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If this were a story about any number of players the Jacksonville Jaguars signed over the years, this would be a similar piece to write. Instead, you have to look at the candidates the team has to offer when the topic of “Best Free Agent Signing of All Time” is brought about.

In the 21 seasons the franchise has been in existence, there really are only a handful to consider.

Some would argue the team did its best with picks like Sen’Derrick Marks, the free agent from Tennessee who was signed two seasons ago, late in free agency. Marks has done nothing but become the leader of the team’s defense and a dominate pass rusher up the middle from the defensive tackle position.

Others have said that Julius Thomas, the tight end the Jaguars nabbed on the first day of free agency this season is the team’s best signing ever. I would agree that Thomas will have an impact on the team and help Blake Bortles in his ascension toward stardom in the NFL. He will also influence the young nucleus of wide receivers the team has on the roster in Allen Robinson, Marquise Lee, Allen Hurns and now Rashad Greene.

But Thomas hasn’t been on the field yet, so his efforts need to be saved for another year and another discussion.

When I asked fans and friends who they put at the top of their list, I got many of the same answers, which led to great debate and some newfound knowledge as to what fans think – especially the ones who have been season ticket holders since Day 1. Names like Leon Searcy, Joel Smeenge, Carnell Lake and Paul Posluszny have been thrown around on social media sites, fan pages and the like. They are all solid picks, but when it comes right down to it, there is only one real choice – actually two – to make this a legitimate story about the best free agent signings in the Jaguars history.

Were there really any other choices besides Jimmy Smith and Keenan McCardell?

Smith and McCardell or “Thunder and Lightning” as they were referred to here in Jacksonville in the glory years of the franchise (1995-2000) were as dominant a duo on the outside as there was in the NFL. With Mark Brunell’s arm and legs moving the ball down the field and Fred Taylor running to daylight out of the backfield, Jacksonville’s offense was downright scary.

I’m sure the franchise of today would love to bottle up some of the magic that foursome created in time.

Smith was a street free agent who became the greatest receiver in the history of the franchise when he was signed by the team after starting his career in Dallas. When he retired he finished his career seventh in NFL history with 862 catches and 11th in league history with 12,287 yards. He had 67 career touchdown catches with the Jaguars. Smith had been voted to the Pro Bowl five straight times from 1997 to 2001. He is also the Jacksonville Jaguars all-time leading receiver, having led the team in receiving every season from 1996-2005. He also set team records with 116 receptions and 1,636 yards in 1999, both career highs. His career high in touchdowns was eight, achieved in 1998, 2000 and 2001.

McCardell traveled the path of the player who defied odds of being a late round Draft pick to become the second best receiver in team history.

He was drafted by the Washington Redskins in the 12th round of the 1991 NFL Draft, and he was also a member of the Cleveland Browns, Jacksonville Jaguars, San Diego Chargers and Houston Texans. A two-time Pro Bowl selection, McCardell won two Super Bowl rings, with the Redskins in 1991 and the Tampa Bay Buccaneers in 2002.

McCardell’s speed was deceptive and he proved to be the short and intermediate threat in the offense while Smith became the home run hitter. During his first season with the team he made 85 catches for 1,129 yards and three touchdowns, and earned himself a trip to his first ever Pro Bowl.

It’s hard to believe with all of the players Jacksonville has drafted in the first round over the years (R. Jay Soward, Matt Jones, Reggie Williams, Justin Blackmon) none have panned out in the NFL and free agency has not been kind as well (Jerry Porter, Laurent Robinson).

Smith and McCardell’s numbers remain at the top of Jacksonville’s all-time receiving list and will be hard pressed to be topped any time soon.

Round 1- Ereck Flower (OT 6’6/329) Miami: Despite Flowers high ceiling and raw talent, his selection was a reach in my opinion. Clearly, Jerry Reese wanted Brandon Scherff (selected by Washington Redskins/5^th overall). In every ranking of prospects that I’ve read, Flowers never made the top 20 and has flaws in his game (slow feet, soft body, and clumsy hands). Reese clearly drafted from need and it’s hard for me to believe that Reese had Flower rated as a top 10 prospect.  I would have been more comfortable if Reese had selected Andrus Peat, if an OT was his target; as I believe Peat is more NFL ready and has a higher ceiling. Grade B-

Round 2-Landon Collins (S 6’0/228) Alabama: Uncharacteristically, Reese makes a bold move and trades down from 40 to 33 along with surrendering a 4^th and a 7^th to acquire arguably the best SS in the draft. Collins makes a lot of sense and will quickly make Giant fans forget Antrel Rolle. DC Steve Spagnuolo will utilize Collin’s talents fully and will make him an impact defensive player as a rookie. Grade A

Round 3-Owamagbe Odighizuwa (DE 6’3/267)UCLA: Very pleasant  selection as Reese once again fills a need for the Giants defense. Odighizuwa is not an edge rusher, however; he has an endless motor and a high ceiling that the Giants believe will make him a well-rounded DE at the NFL level. Grade B+

Round 5-Mykkele Thompson (S 6’2/191) Texas: Reese reaches a bit here in round 5 with the selection of Thompson.  Thompson is versatile and can play both CB and Safety with a good body. Thompson does lack consistency as a tackler and at times doesn’t take good angles. I can see DC Steve Spagnuolo utilizing Thompson in nickel/dime packages and add depth at the CB position. Grade C+

Round 6-Geremy Davis (WR 6’2/216) Connecticut: Davis production suffered in 2014 (playing time) as opposed to his production in 2013. Lacks the speed to separate, lacks the foot quickness in running clean routes. Many scouts projected Davis to go undrafted. If GM Jerry Reese was looking for a WR in the 6^th round, he could have selected prospects such as: Darren Waller or Evan Spencer who were rated higher. Apparently, Reese sees something in him, let’s hope so. Grade C+

Round 7-Bobby Hart (OT 6’5/329) Florida State: Believe it or not, I really like this selection by Jerry Reese. Hart is still only 20 years old and was a 3 year starter at Florida State. Despite playing RT at the college level, Hart will transition to a OG at the pro level. When I look at Hart on film, I see a very proficient run blocker and if Hart continues to improve like he has throughout his college career, he will be a very capable OG. Grade B-

Final Thoughts:  In past drafts I have been very critical of Jerry Reese selections. However; he has done a very good job addressing a need and finding a player that fits that need in this draft.  It’s no secret that I would liked to have seen Reese select other players in certain rounds (Peat over Flowers in round 1/Waller or Spencer over Davis in round 6), however; his overall body of work in this draft warrants a thumbs up. Final Grade: B

The first round is officially over, and it is time to look at the best picks in round one. 

1. Washington Redskins: OL Brandon Scherff- Iowa

This was the best pick of the first round. No matter who the quarterback was for the Redskins they were always getting beat up. Leonard Williams was stil on the board at this time, but the Redskins looked past him and addressed arguably their biggest needed. This was a great pick for Washington. 

2. Pittsburgh Steelers: OLB Bud Dupree- Kentucky

This talented young prospect fell right into the Steelers' lap. They could not pass up an opportunity to draft this player. Their pass rush was weak last year, and along with losing two players in their secondary they need to get to the quarterback quick. Bud Dupree was a great pick for Pittsburgh. He will be a beast. 

