Mock drafts anyone?

Mothra · Mar 31, 2005

tis the season...

http://sportsillustrated.cnn.com/2005/writers/don_banks/03/15/mock.draft2.part1/

<TABLE style="BORDER-RIGHT: #666 1px solid; BORDER-TOP: #666 1px solid; BORDER-LEFT: #666 1px solid; BORDER-BOTTOM: #666 1px solid" cellSpacing=0 cellPadding=2 width=554 border=0><TBODY><TR><TD class=categories>Pick</TD><TD class=categories>Team</TD><TD class=categories>Pos.</TD><TD class=categories>Player</TD><TD class=categories>College</TD><TD class=categories>Class</TD><TD class=categories>Ht.</TD><TD class=categories>Wt.</TD></TR><TR><TD class=pick>1</TD><TD class=player>

</TD><TD class=player>QB</TD><TD class=player_name>Aaron Rodgers</TD><TD class=player>California</TD><TD class=player>Jr.</TD><TD class=player>6-2</TD><TD class=weight>215</TD></TR><TR><TD class=analysis colSpan=8>We're probably going to waver on Rodgers at some point in the coming, hype-filled five weeks, but for now we're sticking with the notion that the 49ers won't be able to come up with a better option than taking the local kid with a pinpoint arm. </TD></TR><TR><TD class=pick_a>2</TD><TD class=player_a>

</TD><TD class=player_a>RB</TD><TD class=player_name_a>Ronnie Brown</TD><TD class=player_a>Auburn</TD><TD class=player_a>Sr.</TD><TD class=player_a>6-1</TD><TD class=weight_a>224</TD></TR><TR><TD class=analysis_a colSpan=8>Pre-Combine we foresaw Texas stud Cedric Benson filling the void that Ricky Williams created in Miami when he retired. But that was then, this is now. Brown's boffo showing in Indianapolis makes him No. 2 with a bullet. </TD></TR><TR><TD class=pick>3</TD><TD class=player>

</TD><TD class=player>QB</TD><TD class=player_name>Alex Smith</TD><TD class=player>Utah</TD><TD class=player>Jr.</TD><TD class=player>6-4</TD><TD class=weight>212</TD></TR><TR><TD class=analysis colSpan=8>We still think the Browns would prefer to trade down and take an offensive tackle such as Alex Barron or Jammal Brown in the middle of the round. But if they stick with the No. 3, Smith as the heir apparent to 2005 starter Trent Dilfer makes the most sense. </TD></TR><TR><TD class=pick_a>4</TD><TD class=player_a>

</TD><TD class=player_a>WR</TD><TD class=player_name_a>Braylon Edwards</TD><TD class=player_a>Michigan</TD><TD class=player_a>Sr.</TD><TD class=player_a>6-3</TD><TD class=weight_a>206</TD></TR><TR><TD class=analysis_a colSpan=8>Don't let the Muhsin Muhammad signing throw you. The Bears aren't going to pass on the draft's elite receiver just because they addressed the position in free agency. Texas RB Cedric Benson appears to be their fallback option. </TD></TR><TR><TD class=pick>5</TD><TD class=player>

</TD><TD class=player>RB</TD><TD class=player_name>Carnell Williams</TD><TD class=player>Auburn</TD><TD class=player>Sr.</TD><TD class=player>5-11</TD><TD class=weight>204</TD></TR><TR><TD class=analysis colSpan=8>The Bucs don't have the cap room to make noise in the Edgerrin James trade market, and with Williams sitting there for the taking in the top five, Jon Gruden will fill that backfield need with the guy he coached in the Senior Bowl in Mobile, Ala. </TD></TR><TR><TD class=pick_a>6</TD><TD class=player_a>

</TD><TD class=player_a>CB</TD><TD class=player_name_a>Antrel Rolle</TD><TD class=player_a>Miami</TD><TD class=player_a>Sr.</TD><TD class=player_a>6-1</TD><TD class=weight_a>202</TD></TR><TR><TD class=analysis_a colSpan=8>The Titans lost both their starting cornerbacks -- Samari Rolle and Andre Dyson -- in their late-February cap purge, so it stands to reason that either Rolle or West Virginia CB Adam "Pac Man" Jones will be the pick. </TD></TR><TR><TD class=pick>7</TD><TD class=player>

</TD><TD class=player_a>WR</TD><TD class=player_name_a>Mike Williams</TD><TD class=player_a>USC</TD><TD class=player_a>Jr.</TD><TD class=player_a>6-5</TD><TD class=weight_a>230</TD></TR><TR><TD class=analysis colSpan=8>With an extra first-round pick to play with thanks to the Randy Moss trade, the Vikings can entertain taking Williams, who seemed to allay concerns about his speed by running in the 4.5s at the Combine and on his pro day. </TD></TR><TR><TD class=pick_a>8</TD><TD class=player_a>

</TD><TD class=player_a>RB</TD><TD class=player_name_a>Cedric Benson</TD><TD class=player_a>Texas</TD><TD class=player_a>Sr.</TD><TD class=player_a>6-0</TD><TD class=weight_a>215</TD></TR><TR><TD class=analysis_a colSpan=8>CB Adam Jones or LB Derrick Johnson could tempt the Cardinals, but the hole at running back, combined with Dennis Green's penchant for going for offense in the first round should tip the scales in favor of the ex-Longhorn. </TD></TR><TR><TD class=pick>9</TD><TD class=player>

</TD><TD class=player>CB</TD><TD class=player_name>Adam Jones</TD><TD class=player>West Virginia</TD><TD class=player>Jr.</TD><TD class=player>5-10</TD><TD class=weight>190</TD></TR><TR><TD class=analysis colSpan=8>With Fred Smoot now in Minnesota, the Redskins' board shows the perfect confluence of need and top-10 value. Jones is a solid tackler, and as a bonus helps out on kick returns. If Tennessee takes Jones, give the Redskins Rolle. </TD></TR><TR><TD class=pick_a>10</TD><TD class=player_a>

</TD><TD class=player>LB</TD><TD class=player_name>Derrick Johnson</TD><TD class=player>Texas</TD><TD class=player>Sr.</TD><TD class=player>6-4</TD><TD class=weight>235</TD></TR><TR><TD class=analysis_a colSpan=8>The Lions have invested their past four No. 1s on offense, so it's time to think defense. Johnson is the draft's best linebacker, and Detroit doesn't have to reach a bit to make this athletic, ball-hawking prospect a top-10 pick. </TD></TR><TR><TD class=pick>11</TD><TD class=player>

</TD><TD class=player_a>DE/OLB</TD><TD class=player_name_a>Shawne Merriman</TD><TD class=player_a>Maryland</TD><TD class=player_a>Jr.</TD><TD class=player_a>6-4</TD><TD class=weight_a>250</TD></TR><TR><TD class=analysis colSpan=8>In our first mock, we had the versatile Merriman going to the Cowboys with their No. 20 pick. But his "tweener" skills would seem a perfect fit as Dallas prepares to use a 3-4 defensive scheme at least some of the time in 2005. </TD></TR><TR><TD class=pick_a>12</TD><TD class=player_a>

</TD><TD class=player>DE</TD><TD class=player_name>Marcus Spears</TD><TD class=player>LSU</TD><TD class=player>Sr.</TD><TD class=player>6-4</TD><TD class=weight>298</TD></TR><TR><TD class=analysis_a colSpan=8>The Chargers could lean toward speedy South Carolina receiver Troy Williamson in this slot, but it's more likely they'll get some help for their defensive front with Spears, who also can rush the passer from inside. </TD></TR><TR><TD class=pick>13</TD><TD class=player>

</TD><TD class=player_a>OT</TD><TD class=player_name_a>Alex Barron</TD><TD class=player_a>Florida State</TD><TD class=player_a>Sr.</TD><TD class=player_a>6-6</TD><TD class=weight_a>308</TD></TR><TR><TD class=analysis colSpan=8>The Texans' offensive line has been their weak link since Day 1, and that's why landing the draft's best tackle is the right call for quarterback David Carr's future health. Barron is good enough to handle either side in the NFL. </TD></TR><TR><TD class=pick_a>14</TD><TD class=player_a>

</TD><TD class=player_a>TE</TD><TD class=player_name_a>Heath Miller</TD><TD class=player_a>Virginia</TD><TD class=player_a>Jr.</TD><TD class=player_a>6-5</TD><TD class=weight_a>255</TD></TR><TR><TD class=analysis_a colSpan=8>Miller won't be this high on a lot of teams' boards, but the Panthers need an upgrade at tight end and he's the one sure-fire first-rounder in this draft. The way teams threw to tight ends in 2004, the position has first-round value. </TD></TR><TR><TD class=pick>15</TD><TD class=player>

</TD><TD class=player>DE</TD><TD class=player_name>Dan Cody</TD><TD class=player>Oklahoma</TD><TD class=player>Sr.</TD><TD class=player>6-5</TD><TD class=weight>265</TD></TR><TR><TD class=analysis colSpan=8>Cody has proven himself in important games in a big-time college program, and he has enough athleticism and pass-rush skills to make an impact on a defense that desperately needs more impact players. DE Erasmus James is a riskier pick. </TD></TR><TR><TD class=pick_a>16</TD><TD class=player_a>

</TD><TD class=player_a>S</TD><TD class=player_name_a>Thomas Davis</TD><TD class=player_a>Georgia</TD><TD class=player_a>Jr.</TD><TD class=player_a>6-1</TD><TD class=weight_a>230</TD></TR><TR><TD class=analysis_a colSpan=8>The Saints signed safety Dwight Smith in free agency, but they could still use a play-maker such as Davis, who many project to weakside linebacker in the NFL. Davis has great speed at 230 pounds and ran a 4.6 at the Combine. </TD></TR></TBODY></TABLE>
<TABLE style="BORDER-RIGHT: #666 1px solid; BORDER-TOP: #666 1px solid; BORDER-LEFT: #666 1px solid; BORDER-BOTTOM: #666 1px solid" cellSpacing=0 cellPadding=2 width=554 border=0><TBODY><TR><TD class=cont colSpan=8>Mock Draft Continued</TD></TR></TBODY></TABLE>
<TABLE style="BORDER-RIGHT: #666 1px solid; BORDER-TOP: #666 1px solid; BORDER-LEFT: #666 1px solid; BORDER-BOTTOM: #666 1px solid" cellSpacing=0 cellPadding=2 width=554 border=0><TBODY><TR><TD class=categories>Pick</TD><TD class=categories>Team</TD><TD class=categories>Pos.</TD><TD class=categories>Player</TD><TD class=categories>College</TD><TD class=categories>Class</TD><TD class=categories>Ht.</TD><TD class=categories>Wt.</TD></TR><TR><TD class=pick>17</TD><TD class=player>

</TD><TD class=player>DT</TD><TD class=player_name>Travis Johnson</TD><TD class=player>Florida State</TD><TD class=player>Sr.</TD><TD class=player>6-5</TD><TD class=weight>292</TD></TR><TR><TD class=analysis colSpan=8>Free agency didn't change the fact that run defense remains the Bengals' weak link on defense. An upgrade in the middle of the line is mandatory, and Johnson is the consensus top gap-clogging defensive tackle available. </TD></TR><TR><TD class=pick_a>18</TD><TD class=player_a>

</TD><TD class=player>DE</TD><TD class=player_name>Erasmus James</TD><TD class=player>Wisconsin</TD><TD class=player>Sr.</TD><TD class=player>6-4</TD><TD class=weight>263</TD></TR><TR><TD class=analysis_a colSpan=8>After adding Pat Williams via free agency, the Vikings are set at defensive tackle. With Fred Smoot on board, they're set at cornerback, too. James gives them an edge pass-rush presence, and suddenly the Minnesota D-line is looking pretty formidable. </TD></TR><TR><TD class=pick>19</TD><TD class=player>

</TD><TD class=player>OT</TD><TD class=player_name>Jammal Brown</TD><TD class=player>Oklahoma</TD><TD class=player>Sr.</TD><TD class=player>6-6</TD><TD class=weight>313</TD></TR><TR><TD class=analysis colSpan=8>The Rams have offensive tackle trouble. The Kyle Turley acquisition was an unmitigated disaster last year, and now there's a chance that cornerstone left tackle Orlando Pace will be moved. That makes Brown a lay-up choice. </TD></TR><TR><TD class=pick_a>20</TD><TD class=player_a>

</TD><TD class=player_a>WR</TD><TD class=player_name_a>Troy Williamson</TD><TD class=player_a>South Carolina</TD><TD class=player_a>Jr.</TD><TD class=player_a>6-2</TD><TD class=weight_a>200</TD></TR><TR><TD class=analysis_a colSpan=8>With defense getting the attention at No. 11, the Cowboys need to find a receiver who can stretch the field. Williamson is on the rise after his combine 4.3's, and Dallas would be ecstatic if he's still available at No. 20. </TD></TR><TR><TD class=pick>21</TD><TD class=player>

</TD><TD class=player_a>CB</TD><TD class=player_name_a>Carlos Rogers</TD><TD class=player_a>Auburn</TD><TD class=player_a>Sr.</TD><TD class=player_a>6-1</TD><TD class=weight_a>194</TD></TR><TR><TD class=analysis colSpan=8>Given the Jags' troubles at DE last season, they could still go for Georgia's David Pollack, even after signing Denver's Reggie Hayward in free agency. But they have need at cornerback too, making Rogers too good to pass up. </TD></TR><TR><TD class=pick_a>22</TD><TD class=player_a>

</TD><TD class=player_a>OT</TD><TD class=player_name_a>Khalif Barnes</TD><TD class=player_a>Washington</TD><TD class=player_a>Sr.</TD><TD class=player_a>6-5</TD><TD class=weight_a>310</TD></TR><TR><TD class=analysis_a colSpan=8>After landing WR Derrick Mason and CB Samari Rolle during free agency, the Ravens can afford to look elsewhere on their need list. Receiver could still get more love, but Barnes would be an ideal bookend with Jonathan Ogden. </TD></TR><TR><TD class=pick>23</TD><TD class=player>

</TD><TD class=player>DE</TD><TD class=player_name>David Pollack</TD><TD class=player>Georgia</TD><TD class=player>Sr.</TD><TD class=player>6-2</TD><TD class=weight>270</TD></TR><TR><TD class=analysis colSpan=8>The Seahawks' defensive line needs help and they have options here. Pollack has a great motor and intensity level, but Seattle also could consider USC's DE/DT Shaun Cody or Iowa DE Matt Roth. Pollack is the safe bet. </TD></TR><TR><TD class=pick_a>24</TD><TD class=player_a>

