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TFY Mock Draft Tweaked again,
The love me. They love me not.
After being bumped for more informative pro day coverage, the Uncanny Mock rides once again! In this instance with a lack of overall league wide movement due to the owner’s meetings; only slight adjustments have been made to this weekend’s installment. A few compensatory picks were added. With the NFL draft less than a month away, overall draft boards should be rounding into shape for the home stretch.
Round 1
# Team Selection Position/College
1 St. Louis Sam Bradford QB/Oklahoma
Analysis: For a franchise which has not selected a quarterback prospect in the first round since 1963, eventually the Rams need to take a leap of faith at said position. While it is certainly easy to slot the likes of Suh or Gerald McCoy at this selection based on their immense talents, St.Louis has finished with a top three choice in the draft three years running. The dominance of a defensive tackle simply cannot affect the win column as much as landing a franchise quarterback. Sam Bradford will throw for scouts for the first time this week which should be a heavily attended event. His efforts could solidify his standing at the frontrunner for the first overall selection.
2 Detroit Ndamukong Suh DT/Nebraska
Analysis: With the Rams predicament, the Lions have the luxury of selecting whichever of the top two prospects they prefer along the defensive line. Suh is the bigger and more physical of the two that can play more 1 technique to compliment the recently acquired Corey Williams from Cleveland and Kyle Vanden Bosch at end. Left tackle Russell Okung seems to be gaining steam for this pick, but the Lions should be happy with the draft’s number one overall prospect in Suh.
3 Tampa Bay Gerald McCoy DT/Oklahoma
Analysis: At least one source within the Buccaneers organization has stated the team actually prefers this McCoy over the highly decorated Suh. The preference would be based merely on style and system. If Tampa is going to once again rely on a heavy attacking Cover 2 scheme, which they reverted to late last season, McCoy is the disruptive type of 3 technique they desperately need to build around.
4 Washington Russell Okung OT/Oklahoma St.
Analysis: Uncertainty around the quarterback position makes this selection very intriguing. The recent signing of Rex Grossman means less than nothing. With the retirement of veteran stalwart Chris Samuels, and the dearth of talent along the ‘Skins offensive line, taking arguably the draft’s top left tackle prospect appears the most prudent decision. Especially considering Okung’s overall athleticism and how well it would translate to new Head Coach Mike Shanahan’s offensive system.
5 Kansas City Bryan Bulaga OT/Iowa
Analysis: Conversation around KC has centered on potentially drafting the best available prospect in safety Eric Berry or upgrading along the offensive line. In this case, it is starting to appear most beneficial for the team to land their potential rock at left tackle; thus completely solidifying an offensive line which was horrible a year ago. Instead of waiting for Branden Albert to continue improving; landing a steady talent like Bulaga, sliding Albert inside or to RT, while also adding Ryan Lilja in free agency will only help an offense which has plenty invested in the likes of Matt Cassell and now their running attack.
6 Seattle Eric Berry S/Tennessee
Analysis: Recently adding Charlie Whitehurst into the equation takes a lot of pressure off this particular selection. Now the ‘Hawks are not necessarily pigeonholed into looking for a quarterback very early in the process. Instead the team could easily look to address their 30th ranked passing defense of a year ago. Berry may just be the “safest” pick in this draft and a likely instant playmaker in the secondary which this particular team desperately needs.
7 Cleveland Jimmy Clausen QB/Notre Dame
Analysis: Rule number one as the draft nears…NEVER listen to what NFL decision makers are saying the last weeks leading to their actual selection. Case in point, President Holmgren recently stated, “I wish I liked him more” in regards to Clausen. A few days later, the prospect is flying to Cleveland for a personal visit. This team in particular desperately needs a franchise type signal caller on which to hang their hat. Potentially replacing his predecessor at both Notre Dame and Cleveland; Jimmy Clausen has all the tools of a franchise quarterback.
8 Oakland Trent Williams OT/Oklahoma
Analysis: The automatic choices for Raiders’ owner Al Davis would seem to be Bruce Campbell, Jason Pierre-Paul, or Taylor Mays after their spectacular performances at the Combine and undeniable physical gifts. While Campbell in particular was lighting up the field in Indianapolis, another offensive lineman was having a great workout of his own…Trent Williams. Williams is certainly the more polished of the two aforementioned prospects and can immediately help Oakland’s woeful offensive tackle situation.
9 Buffalo Dez Bryant WR/Oklahoma St.
Analysis: With the departure of the incomparable Terrell Owens via free agency, two of Buffalo’s top three returning receivers were their running backs. There were reasons why this team took the gamble on Owens, and many of those same principles still apply if the selection is Bryant. The team needs to become more exciting. They need dynamic talents. Their offense has trouble stretching the field vertically. All in hopes of selling more tickets and staying a viable franchise.
