NFL Draft 2005: Final 2 Weeks - Just Lose Baby

[Preacher]

Here we go. All of us who are out of the playoffs (OOP) can finally take a look at the last few weeks and see where our teams may be drafting. The incredible amount of teams in the mix (5-9 / 6-8 / 8-6) guarantee an exciting finish. They key to really getting excited is to hope your team can play well (like Dallas may have done yesterday) but still lose.


From ESPN's site at www.espn.com

Pick Team Record
1 Miami Dolphins 2-11
2 San Francisco 49ers 2-12
3 Cleveland Browns 3-11
4 Tennessee Titans 4-10
5 Detroit Lions 5-9
6 Tampa Bay Buccaneers 5-9
7 Chicago Bears 5-9
8* San Diego Chargers 11-3
9 Dallas Cowboys 5-9
10 Washington Redskins 5-9
11 Arizona Cardinals 5-9
12 Oakland Raiders 5-9
13 Carolina Panthers 6-8
14 New Orleans Saints 6-8
15 St. Louis Rams 6-8
16 Cincinnati Bengals 6-8
17 Houston Texans 6-8
18 Kansas City Chiefs 6-8
19 Seattle Seahawks 7-7
20 Green Bay Packers 8-6
21 Minnesota Vikings 8-6
22 Baltimore Ravens 8-6
23 Denver Broncos 8-6
24 Jacksonville Jaguars 8-6
25* Dallas Cowboys 5-9
26 New York Jets 10-4
27 Atlanta Falcons 11-3
28 San Diego Chargers 11-3
29 Indianapolis Colts 11-3
30 New England Patriots 12-1
31 Pittsburgh Steelers 13-1
32 Philadelphia Eagles 13-1

*: NY Giants have traded their pick to San Diego; Buffalo has traded their pick to Dallas

Tie Breaker - Is it Conference or Division record first? I know it is NOT head to head meetings. I'm staring at the list and the pattern is escaping me.

As a Dallas fan we finish with:
-Washington.
-@NY Giants.

We face the daunting task of having seal clubbed the Redskins for years. We gotta pony up and lose this one. Play well, but lose. Maybe tragically. Heck the Giants game is the Sunday nighter. Could be huge.

And Travis Henry really needs to play in Buffalo more.

[gmal2003]

The Lions did just that yesterday, played well but lost :up:. Joey had a career day and we made a few bonheaded plays that arent indictive of lack of talent, just odd mistakes. I still want us to win every game but at this point I do get a little solice in each loss :).

[raven56706]

Who cares about the giants...... they are stupid for that mega trade anyway

[IdgIe49]

why are the dolphins first again?

[chrisih8u]

why are the dolphins first again?


Strength of schedule.

[LorenzoL]

The Bears lost and played horrible to boot :thmbsdwn:

At least we are sitting pretty to grab Mike Williams in the draft.

[Maxwell Smart]

Lookin good for the boys' some quality picks should cum out of that...

[Jericho]

As a Redskins fan, this has become an annual tradition! It was interesting last years to edge out all the other 5-11 teams on SOS, the difference between picking 5th and 10th. This year, Dallas and Minnesota stand in the way. But with so many 5-9 teams, one win can change a lot. So lose, baby, lose!

[Jam Master Jay]

The Lions did just that yesterday, played well but lost :up:. Joey had a career day and we made a few bonheaded plays that arent indictive of lack of talent, just odd mistakes. I still want us to win every game but at this point I do get a little solice in each loss :).

Man, what a game that ended up being. Joey played a hell of a game, and made the plays when the game was on the line. Cya later McMahon...don't let the door hit you on the way out :D

Somehow I knew the Lions would find a way to grab defeat out of the jaws of victory, I just didn't expect it to happen that way :(

Hopefully we'll go after a good safety in either the draft or FA, becuase I'm sick of those jokers Brock Marion and Bracey Walker. They've given me headaches all season long.

[RyoHazuki]

Go Cardinals! Have a crappy year but not crappy enough to get a good draft pick.

[dom56]

I predict that John 'Cheap Bastard' York will swap the Niners first pick with (pick any team) for all the 7th round picks. -rolleyes-

DUMP YORK ! ! ! :mad:

[IdgIe49]

I predict that John 'Cheap Bastard' York will swap the Niners first pick with (pick any team) for all the 7th round picks. -rolleyes-

DUMP YORK ! ! ! :mad:


rotfl thats an annual given.

[Dabaomb]

Who cares about the giants...... they are stupid for that mega trade anyway

freakin' Giants. Last year I knew that they were stupid for trading this year's First Round Pick when they could've given up last year's second round pick who turned into Chris Snee. Snee is a decent player but I'd rather take a top 10 pick (possibly top 5) than Snee.

The Giants are retarded.

[Jericho]

Look at the Dolphins throwing away the chance at #1! What do they expect, San Francisco to win again? Crazy I tell you :)

[cleaver]

Here we go. All of us who are out of the playoffs (OOP) can finally take a look at the last few weeks and see where our teams may be drafting. The incredible amount of teams in the mix (5-9 / 6-8 / 8-6) guarantee an exciting finish. They key to really getting excited is to hope your team can play well (like Dallas may have done yesterday) but still lose.


From ESPN's site at www.espn.com

Pick Team Record
1 Miami Dolphins 2-11
2 San Francisco 49ers 2-12
3 Cleveland Browns 3-11
4 Tennessee Titans 4-10
5 Detroit Lions 5-9
6 Tampa Bay Buccaneers 5-9
7 Chicago Bears 5-9
8* San Diego Chargers 11-3
9 Dallas Cowboys 5-9
10 Washington Redskins 5-9
11 Arizona Cardinals 5-9
12 Oakland Raiders 5-9
13 Carolina Panthers 6-8
14 New Orleans Saints 6-8
15 St. Louis Rams 6-8
16 Cincinnati Bengals 6-8
17 Houston Texans 6-8
18 Kansas City Chiefs 6-8
19 Seattle Seahawks 7-7
20 Green Bay Packers 8-6
21 Minnesota Vikings 8-6
22 Baltimore Ravens 8-6
23 Denver Broncos 8-6
24 Jacksonville Jaguars 8-6
25* Dallas Cowboys 5-9
26 New York Jets 10-4
27 Atlanta Falcons 11-3
28 San Diego Chargers 11-3
29 Indianapolis Colts 11-3
30 New England Patriots 12-1
31 Pittsburgh Steelers 13-1
32 Philadelphia Eagles 13-1

*: NY Giants have traded their pick to San Diego; Buffalo has traded their pick to Dallas

Tie Breaker - Is it Conference or Division record first? I know it is NOT head to head meetings. I'm staring at the list and the pattern is escaping me.

