Kevin_ODonnell's Blog

NFL Top 5 Picks

1. Raiders: Jamarcus Russell/QB. The most important position for any team is quarterback. The Raiders don't have one worthy of starting and Russell will solidify Oakland's offense for the long term. Oakland is building from scratch and with Russell's off the chart physical abilities he is a no-brainer for the Raiders. Oakland will entertain offers because of their many needs. In the end Russell will be their guy, contract discussions are reportedly already underway.

2. Lions: Gaines Adams/DE. Rod Marinelli knows better than anyone that defense wins championships. Adams will give the Lions an immediate impact. He's the leagues next Simeon Rice. The one knock is his worth ethic and if that's the case working with Marinelli will be the best thing for him. The Lions have at least 6 teams looking to trade into this spot to land Calvin Johnson, but the asking price of a 1st and two-2nd round picks is too high to pay for a guy the Lions won't take.

3. Browns: *( team that trades with Cleveland) Calvin Johnson/WR. Whichever team makes this deal will grab Johnson. The best wide-receiver to come out of college since Irving Fryar, could be better. He's 6-4, 237 lbs, ran a 4.35 40 at the combine. The Bucs, Falcons, Redskins and Broncos love Johnson, but it won't be the Bucs that makes the deal. Tampa Bay has too many holes to give up a second round choice to move up one spot. If the Browns keep this pick they'll select runningback Adrian Peterson.

4. Bucs: Joe Thomas/OL. It's not a glamour pick, but it's one that is the best move for the Bucs offense. Thomas would give the Bucs a stone wall on the left side for atl east the next 10 years. His pass blocking ability will quickly earn him Pro Bowl status. If Johnson falls to the Bucs, there will be no containing Gruden, who will be heard screaming Johnson's name all the way Radio City Music Hall (site of the NFL Draft). Bucs will have a great player either way.

Bucs First 3-Rounds

1. (4). Joe Thomas/OL --as seen

2nd round (35th) Center Ryan Kalil (if Bucs get Calvin Johnson) The best center in the draft. The Bucs are crossing their fingers he's there. It's their greatest need on the o-line. If Kalil is gone or they get Johnson go for defense. There is a lot of depth in the draft for lineman starting with Florida's Jarvis Moss (great pick if he slips) DE Anthony Spencer (Purdue), DT Justin Harrell (Tenn) or DE Charles Johnson (Georgia) at least one should still be on the board.

2nd round (64-last pick in round) Safety Aaron Rouse: The Bucs are in desperate need of help at the strong and free safety position. If things fall well for Tampa Bay Virginia Tech's Aaron Rouse will still be on the board. He caught Gruden's eye at the Senior Bowl with bone crushing hits that will remind you of 'ol number #47. If they Bucs haven't found a DL yet, a great choice would be Florida's Ray McDonald. Not since Warren Sapp have the Bucs had a guy that could plug the middle like McDonald.

3rd round (68) Corner Back Michael Coe: Only if the Bucs make a deal with Brian Kelly. They been trying to find a buyer for the past year. Coe is versatile enough to play safety in the "Tampa 2" defense and help at corner. Florida inside linebacker Brandon Siler would be a nice option if he slips past the Lions at number 66. The Bucs need linebacker depth at all three spots. This maybe the spot to get it. Auburn runningback Kenny Irons will give Gruden someone else to think about.