We are nearing the end of the pro day portion of the pre-draft process. Individual workouts have already begun . 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 not over yet, So a fair amount of picks will be changing in the next few weeks . Thoughts and prayers go out to the recently injured Brandon Thomas.
* 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-J#*JADEVEON CLOWNEY-DE/OLB-S.CAROLINA-NFL COMP-MARIO WILLIAMS-BUFF-yep... they lost twice to the jags...okay? Matt Schaub's guaranteed portion of his contract was 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 is over . 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 and ignore a stupid pro day , I am not a QB guru who thinks he can help Blake reach his potential . However, taking a QB project #1 overall in a really deep draft that has a once a decade pass rushing prospect is just downright dumb. Not to mention what Clowney could become playing with an elite talent and hard worker like JJ Watt. I have never seen a college defender more schemed against, game planned for, and double and triple teamed. Excellent pursuit backside but does give up on occasional plays. Conditioning problems in a few games . Combine and pro day confirmed everything you see on tape. Ideal measurables and speed & explosion, elite get-off, athleticism, and power you see on tape. You would need to commit 4 blockers just to slow down the pairing of Clowney and Watt.
2.RAMS-SAMMY WATKINS-WR-CLEMSON-NFL COMP-PIERRE GARCON-WASH-Unless someone falls in love with a QB the rams best chance of getting someone to trade up is for Clowney. With him gone they are probably stuck at # 2. 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 . Watkins is the best all around receiver in this draft ,and could be one of the last pieces the Rams need to give Sam Bradford a real shot at taking this team to the playoffs. The rams have speed out of the slot with Austin, but not on the outside. Watkins would give their offense the outside speed element it currently lacks . Sammy 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 . As long as the rams wind up with one of the big 3 tackles in this draft they should be fine. .
3.JAGUARS-#*JOHNNY MANZIEL-QB-TEXAS A&M-NFL COMP-FRAN TARKENTON
-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. Then again maybe not. While I would take Teddy I am not a defensive minded head coach like Gus Bradley. Bucky Brooks had a good point awhile back that I was reminded of after Johnny's pro day. To paraphrase - Bucky basically said an offensive minded head coach looks at Manziel and says" can he run my offense?". A defensive coach looks at Manziel and says " I wouldn't want to have to try to stop and him". Bradley is also a Pete Carroll disciple. The cockiness, the Hollywood rep, hanging with Drake, etc. All might be cool with.Pete's disciple. 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 , keeps improving on how to run some plays from under center, keeps improving his mechanics ,takes well to NFL coaching , stops running when he doesn't need to, 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 .He has a slight frame ,but is solidly built with large hands , and a just strong enough arm. Wasn't as fast as I expected at the combine, but his elusiveness is legendary. Reminds of Fran Tarkenton because he's a smaller elusive QB who you can never count out of a play until the whistle blows. Sometimes I think he is just going to keep running around until the defense gets tired. Only then will he decide whether to run or throw for the first down. Even if he doesn't do all of that out of the gate he will ignite the fan base, and his teammates love him,
4.BROWNS--BLAKE BORTLES-QB-UCF-NFL COMP-STEVE McNAIR retired- .Bortle's doesn't have the same rep or polish of Bridgewater/ 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 Shanahan's tutelage for at least a couple of years . Bortle's potential has even started to grow on me . .I no longer doubt that Bortles will last outside the top 10 ,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. . 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, and maybe Manziel could take them too, but Bortles is a project to me, This extremely dedicated fan base has been put through the ringer for too long, and this pick is an injustice to them that I fear might happen. Be smart Ray Farmer. Take Teddy ,,or even Johnny. , if you are going to take a QB at four. Otherwise take a position player worth this pick and take a project QB at #26.
