While we were taking volunteers to field our BTB Community Mock, my fellow front-pagers and I were getting our own Mock Draft activity under way. O.C.C., Rabble, Archie, Tom and Coty have joined me in being assigned each of the 32 first round slots and making GM decisions for the teams in question.
Fortunately, we’ve had a week of free agency to help shovel in some initial holes, unlike last year, so teams aren’t using the draft to fill their biggest needs.
Now while the community mock will only cover the first round, we’re probably going to take the writer’s mock as far as it can go, since it moves at a much quicker pace. Last year, we successfully completed two rounds. Each article will feature eight selections at a time, and you’ll have your chance to vote on which selection you think was the best for the specific team.
Without further ado, here are the first eight picks from the 2012 Writer’s Mock Draft.
| Draft Pick | Team | 2011 Record | Assigned Writer | Selection |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Indianapolis | (2-14) | OCC | QB Andrew Luck |
| 2 | Washington | (5-11) | Coty | QB RG III |
| 3 | Minnesota | (3-13) | KD | LOT Matt Kalil |
| 4 | Cleveland | (4-12) | Tom | WR Justin Blackmon |
| 5 | Tampa Bay | (4-12) | Archie | CB Morris Claiborne |
| 6 | St. Louis | (2-14) | Rabble | RB Trent Richardson |
| 7 | Jacksonville | (5-11) | Coty | OT Riley Reiff |
| 8 | Miami | (6-10) | Archie | QB Ryan Tannehill |
Follow the jump for pick justifications from each writer, as well as some IMPORTANT INFO on the BTB Community Mock process, including dates and how to submit your picks.
O.C.C.’s pick
Indy: Stanford QB Andrew Luck
I was sorely tempted to pick RGIII for the Colts, just to mess with CotySaxman who has the next pick and has probably already prepared an extensive write-up on RGIII. But Luck it is. Even with Luck, the Colts will likely need a while before they are relevant again as they embark on a major rebuilding project. But at least they have a franchise QB to help get them started.
Coty’s pick
Washington: Baylor QB Robert Girffin III
The Redskins have been struggling for what seems like the past couple decades due largely to their lack of a franchise quarterback. The trade to get here made headlines; no surprises here.
KD’s pick
Minnesota: USC LT Matt Kalil
After failing to acquire more picks for the #3 slot, the Vikes decide to go with the best tackle prospect in years. They may not really believe in their quarterback solution, but they at least believe in protecting their investment. Kalil should give them the blindside protection to give Christian Ponder all the time in the world to prove he doesn’t belong.
Tom’s pick
Cleveland: Oklahoma State WR Justin Blackmon
It was a very close call between him and Morris Claiborne. On my last Averaging the Mocks, they are just about a toss up for BPA, so neither could be considered a mistake. Since the team looks to have a little more need on offense, Blackmon gets the nod here.
Archie’s pick
Tampa Bay: LSU CB Morris Claiborne
Even though the Bucs signed cornerback Eric Wright in free agency, Claiborne is the BPA on the board. He is the best cornerback in the draft and a great pick to upgrade the Bucs secondary. Trent Richardson was another option here, but this time the elite cornerback trumps the elite running back.
Rabble’s pick
St. Louis: Alabama RB Trent Richardson
Rams take running back Trent Richardson. After feverishly working to broker a trade, St. Louis takes the best player on the board, and the best collegiate runner since Adrian Peterson. Richardson will team up with Stephen Jackson to take a lot of pressure off of franchise QB Sam Bradford.
Coty’s pick
Jacksonville: Iowa OT Riley Reiff
After witnessing Gabbert’s struggles remaining upright in the pocket, Jacksonville decides to bolster their offensive line. With the signing of a deep threat receiver in Laurent Robinson, Gabbert will need more time in the pocket. Reiff will be drafted to play right tackle, but can eventually develop into a left tackle, giving the Jaguars flexibility in the future.
Archie’s pick
Miami: Texas A&M QB Ryan Tannehill
The Dolphins are considering Matt Flynn, but are out of the Peyton Manning sweepstakes. Tannehill gives them a franchise quarterback to begin building around. If they did sign Flynn, I would make a defensive pick here. (Flynn has since signed with Seattle)
BTB COMMUNITY MOCK NEWS!
Over the weekend, we took assignments for the BTB Community Mock here. We will try to get these done one per day. This is where I will present a full work-up of each of the top candidates. The community mocker will be responsible for emailing me between 1-3 paragraphs on why they made that specific pick. I will provide a wrap-up of evaluations on said player. This will be one per day and move quickly, so you MUST EMAIL ME SO I CAN LET YOU KNOW THE PRIOR PICK TO YOU AS SOON AS IT COMES IN.
Email me now at KDP10For10@gmail.com
Subject Line: BTB MOCK [Your BTB Name] [Your Mock Pick Number]
ex: BTB MOCK n8dgr8 Pick #1
I am aiming to post the first community pick on Wednesday, March 21st. I appreciate your compliance and remember, don’t re-enact scenes from Platoon with Charlie Sheen.
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If you thought the Combine would lead to some new names being mocked to the Cowboys, you may be in for a surprise as you read through our mock draft roundup this morning.
While there were many prospects who stood out at the Combine and possibly improved their draft stock, the mock draftniks this week are a conservative bunch, sticking to the names they’ve been mocking to the Cowboys for the last few weeks.
Cornerback and O-line remain the two positions mocked most frequently, with Dre Kirkpatrick and David DeCastro still the odds-on favorites. In fact, it’s hard finding mocks that don’t have either of the two mocked our way.
In today’s round-up, we look at the latest post-Combine mocks from Foxsports, SBNation and Draftek, a whole Armada of mocks from NFL.com and many others, including one from the illustriously named website Fantasy Knuckleheads.
All the mock draft goodness after the break.
Peter Schrager, Foxsports, 2/29/2012: Dre Kirkpatrick, CB, Alabama
Will [the marijuana charges being dropped] be enough for some teams to get over the incident? For many teams, maybe not. For the Cowboys? Sure. A six-foot cornerback with top-flight speed (think Patrick Peterson speed), Kirkpatrick is the rare tall cornerback who can keep up with the game’s fastest receivers (think Patrick Peterson).
The Cowboys are desperate for some depth and some young talent at cornerback. Kirkpatrick would be a steal at No. 14.
Ryan van Bibber, SBnation, 2/29/2012: David DeCastro, OG, Stanford
Dallas might fill their cornerback needs in free agency, targeting either Brandon Carr or Cortland Finnegan. If they do, they would be under no pressure to grab one in the first round of the draft. DeCastro matches need and draft spot as one of the more promising interior linemen since Steve Hutchinson.
Drafttek, 2/29/2012: Luke Kuechly, ILB, Boston College
How can you tell when Cuzzin Jerruh is lying? His lips move . . . but for the sake of argument, let’s take him at his word that needs will be filled in free agency and the Cowboys will adopt a “BPA” policy for the 2012 Draft. In this horrific simulation, the top 2 CB’s (Claiborne #3 to Minnesota and Kirkpatrick #5 to Tampa Bay) are both off the board, the “People’s Choice” OG David Decastro goes to Kansas City at #11, and even “Super Soph” DE Michael Brockers is gone (#9 to Carolina).
So looking at the Big Board, the two best values remaining are RB Trent Richardson and ILB Luke Kuechly . . . of the 2 positions, RB appears to be in better hands with Murray/Jones/Tanner than ILB with Lee/Carter/Lemon. The potential injury concerns are prevalent at both positions . . . but only Lee has proven he can play in the NFL. We hope Carter is starting material, but we don’t know . . . Kuechly is the best ILB prospect in this year’s draft. Don’t you always take “the best”???
Ryan McCrystal, DraftAce, 02/29/2012: Dre Kirkpatrick, CB, Alabama
Rob Ryan recently stated that he wants the Cowboys to focus on the secondary this offseason, and I suspect Jerry Jones will listen. Charges were recently dropped against Kirkpatrick in his marijuana arrest, which help alleviate any concerns teams may have about his character. Then again, the Cowboys aren’t the type of franchise that pays much attention to those types of concerns to begin with, and for that reason Janoris Jenkins may be an option here as well.
Steve Wyche, NFL.com, 02/29/2012: Dre Kirkpatrick, CB, Alabama
Dallas could make a surprise pick and snap Boston College ILB Luke Kuechly. It’s a need, but the secondary is more pressing.
Chad Reuter, NFL.com, 02/29/2012: Dre Kirkpatrick, CB, Alabama
Terence Newman won’t be in Dallas much longer and Kirkpatrick’s combine workout showed he has enough speed to stay with NFL receivers. He didn’t run agility tests, however, and only weighed 186 pounds, so Dallas may not have a problem picking him up in the mid-first round.
Albert Breer, NFL.com, 02/29/2012: Dre Kirkpatrick, CB, Alabama
Don’t be surprised if Dallas signs a free agent corner (Brandon Carr, Cortland Finnegan) and drafts one. Rob Ryan can’t have enough of them.
Bucky Brooks, NFL.com, 02/29/2012: Dre Kirkpatrick, CB, Alabama
After watching receivers routinely run past Terence Newman and Co., Jerry Jones is intent on fortifying the secondary. Kirkpatrick is a solid all-around corner with the size and length to challenge the big receivers that rule the roost in the NFC.
NationalFootballAuthority, 2/29/2012: Janoris Jenkins, CB, North Alabama
The ‘Boys need an upgrade at the corner position and Jenkins makes sense here; only because it seems as though he has made serious strides to clean up his act. His off the field antics forced his path to UNA as many will recall. There are some other interesting options here, and if it’s not Jenkins it could be Alabama CB Dre Kirkpatrick.
NFLmocks.com, 2/28/2012: Peter Konz, C, Wisconsin
DeCastro only plays guard which could push him down the board. Konz on the other hand is a center which holds more value. You say, but Jesse where is the cornerback? Well one of the combine rumors is that the Cowboys will be signing Brandon Carr, the Kansas City Chiefs cornerback, as soon as free agency opens and that they are looking at OL. Tyron Smith is moving to LT also in case you missed that. Center though remains a problem. Konz, to me, is better than Mike Pouncy last year.
NePatriotsdraft, 2/29/2012: Janoris Jenkins, CB, North Alabama
Even if the Cowboys sign Brandon Carr or another veteran CB, they could still use another piece to their secondary. Jenkins has some well known character issues, but he’s also an extremely talented player who can bump at the line and turn and run with even the fastest WRs.
Dallas Cowboys Mock Draft overview (min. three rounds deep)
| Site | Date | 1st Round | 2nd Round | 3rd Round | 4th Round | 5th Round | 6th Round |
| Draft Tek | 2/29 | Luke Kuechly, ILB, Boston College | Chase Minnifield, CB, Virginia | Kendall Reyes, DE, Connecticut | Josh Robinson, CB, Central Florida | Ryan Lindley, QB San Diego State | Kevin Koger, TE, Michigan |
| Walter Football | 2/29 | Janoris Jenkins, CB, North Alabama | Chandler Jones, DE, Syracuse | Tank Carder, ILB, TCU | Jared Crick, DE, Nebraska | ||
| Fantasy Knuckleheads | 2/27 | Dre Kirkpatrick, CB, Alabama | Bobby Wagner, OLB, Utah State | Senio Kelemete, OG, Washington | Duke Ihenacho, SS, San Jose State | Quentin Saulsberry, C, Mississippi State | George Bryan, TE, NC State |
| Sideline Scouting | 2/23 | David DeCastro, OG, Stanford | Alameda Ta’amu, NT, Washington | Trumaine Johnson, CB, Montana |
Cliff Harris, CB, Oregon | Janzen Jackson, S, McNeese State | Brandon Lindsey, OLB, Pittsburgh |
A month ago, Don Banks of SI.com put out a 2012 NFL mock draft that had the Kansas City Chiefs selecting DT Devon Still. Today, Banks’ latest mock draft has the Chiefs selecting OT Jonathan Martin out of Stanford.
