The big day is finally here! 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 possible top 10 OT's, and as many as 13 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/pass rushers with a grade in the top 2 rounds, it's deep in D-lineman/edge rushers . There are at least 5 corner-backs & 3 safeties we have with a first round grade ,and possibly 12 more DB'S that will go in the first 3 rounds . This the deepest wide receiver class I have ever seen ! We have 5 guys with first round grades , and another 13 receivers that are in the first 3 rounds . There are 5 TE's we have in the first 2 rounds , and then a drop all the way until the 4th round for the next. While we love Bridgewater as a franchise QB, have 2 others with first round grades, no one really knows who likes what QB's. As many as 8 could go in the first 4 rounds, and every team probably has them ranked differently. As a whole we have over 8-10 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. We ended up with 34 players with a 1rst round grade in this draft. Last year we only had 19 players rated as 1rst round picks. I am going against the conventional wisdom and predicting 3 QB's in the top 8, because I believe once one of the top 3 goes the other 2 will follow quickly. If Houston, Cleveland ,or Minnesota take Bridgewater I expect them to make a playoff run. If the Bengals get him they could wind up in the Superbowl.
* 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-retired--If Clowney falls here I think they take him ,and Khalil Mack is a possibility, but I truly believe Teddy is tailor made for Jacksonville. His high football IQ and quiet confidence should remind Gus Bradley of Russell Wilson. However, Bradley might also love Manziels swashbuckling attitude , and I know owner Shad Khan will want the ticket/ jersey sales, and national recognition he brings. In the end the owner iswhy I beleive trhey take Manziel. Love him or hate him (and I have found myself feeling both while watching a single drive he led) Manziel makes big plays at the best times , and he definitely has "IT". "JOHNNY FOOTBALL" is a proven winner in big games in college, and he doesn't turn the ball over. His lack of height (just a smidge below 6 foot ) and potential off the field troubles should cause him to go behind the reliable Bridgewater, but in this draft anything can happen . If he stays out of trouble his leadership, poise, almost supernatural ability to extend plays & avoid the rush make me think he could be a winner in the NFL too. That was before this seasons improvements. Already this year he has shown improved mechanics, an improved ability at reading defenses , and a stronger arm . Even more surprising was his new willingness to buy time with his feet, and then throw the ball, instead of just taking off running like last season. If he stays out of trouble , learns how to run some plays from under center, keeps improving his mechanics ,takes well to NFL coaching , and stays healthy he could be one of the greatest. That's a lot of "IFS" , but I can't help it, I still believe in him . Even if he doesn't do all of that out of the gate he will ignite the fan base. If Manziel keeps showing off and clamoring for attention on line (and damn near everywhere else off the field )don't be surprised if a free fall happens. I absolutely believe team's want the face of their franchise to be a gym rat and a home body. Not a thrill seeking show-off who likes to go clubbing late at night with famous musicians.
4.BROWNS-GREG ROBINSON-OT-AUBURN-NFL COMP-ORLANDO PACE-retired-I am only going to go along with all this passing on a QB at #4 talk because the only QB I think is worth a pick this high is off the board. They can get a QB with their second 1rst rounder . Maybe even Manziel if he falls far enough . Robinson would allow them to get value for their pick and give the new QB a better chance at success . The browns have gotten poor play from both right guards this year. They can kick Mitchell Schwartz inside and let Robinson maul people on the edge . Robinson is a nasty finisher that will help keep their QB 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.
5.OAKLAND-JAKE MATTHEWS-OT-TEX A&M-NFL COMP-DUANE BROWN-HOU- With the raiders letting one of their 2 potentially great offensive lineman go to Arizona , center Steve Wisniewski is the only good returning starter. They brought in free agent Donald Penn to be a possible stop gap left tackle, have last years second round pick Menelik Watson returning from injury. and also brought in young Austin Howard to be the right tackle. Howard is definitely not the long term answer on the blind side. Penn isn't either, and those 2 free agent signings make me believe they will be moving the raw Watson to guard. While I personally believe Teddy Bridgewater would save this franchise long term AND give them the best chance to win this season, GM Reggie doesn't appear to agree. His job is on the line and he is bringing in overpriced past their prime veterans in hopes of winning enough games to keep his job. Someone with that kind pf pressure is unlikely to bring in a rookie QB. Matthews is the most pro ready, high floor player in this draft. He can play all 5 O-line positions giving them the flexibility to play the 5 best lineman out of the gate. This son-of-a-hall-famer will at least be a good long term starter. After last years debacle where Mckenzie went high upside in the first 2 rounds, instead of taking higher floored more pro ready guys. They finished in last place for a reason. On the bright side Mckenzie is still twice the GM Al Davis was in his final decade. On a side note Johnny Manziel would also help them win games this year and Raider fans would immediately identify with his outlaw attitude.
6.ATLANTA-KHALIL MACK-OLB-BUFFALO-NFL COMP-BRIAN ORAPKO-WASH- If the Falcons don't mortgage the future to go upo and get Clowney or Robinson my guess is they take the best player available. That is definitely Mack here, and I wouldn't be surprised if someone gave them a bunch of picks to come take Mack. Protecting Matt Ryan should be their primary focus and if they could trade back just enough to still get Taylor Lewan , while also gathering more picks to replenish a roster that really lacks depth, they might do it. In this case they stay put and take 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 Mike Nolan's hybrid 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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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. I have to believe that If it really was size and a rocket arm (as most of the media claims)he would have taken Trent Dilfer instead of Heath Shuler in 1994. 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 picks 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 he 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.
