Mock Draft
Shake's Mock Draft: Ready for Primetime.
To pass some of the last 24 hours before the Super Bowl I ran a thorough revision. Let me know what you think.
| Round 1 | |||||
| 1 | St Louis | Ndamukong Suh | DT | Nebraksa | The Rams lost 2 QBs to injury last season. You don't take a Franchise QB if you can't protect him. They have their LT of the future in place though, so they take the best player in the draft and wait for Jason Smith to develop |
| 2 | Detroit | Gerald McCoy | DT | Oklahoma | If the Lions weren't interested in Oher in the second half of the 1st round last year, they are going to keep rolling with their current tackles. Likely to Matt Stafford's detriment. |
| 3 | Tampa Bay |
Eric Berry | S | Tennessee | The Bucs abandoned their switch away from the Tampa-2, making Berry's experience under Monte Kiffin a plus on an already great prospect. |
| 4 | Washington | Russell Okung |
OT | Ok State | A broken franchise QB is like not having one, but more expensive. |
| 5 | Kansas City | Rolando McClain |
ILB | Alabama |
The Chiefs OL may have turned the corner late in the year allowing just 8 sacks in their last 6 games after giving up 37 in their first 10. This lets them address a hole on the D and worry about the OL later. |
| 6 | Seattle | Jimmy Clausen |
QB | Notre Dame | Matt Hasselbeck is nearing the end of the line and Senneca Wallace isn't stepping into his shoes. |
| 7 | Cleveland | Joe Haden | CB | Florida | Such horrid pass D is rare with a competent pass rush. The Browns need serious coverage help. |
| 8 | Oakland | Bruce Campbell | OT | Maryland |
Too much sense for a Raiders pick? |
| 9 | Buffalo | Sam Bradford |
QB | Oklahoma | Ryan Fitzpatrick is not a starting QB and Trent Edwards lost his job to him. |
| 10 | Jacksonville | Derrick Morgan | DE | Georgia Tech | Pass rush lacking Jags try that whole top 10 DE thing over again. |
| 11 | Denver | Dez Bryant | WR | Ok. St. | Assuming Marshall is gone, but since Eddie Royal's issues against the press might make him a better fit in the slot, the pick's not totally impossible even if Marshall is still in Denver in April. |
| 12 | Miami | Dan Williams |
NT |
Tennessee |
The Dolphins add a NT to shore up a D that had issues stopping short yardage. |
| 13 | San Fran | C.J. Spiller | RB | Clemson | Niners get a massive boost in the return game (a major asset to a defense center team that'll be playing the field position game) and add a compliment to Frank Gore. |
| 14 | Seattle | Anthony Davis |
OT | Rutgers | Seahawks rebuild the line after getting a Franchise QB. |
| 15 | NY Giants | Brian Price | DT | UCLA | Perfect fit to shoot gaps in a 4-3 |
| 16 | Tennessee | Carlos Dunlap |
DE | Florida | Kyle Vanden Bosch's indefatigable motor netted just 3 sacks last year and the Titans pass defense suffered greatly as a result. |
| 17 | San Fran | Bryan Bulaga |
OT | Iowa | Bulaga was finally back to his dominating form of 2008 in the Orange Bowl and will be well rewarded for it. He'll be more than competent at RT and able to slide to LT in a pinch. |
| 18 | Pittsburgh | Earl Thomas |
S |
Texas | A bit early for a guy that couldn't get under 370 for the start of pre-draft workouts, so the Steelers get a excellent complement to Polamalu |
| 19 | Atlanta | Jerry Hughes | DE | TCU | Falcons pass D needs more pressure from the front 4 to improve. Hughes at DE should be a big help. |
| 20 | Houston | Taylor Mays | S | USC | Bernard Pollard gave the Texans some passable safety play, but there's a reason he was cut and the John Busing/Brian Russell combo at the other safety spot is horrendous. |
| 21 | Cincinnati | Damian Williams |
WR |
USC | The Bengals have the QB and the OL to be a great passing O, but the targets are lacking. |
| 22 | New England | Sergio Kindle | OLB | Texas | The Pats are desperately in need of a pass rush. |
| 23 | Green Bay | Brandon Graham |
OLB | Michigan | While OT is a major need, the Pack could use a edge rusher since Kampman didn't take to the 3-4 as well as hoped, is coming off a season ending injury and will hit free agency. Graham looked phenomenal in the Senior Bowl. |
| 24 | Philadelphia | Everson Griffen |
DE | USC | Eagles love to bring the heat, a top rusher to put opposite Trent Cole would certainly do it. |
| 25 | Baltimore | Jermaine Gresham |
TE | Oklahoma | Todd Heap has morphed into an athletic tackle and "The Franchise Player" isn't an answer at all. |
| 26 | Arizona | Brandon Spikes |
ILB | Florida | Carlos Dansby may walk away which would be a hole that needs to be filled. A high flying pass attack needs a strong pass D to prevent teams from keeping pace or closing deficits. |
| 27 | Dallas | Mike Iupati | G | Idaho | The 'Boys need OL help badly. Iupati might not be a pro LT, but the only other 1st round OT option remaining, Charles Brown, is far too light for Dallas' taste. |
| 28 | San Diego | Jonathan Dwyer | RB | Georgia Tech | LDT basically told the Chargers to shove it, so they'll need a bigger back to complement the dangerous, but severely undersized Sproles. |
| 29 | NY Jets | Jared Odrick |
DE | Penn State |
Odrick fills one of the Jets Ds few gaps |
| 30 | Minnesota | Kyle Wilson |
CB | Boise State |
Riser from the senior bowl fills one of the Vikings big needs |
| 31 | New Orleans | Sean Weatherspoon |
OLB | Missouri | Both Saints OLBs are over 30, Weatherspoon should add some more attacking speed to that D. |
| 32 | Indianapolis | Charles Brown | OT | USC | The Colts have given up just 10 sacks, but that's a near miracle given the flaws Charlie Johnson and Ryan Diem have in pass protection. Brown will let them move CJ or Diem inside, making avoiding the rush easier on Peyton and improving the terrible run blocking. |
81 comments | 0 recs
Mock Draft 2.0
1. St. Louis- DT- Ndamukon Suh- Neb
- I am sticking to my guns and saying the Rams cannot and will not pass up Suh. The Rams are nowhere near competing so they will be picking in the top 5 again next year where quarterbacks like Jake Locker and Ryan Mallet will be available. The Rams know what they are getting with Suh and will risk that a quarterback will be available next season.
