2014 TWO ROUND MOCK DRAFT-UPDATE

With the combine now over we are down to the pro day portion of the pre-draft process. Some players chose not to work out fully (or not all) at the combine . Others are still healing from injuries ,and have a more legitimate reason to have skipped it . Some guys will wisely do both , and see if they can better their previous numbers  . Pro days are doubly important for the guys who didn't go at the combine .The players with medical questions are the ones most likely to have large jumps or falls in their rankings before draft day . So keep an eye & ear out for news of their health . Francise tags and veteran cuts have started , so a lot of needs are about to start changing .A record number of underclassmen (98) has made this draft special . Unlike last season the 2014 draft has the potential to be great . With 3 QB's that are likely top eight picks,and 4 more that can go anywhere from the 1rst to the 3rd round , it is deep at the games most important position . With 3 possible top 10 OT's, and as many as 14 possible O-lineman off the board in the first 2 rounds , it is deep in offensive lineman . With 3 possible top ten pass rushers, and another 8 D-lineman with a first round grade , it's deep in D-lineman/edge rushers . There are at least 5 corner-backs & 2 safeties we have with a first round grade ,and possibly 12 more guys that will go in the first 3 rounds . This the deepest wide receiver class I have ever seen ! We have 8-10 guys with first round grades , and a total of 16 receivers that are in the first 3 rounds . As a whole we have over 10 players that probably would have been more worthy of the # 1 pick than any player from the 2013 draft .NFL Player comparisons have been added .So 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. This is not a ranking of top picks though. This is how we see the draft going whether we agree with the picks or not. After all the medicals & background checks are done by teams I wouldn't be surprised if we ended up with around 40 players with a 1rst round grade in this draft . Last year we only had 19 players rated as 1rst round picks .Jacksonville did everything it could to screw up their chance at the best possible franchise QB.  The Jags double beat down of Houston has cost themselves Bridgewater ,and the Texans are now in the driver seat. They should take him and we believe their new coach will feel the same . The consensus (Bridgewater, Manziel, Bortles)top 3 QB's in the draft will probably all go in the top 8 picks now . Congratulations to the Seahawks and all their fans.

* Is for a player with possible injury issues now or in his past.
#Is for a player with possible character or maturity issues now or in his past.


1.HOUSTON-TEDDY BRIDGEWATER-QB-NFL COMP-LVILLE-AARON RODGERS-GB- yep... they lost twice to the jags...okay? Anyway, it helps them a ton so their fans should be happy as Teddy officially declared for the draft on new years day. They are now getting the clear cut #1 QB in the draft and a guy who has what Matt Schaub doesn't . Schaub's guaranteed portion of his contract is about done. The Texans didn't win this season, and although they were kind enough to let him start the final game after he had already lost his job, his time as a Texan should be up . Bridgewater not only has the high football IQ and accuracy that Schaub showed in his prime, but he also has the strong arm, quick eyes, pocket presence, poise,  and foot speed that Schaub has always lacked. If this happens I expect the talented Texans to get healthy and make a quick turnaround like the Chiefs did this year. Bridgewater is younger and has a higher upside than Alex Smith though. To be clear I see Teddy as a clear cut franchise QB that ANY team should be falling all over themselves to pick.  I bet coach O'brien (a QB guru) will take Teddy if the choice is up to him . O'Brien has had pocket passers throughout his coaching career, Bridgewater is the best pocket passer in the draft. The only thing that could count against Teddy is his size. Most of O'briens past QB's had bigger frames than Bridgewater . If the Texans take him this could be the pick that finally puts their franchise over the top. The only argument anyone can make to justify taking Manziel over Bridgewater is to please the Texas fan base by taking the hometown boy . While I am a Manziel fan , I grade Bridgewater at a 97 out of 100 just based on football ability , and Teddy is clean off the field . I grade Manziel at a 93 . When you take into account his lack of polish, rebellious attitude , the fact that you need to alter your offense around him, and the off the field worries it's not even close. Will they make the smart decision , or will they worry more about ticket and memorabilia sales ? Teddys decision not to throw at the combine doesn't bother me because the only questions about him were how big he is, and he measured in a little bigger than I expected .


***TRADE*** The  BROWNS trade their 1rst round pick (#4) in this draft and their #1 pick in 2015 for the RAMS #2 overall pick this year ***


2.BROWNS-(rams,wash)-BLAKE BORTLES-QB-UCF-NFL COMP-STEVE McNAIR-retired-Since they let pocket passing QB guru Norv Turner leave for Minnesota I played along with the Johnny Manziel rumors for a couple of weeks, but I still think this is just one big smoke screen . The browns leaking to multiple outlets they want Manziel screams that they are hoping to get someone to trade up with , or ahead of them for him . I was thinking maybe they would sign or trade for(Ryan Mallet?) or draft a QB with their second first rounder.  I really didn't think they would take any QB besides Bridgewater at #4 ... until they signed Kyle Shanahan as their new offensive coordinator . That rules out Manziel for me. Shanahan has his merits .You can say he was instrumental in the development of Matt Schaub into a pro-bowl QB . You could also say that he was instrumental in RG3 having the best season a rookie QB had ever had, until he hurt his knee the first time . Now you might think that since Shanahan has already mentored a mobile , strong armed, charismatic, high profile , Heisman trophy winning QB , with a gift for creatively ad-libbing , into the greatest rookie season in history is exactly why they should take Manziel . Seems like sound logic , but here is why I disagree . Kyle Shanahan' has a micromanaging & controlling personality. RG3 was considered a genial guy that could get along with anybody. Heck , some say he wants to even be a politician . Shanahan and Griffin then engaged in a season long tug of war that was continuously leaked to the media by someone on both sides . It's hard to beleive a guy with Manziels reported anti-authority streak gets along with Kyle . Manziels ( even greater than RG3's ) creative streak would be stifled and I doubt it would end happily  .Bortle's doesn't have the same rep of RG3/ Manziel , but his upside is higher than both. He doesn't have the skins on the wall the other 2 did either . He will probably be grateful for Kyle's tutelage for at least a couple of years . Bortle's potential has even started to grow on me .With Manziel refusing to throw at the combine (and measuring smaller than expected ) against  Bortles manning up , letting it rip, and being even bigger than I thought he would be :  I am now personally ranking Bortles ahead of Manziel .I no longer doubt that Bortles will last outside the top 5 ,so they should take him here if they want him. The recent firing of their GM and club president make me believe that they are definitely taking a QB now. Will they sit at #4 and take the one that falls to them ? Or will they trade up and get the one they want is the question .Oakland , Minnesota ,or Tennessee could take a liking to a QB and trade up with the Rams to steal him if they wait till four  . A team with a defense this talented just needs a strong running game to be competitive with a rookie QB, as long as he doesn't turn the ball over . If they got Bridgewater I could pick them to go to the playoffs, With one of the other two QB's I still think its possible for them to win 8-10 games .This extremely dedicated fan base has been put through the ringer for too long. Also, I don't buy theses new man crush on Derek Carr rumors. If they were true why would they spread it around ?  With 3 picks out of the top 35 they can fill some holes on offense with their next 2 picks, and be competitive this season .


3.JACKSONVILLE-#*JADEVEON CLOWNEY-DE/OLB-S.CAROLINA-NFL COMP-MARIO WILLIAMS-BUFF-. With the only 2 QB's worth a pick this high off the board the Jags take the once a decade DE for coach Bradley's defense. With Jason Babin having a down year this season , turning 34 next year, and having a 6 million dollar salary as well, this makes even more sense. Clowney is definitely a special player , and even if he takes a few plays off a game, so does future HOFer Julius Peppers.  I would like see what kind of damage a healthy motivated Clowney could do to start the season if he isn't constantly double and triple teamed .They really need to take a QB in the 2nd though.

