'Excited' Redskins look forward to drafting, claim trade reports 'errant'

This year, Snyder and the brain trust think they can finally have that signature draft.

"The later rounds of the draft are extremely important," said Zorn, who put off finishing his new play book to sit in on the marathon draft meetings over the last few weeks. "Because then you can find these nuggets that are going to be starters in the future."

After four years of working in the shadow of Gibbs, Cerrato is fully in charge for the first time since the 2002 and 2003 drafts, when Steve Spurrier was coach. The results from those drafts are mixed. Of the 13 players chosen, five (Patrick Ramsey, Ladell Betts, Robert Royal, Rock Cartwright and Dockery) made what could be considered a significant impact. High-round selections Taylor Jacobs (second), Rashad Bauman (third) and Cliff Russell (third) were among the disappointments.

Cerrato this year will be on the lookout to fill any number of needs. Unless they do trade for Johnson, the Redskins need a big receiver to fit into Zorn's West Coast offense. They also need a pass-rushing defensive lineman, future replacements for their aging defensive line, a third-string quarterback, and depth at cornerback, safety, linebacker and fullback

That's a long list. But with nine picks, the Redskins could check off every item.

"It's exciting having all these draft picks," Cerrato said with another smile, "and it's going to be fun."