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 . Franchise 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 . Free agency has already changed the landscape of many teams , and its far from over, So a fair amount of picks will be changing in the next few weeks .
* 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-JACKSONVILLE-BLAKE BORTLES-QB-UCF-NFL COMP-STEVE McNAIR- retired-yep... they lost twice to the jags...okay? Matt 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 . Anyway, it helps them a ton so their fans should be happy as Teddy Bridgewater officially declared for the draft on new years day. They are now getting the clear cut #1 QB in the draft . Or are they? New coach Bill O'brien likes tall pocket passers , and Bortles college coach George O'leary is a mentor of O'briens . Bortles has the highest upside and best frame of any QB in this draft , but he is nowhere near the polished QB Bridgewater is right now. So while I would take Teddy, I am not a QB guru who thinks he can help Blake reach his potential .
***TRADE*** FALCONS trade their 1rst (#6) round pick in this draft and their #1 pick in 2015 for the RAMS #2 overall pick this year ***TRADE***
2.FALCONS-(rams,wash)-#*JADEVEON CLOWNEY-DE/OLB-S.CAROLINA-NFL COMP-MARIO WILLIAMS-BUFF-The Falcons lack of a pass rush was obvious to anyone who watched them this year. Their young corners played very well when you consider how long they had to cover too often . GM Thomas Dimitroff showed when he went after Julius Jones that he is wiling to sacrifice picks to go up and get a special player . Well Jadeveon Clowney is special , and unless the Texans take him number one overall I am betting the Falcons at least make an offer to move up and get him . In this case the Rams didn't get a better offer and the Falcons got their man .
3.JAGUARS-TEDDY BRIDGEWATER-QB-NFL COMP-LVILLE-AARON RODGERS-GB-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. I figured they screwed the pooch when they beat the Texans twice, and missed out on the clear cut best QB in this draft in Teddy Bridgewater . However, the Texans actually passed on him in this scenario and Teddy will be probably be punishing them for (12-15 years , or however long he plays for them) his entire career in their division . Bridgewater has the high football IQ , accuracy , strong arm, quick eyes, pocket presence, poise, and foot speed that every team wants in a franchise QB . If this happens I expect this will go down as the best pick in the Jags history up until now . To be clear I see Teddy as a clear cut franchise QB that ANY team should be falling all over themselves to pick. 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 .
4.BROWNS-#*JOHNNY MANZIEL-QB-TEXAS A&M-NFL COMP-FRAN TARKENTON-retired- I re-watched all of this year game film on my top 7 QB's in the last 2 weeks. My new major conclusions are that I wouldn't take Manziel with a top 10 pick unless I was willing to tailor my offense to him, and that I wouldn't take Derek Carr until at least the 3rd round . So I wouldn't take him at #4 unless that was the plan, but that doesn't mean the Browns and their fans agree with me . I really didn't think they would take any QB besides Bridgewater or Bortles if they fell to #4 . Since it isn't likely that either falls this far they would have to trade up to get either . Since so many Browns fans don't seem to want to do that let's explore what happens if they just wait until the 4th pick , and what their options would be .The browns leaking to multiple outlets they want Manziel screamed that they were hoping to get someone to trade up with , or ahead of them for him . I was thinking maybe they would trade up for Bridgewater/Bortles , sign or trade for(Ryan Mallet?) a QB , or draft a QB with their second first rounder . Anything but taking Manziel at# 4. If the rams trade out of #2 its because a team is trading up for Clowney or a QB .That means Clowney, Bridgewater, and Bortles are all gone . If the rams stay put at #2 they still could take Clowney and kick Chris Long inside. Their D-line would be better than Detroit's if they did . However, I would guess there is only about a 20% chance of that happening . With a bad O-line & lacking a true #1 receiver they can actually get good value and fill a need at # 2 .Having the choice of serious franchise tackles at the top of the draft in Matthews/Robinson & Sammy Watkins at receiver , I expect they would take one of these three if they stayed out . Clowney and a QB could also go. So that means that theirs a tiny chance Blake falls to #4 . However, the chances of that are probably less than Clowney himself falling to #4 . So lets go with the obvious -Clowney, Bridgewater, and Bortles are really all gone .That leaves Manziel if you want one of the big 3 QB's , and the old regime obviously didn't want him . Then they fired their head coach, QB coach, and GM .Maybe the new regime wants Manziel , or the owner wanted a regime who did . When they signed Kyle Shanahan as their new offensive coordinator I doubted it though . That should rule out Manziel for me, but I can see why the new regime might think it would work . 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 believe a guy with Manziels reported anti-authority streak gets along with Kyle for long . Manziels ( even greater than RG3's ) creative streak would be stifled , and I doubt it would end happily . Who knows ? Maybe Kyle learned from his mistakes in Washington , and not having his dad around will cause him to loosen the chains, but I doubt it .I am going to act like they are giving it a shot though . Personally if I wanted Manziel , and wanted to run the same offense Shanahan does, I would have just hired Gray Kubiak instead