10 Jacksonville Joe Haden CB/Florida
Analysis: At points last season, the Jaguars had their starting safety moved over to cover the hole they had at cornerback. Reggie Nelson is not a full time cover man. The emergence of rookie Derek Cox was a pleasant surprise. But if this team ever plans on winning an AFC South division title, they need to find ways to cover the likes of Indianapolis’ and Houston’s wide receivers. After running well at his pro day, Haden is back in the top ten overall conversation. His addition would add athleticism and physicality to the Jaguars backline in hopes of stopping those divisional opponents.
11 Denver (from Chicago) Rolando McClain LB/Alabama
Analysis: McClain’s recent revelation about his suffering through Crohn’s disease should not have too much of an impact on his draft status…if everything checks out properly. The Butkus Award winner never missed a game in his collegiate career despite the aforementioned malady. Denver continues to revamp their front seven by replacing an average Andra Davis at Mac linebacker with an oversized and intelligent field general.
12 Miami Dan Williams DT/Tennessee
Analysis: Nose tackle will continue to be a concern for the Dolphins until someone is selected to replace the soon to be 36 year old Jason Ferguson at the point of attack. He is an aging 0 technique that is also coming off a season ending injury and will now be suspended for the first half of the 2010 NFL season. Dan Williams is a squat and strong defender coming of a fantastic senior campaign while also being the best pure two gap nose tackle among his contemporaries. A perfect marriage of value plus need.
13 San Francisco Earl Thomas S/Texas
Analysis: San Francisco could go in numerous directions with needs at their right tackle position, more wide receiver help, etc. Any help along the secondary is a dire need for a defensive based team who is very thin along the back line. Earl Thomas is the type of playmaker over the top that has a natural feel against the passing game and makes up for a multitude of mistakes by inferior cornerback play.
14 Seattle (from Denver) C.J. Spiller RB/Clemson
Analysis: Could this dynamic weapon be too tempting to pass on a second time? Obviously, the answer is this particular case is…yes. Coach Pete Carroll, at heart, is a run first coach. He loves to have great athletes in his backfield who can affect multiple areas of the game. One only has to look at his recent run with USC to realize Reggie Bush and Joe McKnight were two of his most prized recruits. Spiller should be able to walk in immediately and help multiple different phases of the game, whether it be running or catching the football or even on special teams.
15 NY Giants Derrick Morgan DE/Georgia Tech
Analysis: The G-Men need help along all three lines of their defensive unit. Safety was the team’s first concern and was addressed with the signing of Antrel Rolle in free agency. Attention will now turn to a pass rush which has not been the same since Coach Spagnuolo departed, Michael Strahan retired, and Osi Umenyiora decided to go AWOL. Morgan is the most polished edge rusher in this class.
16 Tennessee Brandon Graham DE/Michigan
Analysis: Although slightly undersized as a traditional 43 defensive end, it never prevented Brandon Graham from being productive at the collegiate level. The Titans will hope he can transition easily to the professional ranks and continue to create the type of havoc they have grew accustomed with names like Jevon Kearse, Albert Hayensworth, and Kyle Vanden Bosch over the years.
17 San Francisco (from Carolina) Jason Pierre-Paul DE/South Florida
Analysis: It is hard to slot exactly where this tremendous physical talent shall eventually land. Pierre-Paul possesses legitimate top ten overall ability. Yet it was only seen for one season as a part time starter in South Florida. Deciding when and where this talent finally gets selected will be an interesting dilemma as the actual draft commences. In this scenario Coach Singletary gets a potential premiere pass rushing talent to add to his underachieving group already at the position.
18 Pittsburgh Bruce Campbell OT/Maryland
Analysis: Despite a Super Bowl victory two seasons ago and then falling just short of the playoffs this past season, the Steelers offensive line has continued to be one of the weaker units in the league. Quarterback Ben Roethlisberger has been one of the top sacked signal callers in the league. Yet this team has yet to seriously address the situation. Campbell is the type of athlete the team has sorely lacked up front for years. And under the vision of Mike Tomlin as head coach, Pittsburgh has looked toward becoming more athletic overall.
19 Atlanta Taylor Mays S/USC
Analysis: A great workout by Mays at the Combine has once again landed this prospect squarely into the first round range. His freakish athleticism has never been questioned, but his play on the field has. On a team like the Falcons, they need playmakers in the secondary and can be afforded the chance on a high ceiling prospect with plenty of bust potential.
