# Is for a player with with reported character or maturity concerns.
** Is for a player with reported injury concerns.
***PROJECTED TRADE*** The GIANTS trade their 1rst in this draft (#6) their 1rst in 2020 and their 2nd in 2021 for the Cardinals 1rst overall pick this year***PROJECTED TRADE***
1.NY GIANTS-(cardinals) - DWAYNE HASKINS - QB - OHIO ST.
NFL PLAYER COMPARISON - DESHAUN WATSON - TEXANS
First off even though they didn't take a QB , or even other players I thought would give them a better chance at long term success like Quentin Nelson or Bradley Chubb at #2 , I love their 2018 draft . They obviously still believed in Eli, as their first 2 picks( Barkley & Hernandez ) helped him right away . Even the high upside of Lorenzo Carter was well worth the gamble in round 3 , and BJ Hill fit right away as a 5 technique in their new 3-4 . Then still getting a possible successor to Eli in the 4th round with Kyle Lauletta was brilliant to me .Still, Lauletta was a 4th round pick , and he never got a real chance to play. So basically I think the excitement caused by Sam Darnold with the crosstown rival Jets will lead them to take a QB if they end up with another top 10 pick this year. When they started trading away starters for late picks they became my new favorite to pick #1 overall , and that means a QB this time , but they ruined it by rallying late in the season. Justin Herbert went back to school or I might have had to mock a trade where the Giants traded up for him, but trading up for Haskins may cost them less because he doesn't have as much of a track record. While Haskins had a impressive year there is a lot less experience and therefore tape to judge him on . I have finished my tape study on him , and he is my number one QB now , but I only have a mid first round grade on him. So basically if he was in last years draft I would have had him behind, Darnold, Mayfield, and Rosen .Still beggars can't be choosers , and he does have a lot of talent, and there is plenty of time in the pre-draft process for the Giants and other teams to fall in love with him .The Urban Meyer system has won a lot of college games ,but while his QB's are routinely great college players , they are rarely NFL quality passers . In my opinion Haskins is the most talented passer Meyer has ever had . He has just enough athletic ability to do all the options and runs the offense calls for. A lot of NFL teams are now going toward more athletic QB's, but he is definitely a pass first QB . Haskins has a strong arm , which is why it surprises me he doesn't throw downfield enough in this offense , he definitely has the arm for it . Although he did showcase that big arm at times . He is the ONLY reason this years underwhelming & inexperienced Ohio St. team won the big ten, and he put an exclamation point on that with a great bowl game . The redshirt sophomore's youth and small sample as a starter contribute to him probably needing a year behind a veteran to adjust to the NFL game , and Eli could be the guy to mentor him in the final year of his contract ,but everything you hear about says he is a natural leader. Plus , he doesn't hear the footsteps Eli now does from years of getting hammered behind a substandard O-Line . The Giants don't have a 3rd rounder this year thanks to taking Sam Beal in the supplemental draft,and they are going to need that second rounder to help make the team competitive in 2019 .With there being a very legitimate chance at next years Giants pick being in the top 10, and not enough evidence to think they are going to get a RG3 , Goff, Wentz type package for a QB with only one year of tape I am going to spread their price over 3 years and make it less than the others cost .
2.SAN FRANCISCO - NICK BOSA - DE - OHIO ST.
NFL PLAYER COMPARISON - JOEY BOSA - CHARGERS
I liked the niners first 4 picks , although I still thought it was too high for Mcglinchey, but OT's are in high demand , and he is a great run blocker . Dante Pettis is a guy I think will really make a real world impact right away. he's an elite return man , and a vastly underrated WR . The secondary could use an upgrade though . Richard Sherman is still a good player , but after coming off a major injury last season he is already hurt again . Throw in Sherman's age (31 next year) , and that their possible 3rd corners are struggling . However, the more tape I watch the more I am sure that there is no corner in this draft worth a top 2 pick . The niners are a prime candidate to trade down and get better value for their pick unless the falls to them here . I think that only happens if the Cards trade down with a QB needy team so they can get more picks and rebuild their O-Line . it happened in this case and Bosa fell right into their laps . Nick is a lot like Joey on tape , and that's high praise. Plus, he has the added advantage of having his Pro Bowl big bro as a tutor. He's not quite as big or stout against the run, but he is still a plus there . Nick has those same lethal hands and motor though . It wouldn't surprise me if he is an even better player long term , and that's hard to pass up . He had surgery for a core muscle injury after the 3rd game of this season . He probably wouldn't have been a 100% at any time this season after that , and then he wisely has pulled out of school and is preparing for the draft . He should be healthy by the combine , is still the highest graded player on my board, and I still think he goes in the top 3 as long as he is healthy .This pick would also give them 4 players along the D-line who were drafted in the first round, and 3 of them would have gone in the top 7. They can kick Armstead inside to join Buckner , play Bosa on the strongside, and hopefully Thomas plays well on the weakside seeing single blockers all day This would give all 4 a good chance to succeed .
