The NFL Draft starts at noon today and the local teams will have to wait a long time to pick. With the Giants at 20 and the Jets at 25, we probably won’t see a local team pick until well after 4pm. The time may benefit both clubs, because each has very distinct needs they need to fill today and tomorrow.

The Jets have to find a defensive tackle who can fit into their 3-4 alignment. Look for them to address that need first before looking into upgrading their secondary. Another tight end wouldn’t be a bad idea and while Thomas Jones should fit in nicely at running back, they may look to add depth there as well.

The Giants have a glaring hole at left tackle that they need to fill in the draft and not with David Diehl. Since they got rid of Arrington, Short and Emmons, they are very thin at linebacker. Sam Madison isn’t getting any younger and Corey Webster may not get any better, so another cornerback is also a must. They don’t necessarily need to draft a kicker, but don’t be surprised if they do.

Perhaps the real story of the draft though is, how badly Matt Millen can screw up the Detroit Lions pick. They have the 2nd pick in the draft, which may change cities after next year.

Photo of (left-right) Adrian Peterson, Brady Quinn, JaMarcus Russell, Calvin Johnson and Gaines Adams on top of the Radio City Music Hall marquee by AP/Frank Franklin II