Strategies for the 2008 NFL Draft (Part two)

This is the second part of my "Strategies for the 2008 NFL Draft" covering the bottom half of the first round, picks 17-32. To check out picks 1-16 click here.

The bottom half of the first round is more difficult to devise a draft strategy for. Not only do player evaluations fluctuate more when you get to these picks, but the teams are generally more talented and their needs aren't always as obvious. Some of the better teams even totally disregard team needs and stick to the best player available theme, like last year the Cowboys drafted OLB/DE Anthony Spencer and arguably linebacker was their strongest position. They drafted Spencer for the future, forecasting Greg Ellis retiring in a couple years. As it turns out, they probably should have drafted a cornerback.

Also, as a fan, try not to get overly fixated to the first round, some of these teams have multiple picks in the later rounds and in this draft especially, some fantastic talent at receiver and running back will be found in the 2nd and 3rd rounds.

17. In case you have been living in a cave, the Vikings traded this pick to the Kansas City Chiefs for DE Jared Allen. If the Chiefs pass on a tackle with their first pick (#5) they will almost certainly pick a tackle at this spot. They would be ecstatic if OT, Chris Williams, Vanderbilt was still on the board. If Ryan Clady, Branden Albert, Jeff Otah and Williams are already gone, the Chiefs will be in a little trouble, but I expect one of those guys to be available here, so despite what the experts are saying, they don't really have to take a tackle with their first # 1 pick. The only other three players the Chiefs might consider here are defensive ends Derrick Harvey and Phillip Merling and cornerback Mike Jenkins. But remember, the Chiefs now have six picks in the first three rounds, they will fill their roster with young talent and should be able to get 4-5 quality starters out of this draft.

18. The Houston Texans, like the Chiefs, are another team desperately needing help at the offensive tackle position. By this time in the draft, the top tackles will almost all be gone, so if one of the top dogs is still on board, they might grab him, but more than likely they will grab running back RB, Jonathan Stewart, Oregon. Reggie Bush can't do it alone and Stewart is a special talent at running back, he had toe surgery on March 10th, but I don't think it will hurt his draft stock because he ran a 4.48 at the 2008 NFL Scouting Combine. Stewart is so good I think Dallas will try to trade up here and get him. I only rate 3 running backs (McFadden, Mendenhall, Stewart) as true first round material and Dallas really wants one of them.

19. Most people have the Eagles taking a receiver here and that is a possibility, but the receivers are very suspect this year, if you want a receiver you are better off waiting until the second round. They are going to get at least two receivers in this draft, probably in rounds 2-4, but the best player still on the boards will likely be Phillip Merling or Derrick Harvey. DE Phillip Merling, Clemson is a little bigger and fits the Eagles system better. Since the release of Jevon Kearse the Eagles are very thin at defensive end after Trent Cole. They also need free safety help, but there isn't one worthy of being drafted this high.

20. The Tampa Bay Buccaneers could go in a number of different ways here, maybe a running back like Jamaal Charles, Felix Jones or Chris Johnson. They also need help at cornerback, Ronde Barber is entering his 12th season. However, receiver is by far their biggest need, the only problem is the receivers in this draft class all have issues. Joey Galloway is their only weapon and he is 36 years old. WR, Limas Sweed, Texas looks like the safest bet, (if there is such a thing). DeSean Jackson will also draw a lot of interest due to his return ability, but Sweed is a big receiver that can go up and get the ball. Sweed suffered most of the year with a wrist injury, if not for the injury, Sweed would have likely emerged as a top 15 pick in this 2008 NFL Draft.

21. The Redskins need help at defensive end, offensive tackle, receiver and defensive tackle. For most of the year almost all the draftniks out there had the Skins taking Calais Campbell from Miami, but he had a mediocre year, looked out of shape at the combine and has almost certainly fallen out of the first round. Defensive Ends Phillip Merling, Derrick Harvey and Quentin Groves are also highly probable, but Harvey and Groves are better suited in a 34 defense and Merling will likely be long gone by this pick. I think they might take sleeper DT, Kentwan Balmer, UNC, he is an athletic talent with nice size (6' 4" 307 lbs). Cornelius Griffin played only average in 2007 and isn't the long term answer on the inside for the Skins. Its not the sexy pick, but it is practical.

