AP 2006 NFL Draft Capsules

Houston \| New Orleans \| Tennessee \| N.Y. Jets \| Green Bay San Francisco \| Oakland \| Buffalo \| Detroit \| Arizona \| St. Louis Cleveland \| Baltimore \| Philadelphia \| Denver \| Miami \| Minnesota Dallas \| San Diego \| Kansas City \| New England \| Tampa Bay Cincinnati \| N.Y. Giants \| Chicago \| Carolina \| Jacksonville Indianapolis \| Seattle \| Pittsburgh \| Atlanta \| Washington

1.		2-14
LAST SEASON: After steady improvement in their first three seasons, the Texans were supposed to post a winning record in 2005. Instead, they were the NFL’s worst team and won the fewest games in their short history, costing coach Dom Capers his job.
TOP ACQUISITIONS: FB Jameel Cook (FA/Tampa Bay); LB Sam Cowart (FA/Minnesota); C Mike Flanagan (FA/Green Bay); DE N.D. Kalu (FA/Philadelphia); WR Eric Moulds (trade/Buffalo); TE Jeb Putzier (released/Denver); QB Sage Rosenfels (FA/Miami); DE Anthony Weaver (FA/Baltimore).
KEY LOSSES: WR Corey Bradford, G Milford Brown, FS Marcus Coleman, WR Jabar Gaffney.
THEY NEED: A playmaker that can score at any time; a left tackle to finally protect QB David Carr; cornerbacks to provide depth; a safety after releasing longtime starter and aging veteran Marcus Coleman.
THEY DON'T NEED: WRs, after trading for Eric Moulds in the offseason, adding another legitimate threat to take pressure off Andre Johnson. DE after spending for free agent Anthony Weaver.
POSSIBLE FIRST PICK: Southern Cal RB Reggie Bush, North Carolina State DE Mario Williams or a trade.
OUTLOOK: First-year coach Gary Kubiak and team are keeping mum on top pick, but it would be a surprise if they don’t take Heisman Trophy winner Bush. Houston also has three other picks in the first 66, intriguing for a team with a so many needs.
2.		3-13
LAST SEASON: Displaced into temporary lodgings in San Antonio by Hurricane Katrina, the Saints still managed a 2-2 start before losing RB Deuce McAllister to a season-ending knee injury. That, combined with weak offensive line and deteriorating morale, caused the team to sink fast. They lost 11 of their last 12, coach Jim Haslett was fired and five-year starting QB Aaron Brooks was released.
TOP ACQUISITIONS: RB Michael Bennett (FA/Minnesota); QB Drew Brees (FA/San Diego); LB Scott Fujita (FA/Dallas); FS Bryan Scott (trade/Atlanta); LB Anthony Simmons (FA/Seattle); FS Omar Stoutmire (FA/Washington).
KEY LOSSES: C LeCharles Bentley, QB Aaron Brooks, CB Fakhir Brown, OT Wayne Gandy, LB Sedrick Hodge, DE Darren Howard, LB T.J. Slaughter.
THEY NEED: OLs, especially after losing center LeCharles Bentley to free agency and trading left tackle Wayne Gandy to Atlanta. They also are looking to strengthen linebacking.
THEY DON'T NEED: A quarterback after signing Drew Brees to a six-year deal. However, Brees is recovering from throwing shoulder surgery and there’s no guarantee he’ll be up to past standards. The Saints also appear solid at defensive line, receiver and running back if McAllister can return healthy.
POSSIBLE FIRST PICK: T D’Brickashaw Ferguson, LB A.J. Hawk.
OUTLOOK: The Saints all but hold the rights to coveted Southern Cal quarterback Matt Leinart, and could trade down and still get a top linebacker or offensive lineman, and other considerations. GM Mickey Loomis and new coach Sean Payton haven’t ruled out choosing Leinart or others such as Vanderbilt QB Jay Cutler, Texas QB Vince Young or Williams.
3.		4-12
LAST SEASON: Rebuilding through the draft as punishment for their self-induced salary cap woes led to their worst season since relocating to Tennessee in 1997, and their highest draft pick since 1995, when they took Steve McNair at No. 3 overall.
TOP ACQUISITIONS: WR David Givens (FA/New England); FS Chris Hope (FA/Pittsburgh); C Kevin Mawae (Released/NY Jets); LB David Thornton (FA/Indianapolis);
KEY LOSSES: LB Rocky Boiman, C Justin Hartwig, OT Brad Hopkins, LB Brad Kassell, SS Tank Williams.
THEY NEED: With the Titans seemingly trying to push McNair out to end those salary cap woes, a quarterback is the top choice. Billy Volek hasn’t stayed healthy enough to show he could survive an entire season, so the top pick might need to start as a rookie. More depth at LB, CB, S and OT.
THEY DON'T NEED: A starting left tackle, with Michael Roos taking over for veteran Brad Hopkins, cut in February. They are stocked at WR after drafting three promising rookies last season and signing David Givens this offseason.
POSSIBLE FIRST PICK: Young or Leinart; Cutler if they decide to trade down.
OUTLOOK: The Titans can’t afford a mistake here with owner Bud Adams wanting another quarterback. GM Floyd Reese and coach Jeff Fisher go into the final year of their contracts, though Fisher has an option for one more year.
4.		4-12
LAST SEASON: Losing Chad Pennington and Jay Fielder in the span of seven plays during Week 3 basically spelled the end of the season. An avalanche followed: center Kevin Mawae, tackle Jason Fabini, receiver Wayne Chrebet, running back Curtis Martin and linebacker Eric Barton were among 12 players on season-ending injured reserve. The Jets had high hopes after coming a field goal away from playing for the AFC championship the previous season.
