2010 NFL Draft

With the NFL draft just a few days away, attention has centered on the top prospects expected to be selected in the early rounds. Yet every year unknown players chosen in the middle and late parts of the draft make rosters around the league and positively impact NFL squads. Here are 14 players, none of whom were invited to the combine, creating a buzz in the scouting community, and the teams which have shown interest in them:

Matt Nichols/QB/Eastern Washington: Nichols, a four-year starter at Eastern Washington, threw for more than 12,600 yards and had 95 career touchdowns. He's patient and has an excellent feel for the game and command of the offense. Nichols, who has already visited with a half-dozen NFL teams, possesses the size and skill to back up at the next level.
Teams with interest: Chargers

Deji Karim/RB/Southern Illinois: Karim is not only one of the hottest small school running back prospects in the draft, but also one of the fastest risers at the position. The junior college transfer set the FBS world on fire last season, rushing for 1,693 yards while averaging 31 yards on kick returns. Scouts think Karim could be selected as early as the fourth round
Teams with interest: Lions

Ray Fisher/WR-CB-RS/Indiana: The versatile Fisher was a productive receiver for the Hoosiers before moving to cornerback as a senior. More than anything else, Fisher was a game-breaking return specialist at Indiana. He averaged 37.4 yards returning kicks as a senior and took two back for scores. Fisher's special team skills will place him in the draft's late rounds while his versatility to play cornerback or receiver is added value.
Teams with interest: Browns, Jets

Terrell Hudgins/WR/Elon: Hudgins amassed 394 receptions, 5,200 receiving yards and 51 touchdowns at Elon. During his pro-day workout, the 229-pound receiver surprised scouts by running the 40 in the mid-4.5 range. He's a sure-handed possession wideout with a nose for the end zone.
Teams with interest: Colts, Broncos, Packers

Marc Mariani/WR/Montana: Mariani elevated his game the past two seasons and is a terrific combination of reliability and toughness. He could easily be a fifth receiver at the next level; the ability to return punts is added value.
Teams with interest: Falcons, Texans, Colts

Scott Sicko/TE/New Hampshire: Sicko is a terrific pass-catching tight end who has averaged 52 receptions over the past three seasons. He shocked scouts last month by running the 40 under 4.55 seconds at his pro-day. Sicko has moved into the late rounds of the draft
Teams with interest: Patriots

Chris Campbell/OT/Eastern Illinois: Campbell could be the best kept secret in this year's draft. He's already visited three while six offensive line coaches have privately met with Campbell. He's an athletic left tackle prospect with terrific size (6-foot-6, 328 pounds) as well as growth potential. Just a one-year starter in college, Campbell's best football is ahead of him.
Teams with interest: Lions, Seahawks

Nick McDonald/G/Grand Valley State: McDonald is a two-year starter who held down the left tackle spot as a senior yet is a better fit inside at guard. He possesses a good frame (6-5, 300) and will only get bigger and stronger in time. Five offensive line coaches traveled to Grand Valley State for private workouts with McDonald.
Teams with interest: Packers, Seahawks

Darryl Jackson/DT/Kean: The Union, N.J., school is not a hotbed for NFL talent but scouts made the trip this year to watch Jackson. The 343-pound nose tackle moves well on his feet and plays with a degree of athleticism. He must improve his consistency yet his ability to collapse the pocket and control blockers up front has teams intrigued.
Teams with interest: Jets

David Howard/DT/Brown: Howard has been a fast riser recently as a number of NFL teams have become enamored with his athleticism. His quickness and burst help him consistently beat opponents off the snap.
Teams with interest: Raiders, Panthers

Danny Batten/DE-OLB/South Dakota State: Batten has been flying up draft boards after a dozen private workouts and visits the past month. The intense defender plays with a non-stop motor and could be a surprise middle-round pick on Saturday.
Teams with interest: Saints, Bengals

Tim Knicky/OLB/Stephen F. Austin: Like Batten, Knicky plays with a warrior mentality and is consistently disrupting the action behind the line of scrimmage. He totaled 24.5 sacks and 30.5 tackles for loss the past two years. His 6-4, 240-pound frame is better suited for outside linebacker than the defensive end position he played in college. Knicky's speed, 4.60 in the 40, should make for a smooth transition. He could end up as a late-round pick.
Teams with interest: Packers, Patriots

Josh Morris/CB/Weber State: Morris possesses prototypical cornerback measurables at 5-11, 180, which nicely compliments his speed (4.45 in the 40). He improved week-to-week since transferring to Weber State three years ago and was one of the best small-school cornerbacks by the end of 2009. Franchises across the league have been receiving rave reviews on his skills from Andre Dyson, a six-year NFL veteran and presently the cornerbacks coach at Weber State.
Teams with interest: Dolphins, Cardinals

Terrence Johnson/CB/California-PA: Johnson plays in the same conference as another highly rated cornerback, Akwasi Owusu-Ansah of IUP, and is often overlooked. He's a feisty, three-year starter with eight interceptions to his credit the past two seasons. Johnson offers potential as a dime back at the next level and should be a demon on special teams.
Teams with interest: Ravens, Dolphins



