ESPN insider request: 2011 NFL Draft Grades
- Thread starter quiet storm
- Start date
Esteban_Villa
Veteran XV
i 2nd this request
Mc Shay
Code:
AFC EAST
Buffalo Bills
Best move: Taking Marcell Dareus
Yes, the Bills were fortunate he was around at No. 3 because, in my opinion, he was the best player in the draft. Dareus is a centerpiece they can build their defense around. He gives defensive coordinator George Edwards a lot of flexibility. Edwards mixes it up with this fronts and Dareus has the ability to play just about every position along the front.
Most questionable move: Failing to address their quarterback need
The Bills had an opportunity to bring in someone -- Andy Dalton and Colin Kaepernick were still on the board when they selected CB Aaron Williams in the second round -- to fill the need. It would have been a great year to develop a player for 2012, when they hope to be competing for a playoff spot.
Miami Dolphins
Best move: Hitting the trifecta
The Dolphins filled needs with their first three picks. C Mike Pouncey solves a lot more problems at No. 15 overall than a rookie quarterback would, and they found a potential starter at running back in Daniel Thomas. And while WR Edmond Gates will never be the No. 1 guy, even without Brandon Marshall's uncertain situation, Miami needed another wideout and got Gates at a good spot.
Most questionable move: Not getting a QB
It's hard to fault the Dolphins for the strategy they employed, but they could have taken a different road and gotten the quarterback they need. Miami traded up from No. 79 to 62 to get Thomas, and if the speculation about their interest in QB Ryan Mallett was true, why not get Mallett with the 62nd pick? The Dolphins could have then gotten a similar running back value later in the draft while filling their need under center.
New England Patriots
Best move: Acquiring extra picks via trade
Getting OT Nate Solder was a good move at No. 17 and I like CB Ras-I Dowling at 33, but trading the 28th pick to the Saints for No. 56 this year and a first-rounder next year and getting No. 219 and a second-rounder next year helps just as much. The Patriots had only five 2012 picks when this draft started, and next year's picks will count less against the salary cap than those in this draft.
Most questionable move: Stevan Ridley in the third round
The Patriots had just taken Shane Vereen in the second round, and Ridley was a reach in the third. They already have the same kind of player on the roster in BenJarvus Green-Ellis and could have gone in a lot of different directions at that point. New England needed to get a pass-rusher, and could have taken one instead of Vereen and gotten a single running back later on.
New York Jets
Best move: Drafting Muhammad Wilkerson
The Jets got good value at No. 30 and Wilkerson is a prefect fit for Rex Ryan's three-man defensive front. Wilkerson can play the role of a two-gap space eater and also has the ability to get pass-rush pressure. He can also line up as a nose tackle, a traditional defensive tackle and as a 3-4 end. That versatility should give the Jets a lot of flexibility up front, especially with Shaun Ellis nearing the end of his career.
Most questionable move: Bilal Powell at No. 126
I like Powell as a player, and New York needed another option if Joe McKnight doesn't pan out because LaDainian Tomlinson is at the end of his career. However, they could have had a much more versatile back in Johnny White, who went 133rd but graded out significantly higher.
AFC NORTH
Baltimore Ravens
Best move: Jimmy Smith at No. 27
You could make the argument this is one of the best value picks of the entire draft. The only thing keeping Smith from being a top-10 pick was concerns about his character, and those concerns, at least in the immediate future, all but go away because of the presence in Baltimore of players like Ray Lewis and Ed Reed. There is no way Smith gets away with the things in Baltimore he did in Colorado.
Most questionable move: Chykie Brown in the fifth round
When you're critiquing pick No. 164, things are going pretty well, but the Ravens already drafted a corner in the first round and could have gone defensive end with Pernell McPhee or linebacker with Quan Sturdivant.
Cincinnati Bengals
Best move: Not reaching for a quarterback
The Bengals resisted the temptation to take a quarterback at No. 4 and instead selected the best player on the board in A.J. Green, who just happened to fill a significant need. And whether it was genius or luck, staying put and not trading away picks to move up, and still getting QB Andy Dalton, worked out well for them. Dalton is the quarterback offensive coordinator Jay Gruden wanted and is the best fit for Gruden's version of the West Coast offense. Cincinnati has had some great play from its quarterbacks and receivers in recent years, but it just hasn't worked out for them. Maybe this time they got it right in a span of 35 picks.
Most questionable move: Dontay Moch in the second round
Moch is best suited to play outside linebacker in a 3-4 scheme, and while he will be worth the pick if he becomes a good situational pass-rusher, Moch's exceptional speed just doesn't translate to the field. He is too much of a straight-line player and doesn't have the flexibility to bend the edge tightly. He's simply too tight and doesn't fit Cincinnati's 4-3 scheme very well.
Cleveland Browns
Best move: Trading back with Atlanta
Cleveland traded out of the No. 6 pick and added Atlanta's first- and fourth-round picks in next year's draft and Nos. 27, 59 and 124 in this year's draft. Again, that's all for the No. 6 pick. The best use of these picks was the selection of North Carolina WR Greg Little. If he continues to develop and character issues don't cause any problems, Little could be the No. 1 WR that Mike Holmgren wanted to add all along.
Most questionable move: Giving a pick away to select DT Phil Taylor
It's not a terrible reach to take Taylor, but they might not have had to give up a third-round pick to get him. He's not a great fit as he's better as a 3-4 nose tackle. Defensive coordinator Dick Jauron will get the most out of Taylor's ability and the Browns obviously value him in their scheme, but he also comes with some questions about his character. With the Little pick, two of their first three picks have red flags.
Pittsburgh Steelers
Best move: Cameron Heyward
Aaron Smith is no longer dependable from a durability standpoint, and Heyward should become a starter opposite Ziggy Hood, who they drafted early in 2009. If all goes well, these two will upgrade and infuse youth into an aging defensive line. Heyward will be able to take up space, provide versatility and wreak havoc early in his career.
Most questionable move: Cortez Allen in the fourth round
After addressing needs with their first three picks with players who have a chance to be starters down the road, they took Allen in Round 4. There were better corners on the board, including Josh Thomas. They certainly need bodies at the position, but the Steelers also had other needs, including offensive line and a big wide receiver.
AFC SOUTH
Houston Texans
Best move: Brooks Reed
They didn't think he would fall to them in Round 2, but he's a perfect fit at outside linebacker in Wade Phillips' 3-4 defense. Reed will line up opposite Connor Barwin with DeMeco Ryans and Brian Cushing on the inside, forming one of the best young linebacker corps in the NFL.
Most questionable move: Rashad Carmichael
The Texans didn't have a third-round pick, but they could have drafted a better CB than Carmichael in the second round (Buster Skrine). The Texans could have also addressed needs at safety (Robert Sands) or offensive tackle (Jason Pinkston).
Indianapolis Colts
Best move: Attacking the offensive line
The Colts stayed at No. 22 overall and didn't have to give up picks to get OT Anthony Castonzo. While Tyron Smith might be more naturally talented and Nate Solder has more upside, Castonzo is ready to start immediately at left tackle and anything short of that would not have been good enough. Their next pick netted Ben Ijalana, who is a perfect fit in their system, and with their ability to move Charlie Johnson inside to guard, the Colts added protection for QB Peyton Manning and significantly upgraded a running game that finished 29th in the NFL last season.
Most questionable move: Delone Carter in the fourth round
Carter is worth the pick and they will be able to put him to use, but at that point Indianapolis could have gotten another weapon in the passing game for Manning. The Colts have Reggie Wayne and a bunch of injury-prone guys at wide receiver, and with the 119th pick they could have gotten Tandon Doss or Jeremy Kerley to help fill that need.
Jacksonville Jaguars
Best move: Blaine Gabbert
I might be in the minority here, but I think Gabbert's best chance of developing into a good starting quarterback in the NFL is for him to land in the exact situation he's in now. This gives him time to develop behind David Garrard -- who has played better than most people think -- and by moving up just six spots, the Jaguars solidified their future at the most important position on the field.
Most questionable move: Doing the safety dance
This is nitpicking, but the Jags could have found a better safety at No. 121 than Christopher Prosinski. Ahmad Black doesn't have the measurables, but he's instinctive and we think he'll be a better football player regardless of size considerations.
Tennessee Titans
Best move: Their handling of Rounds 3 and 4
The Titans got DT Jurrell Casey in the third round and LB Colin McCarthy in the fourth, and there's a chance Casey will be eating up blocks for McCarthy as both become quality starters. I think they are two of the more underrated midround players in the draft.
Questionable move: Jake Locker at No. 8.
Tennessee could have gotten Blaine Gabbert, the top quarterback on our board, instead. Locker might have more upside if he's developed properly, but drafting him eighth overall means you think he is your franchise quarterback and have to play him right away. It's hard in today's NFL to draft a quarterback in the top 10 and sit him for a year, and I don't know if offensive coordinator Chris Palmer is the right guy to bring Locker along. The Titans are still trying to make up for the Vince Young pick and this just isn't a good situation for Locker.
AFC WEST
Denver Broncos
Best move: They didn't get cute
Loved how the Broncos got three good players -- OLB Von Miller, S Rahim Moore and OG Orlando Franklin -- who can start and make the team better. They locked down three upgrades at three positions with their first three picks.
Most questionable move: Reaching for Nate Irving
I don't think Irving, an ILB from NC State, is worth the 67th pick. USC DT Jurrell Casey would have been a better option at a position of need.
Kansas City Chiefs
Best move: Taking Rodney Hudson with the 55th pick
Hudson is exactly the kind of player GM Scott Pioli is trying to build the organization around. He's a high-character, intelligent hard worker, and center is a major need for the Chiefs. Outside of Pouncey, Hudson is the best at the position in this year's draft.
Most questionable move: Taking a few risks
Considering how much Pioli emphasizes limiting risk, there are some question marks with first-round WR Jonathan Baldwin, who was a menace to his coaches and teammates at Pitt, and third-round DE Justin Houston, who turns his motor off and on like a kitchen faucet.
