Last week, we looked at some players from each team who could be affected by the draft. Let’s review now that the draft is over:
Denver, running back Willis McGahee
Why: He needs a backup.
Result: Denver drafted running back Ronnie Hillman at No. 67 and traded up 20 spots to get him. He is more of a change-of-pace guy and not a classic pounder. But Hillman will get his share of carries and help take pressure off of McGahee.
Kansas City quarterback Matt Cassel
Why: He faced competition.
Result: Kansas City looked at several top quarterbacks, but they didn’t draft one. The same goes in free agency. Instead of replacing Cassel, Kansas City made a statement by building the roster around him. It is clear the Chiefs believe in Cassel.
Oakland, tight end David Ausberry
Why: He faced competition.
Result: The Raiders did not draft a tight end. They are thin at tight end and they could bring in a veteran. But Ausberry, a late-round pick last year, should get his chance to play.
San Diego, running back Ryan Mathews
Why: He needs a backup.
Result: The Chargers drafted the intriguing Edwin Baker in the seventh round. Baker slipped down the draft and he has potential. But I’m not sure he is ready to be a top backup. San Diego still might bring in a veteran.
Denver, running back Willis McGahee
Why: He needs a backup.
Result: Denver drafted running back Ronnie Hillman at No. 67 and traded up 20 spots to get him. He is more of a change-of-pace guy and not a classic pounder. But Hillman will get his share of carries and help take pressure off of McGahee.
Kansas City quarterback Matt Cassel
Why: He faced competition.
Result: Kansas City looked at several top quarterbacks, but they didn’t draft one. The same goes in free agency. Instead of replacing Cassel, Kansas City made a statement by building the roster around him. It is clear the Chiefs believe in Cassel.
Oakland, tight end David Ausberry
Why: He faced competition.
Result: The Raiders did not draft a tight end. They are thin at tight end and they could bring in a veteran. But Ausberry, a late-round pick last year, should get his chance to play.
San Diego, running back Ryan Mathews
Why: He needs a backup.
Result: The Chargers drafted the intriguing Edwin Baker in the seventh round. Baker slipped down the draft and he has potential. But I’m not sure he is ready to be a top backup. San Diego still might bring in a veteran.
AFC WEST SCOREBOARD
Thursday, 9/5
Sunday, 9/8
1:00 PM ET Oakland Indianapolis 1:00 PM ET Kansas City Jacksonville
Monday, 9/9
10:15 PM ET Houston San Diego - ESPN/WatchESPN
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