Author: viyer.tsn

When it comes to defensive prospects in the 2010 draft class, disruptive tackles Ndamukong Suh and Gerald McCoy have dominated the conversation. Both have the power and quickness and get to the quarterback, but most sacks some off the edge. A look at a quartet of elite pass rushers available outside of the top five:

South Florida’s Jason Pierre-Paul could become the next ‘Freak’ of the NFL.

The freakish athlete

Jason Pierre-Paul, South Florida. Remember when Jevon Kearse burst on the scene in 1999 as "The Freak" with 14.5 sacks as a rookie? More than a decade later, here’s a potential sequel. Many draft analysts, including former Cowboys general manager Gil Brandt, see Pierre-Paul as a high-risk, high-reward prospect with the raw speed to become a premium pass rusher.

"At the Combine, he was unbelievable as far as first-step quickness," Brandt said.

NFL comparison: Calvin Pace, Jets. Pace came into the league as exceptional athlete, and once he moved to outside linebacker where he could use his speed in more open field, he developed into a solid pass rusher. Pierre-Paul might need to start as a third-down specialist until he refines the other part of his game, but he can have an immediate impact in that role. He might, like Pace, have his best success in an aggressive 3-4 scheme.

Draft projection: Tennessee Titans (No. 16). They drafted Kearse, and he helped them get to a Super Bowl right away. Now they need pass-rush help right away in the wake of losing defensive end Kyle Vanden Bosch as a free agent. Coach Jeff Fisher, like the Jets’ Rex Ryan, comes with the Buddy Ryan attack mentality, and he would put a speedster such as Pierre-Paul in the right position to succeed off the edge.

Michigan Brandon Graham could wind up moving off the end in the NFL.

The undersized overachiever

Brandon Graham, Michigan. He was a productive end in college but doesn’t quite have the ideal frame (6-1 3/8, 268) to play that position as a pro. He might fit best as an outside linebacker in a 3-4 scheme, a la the Broncos’ Elvis Dumervil, who led the NFL with 17 sacks last year.

Losing some weight the past few years has made Graham a sleeker defender. "My body is in the best shape now, and it’s allowed me to play faster," Graham said.

NFL comparison: LaMarr Woodley, Steelers. It’s not just that, like Woodley, Graham is a Wolverine. Graham credits much of his growth as a pass rusher to learning from Woodley early in his career at Michigan, and some, including Brandt, think Graham can be better than Woodley, who has 25 sacks over the past two seasons. Like Woodley, Graham would benefit greatly by lining up opposite a pass rusher as dangerous as James Harrison.

Draft projection: Seattle Seahawks (No. 14). Seattle isn’t a 3-4 team, but it already has one promising young pass rusher in Lawrence Jackson. Jackson figures to be more productive in reuniting with his college coach, Pete Carroll, and Graham would be a nice complement on the other side. Darryl Tapp was traded to the Eagles, and Patrick Kerney is retiring. The Seahawks need more youth at end, and it would keep Graham from making a position transition.

Sergio Kindle would be a good fit for the Bills’ new 3-4 defensive scheme.

The explosive swingman

Sergio Kindle, Texas. Kindle comes equipped with the quickness to have an immediate impact as a rush linebacker who also can make big plays all over the field. Kindle should follow nicely in the footsteps of former Longhorn Brian Orakpo.

"(Kindle) can play with his hand on the ground and also jump into space," Brandt said.

NFL comparison: Brian Cushing, Texans. One word could best describe what Cushing was for Houston as a rookie: disruptive. He proved what he could do with five sacks, 134 total tackles, four interceptions and two forced fumbles. Kindle comes into the league with a little more bulk than Cushing, a little less than Orakpo. Kindle figures to be a frequent pass rusher from the left, or strong (tight end) side.

Draft projection: Buffalo Bills (No. 9). Buffalo couldn’t resist the 3-4 trend that has taken over every other team in the AFC East. The Patriots, Jets and Dolphins all have success with the scheme, and now the Bills are trying to put the pieces together for their version. Kindle would be a nice start.

Derrick Morgan might be the most well-rounded pass rusher in the draft.

The complete package

Derrick Morgan, Georgia Tech. For teams looking for the prototypical pass-rushing 4-3 end who also is a force against the run, Morgan is their man. He might not be the flashiest off the edge, but his game has the fewest holes. That has allowed him to shoot up draft boards. "I just feel like I’m the most complete and consistent defensive end," Morgan said.

NFL comparison: Julius Peppers, Bears. Morgan (6-3, 266) gives up considerable size to Peppers (6-7, 283) but they are similar players in that they’re well-rounded. The team that drafts Morgan can expect to have a durable end on whom it can rely for years.

Draft projection: Jacksonville Jaguars (No. 10). For some reason, the Jags have had trouble hitting on pass-rushing ends. First-round picks Derrick Harvey and Quentin Groves come to mind as recent disappointments.

Jacksonville is trying to change that, without changing to a 3-4 look. The first step was landing a hard-working veteran, former Packer Aaron Kampman. Kampman is happy going back to end, and Morgan would maximize his skills staying at end.

Vinnie Iyer is a writer for Sporting News. E-mail him at viyer@sportingnews.com.

The past two NFL drafts have produced several dynamic running backs who quickly became some of the league’s top playmakers. Good news for teams that still haven’t hit on the right backfield combination: The 2010 class has its share of similar athletes.

Of this deep and talented pool of running backs, here is a quick look at the five most intriguing prospects, based on their immediate-impact potential, versatility and how much interest they are bound to draw from playoff-caliber teams:

C.J. Spiller, Clemson

What he offers: He is a highlight-reel player who can score on any touch. He is the rare back who runs below 4.4 in the 40. Former Cowboys G.M. Gil Brandt, now a draft analyst for NFL.com, likes the fact Spiller is both fast and strong. "He really creates mismatches because of his speed," Brandt said.

