Cowboy from New York
Well-Known Member
- Messages
- 1,852
- Reaction score
- 236
Scott Wright's 2005 MOCK DRAFT - March 16th, 2005
1. San Francisco 49'ers: Aaron Rodgers, QB, California
In most years by this point in the process we have a pretty clear idea of what is going to happen with the #1 overall pick, but this time around there is still a lot of uncertainty. In a perfect world the Niners would probably like to trade down for a huge package of picks, but with no consensus premier player available a deal like that probably won't come across their table. When all is said and done this choice will likely come down to the two top signal callers and from what I am told the edge at this point goes to Rodgers, who is the latest protégé of quarterback guru Jeff Tedford. Other than his lack of ideal height (he is only 6-2) you will have a hard time finding much not to like about Rodgers, who possesses amazing accuracy, a great arm, top intelligence and is a leader on the field. One other factor that could play a role in this selection is that Rodgers grew up in California as a fan of the 49'ers and his idol was Joe Montana so he knows what this franchise once was and what it could be again and will take a personal interest in helping to restore that luster. Alex Smith of Utah is still a possibility here as well and there has also been talk that Braylon Edwards of Michigan was at the top of their list although the team may be just sending out those signals to instigate trade discussions. In the end look for San Francisco to remain at #1 overall and select the quarterback of their choice and right now I would be surprised if that wasn't Aaron Rodgers.
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
2. Miami Dolphins: Ronnie Brown, RB, Auburn
With no second round pick the Dolphins will likely be looking to trade down and grab some extra selections, especially since they can still land a top running back later on in the top ten. With a number of teams likely to be chasing the top two wideouts, Braylon Edwards and Mike Williams, it wouldn't be shocking to see someone put together an enticing enough package to tempt Nick Saban. Running back is without question the top need for Miami because after losing Ricky Williams just prior to training camp last year they went from a team with Super Bowl aspirations to one vying for the #1 overall pick. Can adding just an elite running back return them to the playoff hunt? Possibly. Ronnie Brown was overshadowed by Cadillac Williams at Auburn but in reality he is the best all-around running back in this Draft, with an excellent combination of size and speed while also excelling as a receiver out of the backfield. If the team decides A.J. Feely isn't the long-term answer then a quarterback like Aaron Rodgers or Alex Smith could be a possibility but after trading a high second rounder for him they will likely be inclined to give him another opportunity. A player to watch out for here though is Marcus Spears of L.S.U., who Saban coached in college and who would be a tremendous fit for their new defensive scheme, although this might be a little high for him. At the end of the day Miami will likely trade down a little and target a running back or Spears later in round one, but if they stay at #2 look for the choice to be Brown.
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
3. Cleveland Browns: Alex Smith, QB, Utah
After years of terrible drafts and player development there is a new regime taking over in Cleveland led by respected personnel man Phil Savage as General Manager and former Patriots defensive coordinator Romeo Crennel as Head Coach. Something tells me these guys will get things turned around and it will all start with this pick, where they have the chance to add a player to build the franchise around. The Browns traded for journeyman signal caller Trent Dilfer, who is a nice solution for now but isn't the long-term answer at quarterback. Alex Smith saw his stock rise more than anyone this past season and is now a legitimate candidate to be the #1 overall pick. There are many who feel Smith could be the best player to come out of this Draft five years down the road and there is no denying his potential. He still needs to add some weight and there are concerns about his arm strength but he is very athletic, an accurate passer and as smart of a guy as you will find (he graduated from college in just two years). This is an ideal situation for both the player and team since Smith will be able to sit behind Dilfer for a couple of years while his body develops and he learns the playbook before eventually taking over the reigns. It will be temping to address a shaky defense and Crennell will probably be pushing to go that route but in the end Savage will see that for the long haul grabbing a quarterback of the future is the way to go here.
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
4. Chicago Bears: Cedric Benson, RB, Texas
Playmakers on offense. That is what the Chicago Bears need in whatever form they come, whether it be a running back or wide receiver. There is still a solid chance they could go with Braylon Edwards or Mike Williams here but the free agent addition of Muhsin Muhammad makes that less of a concern and opens up more possibilities. Personally, I like Thomas Jones and felt he did a great job last season under adverse circumstances but in the end it isn't what I think but what the teams think and apparently they want to add a premier running back with Cedric Benson being their top choice. In my opinion Benson is the most sure thing in this Draft and a guy who will be a top pro running back from day one of his rookie year. A powerful runner with excellent size and good speed he is a better version of Ricky Williams, without the baggage, and would give the Chicago offense a guy they can hang their hat on while keeping pressure off of young quarterback Rex Grossman. Like I said though, wide receiver is still an option here and no one could fault them for adding another top player to that group because they still need help but all indications are that running back is just as much a priority for them and adding a guy of Benson's caliber here would be a great decision while finally giving them the top rushing threat they have lacked in the Windy City since the days of Walter Payton and Neal Anderson.