</TD><TD class=player_a>S</TD><TD class=player_name_a>Brodney Pool</TD><TD class=player_a>Oklahoma</TD><TD class=player_a>Jr.</TD><TD class=player_a>6-3</TD><TD class=weight_a>208</TD></TR><TR><TD class=analysis_a colSpan=8>After losing both starting guards in free agency, the Packers could use help there. But there's not a consensus first-round guard in this draft. Poole gives Green Bay an immediate replacement for departed free safety Darren Sharper. </TD></TR><TR><TD class=pick>25</TD><TD class=player>

</TD><TD class=player>DE</TD><TD class=player_name>Matt Roth</TD><TD class=player>Iowa</TD><TD class=player>Sr.</TD><TD class=player>6-3</TD><TD class=weight>278</TD></TR><TR><TD class=analysis colSpan=8>The Broncos lost Reggie Hayward during free agency, and Trevor Pryce is still on the trading block, so they must upgrade their defensive line. Roth is versatile enough to fit into Denver's plan to play some 3-4 scheme in 2005. </TD></TR><TR><TD class=pick_a>26</TD><TD class=player_a>

</TD><TD class=player_a>CB</TD><TD class=player_name_a>Fabian Washington</TD><TD class=player_a>Nebraska</TD><TD class=player_a>Jr.</TD><TD class=player_a>5-8</TD><TD class=weight_a>186</TD></TR><TR><TD class=analysis_a colSpan=8>It's a deep year for corners, and the needy Jets could be well situated to land the position's fastest prospect. Washington ran a blistering 4.28 at the Combine, vaulting himself into the bottom third of the first round. </TD></TR><TR><TD class=pick>27</TD><TD class=player>

</TD><TD class=player>DE/DT</TD><TD class=player_name>Shaun Cody</TD><TD class=player>USC</TD><TD class=player>Sr.</TD><TD class=player>6-4</TD><TD class=weight>295</TD></TR><TR><TD class=analysis colSpan=8>The Falcons, who need to find a true No. 1 receiver for Michael Vick, could see Mark Clayton of Oklahoma as irresistible. But now that veteran defensive tackle Ed Jasper has been released, Cody would fill an obvious need. </TD></TR><TR><TD class=pick_a>28</TD><TD class=player_a>

</TD><TD class=player>WR</TD><TD class=player_name>Mark Clayton</TD><TD class=player>Oklahoma</TD><TD class=player>Sr.</TD><TD class=player>5-11</TD><TD class=weight>187</TD></TR><TR><TD class=analysis_a colSpan=8>If the Chargers go defense with their No. 12 pick, we're pretty sure they'll be thinking receiver in this slot. UAB's Roddy White is a possibility, and he's the superior deep threat. But Clayton is the more polished talent. </TD></TR><TR><TD class=pick>29</TD><TD class=player>

</TD><TD class=player>LB</TD><TD class=player_name>Channing Crowder</TD><TD class=player>Florida</TD><TD class=player>Jr.</TD><TD class=player>6-0</TD><TD class=weight>252</TD></TR><TR><TD class=analysis colSpan=8>We know the Colts are going to be thinking defense, and Crowder is an intriguing talent who may be able to play both in the middle or outside in the NFL. Crowder would fill a need if they lost free-agent MLB Rob Morris. </TD></TR><TR><TD class=pick_a>30</TD><TD class=player_a>

</TD><TD class=player_a>WR</TD><TD class=player_name_a>Roddy White</TD><TD class=player_a>Alabama-Birmingham</TD><TD class=player_a>Jr.</TD><TD class=player_a>6-1</TD><TD class=weight_a>207</TD></TR><TR><TD class=analysis_a colSpan=8>Plaxico Burress is gone, so the Steelers could use another downfield target for quarterback Ben Roethlisberger. White has blazing speed and was ultra-productive in college (a 20.0-yard average catch as a senior). </TD></TR><TR><TD class=pick>31</TD><TD class=player>

</TD><TD class=player>DE/OLB</TD><TD class=player_name>Demarcus Ware</TD><TD class=player>Troy St.</TD><TD class=player>Sr.</TD><TD class=player>6-4</TD><TD class=weight>252</TD></TR><TR><TD class=analysis colSpan=8>The Eagles could still draft receiving help for No. 1 pass-catcher Terrell Owens, but signing Plaxico Burress would also accomplish that goal. Ware is a bit of a project, but could generate some edge rush from DE or LB. </TD></TR><TR><TD class=pick_a>32</TD><TD class=player_a>

</TD><TD class=player_a>CB</TD><TD class=player_name_a>Justin Miller</TD><TD class=player_a>Clemson</TD><TD class=player_a>Jr.</TD><TD class=player_a>5-11</TD><TD class=weight_a>201</TD></TR><TR><TD class=analysis_a colSpan=8>We're not going to get too tricky here. Ty Law is now an ex-Patriot, so New England should be in the corner market. Miller also is a return specialist, and we all know how much the Pats like guys who can do more than one thing. </TD></TR></TBODY></TABLE>

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"); document.write("<table width=624 style=font-size:80%;font-family:verdana;><tr><td bgcolor=#FF9900>" +oData.aColHeaderText[0].toUpperCase()+ "</td><td bgcolor=#FF9900>" + oData.aColHeaderText[2].toUpperCase() + "</td><td bgcolor=#FF9900>" + oData.aColHeaderText[3].toUpperCase() + "</td><td bgcolor=#FF9900>" + oData.aColHeaderText[4].toUpperCase() + "</td><td bgcolor=#FF9900>" + oData.aColHeaderText[5].toUpperCase() + "</td><td bgcolor=#FF9900>" + oData.aColHeaderText[6].toUpperCase() + "</td></tr><tr><td colspan=6 height=5><SPACER TYPE=BLOCK WIDTH=1></TD></TR>"); for (i=0;i<oData.rows.length;i+=2) { document.write("<tr><td>" + oData.rows[0]+"</td><td>" + oData.rows[2]+"</td><td>" + oData.rows[3]+"</td><td>" + oData.rows[4]+"</td><td>" + oData.rows[5]+"</td><td>" + oData.rows[6]+"</td></tr><tr><td></td><td colspan=5>" + oData.rows[i+1]+"</td></tr><tr><td colspan=6 height=5><hr size=1></TD></TR>"); } document.write("</table>");}</SCRIPT>From NBCSports.com contributor Ron Borges

Nothing is more of a mockery than a mock draft taken nearly two months before the actually annual NFL cattle call but we, like the 32 league franchises, have to start somewhere so with the combine workouts in here is a first projection that is sure to change mightily between now and April 23, when the real thing will be conducted.

This is one of the more baffling drafts in recent memory because not even the team with the first overall pick, the San Francisco 49ers, seems to have any idea what to do with their selection. If the first team picking says it's a mystery what do you think the other 31 teams are thinking?
At this point it beats me but it beats them too and will continue to do so until such time as the spring's many individual workouts begin to sort things out. Until then, here's a first draft of the draft's first round.
<TABLE style="FONT-SIZE: 80%; FONT-FAMILY: verdana" width=624><TBODY><TR><TD bgColor=#ff9900>TEAM</TD><TD bgColor=#ff9900>NAME</TD><TD bgColor=#ff9900>POS.</TD><TD bgColor=#ff9900>HT.</TD><TD bgColor=#ff9900>WT.</TD><TD bgColor=#ff9900>COLLEGE</TD></TR><TR><TD colSpan=6 height=5><SPACER TYPE="BLOCK" WIDTH="1"></TD></TR><TR><TD>1. 49ers</TD><TD>Alex Smith</TD><TD>QB</TD><TD>6-4</TD><TD>212</TD><TD>Utah</TD></TR><TR><TD></TD><TD colSpan=5>If they can't trade out, the 49ers probably will go for Smith over local product Aaron Rodgers. Smith is just as accurate and mobile and won't have the pressure of being the local boy from Cal trying to make good. But the 49ers will work hard to get out of this slot for multiple picks and might end up trading at a discount.</TD></TR><TR><TD colSpan=6 height=5><HR SIZE=1></TD></TR><TR><TD>2. Dolphins</TD><TD>Ronnie Brown</TD><TD>RB</TD><TD>6-1</TD><TD>230</TD><TD>Auburn</TD></TR><TR><TD></TD><TD colSpan=5>He has the package of speed and power at 230 pounds that Nick Saban needs with so many quarterback problems. Texas' Cedric Benson is also a possibility, but Brown is faster, bigger and catches well out of the backfield.</TD></TR><TR><TD colSpan=6 height=5><HR SIZE=1></TD></TR><TR><TD>3. Browns</TD><TD>Aaron Rodgers</TD><TD>QB</TD><TD>6-2</TD><TD>223</TD><TD>Cal</TD></TR><TR><TD></TD><TD colSpan=5>When you don't have one, you've got to go get one, even if Rodgers isn't the best value for the pick.</TD></TR><TR><TD colSpan=6 height=5><HR SIZE=1></TD></TR><TR><TD>4. Bears</TD><TD>Cedric Benson</TD><TD>RB</TD><TD>6-0</TD><TD>215</TD><TD>Texas</TD></TR><TR><TD></TD><TD colSpan=5>They brought in a big-play receiver in Muhsin Muhammad. Now they add a runner who can make big plays to help take pressure off young quarterback Rex Grosssman.</TD></TR><TR><TD colSpan=6 height=5><HR SIZE=1></TD></TR><TR><TD>5. Bucs</TD><TD>Carnell Williams</TD><TD>RB</TD><TD>5-10</TD><TD>206</TD><TD>Auburn</TD></TR><TR><TD></TD><TD colSpan=5>Jon Gruden likes inside runners and Williams is that. Although he's not quite as big as you'd like, Gruden knows he can't go any longer with veteran Michael Pittman if he wants to get his offense in the end zone.</TD></TR><TR><TD colSpan=6 height=5><HR SIZE=1></TD></TR><TR><TD>6. Titans</TD><TD>Antrel Rolle</TD><TD>CB</TD><TD>6-1</TD><TD>202</TD><TD>Miami, Fla.</TD></TR><TR><TD></TD><TD colSpan=5>He's no Samari Rolle but he'll need to be. </TD></TR><TR><TD colSpan=6 height=5><HR SIZE=1></TD></TR><TR><TD>7. Vikings</TD><TD>Braylon Edwards</TD><TD>WR</TD><TD>6-3</TD><TD>208</TD><TD>Michigan</TD></TR><TR><TD></TD><TD colSpan=5>This pick cost them Randy Moss so it had better turn into something big. They may go defensive, but Edwards is the biggest playmaker left on the board. In the end, Minnesota may not want a receiver with this pick though because he'd be doomed to be compared with Moss throughout his career.</TD></TR><TR><TD colSpan=6 height=5><HR SIZE=1></TD></TR><TR><TD>8. Cardinals</TD><TD>Alex Barron</TD><TD>T</TD><TD>6-6</TD><TD>308</TD><TD>Florida St.</TD></TR><TR><TD></TD><TD colSpan=5>Dennis Green loves offense, and he loves big offensive linemen. He can get both with this selection. </TD></TR><TR><TD colSpan=6 height=5><HR SIZE=1></TD></TR><TR><TD>9. Redskins</TD><TD>Adam Jones</TD><TD>CB</TD><TD>5-11</TD><TD>185</TD><TD>W. Virginia</TD></TR><TR><TD></TD><TD colSpan=5>He's not Champ Bailey and maybe not even Fred Smoot but the Redskins need some young blood to come in and try to be.</TD></TR><TR><TD colSpan=6 height=5><HR SIZE=1></TD></TR><TR><TD>10. Lions</TD><TD>Derrick Johnson</TD><TD>LB</TD><TD>6-3</TD><TD>234</TD><TD>Texas</TD></TR><TR><TD></TD><TD colSpan=5>Best LB in the draft and the best player available if he falls this far. Which he probably won't. But after four years drafting offense, the Lions need to beef up the defense and he's the best player available even though not a pressing need.</TD></TR><TR><TD colSpan=6 height=5><HR SIZE=1></TD></TR><TR><TD>11. Cowboys</TD><TD>Shawne Merriman</TD><TD>DE/OLB</TD><TD>6-4</TD><TD>253</TD><TD>Maryland</TD></TR><TR><TD></TD><TD colSpan=5>He fits the 3-4 mold Bill Parcells likes, and he has grown tired of trying to play his style of defense without his style of defensive players. Has similarities to another former Parcells' No. 1 pick - New England's Willie McGinest.</TD></TR><TR><TD colSpan=6 height=5><HR SIZE=1></TD></TR><TR><TD>12. Chargers</TD><TD>Mike Williams</TD><TD>WR</TD><TD>6-4</TD><TD>228</TD><TD>USC</TD></TR><TR><TD></TD><TD colSpan=5>Whether it's Drew Brees or Philip Rivers, they need somebody dangerous to throw to. One downside of Williams is questionable speed. If Marty Schottenheimer grows concerned, he'll opt for defensive help instead.</TD></TR><TR><TD colSpan=6 height=5><HR SIZE=1></TD></TR><TR><TD>13. Texans</TD><TD>Marcus Spears</TD><TD>DE</TD><TD>6-4</TD><TD>298</TD><TD>LSU</TD></TR><TR><TD></TD><TD colSpan=5>Nick Saban trained playmaker will help Dom Capers continue to improve his defensive front.</TD></TR><TR><TD colSpan=6 height=5><HR SIZE=1></TD></TR><TR><TD>14. Panthers</TD><TD>Troy Williamson</TD><TD>WR</TD><TD>6-2</TD><TD>200</TD><TD>S. Carolina</TD></TR><TR><TD></TD><TD colSpan=5>Someone has to replace Muhsin Muhammad and Williamson is the fastest receiver in this draft.</TD></TR><TR><TD colSpan=6 height=5><HR SIZE=1></TD></TR><TR><TD>15. Chiefs</TD><TD>Dan Cody</TD><TD>DE</TD><TD>6-4</TD><TD>270</TD><TD>Oklahoma</TD></TR><TR><TD></TD><TD colSpan=5>Dick Vermeil can't get anywhere near one last Super Bowl shot without major defensive improvements. He could also opt for CB Carlos Rogers.</TD></TR><TR><TD colSpan=6 height=5><HR SIZE=1></TD></TR><TR><TD>16. Saints</TD><TD>Travis Johnson</TD><TD>DT</TD><TD>6-4</TD><TD>290</TD><TD>Florida St.</TD></TR><TR><TD></TD><TD colSpan=5>They could go for a corner instead, but the Saints march nowhere if they don't get some defensive players to stop opponents from going marching into their end zone. </TD></TR><TR><TD colSpan=6 height=5><HR SIZE=1></TD></TR><TR><TD>17. Bengals</TD><TD>Shaun Cody</TD><TD>DE</TD><TD>6-4</TD><TD>292</TD><TD>USC</TD></TR><TR><TD></TD><TD colSpan=5>Versatile player who could also move inside. With top defensive linemen fast disappearing, Marvin Lewis makes a move to shore up his defense.</TD></TR><TR><TD colSpan=6 height=5><HR SIZE=1></TD></TR><TR><TD>18. Vikings</TD><TD>Carlos Rogers</TD><TD>CB</TD><TD>6-1</TD><TD>194</TD><TD>Auburn</TD></TR><TR><TD></TD><TD colSpan=5>Surprising if he slips this far but if he does he goes no farther. The Vikings need secondary help and get it here.</TD></TR><TR><TD colSpan=6 height=5><HR SIZE=1></TD></TR><TR><TD>19. Rams</TD><TD>Jammal Brown</TD><TD>T</TD><TD>6-6</TD><TD>313</TD><TD>Oklahoma</TD></TR><TR><TD></TD><TD colSpan=5>The Rams need offensive line help before they ruin a second straight quarterback the way they did with Kurt Warner. If a top tackle isn't left, they'll go defensive, probably taking Georgia defensive end David Pollack.</TD></TR><TR><TD colSpan=6 height=5><HR SIZE=1></TD></TR><TR><TD>20. Cowboys</TD><TD>Erasmus James</TD><TD>DE</TD><TD>6-4</TD><TD>263</TD><TD>Wisconsin</TD></TR><TR><TD></TD><TD colSpan=5>The effort to shore up the defensive front continues. He's a gamble, but if the Cowboys hit they'll get a great edge pass rusher. Other possibility is a speed receiver to give Drew Bledsoe more weapons.</TD></TR><TR><TD colSpan=6 height=5><HR SIZE=1></TD></TR><TR><TD>21. Jaguars</TD><TD>Roddy White</TD><TD>WR</TD><TD>6-2</TD><TD>205</TD><TD>Alabama-Birmingham</TD></TR><TR><TD></TD><TD colSpan=5>A playmaker and Byron Leftwich could use one. Averaged 20 yards a catch and had a big Senior Bowl week.</TD></TR><TR><TD colSpan=6 height=5><HR SIZE=1></TD></TR><TR><TD>22. Ravens</TD><TD>Mark Clayton</TD><TD>WR</TD><TD>5-11</TD><TD>187</TD><TD>Oklahoma</TD></TR><TR><TD></TD><TD colSpan=5>The Ravens must get a wide receiver because the group they had last season made quarterback Kyle Boller's job impossible.</TD></TR><TR><TD colSpan=6 height=5><HR SIZE=1></TD></TR><TR><TD>23. Seahawks</TD><TD>Matt Roth</TD><TD>DE</TD><TD>6-3</TD><TD>272</TD><TD>Iowa</TD></TR><TR><TD></TD><TD colSpan=5>They must get better on defense in a hurry and Mike Holngren knows it, so he goes for the best defensive end left.</TD></TR><TR><TD colSpan=6 height=5><HR SIZE=1></TD></TR><TR><TD>24. Packers</TD><TD>Thomas Davis</TD><TD>S/LB</TD><TD>6-1</TD><TD>230</TD><TD>Georgia</TD></TR><TR><TD></TD><TD colSpan=5>Punishing tackler with a body that could grow into a linebacker. His versatility and aggressiveness sell him.</TD></TR><TR><TD colSpan=6 height=5><HR SIZE=1></TD></TR><TR><TD>25. Broncos</TD><TD>Antajj Hawthorne</TD><TD>DT</TD><TD>6-2</TD><TD>310</TD><TD>Wisconsin</TD></TR><TR><TD></TD><TD colSpan=5>That the Broncos need to do something to improve their defense becomes evident in the first-round of the playoffs every January. So they try again.</TD></TR><TR><TD colSpan=6 height=5><HR SIZE=1></TD></TR><TR><TD>26. Jets</TD><TD>Fabian Washington</TD><TD>CB</TD><TD>5-11</TD><TD>175</TD><TD>Nebraska</TD></TR><TR><TD></TD><TD colSpan=5>Ran a 4.28 40 at the combine. That could make him a Bronco. If it doesn't, it'll make him a Jet if he's still on the board.</TD></TR><TR><TD colSpan=6 height=5><HR SIZE=1></TD></TR><TR><TD>27. Falcons</TD><TD>Khalif Barnes</TD><TD>T</TD><TD>6-5</TD><TD>310</TD><TD>Washington</TD></TR><TR><TD></TD><TD colSpan=5>The more big bodies to protect Michael Vick, the more dangerous he and the Falcons become. Could go for defense instead but the value may be at offensive line because Vick is the franchise and he must be protected.</TD></TR><TR><TD colSpan=6 height=5><HR SIZE=1></TD></TR><TR><TD>28. Chargers</TD><TD>Brodney Pool</TD><TD>S</TD><TD>6-3</TD><TD>208</TD><TD>Oklahoma</TD></TR><TR><TD></TD><TD colSpan=5>The Chargers need more help in the secondary and Poole could provide it. If a solid offensive tackle is still available they could go in that direction too.</TD></TR><TR><TD colSpan=6 height=5><HR SIZE=1></TD></TR><TR><TD>29. Colts</TD><TD>Channing Crowder</TD><TD>LB</TD><TD>6-2</TD><TD>247</TD><TD>Florida</TD></TR><TR><TD></TD><TD colSpan=5>Tony Dungy needs more of his kind of athletes on defense for the Colts to reach the elite level.</TD></TR><TR><TD colSpan=6 height=5><HR SIZE=1></TD></TR><TR><TD>30. Steelers</TD><TD>Vernand Morency</TD><TD>RB</TD><TD>5-10</TD><TD>215</TD><TD>Oklahoma State </TD></TR><TR><TD></TD><TD colSpan=5>Jerome Bettis and Duce Staley are back, but age and treadwear are problems for them. Steelers are so solid they can afford to draft for a near future need. Could also opt for tight end Heath Miller to give Ben Roethlisberger a safety valve to dump the ball to.</TD></TR><TR><TD colSpan=6 height=5><HR SIZE=1></TD></TR><TR><TD>31. Eagles</TD><TD>Luis Castillo</TD><TD>DT</TD><TD>6-3</TD><TD>306</TD><TD>Northwestern</TD></TR><TR><TD></TD><TD colSpan=5>The Eagles would like to add a young interior defensive lineman to give them some youth and flexibility at the position. Castillo would supply both.</TD></TR><TR><TD colSpan=6 height=5><HR SIZE=1></TD></TR><TR><TD>32. Patriots</TD><TD>Barrett Ruud</TD><TD>LB</TD><TD>6-1</TD><TD>242</TD><TD>Nebraska</TD></TR><TR><TD></TD><TD colSpan=5>With Tedy Bruschi a question mark, Roman Phifer retired and age on Willie McGinest and Ted Johnson this is a position of need. New England could trade up to get a higher rated linebacker the like better but Ruud was highly productive in a big-time program.</TD></TR></TBODY></TABLE>

