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NFL Mock Draft - 3/30/2010
Round 1
1. St. Louis Rams
Sam Bradford, QB, Oklahoma: Bradford did everything expected of him at his March 29 Pro Day in front of a large gathering of NFL evaluators, including most of the Rams' top brass. Nebraska's Ndamukong Suh might be the "safe" pick, but to change the losing culture in St. Louis, the team needs to build around a young quarterback. The pressure is on St. Louis to take a quarterback after passing on Matt Ryan and Mark Sanchez the past two years.
2. Detroit Lions
Ndamukong Suh, DT, Nebraska: Just as the Lions were fortunate to have the top prospect in the 2007 NFL draft -- wide receiver Calvin Johnson -- fall into their laps, they'll be in position to swoop up Suh in 2010. Gerald McCoy played in a one-gap, penetrating scheme at Oklahoma similar to the scheme the Lions employ and warrants consideration. Of the two, Suh is the sure prospect and will be embraced by Detroit's blue-collar fan base.
3. Tampa Bay Buccaneers
Gerald McCoy, DT, Oklahoma: The Bucs have been looking for a headliner inside at defensive tackle since future Hall of Famer Warren Sapp left town. McCoy is another gifted interior pass rusher. He would have been the first defensive tackle drafted last year as only a redshirt sophomore and posted 31 tackles, including 14.5 tackles for loss during the regular season in 2009 despite constant double-team blocking.
4. Washington Commanders
Jimmy Clausen, QB, Notre Dame: The value of the quarterback position led the Rams to take Bradford. Expect the Commanders to ultimately eschew the greater need at offensive tackle to build for the future. Incumbent starter Jason Campbell was tendered a one-year deal as a restricted free agent but has never played with the consistency Mike Shanahan requires from his quarterbacks. Clausen, largely based on his tutelage under Charlie Weis, is relatively pro ready and could step in as the Commanders' starter by 2011.
5. Kansas City Chiefs
Russell Okung, OT, Oklahoma State: Scott Pioli drafted DE Tyson Jackson with the third overall pick last April because he knew Jackson would fit the scheme and play well immediately. Equally risk-free would be choosing left tackle Okung, who would push former first-round pick Branden Albert to his more natural right tackle position. The All-American would have been a first-round pick in 2009, but elected to return for his senior season and allowed only one sack in 336 passing attempts.
6. Seattle Seahawks
Trent Williams, OT, Oklahoma: In Charlie Whitehurst, Pete Carroll clearly believes he has found his quarterback of the future. His next priority should be the offensive line. Without the high second-round pick that could have been used on one of the next-tier tackles -- the pick was sacrificed to acquire Whitehurst from San Diego, which mandated the teams swap second-round position -- who would fit Alex Gibbs' zone-blocking system, the Seahawks have backed themselves into a corner and now must address the line early. Williams is experienced at left and right tackle, has the versatility Seattle needs and is moving up draft boards after stunning workouts.
7. Cleveland Browns
Eric Berry, FS, Tennessee: President Mike Holmgren, general manager Tom Heckert and head coach Eric Mangini headlined an exhaustive search by the Browns over the past month to cover every top prospect potentially available to them with this pick. Instinctive, disciplined and as sure to make an immediate impact as any prospect still on the board, Berry makes sense for Cleveland.
8. Oakland Raiders
Bruce Campbell, OT, Maryland: The Raiders are the league's most difficult team to predict on draft day. Campbell isn't graded by every team as a first-round prospect, much less a top 10 pick. His elite athleticism could be too much for Al Davis to pass up. The Raiders have to improve their pass protection. Despite attempting the seventh-fewest passes in the league last year (485), the Raiders ranked 30th in the league in sacks allowed.
9. Buffalo Bills
Bryan Bulaga, OT, Iowa: The Bills are desperate for talent on the offensive line. Bulaga has relatively short (33 1/4-inch) arms and therefore is not as highly regarded as Okung or Williams. However, he might be the most pro-ready tackle in the class, making the most of his time under highly respected coach Kirk Ferentz. Bulaga could step in immediately and propel the Bills' youth movement up front.
10. Jacksonville Jaguars
Earl Thomas, CB, Texas: The Jaguars filled other needs in free agency and the safety position is in need of repair. Reggie Nelson, another first-round pick, hasn't acclimated to the NFL. Thomas had eight interceptions in 2009 and has the ability to play cornerback or be a ballhawk in the deep middle.
11. Denver Broncos (from Chicago)
Rolando McClain, ILB, Alabama: The Broncos have a hole at inside linebacker after releasing Andra Davis but took one step toward filling the NT spot by signing veteran Jamal Williams. Inside linebackers rarely warrant a top-15 pick, but the significant drop-off in talent following McClain at the position could force a needy team like the Broncos to pounce early.
12. Miami Dolphins
Dan Williams, DT, Tennessee: Re-signing 35-year-old nose tackle Jason Ferguson gives the Dolphins depth, but Ferguson must serve an eight-game suspension (banned substances). That makes the position a critical need area and, with so many teams using more "30" fronts, VP Bill Parcells will invest in the draft's top prototype at nose tackle.
