The 2006 Rookie Draft has concluded and the Hitmen welcome the new crop of rookies to the fold. The club intends to begin signing the draftees and fans should expect to see signings at any moment. Expectations are high. Here are the 2006 rookies drafted:

Matthew D'Ottavio (DT) selected with pick 1-10. D'Ottavio has the talent to play DT or DE. He is anticipated to step in and start immediately at the DT position and may be ultimately moved to the DE position as needed. His arrival signals the Hitmen's intent to convert from the 3-4 to the 4-3 defense.

Juan Makielski (OC) selected with pick 1-30. Makielski will immediately backup star center Daniel Burress. If Burress' demands are too great expect to see Makielski starting in his spot next year or sooner. Makielski will be given every opportunity in camp and the preseason to unseat Burress.

Deron Moy (RB) selected with pick 2-7. Moy is going to serve as a change of pace back and is likely to be the primary 3rd down back. These roles should give CFL League MVP and OPOY Arthur Brady an occasional breather.

Andrew Stokes (QB) selected with pick 2-11. Stokes is going to be groomed as the QB of the future. He may challenge veteran signal caller Nathaniel Leake for the backup spot but is likely to remain the 3rd QB on the depth chart.

Kyle Flynn (LT) selected with pick 2-19. Flynn adds depth at the OT position.

Doug Fulcher (OG) selected with pick 2-30. Fulcher will add youth and depth at the backup for the great OGs in Chicago. He is talented but the hope is he doesnt have to play anytime soon. May get some work at OT.

Xavier Welch (CB) selected with pick 3-11. Welch will compete for a spot as the nickel or dime back in the revamped secondary.

Percy Scheffer (WR) selected with pick 3-30. Scheffer is expected to compete for a 4th or 5th WR position on the team.

Lawrence Schultz (WR) selected with pick 5-7. Schultz is expected to compete for a 4th or 5th WR position and may get a roster spot as a punt return specialist.

Chester Thomas (WR) selected with pick 6-11. Thomas is expected to compete for a 4th or 5th WR position and may get a roster spot as a kick return specialist.

Omar Brewer (OLB) selected with pick 7-11. Brewer adds depth and youth to the LB corps.