[h=3]Dallas Cowboys: B[/h]
Top needs: DL, S, G, WR
Needs: B-
Value: B
Summary: Give Jerry Jones credit: I don't think it's unfair to at least be tempted by the prospect of Johnny Football with that blue star on his helmet, playing in that football theatre. But Manziel isn't making Dallas a better team in 2014, and Tony Romo -- for all the derision -- is a really good QB when he gets protection. The Dallas offensive line with Zack Martin isn't just the strength of the team, it's arguably among the top few units in the NFL. They are going to be able to run the ball. I had Martin as high as the top 10, so that's not a bad pick. I can see why Dallas added Demarcus Lawrence where it did, but a third is pricey in this draft. Devin Street addresses the depth the Cowboys really do need at WR, and they used the run of seventh-round picks to pile up some lottery tickets at need spots like safety, defensive tackle and cornerback, where Terrance Mitchell at times looked a lot better than your typical late-rounder. His 40 time didn't help, but he could stick. The Cowboys mixed in that typical moment of aggression, but in some ways they were as disciplined as any team in the draft, and they took some good shots to hit needs.
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[h=3]Cleveland Browns: B-[/h]
Top needs: QB, CB, WR, OG
Needs: C
Value: B
Summary: Some day, somebody will probably write a book about this Cleveland draft. Maybe it'll become "Draft Day II." Unfortunately, I'm on a tighter deadline. Where do you start? The huge trade with Buffalo to swipe a 2015 first-rounder? Johnny Football? Josh Gordon? The best pass-catcher drafted is ... Pierre Desir, who plays corner? It was wild. Adding a 2015 first-round pick (and a fourth) to move down five slots is like stealing. But you do pass on the chance to take Sammy Watkins. Justin Gilbert was a minor reach at No. 8, but he's a good fit and hit a big need. And again on this theme: you move down and add major pick value, what's a minor reach, really? You can't always get to the perfect slot in terms of value. Johnny Manziel's celebrity transcends the reality of what he adds to the Browns as a football player, but let's talk football. He's a good value at No. 22 (I had him at No. 10 overall on my Big Board); he is a very good pocket passer, not just a scrambler -- he led all the draft QBs in this class in pocket accuracy -- and the Browns can block for him if he starts. Lastly, that's a big need. I really like Joel Bitonio, a player who could have gone in Round 1. Terrance West could become a good starter, combining size with good lateral agility and vision. Desir is great value, but you can temper the "steal" talk with the reality of a potentially longer developmental process given the jump in competition. The big void here is at wide receiver. Remember: I had WR as a need even with the assumption Josh Gordon was going to be around. Now that he's probably not? The Browns have potentially changed the face of their franchise, but Manziel could use somebody to throw the football to.
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[h=3]Minnesota Vikings: B-[/h]
Top needs: QB, LB, DB, WR
Needs: B-
Value: B-
Summary: The first round of this draft has me pretty split. I thought Anthony Barr was a pretty big reach based on my evaluations; he's a talented but raw player who lacks instincts on defense. On the other hand, moving decisively to get Teddy Bridgewater made sense, and they have the pieces around him to help him succeed. Plus, as Trent Dilfer noted, the culture in that locker room could be good for Teddy as well. While I really liked the David Yankey pick and also am a fan of Jerick McKinnon based on his tape and his exceptional workout numbers, not taking an inside linebacker anywhere is questionable given what they currently have on the roster, and I'm surprised they didn't add another wide receiver given the talent available. They took some shots at cornerback, and I think Kendall James could be a pretty good late value. The Vikings did a pretty good job overall, and if Barr develops more and Bridgewater really becomes the answer, this draft will look really good.
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[h=3]Chicago Bears: B-[/h]
Top needs: S, CB, DT, WR
Needs: B
Value: C+
Summary: The Bears have some questions on value, but I think they did a solid job of targeting needs. Kyle Fuller may not be a star at CB, but the floor is probably a really good player for a long time. I didn't mind that pick at all, especially after Cleveland moved up to get Justin Gilbert, who isn't superior to Fuller. Ha Ha Clinton-Dix would've been a solid pick here as well. The Bears did a great job of rebuilding what was a defensive line in tatters at the end of 2013, and Ego Ferguson and Will Sutton round out the depth chart there. Ferguson was a reach, but the talent is enticing. Sutton is interesting, because his 2012 tape is fantastic. If he can get his weight down and play lighter and with more explosiveness, he's a nice addition in Round 3. Ka'Deem Carey has great tape, but the 4.7 40 time puts him in a category of RBs that rarely offer much. Hopefully the Bears get the tape version, but the fourth round is pretty rich. Brock Vereen can help at safety, a pretty massive need area. David Fales has talent but questions on the arm -- we'll see if he's a case of improved arm strength. Charles Leno can make this roster. Good work on needs, outside of depth at wide receiver, but I think they missed on value more than one. That said, the Bears had a really good offseason. They're better than the team that finished 2013.
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[h=3]Detroit Lions: B-[/h]
Top needs: CB, S, WR, OLB
Needs: C
Value: B
Summary: The Lions are absolutely terrifying to defend in the passing game after this draft, and hopefully practicing against the likes of Calvin Johnson, Golden Tate, Brandon Pettigrew, Joseph Fauria and now Eric Ebron will be good for their secondary, because that unit didn't get much help in the draft. The Lions can be forgiven for passing on a CB or a safety at No. 10, because Justin Gilbert was already off the board, and the value at those positions made Ebron a solid option. Tight end wasn't technically a need, but Ebron isn't technically your father's tight end. He's tall, fast, has a huge catch radius and will be split out off the line. He can block a little bit, but that's not his job here. Again: This is a scary group of pass-catchers. Kyle Van Noy is one of my favorite players in the whole draft, an instinctive, versatile defender who can move around and rush the passer. (He also roomed with Ezekiel Ansah at BYU.) Travis Swanson is useful depth behind 35-year old Dominic Raiola. And then finally -- in Round 4 -- Detroit adds Nevin Lawson, a good but undersized CB. Larry Webster is fascinating because he could be a pass-rusher or a tight end, and Caraun Reid is a depth addition at DT. Overall, you have to love the talent addition in rounds one and two, but the need in the secondary -- well, it's still a need.
