9. Washington Redskins – Erasmus James, DE Wisconsin
The Redskins have played very well on the defensive side of the ball, but their defensive line needs improvement. James has a great first step and has the ability to take over football games.
10. Detroit Lions – Alex Barron, OT Florida State
Right tackle Stockar McDougle has been inconsistent, and he is a free agent who will probably not be back in ’05. Kelly Butler may have the potential to start, but with Barron, the Lions would have a solid pair of tackles protecting their quarterback and Butler would give them quality depth.
11 Dallas Cowboys – Braylon Edwards, WR Michigan
Although Dallas picked up Quincey Morgan and Terrence Copper has shown some potential, Keyshawn Johnson will be 33 this year and the Cowboys need to add a playmaker at wide receiver. Edwards just might prove to be the best one in this year's draft pool
12. San Diego Chargers (from NY Giants) – Dan Cody, DE Oklahoma
The Chargers were a tremendous surprise in ‘04, but they still need to upgrade at offensive tackle, guard, and safety position. However, there isn’t really a pick of value at this point at any of those positions.
13. Houston Texans – Adam Jones*, CB West Virginia
The Texans missed out on a chance to grab a nose tackle last year when they passed on Vince Wilfork, and since Roderique Wright from Texas elected to not throw his hat in the ring, they probably won’t get their guy again this year. “Pac Man” has the talent to eventually take over for Aaron Glenn. Offensive tackle is a bigger need, but there aren’t many blue-chippers in this year’s draft.
14. Carolina Panthers – Heath Miller* TE Virginia
The Panthers are a team that is sitting in a position where there is not likely to be a lot of players that fill a need and still provide value at this position. And this might be a little high for Miller, but he would really open up the Panthers offense, especially if they can figure out a way to keep Muhsin Muhammad on the roster.
15. Kansas City Chiefs - Marlin Jackson, CB Michigan
This might be a bit high for Jackson, but if he runs well in pre-draft workouts he will move back into the middle of the first round. He is a very versatile player with great size and athletic ability, and he has enough speed and strength to match-up most of the NFL’s top receivers.
16. New Orleans Saints – Shawne Merriman*, OLB Maryland
The Saints are one of the most inconsistent teams in the league, and they lack playmakers on the defensive side of the ball, especially at linebacker. Merriman would be a great addition to the linebacking corps and would likely make an immediate impact on this anemic defense.
Positional Rankings: QB RB FB WR TE OT OG C - DE DT ILB OLB S CB - K P