4.RAMS-(clev)-#SAMMY WATKINS-WR-CLEM-NFL COMP-PIERRE GARCON-WASH-The rams have made it clear they are willing to move back and get even more picks. GM Les Snead even said he has never had to draft without 2 first round picks , and he isn't sure he would know how to . In back to back years the rams have used 2 high picks on receivers. A 2nd and 4th in 2012 and a 1rst and a third in 2013. While all are still young none of them look like a #1 receiver to me , although Tavon Austin and Steadman Bailey do look like long term contributors .Sammy is absolutely the most dynamic and complete receiver in this draft ,and along with a rebuilt O-Line , could be the last pieces the Rams need to give Sam Bradford a real shot at taking this team to the playoffs . He's strong, tough, fast  ,makes plays inside, outside , on screens, end arounds, reverses,  can go up and get the ball, run over someone in his way, run past the defense,  and also helps out in the return game . I have them taking Watkins here and trading up to #8 for a offensive tackle . The reason is there are 3 clear cut high level OT's in this draft , and as long as they get one of them their team is in good shape. Chances are different teams will have each of them as the top tackles on their board , as I could make a legitimate case for any of the 3 , although I would personally take the safer Matthews if I needed a left tackle . I can't make a case for anyone but Watkins as the #1 wide receiver so they should take him now to make sure they get him .


5.OAKLAND-#*JOHNNY MANZIEL-QB-TEXAS A&M-NFL COMP-FRAN TARKENTON-rertired-Thanks to years of Al Davis mismanaging the team the raiders have the least talented roster in the NFL . New GM Reggie McKenzie finally got a chance to start rebuilding the roster in the last draft , and even after a draft where young fresh bodies were provided we expect it's at least one more year until they are in playoff contention . Hopefully by now the raiders have realized Terrell Pryor is a great athlete that could be the next MEGATRON with some coaching, time, and effort. Even if he didn't become a great receiver its more likely he becomes a better receiver than he is a QB .Love him or hate him (and I have found myself feeling both while watching a single drive he led) Manziel makes big plays at the best times , and he definitely has "IT". "JOHNNY FOOTBALL" is a proven winner in big games in college, and he doesn't turn the ball over. His lack of height  (just a smidge below 6 foot ) and potential off the field troubles make it likely he goes behind the reliable Bridgewater & higher upside of Bortles . If he stays out of trouble his leadership, poise, almost supernatural ability to extend plays & avoid the rush make me think he could be a winner in the NFL too. That was before this seasons improvements. Already this year he has shown improved mechanics, an improved ability at reading defenses , and a stronger arm . Even more surprising was his new willingness to buy time with his feet, and then throw the ball, instead of just taking off running like last season. If he stays out of trouble , learns how to run some plays from under center, keeps improving his mechanics ,takes well to NFL coaching , and stays healthy he could be one of the greatest. That's a lot of "IFS" , but I can't help it, I still believe in him . Even if he doesn't do all of that out of the gate  he will ignite the fan base( and Jacksonville needs to sell tickets) right away , and could spearhead a quick turnaround for this team . His decision not to throw at the combine , and his media interview that I didn't buy, has actually caused me to drop him down some . We will soon know how teams feel about his private interviews , but he is the only one of the three top QB's I could actually see falling out of the top 5 . Also, I don't buy these new man crush on Derek Carr rumors either . If they were true why would they spread it around ? Even Al Davis wasn't that incompetent .


6.ATLANTA-GREG ROBINSON-OT-AUBURN-NFL COMP-ORLANDO PACE-retired-The Falcons were replacing the entire right side of their line at the start of the season . RT Tyson Clabo was their best lineman and they cut him before the season in a salary cap move . LT Sam Baker is inconsistent, injury prone, and after week 10 he was put on season ending IR. Baker's replacement Lamar Holmes was much worse. Add the fact that 2 rookie corners were counted on to be key players this year and the falcons weren't too good this year . Quite frankly, I was surprised that Matt Ryan survived the year without missing any serious time due to injury after watching that line . Robinson is a mauler that will  help keep Ryan upright and greatly improve their push in the run game. Robinson has had a great year ,but in a really run heavy offense ,and until recently he wasn't someone I saw as a threat to enter this years draft. After the rumors of him coming out this year started circulating I started doing my due diligence on him, but I only had 3 games of his still left on my Tivo plus the upcoming National championship game. The first game film of his that I broke down forced me to give him the nick name of "pancake". That's how brutal a finisher he can be  when run blocking, especially when he is collapsing down from the side or going up field.  He has played pretty well when I have seen him pass block ,but at less than 20 pass snaps a game I am not as confident about him starting out well in the NFL on the blind side . Both of the guys I currently have ranked ahead of him would be better left tackles out of the gate to me . I wouldn't be surprised if he started out at right tackle . After the national championship game I still feel the same ,although I am sure that NFL O-line coaches are lining up to man crush on a player that plays with his physicality , athleticism , and mean streak . I need to find the rest of his earlier game tape to fully flesh out more of his evaluation , but I am pretty comfortable that he will still be what I see now. Robinson is a elite athlete for his size that can anchor this O-line for a long time if he can fulfill his potential, but he is not all there yet . At the very least he will probably be a dominant run blocker at whatever position they put him at if he is blocking down , up field, or on the move.  Keep this in mind though -he was straight up overpowered heads up in-line blocking against Florida states Mario Edwards in the National championship game on  multiple occasions . Against stronger DE's he may struggle to get a push heads up. Plus Robinson can start the season at right tackle if Sam Baker is healthy and switch over to the left side if Bakers hurt or plays badly again . The falcons badly need pass rush help ,multiple O-lineman, and a new TE. Don't be surprised if they trade back to gather more picks to fill those needs. GM Thomas Dimitroff also showed when he went after Julio Jones that he isn't afraid to pay the price and move up for a special player .  Clowney is definitely a special player worth a trade up .


7.TAMPA BAY-KHALIL MACK-OLB-BUFFALO-NFL COMP-BRIAN ORAPKO-WASH-Tampa Bay internally imploded this season . Their talented roster and once promising season went down the drain .  Josh Freeman seems to have lost it and was let go. Rookie 3rd rounder Mike Glennon got a shot to start and actually played OK . Glennon has a strong arm , but he is also thin and immobile . Right now he may be better than Freeman but that's not saying a lot since Josh seems to have lost it . He played a lot better than Freeman though. As of now we are betting that Glennon gets at least one shot at a full season as the QB. The best player available is Mack.  Since the bucs have gotten nothing but subpar to horrible play from their DE's this season a bulked up Mack would also fill a big need. Khalil is an elite athlete who has the strength, frame, and agility to play in either 4-3 or 3-4. Mack also has the athleticism to play a similar role to the one Von Miller does in Denver. He has the size and speed to play the strong-side in a 4-3 and move down as a DE in obvious passing downs. He also has the ability to play the weak-side, but their best player(Lavonte David) has that position locked down .When a guy from a smaller school is the best player on the field against a powerhouse like Ohio St. everyone takes notice. When he keeps it up all year and then lights it up in the combine he deserves to be picked this high , or even higher .