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[h=3]Kansas City Chiefs: B-[/h]
Top needs: WR, S, G, DL
Needs: C+
Value: B
Summary: When the Chiefs lost production in their pass rush last year, with health part of the reason why, they looked completely exposed on defense. Dee Ford is not a versatile player, but he's explosive off the edge and knows the way to the QB. If there's a question here, it's whether the Chiefs could have traded down to add picks and still gotten a pass-rusher. The Chiefs didn't have a second-round pick, so even additional late-round scratch-off tickets are nice. What Ford also represents, however, is insurance against Tamba Hali's age and the possibility of being forced to pay Justin Houston a lot of cash after 2014. As well, it's hard to knock not having a second-round pick when that pick is really Alex Smith. That's a win. Phillip Gaines is a really good athlete they can develop, and De'Anthony Thomas is a player defenses always have to account for and offers potential free points on special teams. Laurent Duvernay-Tardif is a sleeper who could turn into something. My question is at wide receiver. While I know GM John Dorsey believes recent first-rounder A.J. Jenkins could take a big step forward and really help the offense, that's an area I might have targeted in a deep draft. Safety was also a need that wasn't addressed.
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[h=3]Atlanta Falcons: B-[/h]
Top needs: OT, DE/OLB, TE, S
Needs: C
Value: B
Summary: I was a big fan of the Jake Matthews pick when it happened, and I'm not changing my tune now. Big need, good player and you add the bonus of his versatility. The Falcons also got a pretty good safety prospect in Dez Southward, hitting another need. But there were also a couple areas I think they missed, and maybe it had to do with the way the board was breaking. For instance, they really need pass-rush help, and Demarcus Lawrence could have been an option at No. 37, but Dallas moved up and grabbed him. Atlanta ends up with a high-upside talent in Ra'Shede Hageman, but he ran really hot and cold at Minnesota. Devonta Freeman gives them an underrated running back, which is something they need, and maybe Prince Shembo can provide some value as a pass-rusher. Ricardo Allen is a solid player and gives them added depth at CB. Tyler Starr is also a sleeper as a pass-rushing addition. The question for me is whether they did enough to really help the pass rush, which was a big need, and I also think a tight end made sense given the departure at that position. Not bad, overall. Matthews will be good.
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[h=3]Tennessee Titans: C+[/h]
Top needs: OLB, QB, CB, RB
Needs: C
Value: B-
Summary: Tackle wasn't the top need for Tennessee, but Taylor Lewan was my No. 5 prospect in the entire draft, and not only offers an immediate upgrade at right tackle, but could ultimately take over the left side from Michael Roos, who becomes an unrestricted free agent after the 2014 season. Can't knock the pick, especially when you consider Lewan is a really good run-blocker and moving the ball on the ground consistently could really help Jake Locker. I like the pick of Bishop Sankey, and he gives the Titans a versatile, durable back who compares to Giovani Bernard, though I would have preferred Carlos Hyde in that spot. But again, fit matters and they like Sankey. Daquan Jones is a wide body who can be useful for a team that wants to be able to show some different fronts but still covets a block-eater. Calling Marqueston Huff versatile is probably more fair than calling him a tweener -- he could play either safety or corner but is probably better at CB. The value on Zach Mettenberger is really good in terms of talent, but he comes in with character baggage, and it's reflected in his draft position. There are teams who wouldn't draft him, period. But Ken Whisenhunt could have a steal there if his staff can get the best out of Mettenberger. Does this draft change the Titans much in 2014? A little. Perhaps Mettenberger makes it a great one.
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[h=3]Denver Broncos: C+[/h]
Top needs: CB, ILB, WR, G
Needs: B-
Value: C+
Summary: Broncos fans who believe the addition of Aqib Talib solidified the depth chart at cornerback were being a little too optimistic. Denver needed to add another potential starter there, and the Broncos may have one in Bradley Roby, but I'm not sure he helps much now. What Roby lacks in refinement and consistency, he has in athleticism and potential. He's a superb athlete -- quick, agile and strong. What he's not is a technically sound CB, so what you have to hope for is a long season that gets him seasoning so he's hitting his stride during a playoff push. But for players this raw at position that demands a transition period, that's just a hope. Even with Emmanuel Sanders around I considered WR depth a need, and Cody Latimer is a pretty good get late in Round 2. Mr. McShay had him rated higher than I did, but I thought he could go early in Round 2. Michael Schofield was a sound player at Michigan but was overshadowed by Taylor Lewan. If Schofield ends up starting at right tackle pretty quickly it wouldn't surprise me. I think Lamin Barrow is a pretty good player going into a situation where the depth chart at interior linebacker isn't great. Given where they were drafting, the Broncos did pretty well, the question is whether Roby is a help in 2014 or a liability because he requires the development.
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[h=3]Seattle Seahawks: C+[/h]
Top needs: WR, DL, OL, TE
Needs: B
Value: D+
Summary: There simply isn't a better player development program in the NFL right now than Seattle's. The players the Seahawks draft -- the players I've spent many hours evaluating and making calls on -- are often players that evolve, improve and become something new after Seattle drafts them. While they've had some notable misses in Round 1, both in value and development, they've been awesome thereafter. So when Seattle moved down to No. 45 overall and still had the chance to take either Stephon Tuitt or Marqise Lee, both players that would have been nice fits at pick No. 32, you almost had to laugh because you knew the Seahawks would go in another direction. Paul Richardson was the pick, and he hits a big need, though his lean frame is a concern. The key will be that he maintains his explosiveness as he adds some needed strength. The presence of him and a healthy Percy Harvin, will keep safeties on high alert. I also thought O-line was a necessity, and Justin Britt adds depth, but he was my 21st-ranked offensive tackle, and struggles to create any movement in the run game. I saw him as a likelier fit in the third or fourth round. Again: They trust their development, and they showed it again when they took what I'd kindly refer to as a deep sleeper in Jimmy Staten, a D-tackle I had at No. 44 at the position in my rankings. The Seahawks know what they are doing, but it's fair to say they had a couple value questions again today. I look forward to seeing what becomes of these players.
