Which NFL team had the better draft, Jets or Rams?
NEW YORK JETS
The Jets got Shonn Greene.
No, that’s not the only reason New York had the best weekend of the NFL’s 32 teams, but it sure helps.
With their first two picks of USC quarterback Mark Sanchez, who went to New York with the fifth pick of the first round, and Greene, the Jets created themselves a solid core from which the future looks very bright.
Even though there was controversy surrounding whether Sanchez was ready for the NFL when he announced his decision to opt for the pros rather than another year at USC, he proved himself throughout 2008 and performed well enough in workouts to earn himself that fifth overall selection in the draft.
No matter what Pete Carroll has to say about it, ESPN’s Mel Kiper described the quarterback as a “franchise-maker,” not exactly the tag bestowed upon Kellen Clemens or Erik Ainge the past few years.
With a solid defense in place and a sound running game, there also won’t be pressure on Sanchez, who after playing one year as the starting quarterback at such a major program will be ready for New York.
Greene will also be a contributor immediately for the Jets. With Thomas Jones on his way out and Leon Washington not exactly an every-down back, there will be a spot for the Iowa star in the running back rotation.
The consensus “GPA” of the Jets’ picks in the 2009 draft, according to ESPN.com, was a solid 3.26. While that may not get them into the Honors Program at Iowa, it definitely is a reflection of one of the best performances by a front office over the weekend.
— by Jake Krzeczowski
ST LOUIS RAMS
The Rams’ recent success, or lack thereof, has been a far cry from the “Greatest Show on Turf” at the beginning of the decade. Going just 2-14 last season, St. Louis came into this past weekend’s draft knowing it had a lot to work to do, and was able to make some key selections that will aide in turning the franchise around.
St. Louis started off the draft in a big way — literally — by selecting 6-5, 309-pound left tackle Jason Smith of Baylor. He has the body to compete against the strongest defensive linemen that the NFL has to offer, and as a former tight end, he possesses agility unusual for a man of his size. Ram quarterback Marc Bulger had to be happy to hear Smith’s name called after being sacked 38 times last season.
Although he’s not noted for being a dominant run blocker, Smith has the athleticism and footwork to become one. Just think how much better running back Stephen Jackson could be if Smith improves his run blocking.
The Rams then went the way of Big Ten defensive specialists for their next two selections — Ohio State linebacker James Laurinaitis and Iowa cornerback Bradley Fletcher. Both are ultra-competitive guys who genuinely love to battle and play the game. Laurinaitis should help the Rams’ linebacking corps improve immensely, while Fletcher’s great instincts for the ball and hard-nosed play will be a great addition to a team that only picked off 12 passes last year. Additionally, the team’s fourth-round selection of defensive tackle Durell Scott from Clemson will add strength to a weak defensive line.
While the Rams probably won’t be ready for a playoff run in 2009, their draft performance will prove pivotal in helping to lay down the framework for the franchise’s rejuvenation.
— by Jordan Garretson
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