DRAFT WEEK IS HERE! I feel like it's a 2nd Christmas every time.No more tape to watch, and unless some new info popped up in the next few days I am done with my rankings, and will be putting them out with this week. I also will have profiles added on my top 250, although a lot of the lower ranked ones will be brief.Team needs after the initial flurry of free agency, pro days, the combine ,medicals rechecks, and other variables have seen players' stock rise and fall in the long months leading up to now. After the bowl games a lot of players who would have been top 50 picks decided to go back to school, and this draft doesn't look anywhere near as good as the 2014 draft was at the top, but there is decent of depth in rounds 2 and 3. NFL Player comparisons have been added .So below each player is the NFL player we feel they will most resemble in their prime if they are a hit.The comparison is for on the field play only and the higher they are ranked the more likely we think they will reach that comparison. If you don't know who the player is I am comparing them to ,feel free to run a search.This is a mock draft of who I think teams will take. Not who I think they should. Questions and comments are always welcome , even if you disagree. However, if you do disagree please tell me why ,and what you would do instead. I will be adding a new mock each day until draft day, with a new round added each time, until I reach my final 5 round mock.
# Is for a player with with reported character or maturity concerns
** Is for a player with reported injury concerns
1.TAMPA BAY - #JAMEIS WINSTON - QB - FLORIDA ST.
NFL PLAYER COMPARISON - BEN ROETHLISBERGER - PITTSBURGH
The bucs went back to Josh McCown as their starter late in the season. That is a clear sign they don't see Mike Glennon as their QB of the future. With Winston being a Florida guy, I could see there being plenty of pressure to take him, as long as he he has no more off the field incidents leading up to the draft. Lovie Smith is a players' coach who probably thinks he can reach and motivate Jameis. The bucs wisely hired Dirk Koetter to groom the QB they choose. The choice is kind of genius because it really tells us nothing about which QB they currently prefer, and allows them to take their time in evaluating both before they make their choice. Koetter just tutored a classic pocket passer in Matt Ryan, but he also put plenty of shotgun & spread plays in that offense. So you know he can tutor either. Also,lets not forget that Mariota's current head coach Mark Helrich has coached under Koetter multiple times. So it's stands to reason he could also help develop Marcus and design a spread pro-set hybrid offense to help Marcus succeed early. While I would take the safer Mariota, instead of gambling the #1 overall pick on Winstons character & maturity, I understand why they would take Jameis. Besides the fact that the pressure to take a homegrown winner like Winston could influence ownership into taking the troubled but talented Jameis , over the less polished passer in Mariota, .if Jameis was clean off the field he would be the runaway overall # 1 pick. He's as tough as nails , a proven winner, has a high football IQ, already makes pro style reads quickly, and has all the tools. Most importantly he makes great NFL throws with the rush bearing down on him. That's about as reliable an indicator of future success as you can get in a on the field evaluation, and you don't find much of it in Mariota's tape.. With Koetter under contract they will probably succeed either way, and if the defense doesn't improve and they fire Smith ,they have a potential head coach in waiting in house.
NFL PLAYER COMPARISON - BEN ROETHLISBERGER - PITTSBURGH
The bucs went back to Josh McCown as their starter late in the season. That is a clear sign they don't see Mike Glennon as their QB of the future. With Winston being a Florida guy, I could see there being plenty of pressure to take him, as long as he he has no more off the field incidents leading up to the draft. Lovie Smith is a players' coach who probably thinks he can reach and motivate Jameis. The bucs wisely hired Dirk Koetter to groom the QB they choose. The choice is kind of genius because it really tells us nothing about which QB they currently prefer, and allows them to take their time in evaluating both before they make their choice. Koetter just tutored a classic pocket passer in Matt Ryan, but he also put plenty of shotgun & spread plays in that offense. So you know he can tutor either. Also,lets not forget that Mariota's current head coach Mark Helrich has coached under Koetter multiple times. So it's stands to reason he could also help develop Marcus and design a spread pro-set hybrid offense to help Marcus succeed early. While I would take the safer Mariota, instead of gambling the #1 overall pick on Winstons character & maturity, I understand why they would take Jameis. Besides the fact that the pressure to take a homegrown winner like Winston could influence ownership into taking the troubled but talented Jameis , over the less polished passer in Mariota, .if Jameis was clean off the field he would be the runaway overall # 1 pick. He's as tough as nails , a proven winner, has a high football IQ, already makes pro style reads quickly, and has all the tools. Most importantly he makes great NFL throws with the rush bearing down on him. That's about as reliable an indicator of future success as you can get in a on the field evaluation, and you don't find much of it in Mariota's tape.. With Koetter under contract they will probably succeed either way, and if the defense doesn't improve and they fire Smith ,they have a potential head coach in waiting in house.
***TRADE*** CLEVELAND trades their first round pick (#12)in this draft and the first round pick in this draft they got from BUFFALO (#19) and their 4th round pick in this draft. for the TITANS first round pick(#3) in this draft***
2.CLEVELAND- (tennesee)- MARCUS MARIOTA - QB - OREGON
NFL PLAYER COMPARISON - RYAN TANNEHILL - MIAMI
Browns owner Jimmy Haslam was as bad as Al Davis, Daniel Snyder, Woody Johnson, and Jerry Jones at their worst combined the last couple of years. He hired good football people to run the team, and when they told him to draft Teddy Bridgewater instead of Johhny Manzel he fired them and ate their contracts. Then he put yes men in place and ,drafted Manziel. At least one of those yes men was supposedly interfering in play calling, and preceded to lead the team down the drain. What they need after the Johnny
3.JACKSONVILLE - DANTE FOWLER - DE - FLORIDA
NFL PLAYER COMPARISON - ANTHONY SPENCER - SAINTS
Signing Jermey Parnell to play right tackle means they are probably committing to Luke Joeckel to play left tackle for another year. However, the jags can still get a high level talent at a position of need . Even though I personally think this is high for Fowler, he is one of teh safest players in this draft , and he fits their defense. His motor, durability, and size make him a fit for any scheme. Head coach Gus Bradley likes to show a lot of different looks on defense, and the versatile Fowler can help him a lot with his scheme. .
4.OAKLAND - LEONARD WILLIAMS - DT/DE-USC
NFL PLAYER COMPARISON - KEVIN WILLIAMS - SEATTLE
The Raiders might have ruined what could have been a franchise altering trade by beating San Francisco. Any chance of auctioning off the #1 overall pick to the highest bidder and quickly restocking the franchise is probably gone. Unless of course one of the top 3 players falls here, and in this case Leonard Williams did . Even though he doesn't fill a big need I would still take him and get a receiver later in a draft swimming in them. Since they still ended up with a high enough pick to get a premium player, and I don't think anyone will pay what they would want to pass on him, they take stand pat and take him. Williams is an elite talent, with great tools, and a good motor.. Leonard is a prototype 3-4 end , or 4-3 DT at either spot. He is mega strong with violent heavy hands, a great motor, and he loves football. With a little coaching and technique adjustments he could be an elite interior D-lineman for a long time.
NFL PLAYER COMPARISON - ANTHONY SPENCER - SAINTS
Signing Jermey Parnell to play right tackle means they are probably committing to Luke Joeckel to play left tackle for another year. However, the jags can still get a high level talent at a position of need . Even though I personally think this is high for Fowler, he is one of teh safest players in this draft , and he fits their defense. His motor, durability, and size make him a fit for any scheme. Head coach Gus Bradley likes to show a lot of different looks on defense, and the versatile Fowler can help him a lot with his scheme. .
4.OAKLAND - LEONARD WILLIAMS - DT/DE-USC
NFL PLAYER COMPARISON - KEVIN WILLIAMS - SEATTLE
The Raiders might have ruined what could have been a franchise altering trade by beating San Francisco. Any chance of auctioning off the #1 overall pick to the highest bidder and quickly restocking the franchise is probably gone. Unless of course one of the top 3 players falls here, and in this case Leonard Williams did . Even though he doesn't fill a big need I would still take him and get a receiver later in a draft swimming in them. Since they still ended up with a high enough pick to get a premium player, and I don't think anyone will pay what they would want to pass on him, they take stand pat and take him. Williams is an elite talent, with great tools, and a good motor.. Leonard is a prototype 3-4 end , or 4-3 DT at either spot. He is mega strong with violent heavy hands, a great motor, and he loves football. With a little coaching and technique adjustments he could be an elite interior D-lineman for a long time.
5.WASHINGTON - VICTOR BEASLEY - OLB/DE - CLEMSON
NFL PLAYER COMPARISON - VON MILLER - DENVER
If Brian Orapko could stay healthy all year, the Skins would probably have payed him, but after another injury plauged year he is now the Titans problem gto worry about . If RG3 returns to form this offense could be dangerous, and they appear to be bringing him back for 2015, but with Jay Gruden running the show I doubt he will be successful. If Gruden had his druthers I have no doubt hey would go after Mariota, but I doubt the owner lets them. Plus their new GM Scott Mcglouhan smartly wants to build through the draft, wants to hang onto his draft picks , and is probably looking to trade back and get more picks even if Marcus fell to them. Also, I'll believe in this defense only after I see them produce, and that;s probably where he plans to go in the draft. Their secondary is the main question right now, but nothing makes a secondary better quickly than a good pass rush, and there is no secondary player worth this high of a pick. Beasley has been a highly productive pass rusher two years running ,and he has the agility to also drop into coverage when needed .He can also play the SLB when they go to nickle ala Von Miller. After showing up bigger, stronger, and lighting up the combine I expect he goes in the top 10. Putting a speed rusher like him opposite a power player like Ryan Kerrigan would give this defense a new look.
NFL PLAYER COMPARISON - VON MILLER - DENVER
If Brian Orapko could stay healthy all year, the Skins would probably have payed him, but after another injury plauged year he is now the Titans problem gto worry about . If RG3 returns to form this offense could be dangerous, and they appear to be bringing him back for 2015, but with Jay Gruden running the show I doubt he will be successful. If Gruden had his druthers I have no doubt hey would go after Mariota, but I doubt the owner lets them. Plus their new GM Scott Mcglouhan smartly wants to build through the draft, wants to hang onto his draft picks , and is probably looking to trade back and get more picks even if Marcus fell to them. Also, I'll believe in this defense only after I see them produce, and that;s probably where he plans to go in the draft. Their secondary is the main question right now, but nothing makes a secondary better quickly than a good pass rush, and there is no secondary player worth this high of a pick. Beasley has been a highly productive pass rusher two years running ,and he has the agility to also drop into coverage when needed .He can also play the SLB when they go to nickle ala Von Miller. After showing up bigger, stronger, and lighting up the combine I expect he goes in the top 10. Putting a speed rusher like him opposite a power player like Ryan Kerrigan would give this defense a new look.
6.JETS- BUD DUPREE - DE/OLB - KENTUCKY
NFL PLAYER COMPARISON - JUSTIN HOUSTON - KANSAS CITY
In a 2 day span the jets brought back Revis & Cromartie. They even added young safety Marcus Gilchrist and Buster Skrine in the slot.It's now safe to say that they won't be reaching for a DB here. The Jets might want a QB, but Geno Smith did show some progress. However, even if they want a new QB, Mariota and Winston are the only two QB's that should end up top 6 picks, and I neither fell here in this scenario. There number one need is corner, but there also aren't any corners worth this high a pick. Both Calvin Pace and Jason Babin will be 35 next season and the jets need a young OLB to pair with Quinton Coples in their 3-4. Hopefully one who fits as a OLB, unlike Coples.Dupree surprised me when I looked at his tape. Very few guys with his frame can cover as much ground as he does, and with some refinement in his pass rush & stack shed techniques , he can be an elite player. If he is allowed to just rush the passer with less coverage responsibilities , and learn to play with more violence, I believe he can be an elite player early in his career. After a great combine I expect more people to join me in ranking him higher, and I wouldn't be surprised if he was gone before this, because his upside is so high.
NFL PLAYER COMPARISON - JUSTIN HOUSTON - KANSAS CITY
In a 2 day span the jets brought back Revis & Cromartie. They even added young safety Marcus Gilchrist and Buster Skrine in the slot.It's now safe to say that they won't be reaching for a DB here. The Jets might want a QB, but Geno Smith did show some progress. However, even if they want a new QB, Mariota and Winston are the only two QB's that should end up top 6 picks, and I neither fell here in this scenario. There number one need is corner, but there also aren't any corners worth this high a pick. Both Calvin Pace and Jason Babin will be 35 next season and the jets need a young OLB to pair with Quinton Coples in their 3-4. Hopefully one who fits as a OLB, unlike Coples.Dupree surprised me when I looked at his tape. Very few guys with his frame can cover as much ground as he does, and with some refinement in his pass rush & stack shed techniques , he can be an elite player. If he is allowed to just rush the passer with less coverage responsibilities , and learn to play with more violence, I believe he can be an elite player early in his career. After a great combine I expect more people to join me in ranking him higher, and I wouldn't be surprised if he was gone before this, because his upside is so high.
7.CHICAGO - AMARI COOPER - WR - ALABAMA
NFL PLAYER COMPARISON - RODDIE WHITE - ATLANTA
New head coach Jon Fox was hired to fix the defense and improving the pass rush is usually how he starts. With Jared Allen turning 33 next season , and Lamarr Houston a better fit inside in my opinion, ,a young edge rusher to pair with Willie Young could really help.However, since he is bringing in a 3-4 , and signed Pernell Mcfee on a big money deal to man that spot, the bears can turn to other needs with their first round pick. Trading mercurial 34 year old Brandon Marshall left a hole in the bears receiving core. Cooper is a very different receiver than Alshon Jeffery and that's a good thing. He is a speedy precision instrument Juxtaposed with Alshon Jeffrey's size & physicality. A receiver who is almost always open is exactly what Jay Cutler needs, and he is a no drama guy, unlike the mercurial Marshall.
NFL PLAYER COMPARISON - RODDIE WHITE - ATLANTA
New head coach Jon Fox was hired to fix the defense and improving the pass rush is usually how he starts. With Jared Allen turning 33 next season , and Lamarr Houston a better fit inside in my opinion, ,a young edge rusher to pair with Willie Young could really help.However, since he is bringing in a 3-4 , and signed Pernell Mcfee on a big money deal to man that spot, the bears can turn to other needs with their first round pick. Trading mercurial 34 year old Brandon Marshall left a hole in the bears receiving core. Cooper is a very different receiver than Alshon Jeffery and that's a good thing. He is a speedy precision instrument Juxtaposed with Alshon Jeffrey's size & physicality. A receiver who is almost always open is exactly what Jay Cutler needs, and he is a no drama guy, unlike the mercurial Marshall.
8.ATLANTA - BALTIMORE - SHANE RAY - OLB/DE - MISSOURI
NFL PLAYER COMPARISON - JERRY HUGHES - BUFFALO
Atlanta just had a rebuilding year, and any hope of it being a quick turnaround probably ended when both Sean Weatherspoon and Sam Baker went down for the year. Despite it being the second largest need on their team, the Falcons waited until the 4th round to draft an edge rusher. Adding Jake Matthews and Jon Asamoah to their O-line was an improvement, despite the loss of Baker, but a replacement OT for him and his cap number is also a possibility.Ray would be a 3-4 rush backer on this team and inject some much needed speed into the Falcons pass rush. Ray didn't get as much spotlight as the steady Kony Ealy or media creation Michael Sam in 2013. He did however make a lot of plays as an edge rusher. Now that he has had a chance to shine in the spotlight he has been a far better player than either, and he has a relentless motor. He is fast off the ball, closes really well, and has and has a relentless motor. Ray also has violent hands, and that he can rush the passer , and if you set him loose to come forward he will make plays.Ray had an injury that prevented him from working out at the combine, and his pro day numbers weren't as impressive as the top edge rushers in this draft. So i had to drop him some.I believe that injury is the main reason he has fallen on some boards, and if it really is turf toe( his camp denies it) or he needs surgery he could fall to the late 1rst round. Personally I think he is the best edge rusher in the draft right now, and with so many teams putting misinformation this time of year, I will just keep him at # 8 unless something bad is confirmed.
***TRADE*** KANSAS CITY trades their first round pick (#18) and 3rd(#80)in this draft and their 2nd round pick in next years draft for the GIANTS first round pick(#9) in this draft***
NFL PLAYER COMPARISON - JERRY HUGHES - BUFFALO
Atlanta just had a rebuilding year, and any hope of it being a quick turnaround probably ended when both Sean Weatherspoon and Sam Baker went down for the year. Despite it being the second largest need on their team, the Falcons waited until the 4th round to draft an edge rusher. Adding Jake Matthews and Jon Asamoah to their O-line was an improvement, despite the loss of Baker, but a replacement OT for him and his cap number is also a possibility.Ray would be a 3-4 rush backer on this team and inject some much needed speed into the Falcons pass rush. Ray didn't get as much spotlight as the steady Kony Ealy or media creation Michael Sam in 2013. He did however make a lot of plays as an edge rusher. Now that he has had a chance to shine in the spotlight he has been a far better player than either, and he has a relentless motor. He is fast off the ball, closes really well, and has and has a relentless motor. Ray also has violent hands, and that he can rush the passer , and if you set him loose to come forward he will make plays.Ray had an injury that prevented him from working out at the combine, and his pro day numbers weren't as impressive as the top edge rushers in this draft. So i had to drop him some.I believe that injury is the main reason he has fallen on some boards, and if it really is turf toe( his camp denies it) or he needs surgery he could fall to the late 1rst round. Personally I think he is the best edge rusher in the draft right now, and with so many teams putting misinformation this time of year, I will just keep him at # 8 unless something bad is confirmed.
***TRADE*** KANSAS CITY trades their first round pick (#18) and 3rd(#80)in this draft and their 2nd round pick in next years draft for the GIANTS first round pick(#9) in this draft***
9.KANSAS CITY -(atlanta) - KEVIN WHITE - WR - W. VIRGINIA
NFL PLAYER COMPARISON - ANDRE JOHNSON - HOUSTON
A true # 1 receiver is crucial to this team going forward, and it needs to be a player that Alex Smith can trust to win jump balls in order to convince him to throw down field. White is well wort the cost of this trade in the long run.The chiefs did not have a single touchdown thrown to a wide receiver this year.Their ultra conservative check-down passing game limits their chances of being a contender. Dwayne Bowe was the # 1 receiver on this team and his best skill is his blocking. I expected them to address the need in free agency , and they already added Jeremy Maclin, and while he helps a lot he's not the physical #1 WR this offense needs . After lighting up the combine I believe White has separated himself from Cooper and Parker as the top receiver in this draft on some teams boards, and I think the chiefs will bone of those teams. In Andy Reid's west coast offense a big powerful receiver that can out muscle defenders and block is crucial. White is big, strong, fast, has great hands, can run after the catch, and even when he's covered he's still probably open if you throw it up high enough.
