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sorry if this is a repost!
http://www.sportingnews.com/yourturn/viewtopic.php?t=125343
The NFL's top 101 players: No. 1 Walter Jones
Walter Jones may not be the most exciting player in the NFL -- he's an offensive tackle, for cryin' out loud -- but he is the most efficient. Instead of making big plays, he prevents them. Over and over and over, with the consistency of a fine timepiece.
The Seahawks' left tackle makes domination so routine, he barely is noticed. But we are not taking Jones for granted. On our list of the 101 best players in the NFL, he's No. 1.
Dolphins left tackle L.J. Shelton says he likes to watch Jones on tape. "He makes it look easy," Shelton says. "He was born to play left tackle. There are things he can do physically I just can't do. There are things he does linebackers probably can't do. He's in a class all his own."
Seahawks offensive coordinator Gil Haskell has worked with Hall of Fame tackles Anthony Munoz and Jackie Slater. In Jones, he sees a player who is bigger than both and as quick as Munoz, whom some regard as the finest left tackle ever.
Jones' presence makes Haskell a better game planner because the Seahawks never have to worry about giving their left tackle help from a running back or tight end in pass protection.
And Jones, who ranked seventh last year, isn't any less effective as a run blocker. In the NFC championship game, he drove Panthers defensive end Mike Rucker, an excellent player, about 20 yards downfield on one run. "He needs just a split second to get his hands on you, and then it's over," Rucker says.
Says Cardinals defensive end Bertrand Berry, "He has amazing strength."
The Seahawks know that well. That's why, by Haskell's recollection, the team went to Jones' side on 27 of their 28 goal-line runs last year. And Jones rarely disappointed them. Seahawks coaches gave him the highest possible grade for his performance in all but two of the team's 19 games. "He's the best," Bears defensive end Alex Brown says. "Bar none."
Quote:
2. Peyton Manning QB, Colts (1)
"He understands the game as well as anybody I've been around. It's 40 percent very good talent and 60 percent hard work and smarts with him."
--Tony Dungy, Colts coach
3. Tom Brady QB, Patriots (2)
"It's frustrating sometimes when you're playing against them because you make a mistake and he's going to get you. It's hard to create negative plays when he's in the game." -Nick Saban, Dolphins coach
4. LaDainian Tomlinson RB, Chargers (3)
"The first thing that stands out about L.T. is vision. He has instant recognition of what he should do. It's not thought out; it just happens." -A.J. Smith, Chargers general manager
5. Steve Smith WR, Panthers (NR)
"Steve is competitive and tough. The more he talks, the tougher he gets. Usually my game is to intimidate a guy like him. With him, it ain't happening."
--Shawn Springs, Commanders cornerback
6. Carson Palmer QB, Bengals (NR)
"He has everything you need in a great quarterback -a strong arm, accuracy, a great understanding of the game, leadership, a rapport with his receivers and poise in the pocket."
--Tony Dungy
7. Brian Urlacher MLB, Bears (23)
"He is the best player in the game right now. He does a lot of the little things that bring us together. He's the quarterback on our defense. He leads us."
--Nathan Vasher, Bears cornerback
8. Dwight Freeney DE, Colts (24)
"He runs something like a 4.4, and he's strong. He takes such fast steps ... there is no windup for his moves. It happens like that. It's almost unfair."
--L.J. Shelton, Dolphins offensive tackle
9. Ed Reed S, Ravens (9)
"Ed Reed is probably the most instinctive playmaker back there. He makes plays on balls that most safeties can't make."
--Keenan McCardell, Chargers wide receiver
10. Chad Johnson WR, Bengals (59)
"Chad doesn't take a down off. You have to be conscious of where he is at all times. He's a hard worker, and he loves the game."
--Ed Reed, Ravens safety
11. Shawne Merriman OLB, Chargers (NR)
"I love to watch Shawne Merriman. I just love his mentality, his approach to the game -- it's, 'When the whistle blows, I have no friends.' "
--Ray Lewis, Ravens linebacker
12. Larry Johnson RB, Chiefs (NR)
"He is big, strong and powerful. You can't come off a block and throw your arm out to tackle that guy. He'll break your arm off."
--Donnie Edwards, Chargers linebacker
13. Julius Peppers DE, Panthers (13)
"He's a phenomenal athlete and maybe the lowest-maintenance star I've ever been around. He never needs to be stroked. You'd think he was a walk-on."
--John Fox, Panthers coach
14. Champ Bailey CB, Broncos (21)
"Champ is the best. He's very instinctive, and he has great ball skills. He knows your routes, and he baits a lot of things. He reads the receiver's body language."
--Keenan McCardell
15. Richard Seymour DE, Patriots (25)
"He's a veteran guy who takes this game very seriously. He plays like he wants to be the prototype at his position."
--Rex Hadnot, Dolphins center
16. Jason Taylor DE, Dolphins (17)
"He's a fierce competitor. He works hard in practice, sets a great example and is a very good leader. He affects other people and has a presence about him that is respected by others."
--Nick Saban
17. Santana Moss WR, Commanders (NR)
"He can flat-out fly. That allows him to get a lot of space because you know he can run past you. And on top of that, he's a strong guy."
--Brian Dawkins, Eagles safety
18. Simeon Rice DE, Bucs (27)
"He's fast and explosive. He's been around the league a long time, so he can study and see your weakness and attack it."
--Travelle Wharton, Panthers offensive tackle
19. Torry Holt WR, Rams (20)
"He runs the best out route of anybody I've seen. He doesn't stutter his feet or give ground. He makes every route look the same. He's a true professional about his craft."