20 Houston Kyle Wilson CB/Boise St.
Analysis: Offensively the Texans have a few slight issues, but it is their defensive secondary which needs a major overhaul. Their best cover man, Dunta Robinson, left for a large free agent contract in Atlanta. The rest of their secondary depth chart reads like a chex mix recipe. With all the talent this team possesses along their front seven, a legitimate playmaker needs added to their backline. Plus this former Boise Bronco has the added bonus of contributing as a return specialist as well.
21 Cincinnati Jared Odrick DT/Penn St.
Analysis: Previous reasoning behind the Bengals potentially selecting an interior defensive prospect still applies. Even with the re-signing of Tank Johnson, a presence is needed to be a constant disruptive force pushing the middle of the pocket to compliment their athletic ends and shut down cornerbacks. In this case, Odrick is a more versatile and talented prospect than the previous allotted prospect.
22 New England DeMaryius Thomas WR/Georgia Tech
Analysis: When Randy Moss says his time in New England is coming to a close, well everyone should….listen….? Whatever the case, Thomas will need time to develop as a receiver coming out of Georgia Tech’s triple option attack. His physical presence opposite Moss can form a dynamic duo while learning under one of the all time best, plus picking up some of the slack left by the West Welker injury. Apparently, those around the league still believe this receiver is a first round selection. Injuries be…
23 Green Bay Anthony Davis OT/Rutgers
Analysis: Physically, Anthony Davis may be the most gifted offensive lineman in this draft class. Unfortunately with some bad off season workouts and questions being raised about his overall work ethic; he could just as easily slide. The Packers would count their blessings based in their dire need to improve their offensive tackle position. The team was able to re-sign both their veteran tackles, so Davis could easily be groomed inside for a year prior to moving out on the island.
24 Philadelphia Sean Weatherspoon LB/Missouri
Analysis: Ravaged a year ago by injuries along their linebacking corps, the Eagles could benefit greatly by bringing in a talent and personality like Sean Weatherspoon. ‘Spoon can play inside or outside and is just as comfortable dropping back in coverage as he is running sideline to sideline defending the run.
25 Baltimore Carlos Dunlap DE/Florida
Analysis: Receiving good reviews from scouts early in the off season process, Dunlap had been discussed previously as having a penchant for not playing to his fullest while at Florida. He has the potential to be a dominant 5 technique opposite Haloti Ngata. With a locker room as strong as the one found in Baltimore, along with the veteran presence on the field, the Ravens could expect to get the best out of this tremendous talent.
26 Arizona Jermaine Gresham TE/Oklahoma
Analysis: Talent has never been in question with Gresham as a prospect, but the damage sustained to his knees certainly have. As the tight end has worked out already this off season, he looks to be getting stronger quickly and should live up to his billing as a first round target. Landing Gresham in Arizona should help as a potential security blanket for two inconsistent signal callers, whichever wins the job. Plus Gresham is a viable blocker if need be.
27 Dallas Mike Iupati OG/Idaho
Analysis: The average age for the Cowboys’ starting offensive line next season is over 32 years. Owner/General Manager Jerry Jones loves big, physical, and nasty offensive linemen. Enter Mike Iupati who fits the bill to a tee. The former Vandal needs refinement in technique, but his natural ability is off the charts for a guard prospect.
28 San Diego Ryan Mathews RB/Fresno St.
Analysis: In a surprise move, the Chargers finally tendered running back Darren Sproles just prior to the flood of free agency. This is merely an indication of how desperate their situation is currently at running back. Matthews has the size, ability, and skill to step in immediately and take over the load for one of the better offenses in the NFL.
29 NY Jets Devin McCourty CB/Rutgers
Analysis: Even with the addition of Antonio Cromartie opposite Darrelle Revis, the Jets’ cornerback position is still very thin. McCourty would help form one of the most dynamic secondaries in the league. This will help facilitate Coach Rex Ryan’s penchant to blitz every down. As well as being a potential nickel corner, McCourty will also have a tremendous effect on New York’s special teams.
30 Minnesota Maurkice Pouncey C/Florida
Analysis: John Sullivan took over at center last off season when veteran rock Matt Birk departed for more purple pastures. While the Notre Dame graduate did an adequate job on the pivot, he does not set the point of attack as consistently as his predecessor once did. The difference was noticeable in their ample running attack. Now right guard Artis Hicks has departed in free agency as well. On a team without too many holes, they select the top center and one of the best interior blockers in this class to off set said problems.
