The Pro days are almost finished now. For players who couldn't work out at the combine due to injury , or didn't due to stupidity, these on campus workouts are crucial. Others who didn't perform as well as they liked at the combine will take the opportunity to show improvement.Some will stand pat with what they have shown. Thanks to a lot of possible high 1rst round picks surprisingly staying in school this draft is the weakest in years at the top ,but it ended up strong in depth throughout. There is some strong depth throughout the draft thanks to a record number of underclassmen . With the new CBA in place expect to see draft picks being more valuable and teams willing to take more risk high up considering the financial risk isn't anywhere near as big as it used to be. Next to each player is the NFL player we feel they will most resemble in their prime if they are a hit. The comp is for on the field play only ,and the higher they are ranked the more likely we think they will reach that comparison. All the films been watched, although a triple check will be in order now and then. Players medical testing results, background checks, attitude with talent evaluators who meet them in person, avoiding any possible trouble between now and draft day, and how people with character issues come off to teams are more important than anything that happened at the underwear Olympics or in workouts now . Also keep an eye on who is and isn't in shape at pro days. Barring an injury in training a guy who shows up out of shape sets a bad precedent for his work ethic.A guy who was in shape at the combine suddenly going down hill is a sign of entitlement .Guys who were always lazy showing up in tip top shape are also a concern. Like players who underperfomed throughout their careers suddenly reaching their potential in a contract year, I just don't trust those guys! These type of things are likely to affect a players draft stock with us more than anything else now.
* Is for a player with possible injury issues.
#Is for a player with possible character or off the field issues
1.KC-LUKE JOECKEL-OT-TEX A&M-NFL COMP-JOE THOMAS-CLEV- They reversed course and stuck the franchise tag on LT Brandon Albert. However, despite being a good right tackle and having a salary around 5 million, they cut Eric Winston. This pick is a good value and fills that need. The only question is if it's Joeckel or Fisher.We figure the long term level of competition Luke has played against is the tie breaker if you want a left tackle. Fisher has showed more in the pre-draft process and is better run blocker . Unlike Joeckel or Johnson, Fisher didn't play in a spread offense. You can see him coming out a 3 point stance on a regular basis and run blocking on a regular basis. Since there has been talk of trading Albert we are thinking they want him on the right side. Joeckels the best left tackle in the draft right now so he's the pick. They won't get a RG3 type haul for a OT though , and it's unlikely they would even get Jimmy Johnson trade chart value either. I expect the Chiefs to contend for a playoff spot this season.
2-JAX-SHARIFF FLOYD-DT/DE-FLA-NFL COMP-MUHAMMAD WILKERSON-JETS-Their DT play is just bad against the run or pass. Floyd improves both ,he is from Florida, and his motor could be infectious. They have Mincey and Babin on the outside now, and I doubt they have given up on Andre Branch(last years second round pick) already,so that should improve their outside pass rush . If Star gets medically cleared he could go here instead. They could also go for the elephant LB position bringing both Dion Jordan and Jarvis Jones into the mix.
***TRADE-dolphins trade 1rst round(#12),2nd round(#42),3rd round(#77),there own 7th round pick this year for RAIDERS 1rst rounder (#3)***
3.MIA(oak)-ERIC FISHER-OT-C.MICH-NFL COMP-JOE STALEY-SF-The dolphins have a ton of cap room and they are spending it, but not on Jake Long. He has been injured for 2 years and not the same dominant force because of it. Long signed with the Rams leaving the dolphins with a big hole at LT. Last years second round pick Johnathan Martin didn't even play that well on the right side, and even though he profiles better on the left side we wouldn't want to trust our new franchise QB with the guy we saw on film last season. Fisher would be better at both positions in my opinion. Miami has a lot of picks and even after the trade they still have a pick in every round. Their GM needs to win now so he needs to pick players that can help the team this year.
4.PHIL-*DeMARCUS MILLINER-CB-ALA-CHARLES TILLMAN-CHI-Brandon Graham and Trent Cole aren't exactly the prototype as 3-4 OLB's , but between them and Vinnie Curry they should be able to cover that position, logically ruling out Chip Kelly favorite Dion Jordan.They need a CB more, so Milliner is a better possibility. DRC and Nnamdi are both gone. Incoming Bradley Fletcher and Cary Willaims are both still young corners, so it's clear a youth movement is in order. Milliner is clearly the top corner in the draft and would fit right in.
5.DET-PHIL-DION JORDAN-DE/OLB-ORE-NFL COMP-JEVON JEARSE-RET-GB-Cliff Avril is a now a seahawk and Vandenbosch looks done and was released. Jordan is the most gifted edge rusher in this class right now. With his frame ,versatility,and athleticism he could get bigger and be an elite player for a long time.He played all year (and did the combine) with a torn labrum at a high level ,and doctors have assured teams he should be healthy for the season . He had surgery as soon as the combine wass over. CB is an even bigger need but the only one worth this pick was taken right before them.
6.CLEV-SHELDON RICHARDSON-DT-MOU-NFL COMP-CULLEN JENKINS-PHIL- Jaball Sheard regressed as a pass rusher last year and Juqua Parker is near the end. With the medical check of Jarvis Jones going badly right now they go in another direction . Sheldon Richardson is the drafts best interior pass rusher right now , and the athleticism he shows making plays sliding along the line of scrimmage would work well as a 3-4 end. For the record I would take Warmack if I was them. 4 out of 5 of their starting lineman are good pass blockers, only 1 is a good run blocker, and none blow people of the ball like Chance.