NFL Mock Draft www.espn.com
1. Sam Bradford
Quarterback
Oklahoma The Rams have set up their roster to add a franchise quarterback in the draft. Bradford might not be the highest-rated player on the board, but his selection will give the organization someone to build around. (Mike Sando)
2. Ndamukong Suh
Defensive Tackle
Nebraska There has been significant debate about the wisdom of giving No. 2 money to a defensive tackle. Oklahoma State left tackle Russell Okung is a financial alternative. But if the Lions want the best player here, Suh is their man. (Kevin Seifert)
3. Gerald McCoy
Defensive Tackle
Oklahoma The Bucs might prefer Suh. But they'll be very happy to add McCoy to the middle of a defensive line that desperately needs help. McCoy has been compared to Warren Sapp. The Bucs will be thrilled if he's anything close to that. (Pat Yasinskas)
4. Russell Okung
Offensive Tackle
Oklahoma State With Donovan McNabb now in the fold, the Skins need someone to protect his blind side. Okung is the most complete left tackle in the draft and he'll be expected to lock down the position for the next 10 years or so. Andy Reid's "genius" prevents Mike Shanahan from making a play for Sam Bradford. (Matt Mosley)
5. Eric Berry
Safety
Tennessee The Chiefs would have a decision to make if Okung fell past Washington. Berry has to be the choice over the other available left tackles. Berry can be the impact defender Kansas City desperately needs. (Bill Williamson)
6. Trent Williams
Offensive Tackle
Oklahoma The Seahawks badly need a tackle and scouts say Williams would fit their scheme nicely. This would seemingly be an easy choice given how the first five picks unfolded. (Mike Sando)
7. Earl Thomas
Free Safety
Texas The Browns would prefer Berry here, but Thomas is the next best thing. Cleveland now has its playmaker at safety to match division rivals Baltimore (Ed Reed) and Pittsburgh (Troy Polamalu). (James Walker)
8. Bryan Bulaga
Offensive Tackle
Iowa The Raiders must address left tackle. They may be tempted to take a defender like Rolando McClain or Joe Haden or even trading down. But taking Bulaga begins the rebuilding process on the line. (Bill Williamson)
9. Jimmy Clausen
Quarterback
Notre Dame If there's a run on offensive tackles, the Bills will have a tough decision to make. Do they pick up a possible franchise quarterback or the fourth-best tackle in the draft? Based on this mock that would be Anthony Davis of Rutgers. Clausen is too tempting to pass up here. (Tim Graham)
10. Rolando McClain
Linebacker
Alabama Trading down to gain extra picks looks to be priority No. 1. But in this scenario in this spot, McClain is very attractive. He'd ensure Daryl Smith is outside where he belongs, and potentially give the Jags the sort of playmaking MLB they see in Indy and Houston. (Paul Kuharsky)
11. Dez Bryant
Wide Receiver
Oklahoma State The Jaguars' selection of McClain makes Denver turn to Bryant to replace Brandon Marshall. There is a risk that Bryant could be an off-field problem like Marshall was, but his talent can't be denied. Denver could also think about trading down to take Florida center Maurkice Pouncey. (Bill Williamson)
12. Dan Williams
Defensive Tackle
Tennessee Now that the Dolphins have taken care of their missing piece at wide receiver, their biggest pressing need is nose tackle. Aging veteran Jason Ferguson will be suspended the first eight games, and while Paul Soliai has been a solid fill-in, he's not the type of player who can be the keystone in a 3-4 defense. Williams is an elite run stopper. (Tim Graham)
13. C.J. Spiller
Running Back
Clemson The 49ers filled their need for a return specialist by adding Ted Ginn Jr., but Spiller would appear to be the most dynamic player available at this point. The 49ers need to set up Alex Smith for success and Spiller would liven up the offense. Cornerback Joe Haden, tackle Anthony Davis or pass-rush help could make sense, too. (Mike Sando)
14. Derrick Morgan
Defensive End
Georgia Tech Spiller would make sense if the 49ers did go with a tackle under this scenario. Morgan would give new Seattle coach Pete Carroll another building block on defense. End is a huge need and the value would seem to be there. (Mike Sando)
15. Mike Iupati
Guard
Idaho The Giants probably wanted McClain, but Iupati can take over immediately at left guard. The Giants must regain their identity with the running game. McClain was the guy, but Paul Kuharsky "reaches" for him at No. 10. (Matt Mosley)
16. Brandon Graham
Defensive End
Michigan The draft's first CB or second DE? The Titans go polished production over long-term upside in Jason Pierre-Paul. But with good options on the board at both positions, I think they'd love to move back, perhaps for Pierre-Paul or Kyle Wilson later. (Paul Kuharsky)
17. Anthony Davis
Offensive Tackle
Rutgers The 49ers wanted to draft a tackle in 2009, but they saw more value in Michael Crabtree than Michael Oher. Passing on a tackle two years in a row could be tough. Davis would fill an immediate need. (Mike Sando)
18. Joe Haden
Cornerback
Florida This is a dream scenario for the Steelers and fills their biggest need on defense. They acquire the best cover corner in the draft without moving up from No. 18 to get him. (James Walker)
19. Jason Pierre-Paul
Defensive End
South Florida I think they'd prefer Graham's proven track record over Pierre-Paul's potential. Outside linebacker also is a possibility here. But the need for a pass-rusher is so great, the Falcons almost can't pass on Pierre-Paul. (Pat Yasinskas)
20. Ryan Mathews
Running Back
Fresno State The Texans can't be displeased with the options here -- a choice of running backs beyond Spiller and corners beyond Haden. I think it'll be a choice between Mathews or Devin McCourty. Completing the offense trumps defensive need -- which gets addressed next. (Paul Kuharsky)
21. Jermaine Gresham
Tight End
Oklahoma In seven years, quarterback Carson Palmer has never had a legitimate threat at tight end. Gresham is a tremendous weapon in the middle of the field who could take Cincinnati's passing game to the next level. (James Walker)
22. Sergio Kindle
Linebacker
Texas The Patriots were frustrated with their production at outside linebacker. Highly-paid veterans Adalius Thomas and Derrick Burgess combined for eight sacks. Kindle fits the Bill Belichick prototype for an outside linebacker. Kindle's about 6-foot-3 and 250 pounds and versatile enough to rush the passer, pursue the run and drop into coverage. (Tim Graham)
23. Charles Brown
Offensive Tackle
USC I'm thinking the Packers would have jumped on Kindle if New England passed him up. I also gave serious thought to Boise State cornerback Kyle Wilson, but stuck with the Packers' top need. (Kevin Seifert)
24. Kyle Wilson
Cornerback
Boise State The Eagles can't believe their good fortune when the Packers take a project player in front of them. There's a chance Wilson immediately takes over for Sheldon Brown as a starter. The Cowboys were hoping he'd keep sliding. (Matt Mosley)
25. Jared Odrick
Defensive Tackle
Penn State With the exception of Haloti Ngata, Baltimore's D-line is getting long in the tooth. Odrick is a solid value pick here and will immediately help Baltimore win those battles in the trenches. (James Walker)