22. Yes the Dallas Cowboys traded for cornerback Pac Man Jones, and they really wanted to draft offense here, heck they have drafted defense in the first round eight years in a row. But the way my 2008 NFL Mock Draft played out, CB Mike Jenkins, South Florida fell down to them and he is way to good to pass up, in fact, it is a little unlikely he will fall down this low. If Pac Man works out, gets reinstated and stays out of trouble, I could even see Anthony Henry getting moved to free safety. With Jenkins on board, the Dallas secondary might turn into a strength instead of a weakness. I am not as in love with running back Felix Jones as the rest of the draftniks are, I think he is good, but really no better than Jamaal Charles, Chris Johnson or even Ray Rice. Dallas can get a top running back by trading up in round two. The Cowboys might even try to trade up and get RBs Rashard Mendenhall or Jonathan Stewart.

23. It's hard to predict what the Steelers are going to do, they don't always follow their team needs and tend to draft for 2-3 years down the road. This year might be different as they look to have glaring needs on their offensive line. Alan Faneca is now a member of the New York Jets and Jeff Otah, Pittsburgh looks like a prospect that could play tackle or guard. If Otah falls to them here, he would be the ideal selection, but if Derrick Harvey is still available here, he would be almost to hard to pass up. They might even take a giant receiver like James Hardy from Indiana, they haven't had a big receiver since they lost Plaxico Burris.

24. The Tennessee Titans will almost certainly draft WR James Hardy, Indiana, Malcolm Kelly, DeSean Jackson or Limas Sweed. I like James Hardy here, Hardy is a very intriguing prospect, he is a converted basketball player and is huge (6' 5.5" 216 lbs), and fast (4.47). He could easily emerge as the best receiver in this draft class in 2-3 years. Vince Young would have a guy that he could easily pick out running in the secondary, there aren't many 6' 6" defensive backs and even if he is covered, could out jump almost any cornerback in the league. Cornerback, defensive end, defensive tackle and offensive guard will be addressed later in the draft.

25. The Seattle Seahawks have a lot of holes and they really need a tight end, yes they might draft Purdue's Dustin Keller or USC's Fred Davis, but neither one of those prospects are a good value here, Keller is just a bulked up receiver and Davis isn't overly fast, he (Davis) might have trouble separating from fast linebackers and safeties. They will probably draft DT Kentwan Balmer if he falls down to them, but if he is gone, they might draft one of the top receivers which will probably fall down here to them. They lost D.J. Hackett to free agency and Deion Branch is recovering from a knee injury. WR Malcolm Kelly, Oklahoma isn't real fast in the 40 yard dash, he doesn't look good on the stop watch, but on film he gets separation from receivers, comes out of his breaks quickly and probably has the best hands from all the receivers in this draft.

26. I highly doubt DE, Derrick Harvey, Florida falls down this far in the draft, but that's the way this mock played out. Regardless, if he fell down here to the Jacksonville Jaguars he would be selected in about 10 seconds. I am not as high on Harvey as most, he didn't look very fast at the NFL Scouting Combine, his 4.82 forty time was nothing special, but he does look very explosive on film. The only concern I have on Harvey is his weight, he bulked up very fast, almost to fast, and it might hurt his quickness, he went from about 250 pounds to 271 pounds in a little over a year. But back to the Jaguars, they parted ways with Marcus Stroudt, so defensive tackle is a need, but there isn't a tackle worthy of this high of a draft selection. They need help at offensive tackle and one of the top dogs might fall down to them here, but I doubt it. They are not setting in a good spot at 26 for the position that they need, so they might even reach and draft a safety like Kenny Phillips or Tyrell Johnson here.

27. The San Diego Chargers have a solid team, but they do have needs at cornerback, offensive tackle and running back. Picking this low they have to be careful and not reach like they did last year with receiver Craig Davis. When they selected him (Davis) at #30 over all in the 2007 NFL Draft I just scratched my head. They would be advised to take solid offensive tackle Gosder Cherilus from Boston College. Cherilus (6" 6" 315 pounds) would be an excellent choice because he is so experienced playing on the right side, Shane Olivea and Jeromey Clary didn't get the job done in 2007 at right tackle. Don't count out Virginia Tech offensive tackle Duane Brown either, he has probably the best feet of all the tackles in this draft. The Chargers will be one of the targets for the Dolphins, Bears, Ravens, Chiefs or Falcons to trade back into the bottom of the first round and get one of the top quarterbacks if they fail to get one with their first pick.

