What NFL team had the best Madden draft?

Previously I addressed the issue of how much impact rookies can actually have in Madden. Now with the NFL Draft completed, we can look at how the teams fared and who made the most significant moves in terms of improving themselves within Madden 08. Keep in mind that for the sake of this discussion, trades for non-rookies such as Randy Moss and Darrell Jackson will not be considered. I’ve listed out who I perceive had the top 5 drafts, be sure to vote in the poll at the end on which team you feel had the best “Madden draft”.

Detroit Lions: The Lions got the far and away best rookie for Madden in Calvin Johnson. Pairing him up with Roy Williams on the other side and Mike Furrey in the slot is going to be tough for defenses to deal with. Outside of Johnson the picks aren’t going to offer much right away. Drew Stanton will be rated lower than Jon Kitna and maybe even Dan Orlovsky too. So the Lions’ draft is only going to give the help of CJ, however that is going to be a big addition. Strength: Adds most explosive and likely highest rated rookie to the team

Minnesota Vikings: Outside of Johnson, Adrian Peterson may have the most immediate impact on his new team. Pairing him with Chester Taylor will offer the same flexibility that the Saints have with Reggie Bush and Deuce McAllister. His injury rating may be a concern, but it is unlikely to make much of a difference at the start of the season and within the game. Sidney Rice should add a good receiver into the mix as well who will be on the field in many situations. Strength: Draft improves flexibility and options

Carolina Panthers: The Panthers got a good LB in Jon Beason, but where their draft shines is in the quality of multiple selections. WR Dwayne Jarrett will team up with Steve Smith and Keary Colbert to create a very tough trio of receivers to defend. Keyshawn Johnson was cut by the team, otherwise that would’ve made for a great 4WR set. C/G Ryan Kalil may be able to jump into the starting line right away as well. Strength: Draft improves multiple positions (LB, WR, OL)

Cleveland Browns: The Browns have already made huge improvements to the offensive line this offseason, and now they add in Joe Thomas. That is going to make for an impressive line to not only run Jamal Lewis behind but also to protect the new QB Brady Quinn. Eric Wright may even be a decent performer in the secondary in the nickle or dime. Strength: Two first rounders (will be rated like two top 5 picks)

Oakland Raiders: The Raiders got their (hopeful to be) franchise QB in JaMarcus Russell. Zach Miller should be pretty good out of the gates at TE. Michael Bush is an intriguing pick, but he’ll be behind LaMont Jordan and Dominic Rhodes even if he is physically able to perform at the start of the year. Strengths: Building for the future

Honorable Mentions: Baltimore Ravens, Buffalo Bills, Denver Broncos, Kansas City Chiefs, New Orleans Saints, New York Jets, San Francisco 49ers