13. San Francisco 49ers
Joe Haden, CB, Florida: Haden's workout was given second billing with Tim Tebow starring at the UF Pro Day. As impressive as Haden was in the workout, his lack of elite speed could push him down the board a bit further than expected. The 49ers could be lucky if he does slide. Haden has the size, playmaking skills and willingness to defend the run that few other corners in this class possess.
14. Seattle Seahawks (from Denver)
Derrick Morgan, DE, Georgia Tech: The Seahawks have bigger needs but Pete Carroll is a defense-first coach and won't ignore the game film. After posting 14.5 sacks in 2007, Patrick Kerney has fallen off to 5.0 sacks each of the past two seasons. Worse, the 33 year-old's 5.0 sacks last season led this unit. He is due $5.16 million this season. Morgan had 12.5 sacks last season.
15. New York Giants
C.J. Spiller, RB, Clemson: For the Giants to immediately jump back into the NFC East picture, they need to add playmakers. True, they have greater needs, but the team can't afford to bank on a return to dominance from Brandon Jacobs and backup Ahmad Bradshaw. Spiller can bring the Giants the element of the big play they've been missing on offense and special teams.
16. Tennessee Titans
Jason Pierre-Paul, DE, South Florida: Defensive line play, long a key strength in Tennessee, has become a relative weakness. Under Jeff Fisher, the Titans have done a spectacular job of teaching fundamentals and are one of the few clubs with a track record of developing defensive linemen. Pierre-Paul, with only seven career starts is a gamble on greatness, but a potentially excellent first step in the youth movement the Titans knew was coming.
17. San Francisco 49ers (from Carolina)
Mike Iupati, OG, Idaho: It would be a surprise if the 49ers don't invest one of their two first-round picks in an offensive lineman. Iupati has experience at guard and he might have to begin his career there, though many believe he has the size and athleticism to ultimately move to tackle. The 49ers employ one of the NFL's better offensive line coaches in Mike Solari and just might be able to turn Iupati's potential into production quickly.
18. Pittsburgh Steelers
Maurkice Pouncey, C, Florida: The Steelers finished 31st in the NFL in sacks allowed last season and the running game was hit-or-miss. Entirely too many of their problems came from the inside, where undersized center Justin Hartwig was simply overmatched, at times. Though Pouncey comes from the Gators' spread attack, he's hardly a finesse player. His size (6-5, 318), strength and versatility make him an intriguing fit against the ultra-physical defenses of the AFC North.
19. Atlanta Falcons
Brandon Graham, OLB, Michigan: The Falcons saw a dramatic fall in production from pass rusher John Abraham from 2008 (16.5 sacks) to 2009 (5.5 sacks), in part because he doesn't have a complement on the other side. Graham, like former Michigan standout LaMarr Woodley, lacks the size teams want at defensive end and could slip out of the first round if unable to prove to scouts he can handle the transition to outside linebacker. Rather than gamble on a raw, inconsistent athlete like USC's Everson Griffin, the Falcons would be wise to take Graham, who led the nation with 26 tackles for loss and posted 10.5 sacks in only 12 games.
20. Houston Texans
Ryan Mathews, RB, Fresno State: Former offensive line coach Alex Gibbs, now in Seattle, didn't embrace the idea of a bigger back to complement Steve Slaton. The Texans can address that need now with Mathews, who led the nation with an average of 150.67 yards per game in 2009. By proving his athleticism in workouts, he's moving up draft boards.
21. Cincinnati Bengals
Dez Bryant, WR, Oklahoma State: Bryant has undeniable talent, but concern is growing among scouts that he might not have the work ethic or maturity to be an NFL star. The Bengals already signed a free agent complement to Chad Ochocinco (Antonio Bryant signed a four-year, $28 million deal), but Dez Bryant could be drafted and groomed as the future lead receiver.
22. New England Patriots
Jared Odrick, DT, Penn State: The long-term contract for Vince Wilfork solved one problem, but the Patriots suffered last year without Richard Seymour. The loss of backup Jarvis Green only makes finding help along the defensive line even more of a concern. Belichick loves versatility and good technique in defensive linemen and Odrick brings that.
23. Green Bay Packers
Anthony Davis, OT, Rutgers: GM Ted Thompson doesn't have to focus on the offensive line with this pick. But considering the age and health history of veterans Chad Clifton and Mark Tauscher, Thompson would be wise to address the team's depth up front with the talented Davis, who some believe could prove to ultimately be the best tackle from this class.
24. Philadelphia Eagles
Taylor Mays, FS, Southern California: When the Eagles let Brian Dawkins go last season, they lost a great deal of leadership and physicality. The team acknowledged as much by signing Marlin Jackson in free agency. But he also has a history of knee issues and has never been a standout at cornerback or safety. Mays might not replace Dawkins' presence in the locker room, but his big-hitting ability would bring toughness to what was a soft defense at times last season.