NFL Draft Grades, Streals and Reaches

Pete Prisco's team-by-team grades from www.sportsline.com

Arizona Cardinals
Best pick: Third-round pick Rashard Johnson is a rangy safety who has good instincts. He won't start, but should be a good special-teams player.
Questionable move: Not trading up to get Donald Brown. He fit their offense better than Beanie Wells.
Second-day gem: Greg Toler. Taken in the fourth round, this corner from St. Paul College has loads of physical skill.
This is an organization that has turned the corner when it comes to drafting. B-

Atlanta Falcons
Best pick: I love the pick in the first round of defensive tackle Peria Jerry. He will be an impact player right away.
Questionable move: Safety William Moore, the team's second-round pick, has to prove he can be a cover player before I think he was a good choice that high.
Second-day gem: Fourth-round pick Lawrence Sidbury, a pass rusher from Richmond, will be the apprentice to John Abraham. He has great quickness.
If they hit on Moore, this will be an A draft. I love Jerry. He might be better than B.J. Raji. B+

Baltimore Ravens
Best pick: Second-round pick Paul Kruger is a tough player who will push for time as a 3-4 rush player. He fits with the Ravens.
Questionable move: Passing on a receiver or a corner to take Michael Oher. I get that you take big people when you can, but they needed other help.
Second-day gem: They really don't need a running back, but landing Virginia's Cedric Peerman in the sixth round is a nice pick.
They always seem to land good players. Ozzie Newsome and Eric DeCosta are good at what they do. B

Buffalo Bills
Best pick: First-round pick Aaron Maybin has great burst off the corner, and this is a team that badly needs it.
Questionable move: Taking center/guard Eric Wood in the first round. He's a good player, but what about tackle?
Second-day gem: Fourth-round pick Shawn Nelson is a pass-catching tight end who will be involved early since the Bills lack a real threat at his position.
I like what they did. Maybin will really help. But they still have to find somebody to replace Jason Peters. B-

Carolina Panthers
Best pick: Second-round pick Sherrod Martin is an athletic safety who can run. You need that in a division with Drew Brees and Matt Ryan.
Questionable move: Trading a 2010 first-round pick to get Everette Brown. I like Brown, but he is undersized at defensive end.
Second-day gem: Some expected Duke Robinson to be a second-round pick and the Panthers landed the Oklahoma guard in the fifth.
They didn't have a first-round pick because they traded it for the chance to draft tackle Jeff Otah last year, but they made some nice moves to get some impact players. Trading next year's No. 1 is always risky. C+

Chicago Bears
Best pick: It's not a draft pick, but trading their first-round pick to get quarterback Jay Cutler is the move of the year.
Questionable move: Trading out of the second round. They had no picks on the first day. Wow.
Second-day gem: I love third-round pick Juaquin Iglesias. He will be a factor as a slot receiver for Cutler.
They get that if you count Cutler, which I do. A

Cincinnati Bengals
Best pick: They didn't get scared off of Andre Smith because of his post-playing issues. This is a Pro Bowl tackle.
Questionable move: Taking Rey Maualuga in the second round. He's a thumper, but he lacks the coverage skills.
Second-day gem: Third-round pick Chase Coffman is a tight end who should be a factor as a rookie in the passing game.
For a team that has been ripped for poor drafting the past decade or so, they did a really nice job. This draft might just make them a playoff team. B+

Cleveland Browns
Best pick: I love the pick of receiver Brian Robiskie in the second round. He will be a starter as a rookie.
Questionable move: Trading down as much as they did and not quite getting the value they deserved. The Jets got the better of them in that deal for the fifth pick.
Second-day gem: Sixth-round pick James Davis was a highly rated back a year ago, but he struggled as a senior. There is talent there.
I like some of their picks, but they didn't get enough in their trade downs. C

Dallas Cowboys
Dallas Cowboys
Best pick: I like quarterback Stephen McGee in the fourth round. He'll be a backup, but a good one.
Questionable move: Why use a pick on kicker in the fifth round when Nick Folk is so good? It makes no sense.
Second-day gem: Fourth-round defensive end Victor Butler is a speed rusher who has a lot of athletic ability. He fits in their 3-4 scheme.
They had a lot of picks, but what did they get? And trading the first- and third-round picks for Roy Williams last year is questionable. D+

Denver Broncos
Best pick: Darcel McBath, their second-round pick, is a rangy safety they badly need in the back end of their defense.
Questionable move: Trading next year's first-round pick to draft corner Alphonso Smith. He's a good player, but that could be a high pick.
Second-day gem: Fifth-round pick Kenny McKinley is a smart receiver who will fill the slot position role for the Broncos.
If you count trading away Cutler and trading away next year's No. 1, this wasn't a good first draft for the new regime, even if Moreno will be a star. C-

Detroit Lions
Best pick: I like tight end Brandon Pettigrew with the No. 20 in the first round. He's a good blocking tight end and he can catch.
Questionable move: Not taking an offensive tackle in the first five rounds. They need help there.
Second-day gem: Fourth-round pick Sammie Lee Hill is a project from Stillman who has a lot of athletic ability. At 6-4, 329 pounds he has the size Jim Schwartz loves from his defensive tackles.
They had two first-round picks and hit on both in Pettigrew and Matt Stafford with the first pick. Nice job, Martin Mayhew. A

Green Bay Packers
Best pick: They had to get a power player inside and took B.J. Raji in the first round. He is a load.
Questionable move: Trading back into the first round to get USC linebacker Clay Matthews. I didn't like that move at all. He's good. Not that good.
Second-day gem: Landing tackle Jamon Meredith in the fifth round could prove to be a steal for a team in need of a tackle.
Ted Thompson added some nice players, but I think the Matthews move is questionable. B

Houston Texans
Best pick: I really like third-round pick Antoine Caldwell, a center from Alabama. He will be their starter in a year.
Questionable move: Not getting a secondary player early in the draft. That was a definite need.
Second-day gem: Tight end James Casey, taken in the fifth round, is a good pass-catching tight end who can complement Owen Daniels.
I liked Brian Cushing in the first round and they added a lot of nice picks after that. B

Indianapolis Colts
Best pick: Second-round pick Fili Moala will prove to be a steal. He could have easily been a first-round pick a year ago.
Questionable move: Taking Donald Brown with other needs. But Brown will be a good player. They have issues with Joseph Addai.
Second-day gem: Defensive tackle Terrance Taylor is short, strong player who will be a good player on the next level. He's been a three-year starter.
Overall grade: B+.
Bill Polian strikes again. When does he not? B+