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
5. Tampa Bay Buccaneers: Mike Williams, WR, USC
It is becoming more and more apparent that Mike Williams will be the guy for Tampa Bay here with Jon Gruden and Bruce Allen both attending his workout and last years star rookie receiver Michael Clayton openly campaigning for the team to select his buddy. Williams has done everything right in the past couple of months and has solidified himself as a top 5-10 overall pick with his showings at the Scouting Combine and in his private workout, displaying tremendous character to go along with decent speed, excellent hands and very good route running ability. He may not run a 4.40 but other attributes such as height and leaping ability more than make up for that, making him a major weapon down the field and in the red zone. As it turns out not being allowed in last years Draft may actually have been a blessing in disguise because Williams will likely go much higher this year than he would have in 2004. The Bucs also need a running back and if they opt to go that route Cadillac Williams, who Gruden coached in Mobile at the Senior Bowl, would likely be the pick but at this point but I would be shocked if Mike Williams didn't go here as long as he is still available. A receiver combo of Clayton and Williams would be quite a force to reckon with for many years to come and the thought of those two playing together has to bring a big smile to Gruden's face as he imagines all the possibilities which is why this pick makes too much sense not to happen.
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
6. Tennessee Titans: Pac-Man Jones, CB, West Virginia
This is a team in flux after having to release a good portion of their veteran core to get under the salary cap, losing stalwarts such as Derrick Mason, Kevin Carter, Samari Rolle, Fred Miller and Andre Dyson. With the Titans parting ways with both of their starting cornerbacks it would shock no one if that is the direction they opted to go with this pick and sitting at #6 they may just have the pick of the litter with Jones and Antrel Rolle widely regarded as the cream of the crop. Jones doesn't have tremendous size but he plays much bigger than he is while also possessing amazing speed, athleticism and playmaking ability both on defense as well as a return man. In a lot of ways he will remind you of a more explosive Dunta Robinson or Antoine Winfield. Tennessee might also be looking for a receiver since they have lost Justin McCareins and Mason the last two offseasons and if that is the case Mike Williams would be a logical choice if available because he has close ties to new Titans offensive coordinator Norm Chow, who held the same position with the Trojans when Williams was at USC. Another option could be a linebacker like Derrick Johnson, who would give them one of the best duos of outside guys in the league when combined with Keith Bulluck. In the end though the need at corner is just too glaring and with everyone at that position still available they are able to bring in an elite player so that is the way they go.
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
7. Minnesota Vikings (f/OAK): Braylon Edwards, WR, Michigan
After essentially trading Randy Moss for this pick you can bet the Vikings will be looking to make a splash and add a player who will help fans get over the loss of one of the most explosive offensive threats in league history. Moss had to go though because he just became too much of a cancer and I think it speaks volumes that even though he is on his way to being one of the most prolific wideouts in NFL history only two teams were interested in trading for him. As they say, there are no "Randy Moss's" on the New England Patriots. Right now Minnesota has to be hoping that either Braylon Edwards or Mike Williams falls into their laps here at #7 and in reality they might be wise to package some picks to move up a little and ensure they get the big, physical playmaker they need to team with rising star Nate Burleson. Edwards is the total package with the size, speed and leaping ability of a true #1 wide receiver and for those who aren't yet believers just check out the tapes of him as a senior against Michigan St. and then Texas in the Rose Bowl when he absolutely took over and dominated the game. If both wideouts are gone by this point Plan B would most likely be Derrick Johnson of Texas, who would fill a need at weakside linebacker, but at this point the Vikings have to be selling out planning on being able to bring either Edwards or Williams into the fold in whatever manner they have to.
