Mitch, My conclusions are that Keim did about as well as could be expected in targeting talent, but that he probably played 'hard line' just enough to lose out on some talent, ie. Bryan Orakpo, who signed instead with LeBueau and Wiz in Tennessee. At this juncture, I am not so sure that they even targeted Wisniewski at Center, waiting instead for Shipley of the Colts. My guess is that Araians had much to do with that signing. I would also surmise that Chip Kelley's shenanigans in Philadelphia led to enough turmoil with running backs that Keim pretty much took himself out the picture, refusing to get into any rushed bidding war caused by the turmoil. Not everything goes as one would choose.
All in all I am pleased with what Keim did accomplish, (as you have so aptly pointed out in your summation of the first week). His selections seem to be carefully considered, and aptly suited to the spots allotted for each.
The real problem now is that the pickings now left are very few and far between. Most targets remaining are definitely lacking in some aspect of their game, ie. Nate Irving, ILB, who is strong against the run, but totally lacking in coverage ability, making him strictly a two down player. Of course that is still a step up from Minter who apparently does neither.
Like you, I believe that Iupati was a very strong signing, (especially for a pocket passing QB corps like Palmer and Stanton). His presence on the O-line will be significant, and could lead to a new and welcome mentality exhibited by our O-line.
Most of the rest of the signings have questions however, as you pointed out with Weatherspoon and his history of injuries. If he can avoid that, then we hit a home run with him. If he can't stay on the field, all we gain is leadership in the locker room and yet another teacher in practice.
I am saddened that we missed out on Orakpo, even though he would have been injury prone like Spoon. Somehow we once again go into the draft without signing a much needed quality edge rusher. Once again the draft is poised to likely have us come up just short of being able to sign a truly effective edge rusher with our first selection.
