Rockets34Legend
04-28-2006, 12:03 PM
Kiper's Final Mock Draft (4/28): (http://insider.espn.go.com/nfl/draft06/insider/columns/story?columnist=kiper_jr_mel&id=2422320)
First-Round Projections
1. Houston Reggie Bush, RB* USC
2. New Orleans Mario Williams, DE* NC State
3. Tennessee Vince Young, QB* Texas
4. N.Y. Jets D'Brickashaw Ferguson, T Virginia
5. Green Bay A.J. Hawk, LB Ohio St.
6. San Francisco Vernon Davis, TE* Maryland
7. Oakland Ernie Sims, LB* Florida St.
8. Buffalo Brodrick Bunkley, DT Florida St.
9. Detroit Michael Huff, DB Texas
10. Arizona Matt Leinart, QB USC
11. St. Louis Jay Cutler, QB Vanderbilt
12. Cleveland Kamerion Wimbley, DE/OLB Florida St.
13. Baltimore Haloti Ngata, DT* Oregon
14. Philadelphia Chad Greenway, LB Iowa
15. Denver (from ATL) Santonio Holmes, WR* Ohio St.
16. Miami Antonio Cromartie, CB* Florida St.
17. Minnesota Jason Allen, CB/S Tennessee
18. Dallas Manny Lawson, OLB NC State
19. San Diego Winston Justice, T* USC
20. Kansas City Johnathan Joseph, CB* South Carolina
21. New England DeAngelo Williams, RB Memphis
22. San Francisco (from DEN) Tye Hill, CB Clemson
23. Tampa Bay Marcus McNeill, T Auburn
24. Cincinnati Donte Whitner, DB* Ohio St.
25. N.Y. Giants Sinorice Moss, WR Miami
26. Chicago Chad Jackson, WR* Florida
27. Carolina Marcedes Lewis, TE UCLA
28. Jacksonville Nick Mangold, C Ohio St.
29. N.Y. Jets (from DEN) Bobby Carpenter, OLB Ohio St.
30. Indianapolis Laurence Maroney, RB* Minnesota
31. Seattle Jimmy Williams, CB Virginia Tech
32. Pittsburgh LenDale White, RB* USC
* denotes underclassman
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Scouts Inc. Mock Draft (4/27) (http://insider.espn.go.com/nfl/draft06/insider/columns/story?columnist=mcshay_todd&id=2423677)
Bush still the one for Texans
By Todd McShay
Scouts Inc.
+ = Underclassman
1. Houston Texans (2-14)
Top five needs: RB, OT, OG, DC, DE
The pick: +Reggie Bush, RB, USC
Bush to Houston is the only "sure thing" in the 2006 NFL draft. Running back is not one of the Texans' top positional needs, but Bush is far more than just a running back. He's the most explosive runner, receiver and return man that this year's class has to offer. No other rookie will make a bigger impact than Bush will for the Texans next season.
Other scenarios:
• Accept a blockbuster deal to trade down.
• Select NC State DE Mario Williams, only if contract negotiations fail with Bush.
2. New Orleans Saints (3-13)
Top five needs: DE, OT, OC, OLB, DC
The pick: +Mario Williams, DE, NC State
If the Saints get stuck picking at No. 2, the decision will be between Williams and Virginia OT D'Brickashaw Ferguson. While Ferguson fills a great area of need, rumor has it the front office will overrule the coaching staff on this decision and go with Williams.
Other scenarios:
• Priority No. 1 for the Saints is still to trade out of this pick. They would love to move down a bit, acquire an extra pick or two, and still get one of the top three prospects on their wish list: Williams, Ferguson or Ohio State OLB A.J. Hawk.
• Select Ferguson with this pick.
• Select QB Matt Leinart.
3. Tennessee Titans (4-12) Top five needs: QB, OT, DC, MLB, RB
The pick: Matt Leinart, QB, USC
The Titans have leaked information regarding an internal tug-of-war between the personnel department and coaching staff over the top-rated quarterback in this year's draft. While all the speculation points to Texas QB Vince Young, we're going with Leinart. The Titans are not expected to come to a resolution with long-time franchise quarterback Steve McNair, so Leinart would have a chance to start immediately. Making this an even more natural fit is Leinart's relationship with offensive coordinator Norm Chow, who spent four years in a similar post at USC.
Other scenarios:
• Select Young here.
• Select Ferguson here.
4. New York Jets (4-12)
Top five needs: RB, OT, QB, OLB, NT
The pick: D'Brickashaw Ferguson, OT, Virginia
The Jets' best move is to stay put. They have seven picks in the first four rounds, which is more than any of the other 31 teams. Instead of packaging some of those picks to move up, the Jets would be wise to address as many needs as possible in what is an extremely deep 2006 draft. In this scenario, Ferguson would be a great value with the fourth overall pick and he would help address a priority need.
Other scenarios:
• Select Williams here if he falls.
• Select Leinart here if he falls.
• Trade down with targets such as Leinart and Oregon NT Haloti Ngata in mind.
5. Green Bay Packers (4-12)
Top five needs: OG, OLB, OC, DE, WR
The pick: A.J. Hawk, OLB, Ohio State
The Packers have done a decent job of addressing their needs at wide receiver (Rod Gardner), defensive tackle (Ryan Pickett), cornerback (Charles Woodson) and safety (Marquand Manuel) this offseason. Still missing, though, is an impact playmaker on defense. Hawk is a more complete player and he could make a more immediate impact for a defense that is in desperate need of a playmaker and leader of his capacity.
Other scenarios:
• Select Ferguson here if he falls.
• Select Maryland TE Vernon Davis here.
• Trade down, targeting Ngata.
6. San Francisco 49ers (4-12)
Top five needs: TE, OLB, DS, DC, DE
The pick: +Vernon Davis, TE, Maryland
By trading with the Broncos for a second pick (22) in the first round, the 49ers only increase suspicion that they will take Davis with this pick. As such, San Francisco will not feel badly about ignoring the defensive side of the ball in order to get their hands on the most explosive pass-catching weapon in this year's class. At 6-foot-3, 258 pounds with 4.38-speed in the 40-yard dash, Davis has game-breaker written all over him. By using this pick on Davis, the 49ers will speed up QB Alex Smith's developmental process.
Other scenarios:
• Select Hawk here if Davis is off the board.
• Select Texas DB Michael Huff, but only if they trade down slightly.
7. Oakland Raiders (4-12)
Top five needs: : QB, DE, OLB, DT/NT, DS
The pick: +Vince Young, QB, Texas
The Raiders have bigger needs but Young is too special of an athlete to pass on with this pick. Aaron Brooks can serve as a bridge-the-gap starter while Young takes a year or two to develop. Andrew Walter, last year's third-round pick, can become a good insurance policy for the future and potentially could become good trade bait.
Other scenarios:
• Owner Al Davis is still considering trading up for Young.
• Leinart if he falls instead of Young.
• Huff if neither Young nor Leinart slips here.
8. Buffalo Bills (5-11)
Top five needs: OT, DT, DC, RB, WR
The pick: +Haloti Ngata, DT, Oregon
Offensive tackle is a primary need area for the Bills. USC OT Winston Justice is skyrocketing up draft boards, but it would be a slight reach to take Justice this high, especially considering some of his character issues. The Bills were able to upgrade their defensive line with the free-agency addition of DT Larry Tripplett, but they still are searching for a young impact player to groom alongside him. While it seems Florida State's Brodrick Bunkley is a better fit in the team's new defensive scheme, we're hearing the Bills favor Ngata over Bunkley should they elect to draft and not trade down. Defensive tackles tend to take longer to develop than most other positions, but the presence of Tripplett and Tim Anderson would allow Ngata to ease into a starting role.
Other scenarios:
• Select Florida State DT Brodrick Bunkley here.
• Select Vanderbilt QB Jay Cutler here.
• Select Huff here.
• Trade down, targeting Ngata, Bunkley, Cutler and Huff -- in that order.
9. Detroit Lions (5-11)
Top five needs: DC, OLB, ILB, OT, RB
The pick: Michael Huff, DB, Texas
New head coach Rod Marinelli comes from a hard-nosed defensive-minded background and he'll want to set the tone by selecting an impact playmaker on that side of the ball with this pick. Some think Huff can play cornerback in the NFL, while others think he'll be limited to safety. I think he can play some of both, especially with the Lions moving to more of a Cover 2 look under Marinelli. Regardless, Huff is the best defensive back in this year's class and he would immediately give the Lions needed versatility in their secondary.
Other scenarios:
• Select Florida State OLB Ernie Sims here.
• Trade down (with St. Louis?), targeting Sims, USC OT Winston Justice or Iowa OLB Chad Greenway.
