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1. OAKLAND RAIDERS
DARREN MCFADDEN
RB | Arkansas | Scouting Report
Considering the sad state of their offensive line Jake Long will be pretty tempting here but at the end of the day Oakland needs playmakers on offense and just can't pass on McFadden, who has a chance to be one of the best running backs prospects to come along in quite some time. A tremendous, do-it-all athlete and pure football player with an ideal blend of size (6-2, 215) and speed (4.4), McFadden would give the Raiders offense the type of shot in the arm and big play dimension that it needs while also taking a lot of pressure off of their young signal caller JaMarcus Russell.
2. HOUSTON TEXANS
JAKE LONG
OT | Michigan | Scouting Report
Sooner or later this franchise is going to realize that they must invest a premium draft pick on a stud offensive lineman, but will they figure it out on their own or have learn this lesson the hard way? A terrible offensive line is a major reason why David Carr is no longer a Texan and to replace him the team brought in Matt Schaub, who is a good young quarterback but not nearly as mobile as Carr. Now if Carr got killed behind that line what do you think it going to happen to Schaub? At this point Long falls in between Joe Thomas and Levi Brown as a prospect and he's a great fit here.
3. MINNESOTA VIKINGS
BRIAN BROHM
QB | Louisville | Scouting Report
In 2006 the Vikings reached for Tarvaris Jackson in the 2nd round and this year it's going to become painfully obvious that he is not the answer so Minnesota will likely be in the market for a franchise quarterback to build around, the only question is will Brad Childress be around to admit his mistake or will a new staff be doing it for him. Brian Brohm would seem to have all the tools to be a star at the next level but there are some durability issues and many wonder if he's merely a product of the offensive system that he plays in. A big senior season could secure Brohm a spot in the Top 3.
4. TAMPA BAY BUCCANEERS
GLENN DORSEY
DT | L.S.U. | Scouting Report
For years the Bucs boasted one of the best, if not the best, defensive tackle combo in the league with Warren Sapp and Booger McFarland but they are both gone and with guys like Chris Hovan and Ryan Sims projected to be starters it's obvious that they need an upgrade in the middle. Had he come out after his junior season Dorsey might have given Amobi Okoye a run for his money to be the first defensive tackle chosen but he shouldn't have to battle anyone for that honor in '08. The Bucs have a potential stud outside in Gaines Adams and now it's time to balance out that line.
5. DALLAS COWBOYS (f/CLE)
KENNY PHILLIPS
S | Miami (FL) | Scouting Report
If Cleveland's pick ends up being this high the trade that netted them Brady Quinn could come under fire but had they not made the deal there is a very good chance they would still miss out on the top quarterback in this draft and they wouldn't have a potential franchise signal caller with a year of pro experience under his belt. Dallas has been searching for a safety who is a bit more coverage orientated to team with Roy Williams for a long time and while Ken Hamlin will get a shot he was only signed to a one-year deal so it would be hard to pass on the next Ed Reed or Sean Taylor.
6. WASHINGTON Commanders
CALAIS CAMPBELL
DE | Miami (FL) | Scouting Report
Many felt the Commanders would look to address their defensive line with the #6 pick in the 2007 NFL Draft and while you certainly can't knock their selection of LaRon Landry from a value standpoint the fact remains that they still need an impact guy up front, whether it be at end or tackle. A mountain of a man at 6-8 and 280 lbs., Campbell is coming off a junior season that saw him notch 20.5 tackles for a loss to go along with 10.0 sacks and if he can repeat that performance this year there's a relatively good chance he could hear his name called in the Top 10 overall next April.
7. MIAMI DOLPHINS
SAM BAKER
OT | USC | Scouting Report
The Dolphins created perhaps the biggest stir of the 2007 NFL Draft when they chose Ted Ginn, Jr. at #9 overall but this pick should be a lot less controversial. The Miami offensive line has a number of issues but none is more glaring than left tackle where Vernon Carey is slated to start even though he would be a better fit on the right side or, ideally, inside at guard. At this point he might be best known for being the son of Arena Football League Commissioner David Baker but that won't be the case for long because Sam is very athletic and a terrific pass blocker on the outside.
8. DETROIT LIONS
CHRIS LONG
DE | Virginia | Scouting Report
There were strong indications that Gaines Adams, not Calvin Johnson, was actually the apple of the Lion's eye leading up to the '07 Draft but when they couldn't swing a deal to move down they instead opted to take the best player available. However, that still leaves a gaping hole at defensive end opposite Dewayne White because Kalimba Edwards is much better suited for a backup or situational role. Chris Long may be the son of a Hall of Famer (Howie) but he'd be an excellent prospect even if his last name was Smith and he has the intangibles that Rod Marinelli is looking for.