Jacksonville Jaguars
Best pick: I love the choice of Arizona receiver Mike Thomas in the fourth round. He is small, but he has good speed. He will also help the return game.
Questionable move: Trading back into the third round -- giving up a 2010 second-round pick -- to land William & Mary corner Derek Knox. He has speed, but that was high.
Second-day gem: Receiver Jarrett Dillard from Rice could be a lot like Keenan McCardell, their former great receiver. He's not a burner, but he knows how to get open.
I like the pick of Eugene Monroe in the first round, but why two tackles in the first two? The third-round picks were iffy. All in all, though, it was a solid first draft for GM Gene Smith. B

Kansas City Chiefs
Best pick: Third-round corner Donald Washington is raw, but he has a lot of athletic ability.
Questionable move: Taking Tyson Jackson with the third overall pick is a move that will be watched closely. Why not Aaron Curry?
Second-day gem: Fifth-round pick Colin Brown is a tackle from Missouri with good size who could be a starter down the road.
I didn't like the pick of Jackson with the third overall pick. But they did get a quarterback in Matt Cassel with their second-round pick. C

Miami Dolphins
Best pick: I love the choice of corner Sean Smith in the second round. He is big at 6-3, 210 pounds, and he can run.
Questionable move: Taking Pat White in the second round. Yes, I know they run the Wildcat formation, but it's still high for him.
Second-day gem: Fourth-round receiver Brian Hartline was a productive college player who will be better than Patrick Turner, who went to the Dolphins the round before.
The pick of White drives it down, but I like taking corners Smith and Vontae Davis. B-

Minnesota Vikings
Best pick: Second-round pick Phil Loadholt will push for time as the starting right tackle as a rookie. He's that powerful.
Questionable move: Taking Percy Harvin with the 22nd pick. He will be a feast-or-famine pick. The foot injury has to be a concern.
Second-day gem: Jasper Brinkley was a productive college linebacker in a big conference. He is a value pick in the fifth round.
If Harvin is what they think he is, and he stays clear of problems, this grade will be higher in a few years. B-

New England Patriots
Best pick: There were many who thought Connecticut corner Darius Butler would be a first-round pick. The Pats did a great job getting him in Round 2.
Questionable move: Taking North Carolina receiver Brandon Tate in the third round. He has character issues and is coming off an ACL injury.
Second-day gem: Linebacker Tyrone McKenzie, their fifth-round pick, was a productive player at South Florida who will bring more athleticism to a position that needs it.
They added some good players and even added a second-round pick in next year's draft. Bill Belichick gets it. B+

New Orleans Saints
Best pick: Their first one was their best. They filled a major need in the secondary taking Ohio State safety/corner Malcolm Jenkins in the first round.
Questionable move: Having only four draft picks and using one on a punter, trading up to get him.
Second-day gem: Stanley Arnoux, a fourth-round pick out of Wake Forest, is a linebacker who could help on special teams.
They just didn't have enough picks for a better grade. C
New York Giants analysis Grade
Best pick: I like Clint Sintim in the second round. He's a good, solid player who will be an impact player early in his career.
Questionable move: Taking Hakeem Nicks in the first round. He has speed, but did they force it?
Second-day gem: Landing running back Andre Brown in the fourth round is a steal. He's a nice replacement for Derrick Ward.
Jerry Reese has another good draft for the Giants. B-

New York Jets
Best pick: Making the move up to get Mark Sanchez makes their draft. I love the aggression.
Questionable move: Trading up to get Shonn Green in the third round. Do they really need a back?
Second-day gem: They didn't have any with few picks.
It's all because they made the move to get Sanchez. He will make their draft for years. B+

Oakland Raiders
Best pick: Darius Heyward-Bey. Yes, their first pick. Most think they should have taken Michael Crabtree, but they picked the right guy.
Questionable move: Taking safety Mike Mitchell in the second round. He was over-drafted, but maybe all the analysts and scouts missed.
Second-day gem: Wide receiver Louis Murphy has good speed and will prove to be a nice value pick in the fifth round.
The second-round pick is what drives this down. What did Al Davis do? D

Philadelphia Eagles
Best pick: They had no idea they'd get receiver Jeremy Maclin in the first round. They will love his speed in their offense.
Questionable move: Hard to find any. I mean it.
Second-day gem: Fifth-round pick Cornelius Ingram is a wonderful athlete who will be the new L.J. Smith in their offense.
If you count adding left tackle Jason Peters and corner Ellis Hobbs, they had an amazing week. A+

Pittsburgh Steelers
Best pick: Evander Hood was a nice pick in the first round because age is becoming an issue on their defensive line.
Questionable move: Waiting until the third round to address the offensive line and doing so only once.
Second-day gem: Fourth-round pick Mike Wallace is a speedy receiver who could help fill the void left by Nate Washington.
Kevin Colbert remains one of the league's most underrated talent evaluators. B

St. Louis Rams
Best pick: Getting linebacker James Laurinaitis in the second round is a nice move. He is a big hitter who has good instincts. Steve Spagnuolo will love him.
Questionable move: Passing on Eugene Monroe for Jason Smith. That's a move we'll watch closely for the next 10 years.
Second-day gem: Fourth-round pick Dorell Scott has talent, but he under-achieved last season. But he has talent to get into the rotation at defensive tackle.
They couldn't miss with the second overall pick and they did some other nice things. B-

San Diego Chargers
Best pick: Guard Louis Vasquez, the team's second-round pick, is a feisty lineman who fits in with what the Chargers want to do.
Questionable move: Taking Larry English with the 16th pick might have been a little high. And it really wasn't a need. Some teams had second-round grades on English.
Second-day gem: Fourth-round pick Vaughn Martin played his college ball in Canada, but he initially was set to go to Michigan State. He is 6-3, 331 pounds and has a lot of raw ability.
I just didn't think they did a lot of really good things. But English can change that if he becomes another Shawne Merriman. C-

San Francisco 49ers
Best pick: I really like sixth-round pick Bear Pascoe. He is a blocking tight end who is a former quarterback.
Questionable move: Taking Michael Crabtree. That foot makes it a risk. So does his diva act.
Second-day gem: Fifth-round pick Scott McKillop is a feisty linebacker Mike Singletary will come to love. He will be a special-teams star.
I'm just not enamored with what they did. C-

