tm1119
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http://insider.espn.go.com/nfl/draft/mock/?season=2014&version=5&source=Mel-Kiper-Mock-Draft
1
Jadeveon Clowney
Houston Texans (2-14)
COLLEGE: South Carolina
Class: Jr
HT: 6-5
WT: 266
POS: DE
Analysis: No change here from the last mock. I'll also say again that I believe the Texans are still evaluating multiple options for this pick and certainly would listen to offers, but in this scenario, I feel they will ultimately go with the best player available. I know people will question scheme fit, but guys like Clowney, and certainly J.J. Watt, really transcend scheme. You shift the gap assignments and alignments for guys like these, and you're still going to see major disruption. If you skip sack totals and focus on disruption, Clowney really wasn't a lesser player in 2013 than he was in 2012.
2
Greg Robinson
St. Louis Rams (7-9)
COLLEGE: Auburn
HT: 6-5
WT: 332
POS: OT
Analysis: This is also a spot at which I've noted before I'd consider going with Sammy Watkins. And the Rams should also keep the phone lines open here. But if they stay, I think Robinson fits a pretty good balance equation of major talent and major need. This is a player with the upside of an All-Pro tackle. There's still some development left here, particularly in the passing game, but Robinson is only a year removed from playing guard. Not only can St. Louis pass on a wide receiver here, it's a loaded draft at that position and they can pass it at No. 13, too, and still be fine.
3
Sammy Watkins
Jacksonville Jaguars (4-12)
COLLEGE: Clemson
Class: Jr
HT: 6-0
WT: 211
POS: WR
Analysis: First of all, the Jags will deserve absolutely no heat if they don't take a quarterback here. There's just not enough certainty at that position anywhere in the rookie class to make it imperative to get one at this point. Secondly, even if it seemed like less of a risk, I'm not sure the Jags would do it. I really think they will take the best player at what is probably at least a minor position of need, and I like the Watkins fit. Watkins gives them a dynamic talent, a player who really can help a quarterback, and, given the uncertain future of Justin Blackmon, the depth chart could use Watkins' size and speed combination.
4
Johnny Manziel
Cleveland Browns (4-12)
COLLEGE: Texas A&M
Class: Soph
HT: 5-11
WT: 207
POS: QB
Analysis: Of course it's a risk, but the Browns are in a reasonable position to take a quarterback at this spot and still come out of this draft with impact regardless of what they get out of that quarterback early on. I've also noted before I don't think they need to draft Manziel with the assumption that he starts in Week 1. Brian Hoyer offers a reasonable bridge to a young starter. If Watkins is available here, I can see that as the pick, and I'm not sure Manziel is the No. 1 choice for the Browns at quarterback. But I'll bet on their belief in his ceiling here.
5
Khalil Mack
Oakland Raiders (4-12)
COLLEGE: Buffalo
HT: 6-2
WT: 251
POS: OLB
Analysis: I'm keeping Mack here from the most recent mock. The additions in free agency at a few spots -- namely at quarterback -- give the Raiders the chance to draft the best player available, and they certainly need an addition to the pass rush. The additions of veteran linemen in free agency don't really diminish that need, and as they look for early impact, Mack's usefulness as a three-down player helps. The Raiders should consider moving down and collecting additional pick assets, as they did last season when they made a first-night deal with Miami.
6
Taylor Lewan
Atlanta Falcons (4-12)
COLLEGE: Michigan
HT: 6-7
WT: 309
POS: OT
Analysis: There's been some buzz about Atlanta as a team capable of moving up to take Clowney, but the problem with that is while pass rush is a major need, it doesn't protect the single biggest asset this franchise has, which is Matt Ryan. Yeah, they need a pass-rusher, but tackle is also a major need for Atlanta. If you don't move up and opt to stay here, you still have a chance to take a player capable of going that high -- I really think Lewan could have challenged for No. 1 had he entered the draft last season. Match that level of value with obvious need and you could do a lot worse. Lewan can play.