3. Tennessee Titans- QB Marcus Mariota- Oregon

After much speculation that they may have wanted to move this pick, they get their QB. Marcus Mariota is a terrific quarterback that will thrive in the NFL. He has all the abilities and all the potenital in the world to be a starter for a long time in Nashville. When you think you have a chance to get your franchise QB you take it, and the Titans did. 

4. San Diego Chargers- RB Melvin Gordon- Wisconsin

After losing Ryan Mathews this season is essential that the Chargers get a runningback, and they do so at pick 15 with Melvin Gordon. He is an all around great runningback that will add a whole different dimension to that offense. He is much more durable the Mathews was, so Chargers fans can expect to see him on the field a lot. 

5. New England Patriots- DT Malcom Brown- Texas

After Laken Tomlinson was drafted by Detroit many expected the Patriots to trade out of the first round. The Colts helped the Patriots stay in the first round by drafting WR Phillip Dorsett. Many thought that the Colts would draft Brown, and when they didn't the Patriots could not pass him up. With Brown and Easley, the Patriots can transition to a 4-3 defense and have quickly developed a very strong front seven. Experts thought that Brown would be long gone by the Patriots pick. So it is safe to say that at 32 the Patriots got great value in Malcom Brown. 

The first round is officially over, and it is time to look at the best picks in round one. 

1. Washington Redskins: OL Brandon Scherff- Iowa

This was the best pick of the first round. No matter who the quarterback was for the Redskins they were always getting beat up. Leonard Williams was stil on the board at this time, but the Redskins looked past him and addressed arguably their biggest needed. This was a great pick for Washington. 

2. Pittsburgh Steelers: OLB Bud Dupree- Kentucky

This talented young prospect fell right into the Steelers' lap. They could not pass up an opportunity to draft this player. Their pass rush was weak last year, and along with losing two players in their secondary they need to get to the quarterback quick. Bud Dupree was a great pick for Pittsburgh. He will be a beast. 

3. Tennessee Titans- QB Marcus Mariota- Oregon

After much speculation that they may have wanted to move this pick, they get their QB. Marcus Mariota is a terrific quarterback that will thrive in the NFL. He has all the abilities and all the potenital in the world to be a starter for a long time in Nashville. When you think you have a chance to get your franchise QB you take it, and the Titans did. 

4. San Diego Chargers- RB Melvin Gordon- Wisconsin

After losing Ryan Mathews this season is essential that the Chargers get a runningback, and they do so at pick 15 with Melvin Gordon. He is an all around great runningback that will add a whole different dimension to that offense. He is much more durable the Mathews was, so Chargers fans can expect to see him on the field a lot. 

5. New England Patriots- DT Malcom Brown- Texas

After Laken Tomlinson was drafted by Detroit many expected the Patriots to trade out of the first round. The Colts helped the Patriots stay in the first round by drafting WR Phillip Dorsett. Many thought that the Colts would draft Brown, and when they didn't the Patriots could not pass him up. With Brown and Easley, the Patriots can transition to a 4-3 defense and have quickly developed a very strong front seven. Experts thought that Brown would be long gone by the Patriots pick. So it is safe to say that at 32 the Patriots got great value in Malcom Brown. 

The first round is officially over, and it is time to look at the best picks in round one. 

1. Washington Redskins: OL Brandon Scherff- Iowa

This was the best pick of the first round. No matter who the quarterback was for the Redskins they were always getting beat up. Leonard Williams was stil on the board at this time, but the Redskins looked past him and addressed arguably their biggest needed. This was a great pick for Washington. 

2. Pittsburgh Steelers: OLB Bud Dupree- Kentucky

This talented young prospect fell right into the Steelers' lap. They could not pass up an opportunity to draft this player. Their pass rush was weak last year, and along with losing two players in their secondary they need to get to the quarterback quick. Bud Dupree was a great pick for Pittsburgh. He will be a beast. 

3. Tennessee Titans- QB Marcus Mariota- Oregon

After much speculation that they may have wanted to move this pick, they get their QB. Marcus Mariota is a terrific quarterback that will thrive in the NFL. He has all the abilities and all the potenital in the world to be a starter for a long time in Nashville. When you think you have a chance to get your franchise QB you take it, and the Titans did. 

4. San Diego Chargers- RB Melvin Gordon- Wisconsin

After losing Ryan Mathews this season is essential that the Chargers get a runningback, and they do so at pick 15 with Melvin Gordon. He is an all around great runningback that will add a whole different dimension to that offense. He is much more durable the Mathews was, so Chargers fans can expect to see him on the field a lot. 

5. New England Patriots- DT Malcom Brown- Texas

After Laken Tomlinson was drafted by Detroit many expected the Patriots to trade out of the first round. The Colts helped the Patriots stay in the first round by drafting WR Phillip Dorsett. Many thought that the Colts would draft Brown, and when they didn't the Patriots could not pass him up. With Brown and Easley, the Patriots can transition to a 4-3 defense and have quickly developed a very strong front seven. Experts thought that Brown would be long gone by the Patriots pick. So it is safe to say that at 32 the Patriots got great value in Malcom Brown. 

Anyone who tells you they know how the New Orleans Saints 2015 season is going to unfold is either a psychic or a liar. I’m not a psychic, but I can pretend to be one after looking at the team’s official schedule. After a one year hiatus the team looks poised to make a chase for the playoffs, if for no other reason than the football gods decreed the NFC South face the AFC South in 2015. Here’s a closer look: 

 The team opens on the road against the Arizona Cardinals. Sean Payton wants his team to be tougher in 2015 and the Cardinals had one of the toughest defenses in the NFL. If the Saints can  keep Carson Palmer and his surgically repaired knees in check, they might be able to eke out a win. 

Cardinals 24, Saints 17

Week 2 Brings The Tampa Bay Buccaneers to the Super Dome. Logic says this will be the Saints first crack at Jameis Winston, but the Bucs have never been one to let logic get in the way.

Saints 30, Bucs 24

Week 3 brings a date with the Carolina Panthers. The Panthers won the division with a record of 7-8-1. The Panthers will enter the season as the favorite, but this division can be won by just about anyone. Except Tampa Bay.

Panthers 28, Saints 21

The Saints take on the Cowboys in Week 4 for a Sunday Night Football matchup. On paper, the Saints should lose this one pretty. However, the Saints save their best efforts for Al Michaels’ and Chris Collinsworth’s visits to the Super Dome.

Saints 41, Cowboys 35

The Philadelphia Eagles are the opponents in Week 5. The Saints will have to be for Chip Kelly’s QB trio of Sam Bradford, Mark Sanchez, and Tim Tebow. Rumor has it Kelly is working on plays to get all three on the field at the some time.

Saints 30, Eagles 20

 The Saints host the Falcons on a Thursday Night in Week 6. The Falcons are what the Saints used to be: a dynamic offense with an atrocious defense. New coach Dan Quinn will likely try to fix the latter issue. He would also be wise to solve the issue of keeping his wide receivers healthy for an entire season.