--Nathan Vasher
20. Troy Polamalu S, Steelers (35) "He's coming up with different ways to open the game up for safeties. He's showing the versatility of the position, lining up not only at safety but at linebacker, defensive end-whatever it takes."
--Ed Reed
21. Michael Strahan DE, Giants (14)
"You have to gear up for his strength, but when you do that, you also have to be ready for him to get on the edge. It's a fine line."
--Jon Jansen, Commanders offensive tackle
22. Steve Hutchinson G, Vikings (62)
"He has that mentality to run the ball, and it's contagious. He's a strong, strong guy. He has a big neck and a big back, but he's quick, too."
--Gil Haskell, Seahawks offensive coordinator
23. Randy Moss WR, Raiders (4)
"He changed the game. You look at what the game was as far as the deep ball before Randy Moss, and then you look at the game after."
--Dennis Green, Cardinals coach
24. Antonio Gates TE, Chargers (28)
"I love to watch Gatesy. He knows how to use his size against a DB, and he knows how to use his speed and agility against linebackers."
--Randy McMichael, Dolphins tight end
25. Tiki Barber RB, Giants (44)
"He'll get 10 yards, then 8. Next thing you know, he's going to have a 31, a 24. Once he gets the momentum, he has that snowball deal going on."
--Marcus Washington, Commanders linebacker
26. Hines Ward WR, Steelers (36)
"I don't know if he runs the fastest 40 time or if he'd be the top in quickness drills, but he flat-out gets it done. He makes big play after big play."
--Brian Dawkins
27. Ben Roethlisberger QB, Steelers (NR)
"The thing I've been impressed with is his ability to make plays outside the pocket. He can buy time with his feet, relocate his vision and make a play."
--Charley Casserly, former Texans general manager
28. Marcus Stroud DT, Jaguars (37)
"He has such great athletic ability for his size. He's unique in that way. He's so tall and big and yet he can run."
--Casey Wiegmann, Chiefs center
29. Terrell Owens WR, Cowboys (10)
"T.O. plays the game with about as much passion as I've ever seen anyone play with. When he gets the ball, he runs angry. He runs to hurt people. He runs to score."
--Jim Mora, Falcons coach
30. Shaun Alexander RB, Seahawks (48)
"He has a great knack for finding the end zone. He's Mr. Production. He's had five straight years of 14 touchdowns (or more). That speaks for itself."
--Bertrand Berry, Cardinals defensive end
31. Edgerrin James RB, Cardinals (38)
"To me, Edgerrin is one of the only reasons Indy had their success. You can never really hurt him. He's shifty, so quick with his feet, and so patient."
--Ray Lewis
32. Orlando Pace LT, Rams (34)
"Orlando is probably the most athletic tackle in the game. His feet are so light. You can't really beat him around the corner. It's a long day dealing with that."
--Bertrand Berry
33. Tony Gonzalez TE, Chiefs (16)
"The numbers he's posted as a receiver are remarkable, but what's overlooked is he's a good blocker. He was not a real good blocker early on, but he has become one."
--Marty Schottenheimer, Chargers coach
34. Brian Dawkins S, Eagles (32)
"Dawkins is so quick and so smart and so physical. It seems like he's always where he's supposed to be, and he's there before you expect him to be there."
--Chris Cooley, Commanders tight end
35. Jonathan Vilma ILB, Jets (63)
"A very instinctive player who understands the whole scheme of things. His preparation is excellent. I can see it in his eyes. He cares about it. It means something to him."
--Rex Hadnot
36. Roy Williams S, Cowboys (26)
"You definitely have to know where Roy is every play because if you're out of position and that guy hits you, it's not going to feel good."
--Chris Cooley
37. Daunte Culpepper QB, Dolphins (5)
"He can throw BBs, probably knock an apple off the top of a guy's head from 40 yards. You have a guy who can throw like that and scramble, it's a headache."
--Brian Dawkins
38. Larry Fitzgerald WR, Cardinals (NR)
"Larry is the best in the game right now at extending the envelope of the field. He has the ability to go down the field and go up. Contesting for the ball, he's phenomenal."
--Dennis Green
39. Julian Peterson OLB, Seahawks (18)
"Jules is one of my all-time favorites. I used him at four positions in one game, and that says a lot about what he is athletically and his understanding of the game."
--Jim Mora
40. Trent Green QB, Chiefs (53) "He knows the offense and he runs it as well as anybody can. He's so smart. He can look off different coverages and hit the right guy consistently."
--Casey Wiegmann
41. Alan Faneca G, Steelers (43)
"He's a strong guy. Everybody around the league respects him because he's a hard worker."
--Jamal Williams, Chargers nose tackle
42. Matt Hasselbeck QB, Seahawks (NR)
"He's a very accurate, very precise, very smart quarterback. I don't think there is a flaw in his game. He's probably one of the top three quarterbacks in the league."
--Adrian Wilson, Cardinals safety
43. Donovan McNabb QB, Eagles (6)
"Donovan is smart and accurate and a great athlete. He's a tremendous leader, and he has a unique feel for the game."
--Andy Reid, Eagles coach
44. Shaun Rogers DT, Lions (29)
"Most DTs they take out of the game in passing situations, but Shaun you keep in. He can pass rush, he can stuff the run, and he's just a load."
--Ruben Brown, Bears guard
45. Keith Bulluck OLB, Titans (47)
"He's very explosive, athletic and fast for as big as he is. He's a tall guy, but he plays a lot more compact. He gets so low and uses leverage so well."
