NFL Draft Review

This years NFL Draft was definitely exciting to watch. As expected, many of the high profile players were taken in the first round. This was the first time that the draft took place during prime time. I like the fact that it lasted three days. This gave many people including myself a chance to watch as much of the draft as possible. When it lasted two days, I couldn't see most of it because I had to do other things. It is very likely that they will use the same three day format next year.

As expected, Sam Bradford was taken in the first round. It made perfect sense for the Rams to draft him since they were in desperate need of a quarterback. The pick that surprised me the most was Tim Tebow going to the Broncos. Many reports projected him as either a second or third round pick. Also, the Broncos already have two decent quarterbacks on their roster in Kyle Orton and Brady Quinn. Josh McDaniels is taking a big risk by drafting Tebow. If Tebow doesn't excel at the next level, many people are going to be even more critical of Josh McDaniels than they are now.

The team that did well in this years draft was the Baltimore Ravens. They definitely upgraded their offense and defense with the rookies that they're bringing in. On offense, they drafted two great tight ends in Ed Dickson and Dennis Pitta. The Ravens on defense added defensive tackle Terrence Cody and linebacker Sergio Kindle. These rookie additions will certainly help the Ravens become legitimate contenders in the AFC North.

Overall, this years NFL Draft was a success. A lot of talented players got drafted. My early prediction for rookie of the year will be Ryan Matthews. Matthews was the running back taken in the first round by the San Diego Chargers. There was a big void in the Chargers backfield after LaDainian Tomlinson was released. The team is now looking for Matthews to fill that void. He will certainly get the opportunity to run the ball for the Chargers. I like the three day format as well. It gave me as well as others to watch more of the draft. When the draft took place on two days, it took a large part of the day to watch. I believe they should stick with the three day format. This years draft was loaded with talent all across the board. I look forward to seeing what these players do once they get on the field.