Saints 25, Falcons 21

Week 7 pits the Saints against the Indianapolis Colts. The Colts have one of the most dynamic passing offense in the NFL. The Saints had one of the worst pass defenses last year. New cornerback Brandon Browner, should help, but this could still be ugly.

Colts 41, Saints 34

The New York Giants are the opponent in Week 8. On paper, this should be a tough test. Super Bowl winning quarterback/coach combo. All-world talent at wide receiver. And yet…the Giants find ways to underachieve on a yearly basis that make the Saints seem like a model of consistency.

Saints 27, Giants 20 

The Titans come to town in week 9. This could be Zach Mettenberger’s return to Louisiana. Mettenberger played college ball at LSU. He wasn’t terribly good there. He isn't terribly good in Tennessee, either.

Saints 35, Titans 17

Week 10 is a matchup with the Washington Redskins. The Redskins are a lot like the Giants in that the expectations vs. results almost never matchup. The only difference is pretty clear why the Redskins fail: everyone hates each other. 

Saints 24, Redskins 10

After a bye, the Saints travel to Houston to play the Texans. The Texans run the ball extremely well and play excellent defense. In order to win the Saints will have to hope the Texans can’t find anyone better than Brian Hoyer to line up at quarterback

Texans 35, Saints 17 

A rematch with the Panthers awaits in week 13. Cam Newton seem to play his best games against the Saints. One of these days, the Saints will practice tackling mobile quarterbacks.

Panthers 37, Saints 20

The Saints take on the Buccaneers again in Week 14. Lovie Smith may or may not still be employed.

Saints 41, Buccaneers 20

The Saints played the Lions last year in an early season matchup where they completely fell apart in the fourth quarter. They will seek redemption in the Sunday night Home game. See Week 4 for analysis on the pick

Saints 38, Lions 21

Week 16: Saints vs. Jaguars. Drew Brees vs. Blake Bortles. Next!!!

Saints 30, Jags 10 

Week 17’s matchup with the Falcons could be for the division title or the sad end to a rebuilding year. Either way, it figures to relatively quiet in the Georgia Dome, Now that the Falcons aren’t allowed to pipe in artificial noise.

Falcons 31, Saints 20

Final Record: 10-6

Anyone who tells you they know how the New Orleans Saints 2015 season is going to unfold is either a psychic or a liar. I’m not a psychic, but I can pretend to be one after looking at the team’s official schedule. After a one year hiatus the team looks poised to make a chase for the playoffs, if for no other reason than the football gods decreed the NFC South face the AFC South in 2015. Here’s a closer look: 

 The team opens on the road against the Arizona Cardinals. Sean Payton wants his team to be tougher in 2015 and the Cardinals had one of the toughest defenses in the NFL. If the Saints can  keep Carson Palmer and his surgically repaired knees in check, they might be able to eke out a win. 

Cardinals 24, Saints 17

Week 2 Brings The Tampa Bay Buccaneers to the Super Dome. Logic says this will be the Saints first crack at Jameis Winston, but the Bucs have never been one to let logic get in the way.

Saints 30, Bucs 24

Week 3 brings a date with the Carolina Panthers. The Panthers won the division with a record of 7-8-1. The Panthers will enter the season as the favorite, but this division can be won by just about anyone. Except Tampa Bay.

Panthers 28, Saints 21

The Saints take on the Cowboys in Week 4 for a Sunday Night Football matchup. On paper, the Saints should lose this one pretty. However, the Saints save their best efforts for Al Michaels’ and Chris Collinsworth’s visits to the Super Dome.

Saints 41, Cowboys 35

The Philadelphia Eagles are the opponents in Week 5. The Saints will have to be for Chip Kelly’s QB trio of Sam Bradford, Mark Sanchez, and Tim Tebow. Rumor has it Kelly is working on plays to get all three on the field at the some time.

Saints 30, Eagles 20

 The Saints host the Falcons on a Thursday Night in Week 6. The Falcons are what the Saints used to be: a dynamic offense with an atrocious defense. New coach Dan Quinn will likely try to fix the latter issue. He would also be wise to solve the issue of keeping his wide receivers healthy for an entire season.

Saints 25, Falcons 21

Week 7 pits the Saints against the Indianapolis Colts. The Colts have one of the most dynamic passing offense in the NFL. The Saints had one of the worst pass defenses last year. New cornerback Brandon Browner, should help, but this could still be ugly.

Colts 41, Saints 34

The New York Giants are the opponent in Week 8. On paper, this should be a tough test. Super Bowl winning quarterback/coach combo. All-world talent at wide receiver. And yet…the Giants find ways to underachieve on a yearly basis that make the Saints seem like a model of consistency.

Saints 27, Giants 20 

The Titans come to town in week 9. This could be Zach Mettenberger’s return to Louisiana. Mettenberger played college ball at LSU. He wasn’t terribly good there. He isn't terribly good in Tennessee, either.

Saints 35, Titans 17

Week 10 is a matchup with the Washington Redskins. The Redskins are a lot like the Giants in that the expectations vs. results almost never matchup. The only difference is pretty clear why the Redskins fail: everyone hates each other. 

Saints 24, Redskins 10

After a bye, the Saints travel to Houston to play the Texans. The Texans run the ball extremely well and play excellent defense. In order to win the Saints will have to hope the Texans can’t find anyone better than Brian Hoyer to line up at quarterback

Texans 35, Saints 17 

A rematch with the Panthers awaits in week 13. Cam Newton seem to play his best games against the Saints. One of these days, the Saints will practice tackling mobile quarterbacks.

Panthers 37, Saints 20

The Saints take on the Buccaneers again in Week 14. Lovie Smith may or may not still be employed.

Saints 41, Buccaneers 20

The Saints played the Lions last year in an early season matchup where they completely fell apart in the fourth quarter. They will seek redemption in the Sunday night Home game. See Week 4 for analysis on the pick

Saints 38, Lions 21

Week 16: Saints vs. Jaguars. Drew Brees vs. Blake Bortles. Next!!!

Saints 30, Jags 10 

Week 17’s matchup with the Falcons could be for the division title or the sad end to a rebuilding year. Either way, it figures to relatively quiet in the Georgia Dome, Now that the Falcons aren’t allowed to pipe in artificial noise.

Falcons 31, Saints 20

Final Record: 10-6

Anyone who tells you they know how the New Orleans Saints 2015 season is going to unfold is either a psychic or a liar. I’m not a psychic, but I can pretend to be one after looking at the team’s official schedule. After a one year hiatus the team looks poised to make a chase for the playoffs, if for no other reason than the football gods decreed the NFC South face the AFC South in 2015. Here’s a closer look: 

 The team opens on the road against the Arizona Cardinals. Sean Payton wants his team to be tougher in 2015 and the Cardinals had one of the toughest defenses in the NFL. If the Saints can  keep Carson Palmer and his surgically repaired knees in check, they might be able to eke out a win. 

Cardinals 24, Saints 17

Week 2 Brings The Tampa Bay Buccaneers to the Super Dome. Logic says this will be the Saints first crack at Jameis Winston, but the Bucs have never been one to let logic get in the way.

Saints 30, Bucs 24

Week 3 brings a date with the Carolina Panthers. The Panthers won the division with a record of 7-8-1. The Panthers will enter the season as the favorite, but this division can be won by just about anyone. Except Tampa Bay.

