NFL Draft Day 1 Winners and Losers

Like many expected, the Detroit Lions took Matthew Stafford as the #1 pick in the 2009 NFL Draft.

They're paying Stafford a maximum of $78 million over six years, with $41.7 million being guaranteed to go in Stafford's pocket. This hefty deal seems to be a big risk for the Lions. If Stafford somehow ends up being a bust, then the Lions could continue to be one of the worst franchises in the league. However, if Stafford becomes an elite quarterback, then this could be the pick that turns this franchise around.

Day 1 Winners

1. Lions ( Matthew Stafford, Brandon Pettigrew)
   
2. Bengals (Andre Smith, Rey Maualuga)
3. Broncos (Knowshon Moreno, Robert Ayers, Aphonso Smith, Darcel McBath,Richard Quinn)

The Lions added obviously a very talented quarterback in Matthew Stafford and added a great target to help Stafford out in Brandon Pettigrew.

The biggest steal in the draft so far was the Bengals snatching up Rey Maualuga in the 2nd-round. A great linebacker that could end up being the face of this franchise. You also can't forget the great addition of Andre Smith on the offensive line.

The busiest team on draft day #1 was definitely the Denver Broncos. They had five picks and addressed all of their needs with some great picks. Knowshon Moreno is a versatile running back that can do some many things for you on offense. They also had a value pick in the 2nd round in Aphonso Smith from Wake Forest. Great first day of the draft for the Broncos.

Day 1 Losers

1. Cardinals (Chris "Beanie" Wells)
2. Dolphins (Vontae Davis, Pat White, Sean Smith)

I understand that Edgerrin James is way past his prime, but I just don't think Beanie Wells is the right choice here. He's got some health issues and he really doesn't fit the Cardinals' style of offense. Pittsburgh's Lesean McCoy would have been a better fit for them as he can also turn into a viable receiver for Kurt Warner.

Some may think the Dolphins had a descent draft day, but not me. Their first pick was Vontae Davis out of Illinois. This pick may turn out to be a good one, but Davis has had is moments where doesn't play well at all. I really don't like taking Pat White. White was a great college quarterback thanks to the quirky offense of West Virginia, but I'm not so sure thats going to translate to the NFL. Pat White reminds me of a Vince Young, if that gives you any idea of why I see them as a Day 1 loser.