9. BUFFALO BILLS
DAN CONNOR
OLB | Penn St. | Scouting Report
Granted the Bills did just recently invest a second round pick in Paul Posluszny but after jettisoning both London Fletcher and Takeo Spikes there is still probably work to be done, especially since Angelo Crowell and Keith Ellison are relatively unproven as starters. Many feel that Connor is a better pro prospect than Posluszny was and he brings the exact kind of mix of intangibles and talent to the table that Marv Levy and his regime are looking for on Draft Day. They also have issues at cornerback and defensive tackle so they are possibilities but in the end this is where the value lies.
10. KANSAS CITY CHIEFS
RYAN CLADY
OT | Boise St. | Scouting Report
It's hard to tell just where to start with the Chiefs and in all honestly this franchise could be on the verge of a major rebuilding project but ultimately their decision here comes down to offensive line or quarterback. Since they have a young quarterback in place that they are said to like in Brodie Croyle the odds might be in the favor of a guy like Ryan Clady, who could be the stud left tackle they need to replace Willie Roaf. This may be a slight reach but Clady is a better prospect than Daryn Colledge was coming out and with Long and Baker going early someone will get pushed up.
11. ARIZONA CARDINALS
QUENTIN GROVES
DE | Auburn | Scouting Report
With Ken Whisenhunt, formally of the Steelers, now in charge the Cardinals will try and convert to a 3-4 defense but in order to do that they'll need to make some big personnel changes. One notable position that is going to have to be addressed is outside linebacker, where they need someone who is fast and athletic enough to drop into coverage but also able to get after the quarterback as a pass rusher. Bert Berry and Chike Okeafor will get the first shot at filling those roles but neither is a good fit so the addition of a guy like Groves would sure seem to make a lot of sense.
12. TENNESSEE TITANS
DESEAN JACKSON
WR | California | Scouting Report
There's no doubt that the Titans have one of the most exciting young quarterbacks in the league with Vince Young but they have to give him some weapons to throw to and not only did they fail to do that this year but they actually let his top two targets leave as free agents. Similar in some ways to Ted Ginn, Jackson is also a fantastic return man and while he may not be quite as fast he is more polished as a receiver. Jackson would be just the type of dynamic weapon and big play threat that Young and the Titans so desperately need and he'd be an outstanding pick for them here.
13. ATLANTA FALCONS
ANDRE' WOODSON
QB | Kentucky | Scouting Report
It does not look like Michael Vick is going to play for the Falcons again, regardless of the outcome of his trial, which means they are going to be in the market for a top young quarterback. You have to think that Bobby Petrino would like nothing more than to bring his former player Brian Brohm into the fold but they will have to be picking much higher than this to have a shot at him. Andre' Woodson isn't a bad consolation prize though and if he can build on a phenomenal junior campaign not only will he be in the first round mix but he could even break into the Top 10 overall.
14. NEW YORK GIANTS
DERRICK HARVEY
DE | Florida | Scouting Report
Despite all of the resources they have invested in the position recently the Giants could still conceivably go with a defensive end here. Michael Strahan is going to be 36-years-old and wants a big new contract so he probably won't be around much longer and with Mathias Kiwanuka moving to outside linebacker the situation at end has become somewhat precarious. An even better pro prospect than Jarvis Moss was, Harvey is a great natural pass rusher and that was evident in the BCS National Championship Game when he garnered Defensive MVP honors by notching 3 sacks.
15. GREEN BAY PACKERS
MALCOLM JENKINS
CB | Ohio St. | Scouting Report
The last couple of years Green Bay has done a terrific job of upgrading the talent level of their roster through the draft but one area that is still a major question mark is cornerback. Al Harris is solid at one spot and Charles Woodson enjoyed a career resurgence in 2006 (although he might eventually move inside to safety) but to say they were lacking depth would be an understatement. The Buckeyes have done an amazing job of producing pro corners and Jenkins has the talent to join the ranks of Antoine Winfield, Ahmed Plummer, Nate Clements, Chris Gamble & Ashton Youboty.
16. NEW ENGLAND PATRIOTS (f/SF)
JAMES LAURINAITIS
ILB | Ohio St. | Scouting Report
Look at most of the projected picks for New England when it comes to mock drafts in recent years and you will see two positions pop up more often than not and they are defensive back and linebacker. The Patriots finally addressed one of them when they chose Brandon Meriweather but with Tedy Bruschi nearing the end of his career and Mike Vrabel not getting any younger either it might be time for them to cross the other off the list. In his first year as a starter James Laurinaitis picked up right where A.J. Hawk left off and won the Nagurski Award as the nation's best defensive player.