***TRADE*** RAMS TRADE their first(#13) and second (#44) and 7th round picks this year to the Vikings for their first(#8) and 3rd(#72) round picks this year***


8.RAMS-(minn)-JAKE MATTHEWS-OT-TEX A&M-NFL COMP-DUANE BROWN-HOU-. If they can't make the playoffs with all the (even in the NFC west) draft picks they have had in the last 3 years by 2015 Jeff Fisher will get fired .Roger Saffold will probably sign for more money with a team that's willing to pay him more to play tackle. If Jake Long isn't fully healed from his torn ACL by next season Matthews can fill that void .He has the ability to play every O-line position and then slide over full time when Long is done. After the 2015 season they can cut Long with very little dead money anyway, and right tackle Joe Barksdale is a free agent after this season as well .This son of a Hall of Famer was better than any of the tackles in last years draft in our opinion, and they went 1rst, 2nd and 4th in the overall. He would be an upgrade at every spot on the O-line considering the uncertainty of Longs health . Since Sam Bradford was knocked out for the season again last year ,it's about time protecting him became their top priority. Since Jeff Fisher coached Jakes Hall of fame dad I am betting that will be the deciding factor in him wisely picking the more polished Jake ,over the higher upside Greg Robinson . One more thing . I believe in Sam Bradford. I believe if they can get him a good line and # 1 receiver to go with what he has now he can be a great QB.


9.BUFFALO-ERIC EBRON-TE-N.CAR-NFL COMP-DWAYNE ALLEN-INDY- Scott Chandlers return from injury hasn't looked as good as the bills would like. Ebron would give them an elite athlete that would be a mismatch for opposing defenses ,and also a young TE who shown the willingness to block when he is lined up as an inline blocker. Sky's the limit for the kid if he wants it , but his inconsistent hands keep him from being a truly elite prospect . EJ Manuel needs more weapons ,and Ebron can protect both as a blocker and quick outlet receiver .

***TRADE*** 49ers TRADE their 1rst round pick(#30) and KC's 2nd  round pick (#56) Tennessee's 3rd round pick(#77) and their own 7th round pick to the LIONS for their first round pick(#10)  this year   ***


10.SAN FRANCISCO-(lions)-JUSTIN GILBERT-CB-OKLA.ST-NFL COMP-PATRICK PETERSEN-AZ-The 49ers have one of the leagues most talented rosters and way too many picks. Since their isn't going to be many openings on this roster trading some of the picks to move around, get what they want most out of this draft , and maybe get some picks for next seasons draft to boot makes sense.  While Carlos Rogers is still a decent corner he will be 33 next season, overpaid for his current production, and the 49ers can save about 5 million off their cap if they cut him. Gilberts improvements this year is staggering .Gilbert is a big,fast,fluid, play-maker . He makes some circus catches and drops some easy ones , but if he can consistently catch the ball he could lead the league in interceptions . Throw his kick returning ability in the mix and Frisco has a new # 1 corner


11.TITANS-#TAYLOR LEWAN-OT-MICHIGAN-NFL COMP-JAKE LONG-RAMS-Longtime veteran right tackle David Stewart has had an excellent career but he was hurt last season, had a down year, will be 32 this season, and I have trouble believing that the Titans are going to pay him 6.4 million this season when they can get a cheap upgrade in the draft . Lewan will not only be an upgrade on the right side, but with left tackle Michael Roos also turning 32 this year , Taylor can slide over as the long term blindside protector once Roos is done .


12.GIANTS-#MIKE EVANS-WR-TEXAS A&M-NFL COMP-VINCENT JACKSON-TB-Hakeem Nicks seems to have checked out this season. Usually guys playing for a contract blow up, but he has looked tentative. Considering what they are already paying Victor Cruz to man the slot it stands to reason that they would need a new #1 outside receiver. Evans can give Eli the bigger, stronger, explosive , outside threat that can win jump balls & dominate in the red zone. Eli is going to keep just throwing it up down-field when the rush comes . If you don't give him better weapons he's going to keep getting worse. The huge Evans can give Eli an outside threat that will be where he supposed to be, and that can be relied upon to make the catch .


13.MINN-(stl)-CJ MOSLEY-ILB-ALABAMA-NFL COMP-DERRICK JOHNSON-KC-I want to start by saying if for any reason Bridgewater, Bortles,  or Manziel falls to #8 they should run to the podium and take any of them . With all 3 being gone in this scenario they trade down, gather more picks ,and improve their LB core . Erin Henderson had a bad year last season , especially in coverage . Henderson made the decision to move on from him even easier after a couple of run ins with the law in January . Even once reliable Chad Greenway had a bad season . Mosley is a fast sideline to sideline MLB that can QB a defense for a long time, and be one of the leagues better coverage LB'S from day one . He is basically just a playmaker on any down in any situation . With defensive guru Mike Zimmer now the head coach I am betting he will want this unit to live up to his standards right away . That's hard to do without a great player at every level of the defense and the Vikings have no one even close at LB right now .

14.CHICAGO-TIMMY JERNIGAN-DT-FLA.ST-NFL COMP-JURRELL CASEY-TENN-Henry Melton was playing this year under the franchise tag before an ACL tear, and who knows if he will be brought back next year . Even if he is resigned they are still running the Tampa 2 ,and front four pass rush is crucial to that defense. Another pass rushing DT next to Melton is a huge need even if they do keep him . Jernigan is strong enough to play the one technique next to Melton . He also is quick and athletic enough to blossom into an elite 3 technique . If his knee(injury was from 2012) checks out for the long term he could go even higher.


15.STEELERS-DARQUEZE DENNARD-CB-MICH-ST-NFL COMP-JOE HADEN-CLEV- Ike Taylor has had a great career for Pittsburgh but his once great speed is fading . Add that he had a horrible year , that this defense desperately needs to get younger,  that the cash strapped Steelers can save 7 million by cutting him , and I doubt he will be back next season. Dennard would give them a new strong ,young, healthy, physical corner to cover the AJ Greens & Josh Gordons of the division .Dennard is almost too physical as a corner, but his tough guy attitude will help him to play bigger than he is in the black and blue division .


16.DALLAS-AARON DONALD-DT-PITT-NFL COMP-LA'ROI GLOVER-(retired)-With the injury prone and bitter Jay Ratliff finally cut & free agent to be ( who says he will go wherever the most money is) Jason Hatcher over thirty , and Dallas sticking with the Tampa 2 defense , DT is a huge need. Pressure from the front 4 is essential in this defense  and Dallas has a horrible cap situation .It's on the D-Line where the cowboys have had an unprecedented rash of injuries so it should be somewhere on the D-line that they use multiple picks in this draft. A replacement for coming off a franchise tag (and an almost completely lost season )Anthony Spencer might also be a possibility . It is even possible future HOFer Demarcus Ware (7.4 million cap savings)could be cut in a salary cap move. He is still very good ,but after back-to-back injury riddled down seasons can they afford to pay him a 12 million plus base salary , or push that money farther into the future ? Even though they had a historically bad defense under Monte Kiffin the boys still didn't fire him, but they did finally demote him . New D coordinator Rod Marinelli worked closely with him this year anyway . Still Dallas is keeping this scheme  around to see if they can make it work with a healthy D-line.  I really expected Aaron Donald's size limitations to make him available at the top of the second round. However, after he dominated the Senior Bowl & the combine he probably should get his just due and go higher.I have him rated in the top 15, and ahead of Jernigan, but I doubt many will agree with me right now . Dallas has many needs and a tight cap situation. Trading back is probably the smartest thing they can do , but I think Donald kicked so much ass at the combine that they might need to stay put to get him . They might even trade ahead of Chicago to get him now .Size matters some ,but guys who can rush the passer at any size are more important than anything but QB's in the NFL today .


