There was only one team who was going to trade up this year, and that was the Redskins. Everyone with a top 4 pick wants to trade down, for the reasons you stated. Their (Skins) picks were not in the right positions for most teams, so it did not happen.

I know the Hawks looked to trade down but there was no trades available. So you can throw that argument out.

They took the best player (right now) in the draft. If you look at all LBs taken in the top 5 over the years, they mostly become pro-bowlers. Curry is the total package, 6'2", 250 ish, 4.60 40, and I just watched him power clean 350#, jeez. I don't know if he will go to the pro-bowl this year, because he is more of a total LB, great in coverage and run stuffing, but probably won't put up the sack numbers to get the recognition.

I contend that the defense will be much better, here is why:

Bigger beef up front, DTs, Cole (FA from GB), Mebane and the regular rotation. These guys will get doubled, and you will see much better linebacking because of it.

We got rid of Peterson, who has lost 1.5 steps, and before he could over-pursue and catch up, now he over pursues and arm-tackles.

Kerney is feeling good. He was a half step off last year, and normally he is one of the best pass rushers in the league. Love that guy.

We brought in Ken Lucas, who is not what he used to be, but is much more physical than Jennings.

We are still missing a physical presence at safety, but we stole Denvers first pick next year, and we have a chance at getting Taylor Mays out of USC and he is a STUD. Physically, he's just incredible.