Shaun Alexander headed north and south this week in search of a new place to play football because for the last two years, he has had trouble doing that same thing on the field. The one-time NFL MVP had visits with Cincinnati and New Orleans in search of a new deal, less than a month after being released by the Seahawks.

Seahawks president Tim Ruskell said at the time that cutting him was “really sad” and called it a “tough decision.” While from a personal standpoint, that may have been true, from a football — and even a business — standpoint, it likely was not a difficult decision.

The embattled running back fell quickly from prominence following a 2005 season in which he lead the league in rushing with 1,880 yards and set an all-time NFL record (which was broken the next year) for the most total touchdowns in a single season with 28. He also led the Seahawks to an NFC Championship, but a loss to the Steelers in the Super Bowl left the team one game short of an NFL Championship.

That 2005 season capped off a string of five dominant seasons for Alexander who, along with quarterback Matt Hasselbeck and offensive guard Steve Hutchinson, blossomed under the direction of coach Mike Holmgren. Together, the players and coaches created a renaissance of Seahawks football. The famed 12th man was only added to the roster after the Seahawks broke through the screen of mediocrity left behind by former head coach Dennis Erickson and became perennial contenders.

In those 5 years — from 2001-2005 — Alexander averaged more than 1,500 yards (4.5 ypc) and 17.4 touchdowns a season. Yet, until 2005, Alexander wasn’t a fan favorite. He wasn’t an aggressive runner, choosing rather to wait patiently for holes to open up and ending runs more often with a step out of bounds rather than a collision with a corner.

In March of 2006, the Seahawks faced looming contracts with Hutchinson and Alexander (as well as several other contributors, 15 in total). Hutchinson received the transition tag and then the famed “poison pill” contract from the Vikings. Alexander, who had played under the franchise tag in 2005, received an eight-year, $62 million deal — the highest ever for a running back.

“The contract was set up that you wanted to get at least three years,” Ruskell said. “So we didn’t get there. That part is disappointing.”

In fact, they didn’t even get close; Alexander was cut after only a fourth of his contract’s length, despite receiving over one half of the contract’s total value.

Ruskell said, “‘If you are going to bet on a guy, bet on a guy who’s not been hurt or had that propensity.’ That was the case with Shaun.”

After that now infamous offseason, the Seahawks have remained on top of the weak NFC West despite poor play from Alexander. No longer running through the gaping holes left by Steve Hutchinson, and hampered by foot and ankle injuries, Alexander has rushed for fewer yards in the past two seasons combined (1,612) than he did in 2005 alone (1,880). He has also struggled with his yards per carry (3.5 vs. career 4.6), and has found the end zone in consecutively decreasing quantities, with 7 touchdowns in 2007 and 4 last year.

The decline of Alexander has only be romanticized by the continued stellar play of Hutchinson. Since that critical offseason, Seahawks have regressed to the norm while remaining atop the weak NFC West, hampered by a lackluster running game and an aging offensive line. The Vikings, on the other hand, have continued to improve behind two stars at tailback and a dominant offensive line — one that is led by Hutchinson.

Now, with the draft in the rear view mirror, Alexander now is ready to move on.

“I am healthy, energized and looking forward to beginning the next chapter of my NFL career,” he said.

It’s unclear what kind of impact Alexander could have on a team at this point in his career. He has never been a legitimate threat as a third-down back because he has trouble as both a pass-catcher and a pass-blocker. The two teams that have expressed public interest in Alexander are the Bengals and the Saints.

The Bengals have injury problems at running back. They have Rudi Johnson as their starter, but his production slipped drastically last year due to injury. Behind Johnson is the oft-injured Chris Perry, and second-year player Kenny Irons, who tore his ACL in the preseason opener last year. Last year’s leading rusher Kenny Watson, who broke out last year in place of Johnson, is the only bright spot of this group.

The Saints have a lot of depth at running back, but that list doesn’t include a sure-fire starter. Deuce McCallister, their most talented running back, has well-documented knee problems. Behind him, they have Aaron Stecker, an aging veteran who was their uninspiring feature back for most of last season; Reggie Bush, who at this point in his career seems like an overpaid third-down back; and Pierre Thomas, a promising first-year player.

Just two years removed from that glorious season and the destructive offseason that followed it, the Seahawks and Shaun Alexander will travel by separate roads this fall, but they’ve both been following bad directions.

Contact Dave at theconstantgardner@newerascouting.com.

The annual contenders for second place in the conference have plenty of questions heading into the season. How does Oregon replace quarterback Dennis Dixon? Who will be starting at wide receiver and quarterback for California? How does Oregon State replace a trio of starting linebackers and running back Yvenson Bernard?

That likely means only Arizona State will challenge USC for the conference title. The Sun Devils surprisingly went 10-2 last season and have a majority of their playmakers returning. If the Sun Devils can survive a tough stretch of games against Georgia, USC and California, the team may challenge for a spot in the Bowl Championship Series.

Still, it’s doubtful Arizona State can overcome an ultra-talented USC team. Few teams in the nation can compare to USC, especially on defense. The Trojans have what looks like at least five potential first-round draft picks starting on defense this season. None is more impressive than senior middle linebacker Rey Maualuga. If quarterback Mark Sanchez can live up to his potential quickly, the Trojans could challenge for another national title.

Oregon State will get a boost from returning wide receiver Sammie Stroughter who redshirted last season while battling depression and injuries. However, the Beavers still haven’t named a starting quarterback between Sean Canfield and Lyle Moevao.

The sleeper in the conference could be Stanford. Don’t forget that the Cardinal beat the Trojans in Los Angeles last season and have several talented players on defense. Washington should be competitive on offense if promising sophomore quarterback Jake Locker shows improvement as a passer.