As a Dallas fan we finish with:
-Washington.
-@NY Giants.

We face the daunting task of having seal clubbed the Redskins for years. We gotta pony up and lose this one. Play well, but lose. Maybe tragically. Heck the Giants game is the Sunday nighter. Could be huge.

And Travis Henry really needs to play in Buffalo more.

First tiebreaker is reverse strength of schedule. So the team with the weaker strength of schedule gets the higher pick.

[kenbuzz]

First tiebreaker is reverse strength of schedule. So the team with the weaker strength of schedule gets the higher pick.
Strength of schedule is the first tiebreaker, but there's one other thing applied before that. If two (or more) teams finish with the same record and any of them are playoff-bound, they (all) pick after the team(s) who aren't playoff bound. For example, Miami last year finished 10-6 and had the best strength of schedule (131-125 0.512) of the six 10-6 teams, yet they picked before any of them because they missed the playoffs while the other five (Baltimore 0.457, Dallas 0.461, Seattle 0.465, Green Bay 0.488, Denver 0.500) all made the playoffs. This could come into play this year, since we're likely to see a playoff team come out of the NFC with the same record as one or more non-playoff teams from the AFC.

Here's how the draft tiebreakers work:

1 - For teams who finish the season with the same winning percentage, they are first split into two subgroups -- playoff-bound teams and non-playoff-bound teams. The non-playoff-bound teams all pick before the playoff-bound teams. The tiebreakers within each subgroup are as follows:

A: For non-playoff-bound teams:

2A - Strength of schedule. Teams who played a weaker schedule in 2004 pick ahead of those who had stronger schedules.
3A - If still tied, and if the teams are from the same division or conference, the NFL Divisional or NFL Conference tiebreakers are used with the tiebreak loser getting the better pick.
4A - If still tied, coin flip.

B: For playoff-bound teams:

2B - Teams who are eliminated earlier in the playoffs pick earlier than those who are eliminated later. By "earlier", the NFL means Round, not date. Teams eliminated during the Wild Card round win the tiebreak against those eliminated during the Divisional round, and so forth.
3B - If still tied, use strength of schedule as in 2A above.
4B - If still tied and from same division or conference, use tiebreakers as in 3A above.
5B - If still tied, coin flip.

Regardless of tiebreakers, the Super Bowl winner picks in the #32 slot, and the Super Bowl loser picks in the #31 slot.

All of the above is for the first round. For later rounds, teams rotate within their win-loss group with the team that picked earliest in the previous round dropping to the last position within that group, while everybody else in the group moves up one pick.

[Preacher]

Thx, kenbuzz. Here's the new list.

1 San Francisco 49ers 2-12
2 Cleveland Browns 3-11
3 Miami Dolphins 3-11
4 Tennessee Titans 4-10
5 Tampa Bay Buccaneers 5-9
6 Arizona Cardinals 5-9
7 Detroit Lions 5-9
8* San Diego Chargers 11-3
9 Dallas Cowboys 5-9
10 Oakland Raiders 5-9
11 Washington Redskins 5-9
12 Chicago Bears 5-9
13 Carolina Panthers 6-8
14 New Orleans Saints 6-8
15 St. Louis Rams 6-8
16 Kansas City Chiefs 6-8
17 Houston Texans 6-8
18 Cincinnati Bengals 6-8
19 Seattle Seahawks 7-7
20 Green Bay Packers 8-6
21 Minnesota Vikings 8-6
22 Jacksonville Jaguars 8-6
23 Denver Broncos 8-6
24 Baltimore Ravens 8-6
25* Dallas Cowboys 5-9
26 New York Jets 10-4
27 Atlanta Falcons 11-3
28 San Diego Chargers 11-3
29 Indianapolis Colts 11-3
30 New England Patriots 12-2
31 Pittsburgh Steelers 13-1
32 Philadelphia Eagles 13-1

Looking for a SOS liosting for all the teams.

[sn9ke_eyes]

isn't this pretty much covered with kenbuzz's power posts ?

[IMRICKJAMES]

Browns vs Dolphins

The Battle for the 2nd Pick

Who can lose worse? Find out Sunday night on ESPN

[wabio]

Two first round picks.....Chargers looking good! :banana:

[chrisih8u]

Two first round picks.....Chargers looking good! :banana:

:up: Awesome. It's going to be fun guessing which one will be the last holdout.

[Preacher]

4 Tennessee Titans 4-10 - Denver and Detroit
5 Tampa Bay Buccaneers 5-9 - Carolina and Arizona
6 Arizona Cardinals 5-9 - Seattle and Tampa Bay
7 Detroit Lions 5-9 - Chicago and Tennessee
8* San Diego Chargers 11-3 (ie. The NY Giants) - Cincinnatti and Dallas
9 Dallas Cowboys 5-9 - Washington and Dallas

So Dallas needs to lose and have these teams win somewhere. There are other modifiers and SOS changes that will happen in the last 2 weeks but that is the simple approach.

We could drive this to #4 in the draft or have this go 10 spots or more in the other direction.

[Jericho]

Only one more week of losing to go. The Redskins really showed those Cowboys how to lose though. Grasping defeat from the jaws of victory!

[wildcatlh]

Last week of the season, and Miami loses (4-12), Cleveland wins (4-12), and Tennessee wins (5-11). I think I'm bored enough to figure out the tiebreakers.

Alright, I'll do that later. Miami and Cleveland still aren't decided yet as to who gets the #2 pick (depends on what San Diego, Arizona, Seattle, and Denver do in their late games)

[SlingshotBandit]

In reference to the Chargers draft pick:

:up: Awesome. It's going to be fun guessing which one will be the last holdout.

I'll take a player holding most of the pre-season, as long as we're in the playoffs. ;)

[SlingshotBandit]

freakin' Giants. Last year I knew that they were stupid for trading this year's First Round Pick when they could've given up last year's second round pick who turned into Chris Snee. Snee is a decent player but I'd rather take a top 10 pick (possibly top 5) than Snee.

The Giants are retarded.

Well, I partially disagree.

Only your GM, Acorsi, and your head coach, Coughlin, are retarded.

Especially Coughlin.

If Eli turns out to be anything like Peyton in a couple of years, the trade would've been worth it.

(But who's to say Rivers wouldn't turn out that way as well?)

Anyway, great trade for the Chargers and here's hoping they draft anything but a WR with that pick.

[wildcatlh]

What's the second tiebreak again for draft order?

I know the first tiebreak is strength of schedule -- and Miami's and Cleveland's are identical (assuming the sunday night game doesn't end in a tie). We go to conference record next, right? (which puts Miami at #2, since they have a 2-10 conference record vs Cleveland's 3-9)...

