NFL: Mock Draft 4/25/2008

Peter Bukowski by Senior Analyst Written on April 25, 2008
Darren-mcfadden_feature
(Page 7 of 10)

Merling's ability has been overblown by some, but he should have value here. Kentwan Balmer could also go here if the 'Skins decide to go defensive line.

22. Dallas Cowboys F/ Browns (13-3) Needs: DB, DT, MLB, RB, OL
 Felix Jones RB Arkansas

With Darren McFadden long off the board, Jerry Jones will have to settle for his former-Razorback running back Felix Jones. The Cowboys got Pacman Jones from the Titans earlier this week, but there is no assurance he can be anything close to the player he was before being suspended.

That could mean a corner in this spot, but with two first round picks Jones will take a gamble here. Jones could be a big boost behind Marion Barber and would be an upgrade in the return game as well. Jones' speed and elusiveness will compliment Barber's violent, power running style. With Barber softening defenses all game, Jones could break big plays in the second half of games with tired legs on defense.

This does not correspond to Jones' value, but the fit is perfect and it makes too much sense not to happen...then again it is Jerry Jones.

23. Pittsburgh Steelers (10-6) Needs: OT, S, WR, OLB, DE
 Jonathan Stewart RB Oregon

Willie Parker's broken fibula has to concern the Steelers and although problems along the offensive front and depth in the receiving core remain an issue, the Steeler's offensive game has always been predicated on a solid running game. Stewart will not make people remember Jerome Bettis, but he is a huge, physical back with enough speed to make the big play, as well as the hands to be versatile in the passing game.

Willie Parker's health could bring concerns about his ability to carry the load. Malcolm Kelly or Limas Sweed will be considered, however neither would bring the kind of insurance and upgrade Stewart could in the backfield.

The Oregon running back has been dropped down boards because of his toe surgery, however he seems to be coming back up and may not even fall this far.

24. Tennessee Titans (10-6) Needs: WR, CB, LB, DT, OL
 Limas Sweed WR Texas

A few weeks ago if you had said Malcolm Kelly would be on the board when the Titans were picking I would have laughed. Now, not only could he be there, but the Titans could actually pass on him in favor of Limas Sweed. The Titans badly need a true No. 1 for Vince Young and Sweed hit the map with VY on their way to the National Championship.

The Titans could use help at corner and linebacker as well, however Sweed or Kelly just seem too good to pass up here. Both are big strong receivers, but Sweed has better speed and was more productive for longer at Texas.

Ultimately, the Titans will have to add a play maker to their offense, and it should be Sweed here.

25. Seattle Seahawks (10-6) Needs: WR, TE, DB, OL, LB
 Malcolm Kelly WR Oklahoma

If the Titans pass on Kelly, do not expect the Seahawks to waste any time picking up him. The 'Hawks lost D.J. Hackett to the Carolina Panthers and Deion Branch's knee remains a question. Kelly's stock has dipped since a disappointing work out, however Kelly has big time size and hands.

(0)
...
Share This  
Crop_45x45
or to post this comment

7 Comments

There are no comments yet. Get the conversation started by leaving the first comment

Loading more comments...
posted just now
  • Loading...
  • Nobody has liked this comment yet
Cancel

This comment and all replies have been deleted This comment has been deleted Undo delete

2,809
reads

7
comments

written on April 25, 2008 Sports


CBS Sports Official Partner
Certain photos copyright © 2009 by Getty Images.
Any commercial use or distribution without the express written consent of Getty Images is strictly prohibited.