17. ST. LOUIS RAMS
FRANK OKAM
DT | Texas | Scouting Report
Question: How do you know you need help at defensive tackle? Answer: When you draft a college defensive end in the first round and have to make him a nose tackle. That's exactly what the Rams are doing with Adam Carriker and they will soon find out that it was not a good idea. In fact, they probably already know it which is why they tried to deal for Kris Jenkins. Carriker can probably handle being a pass rusher and penetrator inside but they need a big body next to him for run stuffing purposes and Frank Okam, the Longhorns latest top defensive lineman, can take on that role.
18. JACKSONVILLE JAGUARS
CHAD HENNE
QB | Michigan | Scouting Report
With Byron Leftwich's contract up after this season it seems like almost a foregone conclusion that he will be playing elsewhere in 2008 and since neither David Garrard or Quinn Gray have shown they can be the long-term solution under center the Jags will likely be in the market for a signal caller. Even though he takes a lot of heat from Wolverine fans (due in large part to a sophomore slump in 2005) Henne has a great arm, is a battle tested vet of the Big Ten wars and has been productive. Michigan's sent a lot of good quarterbacks on to the NFL and Henne will carry on that tradition.
19. CAROLINA PANTHERS
AQIB TALIB
CB | Kansas | Scouting Report
With the retirement of Mike Minter a top safety is now far and away the Panthers most glaring need but the problem is there really isn't value at that position here. However, Talib played safety early in his career with the Jayhawks and if he only runs in the 4.5 range as expected that could ultimately be his best position at the next level. A playmaker and ballhawk in the secondary, Talib racked up an amazing 22 pass breakups to go along with 6 interceptions as a sophomore last year and another season like that could secure him a first round grade in the 2008 NFL Draft.
20. NEW YORK JETS
GOSDER CHERILUS
OT | Boston College | Scouting Report
Even though they invested two first round picks on offensive lineman just a couple of years ago the Jets still could use some help up front in the form of a big, physical mauler. For the last decade or so Boston College has done just a tremendous job of sending offensive linemen to the pro ranks and Gosder Cherilus rates right up there with the best of them. Is he a franchise type who is going to redefine the position? Definitely not. Is he going to play in the NFL for a long time and be a very good right tackle? Absolutely, and for this teams purposes that's just what the doctor ordered.
21. PITTSBURGH STEELERS
SEDRICK ELLIS
DT | USC | Scouting Report
With Mike Tomlin now in place as their head coach it is only a matter of time until the Steelers move away from the 3-4 defense they have come to be known for and install the Cover 2 scheme that Tomlin specializes in. In fact, we already saw that shift gradually start to take place with '07 1st rounder Lawrence Timmons being a much better fit for a 4-3 scheme than he is a 3-4. It's not an easy transition and will likely take place over a number of years but Pittsburgh will eventually need a pass rushing 3-technique at defensive tackle and Sedrick Ellis is a perfect example of one.
22. DALLAS COWBOYS
STEVE SLATON
RB | West Virginia | Scouting Report
As the old adage goes if you have a lot you probably have none and that may be the case at running back for the Dallas Cowboys, with the two-headed monster of Julius Jones and Marion Barber continuing to split carries. With Jones set to become a free agent following the '07 season it might be time to bring in a true stud at the position and if most of the top underclassmen opt come out this could be the best running back crop to come along in years. Slaton is a true gamebreaker and pairing him with Barber would give the Dallas offense a dimension that they currently lack.
23. SEATTLE SEAHAWKS
JOHN CARLSON
TE | Notre Dame | Scouting Report
After an up and down tenure with the team Jerramy Stevens was not re-signed and even though they brought in Marcus Pollard to replace him he is not the long-term answer. A great athlete who even played a little basketball for the Irish early in his college career, Carlson is coming off a fantastic junior season and has developed into a real threat in the passing game. A better prospect than Anthony Fasano was coming out, Carlson is on the first round bubble and while this might be a little high for him the Seahawks simply don't have a ton of glaring needs outside of tight end.
24. CINCINNATI BENGALS
DEMARIO PRESSLEY
DT | North Carolina St. | Scouting Report
Based on their recent Draft Day success it just might be time to dub N.C. State "Defensive Lineman U." because no program has sent as many high draft picks to the pros from that position the last two years. Next up is DeMario Pressley, who has the talent to carry on that legacy, and he will try to follow in the footsteps of former teammates Mario Williams, Manny Lawson, John McCargo and Tank Tyler. Pressley is a penetrating one-gapper with great quickness who could really see his stock soar this year, much like McCargo and Tyler did in their final seasons at the college level.