10. Arizona Cardinals (5-11)
Top five needs: DB, TE, QB, OT, OLB
The pick: Jay Cutler, QB, Vanderbilt
This won't be an easy decision but the Cardinals realize that it's the best move for the future of their organization. If Arizona's doctors clear Sims (concussions) medically, this debate will resume in the Cardinals' war room.
Other scenarios:
• Select Sims here.
• Select Bunkley here.
• Select Justice here.
• Select Virginia Tech DC Jimmy Williams here .
11. St. Louis Rams (6-10)
Top five needs: DT, DC, WLB, OG, OT
The pick: Chad Greenway, OLB, Iowa
This seems a bit high for Greenway to come off the board, but he is a safe pick at a position of need and we've been told that the Rams value him ahead of Sims.
Other scenarios:
• Trade up ahead of Cardinals for Cutler.
• Trade down if Cutler and Greenway are off the board.
• Select Sims here.
12. Cleveland Browns (6-10)
Top five needs: DE, OLB, WR, NT, DC
The pick: Kamerion Wimbley, DE/OLB, Florida State
The Browns have been one of the most active teams in free agency this year but they still have a number of holes to fill. After spending two of their three Day 1 picks on the offensive side of the ball last year, general manager Phil Savage knows he needs to give more attention to Romeo Crennel's defense. The Browns signed a couple of good fits for the 3-4 scheme, but OLB Willie McGinest and NT Ted Washington are aging players that won't be around for long. If Ngata is still on the board, he would be an even better value as Washington's future replacement. In this case, though, Wimbley is the right selection. A former defensive end at Florida State, Wimbley is an ideal fit as a rush-linebacker in the Brown's 3-4 alignment. He could immediately upgrade the team's pass rush as a situational player early in his career before eventually taking over for McGinest as the full-time starter.
Other scenarios:
• Select Ngata here.
• Trade down, targeting NC State DE/OLB Manny Lawson.
• Select Bunkley here.
13. Baltimore Ravens (6-10)
Top five needs: DS, QB, ROT, DT, OG
The pick: Brodrick Bunkley, DT, Florida State
If the Ravens can't trade back, Bunkley would be a very good value and fit for them at pick No. 13. Bunkley has some character and durability issues that could cause him to slip, but we feel that he is a better overall prospect than Ngata. Bunkley has exceptional overall physical tools, as we saw from his jaw-dropping combine performance, and his production as a senior last season (25 tackles for loss, nine sacks) speaks for itself.
Other scenarios:
• Trade up for Huff.
• Select Ngata here.
• Trade back, targeting Sims, South Carolina DC Johnathan Joseph.
• Select Sims here.
14. Philadelphia Eagles (6-10)
Top five needs: OLB, WR, OT, RB, FS
The pick: +Winston Justice, OT, USC
Drafting a bigger back to take some of the load off Brian Westbrook's shoulders is a possibility, but the Eagles likely will address that need later. The team also needs help at wide receiver and outside linebacker, but no value exists to match this pick. With that in mind, Justice is the best fit. The Eagles are ancient at the offensive tackle position with Tra Thomas and Jon Runyan, so this would be a wise decision. Justice comes with some baggage and he needs some polishing, but his combination of size and athleticism is undeniable.
Other scenarios:
• Rumors of trading up into the top 10 (No. 8 with Bills), targeting Huff, Justice?
• Select WR Chad Jackson here if Justice is gone.
• Select Sims here.
• Select WR Santonio Holmes if Justice and Jackson are gone.
15. Denver Broncos (10-6)
Pick acquired from Falcons
Top five needs: WR, TE, RB, OG/OC, DT
The pick: +Santonio Holmes, WR, Ohio State
Rod Smith is running out of time and Ashley Lelie has proven to be too unreliable as a full-time starter. Florida WR Chad Jackson has more upside, but Holmes is more polished and he fits the Broncos' scheme better because of his route-running skills and after-the-catch explosiveness.
Other scenarios:
• Trade up, targeting Vernon Davis.
• Select Maroney here.
• Select Cutler here.
• Select Wimbley here.
• Trade down, targeting Maroney or Lawson.
16. Miami Dolphins (9-7)
Top five needs: DC, WR, DS, OG, LB
The pick: +Chad Jackson, WR, Florida
The Dolphins have addressed almost all of their needs via free agency, which gives them the flexibility that coach Nick Saban is looking for on draft weekend. Wimbley would be an option if he were still available. The team also would consider defensive backs, such as Jimmy Williams (Virginia Tech) or Donte Whitner (Ohio State). However, Jackson is one of only two elite wide receiver prospects in this year's draft and he would make a bigger impact than the aforementioned prospects. Jackson needs some polish, but his size, explosive speed and playmaking ability would be a welcomed addition as a No. 3 receiver behind starters Chris Chambers and Marty Booker in 2006.
Other scenarios:
• Trade up for Jackson.
• Select Wimbley here.
• Select Holmes here.
• Select Ohio State DS Donte Whitner.
• Select Ohio State DB Jason Allen.
17. Minnesota Vikings (9-7)
Top five needs: MLB, OLB, DC, QB, WR
The pick: +Ernie Sims, OLB, Florida State
Linebacker and cornerback are two positions that the Vikings are targeting with this pick, assuming, of course, that Cutler is gone. The transition to a Cover 2 scheme would be made much easier with an athletic linebacker like Sims to insert as a starter immediately.
Other scenarios:
• Select Cutler if he falls here.
• Select Greenway if he falls here.
• Select Clemson DC Tye Hill if he falls here.
• Select Maroney as last option.
18. Dallas Cowboys (9-7)
Top five needs: FS, OT, OG, DC, NT
The pick: Manny Lawson, DE/LB, NC State
The Cowboys could go in a number of directions with this pick, but Lawson would be the top option in this scenario. The combination of Lawson and DeMarcus Ware, last year's top pick, would be frightening for opposing quarterbacks.
Other scenarios:
• Trade down, targeting offensive line and safety at a better value.
• Select Wimbley here.
• Select Whitner here.
• Select Allen here.
19. San Diego Chargers (9-7)
Top five needs: OT, WR, DS, OG, DC
The pick: Tye Hill, DC, Clemson
The Chargers would consider a wide receiver should Jackson or Holmes slip to them. However, after recently making the Sammy Davis (DC) for Rashaun Woods (WR) trade, the Chargers are in even greater need of an upgrade in the secondary. Hill is one of the fastest corners in his class and he can change directions quickly. While he's undersized, he has excellent leaping ability and he is a fundamentally sound tackler.
Other scenarios:
• Trade up, targeting Justice.
• Select best available DC: Jimmy Williams, Antonio Cromartie or Johnathan Joseph.
• Select DS Whitner or Allen.
• Select WRs Holmes or Jackson, should either slide.
• Trade back in order to get a better value at offensive tackle.
20. Kansas City Chiefs (10-6)
Top five needs: DC, WR, OG, DE, QB
The pick: Jimmy Williams, DC, Virginia Tech
The Chiefs are in desperate need of a starter opposite LDC Patrick Surtain, so look for them to use this pick on the best cover corner available. Williams has top-10 talent but concerns regarding his effort and attitude could land him in the bottom half of the first round.
Other scenarios:
• Select best available DC: Hill, Cromartie or Joseph.
• Select WRs Holmes or Jackson, should either slide.
21. New England Patriots (10-6)
Top five needs: ILB/OLB, WR, DC, RB, DT
The pick: +Antonio Cromartie, DC, Florida State
The Patriots have several needs on defense and they could also use this pick on a wide receiver should Jackson or Holmes slide. While linebacker is a bigger need, there is far more value where the Patriots select in the bottom half of the first round. Cromartie is a bit raw and rusty after starting just one game at Florida State and missing the entire 2005 season with a knee injury. However, Cromartie is healthy now and he possesses an outstanding combination of size, speed and athleticism. New England's coaching staff has done a good job of developing secondary players quickly (see Eugene Wilson, Asante Samuel and Ellis Hobbs) and there's no questioning Cromartie's upside.
Other scenarios:
• Trade up, targeting OLBs Greenway, Sims, Wimbley or Lawson.
• Trade up, targeting WRs Jackson or Holmes.
• Select best available DC: Hill, Williams or Joseph.
• Select best available DS: Whitner or Allen.
• Select RB Maroney.
22. San Francisco 49ers (4-12)
Pick acquired from Redskins via Broncos
Top five needs: TE, OLB, DS, DC, DE
The pick: +Johnathan Joseph, DC, South Carolina
Trading away two Day 1 picks (37, 6 in order to move up to this spot puts the 49ers in position to pursue a difference maker on the defensive side of the ball. Joseph would be a good fit with the 22nd pick because he's an athletic playmaker that could contribute immediately as a nickel-slot cover corner.
