• Posted by:
    'Ey
  • 07:20 PM ET  06.01
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It's somewhat late, but I hope you think this is worth the wait. I put in my opinion on all of the first round picks of this year's draft. KP was nice enough to help me out and voice her opinion as well.

Me
KP

1. Miami Dolphins - Jake Long, OT, Michigan

The Dolphins signed Long a few days before the draft and he is already the highest paid offensive lineman in the entire league. Anyways, I agree and disagree with this pick. Long is an absolute beast and he will be a great tackle for years to come. However, I don't think their quarterback situation is very good at the moment. I find it hard to believe that John Beck is the future of this organization and Chad Henne may be good, but I don't see him as a franchise quarterback. Matt Ryan could have been a good pick for them. If I was Bill Parcells I would have drafted Matt Ryan and put together a package with Jason Taylor and a pick or two for a first rounder to nab an offensive lineman to protect him, like the Falcons did. Anyways, Jake Long will provide space to throw and space to run and will benefit their team greatly. Your team can't succeed without a good offensive line, but it can't without a good quarterback either.
Pick Grade: 9.7
Player Grade: 9.8

I'm going out on a limb here. I think this was an excellent pick for Miami. Given the caliber of QB's in the draft, you can't waste a top pick on it. Not this year anyway. Jake Long has the opportunity to bring in some much needed offensive help. No, he won't win games. He won't be the "reason" they win games. That's not his job. No, the Dolphins won't all of a sudden jettison to the top of the AFC East. This is a long rebuilding process for Miami. Even the most ardent of Miami fans know that this is a few years from fruition. Parcells has made some significant improvements. Long will be in Miami for the entire rebuild and as long as he doesn't become disenchanted, he has a chance down the road to be with a viable AFC contender.
Pick Grade: 9.8
Player Grade: 9.8

2. Saint Louis Rams - Chris Long, DE, Virginia

Chris didn't have to wait "Long" for his name to be called (I know, bad and overused pun). I like this pick. Many believe they should have gone with Dorsey, however, with Adam Carriker now moving to defensive tackle from defensive end Dorsey no longer fulfilled a team need. Chris Long did. The Dorsey/Carriker combo could have been one of the best young defensive tackle pairs in the league, but now the Rams have a good player inside and another one outside. Chris Long is a good run stuffer and he can reach the quarterback too. His motor never stops, never. He is also athletic. His athleticism isn't praised enough. He has speed and he can jump. Even more impressive are his instincts. He can always locate the ball and when he sees it he knows exactly what to do instantly.
Pick Grade: 9.5
Player Grade: 9.7

I love this pick. Chris never ever gives up on the play. He's worth every penny.
Pick Grade: 9.7
Player Grade: 9.6

3. Atlanta Falcons - Matt Ryan, QB, Boston College

Ryan is the best quarterback in this years draft and the only franchise quarterback. The Falcons covered a huge need here and they replaced the face of Mike Vick at the same time. Unfortunately, this is a mammoth role for Ryan to take on and I have a feeling not all Falcons fans are over Mike Vick.  Either way, this was a great pick. I thought that they would take Dorsey here based on Dimitroff's backgrounds, but I was wrong. Matt is a great leader and he can become the face of this franchise. He clearly isn't as mobile as Vick was, but he can definitely gain time in the pocket. He is a far better passer than Vick. The Falcons have a lot of needs and luckily for Ryan they drafted an offensive lineman to protect him. Surround this guy with talent and the Falcons will improve greatly.
Pick Grade: 9.8
Player Grade: 9.4

OK. A lot of people think this is a bust. I don't. Much like Rodgers in Green Bay, Ryan will be expected to produce right from the start. I think that's the biggest problem here. I like Matt Ryan. Living in MA, we see a lot of BC games broadcast locally. I knew Atlanta would take him. They didn't have a choice. You need to start somewhere and clean cut fresh faced QB like Matt Ryan from a nice Jesuit school is just what the Falcons need to slap a fresh coat of paint on a very weather beaten and tarnished image. He's not a runner, put he has good pocket presence. Yes, I know. He threw a lot of interceptions but in his defense, his receiving corp was awful (and that's being generous) and BC put the ball in the air a whole lot more than they did in past seasons.
Pick Grade 9.8
Player Grade 9.6