25. Baltimore Ravens
Jermaine Gresham, TE, Oklahoma: By adding Anquan Boldin, the Ravens gave Joe Flacco a legitimate No. 1 target and Ozzie Newsome showed he is committed to giving aging stars Ray Lewis and Ed Reed one more shot at the Super Bowl. Todd Heap, when healthy, has proven to be one of the better tight ends in the NFL but has struggled with durability in recent years.
26. Arizona Cardinals
Sergio Kindle, OLB, Texas: Subtracting Kurt Warner and Anquan Boldin is sure to generate more attention, but the Cardinals are less prepared to handle the free agent defection of versatile linebacker Karlos Dansby. Kindle doesn't have the instincts or physicality to take over Danby's inside linebacker position, but he could provide a similar playmaker on the outside.
27. Dallas Cowboys
Rodger Saffold, OT, Indiana: The Cowboys haven't spent a first-round pick on the offensive line since 1989. This might be the time -- valued backups Montrae Holland and Cory Procter potentially enter free agency after this season and Flozell Adams has been a bit of a turnstile at left tackle. Saffold can start inside as a rookie and eventually replace Adams.
28. San Diego Chargers
Devin McCourty, CB, Rutgers: The Chargers don't necessarily need to add a cornerback here to fill the hole left by Antonio Cromartie as 2008 first-round pick Antoine Cason is poised to take over. With only marginal depth behind Cason and aging Quentin Jammer, San Diego could do well to nab the underrated McCourty here.
29. New York Jets
Jerry Hughes, OLB, TCU: For all of the successes Rex Ryan enjoyed in his inaugural season, the defensive whiz was unable to turn around a struggling Jets' pass rush. Hughes, an All-American defensive end, proved in workouts he had the agility to handle converting to outside linebacker and is moving up the board.
30. Minnesota Vikings
Kyle Wilson, CB, Boise State: The midseason injury to Antoine Winfield showed that the Vikings need to begin developing some depth at cornerback. Now, with fellow starter Cedric Griffin recovering from surgery for the ACL he tore during the NFC Championship Game, the Vikings may be forced to address the position early. Wilson would be a great fit behind Minnesota's pass rush.
31. Indianapolis Colts
Charles Brown, OT, Southern California: The Colts have plenty of needs, most of them on defense, but that's been true throughout most of Bill Polian's term with the team. Polian has continually focused first-round picks on the offense and surprised with his pick of Donald Brown in 2009.
32. New Orleans Saints
Carlos Dunlap, DE, Florida: Dunlap has the athletic tools to warrant a first-round selection, but could fall to the lower first round or early second. The Saints need to replace Charles Grant, who was released, and Dunlap has too much upside for the Saints to ignore.
Round 2
33. St. Louis Rams
Brian Price, DT, UCLA: One of the reasons the Rams believe Bradford is the right choice at No. 1 is the value that should be available at the top of the second round should be enticing. Price has the burst to wreak havoc inside.
34. Detroit Lions
Jahvid Best, RB, California: Kevin Smith (ACL) is coming off of injury and the Lions don't have a feature back. Best has the speed and elusiveness to take pressure off of Stafford and could excel in a niche role out of the backfield.
35. Tampa Bay Buccaneers
Demaryius Thomas, WR, Georgia Tech: The Bucs will be looking for a big-play receiver to pair with QB Josh Freeman. Thomas, if he were healthy, could've been a first-round pick.
36. Kansas City Chiefs
Everson Griffen, DE, Southern California: The Chiefs need pass rushers and Griffen has first-round athleticism.
37. Washington Commanders
Koa Misi, OLB, Utah: If the Commanders are going to make the full transition to a 3-4 scheme, they'll need a contingency plan behind converting Andre Carter to outside linebacker. Misi is flying up draft boards.
38. Cleveland Browns
Colt McCoy, QB, Texas: McCoy has the pocket presence, accuracy in the short to intermediate range and intangibles Mike Holmgren likes in a quarterback. A strong showing by McCoy in Austin could make Holmgren eat his words about not wanting to use a second-round pick on a quarterback.
39. Oakland Raiders
Sean Weatherspoon, OLB, Missouri: The Raiders need an infusion of speed, intensity and leadership up the middle of this defense. Weatherspoon would be an upgrade over incumbent starter Kirk Morrison inside.
40. San Diego Chargers (from Seattle)
Jonathan Dwyer, RB, Georgia Tech: LaDainian Tomlinson played in an option-type offense at TCU, but the Chargers were able to see his value and the option background of Dwyer won't be a deterrent here. He can become the gash to pair with Darren Sproles' dash as a rookie.
41. Buffalo Bills
Terrence Cody, DT, Alabama: If the Bills are going to change their defense to become a primary 3-4 base, they'll need to address their lack of size up front. Size is one thing Mt. Cody brings.
42. Tampa Bay Buccaneers
Kareem Jackson, CB, Alabama: The Bucs need to add playmakers in the secondary and could add the fast-rising Jackson here as an eventual replacement for Ronde Barber.