Panthers 28, Saints 21

The Saints take on the Cowboys in Week 4 for a Sunday Night Football matchup. On paper, the Saints should lose this one pretty. However, the Saints save their best efforts for Al Michaels’ and Chris Collinsworth’s visits to the Super Dome.

Saints 41, Cowboys 35

The Philadelphia Eagles are the opponents in Week 5. The Saints will have to be for Chip Kelly’s QB trio of Sam Bradford, Mark Sanchez, and Tim Tebow. Rumor has it Kelly is working on plays to get all three on the field at the some time.

Saints 30, Eagles 20

 The Saints host the Falcons on a Thursday Night in Week 6. The Falcons are what the Saints used to be: a dynamic offense with an atrocious defense. New coach Dan Quinn will likely try to fix the latter issue. He would also be wise to solve the issue of keeping his wide receivers healthy for an entire season.

Saints 25, Falcons 21

Week 7 pits the Saints against the Indianapolis Colts. The Colts have one of the most dynamic passing offense in the NFL. The Saints had one of the worst pass defenses last year. New cornerback Brandon Browner, should help, but this could still be ugly.

Colts 41, Saints 34

The New York Giants are the opponent in Week 8. On paper, this should be a tough test. Super Bowl winning quarterback/coach combo. All-world talent at wide receiver. And yet…the Giants find ways to underachieve on a yearly basis that make the Saints seem like a model of consistency.

Saints 27, Giants 20 

The Titans come to town in week 9. This could be Zach Mettenberger’s return to Louisiana. Mettenberger played college ball at LSU. He wasn’t terribly good there. He isn't terribly good in Tennessee, either.

Saints 35, Titans 17

Week 10 is a matchup with the Washington Redskins. The Redskins are a lot like the Giants in that the expectations vs. results almost never matchup. The only difference is pretty clear why the Redskins fail: everyone hates each other. 

Saints 24, Redskins 10

After a bye, the Saints travel to Houston to play the Texans. The Texans run the ball extremely well and play excellent defense. In order to win the Saints will have to hope the Texans can’t find anyone better than Brian Hoyer to line up at quarterback

Texans 35, Saints 17 

A rematch with the Panthers awaits in week 13. Cam Newton seem to play his best games against the Saints. One of these days, the Saints will practice tackling mobile quarterbacks.

Panthers 37, Saints 20

The Saints take on the Buccaneers again in Week 14. Lovie Smith may or may not still be employed.

Saints 41, Buccaneers 20

The Saints played the Lions last year in an early season matchup where they completely fell apart in the fourth quarter. They will seek redemption in the Sunday night Home game. See Week 4 for analysis on the pick

Saints 38, Lions 21

Week 16: Saints vs. Jaguars. Drew Brees vs. Blake Bortles. Next!!!

Saints 30, Jags 10 

Week 17’s matchup with the Falcons could be for the division title or the sad end to a rebuilding year. Either way, it figures to relatively quiet in the Georgia Dome, Now that the Falcons aren’t allowed to pipe in artificial noise.

Falcons 31, Saints 20

Final Record: 10-6

Below is Volume 2.0 of the Three Round NFC East Mock Draft

The original can be found here:

http://www.footballnation.com/content/nfc-east-predictions-three-round-nfl-mock-draft/33286/

Washington Redskins

Round 1 (5^th Overall):  Dante Fowler, Defensive End Florida

An elite pass rusher would greatly help a Redskins defense that struggled throughout much of the 2014 season.  Fowler is the top defensive end in the class and could make an immediate impact as a rookie.  With the loss of Brian Orakpo to Tennessee this pick makes a lot of sense. 

Round 2 (35^th Overall): Marcus Peters, Cornerback Washington

Peters is one of the most talented cornerbacks in this year’s draft class.  However, off the field concerns may cause him to drop out of the first round.  While his character is a concern, getting a mid to late first round talent at the 35^th overall pick is great value for the Redskins.  Peters has the talent to be an elite corner in this league if he pans out.  

Round 3 (69^th Overall) Ali Marpet, Guard Hopart

Although Marpet did not play top competition in college, he has all the traits of a successful lineman in the NFL.  He cemented his status as an NFL caliber player when dominated the competition at the NFL Combine.  While he may need a year to develop and adjust to the NFL, he could be a starter on the interior line for the Redskins for years to come. 

New York Giants:

Round 1 (9^th Overall) Amari Cooper, Wide Receiver University of Alabama

While there are bigger needs for the Giants than wide receiver, if a player of Cooper’s talent is there at ninth overall, you take him and don’t look back.  Cooper has terrorized SEC defenses the last three seasons and is one of the best route runners to come out of the draft in years.  He is the most pro ready wide receiver and could make an immediate impact alongside Odell Beckham Jr. and Victor Cruz. 

Round 2 (40^th Overall) A.J. Cann, Guard South Carolina

Cann is one of the top guards in this draft and could start as a rookie for the Giant’s underperforming offensive line.  Cann is extremely powerful and doesn’t have any trouble getting to the second level when blocking.  Cann could be the missing piece in the Giant’s overhaul of the offensive line these past few years.  

Round 3 (74^th Overall) Quinten Rollins, Safety Miami (Ohio)

Rollins is a former four year letterman in basketball who decided to use his one year of eligibility for football.  Rollins made a huge impact finishing with seven interceptions and was named the MAC Defensive Player of the Year.  Rollins is a playmaker who could be thrust into a starting role as a rookie due to the Giants lack of options at safety. 

Philadelphia Eagles:

Round 1 (20^th Overall) Kevin Johnson, Cornerback Wake Forest

While signing Byron Maxwell to a blockbuster deal in the offseason was a good start to shoring up their secondary, it is still a work in progress.  Johnson is a very smooth fluid athlete, who excels in man coverage.  He also excels in run support and could be a very solid player for the Eagle as early as his rookie year. 

Round 2 (52^nd Overall) Phillip Dorsett, Wide Receiver University of Miami

I believe this pick makes a lot of sense for the Eagles.  Jordan Mathews is coming off a great rookie season; however, after losing Desean Jackson and Jeremy Maclin in back to back seasons, the Eagles are very thin at the position.  Enter Dorsett who is one of the fastest players in this draft class who can take the top off any defense.  He could help fill the void left by Desean Jackson after he was traded last offseason.  If he is there in the second the Eagles should take him with no hesitation. 

Round 3 (84^th Overall) Brett Hundley, Quarterback UCLA

After trading Nick Foles for the talented, yet often injured Sam Bradford this past offseason, the Eagles may still be looking for a franchise quarterback.  If healthy Bradford, could be that guy; however, with his injury track record it will be hard to count on.  Hundley is a talented quarterback that if groomed properly has the ability to be a starter in this league.  Look for the Eagles to take a flyer on one of the quarterbacks in the mid rounds. 

Dallas Cowboys:

Round 1 (27^th Overall) Eric Kendricks, Inside Linebacker UCLA

Kendricks would be a solid addition to the Cowboys linebacker core.  While Rolando McClain was recently resigned to a one year deal, he is most likely not in the Cowboys long term plans and has several off the field issues.  Look for Kendricks to get some reps as a rookie and take over after his first year. 