Other scenarios:
• Select OLB Lawson.
• Select best available DC: Hill, Williams or Cromartie.
• Select best available DS: Whitner or Allen.
• Select Ohio State OLB Bobby Carpenter.
23. Tampa Bay Buccaneers (11-5)
Top five needs: OT, OC, WR, WLB, DE
The pick: Nick Mangold, OC, Ohio State
The Buccaneers will try to make a move up the board for OT Justice, but they are unlikely to reach for an offensive tackle such as Marcus McNeill (Auburn) or Eric Winston (Miami) with this pick. If stuck at pick No. 23, look for the Bucs to snatch the clear-cut top center prospect in the 2006 class.
Other scenarios:
• Select DC Cromartie or Joseph.
• Select Auburn OT McNeill.
24. Cincinnati Bengals (11-5)
Top five needs: TE, DE, DC, MLB, RS
The pick: TE Marcedes Lewis, TE, UCLA
The Bengals have several needs on the defensive side of the ball, but upgrading the tight end position with an athletic player such as Lewis will be a difficult temptation to refuse.
Other scenarios:
• Select DE/OLB Lawson here.
• Select best available DC: Hill, Williams, Cromartie or Joseph.
• Select best available DS: Whitner or Allen.
• Select Georgia TE Leonard Pope.
25. New York Giants (11-5)
Top five needs: OLB, WR, DT, OT, RB
The pick: Sinorice Moss, WR, Miami
The Giants spent the majority of their free agency money on the defensive side of the ball, so it's time to upgrade the weapons surrounding franchise QB Eli Manning. Moss is a decent value late in the first round and his explosiveness after the catch would be welcomed to a thin wide receiver crop.
Other scenarios:
• WRs Jackson or Holmes, if one slides.
• Select best available OLB: Carpenter, Alabama's DeMeco Ryans or UTEP's Thomas Howard.
• Select best available RB: Williams or Maroney.
• Select best available defensive back.
• Trade back, targeting OTs McNeill or Winston.
• Trade back, targeting DTs Claude Wroten (LSU) or Gabe Watson (Michigan).
26. Chicago Bears (11-5)
Top five needs: DC, TE, SLB, OT, DT
The pick: Donte Whitner, S, Ohio State
The Bears addressed their cornerback need by signing restricted free agent Ricky Manning Jr. In the meantime, they parted ways with disgruntled DS Mike Green, leaving a gaping hole at the safety position. As a result, a versatile playmaker like Whitner would be the perfect fit for the Bears this late in the first round.
Other scenarios:
• Select best available TE: Lewis or Pope (Georgia).
• Select DS Allen.
• Select best available OLB: Carpenter, Ryans or Howard.
27. Carolina Panthers (11-5)
Top five needs: SLB, TE, RB, OT, MLB
The pick: Jason Allen, DB, Tennessee
The Panthers will use this pick to select the best available prospect at outside linebacker, tight end, safety or running back. While some of the running backs will be difficult to pass on, Allen is the best match in terms of value, need and scheme. A safety/cornerback tweener prospect, Allen could play a versatile role in the Panthers' thin secondary.
Other scenarios:
• Select Whitner here.
• Select best available RB: Maroney, Williams or LenDale White (USC).
• Select best available OLB: Carpenter, Ryans or Howard.
• Select best available TE: Lewis or Leonard Pope (Georgia).
28. Jacksonville Jaguars (12-4)
Top five needs: OLB, TE, DE, OG, DC
The pick: Bobby Carpenter, OLB, Ohio State
The Jaguars could go in several different directions with this pick, including tight end and defensive end. However, outside linebacker is the team's biggest need and it would jump on the chance to select a versatile prospect like Carpenter if he's still available this late in the first round.
Other scenarios:
• Select best available OLB: Carpenter, Ryans or Howard.
• Select best available TE: Lewis or Pope.
• Other possibilities include defensive end and running back, should the right value slide.
29. New York Jets (4-12):
Pick acquired from Broncos
Top five needs: RB, OT, OLB, QB, OG
The pick: DeAngelo Williams, RB, Memphis
The Jets want to substantially reduce 32-year-old Curtis Martin's workload but there isn't an heir apparent on the roster. Selecting Williams here would change that. Williams is a workhorse with good hands as a receiver out of the backfield. He also read his blocks well and has the lateral mobility to exploit cutback lanes. He would push for significant playing time early on.
Other scenarios:
• Select QB Kellen Clemens (Oregon).
• Select best available OLB: Carpenter, Ryans or Howard.
30. Indianapolis Colts (14-2)
Top five needs: RB, OLB, OG, MLB, DC
The pick: +Laurence Maroney, RB, Minnesota
This would be a dream scenario for the Colts. It's going to be difficult for any back to fill Edgerrin James' shoes in Indianapolis, but Maroney certainly has the physical tools to develop into an impact starter with all the weapons that will surround him. Though Maroney does come with some durability red flags, he has the explosive burst to provide a home-run threat on the ground for the Colts.
Other scenarios:
• Select best available RB: Williams, White or Joseph Addai (LSU).
• Select best available OLB: Carpenter, Ryans or Howard.
31. Seattle Seahawks (13-3)
Top five needs: DC, FS, WR, OG, TE
The pick: +Ashton Youboty, DC, Ohio State
Youboty would be a good value here, especially after a big run on defensive backs in the second half of the first round. He has adequate size and the natural ability to replace Andre Dyson as the starter opposite Marcus Trufant if he can stay healthy.
Other scenarios:
• Select best available DC: Hill, Williams, Cromartie, Joseph, Kelly Jennings (Miami) or Richard Marshall (Fresno State).
• Select best available DS: Whitner or Allen.
32. Pittsburgh Steelers (11-5)
Top five needs: WR, DE, DS, OC/OG, ILB
The pick: LenDale White, RB, USC
The Super Bowl champs are obviously void of many pressing positional needs. However, receiver, running back and safety are three that they will target with this pick. White's postseason has been a disaster. On top of his hamstring injury, White has turned teams off by failing to get into shape and handle the process seriously. Regardless, White was extremely productive at the college level and he is a powerful runner that shows good straight-line speed in the open field for his size.
Other scenarios:
• Trade up, targeting best available safety or running back.
• Select best available DS: Whitner or Allen.
• Select OC Mangold here.
• Select WR Moss here.
ROUND 2
33. Houston Texans
Marcus McNeill, OT, Auburn
34. New Orleans Saints
Demeco Ryans, OLB, Alabama
35. N.Y. Jets
Brodie Croyle | QB | Alabama
36. Green Bay Packers
Tamba Hali, DE, Penn State
37. San Francisco 49ers
Joseph Addai, RB, LSU
38. Oakland Raiders
Claude Wroten, DT, LSU
39. Tennessee Titans
D'Qwell Jackson | ILB | Maryland
40. Detroit Lions
Roger McIntosh, OLB, Miami-Fla.
41. Arizona Cardinals
Andrew Whitworth, OT, LSU
42. Buffalo Bills
Eric Winston, OT, Miami-Fla.
43. Cleveland Browns
Gabe Watson, DT, Michigan
44. Baltimore Ravens
Daniel Bullocks, DS, Nebraska
45. Philadelphia Eagles
Thomas Howard, OLB, UTEP
46. St. Louis Rams
+Richard Marshall, DC, Fresno State
47. Atlanta Falcons
Davin Joseph, OG, Oklahoma
48. Minnesota Vikings
Kellen Clemens, QB, Oregon
49. Dallas Cowboys
+Ko Simpson, DS, South Carolina
50. San Diego Chargers
Demetrius Williams, WR, Oregon
51. Minnesota Vikings (from Miami)
Kelly Jennings, DC, Miami-Fla.