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[h=3]Washington Redskins: C+[/h]
Top needs: RT, CB, ILB, S
Needs: C+
Value: C
Summary: This was a mixed draft, with some really good value in a couple spots, questionable value in others, a big need hit, but another couple that weren't. First of all, I like the fact that Washington moved down. I consider this a deep draft, and the Redskins have struggled with roster depth in recent years due to the Robert Griffin III deal. Give yourself more chances to get good players. In Trent Murphy the Redskins got a productive pass-rusher, they just didn't get the best one available at that spot based on my board. I don't agree completely with Todd that Murphy could have been available in Round 4, but I did think he could be around a little later. Morgan Moses represented good value in Round 3, but he needs work because the measurables are better than the player. He could be a solution at right tackle however, and boy do they need one. The Spencer Long pick was a bit of a puzzler. I saw him going later, as he's coming off a season-ending knee injury. Bashaud Breeland could be a good value at CB, and Lache Seastrunk is extremely explosive for a player taken that late in the draft -- he can be better if he stays more north and south. I wish the Skins would have added a safety, and maybe targeted CB earlier. This draft also represents the end of the RG III deal. We'll welcome Washington back to Round 1 next year.
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[h=3]New Orleans Saints: C+[/h]
Top needs: CB, WR, OLB, T
Needs: B-
Value: C
Summary: I had wide receiver as a big need for the Saints, with Marques Colston soon to be 31, and Kenny Stills now asked to play a much bigger role after the departure of favorite Drew Brees targets like Lance Moore and Darren Sproles. They moved up to get Brandin Cooks -- Philly could have snapped him up at No. 22 -- and get an immediate threat. Cooks is an athletic dynamo, a sure-handed target who can create space, make short catches and turn them into longer gains, and will also take the top off a defense vertically on occasion. The Saints got a promising CB in Round 2 with Stan Jean-Baptiste, but he needs a lot of work, particularly in learning how to tackle more effectively. Still, he's a worthy project. Khairi Fortt fits as the OLB I'd suggested, and Vinnie Sunseri has a chance to stick because he's a sharp player who can translate the Rob Ryan defense, which demands a safety with smarts. Ronald Powell is worth a flyer based on the hope that he stays healthy. The question for me is depth at tackle. They like Terron Armstead, but it's a position I would have looked at earlier. Cooks is a win, and it's a lot of "We'll see" after that.
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[h=3]New England Patriots: C[/h]
Top needs: TE, DL, S, RB
Needs: C+
Value: C-
Summary: The Patriots should be better in 2014 than they were in 2013. They get significant pieces back on defense, and the unrest they experienced on offense (not to mention the youth at WR) is a year removed. Because of that, they took a player in Round 1 who needs to play a limited role this season due to health concerns, and a player in Round 2 who hopefully doesn't see a snap. Dominique Easley can be special when healthy -- watch him in the Sept. 7, 2013, game against Miami -- but two ACL tears dot his profile, including a season-ender in 2013, so you're looking for impact on a rotational basis -- say, 400 or so snaps. For me, that doesn't make him a bad pick, but certainly a reach. It's about maximizing the pick slot. I really like Bryan Stork, and adding him, Cameron Fleming and Jon Halapio really strengthens the depth chart. James White hits a need at RB, and he holds on to the ball. Jeremy Gallon is dangerous after the catch, and offers depth in the slot. I can see him becoming a factor. In Jimmy Garoppolo, you have a nice developmental talent, and potentially a commodity. If Easley stays healthy, this draft looks a lot better. New England just placed a pricey bet that he will.
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[h=3]Carolina Panthers: C[/h]
Top needs: WR, T, CB, S
Needs: C-
Value: C
Summary: For a team that had a huge season in 2013, the Panthers entered the 2014 draft with some major needs. The biggest needs for me were on offense, where Cam Newton is facing the bad combination of a lack of guys to catch passes and a lack of protection when he drops back. Kelvin Benjamin is a tantalizing physical talent at 6-foot-5 and 240 pounds, with the ability to make contested catches. But sometimes those catches are contested because he's not able to separate consistently. Benjamin ran 4.61 in Indy which, while great for his size, reflects the fact that he's not a burner. I think Jordan Matthews could have been a good fit there, but Carolina placed a bet on Benjamin's upside. Kony Ealy was a decent value in Round 2, but he'll need time to learn how to be a three-down defensive end. Trai Turner is a favorite of mine as a guard prospect, but questions at tackle linger. The Panthers went after help in the secondary later on, but I saw a handful of safeties I might have considered ahead of Tre Boston. I think the Panthers got some good football players, but some of the concerns I had regarding roster holes remain. How quickly Benjamin can make the leap and produce for Newton will be key.
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[h=3]Buffalo Bills: C-[/h]
Top needs: OT, S, TE, WR
Needs: D+
Value: C
Summary: Sammy Watkins isn't just going to be a really good player, he already is one. He was my No. 2 prospect in the entire draft. EJ Manuel has a weapon, a player who can turn simple throws into big gains, and that matters because I still don't know how effective a downfield thrower Manuel is. My issue is that this draft is loaded with wide receivers -- there are good ones already signing as undrafted free agents as I type this, in fact -- and the Bills paid a significant price to get Watkins. A future first-round pick is always a heavy price, but they threw in a fourth as well. Think about this: the Jags took a QB one slot ahead of Watkins, but still managed to get Marqise Lee and Allen Robinson in Round 2. Watkins could be a star; the problem is he has to be, and soon. After Watkins, the draft is really mixed here. Cyrus Kouandjio is an enticing talent but carries knocks on consistency and questions on durability. The hope is he can settle in at right tackle, but he really struggles with speed rushers, which is a problem. Preston Brown is a solid inside linebacker, and Cyril Richardson can be good but had a poor draft process. Seantrel Henderson is a hedge on the Kouandjio bet, but he's a pretty significant character concern. The misses here for me are tight end, no safety and what I consider a massive price to pay for Watkins. I love the player, but losing a future first-rounder stings.
