Sunday Wrap-up: AFC Turned Upside Down

Yesterday was an interesting day around the NFL. The AFC in particular had an interesting day. The four teams that were expected to win their divisions (New England Patriots, Pittsburgh Steelers, Tennessee Titans, and the San Diego Chargers) all lost yesterday. The Patriots and Chargers, who barely escaped upsets last Monday night, weren't so lucky in week 2 with the short week of rest. Both teams entered this season as division favorites and contenders for the Super Bowl, but through two games they have had to play catch up against "inferior" opponents. The Steelers also fell to 1-1 after losing to the Chicago Bears on a last minute field goal, one week after winning with a field goal in overtime. The vaunted Steelers defense was ineffective against the Bears, and couldn't make the big stops when needed. The Titans fell to 0-2 after losing to their division rival Houston Texans 34-31. The Titans were up 21-7 early in the 2nd quarter, and got over 280 yards of total offense from running back Chris Johnson, bu the Texans passing attack was too much for them to handle. Now a team that started this season with their eyes on the Super Bowl, now are just looking for a win.

What's even more surprising than who lost was who actually won yesterday. After two weeks only three AFC teams will start off the season 2-0 (the Colts will be the fourth if they win tonight). This is a bit surprising considering the AFC is considered the stronger overall conference (the NFC has five teams that are 2-0). What's even more surprising is who the three teams are with a spotless record in the AFC, the New York Jets, Denver Broncos and the Baltimore Ravens. Now the Ravens aren't too surprising, they were a playoff team last year, and while they had some losses on defense their offense looked pretty strong entering the year. The Jets and the Broncos on the other hand are a bit more shocking. Both teams experienced a lot of turnover in the offseason. Each team bringing in among others, a new head coach and starting quarterback. The Broncos early success should be taken with a bit of a grain of salt. They have faced the Cincinnati Bengals and the Cleveland Browns, two teams that aren't exactly expected to be in the playoff hunt this season. The Broncos also would have lost to the Bengals if not for a fluke last second 87 yard touchdown. While its easy to question the staying power of the Broncos they are the division leader, and two wins are more than most teams have right now. The Jets on the other hand seem a bit more for real, and what's scary for the rest of the AFC East is they should only get better. The Jets decisively beat the Texans in Houston in week 1, a team that figured to be a playoff contender. New York followed that up knocking off the New England Patriots in week 2, and holding the Patriots high-powered offense to just 9 points. The Jets defense which hasn't allowed a touchdown in two weeks, should get better with a fully healthy DE Shaun Ellis, and the return of LB Calvin Pace after his four week suspension. On offense the Jets dual running attack has moved the ball effectively in both weeks. Rookie quarterback Mark Sanchez has made major strides, and has put the Jets in a position to win both games. He hasn't dominated the competition by any means, but he has shown plenty of poise and the ability to make plays when needed. If he continues to mature throughout the season, the Jets could make a deep run into the playoffs.

While nothing can really be determined after two weeks, the AFC balance for power is not shaping up how anyone expected. Some of the conference's top contenders, are looking more and more like pretenders. While some of the teams that were overlooked going into the season, are looking like teams that need to be taken seriously for the remaining 14 weeks.

Favre-Vikings Rift, Real or a Media Creation?

Its been one week and already the stories about Favre being a problem in the Vikings locker room have started. I find this story to be more of the circus that comes with the Brett Favre saga, than an actual issue in the locker room. The report basically states that some players think that either Tarvaris Jackson or Sage Rosenfels would give Minnesota a better chance to win. If you ask every single player in camp (remember there are still 80 players in camp right now) I'm sure you'll find a player or three that have a differing opinion. I bet if you ask every player you will find some who think Chester Taylor deserves a few extra carries, or that Percy Harvin should be the number 1 wideout.

This just seems like such a ridiculous story how can anyone say with a straight face that Jackson or Rosenfels would improve the Vikings number in the win column over Favre? Rosenfels has shown himself to be a capable backup and could have been a solid starter, but he's not who I want leading an offense down by 5 with two minutes to go. Jackson has been given opportunities to start and so far its been a mixed bag. His indecision and erratic play, are the reason the Vikes traded for Rosenfels and signed Favre in the first place. Jackson couldn't beat out Gus Frerotte last season, yet now he is suddenly a better option than Favre? Come on, this might not be the Brett Favre of old, but do we really want to bet against him? I'd still have him among the top-10 quarterbacks in the league for this next season.

If this was week 8 and the Vikings were off to a 3-5 start then maybe I buy this story as an actual problem. But one week after Favre arrives in camp, this story seems to be more show than substance. I'm sure there are a few Viking players who have been put off by the hoopla surrounding Favre this off season. But as much if not more blame should be placed on the Vikings organization, than Favre for that debacle. This seems to be more of a sensationalist story, than anything really affecting the day to day activities of Vikings. I mean one person reportedly said Favre had caused a "schism" in the Vikings locker room. Really, a "schism" that's the best way to describe the effect Favre has had after one week? Not a division, disagreement or split, its a 'schism'. This has to be one of the worse cases of hyperbole I've ever seen. There might be issues, but that is way too extreme of a label to use to describe them. I think we should let Favre and the Vikings play football, and stop scrutinizing their every move.

"March" Madness

Apparently the first demonstration in Philadelphia about Michael Vick, is for Michael Vick. The local chapter of the NAACP along with other civil rights groups are planning to 'march' on Lincoln Financial Center when Vick takes the field tomorrow.

"We believe Michael Vick has served his time, paid his debt to society and deserves a second chance and the animal rights groups want to hold him hostage for the rest of his life," J. Whyatt Mondesire, president of the Philadelphia chapter of the NAACP, said Wednesday. "We think that's patently unfair. It denies Michael Vick's basic civil rights, denies him his ability to make a living."

Look this would make sense if Vick's civil rights had been or were going to be infringed upon. Michael Vick may have served his jail sentence and done what was required by the court, but his record wasn't expunged. The fact that people and animal rights activists may want to protest against Michael Vick is their civil right (it should be noted that so far there hasn't been any major call to protest/boycott Vick and the Eagles). Also, even if they do exercise their Freedom of Speech, Michael Vick wasn't banished from the NFL. Had he been expelled from the league Vick had opportunities to play in other professional football leagues, such as the UFL and CFL. Furthermore, playing in professional sports leagues has always been seen as a privilege not a 'right'. And to have that privilege one must live by a standard set forth by the league. Michael Vick failed in his responsibility to live up the standard (not to mention basic nature principles of not killing dogs). He deserves whatever punishment is handed down. Also, if Vick's chosen profession was a lawyer, teacher, doctor or any number of other jobs he would have lost his license because of his conviction. Vick is actually getting preferential treatment for being a professional athlete than what he'd have to deal with in the "real world".

I think this 'preemptive march' is a bit excessive. If you are a Vick supporter defend him, and if you are a Vick hater, boycott him that is your right. But to attack each other on baseless claims is cheap and petty. The problem with this demonstration is that its being had for the wrong reasons. To suggest that Vick's accusers and detractors are 'denying Vick his basic civil rights', is scurrilous and malicious and that is one 'right' that these supporters don't have.