--Randy McMichael
46. Anquan Boldin WR, Cardinals (NR)
"Anquan is probably the best in the league for run after catch. You look at some of his catch-and-carries since he came into the league ... they're a highlight tape."
--Dennis Green
47. Marvin Harrison WR, Colts (22)
"The main thing with Marvin is quickness in and out of his breaks. He also has soft hands where he'll catch anything and the ability to adjust his body and make tough catches."
--Tony Dungy
48. Tommie Harris DT, Bears (NR)
"He's almost like a linebacker in a defensive tackle's body. He moves effortlessly. He really understands football and has all the tools. He has the hunger to be the best."
--Alex Brown, Bears defensive end
49. DeAngelo Hall CB, Falcons (NR)
"He has a combination of rare ability and athletic arrogance that makes him an outstanding corner. I don't believe there's anything he can't do. He's physical, tough and smart, and he studies the game."
--Jim Mora
50. Olin Kreutz C, Bears (46)
"He's a little sparkplug. His intense focus makes him good. He's focused in on his technique, he's focused in on the defense and the fronts, and he's very football savvy."
--Ruben Brown
51. Brett Favre QB, Packers (11)
"Favre is the best competitor I've ever seen. You don't want to play against Brett Favre in a 2-minute drill. He always gives those guys a chance to win."
--Nathan Vasher
52. Ray Lewis MLB, Ravens (8)
"Ray is the most passionate player I've ever been around."
--Ozzie Newsome, Ravens general manager
53. Derrick Burgess DE, Raiders (NR)
"More than anything, he just loves to play the game. And he's talented and tough on top of it."
--Andy Reid
54. Rod Coleman DT, Falcons (NR)
"He has a defensive end's motor as a defensive tackle. If he's double-teamed, he's going to keep going and fighting and giving all he's got. He's an all-out guy."
--Casey Wiegmann
55. Lofa Tatupu MLB, Seahawks (NR)
"He's a natural linebacker with instincts and love of the game. He takes the first step of the whole defense on every play. He's a born leader."
--Tim Ruskell, Seahawks general manager
56. Lance Briggs OLB, Bears (NR)
"He wants to be great, and he has all the talent that makes him great. He really studies the game, which you can tell in his anticipation."
--Troy Aikman, FOX Sports analyst
57. Osi Umenyiora DE, Giants (NR)
"He's quick. He's one of those guys who gets you back on your heels, and then he gives you a bull rush."
--Travelle Wharton
58. John Henderson DT, Jaguars (52)
"He's humongous, strong and competitive. His size is impressive, and then to have good balance and the ability to move quickly side to side, that's something that doesn't just happen."
--Rex Hadnot
59. Adewale Ogunleye DE, Bears (76)
"He looks like a normal guy, but he's the strongest defensive end we have. He's fast, real smooth and smart. He can turn the corner. Not many are better at left end."
--Alex Brown
60. Kevin Williams DT, Vikings (30) "He can pass rush and run stuff. He can elude you or take you on. You never know if he's going to take you on or slip past you."
--Ruben Brown
61. Jonathan Ogden LT, Ravens (19)
"The best left tackle in the game. He can defend multiple moves, and he's a house to get around. He's very mobile on the edge, very strong and fundamentally sound."
--Terrell Suggs, Ravens defensive end
62. Derrick Brooks OLB, Bucs (42)
"He's unbelievably smart. He knows the other team's offense. He can almost cheat some of his coverages and play two positions at once. He's a general out there." -Jake Delhomme, Panthers quarterback
63. Bertrand Berry DE, Cardinals (88)
"He plays like a Pro Bowl player every week. He gives anybody he plays against all they can handle because he's relentless. He's a good, good player."
--Gil Haskell
64. Shawn Springs CB, Commanders (89)
"He has a safety's intelligence about him. A lot of times, corners just want to get out there and pick their guy off the field. He understands the whole scheme."
--Gregg Williams, Commanders defensive boss
65. Michael Vick QB, Falcons (12)
"An amazing player who can make a defense look stupid. You had better be disciplined when you play him and take care of your assignment or he'll make you look dumb."
--Mike Minter, Panthers safety
66. Samari Rolle CB, Ravens (91)
"He has great feet, some of the best feet I've ever seen. And he has very good hands. Plus, he's a student of the game."
--Ozzie Newsome
67. Jake Plummer QB, Broncos (NR)
"Jake has a quick arm, a good arm, and mobility. He's a heck of a competitor. Guys who love to compete like him are the kind I like."
--Marty Schottenheimer
68. Clinton Portis RB, Commanders (NR)
"One of the things that's very underrated about him is his pass protection. I don't know if he gets the credit he deserves for picking up blitzes the way he does."
--Brian Dawkins
69. Zach Thomas MLB, Dolphins (NR)
"Zach is one of those guys you don't expect to be as good as he is. He's one of the hardest-hitting guys and smartest guys I've ever played against."
--LaDainian Tomlinson, Chargers running back
70. Chris Chambers WR, Dolphins (NR)
"Chris developed the confidence, faith, trust and chemistry with the quarterback and system last year that allowed him to have a breakout year. He can be a premier receiver for a long time."
--Nick Saban
71. Marc Bulger QB, Rams (96)
"He gets the ball out so quick, and he's as accurate as any quarterback I've ever been around. He sees it so well."
--Mike Martz, Lions offensive coordinator
72. Adrian Wilson S, Cardinals (NR)
"Adrian is probably one of the most explosive players in the game. He has cat quickness. He's a true combination of a strong safety, a cornerback and an outside linebacker."
--Dennis Green
73. Drew Brees QB, Saints (56)
"Drew is a good NFL quarterback. He provides leadership. He's a guy you never would want to bet against. He hitches his britches up and goes to work."