28. The Dallas Cowboys will focus on offense with most of their remaining picks if they do get a cornerback with their first, first round pick. All the top receivers will likely be gone except one, it might not be WR, DeSean Jackson, California, but if he is still available he would be very hard to pass up. The Cowboys haven't really had anyone to return punts since Deion Sanders and Joey Galloway left, they used Terrance Newman there last year at times, but that was a move in desperation, because they can't risk injury to their top cornerback doing that. Jackson is raw at receiver and small at 5' 9" 167 pounds, but he has blazing speed, running a 4.35 at the combine. If they get a receiver and a corner with their first two picks, I look for them to trade up to the early part of the second round and get one of the top running backs.

29. The San Francisco 49ers have this pick from the Colts and they desperately need it. Most draftniks have them taking a receiver here, but my San Francisco 49er expert Frank Miseage informed me that receiver is not as high as a need as most think. Mike Martz is now the offensive coordinator and he brought with him future hall of fame receiver Isaac Bruce. They will get a small, quick receiver in the later rounds, but the bigger need is at outside linebacker, they need a pass rusher and the best one still available is DE Quentin Groves, Auburn or USC's Lawrence Jackson, who better fits the traditional 43 defense, Jackson just doesn't have the speed to play outside linebacker, however Groves does, he is 6' 3" 255 lbs. and ran a 4.51 at the 2008 NFL Scouting Combine.

30 . This is a tough pick, if you look at the Green Bay Packers roster, they just don't have that many apparent needs. Will they just pick best available player? Maybe, but this low in the first round if you ask all 32 teams who the best player was that was still available, you would get about 20 different answers. They need a tight end to back up Donald Lee and Dustin Keller, Purdue is the best pass catching tight end in the nation with blazing speed (4.53). He won't provide much help in the running game, at 6' 3" 244 pounds, he doesn't get much push while blocking, but get this bulked up receiver out in the secondary and he will run away from almost any linebacker in the NFL, he will have to be covered with a corner or a free safety. Keller will also give new quarterback Aaron Rogers another much needed weapon.

31. This is probably the toughest pick in this entire mock draft. The New York Giants need a free safety and linebacker, but there isn't really one worthy of this high of a pick. They might try to trade back out of this spot and draft S Kenny Philips, CB Justin King, OLB Tavares Gooden or LB Dan Connor later in round #2. But unable to do that, they would be better off taking a raw, talented safety that could end up being one of the surprises of this entire draft. Safety Tyrell Johnson from Arkansas State, is probably the best player that no one has heard about. Playing at tiny Arkansas State he hasn't seen the top competition, but like Dominique Rodgers-Cromartie, he has the size, speed combination that NFL Scouts covet. Johnson measures 6' 0" 205 pounds and runs a 4.46 forty. He is already a great tackler and special teams player, but will have to refine his coverage technique and adjust to the speed of the NFL. Heck watch the Giants surprise everybody and draft receiver Early Doucet or Jordy Nelson. There is also talk of trading tight end Jeremy Shockey, so drafting USC tight end Fred Davis is also possible. Now you can see why this pick is so difficult.

Now, as promised, I will give you some very under rated prospects that will likely be selected in rounds 2-7 that could be very good NFL players, even potential pro bowl players given a couple years to develop and good health:

1. RB Jamaal Charles, Texas

2. S DaJuan Morgan, NC State

3. CB Charles Godfrey, Iowa

4. CB Antwaun Molden, Eastern Kentucky

5. WR Dexter Jackson, Appalachian State

6. OL Brandon Keith, Northern Iowa

7. LB Stanford Keglar, Purdue

8. S Haruki Nakamura, Cincinati

9. DE/OLB Curtis Johnson, Clark Atlanta

10. WR Arman Shields, Richmond

11. OG Mackenzy Bernadeau, Bently

12. QB Josh Johnson, San Diego

13. RB Kevin Smith, Central Florida

14. WR Jerome Simpson, Coastal Carolina

15. DT Letroy Guion, Florida State

By Robert Bryant, owner of NFL Draft Dog and The NFL Draft Site and member of the Football Writers Association of America.

Strategies for the 2008 NFL Draft (Part one)

The 2008 NFL Draft is coming up in a couple days and many die hard NFL fans like to try and figure out which college prospect is going to be selected by which NFL team.

People that don't "get it" have asked me time and time again, "what's the big deal?" or "Why do we do it?" Well, because it's fun, we can play general manager, plan strategy, evaluate college prospects and talk about NFL team needs and probable picks around the water cooler at work. The real hardcore draftniks can even come up with their own Mock Drafts and compare them after the draft with the experts like ESPN. But what's especially cool is that most of the so called "expert mock Drafts" are really no more accurate than the casual fan doing one at home.