Chargers Lock up Rivers For 6 Years

Its been a good off season to be a quarterback, as Phillip Rivers is set to become the third QB to sign an extension averaging at least $10 million (not to mention the monster rookie salaries for Stafford and Sanchez). Rivers deal will guarantee him about $38 million, and have a total value of $92 million over the next 6 years. While it doesn't exceed Eli Manning's new deal (6 years $97.5 million) in overall value, it does give Rivers the leg up in one area, guaranteed money (Manning only has about $35 million guaranteed). These two players will always be linked to one another after the draft day drama that ensued in 2004. Five years later Rivers still can't get the best of Manning. Rivers has the stats, but Manning has the all important ring (plus the money).

San Diego had to make this deal to lock up Rivers. Last year he was one of the top quarterbacks in the league and he was entering the final year of his rookie deal. Had they not signed him now his price would have only gone up. Although they could have kept him with a Franchise tag next year, it would have cost well over what they will be paying him now. The Chargers did a good job not panicking and overpaying Rivers. Given his stats there is a case to be made that he should have made more or at least just as much as Manning did in his deal. San Diego held firm and saved themselves a few million for their trouble.

Rivers will now need to take the Chargers to the next level and bring home a Super Bowl victory to show that he really is a "Franchise Quarterback". This deal also shows how 2004 may be close to replacing 1983 as the "Year of the Quarterback". With all the respect in the world to Elway, Marino, and Kelly, they could very well be out'classed' (bad pun I know). Though they are three Hall of Famers, set records and went to a combined 10 Super Bowls, the class of '83 managed to win just two rings (both by Elway). Already the class of 2004 have won 3 of the 5 Super Bowls since they were drafted (2 by Ben Roethlisberger to go along with Manning's) and they are just getting started. Roethlisberger, Manning and and Rivers are among the elite quarterbacks in the league (not to mention highest paid), and all lead perennial playoff contenders. When its all said and done, the 2004 draft class will shape the first two decades of the 21st century, more than '83 class shaped the 80's and 90's.

"Somebody's Going to Emergency, Somebody's Going to Jail"

In a "New York Minute" both of those people are former Giants wide receiver Plaxico Burress. Burress pled guilty today to one count of attempted possession of a weapon, and will face up to two years in prison. Burress who faced these charges after shooting himself in the leg last November, in a NYC night club (apparently, not only did Burress lack judgement in bringing the gun into the club in the first place, but he then compounded his stupidity by keeping it in the waistband of his pants). Burress initially ignored the D.A.'s first plea bargain attempt that would have reduced his jail time to potentially under one year. Burress, who caught the winning touchdown in the Super Bowl 18 months ago, will now face a minimum of 20 months in prison.

Burress, who was suspended for the remaining part of the 2008 season (which helped torpedo the Giants' chances of repeating), will now miss the next two football seasons as well. He has lost ten's of millions of dollars, on top of having to spend two years in jail. He's already 32 years old and won't be able to play football again until he's 34, which isn't exactly the prime years of an NFL wideout. His actions affected his team, the New York fans and himself, and its good to see the D.A. not being to lenient on him since it was an "accident". Hopefully more players will take heed of this case as a warning and ensure that they respect the law and stay away from situations where they feel they need a gun. Burress is lucky that his accidental shot didn't strike and injure any innocent bystanders or his two year sentence could have been 10. The only good news is it will be at least a 20 month reprieve until we have the "Who is going to sign Plaxico Burress" hype.

He's Back!

Three weeks ago Vikings coach Brad Childress told the world that Brett Favre wasn't coming to the Minnesota, and Favre said that he was truly retired. Now, after a few weeks of training camp and one preseason game, the savior of the Packers' franchise is lining up behind center for a division rival. How did it happen, apparently one phone call from Childress and a plane ride to Miss. by owner Zigi Wilf was all the convincing that was needed. Now Favre has a 2 year $25 million in hand (and the Vikings have a 39 year old QB who just had bicep surgery, and now has a tear in his rotator cuff).

Look I'm not going to say the Vikings don't benefit with Favre leading the troops, even with the medical issues, he is a better QB than Tarvaris Jackson and Sage Rosenfels. Also, Favre will add a big boost to ticket and merchandise sales (that might even pay for the $25 million price tag). That benefit will come at a cost though for the Vikings. While press stories were going to follow the Vikings-Favre courtship all year, now the controversy of another Favre comeback (and not the 4th quarter kind that made him great) will reach epic proportions. Every interception and loss will be scrutinized and criticized like we will have never seen before.

On the field Favre benefits as well. He went from a team with a new coach that finished in 3rd place in their division in 2008, to a team who won their division last year and has the league's best running back. If Favre shows some of the magic from the past than the Vikings and him can challenge for the NFC spot in the Super Bowl. However, that's a best case scenario and a lot of things need to go right for that to happen. Favre may make the players on the field better, but what does he do to this team off the field. The preferential treatment given to him by the coaching staff and front office isn't going to sit well with a number of players. The fact that there was so much misinformation, if not out right lying by Childress and the Vikings (not to mention Favre) can only burn bridges at a time when he needs to develop chemistry with a new team. That Vikings' locker room is a powder keg right now, and if Minnesota starts losing (or Favre breaks down) it will blow up in their face and sink their playoff hopes this season.

What's most interesting about this is the legacy issue. Plenty of great players from various sports have returned and maintained their respect league wide. Favre's image was already damaged due to the retirement drama that has surrounded him these last two seasons, but it wasn't irrevocable, until now. Up until this week some Packer fans might have abandoned Brett Favre, but were they really going to ignore him in 5 years when he gets enshrined in Canton? Now, if Favre leads the Vikings to the playoffs, and knocks Green Bay out of the postseason, he will be forever despised by Cheeseheads. Joe Montana and Emmit Smith extended their careers by going to another team, but they didn't go to division rivals and are still loved by San Francisco and Dallas fan bases. Favre will face the team that he led to the promised land twice this season. When the Packers come to Minnesota on Oct. 5th it will be very interesting and unforgettable. However, when the Vikings come to Green Bay on Nov. 1st, Favre will become Judas with his thirty pieces of silver ($25 million dollars).

"The Eagle Has Landed"

After months of speculation and seemingly 24 hour coverage on ESPN the wait is over, Michael Vick is now a member of the Philadelphia Eagles. The Eagles were a surprise team, but made the move after their backup quarterback, Kevin Kolb, injured his knee on Monday. Kolb should be back to game form in a week or two, but his injury might have shown a lack of depth at the QB spot in Philly. Now the question is, When will Vick be in game form (not to mention his first game)? Vick has a conditional reinstatement from the league, meaning he can work out with the team and even play in the preseason. NFL Commissioner Roger Goodell has said that he will fully reinstate Vick by Oct. 18th-19th, which means Vick could miss the first 6 weeks of the season. If Commissioner Goodell does keep him suspended for the first 6 games, then Vick will make his NFL return on Monday Night Football, Oct. 26th at the Washington Redskins. Until he steps on the field the questions will continue to swirl about why the Eagles signed Vick and what he can bring to Philadelphia.