NFL PLAYER COMPARISON - ANDRE JOHNSON - HOUSTON
A true # 1 receiver is crucial to this team going forward, and it needs to be a player that Alex Smith can trust to win jump balls in order to convince him to throw down field. White is well wort the cost of this trade in the long run.The chiefs did not have a single touchdown thrown to a wide receiver this year.Their ultra conservative check-down passing game limits their chances of being a contender. Dwayne Bowe was the # 1 receiver on this team and his best skill is his blocking. I expected them to address the need in free agency , and they already added Jeremy Maclin, and while he helps a lot he's not the physical #1 WR this offense needs . After lighting up the combine I believe White has separated himself from Cooper and Parker as the top receiver in this draft on some teams boards, and I think the chiefs will bone of those teams. In Andy Reid's west coast offense a big powerful receiver that can out muscle defenders and block is crucial. White is big, strong, fast, has great hands, can run after the catch, and even when he's covered he's still probably open if you throw it up high enough.
10.RAMS- BRANDON SCHERFF - OT/OG - IOWA
NFL PLAYER COMPARISON - MARSHALL YANDA- BALTIMORE
Swapping Bradford for Foles gives the rams a better chance of having a healthy QB this season, especially with Foles no longer being exposed to the occasional read option play, and a lot less spread formations which lack extra pass protectors. Now they have to protect their new QB by investing in their O-line again. Early on Scherff was slowed by an injury he came back from too quickly, but the attitude he plays with could help this entire team step forward. The top 3 pre-season OT's all had their miscues this season, but Scherff was the only one with a legit reason to explain it. Plus, he improved as he has got healthier. Scherff is the safest of them all, and he has the best technique. While I don't like him as a left tackle unless he is in a run first offense, and the rams are one such team, I love him as a right tackle or guard for other teams. At the very least he will be a long term starter somewhere on this O-line. A mauler like him has the kind of attitude that can infect an entire O-line.With Jake Long coming off another injury and being cut ,right tackle Joe Barksdale a free agent , and 2014 #2 overall pick Greg Robinson not playing well at left tackle last year , the Rams could possibly need 2 new offensive tackles. While its way to early to give up on Robinson as a tackle and kick him inside, a player who has a lot positional flexibility would really help. Scherff can play either tackle or guard spot allowing the rams to mix and match what they need. With Scherff and Roger Saffold both being so flexible they could lose both tackles and still field a solid starting 5 up front, while taking the pressure off Robinson to immediately be the franchise left tackle his talent leads us to believe he is.
NFL PLAYER COMPARISON - MARSHALL YANDA- BALTIMORE
Swapping Bradford for Foles gives the rams a better chance of having a healthy QB this season, especially with Foles no longer being exposed to the occasional read option play, and a lot less spread formations which lack extra pass protectors. Now they have to protect their new QB by investing in their O-line again. Early on Scherff was slowed by an injury he came back from too quickly, but the attitude he plays with could help this entire team step forward. The top 3 pre-season OT's all had their miscues this season, but Scherff was the only one with a legit reason to explain it. Plus, he improved as he has got healthier. Scherff is the safest of them all, and he has the best technique. While I don't like him as a left tackle unless he is in a run first offense, and the rams are one such team, I love him as a right tackle or guard for other teams. At the very least he will be a long term starter somewhere on this O-line. A mauler like him has the kind of attitude that can infect an entire O-line.With Jake Long coming off another injury and being cut ,right tackle Joe Barksdale a free agent , and 2014 #2 overall pick Greg Robinson not playing well at left tackle last year , the Rams could possibly need 2 new offensive tackles. While its way to early to give up on Robinson as a tackle and kick him inside, a player who has a lot positional flexibility would really help. Scherff can play either tackle or guard spot allowing the rams to mix and match what they need. With Scherff and Roger Saffold both being so flexible they could lose both tackles and still field a solid starting 5 up front, while taking the pressure off Robinson to immediately be the franchise left tackle his talent leads us to believe he is.
11.MINNESOTA - LA'EL COLLINS-T/G-LSU
NFL PLAYER COMPARISON - TRENT WILLIAMS - WASHINGTON
After a good rookie year I thought Matt Kalil would keep improving , and be a pro bowler by now. Instead he has declined 2 straight years, and was atrocious in pass protection last year.Maybe he would be a better fit inside as a guard , instead of out on an island, because he was still a decent run blocker outside.La'el great in pass protection last year despite lacking ideal arm length. Collins is currently the best left tackle in this draft, and while there are some with better upside, he's the only guy I would draft in the top 10 to play left tackle this year. He's not only good in pass protection he is also a mauler in the run game, which might go along way toward mollifying Adrian Peterson. It would also make Teddy Bridgewater's development continue smoothly. Collins also has played a season at guard in 4 years of college, and he could play either tackle or guard spot as a rookie at a high level, in case they want to give Kalil another shot at the blindside. While La'els technique needs some work he is already a very good . He also recovers when beaten off the snap better than any tackle in this draft, and he could be elite once his technique is polished.
NFL PLAYER COMPARISON - TRENT WILLIAMS - WASHINGTON
After a good rookie year I thought Matt Kalil would keep improving , and be a pro bowler by now. Instead he has declined 2 straight years, and was atrocious in pass protection last year.Maybe he would be a better fit inside as a guard , instead of out on an island, because he was still a decent run blocker outside.La'el great in pass protection last year despite lacking ideal arm length. Collins is currently the best left tackle in this draft, and while there are some with better upside, he's the only guy I would draft in the top 10 to play left tackle this year. He's not only good in pass protection he is also a mauler in the run game, which might go along way toward mollifying Adrian Peterson. It would also make Teddy Bridgewater's development continue smoothly. Collins also has played a season at guard in 4 years of college, and he could play either tackle or guard spot as a rookie at a high level, in case they want to give Kalil another shot at the blindside. While La'els technique needs some work he is already a very good . He also recovers when beaten off the snap better than any tackle in this draft, and he could be elite once his technique is polished.
12.TENNESEE- (cleveland) - DANNY SHELTON - DT - WASHINGTON
NFL PLAYER COMPARISON - VINCE WILFORK - HOUSTON
While Sammie Lee Hill and Al Woods are solid players, both are better as backups, because neither is a 3 down nose tackle that can rush the passer well. The massive Shelton continued to impress at the Senior bowl after a dominating season, and he is a one man run stopping force in the middle. His quickness and ability to cover ground along the line of scrimmage for such a massive man is rare, although he needs more pass rush moves in the long term. Despite people calling him a top 10 pick I would hesitate to take anyone with his extra body fat that high without a weight clause. He was happy to have made it down to a jiggly 343 at the Senior bowl , and while he still played great , carrying all that unnecessary extra weight is likely to catch up with him eventually. Dick Lebeau will know how to use him.
NFL PLAYER COMPARISON - VINCE WILFORK - HOUSTON
While Sammie Lee Hill and Al Woods are solid players, both are better as backups, because neither is a 3 down nose tackle that can rush the passer well. The massive Shelton continued to impress at the Senior bowl after a dominating season, and he is a one man run stopping force in the middle. His quickness and ability to cover ground along the line of scrimmage for such a massive man is rare, although he needs more pass rush moves in the long term. Despite people calling him a top 10 pick I would hesitate to take anyone with his extra body fat that high without a weight clause. He was happy to have made it down to a jiggly 343 at the Senior bowl , and while he still played great , carrying all that unnecessary extra weight is likely to catch up with him eventually. Dick Lebeau will know how to use him.
13.SAINTS - #**RANDY GREGORY - DE/OLB - NEBRASKA
NFL PLAYER COMPARISON - JASON TAYLOR - retired
While I wouldn't take a player with Gregory's character concerns this high , the saints might. They have 2 first rounders, and 5 of the first 78 picks, so they can afford to take a chance on him. Those unique circumstances are why they are my choice to take a chance on the riskiest questionable character player who is likely to go in the first round , and yes I'm including DGB & Marcus Peters. Gregory has an ideal frame with long arms, and he is agile enough to rush off the edge in a 3-4 or 4-3. Right now he is a better fit in a 3-4 as a rush backer IMO, and playing there will take advantage of both his pass rush ability ,and his fluidity to drop into coverage. Once that frame is filled out with another 20 to 30 pounds of muscle, he can be even better, and play as a full time 4-3 end if needed. His medicals at the combine were more crucial with him than anyone with a chance to go in the top 10. With his history of multiple injuries , Dion Jordan-like build, and lean frame I wouldn't have taken him in the top 10, but I thought he would go in top 5. My fears about his size were confirmed when he showed up at only 235 pounds at the combine. Then he announced this week that he tested positive for weed at the combine, which shows he's an idiot as well, and that football is less important to him than smoking weed. You don't test positive for weed at the combine, unless your dumb, delusional, or have a habitual smoking problem. Despite all the red flags Gregory still has the highest upside of all the edge rushers in this draft, and while I wouldn't take him in the entire first round now because of his character questions, I still think he goes somewhere in round one, although I wasn't going to put him this high in my final mock, but that's the way the draft fell . Otherwise the Saints won't be able to get someone who can play in space well enough to a be 3-4 OLB at 3#1, and have to take the risk with Gregory here. Their only other options are to trade back into late teens from 13, or up from 31, and overdraft Eli Harold.Gregory fills a big need, and would probably be a top 5 pick if he were clean off the field.
14.MIAMI - SAN FRANCISCO - **TRAE WAYNES - CB - MICHIGAN ST
NFL PLAYER COMPARISON - ANTONIO CROMARTIE -JETS
They landed Suh , and that makes corner their biggest need where they can get a player worth this pick. Waynes played press corner at a high level in a good conference.He does need to get stronger ,play with a little more discipline, and learn to either grab less, or at least do it less blatantly. Hopefully the fins coaches can teach Trae how to properly cheat. Waynes has a high floor, and that's why I initially compared him to the underrated Chris Gamble, but he could be much better in time. I actually like a couple other corners better myself, but Waynes lit up the combine, and that will probably clinch his spot as the first corner taken.
NFL PLAYER COMPARISON - ANTONIO CROMARTIE -JETS
They landed Suh , and that makes corner their biggest need where they can get a player worth this pick. Waynes played press corner at a high level in a good conference.He does need to get stronger ,play with a little more discipline, and learn to either grab less, or at least do it less blatantly. Hopefully the fins coaches can teach Trae how to properly cheat. Waynes has a high floor, and that's why I initially compared him to the underrated Chris Gamble, but he could be much better in time. I actually like a couple other corners better myself, but Waynes lit up the combine, and that will probably clinch his spot as the first corner taken.
15.SAN FRANCISCO - MALCOM BROWN - DT - TEXAS
NFL PLAYER COMPARISON - SHARIFF FLOYD - MINNESOTA
With Ray McDonald being cut after a domestic violence accusation, Justin Smith turning 36 next season & contemplating retirement, and Tank Carradine & Tony Jerod-Eddie not developing as quickly as needed the niners need a new 5 technique. Signing Darnell Dockett might help some, but my bet is he just empty's the tank against his former team, as he seems the vindictive type. However , for the last couple seasons his play has declined, and he is coming off a lost season due to a ACL tear. Brown has the skills to play all over their front and help improve both the run and pass defense. He's one of those players that the more of his tape I watched , the more I liked him.
NFL PLAYER COMPARISON - SHARIFF FLOYD - MINNESOTA
With Ray McDonald being cut after a domestic violence accusation, Justin Smith turning 36 next season & contemplating retirement, and Tank Carradine & Tony Jerod-Eddie not developing as quickly as needed the niners need a new 5 technique. Signing Darnell Dockett might help some, but my bet is he just empty's the tank against his former team, as he seems the vindictive type. However , for the last couple seasons his play has declined, and he is coming off a lost season due to a ACL tear. Brown has the skills to play all over their front and help improve both the run and pass defense. He's one of those players that the more of his tape I watched , the more I liked him.
16.HOUSTON -DEVANTE PARKER - WR - LOUISVILLE
NFL PLAYER COMPARISON - AJ GREEN - CINCINATTI
After the Texans cut Andre Johnson in a salary cap move they weren't idle at receiver in free agency. They signed Cecil Shorts to team with Andre Johnson on the outside, and Nate Washington as well. Washington is past his prime, and only on a one year 1 million dollar deal, but he can play inside or outside.Parker is a smooth receiver receiver with ridiculous body control ,that the Texans can just depend on to come down with the ball even when he's covered. He could team with DeAndre Hopkins for a decade ,and make whatever QB they have look better.
NFL PLAYER COMPARISON - AJ GREEN - CINCINATTI
After the Texans cut Andre Johnson in a salary cap move they weren't idle at receiver in free agency. They signed Cecil Shorts to team with Andre Johnson on the outside, and Nate Washington as well. Washington is past his prime, and only on a one year 1 million dollar deal, but he can play inside or outside.Parker is a smooth receiver receiver with ridiculous body control ,that the Texans can just depend on to come down with the ball even when he's covered. He could team with DeAndre Hopkins for a decade ,and make whatever QB they have look better.
17.CHARGERS - **TODD GURLEY - RB - GEORGIA
NFL PLAYER COMPARISON - STEVEN JACKSON - ATLANTA
With Ryan Mathews leaving in free agency and Ronnie Brown still unsigned the chargers RB core currently consist of Brandon Oliver, Danny Woodhead, and Donald Brown. They all have their strengths and uses, but none is a feature back. The buzz on Gurley has been growing lately ,despite his knee injury, and more teams wanting to make sure they actually get a first round value with their 1rst round pick are considering him.However, they still have to worry about RB needy teams like Dallas, Indy, Baltimore and the Patriots trading up ahead of them. With Gurley in tow they would also take a lot of pressure off Phillp Rivers having to do too much by himself, and once Rivers see's what Gurley can do he might be more likely to sign a long term deal.
NFL PLAYER COMPARISON - STEVEN JACKSON - ATLANTA
With Ryan Mathews leaving in free agency and Ronnie Brown still unsigned the chargers RB core currently consist of Brandon Oliver, Danny Woodhead, and Donald Brown. They all have their strengths and uses, but none is a feature back. The buzz on Gurley has been growing lately ,despite his knee injury, and more teams wanting to make sure they actually get a first round value with their 1rst round pick are considering him.However, they still have to worry about RB needy teams like Dallas, Indy, Baltimore and the Patriots trading up ahead of them. With Gurley in tow they would also take a lot of pressure off Phillp Rivers having to do too much by himself, and once Rivers see's what Gurley can do he might be more likely to sign a long term deal.
18.GIANTS -(chiefs)ANDRUS PEAT - OT - STANFORD
NFL PLAYER COMPARISON - ANTHONY COSTANZO - INDIANAPOLIS
While LT William Beatty returned to form in 2014 second year right tackle Justin Pugh was up and down again, and some feel he would be a better fit inside at guard. Add that last years second round pick Weston Richburg also played out of position at guard , instead of center , and you can see a way to improve 3 positions with one draft pick. . With Peat at right tackle , added with the other 2 position moves I mentioned , the giants O-line could go from a weakness to a strength in one off season. Peat is a good athlete for an OT, but his stock fell a little this season , as he lacked aggression and a consistent hand punch in pass protection. There are games where he was great on the outside, and I am confident a NFL O-Line coach will be able to get this Stanford grad to fix his flaws.He is plenty aggressive in the run game , so you know he has the right mentality in him, and he could easily be gone by this pick based on his upside alone. Either way I would feel more comfortable with him at guard, or right tackle as a rookie. He can be road grader in the run game, and Tom Coughlin wants to run the ball. At the very least he will be a long term starter somewhere in front of Eli, and it might help convince Manning to resign with them long term if he felt that the giants were investing in his protection .
NFL PLAYER COMPARISON - ANTHONY COSTANZO - INDIANAPOLIS
While LT William Beatty returned to form in 2014 second year right tackle Justin Pugh was up and down again, and some feel he would be a better fit inside at guard. Add that last years second round pick Weston Richburg also played out of position at guard , instead of center , and you can see a way to improve 3 positions with one draft pick. . With Peat at right tackle , added with the other 2 position moves I mentioned , the giants O-line could go from a weakness to a strength in one off season. Peat is a good athlete for an OT, but his stock fell a little this season , as he lacked aggression and a consistent hand punch in pass protection. There are games where he was great on the outside, and I am confident a NFL O-Line coach will be able to get this Stanford grad to fix his flaws.He is plenty aggressive in the run game , so you know he has the right mentality in him, and he could easily be gone by this pick based on his upside alone. Either way I would feel more comfortable with him at guard, or right tackle as a rookie. He can be road grader in the run game, and Tom Coughlin wants to run the ball. At the very least he will be a long term starter somewhere in front of Eli, and it might help convince Manning to resign with them long term if he felt that the giants were investing in his protection .
19.TENNESEE- ( buffalo, cleveland) - **BYRON JONES - CB/S - U. CONNECTICUT
NFL PLAYER COMPARISON - XAVIER RHODES - MINNESOTA
Blidi Wreh-Wilson hasn't developed as well as the Titans hoped he would. Adding Perish Cox might help some , but what he Titans lack is a big press man corner. With defensive guru Dick Lebeau coming to town one is definitely needed. After the combine it's perfectly clear who the freakiest athlete really is. Jones is the perfect physical specimen for a corner with the makeup speed to match his large frame, the flexibility to also play safety if needed, and the ability to leap out of the building. Jones is a scheme fit, and he also has the highest upside of all the DB's in the draft.
NFL PLAYER COMPARISON - XAVIER RHODES - MINNESOTA
Blidi Wreh-Wilson hasn't developed as well as the Titans hoped he would. Adding Perish Cox might help some , but what he Titans lack is a big press man corner. With defensive guru Dick Lebeau coming to town one is definitely needed. After the combine it's perfectly clear who the freakiest athlete really is. Jones is the perfect physical specimen for a corner with the makeup speed to match his large frame, the flexibility to also play safety if needed, and the ability to leap out of the building. Jones is a scheme fit, and he also has the highest upside of all the DB's in the draft.
20.EAGLES - LANDON COLLINS - S - ALABAMA
NFL PLAYER COMPARISON - RODNEY HARRISON - retired
At first I thought the Bradford trade only makes sense if they are planning on trading him away and going after another QB. Bradford is a talented QB with plus accuracy, and a above average ability to read a defense. However, in no way can I see a player this injury prone surviving , let alone thriving in this offense. Not only does he lack the athleticism for the read option, but he also is too fragile to expect to survive the big hits spread QB's tend to take. Bradford played in a spread in college , and played very well, but he also got hurt multiple times. I had thought Kelly was going after a QB that could run his complete offense, but Bradford isn't a running QB. They did pay Mark Sanchez handsomely to be his backup, so at least Chip is covering his butt in case Bradford goes down again, and he even got a conditional pick that gets higher if Bradford is hurt. So while I believe the eagles gave up too much for the wrong QB , and suspect there might be more to come (Mariota?)QB wise, we will just have to wait and see. Until then we will focus on other needs we know they have. Neither Bradley Fletcher or Cary Williams became the # 1 corner that matches up with an opposing teams top receiver , and can be expected to man him up with success. As a whole I think Byron Maxwell is about an even swap for Williams in free agency , but Maxwell is better in press coverage. They even brought in Walter Thurmond at a discount price, who is one of Kelly's Oregon guys, so I now think they go another direction in the draft. With Nate Allen lacking the physicality Chip Kelly prefers ,and leaving in free agency, a new safety is needed. Collins is a big physical in the box safety that is needed in this run heavy conference. The versatile Malcolm Jenkins can slide to FS. One a side note. He could probably get him later, but Chip loves him some Oregon players, so I wouldn't be surprised if he took tackle Jake Fisher here and kicked him inside.