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[h=3]Indianapolis Colts: D+[/h]
Top needs: S, G, OLB, WR
Needs: C-
Value: D
Summary: Unfortunately, the Trent Richardson trade factors hugely into this draft, and that pretty much kills the grade. Think about this: we just went through the second year in a row where a RB wasn't drafted in Round 1, and this year it wasn't even close. Bishop Sankey came off the board at No. 54, and Sankey is a good player and filled a clear need. And don't say I just made up my mind on this after Richardson struggled. I was pretty clear on it then. So the Colts have little to show for Round 1. In Round 2, they get Jack Mewhort, but they need him to change positions, and a very good center, Marcus Martin, was available. Donte Moncrief is a fabulous athlete, but the tape is merely OK, and he wasn't even the best receiver on his own college team. Hopefully Mewhort works out, but safety is still an issue, and the pass rush didn't get any help, so hopefully Bjoern Werner takes a big step this season while Robert Mathis continues his greatness. The big hope is Richardson discovers some magic and makes this draft look better.
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Top needs: DL, S, G, WR
Needs: B-
Value: B
Summary: Give Jerry Jones credit: I don't think it's unfair to at least be tempted by the prospect of Johnny Football with that blue star on his helmet, playing in that football theatre. But Manziel isn't making Dallas a better team in 2014, and Tony Romo -- for all the derision -- is a really good QB when he gets protection. The Dallas offensive line with Zack Martin isn't just the strength of the team, it's arguably among the top few units in the NFL. They are going to be able to run the ball. I had Martin as high as the top 10, so that's not a bad pick. I can see why Dallas added Demarcus Lawrence where it did, but a third is pricey in this draft. Devin Street addresses the depth the Cowboys really do need at WR, and they used the run of seventh-round picks to pile up some lottery tickets at need spots like safety, defensive tackle and cornerback, where Terrance Mitchell at times looked a lot better than your typical late-rounder. His 40 time didn't help, but he could stick. The Cowboys mixed in that typical moment of aggression, but in some ways they were as disciplined as any team in the draft, and they took some good shots to hit needs.
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| Rd | Pk | Pos | Player | College |
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| (1) | 16 | T | Zack Martin | Notre Dame |
| (2) | 34 | DE | Demarcus Lawrence | Boise State |
| (4) | 119 | OLB | Anthony Hitchens | Iowa |
| (5) | 146 | WR | Devin Street | Pittsburgh |
| (7) | 231 | DE | Ben Gardner | Stanford |
| (7) | 238 | OLB | Will Smith | Texas Tech |
| (7) | 248 | S | Ahmad Dixon | Baylor |
| (7) | 251 | DT | Ken Bishop | Northern Illinois |
| (7) | 254 | DB | Terrance Mitchell | Oregon |
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Top needs: QB, CB, WR, OG
Needs: C
Value: B
Summary: Some day, somebody will probably write a book about this Cleveland draft. Maybe it'll become "Draft Day II." Unfortunately, I'm on a tighter deadline. Where do you start? The huge trade with Buffalo to swipe a 2015 first-rounder? Johnny Football? Josh Gordon? The best pass-catcher drafted is ... Pierre Desir, who plays corner? It was wild. Adding a 2015 first-round pick (and a fourth) to move down five slots is like stealing. But you do pass on the chance to take Sammy Watkins. Justin Gilbert was a minor reach at No. 8, but he's a good fit and hit a big need. And again on this theme: you move down and add major pick value, what's a minor reach, really? You can't always get to the perfect slot in terms of value. Johnny Manziel's celebrity transcends the reality of what he adds to the Browns as a football player, but let's talk football. He's a good value at No. 22 (I had him at No. 10 overall on my Big Board); he is a very good pocket passer, not just a scrambler -- he led all the draft QBs in this class in pocket accuracy -- and the Browns can block for him if he starts. Lastly, that's a big need. I really like Joel Bitonio, a player who could have gone in Round 1. Terrance West could become a good starter, combining size with good lateral agility and vision. Desir is great value, but you can temper the "steal" talk with the reality of a potentially longer developmental process given the jump in competition. The big void here is at wide receiver. Remember: I had WR as a need even with the assumption Josh Gordon was going to be around. Now that he's probably not? The Browns have potentially changed the face of their franchise, but Manziel could use somebody to throw the football to.
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| Rd | Pk | Pos | Player | College |
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| (1) | 8 | CB | Justin Gilbert | Oklahoma State |
| (1) | 22 | QB | Johnny Manziel | Texas A&M |
| (2) | 35 | G | Joel Bitonio | Nevada |
| (3) | 71 | LB | Chris Kirksey | Iowa |
| (3) | 94 | RB | Terrance West | Towson |
| (4) | 127 | CB | Pierre Desir | Lindenwood |
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Top needs: QB, LB, DB, WR
Needs: B-
Value: B-
Summary: The first round of this draft has me pretty split. I thought Anthony Barr was a pretty big reach based on my evaluations; he's a talented but raw player who lacks instincts on defense. On the other hand, moving decisively to get Teddy Bridgewater made sense, and they have the pieces around him to help him succeed. Plus, as Trent Dilfer noted, the culture in that locker room could be good for Teddy as well. While I really liked the David Yankey pick and also am a fan of Jerick McKinnon based on his tape and his exceptional workout numbers, not taking an inside linebacker anywhere is questionable given what they currently have on the roster, and I'm surprised they didn't add another wide receiver given the talent available. They took some shots at cornerback, and I think Kendall James could be a pretty good late value. The Vikings did a pretty good job overall, and if Barr develops more and Bridgewater really becomes the answer, this draft will look really good.
