Jackson and Maclin enter the season as the resting atop the depth chart.  Jackson is a threat to score anytime he gets his hands on the ball.  Maclin provides the perfect compliment to Jackson.  Maclin is no slouch in the speed category himself but he does not have the blazing speed Jackson does.  He is the more consistent receiver between the two and is a better route runner.  Both guys are threats to put up 1,000 yards receiving in any given year.

After the dynamic duo Jason Avant holds down the #3 spot and usually lines up in the slot.  He has made his mark as a sure-handed receiver who generally catches anything he can get his hands on and has become a go-to-guy on third downs and short yardage pass plays.  He has caught over 65% of the passes thrown his way the past two seasons which is the best among receivers on the team.

After the top three the Eagles have a bevy of wide outs competing for the remaining spots: Riley Cooper, Chad Hall, Mardy Gilyard, Jamel Hamler, Marvin McNutt, and Ronald Johnson.

Cooper is entering his third season with the Eagles and this is probably a make-or-break summer for him.  He has struggled some with nagging injuries and has flashed an ability to be a play-maker at times; he is averaging 18.7 yards per catch for his career.  His play has simply been too inconsistent and he seems to struggle to get open at times.  The primary reason the Eagles are still holding out hope for him is he is the biggest WR on the team and that has been one thing the team has been lacking the past couple of years.

Hall is there mostly for his versatility.  He can line up in the backfield or split out wide and contributes as a special teams player as well.  He does not do anything exceptionally well however.

The Eagles spent a 6th round pick on McNutt and he is expected to challenge Cooper for the #4 spot on the depth chart.  He is roughly the same size as Cooper is and is a slightly faster player.  McNutt has good measurables and was a solid performer at the college level.

Hamler and Johnson are likely just a couple of guys they are going to give a looksee at camp to see if they can add anything to the squad.  They are long shots to make the team and could be practice squad fodder.

Gilyard will challenge Hall for his spot on the roster.  He is a guy who can potentially line up in the slot, but the only real shot he has at making the team is if he can show something as a kick returner.

Brent Celek will return as the starting tight end.  When healthy he is a good pass catching TE with big play ability.  He takes full advantage of the seams that open up down the field when DeSean Jackson is sent on a deep route.

Clay Harbor has not really shown much in his two years with the team, and the team has not brought anyone in to give him any serious competition as of yet.

Jackson and Maclin are the clear starters at WR and Celek will hold down the TE spot.  Avant will be the #3 guy unless someone else is that much better this summer.  I expect McNutt will beat out Cooper for the #4 spot with the 5th spot being a toss up right now.

McCoy is arguably the best all around back in the league right now finishing 4th in the league in rushing and leading the league in overall touchdowns scored last season.  He will be only 24 when the season kicks off and he is a rising superstar in the league.

Lewis, entering his second season in the league, seems to be the backup by default entering off-season workouts.  He had just 24 touches on offense and saw action as a kick returner as well.  Dion has shown flashes here and there of what he can do but he did not do anything to ensure he will be the backup when the season starts.  There are those who wonder if he has the size to be able to be the full time guy if McCoy were to go down to injury.

Graig Cooper, Bryce Brown, and Chris Polk are expected to compete for the one or two other RB spots on the roster.

Cooper was released at the end of camp last summer and is being brought back this spring for another look.  He seems to be a long shot to make the squad as he lacks the straight line speed most team look for in a back.  If he has added some muscle he could compete for the FB spot.

Brown and Polk are considered to be the front runners for the third RB spot this summer.  Brown has the skills necessary to play at the next level, however, he comes with tons of off field baggage.  He barely played at the college level amid eligibility investigations.  Polk on the other hand is the complete opposite of Brown.  He comes with high character and even graduated early.  However, he comes with serious injury concerns.  He has had two shoulder surgeries and a knee scoped while at college and reports surfaced leading up to the draft that he is suffering from a degenerative hip condition.  His production in college was as good as any other running back.  He had over 1,800 yards from scrimmage and scored 16 touchdowns.  Polk also catches the ball well out of the backfield and, if healthy, gives them a back with good size to compliment McCoy’s slashing running style.

Stanley Havili is currently the only fullback on the roster.  The Eagles signed undrafted free agent Emil Igwenagu out of Massachusetts to compete with Havili.  Havili was a 7th round pick in last year’s draft but never saw any action during the season.  He has the size and athleticism Reid tends to favor in his fullbacks.  Igwenagu is a beefy road-grader with little athleticism and speed.  He does catch the ball well out of the backfield and if he were to make the team it would be purely as a lead blocker on rushing downs.

Barring injury McCoy will be the starting running back when camp breaks.  Lewis is a strong possibility to make the roster as he knows the offense and contributes on special teams as a kick returner.  The big question mark will be who wins out between Brown and Polk.  Brown has the edge from a physical standpoint but Polk is the more sound player.  I give the slight edge to Polk heading into camp simply because he gives them a between the tackles guy who can also contribute as a pass catcher.  Brown has never shown he can catch the ball which is a necessity if one wants to play in Andy Reid’s offense.

Havili should end up as the starting fullback unless the team decides to bring in a veteran when summer camp rolls around.

There will be at least three other quarterbacks vying for the backup up job this summer.  Trent Edwards, Mike Kafka, and Nick Foles will be competing for the other two roster spots at the quarterback position.

The Eagles spent a third round pick on Foles this past April and unless he gets injured or is a complete train-wreck in camp he is almost assured a roster spot come September.  Foles is expected to spend the upcoming season as the team’s number three QB.

Presumably this leaves Edwards and Kafka to duke it out for the backup job.  Heading into the mini-camps I can honestly see this one going either way.  Edwards has the edge over Kafka from the standpoint that he has thrown over 900 passes and started 33 games at the NFL level.  Kafka has yet to start a game and has just 16 pass attempts under his belt.  Where Kafka does have the advantage, however, is he is entering his third season in the Eagles offense while Edwards is the new kid in town.

So, on one hand there is Kafka who reportedly knows the offense inside-and-out and there is Edwards who gives the Eagles that security blanket of having a seasoned veteran who has started before waiting in the wings in the event Vick goes down to injury again.

Ultimately, I think Reid is bringing Edwards in to push Kafka in camp this summer.  Prior to this season Kafka never had anyone really challenging him for his spot on the roster.  This is the year where he is going to have to show what he is made of.  He already knows Foles is unlikely to challenge for his roster spot given that he will not be up to speed enough on the offense by the end of the summer.

Unless Kafka shows no real improvement or progression from the end of last season look for Edwards to be cut from the roster by the end of August.  Barring any major injuries look for the depth chart to read: 1. Vick 2. Kakfa 3. Foles.

NOTE: The Eagles signed rookie free agent Jacory Harris from Miami (FL) prior to this weekend’s rookie camp.  Harris would be an extreme longshot to make the team.  He has the talent to play at the next level but his college career was riddled with injury and inconsistency.  He has good mobility and above average athleticism and excels at throwing the ball down-field.  He tends to get rattled at times and is prone to multiple interception games at times.  I would not look for Harris to make the active roster but he is a strong candidate to end up on the Eagles practice squad.