TOP ACQUISITIONS: WR Tim Dwight (FA/New England); CB Andre Dyson (released/Seattle); QB Patrick Ramsey (trade/Washington); LB Brad Kassell (FA/Tennessee); DT Kimo Von Oelhoffen (FA/Pittsburgh);
KEY LOSSES: DE John Abraham, CB Ty Law, C Kevin Mawae.
THEY NEED: Everything. Unsure whether Pennington will be the same after a second rotator cuff operation, they could be in the market for a franchise quarterback — if Leinart is available. They could try to trade up to get him, or hold their position and perhaps take T Ferguson. The Jets also need a running back as the heir to Martin, maybe with the 29th overall pick, and help at receiver, on both lines, and in the secondary.
THEY DON'T NEED: A punter, kicker of middle linebacker, where Jonathan Vilma is set.
POSSIBLE FIRST PICK: Leinart, Ferguson.
OUTLOOK: New coach Eric Mangini wants to build through the draft; nine picks give him a good opportunity. But the Jets need more than a few picks to have great success this season.
5.		4-12
LAST SEASON: Free-agent losses and critical injuries left the Packers desperately undermanned, and they endured their first losing season under Brett Favre. Coach Mike Sherman was fired, and the Packers hired offensive-minded Mike McCarthy. Favre threw a career-worst 29 interceptions last year.
TOP ACQUISITIONS: FS Marquand Manuel (FA/Seattle); DT Ryan Pickett (FA/St. Louis).
KEY LOSSES: LB Na’il Diggs, RB Tony Fisher, C Mike Flanagan, LB Paris Lenon, K Ryan Longwell.
THEY NEED: Almost everything. They’re several interior linemen short of a decent offensive line, and need a wide receiver to complement Donald Driver if Javon Walker follows through on his threat to never play for Green Bay again.
THEY DON'T NEED: A running back. Ahman Green and Najeh Davenport both missed most of last season with injuries, but re-signed. Samkon Gado, one of the few bright spots of the second half of last season, also will return.
POSSIBLE FIRST PICK: Hawk, Williams, Oregon DT Haloti Ngata.
OUTLOOK: GM Ted Thompson might be wise to consider trading out of the No. 5 spot to load up on picks. And though quarterback isn’t an immediate need, regardless of Favre’s decision — Aaron Rodgers, last year’s first-rounder, would almost certainly take over — would Packers lay off a top QB who falls to fifth?
6, 22.		4-12
LAST SEASON: They got stuck with the No. 1 pick in a weak draft and chose Utah QB Alex Smith, paying $24 million guaranteed for one TD pass. Everyone struggled on the NFL’s 32nd-ranked offense and defense during the Niners’ third straight losing season, but coach Mike Nolan still got his players excited.
TOP ACQUISITIONS: G Larry Allen (released/Dallas); WR Antonio Bryant (FA/Cleveland); CB Sammy Davis (trade/San Diego); CB Walt Harris (released/Washington), LB T.J. Slaughter (FA/New Orleans).
KEY LOSSES: FB Fred Beasley, DE Andre Carter, WR Brandon Lloyd, LB Julian Peterson, CB Ahmed Plummer, WR Rashaun Woods.
THEY NEED: Almost everything, from depth on defense to offensive playmakers. The defensive front seven is particularly thin after losing Julian Peterson and Andre Carter to free agency. They traded for the 22nd overall pick to add more immediate players — or to trade up from No. 6.
THEY DON'T NEED: A quarterback, unfortunately. Leinart would have been their pick if he had entered the 2005 draft; Young might still be available when they pick, while the top defensive prospects could be gone.
POSSIBLE FIRST PICK: Maryland TE Vernon Davis, Hawk, Williams.
OUTLOOK: The Niners still are woefully talent-deficient, no matter the draft’s outcome. Nolan’s rebuilding project might not yield a .500 record for two more seasons — and owner John York seems content to wait for the ship to turn around.
7.		4-12
LAST SEASON: The Raiders scored only 51 points, with just six touchdowns, in their final five games, lost their last six overall and eight of nine despite an offense featuring Kerry Collins, Randy Moss, LaMont Jordan and Jerry Porter. Coach Norv Turner was fired. Perhaps the most glaring statistic is Oakland’s failure to win a division game for the first time since Al Davis came aboard in 1963 to coach and eventually own the team. The Raiders went 1-11 against the AFC West during Turner’s two seasons. Now, Art Shell is in charge in his second stint as coach and QB Collins is gone.
TOP ACQUISITIONS: QB Aaron Brooks (released/New Orleans); DE Lance Johnstone (FA/Minnesota); CB Duane Starks (Released/New England).
KEY LOSSES: QB Kerry Collins, DT Ted Washington.
THEY NEED: Outside linebacker, defensive tackle, safety, offensive linemen.
THEY DON'T NEED: Receivers. The Raiders again are deep in this spot with Moss, Porter, Doug Gabriel, Carlos Francis, Johnnie Morant and Alvis Whitted.
POSSIBLE FIRST PICK: Texas DB Michael Huff.
OUTLOOK: Following three straight losing seasons since the Raiders reached the 2003 Super Bowl, Davis is depending on Shell to turn things around. The Raiders first must be competitive again in their division. The defense made major strides last season behind NFL sacks leader Derrick Burgess despite a young secondary. The offensive line needs to stay healthy, protect the quarterback and improve run blocking.
8.		5-11
LAST SEASON: Injuries and inept J.P. Losman/Kelly Holcomb-led offense kept Bills out of playoffs for sixth straight season, matching team’s longest drought since NFL merger, and leading to front-office shakeup. Team President Tom Donahoe was fired, Marv Levy was lured out of retirement to take over as GM, and was caught by surprise with coach Mike Mularkey’s abrupt resignation. Levy hired fellow Ivy Leaguer and former Bears coach Dick Jauron to replace Mularkey.