Oakland Raiders
Best move: The surprising wideout
Denarius Moore has deceptive speed and is an underrated playmaker. He doesn't have great timed speed, which goes against the Raiders' usual MO, but he is slippery and tracks the vertical pass very well. Moore grew on me and the more tape I watched, the more I liked him.
Most questionable: Getting exploited by the Patriots
The Raiders traded pick No. 219 and a second-round pick in 2012 to the Patriots for picks No. 92 (OT Joe Barksdale) and No. 125 (RB Taiwan Jones). This is typical Raiders, not having a feel for where players are coming off the board and then getting impatient and making bad deals. The Patriots have a habit of exploiting teams like this and there's a reason New England keeps making deals with Oakland. Basically, this became Barksdale for a second-round pick, and that is not appropriate draft behavior.
San Diego Chargers
Best move: Great value with middle three picks
I really like the players they got with their middle three picks -- WR Vincent Brown, CB Shareece Wright and RB Jordan Todman. Brown is one of the more underrated receivers in the class, Wright is a naturally gifted corner and Todman could be an absolute steal in the sixth round as a quality backup to Ryan Mathews and a difference maker in the return game.
Most questionable move: Drafting Jonas Mouton too high
Jonas Mouton was the second of two second-round picks the Chargers had. There is at least one other team that had him with a third-round grade, so it's not as big of a reach as some might think, but in my opinion he is a very ordinary starter.
NFC EAST
Dallas Cowboys
Best move: Tyron Smith in the first round
The Cowboys stayed put at No. 9 overall and got the best available player at one of their top need positions in OT Tyron Smith, who can step in on the right side and be an upgrade over Marc Colombo from Day 1. Smith has the tools to play left tackle but would need time to adjust his footwork on the left side, so this works out perfectly for the Cowboys and Smith.
Most questionable move: Bruce Carter at No. 40 overall
Where Dallas got Carter is not the issue. The problem is trying to find a fit in the 3-4 scheme of new defensive coordinator Rob Ryan. To me, Carter is the classic 4-3 weakside linebacker and it's hard to figure where he will play in a 3-4. Is he a weakside inside linebacker? Adding to the questions is the fact that Dallas took LB Sean Lee in the second round a year ago.
New York Giants
Best move: Landing a Prince
Cornerback was not a primary need and I'm sure it wasn't the Giants' plan to go after a corner in the first round, but rather than opting for need at offensive tackle or running back they stuck to their board and took the best player available in Prince Amukamara. This is a decision that could solidify the entire secondary, and Amukamara should step in right away as a contributor.
Most questionable move: Jerrel Jernigan at No. 83
We're nitpicking again, and while I like Jernigan as a player I just don't know if the Giants needed him. They drafted Hakeem Nicks two years ago in the first round and have Steve Smith and Mario Manningham as well, and while he was drafted to be their return specialist and fourth receiver, they could have gone in any number of directions and addressed other needs, then gotten a return specialist later.
Philadelphia Eagles
Best move: Jaiquawn Jarrett in the second round
I believe Jarrett will be a good starter in the NFL, and with Quintin Mikell a free agent, Jarrett will ideally step in right away. He's not big, but he's tough, and Jarrett is one of the more underrated defensive backs in the 2011 class.
Most questionable: Taking a kicker in the fourth round
The 120th pick is simply too high for Alex Henery. Yes, he was the No. 1 kicker on our board, but Henery has had some inconsistent stretches in his career, and while he has a monster leg, the Eagles would have been better off addressing right offensive tackle, defensive line, tight end, wide receiver or return specialist, then taking someone like Kai Forbath further down the line.
Washington Redskins
Best move: Trading back from No. 10 to 16
The Redskins used the 16th pick acquired from Jacksonville on DE Ryan Kerrigan, who will never be elite but is the kind of quality player and character guy the organization needs. It was a patient move and sent the right message. You could argue Washington had more holes than any other team heading into the draft, and getting WR Leonard Hankerson with the 49th pick (also acquired in the deal) got the Redskins a player who could easily be a starter for them.
Most questionable move: Dejon Gomes in the fifth round
Washington could have gotten a better safety at that point, someone like Ahmad Black. Or how about bringing in a developmental quarterback like T.J. Yates?
NFC NORTH
Chicago Bears
Best move: Selecting OT Gabe Carimi at No. 29
Offensive line coach Mike Tice was targeting Carimi the whole time. While some teams were concerned about his mental toughness, the Vikings think the 6-foot-7, 314-pounder is a great fit at a position of need (Minnesota allowed a league-high 56 sacks last year). The only question is whether he plays left or right tackle.
Most questionable move: Taking a safety in the third round
The Bears addressed needs in the first two rounds, but the third-round pick is a bit of a head-scratcher. While Danieal Manning is a free agent and they needed to bring someone in, I just don't know if Chris Conte is athletic enough to ever become a good starting safety and not sure he's the answer at the position. I just wonder why they didn't get the big wide receiver they needed (Tandon Doss, or someone similar) to complement the speedsters they have on the roster.
Detroit Lions
Best move: Nailing their first three picks
The Lions slam-dunked their first three selections. DT Nick Fairley doesn't look like a need at No. 13, but putting him next to DE Kyle Vanden Bosch and 2010 Defensive Rookie of the Year Ndamukong Suh under a coaching staff that will demand Fairley works hard gives Detroit a chance to have a nasty defensive front. Second-round WR Titus Young will be a nice complement to Calvin Johnson, and trading into the second round to get big RB Mikel Leshoure will allow RB Jahvid Best to maximize his skill set and take some pressure off QB Matthew Stafford.
Most questionable: LB Douglas Hogue in the fifth round Hogue is a developmental prospect with good size and speed, but there were players available (Lawrence Wilson, Quan Sturdivant) who might have had a better chance to contribute right away.
Green Bay Packers
Best move: Getting a versatile weapon in Randall Cobb
After addressing offensive tackle in the first round, the Packers were able to get one of the more underrated weapons in this year's class. He can create big plays if you find a way to get him the ball in space and his versatility will allow the Packers to get more creative on offense. Cobb is yet another weapon for QB Aaron Rodgers, and he can also help in the return game.
Most questionable move: Alex Green in the third round
This is hard for me to say because Green is a good player, but he was a luxury pick. Green Bay had just drafted a versatile offensive weapon in Cobb the round before and could have targeted a defensive front-seven player instead.
Minnesota Vikings
Best move: Kyle Rudolph
I love this pick. If you're going to bring in a quarterback with the intention of playing him as a rookie, like they did with Christian Ponder, you better do everything you can to put him in a position to succeed. Assuming Rudolph is 100 percent healthy and ready to return to form, he will be Ponder's best friend. Rudolph may never be Antonio Gates in terms of elite speed to get down the field consistently, but he's a consistent route runner who uses his size to separate and has rare ball skills. Adding Rudolph to RB Adrian Peterson, WRs Sidney Rice and Percy Harvin and fellow TE Visanthe Shiancoe at least puts a good supporting cast around Ponder.
Most questionable move: Ponder at No. 12
They got pressured into taking Ponder and it's easy to see how it happened, but it did in fact happen. The Vikings didn't have a quarterback on the roster they felt comfortable bridging the gap with, free agency and trades won't happen until after the draft and a run of three quarterbacks -- who in a typical year might all be mid- to late-first-round picks -- came off in the first 10 picks, and all that forced the Vikings to take Ponder. It was a perfect storm. I'll never know where the Vikings had Ponder on their board, but I know we had him at No. 45 overall; they were left reaching for Ponder.
NFC SOUTH
Atlanta Falcons
Best move: Their next two picks after giving away the farm
The Falcons have Sean Weatherspoon and Curtis Lofton on the roster and Akeem Dent (second round) gives them a true middle linebacker. Dent is NFL-ready and will step in and be a two-down starter right away. They then picked up RB Jacquizz Rodgers in the fifth, who is all heart and will give QB Matt Ryan another weapon they didn't have to sell themselves out to get.
Most questionable move: Trading so much to move to No. 6 overall
Giving up Nos. 29, 59 and 124, as well as first- and fourth-round picks next year, to move up and select WR Julio Jones sixth overall is just a bad decision. I respect general manager Thomas Dimitroff and the job he has done as much as anyone, but after building the organization the right way, they gave up way too much to get a player whose positional value doesn't warrant what they paid. I would never give up that much to draft any wide receiver at any point.
Carolina Panthers
Best move: Bulking up at DT
After deciding to draft Cam Newton with the first overall pick, the Panthers were able to beef up their defensive line with Terrell McClain and Sione Fua. I'm not a huge fan of Fua because it seemed like a reach, but McClain is a second-round talent they got early in the third round. He is quick, powerful, strong against the run and someone they can start to rebuild the position around.
Most questionable move: Taking Newton
He was the 15th player on our board and he's a project at the QB position. We don't completely trust he's the type of guy you can build around and there are just enough questions about him as a teammate and leader to shy away from. In all fairness, though, they've been so impatient and done such a poor job of drafting over the last three years that they backed themselves into a corner this year and drafting Newton was a desperation pick. They need Newton to pan out to make up for a lot of bad picks in the past.
New Orleans Saints
Best move: Their handling of Round 1
I like the way the Saints attacked the first round. They didn't do anything special at No. 24 but did take the best player on the board in DE Cameron Jordan, which is a perfect fit. He'll never be an elite edge rusher, but he gives them versatility and upgrades their front-four pass rush. New Orleans then traded back into the first round to take Mark Ingram, the best running back in this year's class. Ingram will provide the Saints the inside presence they are missing and help take pressure off QB Drew Brees. And it's interesting that division-rival Atlanta also moved up for a skill player (WR Julio Jones) but gave up a lot more.