25. PHILADELPHIA EAGLES
LIMAS SWEED
WR | Texas | Scouting Report
This might be somewhat of a controversial pick, especially among Eagle fans, but it would be a mistake to assume that Philly is set at wide receiver. Reggie Brown is a very good young player but who knows if Kevin Curtis will be able to step up and make the type of impact they need him to after working as a third option for his entire pro career to this point. Sweed is a playmaker with everything you look for except elite timed speed and he would be a nice compliment to Brown and Curtis. Granted Hank Baskett is a similar type of player but this would be a major upgrade.
26. BALTIMORE RAVENS
TOMMY BLAKE
DE | T.C.U. | Scouting Report
This is one of those that almost makes too much sense. After just losing jack-of-all-trades Adalius Thomas and with Terrell Suggs nearing free agency the Ravens could definitely use an athletic pass rusher at outside linebacker and Blake would be an ideal fit. An undersized college defensive end who might have to make a position change when he gets to the next level, Blake simply knows how to get after the quarterback and that skill alone will take him a long way. Depth at cornerback is also a serious issue for Baltimore but Blake is probably too good to pass up at this point.
27. DENVER BRONCOS
KEITH RIVERS
OLB | USC | Scouting Report
It's been a long time since linebacker was a problem for Denver but that day might finally have come. Moving D.J. Williams inside to replace Al Wilson created a hole outside and it's highly unlikely that either D.D. Lewis or Warrick Holdman are the long-term answer. Keith Rivers might not have the ideal bulk that you look for but he is fast and super athletic and just the fact that the Trojans saw fit to let him wear the storied #55 jersey really speaks volumes about him. The Broncos don't have a lot of weaknesses but this could be a classic case of both value and need meshing.
28. CHICAGO BEARS
COLT BRENNAN
QB | Hawaii | Scouting Report
Unless Rex Grossman makes some major strides this year he may have a hard time keeping his starting job in '07, much less earning a contract extension when he hits free agency next summer. If the Bears do decide that Rex isn't the answer, which is very possible, then they will likely look for a veteran starter for the short-term while grooming a top youngster. From a statistical standpoint Brennan's numbers are out of this world but for every positive (accuracy, production) there are two question marks (system, size, arm, character) which is why his draft stock is all over the map.
29. NEW ORLEANS SAINTS
TERRELL THOMAS
CB | USC | Scouting Report
The secondary was an area of concern for the Saints in 2006 and even though they brought in Jason David as a free agent it is debatable as to how well he will fit in with their defense considering he's always been considered to be more of a zone coverage type. In terms of value Terrell Thomas would be a nice pick at this point and if he can stay healthy there will an opportunity for him to shoot up draft boards. Even though he may not be a shutdown cornerback Thomas has all of the physical tools you look for and you know he's been battle tested in the pass-heavy Pac-10.
30. SAN DIEGO CHARGERS
PHILIP WHEELER
OLB | Georgia Tech | Scouting Report
For the most part the Charges are a team with relatively few holes so it's tough to predict what they might be looking for in round one. A nose tackle to backup Jamal Williams would sure be nice but since there really isn't value there at this point they turn their attention elsewhere and select a playmaking linebacker. Able to project either inside or outside at the next level depending on scheme, Wheeler is adept at getting upfield, attacking and making plays behind the line of scrimmage and that has become a hallmark of the San Diego defense in recent years so this is a good fit.
31. SAN FRANCISCO 49'ERS (f/IND)
EARLY DOUCET
WR | L.S.U. | Scouting Report
The Niners overall talent level has increased by leaps and bounds the past 2-3 years but one area that is still a question mark is wide receiver. Darrell Jackson will solidify one spot if he can stay healthy but Ashley Lelie is certainly not the answer and outside of rookie Jason Hill the depth leaves a lot to be desired. After playing behind two future 1st round picks in Dwayne Bowe and Craig Davis his entire career Doucet will finally get a chance to shine as a senior and he certainly has the talent to take full advantage of that opportunity and make a big move up NFL draft boards.
32. NEW ENGLAND PATRIOTS
ANTOINE CASON
CB | Arizona | Scouting Report
The Pats used the franchise tag on free agent Asante Samuel and since they don't appear to be too eager to hand him the kind of huge payday he is looking for the team could be looking to move in a different direction next offseason. Cason doesn't figure to run particularly well in workouts which is why he may still be available here but it's hard to argue with the results on the field and he has been one of college football's top playmakers in the secondary for years now. He'll never be a shutdown corner in the pros but Cason would be a nice fit in New England's defensive scheme.