4. Oakland Raiders - Darren McFadden, RB, Arkansas

I understand that McFadden is hard for any team to pass up and he will most likely be a great player, but why would the Raiders take him? The Raiders have Justin Fargas, LaMont Jordan, and Dominic Rhodes. These three are all decent to above average running backs. Therefore the running back position was not a need at all. Since the 2004 NFL Draft the Raiders latest pick was seventh so they clearly have some glaring needs. For some reason they choose not to fill those. Their division can obviously run the ball, the Chargers have LaDainian Tomlinson, the Broncos have a great history of backs, and the Chiefs have Larry Johnson. Because of this they should have drafted Glenn Dorsey. Dorsey could have filled the whole Warren Sapp left by retiring and he can help stop these teams' rushing attacks.
Pick Grade: 8.3
Player Grade: 9.8

This to me was a stupid pick by Al Davis. Not that McFadden won't be a dominant RB in the league, but I agree with my friend Ey'. The Raiders needs were not addressed with this pick. I have no idea as to why they picked him other than to help ticket sales. So what if you lose 12 games? You end up with a RB who people want to see, and you make money. I saw a blurb in a national news site that said McFadden jerseys are already backlogged. So the marketing geniuses guessed right.  It's a win/win for Davis and McFadden. It's a lose/lose for the team.
Pick Grade: 7.5
Player Grade: 9.7

5. Kansas City Chiefs - Glenn Dorsey, DT, LSU

Great pick and a great draft by the Chiefs too. The Chiefs are in the same division as the Raiders so they could definitely use a powerful run stopper. Luckily for them Dorsey dropped to five. The Chiefs are currently in the rebuilding process and this is a very good way to start. They traded Jared Allen so defensive end was a need, but no defensive end was worthy of this spot, let alone above Glenn Dorsey. Dorsey will be an every down player and despite some durability concerns he was a smart pick. The Chief's run defense was twenty-eighth in the entire league; that is terrible. Hopefully Dorsey will move them up far in that category.
Pick Grade: 9.8
Player Grade: 9.7

A superb pick by the Chiefs. They addressed a pressing need and that shows smart drafting skills. Why the Raiders didn't take Dorsey is anyone's guess. I'm betting Raiders fans are asking that same question.
Pick Grade: 9.8
Player Grade: 9.8

6. New York Jets - Vernon Gholston , DE /OLB, Ohio State

I admit that this was a smart pick to fulfill the Jet's need of a pass rusher, but I am not a fan of Gholston. Like many of the analysts on sports shows have said Gholston is not consistent and he doesn't play every down. I heard one person say "When you're that good at the college level you get bored and you sit out plays." If that is true why didn't Glenn Dorsey take plays off? Or Chris Long? Anyways, Gholston could have a good career, especially a good rookie season because he is lining up opposite of Calvin Pace. Smart pick, but I'm not a big fan of the player.
Pick Grade: 9.3
Player Grade: 8.8

I like Vernon and I think he has great potential. The only problem, well two problems is that 1) he can be very hmm... lazy? I'm not sure the ethic or the desire is present all the time. 2) He's with the Jets. The Jets had a number of needs to be addressed, hey, like maybe QB, and chose not to do that route. No offense to Jet fans, but the Jets team in general seems a bit lazy at times. Or maybe just confused. They need a leader on that team and I'm not convinced Gholston can do it. Overall, I like the kid and IF the Jets can get him focused, he could be a tremendous asset. Just get him focused.
Pick Grade: 9.4
Player Grade: 9.5

7. New Orleans Saints (trade with New England Patriots) - Sedrick Ellis, DT, USC

I am a big fan of Ellis, as I am of this pick. The Saints could basically use help everywhere on their defense and, sure enough, defensive tackle is a position on the defense. The Patriots got a pretty good deal, but if the Saints didn't trade that the Bengals would have taken Ellis. The Saints wanted a player who was both quick and powerful. This former Trojan is certainly that. He faced constant double teams and he constantly beat them. He has great experience and played both tackle positions in college. I really like this guy and this pick.
Pick Grade: 9.4
Player Grade: 9.5