2. Detroit- DT- Gerald McCoy- Okl
- Missing out on Suh will be a big disappointment for the Lions but McCoy will be a nice addition to a terrible Lions defense. Some will argue that Berry is the better player but the Lions really need help along the defensive front. Having a safety tandem of Berry and Delmas is a luxury this poor Lions team just can’t have. The Lions need to spread out the wealth of talent.
3. Tampa Bay- S- Eric Berry- Tenn
- Berry has playmaker written all over him and that’s what this defense needs. I also believe that Derrick Morgan is still in play here. Don’t under estimate the importance of a good pass rush.
4. Washington- OT- Russell Okung- Okl St
- The Redskins need to find the answer at quarterback, but a young quarterback behind a terrible offensive line is a recipe for disaster. Also I think Shanahan feels this team can win now so I expect Campbell to be given another shot. Shanahan is known for his work on the offensive side of the ball.
5. Kansas City- CB- Joe Haden- Fla
- The Chiefs main need is on the defensive side of the ball and the secondary is arguably the weakest position. Joe Haden can step right in and be a good cover corner which will help the defense tremendously. Don’t under estimate the effect a good corner has on a defense. It will allow for more blitzing and provide safety help in other areas.
6. Seattle- OT- Anthony Davis- Rut
- The athletic Davis is going to really impress teams with his workouts. His has a lot of upside and offensive line is a major need for Seattle. Pete Carroll may want to take a chance on Jimmy Clausen but it seems unlikely. Carroll didn’t come back to the NFL to struggle with a rookie quarterback. Also Derrick Morgan is a possibility here; the Seahawks really struggled putting pressure on the quarterback last season.
7. Cleveland- RB- CJ Spiller- Clem
- Cleveland has more than a few holes to fill but a playmaker on offense is a major need. Jerome Harrison had a good end to the season but is he really the answer at running back? CJ Spiller brings a lot of speed to this offense, speed they may need to replace if they are forced to trade Josh Cribbs. This might be a little high for Spiller but my prediction is that he is going to post huge numbers at the combine which will sky rocket his stock.
8. Oakland- DE- Derrick Morgan- Ga Tech
- Oakland can use help on the offensive line but they could also benefit from a better pass rush. Morgan has the ability to provide that rush and also play well against the run. I really think that the smart pick would be Jimmy Clausen but Al Davis is not ready to give up on JaMarcus Russell. Again don’t discount Davis’s commitment to Russell which might lead to the Raiders reaching on an offensive lineman.
9. Buffalo- QB- Jimmy Clausen- ND
- Fitzpatrick and Brohm are not the long term solution at the position. A left tackle would be a nice pick but there are not worthy of the #9 pick. Clausen will immediately be the best quarterback on the roster and could start from day 1. This might be a little low for the first quarterback to come off the board but injuries (Clausen-toe, Bradford-shoulder) are going to limit the quarterbacks’ chances of impressing at workouts. While players like Price, Haden, Morgan, and Davis will all see their stock rise due to being able to display their athletic ability.
10. (X) Denver(from Chicago)- LB- Rolando McClain- Ala.
- Denver’s defense was much improved last season and adding McClain will continue that improvement. I still have a hunch that McDaniels won’t be able to pass up Bradford but it will also be hard to pass on a talent like McClain, especially with all the help needed on defense.
11. (X) Jacksonville- DE- Jason Pierre-Paul- USF
- Jacksonville missed with Derrick Harvey and Quenton Groves but they still need a pass rush and will hope Pierre-Paul could provide this. Jacksonville has proved in the past that they will go with need over best available. If the Jags win the coin toss and pick before Denver they will still go with Pierre-Paul. Coach Del Rio is in a win now mode and a quarterback of the future doesn’t provide that.