43. Miami Dolphins
Arrelious Benn, WR, Illinois: Benn has the size and strength Bill Parcells looks for at receiver and would be a good value at this spot.
44. New England Patriots
Golden Tate, WR, Notre Dame: The injury to Wes Welker and age of Randy Moss will force the Patriots to begin looking at adding more weapons for Tom Brady. Tate is a dynamic playmaker worthy of first-round consideration, but his lack of size could push him into the Patriots' lap.
45. Denver Broncos
Vladimir Ducasse, OT, Massachusetts: The Broncos are set at offensive tackle, but could plug a hole at guard with Ducasse, who is talented but remains a work in progress.
46. New York Giants
Daryl Washington, OLB, TCU: Long a team strength, the Giants now are severely lacking in speed and playmaking ability at linebacker. Washington lacks the bulk some teams prefer, but is flying up the board due to his upside.
47. New England Patriots
Tim Tebow, QB, Florida: Tebow's best fit is on a team with an established veteran quarterback and respected coaching staff willing to give him a few years to develop as a pro-style passer while also finding a way to get him on the field immediately.
48. Carolina Panthers
Tyson Alualu, DT, California: Carolina's first pick in this draft can't be a miss. Alualu might never become a Pro Bowl-caliber player, but his size, durability and hustle make him one of the safer picks in the draft.
49. San Francisco 49ers
Ricky Sapp, OLB, Clemson: For their 3-4 scheme to work the 49ers need to continue to improve a pass rush that was not as dangerous as their final stats might imply. Sapp has first-round athleticism, but could slip due to questions about the health of his surgically repaired knee.
50. Kansas City Chiefs
Nate Allen, FS, South Florida: The Chiefs are hurting for playmakers in the secondary and would likely be pleased to see Allen -- some scouts feel he is among the elite coverage safeties in this class -- still on the board.
51. Houston Texans
Patrick Robinson, CB, Florida State: Losing Dunta Robinson could force Houston's hand. Robinson has the cover skills to rate as the top senior cornerback in the draft for some clubs and is a solid value here.
52. Pittsburgh Steelers
Alex Carrington, DE, Arkansas State: The Steelers need to again address the age and thin depth on their defensive line. Carrington and 2009 first-round pick Ziggy Hood would greatly enhance both current Steelers' shortcomings.
53. New England Patriots
Rob Gronkowski, TE, Arizona: Veteran Alge Crumpler gives the team an option at the position, but the Patriots use the tight end too often not to add at least one young player at the position. "Gronk" has first-round potential and is a complete tight end capable of helping out as a blocker and receiver.
54. Cincinnati Bengals
Dominique Franks, CB, Oklahoma: The Bengals have solid starters but would like to develop more consistency behind them. Franks has the size to compete in the AFC North and has return skills.
55. Philadelphia Eagles
Corey Wootton, DE, Northwestern: The Eagles need to add size and strength against the run.
56. Green Bay Packers
Chris Cook, CB, Virginia: With little depth at cornerback, Cook's size and press coverage skills will attract defensive coordinator Dom Capers.
57. Baltimore Ravens
Austen Lane, DE, Murray State: Ozzie Newsome loves to find unheralded prospects who need only NFL-quality coaching before developing into pro starters. Lane appears to be one such case. He has the rare bulk and athleticism to emerge as a quality end in a 3-4 scheme after one year in the weight room.
58. Arizona Cardinals
Jason Worilds, OLB, Virginia Tech: The Cardinals can't rely on their aging pass rushers or the complete recovery of 2009 second-round pick Cody Brown to rejuvenate their pass rush. Worilds is moving up the board due to strong workouts and is a natural pass rusher.
59. Dallas Cowboys
Morgan Burnett, FS, Georgia Tech: The Cowboys would like to get more athletic at safety and would love to see Burnett still on the board here.
60. Seattle Seahawks
Damian Williams, WR, Southern California: Depth in the wide receiver class will push a few talented players down the board. Williams lacks the straight-line speed some teams are looking for but would be a good match for Seattle. The Seahawks need someone to replace Nate Burleson's big-play potential at wide receiver and returner.
61. New York Jets
Cam Thomas, DT, North Carolina: Coach Rex Ryan's physical brand of football requires depth across the board. Cam Thomas is a draft riser and can be an insurance policy behind Kris Jenkins as a rookie.
62. Minnesota Vikings
Ben Tate, RB, Auburn: The Vikings lost Chester Taylor and missed out on LaDainian Tomlinson in free agency. Tate is dependable and could surprise if given an opportunity.
63. Indianapolis Colts
Lamarr Houston, DT, Texas: The Colts would like to get more athletic in the middle without sacrificing size. Houston has the size and agility to do that and had his best games against top competition.
64. New Orleans Saints
Chad Jones, SS, LSU: Darren Sharper might ultimately re-sign with the Saints, but even if he does, New Orleans would be wise to invest in the future. Jones has rare athleticism, but has only one season of experience as a starter.