7
Mike Evans
Tampa Bay Buccaneers (4-12)
COLLEGE: Texas A&M
Class: Soph
HT: 6-4
WT: 231
POS: WR
Analysis: I'd actually consider this another possible trade slot. When you consider how deep the draft is at wide receiver -- and the current shape of this roster -- I'm not sure the Bucs wouldn't listen here. If they stay put, I certainly like the Evans fit. Vincent Jackson is 31 years old and entering a season in which, without an addition at wide receiver, he could be facing a ton of attention from defense. And as I noted previously, if you're drafting the best player available at this slot, if you take Evans, you can do that, too. Evans isn't a burner, but he dominates with the ball in the air and is a brutal matchup whether in the SEC or in the NFC South. He can take pressure off Jackson and eventually take his spot.
8
Blake Bortles
Minnesota Vikings (5-10-1)
COLLEGE: UCF
Class: Jr
HT: 6-5
WT: 232
POS: QB
Analysis: Obviously, the current tandem of Matt Cassel and Christian Ponder isn't the long-term answer. On the other hand, the presence of both provides a reasonable basis for drafting a quarterback, because there's no need to simply force-feed a rookie the starting role out of the gate. I think Bortles will benefit from some time in the system before he's forced to handle first-team reps. I'll say again that Bortles is a very good athlete with excellent pocket instincts and can benefit from his ability to create some yards with his legs, as we've seen from a few other young quarterbacks recently.
9
Jake Matthews
Buffalo Bills (6-10)
COLLEGE: Texas A&M
HT: 6-5
WT: 308
POS: OT
Analysis: No move here. I think Matthews is a good fit based on the need and certainly lines up based on value. He's arguably the best player available here at any position and makes the Bills better. You can draft Matthews and keep Cordy Glenn at left tackle because Matthews has handled both tackle positions effectively. He's a big plus in the run game and is going to upgrade the protection for E.J. Manuel, which is of the utmost importance.
10
Odell Beckham Jr.
Detroit Lions (7-9)
COLLEGE: LSU
Class: Jr
HT: 5-11
WT: 198
POS: WR
Analysis: Last year, the Lions had the option of taking the top-rated cornerback in the draft, but passed on Dee Milliner. It's worked out so far, even though corner is a big need. This year, they could again have the option of taking a cornerback rated as the best one available ... but, again, they could pass. If their board looks at all like mine, I think both corner and safety (both needs) could be a slight reach here and (A) they really do need another receiver, and (B) Beckham could develop into a star here, even with Calvin Johnson and Golden Tate around. He's explosive with the ball in his hands, but you don't have to simply force easy catches, because he's a very good route-runner and will create space.
11
Darqueze Dennard
Tennessee Titans (7-9)
COLLEGE: Michigan State
Class: Sr
HT: 5-10
WT: 199
POS: CB
Analysis: The loss of Alterraun Verner is a pretty significant one, and Tennessee is potentially looking at a scenario in which a young guy like Blidi Wreh-Wilson is asked to take on a major role in coverage this season. But that's a player who played in fewer than 100 snaps last season. In other words, they could really use the addition of an experienced, versatile defender who can hold up early and adjust quickly. That's always a concern at cornerback, but Dennard is the best bet on the board.
12
Aaron Donald
New York Giants (7-9)
COLLEGE: Pittsburgh
HT: 6-0
WT: 285
POS: DT
Analysis: I've had tight end Eric Ebron pegged here previously, but I think Donald's rise up many boards makes him a pretty good get at this point. The drop-off from Donald to the next defensive tackle in his mold is enough where I think he gets a little boost, and he also helps out at a pretty significant need spot for the Giants. I know many Giants fans want to see an offensive weapon here, but the depth chart along the defensive line could certainly use some youth and explosiveness. I think Ebron could fit -- as could a receiver -- but if Donald isn't taken here, he could be taken at any of the next four spots on the board.
13
Ha Ha Clinton-Dix
St. Louis Rams (7-9)
COLLEGE: Alabama
Class: Jr
HT: 6-1
WT: 208
POS: S
Analysis: If Beckham is off the board here, you could see the attention turn to safety, at which the Rams have a pretty notable void. Clinton-Dix gives them some needed range and instincts in coverage and a possible pairing with T.J. McDonald, who showed flashes as a rookie in 2013 before a season-ending injury. Even with plenty of talent along the defensive line, I also think Donald could go here if available. An offensive tackle is also a possibility. Clinton-Dix isn't a big physical presence, but he's effective coming downhill and making tackles, and he's going to help in coverage.