Conference Power Rankings
1. Southern California
2. Arizona State
3. Oregon
4. California
5. UCLA
6. Stanford
7. Oregon State
8. Washington
9. Arizona
10. Washington State

First Team All-Conference
QB: Rudy Carpenter, Sr., Arizona State
RB: Keegan Herring, Sr., Arizona State
RB: Stafon Johnson, Jr., USC
WR: Brandon Gibson, Sr., Washington State
WR: Sammie Stroughter, Sr., Oregon State
TE: Ed Dickson, Jr., Oregon
C: Max Unger, Sr., Oregon
OT: Andy Levitre, Sr., Oregon State
OT: Eben Britton, Soph. Arizona
OG: Jeremy Perry, Sr., Oregon State
OG: Paul Fanaika, Sr., Arizona State

DE: Nick Reed, Sr., Oregon
DT: Ekom Udofia, Jr., Stanford
DT: Fili Moala, Sr., USC
DE: Pannel Egboh, Sr., Stanford
LB: Rey Maualuga, Sr., USC
LB: Brian Cushing, Sr., USC
LB: Clinton Snyder, Jr., Stanford
S: Patrick Chung, Sr., Oregon
S: Taylor Mays, Jr., USC
CB: Walter Thurmond, Jr., Oregon
CB: Brandon Hughes, Sr., Oregon State

P: Keenyn Crier, So., Arizona
K: Thomas Weber, So., Arizona State
KR: Jahvid Best, So., California
PR: Terrence Austin, Jr., UCLA

Second Team All-Conference
QB: Willie Tuititama, Sr., Arizona
RB: Kahlil Bell, Sr., UCLA
RB: Stanley Havili, So., USC
WR: Jaison Williams, Sr., Oregon
WR: Mike Thomas, Sr., Arizona
TE: Logan Paulsen, Sr., UCLA
C: Alex Mack, Sr., California
OG: Alex Fletcher, Sr., Stanford
OG: Jeff Byers, Sr., USC
OT: Fenuki Tupou, Sr., Oregon
OT: Mike Tepper, Sr., California

DE: Everson Griffen, So., USC
DT: Brigham Harwell, Sr., UCLA
DT: David Smith, Sr., Arizona State
DE: Dexter Davis, Jr., Arizona State
LB: Andy Mattingly, Jr., Washington State
LB: Ronnie Palmer, Sr., Arizona
LB: Pat Maynor, Sr., Stanford
S: Troy Nolan, Sr., Arizona State
S: Bo McNally, Jr., Stanford
CB: Alterraun Verner, Jr., UCLA
CB: Omar Bolden, So., Arizona State

P: Aaron Perez, Sr., UCLA
K: Jason Bondzio, Sr., Arizona
KR: Ronald Johnson, So., USC
PR: Kyle Williams, Jr., Arizona State

Conference honors
Offensive Player of the Year: Rudy Carpenter, QB, Arizona State
Defensive Player of the Year: Taylor Mays, S, USC
Freshman of the Year: Kavario Middleton, TE, Washington

Top 10 Senior NFL Draft Prospects
1. Rey Maualuga, ILB, USC
An intimidating force at middle linebacker, Maualuga is a big, physical player with a lot of speed and athleticism. He could have been a first-round pick had he entered the 2008 NFL Draft.

2. Brian Cushing, OLB, USC
Cushing is the heart and soul of the USC defense, which struggled at times when he was injured last season. An expert rush linebacker, Cushing will be a perfect fit for a 3-4 team.

3. Fili Moala, DT, USC
Often overshadowed by fellow defensive tackle Sedrick Ellis, Moala is an athletic wide body who could play inside in a 4-3 our outside in a 3-4.

4. Jeremy Perry, G, Oregon State
While 2007 was mostly a lost season for Perry because of injuries, he showed he’s a great guard in his sophomore season. A former first-team all-coference player, Perry is as powerful of a guard as there is in the nation. If he can stay healthy, he’ll challenge being the first guard drafted in 2009.

5. Max Unger, C/OT, Oregon
After playing left tackle as a sophomore, Unger started every game last season at center. He has the ability to start in the NFL at either spot. Unger is light on his feet, but doesn’t mind mixing it up.

6. Patrick Chung, SS, Oregon
Chung nearly entered the draft this year and arguably would have been the second or third best safety in the class. The leader of Oregon’s defense, Chung had 117 tackles in 2007. He can stay in the box against the run or drop back in coverage.

7. Alex Mack, C, California
Although centers rarely get taken early, Mack has the talent of a first-day offensive lineman. Mack was selected as the top offensive lineman in the Pac-10 last season by opposing defensive linemen. Mack is tall and physical, but manages to get to the second level well.

8. Jaison Williams, WR, Oregon
At 6-foot-5, 240 pounds, Williams doesn’t have great speed but uses his size to his advantage. He’s a master at grabbing the jump ball, but he needs to refine his route running.

9. Kevin Ellison, SS, USC
Ellison will leave the Trojans as a three-year starter at strong safety. He’s a big hitter, but doesn’t have a lot of speed or agility. Ellison could be an outside linebacker prospect for some teams, but he has shown an ability to track passes quickly.

10. Worrell Williams, ILB, California
Last season, Williams moved from the weak side to middle linebacker. He’s a solid run stuffer who registered 105 tackles in 2007. Williams doesn’t work especially well laterally, but is a good straight-ahead linebacker.

Top 5 Junior NFL Draft Prospects
1. Taylor Mays, SS, USC
It could be argued that Mays was ready for the NFL the moment he enrolled at USC. Mays has everything looked for in a safety — he’s big, physical and fast. A guaranteed first-round pick.

2. Walter Thurmond, CB, Oregon
Thurmond has track speed and the hands of a wide receiver. He intercepted five passes last season and finished with 18 pass breakups. Thurmond isn’t afraid to tackle and is solid in man coverage.

3. Vidal Hazelton, WR, USC
Overshadowed so far in his Trojans career, Hazelton is poised for a breakout season. He has good height at 6-foot-3 and is agile enough to shake defenders.

4. Clinton Snyder, ILB, Stanford
An incredibly productive and physical linebacker, Snyder is a smart, try-hard linebacker that coaches will love. Snyder specializes in getting in the backfield and had 14 and a half tackles for a loss last season.

5. Jairus Byrd, CB, Oregon
Byrd is a big cornerback who likes to hit. He’ll be coveted by teams looking for a cornerback who can line up against bigger receivers. He’s not especially fast, though, and could be looked as a safety by some teams.

Non-conference Games of the Year:
1. Ohio State at USC, Sept. 13
2. Georgia at Arizona State, Sept. 20
3. Tennessee at UCLA, Sept. 1
4. Oregon State at Penn State, Sept. 6
5. Notre Dame at USC, Nov. 29

Conference Games of the Year:
1. Arizona State at USC, Oct. 11
2. California at USC, Nov. 8
3. USC at Stanford, Nov. 15
4. Oregon at Oregon State, Nov. 29
5. USC at UCLA, Dec. 6

Unit Rankings

Backfield
1. Arizona State
2. USC
3. Oregon

Receivers
1. USC
2. Arizona
3. Washington State

Offensive Line
1. California
2. USC
3. Oregon State

Overall Offense
1. USC
2. Arizona State
3. Oregon

Defensive Line
1. USC
2. Stanford
3. Arizona State

Linebackers
1. USC
2. California
3. Stanford

Defensive Back
1. Oregon
2. USC
3. Stanford

Overall Defense
1. USC
2. Stanford
3. Oregon

Special Teams
1. Arizona State
2. Arizona
3. UCLA

DG: What did it feel like to have to wait until day two to get drafted.