Best fit: San Francisco 49ers. The Niners already have gifted athletes around QB Alex Smith and running back Frank Gore, namely tight end Vernon Davis and wide receiver Michael Crabtree. They still, however, are missing that special oomph. Spiller’s speed would work nicely in relief of Gore, and his open-field skills would be a major upgrade in the return game. He should be considered with the either the 13th or 17th pick, both held by San Francisco.

Ryan Mathews, Fresno State

Many teams will covet the between-the-tackles running of Ryan Mathews.

What he offers: Mathews was wise to enter the ’10 draft because he is the most durable between-the-tackles power runner, better than the more popular Jonathan Dwyer of Georgia Tech and Toby Gerhart of Stanford.

Best fit: Houston Texans. The Team had trouble keeping backs healthy last season and never found someone to deliver in goal-line and short-yardage situations. Mathews is the ideal finisher to complement the Texans’ prolific passing offense, and there is a great chance he will be available at No. 20. He could become an instant star in Houston. "Their offensive line is a little bit better than people think," Brandt said.

Jahvid Best, Cal

What he offers: For those teams who can’t afford to use a first-round pick on Spiller, Best comes with similar skills. "He’s a game-changer type," said an AFC team scout who likes Best’s potential second-round value and variety of roles he can fill. "It’s getting three players in one because he is a good punt and kick returner."

Best fit: Green Bay Packers. He could provide the big-play pop the Packers’ running game has lacked. QB Aaron Rodgers could use another cog on third downs, and Best also would provide a much-needed spark on special teams. Green Bay should hope to take him with No. 56-overall pick.

Dexter McCluster, Ole Miss

What he offers: McCluster — a little bit running back and a little bit wide receiver — has a lot of explosiveness packed into his 5-8 3/4, 178-pound frame. Previously, his lack of size might cause teams to shy away but now can fill a niche role. "He has outstanding quickness and football instincts," the scout said. "He’s a great receiver and change of pace."

Best fit: Atlanta Falcons. McCluster is cut from the Darren Sproles and Percy Harvin mold, and the Falcons need that kind of open-field threat — especially on the fast track of the Georgia Dome — to elevate their promising offense. McCluster can do plenty with 10-12 touches as a complement to Michael Turner, lining up in the slot in multi-receiver sets and returning punts and kicks. The middle of the third round, at No. 83, seems right.

Joe McKnight, Southern Cal

What he offers: McKnight got plenty of attention going into USC as a top recruit, and because the Trojans were so loaded in the backfield he never quite lived up to the potential of being "the next Reggie Bush." In a pro offense with a strong supporting cast, he has the speed to fulfill his potential.

Best fit: San Diego Chargers. There’s no reason for an established playoff team such as San Diego to reach for a back in the first round, when it has equal needs on the defensive line — which are tougher to meet later. The Chargers happen to have a pretty good option in their backyard who be a steal. McKnight is likely to be around when they pick in the third round, at No. 91.

Vinnie Iyer is a writer for Sporting News. E-mail him at viyer@sportingnews.com.

A look back at the best and worst picks of the draft six years ago:

Steals

Willie Parker, RB, North Carolina
Steelers: Undrafted
Parker, who signed with the Redskins last week after six mostly productive years in Pittsburgh, was a real find for the Steelers in ’04 because he wasn’t even a starter in college. "Fast" Willie made a quick splash as the most explosive big-play back in Steelers history. His record 75-yard TD run in Super Bowl 40 helped them earn their fifth ring.

Wes Welker, WR, Texas Tech
Chargers: Undrafted
He has become the poster boy for the undersized, underrated receiver. After being cut by the Chargers early in his rookie year, he was picked up by Miami. He got on the field first as a special teams marvel, and his trade to New England in 2007 allowed him to become a superstar possession/slot receiver. In his three years as a frequent pass-catching Patriot, Welker tallied a ridiculous 346 receptions.

Michael Turner, RB, Northern Illinois
Chargers: Round 5, Pick 154
After sliding in the draft because of his small-school background, Turner is another San Diego steal who ended up helping another team. Once the ultimate backup to LaDainian Tomlinson, Turner emerged as a spinoff hit after signing with Atlanta two years ago. Following an injury-hampered 2009, he will return as the Falcons’ workhorse this season.

Jared Allen, DE, Idaho State
Chiefs: Round 4, Pick 126
Big Sky country isn’t known for being a pass-rusher factory, but Allen exploded for nine sacks as a rookie. In 2008, the Vikings were able to acquire him after whiffing on ends Kenechi Udeze and Darrion Scott, both taken before Allen in the 2004 draft.

Matt Schaub, QB, Virginia
Falcons: Round 3, Pick 90
The ’04 quarterback class is known for the Big 3—Eli Manning, Philip Rivers and Ben Roethlisberger—but Schaub may be on the verge of joining that elite group. He did enough as a Falcons backup to impress the Texans, who acquired him in 2007. He broke though in 2009 as the league leader in passing yardage.

Stinkers

Robert Gallery, OT, Iowa
Raiders: Round 1, Pick 2
A change in positions—first to right tackle and then to guard—has allowed Gallery to have a decent career and kept him from being a complete washout. But considering he was supposed to be a franchise left tackle, he has been a major disappointment.

Reggie Williams, WR, Washington
Jaguars: Round 1, Pick 9
After Larry Fitzgerald (No. 3) and Roy Williams (No. 7) were selected, the ’04 wide receiver class didn’t offer much. Although Reggie Williams’ five-year stint in Jacksonville came with a high of a 10 touchdowns in ’07, it was overall filled with lows and further marred by off-field incidents.
 
J.P. Losman, QB, Tulane
Bills: Round 1, Pick 22
The Bills were in a tough position after Manning, Rivers and Roethlisberger were selected in the first 11 picks. They took a chance on Losman, who didn’t have the credentials of the others but had promising arm strength and athleticism. Unfortunately, concerns about a questionable work ethic came to fruition.