31 Indianapolis Charles Brown OT/USC
Analysis: Priority number one for the Colts…protect Peyton Manning. Former second round pick, Tony Ugoh has been a disappointment after a stellar rookie campaign. Charlie Johnson is solid but is not the long term answer at the position. Charles Brown has the athleticism and upside to be a perfect fit as the blindside protector in the Colt’s high octane offense.
32 New Orleans Everson Griffen DE/USC
Analysis: With the release of veteran end Charles Grant, the Saints are in a position to upgrade an area already of need prior to said departure. Griffen physically is very talented. He is quick and strong off the edge. He can also play in space if asked when the mad defensive scientist Gregg Williams brings zone blitzes. The problem with Griffen has always been consistency.
Round 2
# Team Selection Position/College
33 St. Louis Brian Price DT/UCLA
34 Detroit Jahvid Best RB/California
35 Tampa Bay Golden Tate WR/Notre Dame
36 Kansas City Jerry Hughes DE/TCU
37 Washington Colt McCoy QB/Texas
38 Cleveland Patrick Robinson CB/Florida St.
39 Oakland Sergio Kindle LB/Texas
40 San Diego (from Seattle) Terrence Cody NT/Alabama
41 Buffalo Tim Tebow QB/Florida
42 Tampa Bay (from Chicago) Navorro Bowman LB/Penn St.
43 Miami Nate Allen S/South Florida
44 New England (from Jacksonville) Aaron Hernandez TE/Florida
45 Denver Brandon LaFell WR/LSU
46 NY Giants Daryl Washington LB/TCU
47 New England (from Tennessee) Ricky Sapp DE/Clemson
48 Carolina Corey Wootton DE/Northwestern
49 San Francisco Vladimir Ducasse OT/Massachusetts
50 Kansas City (from Atlanta) Damian Williams WR/USC
51 Houston Chad Jones S/LSU
52 Pittsburgh Kareem Jackson CB/Alabama
53 New England Chris Cook CB/Virginia
54 Cincinnati Rob Gronkowski TE/Arizona
55 Philadelphia Tyson Alualu DE/California
56 Green Bay Perrish Cox CB/Oklahoma St.
57 Baltimore Arrelious Benn WR/Illinois
58 Arizona Rodger Saffold OT/Indiana
59 Dallas Morgan Burnett S/Georgia Tech
60 Seattle (from San Diego) Koa Misi LB/Utah
61 NY Jets Cam Thomas NT/North Carolina
62 Minnesota Dexter McCluster RB/Mississippi
63 Indianapolis Dominique Franks CB/Oklahoma
64 New Orleans Jonathan Dwyer RB/Georgia Tech
Round 3
# Team Selection Position/College
65 St. Louis Jeremy Williams WR/Tulane
66 Detroit Brandon Spikes LB/Florida
67 Tampa Bay Jason Worilds DE/Virginia Tech
68 Washington *pick forfeited* via supplemental draft
69 Kansas City Torrell Troup DT/Central Florida
70 Oakland Geno Atkins DT/Georgia
71 Philadelphia (from Seattle) Toby Gerhart RB/Stanford
72 Cleveland Jacoby Ford WR/Clemson
73 Buffalo Alex Carrington DE/Arkansas St.
74 Miami Riley Cooper WR/Florida
75 Jacksonville Marshawn Gilyard WR/Cincinnati
76 Chicago Matt Tennant C/Boston College
77 New York Giants Arthur Jones DT/Syracuse
78 Tennessee A.J. Edds LB/Iowa
79 Carolina Tony Pike QB/Cincinnati
80 San Francisco Antonio Brown WR/Central Michigan
81 Denver J.D. Walton C/Baylor
82 Houston Montario Hardesty RB/Tennessee
83 Pittsburgh Major Wright S/Florida
84 Atlanta Eric Norwood LB/South Carolina
85 Cincinnati Reshad Jones S/Georgia
86 Cleveland (from Oakland via New England) T.J. Ward S/Oregon
87 Green Bay Joe McKnight RB/USC
88 Philadelphia Brandon Ghee CB/Wake Forest
89 Arizona (from Baltimore) Thaddeus Gibson DE/Ohio St.
90 Arizona Taylor Price WR/Ohio
91 Dallas Linval Joseph DT/East Carolina
92 San Diego Jerome Murphy CB/South Florida
93 Cleveland (from New York Jets) Jared Veldheer OT/Hillsdale
94 Minnesota Sean Lee LB/Penn St.
95 Indianapolis Mike Neal DT/Purdue
96 New Orleans Dennis Pitta TE/BYU
97 Cincinnati* Jarrett Brown QB/West Virginia
98 Tennessee* Akwasi Owusu-Ansah CB/Indiana(PA)
99 Atlanta* Carlton Mitchell WR/South Florida
The love me. They love me not.