[FantasticVSDoom]

So is it too early to predict which player will go first yet? Here is Mel Kiper's top 10 as of today:
1. Cedric Benson Sr. RB Texas
2. Ronnie Brown Sr. RB Auburn
3. Carnell Williams Sr. RB Auburn
4. Mike Williams Jr. WR USC
5. Dan Cody Sr. DT Oklahoma
6. Erasmus James Sr. DE Wisconsin
7. Derrick Johnson Sr. LB Texas
8. Travis Johnson Sr. DT Fla. St.
9. Braylon Edwards Sr. WR Michigan
10. Matt Roth Sr. DE Iowa

[Jericho]

Damn the Redskins for winning! Although with Dallas and New York also 6-10, I think at least Washington will draft ahead of them. Not that I did any figures, but they play the same schedule except two games and the Redskins pulled Tampa Bay and San Fran, two last place teams.

[wildcatlh]

Here's Kiper's entire top 25. He doesn't rank juniors until they declare though.

With no games being played there is no change in the top 25 this week, but the list of top junior prospects has been expanded from 20 to 25 to accommodate more players. As I noted in this week's Personnel Points, many underclassmen are facing tough decisions about whether to declare themselves eligible for the NFL draft, including the new entries on this list.

Linebackers Chad Greenway of Iowa and Omar Gaither of Tennessee lead the new additions, with Greenway having all the necessary skills to be a three-down player at the next level but Gaither having just one year as a starter on his resumé.

Louisville running back Eric Shelton gets on the list and is the best pro prospect among the wealth of talented players the Cardinals have, while Boston College teammates OT Jeremy Trueblood and DE Mathias Kiwanuka each have impressive credentials.

Take quick look at the Big Board to refresh your memory, then scroll down to see how the juniors line up:

1. Cedric Benson, RB, Texas (5-10½, 222) | previous rank: same
Last game: 33 carries, 165 yds., 1 TD in a 26-13 win over Texas A&M
Benson is a strong, tough runner who has been incredibly productive in his four years in Austin. He has rushed for 1,000 yards in each of his four seasons, and his ability to block and catch the ball make him a complete back. Benson has tremendous vision and quick feet, and thanks to his powerful lower body the first tackler rarely brings him down. He isn't flashy but puts up big numbers against top competition.

2. Ronnie Brown, RB, Auburn (6-0, 230) | previous rank: same
Last game: 16 car., 50 yds.; 6 receptions, 55 yds. in a 38-28 win over Tennessee
Brown showed against Tennessee earlier this year that he is one of the most complete backs in the nation, running and catching the ball with equal skill. He is averaging more than seven yards per carry this season and has 18 catches. Brown has the size, instincts, power and quickness to put up unbelievable numbers and would be a Heisman candidate if he were the clear No. 1 on the depth chart. An explosive powerhouse who is a complete back.

3. Carnell Williams, RB, Auburn (5-10½, 207) | previous rank: same
Last game: 19 car., 100 yds., 1 TD in a 38-28 win over Tennessee
A very creative and deceptively strong runner who has few peers in terms of pure running skills. Williams does not have imposing size but can still get tough inside yards, a skill which contributed to his 1,307 rushing yards and 17 touchdowns last season. He needs to work on catching the ball out of the backfield, but that's about it. Williams has carried 167 times for 862 yards and nine TDs in 2004 while also catching 11 passes for 114 yards and a score.

4. Mike Williams (jr.), WR, USC (6-foot-5, 230 pounds) | previous rank: same
Last game: Williams will not play in 2004.
Williams is only a junior but dominated the collegiate game for two full years before his bid to join the NFL draft as a sophomore was ended by the courts and he was declared ineligible by the NCAA. Williams will enter the 2005 draft, and the only reason he has fallen from the top spot on the Big Board is because he has not played at all this year. But if he can stay in shape and keep his weight at or below 230, Williams should ultimately be a top-15 pick.

Williams likely would have been a top-10 pick last season because his size, strength and toughness make him a tremendous package who can use his body control and hands to go after the ball over smaller defenders. His two-year totals at USC: 176 receptions, 2,579 yards and 30 touchdowns.

5. Dan Cody, DE, Oklahoma (6-4, 265) | previous rank: same
Last game: No tackles in a 42-3 win over Colorado
Cody continues moving up the board because of his impressive overall body of work this season. He has been utilized as both a stand-up outside linebacker and a defensive end with his hand on the ground, in much the same way as former NFL standout Kevin Greene. Cody increased his tackle total from 16 in 2002 to 43 last year, his TFL from five to 17 and his sacks from three to 10.

6. Erasmus James, DE, Wisconsin (6-4, 260) | previous rank: same
Last game: 4 tackles (3 solo, 1 ast.) in a 30-7 loss at Iowa
James missed most of last season with a hip injury but had a great showing in fall camp and carried that momentum over to the regular season. He is currently nursing an ankle injury but still commands double-team blocks. An outstanding pass rusher who is also strong against the run, James is just now getting back into form after an ankle injury earlier in the season.

7. Derrick Johnson, OLB, Texas (6-3, 233) | previous rank: same
Last game: 8 tackles (4 solo, 4 ast.), 1.5 TFL (1 sack), 1 PBU, 1 QBH in a 26-13 win over Texas A&M
Led the Longhorns with 125 tackles last season, including 20 stops behind the line of scrimmage. Johnson will finish his career with more than 400 total tackles and has also intercepted eight passes over the last two seasons. A great athlete who has a nose for the ball and is all over the field.

8. Travis Johnson, DT, Florida State (6-4, 292) | previous rank: same
Last game: 2 assisted tackles, ½ TFL in a 20-13 loss to Florida
Has improved significantly from where he was last year. Johnson has been dominating offensive linemen all year and has spent a lot of time in opposing backfields.

9. Braylon Edwards, WR, Michigan (6-2½, 210) | previous rank: same
Last game: 11 receptions, 172 yds., 1 TD in a 37-21 loss at Ohio State
Edwards was rising after single-handedly taking over the game against Michigan State, catching all three of his touchdown passes in the fourth quarter and overtime. He has the size, athleticism and overall pass-catching skills to dominate games and is doing just that at times this year. Edwards is also no longer riling the coaching staff with dropped balls and lapses in concentration.

10. Matt Roth, DE, Iowa (6-3½, 266) | previous rank: same
Last game: 6 tackles (4 solo, 2 ast.), 3 TFL (1 sack), 1 QBH in a 30-7 win over Wisconsin
A fiery and intense player who is a tremendous natural pass rusher, Roth is a nice complement to standout tackle Jonathan Babineaux. Roth led the Hawkeyes with eight quarterback hurries and three forced fumbles during the regular season and tied for the team lead with eight sacks. His 14 tackles for loss were second on the team. That overall consistent body of work is what has elevated Roth in recent weeks.