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
8. Arizona Cardinals: Antrel Rolle, CB, Miami (FL)
Almost every mock draft you see will likely have a running back here but in reality Dennis Green might be content to address another need early and then grab a running back like J.J. Arrington in round two. The Cardinals have a major need in the secondary at cornerback and when looking at their roster it is plain to see that is where they are most lacking so don't be surprised to see them go that route with this selection. The team is said to love Rolle, who solidified his lofty grade in recent workouts by running a mid-4.4 time that showed he does indeed have the speed to play corner at the next level. A big playmaker in the secondary, Rolle is just as likely to be a force as a blitzer as he is to lock his man down in coverage (as he did in college when he shutdown both Anquan Boldin and Larry Fitzgerald). The other guy who Arizona is said to really like is Utah QB Alex Smith and if he fell this far he would likely be the pick, although that is unlikely. A running back is still an option and odds are one of the big three will still be on the board here, but Green has consistently talked about the depth at that position which leads you to believe they feel they can get a quality player beyond the first round. Adding a top cornerback like Rolle will do wonders for a developing young defense and combined with Darnell Dockett and Karlos Dansby he will give the team a player to build around at each defensive unit.
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
9. Washington Commanders: Troy Williamson, WR, South Carolina
This has been a tumultuous offseason for the Commanders with some key free agent losses on defense, wide receiver Laveranues Coles forcing a trade back to the Jets and their other top wideout Rod Gardner also likely on his way out as well. Not that long ago it looked as if Mike Williams could fall into their laps but as of now that looks doubtful so instead they maybe reach a little for Williamson. A junior who has been one of the most productive receivers in the SEC despite playing in a run orientated offense, Williamson has good size and is one of the fastest players in this Draft, at any position. Adding a premier downfield threat to team with newly acquired Santana Moss would really help to open up the passing game and hopefully help get their offense, which was abysmal in 2004, on track. The defense played great last season under new defensive coordinator Gregg Williams but after losing Fred Smoot in free agency cornerback is now also a major concern so don't be surprised if Pac-Man Jones or Antrel Rolle are targeted here as well. One other possibility could be a defensive end because while Renaldo Wynn and Phillip Daniels are solid they aren't the type of dynamic pass rushing presence that every team looks for. The bottom line though is that what really held the Washington Commanders back in 2004 was their lack of production on the offensive side of the ball so you would be inclined to think that they will look to take steps to rectify that situation early on.
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
10. Detroit Lions: Marcus Spears, DE, L.S.U.
After spending their last four #1 picks on offense it is time for Matt Millen to address the defensive side of the ball and without a doubt their most glaring need there is at defensive end where Cory Redding is only average at best. Marcus Spears has great size and as a former defensive end is extremely athletic, which has helped him make numerous big plays throughout his career including some interceptions for touchdowns. While most feel he is a bit of a DE / DT 'tweener and would be best suited for a 3-4 scheme Spears is improving as a pass rusher and can be an all-around force in the 4-3 as well. There are a number of teams who are extremely high on Spears so there is even a chance he could be gone long before this point come Draft Day. With Stockar McDougle fleeing as a free agent offensive tackle is now a major concern as well so you have to consider names like Alex Barron and Jammal Brown here, although this may be a bit too early for them. One of the leagues most exciting up and coming teams, Detroit is going to be fun to watch and they are not that far away from contending and could even make a run at the NFC North title as early as 2005. Looking at their roster it is clear that a top defensive end needs to be added to complete a good young defensive line so look for them to snag a guy among the group of Spears, Shawne Merriman, Dan Cody and Erasmus James with David Pollack being a sleeper because he brings the type of relentless work ethic that Matt Millen is sure to take a liking to.
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
11. Dallas Cowboys: Shawne Merriman, DE, Maryland
After cutting ties with last years free agent bust Marcellus Wiley the Cowboys top concern has to be adding someone who can rush the passer. When he was with the Patriots in 1994 Parcells grabbed Willie McGinist with the #4 overall pick and then in 2000 he chose John Abraham with the Jets so he obviously likes those DE / OLB 'tweeners who can get after the passer and that is exactly what Shawne Merriman is. A tall, rangy player with amazing athleticism and great speed, Merriman is very raw and still gets by mostly on his physical tools at this point but his potential and upside are through the roof and he excels at getting after the quarterback which is always a skill that is in demand. Dan Cody is also a similar type of player who can rush the passer while a guy I have heard the team loves is Marcus Spears so keep a close eye out for him. Dallas is also looking for linebackers which would make Derrick Johnson a possibility if he is available, but a top sack artist has to be their first concern. A dark horse here could be a wide receiver who is a deep threat like Troy Williamson since the team really doesn't have any impact guys there right now, just solid veteran types like Keyshawn Johnson and Terry Glenn. With Merriman though it seems to be a perfect fit for both player and team but with Jerry Jones and Bill Parcells running the show anything is possible, especially with two first round picks at their disposal.