52. New England Patriots
Abdul Hodge, ILB, Iowa
53. Washington Redskins
Mathias Kiwanuka, DE, Boston College
54. Kansas City Chiefs
Greg Jennings, WR, Western Michigan
55. Cincinnati Bengals
Darryl Tapp, DE, Virginia Tech
56. N.Y. Giants
Rodrique Wright, DT, Texas
57. Chicago Bears
+Leonard Pope, TE, Georgia
58. Carolina Panthers
Joe Klopfenstein, TE, Colorado
59. Tampa Bay Buccaneers
Cedric Griffin, DC, Texas
60. Jacksonville Jaguars
+Brian Calhoun, RB, Wisconsin
61. Denver Broncos
+Anthony Fasano, TE, Notre Dame
62. Indianapolis Colts
Jon Alston, OLB, Stanford
63. Seattle Seahawks
Taitusi Lutui, OG, USC
64. Pittsburgh Steelers
Maurice Stovall, WR, Notre Dame
ROUND 3
65. Houston Texans
Alan Zemaitis, DC, Penn State
66. Houston Texans (from New Orleans)
Max Jean-Gilles, OG, Georgia
67. Green Bay Packers
Chris Chester, OC, Oklahoma
68. Denver Broncos (from San Francisco)
Darnell Bing, DS, UCLA
69. Oakland Raiders
Mark Anderson, DE, Alabama
70. Buffalo Bills (from Tennessee)
Tony Scheffler, TE, Western Michigan
71. N.Y. Jets
+John McCargo, DT, N.C. State
72. Arizona Cardinals
Dominique Byrd, TE, USC
73. Buffalo Bills
+Dee Webb, DC, Florida
74. Detroit Lions
Daryn Colledge, OT, Boise State
75. New England Patriots (from Baltimore)
Travis Wilson, WR, Oklahoma
76. Philadelphia Eagles
Derek Hagan, WR, Arizona State
77. St. Louis Rams
David Thomas, TE, Texas
78. Cleveland Browns
Gerris Wilkinson, ILB, Georgia Tech
79. Atlanta Falcons
Orien Harris, DT, Miami-Fla.
80. Dallas Cowboys
Jonathan Scott, OT, Texas
81. San Diego Chargers
Ryan O'Callaghan, OT, Cal
82. Miami Dolphins
Pat Watkins, DS, Florida State
83. Minnesota Vikings
+Danieal Manning, DB, Abilene Christian
84. San Francisco 49ers (from Washington)
Parys Haralson, DE/OLB, Tennessee
85. Kansas City Chiefs
Charlie Whitehurst, QB, Clemson
86. New England Patriots
Montavious Stanley, DT, Louisville
87. N.Y. Giants
Jeremy Trueblood, OT, Boston College
88. Carolina Panthers (from Chicago)
David Pittman, DC, Northwestern State
89. Carolina Panthers
DeMario Minter, DC, Georgia
90. Tampa Bay Buccaneers
+Devin Hester, WR/RS, Miami-FL
91. Cincinnati Bengals
Kyle Williams, DT, LSU
92. Jacksonville Jaguars
Charles Spencer, OG, Pittsburgh
93. Atlanta Falcons (from Denver)
Victor Adeyanju, DE, Indiana
94. Indianapolis Colts
Brandon Williams, WR, Wisconsin
95. Minnesota Vikings (from Seattle)
Anthony Smith, DS, Syracuse
96. Pittsburgh Steelers
+Bernard Pollard, DS, Purdue
97. N.Y. Jets (Compensatory Selection)
James Anderson, OLB, Virginia Tech
ROUND 4
98. Houston Texans
Jason Avant, WR, Michigan
99. New Orleans Saints
Guy Whimper, OT, East Carolina
100. San Francisco 49ers
Babatunde Oshinowo, DT, Stanford
101. Oakland Raiders
Freddie Keiaho, ILB, San Diego State
102. Tennessee Titans
+Charles Gordon, DC/WR/RS, Kansas
103. N.Y. Jets
Roman Harper, DS, Alabama
104. Green Bay Packers
Jason Spitz, OG/OC, Louisville
105. Buffalo Bills
+Maurice Drew, RB/RS, UCLA
106. New England Patriots (from Detroit)
Leon Washington, RB, Florida State
107. Arizona Cardinals
Tim Jennings, DC, Georgia
108. Philadelphia Eagles
+Ray Edwards, DE, Purdue
109. St. Louis Rams
Dusty Dvoracek, DT, Oklahoma
110. Cleveland Browns
Will Blackmon, WR/RS, Boston College
111. Baltimore Ravens
Zach Strief, OT, Northwestern
112. Cleveland Browns (from Atlanta)
Jerome Harrison, RB, Washington State
113. San Diego Chargers
Calvin Lowry, DS, Penn State
114. Miami Dolphins
Elvis Dumervil, DE/OLB, Louisville
115. Minnesota Vikings
+Fred Matua, OG, USC
116. Philadelphia Eagles (from Dallas)
Greg Eslinger, OC, Minnesota
117. N.Y. Jets (from Kansas City)
Rob Sims, OG, Ohio State
118. New England Patriots
+Omar Jacobs, QB, Bowling Green
119. Denver Broncos (from Washington)
Jonathan Lewis, DT, Virginia Tech
120. Chicago Bears
Barry Cofield, DT, Northwestern
121. Carolina Panthers
Brandon Johnson, OLB, Louisville
122. Tampa Bay Buccaneers
+Stanley McClover, DE/OLB, Auburn
123. Cincinnati Bengals
Brian Iwuh, OLB/DS, Colorado
124. N.Y. Giants
Jerious Norwood, RB/KR, Mississippi State
125. Jacksonville Jaguars
Owen Daniels, TE, Wisconsin
126. Denver Broncos
Willie Reid, WR/RS, Florida State
127. Philadelphia Eagles (from Indianapolis)
Jesse Mahelona, DT, Tennessee
128. Seattle Seahawks
Brandon Marshall, WR, Central Florida
129. Pittsburgh Steelers
Leon Williams, ILB, Miami-FL
130. Denver Broncos (Compensatory Selection)
Julian Jenkins, DE, Stanford
131. Pittsburgh Steelers (Compensatory Selection)
Chris Gocong, DE, Cal-Poly
132. Baltimore Ravens (Compensatory Selection)
Tarvaris Jackson, QB, Alabama State
133. Pittsburgh Steelers (Compensatory Selection)
Michael Robinson, WR, Penn State
ROUND 5
134. Buffalo Bills (from Houston)
Eric Henderson, DE, Georgia Tech
135. New Orleans Saints
LeKevin Smith, DT, Nebraska
136. New England Patriots (from Oakland)
+Kai Parham, ILB, Virginia
137. Tennessee Titans
Andre Hall, RB, South Florida
138. N.Y. Jets
+Derrick Martin, DC, Wyoming
139. Green Bay Packers
Devin Aromashodu, WR, Auburn
140. San Francisco 49ers
Tim Dobbins, ILB, Iowa State
141. Detroit Lions
Marcus Maxey, DB, Miami-Fla.
142. Arizona Cardinals
A.J. Nicholson, OLB, Florida State
143. Buffalo Bills
Clint Ingram, OLB, Oklahoma
144. St. Louis Rams
Bruce Gradkowski, QB, Toledo
145. Cleveland Browns
Rashad Butler, OT, Miami-Fla.
146. Baltimore Ravens
Jonathan Orr, WR, Wisconsin
147. Philadelphia Eagles
Garrett Mills, TE/FB, Tulsa
148. Atlanta Falcons
Anwar Phillips, DC, Penn State
149. Minnesota Vikings
P.J. Daniels, RB, Georgia Tech
150. Dallas Cowboys
Kevin Boothe, OG, Cornell
151. San Diego Chargers
D.J. Shockley, QB, Georgia
152. Cleveland Browns (from New England)
Reggie McNeal, QB, Texas A&M
153. Washington Redskins
Brent Hawkins, DE/OLB, Illinois State
154. Kansas City Chiefs
Jahri Evans, OG, Bloomsburg
155. Carolina Panthers
Paul McQuistan, OT, Weber State
156. Tampa Bay Buccaneers
Jeremy Mincey, DE, Florida
157. Cincinnati Bengals
Greg Blue, DS/OLB, Georgia
158. N.Y. Giants
Lawrence Vickers, RB/FB, Colorado
159. Chicago Bears
Joe Toledo, OT, Washington
160. Jacksonville Jaguars
Marcus Hudson, DB, N.C. State
161. Denver Broncos
Jeromey Clary, OT, Kansas State
162. Indianapolis Colts
Gerrick McPhearson, DC, Maryland
163. Seattle Seahawks
Tim Day, TE, Oregon
164. Pittsburgh Steelers
Ryan Cook, OC, New Mexico
165. Green Bay Packers (Compensatory Selection)
Gerald Riggs Jr, RB, Tennessee
166. Baltimore Ravens (Compensatory Selection)
Wendell Mathis, RB, Fresno State
167. Pittsburgh Steelers (Compensatory Selection)
Michael Toudouze, OT, TCU
168. Philadelphia Eagles (Compensatory Selection)
Skyler Green, RS/WR, LSU
169. Tennessee Titans (Compensatory Selection)
Mike Hass, WR, Oregon
ROUND 6
170. Houston Texans
Dale Robinson, ILB, Arizona State
ROUND 7
251. Houston Texans (Compensatory Selection)
Charlton Keith, DE, Kansas
Had to shorten the last 2 rounds....sorry.