9.BILLS-ERIC EBRON-TE-N.CAR-NFL COMP-KELLEN WINSLOW JR-NYJ-Scott Chandlers return from injury hasn't looked as good as the bills would like, and he will never be an elite TE anyway. Ebron can give EJ Manuel 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.
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-ANTHONY BARR-DE/OLB-UCLA-NFL COMP-DeMARCUS WARE-DALL-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 15 pick in my mind and after individual workouts I think he will still gp within the top half of the first round . However his best use is as a 3-4 OLB rushing the passer. New coach Ken Whisenhunt prefers to run a 3-4 . The only young guy currently on this roster who profiles well there is Akeem Ayers ,and he was the SLB in their 4-3 last season . Barr is a steal this late and the titans should run to the podium for him .One more thing. If Bridgewater falls here and they don't take him I predict it will haunt this franchise for a decade. The only thing keeping the Titans from playoff contention is a franchise QB. I doubt Locker ever comes even close to being one, and .wholeheartedly believe Teddy is one.
12.GIANTS-AARON DONALD-DT-PITT-NFL COMP-LA'ROI GLOVER-(retired)-. 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)-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 impressive and if you let him play press he could be elite early on in the NFL. .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
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-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, but he did it well when he played press . 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 fact that Fuller is good in the press man that legendary DC Dick Lebeau loves to use, and also excels in the Tampa 2 zone head coach Mike Tomlin prefers, makes him the most logical corner to pick.. He is the only one of the for sure first round corners who excels at both.
***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 . Beckham 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 polished route runner 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-ZACK MARTIN-T/G-N.DAME-NFL COMP-JORDAN GROSS-CAR-
The Raven line is in flux right now . Marshall Yanda ,Eugene Monroe, and the recently acquired Jeremy Zuttah 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. 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, and kicking ass at the Senior Bowl , I say let him play tackle and see if he can hang with quicker guys outside. So tackle it is.
The Raven line is in flux right now . Marshall Yanda ,Eugene Monroe, and the recently acquired Jeremy Zuttah 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. 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, and kicking ass at the Senior Bowl , I say let him play tackle and see if he can hang with quicker guys outside. So tackle it is.
18.NYJ-DARQUEZE DENNARD-CB-MICH-ST-NFL COMP-JOE HADEN-CLEV-Not only does Rex Ryan love corners, he specifically loves press corners. Throw in the loss of Antonio Cromartie and the fact that they brought in a bunch of guys who look better as backups and this pick just makes too much sense. Last years first rounder Dee Milliner finally started to live up to his draft status late in the season. Dennard could probably teach him a thing or 2 about press coverage, and they can grow up in the league together.
19.MIAMI-*CJ MOSLEY-ILB-ALABAMA-NFL COMP-DERRICK JOHNSON-KC-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 .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 . Mosley can QB the defense for a long tim
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 or move inside on obvious passing downs. This a deep TE class so I will go edge rusher in the first round .Dee Ford is a better pass rusher right now, although Ealy's upside is greater and he can kick inside on obvious passing downs.. Also. with his larger frame Ealy could actually add 15 pounds and be the long term replacement to Darnell Dockett. as a 5 technique. .I am guessing they go with the more versatile Ealy.
21.PACKERS-CALVIN PRYOR-S-LVILLE-NFL COMP-RODNEY HARRISON-The Packers definitely need help at safety , even if Morgan Burnett returns to form the pack is short a safety. 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. Being around the more controlled Burnett should help him to adjust to the league.
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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.
***TRADE*** The TEXANS TRADE the 2nd(#33)3rd(#65) 4th(#101)and 6th(#177)round picks to the CHIEFS for their 1rst(#23)3RD(#87)AND 4TH(#124) round pickS***
23.HOUSTON-(chiefs)-BLAKE BORTLES-QB-UCF-NFL COMP-STEVE McNAIR retired-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. This was a dream scenario for their team a month ago, but now they got Clowney at #1 and trade back into he bottom of the first to get a QB they reportedly were considering taking at #1 a month ago.
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 is quite possibly the fastest player in the draft and he plays the run angry . He is a fluid athlete who lacks technique , has an unfortunate tendency to peek into the backfield & really 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
25.CHARGERS-JASON VERRET-CB-TCU-NFL COMP-BRENT GRIMES-MIA-I believe the Chargers top 4 corners are the worst set in the league. Verret would give the Chargers the chance to have one corner play decent man to man against Denver. 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 Chargers desperately need a corner , and Jason is the best one left here.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
26.BROWNS-(indy)-DEREK CARR-QB-FRES.ST-NFL COMP-TONY ROMO-DALL- If you have read a mock draft of mine before you know I don't like Carr in the first 2 rounds. I think he is a project that needs to sit at least one season & a QB guru to to tutor him .However, Kyle Shanahan's micro managing personality might be just what he needs . I still wouldn't start him early and I doubt his mental toughness , but it might make sense to the browns. At the very least Carr has a strong arm, high football IQ, is a a good athlete , a great guy, and a leader. I truly hope he succeeds even I think this is too high for him.