5.OAKLAND-KHALIL MACK-OLB-BUFFALO-NFL COMP-BRIAN ORAPKO-WASH-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 . Unless they are smart enough to take Bridgewater.they should avoid a QB in the 1rst round . Matt Schaub can help this team at QB now , just in case the young guy they draft later isn't ready to start right away . The best player available is Mack , Watkins or Robinson. With Donald Penn being a short teem fix on the blindside I think they go for Mack . 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 . Adding the violent and destructive force that Mack is will go a long way towards making Dennis Allen'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 .
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 . 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 inline if he doesn't stay low. 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
7.TAMPA BAY-#MIKE EVANS-WR-TEXAS A&M-NFL COMP-VINCENT JACKSON-TB
-After Tiquan Underwood signed with the panthers I thought receiver might be a secondary need . With Lovie Smith already questioning # 2 receiver Mike Williams pattern of illegal behavior it is a more immediate one . Now that Williams just got stabbed by his own brother and traded I am thinking he really can't be counted on . The huge Evans is too big & physical for most DB's to cover, and too fast for most linebackers . The sheer height of his catch point alone is a mismatch for any defender if the ball is thrown right . He;s very similar to their current #1 receiver Vincent Jackson. Jump balls and red zone targets alone make this pick worth it. New QB Josh McCown got used to having 2 big receivers in Chicago. Might as well make him feel at home in Tampa.
8.MINNESOTA-TEDDY BRIDGEWATER-QB-NFL COMP-LVILLE-AARON RODGERS-GB-Vikings fans rejoice your prayers are answered! Norv Turner's most important traits in a QB are accuracy, IQ,,and poise. That means he knows Teddy's the best QB in this draft and won't let him slip any farther. Bridgewater not only has the high football IQ , accuracy , and poise of a franchise QB. He also has a strong arm, quick eyes, guts , pocket presence, and the mobility that every team wants in a franchise QB . If this happens I expect this will go down as one of the best pick in the Vikes history up until now . I expect the vikings to win at least 9 games with Teddy at QB and compete for a playoff spot. To be clear I see Teddy as a clear cut franchise QB that ANY team should be falling all over themselves to pick. The only thing Turner desires in a QB that Teddy lacks is a stronger build, and as a former personal trainer I am telling you I could put 20 pounds of muscle on him in 6 months . If I can do it , I guarantee an NFL strength and conditioning coach can do the same .Teddy's 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 . Also, 3 years of steadily improving game tape trump a scripted workout. To Chris Weinke- if it ain't broke don't try to fix it ! I am confident his stock will rebound in private workouts anyway . Also, people really need to stop believing every rumor put out there right now . I would estimate that %95 of draft rumors in the media this time of year are team or agent planted . The muddier the water the harder it is for other teams to see your true intentions .I would be stunned if Bridgewater fell past Minesota, but if he fell past Tennessee Whisenhunt is a bad hire.
9.BILLS-JAKE MATTHEWS-OT-TEX A&M-NFL COMP-DUANE BROWN-HOU-
This is really a dream come true for Buffalo fans. The most versatile and pro ready O-lineman in the draft falls to them. I think Jake is the best tackle,guard, and center in this draft if you just left him at any of the positions.. Jake can step right in and tale the place of the disappointing Erik Pears at right tackle if Pears doesn't improve. If Pears suddenly gets better you can move him to left guard to replace the subpar duo of Doug Legursky and especially Colin Brown. Also,if standout left tackle Cordy Glenn leaves in free agency down the road, Matthews can move to left tackle.
10..RAMS-(;lions)-#TAYLOR LEWAN-OT-MICHIGAN-NFL COMP-NATE SOLDER-NE- 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 Lewan can fill that void . He can play right tackle now 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 while right tackle Joe Barksdale played OK last year he might be a better fit inside at guard. Taylor is one of the 3 OT's in this draft who is better than any of the tackles in last years draft in our opinion, and they went 1rst, 2nd and 4th overall.. Since Sam Bradford was knocked out for the season again last year ,it's about time protecting him became their top priority. 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. 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.