3.NY JETS - JONAH WILLIAMS - OT - ALABAMA
NFL PLAYER COMPARISON - JORDAN GROSS - retired
I actually liked the Jets draft, although at first I thought they gave up too much to move from #3 to #6 for what could of ended up being the 3rd QB on their board, but with Darnold falling into their laps it looks really smart now . Shepherd in the 3rd, Herndon in the 4th, and Fatukasi in the 6th were also great values. This was the kind of draft that can change a franchises fortunes long term . It's great that they got a potential franchise QB , but I almost hoped he didn't get to play much this year because he could ( and did )get hurt behind their O-line . The only one of them I would say is even slightly above average is LT Kelvin Beachum and he is a free agent after 2019. They should have the cap space to keep him , but if they don't , or they want an upgrade at RT this guy should fit . I am now completely done with his tape over the last 2 years , and freaking love this dude ! Williams was a starter at RT as a true freshman at Alabama and kicked over to the blindside last year . He kept improving this year , and he could be in line for top 10 selection this year, and should be the first OT taken in a potentially deep class of them . His play is remarkably consistent game after game . He has reliable techniques , is a natural knee bender, has good mirroring skills, a well timed punch , and displays a strong base . He is also pretty steady and regular in the run game as well . He's not a mauler, but he does move people off the ball some and he is great on combo blocks .He also flashes a mean streak ,especially at the second level , but his best trait has got to be work ethic . No one can be this steady a technician without constantly practicing their techniques over and over . Plus he is so rarely fooled by stunts that you know he's a coachable film junkie . If he was on my team I would nickname him the clinic because this is how I teach it to be done, and rarely does someone do it so well with such regularity .I have heard that some teams like him at guard, because they worry about his arm length, and I can see that occasionally . Most teams have a cutoff of 34 inch arm length for offensive tackles , but even if he is 33 I would leave him at tackle because he alleviates that some by having consistent inside hand placement . So unless his arms measure really short at the combine I think he will be the first OT drafted because on tape he is clearly the best OT in the draft , although some more inside grip & reverse bench reps would help strengthen that punch .One more thing . The Jets don't have a 2nd round pick due to the trade up for Sam Darnold last year so I also wouldn't be surprised if they traded back to get more picks . It should be hard to pass on Quinnen Williams here, because he is one of only 2 players I consider elite in this draft right now , but a trade back in the top 10 and still getting Jonah to protect your young QB would be ideal .
4.OAKLAND - QUINNEN WILLIAMS - DT - ALABAMA
NFL PLAYER COMPARISON - JONATHAN ALLEN - REDSKINS
The Raiders had the ultimate boom or bust draft in 2018 full of high end talents with flaws. It's almost like Al Davis was in charge again . Then they inexplicably traded a 3rd round pick for the talented but unreliable Martavis Bryant . Of course they only ended up cutting him , but at least they brought him back, but then he got hurt & suspended again.To top it off they traded their best player in Khalil Mack right before the season . I would have paid him but maybe they will end up on the right side of this. The problem with that is they have to make the right choices with those picks, but at least 2 first rounders is a nice haul for any non QB , although they may end up being later picks than the Riders envisioned when they made the deal. The best part for me is I was having trouble on deciding how well they would play under the new regime, but now it's much easier to rank them . The raiders have no one special coming off the edge right now , although Arden Key has the potential to be so, and if you add him to Mo Hurst on the inside their is hope for a future pass rush . Bruce Irvin was probably their best edge rusher right now, but he is undersized , will be 32 next season, was one of the most vocal players about the trading of Mack, had a 9.25 million dollar salary next year with no dead money on the cap if they walked away from him, and they did cut him mid-season. Their victory's over the Cardinals & Bengals probably cost them the #1 overall pick , but they still get a awesome player at #4 that helps their horrible pass rush, and also can be dominant against the run . The first thing you notice about Quinnen is that he has great snap anticipation . Almost always the first guy off the ball , and I actually now believe he is quicker off the ball than Ed Oliver . Lacks the elite tools and measurables of some of the other top Interior D-Lineman in this class, but his tape is really good, and every tape I have watched has only made me like him more . Plus, he has less miles on him than a lot of the previous Alabama DT's , and he is a lot stronger than I would have thought at his listed size. He is already getting steady pressure in multiple ways, and he wrecks it against the run . He can play any interior spot in a odd or even front when needed . Great hand use and leverage .Put him at the one technique alongside Mo Hurst and QB's will have no place to step up in the pocket, and there is nothing a QB hates more than pressure in his face .