First-Round Projections
1. Houston Reggie Bush, RB* USC
2. New Orleans Mario Williams, DE* NC State
3. Tennessee Vince Young, QB* Texas
4. N.Y. Jets D'Brickashaw Ferguson, T Virginia
5. Green Bay A.J. Hawk, LB Ohio St.
6. San Francisco Vernon Davis, TE* Maryland
7. Oakland Ernie Sims, LB* Florida St.
8. Buffalo Brodrick Bunkley, DT Florida St.
9. Detroit Michael Huff, DB Texas
10. Arizona Matt Leinart, QB USC
11. St. Louis Jay Cutler, QB Vanderbilt
12. Cleveland Kamerion Wimbley, DE/OLB Florida St.
13. Baltimore Haloti Ngata, DT* Oregon
14. Philadelphia Chad Greenway, LB Iowa
15. Denver (from ATL) Santonio Holmes, WR* Ohio St.
16. Miami Antonio Cromartie, CB* Florida St.
17. Minnesota Jason Allen, CB/S Tennessee
18. Dallas Manny Lawson, OLB NC State
19. San Diego Winston Justice, T* USC
20. Kansas City Johnathan Joseph, CB* South Carolina
21. New England DeAngelo Williams, RB Memphis
22. San Francisco (from DEN) Tye Hill, CB Clemson
23. Tampa Bay Marcus McNeill, T Auburn
24. Cincinnati Donte Whitner, DB* Ohio St.
25. N.Y. Giants Sinorice Moss, WR Miami
26. Chicago Chad Jackson, WR* Florida
27. Carolina Marcedes Lewis, TE UCLA
28. Jacksonville Nick Mangold, C Ohio St.
29. N.Y. Jets (from DEN) Bobby Carpenter, OLB Ohio St.
30. Indianapolis Laurence Maroney, RB* Minnesota
31. Seattle Jimmy Williams, CB Virginia Tech
32. Pittsburgh LenDale White, RB* USC
* denotes underclassman
-----------------------------------------------------
Scouts Inc. Mock Draft (4/27) (http://insider.espn.go.com/nfl/draft06/insider/columns/story?columnist=mcshay_todd&id=2423677)
Bush still the one for Texans
By Todd McShay
Scouts Inc.
+ = Underclassman
1. Houston Texans (2-14)
Top five needs: RB, OT, OG, DC, DE
The pick: +Reggie Bush, RB, USC
Bush to Houston is the only "sure thing" in the 2006 NFL draft. Running back is not one of the Texans' top positional needs, but Bush is far more than just a running back. He's the most explosive runner, receiver and return man that this year's class has to offer. No other rookie will make a bigger impact than Bush will for the Texans next season.
Other scenarios:
• Accept a blockbuster deal to trade down.
• Select NC State DE Mario Williams, only if contract negotiations fail with Bush.
2. New Orleans Saints (3-13)
Top five needs: DE, OT, OC, OLB, DC
The pick: +Mario Williams, DE, NC State
If the Saints get stuck picking at No. 2, the decision will be between Williams and Virginia OT D'Brickashaw Ferguson. While Ferguson fills a great area of need, rumor has it the front office will overrule the coaching staff on this decision and go with Williams.
Other scenarios:
• Priority No. 1 for the Saints is still to trade out of this pick. They would love to move down a bit, acquire an extra pick or two, and still get one of the top three prospects on their wish list: Williams, Ferguson or Ohio State OLB A.J. Hawk.
• Select Ferguson with this pick.
• Select QB Matt Leinart.
3. Tennessee Titans (4-12) Top five needs: QB, OT, DC, MLB, RB
The pick: Matt Leinart, QB, USC
The Titans have leaked information regarding an internal tug-of-war between the personnel department and coaching staff over the top-rated quarterback in this year's draft. While all the speculation points to Texas QB Vince Young, we're going with Leinart. The Titans are not expected to come to a resolution with long-time franchise quarterback Steve McNair, so Leinart would have a chance to start immediately. Making this an even more natural fit is Leinart's relationship with offensive coordinator Norm Chow, who spent four years in a similar post at USC.
Other scenarios:
• Select Young here.
• Select Ferguson here.
4. New York Jets (4-12)
Top five needs: RB, OT, QB, OLB, NT
The pick: D'Brickashaw Ferguson, OT, Virginia
The Jets' best move is to stay put. They have seven picks in the first four rounds, which is more than any of the other 31 teams. Instead of packaging some of those picks to move up, the Jets would be wise to address as many needs as possible in what is an extremely deep 2006 draft. In this scenario, Ferguson would be a great value with the fourth overall pick and he would help address a priority need.
Other scenarios:
• Select Williams here if he falls.
• Select Leinart here if he falls.
• Trade down with targets such as Leinart and Oregon NT Haloti Ngata in mind.
5. Green Bay Packers (4-12)
Top five needs: OG, OLB, OC, DE, WR
The pick: A.J. Hawk, OLB, Ohio State
The Packers have done a decent job of addressing their needs at wide receiver (Rod Gardner), defensive tackle (Ryan Pickett), cornerback (Charles Woodson) and safety (Marquand Manuel) this offseason. Still missing, though, is an impact playmaker on defense. Hawk is a more complete player and he could make a more immediate impact for a defense that is in desperate need of a playmaker and leader of his capacity.
Other scenarios:
• Select Ferguson here if he falls.
• Select Maryland TE Vernon Davis here.
• Trade down, targeting Ngata.
6. San Francisco 49ers (4-12)
Top five needs: TE, OLB, DS, DC, DE
The pick: +Vernon Davis, TE, Maryland
By trading with the Broncos for a second pick (22) in the first round, the 49ers only increase suspicion that they will take Davis with this pick. As such, San Francisco will not feel badly about ignoring the defensive side of the ball in order to get their hands on the most explosive pass-catching weapon in this year's class. At 6-foot-3, 258 pounds with 4.38-speed in the 40-yard dash, Davis has game-breaker written all over him. By using this pick on Davis, the 49ers will speed up QB Alex Smith's developmental process.
Other scenarios:
• Select Hawk here if Davis is off the board.
• Select Texas DB Michael Huff, but only if they trade down slightly.
7. Oakland Raiders (4-12)
Top five needs: : QB, DE, OLB, DT/NT, DS
The pick: +Vince Young, QB, Texas
The Raiders have bigger needs but Young is too special of an athlete to pass on with this pick. Aaron Brooks can serve as a bridge-the-gap starter while Young takes a year or two to develop. Andrew Walter, last year's third-round pick, can become a good insurance policy for the future and potentially could become good trade bait.
Other scenarios:
• Owner Al Davis is still considering trading up for Young.
• Leinart if he falls instead of Young.
• Huff if neither Young nor Leinart slips here.
8. Buffalo Bills (5-11)
Top five needs: OT, DT, DC, RB, WR
The pick: +Haloti Ngata, DT, Oregon
Offensive tackle is a primary need area for the Bills. USC OT Winston Justice is skyrocketing up draft boards, but it would be a slight reach to take Justice this high, especially considering some of his character issues. The Bills were able to upgrade their defensive line with the free-agency addition of DT Larry Tripplett, but they still are searching for a young impact player to groom alongside him. While it seems Florida State's Brodrick Bunkley is a better fit in the team's new defensive scheme, we're hearing the Bills favor Ngata over Bunkley should they elect to draft and not trade down. Defensive tackles tend to take longer to develop than most other positions, but the presence of Tripplett and Tim Anderson would allow Ngata to ease into a starting role.
Other scenarios:
• Select Florida State DT Brodrick Bunkley here.
• Select Vanderbilt QB Jay Cutler here.
• Select Huff here.
• Trade down, targeting Ngata, Bunkley, Cutler and Huff -- in that order.
9. Detroit Lions (5-11)
Top five needs: DC, OLB, ILB, OT, RB
The pick: Michael Huff, DB, Texas
New head coach Rod Marinelli comes from a hard-nosed defensive-minded background and he'll want to set the tone by selecting an impact playmaker on that side of the ball with this pick. Some think Huff can play cornerback in the NFL, while others think he'll be limited to safety. I think he can play some of both, especially with the Lions moving to more of a Cover 2 look under Marinelli. Regardless, Huff is the best defensive back in this year's class and he would immediately give the Lions needed versatility in their secondary.
Other scenarios:
• Select Florida State OLB Ernie Sims here.
• Trade down (with St. Louis?), targeting Sims, USC OT Winston Justice or Iowa OLB Chad Greenway.