TOP ACQUISITIONS: SS Matt Bowen (released/Washington); WR Andre Davis (FA/New England); WR Peerless Price (released/Dallas); TE Robert Royal (FA/Washington); DT Larry Tripplett (FA/Indianapolis).
KEY LOSSES: DT Sam Adams, SS Lawyer Milloy, WR Eric Moulds, OT Mike Williams.
THEY NEED: Defensive lineman to play alongside newly signed DT Larry Tripplett; offensive linemen to plug leaky, patchwork unit that allowed 40-plus sacks for fifth time in six years; and defensive back to replace eventually either veteran safety Troy Vincent or cornerback Nate Clements.
THEY DON'T NEED: Receiver after adding free agents Peerless Price and Andre’ Davis; quarterback; running back.
POSSIBLE FIRST PICK: Southern Cal T Winston Justice, Florida State DT Broderick Bunkley or Ngata. Will consider trading down to add extra selections.
OUTLOOK: Team’s troubles have been result of failure to address O-line. RG Chris Villarrial, entering third season in Buffalo, now is unit’s most experienced player. Bills also are hoping LB Takeo Spikes fully recovers from season-ending Achillies’ tendon injury. Levy and Jauron must provide stability and vision to team that lost its way under Donahoe.
9.		5-11
LAST SEASON: Fired Steve Mariucci after two-plus seasons with total of 15 wins, and didn’t bring back Dick Jauron after a 1-4 finish.
TOP ACQUISITIONS: WR Corey Bradford (FA/Houston); QB Jon Kitna (FA/Cincinnati); LB Paris Lenon (FA/Green Bay); QB Josh McCown (FA/Arizona); OT Barry Stokes (FA/Atlanta); G Rex Tucker (FA/St. Louis); G Courtney Van Buren (FA/San Diego).
KEY LOSSES: QB Jeff Garcia, CB Andre Goodman, G Kyle Kosier, CB R.W. McQuarters.
THEY NEED: Defensive backs, linebackers, offensive line.
THEY DON'T NEED: Quarterback, running back, receiver, defensive end.
POSSIBLE FIRST PICK: Huff, Justice or Ngata.
OUTLOOK: The NFL’s worst team since 2001 has used its last seven No. 1s on offense. The trend should end — if Huff is available — with defensive-minded Rod Marinelli the latest head coach trying to turnaround the Lions.
10.		5-11
LAST SEASON: The Cardinals picked CB Antrel Rolle in the first round, eighth overall. Six of their seven 2005 picks started a game last season, and all seven remain on the roster.
TOP ACQUISITIONS: G Milford Brown (FA/Houston); DT Kendrick Clancy (FA/N.Y. Giants); RB Edgerrin James (FA/Indianapolis).
KEY LOSSES: DT Russell Davis, FS Quentin Harris, QB Josh McCown.
THEY NEED: Quarterback to back up injury-prone starter Kurt Warner; safety; offensive tackle.
THEY DON'T NEED: Wide receiver, running back, defensive end.
POSSIBLE FIRST PICK: Cutler; T Eric Winston, Miami (Fla.); Justice.
OUTLOOK: Dennis Green tends to favor the best available player, one reason he drafted WR Larry Fitzgerald in the first round two years ago despite having Anquan Boldin. It’s unlikely they’ll pick a running back since signing Edgerrin James, or a wide receiver. All 14 players drafted in the two years Green and Rod Graves have been together remain on the roster, big news for this club.
11.		6-10
LAST SEASON: The Rams were rudderless, playing the last 11 games with coach Mike Martz at home (heart ailment). They also were riddled with injuries: QB Marc Bulger (shoulder) missed much of the year and was one of 10 players, including both starting cornerbacks, who finished the season on injured reserve. Scott Linehan, offensive coordinator at Miami last year, will try to rebuild the team.
TOP ACQUISITIONS: CB Fakhir Brown (FA/New Orleans); SS Corey Chavous (FA/Minnesota); QB Gus Frerotte (released/Miami); DT La’Roi Glover (released/Dallas); LB Raonall Smith (FA/Minnesota); P Matt Turk (FA/Miami); LB Will Witherspoon (FA/Carolina).
KEY LOSSES: SS Adam Archuleta, LB Chris Claiborne, CB Corey Ivy, DT Damione Lewis, DT Ryan Pickett.
THEY NEED: TE and OLs. DT La’Roi Glover is an offseason addition, but they lost two at that position (Ryan Pickett and Damione Lewis) to free agency and did not offer a contract to DE-DT Tyoka Jackson. Brandon Manumaleuna is the only experienced TE.
THEY DON'T NEED: A quarterback. Gus Frerotte, signed in the offseason, is a good insurance policy in case Bulger gets hurt again.
POSSIBLE FIRST PICK: Davis, Bunkley, Young if he slips so far; they can afford the time to develop him.
OUTLOOK: The Rams addressed defense in the offseason, adding three and possibly four starters, but still need depth in the secondary given that CBs Jerametrius Butler and Travis Fisher are coming off injuries.
12.		6-10
LAST SEASON: First-year coach Romeo Crennel got the team pointed in the right direction. Other than a 43-0 loss to Pittsburgh late in the season, Browns were competitive — which, for them, is a sign of progress.
TOP ACQUISITIONS: C LeCharles Bentley (FA/New Orleans); C Bob Hallen (FA/San Diego); WR Joe Jurevicius (FA/Seattle); LB Willie McGinest (Released/New England); OT Kevin Shaffer (FA/Atlanta); DT Ted Washington (FA/Oakland); P Dave Zastudil (FA/Baltimore).