The so called experts seem to think they get inside information from NFL personnel directors, scouts, general managers, and yes even coaches and owners, but in reality, if they do get information, it is usually mis-information. Why would an NFL team give a reporter a scoop that could jeopardize his chances of drafting the player he wants? So the real key is to get a good evaluation of the college prospects and NFL team needs and go with your gut instincts. Here are my gut instincts for the 2008 NFL Draft, which I have compiled in Draft Dog's 2008 NFL Mock Draft.

1. The Dolphins signed Jake Long, Michigan, to a huge contract, so the mystery is gone from the first pick. It was a smart move by the Phins, the NFL rules allow negotiations with the first pick, so why not? The Raiders screwed the pooch last year by having QB JaMarcus Russell hold out all of training camp. I think in the future you will see the first pick almost always work out a deal prior to the draft. My advice, if the team that has the top pick can't work out a deal prior to the draft, then draft someone else, because it makes no sense to have the your first pick hold out, time is short, they are restricted free agents in three years and totally free after five, and it usually takes 2-3 years for a rookie to develop.

2. I see the Rams grabbing defensive tackle Glenn Dorsey from LSU here. Adam Carricker was their first pick last year, but he is really a defensive end. I was actually surprised they played him inside last year, I think it was more out of necessity that anything. With Carriker and Dorsey I expect the Rams defense to be much improved in 2008. Oh, and if it was my choice I would pick Sedrick Ellis, everything being equal, Ellis is just as quick and strong and has been more consistent and durable over the years.

3. This one is a no brainer here, the Falcons desperately need a quarterback and the best QB in the draft falls right into their laps. QB, Matt Ryan, Boston College. Ryan has all the intangibles you want in a franchise quarterback. The only thing that could throw this off is the Ravens, Vikings or Bears trading up here to snatch Ryan away. Matt Ryan is probably not falling to the Ravens so get that idea out of your mind.

4. It starts getting tricky about right here because the Raiders could go a number of different ways. They might grad RB Darren McFadden, who many consider the best player in this draft, but they already have Justin Vargas, who had a good year in 2008 and they drafted Michael Bush from Louisville last year, who if he wouldn't have broken his leg his senior year, would have been a first round draft pick. They also have LaMont Jordan and Dominic Rhodes on their roster. No I think they will take the best defensive player still on the board in DE/OLB, Chris Long, Virginia. He will also be a fan favorite as his dad Howie was a hall of fame Raider.

5. The Chiefs just traded Jared Allen to the Vikings. Don't get your panties in a wad Chief fans, Allen was a shot of Jack Daniels away from seeing a year long suspension and demanded a huge contract, the Viking might regret that move. The Chiefs aren't going to the playoffs in 2008 so it's time to rebuild with some youth, they get an extra first round pick and a few others. They wanted Jake Long, but he is gone and no other tackles are worthy of this high of a pick. The only other player that they might select ahead of DT, Sedrick Ellis, USC is DE Vernon Gholston from Ohio State. I think it will be Ellis though, both fill a need, but I have Ellis rated a little higher. Ellis will be a pro bowl tackle in the NFL and could be defensive rookie of the year.

6. The Jets have Thomas Jones and Leon Washington at running back, so they might take Vernon Gholston, who really fills more of a need. But sticking with the best player available theme they will likely select RB, Darren McFadden, Arkansas. This is where they will get some phone calls as the Cowboys would like to get Darren McFadden, but they are not going to give up the house for him and more than likely the Jets demands will be too high. If McFadden falls from this spot, there is a high probability that the Cowboys will try to up and get him because the next team likely to select him seems to be the Broncos at #12.

7. New England gets this pick in a trade with the 49ers from last year. They could go cornerback here, but DE, Vernon Gholston, Ohio State is by far the highest rated player left on the Draft Board. Some people have talked about Keith Rivers at this spot, first of all I think it's to early for Rivers and secondly he doesn't fit the mold as a pass rushing linebacker, Rivers is a better fit in a traditional 43 defense. If Ghoston gets taken by the Jets, the Patriots might reach a little and take Florida's Derrick Harvey.