Coming out of high school many had him rated as the top player in the country, they even had him ahead of Trent Richardson.  Brown has everything a team looks for in running back, Good size 5′ 11″/220 pounds and he reportedly ran under 4.5 seconds in the 40 when he worked out for scouts leading up to the draft.

Brown is the perfect example of a low risk gamble who could end paying very high dividends.  The big concern with him is whether he is going to come into this with the right mindset and whether or not he is willing to put in the extra effort to be a star at the next level.  He has the talent, but does he have the heart to get there.

With LeSean McCoy entrenched as the #1 back heading into camp there is little to no chance Brown will see any time with the first team offense.  He has the talent to challenge Dion Lewis and fellow rookie Chris Polk for the backup spot though.  Look for him to at least be in the mix for the backup role.  He could also potentially see time as a kick returner.

The one big thing that makes Washington an attractive prospect for the Eagles is he has college experience playing both guard and tackle.  Many thought he would have been no worse than a 2nd or 3rd round selection had he played guard his entire career at Miami.

Washington is not expected to challenge for a starting role, however, given his versatility he is a pretty safe bet to make the squad.  He provides the Eagles with someone who can play guard and tackle and is someone they can develop into a future starter down the road.

One thing McNutt brings to the Eagles that they do not already have is a receiver who has a nice blend of speed and size.  He checks in at over 6′ 2″ and ran a sub 4.55 40 yard dash at the combine.  He does not have blazing speed but he has enough speed to be able to separate from most defenders.  McNutt scored 20 touchdowns and averaged over 16 yards per catch in his two years as a starter for the Hawkeyes.

With DeSean Jackson, Jeremy Maclin, and Jason Avant currently entrenched as the top three wide outs going into camp it seems rather unlikely that McNutt is going to see a ton of action this year barring an injury to one of the top three.  Look for him to challenge Riley Cooper and Chad Hall for the 4th WR spot and eventually succeed Avant as the #3 guy a couple of years down the road.

With the 123rd pick of the NFL Draft the Eagles selected Georgia cornerback Brandon Boykin.  Boykin is yet another draftee who fell to the Eagles.  He was expected to come off the board some time in the 2nd or 3rd round so to land him in the fourth was a bit of a coup for the Eagles.  He likely fell due to a broken leg suffered at the Senior Bowl and the fact that he is slightly smaller than average corners coming into the league these days.

Brandon has excellent speed and excels in man coverage and possesses above average ball skills.  The biggest knocks on Boykin are his lack of size as well as his tendency to struggle in zone coverages.

Another bonus Boykin brings to the table is he excels as a return man having taken five kicks back for scores during his college career.

The expectations for Boykin are that he will challenge Joselio Hanson for the nickle back role and potentially supplant DeSean Jackson as the primary punt returner.

Foles does seem to have a lot of things going in his favor.  He has the size most pro teams like in a pocket passer checking in at 6′ 5″/240.  He also rates out as above average in most passing categories and was a three year starter at Arizona who got better with each passing season.  The biggest knock on him is he is limited athletically and does not avoid the rush terribly well.  He turned in the worst 40 times amongst QBs at the scouting combine.

With Michael Vick entrenched at the QB spot and Mike Kafka entering his third season with the team the Eagles are not in dire need of a young QB who can step in and start by the end of this year.  It is expected that Foles will be groomed as Vick’s eventual successor two or three years down the road or he will be dealt for draft picks a-la Kevin Kolb and A. J. Feely.

Curry is a guy who fell to the Eagles at the end of the second round.  He was largely seen as someone who would come off the board by the middle of the round.

At Marshall Curry was a big play guy who registered 23 sacks and 40 Tackles-for-loss over his last two collegiate seasons.

Look for Curry to fall in line as a rotational player at defensive end.  He should see time spelling Trent Cole and/or Jason Babin in passing situations.  His pass rushing skills are what scouts like most about him coming out of college.

Babin and Cole have little to worry about for the time being.  The guys who need to be worrying are Phillip Hunt and Brandon Graham.  Curry is expected to push those two for playing time for the immediate future and could possibly challenge for a starting role two or three years down the road.

What he gives them is a LB with speed.  He posted a 4.47 second 40 yard dash at the scouting combine.  He gives them someone with the speed to be able to turn and run with tight ends and backs coming out of the backfield.

The biggest knock against Kendricks as a player is he struggles to shed blockers at times and will get swallowed up by some of the bigger, stronger linemen.

Although he played inside at the collegiate level he has the speed and athletic ability to slide over to the outside and with the addition of DeMeco Ryans he will likely be asked to do so.  Look for Kendricks to challenge for and win a starting LB job in camp this summer.  He should win it based on his talent alone as there is not any real established competition at LB aside from Ryans.

So where, exactly, does he fit in the grand scheme of things for the Eagles?

Cox instantly becomes the most talented defensive tackle on the team.  The incumbent starters, Cullen Jenkins and Mike Patterson, are both solid players but neither is an every down talent like Cox is.  Jenkins gives them a good pass rusher presence up the middle but is only adequate against the run while Patterson is better against the run but not as strong rushing the passer.

He has elite quickness and is a tremendous interior pass rusher.  Cox also managed to register 14.5 tackles-for-loss despite facing constant double teams all while playing in the premiere conference in college football.

The sky seems to be the limit for this kid and the hope is he can be to Philly what Albert Haynesworth was to the Titans while playing under Jim Washburn’s tutelage.

3. Minnesota Vikings – Justin Blackmon: The Vikings are rebuilding around a young QB in Christian Ponder and the receiving corps is lacking a true #1 receiver.  Blackmon would fill that need for them.  The better value here, however, would be Matt Kalil.

4. Cleveland Browns – Ryan Tannehill: The Browns appear to be kicking the tires on Tannehill.  Is it a smoke screen to try and lure a team like the Dolphins or Jaguars to want to move up and grab him, or are they seriously considering him?  There is no doubt about it he would be an extreme reach at this spot.

6. St. Louis Rams – Michael Floyd: The Rams desperately need a play-maker at the WR spot and Floyd is emerging as the second best pass catching prospect in this draft.

15. Philadelphia Eagles – Coby Fleener: This is definitely one nobody would see coming, but it would not be a huge surprise if it did happen.  Reid has been spending fifth round picks the past couple of years on TEs with speed to stretch the field only they can’t seem to stay healthy.  Fleener dazzled at his Pro Day and could be the hot sleeper pick to move up into the top half of the draft over the next few weeks.

21. Cleveland Browns – Stephen Hill: The Browns need a wideout who can stretch the field and Hill tied for the fastest 40 time at the combine.

So, without further adieu here are the things I think about the chances Peyton Manning ends up on the following teams.

Denver Broncos - Denver seems like a pretty logical fit for Manning.  There is a kindred spirit in John Elway running the franchise.  Elway knows what it is like to be the face of a franchise, and often times he was the guy keeping the Broncos afloat.  The Broncos coaching staff also showed a willingness to tailor the offense around their quarterback rather than pigeonholing him into a specific offense which is something that will appeal to a guy like Manning who has always been afforded the freedom to sort of run an offense on the fly.