AC: It was a long wait because I really wanted to get drafted on the first day, but I just stayed patient and waited for my time to come.

DG: Did anyone call you on the first day to express interest in you?

AC: No, I didn’t receive calls from any teams.

DG: Were you surprises when you picked up your phone and it was the Bengals calling?

AC: Yeah, I definitely was surprise. I hadn’t heard much from them throughout the whole process, so it was a shock to know that this was the team I would be going to.

DG: Talk about the call that they made: who talked to you and what did they have to say?

AC: I talked to Marvin Lewis, the head coach, and then I talked with their receivers coach and the offensive coordinator. They just told me that they were going to draft me, that they were happy to me, and that they hoped for big things out of me.

DG: Did you say anything to them to assure them that they made the right pick?

AC: Well, first I just said “thank you.” I told them that I really appreciated the opportunity, that I would give them everything I’ve got, and that they won’t regret this pick.

DG: How do you feel about going to a team with such good wide receivers already in place in Chad Johnson and T.J. Houshmandzadeh?

AC: I think that’s really great, I can learn a lot from those guys. I really believe that they can help me to be a better player. Now I just want to come in and contribute in any way I can and help make this team a better team.

DG: Where do you see yourself fitting into this offense?

AC: I think I could fit into Chris Henry’s position as the third wide receiver, making plays, and making a big impact on the team.

DG: What do you know about the Chad Johnson situation?

AC: I know just what everyone else knows from watching on TV. I know he doesn’t want to be there, but that they don’t want to trade him.

DG: Do you think that you would be able to replace him in the starting lineup if they do trade him?

AC: I have a lot of confidence in myself. I think I can do all the things he does on the field. I’m just going to try to get on the field, make plays, and make the offense better.

DG: Do you think that because they went with two wide receivers in this draft that they are looking to trade Chad Johnson now?

AC: Yeah, I think that they are planning on moving him, but I don’t know for sure. They took two receivers, so I think that they are trying to prepare for the future. I know I am.

DG: How do you feel about coming into this draft class with another wide receiver, and one who was selected before you were?

AC: That’s no problem for me, I’m going to compete every day.. I think it will be fun to play the same position as we both try to learn how to play it at the next level. Everything we have to learn, we’ll be doing it together.

DG: Talk about what it will be like to play with Carson Palmer.

AC: Yeah, I watched him in college, and I’ve followed him in Cincinatti. He’s a great quarterback.

DG: I know you spent a lot of time before the draft working on catching NFL passes, Carson Palmer has one of the quickest releases in football. Are you ready for it?

AC: Yeah, he’s got a really fast release. I think I’ve prepared enough, and I am ready to do it.

DG: How do you feel about going to a team like the Bengals that has struggled for the last few seasons?

AC: I see that as I positive thing, because I don’t plan on doing a lot of losing. I am going to go in with an attitude to make this team better. They have a lot of talent and skill already on this team, and this draft class may put them over the top.

One year ago, early 2008 NFL Draft rankings were compiled, and players like Brian Brohm, Frank Okam, Vince Hall and Adarius Bowman were among those who looked like first round picks.

When April 2008 rolled around, Brohm slipped to the second round, Okam went in the fifth and neither Hall nor Bowman was drafted at all.

Everyone knows that the draft is an inexact science, especially more than 11 months before it takes place. Eventual first round picks like Kentwan Balmer, Joe Flacco and Dominique Rodgers-Cromartie were barely on the radar a year ago.

Monday, we here at New Era Scouting rolled out our first batch of 2009 NFL Draft rankings. But it’s safe to say that the lists will undergo significant changes once the 2008 college football season hits in late August.

As another year of draft preparation begins, here is a look at a few of the important things to watch heading into to the 2008 college football season.

1. The quarterbacks
The senior quarterback class is solid and has some depth, with players like Curtis Painter, Cullen Harper, Hunter Cantwell, Rudy Carpenter and Chase Daniel. It’s possible that not one senior quarterback will hear his name called in the first round though. Of course, nobody saw Joe Flacco being taken in the first round, but nobody saw Brian Brohm falling out of the first round either.

The best bet to be a first round pick at quarterback is Georgia junior Matthew Stafford. Stafford has been solid in his first two seasons but has yet to really emerge as a star. At 6-3, 237 pounds, Stafford looks the part and has one of the best arms in the country. Georgia may be the best team in the nation this season, and while Knowshon Moreno will be a Heisman frontrunner at running back, Stafford may make a jump to stardom as well.

The wild card is Tim Tebow. Also a junior, Tebow is highly regarded as a prospect by many, but there are sure to be endless debates about whether or not his style of play translates from Urban Meyer’s spread offense to the NFL.

At small schools, the quarterbacks to watch are New Mexico State’s Chase Holbrook and Sam Houston State’s Rhett Bomar. Holbrook is 6-5, 240 pounds, and after his sophomore season, he looked like a potential first round pick. But his passing yards fell by more than 750 yards in his junior year, and his interceptions doubled from nine to 18.

A blue chip recruit out of high school, Bomar started as a freshman at Oklahoma and threw for 2,018 yards with 10 touchdowns and 10 interceptions. However, he landed at Sam Houston State after being dismissed from the Sooners for a “job” he held with a car dealership owned by an Oklahoma booster. He posted solid numbers in his first year as a starter at FCS Sam Houston State and enters the year as the top small school quarterback prospect.

2. Third-year sophomore skill position players
Moreno, Oklahoma quarterback Sam Bradford, Oklahoma running back DeMarco Murray, Pittsburgh running back LeSean McCoy and Texas Tech wide receiver Michael Crabtree all have the talent to have big enough seasons that warrant leaving early for the draft. It’s unlikely that more than two of these guys actually make the jump, as, outside of Larry Fitzgerald, few have made a successful move after just two years of college game action.

But, as freshmen, Bradford led the nation in passing efficiency, Moreno, Murray and McCoy combined for 41 rushing touchdowns, and Crabtree caught 22 touchdowns and came up 38 yards short of 2,000 for the season.

Out of the five, Crabtree is probably the most likely to leave early, especially if he duplicates his freshman season numbers.