Most questionable move: Not solidifying the D-line
This is one of the two or three hardest teams to find fault with, but the one thing I would have done differently is to continue addressing the defensive front after having Jordan fall in the first round. If the Saints would have been able to land a defensive tackle in the later rounds to pair with Sedrick Ellis they would have solidified their defensive line for the future.
Tampa Bay Buccaneers
Best move: Going 3-for-3
The Bucs took the best player on their board for three consecutive picks with DE Adrian Clayborn, DE Da'Quan Bowers and ILB Mason Foster. They continued to upgrade their front seven after selecting DTs Gerald McCoy and Brian Price.
Most questionable move: Taking Luke Stocker
Tight end was not a pressing need and could have addressed a need with that fourth-round pick. Maybe they go after CB Chimdi Chekwa or RB Kendall Hunter instead and fill needs there.
NFC WEST
Arizona Cardinals
Best move: Covering all their bases
All signs point to Marc Bulger heading to Arizona when the lockout ends and the Cardinals think he can be a good QB in their system. Not only did this keep WR Larry Fitzgerald happy -- he did not want a rookie QB -- it also freed the Cards up to take CB Patrick Peterson. They were smart not to select a quarterback they weren't in love with. I also love the Ryan Williams pick, which was a good value and should help light a fire under current RB Chris Wells.
Most questionable move: Not getting a pass-rusher in the third round
TE Robert Housler, their third-round pick, has upside but he's very raw and there are some concerns about his mental toughness. They needed a pass-rusher and DE Justin Houston came off the board with the very next pick. Houston is a much better player than Housler and it's not even a comparison when talking about Houston versus Sam Acho, who the Cardinals selected in the fourth round.
San Francisco 49ers
Best move: Trading up to get Colin Kaepernick
Alex Smith is expected to be back for another year, but this gives coach Jim Harbaugh a quarterback to develop. Kaepernick needs work and is a long way away, but with the right coaching he could be one of the steals of this draft.
Most questionable move: Reaching at cornerback
The 49ers had a pretty good draft, but there were better options, including Shareece Wright, Curtis Marsh and Johnny Patrick, available at cornerback than Chris Culliver at the No. 80 slot. They addressed the pass rush but could have done a little better here at cornerback. Still, if this is the most questionable move they made, the 49ers had a pretty good draft.
Seattle Seahawks
Best move: John Moffitt in the third round
Seattle has drafted four offensive linemen in the first two rounds of the last three drafts, but Moffitt gives the Seahawks a solid starting guard who also brings the versatility to play center if needed.
Most questionable move: Kris Durham in the fourth round
Durham is a developmental wide receiver who benefited from playing alongside A.J. Green in college. Durham is a No. 3 receiver at best and may never even become that, and at No. 107 there were better options such as Edmond Gates, Greg Salas and Tandon Doss available.
St. Louis Rams
Best move: Greg Salas at No. 112
The Rams were looking to add young weapons for QB Sam Bradford heading into Bradford's second season, and based on where they got him, Salas could end up being one of the best overall picks in this draft. I think he'll become one of the best No. 3 receivers in the league with his reliable hands, competitiveness and toughness after the catch.
Most questionable move: Austin Pettis in the third round
In theory, there's nothing wrong with drafting wide receivers back-to-back when you have a need at the position. However, they took Pettis too high. He doesn't have as much to offer as Salas, so why not use the pick on a receiver who can stretch the field and complement the other receivers better? Leonard Hankerson isn't much faster but could have provided more of a vertical threat with his size and hands.
that scroll was killing me. here it is w/o it
AFC EAST
Buffalo Bills
Best move: Taking Marcell Dareus
Yes, the Bills were fortunate he was around at No. 3 because, in my opinion, he was the best player in the draft. Dareus is a centerpiece they can build their defense around. He gives defensive coordinator George Edwards a lot of flexibility. Edwards mixes it up with this fronts and Dareus has the ability to play just about every position along the front.
Most questionable move: Failing to address their quarterback need
The Bills had an opportunity to bring in someone -- Andy Dalton and Colin Kaepernick were still on the board when they selected CB Aaron Williams in the second round -- to fill the need. It would have been a great year to develop a player for 2012, when they hope to be competing for a playoff spot.
Miami Dolphins
Best move: Hitting the trifecta
The Dolphins filled needs with their first three picks. C Mike Pouncey solves a lot more problems at No. 15 overall than a rookie quarterback would, and they found a potential starter at running back in Daniel Thomas. And while WR Edmond Gates will never be the No. 1 guy, even without Brandon Marshall's uncertain situation, Miami needed another wideout and got Gates at a good spot.
Most questionable move: Not getting a QB
It's hard to fault the Dolphins for the strategy they employed, but they could have taken a different road and gotten the quarterback they need. Miami traded up from No. 79 to 62 to get Thomas, and if the speculation about their interest in QB Ryan Mallett was true, why not get Mallett with the 62nd pick? The Dolphins could have then gotten a similar running back value later in the draft while filling their need under center.
New England Patriots
Best move: Acquiring extra picks via trade
Getting OT Nate Solder was a good move at No. 17 and I like CB Ras-I Dowling at 33, but trading the 28th pick to the Saints for No. 56 this year and a first-rounder next year and getting No. 219 and a second-rounder next year helps just as much. The Patriots had only five 2012 picks when this draft started, and next year's picks will count less against the salary cap than those in this draft.
Most questionable move: Stevan Ridley in the third round
The Patriots had just taken Shane Vereen in the second round, and Ridley was a reach in the third. They already have the same kind of player on the roster in BenJarvus Green-Ellis and could have gone in a lot of different directions at that point. New England needed to get a pass-rusher, and could have taken one instead of Vereen and gotten a single running back later on.
New York Jets
Best move: Drafting Muhammad Wilkerson
The Jets got good value at No. 30 and Wilkerson is a prefect fit for Rex Ryan's three-man defensive front. Wilkerson can play the role of a two-gap space eater and also has the ability to get pass-rush pressure. He can also line up as a nose tackle, a traditional defensive tackle and as a 3-4 end. That versatility should give the Jets a lot of flexibility up front, especially with Shaun Ellis nearing the end of his career.
Most questionable move: Bilal Powell at No. 126
I like Powell as a player, and New York needed another option if Joe McKnight doesn't pan out because LaDainian Tomlinson is at the end of his career. However, they could have had a much more versatile back in Johnny White, who went 133rd but graded out significantly higher.
AFC NORTH
Baltimore Ravens
Best move: Jimmy Smith at No. 27
You could make the argument this is one of the best value picks of the entire draft. The only thing keeping Smith from being a top-10 pick was concerns about his character, and those concerns, at least in the immediate future, all but go away because of the presence in Baltimore of players like Ray Lewis and Ed Reed. There is no way Smith gets away with the things in Baltimore he did in Colorado.
Most questionable move: Chykie Brown in the fifth round
When you're critiquing pick No. 164, things are going pretty well, but the Ravens already drafted a corner in the first round and could have gone defensive end with Pernell McPhee or linebacker with Quan Sturdivant.
Cincinnati Bengals
Best move: Not reaching for a quarterback
The Bengals resisted the temptation to take a quarterback at No. 4 and instead selected the best player on the board in A.J. Green, who just happened to fill a significant need. And whether it was genius or luck, staying put and not trading away picks to move up, and still getting QB Andy Dalton, worked out well for them. Dalton is the quarterback offensive coordinator Jay Gruden wanted and is the best fit for Gruden's version of the West Coast offense. Cincinnati has had some great play from its quarterbacks and receivers in recent years, but it just hasn't worked out for them. Maybe this time they got it right in a span of 35 picks.
Most questionable move: Dontay Moch in the second round
Moch is best suited to play outside linebacker in a 3-4 scheme, and while he will be worth the pick if he becomes a good situational pass-rusher, Moch's exceptional speed just doesn't translate to the field. He is too much of a straight-line player and doesn't have the flexibility to bend the edge tightly. He's simply too tight and doesn't fit Cincinnati's 4-3 scheme very well.
Cleveland Browns
Best move: Trading back with Atlanta
Cleveland traded out of the No. 6 pick and added Atlanta's first- and fourth-round picks in next year's draft and Nos. 27, 59 and 124 in this year's draft. Again, that's all for the No. 6 pick. The best use of these picks was the selection of North Carolina WR Greg Little. If he continues to develop and character issues don't cause any problems, Little could be the No. 1 WR that Mike Holmgren wanted to add all along.
Most questionable move: Giving a pick away to select DT Phil Taylor
It's not a terrible reach to take Taylor, but they might not have had to give up a third-round pick to get him. He's not a great fit as he's better as a 3-4 nose tackle. Defensive coordinator Dick Jauron will get the most out of Taylor's ability and the Browns obviously value him in their scheme, but he also comes with some questions about his character. With the Little pick, two of their first three picks have red flags.
Pittsburgh Steelers
Best move: Cameron Heyward
Aaron Smith is no longer dependable from a durability standpoint, and Heyward should become a starter opposite Ziggy Hood, who they drafted early in 2009. If all goes well, these two will upgrade and infuse youth into an aging defensive line. Heyward will be able to take up space, provide versatility and wreak havoc early in his career.
Most questionable move: Cortez Allen in the fourth round
After addressing needs with their first three picks with players who have a chance to be starters down the road, they took Allen in Round 4. There were better corners on the board, including Josh Thomas. They certainly need bodies at the position, but the Steelers also had other needs, including offensive line and a big wide receiver.
AFC SOUTH
Houston Texans
Best move: Brooks Reed
They didn't think he would fall to them in Round 2, but he's a perfect fit at outside linebacker in Wade Phillips' 3-4 defense. Reed will line up opposite Connor Barwin with DeMeco Ryans and Brian Cushing on the inside, forming one of the best young linebacker corps in the NFL.
Most questionable move: Rashad Carmichael
The Texans didn't have a third-round pick, but they could have drafted a better CB than Carmichael in the second round (Buster Skrine). The Texans could have also addressed needs at safety (Robert Sands) or offensive tackle (Jason Pinkston).