NFL PLAYER COMPARISON - RODNEY HARRISON - retired
At first I thought the Bradford trade only makes sense if they are planning on trading him away and going after another QB. Bradford is a talented QB with plus accuracy, and a above average ability to read a defense. However, in no way can I see a player this injury prone surviving , let alone thriving in this offense. Not only does he lack the athleticism for the read option, but he also is too fragile to expect to survive the big hits spread QB's tend to take. Bradford played in a spread in college , and played very well, but he also got hurt multiple times. I had thought Kelly was going after a QB that could run his complete offense, but Bradford isn't a running QB. They did pay Mark Sanchez handsomely to be his backup, so at least Chip is covering his butt in case Bradford goes down again, and he even got a conditional pick that gets higher if Bradford is hurt. So while I believe the eagles gave up too much for the wrong QB , and suspect there might be more to come (Mariota?)QB wise, we will just have to wait and see. Until then we will focus on other needs we know they have. Neither Bradley Fletcher or Cary Williams became the # 1 corner that matches up with an opposing teams top receiver , and can be expected to man him up with success. As a whole I think Byron Maxwell is about an even swap for Williams in free agency , but Maxwell is better in press coverage. They even brought in Walter Thurmond at a discount price, who is one of Kelly's Oregon guys, so I now think they go another direction in the draft. With Nate Allen lacking the physicality Chip Kelly prefers ,and leaving in free agency, a new safety is needed. Collins is a big physical in the box safety that is needed in this run heavy conference. The versatile Malcolm Jenkins can slide to FS. One a side note. He could probably get him later, but Chip loves him some Oregon players, so I wouldn't be surprised if he took tackle Jake Fisher here and kicked him inside.
21.BENGALS - #MARCUS PETERS - CB - WASHINGTON
NFL PLAYER COMPARISON - DESMOND TRUFANT - ATLANTA
During the tenure of head coach Marvin Lewis the team has selected many players who have fallen due to character concerns, and many have been successful NFL players. In my opinion the reasons are two fold. First, Lewis is a players coach who believes in 2nd chances, and rightly see's himself as a molder of young men.The second is that owner Mike Brown loves a bargain. Leon Johnson will be 31 this tear, Pacman Jones will 32, and they were the Bengals best corners last year. They drafted Dre Kirkpatrick in the 1rs round in 2012, and Darqueze Dennard in the 2rst in 2014, but neither did much last year. Peters might have been the first corner taken in this draft if he reported anger problems didn 't kicked him off the team this year.
NFL PLAYER COMPARISON - DESMOND TRUFANT - ATLANTA
During the tenure of head coach Marvin Lewis the team has selected many players who have fallen due to character concerns, and many have been successful NFL players. In my opinion the reasons are two fold. First, Lewis is a players coach who believes in 2nd chances, and rightly see's himself as a molder of young men.The second is that owner Mike Brown loves a bargain. Leon Johnson will be 31 this tear, Pacman Jones will 32, and they were the Bengals best corners last year. They drafted Dre Kirkpatrick in the 1rs round in 2012, and Darqueze Dennard in the 2rst in 2014, but neither did much last year. Peters might have been the first corner taken in this draft if he reported anger problems didn 't kicked him off the team this year.
22.PITTSBURGH - ELI HAROLD - OLB/DE - VIRGINIA
NFL PLAYER COMPARISON - JOHN ABRAHAM - retired
The Steelers are in a transition phase going from past their prime veterans to a younger crowd. However, I doubt they were expecting 27 year old free agent OLB Jason Worilds to retire. Since their was a chance they could lose him to another team , it's a safe bet the Steelers have been doing their homework on edge rushers.Harold is an excellent athlete and much stronger than his somewhat lean looking frame would lead you to believe. Sets the edge well and has a strong bull rush. He has active hands but lacks a diverse polished pass rushing repertoire. Great motor against the run or pass. Has experience both as stand-up rush backer, 4-3 DE, and even moves inside on some obvious passing downs. Has a better get off with his hand on the ground, and with his inside moves he regularly shoots gaps & occasionally even splits double teams. However, he was rarely double teamed as a pass rusher thanks to Max Valles on the other side, and I would like to see how he reacts to more double teams. I believe Pittsburgh will know how to use him, and the resigning of James Harrison can give Harold a hard nosed veteran to set the example he needs to reach his potential.
NFL PLAYER COMPARISON - JOHN ABRAHAM - retired
The Steelers are in a transition phase going from past their prime veterans to a younger crowd. However, I doubt they were expecting 27 year old free agent OLB Jason Worilds to retire. Since their was a chance they could lose him to another team , it's a safe bet the Steelers have been doing their homework on edge rushers.Harold is an excellent athlete and much stronger than his somewhat lean looking frame would lead you to believe. Sets the edge well and has a strong bull rush. He has active hands but lacks a diverse polished pass rushing repertoire. Great motor against the run or pass. Has experience both as stand-up rush backer, 4-3 DE, and even moves inside on some obvious passing downs. Has a better get off with his hand on the ground, and with his inside moves he regularly shoots gaps & occasionally even splits double teams. However, he was rarely double teamed as a pass rusher thanks to Max Valles on the other side, and I would like to see how he reacts to more double teams. I believe Pittsburgh will know how to use him, and the resigning of James Harrison can give Harold a hard nosed veteran to set the example he needs to reach his potential.
NFL PLAYER COMPARISON - JAMAL CHARLES - KC
Ozzie Newsome is the best GM in the NFL, and he will probably trade (up or down) out of this pick to make sure he gets value for it. Since the Ravens already have plenty of picks I believe they will either go up ,or take one of the talented players who fall due to injury , positional devaluing, or character concerns in the 1rst round. Unless of course a guy with a definite first round grade on the field like Gurley or Gordon fell to them . In this scenario that doesn't happen. With Gurley off the board I expect Ozzie to try and get ahead of the next team he thinks will take Gordon. In this case that's Arizona. Gordon is the home run hitter this team lacks at RB. Despite rushing for 2587 yards on 343 carries last year, he was durable & explosive throughout. Plus that was the only season where he got a lot of use, and he destroyed Auburn with 251 yards on 34 carries in his final college game in the outback bowl.Since they cut Bernard Pierce another RB is definitely needed. However, they still have Justin Forsett and Lorenzo Taliaferro to help share the load while he learns the offense.
Ozzie Newsome is the best GM in the NFL, and he will probably trade (up or down) out of this pick to make sure he gets value for it. Since the Ravens already have plenty of picks I believe they will either go up ,or take one of the talented players who fall due to injury , positional devaluing, or character concerns in the 1rst round. Unless of course a guy with a definite first round grade on the field like Gurley or Gordon fell to them . In this scenario that doesn't happen. With Gurley off the board I expect Ozzie to try and get ahead of the next team he thinks will take Gordon. In this case that's Arizona. Gordon is the home run hitter this team lacks at RB. Despite rushing for 2587 yards on 343 carries last year, he was durable & explosive throughout. Plus that was the only season where he got a lot of use, and he destroyed Auburn with 251 yards on 34 carries in his final college game in the outback bowl.Since they cut Bernard Pierce another RB is definitely needed. However, they still have Justin Forsett and Lorenzo Taliaferro to help share the load while he learns the offense.
24.ARIZONA - KEVIN JOHNSON - CB - W.FOREST
NFL PLAYER COMPARISON - TRAMON WILLIAMS - GREEN BAY
Antonio Cromartie going back to the Jets has left a hole in the Cardinals secondary, and since man coverage is the key to how they get pressure on the QB, a big press corner is a must. Johnson is a tall, lean, fluid, polished corner who plays much bigger than his frame would lead you to believe. I was very disappointed when he skipped the senior bowl, and felt justified in dropping him for awhile, but after his showing at the combine he needs to moved back up. He plays the game with a chip on his shoulder, and his lean frame is misleading based on the physical way he plays the game He showed up bigger at the combine and still looked fluid in drills.One of the safer corners in this draft because he has a high floor.
25.CAROLINA - ** DJ HUMPHRIES - OT - FLORIDA
NFL PLAYER COMPARISON - WILLIAM BEATTY - GIANTS
Jordan Gross retiring last season caught the Panthers by surprise, and they didn't do much to remedy it in the 2014 draft. Their plan to move Byron Bell to the left side smacked of desperation to me, he did not play well, and is now a free agent they aren't rushing to re-sign. Their other option was converted former TE /DT Nate Chandler. He is a great athlete , but they are counting on him to make a Jason Peters-like jump up this year. Maybe they are right and both are undiscovered studs down the road, but that seems like two huge gambles to base the health of your franchise QB on. Even a physical specimen like Newton can only take so many hits and I was surprised he survived the regular season without a major injury, although he did suffer a fractured rib in the pre-season. At least they made a concerted effort to get him a better(or at least more reliable and supportive) receiving core, but at this point a healthy Steve Smith is still better than anyone they now have. , and being from the Charlotte area can't hurt. I Don't put much stock in the Michael Oher signing as a left tackle. Oher has had his spurts of good play at either tackle spot, but he has also had a lot of bad snaps on the outside. I have always thought that he would make a good guard, but don't trust him in pass pro as a tackle. Their is a reason that the Ravens didn't resign him, and a reason the Titans cut him after only one year .and ate all the dead money on their cap. Humphries is a fluid athlete with left tackle feet, and after adding weight before the combine, as he reportedly played at only 285 last season & looked like it, he is rising up draft boards. His injury history worries me enough that I wouldn't take him in the first round, but he is also one of only 2 OT prospects in this draft(La'el Collins is the other one) I believe can pass block on the blindside in the NFL as a rookie, in any scheme. While it's still just a projection , and he might not be a big help in the run game yet, the added weight might help him get some movement at the line in the run game as well. Still, the most important thing for this team to do should be protecting their franchise QB, and this pick improves their chances of doing so.
26.LIONS - ** JAKE FISHER - OT - OREGON
NFL PLAYER COMPARISON - LANE JOHNSON - PHILADELPHIA
The lions are short on picks after the Haloti Ngata trade, but stil long on needs, and still tight against the cap despite losing Ndamukong Suh. This trade helps them out with that, while still allowing them to upgrade their O-line on the blind side. With Reilly Reiff being just serviceable at left tackle, and being a better fit on the inside, a new left tackle could be needed to cover Matt Stafford's blind side.Fisher has good feet and a solid kick slide to stay in front of his man in pass pro, but his technique is inconsistent, and it looks like he gets by on his athletic ability a little too much. He would still be a probable upgrade as a pass blocker on this team, and when you have a franchise QB protecting him should be your top priority.In addition moving Reiff to guard could help improve 2 positions at once.
NFL PLAYER COMPARISON - WILLIAM BEATTY - GIANTS
Jordan Gross retiring last season caught the Panthers by surprise, and they didn't do much to remedy it in the 2014 draft. Their plan to move Byron Bell to the left side smacked of desperation to me, he did not play well, and is now a free agent they aren't rushing to re-sign. Their other option was converted former TE /DT Nate Chandler. He is a great athlete , but they are counting on him to make a Jason Peters-like jump up this year. Maybe they are right and both are undiscovered studs down the road, but that seems like two huge gambles to base the health of your franchise QB on. Even a physical specimen like Newton can only take so many hits and I was surprised he survived the regular season without a major injury, although he did suffer a fractured rib in the pre-season. At least they made a concerted effort to get him a better(or at least more reliable and supportive) receiving core, but at this point a healthy Steve Smith is still better than anyone they now have. , and being from the Charlotte area can't hurt. I Don't put much stock in the Michael Oher signing as a left tackle. Oher has had his spurts of good play at either tackle spot, but he has also had a lot of bad snaps on the outside. I have always thought that he would make a good guard, but don't trust him in pass pro as a tackle. Their is a reason that the Ravens didn't resign him, and a reason the Titans cut him after only one year .and ate all the dead money on their cap. Humphries is a fluid athlete with left tackle feet, and after adding weight before the combine, as he reportedly played at only 285 last season & looked like it, he is rising up draft boards. His injury history worries me enough that I wouldn't take him in the first round, but he is also one of only 2 OT prospects in this draft(La'el Collins is the other one) I believe can pass block on the blindside in the NFL as a rookie, in any scheme. While it's still just a projection , and he might not be a big help in the run game yet, the added weight might help him get some movement at the line in the run game as well. Still, the most important thing for this team to do should be protecting their franchise QB, and this pick improves their chances of doing so.
26.LIONS - ** JAKE FISHER - OT - OREGON
NFL PLAYER COMPARISON - LANE JOHNSON - PHILADELPHIA
The lions are short on picks after the Haloti Ngata trade, but stil long on needs, and still tight against the cap despite losing Ndamukong Suh. This trade helps them out with that, while still allowing them to upgrade their O-line on the blind side. With Reilly Reiff being just serviceable at left tackle, and being a better fit on the inside, a new left tackle could be needed to cover Matt Stafford's blind side.Fisher has good feet and a solid kick slide to stay in front of his man in pass pro, but his technique is inconsistent, and it looks like he gets by on his athletic ability a little too much. He would still be a probable upgrade as a pass blocker on this team, and when you have a franchise QB protecting him should be your top priority.In addition moving Reiff to guard could help improve 2 positions at once.
27.DALLAS**TEVIN COLEMAN - RB - INDIANA
NFL PLAYER COMPARISON - ( A faster) - DEMARCO MURRAY-PHILADELPHIA
There has been a lot of talk about Dallas going after Adrian Peterson before the draft, but I really doubt it happens. In fact I got a well thought out lengthy comment from a reader espousing his certainty of them pulling off the trade, that I couldn't publish due to colorful language. I will answer him here. The new look , fiscally smart, build through the draft, "Right Kind of Guy" Cowboys, seem too smart to mortgage their future this way. There are a lot of moving parts to such a deal, and while I agree it makes them an even better offense (if he returns to form) than they were last year in the short term, it seems unlikely to me overall. First off Dallas isn't going to pay any running back what Peterson is getting paid. His vikings contract calls for 12,750,000 in 2015, 14,750,000 in 2016, and 16,750,000 in 2018. That's 44,250,000 over 3 years, or 14,750,00 a year. Almost 15 million a year for a 30 year old running back! They would also have to pay him less than DeMarco Murray or be exposed as public liars. They said they wouldn't pay as much as Philly payed him for a RB, and doing so now could hurt the good locker room vibe they have built under Jason Garrett. While living in Texas( a conservative state with the 6th lowest tax burden) is much cheaper than Minnesota,(a liberal state with the 7th highest tax burden), is just the first reason why he wants to play for Dallas, there are plenty more. Peterson has said he wants to come home( he grew up in Texas , less than 2 hours away from Dallas)to the lone star state .He has a much better chance at a ring in the next few years in Dallas, and would be running behind the best line in football. Even with all that those positives I doubt he is willing to take a pay cut to 8 million or less a season. Even if they gave him a 32 million 4 year deal, and guaranteed the first 2 years I would say they only have about a 50/50 chance of him accepting. That's not even counting what the vikings want from Dallas in a trade. They are saying right now they want more than a first round pick. I wouldn't give even the first for a 30 year old running back, no matter how great he has been, 2 years removed from a major knee injury. While some would say the year off helps him, he didn't look that good at the end of 2013, or last year before the quasi suspension. He could even be a bit rusty, and recent stats point to a declining player. In fact in his last 3 regular season games Peterson has only had 39 carries for a 133 yards. That comes out to 3.4 yards per carry, so he is trending downward. Would he better behind the Dallas O-line? Sure, any back would. However, there isn't any guarantee he is that same special runner from his prime, even if they get him, and history has rarely been kind to RB's past their 30th B-day. While that 1rst rounder may be only a start to negotiations, it's still a bad sign. Even if the vikings would take a 2nd and a 3rd instead, which was the idea of the fan I am responding to, I would still say no . Then when you take into account the salary he would cost them it's just a really bad idea. They would be wiser to take Tevin Coleman ( a perfect fit for their team) in the first, and ignore anyone who said its too high. Some of those same people(myself included) said the same thing about Travis Frederick ,and were wrong. Although I still think they could have taken Zach Ertz in the first, and gotten Frederick in the 2nd that year.In fact ,if they took any of the 3 at #27, they would keep their 2nd and 3rd round picks, get a younger back, and save around 7 million per year! That's a no brainer for me. Tevin Colemn isn't as big a name as Gurley or Gordon yet, but they would have to trade up for the other .Coleman is a complete back , who can not only be a long term upgrade over Murray at a much cheaper cap number, but also a player that can give them the home run threat in the backfield they currently lack. Coleman had only 452 carries in college, just 270 last season, and only 25 catches in the passing game. Murray had 487 touches between the the regular season & playoffs last season alone. So Coleman not only has less miles on his tires than all the other top backs in this draft , compared to Murray he is practically unblemished. Unlike Murray before his contract year, and I doubt that's a coincidence that he was suddenly an iron man while trying to get a big money deal after years of being so injury prone, Coleman played with a broken toe the second half of the year and kicked ass like he was wearing butt seeking boots. He finally had his pro day in mid April, and despite not being fully healthy ,and unable to do the whole combine type workout, he still ran a 4.39 forty. That's already faster that any RB ran at the combine, while not being fully healthy. Tevin can also return kicks , and that burst will be readily apparent when he does.Personally I have a mid first round grade on Coleman, and think he is well worth taking here.
