The only downside for the Bears getting Albert here is that they can't draft him twice. The Bears need a new running back and quarterback, but neither would be any good without some improvement upfront. The Bears need help at guard and tackle, and Olin Kruetz is not getting any younger at center.
No quarterback warrants consideration here, but Richard Mendenhall would be a great fit particularly with his Illinois connection, however the Bears staff will likely be wary or drafting another running back in the first round with the way Cedric Benson has played. The Bears could look to move up to grab Matt Ryan, but Chicago brass has stated clearly that they are not looking for a quarterback in round one.
That makes Brandon Albert, or the best offensive lineman available on their board the likely pick.
15. Detroit Lions (7-9) Needs: OL, DE, RB, TE, LB, DB
Richard Mendenhall RB Illinois
Offensive tackle and a rush end certainly represent bigger needs for the Lions, but with the Lions looking to emphasize the running game even more this year, the former Illini stud running back just makes too much sense. Mendenhall has the physical running style Rod Marinelli loves and the capabilities to hit the home run they have not had since Barry Sanders.
Jeffrey Otah would make sense here to bolster the Lions offensive line situation, and it would be too high for Clemson DE Phillip Merling. Mendenhall has the highest value here and the Lions could take a cue from their division rival Vikings to draft an impact rookie running back.
16. Arizona Cardinals (8-8) Needs: OL, DL, LB, RB, CB
Mike Jenkins CB South Florida
Arizona would love to see Derrick Harvey or Keith Rivers to fall, but that seems highly unlikely. It now appears the Cards will take the best corner available to fill the void left when Antrel Rolle moved to safety. Dominic Rodgers-Cromartie out of Tennessee State could be the higher rated corner on the board in this spot and as a result, could be the selection.
Jenkins is the more polished and physical corner, although both possess excellent athleticism and talent. Phillip Merling or Jonathan Stewart could also be considered here, but it may be too high for both. Jenkins will have his hands full trying to covering Tory Holt and Deion Branch in the West, but will be an upgrade for the Cardinals secondary and help out a lackluster pass-defense.
17. Kansas City Chiefs f/ Vikings Needs: OL, WR, CB, DL, QB
Jeffrey Otah OT Pittsburgh
K.C. gets Minnesota's 17th pick here in the Jared Allen trade and will likely take the best tackle available. This massive Pittsburgh product would instantly provide some youth and talent to an aging offensive front. Both Brody Croyle/Damon Huard and Larry Johnson would love to see Otah in this spot.
Otah could be a monster in the run game and has the potential to be a stud run blocker in the NFL. The Chiefs could draft a wide receiver here to go with Dwayne Bowe, or DRC to bolster their defensive backfield, but the needs along the offensive line are simply too much.
Otah has the body and talent to be a rookie starter in the trenches and the Chiefs desperately need him.
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