Grading
the AFC West team's drafts
4/21/2002
by CK Rairden
Landmark columnist
Due to realignment the AFC West is now down to the four
original teams: KC, Oakland, Denver and San Diego.
And while the Chiefs were busy trying to add players
to make their squad better, so were the other three teams.
Here's how we grade their efforts.
Oakland: The Raiders basically traded away their
greatest asset before the draft even began when they allowed
head coach Jon Gruden to leave the team to coach Tampa
Bay.
Sure, they got some draft picks in return but unless
one of those picks can override owner Al Davis’ wishes
the Raiders run a huge risk of being just like they were
in the 90s—tons of talent and horrible coaching.
The draft was very good personnel wise as the two first
round picks will make an immediate impact. Some of the
lower selections show once again that Al is back in charge.
Grade D. (A grade for the players selected and
an F- for not keeping Gruden.)
******
Denver:
Denver went for speed. Ashley Lelie is a WR out of Hawaii
that has the possibility of bust written all over him.
He could also be a superstar. RB Clinton Portis from Miami
in the second round signals that head coach Mike Shanahan
finally realizes that his cut block scheme is over and
he had better find a back that can break tackles. They
made the moves they had to and have improved their team.
Grade B+
San Diego: Schottenheimer had the best overall
player in the draft fall right into his lap with CB Quentin
Jammer. This guy is a young Dale Carter without the baggage.
He can cover and make a hit. A home run pick. The rest
of the draft leaves a bit to be desired but Jammer gets
the Bolts a nice grade.
Grade B+
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