The Chiefs have to upgrade at right offensive tackle, and Martin is the most obvious direction to head with both Kalil and Reiff already gone. An inside linebacker like Boston College’s Luke Kuechly or a defensive tackle like Memphis’ Dontari Poe would fill other areas of need with players who will wind up with grades in the top 15-20 range.
In this scenario, both Matt Kalil and Riley Reiff are off the board, which leaves Martin (and Mike Adams out of Ohio State) as the next best offensive tackle.
This jives with Adam Teicher’s suggestion this morning that the Chiefs should draft an offensive tackle. You’d get a right tackle for next season and some insurance for the season after that depending on how Branden Albert’s contract situation plays out.
One interesting situation that presents itself in this mock draft is Texas A&M’ QB Ryan Tannehill being available at the 11th pick. I’m not saying the Chiefs should take him but, in this scenario, the Seattle Seahawks are right behind the Chiefs. They very well could take a quarterback, which makes the Chiefs position one spot ahead of them potentially desirable for a trade down. Something to remember is that teams will trade up for a quarterback. Maybe not many other positions, but a quarterback they will.
Any strong feelings one way or the other on the Chiefs trading down?
The NFL draft may still be a couple months away, but it’s never too early to start talking predictions. This took a lot of time and I will hope all NFL fans will be able to relate to this mock draft. So without further … [visit site to read more]
NFL First Round Mock Draft 2012 – Lombardi Ave – Lombardi Ave – A Green Bay Packers Fan Site – News, Blogs, Opinion and more.
Here’s Jason’s latest 2012 NFL Mock Draft, with a fifth round added now that the Senior Bowl has come and gone. Great stuff as always from him. Share your thoughts on the selections allotted to the Steelers and other teams. -Michael B.-
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1. Indianapolis Colts – Andrew Luck QB, Stanford
2011 1st round Draft Pick: Anthony Castonzo OT, Boston College
Team Needs: RT/OC/OG/WR/CB/SS
At this stage of the game it’s pretty much a forgone conclusion that the Colts will take Andrew Luck with the first overall pick. The only other option is ransoming this pick for a treasure trove. They could conceivably get two first round picks out of any deal, and that’s just going to be the starting point. In all likelihood they could get three first round picks, or two firsts and a couple of seconds which would seriously help them rebuild their defense. There is a rumor that Dolphins owner Stephen Ross is absolutely infatuated with Andrew Luck. A move like that might drop the Colts back too far to get an elite prospect. The Cleveland Browns hold two firsts in this draft thanks to the Atlanta Falcons trade last year and they have almost nothing invested in Colt McCoy. If they do pull that trade the Colts could be looking at Justin Blackmon to replace Reggie Wayne who is a free agent or bolster their defense by taking LSU CB Morris Claiborne. In the next few rounds the Colts will have to invest in the interior of their offensive line as Jeff Saturday, Ryan Diem, Mike Pollack, and Jamey Richard are all free agents.
2. St. Louis Rams – Matt Kalil OT, USC
2011 1st round Draft Pick: Robert Quinn DE/OLB, UNC
Team Needs: LT/WR/CB/OLB/DT
St. Louis’ biggest downfall this season was their inability to protect Sam Bradford. Fortunately for them they are the first team up that doesn’t need a quarterback so that leaves them with the top tackle in the draft. Matt Kalil is the only tackle in the draft without any flaws to his game and would be a great blindside protector for Sam Bradford. Taking him means they could move Rodger Saffold over to right tackle and move the disappointing Jason Smith to guard. If the Rams go in any other direction they could take Justin Blackmon to give Bradford another weapon and to replace Brandon Lloyd. Defensively they could really use LSU cornerback Morris Claiborne given that they are currently reduced to starting 36-year-old Al Harris. They’ll also need to replace both starting OLB’s who are free agents and needed to be replaced anyway.
3. Minnesota Vikings – Morris Claiborne CB, LSU
2011 1st Draft Pick: Christian Ponder, QB, FSU
Team Needs: LT/CB/WR/OG/FS
The Vikings offense is really hurting since they lost Sidney Rice to free agency and Justin Blackmon would be a great replacement for him. However they also need a better option than Charlie Johnson at left tackle so if the Rams don’t take Matt Kalil he will likely be the pick. Defensively they must improve their secondary at some point. Antoine Winfield is getting frail in his old age and Chris Cook has legal troubles. With the Colts likely not trading away the right to draft Andrew Luck this is where the draft will get interesting. Matt Barkley is staying at USC and Landry Jones is staying at Oklahoma so that leaves RGIII as the only other viable first round quarterback. With Cleveland sure to take him at number 4 Minnesota will find themselves in prime trading territory. The Redskins and Dolphins will be falling over each other to make the Vikings an offer for this pick and it would certainly be in their best interest to deal if the price is right. If they trade back with Washington it’ll be Justin Blackmon, and if it’s with Miami it’ll be for Riley Reiff or Jonathan Martin.
4. Cleveland Browns – Robert Griffin III QB, Baylor
2011 1st round Draft Pick: Phil Taylor NT, Baylor
Team Needs: WR/RT/QB/RB
Cleveland drafted Greg Little in the second round of the 2011 NFL draft and he’s been a nice addition to a very underachieving WR core but they still need a legitimate number one WR. They could take Jonathan Martin or Riley Reiff to fill the void at right tackle but there will be plenty of solid options in the later rounds. But apparently there is a huge rift between the team and current battering ram Peyton Hillis over his contact and he will probably not be there next year. If the Browns were going to find someone to replace him who better than Trent Richardson? On the other side of the ball they could take Morris Claiborne and have one of the top cornerback tandems in the league when paired with Joe Haden. At quarterback Colt McCoy hasn’t shown much and since the Browns took him in the third round they don’t have anything invested in him. As such RGIII makes perfect sense. He has supreme athletic ability with a rocket arm and has drastically improved his decision-making skills from the previous season.
5. Tampa Bay Buccaneers – Trent Richardson RB, Alabama
2011 1st round Draft Pick: Adrian Clayborn DE, Iowa
Team Needs: CB/RT/LB/OC/WR
Going into the 2012 season the cornerback position is going to be a huge area of need for the Bucs. Rhonde Barber will be 37 years old by the time the 2012 draft rolls around and who knows what’s going to happen to Aqib Talib as he may be going to jail at some point. Morris Claiborne is already off of the board and it’s too early to draft Alfonzo Dennard or troublemakers Janoris Jenkins and Dre Kirkpatrick. Offensively the Bucs need some serious upgrades on the O-line and as such Riley Reiff and Jonathan Martin will garner some consideration. Donald Penn looks grossly overweight and it would really help Josh Freeman’s development to find a replacement for Penn. They also need a compliment to LaGarrette Blount. Richardson is better than his Heisman trophy predecessor Mark Ingram and has a perfect combination of speed and power running ability. At this point it’ll be a toss-up between Richardson and Justin Blackmon but for now I’ll give the nod to Richardson who has a slightly higher draft grade.
6. Washington Redskins – Justin Blackmon WR, Oklahoma State
2011 1st round Draft Pick: Ryan Kerrigan DE, Purdue
Team Needs: QB/WR/O-line depth
As I’ve already stated I believe the Redskins will make a play to move up for Robert Griffin III. However they could go in the opposite direction and move back. The Redskins definitely need to upgrade the interior of their offensive line but it’s too early to take Stanford’s David DeCastro. If Washington stays here the player that makes the most sense is Justin Blackmon. Santana Moss, Jabar Gaffney, and Donte Stallworth are all over 30 years old and behind them are a bunch of late-round 2011 rookies. Defensively they need an upgrade over Adam Carriker at DE and eventual successor to London Fletcher at ILB. Beyond that the Redskins could really use some depth at OLB and CB. Blackmon has officially declared after a great showing in the Fiesta bowl in which he had three touchdowns while battling a leg infection.
7. Jacksonville Jaguars – Quinton Coples DE, UNC
2011 1st round Draft Pick: Blaine Gabbert, QB, Missouri
Team Needs: WR/CB/DE/FS
Blaine Gabbert hasn’t shown anything this season that leads me to believe he is a starting caliber quarterback. He looks very skittish in the pocket. Ordinarily it would be inconceivable for a team to take a quarterback in the first round of consecutive drafts. But the team has a new owner that didn’t pay Gabbert his signing bonus, will have a new head coach, and thanks to the rookie wage scale they do not have a lot invested financially in Gabbert. If the team has any reservations about Gabbert’s future they have to pull the trigger if RGIII is available. However at this juncture RGIII will be long gone. If they stick with Gabbert another year they’ll need to get him some weapons so a WR would definitely be an option. Defensively they need a pass-rusher and some help in the secondary. Rashean Mathis will be a 32 year old free agent this offseason and with Dre Kirkpatrick and Alfonzo Dennard both still on the board they would be worth looking into. But the top player available is Quinton Coples and he does fill a big need for the Jags as that need could get bigger if they do not resign Jeremy Mincey.
8. Miami Dolphins – Riley Reiff OT, Iowa
2011 1st round Draft Pick: Mike Pouncey, OG/OC, Florida
Team Needs: QB/RT/OG/OLB/TE
As noted above, the rumor is that Dolphins owner Stephen Ross is absolutely infatuated with Andrew Luck. If so he’s going to have to make a huge deal with the Colts to get him. Given how he’s handled the franchise so far it wouldn’t surprise me to see Ross mortgage the future of the team by trading up for Luck. But since I don’t do trades in my mock draft I’ll have to mock them a player to fill their second biggest need. Marc Colombo has been absolutely terrible at right tackle and needs to be replaced immediately. While they may not get an upgrade over Matt Moore they can give him a bookend to pair with Jake Long. They’ll also need a replacement for Vernon Carey if he isn’t resigned and could use an upgrade over Richie Incognito. They could also take Alshon Jeffery to help Matt Moore out as well. Defensively they could very well take Courtney Upshaw as a successor to Jason Taylor.
9. Carolina Panthers – Jonathan Martin, OT, Stanford
2011 1st round Draft Pick: Cam Newton QB, Auburn
Team Needs: CB/DT/LB/WR/RT/S
The only dependable wide receiver on the Panthers roster is Steve Smith who will be 33 years old shortly after the 2012 NFL draft so the easy pick would be Alshon Jeffery but his stock has taken a bit of a hit after a down year. At right tackle Jeff Otah cannot seem to stay healthy and Jonathan Martin would be a great replacement. The biggest issues for Carolina are on defense as they need players just about everywhere. They relied on two third-round rookies and while Sione Fua was decent Terrell McClain was not. At linebacker Thomas Davis cannot stay healthy and Dan Conner is a free agent. In the secondary the Panthers need someone opposite of Chris Gamble and they need upgrades at both safety positions. With Dre Kirkpatrick’s recent pot bust he’s no longer going to be a top-10 pick and it’s a little early for Alfonzo Dennard. Right now Martin makes the most sense as he is the best talent available that fills a need for the Panthers and he will help aid in budding superstar Cam Newton’s development.