14
Justin Gilbert
Chicago Bears (8-8)
COLLEGE: Oklahoma State
Class: Sr
HT: 6-0
WT: 202
POS: CB
Analysis:Maybe the Bears won't get their first choice among some pretty big need options, but in Gilbert, they certainly check off one. I like Donald here if he's around, and I also think the Bears can't go wrong if they add a safety, as that's been a problem position going back beyond 2013. They have to add a corner, maybe two, and Gilbert gives them a special athlete who could learn the finer points of physical football from the position by practicing with Charles Tillman. Gilbert is also a weapon in the return game, which is worth noting now that Devin Hester is no longer around.
15
Zack Martin
Pittsburgh Steelers (8-8)
COLLEGE: Notre Dame
HT: 6-4
WT: 308
POS: OT
Analysis: In my draft needs piece, I wrote, "Kelvin Beachum could be holding down the left tackle position, and, although Ramon Foster was pretty good last year at left guard, given the injuries the Steelers have dealt with up front the past couple of seasons, I could see an addition at tackle or guard to improve depth." Martin is up there with Joe Bitonio of Nevada for me as perhaps the most versatile offensive line talent in the draft, which is pretty useful for the Steelers. Pittsburgh could go cornerback here, but I don't like the value with the top two off the board. Receiver is also an option.
16
Calvin Pryor
Dallas Cowboys (8-8)
COLLEGE: Louisville
Class: Jr
HT: 5-11
WT: 207
POS: S
Analysis: Depending on how you feel about the prospects of J.J. Wilcox, you could argue the Cowboys need not just one safety, but two. I know defensive line is a pretty big need here for Dallas, but it's a big leap to target either defensive tackle or an edge-rusher here. I actually think the Cowboys could consider moving down if they run into a scenario like this, but I'm not projecting trades, and Pryor, a likely immediate starter at a position of need, makes plenty of sense here.
17
Eric Ebron
Baltimore Ravens (8-8)
COLLEGE: North Carolina
Class: Jr
HT: 6-4
WT: 250
POS: TE
Analysis: There are pretty legitimate questions about how "complete" a tight end Ebron is. Perhaps those even cause him to slide a few spots on some boards, but at this point, he becomes a great value, even if you're not drafting him to occasionally help the tackle collapse the edge in the run game. This guy is a difference-maker in the passing game, a long, fast matchup problem with the size to drag corners who try to pull him down after he makes the catch. The Ravens added Steve Smith, but they shouldn't be out of the game for another major target in the passing game.
18
Brandin Cooks
New York Jets (8-8)
COLLEGE: Oregon State
Class: Jr
HT: 5-9
WT: 189
POS: WR
Analysis: I had Cooks slotted here previously and am not changing it on this update. He's an exceptional athlete, both quick and fast, with the ability to eat up space, then run past defenders and also outmaneuver them underneath. That makes him precisely the kind of matchup the Jets need to add to the passing game. If Mike Vick ends up starting, Cooks is the kind of option they would love to have because of his ability to create space. I know New York could go elsewhere here and count on the option of a good pass-catcher later on, but unless there's a cornerback they love at this spot, I like this fit.
19
C.J. Mosley
Miami Dolphins (8-8)
COLLEGE: Alabama
Class: Sr
HT: 6-2
WT: 234
POS: ILB
Analysis: This pick is about how the board lines up. The offensive line options here are a reach for me; the pass-rusher is, too, as I don't see Anthony Barr as a great option at this spot; the top two cornerbacks will also be gone. Mosley is the best player available here, and it'll be hard to keep him off the field, given his ability to cover. If the Dolphins are looking to save money at this time next year, they'll be glad they have him. Even when it's not a round peg in a round hole from a need standpoint, any team can tell you drafting a player you know makes you better means something.
20
Derek Carr
Arizona Cardinals (10-6)
COLLEGE: Fresno State
HT: 6-2
WT: 214
POS: QB
Analysis: It's fair to say I've come around a little slower on Carr. In fact, just a week ago I spent more time going through his tape with Jon Gruden down in Tampa and saw some more positives than I had previously. While I still think this is a bit rich, it's not a bad speculative bet for a team that can make one here, given the makeup of the roster. The Cardinals have some needs, but not massive ones, and last year's first-rounder, Jonathan Cooper, will return from injury in 2014. There isn't a good No. 2 behind Carson Palmer, who will turn 35 during the 2014 season. It at least adds up.