7.AZ-GENO SMITH-QB-W.VA-NFL COMP-WARREN MOON-HOF RET.- The cards are claiming Levi Brown is their left tackle next year, so it's more likely they go in another direction. Geno has the arm for Bruce Arian's verticial sytem and the mobility to have a better chance to survive the rush than any of the QB's they have. Ignore the RG3 comparisons. He's not that type of an athlete. He is a good athtlete for a QB though, but not the elite runner that Griffin is. He's mobile but is always looking to throw first. Not an elite franchsie QB prospect like Luck or RG3 ,but the best in this class. If your AZ he's a lot better than what you have.Smith has a strong arm ,good accuracy when he's set, is clean off the field , is a great athlete, and doesn't throw interceptions. Needs work on mechanics ,handling the blitz,pocket awareness, and being a more vocal leader right now. Also needs to add weight and learn a pro system, but he has the football IQ to do it. .Smith should go between picks 6-9. If he falls any farther expect a team to trade up for him in the bottom 3rd of round 1. If Carson Palmer is cut expect him to go to the cards and their whole draft plan to change.
***TRADE CHARGERS trade 1rst round(#11) and a 4th round pick (#110) to BILLS for 1rst round(#8)***
8.SD-(buff)-LANE JOHNSON-OT-OKLA-NFL COMP-NATE SOLDER-COL-Another BAD O-line . 2 years ago the left side of their line was elite with Dielman and McNeil. 2 injury retirements later and Phillip Rivers is a wreck. This guy is an athlete. He started juco ball as a QB but kept growing. Then he was a TE and DE. Finally settled in as a RT as junior at OKLA, and LT as senior. Might be a small reach ,but this isn't a strong draft, He has more upside than Joeckel & Fisher, and they are desperate on the left side. I expected the new regime to be more active in free agency on the o-line front than they have been. They absolutely have to get a left tackle and it's worth a 4th round pick to make sure they get a good one.
9.JETS-BARKEVIOUS MINGO-DE/OLB-LSU-NFL COMP-JASON TAYLOR-(ret)- Calvin Pace is gone and I have no idea if Aaron Maybin can be consistent. Mingo is a phenomenal athlete and fits much better as a 3-4 OLB . Explosiveness and pass rush are his best assets. If he can be trained on more pass rush techniques, add some weight ,and go hard on every play he could be special. Watch for another trade back to replace their 4th round pick.
10-TENN-CHANCE WARMACK-G-ALA-NFL COMP-JAHRI EVANS-NO-None of the 3 guards who started for them played well last year, even future HOFer Steve Hutchinson. With this draft having so few players who are elite at their position, a guard in the top 10 won't shock us at all, and even 2 is an outside possibility Trading down or going after a CB or edge rusher are also viable options but the best player in the draft at # 10 is a bargain, and since their head coach is a HOF guard he should realize it. The Titans already signed the best guard in free agency( Andy Levitre) but he is a better fit on the left side, and that rules out Johnathan Cooper . Warmack is a mauler that can move the pile on any side , in any scheme, on any team.
11.BUFF-(sd)RYAN NASSIB-QB-SYR-NFL COMP-STEVE McNAIR (ret)- Since the Bills new coach from college needs a QB ,and his former college QB is in this draft and already knows offense, we think they take him. This seemed like a much better 2nd round pick, or maybe even a trade up into the bottom of the 1rst, but it is the bills. They already cut Ryan Fitzpatrick, and I can't think they go into the season with Tavaris Jackson as the franchise QB. GM Buddy Nix has already stated they are going to take a QB and will trade up if they have to, so it wouldn't surprise me if they traded ahead of Arizona and took Geno Smith. Since he knows this offense Nassib is more valuable to this team than anyone other,team . ( ala Ryan Tannehill last year) His rookie year could be better than Tannehills in a similar situation. I would recommend they wait and trade back into the bottom of the first for him, but everyone knows they need a QB desperately, and the Jake Locker /Christian Ponder selections recently have set the reach precedent for QB's . Moving back makes this pick more palatable and also gives them a 4th rounder .
12. OAK-*STAR LOTULELEI-DT-UTAH-NFL COMP-HALOTI NGATA-BALT-PHIL- Pass rush is a weakness in Oakland, especially on the outside where they had some DT size guys coming off the edge. Tommy Kelly , Desmond Bryant ,and Richard Seymour are all gone ,and that makes DT their chief priority now. The raiders have more needs than any team in the draft and salary cap problems too. The trade not only gives them a lot of picks , it gives them a lot of inexpensive players, even if they didn't get full trade chart value. With Al Davis not around to muck it up this one draft could go a long way toward returning the franchise to contention. If they cut or trade Carson Palmer then Geno Smith might be the guy. Star has fallen far enough ,and is a steal this late if he is medically cleared .He looked like his old self at his pro day, but until his full medical recheck in INDY (on April 5th and 6th )we won't know for sure how far he drops.
***TRADE-49ers Trade 1rst round(#31),and 2nd round (#34) for BUCCANEERS 1rst round(#13)***
13.SF-(tb)KENNY VACCARO-S-TEX-NFL COMP-KERRY RHODES-AZ-Not a lot of needs with the 49ers, but this fills one. The way Flacco lit them up in the super bowl ,this is necessary. Vaccaro is a much better in coverage than the departing Dashon Goldson. They have way too many picks in this draft ,with an already extremely talented roster, and need to spend them. This move in conjunction with trading some more picks for Revis would completely change their defense. It's possible if one of the top 3 DT's falls that they could go in that direction, but this makes more sense.Star Lotulelei is also a possibility if they trade up.
14.CAR-JOHNATHAN COOPER-G-N.CAR-NFL COMP-ANDY LEVITRE-TENN-A team with Newton, Williams, and Stewart needs to run the ball. Cooper would be the best guard on the team once his card is handed to the commissioner.Coop is also a excellent pass blocker and could fill in at center if Ryan Ryan Kalil goes down again.
15.NO-EZEKIAL ANSAH-DE-BYU-NFL COMP-JASON PIERRE-PAUL-NYG- A lot of new players are needed for their move to a 3-4. Some of those holes will be filled in free agency. This one probably won't be.This defense was horrible last year. Ansah is a freak athlete that someone might take even higher, and he has every skill a 3-4 rush backer could wish for. Rob Ryans complicated scheme especially requires smart safety's that can cover. If Vacaro falls this far it's a steal.