8. This is the most difficult pick for me, conventional wisdom has the Ravens believing all the so called draft experts and passing on QB, Brian Brohm, Louisville. They might just draft a cornerback here and then try and trade back into the bottom of the first round and getting Brohm or maybe Joe Flacco. That's not a bad idea, but it's no guarantee that you will be able to get back into the first round and get Brohm or Flacco, the Vikings or the Bears could snatch one or both players away and then the Ravens would look pretty stupid for passing up a potential franchise quarterback in Brian Brohm. I guess it all depends if they consider Brohm a franchise type quarterback, I happen to think he can become that player.

9. The Bengals are praying that Sedrick Ellis will fall down to them, but that is highly unlikely. They really need defensive tackle help, but this is a little early for Kentwan Balmer, so I look for the Bengals to select OLB, Keith Rivers, USC. Rivers is a very athletic linebacker, highly rated and a good value here. He would be an upgrade for either Rashad Jeannty or Dhani Jones. They would like to get a wideout to replace disgruntled Chad Johnson, but no receiver presents good value here.

10. The Saints need help at cornerback, outside linebacker, defensive tackle, tight end and yes even running back. With the best defensive back still on the board they snatch him up in a heart beat. CB, Dominique Rodgers-Cromartie, Tennessee State is a small school talent and wasn't even valued as a first rounder until the Senior Bowl and NFL Scouting Combine. He has everything you could want in a corner except experience against top competition, which he will get in a hurry in the NFL. Leodis McElvin from Troy or Mike Jenkins from South Florida are also right there neck and neck with Cromartie.

11. This is one of those picks where the Bills might try to put a square peg in a round hole. WR, Devin Thomas, Michigan State isn't really rated this high, but this receiver class is so weak and the Bills are so desperate for receiver help they might reach for him. Not that Thomas isn't talented, he is a big play waiting to happen and has nice size at 6' 2" 215 pounds. His 4.43 speed teamed up with Lee Evans on the outside would give the Bills a dangerous pass catching duo.

12. Do the Broncos like Chris Williams or Ryan Clady? One of those two tackles will likely be selected by the Broncos, but they also need help at defensive tackle, safety, wide receiver and running back. Coach Shanahan loves to draft running backs and Rashad Mendenhall will draw a long look. I think however, Clady would be the highest rated player at this point and would give young quarterback Jake Cutler some much needed protection.

13. I was real high on DeAngelo Willimas when he came out of college, and I still think the Carolina Panthers made a good choice, but the NFL is a two back league and Williams isn't a big back. RB, Rashard Mendenhall, Illinois however is, and he brings an impressive size speed, package to the table. Mendenhall is 5' 10" 225 pounds and runs a 4.46 forty! I even think the Cowboys will consider trying to trade up here to get Mendenhall if he starts to fall.

14. The Junior OL, Branden Albert, Virginia really rose up the draft boards once he declared for the draft. The Chicago Bears will take a long look at Albert if he is still on the Draft Board. They also need receiver and quarterback help, but Albert would be too good to pass up here if he fell this low. Chris Williams or Jeff Otah might even get the nod if Albert is gone at this spot. If Mendenhall falls down to the 14 spot I think the Bears will strongly consider drafting him, Cedric Benson has been a huge bust. Watch the Bears shock the world by drafting QB Joe Flacco here, I wouldn't be all that shocked, Flacco has a cannon for an arm and the Bears need a quarterback.

15. The Lions have so many holes they could go a number of different directions here, but linebacker Jerod Mayo, from Tennessee makes the most sense if he is still available. If Phillip Merling is still on the board he is the other prospect that fits the bill, but Mayo is the only inside linebacker that looks like a first rounder at this point and that's just what the doctor ordered for the Lions, unless Lion fans, you really think Paris Lenon is the answer on the inside?

16. The Arizona Cardinals never seem to be able to break out of the woulda, shoulda, coulda cycle. They actually haven't drafted that bad over the years, but owner Bill Bidwell just doesn't show the commitment to keep his good players from leaving. DB Antrel Rolle has been a disappointment, but I said it when he came out and now my prognosis is coming true, Rolle was, and is, better suited to play safety and reportedly they are going to move him there this year. That leaves a hole at cornerback and the Cardinals should get lucky as one the top four, first round caliber, cornerbacks should still be available here. I like CB, Leodis McKelvin, Troy, he possesses blazing speed and can return punts. They might select Mike Jenkins or Aqib Talib also, it just depends which corner they like more and if they have devalued Talib due to his addiction to the wacky tobaccy. Bidwell will probably play paper, rock, scissors to decide which corner to select.