NFL PLAYER COMPARISON - ( A faster) - DEMARCO MURRAY-PHILADELPHIA
There has been a lot of talk about Dallas going after Adrian Peterson before the draft, but I really doubt it happens. In fact I got a well thought out lengthy comment from a reader espousing his certainty of them pulling off the trade, that I couldn't publish due to colorful language. I will answer him here. The new look , fiscally smart, build through the draft, "Right Kind of Guy" Cowboys, seem too smart to mortgage their future this way. There are a lot of moving parts to such a deal, and while I agree it makes them an even better offense (if he returns to form) than they were last year in the short term, it seems unlikely to me overall. First off Dallas isn't going to pay any running back what Peterson is getting paid. His vikings contract calls for 12,750,000 in 2015, 14,750,000 in 2016, and 16,750,000 in 2018. That's 44,250,000 over 3 years, or 14,750,00 a year. Almost 15 million a year for a 30 year old running back! They would also have to pay him less than DeMarco Murray or be exposed as public liars. They said they wouldn't pay as much as Philly payed him for a RB, and doing so now could hurt the good locker room vibe they have built under Jason Garrett. While living in Texas( a conservative state with the 6th lowest tax burden) is much cheaper than Minnesota,(a liberal state with the 7th highest tax burden), is just the first reason why he wants to play for Dallas, there are plenty more. Peterson has said he wants to come home( he grew up in Texas , less than 2 hours away from Dallas)to the lone star state .He has a much better chance at a ring in the next few years in Dallas, and would be running behind the best line in football. Even with all that those positives I doubt he is willing to take a pay cut to 8 million or less a season. Even if they gave him a 32 million 4 year deal, and guaranteed the first 2 years I would say they only have about a 50/50 chance of him accepting. That's not even counting what the vikings want from Dallas in a trade. They are saying right now they want more than a first round pick. I wouldn't give even the first for a 30 year old running back, no matter how great he has been, 2 years removed from a major knee injury. While some would say the year off helps him, he didn't look that good at the end of 2013, or last year before the quasi suspension. He could even be a bit rusty, and recent stats point to a declining player. In fact in his last 3 regular season games Peterson has only had 39 carries for a 133 yards. That comes out to 3.4 yards per carry, so he is trending downward. Would he better behind the Dallas O-line? Sure, any back would. However, there isn't any guarantee he is that same special runner from his prime, even if they get him, and history has rarely been kind to RB's past their 30th B-day. While that 1rst rounder may be only a start to negotiations, it's still a bad sign. Even if the vikings would take a 2nd and a 3rd instead, which was the idea of the fan I am responding to, I would still say no . Then when you take into account the salary he would cost them it's just a really bad idea. They would be wiser to take Tevin Coleman ( a perfect fit for their team) in the first, and ignore anyone who said its too high. Some of those same people(myself included) said the same thing about Travis Frederick ,and were wrong. Although I still think they could have taken Zach Ertz in the first, and gotten Frederick in the 2nd that year.In fact ,if they took any of the 3 at #27, they would keep their 2nd and 3rd round picks, get a younger back, and save around 7 million per year! That's a no brainer for me. Tevin Colemn isn't as big a name as Gurley or Gordon yet, but they would have to trade up for the other .Coleman is a complete back , who can not only be a long term upgrade over Murray at a much cheaper cap number, but also a player that can give them the home run threat in the backfield they currently lack. Coleman had only 452 carries in college, just 270 last season, and only 25 catches in the passing game. Murray had 487 touches between the the regular season & playoffs last season alone. So Coleman not only has less miles on his tires than all the other top backs in this draft , compared to Murray he is practically unblemished. Unlike Murray before his contract year, and I doubt that's a coincidence that he was suddenly an iron man while trying to get a big money deal after years of being so injury prone, Coleman played with a broken toe the second half of the year and kicked ass like he was wearing butt seeking boots. He finally had his pro day in mid April, and despite not being fully healthy ,and unable to do the whole combine type workout, he still ran a 4.39 forty. That's already faster that any RB ran at the combine, while not being fully healthy. Tevin can also return kicks , and that burst will be readily apparent when he does.Personally I have a mid first round grade on Coleman, and think he is well worth taking here.
28.DENVER - ERECK FLOWERS - T/G - MIAMI
NFL PLAYER COMPARISON - ERIK WILLIAMS - retired
After getting quickly knocked out of the playoffs John Elway decided a change needed to be made at head coach and brought in Gary Kubiak. His main jobs were to convince Peyton Manning to return & to keep him healthy. They got Peyton to come back and he even gave the broncos some cap relief. With both Demaryius Thomas & Julius Thomas being free agents , and only being able to put the franchise tag on one of them, Demaryius was the choice to tag Julius left for the money in Jacksonville, but re-signing Virgil Green and bringing in Owen Daniels probably means the broncos won't be spending a high pick on a TE in this draft. A previously undisclosed leg injury explains Peyton's poor play in the final quarter of the season, but the fragile soon to be 39 year old is probably going to need a new a new interior lineman after the Chargers signed Orlando Franklin out from under him. Flowers plays with a maulers attitude, but he still needs to get stronger and hsi technique is horrible,but he still somehow gets the job done most of the time. On tape I would rate him as second rounder that would fit better at guard , or maybe right tackle with some technique refinements, although I don't think he had the strength to move DT's off the line of scrimmage regularly then. He showed up in better shape and stronger at the combine , so at least he is making progress already.
NFL PLAYER COMPARISON - ERIK WILLIAMS - retired
After getting quickly knocked out of the playoffs John Elway decided a change needed to be made at head coach and brought in Gary Kubiak. His main jobs were to convince Peyton Manning to return & to keep him healthy. They got Peyton to come back and he even gave the broncos some cap relief. With both Demaryius Thomas & Julius Thomas being free agents , and only being able to put the franchise tag on one of them, Demaryius was the choice to tag Julius left for the money in Jacksonville, but re-signing Virgil Green and bringing in Owen Daniels probably means the broncos won't be spending a high pick on a TE in this draft. A previously undisclosed leg injury explains Peyton's poor play in the final quarter of the season, but the fragile soon to be 39 year old is probably going to need a new a new interior lineman after the Chargers signed Orlando Franklin out from under him. Flowers plays with a maulers attitude, but he still needs to get stronger and hsi technique is horrible,but he still somehow gets the job done most of the time. On tape I would rate him as second rounder that would fit better at guard , or maybe right tackle with some technique refinements, although I don't think he had the strength to move DT's off the line of scrimmage regularly then. He showed up in better shape and stronger at the combine , so at least he is making progress already.
29.COLTS - CAMERON ERVING - C/T - FLORIDA ST.
NFL PLAYER COMPARISON - MAX UNGER - SEATTLE
The Colts showed in drafting Jack Mewhort last year that they have some awareness of how bad their interior O-line was. While Mewhort was an upgrade at left guard, Hugh Thornton and Lance Louis played badly. At center short armed center AQ Shipley actually played alright, but rookie Jonotthan Harrison did not. Shipley is better as backup IMO, and Harrison a better fit at guard long term. Erving is the best pure center in this draft. Cameron looked like a possible first rounder as a left tackle coming into this season, but his play had slipped some , and he needs to be taught from scratch how to set up on the left side if he is gong to stay there. However, he was great since a move to center, and I believe he can play all five O-line positions with the proper coaching . That makes him worth his weight in gold. While he would be an upgrade at one guard spot ,or center, I think his best long term position is at the pivot. He could help the colts O-line jell into a much better unit long term.
NFL PLAYER COMPARISON - MAX UNGER - SEATTLE
The Colts showed in drafting Jack Mewhort last year that they have some awareness of how bad their interior O-line was. While Mewhort was an upgrade at left guard, Hugh Thornton and Lance Louis played badly. At center short armed center AQ Shipley actually played alright, but rookie Jonotthan Harrison did not. Shipley is better as backup IMO, and Harrison a better fit at guard long term. Erving is the best pure center in this draft. Cameron looked like a possible first rounder as a left tackle coming into this season, but his play had slipped some , and he needs to be taught from scratch how to set up on the left side if he is gong to stay there. However, he was great since a move to center, and I believe he can play all five O-line positions with the proper coaching . That makes him worth his weight in gold. While he would be an upgrade at one guard spot ,or center, I think his best long term position is at the pivot. He could help the colts O-line jell into a much better unit long term.
30.GREEN BAY - ERIC KENDRICKS - LB - UCLA
NFL PLAYER COMPARISON - JON BEASON - GIANTS
The packers weakness at middle linebacker was so bad last season that they were forced to move Clay Matthews to the middle just so they could have a LB who could cover. Kendricks was a highly productive team leader at UCLA, and h is the best coverage line backer in the draft. He is a definite first rounder on my board, and while some teams are worried about his lack of size, this would be a definite steal IMO. Some teams may think he lacks the size to play in the middle, but he played inside in college, in both a 3-4 and 4-3, If they put him next to a thumper that can take on blocks when they are in a odd front he will rack up the tackles.
NFL PLAYER COMPARISON - JON BEASON - GIANTS
The packers weakness at middle linebacker was so bad last season that they were forced to move Clay Matthews to the middle just so they could have a LB who could cover. Kendricks was a highly productive team leader at UCLA, and h is the best coverage line backer in the draft. He is a definite first rounder on my board, and while some teams are worried about his lack of size, this would be a definite steal IMO. Some teams may think he lacks the size to play in the middle, but he played inside in college, in both a 3-4 and 4-3, If they put him next to a thumper that can take on blocks when they are in a odd front he will rack up the tackles.
31.SAINTS - BRESHAD PERRIMAN - WR - UCF
NFL PLAYER COMPARISON - BRAYLON EDWARDS - retired
After trading away both Jimmy Graham & Kenny Stills the saints are in need of some help in their receiving core. Add that Marqonues Colston will be 32 this season, has slowed some , and it spells out a need to give Drew Brees some new weapons.Perriman can stretch the field and has his own highlight reel full of great catches. He also isn't a finished product yet, but he does have #1 receiver potential, although he is not the polished route runner I would expect from the son of a former NFL receiver who played a decade in the league. Personally I am not enamored with Perriman's hand's either, but they looked much better at his pro day. His sub 4.3 forty at 6"2" and 210 pounds could see him drafted even higher.
NFL PLAYER COMPARISON - BRAYLON EDWARDS - retired
After trading away both Jimmy Graham & Kenny Stills the saints are in need of some help in their receiving core. Add that Marqonues Colston will be 32 this season, has slowed some , and it spells out a need to give Drew Brees some new weapons.Perriman can stretch the field and has his own highlight reel full of great catches. He also isn't a finished product yet, but he does have #1 receiver potential, although he is not the polished route runner I would expect from the son of a former NFL receiver who played a decade in the league. Personally I am not enamored with Perriman's hand's either, but they looked much better at his pro day. His sub 4.3 forty at 6"2" and 210 pounds could see him drafted even higher.
32.PATRIOTS - ARIK ARMSTEAD - DE - OREGON
NFL PLAYER COMPARISON -CALAIS CAMPBELL-ARIZONA
The patriots 3-4 defense is in the midst of a rebuild right now. They drafted Dominique Easly in the first round last year, and let future HOfer Vince Wilfork go. While they re-signed Alam Branch to help out , and probably hope young Chris Jones gets better they still need another 5 technique. Armstead has elite measurables and tools ,but he needs to keep his motor running ever play, and learn to play with an edge on a regular basis.This guy is an exact replica of how Bill Belichick would draw up a 3-4 defensive end.
NFL PLAYER COMPARISON -CALAIS CAMPBELL-ARIZONA
The patriots 3-4 defense is in the midst of a rebuild right now. They drafted Dominique Easly in the first round last year, and let future HOfer Vince Wilfork go. While they re-signed Alam Branch to help out , and probably hope young Chris Jones gets better they still need another 5 technique. Armstead has elite measurables and tools ,but he needs to keep his motor running ever play, and learn to play with an edge on a regular basis.This guy is an exact replica of how Bill Belichick would draw up a 3-4 defensive end.
33.TENNESEE - TJ CLEMMINGS - OT - PITTSBURGH
NFL PLAYER COMPARISON - JASON PETERS - PHILADELPHIA
After they drafted Taylor Lewan last season I expected the titans to have one of the league's better O-lines last season, but it didn't work out that way. I expected them to start Lewan at Right tackle, move Oher to guard, and Levitre to center. That lineup added to right guard Chance Warmack, and long term stud left tackle Michael Roos, looked awesome to me. However, it didn't go that way. They started Oher at RT, kept Levitre at guard, and Lewan was used as a blocking TE to start the year. Once Roos got hurt Lewan slid in at LT, and now Roos has retired. They signed former Panther Byron Bell to compete for the right tackle spot, in what is almost a free agent swap for the disappointing Oher. Bell was really bad last year. MUCH worse than Oher, and I wouldn't want him as a starter at either tackle spot. Clemmings is a muscular, fit ,long armed, agile athlete for an offensive tackle. Usually you find a player with his tools on the left side, but TJ is a converted DE who moved to right tackle 2 seasons ago, and he is still learning ,so a transition to the left side could take awhile. He can play even play guard now until he learns more technique, but in 3 years he just might be the be the best tackle to come out of this draft .Personally I would prefer him over Bell every day of the week at RT, despite his inexperience, and twice on Sunday.
NFL PLAYER COMPARISON - JASON PETERS - PHILADELPHIA
After they drafted Taylor Lewan last season I expected the titans to have one of the league's better O-lines last season, but it didn't work out that way. I expected them to start Lewan at Right tackle, move Oher to guard, and Levitre to center. That lineup added to right guard Chance Warmack, and long term stud left tackle Michael Roos, looked awesome to me. However, it didn't go that way. They started Oher at RT, kept Levitre at guard, and Lewan was used as a blocking TE to start the year. Once Roos got hurt Lewan slid in at LT, and now Roos has retired. They signed former Panther Byron Bell to compete for the right tackle spot, in what is almost a free agent swap for the disappointing Oher. Bell was really bad last year. MUCH worse than Oher, and I wouldn't want him as a starter at either tackle spot. Clemmings is a muscular, fit ,long armed, agile athlete for an offensive tackle. Usually you find a player with his tools on the left side, but TJ is a converted DE who moved to right tackle 2 seasons ago, and he is still learning ,so a transition to the left side could take awhile. He can play even play guard now until he learns more technique, but in 3 years he just might be the be the best tackle to come out of this draft .Personally I would prefer him over Bell every day of the week at RT, despite his inexperience, and twice on Sunday.
34.TAMPA BAY - **CEDRICK OGBUEHI - OT - TEXAS A&Mamp;M
NFL PLAYER COMPARISON - TYRON SMITH - DALLAS
The bucs cut let tackle Anthony Collins one year after paying him, and haven't replaced him as of yet. With Winston coming in as he new franchise QB they need to worry about protecting his blindside long term. Cedrick is a talented player with an enormous upside, who would be a definite first round pick in this draft if not for a knee injury suffered in his bowl game. Since Tampa is rebuilding they can sign a stop gap left tackle, and wait for him to heal up before he takes over at left tackle long term. He should be back by mid season at the latest. If Ogbuehi can step in and help them show significant improvement in the second half ,that might be the difference between Lovie Smith keeping his job, or ending up out on the street.
NFL PLAYER COMPARISON - TYRON SMITH - DALLAS
The bucs cut let tackle Anthony Collins one year after paying him, and haven't replaced him as of yet. With Winston coming in as he new franchise QB they need to worry about protecting his blindside long term. Cedrick is a talented player with an enormous upside, who would be a definite first round pick in this draft if not for a knee injury suffered in his bowl game. Since Tampa is rebuilding they can sign a stop gap left tackle, and wait for him to heal up before he takes over at left tackle long term. He should be back by mid season at the latest. If Ogbuehi can step in and help them show significant improvement in the second half ,that might be the difference between Lovie Smith keeping his job, or ending up out on the street.
35.OAKLAND - NELSON AGHOLOR - WR - USC
NFL PLAYER COMPARISON - GREG JENNINGS - MINNESOTA
With New QB Derek Carr exceeding expectations a play-maker on offense to help him out will be appreciated. Last year Carr was throwing to James Jones and group of journeymen and unproven young guys. He needs a potential # 1 receiver. Nelson is Very quick, explosive, can separate, and appears to have long speed. Tough guy for a average sized receiver that doesn't fear the middle of the field. Shifty & hard to tackle after the catch. Can play inside & outside, so he isn't relegated to only the slot. Has had some drops both, because he occasionally tries to run before he secures the ball, and isn't the strongest guy at contested catches. However, when he is open in space Nelson is generally a smooth hands catcher, that snatches the ball up without breaking stride. Eats up the cushion really quick and explodes out of his breaks. You can see a lot of improvement across the board between this years tape over last years. Hard working vocal leader on and off the field. Also a good return man. Fiery personlity and hard worker. The player most like Amari Copper in this draft. If a team really likes Cooper and misses out on him at the top of the draft, and we know the raiders wee at least considering him at $3 overall, Agholor would be a great pick for them at #35.
NFL PLAYER COMPARISON - GREG JENNINGS - MINNESOTA
With New QB Derek Carr exceeding expectations a play-maker on offense to help him out will be appreciated. Last year Carr was throwing to James Jones and group of journeymen and unproven young guys. He needs a potential # 1 receiver. Nelson is Very quick, explosive, can separate, and appears to have long speed. Tough guy for a average sized receiver that doesn't fear the middle of the field. Shifty & hard to tackle after the catch. Can play inside & outside, so he isn't relegated to only the slot. Has had some drops both, because he occasionally tries to run before he secures the ball, and isn't the strongest guy at contested catches. However, when he is open in space Nelson is generally a smooth hands catcher, that snatches the ball up without breaking stride. Eats up the cushion really quick and explodes out of his breaks. You can see a lot of improvement across the board between this years tape over last years. Hard working vocal leader on and off the field. Also a good return man. Fiery personlity and hard worker. The player most like Amari Copper in this draft. If a team really likes Cooper and misses out on him at the top of the draft, and we know the raiders wee at least considering him at $3 overall, Agholor would be a great pick for them at #35.
36.JACKSONVILLE - JALEN COLLINS-CB/S - LSU
NFL PLAYER COMPARISON - JIMMY SMITH - BALTIMORE
Soon to be 30 year old journeyman free agent corner Alan Ball was the Jags best corner before his injury last year, and he signed elsewhere. With head coach Gus Bradley's Seattle background he wants tall physical press corners. Collins is a big fast physical specimen, and despite being raw & inexperienced he did a good job on Amari Cooper last season. He recently had foot surgery , but should be ready training camp. I previously thought many might even be considering Collins in the first round, until it was revealed that he failed multiple drug tests in college. The lacks of starts, injury, and positive test all add up to a possible fall on draft day.
***TRADE*** DALLAS trades their 2nd round pick (#60) and 2nd and 4TH round picks in next years draft for the JETS 2nd round pick(#37) in this draft***
NFL PLAYER COMPARISON - JIMMY SMITH - BALTIMORE
Soon to be 30 year old journeyman free agent corner Alan Ball was the Jags best corner before his injury last year, and he signed elsewhere. With head coach Gus Bradley's Seattle background he wants tall physical press corners. Collins is a big fast physical specimen, and despite being raw & inexperienced he did a good job on Amari Cooper last season. He recently had foot surgery , but should be ready training camp. I previously thought many might even be considering Collins in the first round, until it was revealed that he failed multiple drug tests in college. The lacks of starts, injury, and positive test all add up to a possible fall on draft day.
***TRADE*** DALLAS trades their 2nd round pick (#60) and 2nd and 4TH round picks in next years draft for the JETS 2nd round pick(#37) in this draft***
37.DALLAS -(jets) - ** OWAMAGBE ODIGHIZUWA - DE - UCLA
NFL PLAYER COMPARISON - EVERSON GRIFFEN - MINNESOTA
The news that defensive end Greg Hardy will be suspended for 10 games , instead of the 4 to 6 games Dallas was counting on was a blow to the Dallas pass rush. Any team that runs a lot of Tampa 2 depends on their front 4 getting a lot of pressure, and Hardy was being counted on to provide the lions share of it. Even if Hardy's appeal works the best they can probably hope for is a reduction to 8 games now. Dallas was probably still going to draft an edge rusher in the first 4 rounds anyway, but that need is now more pressing.On the bright side Dallas lost a lot of players in free agency who got big money contracts, and will probably be swimming in comp picks next year. That gives them the ability to trade some of their own picks in next years draft, and still have ammo to help their team. Diggy, as he's called by UCLA fans like me, is a raw physically gifted player who has all the tools. He also has a great motor, but inconsistent tape. Diggy is versatile and moved around a lot, but I think his best position is a 4-3 strong-side end, although he is easily explosive enough to play the right side. Medical Red flags because of past surgery on each hip should keep him out of the 1rst round. If he goes to a team with good coaching , stays healthy, and he gets to be a 4-3 end , I see an early productive starter. He also big & strong enough to move inside on obvious passing downs , and be a mismatch for interior lineman.