KEY LOSSES: WR Antonio Bryant, DE Kenard Lang, OT L.J. Shelton.
THEY NEED: A bona fide pass rusher, depth in the secondary, linebackers and another wide receiver until Braylon Edwards is fully recovered from knee surgery.
THEY DON'T NEED: QBs, TEs or any more serious injuries.
POSSIBLE FIRST PICK: GM Phil Savage loves to stockpile picks and the Browns could be a willing partner for a team wanting to move up, especially one interested in C Jeff Faine. Ngata, Bunkley or Florida State DE Kamerion Wimbley would fit right in.
OUTLOOK: Savage’s first draft with the Browns last year yielded Edwards (a future star), QB Charlie Frye (maybe this year’s starter) and S Brodney Pool, but little else. Savage needs to find a few more key components for the Browns to hang in the AFC North race.
13.		6-10
LAST SEASON: Brian Billick’s worst record as Ravens coach was caused by a weak offense, except for WR Derrick Mason, who set a team record with 86 catches , and injuries to key players, especially star LB Ray Lewis, who missed 10 games.
TOP ACQUISITIONS: RB Mike Anderson (released/Denver); CB Corey Ivy (FA/St. Louis); DE Trevor Pryce (released/Denver); LB Gary Stills (released/Kansas City).
KEY LOSSES: LB Peter Boulware, OT Orlando Brown, SS Will Demps, DT Ma’ake Kemoeatu, RB Chester Taylor, DE Anthony Weaver, QB Anthony Wright, P Dave Zastudil.
THEY NEED: New blood at quarterback, an impact safety, offensive linemen.
THEY DON'T NEED: Receivers, cornerbacks.
POSSIBLE FIRST PICK: Baltimore would love to get a shot at Huff, but might need to trade up for him. No other safeties are so appealing this high, so Justice could be appealing. If Young or Cutler slid, they would gobble up either one.
OUTLOOK: The AFC North has become a tough division and the Ravens must upgrade their offense. Free agent RB Mike Anderson will help, especially if Jamal Lewis struggles again, but it’s throwing the ball that is most problematic.
14.		6-10
LAST SEASON: Drafted five players that started at least one game. DT Mike Patterson (first round) had a solid season and WR Reggie Brown (second round) emerged as a capable starter and decent replacement for Terrell Owens. RB Ryan Moats (third round) and DE Trent Cole (fifth round) showed flashes.
TOP ACQUISITIONS: WR Jabar Gaffney (FA/Houston); QB Jeff Garcia (FA/Detroit); DE Darren Howard (FA/New Orleans); TE Matt Schobel (FA/Cincinnati).
KEY LOSSES: LB Keith Adams, DE N.D. Kalu, QB Mike McMahon, WR Terrell Owens.
THEY NEED: A pass-rushing DT, OLs — particularly tackles — LBs and WRs.
THEY DON'T NEED: QB, DBs.
POSSIBLE FIRST PICK: Justice, Florida State OLB Ernie Sims or Iowa OLB Chad Greenway.
OUTLOOK: Coming off a disastrous season one year after going to the Super Bowl, the Eagles hope to get a player who can make an immediate impact. They’ve filled some holes through free agency; most of their starters return healthy. Philadelphia has been willing to trade up, and with three fourth-round picks, it’s possible the Eagles will deal to get into the top 10.
15.		13-3
LAST SEASON: The Broncos focused on DBs last year and it paid off with Darrent Williams, Karl Paymah and Domonique Foxworth, their top three selections, all helping the Broncos get to the AFC title game.
TOP ACQUISITIONS: DE Kenard Lang (released/Cleveland).
KEY LOSSES: RB Mike Anderson, DE Trevor Pryce, TE Jeb Putzier.
THEY NEED: Offense, particularly running back, wide receiver and tight end.
THEY DON'T NEED: Offensive or defensive linemen, where they’re set.
POSSIBLE FIRST PICK: Ohio State WR Santonio Holmes, Memphis RB DeAngelo Williams, or Southern Cal RB LenDale White, a Denver native.
OUTLOOK: The Broncos don’t normally select a running back in the first round, but this is a good year to buck tradition. Last year’s starter, Mike Anderson, is now with Baltimore and Tatum Bell doesn’t stay healthy enough to take the pounding of being a full-time starter, so former Heisman winner Ron Dayne is in line to start unless the Broncos can bring in a top runner in the draft.
16.		9-7
LAST SEASON: After a slow start, the Dolphins won their final six games under new coach Nick Saban, but still missed the playoffs for the fourth year in a row.
TOP ACQUISITIONS: CB Will Allen (released/NY Giants); FB Fred Beasley (FA/San Francisco); WR Kelly Campbell (released/Minnesota); QB Daunte Culpepper (trade/Minnesota); CB Andre Goodman (FA/Detroit); LB Sedrick Hodge (FA/New Orleans); OT L.J. Shelton (FA/Cleveland).
KEY LOSSES: QB Gus Frerotte, SS Tebucky Jones, CB Sam Madison, OT Stockar McDougle, QB Sage Rosenfels, LB Junior Seau.
THEY NEED: Lots of help for an aging defense, including linemen, a linebacker, cornerbacks and safeties. They also need a receiver, offensive linemen and a quarterback to groom behind newcomer Daunte Culpepper.
THEY DON'T NEED: It’s tough to rule out any position because the Dolphins lack depth across the board.
POSSIBLE FIRST PICK: Bunkley, Florida WR Chad Jackson or Greenway.
OUTLOOK: Saban has a lot of needs and no second-round pick, so he might be in the market to trade his first-round choice for two lower picks. Look for the former LSU coach to take advantage of his college experience and draft at least a couple of players from the SEC.