Round 1
1. St. Louis Rams
Sam Bradford, QB, Oklahoma: Bradford did everything expected of him at his March 29 Pro Day in front of a large gathering of NFL evaluators, including most of the Rams' top brass. Nebraska's Ndamukong Suh might be the "safe" pick, but to change the losing culture in St. Louis, the team needs to build around a young quarterback. The pressure is on St. Louis to take a quarterback after passing on Matt Ryan and Mark Sanchez the past two years.
2. Detroit Lions
Ndamukong Suh, DT, Nebraska: Just as the Lions were fortunate to have the top prospect in the 2007 NFL draft -- wide receiver Calvin Johnson -- fall into their laps, they'll be in position to swoop up Suh in 2010. Gerald McCoy played in a one-gap, penetrating scheme at Oklahoma similar to the scheme the Lions employ and warrants consideration. Of the two, Suh is the sure prospect and will be embraced by Detroit's blue-collar fan base.
3. Tampa Bay Buccaneers
Gerald McCoy, DT, Oklahoma: The Bucs have been looking for a headliner inside at defensive tackle since future Hall of Famer Warren Sapp left town. McCoy is another gifted interior pass rusher. He would have been the first defensive tackle drafted last year as only a redshirt sophomore and posted 31 tackles, including 14.5 tackles for loss during the regular season in 2009 despite constant double-team blocking.
4. Washington Commanders
Jimmy Clausen, QB, Notre Dame: The value of the quarterback position led the Rams to take Bradford. Expect the Commanders to ultimately eschew the greater need at offensive tackle to build for the future. Incumbent starter Jason Campbell was tendered a one-year deal as a restricted free agent but has never played with the consistency Mike Shanahan requires from his quarterbacks. Clausen, largely based on his tutelage under Charlie Weis, is relatively pro ready and could step in as the Commanders' starter by 2011.
5. Kansas City Chiefs
Russell Okung, OT, Oklahoma State: Scott Pioli drafted DE Tyson Jackson with the third overall pick last April because he knew Jackson would fit the scheme and play well immediately. Equally risk-free would be choosing left tackle Okung, who would push former first-round pick Branden Albert to his more natural right tackle position. The All-American would have been a first-round pick in 2009, but elected to return for his senior season and allowed only one sack in 336 passing attempts.
6. Seattle Seahawks
Trent Williams, OT, Oklahoma: In Charlie Whitehurst, Pete Carroll clearly believes he has found his quarterback of the future. His next priority should be the offensive line. Without the high second-round pick that could have been used on one of the next-tier tackles -- the pick was sacrificed to acquire Whitehurst from San Diego, which mandated the teams swap second-round position -- who would fit Alex Gibbs' zone-blocking system, the Seahawks have backed themselves into a corner and now must address the line early. Williams is experienced at left and right tackle, has the versatility Seattle needs and is moving up draft boards after stunning workouts.
7. Cleveland Browns
Eric Berry, FS, Tennessee: President Mike Holmgren, general manager Tom Heckert and head coach Eric Mangini headlined an exhaustive search by the Browns over the past month to cover every top prospect potentially available to them with this pick. Instinctive, disciplined and as sure to make an immediate impact as any prospect still on the board, Berry makes sense for Cleveland.
8. Oakland Raiders
Bruce Campbell, OT, Maryland: The Raiders are the league's most difficult team to predict on draft day. Campbell isn't graded by every team as a first-round prospect, much less a top 10 pick. His elite athleticism could be too much for Al Davis to pass up. The Raiders have to improve their pass protection. Despite attempting the seventh-fewest passes in the league last year (485), the Raiders ranked 30th in the league in sacks allowed.
9. Buffalo Bills
Bryan Bulaga, OT, Iowa: The Bills are desperate for talent on the offensive line. Bulaga has relatively short (33 1/4-inch) arms and therefore is not as highly regarded as Okung or Williams. However, he might be the most pro-ready tackle in the class, making the most of his time under highly respected coach Kirk Ferentz. Bulaga could step in immediately and propel the Bills' youth movement up front.
10. Jacksonville Jaguars
Earl Thomas, CB, Texas: The Jaguars filled other needs in free agency and the safety position is in need of repair. Reggie Nelson, another first-round pick, hasn't acclimated to the NFL. Thomas had eight interceptions in 2009 and has the ability to play cornerback or be a ballhawk in the deep middle.
11. Denver Broncos (from Chicago)
Rolando McClain, ILB, Alabama: The Broncos have a hole at inside linebacker after releasing Andra Davis but took one step toward filling the NT spot by signing veteran Jamal Williams. Inside linebackers rarely warrant a top-15 pick, but the significant drop-off in talent following McClain at the position could force a needy team like the Broncos to pounce early.
12. Miami Dolphins
Dan Williams, DT, Tennessee: Re-signing 35-year-old nose tackle Jason Ferguson gives the Dolphins depth, but Ferguson must serve an eight-game suspension (banned substances). That makes the position a critical need area and, with so many teams using more "30" fronts, VP Bill Parcells will invest in the draft's top prototype at nose tackle.