After being bumped for more informative pro day coverage, the Uncanny Mock rides once again! In this instance with a lack of overall league wide movement due to the owner’s meetings; only slight adjustments have been made to this weekend’s installment. A few compensatory picks were added. With the NFL draft less than a month away, overall draft boards should be rounding into shape for the home stretch.
Round 1
# Team Selection Position/College
1 St. Louis Sam Bradford QB/Oklahoma
Analysis: For a franchise which has not selected a quarterback prospect in the first round since 1963, eventually the Rams need to take a leap of faith at said position. While it is certainly easy to slot the likes of Suh or Gerald McCoy at this selection based on their immense talents, St.Louis has finished with a top three choice in the draft three years running. The dominance of a defensive tackle simply cannot affect the win column as much as landing a franchise quarterback. Sam Bradford will throw for scouts for the first time this week which should be a heavily attended event. His efforts could solidify his standing at the frontrunner for the first overall selection.
2 Detroit Ndamukong Suh DT/Nebraska
Analysis: With the Rams predicament, the Lions have the luxury of selecting whichever of the top two prospects they prefer along the defensive line. Suh is the bigger and more physical of the two that can play more 1 technique to compliment the recently acquired Corey Williams from Cleveland and Kyle Vanden Bosch at end. Left tackle Russell Okung seems to be gaining steam for this pick, but the Lions should be happy with the draft’s number one overall prospect in Suh.
3 Tampa Bay Gerald McCoy DT/Oklahoma
Analysis: At least one source within the Buccaneers organization has stated the team actually prefers this McCoy over the highly decorated Suh. The preference would be based merely on style and system. If Tampa is going to once again rely on a heavy attacking Cover 2 scheme, which they reverted to late last season, McCoy is the disruptive type of 3 technique they desperately need to build around.
4 Washington Russell Okung OT/Oklahoma St.
Analysis: Uncertainty around the quarterback position makes this selection very intriguing. The recent signing of Rex Grossman means less than nothing. With the retirement of veteran stalwart Chris Samuels, and the dearth of talent along the ‘Skins offensive line, taking arguably the draft’s top left tackle prospect appears the most prudent decision. Especially considering Okung’s overall athleticism and how well it would translate to new Head Coach Mike Shanahan’s offensive system.
5 Kansas City Bryan Bulaga OT/Iowa
Analysis: Conversation around KC has centered on potentially drafting the best available prospect in safety Eric Berry or upgrading along the offensive line. In this case, it is starting to appear most beneficial for the team to land their potential rock at left tackle; thus completely solidifying an offensive line which was horrible a year ago. Instead of waiting for Branden Albert to continue improving; landing a steady talent like Bulaga, sliding Albert inside or to RT, while also adding Ryan Lilja in free agency will only help an offense which has plenty invested in the likes of Matt Cassell and now their running attack.
6 Seattle Eric Berry S/Tennessee
Analysis: Recently adding Charlie Whitehurst into the equation takes a lot of pressure off this particular selection. Now the ‘Hawks are not necessarily pigeonholed into looking for a quarterback very early in the process. Instead the team could easily look to address their 30th ranked passing defense of a year ago. Berry may just be the “safest” pick in this draft and a likely instant playmaker in the secondary which this particular team desperately needs.
7 Cleveland Jimmy Clausen QB/Notre Dame
Analysis: Rule number one as the draft nears…NEVER listen to what NFL decision makers are saying the last weeks leading to their actual selection. Case in point, President Holmgren recently stated, “I wish I liked him more” in regards to Clausen. A few days later, the prospect is flying to Cleveland for a personal visit. This team in particular desperately needs a franchise type signal caller on which to hang their hat. Potentially replacing his predecessor at both Notre Dame and Cleveland; Jimmy Clausen has all the tools of a franchise quarterback.
8 Oakland Trent Williams OT/Oklahoma
Analysis: The automatic choices for Raiders’ owner Al Davis would seem to be Bruce Campbell, Jason Pierre-Paul, or Taylor Mays after their spectacular performances at the Combine and undeniable physical gifts. While Campbell in particular was lighting up the field in Indianapolis, another offensive lineman was having a great workout of his own…Trent Williams. Williams is certainly the more polished of the two aforementioned prospects and can immediately help Oakland’s woeful offensive tackle situation.
9 Buffalo Dez Bryant WR/Oklahoma St.
Analysis: With the departure of the incomparable Terrell Owens via free agency, two of Buffalo’s top three returning receivers were their running backs. There were reasons why this team took the gamble on Owens, and many of those same principles still apply if the selection is Bryant. The team needs to become more exciting. They need dynamic talents. Their offense has trouble stretching the field vertically. All in hopes of selling more tickets and staying a viable franchise.