3. The Clemson running backs
In 2005, Ronnie Brown and Carnell Williams from Auburn both not only went in the first round, but in the top five. This year, both Darren McFadden and Felix Jones from Arkansas went in the first round. In 2009, for the third time in five years, it would not be surprising to see a tandem of tailbacks from one school go in the first round, with Clemson’s James Davis and C.J. Spiller.

The Davis-Spiller combination was actually more productive in 2006 than 2007, as Spiller went through a bit of a sophomore slump early in the season. But Clemson is armed with what could turn out to be the ACC’s best passing offense and rushing offense behind Harper at quarterback, Aaron Kelly at receiver and Spiller and Davis in the backfield.

Spiller is undersized as a prospect and must show that he is capable of running between the tackles, but he may be the most explosive back in the country. If he can improve his inside game, he could leave early and find himself in the first round mix with Davis, who is the top senior running back prospect.

4. Injuries
Penn State linebacker Sean Lee, thought of us a potential 2009 first round pick, tore his ACL in spring practice and will redshirt this season, taking him out of the 2009 draft mix.

On the other side of things, Boston College will receive a boost from the return of linebacker Brian Toal, who missed the 2007 season because of shoulder surgery. If he can stay healthy, Toal could once again emerge as one of the top linebackers in the draft. But shoulder problems will always raise a red flag for a linebacker prospect.

Another play who is trying to erase durability questions is Florida’s all-purpose junior Percy Harvin. It’s hard to imagine what Harvin would be doing at Florida if he didn’t have so many injury issues, as he was hampered by heel, knee, hip and ankle problems. The most significant injury has been a nagging heel problem, which has been an issue since high school, and he underwent heel surgery in early April.

5. The USC defense
In April, 10 Trojans were drafted - five offensive players and five defensive players. Sedrick Ellis, Lawrence Jackson, Keith Rivers and Terrell Thomas all went on day one, with Thomas Williams getting picked up in the fifth round.

Nine USC seniors are on New Era Scouting’s initial 300-player board. Seven of those players - Rey Maualuga, Brian Cushing, Fili Moala, Kevin Ellison, Josh Pinkard, Kyle Moore and Cary Harris - are on defense, with all but Harris in the top 100. The nation’s second ranked defense in 2007 is sure to be near the top again in 2008, and with so many pro prospects, it isn’t too hard to see why.

And don’t forget junior Taylor Mays, a 6-4, 225-pound safety who could be the top safety prospect if he leaves early.

Questions or comments? E-mail me at mattbrown@newerascouting.com.

With the 56th pick in last month’s NFL Draft, no experts thought this pick could cause a controversy. The Packers had seven minutes to make a selection, and given the rumors circulating their draft boards, it looked like this pick was going to be a tight end or a cornerback, two strong needs they were looking to fill early.

Without missing a beat, the team promptly selected quarterback Brian Brohm of Louisville. Fans in Green Gay saw it as a lock that the team was going to be embroiled in a bitter quarterback controversy starting in training camp. Two young veterans were going to vie for the important position on the field. The reality is, there is no competition, Aaron Rodgers will be the Packers starting quarterback in week one, and the Packers have done nothing but build around that idea this entire offseason.

Rodgers has spent three seasons learning behind future Hall of Famer Brett Favre. In an era where first round picks hardly sit for a full season behind a veteran, Rodgers spent an NFL eternity backing up a legend. Rodgers played sparingly, seeing extensive game action in November of last season, going 18-of-26 for 201 yards and a touchdown against the Cowboys in a tense game. Rodgers has never started an NFL game and played to completion, but he has spent the past two seasons absorbing head coach Mike McCarthy’s version of the West Coast offense. Rodgers poise showed off in the Dallas game, as he was able to work his reads and play within the system. Although he was sacked three times, the Packers spent the majority of the game playing from behind and passing heavily.

Based on that limited amount of film, the Packers were not rushing to find a veteran replacement for Favre after his March 2008 retirement. In fact, the team let Craig Nall, a third stringer with knowledge of the West Coast system, hit the free agent market with little interest in retaining him. There were other veteran, system quarterbacks like Tim Rattay, Marques Tuiasosopo and Quinn Gray, who general manager Ted Thompson showed sparing interest in. The team trusted in Rodgers’ ability to run the offense, and be successful. That did not preclude the team though from expressing an interest in adding a young backup who could compliment Rodgers though.

In the midst of Senior Bowl, the Combine and postseason workouts, the Packers had expressed interest in San Diego’s Josh Johnson (who went to a West Coast team, Tampa Bay), Joe Flacco (Ravens) and a few other quarterbacks who could be drafted from the second round on. These were all looked as depth moves, and nothing that could challenge Rodgers’ position as the starter. The potential moves looked safe, both Johnson and Flacco were considered project quarterbacks who would need time to develop.

Even the when the Packers traded back with the Jets to give up their first-round pick, they made a move that signified that they were supporting Rodgers, as they drafted sure-handed Kansas State wide receiver Jordy Nelson. Nelson would give them a legit third wide receiver, who is strong enough to be a blocker on running downs, but could move the chains. Nelson was flying under the radar due to only average athleticism and timed speed, but he fits the mold of a West Coast offense wide receiver. Nelson had the upside to potentially develop into a replacement for Donald Driver. Then, at pick 56, Thompson pulled the trigger on Brohm.

Brohm was at first viewed as a legit threat to Rodgers. He had the pedigree, skills and makeup of a franchise quarterback, but fell down draft boards this year due a suspect senior season on a bad Louisville team. It was a far fall from grace for Brohm, who graced the cover of Sports Illustrated as a junior in high school. Brohm’s toughness - physically in previous seasons, mentally this season - was challenged by a struggling Cardinals team. Brohm had been labeled soft due to the coddling he got from having his brother on the coaching staff while at Louisville, but despite those criticisms Brohm had his best season as a collegiate. He still has elite mechanics, vision and has played in two different pro-style offenses in college.

Despite his fall, Brohm still has issues that need corrected, and will end up in him having to sit at least a season. His footwork is choppy, and he will need work in reading pro-style defenses. Brohm also has had problems in the past with feeling pressure, and took sacks that he shouldn’t have in college. He will need work in mastering the complexities of McCarthy’s passing attack, which took Rodgers two seasons of extensive work in to get to where he is now. If Rodgers had limited experience learning the system, McCarthy and his staff would be more apprehensive about handing him the keys to the car, but they clearly have limited fears about this.