5.TAMPA BAY - JOSH ALLEN - OLB/DE - KENTUCKY
NFL PLAYER COMPARISON - JEVON KEARSE - retired
The Bucs are coming off a good draft last year , and they also added some other key veterans to beef up their D-line . The one major weakness I could see on their offense is left tackle, although the secondary is also a big worry on defense . Donovan Smith hasn't been getting it done, and instead of kicking him inside to guard where he might have been more successful they have stubbornly left him outside to the detriment of the team . Even though I loved the pick of Ronald Jones , and thought he was well worth the 38th pick in the 2nd round, I'm surprised they didn't snatch up Connor Williams to play LT . Plus, Jones disappointed us all this year anyway . With Winston's suspension and the fact that they are in one of the the deepest divisions in football , especially when it comes to QB talent , they were in for a long season .However, Fitzmagic gave them a short burst, but that ended quickly . They also lack anything even remotely resembling a shut down corner . Since they didn't upgrade at LT, and they had another season of their QB's getting hammered on the blindside , I am going to finally give them the benefit of the doubt and hope they move on from Smith at LT . If they really want to see if Winston is the guy long term upgrading left tackle will help him more than any other position would, but that's where I'll go in the 2nd round because scoring points wasn't the Bucs problem. The defense was ,and now they are switching to a 3-4 with( the shouldn't have been fired by the Jets in the first place ) Todd Bowles as their new DC . They lack the personnel for it though, and the only defender they have that this might help step up his game is former 2nd rounder Noah Spence, although Vea could plug right in at the NT. Spence was undersized and got pushed around and beat up as a 4-3 end so he put on some weight, but ended up losing his explosiveness once he did . So maybe a drop back to around 240 & a move to being a 3-4 OLB can at least restore some of his pass rushing prowess, although I don't know how he will hold up in coverage . Allen could fit perfectly as the other 3-4 OLB in this defense . Josh is an experienced 3-4 OLB with an ideal frame & length for the position with some chops in both zone & man coverage . Coming into this season I saw him as an unimaginative pass rusher who needed more than a speed rush and the occasional spin counter, but the tools were all there . He also showed a good motor, but he needed to get stronger to hold up on the edge against the run ,and improve his bull rush. He might have gone in the 2nd in the 2018 draft, but I think returning to school was the right move for him because he's done everything I wanted him to do to up his draft grade . He has put on some more muscle making him more attractive to 4-3 teams, improved his technique & pass rush repertoire . If he shows out at the Senior Bowl he could easily wind up in the top 3, but I think he is the perfect fit here .
6.ARIZONA -(giants)- GREG LITTLE - OT - OLE MISS
NFL PLAYER COMPARISON - RONNIE STANLEY - RAVENS
The Cards may not want to admit it, but most of the moves they made last off season said they are rebuilding , but didn't want to say it out loud . If Josh Rosen is healthy long term I think he will be the steal of the draft, but I have no reason to think he will be . Sam Bradford has always been the king of un-realized potential at QB due to injuries, and he was cut anyway , but once again he got his money. So I felt a top 5 pick was probably in their future, and losing to the Raiders confirmed it . Plus Rosen was their best draft pick in my opinion, and while I like Christian Kirk he has never shown he is anything but a slot receiver, and that's where Fitzgerald plays . That's another sign that they are looking long term . To protect their young QB they should really upgrade their terrible O-Line However , since they did end up with the first pick trading it to a QB needy team so they can get a big enough haul to speed up the rebuild really helps . I wouldn't much of fuss about surprise new head coach Kyle Kingsbury's comments about taking Kyler Murray number one overall if he had the chance. He isn't calling the shots here, and GM Steve Keim brought Kyle in to help Josh Rosen , and save his job by justifying taking him last year . Not that I disagree with taking Rosen. I thought it was a good pick, but you can't expect any QB to survive behind the O-line they put him behind . So let's start their. Little started out great as a freshman , but looked a lot more inconsistent in his 2nd year, but there is a reason he was the top OT recruit coming out of high school . After watching last years tape I was concerned that his hands are outside too often & he also had a vulnerability to the occasional quick inside move in pass pro. I admit he is very talented ,but was prone to penalties,and missing his targets when on the move in the run game .He has long arms , left tackle feet , and when he gets his hands inside and locks out he's excellent in pass pro . Coming into this season he had all the tools to rebound and end up a top 10 pick, but he needed to keep his weight in check and polish his techniques in every phase of the game. He did look to be in much better physical condition this year, and his pass sets were more consistent , although he still showed that vulnerability to inside moves . His techniques as a run blocker can improve everywhere . He is more physically talented than Jonah Williams ,although not near as steady right now, and definitely not as functionally strong because he doesn't play low and he is often a tick late off the snap . Since I have finished all the tape on both those players I am very comfortable with my evaluation of them now . He's still a much better pass blocker than run blocker too , but again slow off the snap , often too high , and late with his hand punch . He especially struggles to hit somebody when pulling or going to the second level , and even when he finds a guy to hit he is usually too high & his hands are usually outside . I think he will go in the top 10 because of his tools & upside, but I barely have a first round grade on him after watching all his tape , and he is my 6th ranked OT . I felt the same way about their current LT DJ Humphries , but hey they would now have a lot of picks to keep improving that O-line .