12. Miami- WR- Dez Bryant- Okla. St.
- With McClain off the board Miami is forced to look offense. Bryant should be considered for this pick either way because they need to give Henne some weapons. Sergio Kindle might be an option here but he has to have a strong combine and workouts to reach this point.
13. San Francisco- S- Earl Thomas- Tex
- Coach Singletary will fight the urge to go with hard hitting Taylor Mays but in the end he will see Thomas is much more of a playmaker. Thomas is much better in the passing game where San Francisco needs a lot of help.
14. Seattle (from Denver)- QB- Sam Bradford- Okla.
- If Carroll wants to have long term success in his second go round in the NFL, he needs to draft a quarterback for the future. Bradford can learn behind Hasselbeck and take over the team once he moves on. Also this represents great value by getting Bradford with the 14th pick.
15. New York Giants- DT- Brian Price- UCLA
- The fact of the matter is that the Giants defense didn’t get the job done. They need help at safety and linebacker but Price is best available at a position of need.
16. (X) San Francisco (from Carolina) - T- Trent Williams- Okla.
- Trent Williams fits a major need. Coach Sing wants to run the ball and stabilizing the offensive line is the first step. Williams is a stretch at left tackle but a potential pro bowler at right tackle.
17. (X) Tennessee- DE- Carlos Dunlap
- Tennessee needs to generate a better pass rush and Dunlap has all the skills to do so. Can he bring back memories of a productive Jeavon Kearse?
18. Pittsburgh - DT- Dan Williams- Tenn
- Pittsburgh may need a replacement for NT Casey Hampton and Williams has the size to play the Nose tackle position.
19. (X) Atlanta- CB- Patrick Robinson-Fla St.
- Atlanta needs help at the corner position and Robinson is going rise after the combine results. Anyone that could run down Noel Devine is really fast. Not only is Robinson fast he can also cover and support in the running game.
20. (X) Houston- OT- Bryan Bulaga- Iowa
- Depth along the offensive line is something every team needs. Bulaga gives this emerging Texans team insurances and more protection for their fragile quarterback.
21. Cincinnati- G/T- Mike Iupati- Idaho
- This might be a little high for the guard position but many feel Iupati can rotate to tackle at some point. None the less guard is a position of need and the Bengals saw the benefits a good offensive can reap. Cincinnati could use some more offensive playmakers but none are worthy of this pick.
22. New England- LB- Sergio Kindle- Tex
- Kindle had a good national championship game and may see his stock rise more after the combine. New England needs some young talent at the Linebacker position and a replacement for Adialius Thomas, whom has likely played his last game as a Patriot. Kindle goes ahead of Navarro Bowman in this situation because his pass rush abilities fit the Patriots scheme.
23. Green Bay- OT- Bruce Campbell- Maryland
- Offensive line help is the biggest need for Green Bay and Campbell offers a viable option. Aaron Rodgers is hoping that Campbell can step right in and keep the likes of Jared Allen of his back.
24. Philadelphia- DE- Brandon Graham- Mich.
- Philadelphia will always be a heavy blitz team but last year they weren’t as effective. Brandon Graham can get it done off the edge from the DE position and would be a nice compliment to Trent Cole. The Eagles also need help a safety and linebacker, maybe Navarro Bowman could be another option here.
25. Baltimore- S- Taylor Mays- USC
- There are questions surrounding Ed Reed and while Mays doesn’t have Reed’s coverage skills he is an intimidating force. Mays has a lot of ability, now he just needs to put it together.
26. Arizona- LB- Ricky Sapp- Clem
- Arizona needs an influx of talent at the linebacker position. Sapp creates a lot of havoc in the opponents back field.
27. Dallas- LB- Navarro Bowman- PSU
- Keith Brooking is aging and Bowman could be a nice replacement. The Cowboys have need at left tackle and safety but there isn’t anyone worthy of this pick available.
28. San Diego- T- Charles Brown- USC
- San Diego could look at Terrence Cody here but his less than impressive performance at the Senior Bowl could have his stock dropping. Brown would be a nice option along the Chargers offensive line.
29. New York Jets- DE/OLB- Everson Griffen- USC
- The Jets need someone that can do what Vernon Gholston couldn’t and Griffen has the potential to be that guy. Griffen is a gifted athlete and is capable of providing a consistent pass rush.
30. Minnesota- CB- Kyle Wilson- Boise St.
- The Vikings need some assistance in their defensive backfield. Cedric Griffin’s knee injury threatens to have him sidelined for the start of the season, so Kyle Wilson can fill the void while he is out and then be a very capable nickel back when he returns. Wilson has been turning head this week at the Senior Bowl.
(X)- Position to be determined by coin flip
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Mock Draft 1.3
1. St. Louis- DT- Ndamukon Suh- Neb
- I am sticking to my guns and saying the Rams cannot and will not pass up Suh. The Rams are nowhere near competing so they will be picking in the top 5 again next year where quarterbacks like Jake Locker and Ryan Mallet will be available. The Rams know what they are getting with Suh and will risk that a quarterback will be available next season.