10. Arizona Cardinals (5-11)
Top five needs: DB, TE, QB, OT, OLB
The pick: Jay Cutler, QB, Vanderbilt
This won't be an easy decision but the Cardinals realize that it's the best move for the future of their organization. If Arizona's doctors clear Sims (concussions) medically, this debate will resume in the Cardinals' war room.
Other scenarios:
• Select Sims here.
• Select Bunkley here.
• Select Justice here.
• Select Virginia Tech DC Jimmy Williams here .
11. St. Louis Rams (6-10)
Top five needs: DT, DC, WLB, OG, OT
The pick: Chad Greenway, OLB, Iowa
This seems a bit high for Greenway to come off the board, but he is a safe pick at a position of need and we've been told that the Rams value him ahead of Sims.
Other scenarios:
• Trade up ahead of Cardinals for Cutler.
• Trade down if Cutler and Greenway are off the board.
• Select Sims here.
12. Cleveland Browns (6-10)
Top five needs: DE, OLB, WR, NT, DC
The pick: Kamerion Wimbley, DE/OLB, Florida State
The Browns have been one of the most active teams in free agency this year but they still have a number of holes to fill. After spending two of their three Day 1 picks on the offensive side of the ball last year, general manager Phil Savage knows he needs to give more attention to Romeo Crennel's defense. The Browns signed a couple of good fits for the 3-4 scheme, but OLB Willie McGinest and NT Ted Washington are aging players that won't be around for long. If Ngata is still on the board, he would be an even better value as Washington's future replacement. In this case, though, Wimbley is the right selection. A former defensive end at Florida State, Wimbley is an ideal fit as a rush-linebacker in the Brown's 3-4 alignment. He could immediately upgrade the team's pass rush as a situational player early in his career before eventually taking over for McGinest as the full-time starter.
Other scenarios:
• Select Ngata here.
• Trade down, targeting NC State DE/OLB Manny Lawson.
• Select Bunkley here.
13. Baltimore Ravens (6-10)
Top five needs: DS, QB, ROT, DT, OG
The pick: Brodrick Bunkley, DT, Florida State
If the Ravens can't trade back, Bunkley would be a very good value and fit for them at pick No. 13. Bunkley has some character and durability issues that could cause him to slip, but we feel that he is a better overall prospect than Ngata. Bunkley has exceptional overall physical tools, as we saw from his jaw-dropping combine performance, and his production as a senior last season (25 tackles for loss, nine sacks) speaks for itself.
Other scenarios:
• Trade up for Huff.
• Select Ngata here.
• Trade back, targeting Sims, South Carolina DC Johnathan Joseph.
• Select Sims here.
14. Philadelphia Eagles (6-10)
Top five needs: OLB, WR, OT, RB, FS
The pick: +Winston Justice, OT, USC
Drafting a bigger back to take some of the load off Brian Westbrook's shoulders is a possibility, but the Eagles likely will address that need later. The team also needs help at wide receiver and outside linebacker, but no value exists to match this pick. With that in mind, Justice is the best fit. The Eagles are ancient at the offensive tackle position with Tra Thomas and Jon Runyan, so this would be a wise decision. Justice comes with some baggage and he needs some polishing, but his combination of size and athleticism is undeniable.
Other scenarios:
• Rumors of trading up into the top 10 (No. 8 with Bills), targeting Huff, Justice?
• Select WR Chad Jackson here if Justice is gone.
• Select Sims here.
• Select WR Santonio Holmes if Justice and Jackson are gone.
15. Denver Broncos (10-6)
Pick acquired from Falcons
Top five needs: WR, TE, RB, OG/OC, DT
The pick: +Santonio Holmes, WR, Ohio State
Rod Smith is running out of time and Ashley Lelie has proven to be too unreliable as a full-time starter. Florida WR Chad Jackson has more upside, but Holmes is more polished and he fits the Broncos' scheme better because of his route-running skills and after-the-catch explosiveness.
Other scenarios:
• Trade up, targeting Vernon Davis.
• Select Maroney here.
• Select Cutler here.
• Select Wimbley here.
• Trade down, targeting Maroney or Lawson.
16. Miami Dolphins (9-7)
Top five needs: DC, WR, DS, OG, LB
The pick: +Chad Jackson, WR, Florida
The Dolphins have addressed almost all of their needs via free agency, which gives them the flexibility that coach Nick Saban is looking for on draft weekend. Wimbley would be an option if he were still available. The team also would consider defensive backs, such as Jimmy Williams (Virginia Tech) or Donte Whitner (Ohio State). However, Jackson is one of only two elite wide receiver prospects in this year's draft and he would make a bigger impact than the aforementioned prospects. Jackson needs some polish, but his size, explosive speed and playmaking ability would be a welcomed addition as a No. 3 receiver behind starters Chris Chambers and Marty Booker in 2006.
Other scenarios:
• Trade up for Jackson.
• Select Wimbley here.
• Select Holmes here.
• Select Ohio State DS Donte Whitner.
• Select Ohio State DB Jason Allen.
17. Minnesota Vikings (9-7)
Top five needs: MLB, OLB, DC, QB, WR
The pick: +Ernie Sims, OLB, Florida State
Linebacker and cornerback are two positions that the Vikings are targeting with this pick, assuming, of course, that Cutler is gone. The transition to a Cover 2 scheme would be made much easier with an athletic linebacker like Sims to insert as a starter immediately.
Other scenarios:
• Select Cutler if he falls here.
• Select Greenway if he falls here.
• Select Clemson DC Tye Hill if he falls here.
• Select Maroney as last option.
18. Dallas Cowboys (9-7)
Top five needs: FS, OT, OG, DC, NT
The pick: Manny Lawson, DE/LB, NC State
The Cowboys could go in a number of directions with this pick, but Lawson would be the top option in this scenario. The combination of Lawson and DeMarcus Ware, last year's top pick, would be frightening for opposing quarterbacks.
Other scenarios:
• Trade down, targeting offensive line and safety at a better value.
• Select Wimbley here.
• Select Whitner here.
• Select Allen here.
19. San Diego Chargers (9-7)
Top five needs: OT, WR, DS, OG, DC
The pick: Tye Hill, DC, Clemson
The Chargers would consider a wide receiver should Jackson or Holmes slip to them. However, after recently making the Sammy Davis (DC) for Rashaun Woods (WR) trade, the Chargers are in even greater need of an upgrade in the secondary. Hill is one of the fastest corners in his class and he can change directions quickly. While he's undersized, he has excellent leaping ability and he is a fundamentally sound tackler.
Other scenarios:
• Trade up, targeting Justice.
• Select best available DC: Jimmy Williams, Antonio Cromartie or Johnathan Joseph.
• Select DS Whitner or Allen.
• Select WRs Holmes or Jackson, should either slide.
• Trade back in order to get a better value at offensive tackle.
20. Kansas City Chiefs (10-6)
Top five needs: DC, WR, OG, DE, QB
The pick: Jimmy Williams, DC, Virginia Tech
The Chiefs are in desperate need of a starter opposite LDC Patrick Surtain, so look for them to use this pick on the best cover corner available. Williams has top-10 talent but concerns regarding his effort and attitude could land him in the bottom half of the first round.
Other scenarios:
• Select best available DC: Hill, Cromartie or Joseph.
• Select WRs Holmes or Jackson, should either slide.
21. New England Patriots (10-6)
Top five needs: ILB/OLB, WR, DC, RB, DT
The pick: +Antonio Cromartie, DC, Florida State
The Patriots have several needs on defense and they could also use this pick on a wide receiver should Jackson or Holmes slide. While linebacker is a bigger need, there is far more value where the Patriots select in the bottom half of the first round. Cromartie is a bit raw and rusty after starting just one game at Florida State and missing the entire 2005 season with a knee injury. However, Cromartie is healthy now and he possesses an outstanding combination of size, speed and athleticism. New England's coaching staff has done a good job of developing secondary players quickly (see Eugene Wilson, Asante Samuel and Ellis Hobbs) and there's no questioning Cromartie's upside.
Other scenarios:
• Trade up, targeting OLBs Greenway, Sims, Wimbley or Lawson.
• Trade up, targeting WRs Jackson or Holmes.
• Select best available DC: Hill, Williams or Joseph.
• Select best available DS: Whitner or Allen.
• Select RB Maroney.
22. San Francisco 49ers (4-12)
Pick acquired from Redskins via Broncos
Top five needs: TE, OLB, DS, DC, DE
The pick: +Johnathan Joseph, DC, South Carolina
Trading away two Day 1 picks (37, 6 in order to move up to this spot puts the 49ers in position to pursue a difference maker on the defensive side of the ball. Joseph would be a good fit with the 22nd pick because he's an athletic playmaker that could contribute immediately as a nickel-slot cover corner.