What also bears watching is that Rodgers is an unrestricted free agent at the end of the 2009 season, which would give him two uncontested seasons as the starter. If Rodgers struggles during that time, the team could turn to Brohm, or when his contract is up if Rodgers’ value exceeds what the Packers perceive it to be. Due to Rodgers’ slide from potential No. 1 overall pick in the 2005 NFL Draft to 24th overall, the value of his contract is very manageable for the Packers also, should they have to turn to the young Brohm at any point in the next two seasons.

What many perceived to be a frivolous move by Ted Thompson may end up being one of his greatest coups if the scenario plays out correctly. Rodgers will have two seasons, on a team that is ready to contend for the Super Bowl even without Favre, to prove himself to be the starter, at a manageable salary. Brohm, a player who had potential top ten talent but fell, also comes on the cheap, and he gets two season to learn the system, much like Rodgers did. Former heated quarterback duels like Joe Montana/Steve Young, Drew Brees/Phillip Rivers and Derek Anderson/Brady Quinn have shown two good, young quarterbacks can co-exist on the same roster, if only for a few seasons. If both players understand their role in this scenario long term, it could pay off greatly for the fans of Green Bay, who know a thing or two about Hall of Fame quarterbacks.

Contact Luke at Luke@newerascouting.com.

* denotes an underclassmen early entry.

1. Philadelphia Eagles (from Carolina Panthers) - Rey Maualuga, ILB, Southern California
2. Kansas City Chiefs - Victor Harris, CB, Virginia Tech
3. San Francisco 49ers - Brian Cushing, OLB, Southern California
4. Miami Dolphins - Michael Crabtree, WR, Texas Tech*
5. Atlanta Falcons - DeMarcus Granger, DT, Oklahoma*
6. Denver Broncos - Malcolm Jenkins, CB, Ohio State
7. Cincinnati Bengals - Taylor Mays, SS, Southern California*
8. Chicago Bears - Curtis Painter, QB, Purdue
9. Tampa Bay Buccaneers - Marlon Lucky, RB, Nebraska
10. Tennessee Titans - Fili Moala, DT, Southern California
11. Oakland Raiders - Michael Oher, OT, Ole Miss
12. Philadelphia Eagles - George Selvie, DE, South Florida*
13. Pittsburgh Steelers - Andre Smith, OT, Alabama*
14. Cleveland Browns - James Davis, RB, Clemson
15. New York Giants -  James Laurinaitis, ILB, Ohio State
16. Green Bay Packers - Mike Mickens, CB, Cincinnati
17. Buffalo Bills - Duke Robinson, OG, Oklahoma
18. Jacksonville Jaguars - Joe Burnett, CB, Central Florida
19. Seattle Seahawks - Sen’Derrick Marks, DT, Auburn*
20. Arizona Cardinals - Maurice Evans, DE, Penn State*
21. Detroit Lions - Patrick Chung, SS, Oregon
22. New England Patriots - Al Woods, DT, Louisiana State*
23. Houston Texans - Darrius Heyward-Bey, WR, Maryland*
24. New Orleans Saints - Chase Coffman, TE, Missouri
25. Minnesota Vikings - Cullen Harper, QB, Clemson
26. New York Jets - William Moore, FS, Missouri
27. Baltimore Ravens - Alex Mack, C, California
28. St. Louis Rams - Eugene Monroe, OT, Virginia
29. San Diego Chargers - Alex Boone, OT, Ohio State
30. Washington Redskins - Jeremy Perry, G, Oregon
31. Indianapolis Colts - Trey Covington, DE, Maryland
32. Dallas Cowboys - Jeremy Maclin, WR, Missouri*

Bengals wide receiver Chad Johnson has appeared on radio stations and on televisions shows, and he probably would even speak to your personally if you would hear his case. He has spoken by himself, and he has spoken with his agent; he has spoken off the record and on the record; for a while he was dodging the questions, but then he finally came out and said it:

“I don’t want to play for the Bengals.”

The only people who aren’t listening are the two people who have to: Bengals President Mike Brown and head coach Marvin Lewis.

This isn’t the first time that Brown has played hard ball with his players. Although it has since been outlawed, it was less than a decade ago that the Bengals unveiled the “loyalty cause” in their players’ contracts. The loyalty clause, also known as the “Carl Pickens Clause,” gave teams the right to reclaim part or all of a player’s signing bonus if that player publicly criticizes coaches, team officials or players.

Certainly, Johnson should be happy that such a clause doesn’t exist anymore. Originally, this was beginning to look like it would unfold in a Terrell Owens-style meltdown, with a star quarterback getting semi-involved.

Although Carson Palmer claimed that Johnson told him in a phone conversation that “he’ll be there when he has to,” Johnson disputed ever saying such a thing.

“I’m not sure where Carson got his information from, but I know I didn’t assure him of anything,” Johnson said. “I wish he’d stay out of this. He’s taking how I’m feeling as a joke because I think everyone else in the organization is doing the same.” Johnson even went as far as to claim that he would rather retire than play for the Bengals

Lewis’ response?

“I’ve stated our case with Chad. He has a contract through 2011. He’s stated without an opportunity to go to a different team and a new contract, he wasn’t going to play. I think he’s a man of his word and says he’s not going to play, so don’t play.”

Wow. Did anyone else know that Lewis majored in bluff-calling at Idaho State? He must be a heck of a poker player.

The Bengals are calling Chad Johnson’s bluff because they are in control of the situation. It will cost Johnson up to $14,000 per day to hold out, and then if he misses just one day of mandatory team activities, he could be forced to pay back up to 25 percent of his signing bonus, pro-rated.

The point here is that the Bengals are sticking to their principles. Although Johnson wants to be traded, he has signed a contract that runs through 2011. There have even been good trade offers for him - reportedly a first-round pick and a conditional pick in 2009 that could escalate to a first rounder - but the Bengals are busy setting a precedent.

Rather than rewarding Johnson’s outlandish remarks and complaints by trading him, the Bengals are steadfast in honoring his remarks, while holding to their own. Rather than show other players who may not be happy that they just have to criticize the team or complain to get out, they are showing those disgruntled players that they take contracts seriously. And they should.

Assuredly, there have been players in the locker room who don’t appreciate Johnson’s frequent antics (even before this season), and now they see that the organization doesn’t appreciate them either. Johnson’s career options may be limited beyond football, but the Bengals receiving options aren’t limited to Johnson.

The best - and maybe only - solution for Johnson besides, you know, honoring his contract, would be something similar to what happened to Corey Dillon in 2003 in Cincinnati. He demanded that the team trade him before and during the season, but the Bengals didn’t send him off to New England until it was over. Even then, they only were willing to let him go because Rudi Johnson had emerged as the starter. That may be Johnson’s only way out.