21
Ryan Shazier
Green Bay Packers (8-7-1)
COLLEGE: Ohio State
HT: 6-1
WT: 237
POS: OLB
Analysis: The Packers get one of the more instinctive players in the draft, and they fill a void at linebacker next to A.J. Hawk with another Buckeye. Shazier is that modern linebacker who will play a little lighter but can shoot gaps upfield and also get through the trash and make plays sideline to sideline. He's also going to cover for you. I said before that if you watch Ohio State tape from the past two seasons, you'll see Shazier consistently playing faster than everyone else.
22
Kelvin Benjamin
Philadelphia Eagles (10-6)
COLLEGE: Florida State
Class: Soph
HT: 6-5
WT: 240
POS: WR
Analysis: In the same way that Rex Ryan can probably take 11 guys off the street and figure out a way to have a league-average defense, you get the sense Chip Kelly could do the same on offense. While DeSean Jackson wasn't a player the Eagles' brass wanted around, defenses will be in better position to slow down Kelly's attack unless the Eagles can add another tool in the passing game. Benjamin is a bit of a project on the technical side, but he's a matchup nightmare from a physical standpoint and gives the Eagles something they really don't have at wide receiver.
23
Marqise Lee
Kansas City Chiefs (11-5)
COLLEGE: USC
Class: Jr
HT: 5-11
WT: 192
POS: WR
Analysis: Given their needs and the depth in this draft, I could see the Chiefs moving down if they can add a pick or two. They don't have one in Round 2 thanks to (the success of) the Alex Smith trade. However, if they stay put, they could use a receiver who can help immediately -- K.C. really is a "win-now" team on the personnel side despite a huge leap in 2013 -- and Lee comes in as a possible steal, given his uneven junior season after he'd firmly established his value for evaluators.
24
Kony Ealy
Cincinnati Bengals (11-5)
COLLEGE: Missouri
HT: 6-4
WT: 273
POS: DE
Analysis: The Bengals have a pretty big need in the secondary, particularly at cornerback, at which they have Leon Hall, Adam Jones and Terence Newman all playing roles. None of them is young by NFL standards. They also lost Michael Johnson in free agency and could use an athletic defensive end who fits the system. The Bengals have done a good job developing defensive linemen, and perhaps Ealy is next in line. He's certainly an athlete with upside.
25
Anthony Barr
San Diego Chargers (9-7)
COLLEGE: UCLA
Class: Sr
HT: 6-4
WT: 255
POS: OLB
Analysis: I was tempted to put Fuller here -- as that's a pretty big need and I think he can help them early -- but there's a certain point at which you see this level of productivity from a pass-rusher, consider your own need at that spot and have to take a guy like Barr, who needs some developmental work but got to the quarterback plenty, even while he was figuring it out on defense after a conversion from fullback. Cleaning up your ability to defend the pass doesn't just come through better personnel in the secondary. It can start up front.
26
Kyle Fuller
Cleveland Browns (4-12)
COLLEGE: Virginia Tech
Class: Sr
HT: 5-11
WT: 190
POS: CB
Analysis: After doing this for over 35 years and trading notes with countless evaluators, I can tell you there's no magic formula for deciphering exactly which cornerbacks are going to make the transition to the NFL quickly and which will take some time. But I'd bet Fuller can play an important role earlier than most. The Browns could use it, too, because they need a player who can take on good receivers close to the level Joe Haden can. Fuller is a fit I like here and has to be in consideration if he's available.
27
Cody Latimer
New Orleans Saints (11-5)
COLLEGE: Indiana
Class: Jr
HT: 6-2
WT: 215
POS: WR
28
Morgan Moses
Carolina Panthers (12-4)
COLLEGE: Virginia
HT: 6-6
WT: 314
POS: OT
29
Ra'Shede Hageman
New England Patriots (12-4)
COLLEGE: Minnesota
HT: 6-5
WT: 310
POS: DT
30
Jordan Matthews
San Francisco 49ers (12-4)
COLLEGE: Vanderbilt
HT: 6-3
WT: 212
POS: WR
31
Jason Verrett
Denver Broncos (13-3)
COLLEGE: TCU
Class: Sr
HT: 5-9
WT: 189
POS: CB
32
Stephon Tuitt
Seattle Seahawks (13-3)
COLLEGE: Notre Dame
HT: 6-5
WT: 304
POS: DE
1
Jadeveon Clowney
Houston Texans (2-14)
COLLEGE: South Carolina
Class: Jr
HT: 6-5
WT: 266
POS: DE
Analysis: No change here from the last mock. I'll also say again that I believe the Texans are still evaluating multiple options for this pick and certainly would listen to offers, but in this scenario, I feel they will ultimately go with the best player available. I know people will question scheme fit, but guys like Clowney, and certainly J.J. Watt, really transcend scheme. You shift the gap assignments and alignments for guys like these, and you're still going to see major disruption. If you skip sack totals and focus on disruption, Clowney really wasn't a lesser player in 2013 than he was in 2012.