In many ways Vick does make a lot of sense for the Eagles, and they make sense for him as well. Vick needed to go to a team with a established leader and quarterback. By all accounts McNabb is in his corner, which should help give him credibility in the locker room. Vick also needed to go to a team that was a contender and a well run franchise. Vick makes sense for the Eagles, because of his previous experience with the West Coast offense (though he wasn't exactly Joe Montana in Atlanta), and his raw athletic ability. Philly puts a premium on speed and agility among its skilled players. The idea of putting Vick in the same backfield with either Brian Westbrook or LeSean McCoy was too attractive to pass up. Vick should allow Eagles to run their own version of the "Wildcat" offense, and provide headaches for defensive coordinators around the league.

So on paper Vick and the Eagles look like the perfect fit for each other, but what happens on the field could be another story entirely. Vick hasn't played since Week 17 of the 2006 season. So there could be a considerable amount of rust on his arm (not to mention his legs). Also, Vick's production never matched the hype and talent surrounding him. His career QB rating is 75.7 (McNabb's by comparison is 85.9), and he's never thrown for more than 3,000 yards or 20 TD's. The other big issue for Vick and the Eagles is the fan response to him. Initially, the Eagles could lose some fan support with his signing, and down the road Vick's presence could open Pandora's box in Philly.

It will create a negative buzz (and press) that will follow this team around for the entire season. Animal Rights groups will unite against the Eagles, creating additional complications. Also, the Eagles gave Vick a 2-year deal (2nd year is optional) for nearly $10 million with incentives ($6.8 without). That is quite a bit of money to pay for a back-up quarterback who might play 10 plays a game. Finally, if McNabb struggles to start the season and Vick has some success in his specialty role, it could create a quarterback controversy when there shouldn't be one. Remember this is the same fan base that has pretty much wanted to replace McNabb from day one. Given that precedence, I think there is a chance that this could end up dividing the Eagles' locker room. While there is a chance the Eagles could catch lightning in a bottle with this signing, there is a much greater chance they just end up getting burned.

Eli surpasses Peyton

They are equal in Lombardi Trophies but older brother Peyton beats little brother Eli in every other major category. Peyton has the passing yards, touchdowns, QB rating and every other stat in his favor (even if you look just at what he did during his first 5 years). The older Manning also beats his baby bro in MVP awards (3-0) and Pro Bowls (9-1). Peyton even has better numbers over his 15 game post-season career, than Eli does over any single season (which is impressive considering the quality teams he posted those numbers against). But now after all these years living in his older brothers large shadow, Eli dominates Peyton in one major area; money.

Now I understand that this is the way the system works. Lesser players in their prime now will make more money than those of 5 or 10 years ago. And players 5 years from now will sign for more money than Eli is getting ($97.5 million over 6 years) now. But its just so ironic that when you talk about the best 'Manning' in the league (not to mention best quarterback) Peyton is by far the obvious answer. Yet when the question of who makes the most money comes up Eli is now the correct answer. Now don't get me wrong Eli has been a good quarterback so far, and has the potential (just with his name alone) to be great. But he is not in the same league as Peyton (except for their comedic value in commercials). Though I will say, you had to know this was going to get pricey for the Giants after Matt Cassell signed his extension. If Cassell is worth $10 million + per year, then Eli is a bargain at $15 million.

Overall this move had to get done. The Giants couldn't afford not to sign Eli after the Super Bowl win and the drama during draft day. And Eli couldn't alienate the New York fan base (and media) that he worked so hard to become a part of. The younger Manning will now have to take his game to the next level, and show that he is worth being one of the highest paid NFL'ers (basically he needs to start putting up Peyton numbers).

Favre Retired (Again...I think)

Yesterday Brett Favre announced his third retirement from his illustrious playing career. Now most people will say this is only his 2nd retirement, because he never officially signed with the Minnesota Vikings. This saga has played out long enough that I think that the Vikings deserved to be engraved into his bust for the Hall of Fame. Now I respect a player coming out of retirement, because they still have a love for the game and want to compete. Players like Michael Jordan and Mario Lemieux came back because they felt they could still play. Regardless of the results of their return, they deserve to be revered for putting the game first. That is how I viewed Favre's return last year. No matter the drama with the Packers front office that led to his Jets cameo, Favre deserved the chance to play if he still wanted to. In my eyes Favre's legacy was still intact.

The retirement roller coaster this year though, has tarnished Favre's reputation pretty severely. This process was too drawn out and included too many false promises for us as fans to respect Favre for wanting to come back (again) or retire (again). This became too much of a joke. When else do you see a player 'retire' while in retirement, (not to be confused with unretiring which he did the first time).

The big loser in this saga are the Minnesota Vikings (maybe this was Favre's way to appease Packer fans, screw with their opponent). Now I'm sure they will tell you that are perfectly happy with the quarterbacks on their roster (Sage Rosenfels and Tavaris Jackson), but who really believes that to be true? Jackson has been awful as a starter and pretty much cost them their playoff game last year. Rosenfels is an improvement and should be the starter now in Minnesota, but he is no Brett Favre. Even Favre past his prime would have given the Vikings a better chance to compete than Rosenfels. On top of the talent downgrade at quarterback, Minnesota now has to deal with the fallout from their players, fans, media, and bloggers (like this one) who have been expecting Favre to be wearing purple this coming September. Now the Vikings will have negative media stories hounding them all season. The pressure is now on their quarterbacks two-fold to win without Favre.

Farve will always go down as one of the greatest quarterbacks of all time. He was winner who helped reestablish an iconic franchise as a powerhouse. Farve was probably the toughest guy to line up behind center in recent years, if not ever. His play on the field could be related to and respected by any fan, regardless of loyalty. He was a fierce competitor and a winner, but in the end, he will be remembered for his indecisiveness not on the field, but in the press. Hopefully, years from now us fans can forgive Brett Farve for the 24 hour news coverage of his retirement. Until then lets hope this is the last time we hear Brett's name mentioned with a team as a possible player.

$uggs Cashes In

The Baltimore Ravens reached an agreement with their "Franchise player" Terrell Suggs on six-year $63 million dollar contract. This extension will make Suggs the highest paid linebacker in history and guarantee him over $30 million dollars.

If that six-year $63 million dollar deal seems familiar, that is because we saw Matt Cassell inked for the same terms yesterday. Now some of the details of the deal are different. Suggs has more guaranteed money and more money in the first 2-3 years. But overall they are both $10.5 million averages.

I think that unlike Cassel, this is a great contract for the team. Suggs is one of the premier pass rushers in the NFL, while Cassel is a middling quarterback at best going forward. Suggs has 54 sacks over his first 6 seasons. He also is constantly in the backfield disrupting plays and offensive schemes. Suggs won't turn 27 until October, making it very likely that he can be effective for the length of this deal. Unfortunately for the AFC North quarterbacks and offensive coordinators, they will have to deal with Suggs for the foreseeable future. I think the Ravens did a great job at locking up one of the bright young defensive stars in the game.

