athletic ability.

12. Chargers Marcus Spears DE/DT LSU

DE ,WR, DT, LB

Key F.A. Signings:

Bhawoh Jue, SS

Key F.A.  Loses:

Tim Dwight, WR/KR (NE)

Doug Flutie, QB

Jason Fisk, DT (CLE)

 

Bolt's have good Defense and a growing Offense. There main two needs are DE and WR. The switch to the 3-4 means they will be looking for bigger stouter DE's. DE/DT 'tweeners are better suited for the 3-4, so Spears and Shaun Cody are good possibilities here. I went with Spears because he is bigger and has more experience in a two-gap system. He is 6-4 300 pounds and has been clocked at a 4.9. He played DT and DE in college at 6-4 307, and he is only growing. He can be a force against the run, and still has enough speed to get to the QB. He could start at DE his rookie year, or be the primary back-up at 3 positions on the defensive line. In fact, he may be best compared to Kevin Williams. Big and strong enough to play DT, and Quick and fast enough to play DE. He is so athletic that he actually started at TE his Freshman year.

13. Texans Alex Barron OT Florida State

OLT, OLB, NT, CB, LB, OT, WR, LB

Key F.A. Signings:

Frank Chamberlin, LB

Jerry DeLoach, NT

Morlon Greenwood, LB

Lewis Sanders, CB

Key F.A.  Loses:

Marlon McCree, S (CAR)

 

Houston will be doing cartwheels if Barron falls to them. David Carr has been sack 140 times since he joined the Texans 3 years ago, and was sacked 49 times last season. Seth Wand looked over matched last season and needs to be replaced ASAP. Barron is huge and has amazing athletic ability. He was running sub-4.9's at the FSU Pro-Day. He needs to add some strength and tenacity if he is going to be an All-Pro. But he has everything you are looking for in a Left tackle: his is 6-7, 320 pounds, and has 39 inch long arms. The Texans need a left tackle and Barron is an Offensive line changing player. He has amazing feet and enough size to be a great left tackle for years to come. So they can just sit here grab him and then can quietly sit back and watch the increased production from all the so-called skilled positions. Barron is the type of player who will not only start for 12-15 years, but dominate the position for 12-15 years. He needs to add a little strength and a little tenacity, but otherwise he is as good a LT prospect as you can see. Jamie Sharper led the entire NFL in tackles two years age, and led the Taxans in tackles last season. He has left the team so Linebacker has become a top priority. Carr took hit after hit last season so they are actively seeking a trade for the Rams OLT Orlando Pace. If that trade happens this pick will surely be a part of that trade. They also only had 24 sacks last season, the lowest in the NFL.

14. Panthers Khalif Barnes OLT Washington  ORT, WR, DT, S, CB

Key F.A. Signings:

Ken Lucas, CB

Marlon McCree, S

Mike Wahle, OL

Key F.A.  Loses:

Doug Brzezinski, OG

Artrell Hawkins, CB

Muhsin Muhammad, WR (CHI)

Rodney Peete, QB

Travares Tillman, S (MIA)

A lot of people think Panthers need a Right Tackle, but that is wrong. The Panthers O-Line started to solidify when Jordan Gross moved back to Right Tackle. He really struggled at LT, and really plays well as a RT. This may be a bit of a reach, but he is the fastest riser in the draft over the past couple of week. He is the most athletic O-Lineman in this draft. He has good size, great speed and the feet of a ballerina. I usually judge LTs by their feet. He has to work on his functional strength, but taking a legitimate LT prospect at number 14 is never a bad pick. However, he does not play as well as he looks athletically. He overextends to a dangerous level at times.

15. Chiefs Pac Man Jones CB West Virginia

 

DEFENSE, PLEASE

Key F.A. Signings:

Kendrell Bell, LB

Sammy Knight, S

Key F.A.  Loses:

Derrick Blaylock, RB (NYJ)

Vonnie Holliday, DE (MIA)