17.RAVENS-ZACK MARTIN-T/G-N.DAME-NFL COMP-JORDAN GROSS-CAR-The Raven line is in flux right now . Marshall Yanda is probably the only blocker that can be counted on to return and start in Baltimore next season, since they didn't franchise tag Eugene Monroe . 
Martins positional flexibility would give them a better chance at getting their best 5 lineman on the field at the same time. Zach pulled off a amazing feat this bowl season ; he actually won the MVP award of a bowl game ! That's right! An O-lineman was acknowledged as the main man of the new era pinstripe bowl ! Being a former O-lineman and coach of O-lineman myself, I must admit Zach is now my favorite player in the draft. I saw him as more of a second rounder who might be a better fit at guard and his short arms make it harder to stay at tackle . However, after being MVP of the bowl game I say let him play tackle and see if he can hang with quicker guys outside. He also kicked ass and took names at the senior bowl . So tackle it is.


18.JETS-ANTHONY BARR-DE/OLB-UCLA-NFL COMP-DeMARCUS WARE-DALL-Not only has Quinton Coples been miscast as a 3-4 OLB but 33 year old past his prime Calvin Pace is on the other side. Neither does enough to help the pass rush ,and the Jets have to blitz too much to compensate, These dominoes keep falling by forcing DB's in single coverage to cover too long. Mack would help the Jets defense on every level.  Now that the Jets are out of salary cap hell ,and can fill some  other holes in free agency(their probably won't be anybody really good available at rush OLB) , I expect them to go after a edge rusher in the draft . With the extra 3rd round pick the Jets have from the Darrel Revis trade they can spend some picks to get what they want most . The best player available is Barr for the Jets scheme.  Barr is an great athlete who has the strength, frame, and agility to play in either 4-3 or 3-4  . While he can drop into coverage and make plays against the run they should try to let him rush the passer as much as possible . If he is put in a Von Miller role I don't think he will make the same impact , because is not quite the athlete that Von is. He really should be long gone before this .

19.MIAMI-*MARQUISE LEE-WR-USC-NFL COMP-TORRY HOLT-(retired)-Miami was already getting subpar play from their OT's before the Richie Incognito scandal. Now they need a guard and a tackle. . Considering that the only long term lineman they can count on is center Mike Pouncey a versatile one would be the best fit . Lucky for them there are some good young tackles available in free agency . I expect them to come out with at least a left tackle there, but there are no O-Lineman available worth this pick , So they go where they can get value and fill a need . Mike Wallace showed last season that he is not a #1 receiver . He is deep threat that runs a limited route tree with inconsistent hands . Brian Hartline has always been a solid #2 . Joe Philbins offense is usuallly at least 3 wide and 4 wide plenty of the time .Lee was the clear #1 WR going into this season. Due to Layne Kiffin's bad play calling, iffy QB play, and injuries Lee had a down year . He played (along with everyone else at USC)  a lot better after Kiffin''s departure . After a slow start early on he had his best games at the best times  . Lee is a smooth, polished route runner that can be the #1 WR this offense needs ,and also help out in the return game. 


20.ARIZONA-KONY EALY-DE/OLB-MIZZOU-NFL COMP-OSI UMENYIORA-ATL-With there being no Offensive Tackle worth this pick an edge rusher or TE should be the guy here Ealy is a versatile player who can rush off the edge , move inside on obvious passing downs, and he also has the athleticism to drop into coverage if needed .This a deep TE class so I will go edge rusher in the first round .Dee Ford is a better candidate right now,although Ealy's upside is greater .The workouts at the combine among the 3-4 OLB candidates , and which one is the best fit for the Cards scheme should decide it .


21.PACKERS-HA'HA CLINTON DIX-S-ALABAMA-NFL COMP-HARRISON SMITH-S-MINN-The Packers definitely need help at safety , even if Morgan Burnett returns to form .CB Sam Shields is a free agent after this year and even if he is resigned the Pack could use another corner .Dix has been a great player, in a great conference, against top competition. I have Calvin Pryor ranked slightly higher because there is more good tape of him in coverage, but if you play Minnesota/Chicago twice a year the better run defender makes more sense right now .Dix is the better all around run defender, tackler, and he probably won't have the same amount of penalties Pryor does


22.EAGLES-CALVIN PRYOR-S-LVILLE-NFL COMP-KENNY PHILLIPS-NYG-No safety on the Eagles roster played worth a damm last year. Even once promising Nate Allen has never returned to form after the injury that sidelined him late in his rookie year. Chip Kelly likes to show a lot of looks and blitzes, but he can't do it without someone that he can depend on as the last line of defense .If I were the eagles I would try to bring in a new starting safety's and a tall corner .  Pryor can not only save you in the back half he is a physical intimidator that offensive skill players should come to fear in the near future. 


23.CHIEFS-ODELL BECKHAM JR-WR-LSU-NFL COMP-DERRICK MASON-retired-The best thing about Dwayne Bowe is his blocking. His hands are suspect ,he is getting slower by the year, and he got arrested with weed last season. Although, as a #2 in a run first offense he is a good fit . Donnie Avery is injury prone and his best roll would be as a #3 in the slot. Add that Andy Reid has shown a willingness to draft WR's high and this is a good fit Beckham is a versatile guy that seems to play bigger than he is, and he make plays no matter the situation . He is a speedy team first guy that contributes as a receiver , blocker, and returning kicks & punts

24.BENGALS-KYLE FULLER-CB-VA,TECH-NFL COMP-JASON McCOURTY-TENN-Between Leon Halls injury, Terrence Newman's age(36 next season) , and Dre Kirkpatrick's failure to develop , Pac man Jones is the only reliable corner they have next year. When a guy with his track record is the guy you "can "count on that's scary. Out of all the corners in this draft no one can play off coverage as well as Fuller . Although he plays the run like a safety , I would really like to see more film of him getting physical at the line of scrimmage in press coverage . Anyone who watches his tape just ends up rooting for him, and after the combine he is squarely in the first round mix. It's even possible that he could be the second corner drafted now that he has showed unexpected speed.Fuller is a smart tough guy corner that battles every snap in the run and passing games .


25.CHARGERS-*BRADLEY ROBY-CB-OHIO ST-NFL COMP-LEON HALL-CINC-I believe the Chargers top 4 corners are the worst set in the league. Roby would give the Chargers the chance to have one corner play decent man to man against Denver.  Roby is quite possibly the fastest player in the draft and he plays the run angry . He is a fluid athlete who lacks technique & needs NFL coaching  . He missed his bowl game with a knee injury , but if he is healed up by the combine he could go a lot higher


26.BROWNS-(indy)-BRANDIN COOKS-WR-ORE.ST-NFL COMP-PERCY HARVIN-SEA-With the browns deciding to reach for Blake Bortles at #2 another weapon to make his transition to the big time easier couldn't hurt . Pair him with Josh Gordon & Jordan Cameron and any decent QB coming in is going to have a good shot at success  . While the 5"10" Cooks would be the little guy among the trio . his electric change of direction out of the slot would mean a lot of big plays.The chances of stopping Cooks, Gordon, and Cameron is hard to even contemplate .Brandin could also open up their offense with reverses/end arounds ,and give them a player that the defense just can't catch .Throw in the elite speed, quickness, separation, and change of direction he possesses and it's a wonder he is still on the board . He has returned kicks & punts , and while he has the tools to be great at it, he isn't right now . If he were already a elite return guy, in addition to what he gives you as receiver , he would be a top 20 pick for sure .I believe he could eventually be Percy Harvin , without the regular injuries and attitude problems . At the very least I see him as a elite slot receiver .