</TD></TR></TBODY></TABLE>

http://www.ourlads.com/2005MockDraft.html

Updated: Monday, March 28, 2005

Here’s a look at the latest projection of the first round of the 2005 NFL Draft based upon our grades and insight around the NFL.

<TABLE cellSpacing=1 cellPadding=1 width="100%" bgColor=#9698a5 border=0><TBODY><TR class=arial11White align=middle bgColor=#08092a><TD>Pick</TD><TD>Team</TD><TD>Player</TD><TD>Pos.</TD><TD>School</TD></TR><TR class=arial11DkBlue bgColor=#ededee><TD class=arial14DkRed align=middle>1</TD><TD><TABLE cellSpacing=0 cellPadding=0 border=0><TBODY><TR><TD width=5></TD><TD width=30 height=30>

</TD><TD width=5></TD><TD class=arial11DkBlue>San Francisco 49ers</TD></TR></TBODY></TABLE></TD><TD>Aaron Rodgers</TD><TD class=arial11DkRed align=middle>QB</TD><TD>California</TD></TR><TR class=arial11DkBlue bgColor=#ffffff><TD class=arial14DkRed align=middle>2</TD><TD><TABLE cellSpacing=0 cellPadding=0 border=0><TBODY><TR><TD width=5></TD><TD width=30 height=30>

</TD><TD width=5></TD><TD class=arial11DkBlue>Miami Dolphins</TD></TR></TBODY></TABLE></TD><TD>Ronnie Brown</TD><TD class=arial11DkRed align=middle>RB</TD><TD>Auburn</TD></TR><TR class=arial11DkBlue bgColor=#ededee><TD class=arial14DkRed align=middle>3</TD><TD><TABLE cellSpacing=0 cellPadding=0 border=0><TBODY><TR><TD width=5></TD><TD width=30 height=30>

</TD><TD width=5></TD><TD class=arial11DkBlue>Cleveland Browns</TD></TR></TBODY></TABLE></TD><TD>Shawne Merriman</TD><TD class=arial11DkRed align=middle>OLB-DE</TD><TD>Maryland</TD></TR><TR class=arial11DkBlue bgColor=#ffffff><TD class=arial14DkRed align=middle>4</TD><TD><TABLE cellSpacing=0 cellPadding=0 border=0><TBODY><TR><TD width=5></TD><TD width=30 height=30>

</TD><TD width=5></TD><TD class=arial11DkBlue>Chicago Bears</TD></TR></TBODY></TABLE></TD><TD>Mike Williams</TD><TD class=arial11DkRed align=middle>WR</TD><TD>Southern California</TD></TR><TR class=arial11DkBlue bgColor=#ededee><TD class=arial14DkRed align=middle>5</TD><TD><TABLE cellSpacing=0 cellPadding=0 border=0><TBODY><TR><TD width=5></TD><TD width=30 height=30>

</TD><TD width=5></TD><TD class=arial11DkBlue>Tampa Bay Buccaneers</TD></TR></TBODY></TABLE></TD><TD>Carnell Williams</TD><TD class=arial11DkRed align=middle>RB</TD><TD>Auburn</TD></TR><TR class=arial11DkBlue bgColor=#ffffff><TD class=arial14DkRed align=middle>6</TD><TD><TABLE cellSpacing=0 cellPadding=0 border=0><TBODY><TR><TD width=5></TD><TD width=30 height=30>

</TD><TD width=5></TD><TD class=arial11DkBlue>Tennessee Titans</TD></TR></TBODY></TABLE></TD><TD>Antrel Rolle</TD><TD class=arial11DkRed align=middle>CB</TD><TD>Miami, Fla</TD></TR><TR class=arial11DkBlue bgColor=#ededee><TD class=arial14DkRed align=middle>7</TD><TD><TABLE cellSpacing=0 cellPadding=0 border=0><TBODY><TR><TD width=5></TD><TD width=30 height=30>

</TD><TD width=5></TD><TD class=arial11DkBlue>Minnesota Vikings</TD></TR></TBODY></TABLE></TD><TD>Braylon Edwards</TD><TD class=arial11DkRed align=middle>WR</TD><TD>Michigan</TD></TR><TR class=arial11DkBlue bgColor=#ffffff><TD class=arial14DkRed align=middle>8</TD><TD><TABLE cellSpacing=0 cellPadding=0 border=0><TBODY><TR><TD width=5></TD><TD width=30 height=30>

</TD><TD width=5></TD><TD class=arial11DkBlue>Arizona Cardinals</TD></TR></TBODY></TABLE></TD><TD>Cedric Benson</TD><TD class=arial11DkRed align=middle>RB</TD><TD>Texas</TD></TR><TR class=arial11DkBlue bgColor=#ededee><TD class=arial14DkRed align=middle>9</TD><TD><TABLE cellSpacing=0 cellPadding=0 border=0><TBODY><TR><TD width=5></TD><TD width=30 height=30>

</TD><TD width=5></TD><TD class=arial11DkBlue>Washington Redskins</TD></TR></TBODY></TABLE></TD><TD>Carlos Rogers</TD><TD class=arial11DkRed align=middle>CB</TD><TD>Auburn</TD></TR><TR class=arial11DkBlue bgColor=#ffffff><TD class=arial14DkRed align=middle>10</TD><TD><TABLE cellSpacing=0 cellPadding=0 border=0><TBODY><TR><TD width=5></TD><TD width=30 height=30>

</TD><TD width=5></TD><TD class=arial11DkBlue>Detroit Lions</TD></TR></TBODY></TABLE></TD><TD>Derrick Johnson</TD><TD class=arial11DkRed align=middle>LB</TD><TD>Texas</TD></TR><TR class=arial11DkBlue bgColor=#ededee><TD class=arial14DkRed align=middle>11</TD><TD><TABLE cellSpacing=0 cellPadding=0 border=0><TBODY><TR><TD width=5></TD><TD width=30 height=30>

</TD><TD width=5></TD><TD class=arial11DkBlue>Dallas Cowboys</TD></TR></TBODY></TABLE></TD><TD>Demarcus Ware</TD><TD class=arial11DkRed align=middle>OLB-DE</TD><TD>Troy</TD></TR><TR class=arial11DkBlue bgColor=#ffffff><TD class=arial14DkRed align=middle>12</TD><TD><TABLE cellSpacing=0 cellPadding=0 border=0><TBODY><TR><TD width=5></TD><TD width=30 height=30>

</TD><TD width=5></TD><TD class=arial11DkBlue>San Diego Chargers</TD></TR></TBODY></TABLE></TD><TD>Mark Clayton</TD><TD class=arial11DkRed align=middle>WR</TD><TD>Oklahoma</TD></TR><TR class=arial11DkBlue bgColor=#ededee><TD class=arial14DkRed align=middle>13</TD><TD><TABLE cellSpacing=0 cellPadding=0 border=0><TBODY><TR><TD width=5></TD><TD width=30 height=30>

</TD><TD width=5></TD><TD class=arial11DkBlue>Houston Texans</TD></TR></TBODY></TABLE></TD><TD>Troy Williamson</TD><TD class=arial11DkRed align=middle>WR</TD><TD>South Carolina</TD></TR><TR class=arial11DkBlue bgColor=#ffffff><TD class=arial14DkRed align=middle>14</TD><TD><TABLE cellSpacing=0 cellPadding=0 border=0><TBODY><TR><TD width=5></TD><TD width=30 height=30>

</TD><TD width=5></TD><TD class=arial11DkBlue>Carolina Panthers</TD></TR></TBODY></TABLE></TD><TD>Alex Barron</TD><TD class=arial11DkRed align=middle>OT</TD><TD>Florida State</TD></TR><TR class=arial11DkBlue bgColor=#ededee><TD class=arial14DkRed align=middle>15</TD><TD><TABLE cellSpacing=0 cellPadding=0 border=0><TBODY><TR><TD width=5></TD><TD width=30 height=30>

</TD><TD width=5></TD><TD class=arial11DkBlue>Kansas City Chiefs</TD></TR></TBODY></TABLE></TD><TD>Marlin Jackson</TD><TD class=arial11DkRed align=middle>CB</TD><TD>Michigan</TD></TR><TR class=arial11DkBlue bgColor=#ffffff><TD class=arial14DkRed align=middle>16</TD><TD><TABLE cellSpacing=0 cellPadding=0 border=0><TBODY><TR><TD width=5></TD><TD width=30 height=30>