--Marty Schottenheimer
74. Sean Taylor S, Commanders (NR)
"Probably the most talented all-around safety. He runs like a corner and hits like a safety. He's still undisciplined at times. When he curtails that a little, he can be phenomenal."
--Kurt Warner, Cardinals quarterback
75. Jeremy Shockey TE, Giants (NR)
"When Shockey runs those pass routes, he's like a big receiver. He's a guy they want matching up on linebackers because he'll have the advantage most of the time."
--Marcus Washington
76. Joey Galloway WR, Bucs (NR)
"At 34 years old, he probably runs faster than any receiver. People don't give him a lot of credit, but he's always the featured receiver."
--Shawn Springs
77. Alge Crumpler TE, Falcons (60)
"He can block and catch the ball well. He does both, which sets him apart from most tight ends."
--Mike Rucker, Panthers defensive end
78. Rudi Johnson RB, Bengals (83)
"Rudi is a physical back. Even if you tackle him, he falls forward and gains good yards. You get a little tired in the fourth quarter, and he'll pound and pound and pound."
--Marcus Washington
79. Al Wilson MLB, Broncos (84)
"He's able to diagnose the play like he knows what the play is. And when he gets there, he's physical. Plus, he can run sideline to sideline."
--LaDainian Tomlinson
80. Terence Newman CB, Cowboys (NR) "Speed is his greatest asset. He's got range as far as his body type. He's continued to get stronger. It's important to him. He's a great team guy."
--Troy Aikman
81. Will Shields G, Chiefs (51)
"The true professional. He doesn't like missing any time in practice or games. He knows exactly what's going on in any given situation in a game. He recovers better than anybody I've seen."
--Casey Wiegmann
82. Mike Wahle G, Panthers (87)
"He was a wide receiver when he got to college. That tells you what kind of athlete you're talking about. He's been able to gain size and strength and maintain the athleticism."
--Troy Aikman
83. Kevin Mawae C, Titans (79)
"The one center I would still give props to now is Kevin Mawae. He's very quick, and he has great athleticism"
--Ray Lewis
84. Todd Heap TE, Ravens (NR)
"He's very athletic. I've never seen a player, let alone a tight end, catch the ball away from his body as well as Todd does."
--Ozzie Newsome
85. Bob Sanders S, Colts (NR)
"The biggest thing with him is energy. He loves to play the game. He plays so hard; he brings that intensity and energy to us. He's a physically tough guy."
--Tony Dungy
86. Ronde Barber CB, Bucs (NR)
"I can't stand to play against him because he's smart and makes plays. But you enjoy the way he plays. He does things the right way."
--Jake Delhomme
87. Chris McAlister CB, Ravens (33)
"McAlister is very physical. It's hard for a receiver to get off the line of scrimmage against him, so a lot of times teams don't throw his way much."
--Brian Griese, Bears quarterback
88. John Abraham DE, Falcons (NR)
"He has speed and suddenness. He has a knack for getting the football out when he gets to the quarterback. And he's a good kid who's fun to have around."
--Jim Mora
89. John Lynch S, Broncos (NR)
"He never puts himself in predicaments where his lack of speed shows. He's always in the right place. If you don't have your mouthpiece in, he's going to put you in a coma."
--Randy McMichael
90. Leonard Little DE, Rams (80)
"Little has so much juice off the ball you have to account for him on the edge all the time. It's a different tempo for offensive tackles with him there."
--Mike Martz
91. Jason Witten TE, Cowboys (NR)
"He's a tough old country-boy type of guy. If you start paying attention to others, next thing you know Witten is coming across the middle getting first down after first down."
--Marcus Washington
92. Jake Delhomme QB, Panthers (NR)
"Jake is an unbelievable competitor. He's fiery and an excellent leader. He's sincere with it. It's real. He's a very quick decision maker. His style is unorthodox, not pretty."
--John Fox
93. Darren Sharper S, Vikings (NR)
"I wouldn't consider him one of the better cover guys in the league, but he always comes up with big plays when they need them. And he brings leadership value."
--Muhsin Muhammad, Bears wide receiver
94. Will Smith DE, Saints (NR)
"When you play him, it's a battle. He's a strong, physical player who's quick for his size. Line up against him, you know it's going to be a battle."
--Travelle Wharton
95. Chris Samuels LT, Commanders (NR)
"He does a great job utilizing leverage and his arm length, and he uses his hands very well."
--Andy Reid
96. Joey Porter OLB, Steelers (NR)
"He's a ferocious player. He has a great motor, and with the talent and speed he's got, it makes for a pretty good combination."
--Troy Aikman
97. Andre Johnson WR, Texans (58)
"I don't think I've ever scouted a guy that big and that fast who is that good a football player. The sky is the limit for him."
--Charley Casserly
98. Jamal Williams NT, Chargers (NR)
"Jamal's unhumanly strong, stronger than anybody in this locker room. I've never played anybody as strong as him. He plays with a real flat back, and he just murders centers."
--Nick Hardwick, Chargers center
99. Kyle Vanden Bosch DE, Titans (NR)
"The thing that impresses you about him is the motor. He's going all the time. You have to block him every down."
--Charley Casserly
100. Ty Law CB, Chiefs (95)
"A really smart player who can pattern read and get all over it quickly. He really understands what the offense is trying to do."
--Nick Saban
101. Nathan Vasher CB, Bears (NR) "He's real quick and can run, but playing football is not about looking great on paper. Some guys just have a knack for playing the game, and Nate is one of those guys."