11.TITANS-JUSTIN GILBERT-CB-OKLA.ST-NFL COMP-PATRICK PETERSEN-AZ-The Titans chose to not put the franchise tag on Alterraun Verner , and while he is a good young corner I wouldn't pay him almost 12 million either , Lucky for them they are in position to get a bigger ,cheaper , younger replacement ; with a higher upside .New coach Ken Whisenhunt was in Arizona when they drafted Patrick Petersen. I am sure he will see the resemblance. Gilberts improvements this year is staggering .Het 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 . Throwing his kick returning ability in the mix makes him the likely first corner to come off the board.
12.GIANTS-AARON DONALD-DT-PITT-NFL COMP-LA'ROI GLOVER-(retired)-The once elite pass rush of the giants is now down to Jean Pierre-Paul with a career threatening back injury and a past his prime and ineffective 31 year old Mathias Kiwanuka . While 33 year old Cullen Jenkins can still penetrate some they really have no young healthy pass rushers in the fold . Donald is the clear cut best interior pass rusher in the draft . After a dominant season he followed that up with a dominant senior bowl , and a dominant combine . That consistent dominance has seen him rise into the top half of the 1rst round.
13.LIONS-(rams)-KYLE FULLER-CB-VA,TECH-NFL COMP-JASON McCOURTY-TENN-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 . . 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 .The trade gives them another 3rd and 6th at only the cost one of their three 4th round picks.
14.BEARS-.HA'HA CLINTON DIX-S-ALABAMA-NFL COMP-HARRISON SMITH-S-MINN-The signing of MD Jennings and Ryan Mundy at least give the bears an upgrade over last year at safety, but Dix is on a whole different level. .Dix has been a great player, in a great conference, against top competition. I originally had Calvin Pryor ranked slightly higher because there is more good tape of him in single high coverage, but Dix is the more consistent player. If you play Jets/Patriots 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 doe
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 . .
***TRADE*** 49ers TRADE their 1rst round pick(#30) KC's 2nd round pick(#56) and their 3rd
(#94)to the COWBOYS for their first round pick(#16) this year and their 3rd round pick next year. ***
16.SAN FRANCISCO-(dall)-ODELL BECKHAM JR-WR-LSU-NFL COMP-TORRY HOLT-retired-The 49ers have 12 picks and very few needs. The eagles have only 6 picks, are in a transition phase, so this trades works well for both teams,. 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 . 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. Beckham is a versatile guy that seems to play bigger than he is, and he make plays no matter the situation . Beckham is more than just a speedy big play guy. He is also a sure handed team first guy that contributes as a receiver , blocker, and returning kicks & punts
17.RAVENS-ANTHONY BARR-DE/OLB-UCLA-NFL COMP-DeMARCUS WARE-DALL-
GM Ozzie Newsome tends to take the best player available when someone to good to be true falls to him. With Suggs & Dumervil being over 30 , Courtney Upshaw not developing as well as a pass rusher as they had hoped , another edge rusher is a possibility here. I believe Barr has the athletic ability to play a Von Miller role in a 4-3 if needed or even on the weakside . Moving down to the line of scrimmage to rush the passer on obvious passing downs would be his main contribution , but he has the speed to play SLB and drop into coverage . I wouldn't be surprised if someone who realizes that if they just turn him lose going forward all game that he could wreck an offense trades up higher for him . He is still a top 10 pick in my mind. However his best use is as a 3-4 OLB rushing the passer
GM Ozzie Newsome tends to take the best player available when someone to good to be true falls to him. With Suggs & Dumervil being over 30 , Courtney Upshaw not developing as well as a pass rusher as they had hoped , another edge rusher is a possibility here. I believe Barr has the athletic ability to play a Von Miller role in a 4-3 if needed or even on the weakside . Moving down to the line of scrimmage to rush the passer on obvious passing downs would be his main contribution , but he has the speed to play SLB and drop into coverage . I wouldn't be surprised if someone who realizes that if they just turn him lose going forward all game that he could wreck an offense trades up higher for him . He is still a top 10 pick in my mind. However his best use is as a 3-4 OLB rushing the passer
18.NYJ-ERIC EBRON-TE-N.CAR-NFL-COMP-DWAYNE ALLEN-INDY-If you want Geno Smith to succeed it stands to reason that he will need better receivers. While young Stephen Hill is immensely talented, he is still very raw . The only dependable receiver the Jets currently have is the injury prone, soon to be 30, high priced ,one more failed drug test away from a long suspension Santonio Holmes. Ebron can give Geno a big target that's hard to miss. Ebron would also give them an elite athlete that would be a mismatch for opposing defenses ,and a young TE who shown the willingness to block in those rare snaps when he will be lined up as an inline blocker. Sky's the limit for this kid if he wants it
19.MIAMI-ZACK MARTIN-T/G-N.DAME-NFL COMP-JORDAN GROSS-CAR-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 and new left tackle Branden Albert, a versatile one would be the best fit . 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.