11. Alex Barron, OT, Florida State (6-7, 325) | previous rank: 12
Last game: Made his 29th career start in a 20-13 loss to Florida
Athletically gifted with great footwork as a pass blocker, Barron has a chance to be a top-10 overall pick. He helped Leon Washington average 15.3 yards on 10 carries last week.

12. Shaun Cody, DT, USC (6-4, 288) | previous rank: 15
Last game: 3 tackles (2 solo, 1 ast.), 1 sack, 1 PBU in a 29-24 win at UCLA
A versatile performer who can play either end or tackle, Cody is a key component in the No. 2 rushing defense in the country (75.3 ypg).

13. Jammal Brown, OT, Oklahoma (6-5, 313) | previous rank: 16
Last game: Helped OU rush for 236 yards in a 42-3 win over Colorado
Equally adept at run and pass blocking, Brown has long arms that allow him to get his hand on defenders and move them off the ball using his good feet and balance.

14. Marcus Spears, DE, LSU (6-4, 295) | previous rank: same
Last game: 9 tackles (8 solo, 1 ast.), 2 sacks, 1 PBU, in a 43-14 win over Arkansas
Will not turn into a 10-12 sack performer at the next level because he lacks great closing speed, but Spears looks like a five-sack guy who will be an outstanding run stopper and disruptive to the passing game because of his size and long arms. Spears began his career as a tight end and early in his career was utilized on both sides of the ball, showing his athletic prowess. He will be able to play in any defensive structure and should be a solid pro. If Spears can keep his motor running for 60 minutes each week he will continue to ascend up the draft board.

15. David Pollack, DE, Georgia (6-2½, 265) | previous rank: 13
Last game: 5 solo tackles, 1 TFL, 2 QBH in a 24-6 loss at Auburn
Not physically imposing, Pollack plays with incredible intensity and passion. He is quick off the ball, has great closing speed and wreaks havoc as a pass rusher, as evidenced by his 28 quarterback pressures last season.

16. Antrel Rolle, CB, Miami (6-0½, 200) | previous rank: 11
Last game: 5 tackles (3 solo, 2 ast.) in a 16-10 loss to Virginia Tech
Rolle has consistently proven his mettle against the top wideouts in the country. A perfect example of that came last year when he shut down former Pittsburgh wideout and eventual No. 3 overall draft pick Larry Fitzgerald. Teams are not throwing his way this season, yet he has still been a force for the Hurricanes with solid run support and tackles in the backfield.

17. Charlie Frye, QB, Akron (6-3½, 229) | previous rank: same
Last game: 26-for-43, 436 yds., 3 TDs in a 37-27 loss to Miami (Ohio)
If things play out right for Frye the rest of the year, he could become this year's version of Ben Roethlisberger, the former Miami (Ohio) quarterback who was the 11th overall pick last season. This season has been a struggle thanks to no help from the offensive line, no running game and no big-time receivers to work with. He has played this year with a dislocated finger and shown good toughness, and his willingness to shoulder the load every week has helped tremendously.

18. Bryant McFadden, CB, Florida State (5-11½, 185) | previous rank: 19
Last game: 2 tackles (1 solo, 1 ast.), ½ TFL, 1 INT, 2 PBU in a 20-13 loss to Florida
He has not intercepted any passes this year but that's because opposing teams respect him and are not attacking his side of the field. McFadden has very good athletic ability and good but not great recovery speed at 4.49. A few more interceptions and big plays would have him in the top 15, but he is a very consistent cover man who will also come up in run support.

19. Adam Terry, OT, Syracuse (6-7½, 310) | previous rank: 20
Last game: Syracuse rushed for 309 yards in a 43-17 win at Boston College
One of the most outstanding athletes at the tackle position in college football. Terry runs a 5.15 in the 40 and is a smart fifth-year senior with 33 career starts under his belt. He is a bit of a finesse player but will continue to develop and become a solid all-around tackle, and his experience will get him some first-round looks.

20. Mark Clayton, WR, Oklahoma (5-10, 188) | previous rank: 18
Last game: 8 rec., 106 yds., 2 TD in a 42-3 win over Colorado
Clayton set new standards for OU wide receivers last year with his 83 receptions for a 17.2-yard average and 15 touchdowns. The best wideout after the catch we've seen in quite some time, Clayton leads the Sooners with 51 catches this season, 16 more than the next player on the list.

21. Carlos Rogers, CB, Auburn (6-0, 194)) | previous rank: same
Last game: 1 solo tackle, 2 PBU in a 38-28 win over Tennessee
Has 4.4 speed in the 40 and is a physical player who can tackle in the open field and is an asset in run support. Rogers is a respected cover man with good ball skills who has been Auburn's best defensive player this year, and with good showings in postseason workouts and all-star games he could ultimately move into the first round. Consistency, durability and experience against top-level competition in the SEC should all boost his stock.

22. Alex Smith, TE, Stanford (6-4¼, 257) | previous rank: same
Last game: 1 rec., 30 yds. in a 41-6 loss at California
An incredibly gifted tight end with tremendous body control to adjust to the poorly thrown ball. Smith is a great hook-zone threat and can stretch the deep middle with his speed. Smith should hold on to his spot as the top TE on the board now that he's become a complete tight end this year.

23. Mark Bradley, WR, Oklahoma (6-1, 191) | previous rank: unranked
Last game: 4 rec., 46 yds. in a 42-3 win over Colorado
His teammate and fellow receiver, Mark Clayton, gets most of the attention, but the speedy Bradley (4.35 in the 40) has developed into a very good receiver in addition to his special-teams skills as a kick returner and cover man. He is good running after the catch and his versatility is a big plus.

24. Marcus Johnson, OG, Mississippi (6-5½, 321) | previous rank: unranked
Last game: Helped Ole Miss rush for 156 yards in a 27-24 loss at LSU
Johnson has started 45 consecutive games for the Rebels, including three starts at tackle this year that showcase his versatility and smarts.

25. Corey Webster, CB, LSU (6-0, 205) | previous rank: 23
Last game: 3 tackles (2 solo, 1 ast.), 2 PBU in a 43-14 win over Arkansas
Webster has played through injury this season and has not been up to the level of his blue-chip performance as a junior, but you have to give him the benefit of the doubt. He has not been the dominating, shutdown corner he was a year ago but has plenty of time to get healthy and return to form. Webster recorded seven interceptions and five pass breakups last season.