Other scenarios:
• Select OLB Lawson.
• Select best available DC: Hill, Williams or Cromartie.
• Select best available DS: Whitner or Allen.
• Select Ohio State OLB Bobby Carpenter.
23. Tampa Bay Buccaneers (11-5)
Top five needs: OT, OC, WR, WLB, DE
The pick: Nick Mangold, OC, Ohio State
The Buccaneers will try to make a move up the board for OT Justice, but they are unlikely to reach for an offensive tackle such as Marcus McNeill (Auburn) or Eric Winston (Miami) with this pick. If stuck at pick No. 23, look for the Bucs to snatch the clear-cut top center prospect in the 2006 class.
Other scenarios:
• Select DC Cromartie or Joseph.
• Select Auburn OT McNeill.
24. Cincinnati Bengals (11-5)
Top five needs: TE, DE, DC, MLB, RS
The pick: TE Marcedes Lewis, TE, UCLA
The Bengals have several needs on the defensive side of the ball, but upgrading the tight end position with an athletic player such as Lewis will be a difficult temptation to refuse.
Other scenarios:
• Select DE/OLB Lawson here.
• Select best available DC: Hill, Williams, Cromartie or Joseph.
• Select best available DS: Whitner or Allen.
• Select Georgia TE Leonard Pope.
25. New York Giants (11-5)
Top five needs: OLB, WR, DT, OT, RB
The pick: Sinorice Moss, WR, Miami
The Giants spent the majority of their free agency money on the defensive side of the ball, so it's time to upgrade the weapons surrounding franchise QB Eli Manning. Moss is a decent value late in the first round and his explosiveness after the catch would be welcomed to a thin wide receiver crop.
Other scenarios:
• WRs Jackson or Holmes, if one slides.
• Select best available OLB: Carpenter, Alabama's DeMeco Ryans or UTEP's Thomas Howard.
• Select best available RB: Williams or Maroney.
• Select best available defensive back.
• Trade back, targeting OTs McNeill or Winston.
• Trade back, targeting DTs Claude Wroten (LSU) or Gabe Watson (Michigan).
26. Chicago Bears (11-5)
Top five needs: DC, TE, SLB, OT, DT
The pick: Donte Whitner, S, Ohio State
The Bears addressed their cornerback need by signing restricted free agent Ricky Manning Jr. In the meantime, they parted ways with disgruntled DS Mike Green, leaving a gaping hole at the safety position. As a result, a versatile playmaker like Whitner would be the perfect fit for the Bears this late in the first round.
Other scenarios:
• Select best available TE: Lewis or Pope (Georgia).
• Select DS Allen.
• Select best available OLB: Carpenter, Ryans or Howard.
27. Carolina Panthers (11-5)
Top five needs: SLB, TE, RB, OT, MLB
The pick: Jason Allen, DB, Tennessee
The Panthers will use this pick to select the best available prospect at outside linebacker, tight end, safety or running back. While some of the running backs will be difficult to pass on, Allen is the best match in terms of value, need and scheme. A safety/cornerback tweener prospect, Allen could play a versatile role in the Panthers' thin secondary.
Other scenarios:
• Select Whitner here.
• Select best available RB: Maroney, Williams or LenDale White (USC).
• Select best available OLB: Carpenter, Ryans or Howard.
• Select best available TE: Lewis or Leonard Pope (Georgia).
28. Jacksonville Jaguars (12-4)
Top five needs: OLB, TE, DE, OG, DC
The pick: Bobby Carpenter, OLB, Ohio State
The Jaguars could go in several different directions with this pick, including tight end and defensive end. However, outside linebacker is the team's biggest need and it would jump on the chance to select a versatile prospect like Carpenter if he's still available this late in the first round.
Other scenarios:
• Select best available OLB: Carpenter, Ryans or Howard.
• Select best available TE: Lewis or Pope.
• Other possibilities include defensive end and running back, should the right value slide.
29. New York Jets (4-12):
Pick acquired from Broncos
Top five needs: RB, OT, OLB, QB, OG
The pick: DeAngelo Williams, RB, Memphis
The Jets want to substantially reduce 32-year-old Curtis Martin's workload but there isn't an heir apparent on the roster. Selecting Williams here would change that. Williams is a workhorse with good hands as a receiver out of the backfield. He also read his blocks well and has the lateral mobility to exploit cutback lanes. He would push for significant playing time early on.
Other scenarios:
• Select QB Kellen Clemens (Oregon).
• Select best available OLB: Carpenter, Ryans or Howard.
30. Indianapolis Colts (14-2)
Top five needs: RB, OLB, OG, MLB, DC
The pick: +Laurence Maroney, RB, Minnesota
This would be a dream scenario for the Colts. It's going to be difficult for any back to fill Edgerrin James' shoes in Indianapolis, but Maroney certainly has the physical tools to develop into an impact starter with all the weapons that will surround him. Though Maroney does come with some durability red flags, he has the explosive burst to provide a home-run threat on the ground for the Colts.
Other scenarios:
• Select best available RB: Williams, White or Joseph Addai (LSU).
• Select best available OLB: Carpenter, Ryans or Howard.
31. Seattle Seahawks (13-3)
Top five needs: DC, FS, WR, OG, TE
The pick: +Ashton Youboty, DC, Ohio State
Youboty would be a good value here, especially after a big run on defensive backs in the second half of the first round. He has adequate size and the natural ability to replace Andre Dyson as the starter opposite Marcus Trufant if he can stay healthy.
Other scenarios:
• Select best available DC: Hill, Williams, Cromartie, Joseph, Kelly Jennings (Miami) or Richard Marshall (Fresno State).
• Select best available DS: Whitner or Allen.
32. Pittsburgh Steelers (11-5)
Top five needs: WR, DE, DS, OC/OG, ILB
The pick: LenDale White, RB, USC
The Super Bowl champs are obviously void of many pressing positional needs. However, receiver, running back and safety are three that they will target with this pick. White's postseason has been a disaster. On top of his hamstring injury, White has turned teams off by failing to get into shape and handle the process seriously. Regardless, White was extremely productive at the college level and he is a powerful runner that shows good straight-line speed in the open field for his size.
Other scenarios:
• Trade up, targeting best available safety or running back.
• Select best available DS: Whitner or Allen.
• Select OC Mangold here.
• Select WR Moss here.
ROUND 2
33. Houston Texans
Marcus McNeill, OT, Auburn
34. New Orleans Saints
Demeco Ryans, OLB, Alabama
35. N.Y. Jets
Brodie Croyle | QB | Alabama
36. Green Bay Packers
Tamba Hali, DE, Penn State
37. San Francisco 49ers
Joseph Addai, RB, LSU
38. Oakland Raiders
Claude Wroten, DT, LSU
39. Tennessee Titans
D'Qwell Jackson | ILB | Maryland
40. Detroit Lions
Roger McIntosh, OLB, Miami-Fla.
41. Arizona Cardinals
Andrew Whitworth, OT, LSU
42. Buffalo Bills
Eric Winston, OT, Miami-Fla.
43. Cleveland Browns
Gabe Watson, DT, Michigan
44. Baltimore Ravens
Daniel Bullocks, DS, Nebraska
45. Philadelphia Eagles
Thomas Howard, OLB, UTEP
46. St. Louis Rams
+Richard Marshall, DC, Fresno State
47. Atlanta Falcons
Davin Joseph, OG, Oklahoma
48. Minnesota Vikings
Kellen Clemens, QB, Oregon
49. Dallas Cowboys
+Ko Simpson, DS, South Carolina
50. San Diego Chargers
Demetrius Williams, WR, Oregon
51. Minnesota Vikings (from Miami)
Kelly Jennings, DC, Miami-Fla.