10 Jacksonville Joe Haden CB/Florida
Analysis: At points last season, the Jaguars had their starting safety moved over to cover the hole they had at cornerback. Reggie Nelson is not a full time cover man. The emergence of rookie Derek Cox was a pleasant surprise. But if this team ever plans on winning an AFC South division title, they need to find ways to cover the likes of Indianapolis’ and Houston’s wide receivers. After running well at his pro day, Haden is back in the top ten overall conversation. His addition would add athleticism and physicality to the Jaguars backline in hopes of stopping those divisional opponents.
11 Denver (from Chicago) Rolando McClain LB/Alabama
Analysis: McClain’s recent revelation about his suffering through Crohn’s disease should not have too much of an impact on his draft status…if everything checks out properly. The Butkus Award winner never missed a game in his collegiate career despite the aforementioned malady. Denver continues to revamp their front seven by replacing an average Andra Davis at Mac linebacker with an oversized and intelligent field general.
12 Miami Dan Williams DT/Tennessee
Analysis: Nose tackle will continue to be a concern for the Dolphins until someone is selected to replace the soon to be 36 year old Jason Ferguson at the point of attack. He is an aging 0 technique that is also coming off a season ending injury and will now be suspended for the first half of the 2010 NFL season. Dan Williams is a squat and strong defender coming of a fantastic senior campaign while also being the best pure two gap nose tackle among his contemporaries. A perfect marriage of value plus need.
13 San Francisco Earl Thomas S/Texas
Analysis: San Francisco could go in numerous directions with needs at their right tackle position, more wide receiver help, etc. Any help along the secondary is a dire need for a defensive based team who is very thin along the back line. Earl Thomas is the type of playmaker over the top that has a natural feel against the passing game and makes up for a multitude of mistakes by inferior cornerback play.
14 Seattle (from Denver) C.J. Spiller RB/Clemson
Analysis: Could this dynamic weapon be too tempting to pass on a second time? Obviously, the answer is this particular case is…yes. Coach Pete Carroll, at heart, is a run first coach. He loves to have great athletes in his backfield who can affect multiple areas of the game. One only has to look at his recent run with USC to realize Reggie Bush and Joe McKnight were two of his most prized recruits. Spiller should be able to walk in immediately and help multiple different phases of the game, whether it be running or catching the football or even on special teams.
15 NY Giants Derrick Morgan DE/Georgia Tech
Analysis: The G-Men need help along all three lines of their defensive unit. Safety was the team’s first concern and was addressed with the signing of Antrel Rolle in free agency. Attention will now turn to a pass rush which has not been the same since Coach Spagnuolo departed, Michael Strahan retired, and Osi Umenyiora decided to go AWOL. Morgan is the most polished edge rusher in this class.
16 Tennessee Brandon Graham DE/Michigan
Analysis: Although slightly undersized as a traditional 43 defensive end, it never prevented Brandon Graham from being productive at the collegiate level. The Titans will hope he can transition easily to the professional ranks and continue to create the type of havoc they have grew accustomed with names like Jevon Kearse, Albert Hayensworth, and Kyle Vanden Bosch over the years.
17 San Francisco (from Carolina) Jason Pierre-Paul DE/South Florida
Analysis: It is hard to slot exactly where this tremendous physical talent shall eventually land. Pierre-Paul possesses legitimate top ten overall ability. Yet it was only seen for one season as a part time starter in South Florida. Deciding when and where this talent finally gets selected will be an interesting dilemma as the actual draft commences. In this scenario Coach Singletary gets a potential premiere pass rushing talent to add to his underachieving group already at the position.
18 Pittsburgh Bruce Campbell OT/Maryland
Analysis: Despite a Super Bowl victory two seasons ago and then falling just short of the playoffs this past season, the Steelers offensive line has continued to be one of the weaker units in the league. Quarterback Ben Roethlisberger has been one of the top sacked signal callers in the league. Yet this team has yet to seriously address the situation. Campbell is the type of athlete the team has sorely lacked up front for years. And under the vision of Mike Tomlin as head coach, Pittsburgh has looked toward becoming more athletic overall.
19 Atlanta Taylor Mays S/USC
Analysis: A great workout by Mays at the Combine has once again landed this prospect squarely into the first round range. His freakish athleticism has never been questioned, but his play on the field has. On a team like the Falcons, they need playmakers in the secondary and can be afforded the chance on a high ceiling prospect with plenty of bust potential.