</TD><TD width=5></TD><TD class=arial11DkBlue>New Orleans Saints</TD></TR></TBODY></TABLE></TD><TD>Marcus Spears</TD><TD class=arial11DkRed align=middle>DL</TD><TD>Louisiana State</TD></TR><TR class=arial11DkBlue bgColor=#ededee><TD class=arial14DkRed align=middle>17</TD><TD><TABLE cellSpacing=0 cellPadding=0 border=0><TBODY><TR><TD width=5></TD><TD width=30 height=30>

</TD><TD width=5></TD><TD class=arial11DkBlue>Cincinnati Bengals</TD></TR></TBODY></TABLE></TD><TD>Heath Miller</TD><TD class=arial11DkRed align=middle>TE</TD><TD>Virginia</TD></TR><TR class=arial11DkBlue bgColor=#ffffff><TD class=arial14DkRed align=middle>18</TD><TD><TABLE cellSpacing=0 cellPadding=0 border=0><TBODY><TR><TD width=5></TD><TD width=30 height=30>

</TD><TD width=5></TD><TD class=arial11DkBlue>Minnesota Vikings</TD></TR></TBODY></TABLE></TD><TD>Thomas Davis</TD><TD class=arial11DkRed align=middle>SS</TD><TD>Georgia</TD></TR><TR class=arial11DkBlue bgColor=#ededee><TD class=arial14DkRed align=middle>19</TD><TD><TABLE cellSpacing=0 cellPadding=0 border=0><TBODY><TR><TD width=5></TD><TD width=30 height=30>

</TD><TD width=5></TD><TD class=arial11DkBlue>St. Louis Rams</TD></TR></TBODY></TABLE></TD><TD>David Pollack</TD><TD class=arial11DkRed align=middle>DE</TD><TD>Georgia</TD></TR><TR class=arial11DkBlue bgColor=#ffffff><TD class=arial14DkRed align=middle>20</TD><TD><TABLE cellSpacing=0 cellPadding=0 border=0><TBODY><TR><TD width=5></TD><TD width=30 height=30>

</TD><TD width=5></TD><TD class=arial11DkBlue>Dallas Cowboys</TD></TR></TBODY></TABLE></TD><TD>Reggie Brown</TD><TD class=arial11DkRed align=middle>WR</TD><TD>Georgia</TD></TR><TR class=arial11DkBlue bgColor=#ededee><TD class=arial14DkRed align=middle>21</TD><TD><TABLE cellSpacing=0 cellPadding=0 border=0><TBODY><TR><TD width=5></TD><TD width=30 height=30>

</TD><TD width=5></TD><TD class=arial11DkBlue>Jacksonville Jaguars</TD></TR></TBODY></TABLE></TD><TD>Justin Miller</TD><TD class=arial11DkRed align=middle>CB</TD><TD>Clemson</TD></TR><TR class=arial11DkBlue bgColor=#ffffff><TD class=arial14DkRed align=middle>22</TD><TD><TABLE cellSpacing=0 cellPadding=0 border=0><TBODY><TR><TD width=5></TD><TD width=30 height=30>

</TD><TD width=5></TD><TD class=arial11DkBlue>Baltimore Ravens</TD></TR></TBODY></TABLE></TD><TD>Jammal Brown</TD><TD class=arial11DkRed align=middle>OT</TD><TD>Oklahoma</TD></TR><TR class=arial11DkBlue bgColor=#ededee><TD class=arial14DkRed align=middle>23</TD><TD><TABLE cellSpacing=0 cellPadding=0 border=0><TBODY><TR><TD width=5></TD><TD width=30 height=30>

</TD><TD width=5></TD><TD class=arial11DkBlue>Seattle Seahawks</TD></TR></TBODY></TABLE></TD><TD>Kevin Burnett</TD><TD class=arial11DkRed align=middle>LB</TD><TD>Tennessee</TD></TR><TR class=arial11DkBlue bgColor=#ffffff><TD class=arial14DkRed align=middle>24</TD><TD><TABLE cellSpacing=0 cellPadding=0 border=0><TBODY><TR><TD width=5></TD><TD width=30 height=30>

</TD><TD width=5></TD><TD class=arial11DkBlue>Green Bay Packers</TD></TR></TBODY></TABLE></TD><TD>Charlie Frye</TD><TD class=arial11DkRed align=middle>QB</TD><TD>Akron</TD></TR><TR class=arial11DkBlue bgColor=#ededee><TD class=arial14DkRed align=middle>25</TD><TD><TABLE cellSpacing=0 cellPadding=0 border=0><TBODY><TR><TD width=5></TD><TD width=30 height=30>

</TD><TD width=5></TD><TD class=arial11DkBlue>Denver Broncos</TD></TR></TBODY></TABLE></TD><TD>Shaun Cody</TD><TD class=arial11DkRed align=middle>DE</TD><TD>Southern California</TD></TR><TR class=arial11DkBlue bgColor=#ffffff><TD class=arial14DkRed align=middle>26</TD><TD><TABLE cellSpacing=0 cellPadding=0 border=0><TBODY><TR><TD width=5></TD><TD width=30 height=30>

</TD><TD width=5></TD><TD class=arial11DkBlue>New York Jets</TD></TR></TBODY></TABLE></TD><TD>Adam Jones</TD><TD class=arial11DkRed align=middle>CB</TD><TD>West Virginia</TD></TR><TR class=arial11DkBlue bgColor=#ededee><TD class=arial14DkRed align=middle>27</TD><TD><TABLE cellSpacing=0 cellPadding=0 border=0><TBODY><TR><TD width=5></TD><TD width=30 height=30>

</TD><TD width=5></TD><TD class=arial11DkBlue>Atlanta Falcons</TD></TR></TBODY></TABLE></TD><TD>Luis Castillo</TD><TD class=arial11DkRed align=middle>DT</TD><TD>Northwestern</TD></TR><TR class=arial11DkBlue bgColor=#ffffff><TD class=arial14DkRed align=middle>28</TD><TD><TABLE cellSpacing=0 cellPadding=0 border=0><TBODY><TR><TD width=5></TD><TD width=30 height=30>

</TD><TD width=5></TD><TD class=arial11DkBlue>San Diego Chargers</TD></TR></TBODY></TABLE></TD><TD>Matt Roth</TD><TD class=arial11DkRed align=middle>DE</TD><TD>Iowa</TD></TR><TR class=arial11DkBlue bgColor=#ededee><TD class=arial14DkRed align=middle>29</TD><TD><TABLE cellSpacing=0 cellPadding=0 border=0><TBODY><TR><TD width=5></TD><TD width=30 height=30>

</TD><TD width=5></TD><TD class=arial11DkBlue>Indianapolis Colts</TD></TR></TBODY></TABLE></TD><TD>Barrett Ruud</TD><TD class=arial11DkRed align=middle>LB</TD><TD>Nebraska</TD></TR><TR class=arial11DkBlue bgColor=#ffffff><TD class=arial14DkRed align=middle>30</TD><TD><TABLE cellSpacing=0 cellPadding=0 border=0><TBODY><TR><TD width=5></TD><TD width=30 height=30>

</TD><TD width=5></TD><TD class=arial11DkBlue>Pittsburgh Steelers</TD></TR></TBODY></TABLE></TD><TD>Alex Smith</TD><TD class=arial11DkRed align=middle>TE</TD><TD>Stanford</TD></TR><TR class=arial11DkBlue bgColor=#ededee><TD class=arial14DkRed align=middle>31</TD><TD><TABLE cellSpacing=0 cellPadding=0 border=0><TBODY><TR><TD width=5></TD><TD width=30 height=30>

</TD><TD width=5></TD><TD class=arial11DkBlue>Philadelphia Eagles</TD></TR></TBODY></TABLE></TD><TD>Roddy White</TD><TD class=arial11DkRed align=middle>WR</TD><TD>Alabama-Birmingham</TD></TR><TR class=arial11DkBlue bgColor=#ffffff><TD class=arial14DkRed align=middle>32</TD><TD><TABLE cellSpacing=0 cellPadding=0 border=0><TBODY><TR><TD width=5></TD><TD width=30 height=30>

</TD><TD width=5></TD><TD class=arial11DkBlue>New England Patriots</TD></TR></TBODY></TABLE></TD><TD>Odell Thurman</TD><TD class=arial11DkRed align=middle>LB</TD><TD>Georgia</TD></TR></TBODY></TABLE>

http://msn.foxsports.com/nfl/story/3468718

<TABLE class=bgBdr cellSpacing=1 cellPadding=2 width="100%" border=0><TBODY><TR class=bgHdr1><TD colSpan=8>SPORTING NEWS MOCK DRAFT: Round 1</TD></TR><TR class=bgHdr2><TD align=middle>Pick</TD><TD align=middle>Team</TD><TD align=middle>Player</TD><TD align=middle>Pos.</TD><TD align=middle>School</TD><TD align=middle>Previous</TD><TD align=middle>Rising/Falling</TD><TD align=middle>High/Low</TD></TR><TR class=bgD><TD align=middle>1.</TD><TD align=middle>49ers</TD><TD align=middle>Braylon Edwards</TD><TD align=middle>WR</TD><TD align=middle>Michigan</TD><TD align=middle>4th</TD><TD align=middle>

(+3)</TD><TD align=middle>1st / 4th</TD></TD></TR><TR class=bgC><TD colSpan=8>New coach Mike Nolan and GM Scot McCloughan want to trade down but can't find a willing partner. They have many needs and will take the best player available. Edwards is big (6-3, 211) and fast (4.45 speed), has great hands and has the potential to become an All-Pro receiver. He is a sure thing, which can't be said of QBs Aaron Rodgers and Alex Smith. </TD></TR><TR class=bgD><TD align=middle>2.</TD><TD align=middle>Dolphins</TD><TD align=middle>Ronnie Brown</TD><TD align=middle>RB</TD><TD align=middle>Auburn</TD><TD align=middle>2nd</TD><TD align=middle>SAME</TD><TD align=middle>2nd / 25th</TD></TD></TR><TR class=bgC><TD colSpan=8>New coach Nick Saban is a defense-first coach and has final say on all personnel matters. But he needs a workhorse back to make his conservative, ball-control offense work. Brown is big (6-0, 230) with great speed (4.43), is tough to tackle and catches the ball well. </TD></TR><TR class=bgD><TD align=middle>3.</TD><TD align=middle>Browns</TD><TD align=middle>Derrick Johnson</TD><TD align=middle>OLB</TD><TD align=middle>Texas</TD><TD align=middle>3rd</TD><TD align=middle>SAME</TD><TD align=middle>3rd / 3rd</TD></TD></TR><TR class=bgC><TD colSpan=8>New coach Romeo Crennel and GM Phil Savage already are working in concert. Crennel is a defensive guy who favors the 3-4 scheme and knows the value of elite linebackers. In Baltimore, Savage drafted multiple Pro Bowl linebackers who became the core of dominant units. Johnson is a great athlete with natural instincts. </TD></TR><TR class=bgD><TD align=middle>4.</TD><TD align=middle>Bears</TD><TD align=middle>Carnell Williams</TD><TD align=middle>RB</TD><TD align=middle>Auburn</TD><TD align=middle>5th</TD><TD align=middle>

(+1)</TD><TD align=middle>4th / 25th</TD></TD></TR><TR class=bgC><TD colSpan=8>The Bears will take the biggest playmaker on the board. If not for the signing of free agent Muhsin Muhammad, WR Mike Williams might've gotten the nod here. There is a deep pool of WRs, so the Bears will get one later. Incumbent RB Thomas Jones is OK, but Williams is a workhorse with touchdown potential on every carry. </TD></TR><TR class=bgD><TD align=middle>5.</TD><TD align=middle>Buccaneers</TD><TD align=middle><ID>Mike Williams</ID>*</TD><TD align=middle>WR</TD><TD align=middle>USC</TD><TD align=middle>7th</TD><TD align=middle>

(+2)</TD><TD align=middle>5th / 21st</TD></TD></TR><TR class=bgC><TD colSpan=8>Coach Jon Gruden says he never can have enough weapons. Williams grew up in Tampa and will have marketing appeal. More important, he is big, physical and extremely talented. He and second-year man Michael Clayton could power Gruden's pass-happy attack for a decade. </TD></TR><TR class=bgD><TD align=middle>6.</TD><TD align=middle>Titans</TD><TD align=middle>Alex Smith*</TD><TD align=middle>QB</TD><TD align=middle>Utah</TD><TD align=middle>16th</TD><TD align=middle>

(+10)</TD><TD align=middle>6th / 24th</TD></TD></TR><TR class=bgC><TD colSpan=8>Despite what Titans officials say, the team is in rebuilding mode. Smith has great upside and could sit behind Steve McNair for a couple years and learn without undo pressure. Smith is big, shows outstanding athleticism and is a proven leader. </TD></TR><TR class=bgD><TD align=middle>7.</TD><TD align=middle>Vikings

(from Raiders)
</TD><TD align=middle><ID>Troy Williamson</ID>*</TD><TD align=middle>WR</TD><TD align=middle>South Carolina</TD><TD align=middle>14th</TD><TD align=middle>

(+7)</TD><TD align=middle>7th / 2nd round</TD></TD></TR><TR class=bgC><TD colSpan=8>The Vikings rebuilt the defense through free agency and trades and will look to try and replace some of Randy Moss' production here. Williamson is lightning fast and immediately would become Daunte Culpepper's new deep threat. </TD></TR><TR class=bgD><TD align=middle>8.</TD><TD align=middle>Cardinals</TD><TD align=middle>Cedric Benson</TD><TD align=middle>RB</TD><TD align=middle>Texas</TD><TD align=middle>8th</TD><TD align=middle>SAME</TD><TD align=middle>2nd / 8th</TD></TD></TR><TR class=bgC><TD colSpan=8>The Cardinals have outstanding young receivers, upgraded their offensive line through free agency and put a Band-Aid on the QB position. Coach Dennis Green covets a power running back, and Benson has the size and will to run hard between the tackles and the great vision and speed to get outside. Benson would balance the offense and take pressure off the QB. </TD></TR><TR class=bgD><TD align=middle>9.</TD><TD align=middle>Redskins</TD><TD align=middle>Adam Jones*</TD><TD align=middle>CB</TD><TD align=middle>West Virginia</TD><TD align=middle>11th</TD><TD align=middle>

