A Lookback at the 2006 NFL Draft, Pt. 2: The Surprises of the 1st Round

The short series continues involving the look back of the 2006 NFL Draft. Part One was the handful of players who lived up to the expectations.

Part Two, however, deals with some of the players later in the first round who have boosted onto the scene as Pro-Bowlers, and have showcased their talent very quickly in the National Football League. The sleepers will be later on in the series.

No. 7: Nick Mangold

Nick Mangold, currently the center for the New York Jets, is just one of the first round selections that have turned out well in the 2006 draft.

When losing veteran Kevin Mawae from the line, an upgrade was needed, as Mangold filled the spot. The stats don't always show up in the stat book for the offensive lineman, however, his Pro-Bowl appearance in 2008 has to put him on this list.

No. 6: Joesph Addai

Joesph Addai was taken at the 30th overall pick by the Indianapolis Colts. With the running game taking a blow after the departure of James, they needed to draft a franchise running back, hopefully to be Addai.

He has carried the load, however, the past three seasons. Addai has 2,697 career yards, along with 24 rushing touchdowns. He earned offensive rookie of the year honors in his first season, along with a Super Bowl ring and a Pro-Bowl appearance.

No. 5: Mathias Kiwanuka

Mathias Kiwanuka was selected number 32 overall, the last pick in the first round, and up to this point, has played past his potential. In three seasons he has 150 total tackles, 16.5 sacks, two interceptions, and four forced fumbles.

He also has a Super Bowl ring to his credit, being a key part of the dominate defense before facing injuries.

No. 4: Tamba Hali

There hasn't been much to talk discussing the Kansas City Chiefs, especially on the defensive side. Well, you do have one of the few bright spots in defensive end Tamba Hali.

Hali was drafted 20th overall by the Chiefs in the 2006 draft in order to improve the defense which did lack talent in many areas. Hali has showed the organization his potential in his three seasons with the team. He has 173 tackles, with 18.5 sacks, and 10 forced fumbles. Not to shabby for a late first rounder.

No. 3: Santonio Holmes

The man who brought the Steelers their sixth title makes the list at number three, what a surprise. Santonio Holmes was taken by the Pittsburgh Steelers at the 25th overall pick, as a new receiver was needed to accompany Ward.

In three seasons, Holmes has 2,587 receiving yards, 15 touchdowns to his credit. However, he shined in this post season, making the game winning catch to bring the title to the gold and black. Some could argue that Holmes could be a bit high on this list. But hey, with a Super Bowl MLV Award to your credit, along with a ring, it's hard to argue against it.

No. 2: Deangelo Williams

Deangelo Williams could be a shocker to some at number two, but he has sprouted out into a top 10 running back after his 2009 campaign.

After sharing most of the carries his first two seasons, Williams was the featured back. He rushed for 1,515 yards on 18 touchdowns. For his career, he has 2,733 yards with 23 touchdowns.

Also keep in mind he doesn't have the most consistent quarterback in Delhomme, and has made his way into a major part of the Panthers' offense. Carolina selected Williams at 27th overall. Great pick made late in the first round!

No. 1: Antonio Cromartie

Here we are. The top spot in part two of the series. The honors goes to Antonio Cromartie, cornerback for the San Diego Chargers. San Diego selected Cromartie at the 19th overall selection.

They knew when taking him that this man had a lot of potential, and hoped it could translate to the NFL. That investment has worked out for them. In his three years in the league, he has 132 tackles, 12 interceptions, and two defensive touchdowns. He earned his Pro-Bowl spot in 2007, after finishing with 10 interceptions.

You also have to keep in mind that cornerbacks take the most development out of all the positions, as you do not see many pan out, at least this early in their career.