5.OAKLAND-GREG ROBINSON-OT-AUBURN-NFL COMP-ORLANDO PACE-retired-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 .Then again maybe not . Resigning DE Lamar Houston and Tackle Jared Veldheer should have been their first priorities, but both signed with someone else. The raiders payed more for Roger Saffold of the rams to play left tackle, than the cardinals payed Veldheer . even though right tackle or guard are the injury prone Saffold's best positions . Now that they have the cap room to fill holes with veterans and be competitive you would hope they would spend it wisely , but not so far .Austin Howard is still a young guy at right tackle , and he has improved in back to back years, but they overpaid him too . Last years 2nd rounder OT Menekik Watson must be moved to guard now I guess . They also resigned last years RT Khalif Barnes, but he was bad as a starter, so at least he's just a backup . Thankfully the "failed physical "of Saffold saved them from themselves . Either that or owner Mark Davis is smarter than his GM .The raiders need good players anywhere on the field . With the top 3 QB's in this draft gone the Raiders should definitely skip a QB this high and take the best player available . Michael Vick or another veteran can help this team at QB now , just in case the young guy I have them taking later isn't ready to start right away . The best player available is Mack , Watkins , Matthews or Robinson . With the Saffold deal being cancelled at the last minute Robinson fits the Raiders . Robinson is a mauler that will help keep Sam 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 . 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 . Robinson is a elite athlete for his size that can help 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.
6.RAMS-(atl)-JAKE MATTHEWS-OT-TEX A&M-NFL COMP-DUANE BROWN-HOU-. If they can't make the playoffs (even in the NFC west) with all the draft picks they have had in the last 3 years by 2015 Jeff Fisher will get fired . 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 next 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.
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 Glennon has to compete with newly signed veteran Josh McCown to be the starting 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 .Adding the violent and destructive force that Mack is to the freshly signed Michael Johnson will go a long way towards making Lovie's defense work . 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 .
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***TRADE*** 49ers TRADE their 1rst round pick(#30) and KC's 2nd round pick (#56) Tennessee's 3rd round pick(#77) and their own 4th ,6th ,and 7th round picks to the VIKINGS for their first round pick(#8) this year ***
8.SAN FRANCISCO-(minn)-SAMMY WATKINS-WR-CLEMSON-NFL COMP-PIERRE GARCON-WASH-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 agent this off-season . Watkins is the best offensive weapon in this draft . 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, and also helps out in the return game . 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 .Defensive coordinators would have to spend time game planning to stop him, and his presence would open up the field for all the other skill players on the roster .
9.BUFFALO-TAYLOR LEWAN-OT-MICHIGAN-NFL COMP-JAKE LONG-RAMS- Right tackle Erik Pears is serviceable as a pass blocker but in this run first offense you need a push he just doesn't give. Lewan would be an upgrade in both areas and protecting EJ Manuel and opening holes for CJ Spiller/Fred Jackson should be this franchises main concern. The nasty Lewan plays with the kind of edge the die-hard Buffalo faithful will love .They also might want to trade back and acquire more picks , because they really need help at guard and TE .
10.LIONS-JUSTIN GILBERT-CB-OKLA.ST-NFL COMP-PATRICK PETERSEN-AZ-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 . 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 the Lions have a new # 1 corner
11.TITANS-CJ MOSLEY-ILB-ALABAMA-NFL COMP-DERRICK JOHNSON-KC- Between often injured Colin McCarthy & subpar Moisee Fokou the titans have a gaping hole at ILB that CJ can fill. LB's that can cover or rush the passer are the only ones worth drafting in the 1rst round in todays pass happy NFL. CJ can also play the middle or the weak side . While I am not a big fan of Jake Locker as a QB, they were winning before Jake got hurt and that probably buys him another season.