7.JACKSONVILLE - DEVIN WHITE - ILB - LSU
NFL PLAYER COMPARISON - BOBBY WAGNER - SEAHAWKS
It didn't matter much to me how much last draft would have helped the 2018 team, because the roster was already stacked, except at QB and LT . Andrew Norwell's signing in free agency helped this team this year more than anybody they drafted, although I thought Ronnie Harrison was a steal in the 3rd & Leon Jacobs was intriguing in the 7th. I had previously picked the Jags to win the Superbowl in a mock, but I believe if anything keeps them from winning it's Blake Bortles, and the way things are going now they may have a top 10 pick . They would probably go the veteran free agent or trade routes ( Carr, Eli, Dalton, Flacco, Bridgewater , Tannehill ) to replace him if he is gone after this season . This team is just a consistent QB, healthy O-Line , and a upgrade at one LB spot away from being a contender again. Which brings us to this pick . Telvin Smith's play has slipped a lot this year , With so many LB's coming into the NFL today lacking take on skills it's really nice to see a complete 3 down player like White that doesn't run around all blocks . White can stack , shed , and run to the ball . This is a sideline to sideline guy who can blitz, and he also shows a good football IQ . A potential true MIKE LB with legitimate 1rst round tape is rare in today's game , but he also has the speed to play outside . Shows good awareness in zone coverage , changes direction well , is an excellent blitzer ,and has the innate ability to sift through traffic and find the ball carrier . The only potential negatives I see are length , a tendency to come in hot & overrun the occasional play ,and a penchant for tackling around the head when he's chasing backside or around the edge . He plays a devalued position, but I wouldn't be surprised if he ended up with a top 10 overall grade this year . One caveat here . If Kyler Murray does enter the draft , AND gives up baseball COMPLETELY I might slot him here . A run first team like the jags could find a way to use his speed in all kinds of read options & RPO's .
8.DETROIT - -** RASHAN GARY - DT - MICHIGAN
NFL PLAYER COMPARISON - CAMERON JORDAN - SAINTS
NFL PLAYER COMPARISON - CAMERON JORDAN - SAINTS
The Lions had a 2018 draft designed to help them run the ball, and they also improved their run defense as well, but I am not sure about their pass rush , although their secondary may have caused some coverage sacks . Ragnow is a beast, just ask Duron Payne . Plus , Tyrell Crosby was a STEAL & I liked Da'Shawn Hand more than most. Ziggy Ansah played this year on the franchise tag , and is hurt again . After Ansah got hurt again I didn't see see anyone else rushing the passer in Detroit that would scare me if I was an opposing OC , although Kennard & Hand got off to good starts, but Kennard is a LB and he faded quickly . The point is I still think they need another edge rusher . Gary is a freakish athlete for such a big man, and I think his versatility , motor , high floor & high upside , will see him drafted very early . I think his best fit is as a 3 technique , but he is so explosive for his size that I am sure 4-3 teams will also like him as strong side end, and that 3-4 teams will crave him as a five technique . After he blows up the combine I won't be surprised if he goes top 5 despite his tape not showing it, and some injury concerns. He would be a strongside end for the Lions with the ability to kick inside on obvious passing downs .
9.DENVER - JAWAAN TAYLOR - OT - FLORIDA
NFL PLAYER COMPARISON - MARCUS CANNON - PATRIOTS
The Broncos had Bradley Chubb fall into their lap at #5 , and Josey Jewell gift wrapped for them in the the 4th. That alone should make this draft a success, but they got some other intriguing players as well . I personally thought Phillip Lindsay was too small to be an every down guy before the draft, but I was wrong . I know some Bronco fans will want a QB, and I even gave them one in my first 2019 mock, but after thinking about I doubt it. I think Keenum fit's this scheme well as a stopgap. Also Elway finally gave up on Paxton Lynch , but I was personally betting on a healthy & hopefully matured Chad Kelly as the QB of the future . Case Keenum has been bad so far this year, and Kelly might have gotten his chance pretty soon if he hadn't had another off the field incident . Now he's been cut , and if they had ended up with a top 5 pick for the second consecutive year they should definitely have used that pick on a QB , but with them now having a later pick I'm betting they take a developmental QB later unless they fall in love with someone in the pre-draft process . Also, no I don't see them trading ahead of the Giants and jags even if Haskins falls . All the other QB's are reaches, but who knows . As for now I will fill another big need . RT Jared Veldheer has a solid career but he has been trending downward for a few years . Taylor is a huge & strong right tackle prospect with surprisingly good feet. I thought of him as more of a third rounder coming into the year , but his he has taken his game to a new level this season . I think this is a slight reach, but (other than QB ) offensive tackle is the most reached for position in the draft. However, unlike quarterback's offensive tackles don't bust as often because many of them could still start inside if they don't end up being able to hack it on a island . I think Taylor can hack RT, but I also think he could play guard if it doesn't work out . He is big, powerful and athletic . He throws his hands with force too, but at least when he misses it's usually to the stomach . At least that slows them down . When you miss high your hands either slide right up and over, you end up grabbing outside & risking a possible penalty , or you hit the guy in the throat or face and risk another possible penalty .