10. Buffalo Bills – Courtney Upshaw, DE/OLB, Alabama
2011 1st round Draft Pick: Marcell Dareus DE/DT, Alabama
Team Needs: OLB/OT/WR
The Bills biggest need is to bolster their pass rush. If they are serious about becoming a 3-4 team they’ll need to acquire rush linebackers and Courtney Upshaw is the highest rated one in this draft class so he becomes the easy choice. The Bills also need offensive line help especially if they lose Demetrius Bell to free agency. At wide receiver Steve Johnson is a free agent and the Bills could use a compliment to him anyway. A few other needs they’ll need to address at some point are an upgrade at defensive end over Dwan Edwards and at cornerback over Drayton Florence.
11. Kansas City Chiefs – Ryan Tannehill, QB, Texas A&M
2011 1st round Draft Pick: Jonathan Baldwin WR, Pittsburgh
Team Needs: OT/RB/CB
The Chiefs biggest needs going into the 2012 draft will be at right tackle where Barry Richardson is just plain awful in pass protection and at quarterback as Matt Cassel is mediocre at best. One issue they may face this offseason is the resigning of Brandon Carr. They resigned Brandon Flowers at the start of the season and may not be able to afford signing Carr to a big contract. They’ll also need to look for a possible replacement for Kelly Gregg at nose tackle and for Casey Wiegmann at center. I know this seems high for Tannehill but he’s the best QB available. Matt Cassel isn’t good enough to be a starting QB in the NFL. Behind him Tyler Palko and Ricky Stanzi don’t give much hope either. Last year we saw reaches on quarterbacks Jake Locker and Christian Ponder and we could see one with Tannehill this year.
12. Seattle Seahawks – Whitney Mercilus DE, Illinois
2011 1st round Draft Pick: James Carpenter OG/OT, Alabama
Team Needs: QB/CB/ILB
Aside from a nice little win against the Ravens and a couple of other decent spurts, current starting quarterback Tavares Jackson is not a long term answer at the position. Unfortunately there just aren’t any other quarterbacks available worthy of this pick. Of course we could see an early rush on QB’s like last year with Chris Ponder and Jake Locker in which case the next QB up would be Texas A&M’s Ryan Tannehill. Most of Seattle’s issues are on defense. They are really lacking in the pass rush and could use a couple of starters. Raheem Brock is in the twilight of his career and Chris Clemons will be a free agent next year. David Hawthorne, Leroy Hill, and Lofa Tatupu are all free agents at linebacker. At cornerback Marcus Trufant is a free agent who is most likely not going to be resigned and while Richard Sherman played very well in his rookie year Brandon Browner was inconsistent. It may be a little early for him but Whitney Mercilus is the only player who makes sense for the Seahawks. He’s an explosive player whose stock has risen the most this season.
13. Arizona Cardinals – Alshon Jeffery WR, South Carolina
2011 1st round Draft Pick: Patrick Peterson CB, LSU
Team Needs: LT/OLB/FS
Arizona’s two biggest needs will be to upgrade the pass-rush and the offensive line. The combo of Clark Haggans and Joey Porter is just ridiculous. They drafted Sam Acho who will probably man one spot, but they’ll need someone to man the other or at least challenge O’Brien Schofield. They also need an ILB to pair with Daryl Washington as Stewart Bradley is not cut out for the 3-4 defense. The Cards need to give some serious upgrades to protect their investment in Kevin Kolb. Coach Whisenhunt has stuck by Levi Brown but he is not left tackle material. Unfortunately Riley Reiff and Jonathan Martin are both gone and their need at guard isn’t big enough to draft David DeCastro. They could/may take ASU linebacker Vontaze Burflict. His stock has dropped but he would certainly be a fan favorite and he can play any linebacker position, and is scheme versatile. Alshon Jeffery doesn’t fill a big need but would definitely open up the Cardinals offense by taking the pressure off of Larry Fitzgerald as well as give Kevin Kolb/Jeff Skelton another weapon. He has dropped on a lot of draft boards but I will reserve a final judgment on him after I see what his 40 time is as that will make or break his draft stock. The Cards also have to resign or franchise Calais Campbell. If not they could be looking at Devon Still but it’s still too early for him.
14. Dallas Cowboys – David DeCastro OG, Stanford
2011 1st round Draft Pick: Tyron Smith OT, USC
Team Needs: CB/OG/OC/S/OLB
Dallas has a dire need at cornerback, and really at both safety spots as well. Anyone who watched their season finale against the Giants can see that. Terrence Newman is getting old and Mike Jenkins should be a nickel back at best. With Dre Kirkpatrick’s pot bust I don’t see Dallas looking at him as an option. If Dallas goes in any other direction besides cornerback it’ll be to upgrade the offensive line. David DeCastro is a stud and this is just about the range that he’ll be drafted in. With Derrick Dockery becoming a free agent after missing most of the season with an injury Dallas will need to revamp the entire interior of their offensive line. They could also use an upgrade over Igor Olshansky but it’s way too early for Devon Still who’s the highest rated 3-4 end. Also Anthony Spencer is a free agent looking for a big pay day and with his consistency issues Dallas may let him walk in which case they could be looking for another OLB.
15. Philadelphia Eagles – Michael Floyd WR, Notre Dame
2011 1st round Draft Pick: Danny Watkins OG, Baylor
Team Needs: RT/LB/S
So much for the Dream Team huh? Philly’s big free agent spending spree didn’t net them much beyond a colossal failure. They still have a few holes to fill. Linebacker has been an issue for years because Andy Reid just doesn’t value the position. However if he were so inclined to do so this would definitely be the right time to take one with the likes of Vontaze Burflict, Zach Brown, or Luke Kuechly. With so much invested in Mike Vick they need to do everything they can to protect his fragile body so if David DeCastro were to fall this fall he would probably be the pick with Evan Mathis being a free agent. Also its most likely that DeSean Jackson won’t be back next season. He’s worn out is welcome with Andy Reid and is too injury-prone to consider giving a massive contract to, and as such Michael Floyd would be a good replacement. Floyd has some off the field concerns but has stayed out of trouble this season. Andy Reid loves taking cornerbacks early so Dre Kirkpatrick would be tempting. Asante Samuel will most likely be traded or cut and DRC was terrible this season.
16. New York Jets – Nick Perry DE/OLB, USC
2011 1st round Draft Pick: Muhammed Wilkerson DE, Temple
Team Needs: QB/WR/OLB/RT/S/NT
The Jets are still having issues generating a consistent pass-rush. Calvin Pace has been good but the Jets still need someone opposite of him. Free safety Eric Smith looked overmatched against the Patriots and Jim Leonard is a free agent with a torn patellar tendon but there aren’t any safeties worthy of a pick this high. On the offensive line the Jets have struggled mightily to replace Damien Woody. The biggest questions with the Jets this offseason will be what they do with Mark Sanchez and Santonio Holmes. Sanchez seems to be wilting in the Big Apple and with the possibility of Peyton Manning being released, and he would be a target for the Jets, he could be traded to his old coach in Seattle. And after Santonio’s behavior he could find himself somewhere else as well. If so the Jets could target Michael Floyd or Alshon Jeffery if either of them slips. Personally I think this is a li9ttle high for Nick Perry but he’s the top player available that fits any type of need for the Jets.
17. Cincinnati Bengals (via Oakland Raiders) – Dre Kirkpatrick CB, Alabama
2011 1st round Draft Pick: A.J. Green WR, UGA
Team Needs: CB/RB/OG/S
Cincy’s biggest need will be at the cornerback position. They lost Jonathan Joseph to free agency and Leon Hall to a torn Achilles. Even if Hall comes back healthy next season they’ll still need another cornerback to play opposite of him. In addition to cornerback the Bengals may also have a need at safety as Reggie Nelson will be a free agent. Offensively the Bengals definitely need to replace the weak link on the line in Nate Livings plus Bobby Williams is a free agent. This is just about the range where Cordy Glenn will come into play. It’s also time for them to start looking for a replacement for Cedric Benson as well. He’s a free agent and rapidly approaching that 30 year old wall for running backs. Dre Kirkpatrick has top 10 talent but has fallen due to a recent pot bust but the Bengals have been known to take players with character concerns before.
18. San Diego Chargers – Cordy Glenn OG/OT, Georgia
2011 1st round Draft Pick: Corey Liuget DT, Illinois
Team Needs: OLB/ILB/RT/CB
Offensively the Chargers are just about set with the exception of a few offensive linemen. They could definitely use an upgrade over Jeromey Clary at right tackle and with Marcus McNeill’s injuries they may need to find a successor to him at left tackle at some point soon. It also seems like Kris Dielman’s career may be coming to a close as well with the seizure he suffered after a serious concussion. Michael Floyd would be a San Diego-type pick if they don’t resign Vincent Jackson but they have much bigger needs defensively. The Chargers could give a look at some of the available cornerbacks as they may be inclined to move Quinton Jammer to the strong safety position. Their biggest need by far is for a rush linebacker. Unfortunately for San Diego they are all gone by this point, although they could give some consideration to Vontaze Burflict. The best player available that fills a need for the Chargers is Cordy Glenn. He would replace Chris Dielman and could sub in for Marcus McNeill the next time he gets injured.
19. Chicago Bears – Mike Adams OT, Ohio State
2011 1st round Draft Pick: Gabe Carimi OT, Wisconsin
Team Needs: LT/OG/OC/WR/CB/TE
Offensively Chicago needs desperately to upgrade the line. If Jay Cutler had time to throw the ball on a consistent basis they could really contend every year. J’Marcus Webb should not be starting and Chris Spencer is terrible so the Bears would be looking at UGA OT/OG Cordy Glenn or Wisconsin OC Peter Konz in the event that they move Robert Garza back to guard. One thing they’ve lacked for years is a legitimate number one wide receiver. Devin Hester is good but he’s much better in the slot playing against a nickel CB. If Alshon Jeffery or Michael Floyd fall this far either of them could be drafted. The Bears will need to find another running back in the event that they can’t come to some sort of deal with Matt Forte but I’m sure they will put the franchise tag on him if they can’t. And of course now that Mike Martz is gone the Bears will need to find a pass-catching tight end.
Defensively the Bears could use a linebacker to replace Nick Roach and serve as an apprentice to Brian Urlacher who isn’t getting any younger and tore some knee ligaments in the final game of the season. And if the Bears hope to compete with the Packers they will need to upgrade/add to their secondary and possibly replace Tim Jennings who’s a free agent. Right now it would be a toss-up between Peter Konz and Mike Adams. For now I’ll give the nod to Adams whose stock has risen with a good week of Senior Bowl practices and would fill a bigger need. During the game Adams neutralized Quinton Coples and solidified his status as a first round pick.
20. Tennessee Titans – Peter Konz OC, Wisconsin
2011 1st round Draft Pick: Jake Locker QB, Washington
Team Needs: OC/OG/S/WLB/DE
The Titans biggest needs are along the interior of the offensive line. Leroy Harris and Eugene Amano both need to be replaced in a hurry and right guard Jake Scott is a free agent. Given how Mike Munchak criticized the offensive line Konz makes the most sense especially since he’s the last lineman with a first round grade and fills the Titans biggest need. Tennessee’s defense clearly misses Stephen Tulloch as Barrett Ruud just isn’t getting it done so Boston College’s Luke Kuechly could be a good fit. Kenny Britt tore his ACL and MCL and may not come back the same player and even if he does the Titans could still use another playmaker for their offense especially since Lavelle Hawkins and Donnie Avery are free agents. And in addition to that all of Tennessee’s safeties are free agents as well.