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.RAMS-DARQUEZE DENNARD-CB-MICH-ST-NFL COMP-JOE HADEN-CLEV - This week the Rams cut 30 year old corner Cortland Finnegan after a down year . While Finnegan is still one of the loudest smack talking players in the game his salary wasn't worth anywhere near what he gave the team last season .Darqueze is the most physical and best pure press man corner in this draft . Dennard can give the rams a bigger, younger, cheaper alternative to pair with Janoris Jenkins .
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.
***TRADE*** JETS trade their 1rst(#15) and 3rd round picks to the STEELERS for their 1rst(#18) and 5th round picks ***TRADE***
15.NYJ-(pitt)-ANTHONY BARR-DE/OLB-UCLA-NFL COMP-DeMARCUS WARE-DALL-The fall stops as the Jets wisely trade up ahead of 3 teams that could badly use Barr's talents to take him .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 .
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 . Sadly Dalllas cut HOFer Demarcus Ware (7.4 million cap savings) in a salary cap move. He is still very good ,but after back-to-back injury riddled down seasons the cash strapped boys couldn't 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 now need to stay put to get him , and might even need to 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 and Eugene Monroe are probably the only blockers that can be counted on to return and start in Baltimore next season . 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. Before that game I saw him as more of a second round tackle, who might be a better fit at guard ,as 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.STEELERS-(nyj)-KYLE FULLER-CB-VA,TECH-NFL COMP-JASON McCOURTY-TENN- Ike Taylor has had a great career for Pittsburgh but his once great speed is fading . Add that he had a horrible year , and that this defense desperately needs to get younger . Even though he will be back next season after a paycut another corner is still needed in Steeltown . Fuller would give them a new,young, healthy, corner to cover the AJ Greens and Josh Gordon's of the division . 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 .
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-*DEE FORD-OLB/DE-AUBURN-NFL COMP-CLAY MATTHEWS-GB-With the Cardinals signing Veldheer to be their new left tackle , an edge rusher or TE should be the guy here . Ford is a versatile player who can rush off the edge , 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 the best candidate left in this scenario . it .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 dominated 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. Now that he has finally worked out for scouts I believe he is clearly ahead of Kony Ealy, and unless his back ends up getting flagged by a team he will be the 3rd rush backer off the board .
21.PACKERS-*LOUIS NIX-NT-N.DAME-NFL COMP-VINCE WILFORK-NE-Rumors are going around that BJ Raji has made it clear he not only doesn't want to play nose tackle , but that he doesn't even want to play inside in a 2 gap scheme . That means he is no longer a fit in Green Bay. Lucky for them there is a better nose tackle available to them in this draft . Nix is that rare player who is big and strong enough to play 3-4 nose and still get a pass rush. The way Raji played last year this is a big upgrade .
22.EAGLES-HA'HA CLINTON DIX-S-ALABAMA-NFL COMP-HARRISON SMITH-S-MINN-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 . Dix is the better all around run defender, tackler, and he probably won't have the same amount of penalties Pryor does . Plus Chip Kelly likes length and Dix is taller with longer arms .
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 . Unless they sign some new O-lineman to replace the ones leaving in free agency soon, that will be their main focus .
24.BENGALS-SCOTT CRICHTON-DE-ORE.ST-NFL COMP-RYAN KERRIGAN-WASH-Losing Michael Johnson is a blow to the Bengals defense, but you an't pay everybody inn the salary cap era . The versatile Crichton plays with the strength to hold down the strong side , but he has also played weak-side end, has kicked inside , and was the focal point of offensive blocking schemes .He has the relentless motor of a good NFL pass rusher ,and should see enough one on one blocks in Cincinnati to make an immediate impact as a rookie .
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)-CALVIN PRYOR-S-LVILLE-NFL COMP-KENNY PHILLIPS-NYG-The browns defense took a step back when they lost TJ Ward and replaced him with Donte Whitner . What they need to get the most out of Whitner's in the box skills is a center fielder free safety with a lot of range . Pryor has the range ,but he is also capable of being a inn-the-box physical intimidator that offensive skill players should come to fear in the near future . He can also cover the slot if needed. He could be in line for some fines and penalties until he adjust to the NFL's rules .
27.SAINTS-KONY EALY-DE/OLB-MIZZOU-NFL COMP-OSI UMENYIORA-ATL-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. 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 .
