Standout Fresno St. OLB Chris Carter was expected to be a good value in the third, or even fourth round of the 2011 NFL Draft. Imagine the Steelers' surprise then, when he was still available late in the fifth round.
Carter, who several draft analysts tabbed as an underrated prospect, is headed to a franchise that knows a thing or two about developing linebackers. With Dick LeBeau running the defense, and good depth already in place, Carter is in a great position to learn, even if he doesn't get on the field as much as he'd like to.
Another touted defensive prospect who tumbled down the board a bit is Iowa strong safety Tyler Sash. Near the top of many SS positional rankings, Sash is headed to the New York Giants. Sash is a great locker room leader, and is demonstrative on the field. We'll see if his enthusiasm for football can withstand the onslaught of being coached by Tom Coughlin.