Ahmad Carroll, CB, Arkansas
Packers: Round 1, Pick 25
Carroll flashed the athleticism and big-play ability to become a great corner. However, major coverage lapses and a penchant for penalties irritated the Packers’ coaches, and he was released in the middle of the ’06 season.

Rashaun Woods, WR, Oklahoma State
49ers: Round 1, Pick 31
Did we mention this draft wasn’t very good for wideouts? Woods was the quickest flameout, making only seven receptions for San Francisco as a rookie before losing ’05 to injuries. In 2006, Woods was traded for Chargers cornerback Sammy Davis, another first-round bust.

First Round

1. San Diego–Eli Manning, QB, Mississippi
2. Oakland–Robert Gallery, OT, Iowa
3. Arizona–Larry Fitzgerald, WR, Pittsburgh
4. N.Y. Giants–Philip Rivers, QB, North Carolina State
5. Washington–Sean Taylor, S, Miami (Fla.)
6. Cleveland–Kellen Winslow, TE, Miami (Fla.)
7. Detroit–Roy Williams, WR, Texas
8. Atlanta–DeAngelo Hall, CB, Virginia Tech
9. Jacksonville–Reggie Williams, WR, Washington
10. Houston–Dunta Robinson, CB, South Carolina
11. Pittsburgh–Ben Roethlisberger, QB, Miami (Ohio)
12. N.Y. Jets–Jonathan Vilma, LB, Miami (Fla.)
13. Buffalo–Lee Evans, WR, Wisconsin
14. Chicago–Tommie Harris, DT, Oklahoma
15. Tampa Bay–Michael Clayton, WR, LSU
16. Philadelphia–Shawn Andrews, OT, Arkansas
17. Denver–D.J. Williams, LB, Miami (Fla.)
18. New Orleans–Will Smith, DE, Ohio State
19. Miami–Vernon Carey, OL, Miami (Fla.)
20. Minnesota–Kenechi Udeze, DE, USC
21. New England–Vince Wilfork, DT, Miami (Fla.)
22. Buffalo–J.P. Losman, QB, Tulane
23. Seattle–Marcus Tubbs, DT, Texas
24. St. Louis–Steven Jackson, RB, Oregon State
25. Green Bay–Ahmad Carroll, CB, Arkansas
26. Cincinnati–Chris Perry, RB, Michigan
27. Houston–Jason Babin, DE, Western Michigan
28. Carolina–Chris Gamble, CB, Ohio State
29. Atlanta–Michael Jenkins, WR, Ohio State
30. Detroit–Kevin Jones, RB, Virginia Tech
31. San Francisco–Rashaun Woods, WR, Oklahoma State
32. New England–Benjamin Watson, TE, Georgia

Second Round

33. Arizona–Karlos Dansby, LB, Auburn
34. N.Y. Giants–Chris Snee, OL, Boston College
35. San Diego–Igor Olshansky, DT, Oregon
36. Kansas City–Junior Siavii, DT, Oregon
37. Detroit–Teddy Lehman, LB, Oklahoma
38. Pittsburgh–Ricardo Colclough, CB, Tusculum
39. Jacksonville–Daryl Smith, LB, Georgia Tech
40. Tennessee–Ben Troupe, TE, Florida
41. Denver–Tatum Bell, RB, Oklahoma State
42. Tennessee–Travis LaBoy, DE, Hawaii
43. Dallas–Julius Jones, RB, Notre Dame
44. Indianapolis–Bob Sanders, S, Iowa
45. Oakland–Jake Grove, C, Virginia Tech
46. San Francisco–Justin Smiley, G, Alabama
47. Chicago –Tank Johnson, DT, Washington
48. Minnesota–Dontarrious Thomas, LB, Auburn
49. Cincinnati–Keiwan Ratliff, CB, Florida
50. New Orleans–Devery Henderson, WR, LSU
51. Baltimore–Dwan Edwards, DT, Oregon State
52. Dallas–Jacob Rogers, OT, USC
53. Seattle–Michael Boulware, S, Florida State
54. Denver–Darius Watts, WR, Marshall
55. Jacksonville–Greg Jones, FB, Florida State
56. Cincinnati–Madieu Williams, S, Maryland
57. Tennessee–Antwan Odom, DE, Alabama
58. San Francisco–Shawntae Spencer, CB, Pittsburgh
59. Cleveland–Sean Jones, S, Georgia
60. New Orleans–Courtney Watson, LB, Notre Dame
61. Kansas City–Kris Wilson, TE, Pittsburgh
62. Carolina–Keary Colbert, WR, USC
63. New England–Marquise Hill, DE, LSU

A look back at the best and worst picks of the draft a dozen years ago:

Steals

Randy Moss made the 20 teams that passed on him in 1998 pay for it.

Randy Moss, WR, Marshall
Vikings: Round 1, Pick 21

Despite starring as a touchdown machine for the Thundering Herd and having the talent to dominate in the NFL — as he’s since proved — Moss’ checkered past off the field rose a red flag for newly character-concerned teams, including Dallas. Minnesota’s gain was immediate, as Moss exploded as a rookie for the then highest-scoring offense in NFL history, until his record-breaking ’07 with New England.

London Fletcher, LB, John Carroll
Rams: Undrafted

So much for coming out of a small school with a small frame (5-10, 245) — his big heart became apparent in his second season as a young leader for the Super Bowl 34 champions. He has remained one of the league’s steadiest middle linebackers over the past decade, while racking up tackles and big plays for St. Louis, Buffalo and Washington.

Jeff Saturday, C, North Carolina
Colts: Undrafted

When Indianapolis drafted Peyton Manning first overall in ’98, it needed someone with the same football acumen to snap the ball to him, block right in front of him and make the line calls. Even though Saturday never heard his name called, it’s hard to imagine anyone else in that role.

Hines Ward, WR, Georgia
Steelers: Round 3, Pick 92

He turned out to be the ultimate Pittsburgh pick: a versatile skill player with great physical and mental toughness. The Steelers were able to get Ward after wide receivers such as Brian Alford, E.G. Green, Jammi German and Larry Shannon went ahead of him in the round.