Not Bad For a Year's Work

Today the Kansas City Chiefs announced that they signed QB Matt Cassel to a six-year contract that will pay him $28 million in guaranteed money, and $63 million over the life of the deal. That $10.5 million dollar average would have ranked 7th among quarterbacks in 2008. That is pretty insane when you figure that Matt Cassel has started just 15 games in his NFL career. Before last season Matt Cassel would have been lucky to get $10.5 million over 6 years, now he will be cashing that check each season. Is he worth this much of an investment?

Now a Chiefs defender or Matt Cassel supporter will talk about the big money that Aaron Rodgers gets and that his situation is similar to Cassels. There is some truth to that argument. Both quarterbacks had limited playing opportunities given the Hall of Fame quarterback playing in front of them. Also, both are young (though Rodgers is a year and a half younger) and entering the prime of their careers. While both those points are true, the argument fails to realize that Rodgers is a better quarterback than Cassel, either in the short or long term. Rodgers has a better pedigree, he was a first round draft pick, that was always considered a starting caliber quarterback. Also, he has the stronger arm, and seems to be more comfortable making all the various throws. Cassel excelled in a system that he had been in for years, and succeeded primarily out of the shotgun. The Patriots offensive system set just about every passing record the year before, giving Cassel more weapons to utilize. I think its hard to argue that Cassel is worth the kind of money that Rodgers is making.

Now I do recognize that the Chiefs were in a bit of a corner with the Patriots designating Cassel as a "Franchise" player. This raised the price on Cassel considerably. Had Cassel been on the open market he may have gotten a $6-8 million dollar average but he wouldn't have gotten much more than that. Kansas City is now paying him like he is a top notch QB, and that seems to be a gross exaggeration of his skills. There are easily 12-15 quarterbacks I'd rather have leading my team over the next 6 years than Cassel. That doesn't even count guys like Warner or Delhomme who are better options over the next few years as well. Kansas City is paying more than most of those guys, like he is a true "Franchise quarterback". Given the limited track record of Cassel, this was a big risk for the Chiefs to take. I think in the long run, Cassel will prove to be a solid starter, but not a $10 million dollar man. The Chiefs will pay for this mistake for years to come.

MNF Makes a Trade

Big new from ESPN Monday Night Football. Tony Kornheiser steps down from his seat in the broadcast booth and will be replaced by Jon Gruden. Kornheiser will stay with ESPN as part of PTI with Michael Wilbon but will no longer be calling games. 

Personally I like this while I've enjoyed reading Kornheiser's columns over the years and love him on PTI, I never liked him as part of the Monday Night football team. Kornheiser would too often try and add a comedic element to the booth but would come up short. If MNF wanted comedy they should have just stuck with Dennis Miller, he's at least funny. The other issue with Kornheiser is he wouldn't always let the game dictate his comments, which I always found frustrating. A good broadcaster needs to respond to whats going on in the game and not what they want to talk about. Now I don't know Gruden will be an upgrade or not I do think he has the potential and personality to help make MNF more enjoyable.

AFC Draft Grades

AFC EAST:

Buffalo Bills:
Best Pick: Eric Wood C-1st round
Worst Pick: Jarius Byrd DB-2nd round
One to watch: Shawn Nelson TE-4th round
Grade: B-

Miami Dolphins:
Best Pick: Sean Smith DB-2nd round
Worst Pick: Patrick Turner WR-3rd round
One to watch: Pat White WR/QB-2nd round
Grade: C+

New England Patriots:
Best Pick: Darius Butler CB-2nd round
Worst Pick: George Bussey G-5th round
One to watch: Brandon Tate WR-3rd round
Grade: A

New York Jets:
Best Pick: Shonn Greene RB-3rd round
Worst Pick: N/A (Jets only had 3 picks)
One to watch: Mark Sanchez QB-1st round
Grade: C+

AFC NORTH:

Baltimore Ravens:
Best Pick: Michael Oher OT-1st round
Worst Pick: Lardarius Webb CB-3rd round
One to watch: Jason Phillips LB-5th round
Grade: B-

Cincinnati Bengals:
Best Pick: Michael Johnson DE-3rd round
Worst Pick: Freddie Brown WR-7th round
One to watch: Chase Coffman TE-3rd round
Grade: A

Cleveland Browns:
Best Pick: Alex Mack C-1st round
Worst Pick: Mohamed Massaquoi WR-2nd round
One to watch: Brian Robiskie WR-2nd round
Grade: B-

Pittsburgh Steelers:
Best Pick: Kraig Urbik G-3rd round
Worst Pick: Evander Hood DL-1st round
One to watch: Mike Wallace WR-3rd round
Grade: B-

AFC SOUTH:

Houston Texans:
Best Pick: Connor Barwin DE-2nd round
Worst Pick: Glover Quin DB-4th round
One to watch: James Casey TE-5th round
Grade: B

Indianapolis Colts:
Best Pick: Donald Brown RB-1st round
Worst Pick: Jerraud Powers CB-3rd round
One to watch: Austin Collie WR-4th round
Grade: B+

Jacksonville Jaguars:
Best Pick: Eugene Monroe OT-1st round
Worst Pick: Derek Cox CB-3rd round
One to watch: Rashard Jennings-7th round
Grade: B+

Tennessee Titans:
Best Pick: Jared Cook TE-3rd round
Worst Pick: Ryan Mouton CB-3rd round
One to watch: Kenny Britt WR-1st round
Grade: B-

AFC WEST:

Denver Broncos:
Best Pick: Knowshon Moreno RB-1st round
Worst Pick: Richard Quinn TE-2nd round
One to watch: Robert Ayers DE-1st round
Grade: D+

Kansas City Chiefs:
Best Pick: Tyson Jackson DE-1st round
Worst Pick: Colin Brown OT-5th round
One to watch: Alex McGee DL-3rd round
Grade: D

Oakland Raiders:
Best Pick: Louis Murphy WR-4th round
Worst Pick: Michael Mitchell S-2nd round
One to watch: Darrius Heyward-Bey WR-1st round
Grade: F

San Diego Chargers:
Best Pick: Larry English DE/LB-1st round
Worst Pick: Gartrell Johnson RB-4th round
One to watch: Louis Vasquez G-3rd round
Grade: C+

NFC Draft Grades

NFC EAST:

Dallas Cowboys:
Best Pick: Brandon Williams DE/LB-4th round
Worst Pick: Stephen McGee QB-4th round
One to watch: Mike Mickens CB-7th round
Grade: C-

New York Giants:
Best Pick: Hakeem Nicks WR-1st round
Worst Pick: Stoney Woodson CB-7th round
One to watch: Clint Sintim LB-2nd round
Grade: A+

Philadelphia Eagles:
Best Pick: LeSean McCoy RB-2nd round
Worst Pick: Paul Fanaika G-7th round
One to watch: Victor Harris CB-5th round
Grade: A-