--Muhsin Muhammad
http://www.sportingnews.com/yourturn/viewtopic.php?t=125343
The NFL's top 101 players: No. 1 Walter Jones
Walter Jones may not be the most exciting player in the NFL -- he's an offensive tackle, for cryin' out loud -- but he is the most efficient. Instead of making big plays, he prevents them. Over and over and over, with the consistency of a fine timepiece.
The Seahawks' left tackle makes domination so routine, he barely is noticed. But we are not taking Jones for granted. On our list of the 101 best players in the NFL, he's No. 1.
Dolphins left tackle L.J. Shelton says he likes to watch Jones on tape. "He makes it look easy," Shelton says. "He was born to play left tackle. There are things he can do physically I just can't do. There are things he does linebackers probably can't do. He's in a class all his own."
Seahawks offensive coordinator Gil Haskell has worked with Hall of Fame tackles Anthony Munoz and Jackie Slater. In Jones, he sees a player who is bigger than both and as quick as Munoz, whom some regard as the finest left tackle ever.
Jones' presence makes Haskell a better game planner because the Seahawks never have to worry about giving their left tackle help from a running back or tight end in pass protection.
And Jones, who ranked seventh last year, isn't any less effective as a run blocker. In the NFC championship game, he drove Panthers defensive end Mike Rucker, an excellent player, about 20 yards downfield on one run. "He needs just a split second to get his hands on you, and then it's over," Rucker says.
Says Cardinals defensive end Bertrand Berry, "He has amazing strength."
The Seahawks know that well. That's why, by Haskell's recollection, the team went to Jones' side on 27 of their 28 goal-line runs last year. And Jones rarely disappointed them. Seahawks coaches gave him the highest possible grade for his performance in all but two of the team's 19 games. "He's the best," Bears defensive end Alex Brown says. "Bar none."
Quote:
2. Peyton Manning QB, Colts (1)
"He understands the game as well as anybody I've been around. It's 40 percent very good talent and 60 percent hard work and smarts with him."
--Tony Dungy, Colts coach
3. Tom Brady QB, Patriots (2)
"It's frustrating sometimes when you're playing against them because you make a mistake and he's going to get you. It's hard to create negative plays when he's in the game." -Nick Saban, Dolphins coach
4. LaDainian Tomlinson RB, Chargers (3)
"The first thing that stands out about L.T. is vision. He has instant recognition of what he should do. It's not thought out; it just happens." -A.J. Smith, Chargers general manager
5. Steve Smith WR, Panthers (NR)
"Steve is competitive and tough. The more he talks, the tougher he gets. Usually my game is to intimidate a guy like him. With him, it ain't happening."
--Shawn Springs, Commanders cornerback
6. Carson Palmer QB, Bengals (NR)
"He has everything you need in a great quarterback -a strong arm, accuracy, a great understanding of the game, leadership, a rapport with his receivers and poise in the pocket."
--Tony Dungy
7. Brian Urlacher MLB, Bears (23)
"He is the best player in the game right now. He does a lot of the little things that bring us together. He's the quarterback on our defense. He leads us."
--Nathan Vasher, Bears cornerback
8. Dwight Freeney DE, Colts (24)
"He runs something like a 4.4, and he's strong. He takes such fast steps ... there is no windup for his moves. It happens like that. It's almost unfair."
--L.J. Shelton, Dolphins offensive tackle
9. Ed Reed S, Ravens (9)
"Ed Reed is probably the most instinctive playmaker back there. He makes plays on balls that most safeties can't make."
--Keenan McCardell, Chargers wide receiver
10. Chad Johnson WR, Bengals (59)
"Chad doesn't take a down off. You have to be conscious of where he is at all times. He's a hard worker, and he loves the game."
--Ed Reed, Ravens safety
11. Shawne Merriman OLB, Chargers (NR)
"I love to watch Shawne Merriman. I just love his mentality, his approach to the game -- it's, 'When the whistle blows, I have no friends.' "
--Ray Lewis, Ravens linebacker
12. Larry Johnson RB, Chiefs (NR)
"He is big, strong and powerful. You can't come off a block and throw your arm out to tackle that guy. He'll break your arm off."
--Donnie Edwards, Chargers linebacker
13. Julius Peppers DE, Panthers (13)
"He's a phenomenal athlete and maybe the lowest-maintenance star I've ever been around. He never needs to be stroked. You'd think he was a walk-on."
--John Fox, Panthers coach
14. Champ Bailey CB, Broncos (21)
"Champ is the best. He's very instinctive, and he has great ball skills. He knows your routes, and he baits a lot of things. He reads the receiver's body language."
--Keenan McCardell
15. Richard Seymour DE, Patriots (25)
"He's a veteran guy who takes this game very seriously. He plays like he wants to be the prototype at his position."
--Rex Hadnot, Dolphins center
16. Jason Taylor DE, Dolphins (17)
"He's a fierce competitor. He works hard in practice, sets a great example and is a very good leader. He affects other people and has a presence about him that is respected by others."
--Nick Saban
17. Santana Moss WR, Commanders (NR)
"He can flat-out fly. That allows him to get a lot of space because you know he can run past you. And on top of that, he's a strong guy."
--Brian Dawkins, Eagles safety
18. Simeon Rice DE, Bucs (27)
"He's fast and explosive. He's been around the league a long time, so he can study and see your weakness and attack it."
--Travelle Wharton, Panthers offensive tackle
19. Torry Holt WR, Rams (20)
"He runs the best out route of anybody I've seen. He doesn't stutter his feet or give ground. He makes every route look the same. He's a true professional about his craft."