The draft came and went, and Johnson presumably was unsettled by the fact that he wasn’t traded to another team. What could be encouraging for him, however, is that they did draft two wide receivers within the first three rounds. Eventually, maybe one of them would make Johnson expendable.

One of those receivers, Andre Caldwell, recently told NewEraScouting.com that he would be able to fill Johnson’s shoes - and he was the latter of the two picks. The Bengals are building for a future without Johnson in some capacity, but one thing is for sure, and Lewis said it himself: “The Bengals hold the cards until 2011.”

Here’s hoping that they won’t be the ones who stand down.

Don’t fight it, write it! Got a question or a comment? Send it in to theconstantgardner@newerascouting.com. Include your name and hometown, and I might include you in an upcoming article (unless you instruct me otherwise).

Baltimore Ravens

Picks: QB Joe Flacco(1), RB Ray Rice(2), ILB Tavares Gooden(3), S Tom Zbikowski(3), OG Oniel Cousins(3), WR Marcus Smith(4), OT David Hale(4), S Haruki Nakamura(6), WR Justin Harper(7), RB Allen Patrick(7)

Best Pick: QB Joe Flacco

Analysis: B: Some may question whether or not the Ravens panicked a bit when the Falcons selected Matt Ryan with the third pick overall. The move down with Jacksonville was a shrewd one for Ozzie Newsome, but to give most of it away to get back in the top 20 for Flacco had some scratching their heads. It is obvious the Ravens had Flacco graded significantly higher than Brian Brohm and Chad Henne. Flacco does possess the best NFL arm in the draft, but time will tell whether or not playing at Delaware prepared him for the rigors of the AFC North. The Ravens also took advantage of having seven picks in the first four rounds, with Rice, Gooden and Zbikowski set to play significant roles as early as 2008. For a team desperate for a shot in the arm after the Brian Billick era, John Harbaugh and Co. did a solid job.
Buffalo Bills

Picks: CB Leodis McKelvin(1), WR James Hardy(2), DE Chris Ellis(3), CB Reggie Corner(4), TE Derek Fine(4), LB Alvin Bowen(5), Xavier Omon(6), OT Demetrius Bell(7), WR Steve Johnson(7), CB Kennard Cox(7)

Best Pick: WR James Hardy

Analysis: B- : The Bills hit homeruns with their first two picks, with Hardy being the most exciting. At 6-foot-6, 217 pounds, he’ll provide the large target Trent Edwards needs to continue his progression, and provides the Bills offense a significant weapon to play along side Lee Evans. With McKelvin, the Bills were able to grab the most talented corner in the draft, at last replacing Nate Clements. The value of getting Chris Ellis in the third round was solid, and Omon is a player with great upside. The Bills still have a huge hole at tight end, overlooking options earlier in the draft, then reaching to grab Fine. Overall, a solid haul for the improving Bills.
Cincinnati Bengals

Picks: LB Keith Rivers(1), WR Jerome Simpson, DT Pat Sims(3), WR Andre Caldwell(3), OT Anthony Collins(4), DT Jason Shirley(5), S Corey Lynch(6), TE Matt Sherry(6), LB Angelo Craig(7), WR Mario Urrutia(7)

Best Pick: LB Keith Rivers

Analysis: C: Nothing really went according to plan for the Bengals who were hoping one of the premier defensive tackles would fall to them at No. 9. It didn’t shake down that way, with New Orleans trading up to get Sedrick Ellis. As it stands, Rivers is an excellent addition to the defense. It is the rest of the draft that’s odd. The Bengals refused to trade Chad Johnson, then drafted three receivers. The choice of Jerome Simpson that high is baffling, and with the Bengals struggling in several areas on defense they went back to the wide receiver-well once again to get Andre Caldwell. While the third round was decent value for Caldwell, his injury history has to be a concern. Pat Sims is an intriguing pick, but there are simply too many questions to go any higher than a C for the Bengals.
Cleveland Browns

Picks: LB Beau Bell(4), TE Martin Rucker(4), DT Ahtyba Rubin(6), WR Paul Hubbard(6), DE Alex Hall(7)

Best Pick: TE Martin Rucker

Analysis: A: The Browns were an A before the draft even started for the moves they made, starting with the acquisition of quarterback Brady Quinn last year. With Quinn, Corey Williams (traded second-round pick) and Shaun Rogers (traded third-round pick), the Browns have their quarterback of the future while solidifying the defensive line. They didn’t stop there, getting linebacker Beau Bell, a sure-fire second-round pick before injuring his knee during practice for the Senior Bowl. The steal for the Browns, and maybe of the entire draft, was nabbing tight end Martin Rucker in the fourth Round. In another shrewd move, Phil Savage moved up to draft Rucker, a pass-catching threat who will supply insurance in case the Kellen Winslow situation spirals out of control. Wide receiver Paul Hubbard, who slipped all the way to the sixth round could be the No. 3 receiver before it is all said and done.
Denver Broncos

Picks: OT Ryan Clady(1), WR Eddie Royal(2), OC Korey Lichtensteiger(4), CB Jack Williams(4), RB Ryan Torain(5), DT Carlton Powell(5), LB Spencer Larsen(6), S Joshua Barett(7), FB Peyton Hillis(7)

Best Pick: OT Ryan Clady

Analysis: B: The Broncos went against their M.O. in recent years by avoiding the big splash, avoiding trades, and most importantly, drafting solid character guys who will be solid players on the field and better people off of it. With Clady, the Broncos found the perfect match for the blocking scheme; a guy who can protect Jay Cutler for the next 10 years. In the second round, the Broncos surprised some by taking wide receiver Eddie Royal. Royal provides the Broncos with the kind of return skills the team hasn’t seen since Darrent Williams’ untimely death and could battle for the No. 3 receiver job as soon as this season. The Broncos continued to add value, despite being without a third-round pick, and have added depth and athleticism to all facets of the game. Williams may have surprised some in the fourth round, but with Domonique Foxworth and Karl Paymeh set to be unrestricted free agents next season, the Broncos have provided themselves some depth and protection. One guy to keep you eyes on is Barrett. He has all the skills to be a big-time safety in the NFL
Houston Texans

Picks: OT Duane Brown(1), CB Antwaun Molden(3), RB Steve Slaton(3), OLB Xavier Adibi(4), DT Frank Okam(5), S Dominique Barber(6), QB Alex Brink(7)

