Undoubtedly the NFC West was the worst division in the NFL last season with the Cardinals struggling over the line to take the divisional title, before putting a run together to get to the Superbowl. After the draft all the teams added depth but it is difficult to see this division improving greatly in the upcoming season.
What Were The Key Picks For The Cardinals?
The biggest selection for the Cardinals came in the first round with the selection of the hugely talented Ohio State RB Chris “Beanie” Wells. Even though Wells has great potential, it allowed, more significantly, the Cards to release veteran Edgerrin James – who had wanted out of Arizona.
Though the Cardinals missed out on a linebacker, the third round selection of safety Rashad Johnson was good as this player is explosive and will be able to feature in nickel/dime packages as well as for the special team units.
Overall Grade:B+
Should The 49ers Now Be Considered Challengers?
When you think of the San Francisco 49ers you think of Joe Montana, Jerry Rice, Steve Young and Terrell Owens – all legends in their own ways. After the draft the 49ers have found their new superstar in WR Michael Crabtree. The explosive player-maker who recorded outstanding numbers in college will easily become the number one wideout for the 49ers. That said the 49ers still failed to make a permanent switch to a number one franchise QB with Nate Davis (5th round pick) only likely to be a back-up at best.
Another good pick was Glen Coffee, RB from Alabama, who may see more action than some expect this season if Frank Gore does break down. Otherwise the 49ers draft consisted of selections that added depth and back-ups on both offense and defence.
Overall Grade: B
Will The Rams Picks Help Them Improve?
When a franchise sits in a draft room they always say they are going to pick the best player available on the board but very few franchises end up following this ethos. The Rams, however, followed this ethos right through the draft. The 2nd overall selection of tackle Jason Smith will fill the void left by Orlando Pace on the offensive line. Also the selection of James Laurinaitis was also a canny selection as the former Ohio State LB will be a better fit than Rey Maualuga, who was also on the board, in the Rams defensive scheme.
In fact the Rams used their later picks to select players that along the line could well challenge current established starters.
The Rams were so poor last year these players should help see an improvement this upcoming season but it is unlikely to have an immediate positive effect.
Overall Grade: B
Evaluating The Seahawks Draft
Last season the lack of depth in the Seahawks roster meant that the franchise lost their grip on the NFC West crown. So the fundamental aim for the Seahawks in the draft was to add depth to a roster. They certainly achieved this in the later round with picks such as Nick Reed.
The Seahawks managed two big selections in Max Unger (2nd round), who as a offensive lineman will likely to have a long and productive career in the NFL. But more significantly the Seahawks were able to jump at the chance to take LB Aaron Curry, who was the most talented defensive player in the draft class. By selecting him with the 4th overall selection Curry will fill the void left by Julius Peterson and complete a young athletic linebacker core that includes Leroy Hill and Lofa Tatupu.
Overall Grade:B
