NFL Draftnet: 2004 Mock Draft

	1. SD	Eli Manning
	QB - 6-5, 220 - Senior - Mississippi
	The Mannings are playing hardball with the Chargers, with Archie telling the Bolts to pass on his son, and Eli stating that he will not sign with SD if they select him. What do the Chargers do now? Let a player dictate their draft? I honestly believe that they were never totally sold on Manning anyway. He was a safe pick because he's a franchise QB with the last name Manning, but Schottenheimer reportedly likes Philip Rivers better. I've said all along the Bolts should trade down, not too far, to perhaps #4 with the Giants. It'll be very interesting on Saturday.
	NFL Comparison: Peyton Manning
	2. OAK	Robert Gallery
	OT - 6-7, 320 - Senior - Iowa
	The Raiders are looking to trade down in hopes of landing Texas WR Roy Williams. CLE is desperately working the phones with OAK and even SD to move up to select Gallery. OAK and CLE seem to be a perfect match for a trade, and I expect them to pull it off. In fact, there are reports that the teams are very close to agreeing to a trade. The Browns can offer a pick (#7) high enough to land Williams, and even players (Dennis Northcutt, William Green) who should be attractive to the Silver and Black. One thing's for sure--#2 is the Gallery spot.
	NFL Comparison: Tony Boselli
	3. ARI	Larry Fitzgerald
	WR - 6-3, 230 - Sophomore - Pittsburgh
	Dennis Green has decided to go with Josh McCown at QB, so assuming he is true to his word, he will look to install a high-powered offense, spreading the field to take the pressure off the raw McCown. Along with sophomores Anquan Boldin and Bryant Johnson, Fitzgerald would give the Cards arguably the best young WR corps in the NFL. Green definitely prefers the sure-handed, smooth route-running Fitzgerald due to the fact that they already know each other very well from their days in MIN (Fitz was a ballboy for the Vikes).
	NFL Comparison: Jerry Rice
	4. NYG	Philip Rivers
	QB - 6-5, 225 - Senior - North Carolina State
	This could be a real shocker early on in the draft. The Giants and Chargers are expected to negotiate a trade involving the #1 overall pick. The G-Men have made no secret they want Manning. SD reportedly love Rivers so if the trade is made, the Bolts could take Rivers here, or maybe move down again and take him somewhere in the top 10. But If the Giants stay put, could they really take Rivers over Roethlisberger at #4? I think it might be possible. While I don't agree with it, Rivers' stock has soared so much over the last month, he might be the #2 QB.
	NFL Comparison: Bernie Kosar
	5. WAS	Kellen Winslow
	TE - 6-4, 245 - Junior - Miami (FL)
	While the Redskins filled many of their holes through free agency, they only have three picks in the entire draft. This means that trading down to acquire more picks is a real strong possibility. If the Skins stay put, one area that still needs to be addressed is TE/H-Back, and there happens to be a pretty good one available. Winslow is is arguably the best TE prospect to ever enter the draft, possessing WR speed and receiving ability. Daniel Snyder is interested in actually moving up to #1 to draft Gallery. While it's unlikely, it's another thing to keep an eye on.
	NFL Comparison: Jeremy Shockey
	6. DET	Sean Taylor
	S - 6-3, 230 - Junior - Miami (FL)
	Mooch and company need so much in so many areas that they can go in any number of directions, so trading down is a strong possibility. One area of need is S, and they will have an opportunity to add a great one. Taylor, the best defender in this draft and arguably the best football player, is an unbelievable prospect who will wow you with his physique, athletic ability, and playmaking skills. He combines the ball skills of Ed Reed, crushing hits of Roy Williams, and the mean streak of Brian Dawkins. He'll make a Roy Williams-type impact.