16.RAMS-TAVON AUSTIN-WR-W.VA-NFL COMP-PERCY HARVIN-MINN-The rams have a lot of young WR talent. and claiming Titus Young and his attitude didn't help much so they cut him. However Amendola was the only one with any polish. and he is now a patriot. Austin is lightning in a bottle on the field. Running, catching, and returning are all in the toolbox. Also he has been healthy year after year, unlike Amendola.
17.PITT-*JARVIS JONES-OLB/DE-GA-NFL COMP-CLAY MATHEWS-GB- James Harrison is 34 , has a big salary, has been injured a lot recently, and was cut. Lamar Woodley wasn't too hot last year either. Jones plays faster than he times after a 4.9 at his proday. He has never been known as a workout warrior ,or even a guy that practices well.. He is a guy who showed up big on gameday in the SEC for 2 straight years. The Steelers are known for liking guys who produce, instead of the height weight speed guys. Otherwise they wouldn't have started Harrison and Woodley for the last few years. Jones has reportedly been told the spinal stenosis isn't a large worry and he really should go higher based on production.
***TRADE-BENGLAS Trade 2ND round(#37),(#53) for COWBOYS 1rst round(#18)***
18.CINC-(dall)-DJ FLUKER-OT-ALA-NFL COMP-ANDRE WHITWORTH-CINC-Right tackle Andre Smith may have overestimated his value in the free agency period. He was a underachieving injury prone mess his first 2 seasons, played well in 2011, and had a really good year last season. However he is still unsigned right now even though the Bengals have been steadily resigning their own guys . Fluker doesn't have Smith's question marks or feet. He does have a better frame, is in better shape, has no history of injury, is known for his work ethic ,and has a good attitude.
19.*NYG-BJOERN WERNER-DE-FLA ST.-NFL COMP-DERRICK MORGAN-TENN.-GM Jerry Reese is known for taking the best player available, or guys with big upside , and in this case it fits a need. The Osi and Tuck era has likely come to an end,and even if they keep Tuck he was not even close to being the guy who dominated 2 superbowls last year. Pass rush was the main reason they won 2 superbowls in 4 years and I am sure they know it. Werner reportedly has an injury that hasn't quite healed yet or he would be higher.
20.CHI-CORDARELLE PATTERSON-WR-TENN-DEZ BRYANT-DALL- What the bears offense now lacks is explosion. Brandon Marshall and Matt Forte are both great players but neither is a great athlete like Paterson. If Marc Trestman can harness this elite talent opposite Marshall, along with the recent addition of Martellus Bennett , Jay Cutler might become an elite QB.
21.CINC-#ALEC OGLETREE-LB-GA-NFL COMP-LAWRENCE TIMMONS-PITTS-Rey Maulaluga was bad in 2011 and much worse last year. It used to be he lacked quickness in coverage but he didn't even play the run well last year . They brought him back , but did it cheaply. Manny Lawson is gone now and Vontaze Burfict is a better fit in the middle . Ogletree could possibly play all 3 LB positions and the Bengals have a history of taking talented players who fall due to character concerns.
22.RAMS-(wash)-SYLVESTER WILLIAMS-DT-NC-NFL COMP-MARCELL DAREUS-BUF-The Rams have done a solid job in free agency adding Jake Long and Jared Cook. In order to get good value at a position of need the best pick is clearly Williams. He can be paired inside with last years # 1 Michael Brockers, and really improve their interior pass rush.
23.MINN-*KEENAN ALLEN-WR-CAL-NFL COMP-JORDY NELSON-GB-They need anyone who can take attention away from Adrian. Trading Percy Harvin while they could was wise. With his injury and attitude history they should get what they can now anyway. Harvin made it clear he didn't respect Ponder, but Russel Wilson might be able to get the most out of him. Allen is the drafts most polished receiver and can be paired with veteran Greg Jennings to provide a formidable starting duo.
24.INDY-XAVIER RHODES-CB/S-FLA ST.-NFL COMP-NnAMDI ASOMUGHA-PHI- They need CB help badly. Xavier ran well enough at the scouting combine ,although his other drills were a bit sketchy to me, but need will likely push him up draft boards either way . The kind of huge frame and aggression that could have him end up at safety some day. If a good O-lineman falls that should come first . Luck got hit consistently all season. They are a candidate to trade up for a lineman , or down to recoup their second round pick.
25.MINN(sea)-DATONE JONES T-DE/DT-UCLA-NFL COMP-JUSTIN TUCK-Jared Allen and Kevin Williams are both past their primes. The versatile Jones is a strong beastly athlete who can play inside or outside, and learn from both veterans while they are still around. Don't be surprised if they trade down into the second round with a team that wants a QB.
26.GB-*EDDIE LACY-RB-ALA-NFL COMP-MARSHAWN LYNCH-SEA-The packs running game has been atrocious for years. Lacy has the pass protection and receiving chops to fit right in the hybrid west coast/spread offense that the pack runs. If he was healthy this pick
would be a lot more solid, but when he works out he will cinch the # 1 RB spot.
27. HOU-JUSTIN HUNTER-WR-TENN-NFL COMP-SIDNEY RICE-SEA-Every year we think they are going to draft a reliable # 2 to go with (and take the coverage away from) Andre Johnson, and it never happens. This is the year, as Johnson is now past his prime as well. Hunter was considered a possible top 10 pick off the 2011 seasons tape before injuries hit him. He finally looked like the old Justin late in the season and at the combine.
28.DEN-JESSIE WILLIAMS-DT-ALA-NFL COMP-VINCE WILFORK-Neither of their starting DT's is much of an athlete, although sliding Derek Wolfe inside full-time would definitely help.. Williams is gorilla strong inside and the Australian import is a good athlete .In time he could end up a dominant player at his position. He is still raw, but comes from a winning program, has a strong work ethic, and his best football is probably still ahead of him.