They can't tackle. They can't rush the passer. And they can't cover. Trading for Surtain, though the deal hasn't gone through yet, is a great step in the right direction.This many be the weakest part of my draft, I can't see how Pacman can fall this far, and yet I can't seem to find a place for him. He is a phenomenal Corner, who will step right in and start for this team. The Chief's are desperate for any and all Defensive help they can get, and Pacman is certainly a step in the right direction. Jones has had some amazing workouts and is flying up the charts like DeAngelo Hall last season. Jones has excellent speed, but does not have Halls eye popping speed. He is skinny and not the most physical corner, but with the new touchy-feely pass interference rules, a corner who can turn and run with the WR becomes invaluable. He has outstanding speed and athletic ability. He has been a big play performer throughout his career, and plays with a lot of confidence. He is very quick footed with a smooth backpedal and can turn and run effortlessly. Taking a Passrusher here would not be surprise. Thomas Davis, Travis Johnson, David Pollack, and well any top defender are all serious options here. But for me Jones is the top impact defender now on the board regardless of position. However, if the trade for Surtain goes through word is Chiefs love Pollack.

16. Saints Thomas Davis S/LB Georgia

OL, S, TE, DL, OL, DE

Key F.A. Signings:

Levar Fisher, LB

Jermane Mayberry, G

Shad Meier, TE

Dwight Smith, S

Key F.A.  Loses:

Tebucky Jones, S (MIA)

Saints have the worse defense in the league. This pick just fits too perfectly to happen. Saints must get a Safety and a Linebacker in this draft. However, Haslett was obsessively watching the Linebackers at the Senior bowl, and could easy take Burnett or Pollack here, but Davis is such a unique player that they will have trouble passing on him. Half the GMs think he's a safety and half the GM's think he's a Linebacker. I think he'll be a play maker from either position. N.O. should take him hear and figure out which position he will play later, depending on their depth. Davis has solidified his status as a top pick and a Safety by running 4.43 at Georgia's Pro Day. He has everything you want in a pro safety: size, speed, hands, instincts, a mean streak.

17. Bengals Travis Johnson DT Florida State

DT, DE, OC, S, TE

Key F.A. Signings:

Bryan Robinson, DT

Key F.A.  Loses:

Frank Chamberlin, LB (HOU)

Kyle Richardson, P (CLE)

Dennis Weathersby, CB

 

Bengal's were 28th and 26th in pass defense the past two seasons, and they have allowed teams to rush for over 100 hundred yards in 22 games over the past two seasons. Lewis is allegedly a defensive guru, and it's time to start proving it. Johnson slides past the Saints because he is a one-gap DT and not a Nose Tackle. Hey, doesn't Marvin Lewis love one-gap charging DT. This is another pick that seems to perfect to happen. Johnson seems to have all the assets Bengals are looking for in a DT. However, Johnson is charging up the charts and made be picked much earlier. He is the only legit first round caliber DT. He is a 290 pound super aggressive one-gap DT. He was recently timed at a 4.89 in the 40, which is remarkable. He was doubled teamed consistently last season, which opened a lot of lanes for teammates. Super-quick and strong, he should be a good one for a long time.

18. Vikings

 

David Pollack OLB/DE Georgia

WR, LB, DL, WR, DB, Ol, DL

Key F.A. Signings:

Brad Johnson, QB

Darren Sharper, S

Fred Smoot, CB

Travis Taylor, WR

Pat Williams, DT

Key F.A.  Loses:

Gus Frerotte, QB (MIA)

Chris Claiborne, LB (STL)

Randy Moss WR

Vikings get lucky again. Pollack is the most underrated player in this draft. He is a taller heavier Tedy Bruschi, and that is as good a compliment you can give to any football player. Vikings need pass rushers. Pollack is the most productive pass rusher in this draft. Whether it's at OLB, ILB, or DE if you let him go forward he will be a great player. He does need work on going backwards. If he is going to play Line Backer he will need to blitz often. He is a complete player. Penetrates the line, and has an uncanny combination of strength and pass-rush skills and he plays low. Wins the battles he should and the battles he shouldn't. He is a solid run defender with functional strength, and comes off his blocks as slippery as an eel. He ran a 4.67 40 at 265 pounds, and ran a terrific 3.94 short shuttle. He is athletic and flexible, but lacks ideal height.

