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The Super Bowl and Senior Bowl are over and the 2008 Draft picture is getting clearer. The War Room Report brings to you our 2 Round 2008 NFL Mock Draft!

(Player, Position, College, Height, Weight, Draft Grade, Big Board Rank) 

1. Miami Dolphins – Chris Long, DE, Virginia, 6-4, 284, 97, #4 (Previous pick: Glenn Dorsey)

The Dolphins have many options with the first overall pick, with three defensive players that would fit their scheme well – DE Chris Long and DTs Glenn Dorsey and Sedrick Ellis. All three players would be ideal players to man the critical front of the 3-4 defense. The Dolphins could also look at OT Jake Long, who would provide an anchor on the left side of the offensive line for the development of a young quarterback. Bill Parcells and Jeff Ireland may not want to start their era with QB John Beck, making Boston College QB Matt Ryan a real possibility here. With the plethora of options, the Dolphins would prefer to trade down and pick up additional picks. However, the depth of the draft will make it unlikely that a trade can be reached, and if the Dolphins stay at #1, Virginia DE Chris Long appears to be the current choice. Long, who was amazingly productive playing in a 3-4 defense at Virginia, could step in from day one and be true difference maker at the 3-4 end spot, which is rarely found. 

2. St. Louis Rams – Jake Long, OT, Michigan, 6-7, 320, 97, #3 (Previous pick: Jake Long)

The injury to Orlando Pace early in the 2007 season crippled the Rams playoff hopes. Considered a playoff sleeper by many entering the season, the Rams floundered once Alex Barron was forced to take over the left tackle role, losing starting QBs Marc Bulger and Gus Frerotte to injuries. The line was unable to open holes for Pro Bowl RB Steven Jackson and gave up 48 total sacks. Pace suffered his second straight season ending injury and appears unlikely to return to his prior form. Michigan OT Jake Long is a dominating offensive tackle prospect on par with 2007 standout Joe Thomas. He played in a pro style offense at Michigan and should be able to immediately step in and protect the blind side for the Rams, much as fellow Big Ten standout Pace did for numerous years. The return of Al Saunders to the Rams could see a return to the glory days of the Greatest Show on turf, but only if the Rams can give their QB time to throw. If Long is on the board, look for the Rams to happily make the selection, however, defensive tackles Glenn Dorsey and Sedrick Ellis could be intriguing to a team that gave up the second most points in the league last season.

3. Atlanta Falcons – Matt Ryan, QB, Boston College, 6-5, 218, 94, #7 (Previous pick: Matt Ryan)

Trading Matt Schaub then subsequently losing Michael Vick for the season spelled disaster for the Falcons, making 2007 a year to forgot. Joey Harrington failed in his second stop and appears to be destined for no more than a backup role. Byron Leftwich failed to impress, and the best performance of the season from a QB came from 31 year old journeyman Chris Redman. The Falcons must start to rebuild their franchise and their image and Boston College QB Matt Ryan would be a strong candidate. Ryan, who led Boston College to their best performance since the Doug Flutie era, is a proven leader who succeeded at BC without quality WRs. Ryan is close to NFL ready, after playing in a pro style offense under former Falcons and Packers assistant Jeff Jagodzinski. The Falcons could also entertain the possibility of selecting one of the two franchise defensive tackles – Glenn Dorsey or Sedrick Ellis, to jump start the 4th worst defense in the NFL.

4. Oakland Raiders – Glenn Dorsey, DT, LSU, 6-2, 299, 98, #1 (Previous pick: Sedrick Ellis)

If Glenn Dorsey was to fall to #4, the Raiders would be overjoyed. The LSU star is the best defensive tackle prospect seen in at least a decade and would immediately step into the starting lineup for the Raiders. Dorsey, who was highly productive for the national champion Tigers, possesses elite strength and quickness, which gives him the ability to play the run or the pass equally as effectively. The Raiders could choice to target USC DT, Sedrick Ellis, a similar player to Dorsey. Either would be a welcome addition to a Raiders team that was powerless to stop the run in 2007, giving up over 145 yards per game. The defense currently lacks a starter at either defensive tackle position, following the retirement of Warren Sapp and the ineffectiveness of Gerard Warren. Al Davis has always been fascinated with offensive skill players and is sure to be enticed by Arkansas RB Darren McFadden, but the depth the Raiders have at the position, and the glaring need at defensive tackle, make Dorsey the logical pick.