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 pass rusher right now,,l although Ealy's upside is greater .
21.PACKERS-*CJ MOSLEY-ILB-ALABAMA-NFL COMP-DERRICK JOHNSON-KC-AJ Hawk and Brad Jones were disappointing last year. Hawk has never lived up to his pre-draft ranking. Mosley has an elite football IQ and is an every-down linebacker in any defense. This team needs someone to take charge and lead the defense after the departure of Charles Woodson . Mosley can QB the defense for a long time .
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22.EAGLES-MARQUISE LEE-WR-USC-NFL COMP-DERRICK MASON-(retired)-The release of Desean Jackson can be seen as addition by subtraction. The attitude, showboating, dumb plays, and company he allegedly keeps off the field won't be missed. Still, 82 catches for 1332 yards and 9 TD's, with some return game talent thrown in,is not easily replaced. It stands to reason that Chip Kelly would want to bring in a player who he knows can give him similar production. As coach of Oregon Kelly twice faced Marquis Lee as a member of the USC Trojans. In those 2 games Lee had a combined 20 catches, 344 yards receiving , 3 TD catches, and 14 kickoff returns for 385 yards. All that and he is a solid citizen who escaped the hood and is smart enough to not want to go back. Looks like an upgrade for the eagles to me.
23.CHIEFS-MORGAN MOSES-OT-VA-NFL COMP-CORDY GLENN-BUFF-The chiefs have been losing offensive lineman left and right in free agency . The loss of left tackle Branden Albert was expected . Drafting Eric Fisher #1 overall last year made sense because he can flip over to the left side this year, where he is a better fit anyway .Moses has played both left & right tackle in college . As an athlete Moses 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 at least one interior lineman in the draft or free agency if they are smart.
24.BENGALS-*BRADLEY ROBY-CB-OHIO ST-NFL COMP-LEON HALL-CINC-Between Leon Halls injury, Terrence Newman's age(36 next season) , and Dre Kirkpatrick's failure to develop &,stay healthy, 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. 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
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25.CHARGERS-*LOUIS NIX-NT-N.DAME-NFL COMP-VINCE WILFORK-NE-Yhe loss of nose tackle Cam Thomas can be turned into a positive with an upgrade here. A true 3 down nose tackle is the hardest piece to find for that scheme . Lucky for them Nix is still 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.
26.BROWNS-(indy)-.CALVIN PRYOR-S-LVILLE-NFL COMP-RODNEY HARRISON-retired-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 of a deep center field safety , and 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 could be in line for some fines and penalties until he adjust to the NFL's rules
27.SAINTS--JASON VERRET-CB-TCU-NFL COMP-BRENT GRIMES-MIA-The saints lost Jabari Greer and replaced him with 36 year old Champ Bailey. Based on last years tape I hope they move him to safety, and that Champ is OK with being a backup. Verret is absolutely a first round player, but he just had shoulder surgery. He should be ready to start the season if everything goes perfect,. There is also about a 25% chance he could also spend the first 6 weeks of the season on the PUP list. Until we know more you have to drop him down some unless you are a stacked team already .The Saints are now at the stage where winning in the postseason is their primary focus. . They can wait the 6 weeks for a long term first round talent . .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 .