19. Rams Jamal Brown ORT Oklahoma

ORT, S, DE, CB

Key F.A. Signings:

Chris Claiborne, LB

Dexter Coakley, LB

Michael Stone, DB

Jay Williams, DE

Roland Williams, TE

Key F.A.  Loses:

Rich Coady, DB (ATL)

Bryce Fisher, DE (SEA)

Matt Lehr, G (ATL)

Chris Terry, RT

This would be a terrific pick for the Rams. The Turley-Martz incident must be addressed. Brown was a three time all big 12 pick, and won the Outland trophy as the nations best Lineman. He is a nasty player that all teams need. He will need to add a little more size and strength, but that should come with age. Kevin Burnett would be an interesting pick here as well. But Brown is a huge strong man with good but not great feet. He could in a pinch back-up Left-Tackle, although he can't start at that position for a long period. His main asset is run blocking. In 2002 he became Oklahoma's starting Right Tackle, and never gave the position up. He has had 337 knockdown blocks since. Reasons they will take him: toughness, smarts, tenacity, dominate run-blocker; Best position is Right Tackle.

20. Cowboys Carlos Rogers CB Auburn

LB, DE, DT, OT, CB, WR, OL

Key F.A. Signings:

Drew Bledsoe, QB

Jason Ferguson, DT

Anthony Henry, CB

Marco Rivera, G

Key F.A.  Loses:

Dexter Coakley, LB (STL)

Gennaro DiNapoli, C

Marcellus Wiley, DE

Parcells make surprise pick here, Rogers is a top fifteen player and the third best Corner in the draft. Rogers is a great athlete who finally put it all together his senior year. He helped to lead the Auburn defense to an undefeated season. He has everything you want in a CB, except hands. He has terrible hands, but Saints need Defense like I need potato chips. Cowboys have 3/4 of a great Defensive back field. But all the Corners who played opposite Newman struggled last season. Newman also did not play as well as he did his rookie year, and looks like he needs a little help as well. Having two excellent cover Corners can only help the team and the passrush. If Rogers slips this far I believe that Parcells will have to take him.

21. Jaguars

Troy Williamson WR South Carolina

OT, CB, WR, SS, WR, LB

Key F.A. Signings:

Martin Chase, DT

Terry Cousin, CB

Reggie Hayward, DE

Nate Hybl, QB

Kenny Wright CB

Key F.A.  Loses:

Juran Bolden, CB (TB)

FB Marc Edwards

Tommy Hendricks, LB

Dewayne Washington, CB

Ideally Jags would like to draft a Left Tackle prospect here, but both Barron and Barnes will be gone. Adam Terry and Michael Munoz are Second to Third round prospects. Word is Del Rio wants a Corner and OT high in this draft, so Justin Miller is a possibility. I think a Wide Receiver would be a nice fit for this team, and the two highest rated players on the board are WR. Williamson has all the measurables you want in a WR and is really climbing up the charts. He already runs good routes. He played for a running team so his lack of production is not scary, and his down field blocking if excellent as a result. He shows good body control on he sidelines and will fight for the ball. His speed and big play ability should make him an interesting player. Reggie Williams was the only starting WR in the NFl last season to average less then 10 yards a reception, and looks like a he's too slow to play WR on the field.

22. Ravens

Chris Spencer, C/OG, Mississippi

OC, WR, DE, CB, ORT

Key F.A. Signings:

Derrick Mason, WR

Samari Rolle , CB

Keydrick Vincent, G

Key F.A.  Loses:

Gary Baxter, CB (CLE)

Corey Fuller, CB

Ed Hartwell, LB (ATL)

Kevin Johnson, WR

Harold Morrow, FB

Casey Rabach, C (WAS)

Travis Taylor, WR (MIN)

This draft is going to be geared to helping Kyle Boller. Getting Mason and Vincent are two steps in the right direction, but another WR and OL are still needed. That is how bad this Offense was last season. Mark Clayton is a popular choice here, and if they can't trade down Ravens will have a hard time passing on him. Chris Spencer is a great Offensive Center, and OC is Atlanta's top need. Look for the Falcons to trade down and try to pick up some extra picks in the 2nd or 3rd round. Some scouts believe he is a better prospect then Damien Woody. Many scouts believe he is a pro-Bowler waiting to happen. He is a little under-experienced at Center, because he played Guard his whole career except for last season. OC is one of those positions that is ignored too much in the first round. Ask any O-Line Coach how important the Center position is, and you will see a lot more teams drafting Centers early. Ravens need for an interior Lineman is at Center and Right Guard. Spencer can play  Guard, but He could be a great Center. The best way to help Boller is to get him a Legit Center he can trust.

23. Seahawks DeMarcus Ware OLB/DE

.