29.NE-QUINTON PATTON-LA.TECH-NFL COMP-RODDY WHITE-ATL--A outside WR is the patriots chief need, and Brandon Lloyd was just cut. Patton is reliable, smart, runs good routes, has good hands, is a solid citizen, and can even run block. Sounds like a Belichick guy. It might also help mend some fences with Brady since they screwed the pooch and let Welker leave. Danny Amendola has never shown the ability to stay healthy, which makes a need to appease Brady even more likely.
30.ATL-JOHNTHAN BANKS-CB-MISS ST-NFL COMP-RICHARD SHERMAN-SEA-Dunta Robinson was cut and Brent Grimes is still a FA who is coming off a missed season. Considering the nature of the injury Grimes may not be the same player even if he does resign.
31.TB-TYLER EIFERT-TE-N.DAME-NFL COMP-TONY GONZALEZ-ATL-Dallas Clark is well past his prime ,and without that consistent mid field target that Kellen Winslow had once been, Josh Freeman backslid last season. Eifert will have to work more as a blocker in this offense , but he has the frame to pull it off, and the coach to drive it in to him .
***TRADE-JETS-2nd round pick(#39)-6th round pick(#169) and their 3rd round pick next season to the RAVENS-for their 1rst round pick(#32)***
32.NYJ-(balt)-EJ MANUEL-QB-FLA-ST-NFL COMP-DONOVAN McNABB-(ret)-It's actually more likely they trade into the bottom of the 1rst round for him than wait and hope he falls.The more I think about it the less likely they might go after another USC QB. Manuel gives the Jets a better passer than Sanchez, and the mobility and leadership of Tebow. Even if he doesn't start this season it's OK. With a Kaepernick-like year to sit and learn , he could have a Kaepernick-like impact down the road. He needs mechanical work and time to learn to reach that potential.
33.JAX- *MATT BARKLEY-QB-USC- NFL COMP-ANDY DALTON-CINC-The new Jaguars are going to run a west coast offense ,and Barkley is a perfect fit in one. Barkley will be the odds on favorite for rookie of the year if this goes through.Yes, it's another USC QB, but unlike Sanchez this one is a 4 year starter with a high football IQ. I wouldn't be surprised if Gabbert is cut or traded right after this pick. Coach Gus Bradleys ties back in Seattle could come into play here. Former boss Pete Carroll recruited Barkley to USC ,and was enamored with him enough that we believe he gives Gus the stamp of approval .
34.TB(sf,kc)-SAM MONTGOMERY-DE/OLB-LSU-NFL COMP-ANTHONY SPENCER-Michael Bennett signed with Seattle, and Bowers has health and jail concerns. Clayborn is also a injury concern.. It would be wise of the Bucs to make sure they not only have a DE in this draft, but that they have one who can play both sides.
35.PHIL-MARGUS HUNT-DE-SMU -NFL COMP-CALAIS CAMPBELL-AZ-His talent and athleticism are undeniable. If he added 20-30 pounds he would still be quick, but 6"8" 277 and running a 4.6 forty is nuts. He has the frame to play end in Chip Kelly's new 3-4 defense, and Kelly craves big players with length. I don't think he is worth this pick right now, and he may never be physical enough to play defense well, but I wouldn't be surprised if he went higher .
36.DET-DEANDRE HOPKINS-WR-CLEM-NFL COMP-PIERRE GARCON-WASH-It seems no one who plays across from Calvin Jonson produces much or for very long. Roy Williams, Nate Burleson, Titus Young, Ryan Broyles, ...etc. I thought Broyles was the perfect guy but he blew his knee out again. Hopkins is smart, can catch, and will go after the ball. Hopkins is also a great route runner . Matthew Stafford will always be able to count on him running the right route, unlike Titus Young. When Broyles ,makes it back they will be even better.
37.DALL-(cinc)JONATHAN CYPRIEN-S-FIU-NFL COMP-RESHAD JONES-MIA-With all their primary choices gone Dallas wisely trades back to help fill their many needs. Gerald Sensabaugh was nothing special at either safety spot and was just cut. Barry Church is coming off major surgery , even though he did play well before being hurt last season. Last years 4th rounder Matt Johnson couldn't stay healthy. Cyprien will probably be the best safety on their roster as soon as he learns the defense.
38.AZ.-ZACH ERTZ-TE-STAN -NFL COMP-TODD HEAP-AZ-A good TE is a young QB's best friend. A real receiving threat at TE has been lacking for along time in AZ. He would draw attention away from Fitzgerald and help stretch the field vertically the way Bruce Arians likes.
39.BALT(jets)TENN-MATT ELAM-S-FLA-NFL COMP-QUINTIN MIKELL-STL- .GM Ozzie Newsome always finds a way to get value. -Ed Reed and Bernard Pollard were both on the wrong side of thirty ,had high salaries, and are no longer with the team. Elam was a leader in college and is a smart enough player to be a long term QB of the secondary. With all the losses on defense for this team they need healthy young bodies right now. Newly signed Michael Huff can play deep and let Elam make plays closer to the line of scrimmage.
40.TENN-*TANK CARRADINE-DE/OLB-FLA.ST.-NFL COMP-SIMEON RICE(ret)-If he checks out medically before the draft , at least enough that teams believe he would be the same player he was pre-injury at the start of the season, he will go in the 1rst round. Until we know more we are guessing he starts the season on the PUP list and only plays half a season at best. Long term this guy is a steal this late ,and we won't be surprised if he is gone way before now. Kameron Wembley is up and down year to year and Derick Morgan has a sketchy injury history . A young edge rusher would go a ways toward .making the position a strength instead of a question
41.BUFF-GAVIN ESCOBAR-TE-SD ST-NFL COMP-SCOTT CHANDLER-BUFF-A good TE is a young QB's best friend. Last years starter Scott Chandler tore his ACL at the end of the season, and may not even be brought back. Escobar has been one of the draft biggest risers since the season ended . The fact that he is a big target, with great hands,a wide catch radius, and is also a poor blocker( just like Chandler) is part of the reason I put Gavin here.