17.		9-7
LAST SEASON: Cleaned house after a difficult season that included missing the playoffs and the infamous boat party. Fired coach Mike Tice and hired Philadelphia offensive coordinator Brad Childress as his replacement.
TOP ACQUISITIONS: G Steve Hutchinson (TFA/Seattle); LB Ben Leber (FA/San Diego); K Ryan Longwell (FA/Green Bay); QB Mike McMahon (FA/Philadelphia); FB Tony Richardson (FA/Kansas City); RB Chester Taylor (FA/Baltimore); SS Tank Williams (FA/Tennessee).
KEY LOSSES: RB Michael Bennett, WR Nate Burleson, SS Corey Chavous, LB Sam Cowart, QB Daunte Culpepper, DE Lance Johnstone, LB Raonall Smith, CB Brian Williams.
THEY NEED: A playmaking LB, a nickel CB, QB of the future.
THEY DON'T NEED: Thanks to offseason signings of Ryan Longwell and Tank Williams, kicker and safety are not priorities.
POSSIBLE FIRST PICK: If they stay put, Sims or Clemson CB Tye Hill would make sense.
OUTLOOK: With three of the top 51 picks, the Vikings have plenty of ammunition to trade up and could be active early. Hawk or one of the big three QBs would figure to be their primary targets if they make a move.
18.		9-7
LAST SEASON: An overhauled defense that smoothly converted to Bill Parcells’ beloved 3-4 scheme and a great start by quarterback Drew Bledsoe helped the Cowboys go into Thanksgiving at 7-3. But OL woes caught up to them and they missed the playoffs, prompting owner Jerry Jones to make the huge gamble of signing Terrell Owens.
TOP ACQUISITIONS: LB Akin Ayodele (FA/Jacksonville); LB Rocky Boiman (FA.Tennessee); FS Marcus Coleman (FA/Houston); OT Jason Fabini (FA/NY Jets); G Kyle Kosier (FA/Detroit); WR Terrell Owens (released/Philadelphia); K Mike Vanderjagt (FA/Indianapolis).
KEY LOSSES: G Larry Allen, LB Scott Fujita, DT La’Roi Glover, WR Keyshawn Johnson, OT Torrin Tucker.
THEY NEED: Quality backups. There aren’t many spots open at the top of the depth chart, but newcomers could still see plenty of action. Questions linger on the OL, someone needs to replace DT Glover (now with Rams) and both starting receivers (Owens and Terry Glenn) are in their 30s.
THEY DON'T NEED: Another quarterback, at least not in the early rounds, considering Tony Romo and Drew Henson are only growing older while awaiting their chances. The Cowboys also loaded up on defensive ends in last year’s draft.
POSSIBLE FIRST PICK: Barring an unlikely move up for Justice or Ngata, they could take Jackson or Michigan DT Gabe Watson. A trade down is a better bet.
OUTLOOK: With only six picks and no voids that can obviously be plugged by rookies, Jones probably will be looking for deals that would add picks. Parcells loves mining for gems.
19.		9-7
LAST SEASON: December collapse meant no playoffs for the ninth time in 10 seasons. Still, Chargers got great play from their two 2005 first-round picks, OLB Shawne Merriman, who was Defensive Rookie of the Year, and DE Luis Castillo, who also became a starter.
TOP ACQUISITIONS: SS Marlon McCree (FA/Carolina), WR Rashaun Woods (trade/San Francisco).
KEY LOSSES: QB Drew Brees, WR Reche Caldwell, CB Sammy Davis, C Bob Hallen, LB Ben Leber, TE Justin Peelle.
THEY NEED: OT, CB, WR, ILB.
THEY DON'T NEED: RB, P, K.
POSSIBLE FIRST PICK: Auburn T Marcus McNeill, Virginia Tech CB Jimmy Williams.
OUTLOOK: LT Roman Oben is 33 and missed the second half of 2005 with a foot injury that required surgery. Untested Philip Rivers is taking over at quarterback, and protecting his blind side will be key, not to mention blocking for LaDainian Tomlinson, who will probably have to carry more of the load. The secondary is as leaky as ever, and San Diego just got rid of CB Sammy Davis, the first-round pick in 2003. WR Keenan McCardell is 36 and Eric Parker is injury-prone. GM A.J. Smith will move up if necessary, and has dangled ILB Donnie Edwards as trade bait.
20.		10-6
LAST SEASON: The Chiefs were the only 10-win team not to make the playoffs, again lacking on defense in Dick Vermeil’s fifth and final season as head coach. The biggest plus was the emergence of RB Larry Johnson, who started the last nine games in place of injured Priest Holmes and cracked 100 yards in all nine.
TOP ACQUISITIONS: RB Quentin Griffin (FA/Denver); CB Lenny Walls (FA/Denver).
KEY LOSSES: QB Todd Collins, CB Dexter McCleon, FB Tony Richardson, LB Gary Stills, CB Eric Warfield.
THEY NEED: A starting cornerback and a defensive end who can put pressure on the passer. The Chiefs finally released CB Eric Warfield and backup Dexter McCleon. So there’s nobody to play on the opposite side of Patrick Surtain. The lack of a pass rush has haunted KC for years. A fast wide receiver would be hard to pass up at No. 20.
THEY DON'T NEED: LBs, RBs, OL — although perennial Pro Bowlers Will Shields and Willie Roaf will almost certainly need to be replaced in 2007. It could be wise to look for a long-range project in the middle rounds. Same at quarterback, where the seemingly indestructible Trent Green is 35.
POSSIBLE FIRST PICK: South Carolina CB Jonathan Joseph, N.C. State DE Manny Lawson, Boston College DE Mathias Kiwanuka.