	NFL Comparison: Steve Atwater
	7. CLE	Roy Williams
	WR - 6-3 - 215 - Senior - Texas
	Look for the Browns to try everything in their power to land Gallery, as the Browns have been looking for a franchise LT since their return to the NFL. The Raiders' 2nd overall pick is the target for Cleveland and I expect a deal to be made involving that pick on April 24th. Even if CLE can't pull it off, Roy Williams could be the pick anyway. "The Legend" put on a show at his individual workout, running a 4.35/40 on a slow surface, and recording a 39.5" vert. His physical ability is amazing and he has the potential to be a Randy Moss-type gamebreaker.
	NFL Comparison: Randy Moss
	8. ATL	DeAngelo Hall
	CB - 5-11, 205 - Junior - Virginia Tech
	New head coach Jim Mora Jr. is a former defensive coordinator, so expect the Falcons to be looking defense early and often in the 2004 draft since the D was almost nonexistent last season. While a DT is still a possibility, Hall seems to be at the top of their board. The Falcons signed Jason Webster and Aaron Beasley this offseason, but neither is a shutdown. Hall has the potential to be a true franchise corner. While not as talented a cover corner, Hall's speed, cockiness, and punt return ability remind many of Deion Sanders.
	NFL Comparison: Deion Sanders
	9. JAX	Kenechi Udeze
	DE - 6-3, 275 - Junior - Southern California
	The Jaguars' top targets are definitely WR and DE. The Jaguars, like many teams, would love to add Fitzgerald to their receiving corps, and they know they have to move ahead of ARI if they want him. That is why they will talk to OAK when they're on the clock. If no deal is made, JAX will wait on a WR and take the top-rated DE. While there is much debate as to who the #1 DE is, everyone knows for sure it's either Will Smith or Kenechi Udeze. Udeze is reportedly higher on the Jags' board so he'd be the pick. He led the nation last season with 16.5 sacks.
	NFL Comparison: Courtney Brown
	10. HOU	Dunta Robinson
	CB - 5-11, 190 - Junior - South Carolina
	After re-signing Gary Walker and signing FA DL Robaire Smith, the HOU D-line is no longer a mess. Knowing that, Hall is their likely target, but it looks like he won't be there at #10. The next best option is Robinson. The former safety has seen is stock rise ever since he ran a 4.35 at the combine in Indy. He's a fundamentally sound player who will be able to step in and start as a rookie if need be. His ball skills are good, and have improved throughout his career. Great tackler for size. His willingness to throw his body around makes him complete.
	NFL Comparison: Rod Woodson
	11. PIT	Ben Roethlisberger
	QB - 6-5, 240 - Junior - Miami (OH)
	Tommy Maddox is not the long-term answer at QB for this team, and neither is Charlie Batch. So in steps Roethlisberger. If Big Ben slips out of the top 10, he's an absolute steal. In my opinion, he is the #1 QB prospect in this draft. He has unlimited potential, possessing a very strong arm and tremendous size, not to mention, his ability to move around in the pocket is impressive for a guy of his stature. Many personnel guys around the league were in awe at his individual workout. His stock, for some reason, seems to be sinking...
	NFL Comparison: Carson Palmer
	12. NYJ	D.J. Williams
	OLB - 6-1, 250 - Junior - Miami (FL)
	The Jets were delivered a severe blow this offseason when they had star CB Antoine Winfield ready to sign a contract, only to see him sign with MIN the last minute. He would've given the Jets a true, #1 corner. NY will be hoping for Hall or Robinson to be available. If both are gone, they'll most likely trade down, or draft Williams, the #1 LB on most boards. Like Boss Bailey in last year's draft, he's more of an athlete than a football player right now, possessing excellent range, quickness, and speed, but raw tackling skills. With experience, he could be elite.
	NFL Comparison: Boss Bailey
	13. BUF	Vince Wilfork
	DT - 6-1, 325 - Junior - Miami (FL)
	Many expect the Bills to draft either a pass-rushing DE, QB of the future, or WR with their first selection but I expect Wilfork, the draft's top DT, to be the pick. DTs Pat Williams and Sam Adams are both over 30, on the back nine of their careers, and the depth behind them is very questionable. Wilfork provides youth, not to mention massive size, brute strength, and surprising playmaking ability. Wilfork will begin his career in a rotation, which will benefit him early on. He'll command double-teams early and often, and prove to be a great bargain at #13.