42.OAK(mia)-KEVIN MINTER-ILB-LSU-NFL COMP-TAKEO SPIKES-SD- The Rolando McClain saga is just about done, and this should cinch it. Minter will be the new QB of the defense. Minter will likely provide good play on the field without the drama off it.
43.TB-DESMOND TRUFANT-CB-NFL COMP-JASON McCOURTY-TENN-They traded their best CB last year and they need another big corner now. Revis has been mentioned as a trade target as well. They need multiple corners ,and Trufant has the attitude of # 1 corner. I they can coach the grabbing out of him he might actually be one .
44.CAR-KAWANN SHORT-DT-PURDUE-NFL COMP-ANTONIO GARAY-SD-Carolina not only has bad run defense , but also has a crappy interior pass rush. Short is very talented but he needs to go all out on every play. I wouldn't be surprised if he went much higher.
45.SD-ROBERT WOODS-WR-USC-NFL COMPO-REGGIE WAYNE-INDY-Phillip Rivers used to have reliable receivers and a reliable O-line. Both are gone now, and this draft hasn't fallen the way they would like. Woods is from right down the road at USC and can give Rivers the dependable receiver he needs to be able to count on. He also can return punts for them.
46.JETS(rams)-MENELIK WATSON-OT-FLA-ST.-NFL COMP-JASON PETERS-PHIL-Their RT Austin Howard just doesn't have the feet to play on the edge ,but he is a solid run blocker . Moving Howard inside would definitely help him, and with Brandon Moore still a free agent it may be neccessary. Watson is an aggressive strong run blocker, with the athletic ability to be an upgrade as a pass blocker, and the long term answer at right tackle. He also is raw , new to football, and a wild card in this draft. If Chris Faulk can show he's healthy by the time the draft roles around then he could go here instead.
47.DALL-LARRY WARFORD-G-KY-BOBBY WILLIAMS-BAL-(kc)-The right side of the Dallas O-line needs an upgrade. There are no tackles worth this pick left in this scenario, so how about a plug an play guard? The cowboys missed out on both Warmack and Cooper in the first. Now they finally upgrade the O-line with this prototype mauling right guard. I am sure Dallas fans are sick of seeing Romo run for his life, this guy could help immediately.
.
48.PITT-DET-AURTHUR BROWN-LB-KAN ST-NFL COMP-JON BEASON-CAR-Larry Foote was a liability last season, so a ILB is a definite need. This is a perfect fit. Browns recent weight gain now makes him available to 3-4 teams too. He is strong in coverage and is a 3 down LB in either defense. Pairing him with Lawrence Timmons makes them a pair to potentially rival Willis/Bowman as the leagues best inside LB duo.
49.NYG-BW WEBB-CT.WILL&MARY-NFL COMP-TRAMON WILLIAMS-GB- The giants lose defensive backs like a little kid with marbles. Almost every DB on the NYG roster is coming off injury, a possible cap casualty, is in some state of free agency, or some combination thereof. Both Terrell Thomas and Corey Webster took pay cuts to stay but with their injury history's the G-men still need more corners.,
50.CHI-SIO MOORE-LB-UCONN-NFL COMP-JEROD MAYO-NE-Urlacher and Briggs are long in the tooth, and Urlacher was just let go for good..Newcomers DJ Williams and James Anderson have had trouble staying on the field. If Warford falls this far he is a possibility, but Moore's versatility makes this more likely. Moore can play whatever LB position they need him at, but is a better fit on the weak side .
51.WASH-JUSTIN PUGH-G-SYR-NFL COMP-ERIC WINSTON-KC-RT has been a weakness for Washington ever since they traded for Jamall Brown. He immediately showed why the saints were willing to let the former Pro Bowler go ,and has been regularly hurt since then. If Pugh's arms were 34 inches long he would be a first round pick this year . As it is his feet are left tackle ready. In the zone scheme the Redskins run a technician like him is invaluable. Whether he ends up at RT or as a guard is the question, but his arms are too short to man the blindside. The recently cut Eric Winston would be the ideal pickup for them, and they could go a different way here, but the cap penalty the league stuck them with makes that unlikely.
52.MINN-JAMAR TAYLOR-CB-BOISE ST-NFL COMP-TRAMON WILIAMS-GB-Despite having a great season last year CB Antoine Winfield was cut . It's probably a combination of him being undersized, 35 years old, having a high salary, and the beating he took in the Green Bay playoff game. Whatever the reason a infusion of youth is needed in the Vikings secondary. Taylor is a perfect fit for this defense.
***TRADE- 49ERS trade 2nd round rd(61), 3rd round(#93)and their own 5th(#164) and 7th(#237) round picks in this draft for Dallas 2nd round pick(#53) and a 4th round pick in 2014***
53.SF-(dall)(cicn)JHONATHON HANKINS-DT-OH ST.-KEVIN WILLIAMS-MINN-The 49ers need a new nose tackle to replace Isacc Sopoaga and infuse some youth into their D-Line. Justin Smith and Ray Mcdonald can set a great example for this giant, and hopefully inspire him to get in better shape . It wasn't that long ago when Hankins was considered an easy top 15 pick.
54.MIA-(indy)-DAMONTRE MOORE-DE/OLB-TEX A&M-NFL COMP-JOHN ABRAHAM-ATL-Someone needs to play on the other side of Cameron Wake. Some of the dolphins coaching staff have ties to Texas A&M. Moore has talent, but looked lazy and out of shape at the combine. Like he hadn't been training for it. Add that he didn't do very well last season when being blocked by top OT's, and the fall was bound to happen. He did 19 reps on the bench at his pro day , but got hurt and didn't run his forty again yet. Look for his agent to give him some time to get in shape ,and then have a personal pro day to try to bring his stock back up.
