Cal Bears in the Draft

Rodgers experienced a horrible day, falling from #1 to #24. However, he is in an ideal situation, sitting behind and developing behind the great Brett Favre. He will likely have a much more successful career than Alex Smith. I project that he will also have a better career than Jason Campbell who is going to be far too much of a project.

Arrington went in the second round as projected. He's a bit short but he's powerful and runs with forward lean. He has speed and he blocks well.

I'm shocked that the Saints took a gamble on Lyman as high as they did (in the 4th round). It's a big IF, but he can do a great job if stays injury free.

It's also surprising that Geoff McArthur went undrafted. It's safe to say, though, that someone will sign him as a rookie free agent. He must have graded too slow, not enough straight-line speed nor quickness in and out of breaks. He doesn't have as much upside as other players.

Matt Giordano (whom I neglected to mention in my predictions about Cal players) did have a great season but will need to add about 15-20 pounds to play at the NFL level. He's pretty fast for a safety and should be a pretty good fit for Tony Dungy's cover-2 defense in Indy. Ryan Riddle also went in the 6th round to hometown team Oakland.