NFL PLAYER COMPARISON - EVERSON GRIFFEN - MINNESOTA
The news that defensive end Greg Hardy will be suspended for 10 games , instead of the 4 to 6 games Dallas was counting on was a blow to the Dallas pass rush. Any team that runs a lot of Tampa 2 depends on their front 4 getting a lot of pressure, and Hardy was being counted on to provide the lions share of it. Even if Hardy's appeal works the best they can probably hope for is a reduction to 8 games now. Dallas was probably still going to draft an edge rusher in the first 4 rounds anyway, but that need is now more pressing.On the bright side Dallas lost a lot of players in free agency who got big money contracts, and will probably be swimming in comp picks next year. That gives them the ability to trade some of their own picks in next years draft, and still have ammo to help their team. Diggy, as he's called by UCLA fans like me, is a raw physically gifted player who has all the tools. He also has a great motor, but inconsistent tape. Diggy is versatile and moved around a lot, but I think his best position is a 4-3 strong-side end, although he is easily explosive enough to play the right side. Medical Red flags because of past surgery on each hip should keep him out of the 1rst round. If he goes to a team with good coaching , stays healthy, and he gets to be a 4-3 end , I see an early productive starter. He also big & strong enough to move inside on obvious passing downs , and be a mismatch for interior lineman.
***TRADE*** BALTIMORE trades their 2nd round pick (#58) 3rd(#90) 4th (#122) in this draft for the REDSKINS 2nd round pick(#38) in this draft***
38.RAVENS - (washington) - DEVIN SMITH - WR - OHIO ST.
NFL PLAYER COMPARISON - MIKE QUICK - retired
Nobody works the draft like Newsome. From trading up to get a player he covets, down to acquire more value & picks, and veteran that he longer feels are worth their salary, he is the master of the system. Add in the way he works the compensatory pick system in free agency , and the Ravens are usually flush with picks. In this off season he has already gotten 4th & 5th rounders in the Haloti Ngata trade, and a 4th & two fifths in compensatory picks from free agency. With the loss of Pernell Mcphee and Torrey Smith in free agency they might get even higher picks next year. With 11 picks in the draft Ozzie has the ammo he needs to go up and get players he covets. Devin would replace Torrey as a deep threat , and that's a good thing because he has far better hands than him. He is also one of the best special teams coverage guys in college football. Having Steve Smith as a mentor to expand his route tree , and rev up his work ethic ,can only help him as well.
***TRADE*** TAMPA BAY trades their 3rd round pick (#65) in this draft for the and 2nd round pick next years draft for BEARS 2nd round pick(#38) in this draft***
NFL PLAYER COMPARISON - MIKE QUICK - retired
Nobody works the draft like Newsome. From trading up to get a player he covets, down to acquire more value & picks, and veteran that he longer feels are worth their salary, he is the master of the system. Add in the way he works the compensatory pick system in free agency , and the Ravens are usually flush with picks. In this off season he has already gotten 4th & 5th rounders in the Haloti Ngata trade, and a 4th & two fifths in compensatory picks from free agency. With the loss of Pernell Mcphee and Torrey Smith in free agency they might get even higher picks next year. With 11 picks in the draft Ozzie has the ammo he needs to go up and get players he covets. Devin would replace Torrey as a deep threat , and that's a good thing because he has far better hands than him. He is also one of the best special teams coverage guys in college football. Having Steve Smith as a mentor to expand his route tree , and rev up his work ethic ,can only help him as well.
***TRADE*** TAMPA BAY trades their 3rd round pick (#65) in this draft for the and 2nd round pick next years draft for BEARS 2nd round pick(#38) in this draft***
39.TAMPA BAY - PRESTON SMITH - DT/DE - MISSISSIPPI ST.
NFL PLAYER COMPARISON - JASON HATCHER - WASHINGTON
The buccaneers lost the inconsistent Adrian Clayborn in free agency, and seem to finally given up on Da'Quan Bowers.They also cut big money free agent Michael Johnson after just one season , and ate his contract, and while bringing in George Johnson might help help some, he only has one season of decent production on his resume to date.This isn't first time the bucs have traded or cut a big money free agent or high draft picks since Lovie smith came to town either. All this cap mismanagement has accelerated a lot of dollars on their cap, so they nred to hit in their draft picks to be competitive. The bucs fired Greg Schiano and ate his contract after only one year, and with the Glazer family having money to burn , and coaches salaries not counting against the cap,Lovie might be out of a job if the team doesn't make significant improvement this season.The Glazer family has also let their coaches mortgage the future ,and sink or swim in their own choices, hence giving up a first and 4th round picks for Revis for what amounted to only 1 year. The bucs don't have a quality 4-3 strong side DE on their roster right now. Smith played all over the Bulldogs D-line this season, and plays with more power than his lanky frame would suggest. He was even productive when they moved him over the center the same way UCLA used Datone Jones as a senior. Right now he looks best as a 4-3 base who can slide to the 3 technique on obvious passing downs, but with another 15-20 pounds of muscle he could probably be an excellent 5 technique if they ever go to a 3-4 in the future. He's a good pick this late in the draft, and a safe player that should be at least good starter. Personally I wouldn't be surprised if someone took him in the first round.
NFL PLAYER COMPARISON - JASON HATCHER - WASHINGTON
The buccaneers lost the inconsistent Adrian Clayborn in free agency, and seem to finally given up on Da'Quan Bowers.They also cut big money free agent Michael Johnson after just one season , and ate his contract, and while bringing in George Johnson might help help some, he only has one season of decent production on his resume to date.This isn't first time the bucs have traded or cut a big money free agent or high draft picks since Lovie smith came to town either. All this cap mismanagement has accelerated a lot of dollars on their cap, so they nred to hit in their draft picks to be competitive. The bucs fired Greg Schiano and ate his contract after only one year, and with the Glazer family having money to burn , and coaches salaries not counting against the cap,Lovie might be out of a job if the team doesn't make significant improvement this season.The Glazer family has also let their coaches mortgage the future ,and sink or swim in their own choices, hence giving up a first and 4th round picks for Revis for what amounted to only 1 year. The bucs don't have a quality 4-3 strong side DE on their roster right now. Smith played all over the Bulldogs D-line this season, and plays with more power than his lanky frame would suggest. He was even productive when they moved him over the center the same way UCLA used Datone Jones as a senior. Right now he looks best as a 4-3 base who can slide to the 3 technique on obvious passing downs, but with another 15-20 pounds of muscle he could probably be an excellent 5 technique if they ever go to a 3-4 in the future. He's a good pick this late in the draft, and a safe player that should be at least good starter. Personally I wouldn't be surprised if someone took him in the first round.
40.NYG - CHICAGO - SHAQ THOMPSON - OLB/SS/RB - WASHINGTON
NFL PLAYER COMPARISON - THOMAS DAVIS - CAROLINA
The giants have tried to get by on the cheap at LB for a long time. This pick wpuld finally give them the athletic all around play-maker at weak side linebacker the have lacke since Michael Boley in 2012. Thompson is that play-maker at any position he plays, even running back, and he scored 4 TD's on defense last year alone. Thomspon even offers the versatility to play safety on run downs and move to the weak-side LB position when the Giants go to nickle.
NFL PLAYER COMPARISON - THOMAS DAVIS - CAROLINA
The giants have tried to get by on the cheap at LB for a long time. This pick wpuld finally give them the athletic all around play-maker at weak side linebacker the have lacke since Michael Boley in 2012. Thompson is that play-maker at any position he plays, even running back, and he scored 4 TD's on defense last year alone. Thomspon even offers the versatility to play safety on run downs and move to the weak-side LB position when the Giants go to nickle.
41.RAMS - ERIC ROWE - S/CB - UTAH
NFL PLAYER COMPARISON - ANTREL ROLLE - GIANTS
There are very few needs on this defense, but they could use an upgrade at both safety and corner .Both TJ Mcdonald and Mark Barron are better as in the box safeties, and last years free safety Rodney McLeod is a an unsigned free agent. Rowe was a safety until this season, and while he is built & plays the run like a safety , he was moved to corner last year. While his man cover technique isn't anything to right home about right now, he stays with his man anyway. That versatility is likely to see him drafted a lot higher than most people are talking about in public right now. He is also a clean character guy who loves football. He could be the rams new free safety from day one. He is one those rare players I liked the more I watched of him. After a great combine I expect him to go in the first 50 picks.
NFL PLAYER COMPARISON - ANTREL ROLLE - GIANTS
There are very few needs on this defense, but they could use an upgrade at both safety and corner .Both TJ Mcdonald and Mark Barron are better as in the box safeties, and last years free safety Rodney McLeod is a an unsigned free agent. Rowe was a safety until this season, and while he is built & plays the run like a safety , he was moved to corner last year. While his man cover technique isn't anything to right home about right now, he stays with his man anyway. That versatility is likely to see him drafted a lot higher than most people are talking about in public right now. He is also a clean character guy who loves football. He could be the rams new free safety from day one. He is one those rare players I liked the more I watched of him. After a great combine I expect him to go in the first 50 picks.
42.ATLANTA - MAXX WILLIAMS - TE- MINNESOTA
NFL PLAYER COMPARISON - HEATH MILLER - PITTSBURGH
Future HOFer Tony Gonzalez was sorely missed last season. While Levine Toilolo looks like an extra offensive the tackle, he definitely doesn't block like one, and he lacks the suddenness to separate well. Right now he is just a big shorty yardage and goal line target. Underrated veteran Bear Pascoe is a good blocker , and solid all around player, but it's obvious by how little they used him that the Falcons don't see him as a starter. Williams is the clear cut # 1 TE in this draft . On the bright side Williams is more than just a good receiving TE. Williams has the potential blocking skills of a true inline Y tight end, and this ability to help protect Matt Ryan & company improve the running game actually makes Max a large upgrade at the position. While he is never going to be the deep threat down the seam Gonzalez was , he looks faster on film than he was at the combine.. and he has his own highlight reel of big plays.
NFL PLAYER COMPARISON - HEATH MILLER - PITTSBURGH
Future HOFer Tony Gonzalez was sorely missed last season. While Levine Toilolo looks like an extra offensive the tackle, he definitely doesn't block like one, and he lacks the suddenness to separate well. Right now he is just a big shorty yardage and goal line target. Underrated veteran Bear Pascoe is a good blocker , and solid all around player, but it's obvious by how little they used him that the Falcons don't see him as a starter. Williams is the clear cut # 1 TE in this draft . On the bright side Williams is more than just a good receiving TE. Williams has the potential blocking skills of a true inline Y tight end, and this ability to help protect Matt Ryan & company improve the running game actually makes Max a large upgrade at the position. While he is never going to be the deep threat down the seam Gonzalez was , he looks faster on film than he was at the combine.. and he has his own highlight reel of big plays.
43.CLEVELAND - CARL DAVIS - DT - IOWA
NFL PLAYER COMPARISON - MUHAMMAD WILKERSON - JETS
Neither 2015 free agent Ahyta Rubin(signed with Seattle) or Phil Taylor held it down inside for the Browns last year . With Taylor spending his rare uninjured (knee)time at end , and his 2015 salary close to 5 and half million dollars in 2015 it's a safe bet that the browns will be looking for D-line help this off season. Davis continued to impress at the Senior bowl after a dominating season. Drafting someone who can play all the interior down lineman spots in both defenses like Carl Davis makes a lot of sense as well. Davis is strong as a bull and has the length teams covet. He also showed off surprising quickness at both the senior bowl and combine.
NFL PLAYER COMPARISON - MUHAMMAD WILKERSON - JETS
Neither 2015 free agent Ahyta Rubin(signed with Seattle) or Phil Taylor held it down inside for the Browns last year . With Taylor spending his rare uninjured (knee)time at end , and his 2015 salary close to 5 and half million dollars in 2015 it's a safe bet that the browns will be looking for D-line help this off season. Davis continued to impress at the Senior bowl after a dominating season. Drafting someone who can play all the interior down lineman spots in both defenses like Carl Davis makes a lot of sense as well. Davis is strong as a bull and has the length teams covet. He also showed off surprising quickness at both the senior bowl and combine.
44.SAINTS - AJ CANN - G/C - S.CAROLINA
NFL PLAYER COMPARISON - KEVIN ZEITLER - CINCINNATTI
With the once great Jahri Evans and Ben Grubbs in decline and both having hefty cap numbers , the cash strapped saints need to think about the future at guard. Grubbs was traded for a 5th round pick, so at least one replacement is needed right now. Cann is a big smart 4 years SEC starter that is the best pure guard in this draft. He can be a plug & play guard that can help keep the pocket from collapsing on the vertically challenged Drew Brees.
NFL PLAYER COMPARISON - KEVIN ZEITLER - CINCINNATTI
With the once great Jahri Evans and Ben Grubbs in decline and both having hefty cap numbers , the cash strapped saints need to think about the future at guard. Grubbs was traded for a 5th round pick, so at least one replacement is needed right now. Cann is a big smart 4 years SEC starter that is the best pure guard in this draft. He can be a plug & play guard that can help keep the pocket from collapsing on the vertically challenged Drew Brees.
45.VIKINGS - QUINTEN ROLLINS - CB - MIAMI OF OHIO
NFL PLAYER COMPARISON - STEPHON GILMORE - BUFFALO
Vikings coach Mike Zimmer loves corners, and while the DC in Cincinnati he was always bringing in new guys to upgrade the position. Rollins is a former basketball player who had a great season after returning to football after a 4 year layoff, and his stock will only go up after constant progress at the senior bowl. He is a heady player with good instincts & rarely falls for double moves. Great ball skills & timing on his jumps. Very physical and tackles like a safety. After the combine showed his lack speed his best fit is probably as a cover 2 corner, or safety. Zimmer could use a safety and plays a lot of cover 2.
NFL PLAYER COMPARISON - STEPHON GILMORE - BUFFALO
Vikings coach Mike Zimmer loves corners, and while the DC in Cincinnati he was always bringing in new guys to upgrade the position. Rollins is a former basketball player who had a great season after returning to football after a 4 year layoff, and his stock will only go up after constant progress at the senior bowl. He is a heady player with good instincts & rarely falls for double moves. Great ball skills & timing on his jumps. Very physical and tackles like a safety. After the combine showed his lack speed his best fit is probably as a cover 2 corner, or safety. Zimmer could use a safety and plays a lot of cover 2.
46.SAN FRANCISCO - STEPHONE ANTHONY - LB-CLEMSON
NFL PLAYER COMPARISON - BRUCE CARTER - DALLAS
With the unexpected retirements of both Patrick Willis & Chris Borland, and the questions about Navarro Bowman's availability the 49ers need an ILB. While Anthony is not as polished as Denzell Perryman right now, Anthony's upside and movement skills lead me to believe they would take him over Perryman here to fill their need.
NFL PLAYER COMPARISON - BRUCE CARTER - DALLAS
With the unexpected retirements of both Patrick Willis & Chris Borland, and the questions about Navarro Bowman's availability the 49ers need an ILB. While Anthony is not as polished as Denzell Perryman right now, Anthony's upside and movement skills lead me to believe they would take him over Perryman here to fill their need.
47.MIAMI - GRADY JARRETT - DT - CLEMSON
NFL PLAYER COMPARISON - GENO ATKINS - CINCINNATTI
With the Dolphins already having trouble stopping the run , Randy Starks turning 32 & becoming a free agent after this season, the news that they were going to be pursuing Ndamukong Suh made a ton of sense. They predictably let Starks go, and Suh is big upgrade over him, but what i didn't expect was for them also let Jared Odrick leave. The need another defensive tackle, and preferably one that can play both the one and three techniques so they can move Suh around some. Enter Grady Jarrett. Jarrett is one of the most underrated players in this draft because he is short for a DT, but he he has the skills to play both the one and three techniques at. Grady is extremely quick off the ball and hard to move at the one, and can penetrate well enough to also play the 3 technique.
NFL PLAYER COMPARISON - GENO ATKINS - CINCINNATTI
With the Dolphins already having trouble stopping the run , Randy Starks turning 32 & becoming a free agent after this season, the news that they were going to be pursuing Ndamukong Suh made a ton of sense. They predictably let Starks go, and Suh is big upgrade over him, but what i didn't expect was for them also let Jared Odrick leave. The need another defensive tackle, and preferably one that can play both the one and three techniques so they can move Suh around some. Enter Grady Jarrett. Jarrett is one of the most underrated players in this draft because he is short for a DT, but he he has the skills to play both the one and three techniques at. Grady is extremely quick off the ball and hard to move at the one, and can penetrate well enough to also play the 3 technique.
48.SAN DIEGO - **EDDIE GOLDMAN - DT - FLORIDA ST.
NFL PLAYER COMPARISON - MARCEL DAREUS - BUFFALO
Incumbent nose tackle Sean Lissemore's best role is as rotational 5 technique, and the Chargers need a true 3-4 NT . Goldman has the power to take on double teams , the quickness and athletic ability to rush the passer ,and even play the 5 technique. However, right now he is just a guy who occupies blocks very well. The Chargers staff will have to coach the rest of him up. Drafting him would give them more options up front to get the most out inside guys in odd or even fronts.
NFL PLAYER COMPARISON - MARCEL DAREUS - BUFFALO
Incumbent nose tackle Sean Lissemore's best role is as rotational 5 technique, and the Chargers need a true 3-4 NT . Goldman has the power to take on double teams , the quickness and athletic ability to rush the passer ,and even play the 5 technique. However, right now he is just a guy who occupies blocks very well. The Chargers staff will have to coach the rest of him up. Drafting him would give them more options up front to get the most out inside guys in odd or even fronts.
49.CHIEFS - DENZELL PERRYMAN - ILB - MIA
NFL PLAYER COMPARISON - LONDON FLETCHER - retired
Losing Derrick Johnson was a huge loss to the chiefs defense last year, and neither Josh Mauga or James Michael - Johnson played well in the middle either. Perryman is the tough inside stud this defense lacks. He can be the QB of this defense if Johnson goes down again, or be the guy who takes on blocks and does the dirty work next to him. Denzell is a smart, hard nosed , physical take on ILB, and a tackling machine that can help set the tone for his teammates.
NFL PLAYER COMPARISON - LONDON FLETCHER - retired
Losing Derrick Johnson was a huge loss to the chiefs defense last year, and neither Josh Mauga or James Michael - Johnson played well in the middle either. Perryman is the tough inside stud this defense lacks. He can be the QB of this defense if Johnson goes down again, or be the guy who takes on blocks and does the dirty work next to him. Denzell is a smart, hard nosed , physical take on ILB, and a tackling machine that can help set the tone for his teammates.