10.BUFFALO - CODY FORD - OT - OKLAHOMA
NFL PLAYER COMPARISON - CORDY GLENN - BENGALS
It's a shame when a team has such a great season, breaks a long playoff drought, and then you feel that said team is about to hit a wall .A draft is never really accurately judged until at least 3 years later, and the Bills got some really talented players with their first 3 picks, but they didn't address their O-Line or the WR position much. In fact they didn't draft a O-lineman & WR until the 5th round and 7th round respectively .That combined with the raw players they took early are why I gave them the #1 pick overall in my very first 2019 mock draft. Both Allen and Edmunds are high end talents , but both also lack polish and I'm not sure how much they can be expected to contribute early in their careers , especially Allen. 3rd round pick Harrison Philips was a steal where they got him in my book, and I thought he was the most likely Bills draftee to consistently contribute right out of the gate , and he did . Since 3 of their best O-Lineman on last years team were no longer on the roster, and the only on roster fill in I am comfortable with for any of them is Dion Dawkins. It didn't matter whether it was Nathan Peterman or the boom or bust Josh Allen at QB . I don't give either much of chance to succeed this season under those circumstances, and sadly I was right , although Peterman was historically bad. After watching the first 3 pre-season games my suspicions were sadly confirmed about the line, and it didn't get any better as the season went along . QB's were dropping like flies in Buffalo , but Matt Barkley of all people stepped up on a week's notice and probably cost them any chance of getting the #1 overall pick . When Allen returned from injury they went with a run first offense where his size and speed helped them be competitive, but in the long run he is going to need to pass to be successful . As for the O-line I like Dion Dawkins long term at LT, but think RT Jordan Mills is more of a below average player that could use an upgrade , or maybe even kick inside. Ford wasn't really on my radar until later in the season , but a lot of people started talking about him , and I was watching Kyler Murray(just in case ) that week anyway . So after doing 4 of his tapes I have to agree that the junior is a stud . In fact that whole O-line is full of NFL players , but right now I think he is the best of them . He looks huge in both width of the shoulder and length of the arms , which makes it hard for people to just get around him . He's also played left guard in the past and some will prefer him inside , but I think he can stick at right tackle after the limited number of games I have watched so far . He is sloppy at times, but still shows decent feet and the aggressive mentality you want up front .
11.CINCINNATTI - BYRON MURPHY - CB -WASHINGTON
NFL PLAYER COMPARISON - DENZEL WARD - BROWNS
Marvin Lewis and Mike Brown have had a long run together. Their coach heavily influenced drafting strategy where they take a lot of really talented players who have fallen because of character issues & injury woes payed off for awhile. They actually had about a 5 year run where they had one of the leagues more talented roisters from top to bottom, but never won a playoff game. QB Andy Dalton will be at the end of a 8 year run as the starter after this season, and despite 4 playoff trips hasn't won said playoff game either, although he has 2 years left on his deal . Mike Brown is both owner and GM in Cincy , and he's probably not going to fire himself, or even take a Jerry Jones route and wise up enough to let football people help him make better decisions . Both Lewis & Dalton have had their chances and Brown has actually given them more chances than I think they deserve to win . So I think they should both be gone after this season, and then the rebuilding Bengals would start over at the games most important position , and see what they can get for Dalton on the trade market. Even with the Bengals hot start I thought they would both be gone with another first round playoff loss , but they have fallen back to earth now after a slew of injuries, and that includes Dalton. However, even though I disagree it looks like Mike Brown is only going to get rid of Marvin Lewis . So that means they are keeping Dalton so I will turn to another big need . Corner is still a big need though, and Darqueze Dennard's up & down career is about to culminate in free agency . Murphy is the next guy to be highly drafted out of the Huskies recent strong corner tradition . He is smooth with great feet , ball skills , and can probably play in any scheme .
12.GREEN BAY - DEIONTE THOMPSON - S - ALABAMA
NFL PLAYER COMPARISON - EDDIE JACKSON - BEARS
The Packers new regime had a good first draft in 2018. Taking back to back corners, including getting a guy ( Josh Jackson) in the 2nd I thought they might consider in the first round . Equanimeous St. Brown could end of being a huge steal in the 6th as well . They didn't address the edge though, and Clay Matthews is slowing down even if they did suddenly decide to leave him outside now , but this is a deep draft in edge rushers so they might get one later . However, they did signal that they were giving up on the playoffs relatively early by trading long time safety Ha-Ha Cinton-Dix to the skins for a 4th round pick . In fact he safety position in green Bay was so disappointing this season that they even played former corner Tramon Williams was probably the best they had at the position after the trade ,and his play left much to be desired . They have a a good shot to get a younger cheaper replacement with this pick . Deionte is the best safety I have seen in this draft . In his first year as a starter at the Alabama Thompson has been a stud. Continuing the trend of Nick Saban coached DB's who look people ready coming out of college . Making plays in coverage and against the run all over the field, and he is one those rare safeties with the range & smarts to play single high. He needs to add 10-15 more pounds of muscle to help him hold up against the run, but he could do that between the end of the National championship and the beginning of training camp .