Damn, if I didn't want Ellis for the Patriots ! This was a smart trade by both teams. The Saints got what could be a star on their defense and the Patriots saved 4 million bucks. Just because I wanted Ellis, didn't mean Pioli and Belichick thought so. The Pats have some young guys at DT. It's the LB corp that's getting old. So yes, Ellis would have been a great addition and I really like this kid. It was a smart move by the Saints and should bring in early returns for their money.
Pick Grade: 9.5
Player Grade: 9.5

8. Jacksonville Jaguars (trade with Baltimore Ravens) - Derrick Harvey, DE/OLB, Florida

The Jaguars gave up too much to get to this pick and I don't see why they moved into this spot. I don't think there was any risk of him getting drafted before thirteenth overall at the earliest. This pick fulfills a need for the Jaguars, but I just don't see how it was necessary to move up to number eight. Anyways, Harvey is a physical player and he certainly excelled in the big game. He performed very well in the National Championship against Ohio State . He is a good fit for the Jaguars style of play. I believe Harvey will have a solid NFL career, perhaps better. This pick grade would be much higher if they didn't pay such a high cost.
Pick Grade: 8.6
Player Grade: 9.1

I think I will withhold judgement on this kid for a bit. I don't think he deserved to go this high. He is a smashmouth kind of player and that will fit in well with the Jags but I really don't think he belonged in the top 10. Im not sure he belonged in the 1st round for that matter. Now that being said, The Jags picked him for a reason. They needed a big strong physical player in this position. I just think they could have waited till the 2nd round. He would have still been available and the Jags could have saved a boat load of dough.
Pick Grade: 8.0
Player Grade: 8.5  

9. Cincinnati Bengals - Keith Rivers, OLB, USC

And another defensive player from the Trojans is drafted. Yet another smart pick in the top ten. The Bengals linebacker corps was obliterated by injuries last season and Keith Rivers will help them out. He is very athletic for a linebacker, versatile too. Rivers and Jerod Mayo (you'll be hearing his name again soon) are very similar. They are both versatile, but Rivers is more finesse and athletic and Mayo is powerful and aggressive. I donâ€TMt know of any off the field issues with Rivers which is a very good thing for the Bengals. He is very active on the field and he is capable of giving the big hit, unfortunately he doesn't wrap up the opposing player enough.
Pick Grade: 9.3
Player Grade: 9.2

This is a SWEET pick. I am slightly surprised he lasted till 9th.  This is a player the Raiders or Jets could have used. With all the Chad Johnson crap going on, the Bengals have a new focus - and its Keith Rivers. You'll be hearing a lot about this kid next season. I like his style of play, I like his energy and focus. I think he has the ability to lead. I've always liked the Bengals for some strange reason and its nice to see them finally have some positive force.
Pick Grade: 9.7
Player Grade: 9.4  

10. New England Patriots (trade with New Orleans Saints) - Jerod Mayo, ILB, Tennessee

Two very similar players are drafted at nine and ten. Everyone knows about the Patriots old defense and that is precisely why Mayo was such a smart pick. He is an energized player who can spark the defense with either a big play or a massive hit. I particularly like this pick because if Mayo plays inside, rotating with Bruschi and Junior Seau, the Patriots can move Adalius Thomas outside where they can fully utilize his playmaking abilities. He is a high character guy, which the Patriots love and he is versatile. The Patriots love the versatile and athletic part too. Mayo was a classic Bill Belichick/ Scott Pioli pick. And, as we all know, those seem to turn out well.
Pick Grade: 9.4
Player Grade: 9.3

What I really like about Mayo is the ability to play inside or outside. I said in my draft day blog, nobody loves versatility like the Patriots and Belichick. I think it's a good pick and I'm looking forward to seeing what he can do. The Pats filled an extreme need with a good player and did it for 4 million less than they could have. That's smart drafting.
Pick Grade: 9.7
Player Grade: 9.4  

11. Buffalo Bills - Leodis McKelvin, CB, Troy

McKelvin is a good player and this is a smart choice. He can help in the returning game as well. Terrence McGee is a good corner, but after him they don't have a quality starting cornerback. I expected this pick to be Devin Thomas, but this is a good pick as well, probably a better pick. Despite a low level of competition at Troy many had him as the top rated prospect in the draft. His speed may be his best attribute. It gives him speed to close and recover as well as a great dimension to his return game. He is a natural corner with great hands. Once he intercepts it watch out because he could take it all the way.
Pick Grade: 9.0
Player Grade: 9.1

