I admit I'm a sucker for the NFL draft. I enjoy the guessing game and, after all, it's not my money that's invested in 300 pounds of fast, angry flesh.
With the exception of Johnny Manziel, this year's draft lacks pizzaz. However, there are five players whose NFL destiny interests me. Who are they? Glad you asked.
1. Carlos Hyde -- Ohio State running back whose size, power, and speed are what's wanted in today's NFL. He was somewhat in the shadow of Braxton Miller at Columbus, but Hyde looked prime time to me when I watched him play.
2. Darqueze Dennard -- Moo U's leader and shutdown corner. He's a player Bill Parcells would have picked. He can tackle, cover, and understands the privilege of being a pro football player.
3. Marcus Martin -- A USC center who just needs to picked by the right team, such as the Packers.
4. Justin Gilbert -- Doesn't get the ink because he played at Oklahoma State. If he's available at #7, hard to imagine Lovie Smith passing him up, unless the 49ers make Tampa an offer it can't refuse.
5. Jake Matthews -- A Day One starter for some fortunate team. Has ability to match his football pedigree.
Finally, it's likely some trades will impact who goes where. The 49ers have the picks to make a move. The team also has needs, especially cornerback and receiver. I think they'll make a play for Justin Gilbert with a pick-needy team such as the Raiders. If you think #5 (the Raiders' current pick) is too high for a tall, strong, shutdown corner, keep in mind San Francisco watched Seattle's Richard Sherman three times last year, up close and very, very personal.
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