26.BROWNS-(indy)-DEREK CARR-QB-FRES.ST-NFL COMP-TONY ROMO-DALL- If you have read a mock draft of mine before you know I don't like Carr in the first 2 rounds. I think he is a project that needs to sit at least one season & a QB guru to to tutor him .However, Kyle Shanahan's micro managing personality might be just what he needs . I still wouldn't start him early and I doubt his mental toughness , but it might make sense to the browns. At the very least Carr has a strong arm, high football IQ, is a a good athlete , a great guy, and a leader. I truly hope he succeeds even I think this is too high for him.
27.SAINTS-*DEE FORD-OLB/DE-AUBURN-NFL COMP-CLAY MATTHEWS-GB-The saints switched to a 3-4 this season and the out-for-the-year Victor Butler was their best fit as an OLB. Junior Gallete did have his moments this season, but I still think they need an upgrade on the outside. Pass rush is the entire key to the Saints defensive scheme and Ford is the kind of versatile pass rusher that can play multiple roles in the Saints defense. He is a versatile player who can rush off the edge as a 3-4 OLB, and a 4-3 end when they go to nickle, and he also has the athleticism to play the SLB and drop into coverage if needed . I was surprised when Ford showed up at the senior bowl and measured in at 6"2" and 243 lbs and kicked a lot of ass. 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 Khalil Mack or Anthony Barr will be giving him a good long look.
28.CAROLINA-MORGAN MOSES-OT-VA-NFL COMP-CORDY GLENN-BUFF-- 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 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.
29.PATRIOTS-AUSTIN SEFERIAN-JENKINS-TE-WASH-NFL COMP-MARTELLUS BENNETT-CHI-The entire offense the Patriots want to run is predicated on 2 tight end sets . Right now even if Gronk is completely healthy for the season he is called on to block a lot , because he is far better than any other blocking TE the pats have .Austin is a good blocker who would allow Gronk to spend more time wreaking havoc down field .Jenkins is also sure handed and athletic enough to also be a threat as a receiver as well . 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.I would take Jace Amaro instead but the Aaron Hernandez scandal probably prevents them from drafting anyone recently accused of a felony this soon,even though the charges were later dropped.
30.DALLAS-(49ers)-*JEREMIAH ATTACHOU-OLB/DE-GA.TECH-NFL COMP-JUSTIN HOUSTON-Pressure from the front 4 is essential in this defense. Dallas has a horrible cap situation , so improving their roster is mainly going to be done by way of the draft. .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, although Sopencer was resigned on a incentive laden deal recently. . 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.
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. Prior 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. Rod Marinelli is just the guy to mold him into an elite edge rusher.
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-JOEL BITONIO-T/G-NEV-NFL COMP-ROGER SAFFOLD-RAMS-Right tackle Breno Giacomini was nothing special on a a So-so line , but he was still the hawks 3rd best starting O-Lineman . His loss to the Jets will be felt. Bitonio can probably play all 5 positions on the O-line, although a center conversion would take awhile. My guess is that he will start at right tackle for the champs right out of the gate.
33.CHIEFS-(texans)-*CYRUS KOUANDJIO-OT-ALA-NFL COMP-JASON PETERS-PHIL-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. 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/top of the second 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 and is a physical run blocker. 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 Chiefs . If he can play at an above average level throughout his first contract he is still worth this pick.They should also pursue at least one interior lineman in the draft or free agency if they are smart. Without a 2nd round pick in this draft because of the Alex Smith trade,(and entering a really deep draft with only 6 picks has to suck) the chiefs trade back a little, still, get their man , and pick up more high & total picks.
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-KELVIN BENJAMIN-WR-FLA ST-NFL COMP-PLAXICO BURRESS-FA-With the browns deciding to reach for Blake Bortles at #2 another weapon to make his transition to the big time easier couldn't hurt.First off- You can't how teach someone to be 6 foot 5 . The chances of stopping Benjamin, Gordon, and Cameron is hard to even contemplate. The ginormous Benjamin will fit right in with these big-uns. It will be a nightmare for opposing D-coordinators when the realize that the 6 foot 3 and 230 pound Gordon is the little receiver in their base offense.
36.OAKLAND-#JACE AMARO-TE-TEXAS TECH -NFL COMP-JEREMY SHOCKEY-retired-BPA-Best Player Available. That's all the raiders should be doing. They will probably split the difference and go BPA at positions of need. Amaro is a great value either way and is just 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 Raider 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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37.ATLANTA-JaWUAN JAMES-OT-TENN-NFL COMP-ERIC WINSTON-KC-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. As a 4 year starter at right tackle for the Vols there is no denying that James was a stalwart in the SEC. I believe he can play the left side with some practice ,although he doesn't have great feet right now. He should at least be a better pass blocker than what they currently have , and will help keep Matty ice on his feet.
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 corners 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-XAVIER SU'A-FILO-G/T-UCLA-NFL COMP-MAX UNGER-SEA-Doug Legursky and especially Colin Brown were bad at left guard last season. Giving EJ Manuel his best chance to succeed should be Doug Marone's main focus , and Su'a does that. . 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., but with Eric Wood's injury history he could be playing center soon.
.42.TENNESEE-*LOUIS NIX-NT-N.DAME-NFL COMP-VINCE WILFORK-NE-Now that the Titans are switching to a 3-4 its obvious they lack a true nose-tackle. Sammie might be able to hold up against the run, and Jurrell Cadey could probably do a good job as a shaded nose if they want to run a one gap scheme, but neither is a true old school 3 down NT . Enter Nix . He is that rarest of all NFL players. A true space eating two gap 3-4 nose tackle that can also contribute as a pas rusher. He really is a great value here who should' not be here this late., and if the ritans took him at #11 it wouldn't shock me, but it just goes to show you how a draft can fall sometimes.