This kid will make a name for himself. He reminds me a lot of a former Pats CB. He's fast, he's furious and he makes the wideouts nervous. That being said, he needs to stop second guessing himself. I've seen him hesitate and lose steps that could have been an interception. I think he will mature into following his gut feelings and be a tremendous asset to the Bills defense.
Pick Grade 9.2
Player Grade 9.3  

12. Denver Broncos - Ryan Clady, OT, Boise State

This is a good pick. I thought it should have been on defense though. The Bronco's usually formidable defense crumbled last season, particularly in the run game. They were thirtieth in the league against the run, allowing over one hundred forty yards per game and they were twenty-eighth in points allowed, giving up over twenty-five points per game. I believe they should have taken a run stopping defensive tackle or linebacker. However, Clady fills a need and he is a great fit in the Bronco's style of offense. At Boise State he performed in a zone blocking scheme, similar to the one used in Denver . Clady is very athletic and he is definitely capable of being a star left tackle.
Pick Grade: 8.7
Player Grade: 9.4

I'm going to pass on this one as the jury is still out. Yeah, he flls a hole but Im just not convinced yet and I haven't seen or read enough on him to form an opinion. So I will pass on Ryan.  

13. Carolina Panthers - Jonathan Stewart, RB, Oregon

Running back wasn't a huge need for the Panthers in my opinion. They could have used a number of defensive positions such as free safety, defensive tackle, and defensive end. Their defense was weak last season, then again, their offense was too. Anyway, I think that Jonathan Stewart wasn't the best running back available here. I would have taken Rashard Mendenhall instead. Perhaps the Panthers were cautious about him being a one year idea, which, by the way, is false. Stewart is a good back and I like his downhill style of running. He has the size and speed needed to succeed in the NFL. Not only does he attack the line, but he also is a big play threat. He is a good player, but Mendenhall would have been better if you ask me.
Pick Grade: 8.2
Player Grade: 8.7  

OK. Panthers need a lot more help than a RB is going to give them. Their defense is horrendous, their offense was sinful. This wasn't a draft for need and in the first round, you have to draft for need.
Pick Grade: 8.0
Player Grade: 8.4

14. Chicago Bears - Chris Williams, OT, Vanderbilt

The Bears could use youth and talent along their offensive line. If I were them I would have taken a quarterback like Brian Brohm or Chad Henne who dropped all the way to the second round. Maybe even Rashard Mendenhall because their running game was putrid last year. Williams is a good addition to the team, though. He is one of the best offensive linemen to ever attend Vanderbilt. He has the ideal combination of size and quickness and he can handle virtually any type of pass rusher. He isn't the fastest of the linemen, but there is no doubt that he is an elite prospect. If not for such a strong offensive tackle class Williams could have been the first taken.
Pick Grade: 9.0
Player Grade: 9.1

15. Kansas City Chiefs (trade with Detroit Lions) - Branden Albert, OG, Virginia

Boy did Albert climb up draft boards fast. That was amazing. The Chiefs used their surplus of draft picks to trade up into this spot and get the second first round pick of their very, very successful draft. Albert was a smart pick for the Chiefs. They got a defensive tackle who is a run stopping beast in Glenn Dorsey and now they have improved their dreadful offensive line with a versatile player. He is fast and he played both guard and tackle in his career. He even had a reception in his college career, that's pretty cool. My favorite thing about Albert besides his versatility is his quickness for a guy his size.
Pick Grade: 9.5
Player Grade: 9.4  

16. Arizona Cardinals - Dominique Rodgers-Cromartie, Tennessee State

I really like Cromartie. I have ever since I watched the Senior Bowl. Most teams were concerned about the level of competition he faced, very concerned. He showed he can play with the best at the Senior Bowl when he excelled. He had a great showing at the combine as well and he ran a good forty yard dash time. He is very athletic, but he could definitely can some bulk. His height is good as well and I love his aggressiveness. He can also return kicks because of his agility, speed, and burst.
Pick Grade: 9.0
Player Grade: 8.9  