	NFL Comparison: Casey Hampton
	14. CHI	Tommie Harris
	DT - 6-3, 295 - Junior - Oklahoma
	The Bears need help along their defensive line, especially at DT, and if Harris somehow is still available at #14, he's a no-brainer. Harris was being mentioned as a possible top 5 pick but I feel he would be a reach that high. There's no denying Harris' talents. His quickness and ability to collapse the pocket is impressive, but the fact that his production never truly matched his potential has to make you wonder some. That being said, he still has tremendous upside and could develop into a force in the NFL. He's the perfect fit in Lovie Smith's "light" defense.
	NFL Comparison: LaRoi Glover
	15. TB	Steven Jackson
	RB - 6-1, 235 - Senior - Oregon State
	TB needs to improve on offense, plain and simple, and while Charlie Garner still has plenty to offer in the NFL, he's 35 years old, and I'm not sure if Gruden and Co. could pass on a talent like Jackson. I seem to be a lot higher on Jackson than most others are, since I believe he's good enough to be taken 6th overall. He's a workhorse back who could easily carry the ball 25-30 times a game and is hands are better than some think. Don't rule out the Bucs opting for WR Reggie Williams or trading down and allowing another team (DEN?) to take Jackson.
	NFL Comparison: Kevan Barlow
	16. SF	Reggie Williams
	WR - 6-4, 230 - Junior - Washington
	The 49ers' biggest need is WR after losing top two receivers Terrell Owens and Tai Streets. While they most likely will trade down, if they remain at #16 Williams is the perfect selection. With Dennis Erickson installing a vertical passing game, a guy like Williams could come in and make an immediate impact. While Williams doesn't have blazing speed, he combines imposing size, great strength, excellent leaping ability, and a willingness to make plays over the middle and in traffic. He reminds me so much of Terrell Owens. Underrated WR is a steal!
	NFL Comparison: Terrell Owens
	17. DEN	Kevin Jones
	RB - 6-0, 225 - Junior - Virginia Tech
	The Broncos moved from 24 to 17, giving them a shot at one of the top RBs in this draft. The trade of Portis leaves the aging Garrison Hearst and diminutive Quentin Griffin as the top tailbacks on the roster. While they may have a shot at Jackson, the best back in the draft, Jones would be a great fit in Denver if Jackson is gone. He's one of the best athletes in the draft, has great speed despite what his workout times said, and is a gamebreaker who is a threat to take it to the house every time he touches the ball, much like Portis. Could be scary in this O.
	NFL Comparison: Clinton Portis
	18. NO	Jonathan Vilma
	LB - 6-1, 230 - Senior - Miami (FL)
	There's no doubt NO will be looking to draft a corner with this pick even though they traded for Jason Craft, but if Hall and Robinson are all off the board, they may be forced to go in a different direction since Chris Gamble's stock is plummeting. Vilma would give the Saints a potentially great LB who doesn't have prototypical size but dominated at the U, has tremendous instincts, and can play all three LB positions. He'll provide the Saints LB corps with much needed speed, athleticism, and playmaking ability. The top LB in this draft in my opinion.
	NFL Comparison: Ray Lewis
	19. MIN	Will Smith
	DE - 6-3, 265 - Senior - Ohio State
	MIN has itself a good, up-and-coming DT tandem in Chris Hovan and Kevin Williams, and a top-notch cover corner in Antoine Winfield. Now if the Vikings could get themselves a pass-rushing DE, they might have something that resembles an actual D. If Smith is still available at #19, this pick's a no-brainer. The senior was arguably the best player on a stingy Ohio State defense, consistently putting pressure on opposing QBs. Although Smith ran a sub-4.6 in his workout, he doesn't rely on speed as much as he does instincts, strength, and tenacity.