43.GIANTS-*CODY LATIMER-WR-IND-NFL COMP-ALSHON JEFFERY-CHC-(retired)-Hakeem Nicks seemed to have checked out last 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, and Nicks signed with the colts on a show me deal anyway.. Cpdy can give Eli a bigger stronger explosive outside threat. Eli is going to keep just throwing it up downfield when the rush comes . In that case they should get him some guys with the mentality and ability to go up and get the ball. I believe Latimer is that type of guy. After he was healed up and got a chance to show his stuff at his pro day everyone went to the tape. Personally I was impressed with his ball skills and lack of fear over the middle, but he doesn't look as fast as his forty time on film.
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 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.
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 he even blocks well .
48.RAVENS-*DEMARCUS LAWRENCE-DE/OLB-BO.ST-NFL COMP-SHAUN PHILLIPS- In the last few years the ravens have failed at drafting edge rushers. Neither Sergio Kindle , Courtney Upshaw, or John Simon has made much of a dent rushing the passer. The versatile Lawrence can play both a defensive end and outside linebacker. If he can stay out of trouble(3 different suspensions in college) he will easily be worth this pick.
49.NYJ-*TROY NIKLAS-TE-N.DAME-NFL COMP-JASON WITTEN-DALL-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 new addition Eric Decker. The jets also love to run the ball. Niklas is clearly the best blocker of all the TE's in this draft , and he would improve their running game. 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. He is also a huge sure handed target over the middle that Smith could rely on.
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50.MIAMI-GABE JACKSON-G-MISS ST-NFL COMP-LARRY WARFORD-DET-Both Richie Incognito and John Jerry were part of the Hazing scandal and neither will be back. They also haven't resigned former eagles bust Danny Watkins so the cupboard is kinda bare at guard in Miami . Time is running out foe head coach Joe Philbin, Ryan Tannehill was his guy and he needs to show major improvements this season to make sure he and Philbin are around next year . Jackson would help keep him clean . Jackson 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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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-CHRIS BORLAND-ILB-WISC-NFL COMP-STEPHEN TULLOCH-DET-Both AJ Hawk and Brad Jones were disappointing last year. Hawk has never lived up to his pre-draft ranking. Borland is the kind of instinctual hard working gamer that will probably outplay his draft status, and QB a defense for a long time. If he was just 2 inches taller Borland would be a 1rst round pick .The Wisconsin team captain would also really please the Packer faithful and could be the missing piece inside the packer linebacker core.
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54. EAGLES-DEONE BUCHANON-S-WASH ST-NFL COMP-GEORGE WILSON-TENN-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 to make the tackle at safety .If I were the eagles I would try to bring in a new starting safety's and a tall corner .Signing Malcom Jenkins doesn't excite much because there is a reason the saints let him go. Buchanon is a fierce hitter & play-maker that opposing receivers and backs in the NFC East could come to fear.
55.BENGALS-*MARCUS MARTIN-C/G-USC-NFL COMP-MIKE POUNCEY-SEA-Kyle Cook is a serviceable center but nothing special long term. There were also a lot of O-line injuries last season. With the loss of Anthony Collins to the Bucs and Whitworth moving back outside at least one interior lineman should vbe drafted relatively early. Martin was a surprising late entry into the draft and is the best center prospect in this draft, who actually played the position last season . .He will be one of the first interior lineman off the board and was even a heck of a guard n 2012 .Whether Martin ends up at guard or center this year he is a long term fit as a starter for Bengals.
56.DALLAS-(49ers)-#CARLOS HYDE-RB-OHIO.ST-NFL COMP-DUECE McCALLISTER-No this is not a big need, although they would be smart to draft a RB somewhere in the first 4 rounds, but what a steal ! Demarco Murray would be an elite running back in my mind if he could stay healthy, but it's never happened , and I would weep for cowboy fans if Dallas actually payed him big money on a long term deal . Also, Murray is free agent after this season. Other than Murray all the cowboys have on the roster is one speed Joseph Randle who needs to get bigger & didn't show much last season , and undersized injury prone fumbler Lance Dunbar. Hyde and Murray could be an elite combo that this revamped offensive live could open holes for. They should draft a scat back with return experience late to replace Dunbar as well. That way they could let the woefully underused Dwayne Harris play receiver more.
57.CHARGERS-STANLEY JEAN-BAPTISTE-CB/S-NEB-NFL COMP-RICHARD SHERMAN-SEA-Remember what I said about the Chargers having the worst set of corners in the league? I mean every word I say. :Last year when the Panthers entered the draft with horrible interior D-line play they went DT in the first 2 rounds and it completely revitalized their defense. If I'm the chargers I go CB in the first 2 rounds if their is someone worth the pick when my turns up, and then draft a developmental guy in the later rounds.
.58.SAINTS -WESTON RICHBURG-C-COL.ST-NFL COMP-JASON KELCE-PHIL- Losing Brian De La Puente to the bears has to be a blow to Drew Brees . Those 2 stud guards and a good center are what allow the shorter Brees to step up in the pocket and make throws. Richburg is a small school stud who has really impressed since the season ended. After his all-star game success I started watching his tape and was pleasantly surprised. He is actually an anomaly as far as draft prospects go. Usually the more tape I watch on a player the more his flaws stand out. With Richburg I just came to appreciate him more.