1. OAKLAND RAIDERS
DARREN MCFADDEN
RB | Arkansas | Scouting Report
Considering the sad state of their offensive line Jake Long will be pretty tempting here but at the end of the day Oakland needs playmakers on offense and just can't pass on McFadden, who has a chance to be one of the best running backs prospects to come along in quite some time. A tremendous, do-it-all athlete and pure football player with an ideal blend of size (6-2, 215) and speed (4.4), McFadden would give the Raiders offense the type of shot in the arm and big play dimension that it needs while also taking a lot of pressure off of their young signal caller JaMarcus Russell.
2. HOUSTON TEXANS
JAKE LONG
OT | Michigan | Scouting Report
Sooner or later this franchise is going to realize that they must invest a premium draft pick on a stud offensive lineman, but will they figure it out on their own or have learn this lesson the hard way? A terrible offensive line is a major reason why David Carr is no longer a Texan and to replace him the team brought in Matt Schaub, who is a good young quarterback but not nearly as mobile as Carr. Now if Carr got killed behind that line what do you think it going to happen to Schaub? At this point Long falls in between Joe Thomas and Levi Brown as a prospect and he's a great fit here.
3. MINNESOTA VIKINGS
BRIAN BROHM
QB | Louisville | Scouting Report
In 2006 the Vikings reached for Tarvaris Jackson in the 2nd round and this year it's going to become painfully obvious that he is not the answer so Minnesota will likely be in the market for a franchise quarterback to build around, the only question is will Brad Childress be around to admit his mistake or will a new staff be doing it for him. Brian Brohm would seem to have all the tools to be a star at the next level but there are some durability issues and many wonder if he's merely a product of the offensive system that he plays in. A big senior season could secure Brohm a spot in the Top 3.
4. TAMPA BAY BUCCANEERS
GLENN DORSEY
DT | L.S.U. | Scouting Report
For years the Bucs boasted one of the best, if not the best, defensive tackle combo in the league with Warren Sapp and Booger McFarland but they are both gone and with guys like Chris Hovan and Ryan Sims projected to be starters it's obvious that they need an upgrade in the middle. Had he come out after his junior season Dorsey might have given Amobi Okoye a run for his money to be the first defensive tackle chosen but he shouldn't have to battle anyone for that honor in '08. The Bucs have a potential stud outside in Gaines Adams and now it's time to balance out that line.
5. DALLAS COWBOYS (f/CLE)
KENNY PHILLIPS
S | Miami (FL) | Scouting Report
If Cleveland's pick ends up being this high the trade that netted them Brady Quinn could come under fire but had they not made the deal there is a very good chance they would still miss out on the top quarterback in this draft and they wouldn't have a potential franchise signal caller with a year of pro experience under his belt. Dallas has been searching for a safety who is a bit more coverage orientated to team with Roy Williams for a long time and while Ken Hamlin will get a shot he was only signed to a one-year deal so it would be hard to pass on the next Ed Reed or Sean Taylor.
6. WASHINGTON Commanders
CALAIS CAMPBELL
DE | Miami (FL) | Scouting Report
Many felt the Commanders would look to address their defensive line with the #6 pick in the 2007 NFL Draft and while you certainly can't knock their selection of LaRon Landry from a value standpoint the fact remains that they still need an impact guy up front, whether it be at end or tackle. A mountain of a man at 6-8 and 280 lbs., Campbell is coming off a junior season that saw him notch 20.5 tackles for a loss to go along with 10.0 sacks and if he can repeat that performance this year there's a relatively good chance he could hear his name called in the Top 10 overall next April.
7. MIAMI DOLPHINS
SAM BAKER
OT | USC | Scouting Report
The Dolphins created perhaps the biggest stir of the 2007 NFL Draft when they chose Ted Ginn, Jr. at #9 overall but this pick should be a lot less controversial. The Miami offensive line has a number of issues but none is more glaring than left tackle where Vernon Carey is slated to start even though he would be a better fit on the right side or, ideally, inside at guard. At this point he might be best known for being the son of Arena Football League Commissioner David Baker but that won't be the case for long because Sam is very athletic and a terrific pass blocker on the outside.
8. DETROIT LIONS
CHRIS LONG
DE | Virginia | Scouting Report
There were strong indications that Gaines Adams, not Calvin Johnson, was actually the apple of the Lion's eye leading up to the '07 Draft but when they couldn't swing a deal to move down they instead opted to take the best player available. However, that still leaves a gaping hole at defensive end opposite Dewayne White because Kalimba Edwards is much better suited for a backup or situational role. Chris Long may be the son of a Hall of Famer (Howie) but he'd be an excellent prospect even if his last name was Smith and he has the intangibles that Rod Marinelli is looking for.