Washington Redskins:
Best Pick: Brian Orakpo DE-1st round
Worst Pick: Cody Glenn LB-5th round
One to watch: Kevin Barnes CB-3rd round
Grade: C+

NFC NORTH:

Chicago Bears:
Best Pick: Jarron Gilbert DL-3rd round
Worst Pick: Henry Melton DE-4th round
One to watch: D.J. Moore CB-4th round
Grade: B

Detroit Lions:
Best Pick: Matt Stafford QB-1st round
Worst Pick: Deandre Levy LB-3rd round
One to watch: Derrick Williams WR-3rd round
Grade: C+

Greenbay Packers:
Best Pick: B.J. Raji DT-1st round
Worst Pick: Jarrius Wynn DE-6th round
One to watch: Clay Matthews LB-1st round
Grade: B+

Minnesota Vikings:
Best Pick: Phil Loadholt OT-2nd round
Worst Pick: Percy Harvin WR-1st round
One to watch: Jasper Brinkley LB-5th round
Grade: C

NFC SOUTH:

Atlanta Falcons:
Best Pick: Peria Jerry DT-1st round
Worst Pick: William Middleton CB-5th round
One to watch: Lawrence Sidbury DE-4th round
Grade: A-

Carolina Panthers:
Best Pick: Everette Brown DE-2nd round
Worst Pick: Tony Fiammetta FB-4th round
One to watch: Duke Robinson G-5th round
Grade: C

New Orleans Saints:
Best Pick: Malcom Jenkins DB-1st round
Worst Pick: Thomas Morestead P-5th round
One to watch: Chip Vaughn S-4th round
Grade: C+

Tampa Bay Buccaneers:
Best Pick: Kyle Moore DE-4th round
Worst Pick: E. J. Biggers CB-7th round
One to watch: Josh Freeman QB-1st round
Grade: D

NFC WEST:

Arizona Cardinals:
Best Pick: Chris Wells RB-1st round
Worst Pick: Will Davis DE-6 round
One to watch: Rashard Johnson S- 3rd round
Grade: A-

San Francisco 49ers:
Best Pick: Michael Crabtree WR-1st round
Worst Pick: Curtis Taylor S-6th round
One to watch: Scott McKillop LB-5th round
Grade:B+

Seattle Seahawks:
Best Pick: Aaron Curry LB-1st round
Worst Pick: Deon Butler WR-3rd round
One to watch: Max Unger OL-2nd round
Grade: B

St. Louis Rams:
Best Pick: Jason Smith OT-1st round
Worst Pick: Keith Null QB-6th round
One to watch: James Laurinaitis LB-2nd round
Grade: B

NFL Draft: Winners and Losers

3 Winners:

New York Giants: New York did a great job filling their needs and getting quality talent. Hakeem Nicks is a great value at 29 and should help replace the loss of Palxico Burress. Both of the Giants two second round picks could have easily gone in the first round. Clint Sintim should become an instant starter and will be a nice addition to the Giants fearsome pass rush. The Giants also did well in the mid rounds by adding WR Ramses Barden, TE Travis Beckum, RB Andre Brown, and QB Rhett Bomar. All four of these players should contribute to the Giants long term future. Overall the Giants added a number of guys with big upside potential and filled all their needs.

New England Patriots: New England did what they do best, stock pile picks in this years draft and next year. When the dust settled the Patriots ended up with 6 picks in the first 100 and added two second round picks in 2010. New England used their extra picks to bolster their secondary and offensive line. Patrick Chung and Darius Butler are great additions to the Patriots secondary. WR Brandon Tate could be a great steal for the Patriots in the third round. He was once thought to be a first round talent but fell due to injury and poor decision making. If he stays healthy and out of trouble he will be a good third option for Tom Brady. Overall the Patriots got plenty of value and players that will fit into their system.

Cincinnati Bengals: The Bengals had a high risk/high reward draft. Its high risk because a number of the players they picked have concerns involving either their character or work ethic. Its high reward because if all the players they drafted can get their careers on track then the Bengals may come away with 4-6 starters from this class. Andre Smith and Jonathan Luigs will instantly upgrade a weak offensive line unit. While I'm not a big fan of Rey Maualuga and think he's much better suited for a 3-4 alignment, he will be an upgrade for the Bengals at MLB. Michael Johnson is another interesting prospect. He has the upside to be the best defensive end in this draft he just needs to stay focused. TE Chase Coffman was a great pick for the Bengals. He catches anything thrown his way and will be a favorite target of Carson Palmer.

3 Losers:

Oakland Raiders: The Raiders shook up the first round by taking Darrius Heyward-Bey with the 7th overall pick. While there were plenty who considered Heyward-Bey a quality receiver, its doubtful any other team would have taken him in the top 20. Heyward-Bey isn't a number one receiver in the NFL and will make the Raiders regret not taking Michael Crabtree in the first round. Throughout the draft the Raiders consistently took players who they could have taken in later rounds. There's not alot of upside or potential in this class, and it won't help the Raiders find their way out of the top 10.

Tampa Bay Buccaneers: Tampa Bay was already missing its 2nd round pick after giving it up for Kellan Winslow, the Buccaneers gave up another pick to move up two spots in the 1st round. Tampa Bay moved up so they could select QB Josh Freeman. While the 6th round pick they gave up was a small price to pay, it was completely unnecessary. Tampa only had to wait out the the Browns and Broncos and neither one was likely to take Freeman. Freeman is a nice QB prospect but he's hardly a sure thing. He will need a couple of years of development time before he can be an effective starter in the NFL. Other than Freeman Tampa didn't draft many other players with a high upside. The Buccaneers failed to address a number of their needs on draft day, and could very well pay for it in the win column this season.

Kansas City Chiefs: Even though they had the 3rd pick in the draft the Chiefs had a very unimaginative draft. Kansas City took DE Tyson Jackson with the 3rd pick. Jackson is a very good player, but probably not the third best player in the draft. Kansas City would have been better served taking anyone of B.J. Raji, Eugene Monroe, Michael Crabtree or Aaron Curry. Anyone of them would have filled a bigger need than defensive end. Also any of those players would have had a greater value at the number three spot than Jackson did. If you are going to guarantee that much money to a player it should be for a sure thing. In the mid and late rounds the Chiefs reached for a couple of players and ignored needs at linebacker and safety. Kansas City should have picked players that could have filled some immediate needs, and drafted a higher rated player at number three.

Mock Draft

Here's how I think the first round will play out. I'll predict a couple of potential big trades but I think a few more could happen.