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| Rd | Pk | Pos | Player | College |
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| (1) | 9 | OLB | Anthony Barr | UCLA |
| (2) | 32 | QB | Teddy Bridgewater | Louisville |
| (3) | 72 | DE | Scott Crichton | Oregon State |
| (3) | 96 | RB | Jerick McKinnon | Georgia Southern |
| (5) | 145 | G | David Yankey | Stanford |
| (6) | 182 | CB | Antone Exum | Virginia Tech |
| (6) | 184 | CB | Kendall James | Maine |
| (7) | 220 | DT | Shamar Stephen | UConn |
| (7) | 223 | OLB | Brandon Watts | Georgia Tech |
| (7) | 225 | CB | Jabari Price | UNC |
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Top needs: S, CB, DT, WR
Needs: B
Value: C+
Summary: The Bears have some questions on value, but I think they did a solid job of targeting needs. Kyle Fuller may not be a star at CB, but the floor is probably a really good player for a long time. I didn't mind that pick at all, especially after Cleveland moved up to get Justin Gilbert, who isn't superior to Fuller. Ha Ha Clinton-Dix would've been a solid pick here as well. The Bears did a great job of rebuilding what was a defensive line in tatters at the end of 2013, and Ego Ferguson and Will Sutton round out the depth chart there. Ferguson was a reach, but the talent is enticing. Sutton is interesting, because his 2012 tape is fantastic. If he can get his weight down and play lighter and with more explosiveness, he's a nice addition in Round 3. Ka'Deem Carey has great tape, but the 4.7 40 time puts him in a category of RBs that rarely offer much. Hopefully the Bears get the tape version, but the fourth round is pretty rich. Brock Vereen can help at safety, a pretty massive need area. David Fales has talent but questions on the arm -- we'll see if he's a case of improved arm strength. Charles Leno can make this roster. Good work on needs, outside of depth at wide receiver, but I think they missed on value more than one. That said, the Bears had a really good offseason. They're better than the team that finished 2013.
<!-- END WRITEUP -->[h=4]2014 draft picks[/h]
| Rd | Pk | Pos | Player | College |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| (1) | 14 | CB | Kyle Fuller | Virginia Tech |
| (2) | 51 | DT | Ego Ferguson | LSU |
| (3) | 82 | DT | Will Sutton | Arizona State |
| (4) | 117 | RB | Ka'Deem Carey | Arizona |
| (4) | 131 | S | Brock Vereen | Minnesota |
| (6) | 183 | QB | David Fales | San Diego State |
| (6) | 191 | P | Pat O'Donnell | Miami (FL) |
| (7) | 246 | T | Charles Leno Jr. | Boise State |
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Top needs: CB, S, WR, OLB
Needs: C
Value: B
Summary: The Lions are absolutely terrifying to defend in the passing game after this draft, and hopefully practicing against the likes of Calvin Johnson, Golden Tate, Brandon Pettigrew, Joseph Fauria and now Eric Ebron will be good for their secondary, because that unit didn't get much help in the draft. The Lions can be forgiven for passing on a CB or a safety at No. 10, because Justin Gilbert was already off the board, and the value at those positions made Ebron a solid option. Tight end wasn't technically a need, but Ebron isn't technically your father's tight end. He's tall, fast, has a huge catch radius and will be split out off the line. He can block a little bit, but that's not his job here. Again: This is a scary group of pass-catchers. Kyle Van Noy is one of my favorite players in the whole draft, an instinctive, versatile defender who can move around and rush the passer. (He also roomed with Ezekiel Ansah at BYU.) Travis Swanson is useful depth behind 35-year old Dominic Raiola. And then finally -- in Round 4 -- Detroit adds Nevin Lawson, a good but undersized CB. Larry Webster is fascinating because he could be a pass-rusher or a tight end, and Caraun Reid is a depth addition at DT. Overall, you have to love the talent addition in rounds one and two, but the need in the secondary -- well, it's still a need.
<!-- END WRITEUP -->[h=4]2014 draft picks[/h]
| Rd | Pk | Pos | Player | College |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| (1) | 10 | TE | Eric Ebron | UNC |
| (2) | 40 | OLB | Kyle Van Noy | BYU |
| (3) | 76 | C | Travis Swanson | Arkansas |
| (4) | 133 | DB | Nevin Lawson | Utah State |
| (4) | 136 | DE | Larry Webster | Bloomsburg (PA) |
| (5) | 158 | DT | Caraun Reid | Princeton |
| (6) | 189 | WR | T.J. Jones | Notre Dame |
| (7) | 229 | K | Nate Freese | Boston College |
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Top needs: WR, S, G, DL
Needs: C+
Value: B
Summary: When the Chiefs lost production in their pass rush last year, with health part of the reason why, they looked completely exposed on defense. Dee Ford is not a versatile player, but he's explosive off the edge and knows the way to the QB. If there's a question here, it's whether the Chiefs could have traded down to add picks and still gotten a pass-rusher. The Chiefs didn't have a second-round pick, so even additional late-round scratch-off tickets are nice. What Ford also represents, however, is insurance against Tamba Hali's age and the possibility of being forced to pay Justin Houston a lot of cash after 2014. As well, it's hard to knock not having a second-round pick when that pick is really Alex Smith. That's a win. Phillip Gaines is a really good athlete they can develop, and De'Anthony Thomas is a player defenses always have to account for and offers potential free points on special teams. Laurent Duvernay-Tardif is a sleeper who could turn into something. My question is at wide receiver. While I know GM John Dorsey believes recent first-rounder A.J. Jenkins could take a big step forward and really help the offense, that's an area I might have targeted in a deep draft. Safety was also a need that wasn't addressed.