55.GB-BRYAN SCHWENKE-C/G-CAL-NFL COMP-WILL MONTGOMERY-WASH- Jeff Saturday retired and he was not much of a run blocker anymore anyway. Evan Dietrich -Smith was abused by Minnesota in the wild card game, and might be a better fit as a guard , or as a backup to all 3 interior positions. Schwenke can also play guard and his elite quickness and smarts would be appreciated by Aaron Rodgers.
56.SEA-TERRON ARMSTEAD-OT-ARK.PB-NFL COMP-TYRON SMITH-DALL-Right tackle is one of the few areas of weakness on this roster. Armstead is the raw elite athlete who took the combine by storm. The fact that he also showed good play on the field on tape, then at the east/west game, and even held his own at the senior bowl makes me believe he could go even higher. He looks and moves like a giant TE. With a year or 2 in an NFL weight room and with NFL coaching he could easily be a Pro Bowl blindside protector in case Russell Okung leaves in free agency.
57.HOU-COREY LEMONIER-DE-OLB-AUB-NFL COMP-ANDRE CARTER-OAK- Lemonier needs to get bigger and play lower for an NFL 4-3, but he could be a solid starter early as a 3-4 OLB. The loss of Connor Barwin makes this pick likely if the Texans want to keep up the pass rush that makes this defense work.
58.DENV-BLIDI WREH-WILSON-CB/S- NFL COMP-TERREL THOMAS-NYG-.Champ Bailey is still a good player despite his last game, but he will also be 35 next season. This corner played well in the senior bowl and tested well at the combine. He can also provide value in the return game and who better to learn from than the champ?
59.NE-(sf)-*DJ HAYDEN-CB-HOU-NFL COMP-CHAMP BAILEY-DENV-Had a freak injury at practice where he tore a major vein in his heart last season .Until recently no one was sure if he would ever play again.. I think if he had played all year he would have been a easy 1rst rounder and maybe even the 2nd corner taken. Docs now say he should be ready for training camp. They could move McCourty back outside if they have another safety , but he did play well there. The Patriots go through more high drafted DB's than anyone in the league. Hayden is sure to rise up draft boards now that the Docs have cleared him.
60.ATL-#*TRAVIS KELCE-TE-CINC-NFL COMP-JASON WITTEN-DALL-. If Kelce was clean off the field ,and had 2 years of solid production on tape instead of one ,he would easily be the first TE off the board. Kelce is an excellent athlete and a strong blocker with a ton of questions that need answering. Tony Gonzalez is saying he is coming back for another year now.Maybe a veteran like Gonzalez will wear off on the kid. Kelce can not only learn from the master, but he can also give new looks to their passing offense. Considering the excellent blocking ability of their starting WR's ,the ability to spread the field and still run the ball in a two TE set with Steven Jackson could also be a huge factor.
61.DALL-(sf)-TERRANCE WILLIAMS-WR-BAY-NFL COMP-STEVE JOHNSON-BUFF-Give Tony Romo a steady receiver for years to come. This guy is physical , runs good routes, has reliable hands, can stretch the field, was massively productive last season, and can even block. It also allows them to put Miles Austin in the slot more often a,nd gives them another big receiver to replace often injured Austin and Bryant. Dallas moves back and gets more help this season to fill their many needs and create better competition in camp.
62.BALT-MANTI TEO-ILB-N.DAME-NFL COMP-STEPHEN TULLOCH-DET- The free-fall finally ends and he will probably end up being the steal of the whole damn draft.This is the best place for Manti . He needs a locker room that will build him up, support him, and have his back against all comers. It looked like his confidence was shot in the National championship game, and since we now know he found out the truth right before the game that would explain his bad play. Before that he was worth a top 20 pick off his play on the field this season.He should be drafted higher on his talent, but we really feel most teams will avoid him just because of the distraction he causes.
***TRADE 49ers trade 3rd round pick(#74) and 4th round(#128) and 7th round(#222) to CHIEFS for 3rd round(#63)
63.SF(kc)-SF-*BARRET JONES-C/G/T/-ALA-NFL COMP-MAX UNGER-SEA- . Right tackle Anthony Davis is a free agent next season ,and they don't have a replacement handy. The highly decorated Barrett can also play every position on the O-line if it's needed. He comes from a winning program to a team that is a Superbowl favorite. Natural fit. The 49ers wisely continue to use their wealth of draft picks to control the draft and get players that can help their already talented roster make a Superbowl run this season.
64.JAX-DAVID AMERSON-S/CB-N.-CAR ST.-ANTONIO CROMARTIE-JETS-The Jaguars let go of long time corner Rashean Mathis recently. New coach Gus Bradley made his bones in Seattle with big ,physical, press corners. The Jags need help at safety and CB. They also prefer big CB's which Amerson certainly is. If you watch his 2011 tape he's a top 10 pick as a corner. After spending this year trying to jump routes to break the interception record I am not sure what he is now. Last season he looked like a safety. This late he's worth the risk ,and might be able to help you at both positions. He lit up the combine so don't be surprised if he goes higher.
65.DET-*CHRIS FAULK-OT-LSU-NFL COMP-ANTHONY DAVIS-SF-RT Gosder Cherilus signed with the colts and RG Stepehen Peterman was cut, so the entire right side of the Lions O-line will be new this season. I saw Faulk as a possible first rounder before his injury. If he is healthy enough to workout, and show teams he will be ready to start the season on time this year, he still might be a low 1rst rounder. It also allows them flexibility to put last years # 1 Reilly Reiff on the side they prefer.
66.OAK-AKEEM SPENCE-DT-ILL-NFL COMP-KYLE WILLIAMS-BUFF-Shariff Floyd covers one DT spot and also has the versatility to play end. Spence is a stout run stuffer that can play the strongside DT, and give the Raiders more toughness up the gut.