1. Detroit Lions: QB Matt Stafford
2. St. Louis Rams: OT Eugene Monroe
3. Kansas City Chiefs: DT B.J. Raji
4. Seattle Seahawks: OLB Aaron Curry
5. Cleveland Browns: WR Michael Crabtree
6. Cincinnati Bengals: OT Jason Smith
7. Oakland Raiders: WR Jeremy Maclin
8. Denver Broncos: QB Mark Sanchez (trade from the Jacksonville Jaguars)
9. Green Bay Packers: OT Andre Smith
10. San Francisco 49ers: OLB/DE Aaron Maybin
11. Buffalo Bills: OT Michael Oher
12. Jacksonville Jaguars: CB Vontae Davis
13. San Diego Chargers: DE Tyson Jackson (trade from the Washington Redskins)
14. New Orleans Saints: RB Chris Wells
15. Houston Texans: LB Clay Matthews
16. Washington Redskins: DE Brian Orakpo
17. N.Y. Jets: WR Hakeem Nicks
18. Denver Broncos: DE/OLB Everette Brown
19. Tampa Bay Buccaneers: WR Percy Harvin
20. Detroit Lions: OT William Beatty
21. Philadelphia Eagles: TE Brandon Pettigrew
22. Minnesota Vikings: OT Eben Britton
23. New England Patriots: ILB Rey Maualuga
24. Atlanta Falcons: OLB Brian Cushing
25. Miami Dolphins: CB Sean Smith
26. Arizona Cardinals: RB Knowshon Moreno (trade from the Ravens for Anquan Boldin)
27. Indianapolis Colts: DT Peria Jerry
28. Buffalo Bills: DE Robert Ayers
29. Cleveland Browns: OLB Clint Sintim (trade from the Giants for Braylon Edwards)
30. Tennessee Titans: CB Darius Butler
31. Arizona Cardinals: DE/OLB Larry English
32. Pittsburgh Steelers: C Alex Mack

I think Edwards and Boldin will both be moved on draft day. Especially after some of the top wide receivers get selected. I'm not buying into the Josh Freeman hype. I think he'll fall to the second round and could be grabbed by St. Louis or Seattle. As for other trades, I think Jacksonville will move down at least once and I think the Redskins will likely trade down if they don't get Mark Sanchez (which I still don't understand why they want him). Anyways these are my quick thoughts on the draft. What are yours?

NFL Draft: Team needs: AFC

Buffalo Bills: 11th and 28th picks in the first round

1. Left tackle: The Bills traded away Jason Peters and will need to replace their blind-side protector.
2. Defensive end: Buffalo needs a someone to help Schobel with getting to the QB.
3. Tight end: The Bills could use a third receiving option behind T.O. and Evans.
4. Outside linebacker: Crowell left a hole on the outside that still needs to be filled.
5. Defensive tackle: The Bills could use some depth to keep their tackles fresh.

Miami Dolphins: 25th pick in the 1st round

1. Wide receiver: The Dolphins lack a big receiver to go along with Ginn and Bess.
2. Cornerback: Will Allen is a top flight starter but the rest of the corners are average at best.
3. Outside linebacker: Miami could use another pass rusher to go along with Joey Porter.
4. Guard: Guard is the one weak spot on the line and should be addressed.
5. Defensive tackle: Ferguson is getting up there in age so a solid back-up is needed here.

New England Patriots: 23rd pick in the first round

1. Inside linebacker: Teddy Bruschi is in his 30's now and the Pats need a capable replacement.
2. Outside linebacker: New England needs to add a pass rusher to go along with Thomas.
3. Guard: Neal is on the wrong side of 30 and will be a FA next year.
4. Safety: Meriweather is locked into one starting spot but the other one is up for grabs.
5. Running back: Even after adding Taylor, running back is a position of need for the Pats.

New York Jets: 17th pick in the first round

1. Wide Receiver: With the loss of Coles the Jets need a big time play maker.
2. Defensive end: Shaun Ellis is still getting the job done at one spot but the Jets need to give him help on the line.
3. Quarterback: Clemens isn't the answer and Brett Ratliff has potential but is unproven.
4. Cornerback: Even after adding Sheppard the Jets could use more depth here.
5. Offensive line: The Jets have a good group of starters but don't have much behind them.

Baltimore Ravens: 26th pick in the first round

1. Offensive tackle: The Ravens one weakness on the line is RT and should be addressed early.
2. Wide Receiver: The Ravens need a wideout who Flacco can throw the long ball too.
3. Inside linebacker: The Ravens will need to replace Scott to keep their defense at the top of its game.
4. Defensive end: A play maker at end could help open things up for their talented linebackers.
5. Guard: The Ravens need some depth for the interior of their line.

Cincinnati Bengals: 6th pick in the first round

1. Left tackle: Levi Jones is on his last legs and Palmer needs a new body guard.
2. Center: When you play in a division against three 3-4 teams you need an elite center, the Bengals don't even have an average one.
3. Running back: Cincy needs an RB to take the pressure off the passing game.
4. Defensive end: When you only have 17 sacks last season and improvement needs to be made.
5. Middle linebacker: The Bengals could use some depth here with Jones' age starting to show.

Cleveland Browns: 5th pick in the first round

1. Outside linebacker: The Browns pass rush was non-existent last year and needs a boost.
2. Wide Receiver: Stallworth could be facing jail and Edwards may be traded a new receiver is a big need.
3. Running back: Jamal Lewis is on his last legs a speed back should be a nice compliment.
4. Cornerback: The Browns need to add a starter opposite Eric Wright.
5. Offensive line: The Browns have solid starters but could use depth across the line.

Pittsburgh Steelers: 32nd pick in the first round

1. Offensive tackle: Starks and Colon are returning but neither is a great starter.
2. Center: The Steelers need a dominate center to match up against the top DT's in the North.
3. Wide Receiver: Pittsburgh needs to replace Washington and I'm not sold on Sweed as the answer.
4. Defensive end: The Steelers could use some depth here with their starters getting up in age.
5. Cornerback: The loss of McFadden left this position a little thin.

Houston Texans: 15th pick in the first round

1. Outside linebacker: The Texans could use a play maker outside to go along with Ryans inside.
2. Defensive tackle: A power tackle that can occupy blockers is key for Houston.
3. Safety: An upgrade at SS could be a big help to the secondary.
4. Running back: Houston needs a power back to compliment Steve Slaton.
5. Guard: Their interior line is a bit thin with Pitts the only solid guard.

Indianapolis Colts: 27th pick in the first round

1. Defensive tackle: The Colts got almost no production from their tackles last year and need to address this early.
2. Wide Receiver: The Harrison era is over and the Colts will likely add another weapon for Manning.
3. Inside linebacker: Brackett is coming off a major injury and may not be the same player he once was.
4. Offensive tackle: Ugoh struggled last season so a back-up plan is needed.
5. Outside linebacker: The Colts need more play makers on defense especially at OLB.

Jacksonville Jaguars: 8th pick in the first round

1. Offensive tackle: even with the addition of Thomas the Jags need to get more talent at tackle.
2. Wide Receiver: Adding Holt was a great first step but Garrard needs another weapon on the outside.
3. Guard: The Jags lost three guards last season to major injuries, depth is a priority here.
4. Defensive tackle: A force in the middle to go along with John Henderson would be a major boost to the defense.
5. Cornerback: The Jags are pretty thin here quality depth is needed.