(+2)</TD><TD align=middle>8th / 32nd</TD></TD></TR><TR class=bgC><TD colSpan=8>Washington traded away Champ Bailey last year, just lost Fred Smoot in free agency and now have a glaring need at cornerback. Jones (5-9 1/2, 187) lacks great size but is a big-time playmaker with a confident, winning attitude. He gambles at times, but his risky decisions usually pay off. Jones would have to become a better assignment corner in coordinator's Gregg Williams' disciplined defense. </TD></TR><TR class=bgD><TD align=middle>10.</TD><TD align=middle>Lions</TD><TD align=middle>Alex Barron</TD><TD align=middle>OT</TD><TD align=middle>Florida State</TD><TD align=middle>10th</TD><TD align=middle>SAME</TD><TD align=middle>5th / 14th</TD></TD></TR><TR class=bgC><TD colSpan=8>The Lions must upgrade at OT and would be thrilled if Barron — the No. 1-rated player in our Super 99 — slides this far. Barron is huge and has outstanding athleticism. Most important, he is a great pass blocker. Barron might struggle if asked to play right tackle because he is not an exceptional run blocker. If the Lions get Barron, expect LT Jeff Backus to move to the right side. </TD></TR><TR class=bgD><TD align=middle>11.</TD><TD align=middle>Cowboys</TD><TD align=middle>Mark Clayton</TD><TD align=middle>WR</TD><TD align=middle>Oklahoma</TD><TD align=middle>22nd</TD><TD align=middle>

(+11)</TD><TD align=middle>11th / 22nd</TD></TD></TR><TR class=bgC><TD colSpan=8>With the first of two first-round picks, the Cowboys hope to get the missing piece in their attempt to re-create the triplet magic of the '90s at QB, RB and WR. Last year, the team drafted RB Julius Jones. This off-season, strong-armed QB Drew Bledsoe was signed. Clayton would bring a desperately needed receiving threat downfield. Clayton is a playmaker who can score from anywhere. </TD></TR><TR class=bgD><TD align=middle>12.</TD><TD align=middle>Chargers

(from Giants)
</TD><TD align=middle>Erasmus James</TD><TD align=middle>DE</TD><TD align=middle>Wisconsin</TD><TD align=middle>9th</TD><TD align=middle>

(-3)</TD><TD align=middle>6th / 12th</TD></TD></TR><TR class=bgC><TD colSpan=8>San Diego must get a young receiver but won't be able to pass up James. James never stops hustling and thus is the anti-Marcellus Wiley. James (6-4, 266) is a little undersized to be a 3-4 end, but plays with great intensity and leverage. </TD></TR><TR class=bgD><TD align=middle>13.</TD><TD align=middle>Texans</TD><TD align=middle>Antrel Rolle</TD><TD align=middle>CB</TD><TD align=middle>Miami (Fla.)</TD><TD align=middle>6th</TD><TD align=middle>

(-7)</TD><TD align=middle>6th / 13th</TD></TD></TR><TR class=bgC><TD colSpan=8>Facing the Colts and Jaguars twice a year in the pass-happy AFC South, Houston is forced to use nickel personnel about two-thirds of the time. Rolle has decent size and speed but shows great instincts and never misses an assignment. </TD></TR><TR class=bgD><TD align=middle>14.</TD><TD align=middle>Panthers</TD><TD align=middle>Thomas Davis*</TD><TD align=middle>S</TD><TD align=middle>Georgia</TD><TD align=middle>18th</TD><TD align=middle>

(+4)</TD><TD align=middle>14th / 2nd round</TD></TD></TR><TR class=bgC><TD colSpan=8>The big, physical Davis would round out the Panthers' elite defense. He is quick and has decent straight-line speed for a strong safety. Thomas is a big hitter who will be great in run support but might be a liability in pass coverage. </TD></TR><TR class=bgD><TD align=middle>15.</TD><TD align=middle>Chiefs</TD><TD align=middle>Carlos Rogers</TD><TD align=middle>CB</TD><TD align=middle>Auburn</TD><TD align=middle>15th</TD><TD align=middle>SAME</TD><TD align=middle>15th / 2nd round</TD></TD></TR><TR class=bgC><TD colSpan=8>The Chiefs have quantity at cornerback but must upgrade the quality. Rogers, whose stock is rising, has great speed and quickness. He is physical and fearless and would help against the run, too. He needs to improve his ball skills, however. </TD></TR><TR class=bgD><TD align=middle>16.</TD><TD align=middle>Saints</TD><TD align=middle>Aaron Rodgers*</TD><TD align=middle>QB</TD><TD align=middle>California</TD><TD align=middle>1st</TD><TD align=middle>

(-15)</TD><TD align=middle>1st / 16th</TD></TD></TR><TR class=bgC><TD colSpan=8>Rodgers' stock is dropping fast because of The Tedford Factor. All of coach Jeff Tedford's elite college QBs have been NFL busts. Aaron Brooks' immaturity is wearing thin on Saints officials, who might jump at the chance to get a young guy to push him. Rodgers is a bit undersized but has a strong arm, outstanding fundamentals and can make all the throws. </TD></TR><TR class=bgD><TD align=middle>17.</TD><TD align=middle>Bengals</TD><TD align=middle>Travis Johnson</TD><TD align=middle>DT</TD><TD align=middle>Florida State</TD><TD align=middle>17th</TD><TD align=middle>SAME</TD><TD align=middle>11th / 17th</TD></TD></TR><TR class=bgC><TD colSpan=8>The Bengals had trouble stopping the run in '04. The addition of free-agent DT Bryan Robinson will help, but it's just a stopgap measure. Johnson is a big, physical presence but is quick enough to play in a one-gap scheme. </TD></TR><TR class=bgD><TD align=middle>18.</TD><TD align=middle>Vikings</TD><TD align=middle><ID>David Pollack</ID></TD><TD align=middle>DE</TD><TD align=middle>Georgia</TD><TD align=middle>21st</TD><TD align=middle>

(+3)</TD><TD align=middle>6th / 21st</TD></TD></TR><TR class=bgC><TD colSpan=8>As the Vikings continue to remake their defense, Pollack gives them the athletic, standup edge rusher they need to play the 3-4 that Ted Cottrell prefers. At 6-2 1/8, 265 with very short (30½-inch) arms, Pollack overcomes concerns about his size with great speed and quickness (3.90 short shuttle), outstanding instincts and nonstop hustle. Best suited as a pass rusher, Pollack also can stuff the run and play in open field. </TD></TR><TR class=bgD><TD align=middle>19.</TD><TD align=middle>Rams</TD><TD align=middle>Jammal Brown</TD><TD align=middle>OT</TD><TD align=middle>Oklahoma</TD><TD align=middle>19th</TD><TD align=middle>SAME</TD><TD align=middle>19th / 28th</TD></TD></TR><TR class=bgC><TD colSpan=8>The Rams are closer to locking up franchise LT Orlando Pace, but they need to replace Kyle Turley on the opposite side. At 6-5 7/8, 316, Brown has long, strong arms, and works best in pass protection. He has the tools for run blocking but needs to get stronger and bulkier to excel at it. </TD></TR><TR class=bgD><TD align=middle>20.</TD><TD align=middle>Cowboys

(from Bills)
</TD><TD align=middle>Shawne Merriman*</TD><TD align=middle>DE</TD><TD align=middle>Maryland</TD><TD align=middle>13th</TD><TD align=middle>

(-7)</TD><TD align=middle>13th / 23rd</TD></TD></TR><TR class=bgC><TD colSpan=8>Bill Parcells is a 3-4 defensive coach at heart and is looking to acquire the personnel to make the transition. Merriman is an outstanding athlete who played both linebacker and end in college and may be the key ingredient. At 6-4 3/8, 272, Merriman may be asked to lean up to increase his speed on the edge. </TD></TR><TR class=bgD><TD align=middle>21.</TD><TD align=middle>Jaguars</TD><TD align=middle>Marcus Spears</TD><TD align=middle>DE</TD><TD align=middle>LSU</TD><TD align=middle>31st</TD><TD align=middle>

(+10)</TD><TD align=middle>21st / 2nd round</TD></TD></TR><TR class=bgC><TD colSpan=8>The Jaguars have two of the best young DTs in the game in John Henderson and Marcus Stroud, and they added end Reggie Hayward. Spears, at 6-4, 307, would play left end in the team's upfield attacking scheme. Spears has great athleticism and agility and might be the finishing touch on a dominant front four. </TD></TR><TR class=bgD><TD align=middle>22.</TD><TD align=middle>Ravens</TD><TD align=middle>Matt Roth</TD><TD align=middle>DE</TD><TD align=middle>Iowa</TD><TD align=middle>24th</TD><TD align=middle>

(+2)</TD><TD align=middle>22nd / 2nd round</TD></TD></TR><TR class=bgC><TD colSpan=8>The Ravens are converting to a 4-3 and must restock their personnel. At 6-3¾, 278, Roth plays with nonstop hustle and sometimes gets a little out of control. He must improve his pass-rush discipline but shows tremendous potential. He also can play either end. </TD></TR><TR class=bgD><TD align=middle>23.</TD><TD align=middle>Seahawks</TD><TD align=middle>Justin Miller*</TD><TD align=middle>CB</TD><TD align=middle>Clemson</TD><TD align=middle>29th</TD><TD align=middle>

(+6)</TD><TD align=middle>23rd / 2nd round</TD></TD></TR><TR class=bgC><TD colSpan=8>Seattle lost CB Ken Lucas in free agency and must address this need early. Miller, at 5-9¾, 201 with 4.42 speed, possesses great change-of-direction and ball skills, and is a tough, physical defender. He also was a productive kick returner in college. </TD></TR><TR class=bgD><TD align=middle>24.</TD><TD align=middle>Packers</TD><TD align=middle>Shaun Cody</TD><TD align=middle>DT</TD><TD align=middle>USC</TD><TD align=middle>20th</TD><TD align=middle>

(-4)</TD><TD align=middle>19th / 29th</TD></TD></TR><TR class=bgC><TD colSpan=8>Cody is a versatile defender who can play anywhere on the line. He eventually will settle in as a tackle. Cody has the hustle and intensity to go along with good size (6-4, 293). He would fits Green Bay's attacking scheme with his ability to penetrate, get upfield and make plays on the ball. </TD></TR><TR class=bgD><TD align=middle>25.</TD><TD align=middle>Broncos</TD><TD align=middle>Justin Tuck*</TD><TD align=middle>DE</TD><TD align=middle>Notre Dame</TD><TD align=middle>2nd round</TD><TD align=middle>

</TD><TD align=middle>25th / 2nd round</TD></TD></TR><TR class=bgC><TD colSpan=8>The Broncos are looking to trade Trevor Pryce, and have little talent or depth at end after losing Hayward. Tuck (6-5, 268) is a relentless pass rusher who should step right in and help Denver get pressure on the passer. </TD></TR><TR class=bgD><TD align=middle>26.</TD><TD align=middle>Jets</TD><TD align=middle>Corey Webster</TD><TD align=middle>CB</TD><TD align=middle>LSU</TD><TD align=middle>23rd</TD><TD align=middle>

(-3)</TD><TD align=middle>15th / 30th</TD></TD></TR><TR class=bgC><TD colSpan=8>The Jets must upgrade their secondary, starting with speed and coverage skills at cornerback. Donnie Henderson likes to attack on defense, often leaving his corners one-on-one against a receiver. Webster has good size (6-0 1/8, 199) with long arms, plays physical at the line and is willing in run support. He uses his frame and ball skills to his advantage downfield, making up for his slight speed deficiency. </TD></TR><TR class=bgD><TD align=middle>27.</TD><TD align=middle>Falcons</TD><TD align=middle>Darryl Blackstock*</TD><TD align=middle>OLB</TD><TD align=middle>Virginia</TD><TD align=middle>32nd</TD><TD align=middle>

(+5)</TD><TD align=middle>27th / 2nd round</TD></TD></TR><TR class=bgC><TD colSpan=8>Ed Donatell calls for an upfield attacking scheme. Paired with Pro Bowler Keith Brooking, Blackstock will be set free to use his speed and athleticism to pressure the quarterback and run to the ball, the two things he loves to do. </TD></TR><TR class=bgD><TD align=middle>28.</TD><TD align=middle>Chargers</TD><TD align=middle>Demarcus Ware</TD><TD align=middle>OLB</TD><TD align=middle>Troy State</TD><TD align=middle>2nd round</TD><TD align=middle>

</TD><TD align=middle>28th / 2nd round</TD></TD></TR><TR class=bgC><TD colSpan=8>The Chargers are one of the leaders in the copycat NFL. Wade Phillips installed the 3-4 upon his arrival and the team has remade its personnel to fit. Now that there are as many as a dozen teams using 3-4s, Ware is the type of player who is in great demand. Ware, 6-4, 251 with 4.56 speed, played outside linebacker in college. He shows both the speed and burst to rush the passer off the edge and both the athleticism and instincts to play in open field. </TD></TR><TR class=bgD><TD align=middle>29.</TD><TD align=middle>Colts</TD><TD align=middle>Fabian Washington*</TD><TD align=middle>CB</TD><TD align=middle>Nebraska</TD><TD align=middle>N/A</TD><TD align=middle>

</TD><TD align=middle>29th / N/A</TD></TD></TR><TR class=bgC><TD colSpan=8>The Colts must upgrade their speed at cornerback. Washington had an Olympian Combine workout, posting a 4.29 forty, a 3.91 short shuttle and a 41½-inch vertical leap. A bit undersized at 5-10½, 188, he compensates with his athleticism and strong coverage skills. </TD></TR><TR class=bgD><TD align=middle>30.</TD><TD align=middle>Steelers</TD><TD align=middle>Marlin Jackson</TD><TD align=middle>CB</TD><TD align=middle>Michigan</TD><TD align=middle>2nd round</TD><TD align=middle>

</TD><TD align=middle>12th / 2nd round</TD></TD></TR><TR class=bgC><TD colSpan=8>Jackson, a big, physical corner at 6-0 5/8, 198, possesses all the skills to be a starting corner but is a step away from elite speed at 4.52. He shows great quickness — he posted a 3.96 short shuttle that makes up for some of his speed deficit. He played both corner and safety in college and would be a factor in the Steelers' nickel packages until he eventually takes over at corner for veteran Willie Williams. </TD></TR><TR class=bgD><TD align=middle>31.</TD><TD align=middle>Eagles</TD><TD align=middle>Channing Crowder*</TD><TD align=middle>ILB</TD><TD align=middle>Florida</TD><TD align=middle>27th</TD><TD align=middle>

(-4)</TD><TD align=middle>18th / 2nd round</TD></TD></TR><TR class=bgC><TD colSpan=8>The Eagles need an upgrade at LB, the weakest position on a very strong defense. Jim Johnson likes to call blitzes from everywhere and needs athletic LBs for them to be effective. If not for some character concerns, we would have Crowder off the board sooner. He is very aggressive and plays with nonstop hustle. He can be undisciplined, but he is still young, having played only two years at Florida and leaving as a redshirt sophomore. </TD></TR><TR class=bgD><TD align=middle>32.</TD><TD align=middle>Patriots</TD><TD align=middle>Barrett Ruud </TD><TD align=middle>ILB</TD><TD align=middle>Nebraska</TD><TD align=middle>2nd round</TD><TD align=middle>

</TD><TD align=middle>18th / 2nd round</TD></TD></TR><TR class=bgC><TD colSpan=8>The Patriots' defense is driven by its aging linebackers. Tedy Bruschi may not return from a minor stroke and Ted Johnson and Willie McGinest are two of league's oldest linebackers. Ruud is the versatile player Bill Belichick looks for. Ruud isn't the most athletic defender, but he plays smart and has great character both on and off the field</TD></TR></TBODY></TABLE>

exhawg · Mar 31, 2005

2 months ago I would have been pissed if the Browns took a QB, but I like Smith. I think they have done some work through FA to strengthen some of the other weaknesses. I just hope that if they do draft Smith that he doesn't get thrown in the fire too early this year. If Savage is smart he'll draft Fox and Fraser in the later rounds.
I saw a mock draft yesterday where Matt Roth didn't go in the first round. If he is there in the second for the Browns I say take him.