21. Cincinnati Bengals – Lamar Miller RB, Miami
2011 1st round Draft Pick: A.J. Green, WR, Georgia
Team Needs: DT/CB/RT/RB
This time Cincy upgrades the offense with a replacement for Cedric Benson. Lamar Miller has steadily climbed the draft boards and is now garnering first round consideration. Drafting him would make a great young offensive core with Andy Dalton and A.J. Green. If the Bengals don’t take a cornerback with the their first pick in the first round they’ll probably take one here, or take Cordy Glenn if he’s available to upgrade over Nate Livings or possibly replace Bobby Williams if they can’t resign him.
22. Cleveland Browns (via Atlanta Falcons) –Luke Kuechly LB, Boston College
2011 1st round Draft Pick: Phil Taylor NT, Baylor
Team Needs: WR/RT/RB
With Cleveland grabbing RGIII with their first pick and securing their future they can focus on other minor things. They still need to upgrade the right side of their offensive line, especially over Tony Pashos. On the defensive side it’s the right side of the line as well. In the secondary the Browns could use a better compliment to Joe Haden than Philly castoffs Sheldon Brown and Dimitri Patterson. MLB D’Qwell Jackson is good when healthy but has missed a lot of games over the last few years. Others rate Kuechly much higher than this but given his lack of athleticism and difficulty shedding blocks I expect him to fall a bit on draft day like a lot of similar style ILB’s. He reminds me a lot of former Buckeye and current Rams MLB James Laurinaitis. Another option would be Virginia CB Chase Minnifield whose father Frank was a Pro-Bowler for the Browns in the late 80’s-early 90’s.
23. Detroit Lions – Vontaze Burflict LB, Arizona State
2011 1st round Draft Pick: Nick Fairley, DT, Auburn
Team Needs: LT/CB/OC/LB/DE/SS
Detroit has a habit of taking the best player available regardless of need. It’s why they have one of the best defensive lines in the NFL but also have one of the worst offensive lines in addition to one of the worst secondaries. Left tackle has been an issue for years and they may finally address it now that Jeff Backus is a free agent. OC Dominic Raiola is terrible. Even though the strength of this team has been its defensive line they could potentially take a DE in the first round because Cliff Avril is a free agent who’s going to command a lot of money on the free agent market. The same holds true at linebacker where one-year rental Stephen Tulloch will be looking for a big contract too. At cornerback Eric Wright is a free agent but he needed to be replaced anyway. Virginia CB Chase Minnifield or Wisconsin OC Peter Konz would both be solid options here but the best player available is Vontaze Burflict. When his game is on he’s absolute beast but when it’s not he’s a personal foul machine. It’ll be up to the Detroit staff to get him to focus. With his attitude he’ll fit right in with Ndamukong Suh. They could also look at South Carolina DE Melvin Ingram to replace Cliff Avril.
24. Pittsburgh Steelers – Dont’a Hightower ILB, Alabama
2011 1st round Draft Pick: Cameron Heyward, DE, Ohio State
Team Needs: OG/NT/ILB/OT/S/CB
The Steelers biggest need is unquestionably at offensive guard. I think most would agree that the frustrating carousel of Chris Kemoeatu, Ramon Foster, Trai Essex, and Doug Legursky is not working. The Steelers could use two starters at the position. At tackle, though embarrassed by Aldon Smith on several occasions, the newly svelte Max Starks played surprisingly well during his return before a torn ACL in the playoff finale put a painful end to his season. There’s the obvious concern that Starks will experience lingering issues in his knee. At right tackle it seems the future is Marcus Gilbert. Some in Steeler Nation, including me, would like to see Willie Colon come back from injury next year and play right guard but Colon might not take kindly to switching positions. Add to that his injury history and the fact that he makes 6mil a year and Colon could end up a cap casualty, especially since it is projected that the Steelers will be 25 million dollars over the cap limit.
With Rashard Mendenhall’s ACL tear I’ve seen some chatter about the Steelers possibly drafting a replacement for him. ACL tears are a serious issue, especially for running backs, and next year will be the final year of his contract. Defensively the Steelers still need to find a long term successor to Casey Hampton at nose tackle. He’s 35 years old, will be coming off of an ACL tear, and the final year of his contract will count 8mil against the cap. The nose tackle with the most buzz is Memphis’ Dontari Poe. I’m going to hold off judgment on him until I see him at the combine. At 6’5″ and 350lbs. I want to see if he shows up looking solid like Phil Taylor did last year or does he show up looking like a big, jiggly fat@ss like Terrence Cody did the year before. From everything I’ve seen on him he’s got the build of a weightlifting champion and if he does show up at the combine like it he’ll push himself into the first round. In the secondary I’ve seen enough promise out of the youngsters at cornerback to finally be ok with the Steelers bypassing the position early in the draft.
At safety though the time is near to start looking for at least one safety for depth to groom behind Ryan Clark and Troy Polamalu. The Steelers would have the opportunity to take Alabama’s Mark Barron whose stock has been soaring. At ILB James Farrior will in all likelihood be a cap casualty. At 36 years old he has clearly lost a step and can no longer be depended on to cover across the middle of the field. Some have high hopes for Stevenson Sylvester but at this point he’s just a late round pick who’s been a special teams standout. He hasn’t shown enough to warrant being expected to take over the starting duties. With this pick I really struggled between Hightower and UNC’s Zach Brown. Many tab Brown as a 4-3 player only but I look at him and see a potential next Lawrence Timmons. He’s extremely athletic and can cover running backs, tight ends, and even slot receivers across the middle. He has easily been the best linebacker at the Senior Bowl. With the NFL going to a more pass-heavy system with each passing season it’ll be important to have another athlete like Timmons patrolling the middle of the field. Hightower on the other hand is an absolute beast against the run and in the pass rush.
The only reservation I have with him is in the passing game. At 6’4″, 260lbs. I don’t know that he’ll be able to cover well enough. I see him more like LaMarr Woodley in that he’s good in pass coverage for a man of his size but that doesn’t necessarily make him good in coverage. And as I’ve stated in previous mock drafts, the Steelers place a premium on the linebacker position and it wouldn’t be a Steelers draft without taking at least one of them. However we can all hold out hope that the Steelers make a play to move up for Stanford guard David DeCastro. I’ve already said that guard is their biggest need.
During the 2011 draft the rumor was that the Steelers tried to trade up to pick 15 to take Mike Pouncey but that the Dolphins asking price was too much. Well DeCastro is the best guard prospect I’ve seen in a long time, he’s graded higher than Mike Pouncey, and would be well worth trading up for.
25. Denver Broncos – Michael Brockers DT, LSU
2011 1st round Draft Pick: Von Miller, DE/OLB, Texas A&M
Team Needs: DT/CB/RB/LG/OC
Offensively Denver just needs a new quarterback but unfortunately they are stuck with Tebow for at least another season. They could however also use a replacement for Zane Beadles and J.D. Walton but they are still young enough to be given another year. Defensively the Broncos have to stop neglecting the tackle position. Brodrick Bunkley is very good against the run but neither he nor Marcus Thomas offer much as a pass rusher. Plus Bunkley is a free agent. Given the weak crop of tackles in this year’s draft they must take this opportunity to take the highest rated one in this draft class. They could also draft an heir to Champ Bailey. He’s turned in another good year but at age 33 (he turns 34 before the 2012 season) how many good years can he have left? At running back Willis McGahee is 30 years old and Knowshon Moreno cannot stay healthy. Head Coach John Fox loves running back by committee so Lamar Miller would be an option as well if he’s available. The player who makes the most sense for Denver is Michael Brockers. He’s an absolute beast and stood out amongst a bevy of playmakers on the LSU defensive line. As the draft gets closer we may even see him work himself into the top 15 with a strong combine performance.
26. Houston Texans – Kendall Wright, WR, Baylor
2011 1st round Draft Pick: J.J. Watt DT/DE, Wisconsin
Team Needs: OG/WR/OC/NT/CB/SS
The Texans really don’t have any huge pressing needs. The biggest would be to upgrade the interior offensive line, especially over Wade Smith. With DeCastro, Glenn, and even Peter Konz off of the board it’s not really an option. They could also use a better compliment to Andre Johnson than Kevin Walter and Jacoby Jones. Defensively they appear to be pretty well stacked. They could use a bigger run-stuffing nose tackle so Dontari Poe will be an option. Kareem Jackson is coming close to being labeled a bust so Houston could take Chase Minnifield, Alfonzo Dennard, or Janoris Jenkins. Even if he does turn things around it wouldn’t hurt to have another quality cornerback on the roster with the NFL coming increasingly pass-heavy. Andre Johnson, Bryant Johnson, and Kevin Walter and all 30 years old and the Texans could use someone who can stratch the filed and take the pressure off of Andre Johnson. Kendall Wright is an explosive playmaker and will probably run a sub-4.4 40 at the combine.
27. New England Patriots (via New Orleans Saints) – Devon Still DE/DT, Penn State
2011 1st round Draft Pick: Nate Solder OT, Colorado
Team Needs: OLB/DE/WR
There’s almost no chance the Patriots use both of their 2012 first round picks. It’s likely they’ll find someone to give them a ridiculous deal for this selection, but I don’t do trades in my mock draft. New England needs to just about overhaul their entire defense. Their pass-rush is a joke at this point. They also need a receiving threat that can stretch the field vertically. Unfortunately there aren’t any wide receivers available that would warrant this pick. Devon Still can play end in a 3-4 and tackle when they switch to the 4-3 and he would help revamp New England’s lacking pass rush.
28. Green Bay Packers – Mark Barron SS, Alabama
2011 1st round Draft Pick: Derek Sherrod OT, Miss. State
Team Needs: OLB/S/DE/RB
Green Bay has the luxury of not really having any serious holes to fill. They do still need a pass-rusher to play opposite of Clay Matthews and will need to prepare for the day that Charles Woodson finally retires. They could also use an upgrade at defensive end over Jarius Wynn and Mike Neal cannot stay healthy. Aside from their needing OLB perhaps their biggest need would be at safety. Nick Collins is coming off of a serious neck injury that could be potentially career threatening. Offensively they could continue to stockpile linemen. If they keep Derek Sherrod at guard they’ll still need to find an heir to Chad Clifton at left tackle, or someone to play right tackle if Bryan Bulaga moves to the left side. At center Scott Wells is a free agent. At running back Ryan Grant is a free agent and James Starks may not be able to shoulder the load full time. Mark Barron is far and away the best safety in this draft class and with all of the 3-4 OLB’s with a first round grade already gone he’s the easy choice.
29. Baltimore Ravens – Ronnell Lewis DE/OLB Oklahoma
2011 1st Draft Pick: Jimmy Smith, CB, Colorado
Team Needs: LT/OC/ILB/S/WR
The Ravens are all about taking the best player on the board as opposed to drafting to fill a need. Offensively they will need to find an eventual long-term successor to Matt Birk at center. At left tackle Bryant McKinnie is just a Band-Aid at this point in his career. At WR Lee Evans did not pan out like the team had hoped and Anquan Boldin is starting to decline as well. Defensively they must find a successor to Ray Lewis and Ed Reed. In addition to finding a successor for Ray Lewis the Ravens will have to replace Jameel McClain if they do not resign him. Ed Reed will be 34 years old this coming season and both of his backups Tom Zbikowski and Haruki Nakamura are free agents. And at OLB Jarret Johnson is a free agent and Sergio Kindle may never pan out. Ronnell Lewis is built like a tank, has played by linebacker and defensive end, and he has the athletic ability to drop back into coverage. He is the prototypical Ravens pick and would be a perfect fit for their style of defense.