--Nathan Vasher
20. Troy Polamalu S, Steelers (35) "He's coming up with different ways to open the game up for safeties. He's showing the versatility of the position, lining up not only at safety but at linebacker, defensive end-whatever it takes."
--Ed Reed
21. Michael Strahan DE, Giants (14)
"You have to gear up for his strength, but when you do that, you also have to be ready for him to get on the edge. It's a fine line."
--Jon Jansen, Commanders offensive tackle
22. Steve Hutchinson G, Vikings (62)
"He has that mentality to run the ball, and it's contagious. He's a strong, strong guy. He has a big neck and a big back, but he's quick, too."
--Gil Haskell, Seahawks offensive coordinator
23. Randy Moss WR, Raiders (4)
"He changed the game. You look at what the game was as far as the deep ball before Randy Moss, and then you look at the game after."
--Dennis Green, Cardinals coach
24. Antonio Gates TE, Chargers (28)
"I love to watch Gatesy. He knows how to use his size against a DB, and he knows how to use his speed and agility against linebackers."
--Randy McMichael, Dolphins tight end
25. Tiki Barber RB, Giants (44)
"He'll get 10 yards, then 8. Next thing you know, he's going to have a 31, a 24. Once he gets the momentum, he has that snowball deal going on."
--Marcus Washington, Commanders linebacker
26. Hines Ward WR, Steelers (36)
"I don't know if he runs the fastest 40 time or if he'd be the top in quickness drills, but he flat-out gets it done. He makes big play after big play."
--Brian Dawkins
27. Ben Roethlisberger QB, Steelers (NR)
"The thing I've been impressed with is his ability to make plays outside the pocket. He can buy time with his feet, relocate his vision and make a play."
--Charley Casserly, former Texans general manager
28. Marcus Stroud DT, Jaguars (37)
"He has such great athletic ability for his size. He's unique in that way. He's so tall and big and yet he can run."
--Casey Wiegmann, Chiefs center
29. Terrell Owens WR, Cowboys (10)
"T.O. plays the game with about as much passion as I've ever seen anyone play with. When he gets the ball, he runs angry. He runs to hurt people. He runs to score."
--Jim Mora, Falcons coach
30. Shaun Alexander RB, Seahawks (48)
"He has a great knack for finding the end zone. He's Mr. Production. He's had five straight years of 14 touchdowns (or more). That speaks for itself."
--Bertrand Berry, Cardinals defensive end
31. Edgerrin James RB, Cardinals (38)
"To me, Edgerrin is one of the only reasons Indy had their success. You can never really hurt him. He's shifty, so quick with his feet, and so patient."
--Ray Lewis
32. Orlando Pace LT, Rams (34)
"Orlando is probably the most athletic tackle in the game. His feet are so light. You can't really beat him around the corner. It's a long day dealing with that."
--Bertrand Berry
33. Tony Gonzalez TE, Chiefs (16)
"The numbers he's posted as a receiver are remarkable, but what's overlooked is he's a good blocker. He was not a real good blocker early on, but he has become one."
--Marty Schottenheimer, Chargers coach
34. Brian Dawkins S, Eagles (32)
"Dawkins is so quick and so smart and so physical. It seems like he's always where he's supposed to be, and he's there before you expect him to be there."
--Chris Cooley, Commanders tight end
35. Jonathan Vilma ILB, Jets (63)
"A very instinctive player who understands the whole scheme of things. His preparation is excellent. I can see it in his eyes. He cares about it. It means something to him."
--Rex Hadnot
36. Roy Williams S, Cowboys (26)
"You definitely have to know where Roy is every play because if you're out of position and that guy hits you, it's not going to feel good."
--Chris Cooley
37. Daunte Culpepper QB, Dolphins (5)
"He can throw BBs, probably knock an apple off the top of a guy's head from 40 yards. You have a guy who can throw like that and scramble, it's a headache."
--Brian Dawkins
38. Larry Fitzgerald WR, Cardinals (NR)
"Larry is the best in the game right now at extending the envelope of the field. He has the ability to go down the field and go up. Contesting for the ball, he's phenomenal."
--Dennis Green
39. Julian Peterson OLB, Seahawks (18)
"Jules is one of my all-time favorites. I used him at four positions in one game, and that says a lot about what he is athletically and his understanding of the game."
--Jim Mora
40. Trent Green QB, Chiefs (53) "He knows the offense and he runs it as well as anybody can. He's so smart. He can look off different coverages and hit the right guy consistently."
--Casey Wiegmann
41. Alan Faneca G, Steelers (43)
"He's a strong guy. Everybody around the league respects him because he's a hard worker."
--Jamal Williams, Chargers nose tackle
42. Matt Hasselbeck QB, Seahawks (NR)
"He's a very accurate, very precise, very smart quarterback. I don't think there is a flaw in his game. He's probably one of the top three quarterbacks in the league."
--Adrian Wilson, Cardinals safety
43. Donovan McNabb QB, Eagles (6)
"Donovan is smart and accurate and a great athlete. He's a tremendous leader, and he has a unique feel for the game."
--Andy Reid, Eagles coach
44. Shaun Rogers DT, Lions (29)
"Most DTs they take out of the game in passing situations, but Shaun you keep in. He can pass rush, he can stuff the run, and he's just a load."
--Ruben Brown, Bears guard
45. Keith Bulluck OLB, Titans (47)
"He's very explosive, athletic and fast for as big as he is. He's a tall guy, but he plays a lot more compact. He gets so low and uses leverage so well."