1. San Francisco 49'ers: Aaron Rodgers, QB, California
In most years by this point in the process we have a pretty clear idea of what is going to happen with the #1 overall pick, but this time around there is still a lot of uncertainty. In a perfect world the Niners would probably like to trade down for a huge package of picks, but with no consensus premier player available a deal like that probably won't come across their table. When all is said and done this choice will likely come down to the two top signal callers and from what I am told the edge at this point goes to Rodgers, who is the latest protégé of quarterback guru Jeff Tedford. Other than his lack of ideal height (he is only 6-2) you will have a hard time finding much not to like about Rodgers, who possesses amazing accuracy, a great arm, top intelligence and is a leader on the field. One other factor that could play a role in this selection is that Rodgers grew up in California as a fan of the 49'ers and his idol was Joe Montana so he knows what this franchise once was and what it could be again and will take a personal interest in helping to restore that luster. Alex Smith of Utah is still a possibility here as well and there has also been talk that Braylon Edwards of Michigan was at the top of their list although the team may be just sending out those signals to instigate trade discussions. In the end look for San Francisco to remain at #1 overall and select the quarterback of their choice and right now I would be surprised if that wasn't Aaron Rodgers.
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
2. Miami Dolphins: Ronnie Brown, RB, Auburn
With no second round pick the Dolphins will likely be looking to trade down and grab some extra selections, especially since they can still land a top running back later on in the top ten. With a number of teams likely to be chasing the top two wideouts, Braylon Edwards and Mike Williams, it wouldn't be shocking to see someone put together an enticing enough package to tempt Nick Saban. Running back is without question the top need for Miami because after losing Ricky Williams just prior to training camp last year they went from a team with Super Bowl aspirations to one vying for the #1 overall pick. Can adding just an elite running back return them to the playoff hunt? Possibly. Ronnie Brown was overshadowed by Cadillac Williams at Auburn but in reality he is the best all-around running back in this Draft, with an excellent combination of size and speed while also excelling as a receiver out of the backfield. If the team decides A.J. Feely isn't the long-term answer then a quarterback like Aaron Rodgers or Alex Smith could be a possibility but after trading a high second rounder for him they will likely be inclined to give him another opportunity. A player to watch out for here though is Marcus Spears of L.S.U., who Saban coached in college and who would be a tremendous fit for their new defensive scheme, although this might be a little high for him. At the end of the day Miami will likely trade down a little and target a running back or Spears later in round one, but if they stay at #2 look for the choice to be Brown.
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
3. Cleveland Browns: Alex Smith, QB, Utah
After years of terrible drafts and player development there is a new regime taking over in Cleveland led by respected personnel man Phil Savage as General Manager and former Patriots defensive coordinator Romeo Crennel as Head Coach. Something tells me these guys will get things turned around and it will all start with this pick, where they have the chance to add a player to build the franchise around. The Browns traded for journeyman signal caller Trent Dilfer, who is a nice solution for now but isn't the long-term answer at quarterback. Alex Smith saw his stock rise more than anyone this past season and is now a legitimate candidate to be the #1 overall pick. There are many who feel Smith could be the best player to come out of this Draft five years down the road and there is no denying his potential. He still needs to add some weight and there are concerns about his arm strength but he is very athletic, an accurate passer and as smart of a guy as you will find (he graduated from college in just two years). This is an ideal situation for both the player and team since Smith will be able to sit behind Dilfer for a couple of years while his body develops and he learns the playbook before eventually taking over the reigns. It will be temping to address a shaky defense and Crennell will probably be pushing to go that route but in the end Savage will see that for the long haul grabbing a quarterback of the future is the way to go here.
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
4. Chicago Bears: Cedric Benson, RB, Texas
Playmakers on offense. That is what the Chicago Bears need in whatever form they come, whether it be a running back or wide receiver. There is still a solid chance they could go with Braylon Edwards or Mike Williams here but the free agent addition of Muhsin Muhammad makes that less of a concern and opens up more possibilities. Personally, I like Thomas Jones and felt he did a great job last season under adverse circumstances but in the end it isn't what I think but what the teams think and apparently they want to add a premier running back with Cedric Benson being their top choice. In my opinion Benson is the most sure thing in this Draft and a guy who will be a top pro running back from day one of his rookie year. A powerful runner with excellent size and good speed he is a better version of Ricky Williams, without the baggage, and would give the Chicago offense a guy they can hang their hat on while keeping pressure off of young quarterback Rex Grossman. Like I said though, wide receiver is still an option here and no one could fault them for adding another top player to that group because they still need help but all indications are that running back is just as much a priority for them and adding a guy of Benson's caliber here would be a great decision while finally giving them the top rushing threat they have lacked in the Windy City since the days of Walter Payton and Neal Anderson.
