Falcons, three others in line for No. 2 pick

By CHRIS VIVLAMORE
The Atlanta Journal-Constitution
Published on: 12/05/07

The winless Miami Dolphins have the No. 1 pick in next year's NFL Draft all but locked up. However, there is quite a battle - for lack of a better word - for the No. 2 pick.

The Falcons are right in the thick of it. Here's a look at the four teams at the forefront of the race.

Falcons (3-9)

Remaining games: vs. New Orleans (5-7), at Tampa Bay (8-4), at Arizona (6-6), vs. Seattle (8-4)

Record of remaining opponents: 27-21

Outlook: Falcons are capable of losing out with best chance for a win Monday against the Saints.

Biggest needs: Quarterback, offensive line

Possible pick at No. 2: It would be hard to pass on Arkansas back Darren McFadden, but they need Michigan offensive lineman Jake Long or Louisville quarterback Brian Brohm.

San Francisco (3-9)

Remaining games: vs. Minnesota (6-6), vs. Cincinnati (7-5), vs. Tampa Bay (8-4), at Cleveland (7-5)

Record of remaining opponents: 28-20

Outlook: The 49ers are just plain bad, but have three of final four games at home.

Biggest needs: Offensive line, wide receiver

Possible pick at No. 2: The 49ers will help the rich get richer. New England gets this pick after draft-day trade last year.

St. Louis (3-9)

Remaining games: at Cincinnati (7-5), vs. Green Bay (10-2), vs. Pittsburgh (9-3), at Arizona (6-6)

Record of remaining opponents: 32-16

Outlook: The Rams have the toughest remaining schedule, but are starting to play like they're capable of playing.

Biggest needs: Offensive line, defensive line

Possible pick at No. 2: The Rams would jump at LSU defensive lineman Glenn Dorsey if the Dolphins don't take him.

N.Y. Jets (3-9)

Remaining games: vs. Cleveland (6-6), at New England (12-0), at Tennessee (7-5), vs. Kansas City (4-8)

Record of remaining opponents: 29-19

Outlook: The Jets are capable of winning two of their remaining games, which could ruin draft pick.

Biggest needs: Defensive lineman, quarterback

Possible pick at No. 2: Virginia defensive lineman Chris Long could be the pick if they stay with current quarterbacks.