Indianapolis Colts
Best move: Attacking the offensive line
The Colts stayed at No. 22 overall and didn't have to give up picks to get OT Anthony Castonzo. While Tyron Smith might be more naturally talented and Nate Solder has more upside, Castonzo is ready to start immediately at left tackle and anything short of that would not have been good enough. Their next pick netted Ben Ijalana, who is a perfect fit in their system, and with their ability to move Charlie Johnson inside to guard, the Colts added protection for QB Peyton Manning and significantly upgraded a running game that finished 29th in the NFL last season.
Most questionable move: Delone Carter in the fourth round
Carter is worth the pick and they will be able to put him to use, but at that point Indianapolis could have gotten another weapon in the passing game for Manning. The Colts have Reggie Wayne and a bunch of injury-prone guys at wide receiver, and with the 119th pick they could have gotten Tandon Doss or Jeremy Kerley to help fill that need.
Jacksonville Jaguars
Best move: Blaine Gabbert
I might be in the minority here, but I think Gabbert's best chance of developing into a good starting quarterback in the NFL is for him to land in the exact situation he's in now. This gives him time to develop behind David Garrard -- who has played better than most people think -- and by moving up just six spots, the Jaguars solidified their future at the most important position on the field.
Most questionable move: Doing the safety dance
This is nitpicking, but the Jags could have found a better safety at No. 121 than Christopher Prosinski. Ahmad Black doesn't have the measurables, but he's instinctive and we think he'll be a better football player regardless of size considerations.
Tennessee Titans
Best move: Their handling of Rounds 3 and 4
The Titans got DT Jurrell Casey in the third round and LB Colin McCarthy in the fourth, and there's a chance Casey will be eating up blocks for McCarthy as both become quality starters. I think they are two of the more underrated midround players in the draft.
Questionable move: Jake Locker at No. 8.
Tennessee could have gotten Blaine Gabbert, the top quarterback on our board, instead. Locker might have more upside if he's developed properly, but drafting him eighth overall means you think he is your franchise quarterback and have to play him right away. It's hard in today's NFL to draft a quarterback in the top 10 and sit him for a year, and I don't know if offensive coordinator Chris Palmer is the right guy to bring Locker along. The Titans are still trying to make up for the Vince Young pick and this just isn't a good situation for Locker.
AFC WEST
Denver Broncos
Best move: They didn't get cute
Loved how the Broncos got three good players -- OLB Von Miller, S Rahim Moore and OG Orlando Franklin -- who can start and make the team better. They locked down three upgrades at three positions with their first three picks.
Most questionable move: Reaching for Nate Irving
I don't think Irving, an ILB from NC State, is worth the 67th pick. USC DT Jurrell Casey would have been a better option at a position of need.
Kansas City Chiefs
Best move: Taking Rodney Hudson with the 55th pick
Hudson is exactly the kind of player GM Scott Pioli is trying to build the organization around. He's a high-character, intelligent hard worker, and center is a major need for the Chiefs. Outside of Pouncey, Hudson is the best at the position in this year's draft.
Most questionable move: Taking a few risks
Considering how much Pioli emphasizes limiting risk, there are some question marks with first-round WR Jonathan Baldwin, who was a menace to his coaches and teammates at Pitt, and third-round DE Justin Houston, who turns his motor off and on like a kitchen faucet.
Oakland Raiders
Best move: The surprising wideout
Denarius Moore has deceptive speed and is an underrated playmaker. He doesn't have great timed speed, which goes against the Raiders' usual MO, but he is slippery and tracks the vertical pass very well. Moore grew on me and the more tape I watched, the more I liked him.
Most questionable: Getting exploited by the Patriots
The Raiders traded pick No. 219 and a second-round pick in 2012 to the Patriots for picks No. 92 (OT Joe Barksdale) and No. 125 (RB Taiwan Jones). This is typical Raiders, not having a feel for where players are coming off the board and then getting impatient and making bad deals. The Patriots have a habit of exploiting teams like this and there's a reason New England keeps making deals with Oakland. Basically, this became Barksdale for a second-round pick, and that is not appropriate draft behavior.
San Diego Chargers
Best move: Great value with middle three picks
I really like the players they got with their middle three picks -- WR Vincent Brown, CB Shareece Wright and RB Jordan Todman. Brown is one of the more underrated receivers in the class, Wright is a naturally gifted corner and Todman could be an absolute steal in the sixth round as a quality backup to Ryan Mathews and a difference maker in the return game.
Most questionable move: Drafting Jonas Mouton too high
Jonas Mouton was the second of two second-round picks the Chargers had. There is at least one other team that had him with a third-round grade, so it's not as big of a reach as some might think, but in my opinion he is a very ordinary starter.
NFC EAST
Dallas Cowboys
Best move: Tyron Smith in the first round
The Cowboys stayed put at No. 9 overall and got the best available player at one of their top need positions in OT Tyron Smith, who can step in on the right side and be an upgrade over Marc Colombo from Day 1. Smith has the tools to play left tackle but would need time to adjust his footwork on the left side, so this works out perfectly for the Cowboys and Smith.
Most questionable move: Bruce Carter at No. 40 overall
Where Dallas got Carter is not the issue. The problem is trying to find a fit in the 3-4 scheme of new defensive coordinator Rob Ryan. To me, Carter is the classic 4-3 weakside linebacker and it's hard to figure where he will play in a 3-4. Is he a weakside inside linebacker? Adding to the questions is the fact that Dallas took LB Sean Lee in the second round a year ago.
New York Giants
Best move: Landing a Prince
Cornerback was not a primary need and I'm sure it wasn't the Giants' plan to go after a corner in the first round, but rather than opting for need at offensive tackle or running back they stuck to their board and took the best player available in Prince Amukamara. This is a decision that could solidify the entire secondary, and Amukamara should step in right away as a contributor.
Most questionable move: Jerrel Jernigan at No. 83
We're nitpicking again, and while I like Jernigan as a player I just don't know if the Giants needed him. They drafted Hakeem Nicks two years ago in the first round and have Steve Smith and Mario Manningham as well, and while he was drafted to be their return specialist and fourth receiver, they could have gone in any number of directions and addressed other needs, then gotten a return specialist later.
Philadelphia Eagles
Best move: Jaiquawn Jarrett in the second round
I believe Jarrett will be a good starter in the NFL, and with Quintin Mikell a free agent, Jarrett will ideally step in right away. He's not big, but he's tough, and Jarrett is one of the more underrated defensive backs in the 2011 class.
Most questionable: Taking a kicker in the fourth round
The 120th pick is simply too high for Alex Henery. Yes, he was the No. 1 kicker on our board, but Henery has had some inconsistent stretches in his career, and while he has a monster leg, the Eagles would have been better off addressing right offensive tackle, defensive line, tight end, wide receiver or return specialist, then taking someone like Kai Forbath further down the line.
Washington Redskins
Best move: Trading back from No. 10 to 16
The Redskins used the 16th pick acquired from Jacksonville on DE Ryan Kerrigan, who will never be elite but is the kind of quality player and character guy the organization needs. It was a patient move and sent the right message. You could argue Washington had more holes than any other team heading into the draft, and getting WR Leonard Hankerson with the 49th pick (also acquired in the deal) got the Redskins a player who could easily be a starter for them.
Most questionable move: Dejon Gomes in the fifth round
Washington could have gotten a better safety at that point, someone like Ahmad Black. Or how about bringing in a developmental quarterback like T.J. Yates?
NFC NORTH
Chicago Bears
Best move: Selecting OT Gabe Carimi at No. 29
Offensive line coach Mike Tice was targeting Carimi the whole time. While some teams were concerned about his mental toughness, the Vikings think the 6-foot-7, 314-pounder is a great fit at a position of need (Minnesota allowed a league-high 56 sacks last year). The only question is whether he plays left or right tackle.
Most questionable move: Taking a safety in the third round
The Bears addressed needs in the first two rounds, but the third-round pick is a bit of a head-scratcher. While Danieal Manning is a free agent and they needed to bring someone in, I just don't know if Chris Conte is athletic enough to ever become a good starting safety and not sure he's the answer at the position. I just wonder why they didn't get the big wide receiver they needed (Tandon Doss, or someone similar) to complement the speedsters they have on the roster.
Detroit Lions
Best move: Nailing their first three picks
The Lions slam-dunked their first three selections. DT Nick Fairley doesn't look like a need at No. 13, but putting him next to DE Kyle Vanden Bosch and 2010 Defensive Rookie of the Year Ndamukong Suh under a coaching staff that will demand Fairley works hard gives Detroit a chance to have a nasty defensive front. Second-round WR Titus Young will be a nice complement to Calvin Johnson, and trading into the second round to get big RB Mikel Leshoure will allow RB Jahvid Best to maximize his skill set and take some pressure off QB Matthew Stafford.
Most questionable: LB Douglas Hogue in the fifth round Hogue is a developmental prospect with good size and speed, but there were players available (Lawrence Wilson, Quan Sturdivant) who might have had a better chance to contribute right away.
Green Bay Packers
Best move: Getting a versatile weapon in Randall Cobb
After addressing offensive tackle in the first round, the Packers were able to get one of the more underrated weapons in this year's class. He can create big plays if you find a way to get him the ball in space and his versatility will allow the Packers to get more creative on offense. Cobb is yet another weapon for QB Aaron Rodgers, and he can also help in the return game.
Most questionable move: Alex Green in the third round
This is hard for me to say because Green is a good player, but he was a luxury pick. Green Bay had just drafted a versatile offensive weapon in Cobb the round before and could have targeted a defensive front-seven player instead.