WR, OLB, DE, CB, OC

 

Key F.A. Signings:

Kevin Bentley, LB

Chartric Darby, DT

Bryce Fisher, DE

Kelly Herndon, CB

Joe Jurevicius, WR

Joe Tafoya, DE

Key F.A.  Loses:

Heath Evans, FB (MIA)

Ken Lucas, CB (CAR)

Chike Okeafor, DE (ARI)

Jerry Rice, WR

Damien Robinson, S

Anthony Simmons, LB

'Hawks GM has a history of taking D-Lineman in the first round. He likes smaller quicker and faster players for his defense. Ware fits this profile perfectly. Seattle's two biggest needs, besides a WR with descent hands, are at LB or DE. Ware is a tweener who could be a LB or DE. The one thing for sure is that he is a pass rusher. He looks like an OLB to me, but he uses his hands so well to keep blockers off him that he maybe able to play an Elephant type position on the D-Line. Looks to have some room to add weight if the team who drafts him wants him a DE.

24.  Packers Justin Miller CB Clemson

S, CB, OG, QB, DE, LB, TE, OG

Key F.A. Signings:

Todd Franz, DB

Matt O'Dwyer, G

Key F.A.  Loses:

Bhawoh Jue, SS (SD)

Marco Rivera, G (DAL)

Darren Sharper, S (MIN)

Mike Wahle, OG (CAR)

 

Packers allowed the most passing Touch Downs in the league. I really like Brodney Pool going here, but with Justin Miller still on the board the Packers can't pass on him. Miller is a marvelous cover corner with great athletic ability and is a superior punt returner. He lacks a little size, but has everything else teams look for in a CB. A very athletic corner with outstanding speed. A little shorter than ideal for a top prospect. Thin with short arms, but has the frame to carry more weight, and can be physical in press coverage. Inconsistent job of jamming receivers. Very smooth in his pedal with loose hips to turn and run, and is very agile and quick footed. Has great change-of-direction in his plant and drive.

25. Broncos Mark Clayton WR Oklahoma

OG, RB, WR, QB, OL, CB, LB

F.A. Signings and Trades:

Stephen Alexander, TE

Keith Burns, LB

Ian Gold, LB

Gerard Warren DT

Courtney Brown DE

Ebenezer Ekuban DE

Michael Myers DT

Key F.A.  Loses:

Reuben Droughns RB

Reggie Hayward, DE (JAC)

Kelly Herndon, CB (SEA)

Kenoy Kennedy, SS (DET)

Dan Neil, OG

Donnie Spragan, LB (MIA)

I think David Baas is the perfect fit for the Broncos O-Line. Denver prefers smaller tougher smarter lineman to the bigger maulers like Elton Brown. But because of his position and lack of measurable athletic abilities he should be available to Denver in the Second round. So they take the most polished WR in this draft to help Plummer out. Rod Smith is nearing the end and Ashley Lelie is the only other viable WR on their roster. Clayton is an excellent player who should step right into the 3rd WR role and take over for Smith when he retires. He is Oklahoma's all-time leader in TD's, Yards, and receptions. He ran 4.43 forty, and ran the fastest time in the 3 cone drill of everybody at the combine.

26. Jets Heath Miller TE Virginia

CB, TE, S, RB, WR, DT, S

Key F.A. Signings:

Derrick Blaylock, RB

Jay Fiedler, QB

Barry Gardner, LB

Lance Legree, DE

Key F.A.  Loses:

Anthony Becht, TE (TB)

Sam Cowart, LB (MIN)

Jason Ferguson, DT (DAL)

Toby Gowin, P (ATL)

LaMont Jordan, RB (OAK)

Kareem McKenzie, OT (NYG)

Santana Moss, WR (WAS)

This is probably the most popular pick in all mock drafts. I think Corner is their top need and that Fabian Washington would do a lot to help this team, but I seem to be in the minority in that opinion however. Miller is as good a TE prospect to come along since Winslow. Okay so it hasn't been that long, but he is a tall fast TE prospect with better hands then Winslow. He will be a starter next season for any team who picks him. Has some Medical issues that has scared off some teams. But like Vilma last season Jets doctors have cleared him.

