NFL Draft: Moving on

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By Benjamin Relle

It wasn't exactly like 2007, in which LSU had four players drafted in the first round of the NFL Draft, but six former Tigers heard their names called by teams this weekend. Coach Les Miles continues to produce NFL caliber talent. This is a valuable recruiting tool to be able to tell high school kids that he can get them ready to play on Sundays. Here is a look at where some former Tigers will be playing next season.

Defensive end Tyson Jackson became the highest defensive player in history drafted from LSU when the Kansas City Chiefs selected him with the third overall pick on Saturday. For the third consecutive year, the Chiefs picked a former LSU player with their first round pick. Dwayne Bowe was the 23rd selection in 2007 and Glenn Dorsey was the fifth overall selection last year. Jackson also extended LSU's streak of six straight years with a first round selection. With the Chiefs' switch to a 3-4 defensive scheme, Jackson fit their need. He will team with Dorsey along the defensive line and try to improve a young and talented Chiefs team. His ability to take on multiple blockers will allow linebackers to make plays in the open field. Jackson will be a solid player for a long time.

The Tigers did not have a player selected in the second, third, or fourth round. But, nine picks into the fifth round fullback Quinn Johnson was picked by the Green Bay Packers. Johnson will compete directly for the starting position in the Packers' backfield blocking for Ryan Grant and Aaron Rodgers. He could also make an impact on special teams. Johnson will definitely see the field at some point in 2009.

All-American guard Herman Johnson was selected in the fifth round as well by the Arizona Cardinals. Johnson will add depth to an offensive line that protects Kurt Warner and one of the NFL's most potent passing attacks. According to reports, Johnson may be making a position change from guard to tackle. If that happens, his huge body and mobility should make the transition easy for him.

In the seventh round, three former Tigers came off the board. First, Curtis Taylor was drafted 219th overall by the San Francisco 49ers. Taylor is a smart player with a lot of experience. He will add depth to the 49ers' secondary while probably contributing on special teams.

Just five picks later, the San Diego Chargers selected Demetrius Byrd. While still recovering from a car accident that left Byrd in the hospital, the Chargers saw his potential as a receiver. As his recovery is complete, Byrd could become a deep threat for Phillip Rivers and the San Diego offense. His speed and hands will allow him to make the roster.

Finally, defensive lineman Rickey Jean-Francois was taken by the 49ers with the 244th pick overall. Jean-Francois battled through an injury plagued junior season in 2008 and did not have the workout numbers some teams thought he might have. But, he is an extremely talented player. With the right coaching, he could be a steal for San Francisco at the bottom of this draft.

Originally Published: Issue 763 - April 29, 2009

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