30. San Francisco 49ers – Alfonzo Dennard CB, Nebraska
2011 1st round Draft Pick: Aldon Smith DE/OLB, Missouri
Team Needs: CB/OC/NT/RG/RT
Thanks to Jim Harbaugh this team has completely turned around for the better. Heading into the draft the 49ers will only have a few needs and none of them should be too pressing. One will be at cornerback where Carlos Rogers will be a free agent and the second will be at wide receiver where they lacked depth even before releasing Braylon Edwards. Unfortunately with Minnifield gone there’s no other cornerbacks worthy of a first round pick and it’s still too early for any available WR. The only move San Fran has is to take advantage of the available 3-4 defensive line candidates to inject some youth into the line. Isaac Sopoaga and Justin Smith played extremely well this season but they are 30 and 33 years old respectively. If the 49ers resign Carlos Rogers, who will be looking for a big contract after a great year, then this pick will change to something else but for right now I’m going with Alfonzo Dennard. His stock has taken a hit after a poor bowl game against Alshon Jeffery and a poor showing at the Senior Bowl before pulling out with a hip injury but he’s still a first round talent.
31. New York Giants – Melvin Ingram DE, South Carolina
2011 1st round Draft Pick: Prince Amukamara CB, Nebraska
Team Needs: OC/RB/OLB/OG
The Giants got a steal when Prince Amukamara fell to them in the 2011 draft but they failed to address a majority of their needs. They still need a left tackle because William Beatty hasn’t worked out, they had to cut Shaun O’Hara and Rich Seubert, and their linebacking corps still needs an overhaul. The Giants generally do not take offensive lineman in the first round but that will have to change if they want to stay competitive. Wisconsin’s Peter Konz would provide a serious upgrade over David Baas if he’s available. Just like Philly the Giants have serious issues at linebacker but their history suggests they’ll ignore their need at that particular area again. The Giants love collecting pass rushers and with Mathias Kiwanuka becoming a free agent this pick makes too much sense. Ingram was a beast all season long and would continue the Giants long line of awesome D-linemen.With Rashard Mendenhall’s ACL tear I’ve seen some chatter about the Steelers possibly drafting a replacement for him. ACL tears are a serious issue, especially for running backs, and next year will be the final year of his contract.
32. New England Patriots – Janoris Jenkins CB, North Alabama
2011 1st round Draft Pick: Nate Solder, OT, Colorado
Team Needs: OLB/LG/DE
As previously stated the Patriots will most likely not use both of their first round picks. Here they have the luxury of taking the best player available that fits any sort of need. I gave serious consideration to mocking them Mohamed Sanu but Jenkins is just too much of a talent for Belichick to pass up at this point. He has a history of taking cornerbacks early before and it is a need for them. Jenkins has easily been the best secondary prospect at the Senior Bowl but because of his character concerns it’s really difficult to project how early he’ll come off of the board.
Round 2:
33. St. Louis Rams – Zach Brown LB, UNC
The Rams needs upgrades all over the defense and Brown is the BPA and could easily go in the first round.
34. Indianapolis Colts – Fletcher Cox DT, Miss. State
With the old regime out maybe the new one will invest more in their D-line besides under-sized speed rushers. Like the Rams Indy needs upgrades all over their defense.
35. Minnesota Vikings – Dontari Poe NT, Memphis
Minnesota really missed Pat Williams presence on the D-line.
36. Tampa Bay Buccaneers – Lavonte David OLB, Nebraska
The Bucs need help at linebacker and the rumor is that they love Lavonte David.
37. Cleveland Browns – Mohamed Sanu WR, Rutgers
Cleveland needs to upgrade its WR corps.
38. Jacksonville Jaguars – Rueben Randle WR, LSU
The Jags have lacked a legitimate number one WR since Jimmy Smith.
39. Washington Redskins – Zebrie Sanders OT, Florida State
Washington needs help all along the offensive line. Sanders played RT for three years before switching to LT after Andrew Datko’s injury.
40. Buffalo Bills – Jerel Worthy DT/DE, Michigan State
The Bills add to their pass rush by upgrading over DE Dwan Edwards.
41. Carolina Panthers – Brandon Thompson DT, Clemson
Terrell McClain was terrible in his first season.
42. Miami Dolphins – Dwayne Allen TE, Clemson
The Dolphins are stuck with Matt Moore so they should at least give him some weapons.
43. Seattle Seahawks – Bobby Wagner LB, Utah State
Seattle has a lot of free agent linebackers.
44. Kansas City Chiefs – Chase Minnifield CB, Virginia
Brandon Carr is a free agent. If they resign him the Chiefs could take a RB to replace Thomas Jones.
45. Chicago Bears – Nick Toon WR, Wisconsin
Jay Cutler needs a solid number one-type wide receiver.
46. San Diego Chargers – Coby Fleener TE, Stanford
Randy McMichael is at the end of his career and it would prolong Antonio Gates career if the Chargers had a capable back-up.
47. New England Patriots (via Oakland Raiders) – Juron Criner WR, Arizona
The Pats need to start upgrading their WR’s at some point.
48. New York Jets – Alameda Ta’amu NT, Washington
Kendrick Ellis is probably going to be deported back to Jamaica.
49. Philadelphia Eagles – Jayron Hosley CB, Virginia Tech
Andy Reid loves spending early picks on two things, cornerbacks and defensive linemen. Asante Samuel will be a free agent and DRC has been terrible this season.
50. Dallas Cowboys – Stephon Gilmore CB, South Carolina
Dallas must upgrade an atrocious secondary.
51. Philadelphia Eagles (via Arizona Cardinals) – Sean Spence OLB, Miami
At some point Andy Reid has to upgrade his linebackers.
52. Tennessee Titans – Kevin Zeitler OG, Wisconsin
Tennessee continues to upgrade the interior of their offensive line to help the running game.
53. Cincinnati Bengals – Marvin McNutt WR, Iowa
Andre Caldwell and Jerome Simpson are both agents.
54. Atlanta Falcons – Ben Jones OC, UGA
2011 1st round Draft Pick: Julio Jones WR, Alabama
Team Needs: LT/OC/CB/DE/RB
Atlanta has several issues they will need to address in this draft. Unfortunately they traded away their first round pick to Cleveland for the rights to draft Julio Jones. On the offensive line they’ll need to replace Sam Baker who was benched at one point during the season. At center Todd McClure will turn 35 years old before the draft and he is a free agent. RB Michael Turner is starting to show some wear and tear. On defense they’ll have to replace Brent Grimes who they will probably lose to free agency. At defensive end John Abraham is a 34 year old free agent and Kroy Biermann is as well and the Ray Edwards signing last offseason didn’t pan out. ILB Curtis Lofton is a free agent as well but Atlanta is expected to resign him. Ben Jones was the Captain and emotional leader for Georgia’s offense and a 4-year starter in the always tough SEC.
55. Detroit Lions – Vinny Curry DE, Marshall
Detroit likes to take BPA. Kyle Vanden Bosch is 33 years old and Cliff Avril is a free agent who’s due a big pay day.
56. Pittsburgh Steelers – Kelechi Osemele OG, Iowa State
If the Steelers bypass taking an offensive lineman in the first round they simply have to here. Kelechi Osemele was considered as a possible first round pick of the Steelers at the start of the season. He is a massive road grader and would bring some stability to the right guard spot. He’s been experiencing some trouble with speed rushers at the Senior Bowl practices and will probably be thought of as a guard-only prospect now.
57. Denver Broncos – David Wilson RB, Virginia Tech
John Fox likes running back by committee and Knowshon Moreno is always hurt.
58. Houston Texans – Josh Chapman NT, Alabama
Houston needs an upgrade at nose tackle.
59. New Orleans Saints – Tommy Streeter WR, Miami
2011 1st round Draft Picks: Cameron Jordan DE/DT, Cal/Mark Ingram RB, Alabama
Team Needs: LB/LG/WR/DT/SS
Offensively the Saints will probably need a new guard to replace Carl Nicks. Unless they sign Drew Brees before free agency begins they’ll have to use their franchise tag on him which means Nicks will be able to test free agency. At wide receiver Marques Colston and Robert Meachem are free agents as well. Colston has already stated that he will not give the Saints a home town discount so it’s unlikely that he’ll be resigned. Most of the Saints issues are on defense. At outside linebacker the Saints have to upgrade over Scott Shanle and Jo-Lonn Dunbar. In year two Martez Wilson should be able to step into a starting role which would leave N.O. with only one spot to upgrade. And at safety they must find someone who can cover better than Roman Harper. Streeter is raw but can stretch the field and has the size to be a big time weapon.
60. Green Bay Packers – Shea McClellin, DE/OLB, Boise State
The Packers need an upgrade over Erik Walden.
61. Baltimore Ravens – Brandon Washington OG/OT, Miami
Bryant McKinnie is not the long term answer at left tackle and Ben Grubbs is a free agent.
62. San Francisco 49ers – Chase Thomas OLB, Stanford
They already have the best tandem of inside linebackers with Navarro Bowman and Patrick Willis and a budding star at outside linebacker with Aldon Smith and here they can complete the quadruplet with someone Coach Harbaugh should be very familiar with. Plus Ahmad Brooks is a free agent.
63. New York Giants – Bob Massie OT, Ole Miss
The Giants seriously need some youth on the O-line.
64. New England Patriots – Markelle Martin S, Oklahoma State
They need to find a replacement for Brandon Meriweather and New England has a history of using early picks on defensive backs.
Round 3:
65. Indianapolis Colts – Brandon Boykin CB, UGA
Indy must continue to rebuild its defense.
66. St. Louis Rams – Casey Hayward CB, Vanderbilt
The Rams need more talent and depth across the board on defense.
67. Minnesota Vikings – Dwight Jones WR, North Carolina
Minnesota needs weapons for Christian Ponder.
68. Cleveland Browns – Andre Branch DE, Clemson
Cleveland needs to shore up the LDE spot.
69. Tampa Bay Buccaneers – Josh Norman CB, Coastal Carolina
The Bucs need cornerbacks badly. Josh Norman’s stock is on the rise after two great performances during the East-West Shrine game and the Senior Bowl.
70. Washington Redskins – Jared Crick DT/DE, Nebraska
Washington needs an upgrade over Adam Carriker and Shanahan seems to have developed an affinity for Nebraska players. Crick was having a mediocre year before his season ending injury but is worth the gamble here.
71. Jacksonville Jaguars – Cam Johnson DE, Virginia
The Jags will need two DE’s if they don’t resign Jeremy Mincey.
72. Miami Dolphins – Brock Osweiler QB, Arizona State
Miami has to take a QB that can compete for the starting job. Osweiler is a very intriguing prospect. He’s a former basketball player who is extremely mobile with a rocket arm. While his also very raw he has the potential with a little seasoning to be a big time starter at some point.
73. Chicago Bears (via Carolina Panthers) – Orson Charles TE, UGA
Now that Mike Martz is gone the Bears need a pass-catching TE. This also happens to the pick they acquired from Carolina in the Greg Olsen trade.
74. Buffalo Bills – Stephen Hill WR, Georgia Tech
The Bills could use a compliment to Steve Johnson, or a possible replacement he keeps screwing up.
75. Kansas City Chiefs – Doug Martin RB, Boise State
Thomas Jones will be 34 years old before the start of the 2012 season.