	NFL Comparison: Mike Rucker
	20. MIA	Shawn Andrews
	OT - 6-4, 365 - Junior - Arkansas
	Look for the Dolphins to address the O-line with their first pick after losing RT Todd Wade to HOU via FA. Andrews would be a perfect fit in Miami. He's a monster of a man who has a nasty demeanor and absolutely dominates the player in front of him. His strength is run blocking, something that will make Ricky Williams happy. His interviews and weight issues originally caused him to slip a lot, but he seems to be back on the rise. Dolphins might trade down and opt for Vernon Carey while also acquiring another pick or two in the process.
	NFL Comparison: Leonard Davis
	21. NE	Marcus Tubbs
	DT - 6-4, 320 - Senior - Texas
	The acquisition of Corey Dillon means the Patriots will no longer be eyeing a RB for atleast the first two or three rounds. Now, expect Belichick and Pioli to inject youth and depth into a team that has won two of the last three Super Bowls. Tubbs is a good fit for this team because his massive frame and two-gap style makes him a perfect candidate as the team's NT of the future. Don't be surprised if the Pats pull off a blockbuster and move way up (to #5?) in hopes of landing Taylor or Hall to prepare for Ty Law's eventual departure.
	NFL Comparison: Shaun Rogers
	22. DAL	Chris Perry
	RB - 6-0, 220 - Senior - Michigan
	Bill Parcells far exceeded expectations in his first season at Dallas by making it to the playoffs. Their defense was stingy all year but their offense was stagnant. Quincy Carter got off to a good start but is still not considered the answer in Big D. The same can be said about Troy Hambrick. A reliable RB is needed under Parcells, and if they can't land one in FA, he might have to address the need in round 1. Perry is a tough, physical back who runs even bigger than his size would indicate. Excels at running inside, which he'll be asked to do in DAL.
	NFL Comparison: Travis Henry
	23. SEA	Junior Siavii
	DT - 6-4, 340 - Senior - Oregon
	It's no secret that the Seahawks need defensive help, especially along the front four, where the unit lacks talent and youth. The team signed Grant Wistrom to help with the pass rush but they still need to get help inside. Siavii could be the surprise selection here. His stock has consistently risen leading up to the draft, and it now appears he could find himself drafted in round 1. He has amazing size and strength, and will clog the middle to help Seattle's struggling run defense. While still a bit raw, Siavii could develop into a dominant all-around DT.
	NFL Comparison: Kris Jenkins
	24. CIN	Chris Gamble
	CB - 6-2, 195 - Junior - Ohio State
	The Bengals got some CB help when they acquired Deltha O'Neal from DEN. He was in Shanahan's doghouse but he was a Pro Bowler not too long ago, and a change of scenery and Marvin Lewis' tutelage could revive his career. With that being said, the Bengals will be looking for either a DT and still a CB with this pick. Gamble's stock has plummeted due to his poor 40 times and inexperience at corner. His upside is enormous however, so a team like CIN could afford take him and groom him. In a year or two, he could be the best of this class.
	NFL Comparison: Andre Woolfolk
	25. GB	Michael Boulware
	OLB/S - 6-2, 225 - Senior - Florida State
	Athleticism and pedigree go a long way, and Boulware has both, which is why he has seen his stock rise to possible first round status. He's the fastest LB in this draft who possesses superb coverage ability. Some are calling him a tweener, wondering if he'll project as a OLB or S at the next level. The good thing is, the Packers could use help at both positions. Everyone was a surprised when GB took Nick Barnett in round 1 last year. He turned out to be the ROY. Boulware will be considered a "surprise" pick too.
	NFL Comparison: Donnie Edwards
	26. STL	Ben Troupe
	TE - 6-4, 260 - Senior - Florida
	Brandon Manumaleuna is the only TE currently on the Rams' roster, and at 6-2, 290 pounds, he's not exactly a playmaking TE. He provides the offense with great blocking, but Mike Martz could really use a weapon at TE. Troupe is the best TE prospect behind Winslow. His size/athleticism combination is unbelievable. The senior got better every year in Gainesville, and while he only started one full season, he played well enough flashed enough potential to make him a legitimate 1st round prospect. He also has the tools to be a good blocker.
