After handing out 2009 NFL Draft team grades to the beasts of the AFC East, it's time to evaluate how the AFC North's quartet did last weekend. Baltimore Ravens Grade: B+ Best: Paul Kruger, DE, Utah Kruger is an elite defensive end with high intensity. He brings versatility and power on either side, as well as solid coverage ability, if used as a linebacker. He should be able to become what Jarrett Johnson never could. Worst: Davon Drew, TE, East Carolina Todd Heap is often injured ...Read More

As depressing and demoralizing as an NFL bust can be for an NFL team, a fan, or even the player that receives the label, there is always a softer side to the NFL Draft. We've seen guys like Green Bay receiver Donald Driver and New England's Tom Brady emerge from the sixth round of the draft to formulate incredible careers. After scouring over the college player pool and making their picks, each team undoubtedly feels they've found a gem or ...Read More

1. Rey Maualuga (USC) Tough and physical with a violent mentality. Truly can frighten the opposition at times. Excels at pass-rushing and in run supports. Offers solid versatility at the next level. Isn't great in coverage, due to his average speed. Can be a bit inconsistent. 2. James Laurinaitis (Ohio State) Good athlete with great speed and instincts. Has good hands, fluid hips, and outstanding awareness. Has all the tools to be a star linebacker in the NFL. Isn't as physical as you'd ...Read More

Go Back to Round 1 Round 2 33. Detroit Lions - James Laurinaits, ILB, Ohio State After getting their franchise quarterback and tackle, it's time to beef up their defense. Laurinaits brings the athleticism, intangibles, and leadership they thought they were getting when they drafted Tedy Lehman years ago. Previous: Vontae Davis, CB, Illinois 34. New England Patriots (From Kansas City) - Louis Delmas, S, Western Michigan It's time for New England to find a quality replacement for Rodney Harrison. Delmas is the best safety ...Read More

There’s no Glenn Dorsey, Chris Long, Sedrick Ellis, or Vernon Gholston to get wild about in the 2009 NFL Draft, at least at this point. All of those guys were in contention to be the #1 pick in the 2008 draft, and all four were off the board in the first seven picks. What this year’s draft class may lack in headliners, it makes up for in terms of plenty of depth throughout the defensive positions, and a ...Read More

The combine gets underway in earnest this weekend, with drills upon drills upon drills taking place from Saturday to Tuesday, starting with the offensive linemen tomorrow and ending with the defensive backs on Tuesday. I thought I’d squeeze in an update ahead of the important stuff, but it goes without saying that what happens over the next several days at Lucas Oil Stadium will shake up many a draft board and mock draft. So, expect next week’s update to look ...Read More

So much for USC being the undisputed best team in the country, eh? For the second straight time, USC went into Corvallis, fell behind big, rallied, and came up short as the top-ranked Trojans fell 27-21 to Oregon St., a repeat of their 33-31 loss two years ago. In 2006, USC fell behind 33-10 in the third quarter before drawing with 33-31 and then missing on a two-point conversion that would’ve sent it overtime. This time around, the ...Read More