13.MIAMI - DREW LOCK - QB - MISSOURI
NFL PLAYER COMPARISON - JAY CUTLER - retired
The Dolphins season was in Ryan Tannehill's hands in my opinion, and I didn't trust him to be healthy or consistent enough to take them far . I actually expected them to draft a QB relatively high( possibly even in the first if one they liked fell to them) in the 2018 draft despite them being financially committed to Tannehill for at least this season , but they didn't . Combining that with them failing to find a possibly even solid Suh replacement, and my dislike of their line backing core ( even after the draft) made me think they will be picking very high, but they had a good start before the injuries hit. Other than Fitzpatrickk at #11 I just don't think they got it right overall this draft, but Gase somehow has made them competitive anyway , even with another Tannehill injury . There is now a lot of talk that the Dolphins have had it with his injuries and are ready to draft a new QB high this year . I admit I don't like the rock and go, easy read, bubble screen heavy , wide open target, spread system that Lock has been in the last 3 years, but at least he has improved every year . However, he threw down the field more than most spread QB's do , and they went to a more pro friendly offense this season , although those adjustments may have slowed him down some. I thought Lock might enter the 2018 draft, and had already watched 3 of his games before he decided to go back to school . He's got the frame , athleticism , and huge arm you want ,but his delivery is a little low . Plus he made a big jump in production this season , but he needs to be more consistent to justify a first rounder, especially with his footwork. I gave him a 2nd round grade . Mostly because of his tools and deep ball , but QB's tend to get pushed up a round , and no one else is stepping up to be the number 2 QB right now . In fact he didn't do anyone thing special at the Senior Bowl in my eyes , but people are crowing about him being a first rounder now . Wish I could say this is smoke ,because if the only reason to give him a bump after that week is he was the only QB who wasn't bad in the practices that sucks . That's QB desperation for ya though.If I were the Dolphins I would role with Tannehill one more year, or some other stop gap, and focus on next years QB class rather than reach here . I guess we will find out who is calling the shots here pretty quick because new head coach Brian Flores will probably want to start building the defense first . GM Chris Grier will probably want a QB because that might give him more of a grace period to keep his job .
14.ATLANTA - ED OLIVER - DT - HOUSTON
NFL PLAYER COMPARISON - LA'ROI GLOVER - retired
The Falcons had a solid 2018 draft with some solid values, but the only one I might call a steal was Dedrin Senat in the 3rd . Grady Jarrett is a stud, vastly underrated , and a free agent after the season . Matt Ryan's contract , and the fact that they wanted to protect that investment by prioritizing re-signing LT Jake Matthews may prevent them from re-signing Grady . If they go D-Line it would help , but this D-Line class is so deep I think they can get a good player in there in the 2nd , and I am not sure Ed Oliver's lack of size fits their preferences. However, Grady Jarrett isn't a prototype measureable's guy either, and he has been the best player on their defense for years . So in this case I am going to give them the benefit of the doubt and give them Oliver . Ed has been a dominant and disruptive force inside, and he has the explosive traits of a high level pass rusher with some more polish and technique additions . He explodes off the ball and practically lives in opposing backfields . He was a candidate for the number one overall pick if he had gotten to the QB more & measured well,but he looks small enough to drop him out of the top of the draft on many teams boards, and the double teams he faces didn't do his sack total any good . I would love to see him playing primarily as a 3 technique instead of as a NT, and think that's his primary position in the NFL, but even playing what I see as out of position he is still getting pressure .The pressure he could get from the inside would really help out Myles Garrett too .
15.WASHINGTON - # - ANDRAEZ "GREEDY" WILLIAMS - CB - LSU
NFL PLAYER COMPARISON - STEPHON GILMORE - PATRIOTS
The Skins did a good job of filling some needs in the 2018 draft, except for two . Wide receiver and corner . The secondary was better than I expected , but Josh Norman isn't worth his salary anymore, and the depth of wide receivers in the 2nd round of this draft is excellent . Greedy had six picks as a redshirt freshman at a school known for putting out NFL talent at DB . He looks like a potential shut down corner in time if he takes to NFL coaching . Tall, physical , fast , explosive , and already balling out in the SEC at a young age make for a good future . If he can add another 15 pounds of muscle between now and the combine I think there is a good chance he's the first DB off the board , despite his occasional miscues this year . He has the height & long arms that NFL teams prefer .
If I was the skins , and Alex Smith still isn't healthy after that horrific injury I would go stop gap QB this year . Maybe even trade away this years first for a first next year if their is any takers and try to get Tua , Herbert , or some other possible standout QB in next years draft .
Jay Gruden has done a great job with horrific injuries wracking his team, and he deserves a lot more time to sort through this most tragic injury of all . I would extend him for 3 more years and start out over with a new QB next year . If they let him go I'll bet a smart team will snatch him right away .
Jay Gruden has done a great job with horrific injuries wracking his team, and he deserves a lot more time to sort through this most tragic injury of all . I would extend him for 3 more years and start out over with a new QB next year . If they let him go I'll bet a smart team will snatch him right away .
16.CAROLINA - CLELIN FERRELL - DE - CLEMSON
NFL PLAYER COMPARISON - CARLOS DUNLAP - BENGALS
First off let me say I love the talent they acquired with their first 4 picks in the 2019 draft, but it still bothers me that they didn't address the LT position, or the O-Line at all for that matter . My first inclination is to AGAIN give them a LT to replace Matt Kalil , but apparently they have had 2 straight GM's who think he is better than I do . They may think that Taylor Mouton is the guy eventually, but I read right after the draft that they were trying him at guard this year , to replace the loss of Andrew Norwell . Then - SHOCKINGLY- Kalil got hurt again. So then Mouton was the left tackle, although he ended up on the right side after a Daryl Williams injury. Since I see him as an upgrade as the long term LT once Williams returns I am now betting they try to fill their other great weakness- edge rusher . Julius Peppers is is a future HOFer , but he is also long in the tooth . In my early musings on the #7 overall pick in the 2018 draft I thought maybe Clelin Ferrell might rise up in the Pre-Draft process and go to Tampa Bay, but somehow Dabo Sweeney got his whole D-line to come back to Clemson. That's amazing when you consider that Ferrell had a decent chance to go top 10, but there are so many edge rushers in this draft he may fall a bit farther because he was doesn't have the upside of some of the others. Also, Wilkins would have been a first rounder, and Bryant was probably a day 2 pick somewhere . Add the beastly and draft eligible this year Dexter Lawrence to it ,and you know that Sweeney is a serious Machiavellian Svengali Professor X or something .Ferrell has the ideal length , measurables , and tools to entice NFL teams if he can learn to play lower with consistency .This year he checked off every box , and if he continues to perform well in the pre-draft process he could be a top 10 pick . He would be a strong side 4-3 end for the panthers , and he could kick inside to pair with Kawaan Short on some obvious passing downs .