28.CAROLINA-*CYRUS KOUANDJIO-OT-ALA-NFL COMP-JASON PETERS-PHIL- 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 . Kouandjou's knee was failed by some teams at the scouting combine but Roger Saffold can tell you that not every team doctor see's the same thing in a physical . Whether it's out of desperation or they truly see his knee as serviceable I am now betting someone will still take him late in the first round unless more bad medical stuff comes out . 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 some teams currently have , although that's not saying much . I do think his best fit long term is on the right side though , and that's where he would play for the hawks . If he can play at an above average level throughout his first contract he is still worth this pick .
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.DALLAS-(49ers)-*DEE FORD-OLB/DE-AUBURN-NFL COMP-CLAY MATTHEWS-GB-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 is 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 . With George Selvie looking more like a rotational guy long term despite an excellent season last year , and journeyman Jeremy ,Mincey being slated to start right now at least one edge rusher is needed. 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. Now that he has finally worked out for scouts I believe he is clearly ahead of Kony Ealy,but his back ends up getting flagged by a team , and some teams will prefer zealy's size.. If it were up to me he would be the 3rd rush backer off the board.
31.DENVER-BRANDIN COOKS-WR-ORE.ST-NFL COMP-PERCY HARVIN-SEA- With the addition of Will Montgomery the Broncos can now move Manuel Ramirez back to guard and have no big needs . In that case the take the best player available and give Peyton Manning another weapon /.Cooks isn't just a long term replacement for Wes Welker in the slot he can do a lot more . 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.
32.SEATTLE-KELVIN BENJAMIN-WR-FLA ST-NFL COMP-CALVIN JOHNSON-DET-With the often injure and overpaid Sidney Rice , and the unappreciated and underpaid Golden Tate both likely leaving this off season the Seahawks need a receiver. The ginormous Benjamin is of a type they don't have . He can give Russell Wilson a new big possession WR that can win jump balls, move the chains, and give the team a future #1 receiver. He is a huge guy that will be at least a lethal red zone target right away . Kelvin added to a healthy Percy Harvin is scary
33.HOUSTON-AJ McCARRON-QB-ALA-NFL COMP-MATT RYAN-ATL-New head coach and QB guru Bill O'brien has coached Tom Brady and AJ kirerend of minds me of him . 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/high second round pick in my personal rankings .
34.WASHINGTON-JIMMY WARD-S-N.ILL-NFL COMP-EARL THOMAS-SEA-Now that Washington is free from the Illegal corrupt penalty given to them by the colluding owners I expect them to be big players in free agency this year . Even so there are only so many DB's they can sign in free agency .The problem is they didn't have one player play above average in the entire secondary last year . Starting corners Deangelo Hall and Tracy Porter are maybe good enough , but only the penalty/injury prone Brandon Meriweather is a veteran at safety. The versatile Ward can play be that guy.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
35.CLEVELAND-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. Su'a is a mature (25 years old due to a 2 year Mormon mission) and versatile lineman that would be a top 20 pick if he was 22 instead of 25 . While he can play all 5 O-line positions his best fit right now is at guard . .
36.OAKLAND-.TIMMY JERNIGAN-DT-FLA.ST-NFL COMP-JURRELL CASEY-TENN-Best player available is the only thing a team as bad as the raiders should be looking for. Jernigan is a steal this late that can anchor the middle of the raider D-line for years. Jernigan is strong enough to play the one technique, and quick & athletic enough to blossom into an elite 3 technique
37.ATLANTA-*JEREMIAH ATTACHOU-OLB/DE-GA.TECH-NFL COMP-JUSTIN HOUSTON-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. The explosive and athletic Attaochu finally showed he was healthy at his pro day .Although most see him as a tweener , I believe his frame is big enough to add 10-15 more pounds so he can hold up long term at DE. Proir to this season he primarily was a linebacker . This year he steadily improved as a DE and could be on the cusp of breaking through.DC Mike Nolan run both odd and even fronts this year as well. .