Tennessee Titans: 30 pick in the first round

1. Cornerback: The Titans need another cornerback to pair with Finnegan, especially since they play the Colts twice a year.
2. Wide Receiver: Adding Washington was nice but the receiving corps is still an area of concern.
3. Defensive tackle: They brought in Haye but he won't fill Haynesworth's shoes alone.
4. Outside linebacker: The starters are top notch but there isn't anything behind them.
5. Offensive line: The Titans need some much needed depth across the entire line.

Denver Broncos: 12th and 18th picks in the first round

1. Nose tackle: Denver is moving to a 3-4 alignment but lacks the personnel in the middle.
2. Inside linebacker: Another position the Broncos need to upgrade for the move to the 3-4.
3. Defensive end: The Broncos have below average starters at DE and need an influx of talent.
4. Quarterback: With Cutler out and Orton in the Broncos could look for a young QB to groom.
5. Outside linebacker: Jarvis Moss has been a disappointment and might not be able to make the transition to OLB.

Kansas City Chiefs: 3rd pick in the first round

1. Nose tackle: Moving Dorsey outside will hopefully jump start his career but an inside guy is needed.
2. Guard: The Chiefs need a big upgrade inside to help keep Cassel off his back.
3. Linebacker: The Chiefs need to add a lot of talent at linebacker with the move to the 3-4.
4. Center: Niswanger isn't a good starter in the middle and KC should look for a replacement.
5. Offensive tackle: The Chiefs could use an upgrade over McIntosh to pair with Albert.

Oakland Raiders: 7th pick in the first round

1. Wide receiver: The Raiders have three quality running backs and zero receivers, they will need to improve that ratio to start winning some games.
2. Outside linebacker: OLB was a revolving door for the Raiders last season, the need a true starter.
3. Safety: Michael Huff has been a bust and Wilson is now in Miami adding some talent is key here.
4. Offensive tackle: The Raiders need to keep Russell upright for their offense to improve.
5. Defensive end: Burgess is on the down side of his career and the Raiders need depth.

San Diego Chargers: 16th pick in the first round

1. Right tackle: Clary was a major disappointment last season and should be replaced.
2. Inside linebacker: The Chargers need another ILB to play next to Cooper.
3. Guard: Dielman is great but RG has been a major issue. Depth is also a concern here.
4. Safety: Weddle is solid at one spot but the other spot is up in the air.
5. Defensive end: The Chargers could use another stout lineman opposite Castillo

NFL Draft-Team needs: NFC

Dallas Cowboys: no first round pick

1. Safety: Either spot could use an upgrade, free safety may be a bigger concern.
2. Wide Receiver: Miles Austin is nice but he's not gonna put up T.O. numbers.
3. Offensive line: Flozell Adams is getting up there in age and they can use depth across the line.
4. Cornerback: Pacman and Anthony Henry are gone, they need some depth behind their starters.
5.Defensive line: They are set with their starters but need back-ups who can give solid minutes.

New York Giants: 29th pick in the first round

1. Wide receiver: Burress and Toomer are gone, the G-men need a quality receiver to fill the void.
2. Linebacker: Giants need another starting linebacker to go with Boley and Pierce.
3. Offensive line: The Giants have great starters but almost no depth. Age is a concern as well.
4. Safety: Losing Butler left this position without much depth.
5. Running back: Giants could use a mid-round RB to replace Ward and keep Jacobs fresh.

Philadelphia Eagles: 21st pick in the first round

1. Running back: The Eagles had a top 10 offense last year despite ranking 22nd in rushing.
2. Tight end: Brent Celek isn't the answer. Eagles could use a bit upgrade here.
3. Cornerback: Sheldon Brown isn't happy with his contract and wants to be traded. Adding a corner is becoming a priority.
4. Wide receiver: The team could use a big target to go along with Jackson and Curtis.
5. Defensive end: More of a want than a need but Philly could use a pass rusher on the edge.

Washington Redskins: 13th pick in the first round

1. Outside linebacker: The Skins need a starter here, preferably someone who can rush the passer as well.
2. Offensive tackle: Washington has a big hole at RT and could use a long term solution.
3. Defensive end: The Redskins only had 24 sacks last season, they need an every down end opposite Carter.
4. Cornerback: Rodgers is inconsistent and Smoot is showing signs of age, a young corner is needed.
5. Power running back: Portis is still a very good back but he needs some help on short yardage.

Chicago Bears: no first round pick

1. Wide receiver: Bears need a big receiver to compliment Hester.
2. Defensive end: Chicago needs to generate a better pass rush for them to be in the playoffs.
3. Cornerback: The Bears need a starter opposite Tillman.
4. Outside linebacker: Roach and Hillenmeyer are ok but not great options on the strongside.
5. Safety: The Bears could use a good developmental player here.

Detroit Lions: 1st pick and 20th pick in the first round

1. Left tackle: It didn't matter who was behind center last year he was gonna take a pounding.
2. Defensive tackle: Detroit didn't stop the run and couldn't rush the passer. They need a quick tackle to play next to Grady Jackson.
3. Quarterback: The Lions desperately need a new signal caller to improve the 30th ranked offense.
4. Middle linebacker: Paris Lenon isn't the answer, the Lions need someone to play in between Peterson and Sims.
5. Guard: The entire offensive line was a problem last year.

Green Bay Packers: 9th pick in the first round

1. Offensive tackle: Tauscher is gone and Clifton is getting up there in age.
2. Defensive end: With Kampman moving to OLB the Packers need some starting ends.
3. Outside linebacker: Packers need someone other than Kampman getting to the QB.
4. Running back: Packers need to add a quick back to the mix here.
5. Safety: The starters are pretty good but there isn't much depth here.

Minnesota Vikings: 22nd pick in the first round

1. Right tackle: The right tackle spot is the only hole on the O-line. The Vikes need a big upgrade here to help their offense.
2. Wide receiver: The Vikings need to add more weapons to their passing attack.
3. Quarterback: They added Sage Rosenfels but adding another young guy couldn't hurt.
4. Defensive tackle: The Vikes have the best tackles in the league but need some depth here.
5. Linebacker: Another area where Minnesota is extremely thin.

Atlanta Falcons: 24th pick in the first round

1. Cornerback: With Foxworth gone the Falcons need to add a starter.
2. Safety: Atlanta could use an upgrade at both spots and should address the position early.
3. Defensive tackle: The Falcons desperately need a run stuffing DT.
4. Outside Linebacker: Atlanta needs to add some talent to their OLB corps.
5. Center: Its the weakest part of the Falcons line though not an immediate need.

Carolina Panthers: no first round pick

1. Defensive tackle: Panthers need more production from the inside next season.
2. Cornerback: Lucas was cut and Marshall didn't have a great year. Panthers need a starter opposite Gamble.
3. Defensive end: Peppers may be gone after this year and there isn't much talent and depth behind him.
4. Wide receiver: Muhammed is getting up in age and Jarrett looks like a major bust.
5. Offensive line: The Panthers lost their top two back-ups in FA and are a little thin.

