25. Atlanta Falcons – Matt Roth, DE Iowa
Patrick Kerney has emerged as a legitimate pass rusher this year, but needs someone who poses a threat on the other end to draw some of the attention. Roth is a relentless pass rusher with a great first step. He’s very quick, agile, and has a knack for making big plays.
26. San Diego Chargers – James Butler, S Georgia Tech
An offensive tackle and a safety in the first round aren’t the “sexiest” picks, but both players present upgrades over current starters. Butler can play either safety position, but looks to me to be a better fit at free safety.
27. Seattle Seahawks – Marcus Spears, DE LSU
Chike Okeafor and Brandon Mitchell could both be gone when the season ends, so the Hawks could be looking for a left defensive end… a role Spears fits perfectly. He has the size to hold up to the run and the quickness to be a threat as a pass rusher, and should be an every-down player in the NFL.
28. Indianapolis Colts – Barrett Ruud, ILB Nebraska
The Colts have been soft up the middle on the defensive side of the ball, and Ruud, who is a hard hitter, would be a step in the right direction toward solving that problem.
29. Green Bay Packers - Andrew Walter, QB Arizona State
Brett Favre still has a lot of game left in his body, but he is approaching the end of his career, and with the off-field issues he is dealing with, the Packers need to have someone waiting in the wings to take over. Walter is a guy that could see his value increase as the draft approaches. He has a nice arm, good composure, and is a clutch player.
30. New England Patriots – Elton Brown, OG Virginia
The Patriots are as solid up and down their roster as any team in the league, but they could stand to solidify the interior of their offensive line. Brown is a tremendous run blocker with great strength and excellent mobility.
31. Philadelphia Eagles – Kevin Burnett, OLB Tennessee
The Eagles need to upgrade their linebacking corps, and Burnett has the ability to quickly supplant Nate Wayne on the weak side. He’s a playmaker with excellent speed, and has shown no ill effects from the knee injury that cost him the 2002 season.
32. Pittsburgh Steelers – Shaun Cody, DT/DE USC
Age is creeping up on the Steelers defensive ends, and Cody is a good fit as an end in Pittsburgh’s 3-4. He is a relentless player with the quickness to play outside, and he always plays hard.