Minnesota Vikings
Best move: Kyle Rudolph
I love this pick. If you're going to bring in a quarterback with the intention of playing him as a rookie, like they did with Christian Ponder, you better do everything you can to put him in a position to succeed. Assuming Rudolph is 100 percent healthy and ready to return to form, he will be Ponder's best friend. Rudolph may never be Antonio Gates in terms of elite speed to get down the field consistently, but he's a consistent route runner who uses his size to separate and has rare ball skills. Adding Rudolph to RB Adrian Peterson, WRs Sidney Rice and Percy Harvin and fellow TE Visanthe Shiancoe at least puts a good supporting cast around Ponder.
Most questionable move: Ponder at No. 12
They got pressured into taking Ponder and it's easy to see how it happened, but it did in fact happen. The Vikings didn't have a quarterback on the roster they felt comfortable bridging the gap with, free agency and trades won't happen until after the draft and a run of three quarterbacks -- who in a typical year might all be mid- to late-first-round picks -- came off in the first 10 picks, and all that forced the Vikings to take Ponder. It was a perfect storm. I'll never know where the Vikings had Ponder on their board, but I know we had him at No. 45 overall; they were left reaching for Ponder.
NFC SOUTH
Atlanta Falcons
Best move: Their next two picks after giving away the farm
The Falcons have Sean Weatherspoon and Curtis Lofton on the roster and Akeem Dent (second round) gives them a true middle linebacker. Dent is NFL-ready and will step in and be a two-down starter right away. They then picked up RB Jacquizz Rodgers in the fifth, who is all heart and will give QB Matt Ryan another weapon they didn't have to sell themselves out to get.
Most questionable move: Trading so much to move to No. 6 overall
Giving up Nos. 29, 59 and 124, as well as first- and fourth-round picks next year, to move up and select WR Julio Jones sixth overall is just a bad decision. I respect general manager Thomas Dimitroff and the job he has done as much as anyone, but after building the organization the right way, they gave up way too much to get a player whose positional value doesn't warrant what they paid. I would never give up that much to draft any wide receiver at any point.
Carolina Panthers
Best move: Bulking up at DT
After deciding to draft Cam Newton with the first overall pick, the Panthers were able to beef up their defensive line with Terrell McClain and Sione Fua. I'm not a huge fan of Fua because it seemed like a reach, but McClain is a second-round talent they got early in the third round. He is quick, powerful, strong against the run and someone they can start to rebuild the position around.
Most questionable move: Taking Newton
He was the 15th player on our board and he's a project at the QB position. We don't completely trust he's the type of guy you can build around and there are just enough questions about him as a teammate and leader to shy away from. In all fairness, though, they've been so impatient and done such a poor job of drafting over the last three years that they backed themselves into a corner this year and drafting Newton was a desperation pick. They need Newton to pan out to make up for a lot of bad picks in the past.
New Orleans Saints
Best move: Their handling of Round 1
I like the way the Saints attacked the first round. They didn't do anything special at No. 24 but did take the best player on the board in DE Cameron Jordan, which is a perfect fit. He'll never be an elite edge rusher, but he gives them versatility and upgrades their front-four pass rush. New Orleans then traded back into the first round to take Mark Ingram, the best running back in this year's class. Ingram will provide the Saints the inside presence they are missing and help take pressure off QB Drew Brees. And it's interesting that division-rival Atlanta also moved up for a skill player (WR Julio Jones) but gave up a lot more.
Most questionable move: Not solidifying the D-line
This is one of the two or three hardest teams to find fault with, but the one thing I would have done differently is to continue addressing the defensive front after having Jordan fall in the first round. If the Saints would have been able to land a defensive tackle in the later rounds to pair with Sedrick Ellis they would have solidified their defensive line for the future.
Tampa Bay Buccaneers
Best move: Going 3-for-3
The Bucs took the best player on their board for three consecutive picks with DE Adrian Clayborn, DE Da'Quan Bowers and ILB Mason Foster. They continued to upgrade their front seven after selecting DTs Gerald McCoy and Brian Price.
Most questionable move: Taking Luke Stocker
Tight end was not a pressing need and could have addressed a need with that fourth-round pick. Maybe they go after CB Chimdi Chekwa or RB Kendall Hunter instead and fill needs there.
NFC WEST
Arizona Cardinals
Best move: Covering all their bases
All signs point to Marc Bulger heading to Arizona when the lockout ends and the Cardinals think he can be a good QB in their system. Not only did this keep WR Larry Fitzgerald happy -- he did not want a rookie QB -- it also freed the Cards up to take CB Patrick Peterson. They were smart not to select a quarterback they weren't in love with. I also love the Ryan Williams pick, which was a good value and should help light a fire under current RB Chris Wells.
Most questionable move: Not getting a pass-rusher in the third round
TE Robert Housler, their third-round pick, has upside but he's very raw and there are some concerns about his mental toughness. They needed a pass-rusher and DE Justin Houston came off the board with the very next pick. Houston is a much better player than Housler and it's not even a comparison when talking about Houston versus Sam Acho, who the Cardinals selected in the fourth round.
San Francisco 49ers
Best move: Trading up to get Colin Kaepernick
Alex Smith is expected to be back for another year, but this gives coach Jim Harbaugh a quarterback to develop. Kaepernick needs work and is a long way away, but with the right coaching he could be one of the steals of this draft.
Most questionable move: Reaching at cornerback
The 49ers had a pretty good draft, but there were better options, including Shareece Wright, Curtis Marsh and Johnny Patrick, available at cornerback than Chris Culliver at the No. 80 slot. They addressed the pass rush but could have done a little better here at cornerback. Still, if this is the most questionable move they made, the 49ers had a pretty good draft.
Seattle Seahawks
Best move: John Moffitt in the third round
Seattle has drafted four offensive linemen in the first two rounds of the last three drafts, but Moffitt gives the Seahawks a solid starting guard who also brings the versatility to play center if needed.
Most questionable move: Kris Durham in the fourth round
Durham is a developmental wide receiver who benefited from playing alongside A.J. Green in college. Durham is a No. 3 receiver at best and may never even become that, and at No. 107 there were better options such as Edmond Gates, Greg Salas and Tandon Doss available.
St. Louis Rams
Best move: Greg Salas at No. 112
The Rams were looking to add young weapons for QB Sam Bradford heading into Bradford's second season, and based on where they got him, Salas could end up being one of the best overall picks in this draft. I think he'll become one of the best No. 3 receivers in the league with his reliable hands, competitiveness and toughness after the catch.
Most questionable move: Austin Pettis in the third round
In theory, there's nothing wrong with drafting wide receivers back-to-back when you have a need at the position. However, they took Pettis too high. He doesn't have as much to offer as Salas, so why not use the pick on a receiver who can stretch the field and complement the other receivers better? Leonard Hankerson isn't much faster but could have provided more of a vertical threat with his size and hands.
AFC EAST
Buffalo Bills
Best move: Taking Marcell Dareus
Yes, the Bills were fortunate he was around at No. 3 because, in my opinion, he was the best player in the draft. Dareus is a centerpiece they can build their defense around. He gives defensive coordinator George Edwards a lot of flexibility. Edwards mixes it up with this fronts and Dareus has the ability to play just about every position along the front.
Most questionable move: Failing to address their quarterback need
The Bills had an opportunity to bring in someone -- Andy Dalton and Colin Kaepernick were still on the board when they selected CB Aaron Williams in the second round -- to fill the need. It would have been a great year to develop a player for 2012, when they hope to be competing for a playoff spot.
Miami Dolphins
Best move: Hitting the trifecta
The Dolphins filled needs with their first three picks. C Mike Pouncey solves a lot more problems at No. 15 overall than a rookie quarterback would, and they found a potential starter at running back in Daniel Thomas. And while WR Edmond Gates will never be the No. 1 guy, even without Brandon Marshall's uncertain situation, Miami needed another wideout and got Gates at a good spot.
Most questionable move: Not getting a QB
It's hard to fault the Dolphins for the strategy they employed, but they could have taken a different road and gotten the quarterback they need. Miami traded up from No. 79 to 62 to get Thomas, and if the speculation about their interest in QB Ryan Mallett was true, why not get Mallett with the 62nd pick? The Dolphins could have then gotten a similar running back value later in the draft while filling their need under center.
New England Patriots
Best move: Acquiring extra picks via trade
Getting OT Nate Solder was a good move at No. 17 and I like CB Ras-I Dowling at 33, but trading the 28th pick to the Saints for No. 56 this year and a first-rounder next year and getting No. 219 and a second-rounder next year helps just as much. The Patriots had only five 2012 picks when this draft started, and next year's picks will count less against the salary cap than those in this draft.
Most questionable move: Stevan Ridley in the third round
The Patriots had just taken Shane Vereen in the second round, and Ridley was a reach in the third. They already have the same kind of player on the roster in BenJarvus Green-Ellis and could have gone in a lot of different directions at that point. New England needed to get a pass-rusher, and could have taken one instead of Vereen and gotten a single running back later on.
New York Jets
Best move: Drafting Muhammad Wilkerson
The Jets got good value at No. 30 and Wilkerson is a prefect fit for Rex Ryan's three-man defensive front. Wilkerson can play the role of a two-gap space eater and also has the ability to get pass-rush pressure. He can also line up as a nose tackle, a traditional defensive tackle and as a 3-4 end. That versatility should give the Jets a lot of flexibility up front, especially with Shaun Ellis nearing the end of his career.
Most questionable move: Bilal Powell at No. 126
I like Powell as a player, and New York needed another option if Joe McKnight doesn't pan out because LaDainian Tomlinson is at the end of his career. However, they could have had a much more versatile back in Johnny White, who went 133rd but graded out significantly higher.
AFC NORTH
Baltimore Ravens
Best move: Jimmy Smith at No. 27
You could make the argument this is one of the best value picks of the entire draft. The only thing keeping Smith from being a top-10 pick was concerns about his character, and those concerns, at least in the immediate future, all but go away because of the presence in Baltimore of players like Ray Lewis and Ed Reed. There is no way Smith gets away with the things in Baltimore he did in Colorado.