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-ERIC EBRON-TE-N.CAR-NFL COMP-DWAYNE ALLEN-INDY-While this might seem like a dream scenario to some, it could actually happen . I could see Ebron going as high as #9 , but barring some injury/off the field catastrophe I can't see him falling any farther than here . This is a deep TE class at the top , but the only team whose number #1 draft need is tight end is the patriots .Throw in that very few tight ends go in the first round, that tight ends tend to fall on draft day, and that Ebron has inconsistent hands & dreams come true for the Patriots fans . 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 . Ebron is also a good blocker who would allow Gronk to spend more time wreaking havoc down field . Ebron 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 for some reason . It's actually how they got both Gronk and Hernandez .
30,VIKINGS-(49ers)-JIMMY GAROPPOLO-QB-E.ILL-NFL COMP-KURT WARNER-retired--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 I like Garoppolo more and more every day. 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 Jimmy's development can be sped up by a lot .
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31.DENVER-KELVIN BENJAMIN-WR-FLA ST-NFL COMP-CALVIN JOHNSON-DET-Denver has wisely been spending their free agent money on defense this off-season . You might think on a offense this profound that the loss of Eric Decker wouldn't be a big deal, but I disagree .87 catches for about 1300 yards and 11 TD's is hard to replace anywhere . Add that Peyton Manning is the master of exploiting mismatches and the humongous Benjamin can fit right in . God only knows how many times Peyton will throw it up to where only Kelvin can catch it .
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-*STEPHON TUITT-DE/DT-N.DAME-NFL COMP-RICHARD SEYMOUR-(fa)-
34.WASHINGTON-BRANDIN COOKS-WR-ORE.ST-NFL COMP-PERCY HARVIN-SEA-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 CB worth this high a pick in this scenario , make this pick a much better value as well . While the 5"10" Cooks would be the little guy among the trio (with Garcon & Reed) his electric change of direction out of the slot would mean a lot of big plays. 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 .
35.CLEVELAND-(indy)-XAVIER SU'A-FILO-G/T-UCLA-NFL COMP-MAX UNGER-SEA-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. Xavier can play all 5 positions along the O-Line , but I believe guard is his best position . He can start at guard , but if they can't resign Alex Mack , Su'a can move inside .
36.OAKLAND-AJ McCARRON-QB-ALA-NFL COMP-MATT RYAN-ATL-We all know the Raiders need a QB, but at the combine Raiders owner said that Head Coach Dennis Allen and GM Reggie Mckenzie know this is a make or break year .Translation-If we don't do a LOT better your both fired . that means you need a QB that is ready to play now. Other than Bridgewater , AJ McCarron is the most pro style ready QB in this draft . Also ,the raiders need a QB of the future if they want to convince the fan base that they are serious about competing long term as well. 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.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 . 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 4th QB being drafted and going in the 2nd round here .I have him rated as a low first round pick in my personal rankings .
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-JEREMIAH ATTACHOU-OLB/DE-GA.TECH-NFL COMP-JUSTIN HOUSTON - KC- Head coach Gus Bradley is a Pete Carrol protege who wants to man uo his corneers outside and then bring pressure up front . Unfortunately the aging & well paid Jason Babin is the only player who got much pressure last season . Even if they decide to keep Babin and pay his 6 million dollar salary after a down season , help rushing the passer is needed . Attachou can play the LEO LB position in this defense and weak-side end in their 4-3 .
40.MINNESOTA-GABE JACKSON-G-MISS ST-NFL COMP-LARRY WARFORD-DET-Free agent Charlie Johnson has been a serviceable player at guard for the vikings , but he ihad a down year last season and a infusion of youth at giurd should help the vikings . Jackson was a long term starter in the SEC who improved every year .Jackson also 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 .
41.BUFFALO-JIMMY WARD-S-N.ILL-NFL COMP-EARL THOMAS-SEA-Unfortunately the bills lost All-Pro safety Jairus Byrd to the Saints in free agency . 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 .
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, and the only running back in this draft I gave a first round grade to . If it weren't for the off the field and maturity questions I believe he would actually be drafted in the first round .
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 , and even after a pay cut the G-man should look to the future on the O-line . 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. RAMS-LaMARCUS JOYNER-CB/S-FLA.ST-NFL COMP-TYRANN MATHIEU-AZ-In the last 2 years under Jeff Fisher the rams have made a large jump in talent thanks to the RG3 trade and a few free agent deals. The area they have neglected is safety with only the injured TJ McDonald being brought in through the draft. Why they cut Quintin Mikel is beyond me and this will probably be a need . 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 .