Seattle Seahawks
Best pick: Second-round pick Max Unger can play guard or center. Some had him rated as first-round talent.
Questionable move: Passing on Mark Sanchez for Aaron Curry. They better hope like heck Matt Hasselbeck holds up.
Second-day gem: Rutgers quarterback Mike Teel could prove to be a steal in the sixth round. He has a good arm and threw it a lot at Rutgers.
They should have landed Sanchez. Curry will still be an impact player, but this is a quarterback-driven league. B-

Tampa Bay Buccaneers
Best pick: In the third round they took Roy Miller, a defensive tackle out of Texas. They needed more size inside, and has it at 6-5, 305 pounds.
Questionable move: Taking Josh Freeman with the 16th pick. He'd better be special. I think he's a project.
Second-day gem: I love the pick of Oregon State receiver Sammie Stroughter in the seventh round. He has a chance to make this team.
They better hope like heck that Freeman turns out to be a star. They didn't get much else. C-

Tennessee Titans
Best pick: Second-round pick Sen'Derrick Marks will remind Titans fans of Josh Evans, their former tackle. He played hurt late last season, but he was a dominant player before that.
Questionable move: Taking Kenny Britt with their first pick. I know he runs better than Brian Robiskie, but I would have taken Robiskie.
Second-day gem: South Carolina tight end Jared Cook will become a favorite friend of Kerry Collins. He is a good receiver.
They always do a good job, and this year was no different. B

Washington Redskins
Best pick: They needed a defensive end and landed one in Brian Orakpo, who fell to the them at 13. He will be a rookie starter.
Questionable move: Trading their second-round pick away last year to the Dolphins for Jason Taylor. How'd that work out?
Second-day gem: Third-round pick Kevin Barnes has a chance to be a factor as a nickel corner.
I like Orakpo, but they landed little else that excites. And not having a second-round pick really hurt. C

The 2009 NFL draft is now one for the history books as the Kansas City Chiefs made the final selection as night fell over New York City on Sunday. There were several surprises throughout the seven rounds, as one would expect in a sparsely talented draft. Here's a list of the best bargains and reaches from last weekend's event:

Steals
Eugene Monroe/OT/ Jacksonville/9th selection: The Jaguars desperately wanted to come out of this draft with a stud at the tackle position. It was a godsend when Monroe dropped into their laps on the ninth pick.

Michael Crabtree/WR/San Francisco/10th: The inability to work out prior to the draft and off-the-field questions almost kept Crabtree from being a top-10 choice. He is great value for the Niners, a receiver-starved team.

Brian Orakpo/DE/ Washington/13: Orakpo was one of the draft's best athletes and is a terrific football player. He became a bargain once the Buffalo Bills passed him up with the 11th selection.

Jeremy Maclin/WR/ Philadelphia/19th: When the Oakland Raiders took Darrius Heyward-Bey with the seventh pick, the result was Maclin sliding much further into Round 1 than most thought possible. The Eagles made sure to trade up and select this game-breaking receiver and return specialist.

Chris Wells/RB/ Arizona/31st: Teams were concerned about Wells' injury history, plus the fact he's a bit one-dimensional in his game. Arizona still came away with a steal as Wells will be a great fit.

Rey Maualuga/MLB/ Cincinnati /38th: Maualuga came into the draft process physically out of shape and unprepared mentally. Regardless, he is still a dominant middle linebacker when hitting on all cylinders. He was worth a roll of the dice at the top of Round 2.

Everette Brown/DE-OLB/ Carolina/43rd: Brown's Combine measurements of 6-feet-1½ and 256 pounds concerned teams that wondered what his true position would be. Carolina, which will hold onto Julius Peppers, saw an opportunity to bookend Brown with their Pro-Bowl defensive end.

Connor Barwin/OLB-DE/ Houston/46th: Barwin is a difference-maker and considered a fringe first-round pick by most. He'll flourish in Houston's defensive system, which will allow Barwin to run loose and chase the quarterback.

Jarron Gilbert/DL/Chicago/3rd round: Gilbert's drop down draft boards is mystifying considering the results of his senior campaign plus his workouts leading up to the draft. He offers starting potential and could turn into the steal of the '09 draft.

Michael Johnson/DE/ Cincinnati/3rd round: Johnson was rated as the top senior prospect coming into the season and offers early first-round athleticism. His consistency on the field leaves much to be desired but he was worth a roll of the dice in the third round.

Shawn Nelson/TE/Buffalo/4th round: Nelson was a legitimate second-round talent but his marginal blocking skills pushed him down draft boards. He's a vertical threat who will see action as a rookie.

Jasper Brinkley/MLB/Minnesota/5th round: Brinkley played well as a senior and posted terrific workouts in the run up to the draft. Concerns about his surgically-repaired knee pushed him two rounds deeper into the draft than his talents warrant. Brinkley offers starting potential should he stay healthy.

Jamon Meredith/OL/Green Bay/5th round: Meredith comes off a tough campaign in which he struggled with injury and position change. Several teams gave him a second-round grade. Meredith will compete for several offensive line spots with the Packers.

Duke Robinson/G/Carolina/5th round: Robinson was rated as the No. 1 guard in the draft for most of the season. His terrible play against Florida in the BCS title game coupled with uninspired performances at the Senior Bowl and combine pushed him down draft boards. Robinson is still a legitimate NFL lineman. Carolina came away with a gem.

Reaches
Tyson Jackson/DL/Kansas City/3rd selection: Jackson made a late charge up draft boards despite some average workouts the past two months. His selection was based largely on the fact he's the best two-gap end in the draft, but Jackson comes with large amount of downside risk.

Darrius Heyward-Bey/WR/Oakland/7th: Al Davis loves speed but his history of drafting players primarily based on combine 40 times has been disastrous. Heyward-Bey was not the best receiver on the board when the Raiders were called to the clock with the seventh pick, never mind being rated well below many of the other players available.

Larry English/DE-OLB/ San Diego/16th: English is the perfect fit for the Chargers 3-4 alignment, yet you cannot help but question using the 16th pick on a prospect who struggled to break 4.8 seconds in the 40 at the combine.