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
5. Tampa Bay Buccaneers: Mike Williams, WR, USC
It is becoming more and more apparent that Mike Williams will be the guy for Tampa Bay here with Jon Gruden and Bruce Allen both attending his workout and last years star rookie receiver Michael Clayton openly campaigning for the team to select his buddy. Williams has done everything right in the past couple of months and has solidified himself as a top 5-10 overall pick with his showings at the Scouting Combine and in his private workout, displaying tremendous character to go along with decent speed, excellent hands and very good route running ability. He may not run a 4.40 but other attributes such as height and leaping ability more than make up for that, making him a major weapon down the field and in the red zone. As it turns out not being allowed in last years Draft may actually have been a blessing in disguise because Williams will likely go much higher this year than he would have in 2004. The Bucs also need a running back and if they opt to go that route Cadillac Williams, who Gruden coached in Mobile at the Senior Bowl, would likely be the pick but at this point but I would be shocked if Mike Williams didn't go here as long as he is still available. A receiver combo of Clayton and Williams would be quite a force to reckon with for many years to come and the thought of those two playing together has to bring a big smile to Gruden's face as he imagines all the possibilities which is why this pick makes too much sense not to happen.
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
6. Tennessee Titans: Pac-Man Jones, CB, West Virginia
This is a team in flux after having to release a good portion of their veteran core to get under the salary cap, losing stalwarts such as Derrick Mason, Kevin Carter, Samari Rolle, Fred Miller and Andre Dyson. With the Titans parting ways with both of their starting cornerbacks it would shock no one if that is the direction they opted to go with this pick and sitting at #6 they may just have the pick of the litter with Jones and Antrel Rolle widely regarded as the cream of the crop. Jones doesn't have tremendous size but he plays much bigger than he is while also possessing amazing speed, athleticism and playmaking ability both on defense as well as a return man. In a lot of ways he will remind you of a more explosive Dunta Robinson or Antoine Winfield. Tennessee might also be looking for a receiver since they have lost Justin McCareins and Mason the last two offseasons and if that is the case Mike Williams would be a logical choice if available because he has close ties to new Titans offensive coordinator Norm Chow, who held the same position with the Trojans when Williams was at USC. Another option could be a linebacker like Derrick Johnson, who would give them one of the best duos of outside guys in the league when combined with Keith Bulluck. In the end though the need at corner is just too glaring and with everyone at that position still available they are able to bring in an elite player so that is the way they go.
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
7. Minnesota Vikings (f/OAK): Braylon Edwards, WR, Michigan
After essentially trading Randy Moss for this pick you can bet the Vikings will be looking to make a splash and add a player who will help fans get over the loss of one of the most explosive offensive threats in league history. Moss had to go though because he just became too much of a cancer and I think it speaks volumes that even though he is on his way to being one of the most prolific wideouts in NFL history only two teams were interested in trading for him. As they say, there are no "Randy Moss's" on the New England Patriots. Right now Minnesota has to be hoping that either Braylon Edwards or Mike Williams falls into their laps here at #7 and in reality they might be wise to package some picks to move up a little and ensure they get the big, physical playmaker they need to team with rising star Nate Burleson. Edwards is the total package with the size, speed and leaping ability of a true #1 wide receiver and for those who aren't yet believers just check out the tapes of him as a senior against Michigan St. and then Texas in the Rose Bowl when he absolutely took over and dominated the game. If both wideouts are gone by this point Plan B would most likely be Derrick Johnson of Texas, who would fill a need at weakside linebacker, but at this point the Vikings have to be selling out planning on being able to bring either Edwards or Williams into the fold in whatever manner they have to.