--Randy McMichael
46. Anquan Boldin WR, Cardinals (NR)
"Anquan is probably the best in the league for run after catch. You look at some of his catch-and-carries since he came into the league ... they're a highlight tape."
--Dennis Green
47. Marvin Harrison WR, Colts (22)
"The main thing with Marvin is quickness in and out of his breaks. He also has soft hands where he'll catch anything and the ability to adjust his body and make tough catches."
--Tony Dungy
48. Tommie Harris DT, Bears (NR)
"He's almost like a linebacker in a defensive tackle's body. He moves effortlessly. He really understands football and has all the tools. He has the hunger to be the best."
--Alex Brown, Bears defensive end
49. DeAngelo Hall CB, Falcons (NR)
"He has a combination of rare ability and athletic arrogance that makes him an outstanding corner. I don't believe there's anything he can't do. He's physical, tough and smart, and he studies the game."
--Jim Mora
50. Olin Kreutz C, Bears (46)
"He's a little sparkplug. His intense focus makes him good. He's focused in on his technique, he's focused in on the defense and the fronts, and he's very football savvy."
--Ruben Brown
51. Brett Favre QB, Packers (11)
"Favre is the best competitor I've ever seen. You don't want to play against Brett Favre in a 2-minute drill. He always gives those guys a chance to win."
--Nathan Vasher
52. Ray Lewis MLB, Ravens (8)
"Ray is the most passionate player I've ever been around."
--Ozzie Newsome, Ravens general manager
53. Derrick Burgess DE, Raiders (NR)
"More than anything, he just loves to play the game. And he's talented and tough on top of it."
--Andy Reid
54. Rod Coleman DT, Falcons (NR)
"He has a defensive end's motor as a defensive tackle. If he's double-teamed, he's going to keep going and fighting and giving all he's got. He's an all-out guy."
--Casey Wiegmann
55. Lofa Tatupu MLB, Seahawks (NR)
"He's a natural linebacker with instincts and love of the game. He takes the first step of the whole defense on every play. He's a born leader."
--Tim Ruskell, Seahawks general manager
56. Lance Briggs OLB, Bears (NR)
"He wants to be great, and he has all the talent that makes him great. He really studies the game, which you can tell in his anticipation."
--Troy Aikman, FOX Sports analyst
57. Osi Umenyiora DE, Giants (NR)
"He's quick. He's one of those guys who gets you back on your heels, and then he gives you a bull rush."
--Travelle Wharton
58. John Henderson DT, Jaguars (52)
"He's humongous, strong and competitive. His size is impressive, and then to have good balance and the ability to move quickly side to side, that's something that doesn't just happen."
--Rex Hadnot
59. Adewale Ogunleye DE, Bears (76)
"He looks like a normal guy, but he's the strongest defensive end we have. He's fast, real smooth and smart. He can turn the corner. Not many are better at left end."
--Alex Brown
60. Kevin Williams DT, Vikings (30) "He can pass rush and run stuff. He can elude you or take you on. You never know if he's going to take you on or slip past you."
--Ruben Brown
61. Jonathan Ogden LT, Ravens (19)
"The best left tackle in the game. He can defend multiple moves, and he's a house to get around. He's very mobile on the edge, very strong and fundamentally sound."
--Terrell Suggs, Ravens defensive end
62. Derrick Brooks OLB, Bucs (42)
"He's unbelievably smart. He knows the other team's offense. He can almost cheat some of his coverages and play two positions at once. He's a general out there." -Jake Delhomme, Panthers quarterback
63. Bertrand Berry DE, Cardinals (88)
"He plays like a Pro Bowl player every week. He gives anybody he plays against all they can handle because he's relentless. He's a good, good player."
--Gil Haskell
64. Shawn Springs CB, Commanders (89)
"He has a safety's intelligence about him. A lot of times, corners just want to get out there and pick their guy off the field. He understands the whole scheme."
--Gregg Williams, Commanders defensive boss
65. Michael Vick QB, Falcons (12)
"An amazing player who can make a defense look stupid. You had better be disciplined when you play him and take care of your assignment or he'll make you look dumb."
--Mike Minter, Panthers safety
66. Samari Rolle CB, Ravens (91)
"He has great feet, some of the best feet I've ever seen. And he has very good hands. Plus, he's a student of the game."
--Ozzie Newsome
67. Jake Plummer QB, Broncos (NR)
"Jake has a quick arm, a good arm, and mobility. He's a heck of a competitor. Guys who love to compete like him are the kind I like."
--Marty Schottenheimer
68. Clinton Portis RB, Commanders (NR)
"One of the things that's very underrated about him is his pass protection. I don't know if he gets the credit he deserves for picking up blitzes the way he does."
--Brian Dawkins
69. Zach Thomas MLB, Dolphins (NR)
"Zach is one of those guys you don't expect to be as good as he is. He's one of the hardest-hitting guys and smartest guys I've ever played against."
--LaDainian Tomlinson, Chargers running back
70. Chris Chambers WR, Dolphins (NR)
"Chris developed the confidence, faith, trust and chemistry with the quarterback and system last year that allowed him to have a breakout year. He can be a premier receiver for a long time."
--Nick Saban
71. Marc Bulger QB, Rams (96)
"He gets the ball out so quick, and he's as accurate as any quarterback I've ever been around. He sees it so well."
--Mike Martz, Lions offensive coordinator
72. Adrian Wilson S, Cardinals (NR)
"Adrian is probably one of the most explosive players in the game. He has cat quickness. He's a true combination of a strong safety, a cornerback and an outside linebacker."
--Dennis Green
73. Drew Brees QB, Saints (56)
"Drew is a good NFL quarterback. He provides leadership. He's a guy you never would want to bet against. He hitches his britches up and goes to work."