OUTLOOK: Chiefs have not had much luck with first-round picks the past few years. Last year’s, LB Derrick Johnson of Texas, was a starter, but not big-play specialist. If Herman Edwards is to have a smooth first year as head coach, a good draft that snares immediate help at cornerback or defensive end seems almost paramount.
21.		10-6
LAST SEASON: Battered by injuries to safety Rodney Harrison and offensive linemen Dan Koppen and Matt Light, the Patriots were 6-5 with four losses by at least 10 points before surging. They blew out Jacksonville in their first playoff game, then ended hopes for an unprecedented third straight Super Bowl championship by losing at Denver, where they committed five turnovers. Tom Brady led the NFL in yards passing, but the running game struggled. LB Tedy Bruschi provided a big lift after missing the first six games following a mild stroke the previous February. Injuries gave young players experience and cornerback Ellis Hobbs did well.
TOP ACQUISITIONS: WR Reche Caldwell (FA/San Diego); K Martin Gramatica (out of football); SS Tebucky Jones (released/Miami).
KEY LOSSES: OT Tom Ashworth, WR Andre Davis, WR Tim Dwight, TE Christian Fauria, WR David Givens, LB Willie McGinest, K Adam Vinatieri.
THEY NEED: Linebacker, wide receiver, kicker and young running back.
THEY DON'T NEED: Quarterback and tight end.
POSSIBLE FIRST PICK: The departure of LB Willie McGinest as a free agent to Cleveland makes that position a priority and Ohio State’s Bobby Carpenter could be available. White and Minnesota’s Laurence Maroney are running back possibilities.
OUTLOOK: The return of a healthy Harrison is critical. A hard hitter and leader on and off the field, Harrison holds the defense together along with Bruschi. But there’s a new defensive coordinator for the second straight year, Dean Pees succeeding Eric Mangini, the New York Jets’ head coach. If center Koppen and tackle Light play up to their past levels, the running game should be better. But the Patriots got weaker at kicker when they signed Martin Gramatica after Adam Vinatieri signed with Indianapolis. The departure of WR David Givens to Tennessee left only Deion Branch and Troy Brown as reliable receivers.
23.		11-5
LAST SEASON: The Bucs rebounded from consecutive losing seasons to win the NFC South and make the playoffs for the first time since winning the Super Bowl in 2002. RB Carnell “Cadillac” Williams was a difference-maker and Offensive Rookie of the Year, and young quarterback Chris Simms emerged after replacing the injured Brian Griese. Defense still makes the Bucs go, though, and it ranked No. 1 for the third time in team history.
TOP ACQUISITIONS: G Toniu Fonoti (FA/Minnesota); FB Jerald Sowell (FA/Jets); OT Torrin Tucker (RFA/Dallas); LB Jamie Winborn (FA/Jacksonville).
KEY LOSSES: FB Jameel Cook, QB Brian Griese, FS Dexter Jackson.
THEY NEED: Offensive tackle, cornerback, linebacker.
THEY DON'T NEED: Running backs.
POSSIBLE FIRST PICK: Justice, McNeill, Florida State CB Antonio Cromartie.
OUTLOOK: Derrick Brooks-led defense is another year older, but again figures to be the team’s strongest asset. With Williams, Simms and receivers Joey Galloway and Michael Clayton, the Bucs could be more dangerous than usual on offense. Biggest question mark is how well the line run blocks and protects Simms.
24.		11-5
LAST SEASON: Carson Palmer led the Bengals to their first winning record and playoff appearance in 15 years, then tore ligaments in his left knee during first-round loss to Pittsburgh. The defense gave up an average of 30 points over last eight games, but masked its shortcomings by leading the league in interceptions and takeaways.
TOP ACQUISITIONS: DT Sam Adams (released/Buffalo); WR Antonio Chatman (FA/Green Bay); FS Dexter Jackson (FA/Tampa Bay); QB Anthony Wright (FA/Baltimore).
KEY LOSSES: QB Jon Kitna, TE Matt Schobel.
THEY NEED: Help at safety, defensive line, tight end.
THEY DON'T NEED: Running back, kicker.
POSSIBLE FIRST PICK: The Bengals could use a pass-catching tight end, but maybe not in the first round because they already have so much money tied up in receivers. The defense is still a primary concern. Ohio State S Donte Whitner and Georgia TE Leonard Pope could be considered.
OUTLOOK: Palmer’s recovery from reconstructive knee surgery could determine how next season plays out. He’s expected to miss most of training camp and possibly some of the season. Baltimore’s Anthony Wright has agreed to a one-year deal as his backup and possible fill-in. Signing DT Sam Adams and S Dexter Jackson filled two glaring needs on defense, opening up their options in the draft.
25.		11-5
LAST SEASON (11-5): QB Eli Manning’s first full season as a starter helped produce a division title and the second-most points in franchise history. RB Tiki Barber proved 30 isn’t too old to have his best year. A defense led by MLB Antonio Pierce was dominant at times and adequate at others before injuries wiped out the linebackers. Special teams were a difference-maker, particularly ageless P Jeff Feagles and PK Jay Feely (148 points, second in the NFL). GM Ernie Accorsi’s offseason acquisitions (Pierce, Feely, DT Kendrick Clancy and WR Plaxico Burress) paid off. Rookie CB Corey Webster took his lumps, but showed potential. A 23-0 playoff loss to Carolina will motivate team in 2006.
TOP ACQUISITIONS: LB Lavar Arrington (FA/Washington); SS Will Demps (FA/Baltimore); FS Quentin Harris (FA/Arizona); CB Sam Madison (released/Miami); CB R.W. McQuarters (FA/Detroit).
KEY LOSSES: DT Kendrick Clancy, SS Shaun Williams.