2. Detroit- DT- Gerald McCoy- Okl
- Missing out on Suh will be a big disappointment for the Lions but McCoy will be a nice addition to a terrible Lions defense. Some will argue that Berry is the better player but the Lions really need help along the defensive front. Having a safety tandem of Berry and Delmas is a luxury this poor Lions team just can’t have.
3. Tampa Bay- S- Eric Berry- Tenn
- Berry has playmaker written all over him and that’s what this defense needs. I also believe that Derrick Morgan is still in play here. Don’t under estimate the importance of a good pass rush.
4. Washington- OT- Russell Okung- Okl St
- The Redskins need to find the answer at quarterback, but a young quarterback behind a terrible offensive line is a recipe for disaster. Also I think Shanahan feels this team can win now so I expect Campbell to be given another shot. Shanahan is known for his work on the offensive side of the ball.
5. Kansas City- CB- Joe Haden- Fla
- The Chiefs main need is on the defensive side of the ball and the secondary is arguably the weakest position. Joe Haden can step right in and be a good cover corner which will help the defense tremendously.
6. Seattle- OT- Anthony Davis- Rut
- The athletic Davis is going to really impress teams with his workouts. His has a lot of upside and offensive line is a major need for Seattle. Pete Carroll may want to take a chance on Jimmy Clausen but it seems unlikely. Carroll didn’t come back to the NFL to struggle with a rookie quarterback. Also Derrick Morgan is a possibility here; the Seahawks really struggled putting pressure on the quarterback last season.
7. Cleveland- RB- CJ Spiller- Clem
- Cleveland has more than a few holes to fill but a playmaker on offense is a major need. Jerome Harrison had a good end to the season but is he really the answer at running back? CJ Spiller brings a lot of speed to this offense, speed they may need to replace if they are forced to trade Josh Cribbs. This might be a little high for Spiller but my prediction is that he is going to post huge numbers at the combine which will sky rocket his stock.
8. Oakland- DE- Derrick Morgan- Ga Tech
- Oakland can use help on the offensive line but they could also benefit from a better pass rush. Morgan has the ability to provide that rush and also play well against the run. I really think that the smart pick would be Jimmy Clausen but Al Davis is not ready to give up on JaMarcus Russell. Again don’t discount Davis’s commitment to Russell which might lead to the Raiders reaching on an offensive lineman.
9. Buffalo- QB- Jimmy Clausen- ND
- Fitzpatrick and Brohm are not the long term solution at the position. A left tackle would be a nice pick but there are not worthy of the #9 pick. Clausen will immediately be the best quarterback on the roster and could start from day 1. This might be a little low for the first quarterback to come off the board but injuries (Clausen-toe, Bradford-shoulder) are going to limit the quarterbacks’ chances of impressing at workouts. While players like Price, Haden, Morgan, and Davis will all see their stock rise due to being able to display their athletic ability.
10. (X) Denver(from Chicago)- QB- Sam Bradford- Okl
- This is Josh McDaniel’s team so offense will win out over defense. McClain would be a nice addition but McDaniels knows how important the quarterback position is and he will love Bradford’s skill set. I will be watching closely the Brandon Marshall saga because that may have a direct effect on this selection.
11. (X) Jacksonville- DE- Jason Pierre-Paul- USF
- Jacksonville missed with Derrick Harvey and Quenton Groves but they still need a pass rush and will hope Pierre-Paul could provide this. Jacksonville has proved in the past that they will go with need over best available. If the Jags win the coin toss and pick before Denver they will still go with Pierre-Paul. Coach Del Rio is in a win now mode and a quarterback of the future doesn’t provide that.
12. Miami- WR- Dez Bryant- Okla. St.
- This is a tough call; both Bryant and Rolando McClain fit needs. However, if the Dolphins want Chad Henne to succeed they need to provide him with weapons. Look for Miami to address the linebacker position later in the draft.
13. San Francisco- S- Earl Thomas- Tex
- Coach Singletary will fight the urge to go with hard hitting Taylor Mays but in the end he will see Thomas is much more of a playmaker. Thomas is much better in the passing game where San Francisco needs a lot of help.
14. Seattle(from Denver)- DE- Carlos Dunlap- Fla
- Dunlap’s off the field issues will be overshadowed by his combine numbers. Seattle’s defense needs help along the front line. Dunlap has all the ability to provide a devastating pass rush. I think the Seahawks will go offensive line first while hoping Dunlap is still available at this selection.
15. New York Giants- LB- Rolando McClain- Ala
- This is a bit far down the draft for a talent like McClain to fall but in this mock he does, which is a blessing for the Giants. The Broncos and Dolphins could also be interested in McClain. If McClain is gone look for the Giants to go either defensive line or outside linebacker.
16. (X) San Francisco (from Carolina) - T- Trent Williams- Okla.
- Trent Williams fits a major need. Coach Sing wants to run the ball and stabilizing the offensive line is the first step. Williams is a stretch at left tackle but a potential pro bowler at right tackle.