27.SAINTS- *DEE FORD-OLB/DE-AUBURN-NFL COMP-CLAY MATTHEWS-GB-The saints switched to a 3-4 this season and the out-for-the-year Victor Butler was their best fit as an OLB. Junior Gallete did have his moments this season, but I still think they need an upgrade on the outside. Pass rush is the entire key to the Saints defensive scheme and Ford is the kind of versatile pass rusher that can play multiple roles in the Saints defense. I was surprised when Ford showed up at the senior bowl and measured in at 6"2" and 243 lbs. Despite being a playmaker on film I thought he was closer to 6"1" and 225 pounds. , and that he would only be a situational pass rusher in the NFL until he bulked up.   If he just bulked up recently it certainly didn't hamper him any . He has dominated the the senior bowl practices and game . We are betting 3-4 teams that miss out on Anthony Barr or Khalil Mack will be giving him a good long look. Some 4-3 teams may even be thinking he can play a Von Miller role.


28.CAROLINA-MORGAN MOSES-OT-VA-NFL COMP-PHIL LOADHOLT-MINN- I not only doubt current right tackle Byron Bells long term potential on the outside, but underrated long term left tackle (and possible future HOFer) Jordan Gross just up & retired . Offensive tackle is now absolutely their number one need . Moses has played both left & right tackle in college . As an athlete it looks more like a long term right tackle , even though his feet looked more comfortable on the left side this season . He's the best offensive tackle left in this draft in this scenario. They should also pursue another OT in free agency if their smart.


29.PATRIOTS-*STEPHON TUITT-DE/DT-N.DAME-NFL COMP-RICHARD SEYMOUR-(fa)-It goes without saying that an elite TE to pair with perennially injured Rob Gronkowski would be their first choice. The only TE in this draft with a(Eric Ebron) 1rst round grade worth this high a pick who doesn't have major off-the field questions is gone this scenario.  Sorry Pats fans . Jace Amaro's red flags probably put him off limits to you . Amaro really shouldn't be available this late in the draft, but if he is I know they will want to take him. But can they? The only reason he could fall this far is because he was accused of a major off the field incident in his past. He's was accused of being a thief not a gang banger but can they take a tight end with character concerns so soon after Hernandez?  They could take Troy Niklas as a wildcard pick, but I would trade back a little if I were going to take him .I was discussing last years draft ,and the players in this one that I would have taken number one off their previous tape if they had entered the draft last season, with a friend this weekend , One of those guys who went back to school was Tuitt and while he was worth the # 1 pick in that draft he might still be worth a top 10 pick in this one . Off last years tape he was elite, and he played much better than Nix & Teo against Alabama in the national championship. He was coming off a sports hernia surgery and started slow because of it . While his season this year wasn't up to par with his 2012, he still made more plays this year than the similarly skilled Ra'shede Hagemen .Hagemen wasn't healing all year ,so that should be even more evidence of Tuitts talent . I am not sure if he will be fully healthy at the combine , but if he is he could go a lot higher .Bill Belichick has always preferred to run a 3-4 defense ,but has lacked the personnel to do so for the last couple of years. Tuitt is that rare prototype 5 technique DE that can set the edge against the double team, but still provide a pass rush. Belichick would covet a player with his physical gifts .  Add, that he can slide inside and do the job when they go to nickel , and this pick makes a lot of sense if he's there when they are on the clock. Since they are the Patriots a trade back is likely if they don't have someone they really covet left on the board when their turn comes. Tuitt's fracture revealed at the combine means he may never get to work out for teams before the draft . If so, he could fall here, and would be a bargain.


30.LIONS-(49ers)-JASON VERRET-CB-TCU-NFL COMP-BRENT GRIMES-MIA--The lions have relied on veterans Rashean Mathis and the overrated Chris Houston to play significant minutes this year. Mathis is already near the end and cheap , but Houston will be 30 next season and his salary from his new contract is going to get really expensive in 2015. Better to draft a replacement now .The lions drafted a corner in the 3rd in 2012, and in the second round in 2013. Neither has played that well so far ,so maybe its time they got one in the first round . Combining Verret with their safety pick in the 2nd round could turn their problem secondary into a positive area in one draft .Verret is a smart ball hawk that plays a lot bigger than he is. While some see him as only a slot guy ,I firmly believe he can play outside as well  .To win a division with Aaron Rodgers in it you can always use more pass defenders .


31.DENVER-SCOTT CRICHTON-DE-ORE.ST-NFL COMP-RYAN KERRIGAN-WASH-The 2 best pass rushers in Denver last season were Elvis Dumervill and Von Miller. Between Dumervill's agent making a mistake that cost him his spot in Denver , Von Miller's drug suspension , and now Millers tore up knee they have very little they can count on for a pass rush . Will Miller be the same guy without the chemical help and coming off a major knee injury? Don't know , but even if he is they need someone else that can rush the passer off the edge. Their lack of a pass rush was obvious in the Superbowl. Their defensive stat line not only read no sacks , they didn't even have a hit on the QB .Crichton plays with the strength to hold down the strong side , and has the relentless motor of a NFL pass rusher .


32.SEATTLE-JACE AMARO-TE-TEXAS TECH -NFL COMP-JEREMY SHOCKEY-retired-With the often injured and overpaid Sidney Rice ,  the unappreciated & underpaid Golden Tate likely leaving this off season the Seahawks need a receiver. Then throw in the underused Zach Miller and (about 5 million in salary cap savings if they cut him) you realize that maybe a tight end is more important  . Jace can give Russell Wilson a new big possession receiver that can win jump balls, move the chains, and give the team a big play threat over the middle .  Amaro has shown the aggressiveness & ability to block when needed . He is a big physical guy that I believe will also excel blocking as an inline Y tight end if given the chance to do so .At the very least he was a record breaking receiver in college, and I prefer him to Eric Ebron on the field  His off the field past is the only reason he falls this far .


33.HOUSTON-*LOUIS NIX-NT-N.DAME-NFL COMP-VINCE WILFORK-NE-The Texans are still going to run a 3-4 under new D-Coordinator Romeo Crennel , but it will be a 2 gap scheme this time. Earl Mitchell was an undersized shaded nose under Wade Phillips , but he no longer fits this defense . What they need is a big run stuffer who can hold both A gaps against the run , and still get a pass rush . Enter Louis Nix . The rarest species of player is the 3 down nose tackle. Nix fits that bill and is a special talent that could anchor the middle of the Texan D. If Nix was healed up at the combine , and looked explosive again , there is little doubt  he would be gone by now. While Nix had lost some weight by the weigh-in , he didn't look at all like the explosive dancing bear we saw in 2012 . Getting completely healed and building your body back up can take some time . If he can get that explosiveness back before the draft , and show it in a workout to teams, I expect he goes higher .



34.WASHINGTON-KELVIN BENJAMIN-WR-FLA ST-NFL COMP-CALVIN JOHNSON-DET-New head coach Jay Gruden loves to have a lot of weapons on offense . Drafting wide receivers was a priority during his time in Cincinnati and we have no reason to think it will be any different in Washington . The resigning of Deangelo Hall , and the lack of any DB worth this high a pick in this scenario , make this pick a much better value as well . The mammoth Benjamin can give RG3 a new big possession WR that can win jump balls, move the chains, give the team 2 deep threats on the outside,dominate the red zone,  and team with Pierre Garcon to spread out the defense. 