13. San Francisco 49ers
Joe Haden, CB, Florida: Haden's workout was given second billing with Tim Tebow starring at the UF Pro Day. As impressive as Haden was in the workout, his lack of elite speed could push him down the board a bit further than expected. The 49ers could be lucky if he does slide. Haden has the size, playmaking skills and willingness to defend the run that few other corners in this class possess.
14. Seattle Seahawks (from Denver)
Derrick Morgan, DE, Georgia Tech: The Seahawks have bigger needs but Pete Carroll is a defense-first coach and won't ignore the game film. After posting 14.5 sacks in 2007, Patrick Kerney has fallen off to 5.0 sacks each of the past two seasons. Worse, the 33 year-old's 5.0 sacks last season led this unit. He is due $5.16 million this season. Morgan had 12.5 sacks last season.
15. New York Giants
C.J. Spiller, RB, Clemson: For the Giants to immediately jump back into the NFC East picture, they need to add playmakers. True, they have greater needs, but the team can't afford to bank on a return to dominance from Brandon Jacobs and backup Ahmad Bradshaw. Spiller can bring the Giants the element of the big play they've been missing on offense and special teams.
16. Tennessee Titans
Jason Pierre-Paul, DE, South Florida: Defensive line play, long a key strength in Tennessee, has become a relative weakness. Under Jeff Fisher, the Titans have done a spectacular job of teaching fundamentals and are one of the few clubs with a track record of developing defensive linemen. Pierre-Paul, with only seven career starts is a gamble on greatness, but a potentially excellent first step in the youth movement the Titans knew was coming.
17. San Francisco 49ers (from Carolina)
Mike Iupati, OG, Idaho: It would be a surprise if the 49ers don't invest one of their two first-round picks in an offensive lineman. Iupati has experience at guard and he might have to begin his career there, though many believe he has the size and athleticism to ultimately move to tackle. The 49ers employ one of the NFL's better offensive line coaches in Mike Solari and just might be able to turn Iupati's potential into production quickly.
18. Pittsburgh Steelers
Maurkice Pouncey, C, Florida: The Steelers finished 31st in the NFL in sacks allowed last season and the running game was hit-or-miss. Entirely too many of their problems came from the inside, where undersized center Justin Hartwig was simply overmatched, at times. Though Pouncey comes from the Gators' spread attack, he's hardly a finesse player. His size (6-5, 318), strength and versatility make him an intriguing fit against the ultra-physical defenses of the AFC North.
19. Atlanta Falcons
Brandon Graham, OLB, Michigan: The Falcons saw a dramatic fall in production from pass rusher John Abraham from 2008 (16.5 sacks) to 2009 (5.5 sacks), in part because he doesn't have a complement on the other side. Graham, like former Michigan standout LaMarr Woodley, lacks the size teams want at defensive end and could slip out of the first round if unable to prove to scouts he can handle the transition to outside linebacker. Rather than gamble on a raw, inconsistent athlete like USC's Everson Griffin, the Falcons would be wise to take Graham, who led the nation with 26 tackles for loss and posted 10.5 sacks in only 12 games.
20. Houston Texans
Ryan Mathews, RB, Fresno State: Former offensive line coach Alex Gibbs, now in Seattle, didn't embrace the idea of a bigger back to complement Steve Slaton. The Texans can address that need now with Mathews, who led the nation with an average of 150.67 yards per game in 2009. By proving his athleticism in workouts, he's moving up draft boards.
21. Cincinnati Bengals
Dez Bryant, WR, Oklahoma State: Bryant has undeniable talent, but concern is growing among scouts that he might not have the work ethic or maturity to be an NFL star. The Bengals already signed a free agent complement to Chad Ochocinco (Antonio Bryant signed a four-year, $28 million deal), but Dez Bryant could be drafted and groomed as the future lead receiver.
22. New England Patriots
Jared Odrick, DT, Penn State: The long-term contract for Vince Wilfork solved one problem, but the Patriots suffered last year without Richard Seymour. The loss of backup Jarvis Green only makes finding help along the defensive line even more of a concern. Belichick loves versatility and good technique in defensive linemen and Odrick brings that.
23. Green Bay Packers
Anthony Davis, OT, Rutgers: GM Ted Thompson doesn't have to focus on the offensive line with this pick. But considering the age and health history of veterans Chad Clifton and Mark Tauscher, Thompson would be wise to address the team's depth up front with the talented Davis, who some believe could prove to ultimately be the best tackle from this class.
24. Philadelphia Eagles
Taylor Mays, FS, Southern California: When the Eagles let Brian Dawkins go last season, they lost a great deal of leadership and physicality. The team acknowledged as much by signing Marlin Jackson in free agency. But he also has a history of knee issues and has never been a standout at cornerback or safety. Mays might not replace Dawkins' presence in the locker room, but his big-hitting ability would bring toughness to what was a soft defense at times last season.