9. BUFFALO BILLS
DAN CONNOR
OLB | Penn St. | Scouting Report
Granted the Bills did just recently invest a second round pick in Paul Posluszny but after jettisoning both London Fletcher and Takeo Spikes there is still probably work to be done, especially since Angelo Crowell and Keith Ellison are relatively unproven as starters. Many feel that Connor is a better pro prospect than Posluszny was and he brings the exact kind of mix of intangibles and talent to the table that Marv Levy and his regime are looking for on Draft Day. They also have issues at cornerback and defensive tackle so they are possibilities but in the end this is where the value lies.
10. KANSAS CITY CHIEFS
RYAN CLADY
OT | Boise St. | Scouting Report
It's hard to tell just where to start with the Chiefs and in all honestly this franchise could be on the verge of a major rebuilding project but ultimately their decision here comes down to offensive line or quarterback. Since they have a young quarterback in place that they are said to like in Brodie Croyle the odds might be in the favor of a guy like Ryan Clady, who could be the stud left tackle they need to replace Willie Roaf. This may be a slight reach but Clady is a better prospect than Daryn Colledge was coming out and with Long and Baker going early someone will get pushed up.
11. ARIZONA CARDINALS
QUENTIN GROVES
DE | Auburn | Scouting Report
With Ken Whisenhunt, formally of the Steelers, now in charge the Cardinals will try and convert to a 3-4 defense but in order to do that they'll need to make some big personnel changes. One notable position that is going to have to be addressed is outside linebacker, where they need someone who is fast and athletic enough to drop into coverage but also able to get after the quarterback as a pass rusher. Bert Berry and Chike Okeafor will get the first shot at filling those roles but neither is a good fit so the addition of a guy like Groves would sure seem to make a lot of sense.
12. TENNESSEE TITANS
DESEAN JACKSON
WR | California | Scouting Report
There's no doubt that the Titans have one of the most exciting young quarterbacks in the league with Vince Young but they have to give him some weapons to throw to and not only did they fail to do that this year but they actually let his top two targets leave as free agents. Similar in some ways to Ted Ginn, Jackson is also a fantastic return man and while he may not be quite as fast he is more polished as a receiver. Jackson would be just the type of dynamic weapon and big play threat that Young and the Titans so desperately need and he'd be an outstanding pick for them here.
13. ATLANTA FALCONS
ANDRE' WOODSON
QB | Kentucky | Scouting Report
It does not look like Michael Vick is going to play for the Falcons again, regardless of the outcome of his trial, which means they are going to be in the market for a top young quarterback. You have to think that Bobby Petrino would like nothing more than to bring his former player Brian Brohm into the fold but they will have to be picking much higher than this to have a shot at him. Andre' Woodson isn't a bad consolation prize though and if he can build on a phenomenal junior campaign not only will he be in the first round mix but he could even break into the Top 10 overall.
14. NEW YORK GIANTS
DERRICK HARVEY
DE | Florida | Scouting Report
Despite all of the resources they have invested in the position recently the Giants could still conceivably go with a defensive end here. Michael Strahan is going to be 36-years-old and wants a big new contract so he probably won't be around much longer and with Mathias Kiwanuka moving to outside linebacker the situation at end has become somewhat precarious. An even better pro prospect than Jarvis Moss was, Harvey is a great natural pass rusher and that was evident in the BCS National Championship Game when he garnered Defensive MVP honors by notching 3 sacks.
15. GREEN BAY PACKERS
MALCOLM JENKINS
CB | Ohio St. | Scouting Report
The last couple of years Green Bay has done a terrific job of upgrading the talent level of their roster through the draft but one area that is still a major question mark is cornerback. Al Harris is solid at one spot and Charles Woodson enjoyed a career resurgence in 2006 (although he might eventually move inside to safety) but to say they were lacking depth would be an understatement. The Buckeyes have done an amazing job of producing pro corners and Jenkins has the talent to join the ranks of Antoine Winfield, Ahmed Plummer, Nate Clements, Chris Gamble & Ashton Youboty.
16. NEW ENGLAND PATRIOTS (f/SF)
JAMES LAURINAITIS
ILB | Ohio St. | Scouting Report
Look at most of the projected picks for New England when it comes to mock drafts in recent years and you will see two positions pop up more often than not and they are defensive back and linebacker. The Patriots finally addressed one of them when they chose Brandon Meriweather but with Tedy Bruschi nearing the end of his career and Mike Vrabel not getting any younger either it might be time for them to cross the other off the list. In his first year as a starter James Laurinaitis picked up right where A.J. Hawk left off and won the Nagurski Award as the nation's best defensive player.