35.CLEVELAND-(indy)-*MARCUS MARTIN-C/G-USC-NFL COMP-MIKE POUNCEY-MIA-The browns have gotten poor play from both right guards this year. If they can resign Alex Mack, upgrade at a guard spot, and Mitchell Schwartz can keep getting better ,the Browns would have one of the leagues elite O-lines.  Martin played center this year, but he was previously a guard . He can start at guard , but if they can't resign Alex Mack , Martin can move inside .Martin was a surprising late entry into the draft. .He will be one of the first interior lineman off the board .


36.OAKLAND-JORDAN MATTHEWS-WR-VANDY-NFL COMP-JORDY NELSON-GB--.The raiders lack any WR who profiles as a #1 receiver , although Terrell Pryor could develop into one if they converted him.  The raiders finally have the cap room to make some positive off season moves  . Resigning DE Lamar Houston and Tackle Jared Veldheer should be their first priorities. After that they now have the cap room to fill holes with veterans and be competitive . The polished Matthews can give their new QB an outside threat that will be where he supposed to be, and that can be relied upon to make the catch .


37.ATLANTA-TROY NIKLAS-TE-N.DAME-NFL COMP-JASON WITTEN-DALL-HOFer Tony Gonzalez is definitely not coming back thisseason .Niklas is the most underrated TE in this draft. He is already the best blocking TE of all the top guys , but he was underused as a receiver at Notre Dame . He is big , fast, has good hands, and is tough over the middle .Add that there is no offensive tackle currently worth this pick left , and when Niklas stays in to block Matt Ryan will be a lot healthier .


38. TAMPA BAY-RYAN SHAZIER-OLB-OHIO ST-NFL COMP-THOMAS DAVIS-CAR-New coach Lovie Smith is back in Tampa Bay , but this time he is the big boss . To properly run the Tampa 2 defense he loves you need a really fast MLB that can cover the middle of the field 15 yards deep . Unless they want to move Lavonte David from the weak side, where he is already a pro bowler & weaken that position , Shazier is the guy for them . Both are better fits on the weak side, but when you are running straight back on so many pass plays ,speed & coverage ability trump take on skills in this defense .They could rival the 49ers for coverage LB's if they make this pick . Having the hall of fame duo of Brian Urlacher and Lance Briggs at LB in Chicago was a big part of what made Lovie's defense work in the windy city .


39.JACKSONVILLE-JIMMY GAROPPOLO-QB-E.ILL-NFL COMP-KURT WARNER-retired-I no longer have any faith in Blaine Gabbert to be a NFL starter. If they had brought in Tebow they would have at least won more games and sold tickets. Rather than over-drafting Manziel  the Jags took the best player available in Clowney at #3 . Clowney(at#3) and Garroppolo(#39) are definitely a better combo than Manziel at #3 and the best edge rusher they could get at this point. Jimmy is a gamer with a good football IQ, accuracy, and a lightning quick release . Think Kurt Warner with more mobility  .

40.MINNESOTA-DEREK CARR-QB-FRES.ST-NFL COMP-TONY ROMO-DALL-Christian Ponders injury history and fragile psyche worries me. He missed significant time this year, the Vikes had a bad record, and he didn't play that well anyway . Matt Cassel and Josh Freeman both got a shot this season too and neither did anything to win the long term job . The Vikes need a QB badly ,and while I am not a big fan of Derek Carr's,  the Vikings need somebody . The Vikes have a strong O-Line and running game .Plus you know Zimmer will make their defense better.  Those are things that give a young developing QB a good chance at success . Throw in QB Guru Norv Turner and maybe Carr's happy feet and inability to make plays under pressure can be fixed .Personally I would take  ,McCarron, Garroppolo or Mettenburger, over Carr, but I don't think Turner will . Garoppolo is also used to playing outdoors in the wind & cold. This a key advantage over Derek Carr, because for the next 2 years the Vikings will be playing outdoors while their new stadium is being built .Norv likes really strong arms though. That means Carr or Mettenburger , but Zach's injury points to Carr being the guy .


41.BUFFALO-GABE JACKSON-G-MISS ST-NFL COMP-LARRY WARFORD-DET-Doug Legursky and especially Colin Brown were bad at left guard last season. Jackson is along term starter from the SEC who improved every year .Jackspo has a strong anchor to keep a pocket clean and allow his young QB room to step up . This team wants to run the ball ,and moving people against their will is Gabe's specialty .


42.TENNESEE-#CARLOS HYDE-RB-OHIO.ST-NFL COMP-DUECE McCALLISTER-Ken Whisenhunt is going to want to run the ball , and I doubt they pay the underachieving Chris Johnson's 8 million dollar salary this year. With the talent on this O-line any talented back should put up big numbers, even with Jake Locker as the QB . Hyde is a large well rounded power back that wears down defenses , and looks strongest late in games. He's a closer that would take a lot of pressure off of Locker .


43.GIANTS-Ja'WUAN JAMES-OT-TENN-NFL COMP-ERIC WINSTON-KC-The giants O-line was abysmal last season. Even former perennial all-pro Chris Snee played badly , although injury was a part of that , and he ended up missing most of the season .Still he will be 32 next season and is on the decline .  LT William Beatty played well enough to get a new contract in 2012, but played like crap after he got it. 1rst round draft pick Justin Pugh played right tackle poorly for the 1rst half of the season but he did improve in the second half . His short arms make me think he would be a better fit inside anyway .With David Diehl finally put out to pasture and Kevin Boothe  shuffled between LG and center they need at least 1 new O-lineman . As a 4 year starter at right tackle for the Vols there is no denying that James was a stalwart in the SEC . His strength is pass blocking right now, so Eli will be happy .A year or two in a NFL weight room should allow him to get more of the push in the run game you would expect from a right tackle long term anyway.  Putting him at right tackle also allows the G-men to put Pugh at left guard and Boothe at center. Improving 3 positions at once seems like a good idea to me. 
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44.MINN-(stl)-#RA'SHEDE HAGEMAN-DT-MINN-NFL COMP-JOHN HENDERSON-Future HOFers Kevin Williams and Jared Allen are both past their prime free agents this off season. Williams might be back at a lesser salary because he has been a Viking his entire career and played better than Allen last year. Plus the Vikes still have veterans Brian Robinson and Everson Griffen at DE  . Although Griffen is also a FA his limited sample size make me think he can be affordably resigned  .  Young Shariff Floyd will need a running mate long term even if they bring back Williams. Hagemen is a Minnesota hometown boy and one of the more talented players in the draft . A team that likes to draft talent above production may draft him a lot higher . His lack of consistency and motor on tape make this about as high as he really should go .

45.LIONS-DEVANTE ADAMS-WR-FRES.ST-NFL COMP-JAMES JONES-GB-Back before the Lions finally found their long term #1 WR in Calvin Johnson in the 2007 draft they had already taken three other guys in first round with very little success. From 2003 #2 overall Charles Rogers, 2004 #7 Overall Roy Williams , and 2005 #10 overall Mike Williams they got the equivalent of 2 good seasons and a whole lot of pissed off fans. Although in addition to being the one guy who gave them 2 good seasons Roy Williams at least brought them a haul of draft picks when Jerry Jones foolishly gave them way too much for his disappointing talents. Since Calvin came along they have struggled to find a #2 wide receiver. Whether its through free agency or the draft no one has measured up for a myriad of reasons. Johnson has routinely been double/ triple teamed by anyone with a brain because no other Lions receiver has been successful enough to make them back off him. New coach Jim Caldwell will see the same thing and this is the best way to remedy the situation . Adams is an explosive sure handed receiver that Stafford could count on long term. 