Alex Mack/C/Cleveland/21st: Eric Mangini traded down on three occasions in the first round, then reached for Mack with the 21st pick. Mack is solid on the pivot yet not dominant enough to justify Cleveland bypassing on so many talented players to get him.

Jairus Byrd/CB/Buffalo/2nd Round: Byrd ran pedestrian times in the 4.6 range during his pro-day workout. He's a solid prospect , but there were at least a half dozen higher-rated cornerbacks available to the Bills when they selected him at the top of Round 2.

Michael Mitchell/S/Oakland/2nd Round: Davis and the Raiders continued to draft workout warriors in the second round. Mitchell is a terrific athlete who made a late rise up draft boards after a good pro-day workout. He's a developmental prospect who was selected at least three rounds earlier than his talents warranted.

Richard Quinn/TE/Denver/2nd Round: Quinn was a part-time player in North Carolina's offense. He possesses a good degree of upside potential and was a prospect on the rise, yet Denver left several higher-rated tight ends on the board when they chose him with the final choice of Round 2.

Terrance Knighton/DT/Jacksonville/3rd Round: Knighton, an athletic defensive tackle who struggles with weight issues, was rated as a late-round selection. He has too much downside for a mid-third-round choice.

Derek Cox/CB/Jacksonville/3rd Round: Cox was a nice small-school player with adequate size/speed numbers. He carried a late-round rating and was a reach in the third round.

Latest NFL Mock Draft

NFL Mock Draft Latest Update

Round 1
1 Detroit Andre Smith* OT 6'5" 340 Alabama
2 St. Louis Matthew Stafford* QB 6'3" 237 Georgia
3 Kansas City Michael Johnson DE 6'7" 247 Georgia Tech
4 Seattle Michael Crabtree** WR 6'3" 214 Texas Tech
5 Cleveland Chris Wells* RB 6'1" 235 Ohio State
6 Cincinnati Michael Oher OT 6'5" 325 Mississippi
7 Oakland Brian Orakpo DE 6'4" 248 Texas
8 Jacksonville Eugene Monroe OT 6'6" 318 Virginia
9 Green Bay Malcolm Jenkins CB 6'1" 203 Ohio State
10 San Francisco Aaron Curry OLB 6'2" 246 Wake Forest
11 Buffalo Jason Smith OT 6'5" 300 Baylor
12 Denver Everette Brown* DE 6'4" 254 Florida State
13 Washington Aaron Maybin** DE 6'3" 250 Penn State
14 New Orleans Vontae Davis* CB 6'0" 205 Illinois
15 Houston Jeremy Maclin** WR 6'0" 198 Missouri
16 San Diego Rey Maualuga ILB 6'3" 250 USC
17 NY Jets Knowshon Moreno** RB 5'11" 207 Georgia
18 Chicago D.J. Moore* CB 5'10" 180 Vanderbilt
19 Tampa Bay B.J. Raji DT 6'1" 325 Boston College
20 Detroit (from Dallas) Mark Sanchez* QB 6'4" 220 USC
21 Philadelphia LeSean McCoy** RB 5'11" 205 Pittsburgh
22 Minnesota Percy Harvin* WR 5'11" 181 Florida
23 New England James Laurinaitis ILB 6'2" 244 Ohio State
24 Atlanta William Moore S 6'1" 215 Missouri
25 Miami Alphonso Smith CB 5'9" 191 Wake Forest
26 Baltimore Sean Smith* CB 6'3" 215 Utah
27 Indianapolis Sen'Derrick Marks* DT 6'1" 290 Auburn
28 Philadelphia (from Car) Chase Coffman TE 6'6" 245 Missouri
29 NY Giants Brian Cushing OLB 6'4" 240 USC
30 Tennessee Tyson Jackson DE 6'5" 291 LSU
31 Arizona Duke Robinson OG 6'5" 330 Oklahoma
32 Pittsburgh Mike Mickens CB 6'0" 165 Cincinnati