Mothra · Mar 31, 2005

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* Denotes Underclassman
http://www.football.com/draft/2005/05mockdraft.shtml

Round 1

1(1). San Francisco 49ers

*Aaron Rodgers Quarterback California

Tim Rattey is a serviceable NFL quarterback but when you have the top pick looking for an elite quarterback is always a safe route. With Matt Leinart gone it makes the top pick in the draft difficult to project. I still think the 49ers would like to trade down but until a general manager is in place it is anybody's guess. I am not high on Aaron Rodgers but he would be the likely pick here. If San Francisco stayed put and did not look at a QB than Antrel Rolle is the only other selection that makes sense.

2(2). Miami Dolphins

Cedric Benson Running Back Texas

One can only hope that if this is the choice for the Dolphins he works out better than the last Texas running back they had on their roster. Benson is a tough inside runner who would be the best running back option for the offense if they don't trade down in an effort to acquire more draft picks. Braylon Edwards is suddenly trying to lobby support to become a Dolphin, since the team is unlikely to retain the services of David Boston this is a possibility.

3(3). Cleveland Browns

Derrick Johnson Linebacker Texas

Romeo Crennel will be leading this team into 2005 and getting a franchise type player for the defense would be a great start. The Browns don't possess a gamebreaker at the linebacker position. Someone with the athletic ability of a Derrick Johnson is a great place to start when building a defense.

4(4). Chicago Bears

Braylon Edwards Wide Receiver Michigan

It is evident that the likes of Bobby Wade, Justin Gage and David Terrell leave a lot to be desired. The defense made tremendous strides a year ago, time to work on the offense and getting more weapons.

5(5). Tampa Bay Buccaneers

Alex Barron Offensive Tackle Florida State

Derrick Deese and Todd Steussie are the starters on the current depth chart and both will be 35 when the season begins. Kenyatta Walker has been a huge disappointment in Tampa Bay and one of the veterans at the offensive tackle position could be cut before next season begins. Getting fresh blood like Alex Barron would be a no-brainer. If the Buccaneers fail to land a running back in free agency they could look there and trade down to land a good prospect.

6(6). Tennessee Titans

Antrel Rolle Cornerback Miami (Fla.)

Last year rookies like Michael Waddell and Rich Gardner played more than the Titans wanted them to. Getting a franchise type cornerback in Antrel Rolle could solve some of their defensive woes. I think this team would like a crack at Derrick Johnson if he is still on the board at this point.

7(7). Oakland Raiders

Carnell Williams Running Back Auburn

The Raiders finished the season with the dubious honor of having the worst rushing offense in the NFL. Carnell Williams would bring instant credibility to the offense regardless of whether Kerry Collins or Rich Gannon is the quarterback.

8(8). Arizona Cardinals

Ronnie Brown Running Back Auburn

With no long term prospects for running the ball, getting a running back seems logical for the Cardinals. Since they haven't had a decent pass receiver out of the backfield since the days of Michael Pittman, Ronnie Brown is the best fit for this team and he should still be on the board. This pick would change if they are able to land Travis Henry in free agency.

9(9). Washington Redskins

*Adam Jones Cornerback West Virginia

Fred Smoot and Shawn Springs are a great starting tandem but there is very little in terms of depth to follow. Fred Smoot has yet to be locked up to a long term deal and I think getting a quality cornerback in the fold would be needed regardless of the Smoot contract outcome.

10(10). Detroit Lions

*Heath Miller Tight End Virginia

No more excuses for the Lions this season. They have drafted a quarterback, running back and a pair of wide receivers in the first round in the last three years. Stephen Alexander is a nice tight end but he goes through bouts of inconsistency and has a past that is injury plagued. Getting a Heath Miller in the fold along with a healthy season from Carlos Rogers could make people forget about the past when it comes to Joey Harrington.

11(11). Dallas Cowboys

*Mike Williams Wide Receiver USC

The wildcard of the first round is without a doubt Mike Williams. The Cowboys have a need at wide receiver with aging starters like Terry Glenn and Keyshawn Johnson. With an extra first round pick because of the deal with Buffalo a year ago, the Cowboys can afford to take a risk on a player who did not play this season.

12(12). San Diego Chargers (From New York Giants)

Erasmus James Defensive End Wisconsin

The Chargers will probably be looking for a defensive end or a linebacker with some blitzing skills so Erasmus James or Shawne Merriman seems to make the most sense. There is a feeling that this team would love to have Mike Williams so packaging their pair of first rounders to a team to move up is a strong possibility.

13(13). Houston Texans

Marcus Spears Defensive End LSU

Spears would be the best fit at this stage in the 3-4 front that the Texans like to use. Getting a young linebacker is another strong possibility.

14(14). Carolina Panthers

Elton Brown Offensive Guard Virginia

With Rich Tylski and Dave Kadela free agents it looks like the Panthers will be looking for more help and depth along the offensive line. Drafting Elton Brown would allow the Panthers to do something they didn't do in 2004, replace Jeno James.

15(15). Kansas City Chiefs

*Alex Smith Quarterback Utah

I am sure we have some people scratching their head on this one. Trent Green is still playing at a high level but the backup is Todd Collins and Trent Green will be 35 when the 2005 opener rolls around. The Chiefs have been known to ignore their need for defense early in the draft and history has a way of repeating itself.

16(16). New Orleans Saints

Jammal Brown Offensive Tackle Oklahoma

The Saints are looking for a dominant fixture they can place on the offensive line. Jon Stinchcomb has been inconsistent since he has been with the Saints so getting another young stud up front is something this team needs. This team needs plenty of help on defense but those picks could come later. If the Saints go defense in round 1 look for a linebacker like Channing Crowder as a possibility.

17(17). Cincinnati Bengals

David Pollack Defensive End Georgia

Getting a player like David Pollack to play for a coach like Marvin Lewis seems like a match made in heaven. Cincinnati also needs help on run defense and Pollack is very good at stopping the run and plays smart football.

18(18). Minnesota Vikings

Carlos Rogers Cornerback Auburn

There are times you just get a feeling for who a team likes without getting a big inside scoop or having them say a word. The Vikings just seem to think the world of Carlos Rogers and while this may be a little high for him he wouldn't be there in round 2 when Minnesota was on the clock.

19(19). St.Louis Rams

*Brandon Browner Cornerback Oregon State

The Rams have struggled to make plays in the secondary the last two seasons. While Browner is still a raw prospect his size alone could push him into the first round. The Rams need help at cornerback and safety so he is a good fit for this team.

20(20). Dallas Cowboys (From Buffalo)

*Shawne Merriman Linebacker Maryland

While the cornerback position is a glaring weakness taking a player like Merriman at #20 will really help the Cowboys out. Dallas only got to the quarterback 33 times last year and half of those sacks came from Greg Ellis and La'Roi Glover. Dallas needs another speedy option who can bring the rush from outside and the athletic freak Shawne Merriman is perfect for the job.

21(21). Jacksonville Jaguars

Dan Cody Defensive End Oklahoma

The Jaguars have no legitimate pass rushing threat at defensive end. Towards the end of the year it was hard finding bodies healthy enough to place there. A blitzing linebacker off the edge is another possibility but defensive end looks like a lock here.

22(22). Baltimore Ravens

*Troy Williamson Wide Receiver South Carolina

No team in football has a weaker receiving corps than the Baltimore Ravens. When you have a young quarterback like Kyle Boller you need to surround him with weapons. I think Boller took some steps forward last year, he just needs more talent around him. Williamson is a big target with speed, something the Ravens need desperately.

23(23). Seattle Seahawks

*Channing Crowder Linebacker Florida

The Seahawks should add someone along the front seven and linebacker or defensive end seem like the most likely spots. The Seahawks need depth at linebacker, last year they were decimated with injuries there so getting some good young prospects should help the defense. Crowder looks like someone Ray Rhodes can mold on defense.

24(24). Green Bay Packers

Matt Roth Defensive End Iowa

With Ahmad Carroll and Joey Thomas getting another year under their belt defensive end seems like a good spot for the Packers to look for talent. They will be losing some people along the offensive line but I expect the Packers to look in that direction later in the draft. Roth's work ethic and strong Senior Bowl gets him into the first round.

25(25). Denver Broncos

Travis Johnson Defensive Tackle Florida State

Monsanto Pope and Raylee Johnson are patrolling the interior line, Denver could benefit from getting younger and more athletic. I don't buy into Denver taking a running back in round 1 and that is the scoop since Reuben Droughns has received permission to seek a trade. Travis Johnson is a little undersized and can be moved around the line, something Denver likes to do with their lineman.

26(26). New York Jets

*Thomas Davis Safety Georgia

Could be the best athlete on the board at this point. Davis is a tweener linebacker/safety that brings the physical presence to the secondary that the Jets want.

27(27). Atlanta Falcons

Anttaj Hawthorne Defensive Tackle Wisconsin

Justin Tuck has a few teams talking to him at the Senior Bowl and one team who seemed very interested in his services were the Falcons. If Travis Johnson and Anttaj Hawthorne are off the board I think Atlanta takes Tuck. Hawthorne is a great addition to bring along with the likes of Patrick Kerney and Rod Coleman.

28(28). San Diego Chargers

Roddy White Wide Receiver UAB

Roddy White was a player skyrocketing up the boards until a bad hamstring ended his Senior Bowl prematurely. White had the most productive season of any receiver at the I-A level and he brings the Chargers a deep threat with some size.I think the Chargers would prefer Troy Williamson here but Roddy White is not a big dropoff.

29(29). Indianapolis Colts

Shaun Cody Defensive Tackle USC

Montae Reagor had a great season in the middle of the defensive line but other than that the Colts are plagued with inconsistency. Cody is a smaller and quicker guy that can be moved around the line like their other youngster Josh Thomas.

30(30). Pittsburgh Steelers

Brodney Pool Safety Oklahoma

Getting another safety to pair with Troy Polamalu for years to come is attractive with no free safeties yet off the board. Brodney Pool would be the best fit to play with Polamalu and could see considerable time right out of the box.

31(31). Philadelphia Eagles

*Justin Tuck Linebacker Notre Dame

The Eagles finished second in the NFL in total sacks with 47 in 2004 but only 5 came from the linebacker position. Justin Tuck would give the Eagles a threat along the edge that would free up their defensive lineman even more.

32(32). New England Patriots

Marlin Jackson Cornerback Michigan

Another bargain in the secondary for the Patriots as they wind up with Marlin Jackson. Jackson has experience at corner and safety, just how the Patriots like it.

Round 2

33(1). San Francisco 49ers

*Justin Miller Cornerback Clemson

34(2). Cleveland Browns

Charlie Frye Quarterback Akron

35(3). Philadelphia Eagles (From Miami)

*Ciatrick Fason Running Back Florida

36(4). Tampa Bay Buccaneers

*C.J. Mosley Defensive Tackle Missouri

37(5). Tennessee Titans

Marcus Johnson Offensive Tackle Mississippi

38(6). Oakland Raiders

Mark Clayton Wide Receiver Oklahoma

39(7). Chicago Bears

Alex Smith Tight End Stanford

40(8). New Orleans (From Washington)

*Odell Thurman Linebacker Georgia

41(9). Detroit Lions

*Ernest Shazor Safety Michigan

42(10). Dallas Cowboys

Corey Webster Cornerback LSU

43(11). New York Giants

Demarcus Ware Linebacker Troy

44(12). Arizona Cardinals

Andrew Walter Quarterback Arizona State

45(13). Carolina Panthers

Adam Terry Offensive Tackle Syracuse

46(14). Kansas City Chiefs

*Fabian Washington Cornerback Nebraska

47(15). Houston Texans

Kevin Burnett Linebacker Tennessee

48(16). Cincinnati Bengals

Jamaal Brimmer Safety UNLV

49(17). Minnesota Vikings

Barrett Ruud Linebacker Nebraska

50(18). St.Louis Rams

*Darryl Blackstock Linebacker Virginia

51(19). Green Bay Packers (From New Orleans)

David Baas Offensive Guard Michigan

52(20). Jacksonville Jaguars

Bill Swancutt Defensive End Oregon State

53(21). Baltimore Ravens

Chris Kemoeatu Offensive Guard Utah

54(22). Seattle Seahawks

Reggie Brown Wide Receiver Georgia

55(23). Buffalo Bills

Atiyyah Ellison Defensive Tackle Missouri

56(24). Denver Broncos

*Adrian McPherson Quarterback Florida State

57(25). New York Jets

Kevin Everett Tight End Miami (Fla.)