Matt Hasselbeck, QB, Boston College
Packers: Round 6, Pick 187

Mike Holmgren showed that he had a good eye to find a sleeper quarterback who fit his offense and would be a fine young backup for Brett Favre. Three years later, Holmgren would acquire Hasselbeck in Seattle, and in 2005-06 the coach and quarterback led the Seahawks to Super Bowl 40.

Ryan Leaf, the No. 2 pick by the Chargers in 1998, is the quintessential draft bust.

Stinkers

Ryan Leaf, QB, Washington State
Chargers: Round 1, Pick 2

Few other players have become synonymous with the word "bust." Think of the outstanding career that Peyton Manning has had as the NFL’s white knight. In contrast, what happened to Leaf both on and off the field is a black hole.

Andre Wadsworth, DE, Florida State
Cardinals: Round 1, Pick 3

This is the kind of draft pick the once-lowly Cards would consistently make. Just like that, Wadsworth went from a surefire dominant pass rusher to a messy holdout and a career quickly cut short by knee injuries.

Curtis Enis, RB, Penn State
Bears: Round 1, Pick 5

Three years earlier it was Rashaan Salaam, and seven years later it was Cedric Benson, but this is the Bears’ biggest backfield whiff. Enis put in three years of unimpressive production before deciding to retire because of knee woes in 2001.

Jason Peter, DT, Nebraska
Panthers: Round 1, Pick 14

Peter had a good start to his NFL career, but because of neck and shoulder problems, it ended after four years. Unfortunately, while battling injuries, he became dependent on painkillers and needed to eventually fight back from crack and heroin addictions.

Marcus Nash, WR, Tennessee
Broncos: Round 1, Pick 30

For Denver, Nash caught only four passes before being traded for the player drafted just ahead of him, Dolphins running back John Avery. He didn’t end up playing for Miami, but he found a home in the XFL before becoming a bona fide star in the Arena Football League.

Vinnie Iyer is a writer for Sporting News. E-mail him at viyer@sportingnews.com.

Donovan McNabb made his first career NFL start against the Washington Redskins as a rookie. His next start will be for that very team, nearly 11 years later.

McNabb also was just named to his sixth Pro Bowl since the Eagles drafted him in 1999. That year also marked the last time the Redskins had an all-star passer: Brad Johnson.

Mike Shanahan has a proven vet at quarterback to trigger his offense.

The Raiders had hoped to grab McNabb and change the face of their franchise. Instead, it’s Washington who got the upgrade from Jason Campbell to return to the "QB haves" in the ultra-competitive NFC East.

"He brings instant credibility to a locker room," said form Raiders QB Rich Gannon, now a CBS analyst. "He comes with leadership, toughness and experience."

McNabb will be instrumental as a leader for coach Mike Shanahan’s new offense in Washington. The Redskins have some promising young receivers—Malcolm Kelly, Devin Thomas, Fred Davis—who need grooming. Shanahan’s priority in the draft will be rebuilding the line, such as finding a franchise left tackle.

The age on that side of the ball is at the wrong position, as Clinton Portis, Larry Johnson and Willie Parker now crowd the backfield.
 
The least of the challenges will be McNabb grasping the scheme. Shanahan, like Eagles coach Andy Reid, adheres to the West Coast principles of a rhythmic, quick-release passing game, and McNabb’s combination of arm strength and mobility fit the mold.

"I’m eager to work with coach Shanahan," McNabb said in a statement Sunday night. "He’s been a very successful coach with a couple of Super Bowl victories on his resume."

There will be plenty of familiarity for McNabb, not just in how the offense will be run, but also from continuing to play in the high-pressure NFC East. He already is used to dueling with Eli Manning and Tony Romo twice a season and has had a decade to examine the intricacies of the Eagles’ attacking defense.

The Redskins finished 26th in scoring offense last season. They needed an immediate spark, and in the Daniel Snyder era of splashy acquisitions, getting a big-name vet such as McNabb is the norm. Washington is in a win-now situation, thanks to a demanding fan base and even more demanding division where the Giants, Eagles and Cowboys all have had great success in the past half-decade.

After whiffing on most of their previous big moves, which arguably includes breaking the bank to sign defensive tackle Albert Haynesworth last offseason, the Redskins are on to something with the McNabb-Shanahan combination.

"Donovan knows how to win football games," said former Eagles quarterback and ESPN analyst Ron Jaworski "The Redskins’ confidence level has to be going through the roof right now."

If the goal is a quick turnaround in the modern NFL, nothing beats bringing in a smart offensive coach and an established Pro Bowl quarterback. It seemed to work well in New Orleans. 

This story appears in the April 5 edition of Sporting News Today. If you are not receiving Sporting News Today, the only sports digital daily, sign up today.

Vinnie Iyer is a writer for Sporting News. E-mail him at viyer@sportingnews.com.

A look back at the best and worst picks of the draft seven years ago:

Steals

Tony Romo, QB, Eastern Illinois
Cowboys: Undrafted

The Division I-AA star had a big fan in then-Dallas quarterbacks coach Sean Payton, an Eastern Illinois alumnus. Romo won the chance to start from Bill Parcells three years later and since has settled in as the next great Cowboys quarterback. At 29, he is just hitting his prime.

Antonio Gates, TE, Kent State
Chargers: Undrafted

The Colts (Dallas Clark, Round 1) and Cowboys (Jason Witten, Round 3) also found elite tight ends in this draft, but San Diego’s scouts had the foresight to see how Gates’ great basketball skills as a power forward would help him become the best "post-up" receiver in the NFL.

Nnamdi Asomugha, CB, Cal
Raiders: Round 1, Pick 31

It was a good draft for cornerbacks, and Asomugha was the last of five to go in the first round. He also has been the best, noting that Andre Woolfolk and Sammy Davis went right before him. Asomugha’s name was hard to pronounce on draft day, but every top receiver in the league now knows it.