27. Falcons Shaun Cody DT/DE USC

DT, WR, FS, ILB, NT,

Key F.A. Signings:

Rich Coady, DB

Toby Gowin, P

Ed Hartwell, LB

Ronnie Heard, S

Todd Peterson, K

Brandon Mitchell, DT

Ike Reese, LB

Key F.A.  Loses:

Chris Draft, LB

Jay Feely, K (NYG)

Cory Hall, S

Travis Hall, DT

Ed Jasper, DT

Chris Mohr, P

Matt Stewart, LB (CLE)

 

Jim Mora is a defensive guy, and word is that he went to USC's Pro Day and was blown away by both Shaun Cody and Mike Patterson. Cody shouldn't have fallen this far. He knows how to use his hands to keep people off his body and has near psychic instincts. Falcons could probably use a WR or CB more, but every team wants to draft a young D-Lineman every year.

28. Chargers Roddy White WR UAB

DE ,DB, WR, DT, LB

Key F.A. Signings:

Bhawoh Jue, SS

Key F.A.  Loses:

Tim Dwight, WR/KR (NE)

Doug Flutie, QB

Jason Fisk, DT (CLE)

Roddy White has been the drafts fastest riser. WR is the one position where coming from a lower level of competition does hurt as much. White has good size and spectacular speed. His production was astounding. Chargers are not in desperate need for a step in starter, so White will be given a little time to develop. Keenan McCardell is 35 and Bolts don't really have anything behind him and Eric Parker. When your leading receiver is a TE drafting a WR is usually a good idea.

29. Colts Kevin Burnett OLB/ILB Tennessee

 

CB, MLB, DE, DT, LB, OL, OL

 

 

Key F.A. Signings:

Joaquin Gonzalez, T

Key F.A.  Loses:

Idrees Bashir, S (CAR)

Rick DeMulling, G (DET)

Marcus Pollard, TE (DET)

Hey Dungy let me let you in on a little secret- Offense sells tickets and defense wins championships. As in best Offense 29th ranked defense. Once again Dungy needs Defense. He is has a history of drafting high character players and Big 10 players. Word is he has targeted Luis Castillo. He ran a 1.70 10 yard dash, which is 100 times more important in judging D-Linemen then the forty. He is strong enough to play a 2-gap D-Tackle and quick enough to play a 1-gap D-Tackle. But I just see Linebacker as a bigger need for them right now. Burnett is little undersized but fast and productive. That is just the kind of Linebacker Dungy likes. Many scouts think Burnett can play Middle Linebacker as well as Outside. If Colts think so they will draft him here. They must pick up a starter in the middle in this draft. Burnett is a quick tenacious tackling machine who also has the versatility teams are looking for in the salary cap era. Is an amazing physical talent at 6-3 239 looks skinny and runs a 4.59 forty. He is a tenacious tackler who knocks people backwards on to their butts. The Pats are getting old at Inside Linebacker, and really need an infusion of youth and speed and Burnett would be an interesting pick if he lasts. Burnett played outside in college, but most scouts agree he can be moved inside. He is not the most instinctive LB in the draft, but his potential is almost limitless. Amazing speed and quickness allows him to make tackles all over the field.

30. Steelers Elton Brown ORG/ORT Virginia

 

WR, DE, OG, TE, CB, LB, OL

Key F.A. Signings:

Marco Battaglia , TE

Cedrick Wilson, WR

Key F.A.  Loses:

Kendrell Bell, LB (KC)

Plaxico Burress, WR (NYG)

Kendrick Clancy, DT (NYG)

Jay Riemersma, TE

Oliver Ross, T (ARI)

Chad Scott, CB

Keydrick Vincent, G (BAL)

Elton Brown is a massive mauler of a football player. He is also an interesting prospect because he can play RT and RG, though Right Guard is his natural position. He should have gone higher, but bailing out of the Combine really hurt his status. Still he is a runblocking force and that is the Steelers bread and butter.

31. Eagles Dan Cody OLB/DE Oklahoma

WR, LB, DE, FB, RB, TE, QB

Key F.A. Signings:

Mike McMahon, QB

James Whalen, TE

Key F.A.  Loses:

Derrick Burgess, DE (OAK)

Jermane Mayberry, G (NO)

Ike Reese, LB (ATL)

Nate Wayne, LB

Word is Eagles like Cody, and could trade up to get him. Most people have him rated higher then I do. His medical history is a real worry for me and I would not draft him in the First Round. But he maybe the most aggressive player in the draft and has terrific natural pass rush ability. He can play DE or OLB depending on where they need him. He is a wonderful player whose pass rushing skills are desired by a lot of teams. Concerns about his depression and fainting will cause him to fall. If he is healthy, physically and mentally this pick could be the steal of the draft.