2
Greg Robinson
St. Louis Rams (7-9)
COLLEGE: Auburn
HT: 6-5
WT: 332
POS: OT
Analysis: This is also a spot at which I've noted before I'd consider going with Sammy Watkins. And the Rams should also keep the phone lines open here. But if they stay, I think Robinson fits a pretty good balance equation of major talent and major need. This is a player with the upside of an All-Pro tackle. There's still some development left here, particularly in the passing game, but Robinson is only a year removed from playing guard. Not only can St. Louis pass on a wide receiver here, it's a loaded draft at that position and they can pass it at No. 13, too, and still be fine.
3
Sammy Watkins
Jacksonville Jaguars (4-12)
COLLEGE: Clemson
Class: Jr
HT: 6-0
WT: 211
POS: WR
Analysis: First of all, the Jags will deserve absolutely no heat if they don't take a quarterback here. There's just not enough certainty at that position anywhere in the rookie class to make it imperative to get one at this point. Secondly, even if it seemed like less of a risk, I'm not sure the Jags would do it. I really think they will take the best player at what is probably at least a minor position of need, and I like the Watkins fit. Watkins gives them a dynamic talent, a player who really can help a quarterback, and, given the uncertain future of Justin Blackmon, the depth chart could use Watkins' size and speed combination.
4
Johnny Manziel
Cleveland Browns (4-12)
COLLEGE: Texas A&M
Class: Soph
HT: 5-11
WT: 207
POS: QB
Analysis: Of course it's a risk, but the Browns are in a reasonable position to take a quarterback at this spot and still come out of this draft with impact regardless of what they get out of that quarterback early on. I've also noted before I don't think they need to draft Manziel with the assumption that he starts in Week 1. Brian Hoyer offers a reasonable bridge to a young starter. If Watkins is available here, I can see that as the pick, and I'm not sure Manziel is the No. 1 choice for the Browns at quarterback. But I'll bet on their belief in his ceiling here.
5
Khalil Mack
Oakland Raiders (4-12)
COLLEGE: Buffalo
HT: 6-2
WT: 251
POS: OLB
Analysis: I'm keeping Mack here from the most recent mock. The additions in free agency at a few spots -- namely at quarterback -- give the Raiders the chance to draft the best player available, and they certainly need an addition to the pass rush. The additions of veteran linemen in free agency don't really diminish that need, and as they look for early impact, Mack's usefulness as a three-down player helps. The Raiders should consider moving down and collecting additional pick assets, as they did last season when they made a first-night deal with Miami.
6
Taylor Lewan
Atlanta Falcons (4-12)
COLLEGE: Michigan
HT: 6-7
WT: 309
POS: OT
Analysis: There's been some buzz about Atlanta as a team capable of moving up to take Clowney, but the problem with that is while pass rush is a major need, it doesn't protect the single biggest asset this franchise has, which is Matt Ryan. Yeah, they need a pass-rusher, but tackle is also a major need for Atlanta. If you don't move up and opt to stay here, you still have a chance to take a player capable of going that high -- I really think Lewan could have challenged for No. 1 had he entered the draft last season. Match that level of value with obvious need and you could do a lot worse. Lewan can play.
7
Mike Evans
Tampa Bay Buccaneers (4-12)
COLLEGE: Texas A&M
Class: Soph
HT: 6-4
WT: 231
POS: WR
Analysis: I'd actually consider this another possible trade slot. When you consider how deep the draft is at wide receiver -- and the current shape of this roster -- I'm not sure the Bucs wouldn't listen here. If they stay put, I certainly like the Evans fit. Vincent Jackson is 31 years old and entering a season in which, without an addition at wide receiver, he could be facing a ton of attention from defense. And as I noted previously, if you're drafting the best player available at this slot, if you take Evans, you can do that, too. Evans isn't a burner, but he dominates with the ball in the air and is a brutal matchup whether in the SEC or in the NFC South. He can take pressure off Jackson and eventually take his spot.
