[general counsel]

The 2008 draft terrifies me. We suffered through a horrible 2007 season, it couldnt have been much worse, and the saving grace was the #2 pick, which should help us rebuild with a player with pro bowl potential who can also make an immediate impact.

Unfortunately, with the exception of chris long, i dont see that player in the draft. The injury situation reported today involving dorsey has intensified this feeling.

Ryan and Mcfaddin are both major blue chip guys. Neither helps us. Jake Long is an excellent prospect. He will provide a long term solution at tackle, but to me, there is a legit shot that pace can play another two to three years, in which case, i dont see long helping at all this year and who knows when. Barron isnt the greatest, but i think he is pretty good and i still think he can improve. He has a long career ahead of him.

I want no part of dorsey. The injury scares me to death. Too risky with this high a pick.

Ghoulston? We need a defensive end. The guy weighs 258 and is 6' 2". Pass rusher, sure. Nice prospect, absolutely, but with the #2 overall pick? It doesnt excite me at all.

Trade down? Nice theory, i doubt it will work as a practical matter. The salary impact makes it harder than ever. The only remote shot i think we have is if miami takes chris long and someone wants to try and jump ahead of atlanta to take ryan. Even if that is the case, i am suspect as to whether we will get value.

Bottom line. I am praying that miami takes matt ryan. I have been saying for 2 months that chris long is our guy and right now, i not only believe more strongly than ever that he is the guy, but i just dont see any legitimate alternatives.

ramming speed to all

general counsel