17. ST. LOUIS RAMS
FRANK OKAM
DT | Texas | Scouting Report
Question: How do you know you need help at defensive tackle? Answer: When you draft a college defensive end in the first round and have to make him a nose tackle. That's exactly what the Rams are doing with Adam Carriker and they will soon find out that it was not a good idea. In fact, they probably already know it which is why they tried to deal for Kris Jenkins. Carriker can probably handle being a pass rusher and penetrator inside but they need a big body next to him for run stuffing purposes and Frank Okam, the Longhorns latest top defensive lineman, can take on that role.
18. JACKSONVILLE JAGUARS
CHAD HENNE
QB | Michigan | Scouting Report
With Byron Leftwich's contract up after this season it seems like almost a foregone conclusion that he will be playing elsewhere in 2008 and since neither David Garrard or Quinn Gray have shown they can be the long-term solution under center the Jags will likely be in the market for a signal caller. Even though he takes a lot of heat from Wolverine fans (due in large part to a sophomore slump in 2005) Henne has a great arm, is a battle tested vet of the Big Ten wars and has been productive. Michigan's sent a lot of good quarterbacks on to the NFL and Henne will carry on that tradition.
19. CAROLINA PANTHERS
AQIB TALIB
CB | Kansas | Scouting Report
With the retirement of Mike Minter a top safety is now far and away the Panthers most glaring need but the problem is there really isn't value at that position here. However, Talib played safety early in his career with the Jayhawks and if he only runs in the 4.5 range as expected that could ultimately be his best position at the next level. A playmaker and ballhawk in the secondary, Talib racked up an amazing 22 pass breakups to go along with 6 interceptions as a sophomore last year and another season like that could secure him a first round grade in the 2008 NFL Draft.
20. NEW YORK JETS
GOSDER CHERILUS
OT | Boston College | Scouting Report
Even though they invested two first round picks on offensive lineman just a couple of years ago the Jets still could use some help up front in the form of a big, physical mauler. For the last decade or so Boston College has done just a tremendous job of sending offensive linemen to the pro ranks and Gosder Cherilus rates right up there with the best of them. Is he a franchise type who is going to redefine the position? Definitely not. Is he going to play in the NFL for a long time and be a very good right tackle? Absolutely, and for this teams purposes that's just what the doctor ordered.
21. PITTSBURGH STEELERS
SEDRICK ELLIS
DT | USC | Scouting Report
With Mike Tomlin now in place as their head coach it is only a matter of time until the Steelers move away from the 3-4 defense they have come to be known for and install the Cover 2 scheme that Tomlin specializes in. In fact, we already saw that shift gradually start to take place with '07 1st rounder Lawrence Timmons being a much better fit for a 4-3 scheme than he is a 3-4. It's not an easy transition and will likely take place over a number of years but Pittsburgh will eventually need a pass rushing 3-technique at defensive tackle and Sedrick Ellis is a perfect example of one.
22. DALLAS COWBOYS
STEVE SLATON
RB | West Virginia | Scouting Report
As the old adage goes if you have a lot you probably have none and that may be the case at running back for the Dallas Cowboys, with the two-headed monster of Julius Jones and Marion Barber continuing to split carries. With Jones set to become a free agent following the '07 season it might be time to bring in a true stud at the position and if most of the top underclassmen opt come out this could be the best running back crop to come along in years. Slaton is a true gamebreaker and pairing him with Barber would give the Dallas offense a dimension that they currently lack.
23. SEATTLE SEAHAWKS
JOHN CARLSON
TE | Notre Dame | Scouting Report
After an up and down tenure with the team Jerramy Stevens was not re-signed and even though they brought in Marcus Pollard to replace him he is not the long-term answer. A great athlete who even played a little basketball for the Irish early in his college career, Carlson is coming off a fantastic junior season and has developed into a real threat in the passing game. A better prospect than Anthony Fasano was coming out, Carlson is on the first round bubble and while this might be a little high for him the Seahawks simply don't have a ton of glaring needs outside of tight end.
24. CINCINNATI BENGALS
DEMARIO PRESSLEY
DT | North Carolina St. | Scouting Report
Based on their recent Draft Day success it just might be time to dub N.C. State "Defensive Lineman U." because no program has sent as many high draft picks to the pros from that position the last two years. Next up is DeMario Pressley, who has the talent to carry on that legacy, and he will try to follow in the footsteps of former teammates Mario Williams, Manny Lawson, John McCargo and Tank Tyler. Pressley is a penetrating one-gapper with great quickness who could really see his stock soar this year, much like McCargo and Tyler did in their final seasons at the college level.
