This season's draft helped some
teams much more than others. Here's my thoughts on the biggest
winners and losers from the 2004 NFL draft.
The
Biggest Winners
Arizona Cardinals – Larry Fitzgerald is going
to be a superstar in the NFL. They now have a formidable receiving
corps. Karlos Dansby was a steal in the second round as was DT
Darnell Dockett in the third. All three of these players have
chances to be very special in the league. And don't forget their
"pickup" of Denny Green - a great coach.
Denver Broncos – Denver filled their needs
well on the first day of the draft. DJ Williams will help the
linebacking corps right away, and could develop into a top level
defender. Tatum Bell is another home run type back, who is thicker
than Portis and equally fast. He must demonstrate an ability to run
between the tackles better than he did in college. Darius Watts
could become a quality number two wideout provided he can stay
healthy.
Detroit Lions – Imagine Roy Williams and
Charles Rogers in three years? The Lions are now loaded at the skill
positions on offense. Kevin Jones is an upgrade at running back.
Teddy Lehman is a quality linebacker who is simply a winner. Now
they need to bolster both lines and this team will start making some
noise.
San Diego Chargers – The Chargers scored with
their trade that sent Eli Manning’s rights to the Giants. They still
added Phil Rivers who may end up being better than Eli. They drafted
eleven players overall which bodes well for a team in need of
playmakers. Some of the better picks were Michael Turner, Dave Ball
and Carlos Joseph of Miami.
The Biggest Losers
Kansas City Chiefs – In a draft loaded with
WR’s, the Chiefs failed to add one before the 4th round. We like
Sammie Parker but he is very similar to the guys they already have.
Really no difference makers at all in the draft for the
Chiefs.
New York Giants – What were they thinking?
This team has more needs than Quarterback. They also gave the
Chargers their first pick next year, which looks like it will be a
good pick. Jessie Palmer may be the starter this season, which is
not good news for Giants fans.
Indianapolis Colts – I like Bob Sanders, but
he does not fill a need for the Colts. Really not one selection I
really like for the Colts.
Cleveland Browns – The Browns only had six
picks and Kellen Winslow will be a damn good NFL tight end, but
Garcia will have a had time throwing to him on his back. They
desperately needed O lineman and did not draft one until the fifth
round. They also could have used some help at
linebacker.