To get rounds 2-7 click here

NFL TOP 100 EARLY DRAFT PICKS

Rivals.com Top 100 Early Draft Picks


1. Michael Oher, OT, Ole Miss
Oher has a rare blend of size, athleticism and girth. He entered the 2008 NFL draft, then pulled out a few days later even though he was considered a first-round pick. New coach Houston Nutt is glad he stayed. This time around, Oher – now a senior – could be the first player taken in the draft. He is No. 1 on the Rivals.com list of the top 100 pro prospects and could be the second consecutive offensive tackle chosen No. 1 overall; the Miami Dolphins took Michigan's Jake Long with the No. 1 pick earlier this year.
2. Andre Smith *, OT, Alabama
A massive tackle with great feet, in the mold of former first-round pick Shawn Andrews.
3. Matthew Stafford *, QB, Georgia
The most natural pocket passer in the nation. He has a skill set similar to Carson Palmer's.
4. DeMarcus Granger *, DT, Oklahoma
An explosive three-technique tackle who makes a living in the opponent's backfield.
5. Michael Johnson, DE, Georgia Tech
Displays a rare first step for his size. He can be an absolute terror off the edge with his combination of length and body control.
6. Eugene Monroe, OT, Virginia
A nimble tackle who re-directs well. He needs to add bulk and power to his lower half.
7. Michael Crabtree *, WR, Texas Tech
The total package – size, speed, burst and hands – and is the best receiver prospect since Calvin Johnson.
8. Jeremy Maclin *, WR, Missouri
Excellent size and speed, with the ability to break tackles. He is dangerous with the ball in his hands.
9. Vontae Davis *, CB, Illinois
A rare athlete with fluid hips and burst out of his breaks. He's instinctive in man coverage.
10. Rey Maualuga, LB, USC
He's a more physically dominant version of Seahawks MLB Lofa Tatupu, another former USC standout.
11. Brian Orakpo, DE, Texas
Showcases an explosive first step off the edge, with the ability to dip and turn the corner consistently.
12. Knowshon Moreno *, RB, Georgia
He is the most "natural" running back in the nation, with a combination of vision, quickness and balance. He has a good burst and a second gear.
13. Chris Wells *, RB, Ohio State
A powerful back with a thick frame and quick feet. He can make a defender miss and churn out yards after contact.
14. James Laurinaitis, LB, Ohio State
A fluid, athletic linebacker with a nose for the ball in both the pass and run game.
15. William Moore, FS, Missouri
A physically well-built safety with the athleticism and body control to do it all.
16. Jonathan Luigs, C, Arkansas
The best center prospect we have seen in the past five years.
17. Malcolm Jenkins, CB, Ohio State
An instinctive corner with good range and ball skills in zone coverage, but he lacks a second gear.
18. Ricky Jean-Francois *, DT, LSU
Was the quickest and most disruptive LSU defensive lineman in the national championship game last season and, yes, that includes Glenn Dorsey.
19. LeSean McCoy *, RB, Pittsburgh
He has struggled running though tackles this year. He's not quite as instinctive as Knowshon Moreno but has excellent body control for his size and possesses a nice combination of quickness and strength.
20. Jermaine Cunningham *, DE, Florida
A compact, powerful end with speed, power and change-of-direction skill on the edge.
21. Xavier Fulton, OT, Illinois
May have the best feet of any offensive lineman in the country. He needs to continue to add strength and girth to his overall frame.
22. Herman Johnson, G, LSU
He's an amazing physical specimen at 6 feet 8 and 360 pounds who can move and re-direct in space. He's fluid and agile for a man his size.
23. Percy Harvin *, WR, Florida
An explosive athlete in space who can make a play any time he has the ball.
24. Taylor Mays *, FS, USC
A physically imposing safety who can run and cover or play at the line of scrimmage.
25. Duke Robinson, G, Oklahoma
A massive guard with an intriguing blend of raw power and athleticism.
26. Darrius Heyward-Bey *, WR, Maryland
A tall, lean receiver with great speed and the burst to get down the field. He's a big-time jump-ball threat.
27. Mark Sanchez *, QB, USC
Has a big-time arm and is accurate down the field. He makes quick decisions but needs to work on his touch underneath.
28. Myron Rolle *, SS, Florida State
Smart, instinctive safety with a strong build. He has the range to play the center-field role.
29. Jermaine Gresham *, TE, Oklahoma
A big, physical athlete with great burst and speed down the seam. He can separate at all levels in man coverage.
30. Aaron Curry, LB, Wake Forest
A gifted run-and-hit linebacker. He has sideline-to-sideline range but needs to improve his awareness.
31. Tim Tebow *, QB, Florida
A dual run/pass threat who has all the intangibles. He can buy time in the pocket but needs to learn to read defenses more consistently in the passing game.
32. Geno Atkins *, DT, Georgia
Another explosive SEC three-technique defensive tackle. He will get a lot more attention from opposing linemen with the season-ending injury to Bulldogs DT Jeff Owens.
33. Maurice Evans *, DE, Penn State
Explosive athlete with a quick first step and powerful punch. He does a nice job beating blocks both inside and out.
34. James Davis, RB, Clemson
A one-cut back who has good vision and gets north to south quickly. He also is comfortable in the passing game.
35. Derek Pegues, FS, Mississippi State
He is built and runs like a corner, but is a ballhawk as a safety.
36. Rico McCoy *, LB, Tennessee
Undersized but has the most impressive fluidity and range of any linebacker in the draft. He should really rise up draft boards.
37. Mike Mickens, CB, Cincinnati
Long, rangy corner with good ball skills. He plays a bit high and struggles losing speed in his transition.
38. Nic Harris, SS, Oklahoma
Built like a linebacker and is strong attacking the line of scrimmage. He is fluid in zone coverage and has a nose for the ball.
39. Ciron Black *, OT, LSU
Displays a compact stance and moves well laterally. He can re-direct and has the quickness to reach the corner.
40. Brandon Pettigrew, TE, Oklahoma State
A physically imposing tight end with good power in the blocking game. He has impressive body control, and goes up and gets the ball as well as any receiver in the country.
41. Terrance Taylor, DT, Michigan
A two-gap plugger who can clog running lanes inside. He has good quickness off the snap and can push the pocket.
42. Josh Freeman *, QB, Kansas State
A physically impressive quarterback with rare arm strength and feel in the pocket. He's in the JaMarcus Russell/Daunte Culpepper mold.
43. Pat White, WR, West Virginia
He's one of the best playmakers in college football. He will be asked to make the transition from quarterback to wide receiver in the pros.
44. Alphonso Smith, CB, Wake Forest
Has all the tools you look for in an NFL corner except size (he's 5-9). He is as fluid as any corner in college football.
45. C.J. Spiller *, RB, Clemson
Lightning in a bottle. He has the quickness to make a man miss and the burst to separate, and he does a great job making cuts at full speed.
46. Max Unger, C, Oregon
He's a former left tackle with good feet and lateral mobility for a center. He plays a bit high but is an ideal fit for a zone-blocking scheme.
47. Greg Hardy *, DE, Ole Miss
His long limbs and speed make him difficult to block. He has the quickness to beat tackles outside or inside off the snap.
48. Brandon Spikes *, LB, Florida
A powerful linebacker who showcases good instincts inside, and does a nice job stacking and shedding versus the run.
49. George Selvie *, DE, South Florida
An ultra-productive end who exhibits good quickness and technique. Has a good motor and closes on the ball quickly.