25. PHILADELPHIA EAGLES
LIMAS SWEED
WR | Texas | Scouting Report
This might be somewhat of a controversial pick, especially among Eagle fans, but it would be a mistake to assume that Philly is set at wide receiver. Reggie Brown is a very good young player but who knows if Kevin Curtis will be able to step up and make the type of impact they need him to after working as a third option for his entire pro career to this point. Sweed is a playmaker with everything you look for except elite timed speed and he would be a nice compliment to Brown and Curtis. Granted Hank Baskett is a similar type of player but this would be a major upgrade.
26. BALTIMORE RAVENS
TOMMY BLAKE
DE | T.C.U. | Scouting Report
This is one of those that almost makes too much sense. After just losing jack-of-all-trades Adalius Thomas and with Terrell Suggs nearing free agency the Ravens could definitely use an athletic pass rusher at outside linebacker and Blake would be an ideal fit. An undersized college defensive end who might have to make a position change when he gets to the next level, Blake simply knows how to get after the quarterback and that skill alone will take him a long way. Depth at cornerback is also a serious issue for Baltimore but Blake is probably too good to pass up at this point.
27. DENVER BRONCOS
KEITH RIVERS
OLB | USC | Scouting Report
It's been a long time since linebacker was a problem for Denver but that day might finally have come. Moving D.J. Williams inside to replace Al Wilson created a hole outside and it's highly unlikely that either D.D. Lewis or Warrick Holdman are the long-term answer. Keith Rivers might not have the ideal bulk that you look for but he is fast and super athletic and just the fact that the Trojans saw fit to let him wear the storied #55 jersey really speaks volumes about him. The Broncos don't have a lot of weaknesses but this could be a classic case of both value and need meshing.
28. CHICAGO BEARS
COLT BRENNAN
QB | Hawaii | Scouting Report
Unless Rex Grossman makes some major strides this year he may have a hard time keeping his starting job in '07, much less earning a contract extension when he hits free agency next summer. If the Bears do decide that Rex isn't the answer, which is very possible, then they will likely look for a veteran starter for the short-term while grooming a top youngster. From a statistical standpoint Brennan's numbers are out of this world but for every positive (accuracy, production) there are two question marks (system, size, arm, character) which is why his draft stock is all over the map.
29. NEW ORLEANS SAINTS
TERRELL THOMAS
CB | USC | Scouting Report
The secondary was an area of concern for the Saints in 2006 and even though they brought in Jason David as a free agent it is debatable as to how well he will fit in with their defense considering he's always been considered to be more of a zone coverage type. In terms of value Terrell Thomas would be a nice pick at this point and if he can stay healthy there will an opportunity for him to shoot up draft boards. Even though he may not be a shutdown cornerback Thomas has all of the physical tools you look for and you know he's been battle tested in the pass-heavy Pac-10.
30. SAN DIEGO CHARGERS
PHILIP WHEELER
OLB | Georgia Tech | Scouting Report
For the most part the Charges are a team with relatively few holes so it's tough to predict what they might be looking for in round one. A nose tackle to backup Jamal Williams would sure be nice but since there really isn't value there at this point they turn their attention elsewhere and select a playmaking linebacker. Able to project either inside or outside at the next level depending on scheme, Wheeler is adept at getting upfield, attacking and making plays behind the line of scrimmage and that has become a hallmark of the San Diego defense in recent years so this is a good fit.
31. SAN FRANCISCO 49'ERS (f/IND)
EARLY DOUCET
WR | L.S.U. | Scouting Report
The Niners overall talent level has increased by leaps and bounds the past 2-3 years but one area that is still a question mark is wide receiver. Darrell Jackson will solidify one spot if he can stay healthy but Ashley Lelie is certainly not the answer and outside of rookie Jason Hill the depth leaves a lot to be desired. After playing behind two future 1st round picks in Dwayne Bowe and Craig Davis his entire career Doucet will finally get a chance to shine as a senior and he certainly has the talent to take full advantage of that opportunity and make a big move up NFL draft boards.
32. NEW ENGLAND PATRIOTS
ANTOINE CASON
CB | Arizona | Scouting Report
The Pats used the franchise tag on free agent Asante Samuel and since they don't appear to be too eager to hand him the kind of huge payday he is looking for the team could be looking to move in a different direction next offseason. Cason doesn't figure to run particularly well in workouts which is why he may still be available here but it's hard to argue with the results on the field and he has been one of college football's top playmakers in the secondary for years now. He'll never be a shutdown corner in the pros but Cason would be a nice fit in New England's defensive scheme.
or ed reed