17. (X) Tennessee- DT- Brian Price- UCLA
- Tennessee is still searching for a replacement for Big Albert and while Price is not Albert, it’s a start. The Titians struggled in with pass defense so CB Patrick Robinson is also an option here.
18. Pittsburg- DT- Dan Williams- Tenn
- Pittsburg may need a replacement for NT Casey Hampton and Williams has the size to play the Nose tackle position.
19. (X) Atlanta- CB- Patrick Robinson-Fla St.
- Atlanta needs help at the corner position and Robinson is going rise after the combine results. Anyone that could run down Noel Devine is really fast. Not only is Robinson fast he can also cover and support in the running game.
20. (X) Houston- OT- Bryan Bulaga- Iowa
- Depth along the offensive line is something every team needs. Bulaga gives this emerging Texans team insurances and more protection for their fragile quarterback.
21. Cincinnati- TE- Jermaine Gresham- Okla.
- Cincinnati has to get some more weapons for Carson Palmer. There was almost no production from the tight end position and Gresham is a playmaker. The Bengals could also look wide receiver here but as of now none are worthy of this draft position.
22. New England- LB- Sergio Kindle- Tex
- Kindle had a good national championship game and may see his stock rise more after the combine. New England needs some young talent at the Linebacker position and a replacement for Adialius Thomas, whom has likely played his last game as a Patriot. Kindle goes ahead of Navarro Bowman in this situation because his pass rush abilities fit the Patriots scheme.
23. Green Bay- OT- Bruce Campbell- Maryland
- Offensive line help is the biggest need for Green Bay and Campbell offers a viable option. Aaron Rodgers is hoping that Campbell can step right in and keep the likes of Jared Allen of his back.
24. Philadelphia- LB- Navarro Bowman
Philadelphia needs help at the safety and linebacker positions and Bowman is the best available at either position.
25. Baltimore- S- Taylor Mays- USC
- There are questions surrounding Ed Reed and while Mays doesn’t have Reed’s coverage skills he is an intimidating force. Mays has a lot of ability, now he just needs to put it together.
26. Arizona- LB- Ricky Sapp- Clem
- Arizona needs an influx of talent at the linebacker position. Sapp creates a lot of havoc in the opponents back field.
27. Dallas- T- Charles Brown- USC
- Dallas needs help along its offensive line and while Brown may not be an immediate help he has a lot of potential. Brown can be the possible replacement for Flozell Adams.
28. San Diego- NT- Terrence Cody- Ala.
- This is a pure need selection. Cody is basically a 2 down player but is a nice replacement for Jamal Williams. San Diego cannot survive with Ian Scott holding down the all important nose tackle position.
(X)- To be determinded by coin flip
67 comments | 0 recs |
Mock Draft 1.0
1. St. Louis- DT- Ndamukon Suh- Neb
- Yes the Rams need a quarterback but players like Suh can take over a game. Can the same be said for Clausen or Bradford? Suh is a can’t miss prospect and St. Louis cannot miss on this pick. Suh will immediately make the rest of the players on that defense better.
2. Detroit- DT- Gerald McCoy- Okl
- Missing out on Suh will be a big disappointment for the Lions but McCoy will be a nice addition to a terrible Lions defense. Some will argue that Berry is the better player but the Lions really need help along the defensive front. Having a safety tandem of Berry and Delmas is a luxury this poor Lions team just can’t have.
3. Tampa Bay- DE- Derrick Morgan- Ga Tech
- The Tampa Bay defensive line needs an infusion of talent. Morgan will have an impact with his pass rush but also his ability to play the run. Berry would be a nice pick here but Tampa Bay will elect to stand pat with their secondary. Secondary’s benefit from a good pass rush and that is why Tampa will pass on Berry.
4. Washington- OT- Russell Okung- Okl St
- Shanahan will be tempted to take the sexy pick with either Clausen or Bradford but he knows that a strong offensive line is the key to a good offense. Shanahan has made due with quarterbacks like Jake Plummer so maybe Jason Campbell sticks around. However, look for the Redskins to add a quarterback later in the draft.
5. Kansas City- S- Eric Berry- Tenn
- The Chief fans are running through the streets naked because Berry fell to them. Berry is arguably the best player in the draft and he fell to pick #5. Unfortunately for Berry the safety position is just not valued as much as tackles and a good pass rush. Berry’s misfortune is Kansas City’s gain.
6. Seattle- OT- Anthony Davis- Rut
- The athletic Davis is going to really impress teams with his workouts. He has a lot of upside and offensive line is a major need for Seattle. A major factor with this pick is going to be the hiring of a new GM. A new GM could look to go with a quarterback for the future.
7. Cleveland- CB- Joe Haden- Fla
- Cleveland has a lot of needs but a good cover cornerback could help the defense tremendously. I don’t see Holmgren drafting a quarterback, look for him to either trade for a quarterback or develop one of quarterbacks on the existing roster. A sleeper pick here might be C.J. Spiller. Spiller has tons of speed and has been compared to Chris Johnson so depending on 40 time numbers Spiller could sky rocket up team’s draft boards.