50. Ziggy Hood, DT, Missouri
Plays with good leverage and power inside. He makes as many plays as any defensive tackle in the nation.
51. Alex Boone, OT, Ohio State
Has slimmed down and looks more fluid out on the edge. Has a powerful upper body. When he locks on, it's over.
52. B.J. Raji, DT, Boston College
A powerful defensive tackle who can push the pocket and get off blocks. Powerful and tough to move inside.
53. Louis Murphy, WR, Florida
Showcases great deep speed and is a constant vertical threat. Is a raw route runner and lacks consistent hands.
54. Courtney Greene, FS, Rutgers
A long, rangy safety with a nose for the ball. Has good first-step quickness, and covers a lot of ground in the deep half.
55. Brian Cushing, LB, USC
A versatile athlete who can play a variety of positions but is at his best rushing the passer.
56. Alex Mack, C, California
Displays good toughness and power inside. He plays with a natural bend and has the technique and quickness to start from Day One.
57. Jamon Meredith, OT, South Carolina
A smooth tackle who can handle speed off the edge. He is coordinated re-directing but needs to improve his technique.
58. Antoine Caldwell, C, Alabama
Has a great combination of power and athleticism. He is natural in space and gets a good push as an in-line run blocker.
59. Sam Young *, OT, Notre Dame
A tall, long athlete with the feet and coordination to protect a quarterback's blind side. He needs to develop more of a mean streak.
60. Cullen Harper, QB, Clemson
He displays a quick release and good athleticism. He is accurate with the ball and has a strong arm, but needs to make quicker decisions.
61. Vince Oghobaase *, DT, Duke
At 6 feet 6 and 303 pounds, Oghobaase plays with great bend and flexibility for his size. He coils up well at the snap and has an explosive first step.
62. Greg Middleton *, DE, Indiana
An explosive athlete. Has the body control to beat blocks.
63. Trevor Canfield, G, Cincinnati
A throwback guard who loves to finish blocks and plays with good hand placement and technique in the running game. He's a better athlete than most think.
64. Dannell Ellerbe, LB, Georgia
A sideline-to-sideline athlete who has a nose for the ball and makes plays all over the field.
65. Ricky Sapp *, DE, Clemson
An undersized pass-rushing specialist who uses his burst to reach the corner. He needs to add more of a pass-rush repertoire and power to his game.
66. Fili Moala, DT, USC
Has a great first step for his size, but doesn't play with the power his frame would indicate.
67. Brian Robiskie, WR, Ohio State
The most technically sound wide receiver in the county. While he lacks any kind of burst, he looks like an ideal possession guy at the next level.
68. Sen'Derrick Marks *, DT, Auburn
A big-bodied tackle who can eat up space on the inside, and shows the power to push the pocket and anchor versus the double-team.
69. Mitch Petrus, G, Arkansas
Ideal for a zone-blocking scheme. He displays great feet and body control, and can really get out to the second level.
70. Marcus Freeman, LB, Ohio State
A bit of an afterthought on Ohio State's star-studded defense, but he does everything well and will be an NFL starter.
71. Victor Harris, CB, Virginia Tech
A physical, in-your-face corner who can close quickly on the ball. He plays a bit high and lacks great make-up speed.
72. Darry Beckwith, LB, LSU
Has a big, strong frame and is powerful attacking downhill. He has the athleticism to run sideline-to-sideline.
73. Javon Ringer, RB, Michigan State
Short, compact back with good balance, burst and change-of-direction skills.
74. Chase Coffman, TE, Missouri
A strider who is sudden out of his breaks and does well going up and attacking the ball.
75. Anthony Parker, G, Tennessee
He's thickly built, with a compact frame. Has smooth lateral mobility and a strong punch, showcases good body control and never over-extends.
76. Derrick Williams, WR, Penn State
A better athlete than football player. He could really blossom in the NFL with the right coaching staff.
77. Darius Butler, CB, Connecticut
Possesses great recovery speed and quickness out of breaks. He is rail thin but shows the toughness scouts love.
78. Keiland Williams *, RB, LSU
Dynamic with the ball in his hands, but lacks the girth and instincts to be successful between the tackles.
79. Michael Hamlin, SS, Clemson
A big, rangy safety with good wheels once he gets going. He can cover a lot of ground but struggles re-directing.
80. Hunter Cantwell, QB, Louisville
Displays a great skill set with all the tools you'd want in an NFL quarterback. He just needs more playing experience.
81. Jason Smith, OT, Baylor
Former tight end has good athleticism and body control on the edge. He needs to continue to add girth and work on his technique.
82. Tyson Jackson, DE, LSU
Possesses great size, length and suddenness off the edge. He needs to play with more power and more of a mean streak.
83. Travis Beckum, TE, Wisconsin
A one-dimensional player who is a mismatch nightmare for any defense in the passing game. But he couldn't block the chair you're sitting in.
84. Augustus Parrish, OT, Kent State
Smaller-school prospect with the quickness, size and body control of an NFL left tackle.
85. Aaron Kelly, WR, Clemson
Smooth route runner who uses his body well to shield defenders from the ball. He's a No. 2 receiver at the next level.
86. Pannel Egboh, DE, Stanford
Possesses great size (6-6/280) length and body control. But he is too much of a finesse player at this stage.
87. Brandon Gibson, WR, Washington State
Well-built receiver with good balance and burst as route runner. He shows the ability to get consistent separation on all levels.
88. Matt Shaughnessy, DE, Wisconsin
Good athlete off the edge. He plays with a great motor, but needs to add more power to his upper body and punch.
89. Domonique Johnson, CB, Jackson State
Explosive, quick-twitch corner with good size (6-2/200) who has dominated his competition. Johnson, a Texan who began his career at Missouri, has a nose for the ball.
90. Keegan Herring, RB, Arizona State
Undersized back with a great first step and home-run speed. He has a tendency to bounce too many plays outside.
91. Keenan Lewis, CB, Oregon State
Tall, physical corner with good body control and balance. He does a nice job in press coverage.
92. Ryan Purvis, TE, Boston College
Won't wow you as an athlete but knows how to get open. He catches the ball in traffic and loves to block.
93. Bruce Johnson, CB, Miami
An undersized, explosive corner with great recovery speed. He loves to play physical at the line, but struggles with instincts in zone.
94. Arian Foster, RB, Tennessee
Possesses great size and quickness through the tackles, but tries to run like a scatback too often and doesn't lower his head and drive for tough yards.
95. Kevin Barnes, CB, Maryland
A long, lean track star who is developing into an instinctive corner. He has improved significantly since his sophomore season.
96. Nathan Brown, QB, Central Arkansas
Small-school quarterback showcases a strong arm and accuracy from the pocket. He makes quick decisions under pressure.
97. Juaquin Iglesias, WR, Oklahoma
Has good quickness and decent deep speed. He reminds some of former LSU wide receiver Early Doucet.
98. Tyrone McKenzie, LB, South Florida
Showcases great burst and closing speed toward the ball. He plays with reckless abandon and flies around the field.
99. Kenny Britt, WR, Rutgers
A well-built receiver who does a nice job getting out of his breaks and separating at all levels. He's physical after the catch.
100. Terrence Cody *, DT, Alabama
Displays amazing athleticism for a man who weighs 370 pounds. He could really soar up draft boards with a strong season.