Asante Samuel, CB, Central Florida
Patriots: Round 4, Pick 120

New England realized just how deep the cornerbacks ran in this draft and landed the premier ballhawk of the group. Samuel helped the Patriots reach three Super Bowls before signing as a free agent with Philadelphia two years ago. He has 35 interceptions and four touchdowns in seven seasons.

Robert Mathis, DE, Alabama A&M
Colts: Round 5, Pick 138

Thanks to team president/G.M. Bill Polian, the Colts find late-round gems year after year. In the same year, Polian also grabbed linebacker Cato June in the sixth round and signed linebacker Gary Brackett as an undrafted free agent. Mathis has been a consistent, disruptive force opposite All-Pro Dwight Freeney.

Stinkers

Charles Rogers, WR, Michigan State
Lions: Round 1, Pick 2

The Lions made many bad draft picks the past decade, including some notable ones involving wide receivers. Rogers looked like a can’t-miss prospect athletically, a la Larry Fitzgerald and future Lion Calvin Johnson, but a lack of work ethic, injuries and a history of drug abuse caused his career to fizzle fast. The Texans, sitting in the next slot, were lucky Detroit president/G.M. Matt Millen didn’t opt for Andre Johnson instead.

Johnathan Sullivan, DT, Georgia
Saints: Round 1, Pick 6

Sullivan had three ho-hum seasons in New Orleans before being shipped off to New England in a minor trade in 2006. Just like Rogers, problems stemming from marijuana caught up with Sullivan and put a quick end to his NFL career.

Dewayne Robertson, DT, Kentucky
Jets: Round 1, Pick 4

Jets officials finally moved past this whiff as the concerns have turned to whether 2008 No. 6-overall pick Vernon Gholston will meet the same fate. Although Robertson proved to be a durable starter early in his career, he never made enough big plays to justify this pick.

Michael Haynes, DE, Penn State
Bears: Round 1, Pick 14

Haynes was supposed to energize Chicago’s pass rush. Instead, despite sharing a name with a Hall of Fame cornerback, he made few plays. The highlight of his three-year NFL career was a 45-yard interception return for a touchdown.

Kwame Harris, OT, Stanford
49ers: Round 1, Pick 26

San Francisco thought it had a solid, athletic left tackle for a decade, but Harris just didn’t put it all together. He last played across the Bay in Oakland in ’08 before leaving football to pursue a career as a chef.

2003 NFL draft, First round

1. Cincinnati — Carson Palmer, QB, USC
2. Detroit — Charles Rogers, WR, Michigan St.
3. Houston — Andre Johnson, WR, Miami (Fla.)
4. N.Y. Jets — Dewayne Robertson, DT, Kentucky
5. Dallas — Terence Newman, CB, Kansas State
6. New Orleans — Johnathan Sullivan, DT, Georgia
7. Jacksonville — Byron Leftwich, QB, Marshall
8. Carolina — Jordan Gross, OT, Utah
9. Minnesota — Kevin Williams, DE, Oklahoma St.
10. Baltimore — Terrell Suggs, OLB, Arizona State
11. Seattle — Marcus Trufant, CB, Washington St.
12. St. Louis — Jimmy Kennedy, DT, Penn State
13. New England — Ty Warren, DE, Texas A&M
14. Chicago — Michael Haynes, DE, Penn State
15. Philadelphia — Jerome McDougle, DE, Miami (Fla.)
16. Pittsburgh — Troy Polamalu, DB, USC
17. Arizona — Bryant Johnson, WR, Penn State
18. Arizona — Calvin Pace, DE, Wake Forest
19. Baltimore — Kyle Boller, QB, Cal
20. Denver — George Foster, OT, Georgia
21. Cleveland — Jeff Faine, C, Notre Dame
22. Chicago — Rex Grossman, QB, Florida
23. Buffalo — Willis McGahee, RB, Miami (Fla.)
24. Indianapolis — Dallas Clark, TE, Iowa
25. N.Y. Giants — William Joseph, DT, Miami (Fla.)
26. San Francisco — Kwame Harris, OT, Stanford
27. Kansas City — Larry Johnson, RB, Penn State
28. Tennessee — Andre Woolfolk, CB, Oklahoma
29. Green Bay — Nick Barnett, MLB, Oregon State
30. San Diego — Sammy Davis, CB, Texas A&M
31. Oakland — Nnamdi Asomugha, CB, Cal
32. Oakland — Tyler Brayton, DE, Colorado

Second Round

33. Cincinnati — Eric Steinbach, G, Iowa
34. Detroit — Boss Bailey, OLB, Georgia
35. Chicago — Charles Tillman, CB, La.-Lafayette
36. New England — Eugene Wilson, S, Illinois
37. New Orleans — Jonathan Stinchcomb, OT, Georgia
38. Dallas — Al Johnson, C, Wisconsin
39. Jacksonville — Rashean Mathis, CB, Bethune-Cookman
40. Minnesota — E.J. Henderson, LB, Maryland
41. Houston — Bennie Joppru, TE, Michigan
42. Seattle — Ken Hamlin, S, Arkansas
43. St. Louis — Pisa Tinoisamoa, OLB, Hawaii
44. Washington — Taylor Jacobs, WR, Florida
45. New England — Bethel Johnson, WR, Texas A&M
46. San Diego — Drayton Florence, CB, Tuskegee
47. Kansas City — Kawika Mitchell, MLB, South Florida
48. Buffalo — Chris Kelsay, DE, Nebraska
49. Miami — Eddie Moore, LB, Tennessee
50. Carolina — Bruce Nelson, C, Iowa
51. Denver — Terry Pierce, LB, Kansas State
52. Cleveland — Chaun Thompson, LB, West Texas A&M
53. N.Y. Jets — Victor Hobson, LB, Michigan
54. Arizona — Anquan Boldin, WR, Florida State
55. Atlanta — Bryan Scott, S, Penn State
56. N.Y. Giants — Osi Umenyiora, DE, Troy
57. San Francisco — Anthony Adams, DT, Penn State
58. Indianapolis — Mike Doss, S, Ohio State
59. Pittsburgh — Alonzo Jackson, LB, Florida State
60. Tennessee — Tyrone Calico, WR, M. Tennessee St.
61. Philadelphia — L.J. Smith, TE, Rutgers
62. San Diego — Terrence Kiel, S, Texas A&M
63. Oakland — Teyo Johnson, TE, Stanford
64. Tampa Bay — Dewayne White, DE, Louisville

Vinnie Iyer is a writer for Sporting News. E-mail him at viyer@sportingnews.com.