<!-- END WRITEUP -->[h=4]2014 draft picks[/h]
| Rd | Pk | Pos | Player | College |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| (1) | 23 | DE | Dee Ford | Auburn |
| (3) | 87 | CB | Phillip Gaines | Rice |
| (4) | 124 | RB | De'Anthony Thomas | Oregon |
| (5) | 163 | QB | Aaron Murray | Georgia |
| (6) | 193 | G | Zach Fulton | Tennessee |
| (6) | 200 | T | Laurent Duvernay-Tardif | McGill (Canada) |
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Top needs: OT, DE/OLB, TE, S
Needs: C
Value: B
Summary: I was a big fan of the Jake Matthews pick when it happened, and I'm not changing my tune now. Big need, good player and you add the bonus of his versatility. The Falcons also got a pretty good safety prospect in Dez Southward, hitting another need. But there were also a couple areas I think they missed, and maybe it had to do with the way the board was breaking. For instance, they really need pass-rush help, and Demarcus Lawrence could have been an option at No. 37, but Dallas moved up and grabbed him. Atlanta ends up with a high-upside talent in Ra'Shede Hageman, but he ran really hot and cold at Minnesota. Devonta Freeman gives them an underrated running back, which is something they need, and maybe Prince Shembo can provide some value as a pass-rusher. Ricardo Allen is a solid player and gives them added depth at CB. Tyler Starr is also a sleeper as a pass-rushing addition. The question for me is whether they did enough to really help the pass rush, which was a big need, and I also think a tight end made sense given the departure at that position. Not bad, overall. Matthews will be good.
<!-- END WRITEUP -->[h=4]2014 draft picks[/h]
| Rd | Pk | Pos | Player | College |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| (1) | 6 | T | Jake Matthews | Texas A&M |
| (2) | 37 | DT | Ra'Shede Hageman | Minnesota |
| (3) | 68 | DB | Dez Southward | Wisconsin |
| (4) | 103 | RB | Devonta Freeman | Florida State |
| (4) | 139 | OLB | Prince Shembo | Notre Dame |
| (5) | 147 | DB | Ricardo Allen | Purdue |
| (5) | 168 | LB | Marquis Spruill | Syracuse |
| (7) | 253 | OLB | Yawin Smallwood | UConn |
| (7) | 255 | LB | Tyler Starr | South Dakota |
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Top needs: OLB, QB, CB, RB
Needs: C
Value: B-
Summary: Tackle wasn't the top need for Tennessee, but Taylor Lewan was my No. 5 prospect in the entire draft, and not only offers an immediate upgrade at right tackle, but could ultimately take over the left side from Michael Roos, who becomes an unrestricted free agent after the 2014 season. Can't knock the pick, especially when you consider Lewan is a really good run-blocker and moving the ball on the ground consistently could really help Jake Locker. I like the pick of Bishop Sankey, and he gives the Titans a versatile, durable back who compares to Giovani Bernard, though I would have preferred Carlos Hyde in that spot. But again, fit matters and they like Sankey. Daquan Jones is a wide body who can be useful for a team that wants to be able to show some different fronts but still covets a block-eater. Calling Marqueston Huff versatile is probably more fair than calling him a tweener -- he could play either safety or corner but is probably better at CB. The value on Zach Mettenberger is really good in terms of talent, but he comes in with character baggage, and it's reflected in his draft position. There are teams who wouldn't draft him, period. But Ken Whisenhunt could have a steal there if his staff can get the best out of Mettenberger. Does this draft change the Titans much in 2014? A little. Perhaps Mettenberger makes it a great one.
<!-- END WRITEUP -->[h=4]2014 draft picks[/h]
| Rd | Pk | Pos | Player | College |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| (1) | 11 | T | Taylor Lewan | Michigan |
| (2) | 54 | RB | Bishop Sankey | Washington |
| (4) | 112 | DT | Daquan Jones | Penn State |
| (4) | 122 | DB | Marqueston Huff | Wyoming |
| (5) | 151 | LB | Avery Williamson | Kentucky |
| (6) | 178 | QB | Zach Mettenberger | LSU |
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Top needs: CB, ILB, WR, G
Needs: B-
Value: C+
Summary: Broncos fans who believe the addition of Aqib Talib solidified the depth chart at cornerback were being a little too optimistic. Denver needed to add another potential starter there, and the Broncos may have one in Bradley Roby, but I'm not sure he helps much now. What Roby lacks in refinement and consistency, he has in athleticism and potential. He's a superb athlete -- quick, agile and strong. What he's not is a technically sound CB, so what you have to hope for is a long season that gets him seasoning so he's hitting his stride during a playoff push. But for players this raw at position that demands a transition period, that's just a hope. Even with Emmanuel Sanders around I considered WR depth a need, and Cody Latimer is a pretty good get late in Round 2. Mr. McShay had him rated higher than I did, but I thought he could go early in Round 2. Michael Schofield was a sound player at Michigan but was overshadowed by Taylor Lewan. If Schofield ends up starting at right tackle pretty quickly it wouldn't surprise me. I think Lamin Barrow is a pretty good player going into a situation where the depth chart at interior linebacker isn't great. Given where they were drafting, the Broncos did pretty well, the question is whether Roby is a help in 2014 or a liability because he requires the development.