Kansas City Chiefs – The Chiefs appear ready to move on from Matt Cassel who has never really blossomed into the franchise QB they thought they were getting.  The Chiefs also have a lot of good talent at the skill positions.  One thing working against them is they have done a lackluster job of protecting the QB the past few years.

Arizona Cardinals – The Cards have one of the games elite pass catchers in Larry Fitzgerald and managed to finish 8-8 with Kevin Kolb and John Skelton under center last season.  They also play in a dome stadium which could appeal to him as well.  The downside is ownership has been notoriously cheap over the years and the offensive line needs some help as well.

Seattle Seahawks – The Seahawks are another team that seem to be a couple of players away from getting over the hump.  The main thing working against the Seahawks right now is their lack of talent at receiver.

San Francisco 49ers – On paper the Niners would seem like the most logical landing spot for Manning.  They have a solid line, a good running game, and a solid group of pass catchers.  They also have arguably the best defense in the league and managed to go 13-3 and advanced to the NFC title game with Alex Smith as their quarterback, who just happens to be a free agent himself.  The only thing is, on the surface anyway, they remain committed to Smith and are not showing any interest in luring Manning to San Francisco.

Houston Texans – I keep hearing the Texans come up an awful lot in this discussion, but I don’t really buy it, nor do I really get it.  Is this not the same team that everyone was hyping as a legit Super Bowl contender before Matt Schaub got injured?  Besides, Schaub is five years younger than Manning and, provided he stays relatively healthy, has significantly more life left in his arm than Peyton is perceived to have right now.  It seems to me Houston would benefit more in trying to figure out how to re-sign Mario Williams than throwing that kind of money at a QB that nobody really knows how well he will play next season.  It would be a great fit for Manning, but I am not sure it would be the best move for the Texans over the long haul.

Miami Dolphins – The Dolphins are a logical fit from a need standpoint and they do have some pieces on offense to build around Peyton, however, I am not sure how interested Manning is in playing for an owner like Stephen Ross who has done a rather lackluster job at running the team since gaining control of it.

Washington Redskins – Logic would dictate that the Redskins would drop out of the running after securing the #2 pick and the chance to draft Robert Griffin, III, assuming the Colts grab Andrew Luck, but Chris Mortensen maintains the Redskins still intend on pursuing him.  It seems rather laughable as I seriously doubt Manning had in interest in planning for Shanahan in the first place. I am not sure the Redskins have the right front office mix that he is looking for.  In addition to that this team is more than just a QB away from being contenders again and their offensive line is still broken.

Jacksonville Jaguars – The Jags new owner would love nothing more than to bring in someone who can be the face of the franchise while he shops around the country for a new stadium deal.  Problem is the Jags lackluster season last year was not all on the shoulders of Blaine Gabbert.

Buffalo Bills – The Bills have some weapons at the skill positions and they could cut Ryan Fitzpatrick loose with no real cap penalties to speak of.  I doubt Manning has any real interest in playing for Buffalo and the Bills may be more inclined to spend money in free agency reshaping the front seven of the defense due to their impending transition to a 4-3 defense.

Cleveland Browns – The Browns seem to be dropping subtle hints that they might have an interest in potentially upgrading from Colt McCoy.  Like the Bills, however, I don’t think Manning has any real interest in playing for the Browns.

Minnesota Vikings – The main thing the Vikes have going for them is they play in a dome, but they lack any real weapons in the passing game and their line is in a bit of flux as well.  This team is more than just a quarterback away from being a contender again and Manning wants to go someplace where he can potentially contend right away.

Chicago Bears – I doubt the Bears appeal to Manning either.  The Bears do not have a lot of weapons in the passing game and their line has been atrocious when it came to protecting Jay Cutler the last couple of seasons.

Dallas Cowboys – Jerry Jones loves to build fantasy football teams in Dallas, but, like the Redskins, I am not sure the front office situation appeals to him.  Another thing to consider is whether Jones’ ego will let him bring in another QB before Romo’s time is up as a pro.  To go after Manning would mean to admit failure as it pertains to Romo and I am not sure Jones is ready to do that just yet.  He still seems to think Romo can win them a Super Bowl.

Philadelphia Eagles – The Eagles would probably be in the mix if they were not already committed to Michael Vick for the 2012 season.  I think the coaching staff in Philly would appeal to Manning, however, the only way this happens is if they find a taker for Vick, and I do not really see that happening.

Tennessee Titans – If the Titans decide to move on from Matt Hasselbeck this summer they would seem to be more inclined to see what Jake Locker can do as opposed to bringing in another stopgap veteran.

New York Jets – The Jets were rumored to have a real interest in talking with Manning, however, we can probably strike them off the list after they just threw a little more money Marc Sanchez’ way.

1. Indianapolis Colts: Andrew Luck (QB, Stanford) - Luck has been the top prospect for about two years running now and even with the specter of Peyton Manning looming in the background it seems unlikely the Colts will pass on the guy who has been the highest rated QB prospect since, well, Peyton Manning.

Previous Pick: Andrew Luck.

Wildcards: The Colts could do the unthinkable and keep Manning and deal the pick.  The Colts are an aging team in decline and have needs in several different areas.  They could potentially land several picks for Luck that would help them build towards the future.

2. St. Louis Rams: Justin Blackmon (WR, Oklahoma State) - The more I think about it the more I like Blackmon going to the Rams, I am just not sure he will be the second pick of the draft though.  The Rams have to build a legit receiving corps if they expect Sam Bradford to ever take the next step. I would not be shocked to see the Browns, Redskins, or Dolphins make a play for this pick to secure the rights to Robert Griffin, III.

Previous Pick: Matt Kalil.

Wildcards: I have a gut feeling that the Rams will not be the team picking here.  They could deal back to where the Browns or Redskins are drafting (4 and 6) and still potentially land Blackmon and pick up an extra pick or two in the process.  The Rams do not look to have a lot of cap space to pursue any of the high end free agent receivers so landing Blackmon would appear to be a high priority for them.

3. Minnesota Vikings: Matt Kalil (OT, USC) - The Vikings grab a guy who will protect Christian Ponder’s blindside for the next ten years as well as the player who is the consensus #2 prospect on this year’s draft board.

Previous Pick: Morris Claiborne.

Wildcards: The secondary has been a patchwork affair the past couple of seasons making Morris Claiborne awfully attractive here as well.  They could also opt for Blackmon if he is still on the board.  The Vikings pass catchers leave something to be desired and the Vikes appear to have little cap space heading into the off season.

4. Cleveland Browns: Robert Griffin, III (QB, Baylor) - Griffin is the hot prospect right now and teams could potentially try to move up to #2 or #3 to grab him.  This pick is largely going to depend on whether the Browns think Colt McCoy deserves another year or not.  The Browns are in a tough position in that they have no real weapons in place for a young QB to succeed.

Previous Pick: Robert Griffin.

Wildcards: They could have competition for Griffin’s services and may have to move up to get him.  If they cannot land Griffin look for them to target Morris Claiborne or even Trent Richardson if they decide Peyton Hillis wants too much money.