A look back at the best and worst picks of the first draft of the previous decade:

Steals

Value personified: Tom Brady in Round 6.

Tom Brady, QB, Michigan
Patriots: Round 6, Pick 199

Let’s see, he has three Super Bowl rings, is the only man in NFL history to throw for 50 touchdowns in a single season. Quarterbacks taken ahead of Brady include Giovanni Carmazzi, Tee Martin and Spergon Wynn. New England got away with grand larceny here.

Brady on Brady before the 2000 draft: "I think my best asset as a player is that in the fourth quarter, with the game on the line, I have the desire to win and the feeling that our team is not going to lose."

Adalius Thomas, OLB, Southern Miss
Ravens: Round 6, Pick 186

Things haven’t quite worked out for Thomas with the Patriots in recent years, but before joining them, he was a two-time Pro Bowl player alongside Ray Lewis in Baltimore.

Dante Hall, WR, Texas A&M
Chiefs: Round 5, Pick 153

Hall (5-8, 187) was too undersized to hold up at his college position of running back. But with his great quickness and elusiveness, "The Human Joystick" found his niche on kickoff and punt returns and racked up 12,397 career return yards and 10 touchdowns.

Mark Tauscher, RT, Wisconsin
Packers: Round 7, Pick 224

The Packers took a flyer on the Wisconsin product, and he and Chad Clifton (Round 2, Pick 44 in 2000) started immediately as bookend tackles. Tauscher has battled injuries but has stuck with the team.

Brian Waters, G, North Texas
Chiefs: Undrafted

Throughout the decade, the four-time Pro Bowl guard was the dominant force behind Kansas City’s prolific rushing machine, paving the way for monster seasons by Priest Holmes and Larry Johnson.

Stinkers

Courtney Brown, DE, Penn State
Browns: Round 1, Pick 1

Cleveland had the misfortune of taking its namesake, who was derailed by knee injuries after his rookie season, limiting him to only 19 career sacks.

R. Jay Soward, WR, Southern Cal
Jaguars: Round 1, Pick 29

Jacksonville officials overlooked his off-field problems in taking him here, and he didn’t even make out it of training camp as a rookie, succumbing to several suspensions that stemmed from alcohol and drug abuse.

Erik Flowers, DE, Arizona State
Bills: Round 1, Pick 26

He started only six games for Buffalo before being released after only two seasons. He ended up as journeyman with five sacks over his six bad NFL years.

Ron Dayne, RB, Wisconsin
Giants: Round 1, Pick 11

Dayne came in as a Heisman winner and the NCAA’s all-time leading rusher, but the New Jersey native was best known for being "Thunder" to Tiki Barber’s "Lightning" for a few seasons before falling out of shape—and the team’s favor. He also is known as the back New York drafted instead of Shaun Alexander.

Travis Taylor, WR, Florida
Ravens: Round 1, Pick 10

Taylor was one of five wide receivers drafted in the first round, none of whom made the Pro Bowl. After five mediocre seasons in Baltimore, he bounced around, playing for five other teams before failing to find a seventh NFL home in 2009.

First round

1. Cleveland—Courtney Brown, DE, Penn State
2. Washington—LaVar Arrington, OLB, Penn State
3. Washington—Chris Samuels, OT, Alabama
4. Cincinnati—Peter Warrick, WR, Florida State
5. Baltimore—Jamal Lewis, RB, Tennessee
6. Philadelphia—Corey Simon, DT, Florida State
7. Arizona—Thomas Jones, RB, Virginia
8. Pittsburgh—Plaxico Burress, WR, Michigan State
9. Chicago—Brian Urlacher, MLB, New Mexico
10. Baltimore—Travis Taylor, WR, Florida
11. N.Y. Giants—Ron Dayne, RB, Wisconsin
12. N.Y. Jets—Shaun Ellis, DE, Tennessee
13. N.Y. Jets—John Abraham, LB, South Carolina
14. Green Bay—Bubba Franks, TE, Miami (Fla.)
15. Denver—Deltha O’Neal, CB, Cal
16. San Francisco—Julian Peterson, OLB, Michigan State
17. Oakland—Sebastian Janikowski, K, Florida State
18. N.Y. Jets—Chad Pennington, QB, Marshall
19. Seattle—Shaun Alexander, RB, Alabama
20. Detroit—Stockar McDougle, OT, Oklahoma
21. Kansas City—Sylvester Morris, WR, Jackson State
22. Seattle—Chris McIntosh, OT, Wisconsin
23. Carolina—Rashard Anderson, FS, Jackson State
24. San Francisco—Ahmed Plummer, CB, Ohio State
25. Minnesota—Chris Hovan, DT, Boston College
26. Buffalo—Erik Flowers, DE, Arizona State
27. N.Y. Jets—Anthony Becht, TE, West Virginia
28. Indianapolis—Rob Morris, LB, Brigham Young
29. Jacksonville—R.Jay Soward, WR, USC
30. Tennessee—Keith Bulluck, LB, Syracuse
31. St. Louis—Trung Canidate, RB, Arizona