25. Baltimore Ravens
Jermaine Gresham, TE, Oklahoma: By adding Anquan Boldin, the Ravens gave Joe Flacco a legitimate No. 1 target and Ozzie Newsome showed he is committed to giving aging stars Ray Lewis and Ed Reed one more shot at the Super Bowl. Todd Heap, when healthy, has proven to be one of the better tight ends in the NFL but has struggled with durability in recent years.
26. Arizona Cardinals
Sergio Kindle, OLB, Texas: Subtracting Kurt Warner and Anquan Boldin is sure to generate more attention, but the Cardinals are less prepared to handle the free agent defection of versatile linebacker Karlos Dansby. Kindle doesn't have the instincts or physicality to take over Danby's inside linebacker position, but he could provide a similar playmaker on the outside.
27. Dallas Cowboys
Rodger Saffold, OT, Indiana: The Cowboys haven't spent a first-round pick on the offensive line since 1989. This might be the time -- valued backups Montrae Holland and Cory Procter potentially enter free agency after this season and Flozell Adams has been a bit of a turnstile at left tackle. Saffold can start inside as a rookie and eventually replace Adams.
28. San Diego Chargers
Devin McCourty, CB, Rutgers: The Chargers don't necessarily need to add a cornerback here to fill the hole left by Antonio Cromartie as 2008 first-round pick Antoine Cason is poised to take over. With only marginal depth behind Cason and aging Quentin Jammer, San Diego could do well to nab the underrated McCourty here.
29. New York Jets
Jerry Hughes, OLB, TCU: For all of the successes Rex Ryan enjoyed in his inaugural season, the defensive whiz was unable to turn around a struggling Jets' pass rush. Hughes, an All-American defensive end, proved in workouts he had the agility to handle converting to outside linebacker and is moving up the board.
30. Minnesota Vikings
Kyle Wilson, CB, Boise State: The midseason injury to Antoine Winfield showed that the Vikings need to begin developing some depth at cornerback. Now, with fellow starter Cedric Griffin recovering from surgery for the ACL he tore during the NFC Championship Game, the Vikings may be forced to address the position early. Wilson would be a great fit behind Minnesota's pass rush.
31. Indianapolis Colts
Charles Brown, OT, Southern California: The Colts have plenty of needs, most of them on defense, but that's been true throughout most of Bill Polian's term with the team. Polian has continually focused first-round picks on the offense and surprised with his pick of Donald Brown in 2009.
32. New Orleans Saints
Carlos Dunlap, DE, Florida: Dunlap has the athletic tools to warrant a first-round selection, but could fall to the lower first round or early second. The Saints need to replace Charles Grant, who was released, and Dunlap has too much upside for the Saints to ignore.
Round 2
33. St. Louis Rams
Brian Price, DT, UCLA: One of the reasons the Rams believe Bradford is the right choice at No. 1 is the value that should be available at the top of the second round should be enticing. Price has the burst to wreak havoc inside.
34. Detroit Lions
Jahvid Best, RB, California: Kevin Smith (ACL) is coming off of injury and the Lions don't have a feature back. Best has the speed and elusiveness to take pressure off of Stafford and could excel in a niche role out of the backfield.
35. Tampa Bay Buccaneers
Demaryius Thomas, WR, Georgia Tech: The Bucs will be looking for a big-play receiver to pair with QB Josh Freeman. Thomas, if he were healthy, could've been a first-round pick.
36. Kansas City Chiefs
Everson Griffen, DE, Southern California: The Chiefs need pass rushers and Griffen has first-round athleticism.
37. Washington Commanders
Koa Misi, OLB, Utah: If the Commanders are going to make the full transition to a 3-4 scheme, they'll need a contingency plan behind converting Andre Carter to outside linebacker. Misi is flying up draft boards.
38. Cleveland Browns
Colt McCoy, QB, Texas: McCoy has the pocket presence, accuracy in the short to intermediate range and intangibles Mike Holmgren likes in a quarterback. A strong showing by McCoy in Austin could make Holmgren eat his words about not wanting to use a second-round pick on a quarterback.
39. Oakland Raiders
Sean Weatherspoon, OLB, Missouri: The Raiders need an infusion of speed, intensity and leadership up the middle of this defense. Weatherspoon would be an upgrade over incumbent starter Kirk Morrison inside.
40. San Diego Chargers (from Seattle)
Jonathan Dwyer, RB, Georgia Tech: LaDainian Tomlinson played in an option-type offense at TCU, but the Chargers were able to see his value and the option background of Dwyer won't be a deterrent here. He can become the gash to pair with Darren Sproles' dash as a rookie.
41. Buffalo Bills
Terrence Cody, DT, Alabama: If the Bills are going to change their defense to become a primary 3-4 base, they'll need to address their lack of size up front. Size is one thing Mt. Cody brings.
42. Tampa Bay Buccaneers
Kareem Jackson, CB, Alabama: The Bucs need to add playmakers in the secondary and could add the fast-rising Jackson here as an eventual replacement for Ronde Barber.