5. Tampa Bay Buccaneers: Morris Claiborne (CB, LSU) - With the past season being such a train wreck the Bucs could really go in several different directions here.  However, with Ronde Barber pondering retirement and Aqib Talib a potential prison term the Bucs look to cover their bases with Claiborne.

Previous Pick: Riley Reiff.

Wildcards: The Bucs have a ton of cap space entering the spring and they could take a player who fills a need they may not be able to otherwise fill via free agency.  Offensive line and linebacker are also big needs.

6. Washington Redskins: Riley Reiff (OT, Iowa) – The team’s two biggest needs are at WR and QB but with Luck, Griffin, and Blackmon off the board the ‘Skins look to sure up the RT spot which was atrocious for them last season.

Previous Pick: Justin Blackmon.

Wildcards: It seems pretty unlikely the Washington stays at six.  They will either move up to grab Griffin or trade down and look to fill other needs.

7. Jacksonville Jaguars: Johnathan Martin (OT, Stanford) - Eben Britton’s career could be up in the air having just played 11 games the last two seasons and Eugene Monroe has not exactly been the mark of stability at LT.  The Jags need to do a better job of protecting Blaine Gabbert as they are going to be stuck with either him or a journeyman QB for the time being.

Previous Pick: Johnathan Martin.

Other Possibilities: Rashean Mathis has never lived up to the season he had in 2006 and the secondary could use a play maker making Dre Kirkpatrick a possibility here.  UNC DE Quinton Coples is another possibility to help boost a so-so pass rush.

8. Miami Dolphins: Ryan Tannehill (QB, Texas A&M) - The Dolphins hired Tannehill’s college coach, Mike Sherman, to be their offensive coordinator and the team is definitely in the market for a QB.

Previous Pick: Nick Perry.

Wilcards: With the Dolphins hiring the Packers offensive coordinator to be the team’s new head coach it is expected that they will make a play for restricted free agent Matt Flynn to be there QB.  If they are able to land Flynn then expect the team to look at upgrading the RT position or grabbing an edge rusher to replace Jason Taylor who retired after last season.

9. Carolina Panthers: Michael Brockers (DT, LSU) - The Panthers have been in need of a DT who can anchor against the run since Kris Jenkins left town.

Previous Pick: Dre Kirkpatrick.

Wildcards: The Panthers defense was so bad that they could not go wrong with a few different players here.  They need an upgrade at corner and could also use another pass rusher to pair with Charles Johnson.

10. Buffalo Bills: Quinton Coples (DE, North Carolina) - The Bills plan to switch to a 4-3 front this summer and will need to find some d-lineman who fit into the 4-3 scheme.

Previous Pick: Courtney Upshaw.

Wilcards: No matter how one slices it the defense, especially the front seven, has been bad in Buffalo for a few years now.  They could opt for a defensive lineman here as well.

11. Kansas City Chiefs: Devon Still (DL, Penn State) – The Chiefs arguably have bigger needs at QB and tackle but there is nobody worthy of picking here left on the board.  Most expect the Chiefs to try and re-sign Kyle Orton to compete with Cassell this summer anyway.  Still has the frame to add the weight to play the nose or he can slide outside and play end in the 3-4.  The Chiefs are desperate for a defensive lineman who can make some plays.

Previous Pick: Quinton Coples.

Wildcards: Trent Richardson is still on the board and with Thomas Jones in the twilight of his career and Jamaal Charles coming off of major knee surgery Richardson would be an awfully attractive insurance policy for the Chiefs running game.  Dwayne Bowe is a free agent and may be looking to get out of KC.

12. Seattle Seahawks: David Decastro (OG, Stanford) – They have bigger needs at QB and DE but none are worthy of picking here.

Previous Pick: Trent Richardson.

Wildcards: Marshawn Lynch is a free agent and they could opt for Richardson and let him walk, however early reports say the ‘Hawks are willing to franchise Lynch and Richardson had knee surgery after the BCS title game which could scare some teams off.

13. Arizona Cardinals: Kendall Wright (WR, Baylor) - Early Doucet and Andre Roberts are solid receivers but the Cards need to give teams a reason not double Larry Fitzgerald every down.

Previous Pick: Luke Kuechly.

Wildcards: The Cards could look to shoring up the offensive line and take the best available offensive lineman at this spot or grab an inside linebacker as Stewart Bradley is expected to be released.

14. Dallas Cowboys: Dre Kirkpatrick (DB, Alabama) - The Cowboys have to fix the secondary if they want to return to post season.  There is some speculation that Kirkpatrick may make a better safety than corner in the NFL.  Either way the Cowboys are in desperate need of upgrades across the board in the secondary.

Previous Pick: Janoris Jenkins.

Wildcards: Jerry Jones himself is a wild card one never knows what he will do on draft day as a lot of his picks in the past of been some head scratchers.

15. Philadelphia Eagles: Luke Kuechly (LB, Boston College) - The Eagles need someone in the middle of the D who can plug running lanes and tackle someone, Kuechly might be the best tackler in this draft.

Previous Pick: Vontaze Burfict.

Other Possibilities: This pick could largely depend on whether the Eagles think they will re-sign DeSean Jackson or not.  They could take a receiver here to give them a bit of leverage with Jackson, they also reportedly do not want to pay Jackson what he thinks he is worth.  They could also go OLB or DT here as well.

16. New York Jets: Michael Floyd (WR, Notre Dame) - There is a lot of speculation as to whether Santonio Holmes and/or Plaxico Burress will be back next season.

Previous Pick: Michael Floyd.

Other Possibilities: Their safeties were rather ordinary last season making Mark Barron a possibility here.  Wayne Hunter was arguably the worst starting RT in the league last year and the pass rush could use a shot in the arm.

17. Cincinnati Bengals (From Oakland): Trent Richardson (RB, Alabama) - Cedric Benson is a free agent and has been doing his best to make sure the Bengals will not re-sign with some of the things he has said in interviews since the end of the season.

Previous Pick: Janoris Jenkins.

Wildcards: Leon Hall is rehabbing a torn Achilles and Nate Clements is in the twilight of his career and was never exceptional to begin with making CB a need.  The safeties lead something to be desired making Mark Barron a possibility here as well.

18. San Diego Chargers: Melvin Ingram (DE/OLB, South Carolina) – Antwan Barnes was the only Chargers pass rusher to register more than 4 sacks last season and Ingram projects well as a 3-4 edge rusher.

Previous Pick: David Decastro.

Wildcards: Quentin Jammer has lost a step and corner and they have some real injury questions to answer on the offensive line.

19. Chicago Bears: Janoris Jenkins (CB, North Alabama) – LT and WR are bigger needs but no worthy prospects project to be available at this spot.  The Bears have potential free agents at corner this spring and none of their current corners are anything special to begin with.

Previous Pick: Kendall Wright.

Wildcards: If one of the second tier receivers runs well at the combine or pro day the Bears will probably roll the dice on them.

20. Tennessee Titans: Peter Konz (C, Wisconsin) - The Titans are in need of an infusion of youth and talent at the interior OL positions.