Best Pick: RB Steve Slaton

Analysis: C: This draft could have easily been better had the Texans not reached for Brown in the first round. After wisely trading out of the No. 18 spot, the Texans wasted the opportunity by grabbing Brown at No. 26. Fortunately for Battle Red fans, the 2008 draft got much better as the rounds went on. The Texans hit homeruns with Slaton in round three, Adibi in the fourth and Okam in the fifth. All three of these guys will have the opportunity to play immediately, and all three fell to the Texans well after their projection. Slaton, specifically, will fit the Denver running scheme perfectly.
Indianapolis Colts

Picks: OC Mike Pollack(2), LB Philip Wheeler(3), TE Jacob Tamme(4), OLB Marcus Howard(5), TE Tom Santi(6), OC Steven Justice(6), RB Mike Hart(6), WR Pierre Garcon(6), (OC) Jamey Richard

Best Pick: OLB Marcus Howard

Analysis: B: The Colts did exactly what you would expect from the Colts and that is put together a solid draft despite the fact they were without a first round pick. While on paper it appears the Colts draft three centers, what they did in actuality is add three linemen that have a lot of flexibility, can play of multitude of positions, and will provide depth, not only in 2008, but beyond as the team rebuilds the offensive line around 2007 first-round pick Tony Ugoh. The best pick is getting outside linebacker Marcus Howard in the fifth round. Howard fits the team’s scheme like a glove. He has the wheels to get into the backfield, or retreat into coverage. While he is a bit of a project, his natural ability, coupled with teammates like Dwight Freeney, will allow Thomas the time to come along as a pass-rush specialist. If he ever puts it together, watch out.
Jacksonville Jaguars

Picks: DE Derrick Harvey(1), DE Quentin Groves(2), OLB Thomas Williams(5), CB Trae Williams(5), RB Chauncey Washington(7)

Best Pick: DE Quentin Groves

Analysis: B: Hindsight is 20/20, and it is easy to take shots at the Jags later if all the wheeling and dealing on draft day does not work. As it stands now, give credit to Jack Del Rio and Co. for going out and making bold moves to try and get over the hump in the AFC South, and AFC as a whole. While it would be easy to pick Harvey as the Jags’ best selection, it is the selection of Groves in the second round may pay off. It provides protection for Harvey, forcing opposing offenses to worry about two quality pass rushers instead of one. Suddenly, the Jags are a lot faster and more athletic along the defensive line. They have lost some bulk, but the loss should more than be made up in speed. Add running back Chauncey Washinton in the seventh round, and the Jags have a solid replacement for Maurice Jones-Drew on special teams.
Kansas City Chiefs

Picks: DT Glenn Dorsey(1), OG Branden Albert(1), CB Brandon Flowers(2), RB Jamaal Charles(3), TE Brad Cottam(3), CD DaJuan Morgan(3), WR William Franklin(4), CB Brandon Carr(5), (OT)Barry Richardson(6), WR Kevin Robinson(6), DE Brian Johnson(7), TE Mike Merritt(7)

Best Pick: DT Glenn Dorsey

Analysis: A: The Chiefs needed to score big in this draft and they did, with the help of a little luck. First, the Raiders did them a favor at No. 4 by letting the best player in the 2008 NFL Draft fall into their laps. That allowed Kansas City to nab Dorsey, then attack their second greatest need on the offensive line with Branden Albert. With four more picks in the top 80, the Chiefs struck gold again with Flowers. Flowers has first-round talent and should plug right into the spot vacated by Ty Law. The Chiefs also addressed a need at tight end, picking up Cottam who has struggled with injuries but has the size and hands to be an effective tight end. Charles should allow the Chiefs to lighten the load on Larry Johnson, who has started to show some signs of wearing down.
Miami Dolphins

Picks: OT Jake Long(1), DE Philip Merling(2), QB Chad Henne(2), DE Kendall Langford(3), OG Shawn Murphey(4), RB Jalen Parmele(6), OG Donald Thomas(6), RB Lex Hilliard(6), DT Lionel Dotson

Best Pick: QB Chad Henne

Analysis: A: Leave it to Bill Parcells to come in and instantly make the Miami Dolphins a better football team. We’ll assume that Long is going to start on the offensive line for the Dolphins for the next 10 years. The draft actually improved after that pick. The Dolphins were able to grab Merling, a first-round talent, in the second round. Better yet, the Dolphins were still able to grab the quarterback they wanted the whole time in Henne. By getting Henne later in the second round, the Dolphins can bring him along slowly, without completely throwing last season’s second-round pick John Beck under the bus. Couple those three picks with tight end Anthony Fasano and linebacker Akin Ayodele, acquired from Dallas for a fourth-round pick, and the Dolphins have a vastly improved roster.
New England Patriots

Picks: LB Jerod Mayo(1), CB Terrence Wheatley(2), LB Shawn Crable(3), QB Kevin O’Connell(3), CB Jonathon Wilhite(4), WR Matt Slater(5), LB Bo Ruud

Best Pick: LB Jerod Mayo

Analysis: B: There is little doubt that Bill Belichick wanted to keep trading down. Picking at 10 overall is not something the Patriots want to do. Unable to get it done, the Pats took the best player on their board in Mayo. He is a perfect fit for their linebacker corps, and should find time on the field immediately. Wheatley was a ballhawk at Colorado. Crable, while not getting the pub of other prospects, is a solid, heady linebacker in the Mike Vrabel mold. The Pats always find the guys that fit their system, regardless of where or when they decide to pick them.
New York Jets

Picks: DE Vernon Gholston(1), TE Dustin Keller(1), CB Dwight Lowery(4), QB Eric Ainge(5), WR Marcus Henry(6), OT Nate Garner(7)

Best Pick: DE Vernon Gholston

Analysis: B: After spending heavily in the free-agent market, the Jets were happy to consolidate their picks to target a few areas of need. The first was getting Gholston, who should be the perfect fit as a rush-linebacker in the Jets’ 3-4 scheme. While the knock on Ghlolston was that he disappeared at times, Gholston has a bit of a chip on his shoulder. The Jets moved back into the first round to grab Keller, a solid pass-catching tight end to provide some weapons for the triumvirate of quarterbacks. The latest is Ainge who may have all the physical tools, tends to let his emotions get the best of him.
Oakland Raiders

Picks: RB Darren McFadden(1), CB Tyvon Branch(4), WR Arman Shields(4), DE Trevor Scott(6), WR Chaz Schilens(7)