	NFL Comparison: Shannon Sharpe
	27. TEN	Michael Clayton
	WR - 6-3, 205 - Senior - Florida State
	The Titans were the biggest victims this offseason, losing two starting DL, Jevon Kearse and Robaire Smith. Everyone now assumes, a DL will be the pick when TEN is finally on the clock. Don't be so certain. While the Titans desperately need to address their DL early in this draft, it might not make a lot f sense to reach for a DL here when a quality WR is still on the board. The Titans traded away Justin McCareins, and Clayton could step right in and take over for him. Clayton has great size, strength, hands, and YAC ability. He's also a devastating blocker.
	NFL Comparison: Ed McCaffrey
	28. PHI	Keith Smith
	CB - 6-0, 200 - Senior - McNeese State
	The Eagles spent a lot of money filling two holes with two Pro-Bowlers in DE Jevon Kearse and WR Terrell Owens. Owens fills the team's biggest need, which means they probably now won't look to draft a WR until the 2nd round at the earliest. The latest reports have Andy Reid trying to move up in round 1, perhaps looking to land one of the top RBs. If they stay put, an OL or CB could be had. Smith will raise some eyebrows if his name is announced in round 1, but his talent is 1st round material. Smith has great coverage skills and can tackle.
	NFL Comparison: Fred Smoot
	29. IND	Karlos Dansby
	OLB - 6-3, 245 - Senior - Auburn
	The Colts defense has undoubtedly improved since Tony Dungy has arrived, but there is still plenty of room for more improvement. CB is definitely a strong need for this team, so look for Dungy to be thinking corner going in. But Dansby is on the board, I'm not sure if Indy can pass on him. He might be a little rough around the edges, but Dansby as an athlete. His speed is great and so is his range, but his greatest attribute might be his potential to be a terrorizing pass-rushing OLB. We all know how Dungy likes to attack and Dansby would be perfect.
	NFL Comparison: Julian Peterson
	30. KC	Lee Evans
	WR - 5-11, 195 - Senior - Wisconsin
	The Chiefs offense was explosive all season, but eventually, their defense ended their season. Expect the Chiefs, if they intend to go defense in round 1, to eye a DL or CB. But don't rule out a WR. Everyone knows the defense is in serious need of a lot of help, but if a guy like Evans slides to #30, expect KC to scoop him up. Evans is arguably the fastest wideout in this draft and is a serious downfield threat. He'd be a welcomed addition to Dick Vermeil's high-powered offense. Defenders would be picked with the rest of their selections.
	NFL Comparison: Peerless Price
	31. CAR	Vernon Carey
	OL - 6-4, 335 - Senior - Miami (FL)
	The Panthers could go any a number of directions with this pick, with their biggest needs being CB, OL, WR, and OLB. It might be in their best interest to draft a corner or WR, since both units are very thin. CAR lost both starting Gs this offseason, so with all of the top G prospects still on the board, Carey would be the best option. He's a massive mauler who pancakes opponents on a regular basis and has the potential to be an elite interior lineman. He has experience as a RT, so if Jordan Gross is moved to LT, Carey's versatility could be a plus.
	NFL Comparison: Larry Allen
	32. NE	Justin Smiley
	G - 6-3, 300 - Senior - Alabama
	The Pats most likely will be looking to draft an interior OL with the last pick in the first round. Of course predicting what the Patriots are going to do on Draft Day is almost impossible. As far as their strategy goes, they rank character, football smarts, and versatility higher than most teams, and prefer production to potential. Smiley is a perfect Patriot. He's not a massive road grader but he was a dominant OL at Bama, has great instincts and intelligence, and is a very passionate player. He'll do whatever it takes to beat his opponent.
	NFL Comparison: Will Shields