59.COLTS-DAVID YANKEY-G/T-STANFORD-NFL COMP- ALEX BOONE-SF-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. .
60.PANTHERS-ALLEN ROBINSON-WR-PENN ST-NFL COMP-DEZ BRYANT-DALLAS- 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 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 big, fierce, and explosive Robinson does
61.SAN FRANCISCO-*BASHAUD BREELAND-CB-CLEM-NFL COMP-JOHNATHAN JOSEPH-CB-HOU-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-*JARVIS LANDRY-WR-LSU-NFL COMP-JERICHO COTCHERY-PITT. - I got sick of watching Patriots receivers repeatedly drop the ball last year. While he is never going to be a burner Landry is just a great all around football player. He runs the best routes, has the best hands, and is the best blocker of all the receivers in this draft. Brady and Belichick will love him.
63.BRONCOS-#*KEITH McGILL-CB/S-UTAH-NFL COMP-RASHEAN MATHIS-DET-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 .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.
64.SEATTLE-KAREEM MARTIN-DE-N.CAR-NFL COMP-MICHAEL JOHNSON-CINC-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! .They paid him but still need more pass rushers. The versatile Martin has the size and athletic ability to play all up and down this line, but he needs coaching to harness his awesome talents.
ROUND 3
65.CHIEFS-(texans)-JARED ABBREDERIS-WR-WISC-NFL COMP-BRIAN HARTLINE-MIA
66.WASHINGTON-#JACK MEWHORT-T/G-NFL COMP-BRYAN BULAGA-GB
67.OAKLAND-JIMMY GAROPPOLO-QB-E.ILL-NFL COMP-KURT WARNER-retired
68.ATLANTA-CJ FIEDOROWICZ-TE-IOWA-NFL COMP-MERCEDES LEWIS-JAX
69.TAMPA BAY-BISHOP SANKEY-RB-WASH-LeSEAN McCOY-PHIL
70.JAGUARS-DEVONTA FREEMAN-RB-FLA.ST-NFL COMP-AHMAD BRADSHAW-INDY
71.BROWNS-PHILLIP GAINES-CB-RICE-NFL COMP-ALAN BALL-JAX
72.VIKINGS-CHARLES SIMS-RB-W.VA-NFL COMP-JOIQUE BELL-DET
ROUND 3
65.CHIEFS-(texans)-JARED ABBREDERIS-WR-WISC-NFL COMP-BRIAN HARTLINE-MIA
66.WASHINGTON-#JACK MEWHORT-T/G-NFL COMP-BRYAN BULAGA-GB
67.OAKLAND-JIMMY GAROPPOLO-QB-E.ILL-NFL COMP-KURT WARNER-retired
68.ATLANTA-CJ FIEDOROWICZ-TE-IOWA-NFL COMP-MERCEDES LEWIS-JAX
69.TAMPA BAY-BISHOP SANKEY-RB-WASH-LeSEAN McCOY-PHIL
70.JAGUARS-DEVONTA FREEMAN-RB-FLA.ST-NFL COMP-AHMAD BRADSHAW-INDY
71.BROWNS-PHILLIP GAINES-CB-RICE-NFL COMP-ALAN BALL-JAX
72.VIKINGS-CHARLES SIMS-RB-W.VA-NFL COMP-JOIQUE BELL-DET
73.BILLS-TERRENCE BROOKS-S-FLA.ST-NFL COMP-BRANDON MERIWEATHER-WASH
74.GIANTS-TRE MASON-RB-AUB-NFL COMP-MAURICE JONES-DREW-FA
75.LIONS-(rams)-*DOMINIQUE EASLEY-DT/DE-FLA-NFL COMP-DARNELL DOCKETT-AZ
76.LIONS-CHRISTIAN KIRKSEY-LB-IOWA-NFL COMP-JEROD MAYO-NE-
77.SAN FRANCISCO(tenn)-TIMMY JERNIGAN-DT-FLA.ST-NFL COMP-JURRELL CASEY-TENN
78.DALLAS-.WILL SUTTON-DT-AZ-NFL COMP-KYLE WILLIAMS-BUFF