Second round

32. Cleveland—Dennis Northcutt, WR, Arizona
33. New Orleans—Darren Howard, DE, Kansas State
34. Cincinnati—Mark Roman, CB, Louisiana State
35. San Francisco—John Engelberger, DE, Virginia Tech
36. Philadelphia—Todd Pinkston, WR, Southern Miss
37. Atlanta—Travis Claridge, G, USC
38. Pittsburgh—Marvel Smith, OT, Arizona State
39. Chicago—Mike Brown, FS, Nebraska
40. Denver—Ian Gold, LB, Michigan
41. Arizona—Raynoch Thompson, OLB, Tennessee
42. N.Y. Giants—Cornelius Griffin, DT, Alabama
43. San Diego—Rogers Beckett, S, Marshall
44. Green Bay—Chad Clifton, OT, Tennessee
45. Denver—Kenoy Kennedy, S, Arkansas
46. New England—Adrian Klemm, OT, Hawaii
47. Oakland—Jerry Porter, WR, West Virginia
48. San Francisco—Jason Webster, CB, Texas A&M
49. Dallas—Dwayne Goodrich, DB, Tennessee
50. Detroit—Barrett Green, LB, West Virginia
51. Tampa Bay—Cosey Coleman, G, Tennessee
52. Seattle—Ike Charlton, CB, Virginia Tech
53. Miami—Todd Wade, OT, Mississippi
54. Kansas City—William Bartee, CB, Oklahoma
55. Minnesota—Fred Robbins, DT, Wake Forest
56. Minnesota—Michael Boireau, DE, Miami (Fla.)
57. Carolina—Deon Grant, S, Tennessee
58. Buffalo—Travares Tillman, FS, Georgia Tech
59. Indianapolis—Marcus Washington, LB, Auburn
60. Jacksonville—Brad Meester, G, Northern Iowa
61. Philadelphia—Bobbie Williams, G, Arkansas
62. St. Louis—Jacoby Shepherd, DB, Oklahoma State

This story appears in the April 1 edition of Sporting News Today. If you are not receiving Sporting News Today, the only sports digital daily, sign up today.

Just because an NFL team makes a bold personnel move doesn’t mean it’s necessarily a good one. Here are the five most head-scratching decisions so far this offseason:

Did Cleveland really upgrade the position by bringing in Seneca Wallace as one of its new quarterbacks?

1. The Browns get Jake Delhomme and Seneca Wallace to replace Derek Anderson and Brady Quinn. It was evident from Day 1 on the job that president Mike Holmgren was set to exorcise the ghosts of passers past. The decision to move on without Anderson and Quinn was acceptable, but the effort to upgrade with Delhomme and Wallace, Holmgren’s former backup in Seattle, was curious.

It’s unclear whether both veterans were brought in as insurance in case the team isn’t able to land a franchise quarterback in the draft or whether they are short-term stopgaps in an optimistic attempt to be competitive.

"What Cleveland is doing at quarterback is a total mystery," NFL Network analyst Brian Baldinger said.

Even more mysterious is why Cleveland felt the need to spend $7 million on Delhomme after he was released by the Panthers—especially considering the Browns aren’t even sure he will start over Wallace.

It’s hard to see either Delhomme or Wallace helping Cleveland (5-11 last year) win more games in 2010, given the supporting cast. It will be equally interesting to see how Anderson (Cardinals) and Quinn (Broncos) play on teams that have good offensive structures in place.

BY THE NUMBERS

Anderson and Quinn combined in 2009: 11 touchdowns, 17 interceptions, 56.8 passer rating
Delhomme and Wallace combined in 2009: 11 touchdowns, 20 interceptions, 65.5 passer rating

2. The Raiders make Sebastian Janikowski the highest-paid kicker in NFL history. Oakland has had plenty of personnel turnover in the past decade, but there have been two constants: Janikowski and punter Shane Lechler. Immune to the team’s numerous problems, each has been rewarded with plenty of green to stay in Silver and Black.

A year after the Raiders made Lechler the highest-paid punter ever with a four-year, $12 million contract, Janikowski received the same distinction at his position. Janikowski still has a booming leg at 32, something he proved by drilling a 61-yarder in Cleveland in December.

But with 18 missed field-goal attempts over the past three years, he has been far from perfect. That makes investing $16 million in him over the next four years seem reckless, especially for a team with many holes.

BY THE NUMBERS

Janikowski’s 2009 rankings: Fifth in FG percentage, tied for 10th in field goals made, 19th in points scored

Thomas Jones is a better runner than his Gang Green replacement.

3. The Jets release Thomas Jones and sign LaDainian Tomlinson. In the end, the Chiefs are happy Jones became available to back up their young star, Jamaal Charles, while New York seems content to have L.T. provide relief for second-year back Shonn Greene.

Although Tomlinson has a bigger name, the Jets didn’t get a better complementary veteran than they had in Jones, a popular player on a playoff team. Tomlinson will provide a pass-catching dimension—especially if Leon Washington doesn’t re-sign—but Jones has been a much stronger runner in a similar late stage in his career.

"L.T. can’t touch the production that Jones has had the last two seasons," Baldinger said. "And Jones just keeps getting better and better."

The league’s top rushing team may have sacrificed too much production for a little more versatility.

BY THE NUMBERS

Thomas Jones: 31 years, 7 months old; 2,280 career attempts; 4.4-yard average from 2008 to 2009
LaDainian Tomlinson: 30 years, 9 months old; 2,880 career attempts; 3.6-yard average from 2008 to 2009

4. The Bengals sign Antonio Bryant instead of Terrell Owens. Proponents of this move point to the fact that Bryant just turned 29 and Owens is 36. Bryant is a great talent and showed just how good he can be when he put it all together for a stellar 2008 comeback season with the Buccaneers.

Both receivers were stuck with shaky quarterback situations last season, but Owens was the healthier, more durable and more productive receiver. Owens is at his best providing a first-year impact for a contending team, like the playoff-caliber Bengals.

With all the attention Chad Ochocinco draws, T.O. would have thrived in a T.J. Houshmandzadeh-type role and as a premier red zone target for Carson Palmer. Instead, Bryant comes in as a high-priced enigma.