67.PHIL-JOHN JENKINS-DT-GA-NFL COMP-JAMALL WILLIAMS-(ret)-To run the 3-4 effectively the eagles will need a nose tackle. The huge Jenkins is surprisingly quick for his girth , alhough he will need to slim down a bit to work at Chip Kelly's pace .Isaac Sopoaga was signed to play NT as well, but he played badly last season in San Francisco.
68.CLEV-VANCE McDONALD-TE-RICE-NFL COMP-ZACH MILLER-SEA-McDdonald has displayed all the qualities of a two way tight end , and we think his best football is still ahead of him. Brandon Weeden probably deserves one more chance. A good TE is a QB's best friend and Norv Turner has always used tight ends a lot in his offense. Newly signed Kellen Davis has always been a "looks likes Tarzan plays like Jane "guy in my book, so an upgrade is in order.
69.AZ-DALLAS THOMAS-G/T-TENN-NFL COMP-TODD HEREMANS-PHI-With an O-line that was bad in a biblical way last season ,upgrades should be mandatory. If someone steps up and plays left tackle well it would also allow the returning from injury Levi Brown to move inside where he belongs. That improves 2 positions. I pity their new QB unless the O-line is fixed. On the bright side Bobbie Massie and Nate Potter got valuable experience last year. Thomas has experience at left guard & both tackle positions giving the cards a better chance of getting their 5 best lineman on the field.
70.TENN-*GEOVANI BERNARD-RB-N.CAR-NFL COMP-CJ SPILLER-BUFF- Bernard is a speedy play maker that can take Chris Johnson's place if he doesn't produce this year despite his 10 million plus salary. They signed Shonn Greene to be the thunder to Johnson lightning, but he is limited to 1rst and second downs , or short yardage runs. Bernard is actually better in the passing game than Johnson is now and can also return kicks as a rookie.
71.BUFF-TRAVIS FREDERICK-C/G-WISC-NFL COMP-JAKE GROVE-(ret)
The Bills needs another guard to replace the departing Andy Levitre, who was not only their best overall lineman, but also a versatile iron man along the Bills O-line. Frederick can also play ceneter. This positional flexibility could be very useful considering the history of injury on the Bills O-line.
72.JETS-*PHILLIP THOMAS-FRES.ST-NFL COMP-HARRISON SMITH-MINN-Laron Landry is a free agent and injury prone. This guy can play either safety spot and inject some youth into their secondary.The jets play so much man that high level safety play is essential.Thomas is a ball hawk that can take advantage of the Jets great corner play.
73.TB-BRANDON WILLIAMS-DT-MOU-S-ST-NFL COMP-JOSH PRICE-BRENT-DALL-
After his strong senior bowl we went searching for everything we could find on the small school standout, and were impressed by him on film. Add a good combine in the mix ,and we think he's a fit as a one technique next to Gerald McCoy. While he's not a great pass rusher he is stout against the run and can push the pocket against the pass.
74.KC(sf)(car)-MARKUS WHEATON-WR-ORE.ST-NFL COMP-STEVE SMITH-CAR-A deep threat and slot guy to go with the just resigned Dwayne Bowe . Steve Breaston was cut too, so a WR is must. He can also provide excellence in the return game. Andy Reid will want a WR that can stretch the field. The trade back allows Andy Reid to gather more guys that fit his system.
75.NO-DARIUS SLAY-CB-MISS ST-NFL COMP-DOMINIQUE RODGERS-CROMARTIE -DENV-The saints forfeit of their second round pick came at a really bad time. Their secondary was atrocious last season. They have added Keenan Lewis at one corner , and need another physical CB to run Rob Ryans press man blitzing scheme.
76.SD-ROBERT ALFORD-CB-SE.LA-NFL COMP-LADARIUS WEBB-BALT-Another corner to help shore up the secondary and breed competition in the deep end of the defense. Alford is also an excellent return man . Quentin Jammer is a free agent and Antoine Cason is gone . Jammer has slowed enough where it's safety or nothing in my opinion. So he probably won't be brought back anyway.
77.OAK(mia)-#JORDAN POYER-CB-ORE ST. -NFL COMP-CORTLAND FINNEGAN-RAMS-Those extra picks could really come in handy in the secondary. With Michael Huff being cut they will likely need at least 2 new CB's, since they also cut both starting corners last year.This corner has a raiders attitude that Al Davis would be proud of. He will also irritate every receiver he covers with his mouth.
78.STL-LE'VEON BELL-RB-MICH ST-NFL COMP-MICHAEL BUSH-CHI-Steven Jackson opted out of his deal and his career as a Ram is over. With him joining a contender in Atlanta to play for they need a every-down back. Bell is a good fit because he is kind of like a younger poor mans Steven Jackson .
79.PITT-LOGAN RYAN-CB-RUTG-NFL COMP-RONDE BARBER-TB-A corner that can tackle is paramount in the AFC north, and this guy plays the run like a safety. Losing Keenan Lewis was a blow . Bringing back William Gay helps but he is more of a slot corner.
80.DALL-(sf)-DALL-(sf)-BENNIE LOGAN-DT-LSU-NFL COMP-JURELL CASEY-TENN-Jay Ratliff has been injury prone and is over 30. Jason Hatcher was an excellent fit in the 3-4, needs to show he can adapt to the new defense , and is a free agent next season. Logan has the first step needed to play the 3 technique in the Tampa 2.
81.NYG- STEDMAN BAILEY-WR-W.VA-NFL COMP-ANTONIO BROWN-PITT-If any restricted free agent is going to be signed away for a 1rst round pick it's Victor Cruz. Even if stays around this year we doubt they have the money to keep both Nicks and Cruz. With outside WR's being more valuable we think that means Cruz is gone next season. Bailey is one of the drafts best route runners and could be their future slot WR.