79.RAVENS-#JEREMY HILL-RB-LSU-NFL COMP-STEVEN JACKSON-ATL
80.JETS-BRUCE ELLINGTON-WR-S.CAR-NFL COMP-DWAYNE HARRIS-DALL
81.MIAMI-#MARTAVIS BRYANT-WR-CLEM-NFL COMP-SIDNEY RICE-FA
82.BEARS-PAUL RICHARDSON-WR-COL-NFL COMP-NATE WASHINGTON-TENN
83.BROWNS-(pitt)-TERRENCE WEST-RB-TOWSON-NFL COMP-MARSHAWN LYNCH-SEA
84.ARIZONA-TRAI TURNER-G/C-LSU-NFL COMP-MACKENZY BERNADEAU-DALL
85.PACKERS-DaQUAN JONES-DT-PENN ST-NFL COMP-RANDY STARKS-MIA
86.EAGLES-PIERRE DESIR-CB-LIND-NFL COMP-SEAN SMITH-KC
87.HOUSTON-(chiefs)-BRENT URBAN-DE/DT-VA-NFL COMP-JASON HATCHER-DALL
87.HOUSTON-(chiefs)-BRENT URBAN-DE/DT-VA-NFL COMP-JASON HATCHER-DALL
88.BENGALS-#AJ McCARRON-QB-ALA-NFL COMP-MATT RYAN-ATL
89.CHARGERS-DONTE MONCRIEF-WR-O. MISS-NFL COMP-MILES AUSTIN-DALL
90.COLTS-WILL CLARKE-W.VA-NFL COMP-CARLOS DUNLAP-CINC
90.COLTS-WILL CLARKE-W.VA-NFL COMP-CARLOS DUNLAP-CINC
91.SAINTS-#*MARCUS ROBERTSON-CB-FLA-NFL COMP-TRAMON WILLIAMS-GB
92.PANTHERS-BILLY TURNER-T/G-N.DAK ST-NFL COMP-ORLANDO FRANKLIN-DENV
93.PATRIOTS-.#KELCY QUARLES-DT-S.CAR-NFL COMP-NICK FAIRLEY-DET
94.DALLAS-(49ers)-MARCUS SMITH-DE/OLB-LVILLE-NFL COMP-CLIFF AVRIL-SEA
95.DENVER#KADEEM CAREY-RB-ARIZONA-NFL COMP-PIERRE THOMAS-NO-
96.VIKINGS-(seatlle)-JAYLIN WATKINS-CB/S-FLA-NFL COMP-BRANDON CARR-DALL
97.(comp)-STEELERS-*ANTONIO RICHARDSON-OT-TENNESEE-NFL COMP-ANDRE WHITWORTH-CINC
98.(comp)-PACKERS-.#VICTOR HAMPTON-CB/S-S.CAR-NFL COMP-VONTAE DAVIS-INDY
99.(comp)-RAVENS-*JORDAN TRIPP-LB-MONT-NFL COMP-NICK BURNETT-WASH-
99.(comp)-RAVENS-*JORDAN TRIPP-LB-MONT-NFL COMP-NICK BURNETT-WASH-
100.(comp)-SAN FRANCISCO-LOGAN THOMAS-QB/TE-VA.TECH-NFL COMP-CAM NEWTON-CAR
ROUND 4
101.CHIEFS-(texans)-TOM SAVAGE-QB-PITT-NFL COMP-JAY CUTLER-CHI
102.WASHINGTON-.TRENT MURPHY-DE/OLB-STAN-NFL COMP-PAUL KRUGER-CLEV
103.ATLANTA-CARAUN REID-DT/DE-PRIN-NFL COMP-ANTONIO D.SMITH-HOU
104.JETS-(bucs)-*JACKSON JEFFCOAT-DE-TEXAS-NFL COMP-ANDRE CARTER-NE
105.JAGUARS-ROBERT HERRON-WR-WY-NFL COMP-RANDALL COBB-GB
106.CHIEFS-(browns)-CARL BRADFORD-OLB/DE-AZ.ST-NFL COMP-KAMERION WIMBLEY-TENN
107.RAIDERS-JOSH HUFF-WR-ORE-NFL COMP-LAVERNUES COLES
108.VIKINGS-CHRIS SMITH-DE-ARK-NFL COMP-TRENT COLE-PHIL
109.BILLS-DONTAE JOHNSON-CB/S-NC ST-NFL COMP-ANTREL ROLLE-NYG
110.RAMS-*TREVOR REILLY-DE/OLB-UTAH-NFL COMP-MANNY LAWSON-BUFF
111.RAMS-(lions)-*JAMES HURST-T/G-N.CAR-NFL COMP-TODD HERREMANS-PHIL
112.TITANS-*ANDRE WILLIAMS-RB-BC-NFL COMP-ALFRED MORRIS-WASH
113.GIANTS-CAMERON FLEMING-OT-STAN-NFL COMP-ANDRE SMITH-CIN
114.JAGUARS-(ravens)-KEVIN PIERRE LOUIS-OLB-B.COLL-NFL COMP-MICHAEL BOLEY-CINC
115.JETS-*ED STINSON-DE-ALA-NFL COMP-TYRONE CRAWFORD-DALL
116.MIAMI-CYRIL RICHARDSON-G-BAYLOR-NFL COMP-CARL NICKS-TB.'
