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May 2, 2011

NFC West Draft Grades

Arizona Cardinals Grade: A-
Best Pick: Patrick Peterson CB LSU

The Cardinals did not address the QB position, but if there's nothing there...not much you can do. I love the addition of Peterson, my best overall player in the draft. I also really like Ryan Williams, although I worry about combining him with Beanie Wells (two injury prone backs). Also, they landed Quan Sturdivant later in the draft who should turn into a solid player for them.

San Francisco 49ers Grade: B
Best Pick: Kendall Hunter RB Oklahoma State

The 9ers had a good, not great draft. Jim Harbaugh is a very good judge of Quarterbacks, being one himself, and Kaepernick is a very intriguing prospect to bring in--just don't expect it from him this year. Aldon Smith is another guy that could develop into a pro bowl type, but also could bust. You have to really like the Kendall Hunter pick--he's a guy who could fill in very well in an every down situation if Gore were to go down, and is otherwise a darn good backup.

Seattle Seahawks Grade: D
Best Pick: John Moffit OG Wisconsin

This draft left a lot to be desired. James Carpenter in the first round is an absolute joke. John Moffit if their best pick, but even he's pretty one-dimensional as a run blocker. They did little to help their god awful pass rush--and they had a chance to add a really good running back to their very average stable and they didn't do it. Very disappointing draft for the Seahawks.

St. Louis Rams Grade: B
Best Pick: Greg Salas WR Hawaii

Robert Quinn is a solid pick with a ton of upside, however he wasn't anywhere near the production of a Da'Quan Bowers and he had some questions about his health as well. The Austin Pettis pick is one I don't like, but adding Greg Salas and Lance Kendricks as receiving options for Bradford were good moves. The poor guy had Danny Amendola as his #1 target for most of last season...yuck. Also, don't overlook Spagnuolo's ability to scout players defensively that will make an impact down the road--particularly Jermale Hines and Jonathan Nelson.

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