With No Free Agency, Drafting Is Tougher

NEW YORK (AP)  Strange. Unique. Weird.

Those words are being used by folks who will be affected by this week's NFL draft, the most unusual selection process since free agency began 18 years ago. From players to scouts to general managers to coaches, no one's quite sure how this year's draft will play out.

Unable to plug holes with free agents because of the lockout that now is in its seventh week, NFL teams could look to pick rookies who seem more prepared to have an early impact. In past drafts, the philosophy generally has been to grab the highest-rated player, even if he doesn't figure to contribute early on.

Because many team needs have not been addressed by signing veterans, some clubs could reach in the draft to fill those holes.

You can listen to the 2011 NFL Draft starting at 6:00pm Thursday April 28th on 105.3 The Fan

(Copyright 2011 by The Associated Press. All Rights Reserved.)