Mel's Top 25 Juniors
1. Matt Leinart, QB, USC
2. D'Brickashaw Ferguson, OT, Virginia
3. DeAngelo Williams, RB, Memphis
4. Ahmad Brooks, LB, Virginia
5. Adam "Pac-Man" Jones, CB, West Virginia
6. Thomas Davis, S, Georgia
7. Aaron Rodgers, QB, California
8. Ciatrick Fason, RB, Florida
9. Heath Miller, TE, Virginia
10. Channing Crowder, LB, Florida
11. Brodney Pool, S, Oklahoma
12. Darryl Blackstock, LB, Virginia
13. Justin Miller, CB, Clemson
14. Rodrique Wright, DT, Texas
15. Marcus McNeill, OT, Auburn
16. Shawne Merriman, OLB/DE, Maryland
17. Vernand Morency, RB, Oklahoma State
18. Justin Tuck, DE, Notre Dame
19. Davin Joseph, OG, Oklahoma
20. Derek Hagan, WR, Arizona State
21. Chad Greenway, LB, Iowa
22. Omar Gaither, LB, Tennessee
23. Eric Shelton, RB, Louisville
24. Mathias Kiwanuka, DE, Boston College
25. Jeremy Trueblood, OT, Boston College

[brizz]

Here's the top 20 (non-playoff) team order....let the prognostication begin! I predict the Lions take Alex Baron (Or maybe this D'Brickashaw fellow? don't know anything about him other than he has a cool name) or Antrel Rolle....but hopefully someone tantalizing like Edwards or Williams is hanging around and KC or someone else feels like trading up to 10. (they already have the lions 5th rounder...so might be willing to deal it back in some package or another).

1. San Francisco
2. Miami
3. Cleveland
4. Chicago
5. Tampa Bay
6. Tennessee
7. Oakland
8. Arizona
9. Washington
10. Detroit
11. Dallas
12. San Diego (NYG)
13. Houston
14. Carolina
15. Kansas City
16. New Orleans
17. Cincinnati
18. Dallas (BUF)
19. Jacksonville
20. Baltimore

[MrX]

If Ferguson comes out he's probably a top 3 pick.

Hopefully the Bears won't do something stupid and trade down. Mike Williams should be there for the taking.

[brizz]

If Ferguson comes out he's probably a top 3 pick.

Hopefully the Bears won't do something stupid and trade down. Mike Williams should be there for the taking.

So D'Brickashaw is in the Gallery league? I would think he'd go to Cleveland if so....they need help there in a bad way.

[MrX]

I don't think he's the sure thing Gallery was. This isn't a very good draft if you need a LT. Ferguson is the only consensus Top 10 pick. Barron is 10-20 but his bowl game may have hurt him. Brown at OU is another guy who could go in the middle of the 1st round.

[wildcatlh]

Assuming Miami's going to go RB as expected, this is a deep enough RB draft that they're probably going to try to trade down a few spots, at least to pick up that second rounder they don't have.

Scouts Inc's take

The count of underclassmen who have officially decided to leave school early for the 2005 NFL draft has reached nine. The only addition from this past week is Temple LB Rian Wallace, who was expected to leave early.

The 6-2, 245-pound linebacker finished with 101 total tackles as a junior this season, but didn't make as many big plays as he had in the past. He notched just 5.5 tackles for loss and zero pass break ups in 2004, compared to the 19.5 TFL and six PBU he posted in 2003.

Wallace played inside linebacker in the Owl's 4-2-5 scheme this season, but he projects as a strongside linebacker in the NFL. Wallace has good size, strength and instincts, and also has adequate straight-line speed. There is a question about how fluid he is in coverage and how well he can change directions in space as a run defender. Wallace has enough upside to come off the board in the third round range, but he'll need to show good athleticism in his postseason workouts in order to secure a spot on the first day.

Lewis in limbo

Interestingly enough, UCLA TE Marcedes Lewis has filled out his paperwork in order to declare early for the 2005 NFL draft but is telling coaches and media he will return to school next season. Lewis finished his senior season with 30 receptions for 360 yards and seven touchdowns.

Over the course of the last two seasons, Lewis totaled 60 catches for 738 yards and 10 touchdowns. Lewis (6-6, 250 pounds) still needs to get bigger and stronger, but he has terrific size potential and is a better blocker than his measurables might indicate. The junior tight end is extremely athletic and might have more upside than any other tight end projected available in the 2005 draft.

It certainly wouldn't hurt Lewis to return for his senior season, which would allow him to improve his bulk, strength and overall technique. However, if Lewis elects to enter the draft, he might be the first tight end taken -- likely somewhere near the bottom of the first round. Virginia's Heath Miller is a more proven commodity, but Lewis has the potential to be a much bigger vertical threat in the NFL.

Staying the course

The following is a list of underclassmen who have recently stated they will not leave early, as well as other players who are strongly rumored to stay:

Vernand Morency, RB, Oklahoma State -- Had a breakout season as a junior in 2004 but needs to prove he's not a flash in the pan. Can avoid a strong 2005 RB class by returning to school.

Eric Winston, OT, Miami-FL -- Injury sidelined him for much of his junior season. Winston might still be a first-round pick if he comes out early, but his decision to return for his senior season will pay off handsomely. He is potentially a top-5 pick in 2006.

Andrew Whitworth, OT, LSU -- Talented junior OT has the size and athletic ability of a first-round pick, but he didn't play up to standards this season. If the rumors are true, his decision to return for his senior season is a wise one.

Gabe Watson, DT, Michigan -- Talented junior DT on the rise. Has two-gap potential as a 6-3, 335-pound DT/NT prospect. Should only improve his draft value with another full season as the Wolverines' defensive anchor up front.

Winston Justice, OT, USC -- Was suspended in 2004 following an off-the-field incident. Decision to return for his senior season in 2005 was a no-brainer.

Orien Harris, DT, Miami-FL -- There were high hopes for the emerging DT heading into his junior season, but he disappeared in 2004, leaving him with little choice but to return for another season.

Cowboy down

Morency's teammate, CB Darrent Williams, has been suspended from playing in Oklahoma State's game versus Ohio State in the Alamo Bowl due to a violation of team rules. Williams broke his forearm in October and wound up missing four games during the regular season. When he returned to action, he still only played in a sub-package role and did not assume the heavy responsibility he once had in the return game.

Williams was a fringe Day 1 prospect who needed to have a strong senior campaign in order to solidify a spot in the first three rounds of the 2005 draft. He did nothing of the sort. Unless the diminutive Williams absolutely blows scouts away with his postseason workouts, there's a good chance he'll slip to the later rounds of the upcoming draft.

Williams must heal

DeAngelo Williams
Will DeAngelo Williams be healthy enough to showcase his skills?
Memphis junior RB DeAngelo Williams suffered a broken leg in his team's loss to Bowling Green in last week's GMAC Bowl. Prior to the injury, Williams was expected to leave school early for the 2005 NFL draft. He likely would have been a first-round selection as the fourth running back off the board (behind Auburn's Carnell Williams and Ronnie Brown, and Texas' Cedric Benson). Now, Williams has a much more difficult decision to make.

