Some quick thoughts on the fifth round of the NFL Draft:
After picking all offensive players through the first round rounds, the Indianapolis Colts started the fifth round off taking defensive tackle Josh Chapman at No. 136. Previously, a player like Chapman would never have been considered by the Colts. But now that they're switching to a 3-4 scheme, someone like Chapman was a necessity.
The Buffalo Bills have had a great third day of the draft, getting linebackers Nigel Bradham and cornerback Ron Brooks in the fourth round. They followed that in the fifth with linebacker Tank Carder and offensive tackle Zebrie Sanders. Bradham and Carder should at least be good special teams players, and Bradham in particular provides some speed. Brooks could be an excellent sleeper. He was stuck behind some big-time talent at LSU. Sanders is a versatile lineman with room to grow and get much better.
2012 NFL Draft: 5th Round Quick Thoughts
The
added another piece to their defensive line in end
. Much like second-round pick Derek Wolfe, Jackson can play inside and out and has even dropped in coverage on occasion. He’ll allow the Broncos to be more versatile in their formations on defense.
After using their first four picks on defensive players, the
finally added someone on offense in Virginia Tech wide receiver Danny Coale. He’s not a physical or athletic wide receiver, but he’s gritty and will get on the field in some fashion.
In need of some help at running back, the
went with Florida running back Chris Rainey. He’s got big-time speed, but isn’t especially physical. Look for the Steelers to use him in various roles on offense an on return duties.
One of better drafts thus far has been that of the
. It got even better in the fifth round with linebacker Josh Kaddu. The Oregon player has very good athleticism and could play inside and outside in the Dolphins’ 3-4 scheme.
The
got aggressive in the fifth round, giving up three picks in order to take outside linebacker Terrell Manning. He’s not necessarily great 3-4 fit from a pass rushing standpoint. He’s a quick player, but will likely have to spend his first year in the NFL getting stronger.The Cincinnati Bengals continued adding big-name talents in wide receiver Marvin Jones and safety George Iloka. This is some draft for the Bengals.