117.BEARS-DRI ARCHER-RB/WR-KENT ST.-NFL COMP-DARREN SPROLES-NO
118.STEELERS-DEVIN STREET-WR-PITT-NFL COMP-AJ GREEN-CINC
119.COWBOYS-ROSS COCKRELL-CB-DUKE-NFL COMP-CORTEZ ALLEN-PITT
120.ARIZONA-CRAIG LOSTON-S-LSU-NFL COMP-DONTE WHITNER-CLEV
121.PACKERS-DAKOTA DOZIER-G-FURM-NFL COMP-JON ASAMOAH-KC
122.EAGLES-DANIEL McCULLERS-DT-TENN-NFL COMP-TED WASHINGTON-retired
123.BENGALS-#TELVIN SMITH-OLB-FLA ST-NFL COMP-DeANDRE LEVY-DET
124.HOUSTON-(chiefs)-*ANTONE EXUM-S/CB-VA.TECH-NFL COMP-TJ WARD-CLEV
125.CHARGERS-JAMES GAYLE-DE/OLB-VA.TECH-NFL COMP-ROB JACKSON-WASH
126.SAINTS-LACHE SEASTRUNK-RB-BAY-NFL COMP-CHRIS JOHNSON-TENN
127.BROWNS-(colts)-ZACH KERR-DT-DELAW-NFL COMP- BRODRICK BUNKLEY-NO
128.PANTHERS-*JON HALAPIO-G-FLA-NFL COMP-MIKE IUPATI-SF
129.SAN FRANCISCO-*BRANDON THOMAS-T/G-CLEM-NFL COMP-JOSH SITTON-GB
130.PATRIOTS-ADRIAN HUBBARD-OLB/DE-ALA-NFL COMP-BRYAN THOMAS-NYJ
131.DENVER-JOHN URSCHEL-G/C-PENN ST-NFL COMP-RYAN LILJA-DENV
132.SEATTLE-WALT AIKENS-CB-LIBERTY-NFL COMP-BRANDON BROWNER-NE
133.(comp)-LIONS-*AARON COLVIN-CB/S-OKLA-NFL COMP-DEVIN McCOURTY-NE
134.(comp)-RAVENS-JUSTIN ELLIS-DT-LA.TECH-NFL COMP-TERRANCE KNIGHTON-DENV
135.(comp)-TEXANS-EGO FERGUSON-DT-LSU-NFL COMP-AHTYBA RUBIN-CLEV
136.(comp)-LIONS-#CASSIUS MARSH-DE/OLB/TE-UCLA-NFL COMP-MIKE VRABEL(retired)
137(comp)-.JETS-LAMIN BARROW-LB-LSU-NFL COMP-BOBBY WAGNER-SEA
138(comp)-.RAVENS-*CROCKETT GILMORE-TE-COL.ST-NFL COMP-TODD HEAP-retired
139.(comp)-FALCONS-AARON LYNCH-DE/OLB-S.FLA-NFL COMP-JOHN ABRAHAM-AZ
140.(comp)-PATRIOTS-MARQUESTON HUFF-S/CB-WYOM-NFL COMP-CHRIS CULLIVER-SF
ROUND 5
141.HOUSTON-JAMES WHITE-RB-WISC-NFL COMP-SHANE VEREEN-NE
142.WASHINGTON-TAYLOR HART-DE-ORE-NFL COMP-KENDALL LANGFORD-RAMS
143.TAMPA BAY-*CHRIS WHALEY-DT-TEX-NFL COMP-HENRY MELTON-DALL
144.JACKSONVILLE-*CHRIS WATT-G-N.DAME-NFL COMP-BRANDON FUSCO-MINN
145.CLEVELAND-BROCK VEREEN-S/CB-MINN-NFL COMP-AARON WILLIAMS-BUFF
146.SEATTLE-(raiders)-SHAMAR STEPHEN-DE/DT-UCONN-RED BRYANT-JAX
147.ATLANTA-RASHAAD REYNOLDS-CB-ORE.ST-NFL COMP-TIM JENNINGS-CHI
148.VIKINGS-RICHARD ROGERS-TE-CAL-NFL COMP-OWEN DANIELS-HOU
149.BUFFALO-HOWARD JONES-OLB/DE-SHEP-NFL COMP-ROBERT MATHIS-INDY
150.JAGUARS-(lions)-JORDAN ZUMWALT-LB-UCLA-NFL COMP-CHASE BLACKBURN-NYG
151.TITANS-.*MARION GRICE-RB-AZ.ST-NFL COMP-FELIX JONES-PITT
152.GIANTS-PRESTON BROWN-ILB-LVILLE-NFL COMP-DAVID HARRIS-NYJ
153.RAMS-*EJ GAINES-CB/S-MIZZ-NFL COMP-CHRIS HARRIS-DENV
154.JETS-JEFF JANIS-WR-SAG V.ST-NFL COMP-ERIC DECKER-DENV
155.MIAMI-MARCEL JANSEN-TE-FRES.ST-NFL COMP-HEATH MILLER-PITT
156.BEARS-PRINCE SHEMBO-OLB/DE-NFL COMP-PARYS HARALSON-NO
157.STEELERS-JERICK McKINNON-RB-GA.STH-NFL COMP-CLINTON PORTIS-retired
158.DALLAS-JEMEA THOMAS-S/CB-GA.TECH-NFL COMP-MARCUS GILCHRIST-SD
159.JAGUARS-(ravens)-#DAMIEN WILLIAMS-RB-OAK-NFL COMP-BEN TATE-HOU
160.ARIZONA-KEVIN NORWOOOD-WR-ALA-NFL COMP-MARVIN JONES-CINC
161.PACKERS-*AARON MURRAY-QB-GA-NFL COMP-JEFF GARCIA-retired
162.EAGLES-BRANDON COLEMAN-WR-RUTG-NFL COMP-MALCOLM FLOYD-SD
163.CHIEFS-*ANTHONY STEEN-G/C-ALA-NFL COMP-ROBERTO GARZA-CHI
164.BENGALS-JALEN SAUNDERS-WR-OKLA-NFL COMP-SANTANA MOSS-WASH
165.CHARGERS-#ISAIAH CROWELL-RB-ALA.ST-NFL COMP-RASHARD MENDENHALL-retired