76. Seattle Seahawks – Nate Potter OG/OT, Boise State
Seattle suffered a lot of injuries on the O-line this season. Someone like Potter, who can play multiple positions, would be valuable to the team and could possibly replace Robert Gallery if he struggles again.
77. Arizona Cardinals – Mike McCants OT, UAB
Arizona has to do something about its offensive line.
78. Dallas Cowboys – Kendall Reyes DT/DE, UConn
Dallas could use an upgrade at DE.
79. Philadelphia Eagles – Billy Wynn DE/DT, Boise State
Andy Reid likes to collect D-linemen.
80. New York Jets – Chris Polk RB, Washington
LaDainian Tomlinson will probably not be back next season and Shonn Greene has been disappointing.
81. Oakland Raiders – Forfeited after selecting Terrelle Pryor in the supplemental draft.
82. San Diego Chargers – LeMichael James RB, Oregon
I bet San Diego misses Darren Sproles.
83. Chicago Bears – Coryell Judie CB, Texas A&M
The Bears have three cornerbacks set to be free agents including starter Tim Jennings.
84. Tennessee Titans – Chandler Jones DE, Syracuse
The Titans have three defensive ends set to be free agents including starter Jason Jones.
85. Cincinnati Bengals – Antonio Allen S, South Carolina
Reggie Nelson and Chris Crocker are both free agents and Croker needs to be replaced anyway.
86. Atlanta Falcons – Leonard Johnson CB, Iowa State
Brent Grimes is a free agent and not expected back.
87. Detroit Lions – Shaun Prater CB, Iowa
Giving up 480 yards and 6 touchdowns to Aaron Rodgers‘ backup is humiliating.
88. Pittsburgh Steelers – Mitchell Schwartz OT, Cal
Max Starks will be a free agent coming back from an ACL tear. Even if he’s resigned he may not be ready for the start of the season. Mitchell Schwartz had a very solid week of Senior Bowl practices and held up strong against first round picks Quinton Coples and Courtney Upshaw.
89. Denver Broncos – Tank Carder ILB, TCU
Joe Mays needs to be replaced.
90. Houston Texans – Senio Kelemete OG, Washington
No more defensive picks for the Texans. Wade Smith need to be replaced and Mike Brisiel is a free agent.
91. New Orleans Saints – Travis Lewis OLB, Oklahoma
New Orleans has to rebuild their terrible linebacking corps.
92. Green Bay Packers – Bruce Irvin DE/OLB, West Virginia
I know I’ve already given Green Bay an OLB but Irvin represents the best player available, especially over any of the available cornerbacks or defensive ends.
93. Baltimore Ravens – Michael Brewster OC, Ohio State
Matt Birk will be 36 years old before the 2012 season.
94. San Francisco 49ers – Marvin Jones WR, Cal
San Fran needs a replacement for the released Braylon Edwards. Jones had an outstanding Senior Bowl week.
95. New York Giants – Audie Cole ILB, North Carolina State
The Giants finally invest in their linebackers. Cole will play ILB which moves Greg Jones to WLB which is a better fit for him anyway.
96. New England Patriots – Joe Adams WR, Arkansas
New England gets another weapon for Tom Brady.
Round 4:
97. St. Louis Rams – Brian Quick WR, Appalachian State
Brandon Lloyd will be leaving this offseason.
98. Indianapolis Colts – Josh Robinson CB, Central Florida
Indy’s defense is getting torched.
99. Minnesota Vikings – Brandon Mosley OT, Auburn
Charlie Johnson needs to be replaced.
100. Philadelphia Eagles (via Tampa Bay Buccaneers) – Keenan Robinson LB, Texas
If Andy Reid values his job he needs to spend two early picks on linebackers.
101. Cleveland Browns – Bernard Pierce RB, Temple
Peyton Hillis will most likely not be back and Pierce has a nice blend of size and speed.
102. Jacksonville Jaguars – Trumaine Johnson CB/S, Montana
Rashean Mathis and William Middleton are both free agents.
103. Washington Redskins – Brandon Weeden QB, Oklahoma State
Washington needs to bring in some competition for Rex Grossman. Weeden is already 28 years old and should be mature enough to challenge for the starting position in his first year. If he were the typical college age he would’ve been a first round pick.
104. Buffalo Bills – Ladarius Green TE, Louisiana-Lafayette
Scott Chandler is a free agent.
105. Carolina Panthers – DeQuan Menzie CB, Alabama
Carolina continues to rebuild its defense.
106. Miami Dolphins – Jonathan Massaquoi DE/OLB, Troy
Jason Taylor retired.
107. Seattle Seahawks – Mike Martin DT, Michigan
Seattle has to improve its pass-rush.
108. Kansas City Chiefs – Phillip Blake OC, Baylor
Casey Wiegmann may retire.
109. Chicago Bears – Brandon Taylor S, LSU
Brandon Meriweather and Craig Steltz are both free agents, and Major Wright needs to be replaced.
110. San Diego Chargers – Brandon Lindsey DE/OLB, Pittsburgh
San Diego must come away with at least one pass-rusher.
111. Washington Redskins (via Oakland Raiders) – Nigel Bradham LB, FSU
London Fletcher can’t play forever.
112. New York Jets – Harrison Smith SS, Notre Dame
Eric Smith is terrible and Jim Lhonard is a free agent coming off of a torn patellar tendon.
113. Philadelphia Eagles – Luca Nix OG/OT, Pittsburgh
Philly needs O-line depth to protect the fragile Mike Vick and Evan Mathis is a free agent.
114. Dallas Cowboys – Frank Alexander DE/OLB, Oklahoma
Anthony Spencer is a free agent.
115. Arizona Cardinals – Jerry Franklin DE/LB, Arkansas
Arizona needs someone to pair with Daryl Washington in the middle.
116. Tennessee Titans – Tony Dye SS, UCLA
Tennessee has four safeties that are free agents, including starters Michael Griffin and Jordan Babineaux.
117. Cincinnati Bengals – Ryan Miller OG, Colorado
Bobbie Williams is a free agent and Nate Livings needs to be replaced.
118. Cleveland Browns (via Atlanta Falcons) – Jamell Fleming CB, Oklahoma
Sheldon Brown needs to be replaced.
119. Detroit Lions – Andrew Datko OT, FSU
BPA, Detroit needs O-line help and if not for an injury Datko would be a possible first round pick but is worth the risk here.
120. Pittsburgh Steelers – Nick Jean-Baptiste NT, Baylor
It’s likely the Steelers will release Casey Hampton to save the 8mil he’s owed in the final year of his contract. He’s 35 years old and suffered an ACL tear in the playoff loss to Denver. Behind him Chris Hoke is going to retire and Steve McLendon is not a long-term starter. NJB is a load at 6’1″, 335lbs. and had a great week at the East-West Shrine game.
121. Denver Broncos – David Molk OC, Michigan
J.D. Walton is not panning out at center.
122. Houston Texans – Jordan White WR, Western Michigan
Jacoby Jones could be upgraded and Houston needs to start getting younger at the position.
123. New Orleans Saints – Derek Wolfe DT, Cincinnati
New Orleans needs to upgrade its interior pass-rush and get younger at the position.
124. Green Bay Packers – Isaiah Pead RB, Cincinnati
The Packers will need a replacement for Ryan Grant.
125. Buffalo Bills (via Baltimore Ravens) – Russell Wilson QB, Wisconsin
Trent Edwards had an up and down season. Wilson is a good developmental QB that fits Chan Gailey’s system.
126. San Francisco 49ers – DaJohn Harris DE/DT, USC
San Fran lacks depth at DE and Justin Smith will be 33 years old this season.
127. New York Giants – William Vlachos OC, Alabama
They need some youth on the offensive line.
128. New England Patriots – Julian Miller DE/OLB, West Virginia
New England continues to upgrade its defense.
Round 5:
129. Indianapolis Colts – Levy Adcock OT, Oklahoma State
Indy could use a right tackle and move Ben Ijalana inside to guard.
130. Denver Broncos (via St. Louis Rams) – Donnie Fletcher, CB, Boston College
Champ Bailey and Andre Goodman are both 34 years old and Goodman should be replaced anyway.
131. Minnesota Vikings – Danny Trevathan, OLB, Kentucky
E.J. Henderson is a free agent.
132. Cleveland Browns – Tony Bergstrom OT, Utah
Tony Pashos is a terrible RT.
133. Tampa Bay Buccaneers – Omar Bolden CB, ASU
The Bucs need cornerbacks badly. Bolden was a possible first round pick before he tore his ACL before the college season started.
134. Washington Redskins – Michael Egnew TE, Missouri
Fred Davis is a free agent.
135. Jacksonville Jaguars – T.Y. Hilton WR, Florida International
The Jags need to give Blaine Gabbert all the help he can get.
136. Miami Dolphins – Kheeston Randall DE/DT, Texas
Kendall Langford is a free agent.
137. Carolina Panthers – Tim Benford WR, Tennessee Tech
Steve Smith will be 33 years old this season and Carolina could use a number two WR anyway. Benford improved his stock with a very good showing during the East-West Bowl week.
138. Buffalo Bills – Matt Reynolds OT, BYU
Demetrius Bell is a free agent.
139. Kansas City Chiefs – Ryan Broyles WR, Oklahoma
Dwayne Bowe is a free agent.
140. Seattle Seahawks – Jake Bequette, DE, Arkansas
Red Bryant is a free agent.
141. Arizona Cardinals – Lonnie Edwards OG, Texas Tech
Arizona could use an upgrade over Rex Hadnot.
142. Dallas Cowboys – James-Michael Johnson ILB, Nevada
Bradie James is a free agent.
143. Philadelphia Eagles – Winston Guy jr. SS, Kentucky
Jaiquawn Jarrett was terrible in his rookie season.
144. New York Jets – A,J. Jenkins WR, Illinois
Santonio Holmes might be cut or traded and Plaxico Burress is old.
145. Oakland Raiders – Donte Paige-Moss DE/OLB, UNC
Oakland is converting to a 3-4 defense and will need another OLB besides Kamerion Wimbley. DPM has all kinds of issues but that hasn’t stopped Oakland in the past, plus he could be worth the gamble this late in the draft.
146. San Diego Chargers – Keith Tandy CB, West Virginia
If Quentin Jammer moves to safety they’ll need a replacement.
147. Chicago Bears – Terrell Manning OLB, North Carolina State
Brain Urlacher may not be ready for the start of the season, plus he’ll be 34 years old this season. And they could use an upgrade over Nick Roach anyway.
148. Tennessee Titans – Emmanuel Acho OLB, Texas
The Titans could use an upgrade at WLB.
149. Cincinnati Bengals – Marcus Forston DT, Miami
Pat Sims is a free agent.
150. Atlanta Falcons – Rokevious Watkins OG/OT, South Carolina
Sam Baker was benched and the Falcons could use an upgrade over Joe Hawley.
151. Detroit Lions – Cyrus Gray RB, Texas A&M
Detroit has some injury issues at RB.
152. Pittsburgh Steelers – B.J. Coleman QB, UT-Chattanooga
Dennis Dixon is a free agent looking for a place to start while Charlie Batch/Father Time will most likely retire. Beyond them Byron Leftwich is the only other back-up to Ben Roethlisberger on the roster. The Steelers need to bring in someone who can be the next dependable back-up to Big Ben. Coleman had a great showing in the East-West Shrine game displaying a strong arm and good accuracy.
153. Denver Broncos – Brandon Brooks OG, Miami of Ohio
Zane Beadles needs to be replaced.
154. Houston Texans – Kawann Short DT, Purdue
BPA, Houston could use some depth on the D-line.
