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.
Link