32. Patriots

Marlin Jackson CB/S Michigan

ILB, CB, OL, LB

Key F.A. Signings:

 

Tim Dwight, WR

David Terrell, WR

Key F.A.  Loses:

Joe Andruzzi, G             

Troy Brown, WR/DB

Wilbert Brown, OG

Zeron Flemister, TE

Ty Law, CB

Earthwind Moreland, CB

David Patten, WR (WAS)

Roman Phifer, LB

Buck Rasmussen, DL

The one position where the Pats have to get a starter is at ILB. A CB/S would be a help as well. A Offensive Lineman at the Tackle position seems to be a depth need, and may be another LB. Marlin was going to be the next great Michigan Corner Back before he hit some snags, though they were self induced snags. He has the size to play Safety, and was a great cover Corner earlier in his career. He bounced back a Senior, and still appears to worthy of a first round selection. Belichick has interviewed him three times. So interest is definitely there. His ability to CB and Safety is a big plus for Belichick. If Belichick thinks his troubles are behind him he will grab him here. He has Started for four seasons, two at Free Safety and two at Corner in college. He only at Corner his Senior year, and dominated. He needs some refinement, but he has been phenomenal in recent workouts. He  has moved up to a first round prospect on many draft boards, and may not be available at 32. He has the toughest to play Safety, and the great foot quickness to play corner in Pro's. Ran a 4.5 and is flying up the charts. Pats need Inside Linebacker or two, and Barrett Rudd is the man. He is the hardest working LB in this draft, and at 6-2 and 240 pounds, he ran a 4.7 and is a very underrated athlete. He will start at Inside Linebacker before the season is over, and possible sooner. If you consider the Pats age and medical problems at Inside Linebacker they may even have to draft another ILB. But Rudd is the one player that appears to meet all of Belichicks criteria. He is tough productive smart and loves football. He is known as a film-aholic, and brags about how he goes to his coaches for extra work study and just to talk about football. He could be the pick here, but it looks like he may fall to them at 64. Super productive player in a great college program over the past 4 seasons. Has recorded almost 400 tackles in the past three seasons  He also had three pass defenses, four pressures, four forced fumbles and 3 sacks as a Senior. Has the great instincts that separate football players from athletes. Similar to Zack Thomas, in that he is undersized, but his exceptional instincts allow him to know where the play is going before anybody else on the defense does. Corey Webster is the lastest LSU player to catch my eye. He has been a productive starter for Saban for the past 3 years. He played better as a Junior, and said a hamstring injury slowed him down his senior year. He ran a 4.6, so he probably is sliding our of the first round. Jackson ran a 4.5 so that's why I have him as their pick and not Webster. The fact that all three are still available is the reason I think they should trade down and pick up an extra 3rd round pick. Taking one of the three players Rudd, Marlin, or Webster in the second would be a nice steal and nice savings on the cap as well. Plus it would allow them a second shot at those three players at 64, and a couple of shots in the third to pick up some depth (They traded their third round pick  Duane Starks but pick up a compensation pick at the end of the third round, number 100). Another interesting player is Marcus Johnson. If they trade down and pick up a second and third they could have a shot at Johnson. He is a good athlete for such a huge man. He can play Guard and Right Tackle. He has 37 inch long arms. He is terrific at spotting his man on the run and hitting him. He is very good at keeping his body under control while going forward and backwards.

Don't forget Belichick's Ten draft Commandments:

1. He has never drafted an Offensive Guard.

2. He has never drafted a player he named in his pre-draft press conference.

He likes to draft:

3. Tough players who beat up their opponents physically.

4. Smart players who understand coaching and strategy.

5. Versatile players who help at multiple positions.

6. Team players- commitment, loyalty, sacrifice to win. Also helps to explain not taking underclassman.

7. Players who love football- who value football above almost all else.

8. Extremely hard workers- players whose work ethic is important to them: off season work outs, film study, weight room, what does he do on the bench when not playing.

9. Production- what players do and don’t do in college counts.

10. Guts and determination. Will not quit in the clutch.

The two commandments he broke last season:

1. He has never drafted an underclassman- Marquise Hill.

2. He has never drafted a University of Miami player- Vince Wilfork.