58(26). Green Bay Packers

Kyle Orton Quarterback Purdue

59(27). Atlanta Falcons

*Rian Wallace Linebacker Temple

60(28). Indianapolis Colts

*Marion Barber III. Running Back Minnesota

61(29). San Diego Chargers

Wesley Britt Offensive Tackle Alabama

62(30). Pittsburgh Steelers

Kirk Morrison Linebacker San Diego State

63(31). Philadelphia Eagles

Khalif Barnes Offensive Tackle Washington

64(32). New England Patriots

Courtney Roby Wide Receiver Indiana

</TD></TR></TBODY></TABLE></TD></TR></TBODY></TABLE>http://www.draftace.com/mockdraft.htm

<TABLE width=592 border=1><TBODY><TR><TD width=207 rowSpan=2>

1. San Francisco 49ers

</TD><TD width=271 height=21>

Alex Smith QB Utah

</TD><TD width=92 rowSpan=2>

</TD></TR><TR><TD width=271 height=105>Smith's excellent showing at his private workout may have finally create some space between him and Rogers in the fight for the number one pick. While this is still uncertain, Smith has the upper hand at the moment.</TD></TR><TR><TD width=207 rowSpan=2>

2. Miami Dolphins

</TD><TD width=271 height=21>

Ronnie Brown RB Auburn

</TD><TD width=92 rowSpan=2>

</TD></TR><TR><TD width=271 height=62>With his excellent workouts Brown has taken a step ahead of the other running backs and currently looks like an easy choice for the Dolphins, and could solve a lot of problems by resurrecting their run game.</TD></TR><TR><TD width=207 rowSpan=2>

3. Cleveland Browns

</TD><TD width=271 height=16>

Derrick Johnson OLB Texas

</TD><TD width=92 rowSpan=2>

</TD></TR><TR><TD width=271 height=63>With Romeo Crennell on board the Browns are likely looking towards defense. With two young backup QBs and Dilfer starting, we're feeling that the Browns will pass on Smith or Rogers and go for a defensive upgrade.</TD></TR><TR><TD width=207 rowSpan=2>

4. Chicago Bears

</TD><TD width=271 height=15>

Cedric Benson RB Texas

</TD><TD width=92 rowSpan=2>

</TD></TR><TR><TD width=271 height=92>Thomas Jones is a solid running back, but he isn't the future All-Pro that many believe Benson could be. With a one-two punch at running back with Jones and Benson a lot of pressure would be off Grossman.</TD></TR><TR><TD width=207 rowSpan=2>

5. Tampa Bay Bucs

</TD><TD width=271 height=22>

Braylon Edwards WR Michigan

</TD><TD width=92 rowSpan=2>

</TD></TR><TR><TD width=271 height=49>Edwards has established himself as the number one receiver on the top of this year's draft board and the Bucs could use his services to help out their offense. If this pick isn't Edwards, it should be a WR or RB.</TD></TR><TR><TD width=207 rowSpan=2>

6. Tennessee Titans

</TD><TD width=271 height=10>

Aaron Rogers QB California

</TD><TD width=92 rowSpan=2>

</TD></TR><TR><TD width=271 height=83>McNair can't stay healthy, and Billy Volek is not the future in Tennessee. Rogers would be in the perfect situation here to learn behind one of the NFL's best before taking over when he is ready.</TD></TR><TR><TD width=207 height=107 rowSpan=2>

7. Minnesota Vikings (f/Oak)

</TD><TD width=271 height=2>

Mike Williams WR USC

</TD><TD width=92 height=107 rowSpan=2>

</TD></TR><TR><TD width=271 height=79>With Moss gone, and big money being spent to upgrade their defense for the 2nd year in a row the Vikings can look to grab a #1 receiver here in either Williams or Braylon Edwards, depending on who is still here.</TD></TR><TR><TD width=207 rowSpan=2>

8. Arizona Cardinals

</TD><TD width=271 height=21>

Cadillac Williams RB Auburn

</TD><TD width=92 rowSpan=2>

</TD></TR><TR><TD width=271 height=75>The Cardinals could either take Williams and put a potentially very well rounded offense on the field next year, or the could look for some help for the struggling defense; someone like Rolle or Pac-Man Jones.</TD></TR><TR><TD width=207 rowSpan=2>

9. Washington Redskins

</TD><TD width=271 height=12>

Antrel Rolle CB Miami FL

</TD><TD width=92 rowSpan=2>

</TD></TR><TR><TD width=271 height=93>Rolle is a big physical corner that should step in and fill the void left by Champ Bailey last year. Despite the Redskins success on defense last year, they still need a real leader in the secondary and Rolle could be it.</TD></TR><TR><TD width=207 rowSpan=2>

10. Detroit Lions

</TD><TD width=271 height=16>

Marcus Spears DE LSU

</TD><TD width=92 rowSpan=2>

</TD></TR><TR><TD width=271 height=86>Spears has risen up the draft charts this offseason thanks to some good workouts and he could be a top 10 pick now. The Lions need a young defense end to help put pressure on the quarterback.</TD></TR><TR><TD width=207 rowSpan=2>

11. Dallas Cowboys

</TD><TD width=271 height=20>

Troy Williamson WR South Carolina

</TD><TD width=92 rowSpan=2>

</TD></TR><TR><TD width=271 height=97>The Cowboys are taking a 'win now' attitude this offseason, making us believe that they will draft with the same mindset. Williamson can be an instant impact at receiver, and an upgrade over guys like Quincy Morgan.</TD></TR><TR><TD width=207 rowSpan=2>

12. San Diego Chargers (f/NYG)

</TD><TD width=271 height=15>

Travis Johnson DT Florida State

</TD><TD width=92 rowSpan=2>

</TD></TR><TR><TD width=271 height=75>Johnson can be impact player at either NT or DE on the Chargers defensive line. The Chargers have a young defense and they need a guy that can make an impact right away, especially after losing DT Jason Fisk.</TD></TR><TR><TD width=207 rowSpan=2>

13. Houston Texans

</TD><TD width=271 height=9>

Pac-Man Jones CB West Virginia

</TD><TD width=92 rowSpan=2>

</TD></TR><TR><TD width=271>Despite adding Dunta Robinson in the 1st round last year, the Texans could still use more help in their secondary. If Jones falls this far he should be strongly considered by the Texans, despite their other needs.</TD></TR><TR><TD width=207 rowSpan=2>

14. Carolina Panthers

</TD><TD width=271 height=16>

Alex Barron OT Florida State

</TD><TD width=92 rowSpan=2>

</TD></TR><TR><TD width=271>Barron could be an instant starter on the Panthers offensive line, which really struggled at times in 2004. If they don't go for a lineman, they could use depth along the defensive line or at linebacker.</TD></TR><TR><TD width=207 rowSpan=2>

15. Kansas City Chiefs

</TD><TD width=271 height=4>

Shawne Merriman OLB Maryland

</TD><TD width=92 rowSpan=2>

</TD></TR><TR><TD width=271 height=74>The Chiefs really should go for the best available defensive player in the first round, unless a stud receiver falls to #15. Merriman is a tough athletic guy that could play either DE or OLB for the Chiefs.</TD></TR><TR><TD width=207 rowSpan=2>

16. Kansas City Chiefs

</TD><TD width=271 height=2>

Channing Crowder ILB Florida

</TD><TD width=92 rowSpan=2>

</TD></TR><TR><TD width=271 height=81>Either Crowder or Courtney Watson would be forced to the outside, but Crowder is the best linebacker available and the Saints have to have a linebacker high on their offseason wish list this year.</TD></TR></TBODY></TABLE>

17. Cincinnati Bengals

</TD><TD width=271 height=6>

Thomas Davis LB Georgia

</TD><TD width=90 height=14 rowSpan=2>

</TD></TR><TR><TD width=271 height=6>The Bengals have their eye on Travis Johnson, but if he's gone they could look to add a top linebacker. Davis is a tweener between linebacker and safety, but in the Bengals system he could make the switch.</TD></TR><TR><TD width=208 rowSpan=2>

18. Minnesota Vikings

</TD><TD width=271>

Carlos Rogers CB Auburn

</TD><TD width=90 rowSpan=2>

</TD></TR><TR><TD width=271>Smoot and Sharper improved their secondary, but they lack depth behind them. Rogers could develop into a legitimate shut down cornerback, and his great size only adds to his value.</TD></TR><TR><TD width=208 rowSpan=2>

19. St. Louis Rams

</TD><TD width=271>

Khalif Barnes OT Washington

</TD><TD width=90 rowSpan=2>

</TD></TR><TR><TD width=271>Barnes' stock is very quickly rising and he could even be gone by this pick. The Rams have addressed their defense in free agency and now need to beef up their offensive line to protect better Bulger in '05.</TD></TR><TR><TD width=208 rowSpan=2>

20. Dallas Cowboys (f/Buf)

</TD><TD width=271>

Shaun Cody DE USC

</TD><TD width=90 rowSpan=2>

</TD></TR><TR><TD width=271>Marcellus Wiley has been a disappointment and the Cowboys need to improve their pass rush in order for their defense to get back to where it was in 2003. Cody is a solid prospect who's stock is on the rise.</TD></TR><TR><TD width=208 rowSpan=2>

21. Jacksonville Jaguars

</TD><TD width=271>

Dan Cody DE Oklahoma

</TD><TD width=90 rowSpan=2>

</TD></TR><TR><TD width=271>The Jaguars are most likely looking towards drafting a DE or OT in the first round. If Barnes and Barron are gone, they should look to a guy like Cody, who is an all around solid defensive end. </TD></TR><TR><TD width=208 rowSpan=2>

22. Baltimore Ravens

</TD><TD width=271>

Marlin Jackson CB Michigan

</TD><TD width=90 rowSpan=2>

</TD></TR><TR><TD width=271>Jackson impressed scouts with his speed at the combine. He is a very similar player to former Raven Gary Baxter, because of his ability to play both CB and FS. The Ravens will need his services for depth on defense.</TD></TR><TR><TD width=208 rowSpan=2>

23. Seattle Seahawks

</TD><TD width=271>

Erasmus James DE Wisconsin

</TD><TD width=90 rowSpan=2>

</TD></TR><TR><TD width=271>James could play linebacker or defensive end. Either way, he would give the Seahawks some much needed depth at either position, and potential star to build their defense around.</TD></TR><TR><TD width=208 rowSpan=2>

24. Green Bay Packers

</TD><TD width=271 height=20>

Charlie Frye QB Akron

</TD><TD width=90 rowSpan=2>

</TD></TR><TR><TD width=271>Even with Favre returning for another season, Frye would be a smart investment. He is a great team leader and has all the physical tools necessary to take over for a legend like Favre.</TD></TR><TR><TD width=208 rowSpan=2>

25. Denver Broncos

</TD><TD width=271>

Heath Miller TE Virginia

</TD><TD width=90 rowSpan=2>

</TD></TR><TR><TD width=271 height=90>Tight End has to be high on the Bronco's list this offseason and if Miller falls to them at number 25 there is a good chance that they'll grab him. He could develop into a complete tight end, which the Broncos love.</TD></TR><TR><TD width=208 rowSpan=2>

26. New York Jets

</TD><TD width=271>

Fabian Washington CB Nebraska

</TD><TD width=90 rowSpan=2>

</TD></TR><TR><TD width=271>The Jets need a young shutdown corner, and they might be able to get one in Washington. His speed at the combine has him moving up the draft boards, and he has easily moved himself into a potential first round pick here.</TD></TR><TR><TD width=208 rowSpan=2>

27. San Diego Chargers

</TD><TD width=271>

Jammal Brown OT Oklahoma

</TD><TD width=90 rowSpan=2>

</TD></TR><TR><TD width=271>The Chargers should look to address their offensive line somewhere on day one. Brown isn't the next Jonathan Ogden, but he is a solid lineman that could be the Chargers future at left tackle. </TD></TR><TR><TD width=208 rowSpan=2>

28. Atlanta Falcons

</TD><TD width=271>

Justin Miller CB Clemson

</TD><TD width=90 rowSpan=2>

</TD></TR><TR><TD width=271>DeAngelo Hall was a great addition but he can't do it himself in the Falcons secondary. Miller is a hard hitting corner who's stock should start to rise after his workouts. He could make an instant impact in Atlanta.</TD></TR><TR><TD width=208 rowSpan=2>

29. Indianapolis Colts

</TD><TD width=271 height=20>

Darryl Blackstock OLB Virginia

</TD><TD width=90 rowSpan=2>

</TD></TR><TR><TD width=271>Tony Dungy has lacked a dominant linebacker like he had in Tampa with Derrick Brooks. Blackstock isn't the next Brooks, but he could be just a step below and a very effective starting linebacker for the Colts.</TD></TR><TR><TD width=208 rowSpan=2>

30. Pittsburgh Steelers

</TD><TD width=271>

Roddy White WR UAB

</TD><TD width=90 rowSpan=2>

</TD></TR><TR><TD width=271>With Plaxico Burress gone the Steelers have to find a replacement somewhere. There are some talented receiver, such as White, that will be available here, so expect Big Ben to get some more help with this pick.</TD></TR><TR><TD width=208 rowSpan=2>

31. Philadelphia Eagles

</TD><TD width=271 height=24>

Barrett Ruud ILB Nebraska

</TD><TD width=90 rowSpan=2>

</TD></TR><TR><TD width=271 height=101>Ruud has excellent size and speed and has been very productive at Nebraska. Even though Trotter is back, he is aging and won't play much more than 2 more years. Ruud can give him a rest, while training under him.</TD></TR><TR><TD width=208 rowSpan=2>

32. New England Patriots

</TD><TD width=271>

Demarcus Ware OLB Troy

</TD><TD width=90 rowSpan=2>

</TD></TR><TR><TD width=271>Tedy Bruschi's future is very cloudy right now and the Patriots have to move on assuming that he won't return. Ware's stock is on the rise and he has the ability to fit right into their defensive scheme as an OLB.</TD></TR></TBODY></TABLE>

</TD></TR></TBODY></TABLE></TD></TR></TBODY></TABLE>

BuckeyeNation27 · Mar 31, 2005

anybody want to do a BP mock draft?

Mothra · Mar 31, 2005

in.. as long as i'm the bengals!

BuckeyeNation27 · Mar 31, 2005

i call the raiders

OSUBasketballJunkie · Mar 31, 2005

yahoo.com

3/31/05

. San Francisco 49ers – Aaron Rodgers, QB, California
The 49ers have needs all over the place, but if they keep this pick, the only choice that truly makes sense is the local boy Rodgers. Wide receivers don't touch the ball enough to be No. 1 picks, and running back isn't an overwhelming need. Rodgers has proven himself to be more polished at this stage than Utah's Alex Smith, and he can be the centerpiece new coach Mike Nolan builds around. Don't think twice about the rumors of San Diego shipping Philip Rivers to the 49ers for this pick. They're simply not true.

2. Miami Dolphins – Ronnie Brown, RB, Auburn
Coach Nick Saban would like to go after Auburn's Jason Campbell or Akron's Charlie Frye in the second round, and that's one of the reasons this spot is ripe for a trade. Moving down a few spots would still allow Saban to get his running back, and then have a chance at a quarterback in the second round. Then again, Saban won't have to move if he can get a second-round pick for cornerback Patrick Surtain. If the Dolphins stand pat, Brown is the likely choice. He's the most complete running back in the draft and can touch the football 25 times a game both running and catching. As for Ricky Williams influencing what Miami does with this pick, forget about it.

3. Cleveland Browns – Alex Smith, QB, Utah
This slot holds the key to the draft's top 10. If the Browns pull a surprise and take Michigan's Braylon Edwards (or trade the pick to a team that covets the Wolverines star) it will throw draft boards everywhere into chaos. If Cleveland remains here, it's incorrect to assume the Browns are eyeing Texas linebacker Derrick Johnson because of Romeo Crennel's defensive resume. This is far too high to select Johnson, and Crennel isn't running this draft – general manager Phil Savage is. If the Browns stay put, and we're betting they won't, Savage will go with a quarterback to groom under Trent Dilfer.