17. Detroit Lions (trade with Kansas City Chiefs) - Gosder Cherilus, OT, Boston College

Okay, this is a smart pick position wise, but why Gosder? Jeff Otah was still on the board and many see Otah as a better lineman. I see Cherilus as more of a project than Otah and also he struggled on the left side. If he is coached well and develops well he can become an exceptional right tackle and an above average left tackle at best.  I love his attitude and his nasty streak. He is a huge guy as well at 6'6" and three hundred fourteen pounds. He will be an excellent run blocker, but he will almost certainly struggle against fast pass rushers.
Pick Grade: 8.5
Player Grade: 8.5  

18. Baltimore Ravens (trade with Houston Texans) - Joe Flacco, QB, Delaware

I understand that this fulfills a need, and by that I mean a huge need, but why did they trade up so far? Chad Henne and Brian Brohm are still available and may have been taken before Flacco was so I don't understand why they moved up so far. Flacco has plenty of potential and he could even become a franchise quarterback. He is a tall guy, therefore he can scan the field from the pocket. He has the biggest arm in the draft. He obviously isn't polished like Matt Ryan is, but he has loads of potential.
Pick Grade: 9.0
Player Grade: 8.9  

19. Carolina Panthers (trade with Philadelphia Eagles) - Jeff Otah, OT, Pittsburgh

This pick makes plenty of sense for the Panther who just drafted Jonathan Stewart earlier. Otah will provide him with some running room. Otah is not athletic and when he faces the faster and quicker players he may need some help from fellow tight ends or running backs, but he is a great competitor and he can overpower defensive linemen. The Eagles drove a hard bargain for this pick, but it was still a good move for the Panthers. The Panthers are lucky Otah was available here since Gosder Cherilus was surprising taken before him, as was Williams of Vanderbilt.
Pick Grade: 9.3
Player Grade: 9.2  

20. Tampa Bay Buccaneers - Aqib Talib, CB, Kansas

Why would you do this Tampa Bay? You had the number one pass defense in the league and sure Ronde Barber is over thirty, but why would you take Aqib Talib? Talib has failed three drug tests, THREE! I really, really don't like this pick. I would take Mike Jenkins over Talib in a heartbeat. Talib is a great corner, but he tends to take too many risks and is caught out of position. Talib is a suspension waiting to happen if you ask me. He is a great player, but he is just too much of a risk especially with Roger Goodell.
Pick Grade: 7.6
Player Grade: 8.1  

21. Atlanta Falcons (trade with Washington Redskins) - Sam Baker, OT, USC

Smart move by the Falcons in my opinion, but many others disagree with me. The top offensive tackles were getting taken very fast and Baker was the last elite one left. He is a good value pick here and he could turn out much better than expected. He missed out much of this season with injuries and he was in the top three of offensive tackles before the season. He played almost all of the positions along the Trojan's offensive line. Now the Falcons have provided at least some protection for Matt Ryan. Last season their offensive line was exposed after losing so much mobility at quarterback. I really like how Baker positions himself and his use of leverage.
Pick Grade: 9.5
Player Grade: 8.9  

22. Dallas Cowboys (trade with Cleveland Browns) - Felix Jones, RB, Arkansas

Many are thinking Rashard Mendenhall here, but I think this is a better choice for the Cowboys. I don't think the Arkansas bond between the two Joneses is the reason either. Felix Jones is an incredible change of pace for Marion Barber who is a hard nosed runner. Jones has unbelievable speed and he had a great number of yards per carry last season. He, like Marion Barber, has become accustomed to sharing carries. Jones is a big play threat and he has very good moves. He could be a steal here if running with Darren McFadden hurt his stock. He is undersized, but he won't be in there every play or even most plays.
Pick Grade: 9.0
Player Grade: 8.6    

23. Pittsburgh Steelers - Rashard Mendenhall, RB, Illinois

The Steelers are lucky Mendenhall fell all the way to twenty-third. I expected Mendenhall as a top fifteen back, going to either the Panthers at thirteen or the Bears at fourteen. If he dropped by there I saw the Texans picking him up at eighteen. But the Panthers liked Jonathan Stewart more and the Bears felt they needed an offensive lineman while the Texans traded out of their spot. Mendenhall and Willie Parker will be a great one-two punch and Mendenhall can take over if Parker gets injured again. Many say Mendenhall only had one year of successful running, but as a sophomore he averaged over eight yards per carry on seventy eight attempts. It is true that he didn't carry the load until last year, but that means less wear and tear.
Pick Grade: 9.2
Player Grade: 9.0  