Most questionable move: Chykie Brown in the fifth round
When you're critiquing pick No. 164, things are going pretty well, but the Ravens already drafted a corner in the first round and could have gone defensive end with Pernell McPhee or linebacker with Quan Sturdivant.
Cincinnati Bengals
Best move: Not reaching for a quarterback
The Bengals resisted the temptation to take a quarterback at No. 4 and instead selected the best player on the board in A.J. Green, who just happened to fill a significant need. And whether it was genius or luck, staying put and not trading away picks to move up, and still getting QB Andy Dalton, worked out well for them. Dalton is the quarterback offensive coordinator Jay Gruden wanted and is the best fit for Gruden's version of the West Coast offense. Cincinnati has had some great play from its quarterbacks and receivers in recent years, but it just hasn't worked out for them. Maybe this time they got it right in a span of 35 picks.
Most questionable move: Dontay Moch in the second round
Moch is best suited to play outside linebacker in a 3-4 scheme, and while he will be worth the pick if he becomes a good situational pass-rusher, Moch's exceptional speed just doesn't translate to the field. He is too much of a straight-line player and doesn't have the flexibility to bend the edge tightly. He's simply too tight and doesn't fit Cincinnati's 4-3 scheme very well.
Cleveland Browns
Best move: Trading back with Atlanta
Cleveland traded out of the No. 6 pick and added Atlanta's first- and fourth-round picks in next year's draft and Nos. 27, 59 and 124 in this year's draft. Again, that's all for the No. 6 pick. The best use of these picks was the selection of North Carolina WR Greg Little. If he continues to develop and character issues don't cause any problems, Little could be the No. 1 WR that Mike Holmgren wanted to add all along.
Most questionable move: Giving a pick away to select DT Phil Taylor
It's not a terrible reach to take Taylor, but they might not have had to give up a third-round pick to get him. He's not a great fit as he's better as a 3-4 nose tackle. Defensive coordinator Dick Jauron will get the most out of Taylor's ability and the Browns obviously value him in their scheme, but he also comes with some questions about his character. With the Little pick, two of their first three picks have red flags.
Pittsburgh Steelers
Best move: Cameron Heyward
Aaron Smith is no longer dependable from a durability standpoint, and Heyward should become a starter opposite Ziggy Hood, who they drafted early in 2009. If all goes well, these two will upgrade and infuse youth into an aging defensive line. Heyward will be able to take up space, provide versatility and wreak havoc early in his career.
Most questionable move: Cortez Allen in the fourth round
After addressing needs with their first three picks with players who have a chance to be starters down the road, they took Allen in Round 4. There were better corners on the board, including Josh Thomas. They certainly need bodies at the position, but the Steelers also had other needs, including offensive line and a big wide receiver.
AFC SOUTH
Houston Texans
Best move: Brooks Reed
They didn't think he would fall to them in Round 2, but he's a perfect fit at outside linebacker in Wade Phillips' 3-4 defense. Reed will line up opposite Connor Barwin with DeMeco Ryans and Brian Cushing on the inside, forming one of the best young linebacker corps in the NFL.
Most questionable move: Rashad Carmichael
The Texans didn't have a third-round pick, but they could have drafted a better CB than Carmichael in the second round (Buster Skrine). The Texans could have also addressed needs at safety (Robert Sands) or offensive tackle (Jason Pinkston).
Indianapolis Colts
Best move: Attacking the offensive line
The Colts stayed at No. 22 overall and didn't have to give up picks to get OT Anthony Castonzo. While Tyron Smith might be more naturally talented and Nate Solder has more upside, Castonzo is ready to start immediately at left tackle and anything short of that would not have been good enough. Their next pick netted Ben Ijalana, who is a perfect fit in their system, and with their ability to move Charlie Johnson inside to guard, the Colts added protection for QB Peyton Manning and significantly upgraded a running game that finished 29th in the NFL last season.
Most questionable move: Delone Carter in the fourth round
Carter is worth the pick and they will be able to put him to use, but at that point Indianapolis could have gotten another weapon in the passing game for Manning. The Colts have Reggie Wayne and a bunch of injury-prone guys at wide receiver, and with the 119th pick they could have gotten Tandon Doss or Jeremy Kerley to help fill that need.
Jacksonville Jaguars
Best move: Blaine Gabbert
I might be in the minority here, but I think Gabbert's best chance of developing into a good starting quarterback in the NFL is for him to land in the exact situation he's in now. This gives him time to develop behind David Garrard -- who has played better than most people think -- and by moving up just six spots, the Jaguars solidified their future at the most important position on the field.
Most questionable move: Doing the safety dance
This is nitpicking, but the Jags could have found a better safety at No. 121 than Christopher Prosinski. Ahmad Black doesn't have the measurables, but he's instinctive and we think he'll be a better football player regardless of size considerations.
Tennessee Titans
Best move: Their handling of Rounds 3 and 4
The Titans got DT Jurrell Casey in the third round and LB Colin McCarthy in the fourth, and there's a chance Casey will be eating up blocks for McCarthy as both become quality starters. I think they are two of the more underrated midround players in the draft.
Questionable move: Jake Locker at No. 8.
Tennessee could have gotten Blaine Gabbert, the top quarterback on our board, instead. Locker might have more upside if he's developed properly, but drafting him eighth overall means you think he is your franchise quarterback and have to play him right away. It's hard in today's NFL to draft a quarterback in the top 10 and sit him for a year, and I don't know if offensive coordinator Chris Palmer is the right guy to bring Locker along. The Titans are still trying to make up for the Vince Young pick and this just isn't a good situation for Locker.
AFC WEST
Denver Broncos
Best move: They didn't get cute
Loved how the Broncos got three good players -- OLB Von Miller, S Rahim Moore and OG Orlando Franklin -- who can start and make the team better. They locked down three upgrades at three positions with their first three picks.
Most questionable move: Reaching for Nate Irving
I don't think Irving, an ILB from NC State, is worth the 67th pick. USC DT Jurrell Casey would have been a better option at a position of need.
Kansas City Chiefs
Best move: Taking Rodney Hudson with the 55th pick
Hudson is exactly the kind of player GM Scott Pioli is trying to build the organization around. He's a high-character, intelligent hard worker, and center is a major need for the Chiefs. Outside of Pouncey, Hudson is the best at the position in this year's draft.
Most questionable move: Taking a few risks
Considering how much Pioli emphasizes limiting risk, there are some question marks with first-round WR Jonathan Baldwin, who was a menace to his coaches and teammates at Pitt, and third-round DE Justin Houston, who turns his motor off and on like a kitchen faucet.
Oakland Raiders
Best move: The surprising wideout
Denarius Moore has deceptive speed and is an underrated playmaker. He doesn't have great timed speed, which goes against the Raiders' usual MO, but he is slippery and tracks the vertical pass very well. Moore grew on me and the more tape I watched, the more I liked him.
Most questionable: Getting exploited by the Patriots
The Raiders traded pick No. 219 and a second-round pick in 2012 to the Patriots for picks No. 92 (OT Joe Barksdale) and No. 125 (RB Taiwan Jones). This is typical Raiders, not having a feel for where players are coming off the board and then getting impatient and making bad deals. The Patriots have a habit of exploiting teams like this and there's a reason New England keeps making deals with Oakland. Basically, this became Barksdale for a second-round pick, and that is not appropriate draft behavior.
San Diego Chargers
Best move: Great value with middle three picks
I really like the players they got with their middle three picks -- WR Vincent Brown, CB Shareece Wright and RB Jordan Todman. Brown is one of the more underrated receivers in the class, Wright is a naturally gifted corner and Todman could be an absolute steal in the sixth round as a quality backup to Ryan Mathews and a difference maker in the return game.
Most questionable move: Drafting Jonas Mouton too high
Jonas Mouton was the second of two second-round picks the Chargers had. There is at least one other team that had him with a third-round grade, so it's not as big of a reach as some might think, but in my opinion he is a very ordinary starter.
NFC EAST
Dallas Cowboys
Best move: Tyron Smith in the first round
The Cowboys stayed put at No. 9 overall and got the best available player at one of their top need positions in OT Tyron Smith, who can step in on the right side and be an upgrade over Marc Colombo from Day 1. Smith has the tools to play left tackle but would need time to adjust his footwork on the left side, so this works out perfectly for the Cowboys and Smith.
Most questionable move: Bruce Carter at No. 40 overall
Where Dallas got Carter is not the issue. The problem is trying to find a fit in the 3-4 scheme of new defensive coordinator Rob Ryan. To me, Carter is the classic 4-3 weakside linebacker and it's hard to figure where he will play in a 3-4. Is he a weakside inside linebacker? Adding to the questions is the fact that Dallas took LB Sean Lee in the second round a year ago.
New York Giants
Best move: Landing a Prince
Cornerback was not a primary need and I'm sure it wasn't the Giants' plan to go after a corner in the first round, but rather than opting for need at offensive tackle or running back they stuck to their board and took the best player available in Prince Amukamara. This is a decision that could solidify the entire secondary, and Amukamara should step in right away as a contributor.
Most questionable move: Jerrel Jernigan at No. 83
We're nitpicking again, and while I like Jernigan as a player I just don't know if the Giants needed him. They drafted Hakeem Nicks two years ago in the first round and have Steve Smith and Mario Manningham as well, and while he was drafted to be their return specialist and fourth receiver, they could have gone in any number of directions and addressed other needs, then gotten a return specialist later.
Philadelphia Eagles
Best move: Jaiquawn Jarrett in the second round
I believe Jarrett will be a good starter in the NFL, and with Quintin Mikell a free agent, Jarrett will ideally step in right away. He's not big, but he's tough, and Jarrett is one of the more underrated defensive backs in the 2011 class.
Most questionable: Taking a kicker in the fourth round
The 120th pick is simply too high for Alex Henery. Yes, he was the No. 1 kicker on our board, but Henery has had some inconsistent stretches in his career, and while he has a monster leg, the Eagles would have been better off addressing right offensive tackle, defensive line, tight end, wide receiver or return specialist, then taking someone like Kai Forbath further down the line.