8
Blake Bortles
Minnesota Vikings (5-10-1)
COLLEGE: UCF
Class: Jr
HT: 6-5
WT: 232
POS: QB
Analysis: Obviously, the current tandem of Matt Cassel and Christian Ponder isn't the long-term answer. On the other hand, the presence of both provides a reasonable basis for drafting a quarterback, because there's no need to simply force-feed a rookie the starting role out of the gate. I think Bortles will benefit from some time in the system before he's forced to handle first-team reps. I'll say again that Bortles is a very good athlete with excellent pocket instincts and can benefit from his ability to create some yards with his legs, as we've seen from a few other young quarterbacks recently.
9
Jake Matthews
Buffalo Bills (6-10)
COLLEGE: Texas A&M
HT: 6-5
WT: 308
POS: OT
Analysis: No move here. I think Matthews is a good fit based on the need and certainly lines up based on value. He's arguably the best player available here at any position and makes the Bills better. You can draft Matthews and keep Cordy Glenn at left tackle because Matthews has handled both tackle positions effectively. He's a big plus in the run game and is going to upgrade the protection for E.J. Manuel, which is of the utmost importance.
10
Odell Beckham Jr.
Detroit Lions (7-9)
COLLEGE: LSU
Class: Jr
HT: 5-11
WT: 198
POS: WR
Analysis: Last year, the Lions had the option of taking the top-rated cornerback in the draft, but passed on Dee Milliner. It's worked out so far, even though corner is a big need. This year, they could again have the option of taking a cornerback rated as the best one available ... but, again, they could pass. If their board looks at all like mine, I think both corner and safety (both needs) could be a slight reach here and (A) they really do need another receiver, and (B) Beckham could develop into a star here, even with Calvin Johnson and Golden Tate around. He's explosive with the ball in his hands, but you don't have to simply force easy catches, because he's a very good route-runner and will create space.
11
Darqueze Dennard
Tennessee Titans (7-9)
COLLEGE: Michigan State
Class: Sr
HT: 5-10
WT: 199
POS: CB
Analysis: The loss of Alterraun Verner is a pretty significant one, and Tennessee is potentially looking at a scenario in which a young guy like Blidi Wreh-Wilson is asked to take on a major role in coverage this season. But that's a player who played in fewer than 100 snaps last season. In other words, they could really use the addition of an experienced, versatile defender who can hold up early and adjust quickly. That's always a concern at cornerback, but Dennard is the best bet on the board.
12
Aaron Donald
New York Giants (7-9)
COLLEGE: Pittsburgh
HT: 6-0
WT: 285
POS: DT
Analysis: I've had tight end Eric Ebron pegged here previously, but I think Donald's rise up many boards makes him a pretty good get at this point. The drop-off from Donald to the next defensive tackle in his mold is enough where I think he gets a little boost, and he also helps out at a pretty significant need spot for the Giants. I know many Giants fans want to see an offensive weapon here, but the depth chart along the defensive line could certainly use some youth and explosiveness. I think Ebron could fit -- as could a receiver -- but if Donald isn't taken here, he could be taken at any of the next four spots on the board.
13
Ha Ha Clinton-Dix
St. Louis Rams (7-9)
COLLEGE: Alabama
Class: Jr
HT: 6-1
WT: 208
POS: S
Analysis: If Beckham is off the board here, you could see the attention turn to safety, at which the Rams have a pretty notable void. Clinton-Dix gives them some needed range and instincts in coverage and a possible pairing with T.J. McDonald, who showed flashes as a rookie in 2013 before a season-ending injury. Even with plenty of talent along the defensive line, I also think Donald could go here if available. An offensive tackle is also a possibility. Clinton-Dix isn't a big physical presence, but he's effective coming downhill and making tackles, and he's going to help in coverage.