8. Oakland- DT- Brian Price- UCLA
- Offensive line and quarterback are the biggest need for the Raiders. Unfortunately, owner Al Davis doesn’t see quarterback as a need. This is highlighted with the talk about replacing Coach Tom Cable. It would be a real stretch to choose any of the available tackles so defensive line is the next position to upgrade. Unless you see the Raiders admitting a mistake last year and choose Dez Bryant with this pick (highly unlikely).
9. Buffalo- QB- Jimmy Clausen- ND
- Fitzpatrick and Brohm are not the long term solution at the position. A left tackle would be a nice pick but there are not worthy of the #9 pick. Clausen will immediately be the best quarterback on the roster and could start from day 1. This might be a little low for the first quarterback to come off the board but injuries (Clausen-toe, Bradford-shoulder) are going to limit the quarterbacks’ chances of impressing at workouts. While players like Price, Haden, Morgan, and Davis will all see their stock rise due to being able to display their athletic ability.
10. (X) Denver (from Chicago)- QB- Sam Bradford- Okl
- Kyle Orton had a nice season but he is not the future quarterback for this team. Bradford fits McDaniel’s system. McDaniel’s offense is all about precision and runs a lot of shotgun sets, which are both strong suits for Bradford.
11. (X) Jacksonville- DE- Jason Pierre-Paul- USF
- Jacksonville missed with Derrick Harvey and Quenton Groves but they still need a pass rush and will hope Pierre-Paul could provide this. Jacksonville has proved in the past that they will go with need over best available. If the Jags win the coin toss and pick before Denver they will still go with Pierre-Paul. Coach Del Rio is in a win now mode and a quarterback of the future doesn’t provide that.
12. Miami- WR- Dez Bryant- Okl St
- Dez will be the playmaker Ted Ginn Jr. is not. Having someone to stretch the field and make plays in the passing game will really open things up for Ronnie Brown and Ricky Williams.
13. San Francisco- S- Earl Thomas- Tex
- Coach Singletary will fight the urge to go with hard hitting Taylor Mays but in the end he will see Thomas is much more of a playmaker. Thomas is much better in the passing game where San Francisco needs a lot of help.
14. Seattle(from Denver)- RB- C.J. Spiller- Clem
- Julius Jones is not the answer and Justin Forsett is a good complementary back but Spiller could be a major game changer. Seattle needs some offensive fire power and Spiller gives them something they lack, unlimited speed.
15. New York Giants- LB- Rolando McClain- Ala
- How lucky are the Giants? McClain is a top 10 talent that slips to No. 15 because middle linebacker is not a major need of the teams ahead of them. McClain takes over for Antonio Pierce, whose injury and legal troubles will force him out of New York.
16. (X) San Francisco (from Carolina)- OT- Trent Williams- Okl
- Trent Williams slid to No. 16 because he may never develop into a left tackle. But this is not an issue for the 49ers who have Joe Staley at left tackle and will use Trent Williams at right tackle where he could be dominant.
17. (X) Tennessee- LB- Navarro Bowman- PSU
- Bowman will be a major contributor right away for the Titians. There are a lot of questions about Keith Bullocks career and Bowman can be his replacement.
18. Pittsburgh- S- Taylor Mays- USC
- Mays fits right into the Steelers mentality. He also fits a need for the Steelers. With Ryan Clark injury prone Mays can come right in and add another intimidating safety to compliment Troy Polamalu.
19. (X) Atlanta- CB- Patrick Robinson- Fla St
- Atlanta needs help at the corner position and Robinson is going rise after the combine results. Anyone that could run down Noel Devine is really fast. Not only is Robinson fast he can also cover and support in the running game.
20. (X) Houston- DT- Dan Williams- Tenn
- Houston needs a replacement for Dan Cody and Williams can fill that role. Houston may have some defensive back and offensive line needs but Williams is the best player available at the positions of need.
(X) Order to be determined by coin flip
51 comments | 0 recs |
Rock out with your mock draft out: Todd McShay
Todd McShay, the leader of ESPN's Scout's Inc., released his on Sunday with little fanfare. The draft is Insider content, but SportsCenter put out his top five picks.
First overall, he has the Rams taking Washington junior quarterback Jake Locker. It seems obvious now that St. Louis should take either the top quarterback or Ndamukong Suh.
McShay has the Nebraska defensive tackle going second to the Buccaneers. At this point in the draft process, Suh seems like the most sure thing among prospects and would fill a need for Tampa Bay.
He fills out the top five sending safety Eric Berry to Cleveland third, defensive tackle Gerald McCoy to Detroit fourth and offensive tackle Russell Okung to the Chiefs fifth.
Since this is Insider content, I probably can't talk about too much of it here. But there are few surprises in McShay's mock draft. One of them was Jason Pierre-Paul going in the first round at No. 21. The South Florida defensive end is an ESPN favorite, but that seems a little too high. It's easy to fall in love with his athleticism and size, but the production didn't match the hype this year.