Previous Pick: Melvin Ingram.

Wildcards: Secondary and pass rush could use some help as well.

21. Cincinnati Bengals: Mark Barron (S, Alabama) – The Bengals need to upgrade the talent at both safety spots.

Previous Pick: Lamar Miller.

Wildcards: Corner is a need as well.

22. Cleveland Browns (From Atlanta): Coby Fleener (TE, Stanford) - The Browns need to upgrade their pass catchers in some fashion this off season and big TEs who can get downfield are en vogue around the league right now.

Previous Pick: Alshon Jeffrery.

23. Detroit Lions: Alfonzo Dennard (CB, Nebraska) - Their corners are merely serviceable starters.

Previous Pick: David Wilson.

Other Possibilities: The o-line needs some help and the Lions also need to find an every down back.

24. Pittsburgh Steelers: Fletcher Cox (DL, Mississippi State) - Casey Hampton is coming off ACL surgery while Aaron Smith, who has played 15 games over the last three years, and Chris Hoke are expected to retire.  Cox is one of those big d-lineman who should be able to play at any spot along a 3-4 front.

Previous Pick: Devon Still.

Wildcards: The Steelers defense looked old and tired in spots in the playoff loss to the Broncos.  CB has been a concern for the Steelers for a few years now.

25. Denver Broncos: Dwayne Allen (TE, Clemson) - Broncos TEs caught just 30 passes last season and a good pass-catching TE could be just what Tim Tebow needs to move his development along this off season.

Previous Pick: Dwayne Allen.

Other Possibilities: Brian Dawkins looks like he is nearing the end of his career making Mark Barron an option here.

26. Houston Texans: Cordy Glenn (OL, Georgia) - Mike Brisel was flagged for 8 penalties in 13 starts last season while Wade Smith allowed 5 sacks.

Previous Pick: Mohamed Sanu.

Wildcards: Mario Williams is a free agent and there is some speculation that the Texans will not have enough cap space to retain him.  They could look at a pass rusher here.

27. New England Patriots (From New Orleans): Nick Perry (DE/OLB, USC) - Andre Carter is coming off a leg injury and Mark Anderson is going to be a free agent.  The Pats have been looking for a young edge rusher since McGinest left town.

Previous Pick: Mark Barron.

Wildcards: They could opt for secondary or WR help here as well.

28. Green Bay Packers: Jerel Worthy (DL, Michigan State) - The Packers defense really missed Cullen Jenkins this year.

Previous Pick: Fletcher Cox.

Wildcards: The Pack struggled to pressure the QB all season long so a pass rusher could be an option here.

29. Baltimore Ravens: Alshon Jeffery (WR, South Carolina) - Boldin is slowing a bit and Evans gave the team nothing last season.

Previous Pick: Peter Konz.

30. San Francisco 49ers: Nick Toon (WR, Wisconsin) - Probably a bit of a reach here, but Michael Crabtree and Vernon Davis are the only two players on the team to catch more than 20 passes last season.  They need to upgrade their receivers this off season.

Previous Pick: Nick Toon.

Wildcards: Don’t be surprised if the Niners deal out of the first round to take a receiver near the top of the second and get better value for the pick.

31. New England Patriots: Dontari Poe (DL, Memphis) - History suggests the Pats will probably deal this pick to a team looking to grab someone still on the board who nobody expected to still be there.

Previous Pick: Jerel Worthy.

32. New York Giants: Zebrie Sanders (OT, Florida State) - The Giants offensive line has looked old and slow the past couple of years.

Other Possibilities: The back seven on defense was downright awful at times last season and they could go with a LB or DB if there is one on the board that they like here.

Click Here to View a Breakdown of the top Quarterback Prospects

Click Here to View a Breakdown of the top Running Back Prospects

Click Here to View a Breakdown of the top Wide Receiver Prospects

1. Indianapolis Colts: Andrew Luck (QB, Stanford) – Luck has been the top prospect for about two years running now and even with the specter of Peyton Manning looming in the background it seems unlikely the Colts will pass on the guy who has been the highest rated QB prospect since, well, Peyton Manning.

Other Possibilities: It seems silly, but, if the Colts think Manning is going to be able to give them two or three more years, they could trade the pick, or they could opt to take Matt Kalil who would give them a blue chipper to protect Manning’s blindside.

2. St. Louis Rams: Matt Kalil (OT, USC) – This where things could get really interesting.  The big question here is do the Rams spend another high pick on an offensive tackle or do they hope Rodger Saffold and Jason Smith recover from season ending injuries to re-stabilize what was an atrocious offensive line last season? Or, do they trade down, pick up an extra pick or two with eyes on giving Sam Bradford a legit #1 receiver to throw the ball to?

Other Possibilities: If the Rams keep the pick they could also go for Morris Claiborne who would go a long way to improve a leaky secondary.  Did Justin Blackmon do enough in the Fiesta Bowl to warrant a look by the Rams at #2?

3. Minnesota Vikings: Morris Claiborne (CB, LSU) – For a team that registered 50 sacks last season the Vikings gave up far too many passing yards and touchdowns.  Opponents completed over 68% of their passes against the Vikings and the pass rush clearly is not the issue.  Claiborne is the top rated lockdown corner in this draft.

Other Possibilities: The Vikings will probably be tempted by teams looking to deal up and grab Robert Griffin, III.  Another possibility could be that the Vikes take Griffin themselves if they do not think Christian Ponder is the long term solution at QB.  They could also opt to grab Justin Blackmon as the offense is in dire need of a play-maker in the passing game.

4. Cleveland Browns: Robert Griffin, III (QB, Baylor) – Griffin is the hot prospect right now and teams could potentially try to move up to #2 or #3 to grab him.  This pick is largely going to depend on whether the Browns think Colt McCoy deserves another year or not.  The Browns are in a tough position in that they have no real weapons in place for a young QB to succeed.

Other Possibilities: If they decide to give McCoy another year then expect Justin Blackmon to be the pick here.

5. Tampa Bay Buccaneers: Riley Reiff (OT, Iowa) – With the past season being such a train wreck the Bucs could really go in several different directions here.  They likely go with who they have rated as the top player on the board who is not a QB.  One would imagine almost every starting job is going to be up for grabs entering the summer.

Other Possibilities: The Bucs are one of the few teams at the top of the draft who probably will not have any real interest in Griffin with Josh Freeman already in place.  They could look at Dre Kirkpatrick or Quinton Coples to help sure up what was a leaky defense last season.

6. Washington Redskins: Justin Blackmon (WR, Oklahoma State) – Most of the experts don’t think Blackmon grades out as a top 10 prospect, but with the offensive emphasis shifting to passing in the NFL teams are more willing to spend high picks on QBs and WRs than they ever have been.  The Redskins desperately need a franchise QB, however there are none worth taking this high after Luck and Griffin come off the board.

Other Possibilities: The offensive line is still pretty shaky and they could opt to go with the best offensive lineman on the board.  If they cannot upgrade the QB position then they will need to do a better job of protecting the ones they have.  Don’t be shocked if the Redskins try to work a deal to move up and grab Griffin.

