2010 NFL DRAFT AFC NORTH

2010 NFL DRAFT AFC NORTH


BALTIMORE: The Ravens are stacked and come into the season as a real contender for the AFC playoffs the trade with the Cardinals for Anquan Bolden only made the Ravens that much more of a threat to teams like the Colts and Pats. Baltimore has limited real needs for this year’s draft with the main need at CB, ILB, and possibly TE. Additionally, there are rumors that Ozzie would move Jared Gaither for a draft pick or 2.

An immediate glance at the roster seems to reveal that a CB would be the choice if one is rated for this area. If Ozzie bails on a CB, they would take one of the premier TEs (J Gresham?). If neither is the pick look for them to pick up the best player almost regardless of position. In the mid rounds, look for an ILB, and a Nose Tackle. Aaron Hernandez would be a TE that the club might consider in one of the middle rounds (Round #3?) especially if 2 defensive players are taken in the 1st 2 Rounds.

CINCINNATI: Believe it or not, the Bengals are one of the more talented teams in the NFL now especially after the success of the ’09 draft class. The biggest needs for the team include WR (one who can stretch the field), RDE (one that can rush the passer), TE, and a CB (later in the draft for depth). Additionally they might pick up a RB with a 2nd or 3rd round pick due to the uncertainty of Cedric Benson.

One of two positions which seems to be the pick in the 1st round is a WR that can stretch the field or a Pass Rushing DE (Carlos Dunlap?). DE seems to make the most sense given the depth in the 2nd and 3rd rounds at WR. A CB in about the 3rd round would help in nickel packages and lessen the potential blow of one of the starters leaving in either 2011 or 2012.

CLEVELAND: There is a New Sheriff in town. The Brownies own the #5 pick in the draft, and have 4 other picks in the next 2 rounds. Jake Delhomme (a free agent from Carolina) looks to be the starter at QB and rumors (I think ESPN is at the head of them) persist that the Browns have talked to the Rams about the #1 pick. So? Sheriff Holmgren says nothing is eminent, and that does look to be the case. Sheldon Brown does help solidify the CB position which does take some pressure off of the club. The needs of the club include: OLB (pass rusher), Safety, RB, ILB, and Quarterback.

The Browns do seem enamored with Eric Berry (CB/S), so he might actually get the nod. Other potential picks might be an OLB (pass rusher, Sergio Kindle would be there), or as a dark horse, C. J. Spiller who would add multiple dimensions to a latent offense. Look for a QB in about Round #3 to develop for the future, and an ILB in Rounds 4 or 5. If Berry is not the choice, the smart money would seem to be on Kindle. Another WR makes sense at some point probably in Round #3.

PITTSBURGH: The off season problems in Pittsburgh are well documented with a suspension pending for Ben Roethlisberger (QB) and an eventual trade of Santonio Holmes (WR) to the Jets. The Big Ben Saga really put the team in the ringer and the year might be lost before it gets started if he is suspended for a long period of time. The Steelers have added Antwaan Randle-El and Larry Foote (both for 2nd tours), yet questions abound in the Steel City. The team might be wise to trade a pick to the Rams for D-lineman Adam Karriker who could play Nose Tackle, this would make them much younger on the line and would probably better suit Adam’s skill set. Other needs (besides NT) of the team include: OLB, CB, OT, OG, WR, RB, and DE.

The Steelers really need to upgrade both Lines of Scrimmage due to age and talent, yet the word is that the team will probably take a CB with it’s 1st Round pick. The team is probably in a position to get Kyle Wilson (his name is continually swirling around at their pick) and given his magical rise up the board, he would be a good pick for them; however, they really need to think about being The Steelers and controlling the LOS. If Wilson is not available, they really need to focus on the board and make a selection which will play for 10 years and address one of the major needs (RB, and WR can wait until later rounds).