20 Houston Kyle Wilson CB/Boise St.
Analysis: Offensively the Texans have a few slight issues, but it is their defensive secondary which needs a major overhaul. Their best cover man, Dunta Robinson, left for a large free agent contract in Atlanta. The rest of their secondary depth chart reads like a chex mix recipe. With all the talent this team possesses along their front seven, a legitimate playmaker needs added to their backline. Plus this former Boise Bronco has the added bonus of contributing as a return specialist as well.
21 Cincinnati Jared Odrick DT/Penn St.
Analysis: Previous reasoning behind the Bengals potentially selecting an interior defensive prospect still applies. Even with the re-signing of Tank Johnson, a presence is needed to be a constant disruptive force pushing the middle of the pocket to compliment their athletic ends and shut down cornerbacks. In this case, Odrick is a more versatile and talented prospect than the previous allotted prospect.
22 New England DeMaryius Thomas WR/Georgia Tech
Analysis: When Randy Moss says his time in New England is coming to a close, well everyone should….listen….? Whatever the case, Thomas will need time to develop as a receiver coming out of Georgia Tech’s triple option attack. His physical presence opposite Moss can form a dynamic duo while learning under one of the all time best, plus picking up some of the slack left by the West Welker injury. Apparently, those around the league still believe this receiver is a first round selection. Injuries be…
23 Green Bay Anthony Davis OT/Rutgers
Analysis: Physically, Anthony Davis may be the most gifted offensive lineman in this draft class. Unfortunately with some bad off season workouts and questions being raised about his overall work ethic; he could just as easily slide. The Packers would count their blessings based in their dire need to improve their offensive tackle position. The team was able to re-sign both their veteran tackles, so Davis could easily be groomed inside for a year prior to moving out on the island.
24 Philadelphia Sean Weatherspoon LB/Missouri
Analysis: Ravaged a year ago by injuries along their linebacking corps, the Eagles could benefit greatly by bringing in a talent and personality like Sean Weatherspoon. ‘Spoon can play inside or outside and is just as comfortable dropping back in coverage as he is running sideline to sideline defending the run.
25 Baltimore Carlos Dunlap DE/Florida
Analysis: Receiving good reviews from scouts early in the off season process, Dunlap had been discussed previously as having a penchant for not playing to his fullest while at Florida. He has the potential to be a dominant 5 technique opposite Haloti Ngata. With a locker room as strong as the one found in Baltimore, along with the veteran presence on the field, the Ravens could expect to get the best out of this tremendous talent.
26 Arizona Jermaine Gresham TE/Oklahoma
Analysis: Talent has never been in question with Gresham as a prospect, but the damage sustained to his knees certainly have. As the tight end has worked out already this off season, he looks to be getting stronger quickly and should live up to his billing as a first round target. Landing Gresham in Arizona should help as a potential security blanket for two inconsistent signal callers, whichever wins the job. Plus Gresham is a viable blocker if need be.
27 Dallas Mike Iupati OG/Idaho
Analysis: The average age for the Cowboys’ starting offensive line next season is over 32 years. Owner/General Manager Jerry Jones loves big, physical, and nasty offensive linemen. Enter Mike Iupati who fits the bill to a tee. The former Vandal needs refinement in technique, but his natural ability is off the charts for a guard prospect.
28 San Diego Ryan Mathews RB/Fresno St.
Analysis: In a surprise move, the Chargers finally tendered running back Darren Sproles just prior to the flood of free agency. This is merely an indication of how desperate their situation is currently at running back. Matthews has the size, ability, and skill to step in immediately and take over the load for one of the better offenses in the NFL.
29 NY Jets Devin McCourty CB/Rutgers
Analysis: Even with the addition of Antonio Cromartie opposite Darrelle Revis, the Jets’ cornerback position is still very thin. McCourty would help form one of the most dynamic secondaries in the league. This will help facilitate Coach Rex Ryan’s penchant to blitz every down. As well as being a potential nickel corner, McCourty will also have a tremendous effect on New York’s special teams.
30 Minnesota Maurkice Pouncey C/Florida
Analysis: John Sullivan took over at center last off season when veteran rock Matt Birk departed for more purple pastures. While the Notre Dame graduate did an adequate job on the pivot, he does not set the point of attack as consistently as his predecessor once did. The difference was noticeable in their ample running attack. Now right guard Artis Hicks has departed in free agency as well. On a team without too many holes, they select the top center and one of the best interior blockers in this class to off set said problems.