45.LIONS-WILL SUTTON-DT-AZ-NFL COMP-KYLE WILLIAMS-BUFF-With Ndamuking Suh holding the Lions hostage with his huge salary , and so far refusing to alleviate their salary cap burden unless he gets a deal that pays him QB money, the Lions need to plan wisely for the future at DT . I have little doubt they find a way to keep Suh eventually, but if they brake the bank for him how will they afford Nick Fairley next off-season ? Fairley is a good player , and while he's not Suh , I bet he wants to be paid like him . Enter the confusing Sutton. After a dominant junior year he took to heart the criticism of NFL teams that he was too small at 280 pounds .After ballooning up to a reported 320 this year his play wasn't as good, and he often looked gassed lugging that extra weight around .. He has been steadily dropping weight since the Senior bowl, but I think it will take awhile for his body to adjust. He was the Aaron Donald of 2012 . So if he can regain that form he is worth a top 15 pick . In this deep draft the middle of the second round is about where I would take the chance on him . I bet playing next to studs like Suh and Fairley will cause his competitive juices to start flowing and give him a good chance to reach that potential . He will at least be a valuable part of the rotation this year , and it stands to reason he can give more in less snaps while he rounds into shape .Sutton could then step right in for Nick next season ...
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 the Steelers currently have , although that's not saying much . I do think his best fit long term is on the right side though . If he can play at an above average level throughout his first contract he is still worth this pick .
47.DALLAS-JORDAN MATTHEWS-WR-VANDY-NFL COMP-JORDY NELSON-GB- Dez Bryant was routinely double teamed last season , and with Jason Witten being the only TE Dallas has that is a good blocker, he was kept in a lot of the time . With the perennially injured Miles Austin a very possible salary cap casualty, Terrence Williams and Cole Beasley not really scaring defenses yet, horrible blocking Gavin Escobar hardly seeing the field, and Dez having his own past injury/off the field concerns & current wishes for a new big contract -Dallas needs an alternate #1 receiver . The polished Matthews can give Romo a threat that will be where he is supposed to be, can be relied upon to make the catch , and even block .
48.RAVENS-*MARCUS MARTIN-C/G-USC-NFL COMP-MIKE POUNCEY-MIA-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. Martin has played guard very well , 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 Martins versatility to Yanda's would go a long way toward getting the Ravens 5 best lineman on the field at the same time . Martin was a surprising late entry into the draft. .He will be one of the first interior lineman off the board .
49.JETS-AUSTIN SEFERIAN-JENKINS-TE-WASH-NFL COMP-MARTELLUS BENNET-CHI- In todays NFL tight ends are sometimes the # 1 receivers on their teams .If a NFL teams # 1 TE only had 61 catches for 630 yards it would be just serviceable. That is what ALL the TE's on the buccaneers roster combined produced last season . 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 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 , Give Geno more weapons, and then you will know what he can or can't do .
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-*ZACH METTENBURGER-QB-LSU-NFL COMP-JOE FLACCO-BALT-While I expected the cardinals offense to be much improved with Carson Palmer , and while he was better than what they had before, he did throw 22 picks . Even then they are a solid team... but the NFC west is now the most talented division in football. The 49ers and Seahawks are legitimate perennial super bowl contenders now ,and the young and talented rams should be a playoff contender next year . Metteneburgers improvement under new OC Cam Cameron was impressive last season, but a torn ACL knocked him back some. He also played in a pro system, in a tough conference, and has a cannon attached to his shoulder. He is an ideal fit for Bruce Arians vertical offense and he could take his time to heal up and learn the offense while Palmer manned the ship to start the season
53.GREEN BAY-DEVANTE ADAMS-WR-FRES.ST-NFL COMP-JAMES JONES-GB- In back to back years the packers will have lost studs Greg Jennings and James Jones at receiver, but they draft so well at the position that it seems to hardly cause a hiccup to their offense . Enter the sure-handed and explosive Adams to team that runs more 4 wide patterns than most. Adding Devante to Nelson, Cobb, and Boykins will just be another in a long line of GM Ted Thompson's brilliantly fore-sighted moves .