17.CLEVELAND - CHRISTIAN WILKINS - DT - CLEMSON
NFL PLAYER COMPARISON - LEONARD WILLIAMS - JETS
The browns got a lot of good football players in the 2018 draft, but with all that high end draft capital I think they could have done even better, and even if Baker is the guy long term I would have been surprised if they won more than 8 games this year. They could have traded back from #4 with Buffalo to #12 and probably have still gotten Ward or even Fitzpatrick . Or they could have taken the more valuable edge rusher in Bradley Chubb . Garrett, Ogbah, and Bradley Chubb are all big and strong enough to kick inside at times and then they could have gotten 3 highly athletic pass rushers on the field at the same time . Also, why take Austin Corbett at #33 . If they want to him to play guard when Will Hernandez who went a pick later to the Giants was still on the board, and I think Connor Williams would have been a potential LT as well . Then you have to consider if they do in fact like him at guard then are they kicking Joel Bitonio out to LT , or the reverse option of Corbett at LT and Bitonio at guard . In either case I think Connor Williams would also be a better LT . I loved the Nick Chubb pick though . Their draft haul was still in my top 10, but it's really hard to screw up that many premium picks , and their team made great strides this season. I think the biggest needs for this team are interior pass rusher , offensive tackle , an interior run stuffer ,and a outside wide receiver, but this receiver class is really deep in the second round . I'm going to go with the best player available from those positions here . Wilkins could have been a first rounder last year, but he went back to school and it paid off with another national championship . This team captain is a leader on and off the field. I have not put him in many of my first round mocks this year because I wasn't sure if he would ever be a good enough pass rusher to deserve to go in the first . After finishing his tape I doubt he will ever be a double digit sack guy, but he will get steady pressure, and be dominant against the run all yer, and was a force in every phase of the game against Alabama . A team like the browns that is on the way up and going through a culture change would be wise to pick a winner like Christian here .
18.MINNESOTA - DALTON RISNER - OL - KANSAS ST.
NFL PLAYER COMPARISON - JACK MEWHORT - retired
NFL PLAYER COMPARISON - JACK MEWHORT - retired
The Vikings 2018 draft was up and down for me . Hughes is worth that pick on tape, but I think they will regret passing on Connor Williams and Will Hernandez because I still don't like their O-Line . I have both read and heard about how the Vikings had a good line last year and how that fueled the season the team had. To quote the mighty Dwight K. Schrute " FALSE" . The truth is the O-Line was so injury wracked & bad in 2016 that in comparison the 2017 version looked better than they were . Personally I think Pat Shurmur's excellence as a play caller was more valuable to getting that team into the NFC championship . They lost one starter up front this preseason ,and unless they suddenly got a lot better soon I expected some regression from this offense despite upgrading at quarterback with Kirk Cousins . After playing for Washington's excellent O-line IN 2017 Cousins was sure to be disappointed, although last year his skins offensive line was also beset by injuries so he should have had some experience with running for his life right after the ball is snapped . Well sadly I was right and the interior O-Line really sucked . Risner is a the kind of versatile player that could probably play every spot up front. That is a O-Line coaches dream because it allows him to get his best 5 blockers on the field . I think he is just fine at right tackle, and think it's a waste to kick him inside when there are so few worthy OT's coming out of college these days , but that's just how this played out . He would kick inside in this scenario , although he is really going to have to play lower than he normally does outside on the interior . Risner hurt his shoulder last year or I thought he might have entered the 2018 draft . I thought Kansas ST might be a surprise contender this year, but I was wrong. They were returning all 5 starters up front , and that always gives you a shot to surprise , However , Risner was even better this season , has a mean punch , and he added a bit of nasty into his game.
19.PITTSBURGH - N'KEAL HARRY - WR - ARIZONA ST.
NFL PLAYER COMPARISON - DeANDRE HOPKINS - TEXANS
Roethlisber can whine all he wants about them drafting a QB in 2018 , but if he wasn't pulling a Brett Favre then they they wouldn't have taken Rudolph in the 3rd , and since they got him around where he should have went I like the pick a lot . I liked James Washington in the 2nd, although he didn't do much in year one . I liked Marcus Allen in the 5th too, but thought Terrell Edmunds was a big reach in the first . Ben could be especially happy with Washington long term because he likes to throw deep , and James was the best deep ball WR in the draft . Leveon Bell should be playing somewhere else next year, but so far it looks like James Conner can be the guy long term so I am not giving them a RB . I expect the Steelers to wise-up and trade Antonio Brown this year because , even though he still is an elite player he divided the locker room . Coupled with fellow diva Leveon Bell's departure this could put them right back into contention. They still have Ben as a diva, although he has stopped threatening retirement and is now talking extension so maybe he is growing up some . Harry was the most likely top 10 WR in mu mind before this season , and while I now doubt any of them go that high now he is still number one on my board. He's a big mismatch with a wide catch radius that can go up and win contested catches . An accurate strong armed QB like Ben should now how to get the best out of him .