Washington Redskins
Best move: Trading back from No. 10 to 16
The Redskins used the 16th pick acquired from Jacksonville on DE Ryan Kerrigan, who will never be elite but is the kind of quality player and character guy the organization needs. It was a patient move and sent the right message. You could argue Washington had more holes than any other team heading into the draft, and getting WR Leonard Hankerson with the 49th pick (also acquired in the deal) got the Redskins a player who could easily be a starter for them.
Most questionable move: Dejon Gomes in the fifth round
Washington could have gotten a better safety at that point, someone like Ahmad Black. Or how about bringing in a developmental quarterback like T.J. Yates?
NFC NORTH
Chicago Bears
Best move: Selecting OT Gabe Carimi at No. 29
Offensive line coach Mike Tice was targeting Carimi the whole time. While some teams were concerned about his mental toughness, the Vikings think the 6-foot-7, 314-pounder is a great fit at a position of need (Minnesota allowed a league-high 56 sacks last year). The only question is whether he plays left or right tackle.
Most questionable move: Taking a safety in the third round
The Bears addressed needs in the first two rounds, but the third-round pick is a bit of a head-scratcher. While Danieal Manning is a free agent and they needed to bring someone in, I just don't know if Chris Conte is athletic enough to ever become a good starting safety and not sure he's the answer at the position. I just wonder why they didn't get the big wide receiver they needed (Tandon Doss, or someone similar) to complement the speedsters they have on the roster.
Detroit Lions
Best move: Nailing their first three picks
The Lions slam-dunked their first three selections. DT Nick Fairley doesn't look like a need at No. 13, but putting him next to DE Kyle Vanden Bosch and 2010 Defensive Rookie of the Year Ndamukong Suh under a coaching staff that will demand Fairley works hard gives Detroit a chance to have a nasty defensive front. Second-round WR Titus Young will be a nice complement to Calvin Johnson, and trading into the second round to get big RB Mikel Leshoure will allow RB Jahvid Best to maximize his skill set and take some pressure off QB Matthew Stafford.
Most questionable: LB Douglas Hogue in the fifth round Hogue is a developmental prospect with good size and speed, but there were players available (Lawrence Wilson, Quan Sturdivant) who might have had a better chance to contribute right away.
Green Bay Packers
Best move: Getting a versatile weapon in Randall Cobb
After addressing offensive tackle in the first round, the Packers were able to get one of the more underrated weapons in this year's class. He can create big plays if you find a way to get him the ball in space and his versatility will allow the Packers to get more creative on offense. Cobb is yet another weapon for QB Aaron Rodgers, and he can also help in the return game.
Most questionable move: Alex Green in the third round
This is hard for me to say because Green is a good player, but he was a luxury pick. Green Bay had just drafted a versatile offensive weapon in Cobb the round before and could have targeted a defensive front-seven player instead.
Minnesota Vikings
Best move: Kyle Rudolph
I love this pick. If you're going to bring in a quarterback with the intention of playing him as a rookie, like they did with Christian Ponder, you better do everything you can to put him in a position to succeed. Assuming Rudolph is 100 percent healthy and ready to return to form, he will be Ponder's best friend. Rudolph may never be Antonio Gates in terms of elite speed to get down the field consistently, but he's a consistent route runner who uses his size to separate and has rare ball skills. Adding Rudolph to RB Adrian Peterson, WRs Sidney Rice and Percy Harvin and fellow TE Visanthe Shiancoe at least puts a good supporting cast around Ponder.
Most questionable move: Ponder at No. 12
They got pressured into taking Ponder and it's easy to see how it happened, but it did in fact happen. The Vikings didn't have a quarterback on the roster they felt comfortable bridging the gap with, free agency and trades won't happen until after the draft and a run of three quarterbacks -- who in a typical year might all be mid- to late-first-round picks -- came off in the first 10 picks, and all that forced the Vikings to take Ponder. It was a perfect storm. I'll never know where the Vikings had Ponder on their board, but I know we had him at No. 45 overall; they were left reaching for Ponder.
NFC SOUTH
Atlanta Falcons
Best move: Their next two picks after giving away the farm
The Falcons have Sean Weatherspoon and Curtis Lofton on the roster and Akeem Dent (second round) gives them a true middle linebacker. Dent is NFL-ready and will step in and be a two-down starter right away. They then picked up RB Jacquizz Rodgers in the fifth, who is all heart and will give QB Matt Ryan another weapon they didn't have to sell themselves out to get.
Most questionable move: Trading so much to move to No. 6 overall
Giving up Nos. 29, 59 and 124, as well as first- and fourth-round picks next year, to move up and select WR Julio Jones sixth overall is just a bad decision. I respect general manager Thomas Dimitroff and the job he has done as much as anyone, but after building the organization the right way, they gave up way too much to get a player whose positional value doesn't warrant what they paid. I would never give up that much to draft any wide receiver at any point.
Carolina Panthers
Best move: Bulking up at DT
After deciding to draft Cam Newton with the first overall pick, the Panthers were able to beef up their defensive line with Terrell McClain and Sione Fua. I'm not a huge fan of Fua because it seemed like a reach, but McClain is a second-round talent they got early in the third round. He is quick, powerful, strong against the run and someone they can start to rebuild the position around.
Most questionable move: Taking Newton
He was the 15th player on our board and he's a project at the QB position. We don't completely trust he's the type of guy you can build around and there are just enough questions about him as a teammate and leader to shy away from. In all fairness, though, they've been so impatient and done such a poor job of drafting over the last three years that they backed themselves into a corner this year and drafting Newton was a desperation pick. They need Newton to pan out to make up for a lot of bad picks in the past.
New Orleans Saints
Best move: Their handling of Round 1
I like the way the Saints attacked the first round. They didn't do anything special at No. 24 but did take the best player on the board in DE Cameron Jordan, which is a perfect fit. He'll never be an elite edge rusher, but he gives them versatility and upgrades their front-four pass rush. New Orleans then traded back into the first round to take Mark Ingram, the best running back in this year's class. Ingram will provide the Saints the inside presence they are missing and help take pressure off QB Drew Brees. And it's interesting that division-rival Atlanta also moved up for a skill player (WR Julio Jones) but gave up a lot more.
Most questionable move: Not solidifying the D-line
This is one of the two or three hardest teams to find fault with, but the one thing I would have done differently is to continue addressing the defensive front after having Jordan fall in the first round. If the Saints would have been able to land a defensive tackle in the later rounds to pair with Sedrick Ellis they would have solidified their defensive line for the future.
Tampa Bay Buccaneers
Best move: Going 3-for-3
The Bucs took the best player on their board for three consecutive picks with DE Adrian Clayborn, DE Da'Quan Bowers and ILB Mason Foster. They continued to upgrade their front seven after selecting DTs Gerald McCoy and Brian Price.
Most questionable move: Taking Luke Stocker
Tight end was not a pressing need and could have addressed a need with that fourth-round pick. Maybe they go after CB Chimdi Chekwa or RB Kendall Hunter instead and fill needs there.
NFC WEST
Arizona Cardinals
Best move: Covering all their bases
All signs point to Marc Bulger heading to Arizona when the lockout ends and the Cardinals think he can be a good QB in their system. Not only did this keep WR Larry Fitzgerald happy -- he did not want a rookie QB -- it also freed the Cards up to take CB Patrick Peterson. They were smart not to select a quarterback they weren't in love with. I also love the Ryan Williams pick, which was a good value and should help light a fire under current RB Chris Wells.
Most questionable move: Not getting a pass-rusher in the third round
TE Robert Housler, their third-round pick, has upside but he's very raw and there are some concerns about his mental toughness. They needed a pass-rusher and DE Justin Houston came off the board with the very next pick. Houston is a much better player than Housler and it's not even a comparison when talking about Houston versus Sam Acho, who the Cardinals selected in the fourth round.
San Francisco 49ers
Best move: Trading up to get Colin Kaepernick
Alex Smith is expected to be back for another year, but this gives coach Jim Harbaugh a quarterback to develop. Kaepernick needs work and is a long way away, but with the right coaching he could be one of the steals of this draft.
Most questionable move: Reaching at cornerback
The 49ers had a pretty good draft, but there were better options, including Shareece Wright, Curtis Marsh and Johnny Patrick, available at cornerback than Chris Culliver at the No. 80 slot. They addressed the pass rush but could have done a little better here at cornerback. Still, if this is the most questionable move they made, the 49ers had a pretty good draft.
Seattle Seahawks
Best move: John Moffitt in the third round
Seattle has drafted four offensive linemen in the first two rounds of the last three drafts, but Moffitt gives the Seahawks a solid starting guard who also brings the versatility to play center if needed.
Most questionable move: Kris Durham in the fourth round
Durham is a developmental wide receiver who benefited from playing alongside A.J. Green in college. Durham is a No. 3 receiver at best and may never even become that, and at No. 107 there were better options such as Edmond Gates, Greg Salas and Tandon Doss available.
St. Louis Rams
Best move: Greg Salas at No. 112
The Rams were looking to add young weapons for QB Sam Bradford heading into Bradford's second season, and based on where they got him, Salas could end up being one of the best overall picks in this draft. I think he'll become one of the best No. 3 receivers in the league with his reliable hands, competitiveness and toughness after the catch.
Most questionable move: Austin Pettis in the third round
In theory, there's nothing wrong with drafting wide receivers back-to-back when you have a need at the position. However, they took Pettis too high. He doesn't have as much to offer as Salas, so why not use the pick on a receiver who can stretch the field and complement the other receivers better? Leonard Hankerson isn't much faster but could have provided more of a vertical threat with his size and hands.
Esteban_Villa
Veteran XV
what does jew kiper have to say about the new york football winning jets?