Best Pick: CB Tyvon Branch

Analysis: C: Do the Raiders actually understand what the draft is about? With the best player in the draft sitting there in front of them, and perhaps the best pass rusher as well, the Raiders once again go for the glitz and glamour with McFadden. The Raiders are already very deep at running back and McFadden adds another star player to the fray that will make JaMarcus Russell’s job that much more difficult. Want to make things easier on a young quarterback? Get him a defense that can dominate, make plays and create turnovers. McFadden will be a solid player, but Glenn Dorsey is going to greatly enjoy playing the Raiders twice a year. On the flip side, Branch was a steal at pick No. 100 and wide receiver Arman Shields has a chance to be the third receiver in Oakland.
Pittsburgh Steelers

Picks: RB Rashard Mendenhall(1), WR Limas Sweed(2), LB Bruce Davis(3), OT Tony Hills(4), QB Dennis Dixon(5), OLB Mike Humpal(6), S Ryan Mundy(7)

Best Pick: RB Rashard Mendenhall

Analysis: A: The Pittsburgh Steelers always find a way to get it done in the draft. Yeah, they have pressing needs along the offensive line, but when a top-10 talent like Rashard Mendenhall falls in your lap, a team has to be smart enough to take him. He will provide the perfect compliment to Willie Parker, who is a question mark coming off a broken leg. Lightning struck twice for the Steelers when Sweed, another borderline first-round talent was available in round two. Sweed gives Ben Roethlisberger a big target to throw to and someone that will go up and make a catch in traffic. Never ones to ignore a pass-rushing linebacker, the Steelers were able to get Davis in the third round. Keep an eye on Dixon. The Steelers have a history of turning former quarterbacks into stars at other positions. Hines Ward, Kordell Stewart and Antwaan Randel El were all quarterbacks in college before being drafted by the Steelers.
San Diego Chargers

Picks: CB Antoine Cason(1), FB Jacob Hester(3), RB Marcus Thomas(5), CB DeJuan Tribble(6), OT Corey Clark(7)

Best Pick: Antoine Cason

Analysis: C: Nothing special about the Chargers’ draft, though Cason and Tribble are two solid corners to go with Antonio Cromartie. Hester was a bit of a reach in the third round, but the Chargers need to fill a need at running back and fullback, Hester can play both. Bigger concerns in San Diego are centered around Philip Rivers and LaDainian Tomlinson coming back healthy.

Tennessee Titans

Picks: RB Chris Johnson(1), DE Jason Jones(2), TE Craig Stevens(3), DE William Hayes(4), WR Lavelle Hawkins(4), OLB Stanford Kegler(4), CB Cary Williams

Best Pick: DE Jason Jones

Analysis: D: With easily the lowest grade in the AFC, the Titans had six picks in the first four rounds and did little with any of them. While there is no denying Johnson’s speed there were several players on the board that would have filled more pressing needs, especially on defense. Defensive end Philip Merling was there, as were cornerbacks Antoine Cason and Mike Jenkins. While they made up for it a bit by taking Jones in round two, the rest of the Titans draft leaves a lot to be desired.

Virginia
Who: Defensive end Sean Gottschalk, sophomore
Replacing: Chris Long
Long was so well-regarded at Virginia that his jersey was retired before he even finished playing. Gottschalk is a large end, somewhat similar to Long, he’s coming off shoulder surgery that kept him out of the spring game. Gottschalk played in nine games last season, recording four tackles.

Boston College
Who: Quarterback Chris Crane, senior
Replacing: Matt Ryan
Crane will attempt to replace the ACC’s single-season passing yards leader in Ryan. Crane’s only collegiate start came in 2006 against Buffalo and in 2007, he threw just four passes. In Boston College’s spring game, the 6-foot-4, 236-pound Crane went 18-for-35 for 155 yards, a touchdown and an interception.

Arkansas
Who: Running back Michael Smith, junior
Replacing: Darren McFadden and Felix Jones
The diminutive Smith (5-foot-7, 176 pounds) won’t be the only back carrying the ball for the Razorbacks, but he’ll likely be the starter. Even with McFadden, Jones and fullback Peyton Hillis getting most of the carries, Smith still rushed for 303 yards last season. In Arkansas’ spring game, Smith had 157 yards rushing on 13 carries.

Louisiana State
Who: Defensive tackle Ricky Jean-Francois, junior
Replacing: Glenn Dorsey
The Tigers have rolled through several quality collegiate tackles including Dorsey, Claude Wroten, Kyle Williams, Chad Lavalais. Jean-Francois is the latest. At 6-foot-3, 281 pounds, Jean-Francois is a disruptive lineman who earned Defensive MVP honors in the national championship game. The Tigers may use a rotation which will ease the burden on Jean-Francois.

Ohio State
Who: Defensive end Lawrence Wilson, junior
Replacing: Vernon Gholston
Coming out of high school, Wilson was one of the top recruits for the Buckeyes this decade. He has the size and speed to be a dominant lineman but he missed most of last season after breaking his leg. Many thought he would have split time with Gholston last season and compare Wilson to former Buckeye Will Smith.

Florida
Who: Defensive end Carlos Dunlap, sophomore
Replacing: Derrick Harvey
Following an up-and-down freshman season, Dunlap looked dominant in the spring. He’s even bigger and faster than Harvey at 6-foot-6 and a 290 pounds while running a 4.70 40-yard dash. In Florida’s spring game, he had four sacks.

Southern California
Who: Outside linebacker Kaluka Maiava, senior
Replacing: Keith Rivers
The nephew of Dwayne “The Rock” Johnson, Maiava started a game at weak-side linebacker last season. He saw action in all 13 contests, recording 44 tackles. Maiava would have been a starter already for just about any other team in the nation.

Tennessee
Who: Middle linebacker Ellix Wilson, senior
Replacing: Jerod Mayo
Mayo surprised coaches by leaving Tennessee a year early after finishing 2007 with an SEC-high 140 tackles. The undersized Wilson (5-foot-10, 225 pounds), finished last year with 30 tackles and three sacks. To help Wilson is weak-side linebacker Rico McCoy, an all-conference performer.

Oregon
Who: Running back Jeremiah Johnson, senior
Replacing: Jonathan Stewart
Through six games last season, Johnson had 344 yards rushing and five touchdowns. He missed the rest of the season with a knee injury. Johnson is expected to be fully healthy in the fall after sitting out spring practice to rehab. He’s not quite as big and athletic as Stewart but is a strong back.

Louisville
Who: Quarterback Hunter Cantwell, senior
Replacing: Brian Brohm
Cantwell has the tough task of replacing one of the most heralded players in Louisville history. During his career, the strong-armed Cantwell has four starts but threw just four passes in 2007. Many expect the 6-foot-5 Cantwell to become a top draft prospect.