NFC draft needs: Team-by-team breakdown
Prisco: AFC team-by-team draft needs
CBS SportsLine.com experts Pete Prisco and Clark Judge take a peek into the war rooms of every NFL team and break down their needs come draft day, April 23.
Arizona Cardinals
With the signing of quarterback Kurt Warner, there are two unresolved issues: 1) a premier running back; 2) a quarterback for the future. Once, that quarterback seemed to be Josh McCown, but not after he was jerked around last year. The losses of cornerbacks Renaldo Hill and Duane Starks make that another logical area for the team to improve. Linebacker is also a possibility.
Needs in order: RB, CB, TE, QB
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The RB-starved Bears might not be able to pass up Braylon Edwards. (Getty Images) |
Atlanta Falcons
A year ago they used their No. 1 pick on a wide receiver, and while it's hard to believe they'd do it again, look for them to search for another target for Michael Vick. Peerless Price simply hasn't worked out. Look for them to address the offensive line, too, even though they signed Matt Lehr and Barry Stokes. At some point, they have to start protecting the quarterback. Another defensive tackle to pair with Rod Coleman would be nice, too.
Needs in order: WR, DT, OL, S
Carolina Panthers
Few teams dug deeper or addressed more needs in free agency than the Panthers, but they still could use help on an offensive line buoyed by the addition of guard Mike Wahle. Another young tackle would make sense. A young wide receiver to replace Muhammad would help, too, as would another linebacker for Mark Fields to tutor. Another running back is also a possibility.
Needs in order: OL, WR, LB, RB
Chicago Bears
You don't win in Chicago unless you can play defense and run the ball. Well, the Bears couldn't run the ball. They need a premier back and, at No. 4, stand to get one. They could use another receiver, too, to accompany Muhsin Muhammad, but passing is not the priority here -- running is, though they'd have a hard choice if Michigan's Braylon Edwards is there when they pick. Mark them down for a linebacker and help on the defensive line. If you were 25th against the run you'd want to improve there, too.
Needs in order: RB, WR, TE, LB
Dallas Cowboys
The Cowboys added guard Marco Rivera, but they're still looking for a tackle to complete the right side of their offensive line. They could use an outside pass rusher, too, whether they play the 3-4 or not. That figures as one of their two first-round choices. Remember: Dallas made the playoffs when its defense was outstanding. It needs to be that again, and look for it to find a free safety, then look for a run-stopping linebacker.
Needs in order: DE, S, OL, WR
Detroit Lions
This is one team that's not going to draft a quarterback and doesn't need a wide receiver. Its needs are up front, where the Lions are always looking to upgrade, and on defense, particularly at linebacker where they're barely adequate. They could also use a defensive end to start opposite James Hall, a tight end to replace Stephen Alexander and a quality offensive lineman.
Needs in order: LB, DE, OL, TE