<!-- END WRITEUP -->[h=4]2014 draft picks[/h]
| Rd | Pk | Pos | Player | College |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| (1) | 31 | CB | Bradley Roby | Ohio State |
| (2) | 56 | WR | Cody Latimer | Indiana |
| (3) | 95 | T | Michael Schofield | Michigan |
| (5) | 156 | LB | Lamin Barrow | LSU |
| (6) | 207 | C | Matt Paradis | Boise State |
| (7) | 242 | OLB | Corey Nelson | Oklahoma |
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Top needs: WR, DL, OL, TE
Needs: B
Value: D+
Summary: There simply isn't a better player development program in the NFL right now than Seattle's. The players the Seahawks draft -- the players I've spent many hours evaluating and making calls on -- are often players that evolve, improve and become something new after Seattle drafts them. While they've had some notable misses in Round 1, both in value and development, they've been awesome thereafter. So when Seattle moved down to No. 45 overall and still had the chance to take either Stephon Tuitt or Marqise Lee, both players that would have been nice fits at pick No. 32, you almost had to laugh because you knew the Seahawks would go in another direction. Paul Richardson was the pick, and he hits a big need, though his lean frame is a concern. The key will be that he maintains his explosiveness as he adds some needed strength. The presence of him and a healthy Percy Harvin, will keep safeties on high alert. I also thought O-line was a necessity, and Justin Britt adds depth, but he was my 21st-ranked offensive tackle, and struggles to create any movement in the run game. I saw him as a likelier fit in the third or fourth round. Again: They trust their development, and they showed it again when they took what I'd kindly refer to as a deep sleeper in Jimmy Staten, a D-tackle I had at No. 44 at the position in my rankings. The Seahawks know what they are doing, but it's fair to say they had a couple value questions again today. I look forward to seeing what becomes of these players.
<!-- END WRITEUP -->[h=4]2014 draft picks[/h]
| Rd | Pk | Pos | Player | College |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| (2) | 45 | WR | Paul Richardson | Colorado |
| (2) | 64 | T | Justin Britt | Missouri |
| (4) | 108 | DE | Cassius Marsh | UCLA |
| (4) | 123 | WR | Kevin Norwood | Alabama |
| (4) | 132 | OLB | Kevin Pierre-Louis | Boston College |
| (5) | 172 | DT | Jimmy Staten | Middle Tenn. State |
| (6) | 199 | T | Garrett Scott | Marshall |
| (6) | 208 | S | Eric Pinkins | San Diego State |
| (7) | 227 | RB | Kiero Small | Arkansas |
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Top needs: RT, CB, ILB, S
Needs: C+
Value: C
Summary: This was a mixed draft, with some really good value in a couple spots, questionable value in others, a big need hit, but another couple that weren't. First of all, I like the fact that Washington moved down. I consider this a deep draft, and the Redskins have struggled with roster depth in recent years due to the Robert Griffin III deal. Give yourself more chances to get good players. In Trent Murphy the Redskins got a productive pass-rusher, they just didn't get the best one available at that spot based on my board. I don't agree completely with Todd that Murphy could have been available in Round 4, but I did think he could be around a little later. Morgan Moses represented good value in Round 3, but he needs work because the measurables are better than the player. He could be a solution at right tackle however, and boy do they need one. The Spencer Long pick was a bit of a puzzler. I saw him going later, as he's coming off a season-ending knee injury. Bashaud Breeland could be a good value at CB, and Lache Seastrunk is extremely explosive for a player taken that late in the draft -- he can be better if he stays more north and south. I wish the Skins would have added a safety, and maybe targeted CB earlier. This draft also represents the end of the RG III deal. We'll welcome Washington back to Round 1 next year.
<!-- END WRITEUP -->[h=4]2014 draft picks[/h]
| Rd | Pk | Pos | Player | College |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| (2) | 47 | OLB | Trent Murphy | Stanford |
| (3) | 66 | T | Morgan Moses | Virginia |
| (3) | 78 | G | Spencer Long | Nebraska |
| (4) | 102 | CB | Bashaud Breeland | Clemson |
| (5) | 142 | WR | Ryan Grant | Tulane |
| (6) | 186 | RB | Lache Seastrunk | Baylor |
| (7) | 217 | TE | Ted Bolser | Indiana |
| (7) | 228 | K | Zach Hocker | Arkansas |
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Top needs: CB, WR, OLB, T
Needs: B-
Value: C
Summary: I had wide receiver as a big need for the Saints, with Marques Colston soon to be 31, and Kenny Stills now asked to play a much bigger role after the departure of favorite Drew Brees targets like Lance Moore and Darren Sproles. They moved up to get Brandin Cooks -- Philly could have snapped him up at No. 22 -- and get an immediate threat. Cooks is an athletic dynamo, a sure-handed target who can create space, make short catches and turn them into longer gains, and will also take the top off a defense vertically on occasion. The Saints got a promising CB in Round 2 with Stan Jean-Baptiste, but he needs a lot of work, particularly in learning how to tackle more effectively. Still, he's a worthy project. Khairi Fortt fits as the OLB I'd suggested, and Vinnie Sunseri has a chance to stick because he's a sharp player who can translate the Rob Ryan defense, which demands a safety with smarts. Ronald Powell is worth a flyer based on the hope that he stays healthy. The question for me is depth at tackle. They like Terron Armstead, but it's a position I would have looked at earlier. Cooks is a win, and it's a lot of "We'll see" after that.
<!-- END WRITEUP -->[h=4]2014 draft picks[/h]
| Rd | Pk | Pos | Player | College |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| (1) | 20 | WR | Brandin Cooks | Oregon State |
| (2) | 58 | CB | Stan Jean-Baptiste | Nebraska |
| (4) | 126 | LB | Khairi Fortt | Cal |
| (5) | 167 | DB | Vinnie Sunseri | Alabama |
| (5) | 169 | OLB | Ronald Powell | Florida |
| (6) | 202 | T | Tavon Rooks | Kansas State |
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Top needs: TE, DL, S, RB
Needs: C+
Value: C-
Summary: The Patriots should be better in 2014 than they were in 2013. They get significant pieces back on defense, and the unrest they experienced on offense (not to mention the youth at WR) is a year removed. Because of that, they took a player in Round 1 who needs to play a limited role this season due to health concerns, and a player in Round 2 who hopefully doesn't see a snap. Dominique Easley can be special when healthy -- watch him in the Sept. 7, 2013, game against Miami -- but two ACL tears dot his profile, including a season-ender in 2013, so you're looking for impact on a rotational basis -- say, 400 or so snaps. For me, that doesn't make him a bad pick, but certainly a reach. It's about maximizing the pick slot. I really like Bryan Stork, and adding him, Cameron Fleming and Jon Halapio really strengthens the depth chart. James White hits a need at RB, and he holds on to the ball. Jeremy Gallon is dangerous after the catch, and offers depth in the slot. I can see him becoming a factor. In Jimmy Garoppolo, you have a nice developmental talent, and potentially a commodity. If Easley stays healthy, this draft looks a lot better. New England just placed a pricey bet that he will.