166.COLTS-ED REYNOLDS-S-STAN-NFL COMP-ANTOINE BETHEA-INDY
167.SAINTS-CHARLES LENO JR-OT-BOISE ST-NFL COMP-ANTHONY COLLINS-CINC
168.PANTHERS-COREY LINSLEY-C-OHIO.ST-NFL COMP-RYAN KALIL-CAR
169.SAINTS-(pats,philly)-BRETT SMITH-QB-WY-NFL COMP-RICH GANNON-retired
170.SAN FRANCISCO-TEVIN REESE-WR-BAY-NFL COMP-MARQUISE GOODWIN-BUFF
171.DENVER-*SHANE SKOV-ILB-STAN-NFL COMP-CHRIS SPIELMAN-retired
172.SEATTLE-TERRENCE MITCHELL-CB-ORE-NFL COMP-BYRON MAXWELL-SEA
173.(comp)-STEELERS-DEZMEN SOUTHWARD-S/CB-WISC-NFL COMP-JJ WILCOX-DALL
174.(comp)-GIANTS-LORENZO TALIAFERRO-RB-C.CAR-NFL COMP-WILLIS McGAHEE-CLEV
175.(comp)-RAVENS-TAJH BOYD-QB-SYR-NFL COMP-AARON BROOKS-retired
176.(comp)-.PACKERS-TRAVIS SWANSON-C-ARK-NFL COMP-CHRIS MYERS-HOU
ROUND 5
141.HOUSTON-JAMES WHITE-RB-WISC-NFL COMP-SHANE VEREEN-NE
142.WASHINGTON-TAYLOR HART-DE-ORE-NFL COMP-KENDALL LANGFORD-RAMS
143.TAMPA BAY-*CHRIS WHALEY-DT-TEX-NFL COMP-HENRY MELTON-DALL
144.JACKSONVILLE-*CHRIS WATT-G-N.DAME-NFL COMP-BRANDON FUSCO-MINN
145.CLEVELAND-BROCK VEREEN-S/CB-MINN-NFL COMP-AARON WILLIAMS-BUFF
146.SEATTLE-(raiders)-SHAMAR STEPHEN-DE/DT-UCONN-RED BRYANT-JAX
147.ATLANTA-RASHAAD REYNOLDS-CB-ORE.ST-NFL COMP-TIM JENNINGS-CHI
148.VIKINGS-RICHARD ROGERS-TE-CAL-NFL COMP-OWEN DANIELS-HOU
149.BUFFALO-HOWARD JONES-OLB/DE-SHEP-NFL COMP-ROBERT MATHIS-INDY
150.JAGUARS-(lions)-JORDAN ZUMWALT-LB-UCLA-NFL COMP-CHASE BLACKBURN-NYG
151.TITANS-.*MARION GRICE-RB-AZ.ST-NFL COMP-FELIX JONES-PITT
152.GIANTS-PRESTON BROWN-ILB-LVILLE-NFL COMP-DAVID HARRIS-NYJ
153.RAMS-*EJ GAINES-CB/S-MIZZ-NFL COMP-CHRIS HARRIS-DENV
154.JETS-JEFF JANIS-WR-SAG V.ST-NFL COMP-ERIC DECKER-DENV
155.MIAMI-MARCEL JANSEN-TE-FRES.ST-NFL COMP-HEATH MILLER-PITT
156.BEARS-PRINCE SHEMBO-OLB/DE-NFL COMP-PARYS HARALSON-NO
157.STEELERS-JERICK McKINNON-RB-GA.STH-NFL COMP-CLINTON PORTIS-retired
158.DALLAS-JEMEA THOMAS-S/CB-GA.TECH-NFL COMP-MARCUS GILCHRIST-SD
159.JAGUARS-(ravens)-#DAMIEN WILLIAMS-RB-OAK-NFL COMP-BEN TATE-HOU
160.ARIZONA-KEVIN NORWOOOD-WR-ALA-NFL COMP-MARVIN JONES-CINC
161.PACKERS-*AARON MURRAY-QB-GA-NFL COMP-JEFF GARCIA-retired
162.EAGLES-BRANDON COLEMAN-WR-RUTG-NFL COMP-MALCOLM FLOYD-SD
163.CHIEFS-*ANTHONY STEEN-G/C-ALA-NFL COMP-ROBERTO GARZA-CHI
164.BENGALS-JALEN SAUNDERS-WR-OKLA-NFL COMP-SANTANA MOSS-WASH
165.CHARGERS-#ISAIAH CROWELL-RB-ALA.ST-NFL COMP-RASHARD MENDENHALL-retired
166.COLTS-ED REYNOLDS-S-STAN-NFL COMP-ANTOINE BETHEA-INDY
167.SAINTS-CHARLES LENO JR-OT-BOISE ST-NFL COMP-ANTHONY COLLINS-CINC
168.PANTHERS-COREY LINSLEY-C-OHIO.ST-NFL COMP-RYAN KALIL-CAR
169.SAINTS-(pats,philly)-BRETT SMITH-QB-WY-NFL COMP-RICH GANNON-retired
170.SAN FRANCISCO-TEVIN REESE-WR-BAY-NFL COMP-MARQUISE GOODWIN-BUFF
171.DENVER-*SHANE SKOV-ILB-STAN-NFL COMP-CHRIS SPIELMAN-retired
172.SEATTLE-TERRENCE MITCHELL-CB-ORE-NFL COMP-BYRON MAXWELL-SEA
173.(comp)-STEELERS-DEZMEN SOUTHWARD-S/CB-WISC-NFL COMP-JJ WILCOX-DALL
174.(comp)-GIANTS-LORENZO TALIAFERRO-RB-C.CAR-NFL COMP-WILLIS McGAHEE-CLEV
175.(comp)-RAVENS-TAJH BOYD-QB-SYR-NFL COMP-AARON BROOKS-retired
176.(comp)-.PACKERS-TRAVIS SWANSON-C-ARK-NFL COMP-CHRIS MYERS-HOU
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