155. New Orleans Saints – Gerell Robinson WR, Arizona State
Robert Meachem is a free agent.
156. Green Bay Packers – Travian Robertson DE/DT, South Carolina
G.B. could use an upgrade at DE.
157. Baltimore Ravens – Jeff Fuller WR, Texas A&M
Anquan Boldin is getting old and Lee Evans didn’t do much all year. Fuller has a ton of potential but had a terrible week at the Senior Bowl.
158. San Francisco 49ers – Will Blackwell OG, LSU
Adam Snyder is a free agent who needs to be replaced anyway.
159. New York Giants – Vick Ballard RB, Mississippi State
Ahmad Bradshaw is injury prone.
160. Cincinnati Bengals (via New England Patriots) – Chris Marve LB, Vanderbilt
Manny Lawson is a free agent.
So, here’s our first stab at an NFL Mock Draft – this so imperfect science at attempting to pick the first round of the 2012 .
This mock draft is also featured at DC Pro Sports Report, WalterFootball.com, Sports Jabber, hailredskins.com and fftoolbox.com mock draft databases. Each site keeps track of a huge number mock drafts all over the web.
Also, don’t forget to check out NFL Mocks and With the First Pick for comprehensive NFL draft coverage year-round … and be sure to Like Lombardiave.com on Facebook and follow us on Twitter.
Here’s our first and everybody’s consensus for the first pick:
1. Indianapolis Colts
Andrew Luck
QB, Stanford
See the other remaining 31 picks after the jump …
2012 NFL Mock Draft – Lombardi Ave – Lombardi Ave – A Green Bay Packers Fan Site – News, Blogs, Opinion and more.
Last but certainly not least, many thanks to c63tho for his great writeup here at No. 64 for the Green Bay Packers. WIth the second round just about to start, we squeezed it all in! Great work everybody. We’ll review our community mock sometime next week. – Michael B. -
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With the 64th overall draft selection, the Green Bay Packers select OL Clint Boling, Georgia.
From Mocking the Draft: “Boling looks to be a solid 2nd round selection and should be able to contribute at guard from day one. He is a sound technician with the strength and quickness to both effectively pass and run block. Ideally, Boling would add some more bulk to his frame but he possesses to proper technique to overcome. Any team looking to improve their guard play would benefit from adding Boling to the mix.” Boling is quick, fluid, controlled, and balanced, with a nasty streak, good technique, and really plays low.
We know which positions the Packers are pretty much set for: QB, TE, DL, CB, and Safety. Aaron Rodgers, Jermichael Finley/Andrew Quarless, BJ Raji/Phil Taylor/Mike Neal, Charles Woodson/Tramon Williams/Sam Shields, and Nick Collins/Morgan Burnett respectively fill out these positions.
What’s left? The positions of running back, wide receiver, linebacker and offensive line.
Green Bay’s current running back platoon consists of Ryan Grant, James Starks, Brandon Jackson, and John Kuhn. Although Jackson is probably leaving, I think the Packers will sit on the tandem of Grant/Starks, given Starks’ potential and the lack of guaranteed impact backs available.
The Green Bay receivers decimated the Steelers secondary. Donald Driver, Greg Jennings, Jordy Nelson, and James Jones are a crew that is one of the best groups in the game today. However, Driver is old, and Jones is leaving. A big and/or tough receiver to replace Driver is a possible target, but none are worth it at the bottom of the second. A kick returner/smaller receiver is also a possible target, given that Tramon Williams is now a starting corner who’s too good to risk. Again, none are worth a pick, especially given that returners are so plentiful in the later rounds.
Linebackers are a strength, clearly with guys like Bishop, AJ Hawk, Barnett (although he may leave), and Brandon Chillar all coming back in the middle and a lot of young linebackers outside (Frank Zombo, Erik Walden, Brad Jones). Oh, did I forget anyone? “Claymaker”, perhaps? Anyways, ILBs are only a depth need, since Bishop/Hawk are starting, Barnett leaves, and Chillar backs up solidly. One more prospect/backup would be a nice selection, but not at number 2. For OLB, obviously Matthews is a superstar, a “Woodley” to Matthews’ “Harrison” is necessary. Unfortunately, no game-changing linebackers are available, and adding another competitor to the mix at LOLB won’t help, since they might not even play.
Finally, there’s offensive line. The tackles are old: Mark Tauscher and Chad Clifton, and Bryan Bulaga can only play one side. The backups, Marshall Newhouse and TJ Lang aren’t starting quality. At guard, Daryn Colledge is likely leaving as a free agent, and Josh Sitton is a rising, if unheralded, talent that is a favourite of the Packers faithful. Scott Wells, the center, is solid, but also 30 years old. Similarly, Nick MacDonald , Jason Spitz, and Evan Dietrich-Smith aren’t starting quality guards right now either, although MacDonald is a McCarthy favourite to replace Wells at center. Boling will fit in and start right away at guard, but can also shift over to tackle, as he did when Georgia’s starting tackles went down.
BTSC 2011 Community Mock Draft Selections:
- Carolina Panthers — Cam Newton, QB, Auburn
- Denver Broncos — Marcell Dareus, DT, Alabama
- Buffalo Bills — Von Miller, LB, Texas A&M
- Cincinnati Bengals — Da’Quan Bowers, DE, Clemson
- Arizona Cardinals — Patrick Peterson, CB, LSU
- Cleveland Browns —
‘The Snow Cone Machine’A.J. Green, WR, Georgia - San Francisco 49ers — Blaine Gabbert, QB, Missouri
- Tennessee Titans — Nick Fairley, DT, Auburn
- Dallas Cowboys — Prince Amukamara, CB, Nebraska
- Washington Redskins — Robert Quinn, DE/OLB, North Carolina
- Houston Texans — Aldon Smith, DE/OLB, Missouri
- Minnesota Vikings — Tyron Smith, OT, USC
- Detroit Lions — JJ Watt, DE, Wisconsin
- St. Louis Rams — Julio Jones, WR, Alabama
- Miami Dolphons — Mark Ingram, RB, Alabama
- Jacksonville Jaguars — Brooks Reed , DE, Arizona
- New England Patriots — Gabe Carimi, OT, Wisconsin
- San Diego Chargers — Ryan Kerrigan, DE/OLB, Purdue
- New York Giants — Akeem Ayers, LB, UCLA
- Tampa Bay Buccaneers — Anthony Castonzo, OT, Boston College
- Kansas City Chiefs — Martez Wilson, LB, Illinois
- Indianapolis Colts — Cameron Jordan, DL, California
- Philadelphia Eagles — Jimmy Smith, CB, Colorado
- New Orleans Saints — Justin Houston, DE/OLB, Georgia
- Seattle Seahawks — Jake Locker, QB, Washington
- Baltimore Ravens — Torrey Smith, WR, Maryland
- Atlanta Falcons — Adrian Clayborn, DE, Iowa
- New England Patriots — Mike Pouncey, OG, Florida
- Chicago Bears –Derek Sherrod, OT, Mississippi State
- New York Jets — Muhammad Wilkerson, DT, Temple
- Pittsburgh Steelers — Nate Solder, OT, Colorado
- Green Bay Packers — Phil Taylor, DT, Baylor
ROUND 2
- New England Patriots — Cameron Hayward, DE, Ohio State (33rd overall)
- Buffalo Bills — Kyle Rudolph, TE, Notre Dame (34th overall)
- Cincinnati Bengals — Christian Ponder, QB, Florida State (35th overall)
- Denver Broncos — Mikel LeShoure, RB, Illinois (36th overall)
- Cleveland Browns — Corey Liuget, DT, Illinois (37th overall)
- Arizona Cardinals — Colin Kaepernick, QB, Nevada (38th overall)
- Tennessee Titans — Andy Dalton, QB, Texas Christian (39th overall)
- Dallas Cowboys — Danny Watkins, OG, Baylor (40th overall)
- Washington Redskins — Jonathan Baldwin, WR, Pittsburgh (41st overall)
- Houston Texans — Aaron Williams, CB, Texas (42nd overall)
- Minnesota Vikings — Brandon Harris, CB, Miami (43rd overall)
- Detroit Lions — Bruce Carter, OLB, North Carolina (44th overall)
- San Francisco 49ers — Rahim Moore, FS, UCLA (45th overall)
- Denver Broncos — Benjamin Ijalana, OL, Villanova (46th overall)
- St. Louis Rams — Marvin Austin, DT, North Carolina (47th overall)
- Oakland Raiders — Stefan Wisniewski, OG/C, Penn State (48th overall)
- Jacksonville Jaguars — Ryan Mallet, QB, Arkansas (49th overall)
- San Diego Chargers — Leonard Hankerson, WR, University of Miami (50th overall)
- Tampa Bay Buccaneers — Jabaal Sheard, DE, Pittsburgh (51st overall)
- New York Giants — Mason Foster, LB, Washington (52nd overall)
- Indianapolis Colts — Rodney Hudson, G/C, Florida State (53rd overall)
- Philadelphia Eagles — Marcus Cannon, OG, Texas Christian (54th overall)
- Kansas City Chiefs — Stephen Paea, DT, Oregon State (55th overall)
- New Orleans Saints — Robert Sands, S, West Virginia (56th overall)
- Seattle Seahawks — Brandon Burton, CB, Utah (57th overall)
- Baltimore Ravens — Christian Ballard, DE, Iowa (58th overall)
- Atlanta Falcons — Randall Cobb, WR, Kentucky (59th overall)
- New England Patriots — Ras-I Downling, CB, Virginia (60th overall)
- San Diego Chargers — Marcus Gilbert, OT, Florida (61st overall)
- Chicago Bears — Drake Nevis, DT, Louisiana State (62nd overall)
- Pittsburgh Steelers — James Carpenter, OT, Alabama (63rd overall)
Thought we were done here at BTSC pumping out the content throughout the entire three days of the 2011 NFL Draft? Thank again! Many thanks to Big Jay for putting together a mock draft for round two based on what happened Thursday night in the opening round. I like that he’s included trades in this mock. I too expect there to be a number of trades in round two as teams wrangle for position to ensure they get those guys they have high on their boards.
Let’s use this thread as our open thread for the second round as well.
-Michael B. -
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Round Two
***TRADE***
New England gets picks 37, 59
Cleveland gets pick 33
33. Cleveland Browns (From New England Patriots via Carolina Panthers) – Da’Quan Bowers DE, Clemson
New England is going to trade this pick to someone. Cleveland was willing to trade up for Phil Taylor but they still need more D-lineman, particularly at DE. Bowers is a first round talent who slips because of injury concerns. This is a steep price to pay but New England always seems to get these kinds of deals and Cleveland is playing with house money after getting Atlanta’s second rounder.
34. Buffalo Bills – Benjamin Ijalana OG/OT, Villanova
I’ve been giving the Bills a QB here for a while now but I’m starting to think that they are serious when they say they have confidence in Ryan Fitzpatrick going forward. If that’s true they need to find him some protection.
35. Cincinnati Bengals – Andy Dalton QB, TCU
The Bengals need to plan for the future after Carson Palmer, which could be the 2011 season if Palmer gets his way. Previously I’ve had Ryan Mallett going here but Dalton is a much better fit for Jay Gruden’s West Coast offense. Plus, apparently Gruden is in love with Dalton.
36. Denver Broncos – Stephen Paea DT, Oregon State
Denver passed on Marcell Dareus to take Von Miller, who I love, but who absolutely does not fit their defense. Heading into the second round they simply have to address the DT position.
