2001 NFL draft day coverage

Things I can’t wait to see during the draft

By Ron Pollack, Editor-in-chief
April 21, 2001

Half the fun of the draft is the anticipation. With that in mind, here are some of the things I can’t wait to see today.

• The Rams are loaded with firepower in terms of draft picks. I’m really looking forward to seeing how they rebuild their defense with all of these picks. I’m also curious to see if, given their love of offense, they’ll use one of their first-rounders to pump up the offense even more. I know they don’t need another wide receiver since they already have Isaac Bruce and Torry Holt, but will the tremendous talent at the WR position in this draft make it so they can’t help but add to their embarrassment of riches at the position? If I were in their shoes, I’d pick strictly defense with their three first-rounders.

• I always love to see what teams with multiple first-rounders do, so I’ll have my eye on the Seahawks who have two No. 1 picks. If I were in their shoes I’d grab a defensive end and a wide receiver with those picks if there is good value to be had. A defensive end will add to the new blood they have already instilled along their defensive line this offseason. A wide receiver is needed to give Darrell Jackson a running mate. I know that Mike Holmgren has proven that he can get production out of guys that are not first-round picks, but I think it’s time to pump up the talent level at this position.

• I want to see Cleveland get Tim Couch some help. The guy is the franchise, and it’s time to get him a big time sidekick, be it at wide receiver or running back. WR David Terrell or RB LaDainian Tomlinson would go a long way toward making Couch a better quarterback if you ask me.

• Will the Vikings draft a running back or get defensive help with their first-round pick? With Robert Smith having retired, the Vikings have a huge need at running back for their high-powered offense. On the other hand, the defense is in desperate need of a talent infusion. Tough call to make.

• Will the Packers give their defense some help or get superstar QB Brett Favre some much needed assistance at wide receiver? Value will obviously play a big role when they pick, but if all things are equal I’d draft a wide receiver. Favre is the guy that the team’s success rides most on, so get him some help.

• Will Tampa Bay get the offensive tackle they need to fill the final piece in the puzzle?

• Who will be the big names that slide lower in the draft than was once expected? RB Deuce McAllister, WR Koren Robinson, CB Fred Smoot, RB Michael Bennett and QB Drew Brees are some definite possibilities.

• I’m curious to see what Denver does, because their offseason has been so busy and successful that they could make a big run next season if Brian Griese can stay healthy.

• I want to see if the Jets get a wide receiver to complement Wayne Chrebet. Chrebet is a terrific player, but I think he fits the offense much better if there is another prime time receiver to go with him.

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