4. Chicago Bears – Braylon Edwards, WR, Michigan
Even with the signing of Muhsin Muhammad, Edwards makes sense for three reasons. One, he's the most talented player in the draft. Two, his speed and size will add another component to help the maturation of quarterback Rex Grossman. Three, Edwards can be allowed to grow into his role, while Muhammad (who turns 32 this offseason) draws most of the attention in the secondary. Cedric Benson is a possibility, but Chicago isn't giving up on Thomas Jones just yet.

5. Tampa Bay Buccaneers – Carnell Williams, RB, Auburn
Tampa's love of USC receiver Mike Williams is legitimate, but with Michael Clayton and Joey Galloway already on the depth chart, running back is a more pressing need. Cedric Benson will be considered, but head coach Jon Gruden got a closer look at Carnell Williams when he coached him at the Senior Bowl. Now Williams has packed on an additional 10 pounds of muscle to make himself an every-down player, and still retained his full range of speed and athleticism. He's a better fit than Benson for Gruden's style of football, too.

6. Tennessee Titans – Adam Jones, CB, West Virginia
Part of this pick depends on what happens with free-agent cornerback Andre Dyson, who still may end up returning to the Titans. If Dyson stays in Tennessee, don't be surprised to see USC's Mike Williams reunited with former Trojan offensive coordinator Norm Chow in Nashville. But if Dyson signs elsewhere, the need at cornerback will simply be too great for the Titans to ignore. Tennessee will then take Jones, who is the best cover man available.

7. Minnesota Vikings – Mike Williams, WR, USC
This is the player Mike Tice and the Vikings have coveted all along, and he's a natural selection to help fill the void Randy Moss left behind. A few weeks ago, it looked like Williams had moved himself into the draft's top five picks, but his impressive workout was matched by Edwards and both of the draft's marquee quarterbacks. That reality, paired with the needs of other teams, will cause Williams to fall to the Vikings. Williams is big, athletic and fast enough. Playing in the Vikings' offense, he should have a good shot to be Offensive Rookie of the Year.

8. Arizona Cardinals – Cedric Benson, RB, Texas
The potential trade for Bills running back Travis Henry would change this pick into a cornerback like Miami's Antrel Rolle. But if that deal doesn't get done, the Cardinals might attempt to move up to grab one of the three running backs. If they stay put, Benson's lukewarm workout, combined with Jon Gruden's familiarity with Carnell Williams and other circumstances, will cause the Texas product to slip to the Cardinals. He's an every-down tank that coach Dennis Green is looking for, and he would make it difficult for teams that already have to worry about Larry Fitzgerald and Anquan Boldin.

9. Washington Redskins – Antrel Rolle, CB, Miami
Coach Joe Gibbs needs a starting cornerback after the departure of Fred Smoot, and Rolle appears to be a natural fit, having played alongside Redskins safety Sean Taylor in college. There were some questions about Rolle's speed, but he answered his critics with an impressive pro day. While he might not be the pure coverage man that Adam Jones is, coaches think Rolle can make up the difference with physical play in the first five yards of a receiver's route.

10. Detroit Lions – Derrick Johnson, LB, Texas
Florida State offensive tackle Alex Barron and Oklahoma defensive end Dan Cody make more sense, considering the Lions have needs at those spots. But with Boss Bailey's health concerns, Johnson is too good to pass up this far down in the draft. If the Lions can move one of them into the middle, the trio of Teddy Lehman, Boss Bailey and Johnson (not to mention James Davis in reserve) would make for the fastest linebacker corps in the NFL. There are a lot of whispers about Johnson's ability to take on blockers, but that might be some sand-bagging. He played at an elite level for four years at a major program.

11. Dallas Cowboys – Shawne Merriman, DE/LB, Maryland
Merriman only really had one breakout season in college, and he still has to learn how to play in coverage as a linebacker. But he fits exactly what the Cowboys are looking for in an athletic flex defensive end/linebacker to fit a 3-4 defense. He's got plenty of size and speed, and he impressed scouts in his positional drills leading to the draft. He could be a major hit, but his lack of long-term success makes him a risk for the "bust" category.

12. San Diego Chargers – Dan Cody, DE, Oklahoma
The Chargers need to get a better pass rush from their defensive line after ranking near the bottom of the NFL in sacks last season. Cody is the type of high-energy player Chargers defensive coordinator Wade Phillips loves. His lack of bulk is a red flag – and he took a year away in college to be treated for depression – but he has played the last two years without any issues. San Diego could also fill its wide receiver need here and wait to grab a defensive end until later, but most of the top prospects at that position will be gone by their 28th pick, so they'll fill that need with Cody first.

13. Houston Texans – Alex Barron, OT, Florida State
The Texans clearly want to upgrade their talent at offensive tackle, and Barron is the best one available. Though there have been questions about his passion, he's got all the physical tools needed at the position, and he's gotten exponentially better every year in college. Some grumbled about his difficulties in the bench press, but Barron has the longest arms of anyone in the draft and good lower body strength. He's more likely to be a very good player (perhaps even Pro Bowl caliber) than to be a bust.

14. Carolina Panthers – Troy Williamson, WR, South Carolina
The Panthers need a talented receiver to fill the gap left behind by Muhsin Muhammad, and the underrated Williamson fits the bill. Though Williamson had only one breakout season, he's got an abundance of speed (showcased by running sub-4.4 seconds in the 40) and plenty of size and athleticism. Carolina is a good fit for him, because he can mature while Steve Smith and Keary Colbert handle the bulk of the load early on. If he had played in an offense with better quarterbacks, he might be mentioned in the same breath as Braylon Edwards and Mike Williams.

15. Kansas City Chiefs – Carlos Rogers, CB, Auburn
This pick could change by draft day if Kansas City nabs Ty Law in free agency or Miami's Patrick Surtain in a trade. If the Chiefs were to acquire one of those players, they would likely look for a defensive end here. Barring one of those additions panning out, the Chiefs will go with Rogers, whose stock has risen since very impressive workouts leading up to the draft. Clearly the best defensive player for Auburn last season, some argue Rogers could be a more complete cornerback down the road than West Virginia's Adam Jones and Miami's Antrel Rolle.

16. New Orleans Saints – Travis Johnson, DT, Florida State
This is another pick that could change depending on what happens with the potential trade of defensive end Darren Howard. With no linebackers worthy of this pick, the Saints go to the next biggest need and get Johnson. He's another player who has really only had one "star" season, when he became a full time starter in 2004 for Florida State. That, along with some injury and off-the-field concerns, makes him a risky pick. But he has great quickness, and can be another quality cog in the Saints run defense.

17. Cincinnati Bengals – Erasmus James, DE, Wisconsin
His 40-yard dash times disappointed some people, who think he's going to have a harder time beating tackles in the NFL with a speed rush. He had some health issues in college. But James has good size and athleticism, and the Bengals need someone on the other side of Justin Smith. Still needing quality at defensive tackle, the Bengals will look at USC's Shaun Cody here too, but James will be too good to pass up.

18. Minnesota Vikings – Marcus Spears , DE/DT, LSU
Spears likely would go higher in the draft if an ACL injury hadn't hindered his workouts before the draft. He might work out on March 31, and that could change his status. For now, Spears' size (6-4, 307) gives him a lot of flexibility as an end or tackle, and would make a nice addition to the depth of the defense the Vikings are building. A former star basketball player in high school, Spears isn't super fast, but he is quick and athletic – both valued traits along the defensive line. He saw time at tight end and fullback as a freshman for LSU.

19. St. Louis Rams – Jammal Brown, OT, Oklahoma
After the nuclear meltdown with Kyle Turley, the Rams need to address their situation at tackle. Brown was a three-year starter for the Sooners, and made steady improvements along the way, especially physically. He has enough size to play in the NFL (6-6, 316), though he could easily add another 10-15 pounds in the NFL. Like Florida State's Alex Barron, some question his intensity. Overall, most think he can be a good tackle, but not develop into a Pro Bowl level talent.

20. Dallas Cowboys – Roddy White, WR, Alabama-Birmingham
He is a major vertical threat, with great speed and good playmaking skills down the field. White impressed a lot of people while showing off his skills at the combine and Senior Bowl. He hasn't played a ton of major competition, but that might not matter given his set of skills. The Cowboys could use a downfield threat, especially with Drew Bledsoe in the fold.

21. Jacksonville Jaguars – Fabian Washington, CB, Nebraska
It would be a total shock if Jacksonville didn't address its need for a cornerback with this pick, and Washington should be the best one available at this point. He's easily the fastest cornerback in the draft, running sub 4.3 second 40-yard dashes. But he's got some issues, especially his size (5-10, 188), which hurts against bigger receivers and in run support. Then again, the Jaguars don't need him to develop into a No. 1 cornerback. They need a solid No. 2, and Washington has the skills to accommodate that.

22. Baltimore Ravens – Mark Clayton, WR, Oklahoma
This pick could be influenced by what happens with free agent defensive end Marques Douglas, who could still return to the Ravens. If Douglas departs, Baltimore could go with USC's Shaun Cody, who could play defensive end or tackle. If Douglas returns, Baltimore has the flexibility to add to its depth at receiver with Oklahoma's Clayton. Interestingly, Clayton is not totally unlike free agent signee Derrick Mason. He doesn't have great size or burning speed, but has great hands, is very productive and runs good routes. He could be a nice third option behind Mason and tight end Todd Heap.

23. Seattle Seahawks – David Pollack, DE/OLB, Georgia
After losing Chike Okeafor, Seattle could use a defensive end who was one of the premiere pass rushers in the college game. His 40-yard dash times left something to be desired, and he lacks the size to be an overpowering end. Still, Pollack did nothing but make plays with Georgia. There are all kinds of opinions about the role he could fill in the NFL, whether it is as a traditional end in a 4-3 scheme, or an outside linebacker in a 3-4. After last season's spate of injuries, he would be a nice addition for the Seahawks, and a steal this low in the draft.

24. Green Bay Packers – Thomas Davis, S/OLB, Georgia
The Packers could use help at either safety or linebacker, and that makes Davis a perfect candidate. He divided his time up at Georgia as a starter at either safety or linebacker, and was a big-time playmaker at both positions. His 40-yard dash times left something to be desired, and most think Davis is best suited to be a linebacker in the NFL. He is a major league hitter who would compliment Packers linebacker Nick Barnett.

25. Denver Broncos – Demarcus Ware, DE/OLB, Troy
Ware is the next best flex linebacker/defensive end behind Maryland's Shawne Merriman, and should slide right into the outside linebacker spot as the Broncos make the transition to a 3-4 defense. He has some speed and is very athletic, but could struggle making the transition to being a full time linebacker, especially in coverage. His lack of experience against upper level competition is a concern, too.

26. New York Jets – Shaun Cody, DE/DT, USC
One of the most coveted high school players in the country, Cody was a four year starter for the Trojans. Though he doesn't have the speed to be a pure pass rushing defensive end, he's got skills to attack the quarterback from the interior line. Some teams think he could get bigger and play permanently on the inside in the NFL, while others think he's going to have to be rotated back and forth between defensive end and tackle. The Jets need someone to fill the gap left by departed defensive tackle Jason Ferguson.

27. Atlanta Falcons – Anttaj Hawthorne, DT, Wisconsin
The Falcons have a defense that is light on its feet and could use some young defensive line depth, and Hawthorne solves both of those problems. Though some might consider this a reach after Hawthorne's poor times in the 40-yard dash, he was a dominating interior lineman in college, jumping in as a freshman and stringing together 41 straight starts for the Badgers. He drew consistent double teams in college.

28. San Diego Chargers – Jerome Mathis, WR, Hampton
With all of the other quality receivers off the board, the Chargers would have to take a little risk on Mathis to round out their depth at receiver. But considering his speed (sub 4.3 seconds in the 40-yard dash) and the ability he showed against players at the Gridiron Classic, he might be worth the gamble. He also impressed at the combine. He's had some off the field issues and there is a concern about his competition level.

29. Indianapolis Colts – Channing Crowder, ILB, Florida
An instant starter as a true freshman for the Gators, Crowder is the cream of a weak crop of inside linebackers. He oozes athleticism, but scouts complain that he loses focus at times. He's had some issues off the field and wasn't the most disciplined player under former Florida coach Ron Zook. He can cover a lot of area and plays faster than his 40 times, and seems a good fit for the Indianapolis defense.

30. Pittsburgh Steelers – Heath Miller, TE, Virginia
Once thought to be a top 15 pick, Miller lost a lot of ground because of multiple concerns. Critics complain that he has poor blocking skills and lacks speed. Some believe he'll never be able to block well enough to make him an every-down tight end. There are also some worries about his health after a sports hernia kept him out of the combine. All of those things aside, Miller has fantastic hands and would give Pittsburgh's Ben Roethlisberger a huge target in the passing game.

31. Philadelphia Eagles – Khalif Barnes, OT, Washington
A big offensive tackle that could replace Jermaine Mayberry. Some think Barnes could bulk up to 320 pounds on his 6-6 frame. Physically, he's top notch. But the major concern is his commitment, and the belief that Barnes will need a taskmaster as a coach on the next level to keep him motivated. The Eagles have shown special interest in him, and he would clearly fit a need. 32. New England Patriots – Odell Thurman, ILB, Georgia
New England has showed a lot of interest in Thurman in workouts and the combine. The inside linebacker spot has become the top priority with the health issues of Tedy Bruschi and departure of Roman Phifer. Thurman's 40-yard dash times aren't great, but scouts say he attacks the line of scrimmage like a wrecking ball. Physically, he looks great, but he has a lot of refining to do. He's a top notch tackler and can shed blocks. He has had some off-the-field issues and was punished a handful of times while at Georgia for violating team and academic standards.

BuckWrestler141 · Apr 5, 2005

I've got the Bears

BuckeyeNation27 · Apr 5, 2005

BuckWrestler141 said:
I've got the Bears

sorry...bears are taken.
http://www.buckeyeplanet.com/forum/showthread.php?p=172452#post172452

OilerBuck · Apr 5, 2005

A couple thoughts:

1. If the Browns choose a QB with the #3 pick, I may just jump from the top of my office building, hoping to somehow catch my eyelid on a rusty nail on the way down. I can't think of a single thing I would like at #3 short of trading down though.

2. If I see a.) that stupid "B" logo or b.) that stupid bulldog logo used for the Browns one more time, it will be too soon. BRING BACK BROWNIE THE ELF!

3. Great job compiling these Mock Drafts...I love reading them.

starBUCKS · Apr 5, 2005

I'll take the Cardinals

Mock drafts anyone?

Mothra

The Man In The Box

exhawg

Mirror Guy

Mothra

The Man In The Box

BuckeyeNation27

Goal Goal USA!

Mothra

The Man In The Box

BuckeyeNation27

Goal Goal USA!

OSUBasketballJunkie

Never Forget 31-0

BuckWrestler141

Legend

BuckeyeNation27

Goal Goal USA!

OilerBuck

Sweet Crude

starBUCKS

BPCFFB League #2 League Champion 2008 & 2010