50.BILLS - LAKEN TOMLINSON - G - DUKE
NFL PLAYER COMPARISON - LARRY WORFORD - DETROIT
Not one guard on the Bills roster played well last year. Veteran Kraig Urbik even took a pay cut to stay, and while both 2014 rookies Cyrus Kouandjio and Cyril Richardson have talent, the best you can probably hope is that one of them earns a starting job this year. That still leaves an upgrade over the under-performing Urbik. Tomlinson is big smart mauler that fits this offense, and can play guard in the power system Rex Ryan wants to run.
NFL PLAYER COMPARISON - LARRY WORFORD - DETROIT
Not one guard on the Bills roster played well last year. Veteran Kraig Urbik even took a pay cut to stay, and while both 2014 rookies Cyrus Kouandjio and Cyril Richardson have talent, the best you can probably hope is that one of them earns a starting job this year. That still leaves an upgrade over the under-performing Urbik. Tomlinson is big smart mauler that fits this offense, and can play guard in the power system Rex Ryan wants to run.
51.TEXANS - HENRY ANDERSON - DE/DT - STANFORD
NFL PLAYER COMPARISON - AARON SMITH-PITTSBURGH
With the news that Jadaveon Clowney has had micro-fracture knee surgery the Texans are still in need of another rusher to take advantage of the near constant double & triple teams that the incomparable JJ Watt draws.Anderson has the length & underrated strength to start at the 5 technique as a rookie, and very few 3-4 ends coming out of college are as good of a pass rusher as he is. Alos, the height and length he brings to the position will help combine with Watt to obscure throwing lanes than JJ already does by himself. Plus, exposing any hard working young player to Watt's work ethic and tutelage should only make him better.
NFL PLAYER COMPARISON - AARON SMITH-PITTSBURGH
With the news that Jadaveon Clowney has had micro-fracture knee surgery the Texans are still in need of another rusher to take advantage of the near constant double & triple teams that the incomparable JJ Watt draws.Anderson has the length & underrated strength to start at the 5 technique as a rookie, and very few 3-4 ends coming out of college are as good of a pass rusher as he is. Alos, the height and length he brings to the position will help combine with Watt to obscure throwing lanes than JJ already does by himself. Plus, exposing any hard working young player to Watt's work ethic and tutelage should only make him better.
52.EAGLES - #DORIAL GREEN-BECKHAM - WR - OKLAHOMA
NFL PLAYER COMPARISON - RANDY MOSS - retired
After Jeremy Maclin signed with the chiefs they are left with Jordan Matthews ,Riley Cooper, and Josh Huff at WR. Matthews has the makings of a # 1 receiver and had a good rookie year. Cooper is more like a solid number 3 or 4 receiever, who's best skill is blocking, 3rd round pick Josh Huff didn't have as good of a rookie year as Matthews, despite coming out of Kelly's Oregon system. While I expected Huff to double as a slot receiver & deep threat, he did neither well this year, and had some crucial drops. While DBG won't even be on some teams boards due to off the field concerns, Chip Kelly's nickname is " Big Balls" for a reason. The huge & athletic Green-Beckham is always open if you just throw it up high enough, and he can be that deep threat Kelly wants, while also having the size to give them another punishing down field blocker that is crucial to Chip Kelly's offense.
NFL PLAYER COMPARISON - RANDY MOSS - retired
After Jeremy Maclin signed with the chiefs they are left with Jordan Matthews ,Riley Cooper, and Josh Huff at WR. Matthews has the makings of a # 1 receiver and had a good rookie year. Cooper is more like a solid number 3 or 4 receiever, who's best skill is blocking, 3rd round pick Josh Huff didn't have as good of a rookie year as Matthews, despite coming out of Kelly's Oregon system. While I expected Huff to double as a slot receiver & deep threat, he did neither well this year, and had some crucial drops. While DBG won't even be on some teams boards due to off the field concerns, Chip Kelly's nickname is " Big Balls" for a reason. The huge & athletic Green-Beckham is always open if you just throw it up high enough, and he can be that deep threat Kelly wants, while also having the size to give them another punishing down field blocker that is crucial to Chip Kelly's offense.
53.BENGALS -(washington)PHILLIP DORSETT - WR - MIAMI
NFL PLAYER COMPARISON -TY HILTON - INDIANAPOLIS
After Andrew Hawkins left to division rival Cleveland the Bengals used a lot of different players out of the slot. What those receivers lack is blazing speed and hug RAC ability.
Dorsett has that blazing speed,he can separate, and improved both his hands & route running last season. After a good senior bowl week and combine some thought he might go in the first round, but with Al Davis gone that's unlikely. He wasn't used enough at the U, but in Cincinatti Dorsett would play in the slot where he could get clean releases at the line ,and bust a lot of huge plays.
NFL PLAYER COMPARISON -TY HILTON - INDIANAPOLIS
After Andrew Hawkins left to division rival Cleveland the Bengals used a lot of different players out of the slot. What those receivers lack is blazing speed and hug RAC ability.
Dorsett has that blazing speed,he can separate, and improved both his hands & route running last season. After a good senior bowl week and combine some thought he might go in the first round, but with Al Davis gone that's unlikely. He wasn't used enough at the U, but in Cincinatti Dorsett would play in the slot where he could get clean releases at the line ,and bust a lot of huge plays.
54.LIONS - ** JORDAN PHILLIPS - DT - OKLAHOMA
NFL PLAYER COMPARISON - ALBERT HAYNESWORTH - retired
After giving up 4th & 5th round picks for Haloti Ngata the lions still have a lot of needs, and this trade also allows them to get a player they were likely already considering at #23 without reaching for him. Nick Fairley has shown at times that he is a pro bowl caliber talent, but he has lacked the consistent work ethic for the Lions to trust him with a big contract. They declined his 2015 option and he surprisingly signed with the rams.Since they needed to pay Suh they probably couldn't afford him anyway. However, Suh is now a dolphin and while there is little chance of finding a player as good in the draft, adding a proven leader like Ngata is still a good move. While Ngata is past his prime , he is still a force inside who can help with the rumored move to a 3-4 defense. Phillips is a giants of a man with incredible athleticism for his size. In fact he can also play both the NT & 5 technique positions . Their are 3 reasons he falls this far. First- he had a serious back injury that caused him to miss the 2013 season. Second- He flashed greatness in tape, but inconsistent overall. Third- while he is very quick for his size ,he needs to play with more power. Basically he needs to try going through more people ,instead of around them or getting past them . Otherwise he is a first round pick.His back sure seemed fine this year judging by the tape.
NFL PLAYER COMPARISON - ALBERT HAYNESWORTH - retired
After giving up 4th & 5th round picks for Haloti Ngata the lions still have a lot of needs, and this trade also allows them to get a player they were likely already considering at #23 without reaching for him. Nick Fairley has shown at times that he is a pro bowl caliber talent, but he has lacked the consistent work ethic for the Lions to trust him with a big contract. They declined his 2015 option and he surprisingly signed with the rams.Since they needed to pay Suh they probably couldn't afford him anyway. However, Suh is now a dolphin and while there is little chance of finding a player as good in the draft, adding a proven leader like Ngata is still a good move. While Ngata is past his prime , he is still a force inside who can help with the rumored move to a 3-4 defense. Phillips is a giants of a man with incredible athleticism for his size. In fact he can also play both the NT & 5 technique positions . Their are 3 reasons he falls this far. First- he had a serious back injury that caused him to miss the 2013 season. Second- He flashed greatness in tape, but inconsistent overall. Third- while he is very quick for his size ,he needs to play with more power. Basically he needs to try going through more people ,instead of around them or getting past them . Otherwise he is a first round pick.His back sure seemed fine this year judging by the tape.
55.CARDINALS - **TJ YELDIN - RB - ALABAMA
NFL PLAYER COMPARISON - FRED TAYLOR - retired
The cards have drafted or signed plenty of RB's recently, and between Stepfan taylor, Marion Grice, Jonathan Dwyer, Kerwynn Williams, Marion Grice, and Andre Ellington, only Ellington has done much. However, he is injury prone, and would be a better fit in a tandem role . Yeldin is a complete 3 down back who does it all. Good height , weight, and speed. Also, unlike past Alabama backs he hasn't been overused, even though he has been knocked up now and then. The only reasons I don't have him as first rounder is fumbling issues ,and upright runners like him tend to get hurt a lot . At the very least he is a strong tandem back that can be left in on third down. If he curbs his fumbling he can be workhorse back that a team could ride to victory
NFL PLAYER COMPARISON - FRED TAYLOR - retired
The cards have drafted or signed plenty of RB's recently, and between Stepfan taylor, Marion Grice, Jonathan Dwyer, Kerwynn Williams, Marion Grice, and Andre Ellington, only Ellington has done much. However, he is injury prone, and would be a better fit in a tandem role . Yeldin is a complete 3 down back who does it all. Good height , weight, and speed. Also, unlike past Alabama backs he hasn't been overused, even though he has been knocked up now and then. The only reasons I don't have him as first rounder is fumbling issues ,and upright runners like him tend to get hurt a lot . At the very least he is a strong tandem back that can be left in on third down. If he curbs his fumbling he can be workhorse back that a team could ride to victory
56.STEELERS - ALEX CARTER-CB/S-STANFORD
NFL PLAYER COMPARISON - GLOVER QUIN - DETROIT
Long time stalwart corner Ike Taylor has finally retired. While he hasn't played great lately ,he has been a lot better than Cortez Allen , and he was once a great player.The problem is they just gave Allen a new free agent contract last year, and they can't afford to cut him. Also, future HOFer Troy Polamalu just retired. So they need a cheap infusion of talent in their secondary.Carter has safety size , but plays corner right now. He is a solid & steady player who lacks elite athleticism, but he played well in both man and zone in college.
57.PANTHERS - JAELEN STRONG - WR - ARIZONA ST.
NFL PLAYER COMPARISON - ALSHON JEFFERY - CHICAGO
The Panthers drafted big bodied Kelvin Benjamin last year, but his lack of route running prowess and tendency for drops were overlooked ,because he out up good overall numbers. Jericho Cotchery excels at both so there is hope he will rub off on Benjamin. Even if he did the Panther still need another receiver, but this one needs to have more reliable hands & speed, because Ted Ginn isn't gonna cut it as a starting slot receiver. Azgalor can play inside & out, and fill that role. Strong is a large high point & back shoulder catch specialist, and while he doesn't play as fast as he ran at the combine, that time could see him over drafted. He has trouble separating from the better DB's at the line of scrimmage he has faced on tape.However, if you put him in the slot, throw it up high , or to his back a shoulder he is likely to find a way come down with it. His issues separating are very teachable, so if he takes well to coaching I expect Newton will come to count on him more than the inconsistent Benjamin once he fixes them.
NFL PLAYER COMPARISON - ALSHON JEFFERY - CHICAGO
The Panthers drafted big bodied Kelvin Benjamin last year, but his lack of route running prowess and tendency for drops were overlooked ,because he out up good overall numbers. Jericho Cotchery excels at both so there is hope he will rub off on Benjamin. Even if he did the Panther still need another receiver, but this one needs to have more reliable hands & speed, because Ted Ginn isn't gonna cut it as a starting slot receiver. Azgalor can play inside & out, and fill that role. Strong is a large high point & back shoulder catch specialist, and while he doesn't play as fast as he ran at the combine, that time could see him over drafted. He has trouble separating from the better DB's at the line of scrimmage he has faced on tape.However, if you put him in the slot, throw it up high , or to his back a shoulder he is likely to find a way come down with it. His issues separating are very teachable, so if he takes well to coaching I expect Newton will come to count on him more than the inconsistent Benjamin once he fixes them.
58.REDSKINS - (ravens) - RONALD DARBY - CB - FLORIDA ST.
NFL PLAYER COMPARISON - JOHNATHAN JOSEPH - HOUSTON
NFL PLAYER COMPARISON - JOHNATHAN JOSEPH - HOUSTON
While Bashaud Breeland played well as a rookie and they signed Chris Culliver in the off-season they still need another corner. David Amerson has been a disappointment and Deangelo Hall has aged enough that a move to safety could be in the offing. Williams is big polished corner who can be along term starter if he can stay out of trouble off the field.
Darby is an elite fluid athlete with the skill to be one of the leagues best cover corners early on,If he can learn to play with more discipline,and work on his tackling techniques. This former track star also has the makeup speed few corners have, but the more I watched him, the more I realized he is still a better athlete than football player right now. This trade helps both teams. It allows GM Scott Mcglouhan to gather more ammo to replenish his roster through the draft, and still get a player they need in the second round.
59.BRONCOS - GARRET GRAYSON - QB - COLORADO ST.
NFL PLAYER COMPARISON - NFL COMP-KURT WARNER-retired
No one , and I include Peyton himself, really knows if Manning will play after this year. If they win , or he gets hurt again, I personally think it highly likely that he retires after this season. Either way the Broncos need to protect themselves, because backup Brock Osweiler has not done well enough to lock down a QB of the future tag. Grayson plays down the road at Colorado state, and his skill set fits the Denver offense. I have him as my number 3 QB , and while I have a late 3rd round grade on him , quarterbacks always go earlier than they should.
NFL PLAYER COMPARISON - NFL COMP-KURT WARNER-retired
No one , and I include Peyton himself, really knows if Manning will play after this year. If they win , or he gets hurt again, I personally think it highly likely that he retires after this season. Either way the Broncos need to protect themselves, because backup Brock Osweiler has not done well enough to lock down a QB of the future tag. Grayson plays down the road at Colorado state, and his skill set fits the Denver offense. I have him as my number 3 QB , and while I have a late 3rd round grade on him , quarterbacks always go earlier than they should.
60.JETS -(dallas)- DARYL WILLIAMS - OT - OKLAHOMA
NFL PLAYER COMPARISON - WILLIE ANDERSON - retired
Incoming GM Mike Maccagnan would like to rebuild his franchise , but he lacks the picks to do it properly. This trade allows them to get good value for their pick, and set them up for the future. With an extra 2nd and 4th in next years draft they will have the ammo to move up and get a QB if Geno Smith doesn't step up his game this season. Not only is once stalwart left tackle D'brickashaw Ferguson slowing down, but 2014 free agent signing right tackle Brent Giacomini is nothing special either. Neither has that maulers attitude Todd Bowles will want in his power running game. Williams is a plug and play right tackle who has that attitude. Williams is a angry wide body with long arms, big strong hands, and is hard to get around. A 3 year starter in college that I believe will be a starter early on in the NFL at RT ,or guard.With a little bit better conditioning and tweaks to his technique I think he could be a 10 year stud as a starting right tackle.
NFL PLAYER COMPARISON - WILLIE ANDERSON - retired
Incoming GM Mike Maccagnan would like to rebuild his franchise , but he lacks the picks to do it properly. This trade allows them to get good value for their pick, and set them up for the future. With an extra 2nd and 4th in next years draft they will have the ammo to move up and get a QB if Geno Smith doesn't step up his game this season. Not only is once stalwart left tackle D'brickashaw Ferguson slowing down, but 2014 free agent signing right tackle Brent Giacomini is nothing special either. Neither has that maulers attitude Todd Bowles will want in his power running game. Williams is a plug and play right tackle who has that attitude. Williams is a angry wide body with long arms, big strong hands, and is hard to get around. A 3 year starter in college that I believe will be a starter early on in the NFL at RT ,or guard.With a little bit better conditioning and tweaks to his technique I think he could be a 10 year stud as a starting right tackle.
61.COLTS - BERNARDRICK McKINNEY - ILB - MISSISSIPPI ST.
NFL PLAYER COMPARISON - DONT'A HIGHTOWER - NEW ENGLAND
Watching Legarette Blount run through tackles had to leave a big a big impression on the Colts entire organization. While current inside LB's D'qwell Jackson and Jerrell Freeman lack the take on skills that are needed inside ,Mckinney is a thumper. He can take on a guard in the hole , stack him up, shed his block, and knock the RB backwards. That kind of physical play can change the whole attitude of a defense. He needs to improve in coverage, but I think he can hold up there with some coaching, especially in zone. As a 6 foot 4 linebacker with long arms could really obscure passing lanes. In a 3-4 he could have less coverage responsibilities, and you could just send him after the QB on passing downs, as I sometimes feel that playing as an edge rusher might be his best pro position. While I wouldn't take him quite this high I expect someone will based on his measurables, upside, and combine. It's even possible he could go in the first round, and I think the Colts would be happy if he was here this late.
NFL PLAYER COMPARISON - DONT'A HIGHTOWER - NEW ENGLAND
Watching Legarette Blount run through tackles had to leave a big a big impression on the Colts entire organization. While current inside LB's D'qwell Jackson and Jerrell Freeman lack the take on skills that are needed inside ,Mckinney is a thumper. He can take on a guard in the hole , stack him up, shed his block, and knock the RB backwards. That kind of physical play can change the whole attitude of a defense. He needs to improve in coverage, but I think he can hold up there with some coaching, especially in zone. As a 6 foot 4 linebacker with long arms could really obscure passing lanes. In a 3-4 he could have less coverage responsibilities, and you could just send him after the QB on passing downs, as I sometimes feel that playing as an edge rusher might be his best pro position. While I wouldn't take him quite this high I expect someone will based on his measurables, upside, and combine. It's even possible he could go in the first round, and I think the Colts would be happy if he was here this late.
62.PACKERS - STEVE NELSON - CB/S - OREGON ST
NFL PLAYER COMPARISON - CORTLAND FINNEGAN - retired
The packers have lost both Tramon Williams and Davon House in free agency and have yet to replace either. Competitive harassing cover 2 corner who plays with a chip on his shoulder. Always talking , but unlike most corners he uses it to his advantage. Gets into receivers heads and throws them off their game. Not a fit in a man scheme yet, even though he loves to press, because he gets too grabby when forced to play man right now. Core special teamer. Plays the run like a safety , great tackler, and won't back down from anyone bearing down on him. Can also be a core special teamer.
NFL PLAYER COMPARISON - CORTLAND FINNEGAN - retired
The packers have lost both Tramon Williams and Davon House in free agency and have yet to replace either. Competitive harassing cover 2 corner who plays with a chip on his shoulder. Always talking , but unlike most corners he uses it to his advantage. Gets into receivers heads and throws them off their game. Not a fit in a man scheme yet, even though he loves to press, because he gets too grabby when forced to play man right now. Core special teamer. Plays the run like a safety , great tackler, and won't back down from anyone bearing down on him. Can also be a core special teamer.
63.SEATTLE - DONOVAN SMITH - OT - PENN ST.
NFL PLAYER COMPARISON - CORDY GLENN - BUFFALO
The Seahawks need to improve their overall O-line almost across the board. Their only 2 above average lineman recently have been Max Unger and Russell Okung. Both are injury prone, and Unger was dealt to the saints for Jimmy Graham. Smith could play right tackle, and allow Justin Britt to move inside where he won't be such a liability as a pass blocker.
