Progress Report

Like the Texans this year, the Browns in 2000 tapped a defensive end with the first pick in the draft. But after that it was four quarterbacks in a row at the top. SI senior writer Jeffri Chadiha evaluates the pro development of the last six No. 1 picks

2000 COURTNEY BROWN DE, Browns

Injuries limited Brown to 47 games and 16 sacks in five seasons in Cleveland, but after signing with Denver last year he became a key to the Broncos' run-stuffing defense. "The whole thing with Courtney is his health," says Denver defensive line coach Andre Patterson. "When he's healthy, he's a difference-maker."

BOTTOM LINE: Solid player who'll never be great.

2001 MICHAEL VICK QB, Falcons

Despite his athleticism, Vick remains an inconsistent passer (75.8 career quarterback rating) and has taken Atlanta to the postseason only twice in his five years. "The expectation level with him is always so high," says Falcons offensive coordinator Greg Knapp. "You simply can't measure his impact by his quarterback rating."

BOTTOM LINE: Rare talent who's still honing his skills.

2002 DAVID CARR QB, Texans

Carr has been sacked 208 times in his career, which makes it difficult to judge him. Despite his talents--he's mobile, accurate and tough--he hasn't proven he can carry the team. "We have to put him in situations [in which he can] be successful," says new Houston coach Gary Kubiak. "With that comes the confidence that his play will pick up."

BOTTOM LINE: The jury's still out.