There really aren't too many noteworthy picks in this mock. In fact, to ask people to pay to see a one-round mock draft is kind of an insult. Heck, I'd much prefer some of the four and five round monoliths you guys put together in FanPosts.
With that said, keep your mock drafts coming! They are probably the most popular feature of the site, and that's thanks to you readers. So, keep it up.
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2010 NFL mock draft
Here is the first half of my mock draft. The other half will go up tonight after I get home from work.
Quick note: I swapped Sam Bradford in the draft for Washington quarterback Jake Locker. The reason was mainly following an email exchange with 3k from Turf Show Times. And listening to Bradford's recent press conference, it sounds like he's ready to go pro.
For the draft order, I used the one put together by ejrulz in his mock draft.
1. St. Louis Rams - Sam Bradford, QB, Oklahoma
The Rams have no direction on offense. Taking a quarterback first overall would provide as much. Bradford has only played a half this season, but listening to a recent press conference, he sounds like a man ready to go pro.
2. Cleveland Browns - Eric Berry, SS, Tennessee
The Browns might have Abram Elam currently at strong safety, but Berry looks like a player who comes along once a decade. The Browns need help on the right side of their line, but Berry is hard to pass up.
3. Tampa Bay Buccaneers - Ndamukong Suh, DT, Nebraska
Whether it's Suh or Oklahoma defensive tackle Gerald McCoy, the Buccaneers need help along the defensive line. Suh has been arguably the best player in college football this season and will be a difference maker immediately.
4. Kansas City Chiefs - Bryan Bulaga, OT, Iowa
Branden Albert has been only average, and that's not good enough for a left tackle. Bulaga has the ability to be an elite player. If his health checks out fine, there's no reason to think he won't be a top five selection.
5. Tennessee Titans - Gerald McCoy, DT, Oklahoma
Clearly the Tennessee has skipped a beat this season without Albert Haynesworth. Many considered McCoy an early first rounder had he come out following his redshirt sophomore season. He's a quick, penetrating defensive end with great character.
6. San Francisco 49ers (via Carolina) - Taylor Mays, FS, USC
This is just a great fit for San Francisco. He's the physical presence the team doesn't have in its secondary. Mays might conjure thoughts of Ronnie Lott for Niners fans.
7. Detroit Lions - Russell Okung, OT, Oklahoma State
This would be a tough spot for Detroit with the top two defensive tackles off the board. If that's the case, the team could reach a little bit to take the left tackle many expected them to this season.
8. Oakland Raiders - Carlos Dunlap, DE, Florida
Lame Al Davis jokes aside, Dunlap is a great fit for the Raiders. Richard Seymour's contract is up at the end of the year and he's not expected to re-sign. Even with Seymour, a better pass rush is needed.
9. Buffalo Bills - Jimmy Clausen, QB, Notre Dame
Really, is Trent Edwards the future of quarterbacking for Buffalo? The team seems to have settled on Demetrius Bell at left tackle and no outside linebackers are really worth a top 10 pick.
10. Seattle Seahawks - Jonathan Dwyer, RB, Georgia Tech
It can be hard to justify taking a running back this early in the draft, but Dwyer has immense talent. Julius Jones is better as a second option and Edgerrin James has shown it's time for him to retire.
11. Miami Dolphins - Dez Bryant, WR, Oklahoma State
While Miami could use a nose tackle or future pass rushing linebacker, Bryant could be the best receiver in the draft since Calvin Johnson. Being ruled ineligible shouldn't affect Bryant's draft stock.
12. Arizona Cardinals - Trent Williams, OT, Oklahoma
Williams is still a project at left tackle, but Mike Gandy has struggled for the Cardinals. At the least, Williams is an NFL-ready run blocker.
13. Washington Redskins - Colt McCoy, QB, Texas
Clearly Redskins owner Dan Snyder is done with current starter Jason Campbell. The team tried to get Jay Cutler and Mark Sanchez. McCoy is a dependable passer who has better arm strength than people think.
14. San Diego Chargers - Damian Williams, WR, Southern California
The Chargers could be forced to replace receivers Vincent Jackson and Chris Chambers after this season. Williams has emerged as a legit No. 1 receiver for the Trojans.
15. Houston Texans - Joe Haden, CB, Florida
Everyone expected the Texans to take a difference maker in the secondary this year, and they didn't. Haden can get out position in pass coverage, but he's a great all-around corner.
16. Pittsburgh Steelers - Brandon Spikes, MLB, Florida
Steelers fans might be convinced Lawrence Timmons is the future inside, but I am not. Good middle linebackers average more than three tackles a game. Spikes would be a steal here. And even if Timmons sticks at middle linebacker, James Farrior is 34.
17. Green Bay Packers - Ciron Black, OT, LSU
Black might not be the best left tackle, but he's the best one available in this scenario. The Packers clearly need help along the offensive line.
18. Jacksonville Jaguars - Morgan Burnett, SS, Georgia Tech
Everyone seems to think Tim Tebow should be the choice here, but the team has a better chance of winning immediately by filling other holes. Wide receiver is a possibility as well, but Mike Sims-Walker is having a breakout season.