Round 2 (60^th Overall) Duke Johnson, Running Back Miami

While they have the best offensive line in football, the Cowboys offense took a hit after defending Offensive Player of the Year Demarco Murray signed with the division rival Eagles.  Enter Duke Johnson, who is one of the most talented backs in this year's draft class.  He is quick and explosive and is drawing comparisons to Lesean McCoy and C.J. Spiller.  Behind an offensive line the caliber of the Cowboy’s, Johnson may be the front runner for Offensive Rookie of the Year. 

Round 3 (91^st Overall) Josh Shaw, Cornerback USC

In a very deep draft class for cornerbacks, the Cowboys are able to grab a very talented yet troubled cornerback in Josh Shaw.  Shaw is famous for making up a story where he sprained his ankles while heroically saving a child from drowning.  Regardless, Shaw is extremely talented who would most likely start out as a nickel cornerback and then work his way to the number two corner sport in a year or two. 

The 2015 NFL Draft is just weeks away and this time of the year there is a ton of speculations about trades, players sliding in the draft and most importantly, who will go number one overall?

This time of year mock NFL drafts are very popular and as a writer of the sport, I find them to be very fun to think about and create. In most cases, there is a surprise pick early on or a trade that shakes the entire draft up.

NFL mock drafts are designed to help fans understand where these prospects rank and most importantly for fans across the country, let them have an idea of who their favorite team will be targeting come draft night.

I am going to run a mock draft on the first ten picks of the 2015 NFL Draft. The draft is such an unpredictable sporting event, that within a week something could happen, such as a trade, which would throw the entire mock draft into a complete free fall.

Here is my top ten NFL picks for the 2015 NFL Draft as we currently sit here with about a month to go until the real action takes place on draft night.

1^st overall pick- Tampa Bay Buccaneers- Jameis Winston

2^nd overall pick- Tennessee Titans- Marcus Mariota

3^rd overall pick- Jacksonville Jaguars- Leonard Williams

4^th overall pick- Oakland Raiders- Amari Cooper

5^th overall pick- Washington Redskins- Vic Beasley

6^th overall pick- New York Jets- Randy Gregory

7^th overall pick- Chicago Bears- Kevin White

8^th overall pick- Atlanta Falcons- Todd Gurley

9^th overall pick- New York Giants- Dante Fowler, Jr.

10^th overall pick- St. Louis Rams- La’El Collins

So, there you have the top ten picks of the 2015 NFL Draft, in my opinion, as we sit here today with about a month to go. I’m sure these projections will change multiple times before draft night arrives, but that’s the fun of the entire event.

The unpredictably of the NFL Draft makes it one of the most exciting sporting events of the year, despite it not actually being an on the field sporting event.

Dallas Cowboys:

The Cowboys have holes in every line of defense, but their biggest one remains on offense: halfback. This class of runners is considered one of the deepest in recent years, so there is a possibility that the Cowboys opt for a defensive player. None of the first-round pass rushers are expected to fall to 27 though, so they will have to trade up if they feel strongly enough about one. There are a few linebackers that may sneak their way into the bottom of the first round, but the other needs are more apparent. As for defensive back, no free safety would be worth drafting at that position, but corner is a likely option. If the Cowboys do draft a running back in the first round, they would have to trade up ahead of the Chargers or the Cardinals to secure one of the top two guys or sit back as see what happens, as both the Chargers and Cardinals have glaring needs outside of running back.

Top Three Prospects:

1.) Todd Gurley - RB   Georgia

2.) Melvin Gordon - RB   Wisconsin

3.) Kevin Johnson - CB   Wake Forest

New York Giants:

The Giants have a very well-rounded offense, with talent at just about every position. The lone hole for the Giants is their left guard position, assuming Weston Richburg moves back to center. That can be filled with Brandon Scherff, who many expect them to take. However, the Giants might feel the need to go defense, with plenty of holes in that unit. Outside of Devon Kennard, they do not have anyone very promising at the linebacker position, while they could use another run stopper to play beside Johnathan Hankins, and both of their safety spots are now holes with their previous incumbents now gone.

Top Three Prospects:

1.) Brandon Scherff - OG   Iowa

2.) Malcom Brown - DT   Texas

3.) Landon Collins - SS   Alabama

Philadelphia Eagles:

The Eagles made some holes with their trades, then filled them with free agents, but they did leave some holes wide open, making their draft plans quite apparent, assuming Chip Kelly does not get all fancy and do something like trade Bradford for a pick to then acquire Marcus Mariota. The holes that they currently do not have filled are wide receiver, right guard, corner, and safety. Guard can be filled with one of the second-round prospects while this is a very deep wide receiver class, and this draft only have one safety that is expected to step in right away--and succeed. If Landon Collins is not there, their next best option would be to go with a corner, with Marcus Peters, Kevin Johnson, and Jalen Collins all possibly available at 20.

Top Three Prospects:

1.) Landon Collins - SS   Alabama

2.) Marcus Peters - CB   Washington

3.) Kevin Johnson - CB   Wake Forest

Washington Redskins:

For a team that is picking in the top five, they have a lot of talent. They picked up quality free agents and limited the holes on their team, leaving just right tackle, corner, and safety as ones that need to be addressed right away. They can wait to address their front seven, as they have some developing talent at those positions. There is no tackle worth picking as high as five, so they would have to trade way down if they want to select one in the first round. There are some good second-round prospects though, and it is more likely that they take one their as opposed to Day 1. The class of defensive backs is similar, but the safety class is weak beyond Landon Collins and there are some nice corners they can select if they trade back to the middle of the round. I fully expect them to trade back, with the Browns and Saints being the likeliest options.

Top Three Prospects:

1.) Landon Collins - SS   Alabama

2.) Trae Waynes - CB   Michigan State

3.) Marcus Peters - CB   Washington

Washington Redskins:

Round 1 (5^th Overall):  Randy Gregory, Defensive End University of Nebraska

Gregory is an elite talent in this draft and one of the top pass rushers.  He is explosive and is able to wreck havoc against offensive lines and the quarterback.  However, Gregory is a typical high ceiling, low floor prospect.   At 6”5’ and 235 pounds, he will need to need to hit the weight room and put on 20-30 pounds of muscle to excel at the next level.  Nonetheless, a prospect with his elite potential will be too much for the Redskins to pass up on.

Round 2 (35^th Overall) Ifo Ekpre-Olomu, Cornerback University of Oregon

There is no denying the Redskins secondary needs to be improved for 2015, Ekpre-Olumu could help shore up the cornerback position for the Redskins.  The Ducks cornerback was one of the top cover corners in the country this year and excels at pressing against wide receivers at the line.  Furthermore, he is above average in run support and trusts his instincts when defending the ball, which serves him well more times than not. 

Round 3 (69^th Overall) Nick O’Leary, Tight End Florida State

O’leary is one of the top tight ends in this year’s class and its obvious why.  He excels in blocking in both the pass and run game.  Furthermore, he is sure handed, rarely dropping passes, and always tough to tackle when he gets the ball.  He would most likely slide into the H-back role in an NFL offense where he would excel. 