43. Miami Dolphins
Arrelious Benn, WR, Illinois: Benn has the size and strength Bill Parcells looks for at receiver and would be a good value at this spot.
44. New England Patriots
Golden Tate, WR, Notre Dame: The injury to Wes Welker and age of Randy Moss will force the Patriots to begin looking at adding more weapons for Tom Brady. Tate is a dynamic playmaker worthy of first-round consideration, but his lack of size could push him into the Patriots' lap.
45. Denver Broncos
Vladimir Ducasse, OT, Massachusetts: The Broncos are set at offensive tackle, but could plug a hole at guard with Ducasse, who is talented but remains a work in progress.
46. New York Giants
Daryl Washington, OLB, TCU: Long a team strength, the Giants now are severely lacking in speed and playmaking ability at linebacker. Washington lacks the bulk some teams prefer, but is flying up the board due to his upside.
47. New England Patriots
Tim Tebow, QB, Florida: Tebow's best fit is on a team with an established veteran quarterback and respected coaching staff willing to give him a few years to develop as a pro-style passer while also finding a way to get him on the field immediately.
48. Carolina Panthers
Tyson Alualu, DT, California: Carolina's first pick in this draft can't be a miss. Alualu might never become a Pro Bowl-caliber player, but his size, durability and hustle make him one of the safer picks in the draft.
49. San Francisco 49ers
Ricky Sapp, OLB, Clemson: For their 3-4 scheme to work the 49ers need to continue to improve a pass rush that was not as dangerous as their final stats might imply. Sapp has first-round athleticism, but could slip due to questions about the health of his surgically repaired knee.
50. Kansas City Chiefs
Nate Allen, FS, South Florida: The Chiefs are hurting for playmakers in the secondary and would likely be pleased to see Allen -- some scouts feel he is among the elite coverage safeties in this class -- still on the board.
51. Houston Texans
Patrick Robinson, CB, Florida State: Losing Dunta Robinson could force Houston's hand. Robinson has the cover skills to rate as the top senior cornerback in the draft for some clubs and is a solid value here.
52. Pittsburgh Steelers
Alex Carrington, DE, Arkansas State: The Steelers need to again address the age and thin depth on their defensive line. Carrington and 2009 first-round pick Ziggy Hood would greatly enhance both current Steelers' shortcomings.
53. New England Patriots
Rob Gronkowski, TE, Arizona: Veteran Alge Crumpler gives the team an option at the position, but the Patriots use the tight end too often not to add at least one young player at the position. "Gronk" has first-round potential and is a complete tight end capable of helping out as a blocker and receiver.
54. Cincinnati Bengals
Dominique Franks, CB, Oklahoma: The Bengals have solid starters but would like to develop more consistency behind them. Franks has the size to compete in the AFC North and has return skills.
55. Philadelphia Eagles
Corey Wootton, DE, Northwestern: The Eagles need to add size and strength against the run.
56. Green Bay Packers
Chris Cook, CB, Virginia: With little depth at cornerback, Cook's size and press coverage skills will attract defensive coordinator Dom Capers.
57. Baltimore Ravens
Austen Lane, DE, Murray State: Ozzie Newsome loves to find unheralded prospects who need only NFL-quality coaching before developing into pro starters. Lane appears to be one such case. He has the rare bulk and athleticism to emerge as a quality end in a 3-4 scheme after one year in the weight room.
58. Arizona Cardinals
Jason Worilds, OLB, Virginia Tech: The Cardinals can't rely on their aging pass rushers or the complete recovery of 2009 second-round pick Cody Brown to rejuvenate their pass rush. Worilds is moving up the board due to strong workouts and is a natural pass rusher.
59. Dallas Cowboys
Morgan Burnett, FS, Georgia Tech: The Cowboys would like to get more athletic at safety and would love to see Burnett still on the board here.
60. Seattle Seahawks
Damian Williams, WR, Southern California: Depth in the wide receiver class will push a few talented players down the board. Williams lacks the straight-line speed some teams are looking for but would be a good match for Seattle. The Seahawks need someone to replace Nate Burleson's big-play potential at wide receiver and returner.
61. New York Jets
Cam Thomas, DT, North Carolina: Coach Rex Ryan's physical brand of football requires depth across the board. Cam Thomas is a draft riser and can be an insurance policy behind Kris Jenkins as a rookie.
62. Minnesota Vikings
Ben Tate, RB, Auburn: The Vikings lost Chester Taylor and missed out on LaDainian Tomlinson in free agency. Tate is dependable and could surprise if given an opportunity.
63. Indianapolis Colts
Lamarr Houston, DT, Texas: The Colts would like to get more athletic in the middle without sacrificing size. Houston has the size and agility to do that and had his best games against top competition.
64. New Orleans Saints
Chad Jones, SS, LSU: Darren Sharper might ultimately re-sign with the Saints, but even if he does, New Orleans would be wise to invest in the future. Jones has rare athleticism, but has only one season of experience as a starter.
