In defense of Drew Sample

[TJHoushmandzadeh's Shiny Shoes]

Had Sample been taken in the 6th round he'd be a favourite: he'd have exceeded all expectations and fans would generally be a lot more positive about him. Instead he was the second player off the board for the Bengals so expectations are higher.

Expectations are also higher as people forget that the Bengals traded back and received an extra 4th and 6th round picks for picking later so he's not quite as high a pick as people assume. Plus if Wrenn or Travyveon Williams had panned out - and there is still a chance that they might - people would again generally be happier with this pick.

Of course some will always be negative no matter what.