82.MIA(chi)-*MARCUS LATTIMORE-RB-S. CAR-FRED JACKSON-BUFF- Reggie Bush is gone. Daniel Thomas hasn't been healthy and is unproven. Lamar Miller doesn't strike me as an every-down back and is unproven. With extra picks in this draft the dolphins are almost beholden to take at least 1 chance for the future. Lattimore would have easily been the first RB taken if not for a knee injury. Whether he starts the season on the Pup list and comes back mid season, o r misses the season entirely I wouldn't bet against him long term. He plays like he loves the game and is a 3 down back.
83.MINN-KHASEEM GREENE-OLB-RUTG-NFL COMP-THOMAS DAVIS-CAR-Another linebacker who can cover would really be appreciated for their nickle defense. In a division with Aaron Rodgers,Matthew Stafford, and Mark Trestman new bears offense, cover linebackers are essential.
84.CINC-*ANDRE ELLINGTON-RB-CLEM-NFL COMP-LESEAN McCOY-PHIL-Ellington is a playmaker that can help open up the offense.The Lawfirm of BJGE is more of a inside grinder, but he's not much of a threat to bust a long one, or help out much in the passing game. Ellington gives them what Green-Ellis doesn't.
85.WASH-AARON DOBSON-WR-MAR-NFL COMP-MICHAEL CRABTREE-SF-Santana Moss is past his prime, Pierre Garcon is injury prone, and Leonard Hankerson has unreliable hands. Dobson has strong hands and is a good blocker . Plus a young QB can always use more weapons.
86.INDY-#KYLE LONG-G-IOWA-NFL COMP-CLINT BOLING-CINC-Hopefully they will address the O-line in free agency. Long is an elite talent with a lack of experience that needs to be coached up. With his athleticism & aggression it's only a matter of time until he's a starter, if he can keep his nose clean off the field, and listen to his coaches.
87.SEA- ZAVIAR GOODEN-OLB.-MOU-NFL COMP-WESLEY WOODYARD-DEN -Leroy Hill's recent arrest probably makes any decision about bringing him back easy. This former safety has the coverage chops and smarts needed for Pete Carrol's defense. .
88.GB-ERIC REID-LSU-S-LSU-NFL COMP-KENNY PHILLIPS-PHIL-If you watch him play in 2011 he looks like a 1rst round pick. If you watch him play last season he looks like a 5th round pick. We will split the difference. The injury retirement of Nick Collins wasn't as bad as they feared thanks to Charles Woodson moving to safety. Woodson is gone now and the Pack needs a safety to pair with Morgan Burnett.
89.HOU-DAVID BAKHTIARI-OT-COL-NFL COMP-JORDAN GROSS-CAR-Right tackle was a problem last year ,and Bakhtiari has the athleticism to fit in their zone blocking scheme. At the very least he could be the swing tackle this season.
90.DENV-KEVIN REDDICK-ILB-NC-NFL COMP-DESMOND BISHOP-GB-Reddick has the toughness and football IQ to play inside in either front. Denver has no MLB left on the roster. DJ Williams is in his 30's ,was suspended twice last season ,and is now gone. Denver also needs a safety to go with Rahim Moore
91.NE- DJ SWEARINGER-S-S.CAR-NFL COMP-TJ WARD-CLEV-Patrick Chung left in free agency and had declined . DJ is a very smart and aggressive player who might be able to weather Belichicks displeasure He is probably one of the more underrated players in the draft, and once free agency shakes out we wouldn't be surprised if he went much higher.
92.ATL-DEVIN TAYLOR-DE-S.CAR-NFL COMP-JASON HATCHER-DALL- Just cut John Abraham is 34 on the weak side and Kroy Bierman is nothing special on the strong-side . Osi Umenyora has been signed but he really should only be a situational pass rusher these days, and he doesn't play the run well. There are rumors Abraham might be brought back at a lower price, but they still would need help outside because neither of therm can play the strong-side .Taylor has been overshadowed by Jadavian Clowney in college, but has the frame & talent to be a stud in his own right.
93.DALL-(sf)-MONTEE BALL-RB-ORE-NFL COMP-PIERRE THOMAS-NO- DeMarco Murray's health is always in question . Ball is as durable as they come, but he does have a lot of miles on his tires. Ball is also excellent in the passing game , both as a blocker and receiver. Johnathan Franklin is also a possibility, but we figure they go with the more durable player.
94.BALT-CORNELIUS WASHINGTON-LB/DE-GA-NFL COMP-JUSTIN HOUSTON-KC-Terrell Suggs is still a good player, but lacks explosion due to age & his repaired Achilles .Paul Kruger signed with division rival Cleveland . Courtney Upshaw is a solid guy but will never be a top tier pass rusher. Washington has the ability but needs the technique and experience he can learn with the ravens. The Elvis Dumervil signing does nothing to change this pick. You never have enough pass rushers.
95.HOU-(Compensatory)-MONTORI HUGHES-DT-TENN MART-NFL COMP-TERRENCE KNIGHTON-JAX-Nose tackle is their largest weakness. This guy is big, strong, fits the bill, and could get a lot better with pro coaching. . He has the talent to go a lot higher ,but his pass rush techniques are lacking . With a little time he could be a dominant 3 down NT.
96.KC-(Compensatory)-*#KIKO ALONSO-LB-ORE-NFL COMP-KARLOS DANSBY-MIA- Their has never been a really good player next to Derick Johnson on the inside of the chiefs 3-4. Alonso's character and injury history are the only reason he falls this far, and if he can stay on the field he could slide over when Johnson is past it. He should at least be an upgrade over Jovan Belcher, and comp picks are the best ones to take chances with.
97.TENN-(Compensatory)-*BRENNAN WILLIAMS-OT-NC-NFL COMP-DONALD PENN-TB-The Titans have 2 very good starting OT's but both turned 30 this season. Williams can be the swing tackle this season, and learn technique from 2 skilled veterans and coach Mike Munchak.