24. Tennessee Titans - Chris Johnson, RB, Eastern Carolina

Um, what? Why would the Titans do this? They desperately needed a wide receiver, but they didn't draft one until the fifth round. They did draft a tight end, but do they honestly expect him to be a main target for Young? Craig Stevens is no Tony Gonzales or Antonio Gates. They also already had a solid running game and LenDale White performed well last season. Johnson ran the fastest at the combine, but that is without pads and speed isn't everything in a running back. He is only one hundred ninety-seven pounds; can he stand up to the pounding? He could be a valuable asset in the kick return game, though.
Pick Grade: 7.8
Player Grade: 8.2  

25. Dallas Cowboys (trade with Seattle ) - Mike Jenkins, CB, South Florida

Jenkins is excellent in man-to-man coverage. I like the versatility he provides. His quickness and speed impresses me as well. It was a position that needed improvement for the Cowboys as well. Mike Jenkins will be a good addition to their defense and he can line up opposite of Terence Newman. His fluid hips and good change of direction improve his stock too. He needs some coaching to improve his technique and footwork. Some see him as a cornerback and safety 'tweener, but I think he is a definite corner.
Pick Grade: 9.3
Player Grade: 9.0  

26. Houston Texans (trade with Baltimore Ravens) - Duane Brown, OT, Virginia Tech

The Texans took a reach for Brown here. They were obviously going after need with this pick. Brown isn't even a definite tackle and he may have to move to guard. However, this former tight end is athletic for his size and he is very good at pass blocking. He needs to be coached to use his hands correctly while blocking and he isn't very consistent. It was a somewhat smart pick. It was smart based on needs, but clearly a reach.
Pick Grade: 8.4
Player Grade: 8.6  

27. San Diego Chargers - Antoine Cason, CB, Arizona

This pick is unlike the Texan's selection of Duane Brown. This was not the Charger's biggest need, but it was a minor one. They could have used a right tackle, but the value wasn't there this early. I like Cason, especially as an athlete. His instincts are impressive, as is his ability to locate the ball. He can run with receivers, however, I would not line him up in the press. Another thing I like is his play making ability and his confidence. I love confidence in cornerbacks. If he is coached well and gets stronger, he could be better than expected.
Pick Grade: 8.7
Player Grade: 8.8

28. Seattle Seahawks (trade with Dallas Cowboys) - Lawrence Jackson , DE , USC

I did not see this coming. The Seahawks could have used a tight end or receiver here and Phillip Merling was still available. Jackson struggled greatly against the double team in college and his speed isn't what you look for in a defensive end. However, he is good at stopping the run. He has very good size; he is 6'5" at two hundred seventy-one pounds. He would be good in the 3-4 defense as long as you aren't expecting sacks. He faced top offensive tackles and he still managed to produce for one of the nation's best teams. I see him as a solid starter, nothing more.
Pick Grade: 8.2
Player Grade: 8.4  

29. San Francisco 49ers (trade with Indianapolis Colts) - Kentwan Balmer, DT, North Carolina

Balmer is a project or a developmental prospect, in my mind, and that is why I don't like this pick. The 49ers could use immediate help on both sides of the ball. There are also concerns about Balmer having only one successful year in college and he might be a one year wonder. I don't see that as true because of his amazing blend of athleticism and size. He can get bigger, but if he really wants to succeed he needs to be coached to use leverage better.
Pick Grade: 8.0
Player Grade: 8.2

30. New York Jets (trade with Green Bay Packers) - Dustin Keller, TE, Purdue  

This is one of those reaches where you try to get a book from the shelf in your school library, but that shelf is at least six feet above your head. And then to top that, you offer money to the person who gives it to you. The Jets gave up way too much to get a tight end who may have dropped to them in the second round anyways! Keller will most likely never be a great blocker; he is a good receiver and may make an impact in that aspect right away. This is a reach, but Keller is a good player.
Pick Grade: 8.0
Player Grade: 8.7  

31. New York Giants - Kenny Phillips, S, Miami

See, this is a good pick. No wonder the Giants have been successful in drafts. Phillips is a good value pick here because of his athleticism and upside and he fills the need of a safety after the departure of Gibril Wilson. Phillips is no Ed Reed, but he has the potential to be far above average. I love his intensity and his size allows him to line up in the box and once he sheds blocks he will be there often. The downside is that he is often out of position and he bites on fakes to much. After some good coaching he can change that, as well as his technique and footwork issues.
Pick Grade: 9.5
Player Grade: 8.8

Thank you KP for the help and thank you for readin! I hope you enjoyed it.