14
Justin Gilbert
Chicago Bears (8-8)
COLLEGE: Oklahoma State
Class: Sr
HT: 6-0
WT: 202
POS: CB
Analysis:Maybe the Bears won't get their first choice among some pretty big need options, but in Gilbert, they certainly check off one. I like Donald here if he's around, and I also think the Bears can't go wrong if they add a safety, as that's been a problem position going back beyond 2013. They have to add a corner, maybe two, and Gilbert gives them a special athlete who could learn the finer points of physical football from the position by practicing with Charles Tillman. Gilbert is also a weapon in the return game, which is worth noting now that Devin Hester is no longer around.
15
Zack Martin
Pittsburgh Steelers (8-8)
COLLEGE: Notre Dame
HT: 6-4
WT: 308
POS: OT
Analysis: In my draft needs piece, I wrote, "Kelvin Beachum could be holding down the left tackle position, and, although Ramon Foster was pretty good last year at left guard, given the injuries the Steelers have dealt with up front the past couple of seasons, I could see an addition at tackle or guard to improve depth." Martin is up there with Joe Bitonio of Nevada for me as perhaps the most versatile offensive line talent in the draft, which is pretty useful for the Steelers. Pittsburgh could go cornerback here, but I don't like the value with the top two off the board. Receiver is also an option.
16
Calvin Pryor
Dallas Cowboys (8-8)
COLLEGE: Louisville
Class: Jr
HT: 5-11
WT: 207
POS: S
Analysis: Depending on how you feel about the prospects of J.J. Wilcox, you could argue the Cowboys need not just one safety, but two. I know defensive line is a pretty big need here for Dallas, but it's a big leap to target either defensive tackle or an edge-rusher here. I actually think the Cowboys could consider moving down if they run into a scenario like this, but I'm not projecting trades, and Pryor, a likely immediate starter at a position of need, makes plenty of sense here.
17
Eric Ebron
Baltimore Ravens (8-8)
COLLEGE: North Carolina
Class: Jr
HT: 6-4
WT: 250
POS: TE
Analysis: There are pretty legitimate questions about how "complete" a tight end Ebron is. Perhaps those even cause him to slide a few spots on some boards, but at this point, he becomes a great value, even if you're not drafting him to occasionally help the tackle collapse the edge in the run game. This guy is a difference-maker in the passing game, a long, fast matchup problem with the size to drag corners who try to pull him down after he makes the catch. The Ravens added Steve Smith, but they shouldn't be out of the game for another major target in the passing game.
18
Brandin Cooks
New York Jets (8-8)
COLLEGE: Oregon State
Class: Jr
HT: 5-9
WT: 189
POS: WR
Analysis: I had Cooks slotted here previously and am not changing it on this update. He's an exceptional athlete, both quick and fast, with the ability to eat up space, then run past defenders and also outmaneuver them underneath. That makes him precisely the kind of matchup the Jets need to add to the passing game. If Mike Vick ends up starting, Cooks is the kind of option they would love to have because of his ability to create space. I know New York could go elsewhere here and count on the option of a good pass-catcher later on, but unless there's a cornerback they love at this spot, I like this fit.
19
C.J. Mosley
Miami Dolphins (8-8)
COLLEGE: Alabama
Class: Sr
HT: 6-2
WT: 234
POS: ILB
Analysis: This pick is about how the board lines up. The offensive line options here are a reach for me; the pass-rusher is, too, as I don't see Anthony Barr as a great option at this spot; the top two cornerbacks will also be gone. Mosley is the best player available here, and it'll be hard to keep him off the field, given his ability to cover. If the Dolphins are looking to save money at this time next year, they'll be glad they have him. Even when it's not a round peg in a round hole from a need standpoint, any team can tell you drafting a player you know makes you better means something.
20
Derek Carr
Arizona Cardinals (10-6)
COLLEGE: Fresno State
HT: 6-2
WT: 214
POS: QB
Analysis: It's fair to say I've come around a little slower on Carr. In fact, just a week ago I spent more time going through his tape with Jon Gruden down in Tampa and saw some more positives than I had previously. While I still think this is a bit rich, it's not a bad speculative bet for a team that can make one here, given the makeup of the roster. The Cardinals have some needs, but not massive ones, and last year's first-rounder, Jonathan Cooper, will return from injury in 2014. There isn't a good No. 2 behind Carson Palmer, who will turn 35 during the 2014 season. It at least adds up.