19. Dallas Cowboys - Brandon LaFell, WR, LSU
Since getting rid of Terrell Owens, justifiably, the Cowboys have lacked a dependable wide receiver. That's what LaFell would provide. He's not the fastest or the flashiest, but he gets the job done.
20. Atlanta Falcons - Greg Hardy, DE, Mississippi
Thirty-four games into his career, it's official: Jamaal Anderson is a bust. He has two sacks, which won't cut it for a 4-3 end. Hardy, when motivated, is as good of a pass rusher as there is in the nation.
21. Philadelphia Eagles - Sergio Kindle, OLB, Texas
Philadelphia's current group of outside linebackers feature a bunch of players who are only average. Kindle could be a sensation in the team's blitz-heavy scheme.
22. Cincinnati Bengals - Jermaine Gresham, TE, Oklahoma
Gresham's season-ending knee injury shouldn't stop a team from taking him in the first round. That's especially true if you consider that the Bengals' starting tight end is Daniel Coats.
23. New England Patriots - Rolando McClain, LB, Alabama
Whether they used him inside or outside, McClain could make a big impact for the Patriots. Other than Jerod Mayo and an aging Adalius Thomas, New England is somewhat light on linebacker talent.
24. Denver Broncos (via Chicago) - Terrence Cody, DT, Alabama
Cody would be the last piece the Broncos need to finish off the conversion to a 3-4. While I'm not the biggest fan of Cody's, the Broncos need someone in the middle to regularly take up multiple blockers.
25. New York Jets - Arthur Jones, DT, Syracuse
In the Jets' 3-4, Jones would get moved over to end, a position the team needs to address. Jones has the quickness and size to play end and would give coach Rex Ryan another good pressure guy.
26. San Francisco 49ers - Eric Norwood, OLB, South Carolina
Many expect San Francisco to take a quarterback, but Shaun Hill might be the kind of game manager coach Mike Singletary wants. Norwood would help a pass rush that's below-average from the linebacker spot.
27. Baltimore Ravens - Golden Tate, WR, Notre Dame
Tate is the kind of playmaking wide receiver the Ravens have never had. He can make big plays out of short passes and will be able to help on special teams.
28. Minnesota Vikings - Derrick Morgan, DE, Georgia Tech
Ray Edwards is a free agent after the season and is average at best. Morgan has shown flashes of dominance this season. He can get after the passer or stay at home and handle the run.
29. New York Giants - Marvin Austin, DT, North Carolina
Barry Cofield and Fred Robbins are facing free agency following this season and if both don't come back, tackle could be a big need. Austin has been inconsistent thus far, but has great talent. A coach like Tom Coughlin could harness it nicely.
30. Seattle Seahawks (via Denver) - Charles Brown, OT, Southern California
The career of left tackle Walter Jones is winding down. Brown is a similar kind of offensive lineman who has good athleticism and drive. While safety and quarterback can be considered needs, no players seem worth this slot.
31. Indianapolis Colts - Selvish Capers, OT, West Virginia
Some project Capers to play left tackle, but he's been on the right side for the Mountaineers this season. Either spot he plays, the Colts could use him. Middle linebacker could be a need, but that is a position that traditionally be addressed later in the draft.
32. New Orleans Saints - Sean Weatherspoon, OLB, Missouri
Outside linebacker and defensive tackle are the top needs for an overachieving Saints defense. Weatherspoon would be a perfect fit outside. He's a good tackler and can make up for the mistakes of teammates.
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Deciding which underclassmen to use in a mock
I've begun the process of putting together my first mock draft since the college football season started. After the jump, see who I have in the draft and who is staying in school.
At this point, I'm skewing toward more staying than not. No real reason. Yes, I'm aware more juniors enter than don't. But for the purpose of this mock, here is who we're going with:
45 comments | 0 recs
New Sporting News mock draft offers big surprise
The gang from Sporting News have put out a new mock draft. The first 16 picks are available to the general public. The rest are for members of the War Room.
Here's the first five picks:
1. Detroit Lions: Ndamukong Suh, DT, Nebraska
2. St. Louis Rams: Eric Berry, S, Tennessee
3. Kansas City Chiefs: Brandon Graham, DE/OLB, Michigan
4. Seattle Seahawks: Sam Bradford, QB, Oklahoma
5. Cleveland Browns: Arrelious Benn, WR, Illinois
SN used the 2009 draft order. Some of the great Mocking the Draft commentators have been discussing a mock draft order in a Fanpost by ejrulz. Join in the fun!
On this mock, you're seeing it right – Brandon Graham is being picked third overall. He's a good pass rusher, but at this point doesn't seem like a top-five player. A few other quick surprises: No Jevan Snead or Bryan Bulaga. Jared Odrick being the second defensive tackle off the board. A few undersized defensive ends were given out in Graham, Thaddeus Gibson and Dexter Davis. To me, none of those three scream Larry English.
Incidentally, stay tuned here at MTD for a new mock draft from our newest staffer!
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