Check back tomorrow and I will finish the first round and give you some of my sleeper picks for the later rounds.

By Robert Bryant, owner of NFL Draft Dog and The NFL Draft Site and member of the Football Writers Association of America.

Josh's 2008 NFL Mock Draft

1. Miami Dolphins – OT Jake Long, Michigan. In a moderately weak year to have the number 1 pick in the draft, the Dolphins make the smart move and take sure thing in Long. Long will be a franchise tackle for the Dolphins as Bill Parcells will build this franchise from the offensive and defensive lines. Parcells’ eye for talent will enable the Dolphins to find their skill position players down lower in the draft and it is too early to give up on last years second round QB John Beck.

2. St. Louis Rams – DE Chris Long, Virginia. The Rams take an electric player from the DE position to help to bolster their inept defense. Long may have more upside than any other player in this draft and his size makes him an intriguing pick to attack offenses from multiple looks and positions.

3. Atlanta Falcons – DT Glenn Dorsey, LSU. This might be the biggest toss up pick of the draft. The bushel of money they threw at RB Michael Turner takes McFadden off their board, and I am not sure that Matt Ryan is a #3 pick in the draft or a future franchise QB. This pick would give the hometown area fans a local face for the franchise, not to mention that Dorsey was a unanimous #1 pick after he decided to stay in school last year. Workout issues, weight problems and size questions have crept into the so called draft expert’s minds, but Dorsey is still a great pick at #3.

4. Oakland Raiders – RB Darren McFadden, Arkansas. McFadden is by far the best offensive weapon in the 2008 draft. The Raiders give last year’s #1, JaMarcus Russell, a weapon in the backfield. McFadden would be an absolute steal at #4 and would look great in the silver and black as they rebuild this franchise.

5. Kansas City Chiefs – DT Sedrick Ellis, USC. The Chiefs take the best player available here that also fills a team need. The Chiefs are that team in the top 10 that has to do the most homework, because they have no idea who will fall to them. If the Chiefs get Ellis at #5 after his dominating workouts and senior bowl performances, they will look like geniuses.

6. New York Jets – DE Vernon Gholston, Ohio State. This is one of those consensus picks among mock drafts that seems like a foregone conclusion. The Jets are in need of a pass rushing DE and Gholson fits the bill. After a great 2007 season and impressive 40 yard dash time, Gholston secured his spot in the top 10.

7. New England Patriots – CB Leodis McKelvin, Troy. It seems the Patriots are going CB at #7, it is just a matter of what CB is tops on their board. The Patriots have plenty of options as they will start the run on corners in this draft unless someone above them reaches for one. McKelvin’s ability to play man and start right away in a position of need for the Patriots makes him stand above the other options in this draft.

8. Baltimore Ravens – QB Matt Ryan. The Ravens need a franchise QB and Ryan is a value pick here. I don’t think Ryan is a top 5 talent in this draft, but at #8 he won’t have the pressure of a #1 pick and walks into a great situation in Baltimore where he won’t even have to take a snap in 2008 unless he is ready.

9. Cincinnati Bengals – LB Keith Rivers, USC. Rivers is exactly what the Bengals need, an explosive defensive player that isn’t in jail. Rivers is by far the best linebacker in this draft and could fill the Bengal’s line backing position for many years. Rivers fills the Bengals need here and is a value pick at #10.

10. New Orleans Saints – CB Dominique Rodgers-Cromartie, Tennessee State. Rodgers Cromartie has proven to be this year’s diamond in the rough and the Saints need help in their secondary badly. The Saints would prefer help at safety, but Kenny Phillips from Miami here would be a stretch.

11. Buffalo Bills – OT Ryan Clady, Boise State. Clady can start right away for the Bills and the need is there at tackle. The Bills need some help at receiver and other spots, but Clady is the only need that is worth the pick here for Buffalo.

12. Denver Broncos – OT Chris Williams, Vanderbilt. Denver takes the best offensive lineman left on the board and addresses their biggest need. Help on the defensive line would be nice here, but Williams could start in 2008.

13. Carolina Panthers – QB Brian Brohm, Louisville. The Panthers take a stab at the second best QB in the draft. Brohm’s arm strength has been questioned after a mediocre senior season, but Brohm is definitely worth a first round pick for a franchise in need of a face and leader.

14. Chicago Bears – RB Rashard Mendenhall, Illinois. Mendenhall stays at home in Chicago after the Bears miss out on two tackles and a QB that were in their sights. Mendenhall pairs up nicely with Cedric Benson in the backfield, who hasn’t shown himself worthy of carrying the load in Chicago.