The injury is expected to need up to six weeks to heal, which means Williams could be back working out by early February. If that's the case, it would certainly hurt his chances of participating in February's scouting combine in Indianapolis. However, it would give him enough time to completely rehabilitate the leg and get back into great shape by mid-March, which is when most pro-timing days are held anyway.

Hurricane warning

RB Frank Gore would be making a huge mistake if he left school for the NFL draft instead of returning to Miami for the 2005 college football season. Gore has been pretty blunt about the fact that he's in the process of weighing his options and he'll make a final decision once the NFL's special advisory committee gives him a feel for when he will be drafted.

We've been told by sources close to the Hurricanes' football program that Gore believes he has a chance to come off the board on Day 1. As far as I'm concerned, that's nothing more than wishful thinking. Early in his career, Gore flashed the size, power and explosiveness of a potential first-round pick, but after two major knee surgeries, he's nowhere near the same back he once was.

Gore doesn't show the same initial quickness or acceleration in the open field he once possessed. Teams also have major concerns about his potential to hold up over the long haul.

Another college season might help to ease those concerns and could also give Gore the time he needs to regain some of the missing explosiveness. Former Miami running backs Edgerrin James (Colts) and Willis McGahee (Bills) should serve as good examples for Gore as to how it typically takes more than one year to completely bounce back from a serious knee injury.

Scouts Inc.'s Top 32

1. Aaron Rodgers, QB, California (Jr.)
2. D'Brickshaw Ferguson, OT, Virginia (Jr.)
3. Matt Leinart, QB, USC (Jr.)
4. Ronnie Brown, RB, Auburn
5. Cedric Benson, RB, Texas
6. Braylon Edwards, WR, Michigan
7. Mike Williams, WR, USC (Jr.)
8. Carnell Williams, RB, Auburn
9. Derrick Johnson, OLB, Texas
10. Antrel Rolle, DC, Miami-FL
11. Ahmad Brooks, ILB, Virginia (Jr.)
12. Erasmus James, DE, Wisconsin
13. Travis Johnson, DT, Florida State
14. Adam Jones, DC, West Virginia (Jr.)
15. Thomas Davis, DE, Georgia
16. DeAngelo Williams, RB, Memphis (Jr.)
17. David Pollack, DE, Georgia
18. Alex Barron, OT, Florida State
19. Dan COdy, DE, Oklahoma
20. Marcedes Lewis, TE, UCLA (Jr.)
21. Matt Roth, DE, Iowa
22. Ciatrick Fason, RB, Florida (Jr.)
23. Heath Miller, TE, Virginia (Jr.)
24. Mathias Kiwanuka, DE, Boston College (Jr.)
25. Channing Crowder, OLB, Florida (So.)*
26. Justin Miller, DC, Clemson (Jr.)
27. Rodrique Wright, DT, Texas (Jr.)
28. Mark Clayton, WR, Oklahoma
29. Carlos Rogers, DC, Auburn
30. Marlin Jackson, DC, Michigan
31. Jammal Brown, OT, Oklahoma
32. Marcus Spears, DE, LSU

*Note: Crowder is a true sophomore, eligibility-wise, but has been out of high school three years and thus qualifies for the 2005 NFL draft, should he decide to enter.

[kenbuzz]

Assuming Miami's going to go RB as expected, this is a deep enough RB draft that they're probably going to try to trade down a few spots, at least to pick up that second rounder they don't have.
I've been thinking that with the development of Willis McGahee in Buffalo, Miami has a decent shot at landing Travis Henry. Henry's only got one more year left on his contract, and I wouldn't be surprized to see the Bills try to move him.

[raven56706]

Damn giants cant get anyone until the 3rd round

[kenbuzz]

I hope one of the Johnsons -- OLB Derrick (Texas), DT Travis (F$U), or OG Marcus (Mississippi) -- are still on the board at 17.

[SlingshotBandit]

Damn giants cant get anyone until the 3rd round

Damn, Cowboys! They couldn't beat the Giants to help the Chargers get the 7-8th seed in the draft. :)

[gmal2003]

Unfortunately for the Lions, there isnt a standout safety like Sean Taylor available this year as that is the biggest need for the Lions.

Besides that the Leo's are in desperate of the following.
1. Offensive guard
2. Cornerback
3. Defensive end
4. Tight End
5. Offensive Tackle

I see them taking Rolle if he's still there. Depending on if they resign either of their starting tackles they might go that way too. Derrick Johnson or a standout DE might be drafted 1st as well. They might go for Ernest Shazor (Safety) in the 2nd.

[wildcatlh]

I've been thinking that with the development of Willis McGahee in Buffalo, Miami has a decent shot at landing Travis Henry. Henry's only got one more year left on his contract, and I wouldn't be surprized to see the Bills try to move him.

That's been talked about, but I doubt it. Doubt some that the Dolphins would give up the #2 pick for him, and doubt more that Buffalo would trade him in-division.

[Jericho]

Well it means jack squat, but as a Redskins fan it looks like they'll be going either DL or WR. Both positions appear to be plentiful at the #9 pick. They obvioiusy aren't going RB and I doubt they go QB with Ramsey still there. Although I've always been aprtial to Antrel Rolle myself.

[Red Dog]

Well it means jack squat, but as a Redskins fan it looks like they'll be going either DL or WR. Both positions appear to be plentiful at the #9 pick. They obvioiusy aren't going RB and I doubt they go QB with Ramsey still there. Although I've always been aprtial to Antrel Rolle myself.


I'd rather see them go OT myself and get rid of the overpaid Samuels. Of course, the cap hit would be ugly but sometimes you just have to bite the bullet. DL would be fine too - you can never have too many good DLs.

[LorenzoL]

I want Mike Williams in a Bears uniform next year. Are you listening Jerry Angelo?

[Preacher]

1 San Francisco 49ers 2-14
2 Cleveland Browns 4-12
3 Miami Dolphins 4-12
4 Tampa Bay Buccaneers 5-11
5 Oakland Raiders 5-11
6 Tennessee Titans 5-11
7 Chicago Bears 5-11
8 Dallas Cowboys 6-10
9 Detroit Lions 6-10
10 Washington Redskins 6-10
11 Arizona Cardinals 6-10
12* San Diego Chargers 12-4
13 Carolina Panthers 7-9
14 Kansas City Chiefs 7-9
15 Houston Texans 7-9
16 Minnesota Vikings 8-8
17 St. Louis Rams 8-8
18 New Orleans Saints 8-8
19 Cincinnati Bengals 8-8
20 Seattle Seahawks 9-7
21* Dallas Cowboys 6-10
22 Jacksonville Jaguars 9-7
23 Baltimore Ravens 9-7

As hard as this is to say, being a 'Bama fan. The Cowboys should just draft Carlos Rogers. Please just fucking draft him if he is there. Jerry are you reading this? Just fucking draft him.