5. Kansas City Chiefs – Ryan Clady, OT, Boise State, 6-5, 320, 93, #9 (Previous pick: Ryan Clady)

Once one of the top rushing teams in the league, the Chiefs fell to last in the NFL in 2007, averaging a paltry 78 yards per game. The Chiefs have suffered greatly from the loss of offensive line stalwarts such as Willie Roaf and John Tait, and they have yet to attempt to replace those players. They would love to be in a position to draft Jake Long, but instead may have to settle for Boise State junior Ryan Clady, a 6-5, 320 lb powerhouse who shined in his career as a Bronco. Clady is still developing and has the frame to become even bigger. He has the footwork and quickness needed to play left tackle in the NFL, and if the Chiefs want young QB Brodie Croyle to succeed, they must secure his blind side. Kansas City very well may be in the same situation as Arizona last year – forced to take a left tackle over higher rated prospects to fill the considerable need. If the Chiefs to decide to continue to neglect the tackle position, Ellis is possibility here, as the team got virtually nothing from 2007 draft picks Turk McBride and Tank Tyler, and still is in need of interior help on the defensive line. Explosive pass rusher Vernon Gholston of Ohio State would also be intriguing, as he would pair well with Pro Bowl DE Jared Allen.

6. New York Jets – Darren McFadden, RB, Arkansas, 6-2, 205, 97, #2 (Previous pick: Chris Long)

Thomas Jones provided a workman like effort for the Jets in his first season with the team, topping 1,000 yards but averaging only 3.6 yards per rush. The lack of an explosive running game allowed teams to tee off on the Jets QBs, bringing the offense to stand still. The Jets have more pressing needs than running back, where Leon Washington ably backs up Jones, but they will find it hard to pass on one of the most talented players in the draft, and one of the best running back prospects in recent years, in Darren McFadden. McFadden would instantly bring credibility to their offense – much as Adrian Peterson did for the Vikings in 2007. The Jets will be tempted to target a pass rusher such as Vernon Gholston or Derrick Harvey, who would be ideal fits in their 3-4 scheme that desperately needs an outside presence. The Jets also, will be intrigued by Sedrick Ellis, who would give them a presence up front that they are currently lacking. However, in the end, the allure of McFadden and the potential Peterson like effect he can have on a team will make him the selection.

7. New England Patriots (From San Francisco) – Vernon Gholston, DE/OLB, Ohio State, 6-4, 260, 93 #8 (Previous pick: Darern McFadden)

Despite the team’s success, the Patriots defense rarely dominating during the 2007 season. The Patriots preference here is probably to address the inside of the defensive line, where Junior Seau and Tedy Bruschi are on their last legs, but the best value is on the outside with pass rushers Vernon Gholston and Derrick Harvey. Gholston, who had an amazing junior season for the Buckeyes despite the loss of fellow standout Lawrence Wilson on the opposite side, projects to be an elite pass rusher at the 3-4 rush linebacker spot. The Patriots creativity would find another weapon with Gholston, who would team with Roosevelt Colvin to form a vicious pass rushing duo on nickel downs – possibly allowing for Adalius Thomas to play inside at times. The Patriots may decide to draft a true ILB prospect and opt for USC’s Keith Rivers, who played outside for the Trojans but has the versatility to move inside. The Patriots, like many of the teams above them, will consider Sedrick Ellis and the explosive presence he could provide. Ellis is likely to be the Patriots highest ranked player, but their current outstanding front 3 will prevent him from being the selection.

8. Baltimore Ravens – Brian Brohm, QB, Louisville, 6-4, 224, 94, #6 (Previous pick: Briah Brohm)

Steve McNair was unable to stay healthy in 2007 and Kyle Boller failed to show much progress, as the Ravens missed the playoffs. While Baltimore is still a talented team on both sides of the ball, the lack of consistent play from the QB position is holding the team back. 2007 draft pick Troy Smith demonstrated flashes as a rookie, but is unlikely to develop into anything more than a solid backup. Former prep star and three year starter at Louisville, Brian Brohm has the pedigree of an NFL QB. He is familiar with a pro style offense and could step in on day one. He has good mechanics and has succeeded in two different offensive systems. After the Boller fiasco, the Ravens may be wary of selecting a QB in round 1 and could instead address the potential void in the pass rush that could exist if free agent Terrell Suggs does not return. Florida DE Derrick Harvey could transition to a hybrid 3-4 OLB/DE role for the Ravens, filling in for Suggs. One of the larger problems for the Ravens in 2007 was the inconsistent play and injuries at the cornerback spot, as former star Samari Rolle appears to be towards to end of his career as a starter. Troy CB Leodis McKelvin is a high upside player who could develop into a lock down corner for the Ravens. Unless Cam Cameorn becomes convinced that  McNair, Boller, or Smith can lead this team back to the playoffs in the near future, Brohm should be the selection.