37. New England Patriots (via Cleveland Browns) – Akeem Ayers OLB, UCLA
The rich keep getting richer. New England could’ve taken Ayers at pick 33 but instead they trade back and still get him. Ayers is a perfect fit for Belichick’s defense and N.E. must upgrade their pass-rush.
38. Arizona Cardinals – Brooks Reed DE/OLB, Arizona
The Cardinals have to upgrade their pass-rush. It’s ridiculous to have an aging Joey Porter and Clack Haggans at OLB.
39. Tennessee Titans – Marvin Austin DT, North Carolina
Austin is a top talent who falls because of character concerns. I’m sure Tennessee gave serious consideration to drafting Nick Fairley so why wouldn’t they take Austin here?
40. Dallas Cowboys – Rahim Moore FS, UCLA
Alan Ball was terrible last year and Gerald Sensabaugh is a free agent. Dallas probably needs a CB more but Jerry Jones doesn’t think so, and of course what Jerry says is what goes.
41. Washington Redskins – Colin Kaepernick QB, Nevada
Washington can’t be serious about Rex Grossman as their starting QB.
42. Houston Texans – Aaron Williams CB/FS, Texas
With no NT’s available, this pick will come down to the BPA at CB or Safety. Houston cut FS Eugene Wilson. Williams could play either position.
43. Minnesota Vikings – Kyle Rudolph TE, Notre Dame
New quarterback’s are usually accompanied by new weapons and Minnesota has been looking at TE’s throughout the draft process.
44. Detroit Lions – Brandon Harris CB, Miami
For some reason the Lions passed on Prince Amukamara in the first round. Harris would be a great fit for their defense as well as for their drafting philosophy of taking the BPA.
45. San Francisco 49ers – Randall Cobb WR, Kentucky
The 49ers are apparently going to stick with Alex Smith at QB, at least for Harbaugh’s first season. If they do, they’ll need to add some weapons to the offense to aide Smith.
46. Denver Broncos (via Miami Dolphins) – Mikel Leshoure RB, Illinois
When Knowshon Moreno is hurt, which is a lot, and out of the line up Denver’s ground game is non-existent. Plus new Head Coach John Fox likes to use a multiple-back system.
***TRADE***
St. Louis gets picks 63, 128, 162
Pittsburgh gets pick 47
47. Pittsburgh Steelers (via St. Louis Rams) – Ras-I Dowling CB, Virginia
Pittsburgh opted to stay put in the first round, making the unsexy but solid pick of Cameron Heyward at DE. Arguably the Steelers biggest need is at CB, especially if they fail to resign Ike Taylor. Dowling is the last of the second tier CB’s and the drop off to the next tier is a steep one. If not for an injury-plagued final season at Virginia he probably would’ve been a first round pick. He’s a perfect fit for the Steelers defensive scheme as well as for the front office as he is a high-character guy. If the Steelers are going to trade up at any point in the draft it’ll need to be in the second round for a CB.
48. Oakland Raiders – Stefen Wisniewski OC/OG, Penn State
I’ve jokingly mocked the biggest and fastest players to Oakland in my mock drafts because owner Al Davis is obsessed with those attributes. But all joking aside Wisniewski makes perfect sense if he’s available. His Uncle Steve “The Wis” Wisniewski was a multi-year Pro bowler for the Raiders and now serves as their assistant offensive line coach, and Oakland needs help all along the offensive line. Last year’s starting OC Samson Satele is a free agent. In addition to that LG Robert Gallery is a free agent as well.
49. Washington Redskins (via Jacksonville Jaguars) – Torrey Smith WR, Maryland
Santana Moss is a free agent and Washington has nothing else at WR.
50. San Diego Chargers – Martez Wilson ILB, Illinois
All of San Diego’s ILB’s are free agents.
51. Tampa Bay Buccaneers – Allen Bailey DE, Miami
The Bucs make back-to-back picks at DE like they did last year with DT.
52. New York Giants –Ryan William RB, Virginia Tech
Ahmad Bradshaw can’t stay healthy for an entire season.
53. Indianapolis Colts – Rodney Hudson OG/OC, Florida State
Indy continues to upgrade its offensive line
***TRADE***
Philly gets picks 68, 100
Buffalo gets pick 54
54. Buffalo Bills (via Philadelphia Eagles) – Sam Acho DE/OLB, Texas
Buffalo miss out on Von Miller in the first round but jump ahead of the chiefs and Patriots to get the best available pass-rushing OLB.
55. Kansas City Chiefs – James Brewer OT, Indiana
K.C. wanted Nate Solder in the first round. They need an upgrade at RT.
56. New England Patriots (via New Orleans Saints) – Will Rackley OG, Lehigh
New England continues to upgrade its offensive line. Stephen Neal retired and Logan Mankins wants to be traded.
57. Seattle Seahawks – Ryan Mallett QB, Arkansas
Matt Hasselbeck is a 35 year old free agent and Charlie Whitehurst is a career clipboard-holder. Pete Carroll has never had a problem getting players with character concerns before.
58. Baltimore Ravens – Justin Houston DE/OLB, UGA
Baltimore loves taking the BPA. They could use an upgrade at OLB opposite of Terrell Suggs and by taking Jimmy Smith in the first round it apparent that they aren’t afraid of character concerns.
59. New England Patriots (from Cleveland Browns via Atlanta Falcons) – Jerrel Jernigan WR, Troy
New England needs someone who can burn the top off of the coverage.
***TRADE***
New England gets picks 86, 2012 second rounder
Kansas City gets pick 60
60. Kansas City Chiefs (via New England Patriots) – Jabaal Sheard DE/OLB, Pittsburgh
The Chiefs jump ahead of the Chargers to get a pass-rusher to pair with Tamba Hali.
61. San Diego Chargers (via New York Jets) – Marcus Gilbert OT, Florida
The Chargers have needed an upgrade over Jeremy Clary at RT for years.
62. Chicago Bears – Orlando Franklin OG, Miami
Chicago has issues all along the offensive line.
63. St. Louis Rams (via Pittsburgh Steelers) – Leonard Hankerson WR, Miami
St. Louis lacks a legitimate number one WR.
64. Green Bay Packers – Jarvis Jenkins DT/DE, Clemson
Cullen Jenkins is a free agent and Johnny Jolly can’t seem to stay out of trouble.
Now that the draft is over, it’s a good time to turn our attention one final time to the 2011 mock drafts and figure out how good all those mock draft gurus like Rick Gosselin, Mel Kiper, Mike Mayock, Wes Bunting and all the others were at actually predicting what would happen on draft day.
It’s judgment day for mock drafts.
But before we start sharpening our blades, consider that by their very nature, most mock drafts are often way off. For the most part, this is less an indictment of a particular writer’s football knowledge but owes much more to the inherent unpredictability of the draft.
You won’t be surprised to find that some mockers turned out to be better than others in predicting the first round of the 2011 draft. You might be surprised at some of the names though, and you may also find that some of the better known draft experts might actually have their jobs because they’re better than many others at what they do. After the break, we look at 25 mock draftniks that we’ve been following over the last few weeks to see how their predictions turned out, and to hand out the 2nd annual BTB ‘Close But No Cigar’ Awards.
As a rule of thumb, if a mock hits on anywhere between 5-10 players and gets a large majority of first round picks right, it is considered successful. According to the guys at Mocking The Draft, Mel Kiper’s definition of a successful mock draft is at least 5 direct hits in which the correct player is matched to the correct team and 27 out of 32 first round players.
The Huddle Report hands out mock draft scores every year and is widely recognized as “the most trusted and longest running such scoring available for NFL mock drafts”. Their system is based on correctly predicting the player in the round (1 point) and matching the player with the correct team (3 points).
Simply replicating their method wouldn’t be a lot of fun, especially since you can just follow the link and look it up. So today we use a system that we already used for last year’s inaugural BTB ‘Close But No Cigar’ Awards. Here’s how it works:
Each pick can score between 1 and 4 points.
- Player drafted in first round = 1 point
- or player predicted to within +-3 spots= 2 points (e.g. picking Gabbert to go 7th to the 49ers nets you 2 points because he ended up going 10th to the Jaguars)
- or player predicted to within +-2 spots= 3 points
- or player matched to team = 4 points
We collected the mocks of 25 of the bigger mock draftniks for this rundown, and you’ll find all 25 in the table at the bottom of this post. A word of warning though: the DMN’s Rick Gosselin dominated the other mock drafters so thoroughly that it’s not even funny anymore. The title of this post could easily have been “All Bow Before The Mighty Gosselin”, such was his domination of this year’s mock drafts. But that would have been a little boring, so let’s run through a couple of highlights before looking at the total scores.
Nailed it: Rick Gosselin and Nolan Nawrocki from Pro Football Weekly both nailed 12 picks, matching the right player with the right team, the best results in our panel of draft experts. Al Fronczak from EastCoastSprotsNews.com is next with 10, Rob Rang from CBSsports and Dan Kadar from Mocking The Draft each predicted nine picks correctly.
If only there hadn’t been any trades: Our grading doesn’t award any points for predicting the right player in the right spot, but to the wrong team. Many mockers for example had Julio Jones going to the Browns in the sixth spot, but Jones ended up going to the Falcons in the sixth spot. Gosselin again leads this list, with 14 players mocked to the right spot, Nawrocki follows with 12 and the team at Sidelinescouting.com got 11 right, but only matched the right player to the right team six times.
My big board is better than yours: 21 of the 25 draftniks accurately predicted at least 27 of the 32 players picked in the first round. Tied for the lead with 29 are Rick Gosselin, Rob Rang, Don Banks from SI.com, Jon Crist from Scout.com and Wes Bunting from the National Football Post.
Missed by an inch or two: Rick Gosselin accurately predicted 17 of the 32 picks to within +- 2 spots (Example: Gosselin mocked Derek Sherrod 30th and he was picked 32nd). Al Fronczak predicted exactly half the picks to within +- 2 spots and Nolan Nawrocki had 15.
Three’s a charm: Rick Gosselin accurately predicted 18 first round picks to within +-3 spots. Fronczak and Nawrocki are tied in second place with 17.
The Bowers Conundrum: Da’Quan Bowers was mocked in the first round by 23 of the 25 draftniks, but ended up being picked 51st. Unsurprisingly, the only two mockers who did not have Bowers on their list were Gosselin and Nawrocki.
The consensus picks: There wasn’t a pick that all 25 mockers agreed an. The closest this mock draft had to consensus picks were Newton to Carolina (23/25), Green to Cincinnati (19), Pouncey to Miami (19) and Smith to Dallas (18).
Rooting for the underdogs: The surprise picks of the first round were James Carpenter to Seattle and Jon Baldwin to Kansas City. Only two mockers each had these players in the first round. Rob Rang and Evan Silva from rotoworld.com had Carpenter in their top 32, Mike Mayock and Don Banks had Baldwin in theirs.
Whodathunkit? The amount of trading certainly impacted the draft success of each mocker. However, 25 teams did not move our of their spots on draft day, but they remained hard to predict regardless. Nobody predicted the first surprise pick of the draft with Aldon Smith going to San Francisco. But surprisingly, seven other picks of teams that did not move on draft day were not correctly predicted by anybody on our panel of draft experts (MIN, STL, NE, NYG, SEA, CHI, GB).
And this year’s Close But No Cigar Award goes to: Rick Gosselin, who garnered 76 points in our trademarked BTB CBNC methodology. Silver goes to Nolan Nawrocki (72), bronze goes to Al Fronczak (70). See the full results below:
2011 Mock Draft Accuracy (click on column headers to sort)