17. Detroit Lions – Jamaal Brimmer, SS UNLV
If Shaun Rogers doesn’t re-sign, defensive tackle is a priority. If he does, the Lions will probably turn their attention to strong safety where Bracy Walker has been a huge disappointment. Brimmer is a hard-hitting safety with a knack for making big plays who could be a starter from day one.
18. Minnesota Vikings – Braylon Edwards, WR Michigan
The Vikings need a big nose tackle or help at strong safety, but there isn’t a player at either position worth picking at this point, so I wouldn’t be surprised to see them take the best player available. The Vikings like the group of receivers they have at this point, but a talent like Edwards would be very tempting to put alongside Randy Moss.
19. New York Jets – Dan Cody, DE Oklahoma
Shaun Ellis is a free agent, so the Jets could be looking for a defensive end that fits well in a 3-4 set. Cody is a bit of a tweener, and is probably best suited for a three-man line.
20. Jacksonville Jaguars – David Pollack, DE Georgia
Hugh Douglas was cut and Paul Spicer is coming off a season-ending injury. Look for the Jaguars to grab an end in the early rounds to complement their talented duo at tackle. Pollack doesn’t have great size or speed, but he holds up well against the run and is a very disruptive player.
21. St. Louis Rams – Michael Munoz, OT Tennessee
Kyle Turley suffered a season-ending injury and could choose to retire, while Orlando Pace’s contract expectations could be a problem as well. Munoz doesn’t possess the talent his legendary father did, but he does have the skills to be a solid NFL tackle.
22. Baltimore Ravens – Mark Clayton, WR Oklahoma
The Ravens really need to bring in an experienced veteran at wide receiver to aid QB Kyle Boller’s development, and they could also use a talented youngster to groom for the long term. Clayton would give the Ravens a guy who is tremendous at making plays after the catch.
23. San Diego Chargers (from NY Giants) – Jamaal Brown, OT Oklahoma
The Chargers have been a tremendous surprise this year, but they still need to upgrade the offensive line. Brown is equally effective in run and pass blocking. He displays nice technique, has great balance, and moves his feet well.
24. Denver Broncos - Heath Miller*, TE Virginia
The Broncos are still looking for a pass-catching tight end to fill the role in the offense that was held by Shannon Sharpe. Miller doesn’t possess the speed Sharpe did, but he is effective as a blocker as well as a receiver and would be a good selection at this point if he were to decide to skip his final year of eligibility.