THEY NEED: An immovable object on the defensive line to replace Clancy, who signed with Arizona. Help at defensive back; gone are safeties Shaun Williams and Brent Alexander and CB Will Allen. A dependable (read: healthy) third option at wide receiver behind Burress and Amani Toomer. A veteran backup for Manning More depth at linebacker.
THEY DON'T NEED: Skill position players on offense. Defensive ends need not apply, either: Michael Strahan and Osi Umenyiora made the Pro Bowl last season, and promising Justin Tuck is waiting in the wings.
POSSIBLE FIRST PICK: Cromartie.
OUTLOOK: There is a nice balance of youth and age and lots of weapons on offense. But the line is unpredictable and the DB situation could become dire.
26.		11-5
LAST SEASON: Won the NFC North and lost in the first round of the playoffs to Carolina. RB Cedric Benson was slowed by a month-long contract holdout and knee injury and gained 272 yards on 67 carries. Rookie WR Mark Bradley suffered a season-ending knee injury after making 18 catches for 230 yards. Kyle Orton quarterbacked the team to 10 victories in 15 starts after starter Rex Grossman suffered a preseason broken ankle.
TOP ACQUISITIONS: QB Brian Griese (released/Tampa Bay), CB Dante Welsey (FA/Carolina).
KEY LOSSES: CB Jerry Azumah.
THEY NEED: Tight end, cornerback, wide receiver, defensive end, linebacker.
THEY DON'T NEED: Quarterback, running back.
POSSIBLE FIRST PICK: UCLA TE Marcedes Lewis, Fresno State CB Richard Marshall, Miami WR Sinorice Moss.
OUTLOOK: Unless the Bears lose restricted free agent linebacker Hunter Hillenmeyer, they’ll have all 22 starters back. They have the only coaching staff in the NFC North still intact from last year and could have the only returning starting QB if Brett Favre retires. They also have the league’s easiest 2006 schedule in terms of 2005 winning percentages. So they expect another playoff run, if not a Super Bowl challenge. Draft picks are needed largely as backup help.
27.		11-5
LAST SEASON: They advanced to the NFC championship game for the second time in three seasons, but lost 34-14 at Seattle.
TOP ACQUISITIONS: LB Keith Adams (FA/Philadelphia); C Justin Hartwig (FA/Tennessee); WR Keyshawn Johnson (Released/Dallas); DT Ma’ake Kemoeatu (FA/Baltimore); DT Damione Lewis (FA/St. Louis); SS Shaun Williams (FA/NY Giants).
KEY LOSSES: DT Brentson Buckner, RB Stephen Davis, S Marlon McCree, DE Kemp Rasmussen, LB Brandon Short, CB Dante Wesley, LB Will Witherspoon.
THEY NEED: Linebackers. The Panthers lost starters Will Witherspoon (free agency) and Brandon Short (released) and injuries have prevented Dan Morgan from playing a full season. Also need backup running back.
THEY DON'T NEED: A No. 2 receiver, which was filled when they signed Keyshawn Johnson last month. He’ll line up across the field from All-Pro Steve Smith and likely take balls away from Keary Colbert and Drew Carter — leaving Ricky Proehl as the odd man out.
POSSIBLE FIRST PICK: White or Alabama LB DeMeco Ryans.
OUTLOOK: The Panthers firmly believe they are one or two players away from winning the Super Bowl. That impact player might not come through the draft, unless its a high-performance RB who can team with DeShaun Foster to give Carolina the same 1-2 punch it had with Foster and Stephen Davis three seasons ago.
28.		12-4
LAST SEASON: Won eight of their last nine games, taking advantage of a relatively weak schedule, and returned to the playoffs for the first time since 1999. QB Byron Leftwich and RB Fred Taylor each missed five games with injuries, but they returned for the first round of the playoffs, a 28-3 loss at New England.
TOP ACQUISITIONS: OT Stockar McDougle (released/Miami); CB Brian Williams (FA/Minnesota); OT Mike Williams (released/Buffalo).
KEY LOSSES: LB Akin Ayodele, S Deke Cooper, LB Jamie Winborn, CB Kenny Wright.
THEY NEED: LB, TE, OL. The Jags lost OLB Akin Ayodele to Dallas, making the position a priority despite ongoing talks with high-priced free agent LaVar Arrington. They paid TE Kyle Brady a $400,000 roster bonus last month, but the 34-year-old player is in the final year of his contract. They addressed concerns at offensive tackle by signing Mike Williams and Stockar McDougle, former first-round picks who failed to meet expectations, but could still use line help.
THEY DON'T NEED: WR, QB, DL. After drafting receivers in the first round the last two years (Reggie Williams in 2004, Matt Jones in 2005), it’s a safe bet the Jags will avoid the position. Although Leftwich has been injury prone, David Garrard has proven to be a capable backup. The team has its most talent along the defensive line with Marcus Stroud, John Henderson, Reggie Hayward, Paul Spicer and Rob Meier.
POSSIBLE FIRST PICK: Lawson, Carpenter or possibly Lewis.
OUTLOOK: The Jags are in good shape to fill their biggest needs because the draft has depth at linebacker and tight end.
30.		14-2
LAST SEASON (14-2): A near-perfect regular-season produced Indy’s third straight AFC South title and home-field advantage in the playoffs. Then Pittsburgh ended the Colts’ best Super Bowl chance with a stunning divisional-round upset.
TOP ACQUISITIONS: K Adam Vinatieri (FA/New England).
KEY LOSSES: RB Edgerrin James, LB David Thornton, DT Larry Tripplett, K Mike Vanderjagt.
THEY NEED: A new RB to replace departed Edgerrin James, depth at LB after losing David Thornton in free agency, and an interior lineman to solidify blocking.