7. Jacksonville Jaguars: Johnathan Martin (OT, Stanford) – Eben Britton’s career could be up in the air having just played 11 games the last two seasons and Eugene Monroe has not exactly been the mark of stability at LT.  The Jags need to do a better job of protecting Blaine Gabbert as they are going to be stuck with either him or a journeyman QB for the time being.

Other Possibilities: Rashean Mathis has never lived up to the season he had in 2006 and the secondary could use a play maker making Dre Kirkpatrick a possibility here.  UNC DE Quinton Coples is another possibility to help boost a so-so pass rush.

8. Miami Dolphins: Nick Perry (DE/OLB, USC) – Quarterback and Right Tackle are obviously bigger needs, but there are not any on the board that would not represent tremendous reaches at this stage.  Perry is a bit of a reach here but with Jason Taylor retiring the team needs to find an edge rusher to fill his shoes and line up opposite Cameron Wake.

Other Possibilities: Would not be surprised to see them deal the pick with eyes on adding a receiver or an upgrade at RT.

9. Carolina Panthers: Dre Kirkpatrick (CB, Alabama) – The Panthers need to spend all of their picks on defensive players this spring.  The Panthers ranked dead last in the league in average yards per pass attempt allowed, 30th in opponents completion percentage, and 25th in TD passes allowed.  The Panthers need to get better at defending the pass if they want to compete with the Falcons and Saints in the NFC South.

Other Possibilities: DE Quinton Coples or DT Devon Still would not be bad picks as well, the defense needs help just about everywhere.

10. Buffalo Bills: Courtney Upshaw (OLB, Alabama) – The Bills need to find someone who can get after the quarterback and defend the run as well.

Other Possibilities: No matter how one slices it the defense, especially the front seven, has been bad in Buffalo for a few years now.  They could opt for a defensive lineman here as well.

11. Kansas City Chiefs: Quinton Coples (DE, UNC) – Did not play in a 3-4 front in college, but he is a DT who moved to DE and has the frame to be able to play DE in a 3-4 front.  The Chiefs simply need more play-makers in the front seven on defense.

Other Possibilities: Trent Richardson is still on the board and with Thomas Jones in the twilight of his career and Jamaal Charles coming off of major knee surgery Richardson would be an awfully attractive insurance policy for the Chiefs running game.  Dwayne Bowe is a free agent and me looking to get out of KC.

12. Seattle Seahawks: Trent Richardson (RB, Alabama) – Marshawn Lynch is a free agent and is reportedly looking for a big payday.  Richardson gives them some insurance in the event Lynch bolts and he gives them a bit of negotiating leverage as well.

Other Possibilities: Pete Carroll would have loved to have gotten QB in this draft, but taking anyone after the first three this early in the first round is a huge reach.  Pass rush or offensive line help could be in the offing here as well.

13. Arizona Cardinals: Luke Kuechly (LB, Boston College) – Stewart Bradley was a bust via free agency and the run defense suffered because of it.

Other Possibilities: The Cards could look to shoring up the offensive line and take the best available offensive lineman at this spot.

14. Dallas Cowboys: Alfonzo Dennard (CB, Nebraska) – Probably a bit of a reach here, but how long can the Cowboys afford to try and “get by” with their current corps of defensive backs?

Other Possibilities: The safeties have been an issue for a while as well making Mark Barron a possibility.

15. Philadelphia Eagles: Vontaze Burfict (LB, Arizona State) – The Eagles need to get better in the middle of the defense and Burfict is the best available at this stage.

Other Possibilities: This pick could largely depend on whether the Eagles think they will re-sign DeSean Jackson or not.  They could take a receiver here to give them a bit of leverage with Jackson, they also reportedly do not want to pay Jackson what he thinks he is worth.  They could also go OLB or DT here as well.

16. New York Jets: Michael Floyd (WR, Notre Dame) – There is a lot of speculation as to whether Santonio Holmes and/or Plaxico Burress will be back next season.

Other Possibilities: Their safeties were rather ordinary last season making Mark Barron a possibility here.

17. Cincinnati Bengals (From Oakland): Janoris Jenkins (CB, North Alabama) – Leon Hall is rehabbing a torn Achilles and Nate Clements is in the twilight of his career and was never exceptional to begin with.  Jenkins comes with off field baggage, but that has never stopped the Bengals in the past.

18. San Diego Chargers: David DeCastro (OG, Stanford) – Kris Dielman’s career very well may be over as a result of the concussion that put him on Injured Reserve earlier this season.

Other Possibilities: The pass rush was lacking last season so they could opt for a pass rusher here if there is one they like.  This draft is rather void of pass rushing talent this year though.  The Chargers also need to decide what to do with Vincent Jackson and could look to draft a replacement at this spot as well.

19. Chicago Bears: Kendall Wright (WR, Baylor) – One of the better speed receiver prospects in the draft and the Bears need to find a legit #1 for Jay Cutler.

Other Possibilities: Matt Forte is a free agent making Lamar Miller or David Wilson possibilities.

20. Tennessee Titans: Melvin Ingram (DE, South Carolina) – The Titans need to upgrade the pass rush.

Other Possibilities: Secondary could use some help as well.

21. Cincinnati Bengals: Lamar Miller (RB, Miami) – There is growing speculation that Cedric Benson will not be back next season and Bernard Scott has yet to show himself capable of being an every down back.

Other Possibilities: They could look to upgrade the interior of the offensive line here.

22. Cleveland Browns (From Atlanta): Alshon Jeffery (WR, South Carolina) – The Browns need to upgrade their pass catchers in some fashion this off season.

23. Detroit Lions: David Wilson (RB, Virginia Tech) – Jahvid Best has elite talent but is too injury prone to be an every down back.  Wilson gives them more stability at the RB position.

Other Possibilities: The o-line needs some help as does the secondary.

24. Pittsburgh Steelers: Devon Still (DL, Penn State) – Chris Hoke’s career may be over and Casey Hampton will be 35 when the season kicks off next September.  The Steelers will look to get younger in the middle of the DL.

Other Possibilities: The Steelers defense looked old and tired in spots in the playoff loss to the Broncos.  CB has been a concern for the Steelers for a few years now.

25. Denver Broncos: Dwayne Allen (TE, Clemson) – Broncos TEs caught just 30 passes last season and a good pass-catching TE could be just what Tim Tebow needs to move his development along this off season.

Other Possibilities: Brian Dawkins looks like he is nearing the end of his career making Mark Barron an option here.

26. Houston Texans: Mohamed Sanu (WR, Rutgers) – Prior to Schaub’s injury the Texans were emerging as Super Bowl contenders in the AFC so there are not a lot of holes to fill heading into the off season.  The Texans have been in need of an upgrade to the WR slot opposite Andre Johnson for a while now.

27. New England Patriots (From New Orleans): Mark Barron (S, Alabama) – The Patriots defense was atrocious last season, especially when it came to defending the pass.  Barron gives them a presence in the secondary it has lacked since Rodney Harrison retired.

Other Possibilities: They could opt for a pass rusher here.