15. Detroit Lions – CB Aqib Talib, Kansas. The Lions resist the urge to draft a WR and get some much needed help in the secondary in Talib. There is plenty of value at DE with this pick as well. You may see the Lions go there if the right guy is unavailable here at CB.

16. Arizona Cardinals – CB Mike Jenkins, South Florida. The run on corners continues here with the Cardinals who find themselves in need of another starter after the much rumored move of Antrell Rolle to safety comes to fruition.

17. Minnesota Vikings – DE Derrick Harvey, Florida. The Vikings have built the best defensive line in the NFL and Harvey fits right into their pressure style of defense. If the Vikings ever get a QB, look out.

18. Houston Texans – RB Jonathan Stewart, Oregon. The Texans get a franchise running back in Stewart who is an absolute stud. Stewart could be the #2 running back behind McFadden and the Texans get a steal here if Stewart slips due to an injured toe.

19. Philadelphia Eagles – WR Devin Thomas, Michigan State. The Eagles have been in need of a playmaking WR since T.O. rode his donkey out of town and Thomas is the only true first round talent at WR in this year’s draft.

20. Tampa Bay Buccaneers –S Kenny Phillips, Miami. Phillips comes in right away and starts for Tampa, he is by far the most talented safety in the draft and the Bucs snag him if he is available here at 20.

21. Washington Redskins – CB Antoine Cason, Arizona. The Redskins get a little younger in the secondary with the addition of Cason, who is just another one of the many talented corners taken in the first round.

22. Dallas Cowboys – RB Felix Jones, Arkansas. Jones is a powerful and speedy runner who the Cowboys will use in tandem with Marion Barber. This will make Cowboy fans forget all about their old RB named Jones from last season.

23. Pittsburgh Steelers – DE Phillip Merling, Clemson. Pittsburgh is in the situation of drafting the best player available here and gets a starting DE with their pick here.

24. Tennessee Titans – WR Malcolm Kelly, Oklahoma. The Titans need to get Vince Young help at WR and Kelly’s upside makes him worth the gamble here at #24.

25. Seattle Seahawks – OT Jeff Otah, Pittsburgh. The Seahawks are also in a position to take the best player available, but see the writing on the wall with Walter Jones in his last couple of seasons. There is no first round pressure on Otah to start right away and he gets to learn from the best tackle in football. Otah also provides depth for the Seahawks on the offensive line.

26. Jacksonville Jaguars – DE Calais Campbell, Miami. The Jags bolster their defensive line with the selection of Campbell, his size and skill make him an intriguing pick here where Jacksonville can afford to gamble on his questionable work ethic.

27. San Diego Chargers – WR Limas Sweed, Texas. The Chargers reach here for a need at WR in Sweed. I’m not sure he is a 1st round talent, but the Chargers are in a position to address holes.

28. Dallas Cowboys – WR Mario Manningham, Michigan. Dallas continues the late run on WRs with Manningham, but pulls off a coup by snagging a RB and WR in the first round of the draft that fill their needs.

29. San Francisco 49ers – WR James Hardy, Indiana. Hardy provides a huge target and talent at WR for the 49ers who just cut ties with Darrell Jackson. While their best WR on their current roster is Isaac Bruce and his clock is running out.

30. Green Bay Packers – OT Sam Baker, USC. Without a TE worthy of a first round pick in this year’s draft, the Packers secure a solid future pro in Baker who can provide depth at several positions on the offensive line.

31. New England Patriots – Forfeited due to cheating.

32. New York Giants – LB Curtis Lofton, Oklahoma. Lofton is an absolute freak from the line backing position and the Giants are in desperate need of help here.

For questions or comments contact Josh Sattler

Speed Demons for The 2008 NFL Draft

Every Year there are several players drafted that may not be the fastest, but can make plays based on heart, determination and instincts. The following players don't fit that mold, I am not saying they don't have heart and instincts, but these guys can get by on speed, blazing speed, the speed that makes coaches and fans say "wow".

They will be deep threat wide receivers, home run threat running backs, lock down corners and one quarterback that will make everyone forget about Michael vick. They may not all be household names, but don’t let that fool you. I expect many of them to make a huge impact in the NFL. If nothing else they will surely be fun to watch on Sundays. I have listed them below based on who is the fastest.

