ESPN NFL

Since being selected to the Pro Bowl following the 2001 season, cornerback Deltha O'Neal hasn't had much of an impact with the Denver Broncos. His play had declined so much that the Broncos considered switching him to wide receiver. But Denver eventually traded him, along with a fourth-round pick, to Cincinnati to swap first-round picks -- a deal that could have a major impact on the team's fortunes.

The Broncos now have the 17th pick in the draft and have moved ahead of the two teams most likely to select Steven Jackson, who is considered the best all-around back in the draft. With Clinton Portis now carrying the ball in Washington D.C., Denver could use the Oregon State star to boost its ground game.

The team has signed Garrison Hearst and will welcome back Quentin Griffin. But Griffin is a little undersized and has yet to show that he can be an every-down back. Hearst is past his prime (33) and underwent arthroscopic knee surgery in November.

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