THEY DON'T NEED: WR, QB.
POSSIBLE FIRST PICK: After losing their career rushing leader to Arizona, the Colts need a running back. Maroney has the size and speed to excel in the NFL. Should Southern Cal’s White slip this far, the Colts may take a back who some compare to Jerome Bettis. If there’s a surprise, it could be LSU’s Joseph Addai.
OUTLOOK: The last time team President Bill Polian took a running back this high, he stunned everyone by selecting James over Heisman Trophy winner Ricky Williams. It could happen again. Polian wants a more proficient runner in the red zone, but needs someone who can also adapt to Peyton Manning’s audibles, catch the ball and can block. Maroney is the more powerful runner, but White has more experience in a pro-style offense. Addai may be the best overall fit.
31.		13-3
LAST SEASON: Best in team’s 30-year history: NFC West champions, first top conference seed, first-ever Super Bowl — which they lost 21-10 to Pittsburgh.
TOP ACQUISITIONS: OT Tom Ashworth (FA/New England); WR Nate Burleson (RFA/Minnesota); DT Russell Davis (FA/Arizona); LB Julian Peterson (FA/San Francisco), DE Kemp Rasmussen (FA/Carolina).
KEY LOSSES: DE Rodney Bailey, CB Andre Dyson, G Steve Hutchinson, WR Joe Jurevicius, FS Marquand Manuel.
THEY NEED: A starting CB, DL depth.
THEY DON'T NEED: Running backs. Or a young quarterback to back up Matt Hasselbeck. They’d like to free dynamo Senaca Wallace to play some WR.
POSSIBLE FIRST PICK: Joseph; Miami (Fla.) CB Kelly Jennings; Kiwanuka.
OUTLOOK: If they don’t sign Pro Bowl CB Ty Law after courting him, the Seahawks will need a replacement for departed starter Andre Dyson. If they do sign Law, they still need DB depth. The return of starting FS Ken Hamlin from a fractured skull remains iffy. They also have only one veteran DE backing up Grant Wistrom and Bryce Fisher. Watch for a deal: Seattle has traded its first-round choice four times in the seven years coach Mike Holmgren has been with the team.
32.		11-5
LAST SEASON: Put together one of the best late-season runs in NFL history, winning their final four regular-season games to reach the playoffs before winning three weeks in a row on the road in AFC playoffs and beating Seattle in the Super Bowl.
TOP ACQUISITIONS: DE Rodney Bailey (FA/Seattle); SS Ryan Clark (FA/Washington).
KEY LOSSES: FS Chris Hope, WR/KR Antwaan Randle El, DT Kimo Von Oelhoffen.
THEY NEED: WR, S, ILB, DE.
THEY DON'T NEED: One for the thumb — after 26 years, they finally won their elusive fifth Super Bowl title. The champions are deep at QB and OLB.
POSSIBLE FIRST PICK: Southern Cal S Darnell Bing, Moss, White.
OUTLOOK: Despite drafting last for the first time since 1980, they’ll probably continue to pick the player they feel is the best available at the time, rather than one to fill a need. They do plan to add a fast receiver after losing free agent Antwaan Randle El.
47.		8-8
LAST SEASON: Faded badly to keep up incredible string of never having two straight winning seasons. Falcons lost four of last five and six of last eight to blow division lead. They shored up defense with DE/OLB John Abraham and S Lawyer Milloy.
TOP ACQUISITIONS: DE John Abraham (trade/N.Y. Jets); S Chris Crocker (trade/Cleveland); OT Wayne Gandy (trade/New Orleans); SS Lawyer Milloy (released/Buffalo).
KEY LOSSES: FS Brian Scott, OT Kevin Shaffer, OT Barry Stokes.
THEY NEED: Cornerbacks, help on both lines, especially inside.
THEY DON'T NEED: QB, TE, WR, LBs.
POSSIBLE FIRST PICK: Choosing so late, the Falcons might not look to fill a hole, which means a running back such as Addai could wind up in Atlanta. They could be enticed by Jennings or Joseph on the corner, as well.
OUTLOOK: The Falcons showed little staying power last season and need a spark from QB Michael Vick, LB Keith Brooking and CB DeAngelo Hall. They also must solve some of their OL woes in a division featuring three good pass-rushing teams.
53.		10-6
LAST SEASON: Coach Joe Gibbs showed he still has some magic, leading the team to its first postseason berth in six years. QB Mark Brunell had a comeback year, but the offense faded badly in the playoffs. Solid defense got the team past the first round at Tampa Bay before a loss at Seattle. Assistant coach Al Saunders was hired in January to liven up the attack.
TOP ACQUISITIONS: SS Adam Archuleta (FA/St. Louis); DE Andre Carter (FA/San Francisco); QB Todd Collins (FA/Kansas City); TE Christian Fauria (FA/New England); WR Brandon Lloyd (trade/San Francisco); WR Antwaan Randle El (FA/Pittsburgh); CB Kenny Wright (FA/Jacksonville);
KEY LOSSES: LB LaVar Arrington, SS Matt Bowen, G Ray Brown, SS Ryan Clark, CB Walt Harris, QB Patrick Ramsey, TE Robert Royal.
THEY NEED: Weakside LB to replace LaVar Arrington, K, P, depth at DB and OL.
THEY DON'T NEED: WR.
POSSIBLE FIRST PICK: Miami (Fla.) LB Rocky McIntosh.
OUTLOOK: As usual, the big-spending Redskins took care of as many needs as possible in free agency, which is just as well because they have only one pick -- a second-rounder —- in the first four rounds. If they can snag a quality LB at No. 53 overall, they’ll have a relatively solid lineup on both sides of the ball.