46.STEELERS-*CYRUS KOUANDJIO-OT-ALA-NFL COMP-JASON PETERS-PHIL--Left Tackle Mike Adams was so bad that the Steelers actually traded for Levi Brown, and he was a bad LT for the cards. Even a giant like Big Ben has trouble throwing with people draped all over him. . Adding Cyrus to Pouncey , Decastro , and Bell would also go a long way towards bringing the power running game to Steel town .Kouanjou had a bad combine . First the medical checks revealed that he has a degenerative knee condition .Then he looked heavy footed and stiff compared to most of the other possible top OT's . So that probably means the first round is bye-bye. How many years can he play at a high level ? 3-5-7 ? Or will he be able to play 10 years but need to miss games periodically to rest his knee ? There is no way of knowing for sure because each individual is different . I like to be conservative so I will say 5 years . He is still a huge framed, long armed guy with decent feet .So I think he still goes mid second round to a team that hasn't flunked his physical , and sees a bargain .Right now if you put Cyrus in at left tackle it would still be an upgrade over what they currently have . Although that's not saying much, but I think his best fit long term is on the right side . If he can play at an above average level throughout his first contract he is still worth this pick .



47.DALLAS-JIMMY WARD-S-N.ILL-NFL COMP-EARL THOMAS-SEA-Dallas wisely spent their first round-pick on their woeful defensive line in this scenario . Now they need to address the other glaring are of need on their defense- Safety. Veteran Barry Church is a serviceable tough guy in the box safety , but his upside isn't going much farther. Last year they drafted recent defensive convert JJ Wilcox in the 3rd round , but he didn't make a lot of progress as the season went along , and long term he seems more of a threat to take Church's job . The surprising Ward is a player that I liked more and more with each additional game that I watched. He can play free safety , strong safety, and even line up and cover the slot . He is also an excellent tackler . Something I am sure long suffering Dallas fans haven't had at the position since Darren Woodson .

48.RAVENS-XAVIER SU'A-FILO-G/T-UCLA-NFL COMP-MAX UNGER-SEA-The Raven line is in flux right now . Marshall Yanda is probably the only blocker that can be counted on to return and start in Baltimore next season, unless they franchise tag Eugene Monroe to keep him . .In 2013 Gino Gradkowski became the starter at center by default and played horrible. It had to look even worse to his teammates than it was , and that's saying something . After years of watching future HOFer Matt Birk previously man the pivot the comparison had to be even more striking.  Xavier can play all 5 positions along the O-Line , but I believe center is his best position .  If you are going to pay Flacco 20 million a year you better keep him clean . Adding Su'as versatility to Yanda's would go a long way toward getting the Ravens 5 best lineman on the field at the same time .

49.JETS-ALLEN ROBINSON-WR-PENN ST-NFL COMP-DEZ BRYANT-DAL - Santonio Holmes production could easily be replaced by the reliable Robinson . Geno Smith needs weapons . Robinson is big , fierce, and explosive . Adding him with Ebron not only helps their young QB out in the passing game, those 2 guys are the kind of blockers that spring running backs for long gains down the field .


50.MIAMI-CHRIS BORLAND-ILB-WISC-NFL COMP-STEPHEN TULLOCH-DET-The dolphins signed Daniel Ellerbee and Phillip Wheeler to free agent contracts lsast year and neither played well. They are both a better fit in the outside as Ellerbee lacks the strength and technique to stack and shed blockers .  Borland is the kind of instinctual hard working gamer that will probably outplay his draft status. If he was just 2 inches taller Borland would be a easy 1rst round pick .

51.BEARS-KYLE VAN NOY-OLB-BYU-NFL COMP-KJ WRIGHT-SEA-I am convinced the intelligent and smooth Van Noy can play any linebacker spot in a odd or even front. After the retirement of Urlacher the Bears turned over the middle to rookie 2nd rounder Jon Bostic .  The results weren't pretty. I am not saying to give up on him just yet ,but someone young that can play the middle if he falters again would be wise. 31 year old James Anderson was just plain bad last year . Future HOFer Lance Briggs is 34 and near the end of a great career. Van Noy would be an upgrade somewhere in the bear LB core.


52.ARIZONA-#JACK MEWHORT-OT-NFL COMP-DAVID STEWART-TENN-While I expected the cardinals offense to be much improved with Carson Palmer ,he threw way too many picks this season. Even then Carson was much better than everyone else they have had since Kurt Warner retired , but he would have been better with more time to throw .The cards are a good team , but the NFC west is now the most talented division in football. The 49ers and Seahawks are likely legitimate perennial super bowl contenders . The young and talented rams would be a playoff contender in every other division in my opinion and they are only going to get better from this drafts 2 high first rounders. The cards finally gave up on former LT Levi Brown early in the year, and turned the blindside over to preseason waiver wire pickup Bradley Sowell. That hasn't gone very well either.  While I am not convinced Mewhort is a NFL left tackle right now , and wouldn't take him in the first round , he's worth a shot about here . I do believe in his long term potential as a RT at the very least . He would still probably be a upgrade over anyone the cards have at LT right now.


53.GREEN BAY-CJ FIEDOROWICZ-TE-IOWA-NFL COMP-MERCEDES LEWIS-JAX-DALL-The pack needs a new TE to replace Jermichael Finley. Finley is as talented as they come but his mental errors. inconsistent hands, injury history, and lack of will to help out blocking make him expendable . CJ is a more traditional inline TE.  His blocking alone would help their new running game and to keep Rodgers healthy. His strong hands and receiving ability could make their offense rival Denver's.

54.EAGLES-#LOUICHEIZ PURIFOY-CB-FLA-NFL COMP-CHARLES WOODSON-OAK-Chip Kelly likes long tall corners . Louicheiz is a tall speedy corner that is a lights out special teamer, can also play safety, and he can even play offense if you need him to .He had a less impressive combine than expected, or he wouldn't even be available this late .He certainly looks faster in the game than he did in the underwear Olympics . My guess is he does a lot better at his pro day and his stock rebounds some. If it doesn't I still think he will be a good free safety & special teams ace . Since the eagles need help at both positions he is an even better fit .


55.BENGALS-*ZACH METTENBURGER-QB-LSU-NFL COMP-JOE FLACCO-BALT-The Bengals have one of the 3 most talented rosters from top to bottom in the league. They also have a top 5 O-line and a ton of talent at the skill positions. What they lack is a QB that can avoid turning the ball over too much , and come through in the clutch. I truly believe if any of the other QB's in the playoffs were the Bengals starter they would have been the AFC favorite to go the super bowl. They could also trade up for/sign a veteran QB to compete for the starting QB job , because Dalton does not make enough money to preclude them adding a more expensive QB . Mettenburger's knee injury would also give the Bengals solid spin control while still putting pressure on Andy Dalton . They could say that they are just protecting themselves for the future because Andy's a free agent after this season, and that Zach isn't even eligible to play to start the year because he is still recovering from his torn ACL . They can put him on the retrievable IR list and he can come off the list late in the season if Dalton falters again . Mettenburger is Daltons' opposite. A huge framed rocket armed pocket passer that is coming out of a pro style system .