Chris Johnson, RB, East Carolina/ 5'11" 197 / Speed: 4.24
His 40 time says it all he can straight out fly. He has phenomenal quickness and can burst through the slightest gap. He is long touchdown run waiting to happen and he will score many for the team that drafts him. He is also an excellent receiver.

Brian Whitherspoon, CB, Stillman/ 5'10" 180/ Speed: 4.25
He had the second fastest forty time of the NFL prospects this year. Yet I am pretty sure no one has any idea who he is. He will be a very solid NFL player is your answer. He has great speed and good hands for the interception. He will make an excellent return man or nickel corner.

Tyvon Branch, CB, Connecticut/ 5'11" 204/ Speed: 4.31
He has a good blend of size and strength and a nose for the football He will over commit and rely too much on his speed but he should make a good Nickel Corner and a dangerous return man on special teams.

Justin King, CB, Penn State/ 5'10" 192 / Speed: 4.31
He has great speed is an excellent tackler and can catch the football like a wideout. King will sometimes get caught out of position and relies on his speed too much. He will be an excellent special teams player or Nickel Corner.

Orlando Scandrick, CB, Boise State/ 5'10" 192 / Speed: 4.32
He might be the most underrated corner in this years draft. Scandrick has great speed and moves very fluidly on the playing field. The Cleveland Browns are very high on this kid and I don’t blame them. He will make make a great NFL corner. Most likely he will go in the middle rounds and surprise many that had no idea how good he really is. He could selected by the Browns this season and could be a sleeper.

Darren McFadden, RB, Arkansas/ 6'1" 211 / Speed: 4.33
This is arguably the best player in this years draft. He is an exceptional athlete and will be one of the best running backs we have seen in a while. McFadden has great vision and speed and can break a long run every time he touches the football. He will be touchdown machine in the NFL and is a franchise running back in the waiting.

Dominique Rodgers Cromartie, CB, Tennessee State/ 6'1" 184 / Speed: 4.33
He is probably the best playmaking corner in this years draft, has tremendous speed and instincts and can catch every mistake a quarterback makes. He might very easily be this years raw version of Ty Law or Charles Woodson.

Josh Barret, FS, Arizona State/ 6'1" 223 / Speed: 4.35
Josh is probably one of the most underrated safeties in this year’s draft. He is a great playmaker with excellent speed and ball skills. If you decide to run or pass his way be warned he will make the tackle and punish whoever has the football. He is also a great character player and a hard worker. Unfortunately because he isn’t always consistent and because of some durability issues he will slip into the middle rounds.

Anthony Aldridge, RB, Houston/ 5'9" 170/ Speed: 4.36
He is extremely athletic and quick with blazing speed. He makes good cuts and has terrific hands catching the football. Unfortunately he also is very undersized and it may cause him to be used mostly a kick returner or as a situational back or slot receiver.

Andre Caldwell, WR, Florida/ 6'0" 204/ Speed: 4.37
Andre has some of the best hands in the draft and is known for making spectacular circus catches. He runs good routes and is a great athlete with excellent speed. He needs to gain strength and shake durability concerns but he easily could be a very good number two on many teams.

Dexter Jackson, WR, Appalachian State/ 5'9" 182/ Speed: 4.37
Dexter is a great deep threat and an excellent return man. He is very quick and elusive in the open field and is a threat to turn a crossing route into a big gain. Jackson might very easily be the most underrated receiver in the draft.

William Franklin, WR, Missouri /6'0" 214/ Speed: 4.37
He has excellent ball skills and good speed. Will is also a terrific leaper and can win a jump ball over most corners. He has good hands and is a tough high character player.

Tracy Porter, CB, Indiana/ 5'10" 188/ Speed: 4.37
He is a tremendous athlete and has excellent ball skills. Porter is a very reliable cover corner with blazing speed. He also has hands like a wideout and is extremely elusive in the open field. He will be a threat to return your mistake for a touchdown every time.

Josh Johnson, QB, San Diego/ 6'3" 213/ Speed: 4.55
The Reason why he makes the bottom of this list is because he is the fastest quarterback in the draft. He has wide receiver speed and the athleticism to make play plays and elude defenders in the open field. He can hurt you throwing as well. He is one of the smartest quarterbacks in the draft as well and was coached by former NFL QB Jim Harbaugh. Josh is the first quarterback since Vince Young to offer such an advantage and he might very easily turn out to be a poor man's Michael Vick (without the baggage).

By Jason Baudendistel