52. New England Patriots
Abdul Hodge, ILB, Iowa
53. Washington Redskins
Mathias Kiwanuka, DE, Boston College
54. Kansas City Chiefs
Greg Jennings, WR, Western Michigan
55. Cincinnati Bengals
Darryl Tapp, DE, Virginia Tech
56. N.Y. Giants
Rodrique Wright, DT, Texas
57. Chicago Bears
+Leonard Pope, TE, Georgia
58. Carolina Panthers
Joe Klopfenstein, TE, Colorado
59. Tampa Bay Buccaneers
Cedric Griffin, DC, Texas
60. Jacksonville Jaguars
+Brian Calhoun, RB, Wisconsin
61. Denver Broncos
+Anthony Fasano, TE, Notre Dame
62. Indianapolis Colts
Jon Alston, OLB, Stanford
63. Seattle Seahawks
Taitusi Lutui, OG, USC
64. Pittsburgh Steelers
Maurice Stovall, WR, Notre Dame
ROUND 3
65. Houston Texans
Alan Zemaitis, DC, Penn State
66. Houston Texans (from New Orleans)
Max Jean-Gilles, OG, Georgia
67. Green Bay Packers
Chris Chester, OC, Oklahoma
68. Denver Broncos (from San Francisco)
Darnell Bing, DS, UCLA
69. Oakland Raiders
Mark Anderson, DE, Alabama
70. Buffalo Bills (from Tennessee)
Tony Scheffler, TE, Western Michigan
71. N.Y. Jets
+John McCargo, DT, N.C. State
72. Arizona Cardinals
Dominique Byrd, TE, USC
73. Buffalo Bills
+Dee Webb, DC, Florida
74. Detroit Lions
Daryn Colledge, OT, Boise State
75. New England Patriots (from Baltimore)
Travis Wilson, WR, Oklahoma
76. Philadelphia Eagles
Derek Hagan, WR, Arizona State
77. St. Louis Rams
David Thomas, TE, Texas
78. Cleveland Browns
Gerris Wilkinson, ILB, Georgia Tech
79. Atlanta Falcons
Orien Harris, DT, Miami-Fla.
80. Dallas Cowboys
Jonathan Scott, OT, Texas
81. San Diego Chargers
Ryan O'Callaghan, OT, Cal
82. Miami Dolphins
Pat Watkins, DS, Florida State
83. Minnesota Vikings
+Danieal Manning, DB, Abilene Christian
84. San Francisco 49ers (from Washington)
Parys Haralson, DE/OLB, Tennessee
85. Kansas City Chiefs
Charlie Whitehurst, QB, Clemson
86. New England Patriots
Montavious Stanley, DT, Louisville
87. N.Y. Giants
Jeremy Trueblood, OT, Boston College
88. Carolina Panthers (from Chicago)
David Pittman, DC, Northwestern State
89. Carolina Panthers
DeMario Minter, DC, Georgia
90. Tampa Bay Buccaneers
+Devin Hester, WR/RS, Miami-FL
91. Cincinnati Bengals
Kyle Williams, DT, LSU
92. Jacksonville Jaguars
Charles Spencer, OG, Pittsburgh
93. Atlanta Falcons (from Denver)
Victor Adeyanju, DE, Indiana
94. Indianapolis Colts
Brandon Williams, WR, Wisconsin
95. Minnesota Vikings (from Seattle)
Anthony Smith, DS, Syracuse
96. Pittsburgh Steelers
+Bernard Pollard, DS, Purdue
97. N.Y. Jets (Compensatory Selection)
James Anderson, OLB, Virginia Tech
ROUND 4
98. Houston Texans
Jason Avant, WR, Michigan
99. New Orleans Saints
Guy Whimper, OT, East Carolina
100. San Francisco 49ers
Babatunde Oshinowo, DT, Stanford
101. Oakland Raiders
Freddie Keiaho, ILB, San Diego State
102. Tennessee Titans
+Charles Gordon, DC/WR/RS, Kansas
103. N.Y. Jets
Roman Harper, DS, Alabama
104. Green Bay Packers
Jason Spitz, OG/OC, Louisville
105. Buffalo Bills
+Maurice Drew, RB/RS, UCLA
106. New England Patriots (from Detroit)
Leon Washington, RB, Florida State
107. Arizona Cardinals
Tim Jennings, DC, Georgia
108. Philadelphia Eagles
+Ray Edwards, DE, Purdue
109. St. Louis Rams
Dusty Dvoracek, DT, Oklahoma
110. Cleveland Browns
Will Blackmon, WR/RS, Boston College
111. Baltimore Ravens
Zach Strief, OT, Northwestern
112. Cleveland Browns (from Atlanta)
Jerome Harrison, RB, Washington State
113. San Diego Chargers
Calvin Lowry, DS, Penn State
114. Miami Dolphins
Elvis Dumervil, DE/OLB, Louisville
115. Minnesota Vikings
+Fred Matua, OG, USC
116. Philadelphia Eagles (from Dallas)
Greg Eslinger, OC, Minnesota
117. N.Y. Jets (from Kansas City)
Rob Sims, OG, Ohio State
118. New England Patriots
+Omar Jacobs, QB, Bowling Green
119. Denver Broncos (from Washington)
Jonathan Lewis, DT, Virginia Tech
120. Chicago Bears
Barry Cofield, DT, Northwestern
121. Carolina Panthers
Brandon Johnson, OLB, Louisville
122. Tampa Bay Buccaneers
+Stanley McClover, DE/OLB, Auburn
123. Cincinnati Bengals
Brian Iwuh, OLB/DS, Colorado
124. N.Y. Giants
Jerious Norwood, RB/KR, Mississippi State
125. Jacksonville Jaguars
Owen Daniels, TE, Wisconsin
126. Denver Broncos
Willie Reid, WR/RS, Florida State
127. Philadelphia Eagles (from Indianapolis)
Jesse Mahelona, DT, Tennessee
128. Seattle Seahawks
Brandon Marshall, WR, Central Florida
129. Pittsburgh Steelers
Leon Williams, ILB, Miami-FL
130. Denver Broncos (Compensatory Selection)
Julian Jenkins, DE, Stanford
131. Pittsburgh Steelers (Compensatory Selection)
Chris Gocong, DE, Cal-Poly
132. Baltimore Ravens (Compensatory Selection)
Tarvaris Jackson, QB, Alabama State
133. Pittsburgh Steelers (Compensatory Selection)
Michael Robinson, WR, Penn State
ROUND 5
134. Buffalo Bills (from Houston)
Eric Henderson, DE, Georgia Tech
135. New Orleans Saints
LeKevin Smith, DT, Nebraska
136. New England Patriots (from Oakland)
+Kai Parham, ILB, Virginia
137. Tennessee Titans
Andre Hall, RB, South Florida
138. N.Y. Jets
+Derrick Martin, DC, Wyoming
139. Green Bay Packers
Devin Aromashodu, WR, Auburn
140. San Francisco 49ers
Tim Dobbins, ILB, Iowa State
141. Detroit Lions
Marcus Maxey, DB, Miami-Fla.
142. Arizona Cardinals
A.J. Nicholson, OLB, Florida State
143. Buffalo Bills
Clint Ingram, OLB, Oklahoma
144. St. Louis Rams
Bruce Gradkowski, QB, Toledo
145. Cleveland Browns
Rashad Butler, OT, Miami-Fla.
146. Baltimore Ravens
Jonathan Orr, WR, Wisconsin
147. Philadelphia Eagles
Garrett Mills, TE/FB, Tulsa
148. Atlanta Falcons
Anwar Phillips, DC, Penn State
149. Minnesota Vikings
P.J. Daniels, RB, Georgia Tech
150. Dallas Cowboys
Kevin Boothe, OG, Cornell
151. San Diego Chargers
D.J. Shockley, QB, Georgia
152. Cleveland Browns (from New England)
Reggie McNeal, QB, Texas A&M
153. Washington Redskins
Brent Hawkins, DE/OLB, Illinois State
154. Kansas City Chiefs
Jahri Evans, OG, Bloomsburg
155. Carolina Panthers
Paul McQuistan, OT, Weber State
156. Tampa Bay Buccaneers
Jeremy Mincey, DE, Florida
157. Cincinnati Bengals
Greg Blue, DS/OLB, Georgia
158. N.Y. Giants
Lawrence Vickers, RB/FB, Colorado
159. Chicago Bears
Joe Toledo, OT, Washington
160. Jacksonville Jaguars
Marcus Hudson, DB, N.C. State
161. Denver Broncos
Jeromey Clary, OT, Kansas State
162. Indianapolis Colts
Gerrick McPhearson, DC, Maryland
163. Seattle Seahawks
Tim Day, TE, Oregon
164. Pittsburgh Steelers
Ryan Cook, OC, New Mexico
165. Green Bay Packers (Compensatory Selection)
Gerald Riggs Jr, RB, Tennessee
166. Baltimore Ravens (Compensatory Selection)
Wendell Mathis, RB, Fresno State
167. Pittsburgh Steelers (Compensatory Selection)
Michael Toudouze, OT, TCU
168. Philadelphia Eagles (Compensatory Selection)
Skyler Green, RS/WR, LSU
169. Tennessee Titans (Compensatory Selection)
Mike Hass, WR, Oregon
ROUND 6
170. Houston Texans
Dale Robinson, ILB, Arizona State
ROUND 7
251. Houston Texans (Compensatory Selection)
Charlton Keith, DE, Kansas
Had to shorten the last 2 rounds....sorry.