Round 1, Pick 5: Cadillac Williams

Carnell Williams
RB | (5'10", 217, 4.51) | AUBURN
Scouts Grade: 97
Flags: (D: DURABILITY) Player that can't stay healthy

Big sigh of relief here. Cadillac is the obvious choice at pick #5 and I'm so glad Gruden didn't go on an ego trip and trade up for Smith.

Gruden has always mixed and matched backs, so I wouldn't be surprised to see Cadillac not as a pure feature back, but rather combined with Pittman / Alstott / Garner (if he's not cut). Cadillac's durability is a question, so Gruden's system should work well for him.

Cadillac was also the consensus pick of columnists and fans. The only other acceptable choice was local favorite Mike Williams. If Gruden had gone in any other direction with this pick he would have risked some serious criticism and alienation from fans, something he isn't in a good position to take right now.

St. Petersburg Times:
4.24: Loaded With Options
4.26: I'm Definitely No Bo
4.26: Pick Tickles Caddy Dealers
4.30: The Jitters Have Never Felt So Fine

Tampa Tribune:
4.24: Bucs May Have Found Guy To Pound Rock
4.24: Bucs Get a New Ride
4.25: Williams News Conference Transcript
4.25: Cadillac Pulls Into Town
4.26: Cadillac Is Right at Home