Here’s a snap shot of the NFL Draft’s fourth round:
Best Value:
Michael Bush, RB, Oakland Raiders (No. 100) – The fact Bush actually slipped into the fourth round – there were thoughts he might have gone in the late second or early third – makes this an even better pick. Bush would have been a top five pick if he hadn’t broken his leg at the start of the ’06 season and if he turns out to be healthy; this could be the steal of the draft. Other values: Jay Moore, DE, 49ers; Antonio Pittman, RB, Saints; Tarnard Jackson, CB, Bucs.
Potential sleepers:
Zak Deossie, LB, Giants (116) – Another small school product, Deossie has loads of speed, changes directions well and is a cover linebacker. He might be a bit raw, but for a fourth round pick and a team depleted of linebackers, he’s a solid selection. Other potential sleepers: Manuel Ramirez, G, Lions; Stephen Nichols, LB, Falcons; Doug Free, G, Cowboys.
What the hell were they thinking?
Marcus Thomas, DT, Broncos (121) – Don’t get it twisted about this pick, Thomas would have been a first round pick if he didn’t have so many off field issues at Florida last year. However, the Broncos unloaded a ton of picks (including a third rounder in ‘08) to move up and take the talented, yet controversial Thomas. Now, one could argue that if he fulfills his potential, it was all worth it, but you generally don’t give up multiple picks for a troublemaker. Other questionable moves: The Steelers traded a fourth and a sixth round pick to Green Bay in order to select punter Daniel Sepulveda. Granted he’s the top rated punter in the draft, but he’s still a punter…and the Steelers gave up two picks for him…yikes.