31 Indianapolis Charles Brown OT/USC
Analysis: Priority number one for the Colts…protect Peyton Manning. Former second round pick, Tony Ugoh has been a disappointment after a stellar rookie campaign. Charlie Johnson is solid but is not the long term answer at the position. Charles Brown has the athleticism and upside to be a perfect fit as the blindside protector in the Colt’s high octane offense.
32 New Orleans Everson Griffen DE/USC
Analysis: With the release of veteran end Charles Grant, the Saints are in a position to upgrade an area already of need prior to said departure. Griffen physically is very talented. He is quick and strong off the edge. He can also play in space if asked when the mad defensive scientist Gregg Williams brings zone blitzes. The problem with Griffen has always been consistency.
Round 2
# Team Selection Position/College
33 St. Louis Brian Price DT/UCLA
34 Detroit Jahvid Best RB/California
35 Tampa Bay Golden Tate WR/Notre Dame
36 Kansas City Jerry Hughes DE/TCU
37 Washington Colt McCoy QB/Texas
38 Cleveland Patrick Robinson CB/Florida St.
39 Oakland Sergio Kindle LB/Texas
40 San Diego (from Seattle) Terrence Cody NT/Alabama
41 Buffalo Tim Tebow QB/Florida
42 Tampa Bay (from Chicago) Navorro Bowman LB/Penn St.
43 Miami Nate Allen S/South Florida
44 New England (from Jacksonville) Aaron Hernandez TE/Florida
45 Denver Brandon LaFell WR/LSU
46 NY Giants Daryl Washington LB/TCU
47 New England (from Tennessee) Ricky Sapp DE/Clemson
48 Carolina Corey Wootton DE/Northwestern
49 San Francisco Vladimir Ducasse OT/Massachusetts
50 Kansas City (from Atlanta) Damian Williams WR/USC
51 Houston Chad Jones S/LSU
52 Pittsburgh Kareem Jackson CB/Alabama
53 New England Chris Cook CB/Virginia
54 Cincinnati Rob Gronkowski TE/Arizona
55 Philadelphia Tyson Alualu DE/California
56 Green Bay Perrish Cox CB/Oklahoma St.
57 Baltimore Arrelious Benn WR/Illinois
58 Arizona Rodger Saffold OT/Indiana
59 Dallas Morgan Burnett S/Georgia Tech
60 Seattle (from San Diego) Koa Misi LB/Utah
61 NY Jets Cam Thomas NT/North Carolina
62 Minnesota Dexter McCluster RB/Mississippi
63 Indianapolis Dominique Franks CB/Oklahoma
64 New Orleans Jonathan Dwyer RB/Georgia Tech
Round 3
# Team Selection Position/College
65 St. Louis Jeremy Williams WR/Tulane
66 Detroit Brandon Spikes LB/Florida
67 Tampa Bay Jason Worilds DE/Virginia Tech
68 Washington *pick forfeited* via supplemental draft
69 Kansas City Torrell Troup DT/Central Florida
70 Oakland Geno Atkins DT/Georgia
71 Philadelphia (from Seattle) Toby Gerhart RB/Stanford
72 Cleveland Jacoby Ford WR/Clemson
73 Buffalo Alex Carrington DE/Arkansas St.
74 Miami Riley Cooper WR/Florida
75 Jacksonville Marshawn Gilyard WR/Cincinnati
76 Chicago Matt Tennant C/Boston College
77 New York Giants Arthur Jones DT/Syracuse
78 Tennessee A.J. Edds LB/Iowa
79 Carolina Tony Pike QB/Cincinnati
80 San Francisco Antonio Brown WR/Central Michigan
81 Denver J.D. Walton C/Baylor
82 Houston Montario Hardesty RB/Tennessee
83 Pittsburgh Major Wright S/Florida
84 Atlanta Eric Norwood LB/South Carolina
85 Cincinnati Reshad Jones S/Georgia
86 Cleveland (from Oakland via New England) T.J. Ward S/Oregon
87 Green Bay Joe McKnight RB/USC
88 Philadelphia Brandon Ghee CB/Wake Forest
89 Arizona (from Baltimore) Thaddeus Gibson DE/Ohio St.
90 Arizona Taylor Price WR/Ohio
91 Dallas Linval Joseph DT/East Carolina
92 San Diego Jerome Murphy CB/South Florida
93 Cleveland (from New York Jets) Jared Veldheer OT/Hillsdale
94 Minnesota Sean Lee LB/Penn St.
95 Indianapolis Mike Neal DT/Purdue
96 New Orleans Dennis Pitta TE/BYU
97 Cincinnati* Jarrett Brown QB/West Virginia
98 Tennessee* Akwasi Owusu-Ansah CB/Indiana(PA)
99 Atlanta* Carlton Mitchell WR/South Florida
