2005 draft success stories

2005 DRAFT SUCCESS STORIES

Dallas, 11th overall: DeMarcus Ware, OLB, Troy

Sack total has increased from 11.5 (2006) to 15 (2007) and an NFL-leading 20 last season.

San Diego, 12th overall: Shawne Merriman, OLB, Maryland

Had 39 1/2 sacks in first three seasons before missing most of 2008 after having knee surgery.

Seattle, 45th overall: Lofa Tatupu, MLB, Southern California

Named to the Pro Bowl as a rookie, he has started every game but one in his career.

Jacksonville, 52nd overall: Khalif Barnes, OT, Washington

Started 57 of 60 games in four seasons with Jaguars, before signing a free-agent deal with Oakland this offseason. He was taken three picks after the Vikings selected Marcus Johnson.

San Francisco, 65th overall: Frank Gore, RB, Miami (Fla.)

Has put together three consecutive 1,000-yard rushing seasons.

N.Y. Giants, 74th overall: Justin Tuck, DE, Notre Dame

Led Giants with 12 sacks in 2008; ability to play inside and outside makes him valuable.

Dallas, 109th overall: Marion Barber, RB, Minnesota

Former Gopher is one of NFL's most punishing RBs; has 36 rushing touchdowns in four seasons.

N.Y. Giants, 110th overall: Brandon Jacobs, RB, Southern Illinois

Led Giants with 1,089 rushing yards in '08; has back-to-back 1,000-yard seasons.

San Diego, 130th overall: Darren Sproles, RB, Kansas State

He has proven to be a threat as a runner, receiver and return man. The Vikings had taken running back Ciatrick Fason 112th-overall.

New England, 230th overall: Matt Cassel, QB, Southern California

Not that the Vikings had a need for a quarterback in 2005, but the backup at USC did last until only 26 picks remained. Now Cassel will be the starting QB for Kansas City after getting a one-year franchise tag, worth $14.65 million from the Patriots, who then traded him.

JUDD ZULGAD