Thank you.

[Preacher]

My list appears a bit off. Lost the one that said SOS next to it. I think we are 11th for our first pick.

[wildcatlh]

My list appears a bit off. Lost the one that said SOS next to it. I think we are 11th for our first pick.

According to ESPN.com:

1. San Francisco
2. Miami
3. Cleveland
4. Chicago
5. Tampa Bay
6. Tennessee
7. Oakland
8. Arizona
9. Washington
10. Detroit
11. Dallas
12. San Diego (from Giants)
13. Houston
14. Carolina
15. KC
16. New Orleans
17. Cincinnati
18. Minnesota*
19. St. Louis*
20. Dallas (from Buffalo)
21. Jacksonville
22. Baltimore
23. Seattle
24. Green Bay
25. Denver
26. NY Jets
27. Atlanta
28. San Diego
29. Indianapolis
30. Philadelphia
31. New England
32. Pittsburgh

[LorenzoL]

The Bears are in a sweet spot to pick someone significant in the draft.

[cleaver]

According to ESPN.com:

1. San Francisco
2. Miami
3. Cleveland
4. Chicago
5. Tampa Bay
6. Tennessee
7. Oakland
8. Arizona
9. Washington
10. Detroit
11. Dallas
12. San Diego (from Giants)
13. Houston
14. Carolina
15. KC
16. New Orleans
17. Cincinnati
18. Minnesota*
19. St. Louis*
20. Dallas (from Buffalo)
21. Jacksonville
22. Baltimore
23. Seattle
24. Green Bay
25. Denver
26. NY Jets
27. Atlanta
28. San Diego
29. Indianapolis
30. Philadelphia
31. New England
32. Pittsburgh


Thats'w wrong, Jacksonville, Baltimore, and Dallas will pick ahead of Minnesota and St. Louis because they missed the playoffs.

[brizz]

Unfortunately for the Lions, there isnt a standout safety like Sean Taylor available this year as that is the biggest need for the Lions.

Besides that the Leo's are in desperate of the following.
1. Offensive guard
2. Cornerback
3. Defensive end
4. Tight End
5. Offensive Tackle

I see them taking Rolle if he's still there. Depending on if they resign either of their starting tackles they might go that way too. Derrick Johnson or a standout DE might be drafted 1st as well. They might go for Ernest Shazor (Safety) in the 2nd.
The more I read about this Rolle kid, the more content I think i'd be with taking him. If he's not available, however, I hope they trade down and pick up another second rounder....take the S Davis, then Baas from MI and Alex Smith - the TE from Stanford. and on the second day, i'm hoping the Lions are the team that takes a chance on Adrian McPherson - he could be the Randy Moss of this draft.

[LorenzoL]

Hopefully the Bears won't do something stupid and trade down. Mike Williams should be there for the taking.

Now there's rumours that the Bears might be willing to take Rodgers or Leisnart if they are available at the number four pick.

[wildcatlh]

Thats'w wrong, Jacksonville, Baltimore, and Dallas will pick ahead of Minnesota and St. Louis because they missed the playoffs.

You're wrong, according to the NFL's own official site.

http://www.nfl.com/news/story/8063536

[Preacher]

You're wrong, according to the NFL's own official site.

http://www.nfl.com/news/story/8063536His logic is right though. The playoff teams should all pick after. The site looks wrong.

[wildcatlh]

The rule is that within a tied segment, non-playoff teams have priority over playoff teams. But overall, it goes on straight order by a team's record.

[Preacher]

The rule is that within a tied segment, non-playoff teams have priority over playoff teams. But overall, it goes on straight order by a team's record.
It is playoff teams that are last. Irregardless of record. And the order of how far you go determines where you place. The rest of the places are determined by SOS (Strength of Schedule) which I used to have but misplaced.

[brizz]

It is playoff teams that are last. Irregardless of record.

ARGH!! how I hate the use of that non-word!!

;)

[Preacher]

:lol:

[wildcatlh]

It is playoff teams that are last. Irregardless of record. And the order of how far you go determines where you place. The rest of the places are determined by SOS (Strength of Schedule) which I used to have but misplaced.

So you know this better than the NFL in their official draft press release, do ya? :)

[lwhy?]

Does anyone know where there is a site that the has a list of those players who declare early for the draft?

[twikoff]

Ill go out on a limb and predict the falcons wont lose this weekend, regardless how overrated people say vick is

;)

[twikoff]

Does anyone know where there is a site that the has a list of those players who declare early for the draft?

ohhh.. someone posted a sweet one last year

if had standard php news type front page..

up until the draft, i believe it listed every player as they declared.. and whether it was confirmed or not

then they did draft tracking

and after the draft.. they did constant updates of the player signings as they came in with the contract amounts, and again confirmed or not..

too bad i forgot to bookmark :blush:

[cleaver]

So you know this better than the NFL in their official draft press release, do ya? :)

Apparently I do.

[LorenzoL]

Utah QB entering NFL draft

SALT LAKE CITY (AP) — Quarterback Alex Smith will skip his senior year to enter the NFL draft after leading Utah to a 12-0 record and a Fiesta Bowl victory this season.

Smith announced his decision Tuesday, three days after completing 29 of 37 passes for 328 yards and four touchdowns in a 35-7 bowl win against Pittsburgh.

He went 21-1 overall as Utah's starting quarterback and finished fourth in the Heisman Trophy voting this season. The Utes' first finalist for college football's top individual award, he also was a second-team AP All-American.

Smith completed 214 of 317 passes for 2,952 yards this season, with 32 touchdowns and four interceptions.

Smith's college coach, Urban Meyer, is leaving Utah for Florida.

[brizz]

Does anyone know where there is a site that the has a list of those players who declare early for the draft?

This is the best draft report site I know of: http://www.gbnreport.com/

[LorenzoL]

This is the best draft report site I know of: http://www.gbnreport.com/

Thanks for posting the link.

[lwhy?]

This is the best draft report site I know of: http://www.gbnreport.com/
Thanks for the link!!

[LorenzoL]

We'll find out on January 15th of who's staying or leaving school.

[lwhy?]

We'll find out on January 15th of who's staying or leaving school.
Is that the cut off day?

[LorenzoL]

Is that the cut off day?

Yes.

[wildcatlh]

Jan 15: Last date to declare
Jan 19: Last date to change your mind and un-declare

[lwhy?]

