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ESPN's Mel Kiper Jr. breaks down the quality at the top of the draft.
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Kiper: First-round draft projection

Mel Kiper's Top 25 prospects


Tuesday, April 17

18 years of draft memories

The 2001 NFL draft is the 18th one Mel Kiper Jr. will work for ESPN.

My memories of the NFL draft are mostly of having fun with Chris Berman and the guys on the set. But most people remember the controversies.

I criticized the Colts for drafting Trev Alberts fifth overall in '94. Colts GM Bill Tobin responded by saying, 'Who the hell is Mel Kiper?'
I criticized the Colts for drafting Trev Alberts fifth overall in 1994. Colts GM Bill Tobin responded by saying, "Who the hell is Mel Kiper? My mailman knows more about the draft than he does."

I had suggested they take Trent Dilfer. Alberts did nothing in the NFL and is now a broadcaster. Say what you want about Dilfer, but he's been in the Pro Bowl and won a Super Bowl. But I never make this stuff personal as Tobin did. I just look at the players and see if they fit what I think the team needs.

I'm always willing to go over my picks. I had Jeff George ranked 84th the year he went No. 1 overall. I had Rick Mirer at 30 when he went No. 2. That did not please Lou Holtz at all. But it comes with the territory. I can live with both of those calls.

I missed on Andre Ware, however. I thought he'd be a great pro. And I underrated Chris Spielman. You sit there and give your opinions, not shill for somebody. This year I am giving an A to F grade for every pick of the first two rounds. We'll do the highlights, have a discussion and then, before the next pick, I will put a grade on it. That will be fun.

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