New Orleans Saints: 14th pick in the first round

1. Cornerback: Porter and Greer are good but the Saints could use a shut down corner.
2. Running back: Reggie Bush hasn't been the answer the Saints need an every down back to take pressure off Brees.
3. Outside linebacker: The Saints need more speed on the outside of Vilma.
4. Defensive tackle: Ellis needs someone in the middle with him to stop the run.
5. Safety: They added Sharper but they need a young guy to replace him when he's gone.

Tampa Bay Buccaneers: 19th pick in the first round

1. Defensive tackle: The team lost their best tackle (Haye) and it wasn't a strong position to begin with.
2. Wide Receiver: The team needs a starter opposite Bryant who can stretch the field.
3. Quarterback: Even with the signing of Leftwich they need a long term solution.
4. Defensive end: Adams is solid but there isn't much additional talent there.
5. Cornerback: Tampa needs depth behind Barber and Talib.

Arizona Cardinals: 31st pick in the first round

1. Running back: The Cards need a top notch running game to go with Warner and Fitzgerald.
2. Outside linebacker: Arizona needs to get better pressure on the QB from the outside.
3. Tight end: Adding a pass catching TE can only make the Cardinals more dangerous.
4. Interior Offensive lineman: Arizona has solid starters in the middle but could use an upgrade.
5. Defensive Tackle: Arizona needs someone who commands a double or triple team to allow their linebackers to make plays.

San Francisco 49ers: 10th pick in the first round

1. Outside linebacker: Manny Lawson has been a bust, the 49ers need a pass rusher on the outside.
2. Wide Receiver: Josh Morgan was a great find last year but the 49ers need a go to wideout.
3. Quarterback: Alex Smith isn't the answer neither is Shaun Hill, a QB of the future is needed.
4. Safety: The 49ers need to get younger here and they need a big upgrade at FS.
5. Offensive tackle: They signed Marvel Smith but he can't seem to stay healthy. Staley struggled last year as well.

Seattle Seahawks: 4th pick in the first round

1.Wide Receiver: Even with adding Houshmandzadeh the Seahawks need to add a top receiver early.
2. Outside linebacker: Trading away Peterson filled a need at DT but opened another one on the outside.
3. Cornerback: Wilson is a nice player but not the best option to start.
4. Quarterback: Hasselbeck is showing signs of age and had some injury problems last year.
5. Running back: Jones and Duckett don't inspire fear in many defenses.

St. Louis Rams: 2nd pick in the first round

1. Offensive tackle: The Pace era is over and the Rams desperately need a replacement.
2. Middle linebacker: The Rams need a strong MLB to compliment their solid outside guys.
3. Defensive tackle: Carriker should truly play end on early downs and move inside. The Rams need a run stuffing tackle to control the line of scrimmage.
4. Wide receiver: Torry Holt is gone and Donnie Avery is the only solid starter, a big upgrade is needed here.
5. Running back: There's not much behind Jackson on the depth chart, a change of pace back is needed here.

NFL Draft: Defense

Here are my quick thoughts on the defensive talent in the draft.

I think this is a pretty good draft in the early rounds if you need a defensive lineman. There could be as many as 15 taken in the first three rounds, including 5-8 in the first round. Defensive end is particularly deep this year. Brian Orakpo, Everette Brown and Tyson Jackson all should be immediate impact players. Brown is considered a 'tweener' by some but has an excellent burst when getting at the quarterback and should succeed at the next level. B.J. Raji headlines a solid defensive tackle class and will be a dominate force in the middle. Jarron Gilbert is one of my favorite players in this draft class. I think he will be a force wherever he ends up on the line.

The linebacker class is solid overall but not as talented and deep as the defensive lineman. Aaron Curry is the most complete player in the entire draft. There is nothing he can't do from the linebacker spot and he will be a top-5 pick on Saturday. Clint Sintim and Clay Matthews are two great pass rushers that always get to the quarterback. I think they are both rated higher than the more well known Brian Cushing. Cushing is a nice player but I don't think he will be a impact player like Sintim and Matthews. Inside linebackers aren't nearly as deep as their outside counterparts. Only James Laurinaitis and Rey Maualuga are top 50 talents. Maualuga is a guy that scares me, I think he has been a bit over hyped. I think he fits best as an inside linebacker in a 3-4 scheme but would struggle if he was a middle linebacker in a 4-3 system.

I think the defensive backs are particularly strong in this class, highlighted by a deep corner back group. Though its a deep position, there probably isn't a single shut down corner in this class. The best pure corner is Darius Butler, he has the speed and athleticism to cover anyone. Two of the other top corners, Sean Smith and Malcolm Jenkins may be better fits at safety. Whatever position they are at Smith and Jenkins should be very good NFL starters. There aren't too many top pure safeties in this class but there should be some solid contributors. Rashard Johnson is a safety to watch in this draft. He's likely a late second to early third round prospect but could end up being the best safety in this draft. He's a smart player who always seems to be in a position to make a play.

I think this is a pretty good defensive draft. There are a number of starters that will come out of this class, particularly at defensive end and corner back. There are a number of talented pass rushers on the line and at linebacker in this class. Also I think Aaron Curry may be the best linebacker to come out in the last five years.

NFL Draft Top 5 by position: Defense

Here are my top 5 players for each defensive position. I will also include a sleeper at each spot as well. Since the defensive position for a player can fluctuate depending on defensive schemes a team runs, I will list players in their most likely position. In every instance the player would be in roughly the same slot, give or take a spot or two, at their secondary position. As always, these rankings are based on my personal projections for these players, and not indicative of where I see them being picked.

Defensive End:

1. Brian Orakpo-Texas (OLB)
2. Everette Brown-Florida State (OLB)
3. Tyson Jackson-LSU
4. Robert Ayers-Tennessee
5. Larry English-Northern Illinois (OLB)

Sleeper: Lawrence Sidbury Jr.-Richmond (OLB)

Defensive Tackle:

1. B.J. Raji-Boston College
2. Jarron Gilbert-San Jose State (DE)
3. Peria Jerry-Ole Miss
4. Ron Brace-Boston College
5. Evander Hood-Missouri

Sleeper: Mitch King-Iowa (DE)

Outside Linebacker:

1. Aaron Curry-Wake Forrest
2. Clay Matthews-USC
3. Clint Sintim-Virginia
4. Brian Cushing-USC
5. Connor Barwin-Cincinnati (DE)

Sleeper: Cody Brown-Connecticut

Middle Linebacker:

1. James Laurinaitis-Ohio State
2. Rey Maualuga-USC
3. Darry Beckwith-LSU
4. Scott McKillop-Pittsburgh
5. Jasper Brinkley-South Carolina

Sleeper: Gerald McRath-Southern Miss

Corner back:

1. Darius Butler-Connecticut
2. Sean Smith-Utah (S)
3. Malcolm Jenkins-Ohio State (S)
4. Vontae Davis-Illinois
5. Alphonso Smith-Wake Forrest

Sleeper: Victor Harris-Virginia Tech

Safety:

1. Louis Delmas-Western Michigan
2. Patrick Chung-Oregon
3. Rashard Johnson-Alabama
4. William Moore-Missouri
5. Michael Hamlin-Clemson

Sleeper: Darcel McBath-Texas Tech