Sweet thanks!!

[LorenzoL]

DECISION TIME NEARS

There are still five days before eligible underclassmen must make their 2005 NFL draft intentions final on Jan. 15. The list already has reached 29 and seems to be growing rapidly. Of the underclassmen still on the fence, USC QB Matt Leinart's decision is the most highly anticipated. From what we've been told from those close to the situation, Leinart is taking this time with his family to mull over all the information that he has received from the NFL's special advisory committee, various NFL coaches and scouts, and his existing coaches at USC.

Rumors of the 49ers' interest in Pete Carroll as their next head coach could play a big factor in the outcome, as Leinart has a close relationship with his head coach. All indications point toward Carroll's return to USC, but the potential of Carroll changing his mind could factor into Leinart's decision. As much as Leinart is enjoying his experience at USC and his potential to do what no other quarterback has done before by winning at least a share of three national championships at the collegiate level, when he looks at the money that will be on the table as a potential top-10 selection in the upcoming draft, it will be awfully difficult to pass up.

Another highly anticipated decision was that of Virginia ILB Ahmad Brooks, who reportedly has decided to stay in school. Brooks likely would have been a top-10 draft pick, but it seems that his business in Charlottesville is not done. TE Heath Miller still is expected to make the leap to the NFL, but Brooks, OLB Darryl Blackstock and OT D'Brickashaw Ferguson are all planning on returning, making head coach Al Groh a happy man and the Cavaliers a potential preseason top-10 program.

In what came as a bit of a surprise, Boston College DE Mathias Kiwanuka elected to return to school for his final season of eligibility instead of making the leap to the NFL. In my opinion, Kiwanuka would have been a top-20 selection in the upcoming draft. While he did leave an awful lot of money on the table and is taking a risk by returning to school because of the potential for injury, Kiwanuka still is somewhat of an unpolished prospect with the potential to improve his bulk, strength, technique and overall value with another full year leading up to the 2006 draft. If he continues to make strides in those areas, Kiwanuka could be a top-five selection in 2006.

Miami's Antrel Rolle leads the list of corners available for the NFL draft. Thanks to a plethora of underclassmen taking the early plunge to the NFL, the cornerback position has become one of the strongest in the 2005 draft class. The senior class already boasted six potential first- and second-round draft prospects in Antrel Rolle(Miami-FL), Carlos Rogers (Auburn), Corey Webster (LSU), Eric Green (Virginia Tech), Marlin Jackson (Michigan) and Bryant McFadden (Florida State).

Now that underclassmen <b>Adam Jones</b> (West Virginia), <b>Justin Miller</b> (Clemson), <b>Brandon Browner</b> (Oregon State), <b>Jason Allen</b> (Tennessee) and <b>Fabian Washington</b> (Nebraska) have made themselves eligible for the upcoming draft there could be as many as 11 cornerbacks selected in the top two rounds. In comparison, there were nine cornerbacks taken in the first two rounds of the 2004 draft and eight in 2003.

Michigan SS <b>Ernest Shazor</b> recently made the decision to enter this year's draft. The 6-3, 225-pound collegiate strong safety has signed with an agent and is currently figuring out where he will do his pre-combine training. The interesting thing to follow between now and February's combine is whether Shazor elects to add some bulk and strength in order to test out as a "WLB" prospect much like former Michigan safety and current Colts' OLB Cato June, or will he work to take off weight and improve his 4.6 speed to better test out as a safety? Either way, Shazor projects as a second- or third-round draft pick with some versatility and a lot of potential as a special teams contributor early in his NFL career.

Despite the urgings of those who want him to return for another year at the collegiate level, Miami RB <b>Frank Gore</b> has elected to make himself available for the upcoming NFL draft. Gore certainly improved his stock by staying healthy and rushing for 945 yards on 197 carries in 2004, but after consecutive season-ending knee injuries (2002-'03) it would have been to his advantage to return for another season with the Hurricanes.

Not only would it have given Gore the chance to prove that his knees were capable of holding up for the long-term, but the extra year would also have given him a chance to improve the burst and cutting ability that was clearly missing this past season following the two major knee injuries. Regardless, Gore already has made his decision public and, even if he passes his physicals and works out extremely well in the postseason, I expect he will come off the board no higher than the fourth round.

Over the course of the last week there have been several other surprise additions to the underclassmen draft-eligible list, including Gore's teammate WR <b>Roscoe Parrish</b>, Missouri RB <b>Damien Nash</b>, Louisville RB <b>Eric Shelton</b>, Oklahoma State RB <b>Vernand Morency</b> and Louisiana Tech RB <b>Ryan Moats</b>.

Another prospect that I hear is leaning toward entering the 2005 draft is Nebraska DT <b>Le Kevin Smith</b>. While Smith would be best suited to return for his senior season in 2005, the move would make some sense considering his upside as an athletic and quick 310-pounder in what is shaping up as a weak defensive tackle class.

[CRM114]

No draft thread? Geez, 6 days away people!

Anyway, the Eagles have 5 picks in the first 94. Time to reload. Here's a bit from ESPN.com that sounds good to me!

"It seems like the absolute right time for a team like the Philadelphia Eagles to have five picks in the top 94 and 13 draft selections overall. Last year, the Eagles sent QB A.J. Feeley to Miami for this year's 35th pick; G John Welbourn to Kansas City for the 77th pick; WR James Thrash to Washington for the 146th selection; and finally, [they were awarded] four compensatory picks for the free-agency loss of Marco Coleman, Carlos Emmons, Duce Staley, Bobby Taylor, Troy Vincent and Bobbie Williams. They can't trade selections 172, 211, 247 or 252 because those are the compensatory picks. But they can bundle up the other nine picks any way they want, and in this draft, they are capable of moving down as well as moving up to collect extra picks for next year.


"It's going to be tough on NFC opponents to watch the Eagles move freely up and down in the draft with all that firepower they have. Or they can just sit there and make their selections at 31, 35, 63, 77 and 94 before Saturday's drafting is done. Philadelphia's selections will cost much less [to sign] than the picks in the 'Sweet 16' [at the top of the first round]. And from the look of things, if they stay with those choices, they might be just as good.''

Also, the Eagles seem to be interested in the Bills' Travis Henry. Is this dude any good? Seems he was a year ago and the Bills lost interest.

[chrisih8u]

Continuing a whirlwind flurry of wheeling-and-dealing, the Oakland Raiders on Wednesday evening achieved their goal of securing a first-round draft choice, by trading veteran tight end Doug Jolley to the New York Jets.


In exchange for Jolley, who started 26 games in three seasons, the Raiders received the Jets' first-round choice, the 26th pick overall. Oakland had been without a first-rounder, having traded it to Minnesota as part of the