28. Green Bay Packers: Fletcher Cox (DL, Mississippi State) – The Packers defense really missed Cullen Jenkins this year.

Other Possibilities: The Pack struggled to pressure the QB all season long so a pass rusher could be an option here.

*29. New York Giants: Zebrie Sanders (OT, Florida State) – The Giants offensive line has looked old and slow the past couple of years.

Other Possibilities: The back seven on defense was downright awful at times last season and they could go with a LB or DB if there is one on the board that they like here.

*30. Baltimore Ravens: Peter Konz (C, Wisconsin) – Matt Birk turns 36 this summer and there has been talk of him retiring after this season.  His backup, Andre Gurode, turns 33 this spring.

*31. San Francisco 49ers: Nick Toon (WR, Wisconsin) – Probably a bit of a reach here, but Michael Crabtree and Vernon Davis are the only two players on the team to catch more than 20 passes last season.  They need to upgrade their receivers this off season.

Other Possibilities: Don’t be surprised if the Niners deal out of the first round to take a receiver near the top of the second and get better value for the pick.

*32. New England Patriots: Jerel Worthy (DL, Michigan State) – The Pats hope Worthy is to them what Albert Haynesworth was supposed to be.

Other Possibilities: It would not be surprising to see Belichick deal this pick for a couple of third and fourth round picks or a bunch of picks in next year’s draft.

*The last four picks will ultimately be determined by the conference championship games and the Super Bowl.

Click Here to View a Breakdown of the top Quarterback Prospects

Click Here to View a Breakdown of the top Running Back Prospects

Click Here to View a Breakdown of the top Wide Receiver Prospects

Bottom line with the Colts is, top-to-bottom, they were not a great team even when Manning was healthy in 2011.  One could see the Colts slipping last season when they slipped to 10-6 and needed a late season 4-game winning streak just to get to 10 wins.  The Colts started looking like the Dolphins during the twilight of Dan Marino’s career.  Bottom line is the Colts are staring rebuilding the franchise from bottom up in the face due to the Polian’s inability to draft for the future.

The Colts recent track record in the draft has not been good, especially for a team that built itself into a perennial contender via the draft in the late 90s and early 2000s.  They have not drafted well along the offensive line and were left with plugging in first and second year players this season who were clearly not ready to be starters at the NFL level.  They never successfully replaced Edgerrin James at running back despite spending two number one picks on the position.  They have missed more times on defense than they have hit in recent years.

With the Polians being shown the door there is widespread speculation as to whether Jim Caldwell will back as head coach.  When one gets right down to it it seems unlikely he is back and with that being the case will Peyton Manning be back?  Does Peyton want to be back if Jim Irsay is blowing the whole thing up and starting from scratch again?  This seems to be setting the city of Indianapolis up for the inevitable move of Peyton Manning being elsewhere next season.  Surely he has no real interest in hanging around if the Colts are entering a re-building phase.  Peyton’s injury simply accelerated the need to rebuild.  Even if Manning were healthy this year this team was probably only an 8 to 10 win team.  Typically when a team goes 2-14 there is more to it than just needing a quarterback.

Look for Jim Irsay to make the hardest choice an owner has to do and cut ties, one way or the other, with Peyton Manning and draft who he thinks is the franchise QB of the future whether it be Andrew Luck or Robert Griffin III.

Raheem Morris, Tampa Bay – Is there any way Morris can save his job after Sunday’s pathetic performance against Atlanta?  Regardless of that, this was supposed to be the year Tampa took another step forward and competed for the NFC Championship.  This was the hot young and up-and-coming team on the rise after last season.  Now they look like just another also-ran.  Josh Freeman seemingly regressed and the defense was a complete mess this season.

Steve Spagnuolo, St. Louis – The NFC West was supposed to be the Rams to lose this season.  Like the Bucs the Rams were supposed to be a young team on the rise and it fell flat and underachieved even more so than Tampa given its lack of overall competition within the division.  With rumors of a new GM coming into St. Louis it seems unlikely Spags keeps his job as he has given the team little reason to retain him.

Norv Turner, San Diego – This season marks the second underwhelming year where the Chargers entered the year as perceived Super Bowl contenders and struggled to hit the .500 mark.  It is probably time for a change in San Diego.

Jim Caldwell, Indianapolis – There has been increasing speculation as the season wore on that Caldwell will not be retained after the season.  A lot will depend on whether the Colts truly believe Peyton Manning has enough left for another run at the Super Bowl or if they are looking at scrapping the whole thing and rebuilding around Andrew Luck.  The entire season cannot be laid at the feet of Caldwell, didn’t we already know the Colts were not even a playoff team without Manning?

Andy Reid, Philadelphia – Reid likely did enough to save his job for one more year by closing the year out winning his last four and five of the last seven games.  They looked like the team everyone thought they were in the month of December.  He may have to make some changes on his defensive coaching staff however.

Tom Coughlin, New York Giants – Coughlin may need to win a playoff game or two to salvage his job.  The Giants have not won a playoff game in the three years since winning the Super Bowl and for the third straight season they have faded badly in the month of December.  He could get a pass for the amount of injuries he had to deal with this season though.

Mike Shanahan, Washington – To date the Shanahan Era in D. C. has been a big disappointment, however, next season will likely be the make-or-break year for him in Washington.

Rex Ryan, New York Jets – Given he led the Jets to back-to-back AFC Championship games the last two years he will probably get a chance to salvage the disappointment that was the 2011 season.  It is hard to see the offensive coaching staff coming back in its entirety though.  They will probably be in the market for a QB guru who can come in and Mark Sanchez’ career back on track.

Tony Sparano, Miami – Sparano’s a dead man walking.  The Dolphins are a complete mess right now.

Jack Del Rio, Jacksonville – Del Rio’s head has rumored to be on the block on more than one occasion in recent years but has always managed to survive.  The problem is Jags fans have grown rather apathetic towards a team that keeps struggling to stay above .500 each year.  It is probably time for some new energy in Jacksonville to get fans interested again.

Ken Whisenhunt, Arizona – The Cards have lost 16 of 19 games dating back to last season and very little has gone right for them in the post Kurt Warner Era.  Unless the Cards get out of this tailspin my guess is they are looking for a new coach this spring.

Steve Spagnuolo, St. Louis – The Rams were the odds on favorites to win the NFC West this season and looked like a team on the come after just missing out on the playoffs last season.  But the Rams have lost 9 of 10 games dating back to last season.

Andy Reid, Philadelphia – This week’s game against Dallas could be a make or break one both for the Eagles season and Reid’s career in Philly.  He has to be feeling some heat after the team dropped four straight after rolling the Rams in the season opener.  If Philly wins this week they are right back in the middle of the NFC East race, if not it may be time to figure out which players to scout for next spring’s draft.

Jim Caldwell, Indianapolis – There have been rumors in the Indy media this week that Caldwell’s future with the Colts is in doubt.  It is hard to lay this fiasco entirely at his feet.  The dirty little secret in Indy has always been that this is not much of a team without Manning at the helm and it has bore itself out this season.