June 1, 2008  07:28 PM ET

How long did this take?

June 1, 2008  07:45 PM ET

It took me over a week.

June 1, 2008  09:00 PM ET

Thanks for not being too hard on us Jet fans. If we can get our act together this year we might actually give the Pats a game.

June 1, 2008  09:26 PM ET

I think the Jets are able to apply pressure, which they couldn't do at all last year, on some teams thanks to Calvin Pace and Vernon Gholston, but their offense is a mess. I don't think Kellen Clemens, Chad Pennington, or Erik Ainge will be able to lead this team. On a good day I think they could give the Patriots a game.

June 1, 2008  10:45 PM ET

200 views and 2 comments not by me? Comment please!

June 2, 2008  08:21 AM ET

You can't handle the comment!
ok, actually I'm sick to death of all the so called experts bagging on Big Al.
"Dorsey would fill the whole left by sapp to defend the run". Sapp was on some of our worst run defnesive teams ever. So toss that out.
We have Fargas,Bush et all? Ok, Fargas is great (but he gets hurt easy) Bush is an unknown at this time. Jordan can't play a full season. Rhodes is out. Any questions?
How about an old style cliche? What pray tell is the best defense? A good offense. If McFadden moves the chains with Russell and company of course, and they score points what will our defense be doing? RESTING! The other team? NOT SCORING!
"The greatness of the Raiduhs is in our future".
Big Al Said it.
You better belive it!

June 2, 2008  11:21 AM ET

Good job EY !
I always love your blogs.. one of the best on FN !

June 2, 2008  11:24 AM ET

I have a comment.....

June 2, 2008  11:25 AM ET

That's a lot to read....

June 2, 2008  11:25 AM ET

...but I promise to put it on my to-do list...HA!

June 2, 2008  11:28 AM ET

Very well put together... I do think Henne was a steal in how late they got him, and am not sold at all on Ryan. Love your opinions.

June 2, 2008  11:28 AM ET

good job... people will be happy that you didn't bang on JJ for the Felix J pick...

June 2, 2008  11:28 AM ET

Wow. Great blog with great information. Good job and well worth the wait.

June 2, 2008  11:31 AM ET

Very good job and very well written!!!!

June 2, 2008  11:55 AM ET

The Jaguars lately have been prone to pick the best available UF player that fits a current need. Last year they took Reggie Nelson. This year, Derrick Harvey. You could argue this practice began 10 years ago with Fred Taylor who, desI'm sure the intelligence and effectiveness of this practice can be called into question by fans outside of Florida being, being a north Florida resident and both a Gator and Jaguar fan, it's smart business. The needs are addressed, the local college talent stays close to home where they are comfortable, and given that the majority of Jaguars fans are, like myself, also Gator fans, the continuous draw is reinforced because Gator fans love to see a contending pro NFL team stacked with hometown heroes.

June 2, 2008  11:56 AM ET

**You could argue this practice began 10 years ago with Fred Taylor who, despite his his fragile start, had overcome his toughness issues to have a breakout season last year.

June 2, 2008  12:16 PM ET

Never thought of that.. but you make an excellent point

June 2, 2008  06:07 PM ET

Blackhawk bill, you make some good points, but I just think that McFadden was not a smart pick. They had much more pressing needs than running back and Dorsey would have been a better pick.

KP, thank you, you're not too bad a blogger yourself.

BUNDTCAKE1, thanks for the comment and I know it's a lot.

Thanks, lcs, Henne was certainly a steal and it will be tough for Ryan especially on such a bad team with high expectations.

Thanks Magilla Gorilla, I think it was a good idea to take Felix for a change of pace.

Thank you, SHH.

Thanks devs.

Wow, very interesting point Hong Kong. I did not thing about that but it seems to be true.

June 2, 2008  08:30 PM ET

haha 9.5 GREAT BLOG!!!!!!!

 
June 2, 2008  08:55 PM ET

Thanks NY.

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