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
8. Arizona Cardinals: Antrel Rolle, CB, Miami (FL)
Almost every mock draft you see will likely have a running back here but in reality Dennis Green might be content to address another need early and then grab a running back like J.J. Arrington in round two. The Cardinals have a major need in the secondary at cornerback and when looking at their roster it is plain to see that is where they are most lacking so don't be surprised to see them go that route with this selection. The team is said to love Rolle, who solidified his lofty grade in recent workouts by running a mid-4.4 time that showed he does indeed have the speed to play corner at the next level. A big playmaker in the secondary, Rolle is just as likely to be a force as a blitzer as he is to lock his man down in coverage (as he did in college when he shutdown both Anquan Boldin and Larry Fitzgerald). The other guy who Arizona is said to really like is Utah QB Alex Smith and if he fell this far he would likely be the pick, although that is unlikely. A running back is still an option and odds are one of the big three will still be on the board here, but Green has consistently talked about the depth at that position which leads you to believe they feel they can get a quality player beyond the first round. Adding a top cornerback like Rolle will do wonders for a developing young defense and combined with Darnell Dockett and Karlos Dansby he will give the team a player to build around at each defensive unit.
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
9. Washington Commanders: Troy Williamson, WR, South Carolina
This has been a tumultuous offseason for the Commanders with some key free agent losses on defense, wide receiver Laveranues Coles forcing a trade back to the Jets and their other top wideout Rod Gardner also likely on his way out as well. Not that long ago it looked as if Mike Williams could fall into their laps but as of now that looks doubtful so instead they maybe reach a little for Williamson. A junior who has been one of the most productive receivers in the SEC despite playing in a run orientated offense, Williamson has good size and is one of the fastest players in this Draft, at any position. Adding a premier downfield threat to team with newly acquired Santana Moss would really help to open up the passing game and hopefully help get their offense, which was abysmal in 2004, on track. The defense played great last season under new defensive coordinator Gregg Williams but after losing Fred Smoot in free agency cornerback is now also a major concern so don't be surprised if Pac-Man Jones or Antrel Rolle are targeted here as well. One other possibility could be a defensive end because while Renaldo Wynn and Phillip Daniels are solid they aren't the type of dynamic pass rushing presence that every team looks for. The bottom line though is that what really held the Washington Commanders back in 2004 was their lack of production on the offensive side of the ball so you would be inclined to think that they will look to take steps to rectify that situation early on.
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
10. Detroit Lions: Marcus Spears, DE, L.S.U.
After spending their last four #1 picks on offense it is time for Matt Millen to address the defensive side of the ball and without a doubt their most glaring need there is at defensive end where Cory Redding is only average at best. Marcus Spears has great size and as a former defensive end is extremely athletic, which has helped him make numerous big plays throughout his career including some interceptions for touchdowns. While most feel he is a bit of a DE / DT 'tweener and would be best suited for a 3-4 scheme Spears is improving as a pass rusher and can be an all-around force in the 4-3 as well. There are a number of teams who are extremely high on Spears so there is even a chance he could be gone long before this point come Draft Day. With Stockar McDougle fleeing as a free agent offensive tackle is now a major concern as well so you have to consider names like Alex Barron and Jammal Brown here, although this may be a bit too early for them. One of the leagues most exciting up and coming teams, Detroit is going to be fun to watch and they are not that far away from contending and could even make a run at the NFC North title as early as 2005. Looking at their roster it is clear that a top defensive end needs to be added to complete a good young defensive line so look for them to snag a guy among the group of Spears, Shawne Merriman, Dan Cody and Erasmus James with David Pollack being a sleeper because he brings the type of relentless work ethic that Matt Millen is sure to take a liking to.
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
11. Dallas Cowboys: Shawne Merriman, DE, Maryland
After cutting ties with last years free agent bust Marcellus Wiley the Cowboys top concern has to be adding someone who can rush the passer. When he was with the Patriots in 1994 Parcells grabbed Willie McGinist with the #4 overall pick and then in 2000 he chose John Abraham with the Jets so he obviously likes those DE / OLB 'tweeners who can get after the passer and that is exactly what Shawne Merriman is. A tall, rangy player with amazing athleticism and great speed, Merriman is very raw and still gets by mostly on his physical tools at this point but his potential and upside are through the roof and he excels at getting after the quarterback which is always a skill that is in demand. Dan Cody is also a similar type of player who can rush the passer while a guy I have heard the team loves is Marcus Spears so keep a close eye out for him. Dallas is also looking for linebackers which would make Derrick Johnson a possibility if he is available, but a top sack artist has to be their first concern. A dark horse here could be a wide receiver who is a deep threat like Troy Williamson since the team really doesn't have any impact guys there right now, just solid veteran types like Keyshawn Johnson and Terry Glenn. With Merriman though it seems to be a perfect fit for both player and team but with Jerry Jones and Bill Parcells running the show anything is possible, especially with two first round picks at their disposal.