9. Cincinnati Bengals – Sedrick Ellis, DT, USC, 6-2, 305, 96, #5 (Previous pick: Vernon Gholston)

The Bengals are in a position where they should target the top defensive player on the board. That player is easily Sedrick Ellis, who could go as high as #1. Ellis dominated at the 2007 Senior Bowl and throughout the 2007 season, and would immediately start for the Bengals. Cincinnati has expressed interest in moving to a 3-4 defense under new defensive coordinator Mike Zimmer, who performed a similar switch in Dallas. However the Bengals lack the personnel to make the move immediately. Ellis provides the versatility of being able to succeed in either the 3-4 or 4-3, which could ease an eventual transition. The Bengals could only muster only 22 sacks in 2007, so they may target Derrick Harvey here, who is also a player with the ability to play in either defense. Ellis’s USC teammate Keith Rivers would also get some consideration, as he would immediately be the best linebacker on the team, which suffered injuries and poor play in 2007. The Bengals must address the defense that allowed almost 350 yards and 24 points per game. Whomever the Bengals select is likely to become the leader and the best player on the defense immediately.

10. New Orleans Saints – Leodis McKelvin, CB, Troy, 5-11, 190, 92, #17 (Previous pick: Mike Jenkins)

Signing a Cover 2 corner to play man lock coverage turned out to be the mistake it seemed to be, when former Colts CB Jason David was picked on weekly by opposing offenses. The Saints have one solid corner in Mike McKenzie but the second spot has been a huge weakness. Davis, Fred Thomas, and Jason Craft all attempted to fill the role, but none succeeded. 2007 draft pick Usama Young displayed flashes of brilliance in 2007 but struggled with the step up in competition. The Saints must address the CB position more definitively this time. Troy CB Leodis McKelvin may come from a smaller school, but he has big time talent. As he demonstrated at the Senior Bowl, McKelvin is a terrific athlete with strong cover skills. He also can provide a spark in the return game and has likely vaulted himself to the top of the heap at the cornerback position. The Saints may opt for a slightly more experienced and physical corner in Mike Jenkins from South Florida or Aqib Talib of Kansas, but McKelvin appears to be #1 at this point. The Saints also have a weakness at the linebacker position, where USC’s Keith Rivers would immediately step into the starting lineup if chosen here.

11. Buffalo Bills – Derrick Harvey, DE, Florida, 6-4, 245, 93, #10 (Previous pick: Dan Connor)

Buffalo performed admirably in a 2007 season that saw many them face numerous injuries. Only a tough schedule kept the Bills from .500 and the combo of rookie QB Trent Edwards and RB Marshawn Lynch gave Bills fans some optimism. However the defense struggled, giving up the second most yards in the league. Outside of Pro Bowl DE Aaron Schobel, the Bills were unable to find a steady pass rush, finishing with only 26 sacks. Harvey had 8.5 sacks playing off the edge for the Florida Gators and figures to become an improved player as he adds strength and weight. Harvey would team with returning LB Paul Posluszny and S Donte Whitner to form a solid young core for the Bills defense. The Bills may be enticed to select a heavier defensive end prospect to play opposite of the undersized Schobel, such as Calais Campbell or Phillip Merling, but Harvey provides the most upside. The Bills could also select a physical WR to pair with speedster Lee Evans, such as Oklahoma’s Malcolm Kelly. The depth at the WR position may allow the Bills to wait on that need.

12. Denver Broncos – Keith Rivers, OLB, USC, 6-3, 235, 92, #11 (Previous pick: James Laurinitias)

The Broncos disappointed in 2007 as they were powerless to stop the run, giving up over 140 yards per game on the ground. D.J. Williams was forced to shift to the middle after the lost of Al Wilson and struggled early before coming on late. However, the Broncos were unable to adequately replace Williams on the outside and Ian Gold struggled mightily. If Rivers is on the board, the Broncos should jump on the explosive former USC #55, as he would form a dynamite play making duo with Williams. The Broncos may opt to rebuild their offensive line that is losing Matt Lepsis by selecting massive offensive tackles Jeff Otah or Chris Williams. The Broncos also could explore Miami S Kenny Phillips, but the strength of their corners may allow them to neglect the safety position for now. However, given the struggles of their rushing defense in 2007, Rivers seems like the smart choice, if the top two defensive tackles are already off the board.