<!-- END WRITEUP -->[h=4]2014 draft picks[/h]
| Rd | Pk | Pos | Player | College |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| (1) | 29 | DL | Dominique Easley | Florida |
| (2) | 62 | QB | Jimmy Garoppolo | Eastern Illinois |
| (4) | 105 | C | Bryan Stork | Florida State |
| (4) | 130 | RB | James White | Wisconsin |
| (4) | 140 | OL | Cameron Fleming | Stanford |
| (6) | 179 | G | Jon Halapio | Florida |
| (6) | 198 | DE | Zach Moore | Concordia (MN) |
| (7) | 206 | CB | Jemea Thomas | Georgia Tech |
| (7) | 244 | WR | Jeremy Gallon | Michigan |
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Top needs: WR, T, CB, S
Needs: C-
Value: C
Summary: For a team that had a huge season in 2013, the Panthers entered the 2014 draft with some major needs. The biggest needs for me were on offense, where Cam Newton is facing the bad combination of a lack of guys to catch passes and a lack of protection when he drops back. Kelvin Benjamin is a tantalizing physical talent at 6-foot-5 and 240 pounds, with the ability to make contested catches. But sometimes those catches are contested because he's not able to separate consistently. Benjamin ran 4.61 in Indy which, while great for his size, reflects the fact that he's not a burner. I think Jordan Matthews could have been a good fit there, but Carolina placed a bet on Benjamin's upside. Kony Ealy was a decent value in Round 2, but he'll need time to learn how to be a three-down defensive end. Trai Turner is a favorite of mine as a guard prospect, but questions at tackle linger. The Panthers went after help in the secondary later on, but I saw a handful of safeties I might have considered ahead of Tre Boston. I think the Panthers got some good football players, but some of the concerns I had regarding roster holes remain. How quickly Benjamin can make the leap and produce for Newton will be key.
<!-- END WRITEUP -->[h=4]2014 draft picks[/h]
| Rd | Pk | Pos | Player | College |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| (1) | 28 | WR | Kelvin Benjamin | Florida State |
| (2) | 60 | DE | Kony Ealy | Missouri |
| (3) | 92 | G | Trai Turner | LSU |
| (4) | 128 | DB | Tre Boston | UNC |
| (5) | 148 | CB | Bene Benwikere | San Jose State |
| (6) | 204 | RB | Tyler Gaffney | Stanford |
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Top needs: OT, S, TE, WR
Needs: D+
Value: C
Summary: Sammy Watkins isn't just going to be a really good player, he already is one. He was my No. 2 prospect in the entire draft. EJ Manuel has a weapon, a player who can turn simple throws into big gains, and that matters because I still don't know how effective a downfield thrower Manuel is. My issue is that this draft is loaded with wide receivers -- there are good ones already signing as undrafted free agents as I type this, in fact -- and the Bills paid a significant price to get Watkins. A future first-round pick is always a heavy price, but they threw in a fourth as well. Think about this: the Jags took a QB one slot ahead of Watkins, but still managed to get Marqise Lee and Allen Robinson in Round 2. Watkins could be a star; the problem is he has to be, and soon. After Watkins, the draft is really mixed here. Cyrus Kouandjio is an enticing talent but carries knocks on consistency and questions on durability. The hope is he can settle in at right tackle, but he really struggles with speed rushers, which is a problem. Preston Brown is a solid inside linebacker, and Cyril Richardson can be good but had a poor draft process. Seantrel Henderson is a hedge on the Kouandjio bet, but he's a pretty significant character concern. The misses here for me are tight end, no safety and what I consider a massive price to pay for Watkins. I love the player, but losing a future first-rounder stings.
<!-- END WRITEUP -->[h=4]2014 draft picks[/h]
| Rd | Pk | Pos | Player | College |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| (1) | 4 | WR | Sammy Watkins | Clemson |
| (2) | 44 | T | Cyrus Kouandjio | Alabama |
| (3) | 73 | LB | Preston Brown | Louisville |
| (4) | 109 | CB | Ross Cockrell | Duke |
| (5) | 153 | G | Cyril Richardson | Baylor |
| (7) | 221 | OLB | Randell Johnson | Florida Atlantic |
| (7) | 237 | T | Seantrel Henderson | Miami (FL) |
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Top needs: S, G, OLB, WR
Needs: C-
Value: D
Summary: Unfortunately, the Trent Richardson trade factors hugely into this draft, and that pretty much kills the grade. Think about this: we just went through the second year in a row where a RB wasn't drafted in Round 1, and this year it wasn't even close. Bishop Sankey came off the board at No. 54, and Sankey is a good player and filled a clear need. And don't say I just made up my mind on this after Richardson struggled. I was pretty clear on it then. So the Colts have little to show for Round 1. In Round 2, they get Jack Mewhort, but they need him to change positions, and a very good center, Marcus Martin, was available. Donte Moncrief is a fabulous athlete, but the tape is merely OK, and he wasn't even the best receiver on his own college team. Hopefully Mewhort works out, but safety is still an issue, and the pass rush didn't get any help, so hopefully Bjoern Werner takes a big step this season while Robert Mathis continues his greatness. The big hope is Richardson discovers some magic and makes this draft look better.
<!-- END WRITEUP -->[h=4]2014 draft picks[/h]
| Rd | Pk | Pos | Player | College |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| (2) | 59 | T | Jack Mewhort | Ohio State |
| (3) | 90 | WR | Donte Moncrief | Mississippi |
| (5) | 166 | DE | Jonathan Newsome | Ball State |
| (6) | 203 | ILB | Andrew Jackson | Western Kentucky |
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| (7) | 232 | G | Ulrick John | Georgia State |
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