--Marty Schottenheimer
74. Sean Taylor S, Commanders (NR)
"Probably the most talented all-around safety. He runs like a corner and hits like a safety. He's still undisciplined at times. When he curtails that a little, he can be phenomenal."
--Kurt Warner, Cardinals quarterback
75. Jeremy Shockey TE, Giants (NR)
"When Shockey runs those pass routes, he's like a big receiver. He's a guy they want matching up on linebackers because he'll have the advantage most of the time."
--Marcus Washington
76. Joey Galloway WR, Bucs (NR)
"At 34 years old, he probably runs faster than any receiver. People don't give him a lot of credit, but he's always the featured receiver."
--Shawn Springs
77. Alge Crumpler TE, Falcons (60)
"He can block and catch the ball well. He does both, which sets him apart from most tight ends."
--Mike Rucker, Panthers defensive end
78. Rudi Johnson RB, Bengals (83)
"Rudi is a physical back. Even if you tackle him, he falls forward and gains good yards. You get a little tired in the fourth quarter, and he'll pound and pound and pound."
--Marcus Washington
79. Al Wilson MLB, Broncos (84)
"He's able to diagnose the play like he knows what the play is. And when he gets there, he's physical. Plus, he can run sideline to sideline."
--LaDainian Tomlinson
80. Terence Newman CB, Cowboys (NR) "Speed is his greatest asset. He's got range as far as his body type. He's continued to get stronger. It's important to him. He's a great team guy."
--Troy Aikman
81. Will Shields G, Chiefs (51)
"The true professional. He doesn't like missing any time in practice or games. He knows exactly what's going on in any given situation in a game. He recovers better than anybody I've seen."
--Casey Wiegmann
82. Mike Wahle G, Panthers (87)
"He was a wide receiver when he got to college. That tells you what kind of athlete you're talking about. He's been able to gain size and strength and maintain the athleticism."
--Troy Aikman
83. Kevin Mawae C, Titans (79)
"The one center I would still give props to now is Kevin Mawae. He's very quick, and he has great athleticism"
--Ray Lewis
84. Todd Heap TE, Ravens (NR)
"He's very athletic. I've never seen a player, let alone a tight end, catch the ball away from his body as well as Todd does."
--Ozzie Newsome
85. Bob Sanders S, Colts (NR)
"The biggest thing with him is energy. He loves to play the game. He plays so hard; he brings that intensity and energy to us. He's a physically tough guy."
--Tony Dungy
86. Ronde Barber CB, Bucs (NR)
"I can't stand to play against him because he's smart and makes plays. But you enjoy the way he plays. He does things the right way."
--Jake Delhomme
87. Chris McAlister CB, Ravens (33)
"McAlister is very physical. It's hard for a receiver to get off the line of scrimmage against him, so a lot of times teams don't throw his way much."
--Brian Griese, Bears quarterback
88. John Abraham DE, Falcons (NR)
"He has speed and suddenness. He has a knack for getting the football out when he gets to the quarterback. And he's a good kid who's fun to have around."
--Jim Mora
89. John Lynch S, Broncos (NR)
"He never puts himself in predicaments where his lack of speed shows. He's always in the right place. If you don't have your mouthpiece in, he's going to put you in a coma."
--Randy McMichael
90. Leonard Little DE, Rams (80)
"Little has so much juice off the ball you have to account for him on the edge all the time. It's a different tempo for offensive tackles with him there."
--Mike Martz
91. Jason Witten TE, Cowboys (NR)
"He's a tough old country-boy type of guy. If you start paying attention to others, next thing you know Witten is coming across the middle getting first down after first down."
--Marcus Washington
92. Jake Delhomme QB, Panthers (NR)
"Jake is an unbelievable competitor. He's fiery and an excellent leader. He's sincere with it. It's real. He's a very quick decision maker. His style is unorthodox, not pretty."
--John Fox
93. Darren Sharper S, Vikings (NR)
"I wouldn't consider him one of the better cover guys in the league, but he always comes up with big plays when they need them. And he brings leadership value."
--Muhsin Muhammad, Bears wide receiver
94. Will Smith DE, Saints (NR)
"When you play him, it's a battle. He's a strong, physical player who's quick for his size. Line up against him, you know it's going to be a battle."
--Travelle Wharton
95. Chris Samuels LT, Commanders (NR)
"He does a great job utilizing leverage and his arm length, and he uses his hands very well."
--Andy Reid
96. Joey Porter OLB, Steelers (NR)
"He's a ferocious player. He has a great motor, and with the talent and speed he's got, it makes for a pretty good combination."
--Troy Aikman
97. Andre Johnson WR, Texans (58)
"I don't think I've ever scouted a guy that big and that fast who is that good a football player. The sky is the limit for him."
--Charley Casserly
98. Jamal Williams NT, Chargers (NR)
"Jamal's unhumanly strong, stronger than anybody in this locker room. I've never played anybody as strong as him. He plays with a real flat back, and he just murders centers."
--Nick Hardwick, Chargers center
99. Kyle Vanden Bosch DE, Titans (NR)
"The thing that impresses you about him is the motor. He's going all the time. You have to block him every down."
--Charley Casserly
100. Ty Law CB, Chiefs (95)
"A really smart player who can pattern read and get all over it quickly. He really understands what the offense is trying to do."
--Nick Saban
101. Nathan Vasher CB, Bears (NR) "He's real quick and can run, but playing football is not about looking great on paper. Some guys just have a knack for playing the game, and Nate is one of those guys."
--Muhsin Muhammad