NFL PLAYER COMPARISON - CORDY GLENN - BUFFALO
The Seahawks need to improve their overall O-line almost across the board. Their only 2 above average lineman recently have been Max Unger and Russell Okung. Both are injury prone, and Unger was dealt to the saints for Jimmy Graham. Smith could play right tackle, and allow Justin Britt to move inside where he won't be such a liability as a pass blocker.
64.PATRIOTS - AMEER ABDULLAH - RB - NEBRASKA
NFL PLAYER COMPARISON - WARRICK DUNN - retired
The patriots lost both Shane Vereen and Steven Ridley in free agency this off season. While Legarrette Blount and Brandon Bolden can handle Ridley's duties, someone versatile to take over Vereen's role in the offense is needed. Johnson is an explosive back that knows how to make people miss,and he can take it to the house as a runner or receiver. In the Patriots offense he would take over Vereen's role, be a great returner, core special teamer, and a great locker room guy. Belichick loves smart ,high character , versatile players. Ameer is all of that.
65.BEARS-(tampa bay)- DAMARIOUS RANDALL - S - ARIZONA ST
NFL PLAYER COMPARISON - DEVIN McCOURTY - PATRIOTS
The bears spent a lot of money in free agency rebuilding their roster, and while there are plenty of positions that could use and upgrade, they don't really have a ton of needs. The trad down can really help their future.Having an extra (and what will probably be a high 2nd rounder) in next years probably deeper at QB draft, could go along way towards moving on from Jay Cutker next season if he doesn't play well this year. However, they could address one of those needs here. Even after drafting Kyle Fuller in the first round last year, and signing both Alan Ball & Antrel Rolle the bears still need a upgrade at strong safety & nickle linebacker. Randall is the best cover safety in this draft, at least among those who played safety last year, and he has the speed and agility to cover the slot when needed.
66.TENNESEE - DEVIN FUNCHESS -TE/WR - MICHIGAN
NFL PLAYER COMPARISON - MARQUES COLSTON - SAINTS
Justin Hunter hasn't quite developed as the big down the field receiver the Titans hoped he would be yet, and signing declining veteran Hakeem Nicks probably isn't the answer either. As a move TE Funchess is basically just a big wide receiver anyway. He has rare size for a WR, but he needs to clear up his penchant for drops ,and learn to play with the physicality expected of someone his size.
67.JACKSONVILLE -#** JAY AJAYI - RB - BOISE ST
NFL PLAYER COMPARISON - RYAN MATHEWS - PHILADELPHIA
The jaguars have struggled to replace MJD since he declined and left in free agency. Neither Rashad Jennings or Toby Gerhart could stay healthy as the starter, and neither produced much when healthy anyway. Right now former QB Denard Robinson is probably atop the depth chart, but he lacks the build and physical running style this offense needs in a RB. Ajayi is a big power power back with surprisingly nimble feet and good moves for his size. He can excel in any offense , and a year of sharing carries should help his body to recover from 2 straight years of a heavy workload. He had a major knee injury in his past , and some teams reportedly failed the knee at his combine medical check. A lack of cartilage isn't the end of that world. He could play 5 years and be fine, or he could blow his knee on the first hit of training camp, but that is true of all running backs.That knee and the aforementioned heavy workload last year are the only reasons why I don't have in my top 32.
68.OAKLAND - JAMES SAMPLE-S-LVILLE
NFL PLAYER COMPARISON-DAWAN LANDRY- JETS
The often injured Tyvon Branch is gone and Charles Woodson won't play forever. Sample didn't have the picks of his safety counterpart Gerod Holliman , but he is a much more well rounded player. Sample is smart, disciplined, and a REALLY superior tackler compared to Holliman.
69.WASHINGTON - MARIO EDWARDS - DE/DT - FLORIDA ST.
NFL PLAYER COMPARISON - JUSTIN SMITH - 49ers
The Redskins just missed out on Leonard Williams in the first round, but they stil need help at the 5 technique. While Edwards may not see it that way ,based on the weight loss he has had recently. his best fit is not as a 4-3 end. However, if he goes back to 290 plus he has the strength to hold up as a 5 technique, and he can move to the 3 technique when they go to nickle.
70.JETS - **DUKE JOHNSON - RB - MIAMI
NFL PLAYER COMPARISON - LeSEAN McCOY -BUFFALO
Both Chris Ivory & Bilal Powell are free agents next year, and neither is the every down work horse back the Jets hoped they could be. I do'n't understand the signing of Steven Ridley either ,because it just gives them another similar back. They need a home run hitter, and Johnson is that guy. He can break off the long ones in the running or passing game. A playmaker like him will get plenty of opportunities under Chan Gailey, and you know incoming head coach Todd Bowles is a defensive guy who wants to run the ball.
71.CHICAGO - MAX VALLES - OLB/DE - VA
NFL PLAYER COMPARISON - MATHIAS KIWANUKA - FA
The bears are moving to a 3-4 , and while signing Pernell Mcphee gives them a versatile player who can play a lot of different roles in that defense , their other personnel off the edge may not have the greatest movement skills to be 3-4 OLB's. Valles is still very raw, but has the frame, quick first step, and fluidity to play outside . Max can also play some SAM LB when they go to nickle.
72.ST. LOUIS -**HRONISS GRASU - C - OREGON
NFL PLAYER COMPARISON - JASON KELCE - PHILADELPHIA
The Rams O-line is in flux , and with Kyle Shanahan as the new OC, the zone blocking scheme is being installed. Grasu is a smart, quick, zone blocking center who could step right in and compete for a starting job as a rookie.
73.ATLANTA - ALI MARPET-G/C- HOBART
NFL PLAYER COMPARISON - DANIEL KILGORE- SAN FRANCISCO
The Falcons have a lot of guys who can play center or guard, but only Jon Asamoah is entrenched as starter right now. Marpet is a former small school left tackle , who really impressed at both the senior bowl & combine. He is a better fit at center or guard. With all the Falcons uncertainty inside, a player with his athleticism & reported football IQ , and abilty to play all 3 interior positions is a good fit.
74.GIANTS - TREY FLOWERS-DE-ARKANSAS
NFL PLAYER COMPARISON - TRENT COLE - INDIANAPOLIS
The giants only have JPP on a 1 year deal due to the franchise tag, and newly added Kenrick Ellis is also on a one year deal. Flowers is stud against the run, and while he gets more pressure than sacks as a pass rusher, he goes all out on every play.
75.SAINTS - **CLIVE WOLFORD - TE - MIAMI
NFL PLAYER COMPARISON - TODD HEAP - retired
Losing Jimmy Graham is a big deal, but you can only trade something of high value, and hope to get something good in return. While Walford will never be the unique receiving threat that Graham is, he is a really good well rounded football player. He will also improve the Saints blocking (compared to Graham's ) by a good margin.
76.MINNESOTA -#PAUL DAWSON - LB - TCU
NFL PLAYER COMPARISON - DEMECO RYANS - PHILADELPHIA
MLB Jaspar Brinkley was a liability in coverage in the middle last year, and OLB Chad Greenway is on the decline. Dawson can play both spots, and going to a place like Minnesota might be good for him. His football & off the field character has been questioned, due to off the field influences around him in Texas. He has the high football IQ & instincts that a team craves at LB.
77.CLEVELAND - **HAU'OLI KIKAHA - OLB/DE - WASHINGTON
NFL PLAYER COMPARISON - ROSEVELT COLVIN - retired
With Jabaal Sheard leaving in free agency, and Barkevious Mingo never developing into the pass rusher the Browns had hoped when they drafted him, the Browns need help with their pass rush. Kikaha is a polished fluid pass rusher with movement skills to also drop into coverage in the browns 3-4. If not for having 2 major knee injuries in his past he would have been a first round pick.
78.SAINTS - (miami) - BRYCE PETTY-QB-BAY-NFL COMP
NFL PLAYER COMPARISON - DONOVAN McNABB - retired
The saints Drew Brees is still going strong at age 36, but with the benefit of extra picks in this draft, drafting a QB of the future would be wise. Petty has the arm , tools, and intangibles you want in your franchise quarterback. However, he needs to be taught from scratch how to play in a NFL system. I'm talking 2 years away from maybe being ready to start here folks, and only a emergency QB as a rookie. Sean Payton was instrumental in Tony Romo's development, and also helped get Drew Brees to the next level as a QB. This situation is perfect for both the player and the team. He is in no way an immediate threat to Brees, but allows them develop his successor quietly ,without uneducated fans clamoring for a change if Drew has a bad stretch.
79.SAN FRANCISCO - TYLER LOCKETT - WR - KANSAS ST.
NFL PLAYER COMPARISON - HENRY ELLARD - retired
The 49ers receiving core is depleted. While they overpaid for a iffy handed potential deep threat in Torrey Smith, they also lost mercurial deep threat Stevie Johnson, and possession receiver Michael Crabtree. Even if you count Smith as a plus, they still only have 2 proven NFL recivers, when you add in 35 year old Anquan Boldin. Lockett is a smooth explosive route runner , with nimble feet, that makes DB's look silly at times .Watching them try to grab him and whiff made me burst out laughing multiple times when he exploded out of his breaks. Played both inside and outside well, but especially excels out of the slot. Was wide open a lot ,and if he had a better QB he might have broken even more ( 17 KU category leader)records over his college career. My favorite return guy in the entire draft, and it shows in his elusive run after the catch ability. He's also got good hands for a guy who body catches so often.
80.GIANTS - (kansas city) - ADRIAN AMOS - S - PENN ST
NFL PLAYER COMPARISON - BRODNEY POOL - retired
With Antrel Rolle leaving in free agency to the bears, the giants need a replacement at safety. Amos surprised me with his athleticism at the combine, and it caused me to take a deeper look at his tape. He can play either safety spot, but his football IQ still needs some work. He should challenge for a job as a rookie , and be a solid special teams player out of the gate.
81.BUFFALO - **DERRON SMITH- S - FRESNO ST.
NFL PLAYER COMPARISON - ANTOINE BETHEA - SF
The bills have lost both Jairus Byrd and Da'Norris Searcy in back to back years in free agency at safety. Rex Ryan's defense needs smart versatile safeties, that can play single high, and he loves hitters, He also doesn't mind a undersized safety(Jim Leonard) as long as they can get the job done.If Smith was 2 inches taller he would be a first round pick , and he can fill that void in the Bills secondary.
82.HOUSTON - #LORENZO MAULDIN - OLB/DE - LOUISVILLE
NFL PLAYER COMPARISON - DERRICK MORGAN - TENNESEE
With the injury to Clowney , the loss of Brooks Reed , and Whitney Mercilus being a so far underwhelming impending free agent, the Texans need to look to the future at OLB. Mauldin is a survivor who has busted his ass to get where he is, and he will give everything he can to succeed.
83.SAN DIEGO - BRETT HUNDLEY - QB - UCLA
NFL PLAYER COMPARISON - ROBERT GRIFFIN 3rd
With Phillip Rivers rattling the saber , and refusing to sign a long term deal, the chargers need to protect themselves and look to the future at QB. Don't get me wrong, they have Rivers for at least this season, and the next 2 if they want him. So it's not an immediate worry, but Hundley needs time to fix his flaws, and adjust to a pro style offense anyway. Also, if the chargers do in fact move to LA, Hundley played his college ball there ,and already has built in fan base.
84.PHILADELHIA - DANIELLE HUNTER - DE/OLB - LSU
NFL PLAYER COMPARISON - DION JORDAN - MIAMI
Chip Kelly loves length, versatility, and high level athletic ability in his OLB's. Hunter has all of that and I bet he also thinks that Hunter is a similar player to Dion Jordan, who played for him at Oregon.
85.CINCINATTI - **MIKE BENNET - DT - OHIO ST
NFL PLAYER COMPARISON - JONATHAN BABINEAUX - ATL
Geno Atkins didn't look the same last year coming off a major injury. Devon Still & Pat Sims are only on one year deals, and Domata Peko is past his prime. While Bennett is more of 3 technique like Atkins than the other guys ,but he could give Atkins a breather in their rotation, and team with him inside to give them 2 interior penetrators in passing situations.
86.ARIZONA - NATE ORCHARD - DE/OLB - UTAH
NFL PLAYER COMPARISON - JUNIOR GALETTE - NO
The probable retirement of John Abraham after another concussion has only exacerbated their need at OLB. Orchard was a great pass rusher in college, and he excelled against top competition. He would fill a hole on this attacking defense right off the bat.
87.PITTSBURGH - ** JEFF HEUERMAN - TE - OHIO ST
NFL PLAYER COMPARISON - JOHN CARLSON - AZ
Heath Miler is still a solid TE, but he is also past his prime ,and his contact runs out in 2016. Matt Spaeth is a solid #2 TE, but is mostly used as blocker. While both guys are good run blockers, a TE that can pass block better is needed. Heuerman was mostly used as blocker on the national champs last season, although he has shown in the past he can also be receiving threat.
88.DETROIT - # PJ WILLIAMS - CB - FLORIDA ST.
NFL PLAYER COMPARISON - CHARLES TILLMAN - CHICAGO
The bears have upgraded their secondary the last 2 years, but Tim Jennings was still their best cover corner last season, and he be will 32 this year. Williams is a guy that would have probably went in the top 50 of the draft, if not for a penchant for drinking & driving. Chicago is the right place for him. I have lived there before ,and they have a vast public transportation system. He can get liquored up all he wants, and we don't have to worry about him killing anyone in a car, while he is on the train.
89.CAROLINA - #JOSH SHAW - CB/S - USC
NFL PLAYER COMPARISON - COREY GRAHAM - BUFF
Coming into this season I had Shaw as a guy pegged to go in the top 2 rounds. In fact he was known for his high character. Then he told a big lie that made him look like a hero to cover a sketchy off the field situation.The resultant suspension caused his draft stock to fall. He can still play both safety and corner though, and the panthers need secondary help.
90.WASHINGTON - (baltimore) - ROB HAVENSTEIN - OT - WISCONSIN
NFL PLAYER COMPARISON - KING DUNLAP - SAN DIEGO
With Washington moving to a power run scheme under Jay Gruden there O-line was in flux last year, and the results weren't pretty. Morgan Moses was drafted to play right tackle, and despite having the talent to do so, he started out poorly then got hurt. He has the strength to move inside if need be, and the Redskins would be wise to draft another guy who can play RT in case Morgan hasn't stepped up yet. Havenstein is perfect fit in this scheme, and he isa guy who can step in and start at right tackle as a rookie.
91.DALLAS - D'JOUN SMITH-CB-FLORIDA ATLANTIC
NFL PLAYER COMPARISON - ALTERRAUN VERNER-TB
Between Brandon Carr's bad play & too high salary, Sterling Moore's defection to Tampa Bay, and Morris Claiborne's injuries & confidence issues, Dallas is woefully undermanned at the corner position. In fact only Orlando Scandrick ,and maybe Tyler Patmon, and are safe bets to be to be on the roster in week one. While Scandrick is a stud, and one of the leagues more underrated corners, Patmon hasn't shown much more than a 4th corner so far. Adding Corey White helps if he can return to his 2013 form, but there is a reason why the saints cut him.In fact , after they resigned Rolando McClain CB is probably their biggest need, and I wouldn't be surprised if they drafted 2 corners in the first 3 rounds. Smith is a prototype cover 2 corner. He's ultra tough, has good feet & hips, and fills hard against the run.
92.DENVER - **TYLER KROFT - TE - RUTG
NFL PLAYER COMPARISON - ZACK ERTZ - PHIL
After getting quickly knocked out of the playoffs John Elway decided a change needed to be made at head coach and brought in Gary Kubiak. His main jobs were to convince Peyton Manning to return & to keep him healthy. Peyton came back, but keeping him healthy is still a question mark. A previously undisclosed leg injury explains Peyton's poor play in the final quarter of the season, but the fragile soon to be 39 year old is going to need a new tight end this year, as Julius Thomas was too expensive for the cap strapped Broncos to keep. They did do have some solid vets under contract, but none that have the kind of athleticism Peyton is used to. Kroft not only has good athleticism as receiver he is also a good pass blocker. I am sure that would be music to Manning's ears.
93.INDIANAPOLIS - DAVID JOHNSON - RB - N.IOWA
NFL PLAYER COMPARISON - MATT FORTE - CHI
Now that the colts have given up on Trent Richardson they need a infusion of youth in the backfield to team with the recently signed Frank Gore. Johnson excels in the passing game. Both a pass blocker, but especially as a receiver. He could at least help them on third down as rookie.
94.GREEN BAY - TYLER DAVISON - DT - FRESNO ST.
NFL PLAYER COMPARISON - BRODRICK BUNKLEY - SAINTS
I am not a big believer in the long term health of perennially out of shape BJ Raji returning to form. I also think Letroy Guion would be a better fit as a backup nose tackle. Davidson has the power to collapse the pocket, and plays with the leverage to fill the packs NT need against the run.
95.SEATTLE - TONY LIPPETT - WR/CB - MICHIGAN ST.
NFL PLAYER COMPARISON - TROY BROWN - retired
The hawks have needs both at corner and at wide receiver. Lippet can help out on both sides of the ball, although I prefer him as corner with rare length myself . That length fits right into the hawks wheelhouse , and with some time under Seattle's coaches Lippett could be a pro bowl corner.
96.NEW ENGLAND - TRE JACKSON - G - FLORIDA ST.
NFL PLAYER COMPARISON - BOBBIE WILLIAMS - retired
The patriots first and foremost priority should always to be to protect Tom Brady, but they have failed in their duty for the most part this year, especially on the inside. Not one guard on their team has done a good job of keeping the pressure out of Brady's face. Jackson needs some technique work ,but he was a productive 3 year starter in a pro style offense, at a high level program.
97.NEW ENGLAND - (compensatory) - SENQUEZ GOLSON-CB-MISSISSIPPI
NFL PLAYER COMPARISON - BRANDON FLOWERS - SD
.With the loss of both Darrelle Revis and Brandon Browner , corner becomes their number one need, but they also need to get value for their picks. In the first 2 rounds they would have been reaching for a corner, and the Pats rarely do that. Golson may bot have the height teams crave, but he is just a tough , smart, good , all around corner. He makes plays ,and that is usually more important than size ,to the coach under the hoodie.
98.KANSAS CITY - ( compensatory) - JEREMIAH POUTASI - G/T-UTAH
NFL PLAYER COMPARISON - TODD HEREMANS - INDIANAPOLIS
The chiefs just have too many needs along their O-line to not draft multiple players there this year. Poutasi could be considered a project by some, but I still see him as a NFL starter. He was a college LT in a pass first offense, that needs to learn how to regularly come out of a 3 point stance. I like him as a left guard or right tackle as a pro.
99.CINCINATTI - (compensatory) - ANTHONY CHICKILLO - DE - MIA
NFL PLAYER COMPARISON -CHRIS LONG - RAMS
In this case I just go best player available for the Bengals. Chickillo was once a huge recruiting get for the U, but he didn't progress the way I thought he would in college, after seeing him play well as a freshman. Now part of that was that he was playing out of position as a 5 technique during part of his career,but I think as a strong side end he could be a good NFL starter. Looked really good at the east/west shrine game, and also looked in good shape for the position at the combine.