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-SCOTT CRICHTON-DE-ORE.ST-NFL COMP-RYAN KERRGAN-WASH
-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 . 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 at Oregon state .He has the relentless motor of a good NFL pass rusher ,and should see enough one on one blocks in Jacksonville to make an immediate impact as a rookie ..
40.MINNESOTA-#RA'SHEDE HAGEMAN-DT-MINN-NFL COMP-JOHN HENDERSON-retired-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 after he kills it at the combine . His lack of consistency and motor on tape make this about as high as he really should go .
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41.BUFFALO-#JACE AMARO-TE-TEXAS TECH -NFL COMP-JEREMY SHOCKEY-I\Sxcoot Chandlers return from injury hasn't looked as good as the bills would like, and he will never be an elite TE anyway. .Amaro is way too talented to be here this late ,but the NFL is getting far more cautious about players with character questions in their past . This is definitely a steal and Bills fans should be rejoicing . Amaro is record breaking receiving tight end that has shown a willingness to block in those rare chances he has been asked to.
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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-JOEL BITONIO-T/G-NEV-NFL COMP-ROGER SAFFOLD-RAMS-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 . Bitonio can probably play all 5 positions on the O-line, although the center conversion would take awhile. My guess is that he will start at left guard on day 1.
44. RAMS-LaMARCUS JOYNER-CB/S-FLA.ST-NFL COMP-TYRANN MATHIEU-AZ-n 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 rams also cut veteran corner Cortland Finnegan. The versatile Joyner can play both positions . He is also the kind of guy that will push everyone around him to play better
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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 while Golden Tate definitely helps some, this is the best way to remedy the situation . Adams is an explosive sure handed receiver that Stafford could count on long term, and with so many drops in Detroit a sure handed guy is needed. After a year or two in a NFL weight training program I could see him becoming a bigger, faster elite NFL # receiver . Hopefully Megatron's work ethic wears off on him and he realizes his potential
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46.STEELERS-STEPHON TUITT-DE/DT-N.DAME-NFL COMP-RICHARD SEYMOUR-Once a cornerstone of the Pittsburgh defense :Brett Keisel will be a 34 year old past his prime free agent very soon. Add that Ziggy Hood has been the rare Steeler 1rst round draft pick to disappoint enough to probably not be welcomed back next year ,and the Steelers have a big need for good 5 technique DE to pair with Cameron Heyward. While he wasn't completely healthy ,and didn't play as well this season as he did last year, Tuitt is the prototype 3-4 end that is a key to Dick Lebeau's defense. Injuries are the only reason he falls this far and its a steal if he does.
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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-.AUSTIN SEFERIAN-JENKINS-TE-WASH-NFL COMP-MARTELLUS BENNETT-CHI- You might think that the resigning of Dennis Pitta & adding Owen Daniels at the tight end position would preclude the Ravens from drafting another TE. You would be wrong though. Not only is Daniels near the end , but Jenkins is probably too good a value for a shrewd GM like Ozzie Newsome to pass up. 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 . He is claiming he will be 100% by the end of the month though
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49.NYJ-GABE JACKSON-G-MISS ST-NFL COMP-LARRY WARFORD-DET-Britlle veteran Willie Colon and disappointing rookie Brian Winters are penciled in to start at guard for the jets. Jackson would help keep Geno Smith clean . Gabe is a long term starter from the SEC who improved every year .Jackson 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 .
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50.MIAMI-ALLEN ROBINSON-WR-PENN ST-NFL COMP-DEZ BRYANT-DALLAS-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 . Robinson is big, fierce, and explosive enough to develop into that long term #1 guy.