Leslie Frazier, Minnesota – I don’t know that he is on the hot seat just yet, but, the Vikings have lost 10 of their last 12 under Frazier’s guidance.  The one thing in his favor right now is the team is breaking in a new QB so he could get a pass the rest of the year, but the Vikings may need to show some signs of improvement the second half.

Pete Carroll, Seattle – I cannot help but wonder if Carroll is showing us once again why he flamed out in his previous stints as a NFL coach.  His saving grace here may be the amount of money the team still owes him that they would rather give him another year rather than buy out the rest of his contract.

… Any of the four teams could win the NFC East.

… Tim Tebow = Doug Flutie.  It may not look pretty, but in the end Tebow is a guy who will find ways to win games for the Broncos.

… That I reserve judgement on DeMarco Murray until he does it against a team worth mentioning.  Remember Timmy Smith?  Anyone?

… That I seem to be one of the few that was not bowled over by Christian Ponder’s performance.  He looked pretty much the same as he did at FSU.

… It Seems like teams are starting to figure the Lions out.  To me they are a bit of a one-trick pony on offense and without Jahvid Best they have nobody to make teams respect the run at all.

… Reggie Wayne may have been right about Curtis Painter.  Granted he has not set the league on fire as of yet, but his QB Rating is 20 points higher than Kerry Collins’.

… What happened to the Kyle Orton bandwagon?  Remember when he was a hot commodity this summer?  He seems to be an afterthought now and it appears more and more apparent that his success was more a result of playing in Josh McDaniels’ system than his actual skill as a QB.

… The Carson Palmer trade may eventually pay dividends for the Raiders, I just do not know that it will be this year.

… For all of the talk of Mark Sanchez not progressing he is on pace to set career highs in yards and touchdowns.

… How good would Steve Smith’s career have been if had a QB the caliber of Cam Newton throwing him the ball the bulk of his career?

… Why does ESPN keep trying to promote the idea that NFL teams are tanking games on purpose for the chance to draft Andrew Luck?

… I can’t help but wonder if the Eagles are preparing for life without DeSean Jackson.  It seems like LeSean McCoy is a guy whoo has outplayed his rookie contract and less of a gamble in terms of giving him a big contract.

… Why do Cards fans want the plug pulled on Kevin Kolb already?  Haven’t we already seen that Max Hall and John Skelton are not starting quarterbacks at the NFL level?  Or, is it they want Luck?

… Aldon Smith is the pass rusher the Niners have been looking for since letting Julian Peterson go.

… Chris Johnson is all about Chris Johnson.  I cannot help but think that since he got his money his best days are behind him.

The Philadelphia Eagles are the only team that has the feel of being a legit contender heading into the season.  Of the four teams they are the only one that made any significant moves this summer to try and improve their team.  It feels like it could be the Eagles and then everyone else in the division this season.  They seemed to make all of the right moves in improving their defense and adding some needed depth on offense.  If this team does not win the division it will be because the team failed to address linebacker and/or the offensive line starts to break down again.

On paper the Dallas Cowboys look like a playoff team, but they did nothing to improve their team other than shed dead weight contracts in Roy Williams, Marion Barber, Marc Colombo, and Leonard Davis.  Honestly the only thing that did was get them under the salary cap.  Jerry Jones rolled the dice on giving players like Barber, Williams, DeMarcus Ware, etc. huge contracts thinking there might not be a salary cap with the new CBA and it blew up in his face.

The New York Giants have a feel of a team in flux right now.  Osi Umenyiora wants a new contract and when the team balked at giving him one he decided he needed to have knee surgery.  The team shed some veterans along the offensive line this offseason and it will be relying on some unproven players to protect Eli Manning this year.  There are also a lot of questions along the front seven on the defense particularly at LB.

The Redskins are probably the worst of the bunch.  Either Rex Grossman or John Beck are going to be the starting quarterback this season and that is pretty much enough said.  The team did little to try and improve a leaky offensive line and did not acquire anyone who anyone expects to make any kind of an impact this season.

MVP Candidates

If a MVP comes out of the NFC East this season it is likely to be Michael Vick since none of the other teams really have the feel of being contenders this season.  Tony Romo tends to choke in the big games, Eli Manning seemed to take a step back last season and he tends to struggle when the line does not do a good job of protecting him.  The Redskins really do not have anyone on their roster that excites anyone.

On the defensive side of the ball Dallas’ DeMarcus Ware is always capable of putting up 16 to 20 sacks per season.

Now that the Eagles have addressed some of their issues in pass coverage and added some help with the pass rush Trent Cole could be in line for a monster season.  He has never played on a line with as much depth and talent across the board as this year’s has.  Teams will not be able to key on Cole as much and he should stay fresher down the stretch.

Rookie-of-the-Year Candidates

I am not sure if there are any real ROY candidates in the conference this year.  Dallas spent most of its picks on adding depth and developmental players and did not take anyone expected to make an immediate impact this season.  Tyron Smith is slated to start at RT while Bruce Carter is coming off of ACL surgery and is expected to begin the year as a backup while he works his way back from that injury.  He does have the potential to be an impact player down the road though, and the expectation is that Smith should develop into a LT within the next couple of years.

New York’s top picks have been hit with the injury bug this summer.  Prince Amukamara is out with a foot injury and may be ready to go for the opener and second round pick Marvin Austin is out for the season with torn pectoral muscle.  The rest of their picks are mostly expected to be depth/developmental guys.

Casey Mathews is currently the starting Middle Linebacker in Philly, however, he has struggled mightily in the early going.  If he gets it together he could be candidate for Defensive ROY, but it seems to be a longshot at this point.  Everybody is very high on top pick Danny Watkins, but when was the last time a guard won ROY?  Probably never.  Second rounder Jaiquawn Jarrett has struggled to pick up the defense and has been unable to unseat Kurt Coleman as the starting strong safety.  Curtis Marsh has turned more than a few heads at CB, however he is buried behind the Nnamdi Asomugha,  Asante Samuel, and Dominique Rodgers-Cromartie on the depth chart.  He should be an impact player two or three years down the road though.

Washington’s top pick, Ryan Kerrigan, has struggled a bit in transitioning from being DE to an OLB in a 3-4 front.  He has the potential to be an impact player though.  Second pick Jarvis Jenkins is likely to miss the year with an injury.  Leonard Hankerson is one to keep an eye on though.  With Santana Moss being the only real established WR on the roster Hankerson could emerge as the #2 guy in the passing game this fall.  Roy Helu has also shown some flashes at RB.

Coach(es) on the Hot Seat

With Mike Shanahan entering his second season in D. C. and Jason Garrett his first full season in Dallas it seems unlikely either will be a candidate to lose his job after this season unless things go drastically wrong.

Andy Reid is safe for now, but his seat may be mildly warm and one wonders if anything but an appearance in the Super Bowl will be good enough for him to keep his job.  Jeff Lurie seems to like Reid a lot, though, and it would probably take a disastrous season for him to lose his job.

There is some speculation that Tom Coughlin’s job could be on the line if the Giants do not make a playoff appearance this season.  The team has lost its lone playoff game since winning the Super Bowl in ’08.