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-*BASHAUD BREELAND-CB-CLEM-NFL COMP-JOHNATHAN JOSEPH-CB-HOU-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. The steady Breeland is sure to rise up draft boards as the draft process continues . The more tape you watch on him the more you appreciate his well rounded game. He is not the biggest or fastest, but play-in-and-play-out he is assignment sound , and getting the job done
56.VIKINGS-(49ers,kc)-BISHOP SANKEY-RB-WASH-AHMAD BRADSHAW-INDY-With strong experienced backup Toby Gerhart likely leaving in free agency , and even the superhuman Adrian Peterson showing signs of wear the last 2 years, another possible feature back is needed in case the tires finally fall off the amazing AD bandwagon . Sankey is a well rounded back that can at the very least improve their passing game . Maybe having around will improve AD's contributions to the passing game . Having Mason around could actually take some of the load of Peterson and prolong his career.
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 to saved 4 million off the cap by cutting him this week . 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 . Now that Smith is on his way out the door , and Brandon LaFell is also a free agent they might have to get multiple receivers .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-*JASON VERRET-CB-TCU-NFL COMP-BRENT GRIMES-MIA-.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. Verret is absolutely a first round player, but he just had shoulder surgery. He could be ready to start the season if everything goes perfect, He could also spend the first 6 weeks of the season on the PUP list. Until we know more we have to drop him down some .Frisco is going to the playoffs and winning in the postseason is their primatry focus. they can wait the 6 weeks for a long term first round talent . Marcus Lattimore and Tank Carridine are proof of their organizations long term outlook .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 .
62.PATRIOTS-ALLEN ROBINSON-WR-PENN ST-NFL COMP-DEZ BRYANT- DALL - The patriots lack of a big fierce # 1 wide receiver on the outside has been well documented since the departure of Randy Moss . Robinson can be that young , big, physical , fierce target, that can win his one on ones & jump balls down the sideline . If Brady had Peyton Mannings weapons he might have thrown 60 TD's last year .
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 .
64.SEATTLE-CHRIS SMITH-DE-ARK-NFL COMP-TRENT COLE-PHIL-First and foremost Pete Carroll is a defensive coach who wants to attack. The hawks have deservedly become a destination for players seeking a ring now. They ended up getting both Cliff Avril and Michael Bennett on short term deals at a reasonable price last off season .Both had excellent years rushing the passer, but Bennett's deal was only for 1 year, as opposed to Avril's 2 year deal. The Seahawks have a lot of young cheap players right now due to excellent drafting, but they aren't very far away from free agency ,and are going to get a lot more expensive soon . Just to keep the core pro bowlers that are going to be free agents very soon like Russell Wilson, Richard Sherman, and Earl Thomas is going to be very expensive in 2014-15-16. Bennett's great year is going to make him a lot of money in free agency that they can't match if they want to retain those core player long term , The man got his ring so it was well worth it! .Since I highly doubt he will take another 1 year deal (even for a hefty raise ) they are going to need a replacement . The versatile Smith has played all over the D-line as both a defensive end and A outside linebacker . I'm sure Pete Carroll will be able to find multiple uses for him .
The Packers will not pass on Clinton-Dix in the first round. They also can't afford a WR in the second round when they need sooooo much help on one of the NFL's worst defenses. With Nelson-Cobb-Boykin already, they can get a project WR in the 5-7 rounds. ILB or DT in round 2. Round 3 is a C or TE.
ReplyDeleteI have been giving the pack a safety in the first for weeks, I like to show different scenarios from time to time ,and NIx is a very plausible pick for the Pack . The 3 down 2-gap nose tackle is rarer then a franchise QB in the draft , and Nix is that guy. As for the receiver you had bigger needs when you took Aaron Rodgers and Reggie Cobb, but Ted Thompson prefers to draft best player available. Mosley and Borland are the only 3-4 ILB that fit your scheme worth a 2nd round pick , and they were both gone in this scenario .. Same thing with a 5 technique end. If there aren't any that fit your scheme worth that pick why would you want to draft them .? I do agree that if CJ Fiedorowicz is around he would be well worth your 3rd round pick, but unless Evan Dietrich Smith leaves you don't need a center .. I would say Evan is at least a top 12 center in this league .
DeleteWith the losses on Defense and the High draft picks that are in place for Pittsburgh on the o-line I would rule out any o-lineman not named Mathews off the board this draft.
ReplyDeleteI disagree, I firmly believe that if not only Jake Matthews, but also Greg Robinson or even Taylor Lewan , fell to #15 that the Steelers would take any of the three .
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