13. Carolina Panthers – Kenny Phillips, S, Miami, 6-2, 202, 92, #12 (Previous pick: Kenny Phillips)

Carolina had the weakest safety group in the NFL in 2007, just one of the many problems on the underachieving Panthers. Phillips follows in a long line of playmaking Miami safeties. Phillips, who started as a freshman for the ‘Canes, has the ability to become an elite safety who can make plays in the passing game while providing solid support in the run game. However he is far from a finished prospect and plays too out of control at times. His performance was lost a bit in the disappointing season for the Hurricanes, but he is likely to stand out at the individual workouts. The Panthers also may seek to improve their pass rush that managed just 23 sacks in 2007, despite the presence of Julius Peppers, making Calais Campbell, Phillips’ teammate and a Peppers clone, a potential pick here. The Panthers also could decide to build the left side of their offensive line with Jeff Otah or Chris Williams. The lack of talent in their safety group should make Phillips the pick, if he is available.

14. Chicago Bears – Jeff Otah, OT, Pittsburgh, 6-6, 340, 91, #22 (Previous pick: Andre Woodson)

The entire Bears offense was disappointing in 2007, falling to just over 20 points per game. Many wish to blame the decline on the loss of Thomas Jones and the ineffective play of Rex Grossman, however a huge factor was the lackluster player of the Bears aging offensive line. The Bears averaged on 3.1 yards per carry, which was last in the NFL. Add that to the 43 sacks given up, and the problems on the line are evident. Jeff Otah is a relatively raw prospect with only 2 years of division 1-A football. He has a massive frame with the ability to get even stronger and has already demonstrated the footwork to be a left tackle at the NFL level. The Bears may be able to allow Otah to play RT his rookie season before shifting to the blind side. If the Bears seek a more proven player, they may opt for Chris Williams, the difference making road grader from Vanderbilt. If the Bears do decide that the running back position was the culprit and decide to give up on Cedric Benson, they could select Jonathan Stewart, who is the most complete back in the draft outside of McFadden, or the speedy Felix Jones or local product Rashard Mendenhall.

15. Detroit Lions – Calais Campbell, DE, Miami, 6-8, 282, 92, #16 (Previous pick: Aqib Talib)

To make Rod Marinelli’s Cover 2 based scheme work, the Lions must find a way to pressure the passer. DeWayne White provided a solid pass rush in his first season with the Lions, as did Jared DeVries in part time duty, but the Lions need a true difference maker at the position such as former Buc Simeon Rice. Calais Campbell, a huge DE prospect at 6-8, 282, has the potential to be one of the top defensive ends in the NFL. He was considered a top five prospect entering the season, but he, like his Miami team, was inconsistent in 2007. He faced double teams often and his effort was questionable. Still, a defensive end prospect with the upside of Campbell is difficult to find. The Lions could address their offensive line with Chris Williams, who would allow Jeff Backus to move to RT and help secure an offensive line that will soon be helping to break in a young QB. Many will speculate that the Lions will take a cornerback here, as their pass defense was their major weakness in 2007, but the Cover 2 scheme usually can be successful with lesser corners and it would be imprudent to waste the 15th pick on a CB.

16. Arizona Cardinals – Mike Jenkins, CB, South Florida, 6-0, 200, 92, #13 (Previous pick: Derrick Harvey)

Former top ten pick Antrel Rolle is moving to safety, a move that probably should have occurred prior to the 2007 season. That creates a void at the corner spot for the Cardinals. Free agent signing Rod Hood proved to be a wise investment for the Cards, but Eric Green was disappointing and probably is best suited for a nickel role. The Cardinals are likely to have their choice of the #2 cornerback here – the senior Mike Jenkins who helped provide lock down coverage for the upstart South Florida Bulls and the immensely talented Aqib Talib. Jenkins is probably the most NFL ready of the two, but Talib’s athleticism gives him a higher upside. The Cardinals are building a solid young defense with Karlos Dansby, Adrian Wilson, and Darnell Dockett and adding an elite shutdown corner would continue the upward surge. As the Cardinals implement the 3-4 defense more fully, the importance of a corner that can handle man coverage increases. The Cardinals also could entertain Jonathan Stewart here as a future replacement for Edgerrin James, who does not have many years left.