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51.BEARS-.DEONE BUCHANON-S-WASH ST-NFL COMP-GEORGE WILSON-TENN-The signing of MD Jennings and Ryan Mundy at least give the bears an upgrade over last year at safety, but Buchanon is a whole different animal .Deone is at his best against the run . In a division with Adrian Peterson. Eddie Lacy, and the Bush/Bell tandem in Detroit this kind of safety is a necessity . He's also a fierce hitter & play-maker that opposing receivers and backs in the NFC North could come to fear .
52.ARIZONA-DEREK CARR-QB-FRES.ST-NFL COMP-TONY ROMO-DALL-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 . Carr is strong armed , athletic, and a good leader. If Bruce Arinas can fix his mechanics and get him to hang in against the rush he can develop into a good starter.
53.GREEN BAY-TERRENCE BROOKS-S-FLA.ST-NFL COMP-BRANDON MERIWEATHER-WASHThe Packers definitely need help at safety , even if Morgan Burnett returns to form the pack is short a safety. Brooks is an aggressive athletic former corner now playing safety. Being around the more controlled Burnett should help translate his athleticism into football skills. .
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54. EAGLES-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. . Demeco Ryans did not play well in the middle last season last season .In fact his play has steadily declined for years . Whether its just because of accumulated damage to his body , or that he needs to be in a 4-3 where he is protected to run to the ball no longer matters. The important thing is the Eagles can save 6,8 million off their cap ,and get a better & younger player to team inside with Mychal Kendricks . Van Noy can fill his spot and he has the length Chip Kelly likes .
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.DALLAS-(49ers)-WILL SUTTON-DT-AZ-NFL COMP-HENRY MELTON-CHI- 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 .
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 Melton next season if he doesn't work out. Sutton at 300 pounds might be powerful enough to play the one technique, and if he returns to last years form he is a top 20 value. .
57.CHARGERS-#LOUICHEIZ PURIFOY-CB-FLA-NFL COMP-CHARLES WOODSON-OAKI believe the Chargers top 4 corners are the worst set in the league. Purifoy would give the Chargers the chance to have one corner play decent man to man against Denver. 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 . I thought he would do a lot better at his pro day , and his stock would rebound some, but bad weather wrecked that .. I still think he will be a good corner , but at the very least he's a good free safety & special teams ace. In Detroit he would start at safety off the bat.
.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 .
.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-PAUL RICHARDSON-WR-COL-NFL COMP-NATE WASHINGTON-TENN-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 was still the best WR on this team . Now that Smith is on his way out the door , and Brandon LaFell is also gone they need 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. They signed reliable vet Jericho Cotchery & the mostly unfulfilled potential of Tiquan Underwood this week .Neither profiles as a #1 receiver . The speedy Richardson gives them a deep threat to add to the mix.
61.SAN FRANCISCO-*BASHAUD BREELAND-CB-CLEM-NFL COMP-JOHNATHAN JOSEPH-CB-HO-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 saved about 5 million off their cap when they cut him. 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
62.PATRIOTS-*TROY NIKLAS-TE-N.DAME-NFL COMP-JASON WITTEN-DALL-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 .Niklas is a good blocker who would allow Gronk to spend more time wreaking havoc down field .Troy is also sure handed and athletic enough to also be a threat as a receiver as well .The hernia that was found at the combine probably keeps him out of the first round, but I think he will be fine for the season.
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 was probably with a move to safety .After initially saying he wouldn't change positions, he waited too long to change his tune and was cut .They signed Aquib Talib to play one corner, but another corner is needed to replace DRC, since Chris Harris is coming off a ACL injury . Specifically a taller corner with long arms like Baptiste .
64.SEATTLE-*DEMARCUS LAWRENCE-DE/OLB-BO.ST-NFL COMP-SHAUN PHILLIPS-DENV-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 Lawrence can play both a defensive end and outside linebacker . I'm sure Pete Carroll will be able to find multiple uses for him .
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