BY THE NUMBERS

Antonio Bryant in 2009: 39 catches, 600 yards, four TDs
Terrell Owens in 2009: 55 catches, 829 yards, five TDs

5. Kyle Vanden Bosch signs with the Lions. There’s no doubt Detroit’s young defenders will benefit from having Vanden Bosch’s smarts, work ethic and savvy around to help them grow in coach Jim Schwartz’s scheme.Based strictly on production, however, Vanden Bosch’s contract (four years, $26 million) wasn’t a sound investment for a struggling young team that consistently plays from behind.

Vanden Bosch was a great player for Schwartz in Tennessee, but that was on a loaded defense that was often protecting leads with a relentless pass rush. He had only three sacks last season, will turn 32 in November and has a history of injuries.

BY THE NUMBERS

Lions who had more sacks than Vanden Bosch’s three in 2009: Cliff Avril, 5 1/2; Jason Hunter, 5, and Julian Peterson, 4 1/2.

This story appears in March 25’s edition of Sporting News Today. If you are not receiving Sporting News Today, the only daily digital sports newspaper, sign up today for free.

Vinnie Iyer is a writer for Sporting News. E-mail him at viyer@sportingnews.com.

It’s the hot question asked every offseason for the last decade: Will Donovan McNabb be back in Philadelphia?

Before Jay Cutler was traded to the Bears in 2009, McNabb was supposed to eventually play for his hometown team in Chicago. This year, several QB-needy teams, including the Rams, have been rumored to want McNabb.

In a league desperate for viable passers, the Eagles are in the advantageous position of having three intriguing commodities. Yet, while a number of other quarterbacks already have changed addresses this offseason, Philadelphia hasn’t done anything about its surplus.

There’s plenty of time to make a move, but the ultimate decisions regarding McNabb, promising young backup Kevin Kolb and Wildcat wild card Michael Vick will be crucial to the franchise’s future, both for the short- and long-term. All three are in the final years of their contracts.

The Eagles need to put emotion aside and deal No. 5 while his value is high.

So what is the best-case scenario for the Eagles and their quarterbacks? That requires a thorough examination:

Donovan McNabb

The case for him: McNabb, a six-time Pro Bowler, is playing some of the best, most efficient football of his 11-year career. He is 33—eight months younger than Peyton Manning—and has a string of good years left. McNabb’s experience and steady leadership have made the Eagles a consistent playoff team.

The case against him: There’s a perception that McNabb doesn’t carry over regular-season success into the playoffs, backed up by a 9-7 playoff record with 17 interceptions and a so-so 80.0 passer rating. Because the Eagles are 1-4 in NFC championship games, there’s a lingering sense of frustration that comes with just coming up short.

"To their fans, they’re always winning the silver medal with him," ESPN analyst Marcellus Wiley said. "After a while, when you can’t win gold, it’s like they would prefer to not be in it at all."

An amicable separation might be in order. McNabb would thrive in a similar offense with a change of scenery where he’s perceived as the savior, and his trade value only will decrease over time.

Kevin Kolb

The case for him: Let’s turn to Exhibits A and B, the two starts Kolb made when McNabb missed Weeks 2 and 3 of the 2009 season with fractured ribs. Kolb made history with back-to-back 300-yard outings, proving he has good grasp of the offense and good chemistry with his receivers.

With Kolb, wide receivers DeSean Jackson and Jeremy Maclin, running back LeSean McCoy and tight end Brent Celek, the Eagles could go forward with a young nucleus—all 25 or younger—that can be successful together for years.

"Kolb is totally ready," NFL Network analyst Brian Baldinger said.

The case against him: Because of his youth and great potential, another team might decide to throw a can’t-refuse offer of multiple high draft picks at Philadelphia to acquire Kolb. That’s the only way the Eagles should even consider trading Kolb.

Michael Vick 

The case for him: Despite seeing limited action in his first season in Philadelphia—mostly as a running threat—Vick carried himself well on and off the field last year, showing some maturity and some of the same skills that made him a superstar in Atlanta.

"You could see the progression of getting back to where he was as an athlete," Wiley said. "It might not be too long before where we see the old explosive Vick."

Barring injuries, it will be tough for Vick to get on the field in Philadelphia as a pure quarterback but he can be much more than an occasional cog if given the chance.

The case against him: The evidence is stacked against Vick in terms of him ever assuming the starting role in Philadelphia.

"He can’t run this offense," Baldinger said. "They should hold onto him as a backup unless other teams overpursue him."

It’s hard to believe there’s no market for Vick, considering the Seahawks just made a big deal to acquire former Chargers backup Charlie Whitehurst, who is 27 and never has thrown an NFL pass. Vick is just two years older with great starting experience.

The Eagles are a playoff-caliber team but still have notable holes—safety, linebacker, defensive end, offensive line—and can’t afford the luxury of keeping Vick when a trade could return a useful part for the 2010 season.

The verdict

As tough as it might be for coach Andy Reid and owner Jeffrey Lurie, the Eagles can’t be conservative; instead, they should trade McNabb. Sure, the bold Terrell Owens signing a few years ago didn’t quite work out, but that aggressive move did help the team reach Super Bowl 39.

"Andy Reid has a hard time letting No. 5 go because it was his first pick—and a great pick," Baldinger said. "The hardest thing for a coach is to let a player go whose time has come and gone. There is great emotion involved."

Kolb has the confidence and talent to take the reins. And Vick, with a $5 million price tag in ’09, would be more acceptable as a No. 2 quarterback. In the ideal situation, the Eagles would trade Vick, too, and stock up on draft picks to help rebuild the defense.

This story appears in March 23’s edition of Sporting News Today. If you are not receiving Sporting News Today, the only daily digital sports newspaper, sign up today for free.

Vinnie Iyer is a writer for Sporting News. E-mail him at viyer@sportingnews.com.