NFL PLAYER COMPARISON - WARRICK DUNN - retired
The patriots lost both Shane Vereen and Steven Ridley in free agency this off season. While Legarrette Blount and Brandon Bolden can handle Ridley's duties, someone versatile to take over Vereen's role in the offense is needed. Johnson is an explosive back that knows how to make people miss,and he can take it to the house as a runner or receiver. In the Patriots offense he would take over Vereen's role, be a great returner, core special teamer, and a great locker room guy. Belichick loves smart ,high character , versatile players. Ameer is all of that.
65.BEARS-(tampa bay)- DAMARIOUS RANDALL - S - ARIZONA ST
NFL PLAYER COMPARISON - DEVIN McCOURTY - PATRIOTS
The bears spent a lot of money in free agency rebuilding their roster, and while there are plenty of positions that could use and upgrade, they don't really have a ton of needs. The trad down can really help their future.Having an extra (and what will probably be a high 2nd rounder) in next years probably deeper at QB draft, could go along way towards moving on from Jay Cutker next season if he doesn't play well this year. However, they could address one of those needs here. Even after drafting Kyle Fuller in the first round last year, and signing both Alan Ball & Antrel Rolle the bears still need a upgrade at strong safety & nickle linebacker. Randall is the best cover safety in this draft, at least among those who played safety last year, and he has the speed and agility to cover the slot when needed.
66.TENNESEE - DEVIN FUNCHESS -TE/WR - MICHIGAN
NFL PLAYER COMPARISON - MARQUES COLSTON - SAINTS
Justin Hunter hasn't quite developed as the big down the field receiver the Titans hoped he would be yet, and signing declining veteran Hakeem Nicks probably isn't the answer either. As a move TE Funchess is basically just a big wide receiver anyway. He has rare size for a WR, but he needs to clear up his penchant for drops ,and learn to play with the physicality expected of someone his size.
67.JACKSONVILLE -#** JAY AJAYI - RB - BOISE ST
NFL PLAYER COMPARISON - RYAN MATHEWS - PHILADELPHIA
The jaguars have struggled to replace MJD since he declined and left in free agency. Neither Rashad Jennings or Toby Gerhart could stay healthy as the starter, and neither produced much when healthy anyway. Right now former QB Denard Robinson is probably atop the depth chart, but he lacks the build and physical running style this offense needs in a RB. Ajayi is a big power power back with surprisingly nimble feet and good moves for his size. He can excel in any offense , and a year of sharing carries should help his body to recover from 2 straight years of a heavy workload. He had a major knee injury in his past , and some teams reportedly failed the knee at his combine medical check. A lack of cartilage isn't the end of that world. He could play 5 years and be fine, or he could blow his knee on the first hit of training camp, but that is true of all running backs.That knee and the aforementioned heavy workload last year are the only reasons why I don't have in my top 32.
68.OAKLAND - JAMES SAMPLE-S-LVILLE
NFL PLAYER COMPARISON-DAWAN LANDRY- JETS
The often injured Tyvon Branch is gone and Charles Woodson won't play forever. Sample didn't have the picks of his safety counterpart Gerod Holliman , but he is a much more well rounded player. Sample is smart, disciplined, and a REALLY superior tackler compared to Holliman.
69.WASHINGTON - MARIO EDWARDS - DE/DT - FLORIDA ST.
NFL PLAYER COMPARISON - JUSTIN SMITH - 49ers
The Redskins just missed out on Leonard Williams in the first round, but they stil need help at the 5 technique. While Edwards may not see it that way ,based on the weight loss he has had recently. his best fit is not as a 4-3 end. However, if he goes back to 290 plus he has the strength to hold up as a 5 technique, and he can move to the 3 technique when they go to nickle.
70.JETS - **DUKE JOHNSON - RB - MIAMI
NFL PLAYER COMPARISON - LeSEAN McCOY -BUFFALO
Both Chris Ivory & Bilal Powell are free agents next year, and neither is the every down work horse back the Jets hoped they could be. I do'n't understand the signing of Steven Ridley either ,because it just gives them another similar back. They need a home run hitter, and Johnson is that guy. He can break off the long ones in the running or passing game. A playmaker like him will get plenty of opportunities under Chan Gailey, and you know incoming head coach Todd Bowles is a defensive guy who wants to run the ball.
71.CHICAGO - MAX VALLES - OLB/DE - VA
NFL PLAYER COMPARISON - MATHIAS KIWANUKA - FA
The bears are moving to a 3-4 , and while signing Pernell Mcphee gives them a versatile player who can play a lot of different roles in that defense , their other personnel off the edge may not have the greatest movement skills to be 3-4 OLB's. Valles is still very raw, but has the frame, quick first step, and fluidity to play outside . Max can also play some SAM LB when they go to nickle.
72.ST. LOUIS -**HRONISS GRASU - C - OREGON
NFL PLAYER COMPARISON - JASON KELCE - PHILADELPHIA
The Rams O-line is in flux , and with Kyle Shanahan as the new OC, the zone blocking scheme is being installed. Grasu is a smart, quick, zone blocking center who could step right in and compete for a starting job as a rookie.
73.ATLANTA - ALI MARPET-G/C- HOBART
NFL PLAYER COMPARISON - DANIEL KILGORE- SAN FRANCISCO
The Falcons have a lot of guys who can play center or guard, but only Jon Asamoah is entrenched as starter right now. Marpet is a former small school left tackle , who really impressed at both the senior bowl & combine. He is a better fit at center or guard. With all the Falcons uncertainty inside, a player with his athleticism & reported football IQ , and abilty to play all 3 interior positions is a good fit.
74.GIANTS - TREY FLOWERS-DE-ARKANSAS
NFL PLAYER COMPARISON - TRENT COLE - INDIANAPOLIS
The giants only have JPP on a 1 year deal due to the franchise tag, and newly added Kenrick Ellis is also on a one year deal. Flowers is stud against the run, and while he gets more pressure than sacks as a pass rusher, he goes all out on every play.
75.SAINTS - **CLIVE WOLFORD - TE - MIAMI
NFL PLAYER COMPARISON - TODD HEAP - retired
Losing Jimmy Graham is a big deal, but you can only trade something of high value, and hope to get something good in return. While Walford will never be the unique receiving threat that Graham is, he is a really good well rounded football player. He will also improve the Saints blocking (compared to Graham's ) by a good margin.
76.MINNESOTA -#PAUL DAWSON - LB - TCU
NFL PLAYER COMPARISON - DEMECO RYANS - PHILADELPHIA
MLB Jaspar Brinkley was a liability in coverage in the middle last year, and OLB Chad Greenway is on the decline. Dawson can play both spots, and going to a place like Minnesota might be good for him. His football & off the field character has been questioned, due to off the field influences around him in Texas. He has the high football IQ & instincts that a team craves at LB.
77.CLEVELAND - **HAU'OLI KIKAHA - OLB/DE - WASHINGTON
NFL PLAYER COMPARISON - ROSEVELT COLVIN - retired
With Jabaal Sheard leaving in free agency, and Barkevious Mingo never developing into the pass rusher the Browns had hoped when they drafted him, the Browns need help with their pass rush. Kikaha is a polished fluid pass rusher with movement skills to also drop into coverage in the browns 3-4. If not for having 2 major knee injuries in his past he would have been a first round pick.
78.SAINTS - (miami) - BRYCE PETTY-QB-BAY-NFL COMP
NFL PLAYER COMPARISON - DONOVAN McNABB - retired
The saints Drew Brees is still going strong at age 36, but with the benefit of extra picks in this draft, drafting a QB of the future would be wise. Petty has the arm , tools, and intangibles you want in your franchise quarterback. However, he needs to be taught from scratch how to play in a NFL system. I'm talking 2 years away from maybe being ready to start here folks, and only a emergency QB as a rookie. Sean Payton was instrumental in Tony Romo's development, and also helped get Drew Brees to the next level as a QB. This situation is perfect for both the player and the team. He is in no way an immediate threat to Brees, but allows them develop his successor quietly ,without uneducated fans clamoring for a change if Drew has a bad stretch.
79.SAN FRANCISCO - TYLER LOCKETT - WR - KANSAS ST.
NFL PLAYER COMPARISON - HENRY ELLARD - retired
The 49ers receiving core is depleted. While they overpaid for a iffy handed potential deep threat in Torrey Smith, they also lost mercurial deep threat Stevie Johnson, and possession receiver Michael Crabtree. Even if you count Smith as a plus, they still only have 2 proven NFL recivers, when you add in 35 year old Anquan Boldin. Lockett is a smooth explosive route runner , with nimble feet, that makes DB's look silly at times .Watching them try to grab him and whiff made me burst out laughing multiple times when he exploded out of his breaks. Played both inside and outside well, but especially excels out of the slot. Was wide open a lot ,and if he had a better QB he might have broken even more ( 17 KU category leader)records over his college career. My favorite return guy in the entire draft, and it shows in his elusive run after the catch ability. He's also got good hands for a guy who body catches so often.
80.GIANTS - (kansas city) - ADRIAN AMOS - S - PENN ST
NFL PLAYER COMPARISON - BRODNEY POOL - retired
With Antrel Rolle leaving in free agency to the bears, the giants need a replacement at safety. Amos surprised me with his athleticism at the combine, and it caused me to take a deeper look at his tape. He can play either safety spot, but his football IQ still needs some work. He should challenge for a job as a rookie , and be a solid special teams player out of the gate.
81.BUFFALO - **DERRON SMITH- S - FRESNO ST.
NFL PLAYER COMPARISON - ANTOINE BETHEA - SF
The bills have lost both Jairus Byrd and Da'Norris Searcy in back to back years in free agency at safety. Rex Ryan's defense needs smart versatile safeties, that can play single high, and he loves hitters, He also doesn't mind a undersized safety(Jim Leonard) as long as they can get the job done.If Smith was 2 inches taller he would be a first round pick , and he can fill that void in the Bills secondary.
82.HOUSTON - #LORENZO MAULDIN - OLB/DE - LOUISVILLE
NFL PLAYER COMPARISON - DERRICK MORGAN - TENNESEE
With the injury to Clowney , the loss of Brooks Reed , and Whitney Mercilus being a so far underwhelming impending free agent, the Texans need to look to the future at OLB. Mauldin is a survivor who has busted his ass to get where he is, and he will give everything he can to succeed.
83.SAN DIEGO - BRETT HUNDLEY - QB - UCLA
NFL PLAYER COMPARISON - ROBERT GRIFFIN 3rd
With Phillip Rivers rattling the saber , and refusing to sign a long term deal, the chargers need to protect themselves and look to the future at QB. Don't get me wrong, they have Rivers for at least this season, and the next 2 if they want him. So it's not an immediate worry, but Hundley needs time to fix his flaws, and adjust to a pro style offense anyway. Also, if the chargers do in fact move to LA, Hundley played his college ball there ,and already has built in fan base.
84.PHILADELHIA - DANIELLE HUNTER - DE/OLB - LSU
NFL PLAYER COMPARISON - DION JORDAN - MIAMI
Chip Kelly loves length, versatility, and high level athletic ability in his OLB's. Hunter has all of that and I bet he also thinks that Hunter is a similar player to Dion Jordan, who played for him at Oregon.
85.CINCINATTI - **MIKE BENNET - DT - OHIO ST
NFL PLAYER COMPARISON - JONATHAN BABINEAUX - ATL
Geno Atkins didn't look the same last year coming off a major injury. Devon Still & Pat Sims are only on one year deals, and Domata Peko is past his prime. While Bennett is more of 3 technique like Atkins than the other guys ,but he could give Atkins a breather in their rotation, and team with him inside to give them 2 interior penetrators in passing situations.
86.ARIZONA - NATE ORCHARD - DE/OLB - UTAH
NFL PLAYER COMPARISON - JUNIOR GALETTE - NO
The probable retirement of John Abraham after another concussion has only exacerbated their need at OLB. Orchard was a great pass rusher in college, and he excelled against top competition. He would fill a hole on this attacking defense right off the bat.
87.PITTSBURGH - ** JEFF HEUERMAN - TE - OHIO ST
NFL PLAYER COMPARISON - JOHN CARLSON - AZ
Heath Miler is still a solid TE, but he is also past his prime ,and his contact runs out in 2016. Matt Spaeth is a solid #2 TE, but is mostly used as blocker. While both guys are good run blockers, a TE that can pass block better is needed. Heuerman was mostly used as blocker on the national champs last season, although he has shown in the past he can also be receiving threat.
88.DETROIT - # PJ WILLIAMS - CB - FLORIDA ST.
NFL PLAYER COMPARISON - CHARLES TILLMAN - CHICAGO
The bears have upgraded their secondary the last 2 years, but Tim Jennings was still their best cover corner last season, and he be will 32 this year. Williams is a guy that would have probably went in the top 50 of the draft, if not for a penchant for drinking & driving. Chicago is the right place for him. I have lived there before ,and they have a vast public transportation system. He can get liquored up all he wants, and we don't have to worry about him killing anyone in a car, while he is on the train.
89.CAROLINA - #JOSH SHAW - CB/S - USC
NFL PLAYER COMPARISON - COREY GRAHAM - BUFF
Coming into this season I had Shaw as a guy pegged to go in the top 2 rounds. In fact he was known for his high character. Then he told a big lie that made him look like a hero to cover a sketchy off the field situation.The resultant suspension caused his draft stock to fall. He can still play both safety and corner though, and the panthers need secondary help.
90.WASHINGTON - (baltimore) - ROB HAVENSTEIN - OT - WISCONSIN
NFL PLAYER COMPARISON - KING DUNLAP - SAN DIEGO
With Washington moving to a power run scheme under Jay Gruden there O-line was in flux last year, and the results weren't pretty. Morgan Moses was drafted to play right tackle, and despite having the talent to do so, he started out poorly then got hurt. He has the strength to move inside if need be, and the Redskins would be wise to draft another guy who can play RT in case Morgan hasn't stepped up yet. Havenstein is perfect fit in this scheme, and he isa guy who can step in and start at right tackle as a rookie.
91.DALLAS - D'JOUN SMITH-CB-FLORIDA ATLANTIC
NFL PLAYER COMPARISON - ALTERRAUN VERNER-TB
Between Brandon Carr's bad play & too high salary, Sterling Moore's defection to Tampa Bay, and Morris Claiborne's injuries & confidence issues, Dallas is woefully undermanned at the corner position. In fact only Orlando Scandrick ,and maybe Tyler Patmon, and are safe bets to be to be on the roster in week one. While Scandrick is a stud, and one of the leagues more underrated corners, Patmon hasn't shown much more than a 4th corner so far. Adding Corey White helps if he can return to his 2013 form, but there is a reason why the saints cut him.In fact , after they resigned Rolando McClain CB is probably their biggest need, and I wouldn't be surprised if they drafted 2 corners in the first 3 rounds. Smith is a prototype cover 2 corner. He's ultra tough, has good feet & hips, and fills hard against the run.
92.DENVER - **TYLER KROFT - TE - RUTG
NFL PLAYER COMPARISON - ZACK ERTZ - PHIL
After getting quickly knocked out of the playoffs John Elway decided a change needed to be made at head coach and brought in Gary Kubiak. His main jobs were to convince Peyton Manning to return & to keep him healthy. Peyton came back, but keeping him healthy is still a question mark. A previously undisclosed leg injury explains Peyton's poor play in the final quarter of the season, but the fragile soon to be 39 year old is going to need a new tight end this year, as Julius Thomas was too expensive for the cap strapped Broncos to keep. They did do have some solid vets under contract, but none that have the kind of athleticism Peyton is used to. Kroft not only has good athleticism as receiver he is also a good pass blocker. I am sure that would be music to Manning's ears.
93.INDIANAPOLIS - DAVID JOHNSON - RB - N.IOWA
NFL PLAYER COMPARISON - MATT FORTE - CHI
Now that the colts have given up on Trent Richardson they need a infusion of youth in the backfield to team with the recently signed Frank Gore. Johnson excels in the passing game. Both a pass blocker, but especially as a receiver. He could at least help them on third down as rookie.
94.GREEN BAY - TYLER DAVISON - DT - FRESNO ST.
NFL PLAYER COMPARISON - BRODRICK BUNKLEY - SAINTS
I am not a big believer in the long term health of perennially out of shape BJ Raji returning to form. I also think Letroy Guion would be a better fit as a backup nose tackle. Davidson has the power to collapse the pocket, and plays with the leverage to fill the packs NT need against the run.
95.SEATTLE - TONY LIPPETT - WR/CB - MICHIGAN ST.
NFL PLAYER COMPARISON - TROY BROWN - retired
The hawks have needs both at corner and at wide receiver. Lippet can help out on both sides of the ball, although I prefer him as corner with rare length myself . That length fits right into the hawks wheelhouse , and with some time under Seattle's coaches Lippett could be a pro bowl corner.
96.NEW ENGLAND - TRE JACKSON - G - FLORIDA ST.
NFL PLAYER COMPARISON - BOBBIE WILLIAMS - retired
The patriots first and foremost priority should always to be to protect Tom Brady, but they have failed in their duty for the most part this year, especially on the inside. Not one guard on their team has done a good job of keeping the pressure out of Brady's face. Jackson needs some technique work ,but he was a productive 3 year starter in a pro style offense, at a high level program.
97.NEW ENGLAND - (compensatory) - SENQUEZ GOLSON-CB-MISSISSIPPI
NFL PLAYER COMPARISON - BRANDON FLOWERS - SD
.With the loss of both Darrelle Revis and Brandon Browner , corner becomes their number one need, but they also need to get value for their picks. In the first 2 rounds they would have been reaching for a corner, and the Pats rarely do that. Golson may bot have the height teams crave, but he is just a tough , smart, good , all around corner. He makes plays ,and that is usually more important than size ,to the coach under the hoodie.
98.KANSAS CITY - ( compensatory) - JEREMIAH POUTASI - G/T-UTAH
NFL PLAYER COMPARISON - TODD HEREMANS - INDIANAPOLIS
The chiefs just have too many needs along their O-line to not draft multiple players there this year. Poutasi could be considered a project by some, but I still see him as a NFL starter. He was a college LT in a pass first offense, that needs to learn how to regularly come out of a 3 point stance. I like him as a left guard or right tackle as a pro.
99.CINCINATTI - (compensatory) - ANTHONY CHICKILLO - DE - MIA
NFL PLAYER COMPARISON -CHRIS LONG - RAMS
In this case I just go best player available for the Bengals. Chickillo was once a huge recruiting get for the U, but he didn't progress the way I thought he would in college, after seeing him play well as a freshman. Now part of that was that he was playing out of position as a 5 technique during part of his career,but I think as a strong side end he could be a good NFL starter. Looked really good at the east/west shrine game, and also looked in good shape for the position at the combine.
I like your Browns draft. they must get Mariota some help if they move up. Do the defence later or next
ReplyDeleteyear.
Glad to hear it. As it stands right now the Browns defense is no slouch anyway. I still have them taking defensive players in the 2nd(DT-Carl Davis) , 4th(CB-Troy Hill). Good luck with your draft.
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