New York Giants:

Round 1 (9^th Overall) Amari Cooper, Wide Receiver University of Alabama

Many will be clamoring to fix the offensive line in the first round; however, the value just isn’t there at 9^th overall unless they trade back in the draft.  Cooper is the best route runner in the draft and has set receiving records all while going against some of the toughest defenses in all of college football in the SEC.  With Cruz coming off an injury that puts his effectiveness in doubt and Rueben Randle in a contract year, I believe General Manager, Jerry Reese will not be able to pass up on taking the best player available.  Having two stud wide receivers on rookie contracts for the next four years will be huge for the Giant’s future success. 

Round 2 (40^th Overall) Jake Fisher, Offensive Tackle University of Oregon

The Giants get their offensive lineman in the 2^nd round.  Fisher is a former tight end that was able to transition smoothly to offensive tackle while at Oregon. He excels at creating leverage against defenders and has the potential to be a bookend tackle for the Giants for years to come.  He most likely comes in and starts day one from one of the tackle positions. 

Round 3 (74^th Overall) Gerod Holliman, Safety University of Louisville

Holliman would solve the Giants glaring hole at Safety after the departure of Antrel Rolle to the Bears.  Holliman is the defending Thorpe award winner for the nation’s best defensive back and an absolute ball hawk.  The Cardinal safety tied an FBS record with 14 interceptions on the season in just 13 games.  This pick would go a long way to shoring up the Giants safety issues. 

Philadelphia Eagles:

Round 1 (20^th Overall) Marcus Peters, Cornerback University of Washington

The Eagles secondary was one of the worst in the NFL this past season getting torched for countless big plays.  While the addition of Byron Maxwell definitely helps, the Eagles would definitely benefit from having a player of Peter’s Caliber to line up on the other side of him.   Peters has outstanding feel for space and is the ideal size for an NFL corner. 

Round 2 (52^nd Overall) Phillip Dorsett, Wide Receiver University of Miami

After losing Jeremy Maclin this year to free agency and trading Desean Jackson the year prior, the Eagle definitely need an upgrade to their wide receiver corps.  Dorsett is an absolute burner and the fastest wide receiver in the draft.  He would fit in perfectly with Chip Kelly’s high-octane offense and would fill the void left by Desean Jackson as the team’s deep threat.  Him and Jordan Matthews would make a great core at the wide receiver position for years to come. 

Round 3 (84^th Overall) Bryce Petty, Quarterback Baylor University

The Eagles seem to be in limbo at quarterback after trading Nick Foles for former number one overall pick and often injured Sam Bradford.  Furthermore, they resigned Mark Sanchez during the offseason.  Unfortunately for the Eagles, neither of them looks to be the quarterback of the future.  Barring a blockbuster trade to move up for Mariota, Petty could be a solid choice to groom as the quarterback of the future.  He is an absolute gunslinger, and has the potential to be a starting caliber quarterback in the NFL.

Dallas Cowboys:

Round 1 (27^th Overall) Melvin Gordon, Running Back University of Wisconsin

The Cowboys were able to build the best offensive line in the football by spending premium picks on lineman in the last few drafts.  This paid huge dividends for running back Demarco Murray who set franchise records running behind the stout line.  However, Murray departed for a blockbuster contract with the rival Eagles during free agency.  With Joseph Randle slated in as a starter, Gordon would be a great pick who would most likely start right off the bat at tailback.  Gordon could be looking at a 1200-1400 yard rushing season as a rookie running behind the Cowboys line.  This could be a match made in heaven for both parties.  

Round 2 (60^th Overall) Mario Edwards, Defensive End Florida State

Edwards could help strengthen a pass rush that struggled at times last year.   He is versatile player and could play either as a 4-3 defensive tackle (would have to bulk up a bit) or 3-4 defensive end.  He has good power coming off the snap and above average upper body strength that gives him the edge against offensive tackles.  Would be a solid pick up for the Cowboys who could contribute as a rookie. 

Round 3 (91^st Overall) Ben Koyack, Tight End Notre Dame

Jason Witten has been a staple at tight end for the Cowboys over the last decade.  However, he is not getting any younger and it would be wise to start looking at an heir apparent.  While Gavin Escobar is solid, I do not believe he is the long-term solution at the tight end position.  Koyack could be groomed to take over for Witten in a few years and could contribute in some two tight end sets from the get go.

The Washington Redskins are coming off a down 2014 season thanks in part to injuries suffered by Robert Griffin III. The quarterback issue for the Redskins has been a problem for some time now and the quarterback controversy in Washington may be just beginning.

This past weekend, Washington Redskins’ GM Scott McCloughan stated that the Redskins would look at the possibility of selecting former Oregon Ducks quarterback Marcus Mariota in this year’s 2015 NFL Draft. Mariota, the 2014 Heisman Trophy winner, led Oregon to the 2014 national title game and went down in the record books as one of the most successive quarterbacks in the history of the college game.

Mariota’s NFL potential has been debated for some time now and as the 2015 NFL Draft draws nearer, the speculation has only grown throughout the league. His small statue is not your typical pro style NFL quarterback, but thanks to success from quarterbacks like Russell Wilson those questions aren’t nearly as tough in today’s NFL.

So, what exactly would Mariota fix with the Redskins and their search for an elite quarterback in 2015 and beyond? I fear that Mariota is just a smaller version of Robert Griffin III and the Redskins are trying to catch lighting in a bottle with Mariota just as they did with Griffin in 2012.

Griffin led the Redskins to the playoffs as a rookie in 2012, but due to injuries of multiple types his career has gone downhill ever since. Mariota and Griffin both played in a read option, spread offense in college that allowed them to make passer friendly throws. They both also used their blistering speed to overmatch opponents at the college level.

Griffin learned fast that his speed may have worked at the college level, but after a while it will just get you hurt at the NFL level. Mariota, who is not as tall or doesn’t weigh as much as Griffin, may have even a tougher time staying healthy in the NFL.

The one difference is Mariota could be slightly better in the pocket as a passer and certainly has pocket awareness that Griffin had issues with at times. Mariota was one of the most accurate passers at the college level the past few seasons and that will serve him very well if he can translate that to the NFL game.

The question will be do the Redskins really take a chance to Mariota with the 5^th overall pick? First of all, I don’t believe Mariota will be available at the 5^th pick because of the need for a quarterback by the teams with the first four picks. Washington will still have a quarterback issue in 2015 even if they do select Mariota.

The Redskins are a team in limbo currently and the selection of Mariota could help the situation, or turn it into a complete mess. We all know that in the months leading up to the draft these types of rumors are always surfacing, but this Mariota to Washington is one of the most intriguing thus far.

Day one of the 2015 NFL season certainly did not disappoint.  The highly anticipated flurry of activity included the usual crop of big-money free agent signings that were seemingly upstaged by a few notably shocking blockbuster trades.

Arguably the most astonishing day one deal saw the New Orleans Saints send their super star tight end Jimmy Graham to the defending NFC champion Seattle Seahawks for pro bowl center Max Unger and the 31^st pick in the upcoming April draft. 