21
Ryan Shazier
Green Bay Packers (8-7-1)
COLLEGE: Ohio State
HT: 6-1
WT: 237
POS: OLB
Analysis: The Packers get one of the more instinctive players in the draft, and they fill a void at linebacker next to A.J. Hawk with another Buckeye. Shazier is that modern linebacker who will play a little lighter but can shoot gaps upfield and also get through the trash and make plays sideline to sideline. He's also going to cover for you. I said before that if you watch Ohio State tape from the past two seasons, you'll see Shazier consistently playing faster than everyone else.
22
Kelvin Benjamin
Philadelphia Eagles (10-6)
COLLEGE: Florida State
Class: Soph
HT: 6-5
WT: 240
POS: WR
Analysis: In the same way that Rex Ryan can probably take 11 guys off the street and figure out a way to have a league-average defense, you get the sense Chip Kelly could do the same on offense. While DeSean Jackson wasn't a player the Eagles' brass wanted around, defenses will be in better position to slow down Kelly's attack unless the Eagles can add another tool in the passing game. Benjamin is a bit of a project on the technical side, but he's a matchup nightmare from a physical standpoint and gives the Eagles something they really don't have at wide receiver.
23
Marqise Lee
Kansas City Chiefs (11-5)
COLLEGE: USC
Class: Jr
HT: 5-11
WT: 192
POS: WR
Analysis: Given their needs and the depth in this draft, I could see the Chiefs moving down if they can add a pick or two. They don't have one in Round 2 thanks to (the success of) the Alex Smith trade. However, if they stay put, they could use a receiver who can help immediately -- K.C. really is a "win-now" team on the personnel side despite a huge leap in 2013 -- and Lee comes in as a possible steal, given his uneven junior season after he'd firmly established his value for evaluators.
24
Kony Ealy
Cincinnati Bengals (11-5)
COLLEGE: Missouri
HT: 6-4
WT: 273
POS: DE
Analysis: The Bengals have a pretty big need in the secondary, particularly at cornerback, at which they have Leon Hall, Adam Jones and Terence Newman all playing roles. None of them is young by NFL standards. They also lost Michael Johnson in free agency and could use an athletic defensive end who fits the system. The Bengals have done a good job developing defensive linemen, and perhaps Ealy is next in line. He's certainly an athlete with upside.
25
Anthony Barr
San Diego Chargers (9-7)
COLLEGE: UCLA
Class: Sr
HT: 6-4
WT: 255
POS: OLB
Analysis: I was tempted to put Fuller here -- as that's a pretty big need and I think he can help them early -- but there's a certain point at which you see this level of productivity from a pass-rusher, consider your own need at that spot and have to take a guy like Barr, who needs some developmental work but got to the quarterback plenty, even while he was figuring it out on defense after a conversion from fullback. Cleaning up your ability to defend the pass doesn't just come through better personnel in the secondary. It can start up front.
26
Kyle Fuller
Cleveland Browns (4-12)
COLLEGE: Virginia Tech
Class: Sr
HT: 5-11
WT: 190
POS: CB
Analysis: After doing this for over 35 years and trading notes with countless evaluators, I can tell you there's no magic formula for deciphering exactly which cornerbacks are going to make the transition to the NFL quickly and which will take some time. But I'd bet Fuller can play an important role earlier than most. The Browns could use it, too, because they need a player who can take on good receivers close to the level Joe Haden can. Fuller is a fit I like here and has to be in consideration if he's available.
27
Cody Latimer
New Orleans Saints (11-5)
COLLEGE: Indiana
Class: Jr
HT: 6-2
WT: 215
POS: WR
28
Morgan Moses
Carolina Panthers (12-4)
COLLEGE: Virginia
HT: 6-6
WT: 314
POS: OT
29
Ra'Shede Hageman
New England Patriots (12-4)
COLLEGE: Minnesota
HT: 6-5
WT: 310
POS: DT
30
Jordan Matthews
San Francisco 49ers (12-4)
COLLEGE: Vanderbilt
HT: 6-3
WT: 212
POS: WR
31
Jason Verrett
Denver Broncos (13-3)
COLLEGE: TCU
Class: Sr
HT: 5-9
WT: 189
POS: CB
32
Stephon Tuitt
Seattle Seahawks (13-3)
COLLEGE: Notre Dame
HT: 6-5
WT: 304
POS: DE