Balimore Ravens
Top needs: CB, WR, LB, S
Summary: Last year, the Ravens got a lot of good value after trading down, but didn't get much out of the class in 2010 for multiple reasons. This year, they again got a lot of good value, but also hit on some players that could fill holes a little earlier. The big name is Jimmy Smith, who has the talent to be drafted much earlier, but could use the guidance that a player like Ray Lewis can provide. Given that cornerback was the biggest need on my board for Baltimore, a value like Smith should have them thrilled. The Ravens also need a wideout who can stretch the field, and got one with Torrey Smith of Maryland. He's a burner, but also can work underneath. I would have liked to see an outside linebacker on the taken somewhere, but Reid is a decent value, and Doss has great hands and helps the depth at receiver. McPhee is an intriguing defensive end prospect as well.
Value A- Overall B+ (8th overall)
New Orleans Saints
Top needs: DE, OT, OLB, DT
Summary: Saints fans should have been thrilled headed into Saturday. In Round 1, the team got a great value with Jordan at No. 24, then got the best running back in the draft by trading into the No. 28 pick to get Ingram. On Friday, somehow Wilson fell in the Saints' laps at No. 72. He could have gone far higher. I didn't see cornerback as a major need, but Patrick is a nice prospect and teams will be throwing a lot against New Orleans because of how much the Saints figure to score. Romeus is a player who, a year ago, I assumed would go far higher, but injuries have set him back. He's a good risk late. Where the Saints didn't get anything done was at defensive tackle and anywhere along the offensive line, where a tackle could be used. But the top of the draft was good enough where late positional needs can be overlooked to a degree. Of course, a traded Round 1 pick also has to factor into the overall grade.
Value A- Overall B (15th overall)
Washington Redskins
Top needs: QB, WR, OG, DE
Summary: We know the Redskins need help at quarterback, but I'll give them credit: They realized there wasn't a quarterback in this draft who can help them in 2011, and they moved out of the spot that became the Gabbert pick. They clearly have concerns about their defensive line, and should get help in the pass rush from Kerrigan. Jenkins was an OK value, a bit of a surprise in Round 2, but the Hankerson selection at No. 79 was in the neighborhood of a steal. He gives them something they really don't have on the roster now. You have to assume Mike Shanahan thinks a lot of Helu, given the trade up to get him. The Skins added players at pretty much every need outside of quarterback, where they clearly have other ideas in mind. Fair enough. I just don't think impact will be significant.
Value B- Overall C+ (26th overall)
New York Jets
Top needs: DE, OLB, WR, S
Summary: The Jets needed help at both defensive end spots up front in their 3-4, and did a great job adding talent with their first two picks. Wilkerson could be one of the bigger steals of the first round, a player I maintain is a 2012 top-10 pick who was a really good value in 2011. He is a load at nearly 320 pounds, capable of taking on blocks and causing problems in the backfield. Ellis also is a good player, a dominant player against average competition who could respond well to Rex Ryan's coaching. Kerley fills a need for depth at wideout. McElroy might be a really good backup quarterback for the Jets. You want a backup who knows the playbook, and that won't be a problem for the him. The Jets didn't have the picks to find an outside linebacker who can help, and that's a need they'll need to address in free agency.
Overall B (13th overall)
Esteban_Villa
Veteran XV
the lions are on the upswing for the first time since barry sanders. if stafford can fully recover from his shoulder and have 3 good seasons in a row they could be a playoff contender. Their D line is basically the 2003 Bucs now, just with young players instead of old and with fresh contracts. The other 4 teams...heh
quiet storm
Veteran X
NFC North please? thanks again
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quiet storm
Veteran X
it's marginally exciting to be a lions fan again, but they have to do at least average in the conference. people look at the lions and forget that both the packers and bears went deep in the playoffs last year :>
DT in the first round might not have been a need, but looking at Cutler, Rogers, and Adrian Peterson (possibly McNabb) all 2 games a year i can see stacking the d-line as a very sensible and aggressive maneuver.
Esteban_Villa
Veteran XV
now all you lions need is a shutdown cornerback and your d should be stingy enough to keep you guys in any game. thats what the jets did and hey look at us, 2 afc champ games in 2 years.
not once, but twice? how the fuck does this get through copy-editing?
Detroit Lions
Top needs: CB, OLB, OT, DE
Summary: Detroit hit home runs all over in terms of value, but the question is whether the Lions did enough to help the talent level in a way that can further conceal weaknesses. For example, Fairley at No. 13 is perhaps the steal of the draft -- imagine what the Lions can do up front now -- but will the pass rush now be so good that it can mask the personnel issues that dot the secondary? Leshoure adds more potency at running back, but can this offensive line open enough holes? The Lions should be concerned about how well they can block in both the run and passing games, and didn't get an offensive lineman until No. 209 overall. Matthew Stafford's health is such a huge concern. But even after those questions, the value was oustanding. Fairley, Young, Leshoure and even Hogue could have gone earlier. Is it possible to love a Detroit draft when the Lions didn't add major help at cornerback or offensive tackle? Ask me after free agency, I guess.
Overall A- (1st overall)
Green Bay Packers
Top needs: OT, OLB, DE, OG
Summary: The Packers are clearly confident in the resourcefulness of defensive coordinator Dom Capers. They can score points on anybody, but still went after needs on offense with their first three picks. Ted Thompson knows the success of this team starts with protecting Aaron Rodgers and Sherrod was a player they may have felt lucky to have the chance to pick at No. 32. Cobb is a nice little player that can work the slot and is great in the locker room, and Green is a really good running back not many people have seen. Where I do have a questions is Green Bay comes away with no real help in rushing the passer unless it hits on one of those really late picks. This is a team that needs to limit its dependency on Clay Matthews, but didn't do much to help him. The upshot is this is a team that essentially "drafts" a number of players relegated to the disabled list last year. All in all, not half bad.
B+ 8th overall
Chicago Bears
Top needs: OL, DT, CB, OLB
Summary: The top needs I saw for the Bears were on the offensive line and along the defensive interior, where they've had some recent attrition. Carimi was a great value that late in Round 1, and is a player that can be moved along the line (presumably to right tackle) to help right away. Paea isn't a guy who will get a lot of penetration, but he'll help the Bears' linebackers avoid blockers. They also added some safety help, and took a shot on Enderle, a kid with a big arm who could develop behind Jay Cutler. I don't see Enderle as a starter, but a backup is a nice thing to have, and backup quarterback was actually a need position for the Bears, particularly given all the hits Cutler takes. Solid draft for the Bears, who got to get back in the early mix this year.
B 12th Overall
Minnesota Vikings
Top needs: QB, S, OT, DL
Summary: The Vikings clearly need an answer at the quarterback position, but they reached for Ponder at No. 12. They clearly believe he's their guy long-term, but the draft is about value too. When you saw Dalton land all the way down at No. 35, you had to wonder if Ponder could have been had later. The Rudolph pick was a pretty solid value and Ballard could be a good defensive lineman. The Vikings also landed some needed help at cornerback and along the offensive line. Minnesota reached for a quarterback, in my opinion, and like Tennessee, still doesn't know who will start the season at quarterback. However, the Vikings rebounded nicely on Days 2 and 3.
C+ 28th overall (5th worst is a c+? Grade Inflation man)
Mel panned the nfc east
New York Giants
Top needs: OLB, OG, DT, WR
Summary: Give the Giants credit -- they got some serious value with their first two picks. Amukamara had dropped a bit on my Big Board leading up to the draft, but was still a really good value at No. 19 overall. And Austin has the talent to be a really good NFL defensive tackle if he can add a little consistency. His talent is obvious, but the production hasn't matched the ability. Jernigan is a flyer and could work the slot and help in the return game. But I do wonder if the Giants waited a little too long to gain any help along the offensive line. Brewer at No. 117 is a fair pick, but that line is not a young group, and isn't any better than they were three days ago. They did wisely get a pair of linebackers for a unit that was pretty bad in 2010, but can they help soon?
B- 18th overall
Dallas Cowboys
Top needs: CB, OT, S, OG
Summary: While I thought Dallas might trade down off No. 9 and get more value at the tackle position a little later in Round 1, Smith made a lot of sense at No. 9, and the Cowboys showed conviction with the pick. He could be the solution for them at left tackle if he develops, or perhaps gets moved to the right side for now. After that, it got a little confusing for two rounds. Dallas went linebacker and running back in Rounds 2 and 3 before targeting more pressing needs at corner and guard in the following two rounds. Dallas got good value later, but never took a player that seemed like a steal at the position. Harris is a guy who might continue to develop at wideout.
B- 20th Overall
Philadelphia Eagles
Top needs: OT, CB, DT, S
Summary: This feels like last year. I look at the Philly board and think, "Well, they got a lot of guys." The Eagles targeted what I considered their three biggest needs with their first three picks. The selection of Watkins surprised some people, as he may have been available even into the early second round, but they may believe he has the capability to stay at tackle. I think he's a guard. Elsewhere, Jarrett provides depth at safety, and Marsh will be asked to step in early at corner. David Akers can't feel too confident about his future in Philly, as Henery was the first kicker off the board. The looming question now is what picks or players will come back if and when the Eagles decide to deal Kevin Kolb.
C+ 22nd Overall
Washington Redskins
Top needs: QB, WR, OG, DE
Summary: We know the Redskins need help at quarterback, but I'll give them credit: They realized there wasn't a quarterback in this draft who can help them in 2011, and they moved out of the spot that became the Gabbert pick. They clearly have concerns about their defensive line, and should get help in the pass rush from Kerrigan. Jenkins was an OK value, a bit of a surprise in Round 2, but the Hankerson selection at No. 79 was in the neighborhood of a steal. He gives them something they really don't have on the roster now. You have to assume Mike Shanahan thinks a lot of Helu, given the trade up to get him. The Skins added players at pretty much every need outside of quarterback, where they clearly have other ideas in mind. Fair enough. I just don't think impact will be significant.
Value B- Overall C+ (26th overall)