56.DETROIT-(49ers,kc)-LaMARCUS JOYNER-CB/S-FLA.ST-NFL COMP-TYRANN MATHIEU-AZ-With the Lions being a bit tight on their salary cap Louis Delmas was a luxury they couldn't afford. He is a good enough player to be a starter, but was overpaid for his level of production , and has had injury issues in the past . They saved 5 million off the cap by getting rid of him , and now they need a new safety  . The versatile Joyner can play both corner & safety . His best fit is to be used as as a slot corner safety hybrid , the same way the cards use the honey badger He is also the kind of guy that will push everyone around him to play better  .


57.CHARGERS-TRE MASON-RB-AUB-NFL COMP-MAURICE JONES-DREW-FA- This is probably the last season for Ryan Mathews as a charger even though he is coming off his best season as a pro .His career long penchant for fumbling or getting hurt at the worst time was finally avoided for once in 2013 . However betting on it 2 years in a row seems far fetched to me right now .Danny Woodhead is a great complimentary player,  but its hard to imagine that his small frame could handle 300 touches. Mason is a physical runner who plays bigger than he is, can still bust the big play , and who has proved he can carry a full load the whole game .


58.SAINTS -KEITH McGILL-CB/S-UTAH-NFL COMP-RASHEAN MATHIS-DET-SEA-Jabari Greer is 32  , coming off a torn ACL, and the Saints will be able to save 4 million off the cap if they cut him this off-season .The large framed McGill is one of the next wave of big cover corners coming into this copycat league because of the success of Seattle .His All-star game success has probably moved him into the first 2 rounds. The scarcity of corners after the first 50 picks makes it much more likely the bigger ones will be over drafted . Even if he isn't a fit as a corner I think he would make a good safety .


59.COLTS-DAVID YANKEY-G/T-STAN-NFL COMP-MARSHALL YANDA-BALT-It's really good that Andrew Luck is a big strapping mobile QB . Otherwise I doubt he would have survived the season intact with the horrible way his guards and center played this year . You think Luck's great now ? Imagine him with time to throw without a couple of dudes about to smack him in the teeth , and a lot less bruises. The colts need to draft a guard and center with their first 2 picks (and maybe even sign another in free agency) to give him a chance to reach his vast potential .Yankey played his college ball with Luck at Stanford , and although he has played left tackle in the past , he is absolutely better inside at guard. I doubt the browns will franchise pro bowl center Alex Mack . If so the Colts should back the money truck up on his doorstep at midnight of free agency and make him the leagues highest paid center  .If they can get Mack and Yankey in one off-season this O-line will go from a weakness to a strength .


60.PANTHERS-JARVIS LANDRY-WR-LSU-NFL COMP-JERICHO COTCHERY-PITT-  Like the Houston Texans before them the panthers seem destined to wait far too long to draft a top receiver to pair with their aging # 1 guy. Steve Smith is past his prime & undersized, but he is still the best WR on this team . You would think they would want to do everything they can to help their young franchise QB succeed, but they sure are going about it in a weird way. . Landry is an old school tough guy receiver. He pulled up running his forty ,and didn't have the best combine, but I still like him. I am betting he does a lot better on his pro day , but even if he doesn't I still believe in him . Landry will do the dirty work inside & underneath,  and allow other guys to make big plays down the field . Speed aside, Landry has the best hands & is the best blocker of everyone in this deep WR class . I just have trouble with seeing this good of a football player make it to the 3rd round .


61.SAN FRANCISCO-PAUL RICHARDSON-WR-COL-NFL COMP-NATE WASHINGTON-TENN-Right now the best option the 49ers receiving core has to run by the defense is (30 years old next year) TE Vernon Davis. Boldin and Crabtree are more big bodied move the chains guys . Mario Manningham is also a free agents this off-season . Richardson would not only be lightning out of the slot or outside , he could also open up their offense with reverses/end arounds, bubble screens etc...  It would probably be nice to have a guy that can run right past the defense when they bite on play action .It would be hard for even the cannon-armed Kaeperneck to overthrow him.


62.PATRIOTS-AUSTIN SEFERIAN-JENKINS-TE-WASH-NFL COMP-MARTELLUS BENNET-CHI-The entire offense the Patriots want to run is predicated on 2 tight end sets . Right now even if Gronk is completely healthy for the season he is called on to block a lot , because he is far better than any other blocking TE the pats have . Jenkins is also a good blocker who would allow Gronk to spend more time wreaking havoc down field . Austin is also sure handed and athletic enough to also be a threat as a receiver as well . Historically the Belichick led Patriots have always loved getting players who fall due to character and injury issues much later than they should go . It's actually how they got both Gronk and Hernandez . In light of Aaron's off the field activities the character faller's might be on the back-burner for a few years , but the injured guys are still in play . Jenkins has the talent of a top 10 pick, but his effort isn't always top notch from play to play , and he looked out of shape to me this year  . He looked in much better shape at the combine , but a reported routine injury he should be healed from before the draft prevented him from working out. Their is a lot of tape inconsistent tape on him, so it really matters. A huge bodied TE of his talent level ,that is a sure handed receiver and physical blocker ,shouldn't last much longer than this  .If he is in still in shape & the injury is healing fine when his medical re-check comes he could still go much higher .Still, if he can't workout at all before the draft after a year of being heavy, I could see him falling this far .


63.BRONCOS-STANLEY JEAN-BAPTISTE-CB/S-NEB-NFL COMP-RICHARD SHERMAN-SEA-With future HOFer Champ Bailey on the verge of being 36, coming off an injury, played poorly this year, can save the Broncos about 10 million off their cap, and his only chance to stay is probably with a move to safety . I don't think he can keep up at corner anymore so the Broncos might need a new corner in the draft . Throw in that Rodgers-Cromartie is a free agent this off-season and it actually might be their biggest need come draft day .Specifically a taller corner with long arms like Baptiste .  


***TRADE*** DALLAS trades their 3rd round(#78) and 4th round picks to the SEAHAWKS for their 2nd round(#64) pick***


64.DALLAS-(sea)-AJ McCARRON-QB-ALA-NFL COMP-MATT RYAN-ATL-Personally I believe Tony Romo has been one of the leagues top 10 QB'S  for a while, and his play has been the main reason a overrated roster has actually been in a position to make the playoffs the last 3 years. Still, the pressure of always getting the majority of the blame for the Cowboys woes( instead of placing it squarely on Jerry Jones interfering shoulders) has got to be wearing on him . Now he is 34 , coming off back-to-back BACK surgeries, and his guaranteed money runs out after the 2015 season . This back injury is a disc , and that may limit his amazing pocket mobility, which is one of his greatest strengths  . Throw in that some of the games Dallas has choked away actually are due to something Romo did, that the salary cap strapped Boys can save over 3 million off the cap by cutting Kyle Orton, and a heir apparent QB is a huge need right now . McCarrons last bowl game being the rare exception, AJ is known for playing his best in the biggest games in the SEC, and for not turning the ball over. That makes him the opposite of what Romo is routinely accused of .AJ was a winner at College football's most recognizable program ,who has always been overlooked despite his success, has a huge chip on his shoulder, a high football IQ, just enough arm strength, and a supermodel girlfriend. No pressure, but that kinda sounds like Tom Brady's bio, and the blueprint personality that can put up with all the crap that comes with being the QB of Americas team  . Except AJ was more successful in college and got the girl even earlier . Now if he would only stop listening to his agents about things like skipping the senior bowl . Thank GOD his competitive streak kicked in ,and he threw(and threw well) at the combine . NFL coaches infatuation with stronger arms is why we have him being the 7th QB being drafted and going at the end of the 2nd round here .I have him as the 4th QB and rated as a low first round pick in my personal rankings .