Polian can flat out build a winner and has made great draft choices here over the years. Some examples:
1. Peyton Manning vs. Ryan Leaf - people were split nearly 50-50 on which player to take #1. Many thought Leaf was the answer because he supposedly had more upside potential.
2. The "Edge" vs. Ricky Williams - people were shocked that he selected James as the first RB that draft. With the exception of the 2002/2003 knee injury, he has been one of the premier backs in the league who is often overlooked for his pass protection ability.
3. Dwight Freeney - I remember many comments on this board where people felt that Bryant McKinney was the stud we should take at #4 and that he manhandled Freeney during a major bowl game. Others said that Polian took Freeney way too early in the first round. Freeney is still soft against the run, however I think he has shown exceptional pass rushing abilities since day 1 in the league.
4. Drafting Reggie Wayne - not a bad compliment to Marvin Harrison, ask Denver!
5. Hiring Jim Mora (OK, not a good decision), but then hiring Tony Dungy! Hopefully we will have similar success with Tom Donahue's second coach.
These are just some of the higher profile picks he's made. It doesn't even speak to some of the other picks including OL made in lower rounds.