After the normally high-powered Saints offense had conspicuously sputtered in 2014, fans and industry insiders seemed stunned by Graham’s exodus.  As pro bowl quarterback Drew Brees’ security blanket and New Orleans’ number one offensive weapon, the former third round pick cemented himself as one of the league’s top tight ends since joining the Saints in 2010.

Lacking a true top target in their receiving corps, the Seahawks finally snagged a certified pass catching phenom to pair with their play making quarterback Russell Wilson.  After losing the 2014 Super Bowl on a controversial goal line interception, Seattle seemingly satisfied their glaring need for a bona fide red zone receiving threat.

While the Graham deal sent shockwaves throughout the entire NFL community, one particular Pennsylvanian fan base was left collectively scratching their heads as the league officially opened for business Tuesday afternoon.  Philadelphia Eagles head coach and player personnel puppeteer, Chip Kelly, truly started the new season with an undisputed bang.

Earlier in the week it was unexpectedly announced that Kelly would indeed deal his former league leading rusher Lesean “Shady” McCoy to the Buffalo Bills for linebacker Kiko Alonso.  Already in a perceived panic over losing their featured running back, Philly fans weren’t finished being stunned.  

A full-fledged quarterback swap was next on the horizon.  The Eagles sent starter Nick Foles and two late round draft picks to the St. Louis Rams for their injury plagued passer and former number one overall pick Sam Bradford and fifth round draft pick.

After letting the speedy and electrifying receiver Desean Jackson go to division rival Washington Redskins last season, Kelly and the Eagles front office also decided not re-sign dynamic free agent wide out Jeremy Maclin.  Just two years after taking the wheel, Chip Kelly’s dramatic roster shake up lead to the jaw-dropping departures of Philadelphia’s superstar running back, starting quarterback and top two wide receivers.

Day one headlines of a new NFL season are typically dominated by high dollar free agent signings.  However, 2015’s blockbuster trades auspiciously overshadowed the media’s tiresome cliché, also now known as the annual “free agent frenzy.” 

Although the sky might seem to be falling in one NFL city, the presumptuous and premature planning of a championship parade route might be being envisioned in another.  However, as always, the true impact of this whirlwind of pre-season signings won’t truly be felt until the season kicks off in September. 

The Atlanta Falcons are already making moves to improve their roster, given the fact that the Scouting Combine is in the rear view mirror and free agency is less than a month away.

March 10^th to be exact.

According to Jay Adams and the team website, the Falcons today announced that they have signed fullback Patrick DiMarco and defensive end Cliff Matthews to contract extensions. The club has also signed wide receiver Nick Williams.

DiMarco, 6-1, 240 pounds, was originally signed by the San Diego Chargers as a college free agent out of South Carolina following the 2011 NFL Draft. He spent the 2012 season with the Kansas City Chiefs before being signed to the Falcons practice squad in 2013. In two seasons in Atlanta, DiMarco has played in 30 games with 14 starts while logging 17 receptions for 111 yards and one touchdown.

Matthews, 6-4, 275 pounds, was selected by the Falcons in the sixth round (230th overall) of the 2011 NFL Draft. In four seasons with the Falcons, he has appeared in 32 games, primarily on special teams. Last season, Matthews saw action in seven games while totaling six tackles (four solo) on defense and adding three special teams tackles.

Williams, 5-10, 184 pounds, was originally signed by the Washington Redskins as college free agent out of the University of Connecticut following the 2013 NFL Draft. He played in five games as a receiver and returner during his rookie campaign in 2013. Williams played in 42 games at UCONN where he caught 43 passes for 588 yards and two touchdowns. He set a school record for career kickoff return yards (2,045) and ranks second in yards per return (25.9). Additionally, Williams is the only player in UConn history with at least two kickoff returns and two punt returns for touchdowns in a career.

MAKING A PLAY FOR THOMAS

A report from NFL.com and Chris Wesseling have the Falcons and the Jaguars as potential destinations for Broncos tight end Julius Thomas, should he test the free agent waters.

The Jaguars will be "among the most aggressive pursuers," writes Mike Klis of the Denver Post. The Florida Times-Union agrees that Thomas is a "perfect fit" for a Jags offense desperately in need of a premier red-zone threat.

Broncos’ general manager John Elway now appears willing to let Thomas test his value on the open market. There are questions in Denver about the former college hoops star's injury history as well as his fit in Gary Kubiak's scheme that requires tight ends to do more blocking on cutback runs.

The Atlanta Journal-Constitution believes the Falcons will also be interested in Thomas, which jibes with scuttlebutt at the NFL Scouting Combine late last week.

Levine Toilolo proved to be an unworthy successor to Tony Gonzalez last season, while Thomas became the first tight end in NFL history with at least 12 touchdowns in back-to-back years.

The Broncos were preparing for the future. Faced with the reality that John Elway would not play forever and the star was aging, (although still among the best in the game) Denver needed to make sure there was a plan in place once No. 7 hung it up.

The move proved to be more of a pain in the backside of the organization than a gradual transitioning of the porch being passed from veteran to eager neophyte.

His selection by the Broncos did not sit well with Elway, for two reasons. One, the Broncos had greater needs at several other positions, which Elway felt should have been addressed with their first pick instead of using it on Maddox. Second, Elway was in his prime and still seven years away from his retirement in 1999, so selecting a successor so soon was extremely premature. However, Elway understood that Maddox had no control over the Broncos selection and was always professional in dealing with him, doing what he could to incorporate Maddox into the Broncos system.

Then the disaster starter. He was traded two years later.

As a rookie, Maddox was served by coach Dan Reeves. Maddox took his first snaps during the Week 6 (October 6) game against the Washington Redskins, completing 2 of 8 passes for 10 yards and one interception in the 3-34 loss. In that game, Maddox became the youngest NFL quarterback to complete a pass since Elmer Angsman in 1946.

Maddox took over the week 11 (November 15) game after starting quarterback John Elway left with a shoulder injury and led the Broncos to a 27-13 victory over the New York Giants.  Maddox would start the following four games from weeks 12 to 15, all losses. In his debut start in the week 12 0-24 loss to the Los Angeles Raiders, Maddox completed 18 for 26 (69.2%) of his passes for 207 yards and 2 interceptions (both by Terry McDaniel), was sacked 4 times, and committed 3 fumbles (including one lost).

Maddox only learned that he would start three hours before kickoff. The Los Angeles Times account of the game reported: "Every time Denver moved the ball, Maddox would be pressured, sacked or simply dropped the ball."

The Broncos troubles with Maddox only caused the battle between Reeves and Elway to intensify. It was a topic of conversation in the media and in the city of Denver.

While Maddox’s pick was considered a huge mistake, it is not the only blunder within the organization.

Maurice Clarett was picked in the third round of the 2005 NFL Draft and never panned out as a pro player.

Ted Gregory, a defensive tackle out of Syracuse was drafted in 1988. He was listed at 6’1” and actually measured out at 5’9”. He hurt his knee in training camp of his rookie season and was traded to New Orleans before taking a snap in Denver.

Jarvis Moss, a player who dominated the game from the University of Florida, was dominated in the NFL. At 260 pounds, he has 3.5 sacks in three seasons with the team.

There is, tragically, quite a long history of "we sohuld have taken...." for the Washington Redskins. At first, they hit gold.

Superstar, hall of fame, championship quarterback Sammy Baugh was the Skins first round pick in 1937. Baugh remains the only rookie quarterback in NFL history, to lead his team to a title in his first season. 

Fast forward 20 years to 1957, they could have made a trade with the Packers for their  #4 overall pick and had their choice of Hall of Famers: Quarterback Len Dawson or HB Jim Brown. The Packers had already picked, taking hall of fame HB Paul Horning #1, so at the right price, the Redskins could have moved up.

In 1961, they had the #2 and #3 picks overall. They took QB Norm Snead who had a respectable career but missed out on TE Mike Ditka who, had he been a Redskin, may have moved into a coaching position. But then Gibbs may not have been coach and they wouldn't have won three Super Bowls.

They could have struck a blow to their biggest rival, though. With their second pick the Redskins chose DT Joe Rutgens, but DT Bob Lilly was right there. Had they taken Lilly, the Cowboys would not have selected him and who knows how that could have affected the Doomsday Defense?

1962 they had the first pick and chose Ernie Davis (who?) but should have taken WR Lance Allworth, future hall of famer.

1963 TE Richter was their first rounder but they could have traded it for two second rounders perhaps, and picked up a better tight end in John Mackey, taken in round two by Baltimore and used the other pick to add depth.

1964 was a year they got it right. They took consecutive future hall of famers with their first and second round pick:  WR Charley Taylor & DB Paul Krause.

A second rounder, their first pick in the 1965 draft, would have been better used on WR Fred Biletnekoff, who was chosen in the third round by the Detroit Lions.

Imagine the offense the Redskins would have had entering the Super Bowl era: QB Len Dawson, HB Jim Brown & TE Mike Ditka would have certainly become a vicious trifecta. Toss in what could have been a 1960's "Posse" of wideouts Lance Allworth, Charley Taylor and Fred Biletnikoff. Perhaps Vince Lombardi comes to the Redskins earlier than 1970 and the Skins appearance in Sjuper Bowl VII ends up not being their first.

Sporting a championship caliber squad headed into the 1970's, the Skins would not have had such a need to trade away early round picks for players, as head coach George Allen did. Case in point: the Redskins did not have a pick higher than round 4 from 1973 to 1979.

That's not the world we live in. That harkens back to a long ago time when just about everything was different in the National Football League. However, it shows just how close we were to a Redskins dynasty in the 60's - 70's, had they made their picks right.

In 1980, head coach Jack Pardee had taken wide receiver Art Monk in the first round. No regrets there.

1981 brought Joe Gibbs to town and he soon became known for trading away the first round pick to add later round picks, allowing the team to add depth where needed. This was a brilliant strategic move by a brilliant coach.

In 1983 the Redskins took cornerback Darrell Green in the first round, no regrets. Gibbs did not use a first round pick again until 1991 when he took DT Bobby Wilson. Wilson fared decently and since he was a mid first rounder at #17, wouldn't qualify for "bust status".

The 1990's were not good years for Redskins Nation. A lot of people point to Joe Gibbs' decision to trade up in the 1992 draft to snag wide receiver Desmond Howard, as a colossal bust. Howard actually enjoyed a long career that spanned all the way until 2002. The Redskins were reigning Super Bowl champs in 1992 so this was more of a "candy pick", frosting on a championship cake.

The biggest bust in Redskins history is 1994's number three overall pick, quarterback Heath Shuler. Shuler was an objectively terrible NFL quarterback. Lawrence Taylor, doing commentary for a TNT network broadcast of a Redskins vs. Eagle game, said, "If I was out there on defense and looked across the line and saw Shuler, I would have no doubt we would win. He doesn't inspire a lick of fear in me, and likely no opponent either."

The Shuler pick was monumentally bad because the very next pick, number four overall, was defensive end Willie McGinest. This is significant because the next year the Redskins could have traded down from number four overall, taking Tampa Bay's two first rounders, which the Bucs used to draft two hall of fame defenders: DT Warren Sapp and LB Derrick Brooks.

Headed into the 1995 season, the Skins would have had the makings of a great defense. Quarterback Gus Frerotte, taken in the seventh round in 1994, was an ideal quarterback for this developing scenario. Frerotte was a good "game manager" and with a strong defense, he would have brought more wins to the nation's capital.

Power back Stephen Davis, drafted in 1996 would have given the Skins added clock management ability, further taking pressure off of Frerotte. Consider this, in 1996 the Redskins started 7-1 with Frerotte at quarterback. They collapsed to a 9-7 finish, mostly due to their lack of defense. Now imagine a defense that still had cornerback Darrell Green, plus McGinest & Sapp on the line, with Brooks roaming the middle of the defense.

Then in 1999 the Redskins added cornerback Champ Bailey to complement Green. They also added tackle Jon Jansen who, despite injuries, was a mainstay of the offensive line for years.

In 2000, they had the number 2 and number 3 overall picks for the second time in franchise history. They took tackle Chris Samuels and linebacker Lavar Arrington. Remember how the Redskins could have been an offensive juggernaut in the late 60's - early 70's? Look at this defensive lineup: CB's Darrell Green & Champ Bailey. LB's Lavar Arrington & Derrick Brooks, defensive linemen Willie McGinest & Warren Sapp.

Mix in some 'actual history' and say that in 2001 Dan Snyder still hires Marty Schottenheimer. Marty would have the toold in place to run his "Marty Ball" offense, he'd just need to hire a competent defensive coordinastor. We'd be looking at a Redskins vs. Patriots Super Bowl in 2001.

Obviously the Redskins should have / could have drafted QB Tom Brady prior to the sixth round in 2000, but so could thirty other teams. They could have made up for it, though, had they drafted quarterback Drew Brees to give incumbent starter Gus Frerotte, some competition. (Obviously Brees would have won that one) Which means....

....in 2002 the Redskins would not have even considered drafting QB Patrick Ramsey with the #32 overall pick. They could have taken wide receiver Deion Branch, whom the Patriots took at the end of the second round. Branch, as you may remember, played out of his mind in Super Bowl XXXVIII, catching 10 passes for 143 yard and a touchdown. Had the Redskins picked him, would New England have out scored the Panthers? Perhaps...

....because the Redskins actually let running back Stephen Davis test free agency, and he signed with the Panthers. His running in the 2003 season was a large factor in Carolina's surrising Super Bowl run. However, with an already championship level team, would Davis have left at all?

Darrell Green retired in 2002 but the 2003 draft held a plethora of talented defensive backs, many of whom are still playing today. Okay, enough fantasy. Let's get down to it.

The BIGGEST draft day regret for the Washington Redskins?

NOT drafting quarterback Aaron Rodgers in 2005. In reality, the Redskins did pick a quarterback in the first round, Jason Campbell. Also in reality, they picked him right after Green Bay took Rodgers #24 overall. The Skins could have had him, easily. The Redskins had two first round picks in 2005 and could have used that number 9 overall, to pick Aaron Rodgers.

In 2005, Joe Gibbs was in the second season of his second run with the Redskins. Imagine Joe Gibbs with his first legitimate, star quarterback since Joe Theismann.

One can dream, right?