***PROJECTED TRADE*** The TITANS trade their 1rst in this draft (#20) for WR ANTONIO BROWN ***PROJECTED TRADE***
NFL PLAYER COMPARISON - CJ MOSLEY - RAVENS
The Titans are at a point where they have to know if Marcus Mariota is the guy, and giving him a WR like Antonio Brown who is regularly open would help. If Mariota can't stay healthy & succeed after this it's time to start over at the games most important position , but this pick now belongs to the Pittsburgh . Ever since the injury of Ryan Shazier the Steelers have lacked the athleticism at off the ball LB that this defense requires . Wilson is another complete Alabama off the ball LB who can do it all. He could be the defensive leader this rebuilding team needs .
21.SEATTLE - DREMONT JONES - DT - OHIO ST
NFL PLAYER COMPARISON - GENO ATKINS - BENGALS
I liked the Seahawks draft last year despite what I felt was an overdraft in the first round . I especially Will Dissly, Shaq Griffin , and Jamarco Jones in the 5th .The main component of the Seahawks defense is getting pressure with your front 4 . With the hawks letting go of , Richard Sherman , Michael Bennett & Sheldon Ricardson , and Cliff Avril's & Kam Chancellor's injury worries a rebuild was in order . While the Hawks have tried to put resources into building the O-Line they haven't all worked out that well, especially German Ifedi , but if they have a pick this high it's very possible that a defensive minded head coach like Carrol will get his way . The hawks had very little interior pass rush last season and this guy could help . So I'll go with Jones because he gets off the ball so well , and the things they could do with him lined up next to Frank Clark could be special .
22.BALTIMORE - MONTEZ SWEAT - DE - MISS. ST.
NFL PLAYER COMPARISON - SIMEON RICE - retired
The position that legendary retiring GM Ozzie Newsome has missed on the most in the last 10 years is edge rusher . Maybe with Eric DeCosta calling the shots he will get that position right . This is made even worse by the fact that 35 year old future HOFer Terrell Suggs is on the last year of his deal, and even T-sizzle can't play forever anyway. Plus Za'darius Smith is a free agent after the year . Sweat has a long lean ideal frame with the arm length that you want . He uses those vine like arms to keep blockers at bay and/or control them in the run game, and holds up surprisingly well at the point of attack for a guy as light as he is . Also uses his arms well getting into a blockers chest as a pass rusher, and has a good motor . Shows a good awareness to find the ball, and smooth change of direction skills . He also brings the versatility to play both sides , and even stands up and rushes/ drops occasionally . He already looked bigger at the Senior Bow without any loss of agility , and he looked great on the field . That's progress , and while he's by no means a perfect prospect all the tools are there .If he can bulk up a bit more before the combine to keep from getting pushed around in the run game, keep his athleticism while doing it, learn to consistently play lower, and tighten up his arc when he's speed rushing outside ,and work on his hand fighting ,he could be an elite edge player . The top 10 is a possibility .
23.HOUSTON - ANDRE DILLARD - OT - WASH ST.
NFL PLAYER COMPARISON -ALEJANDRO VILLANUEVA - STEELERS
The Texans didn't have a pick until the 3rd round, but they made the most of their draft anyway . They need more O-Lineman ,and Rankins will probably start somewhere on that depleted unit down the road , but he was a disappointment as a rookie . I especially loved Ejiofor in the 6th . They had an easy schedule but a tough division, but that shaky O-line ( especially outside) is the deciding factor in why I didn't think they would go far in the playoff's this year . When you play O-Line for the Cougars you spend the a ton of time pass blocking, and Dillard is that rare spread OT that looks like a good pro prospect to me because he excels as a pass blocker . The second generation offensive lineman for the Cougars is a 3 year starter at left tackle that has improved every year , but he needs to get stronger to move people off the ball better in the run game . He has LT feet and he's quick out of his stance , but if he can learn to consistently throw his hands earlier & lockout instead of catching rushers he would be worth a much higher pick .
24.OAKLAND-(chicago)-** -DK METCALF- WR - OLE MISS
NFL PLAYER COMPARISON - JOSH GORDON - PATRIOTS
Why Gruden ? That's the cry of the Raider fans I know . At least Dallas fans can take solace in the fact that their team didn't give up when they traded for Cooper , and they made the playoffs because of it . In fact they are doing everything they can to win , and at least they now have guy who can separate with the best of them outside . The question is will he play well enough to get them to resign him to a big money deal in 2020. If he does it was a good deal for both teams . On the bright side the Raiders now have 3 first rounders in 2019 and two first rounders and a two 3rd's in 2020 . Plus a first rounder was better than I thought they would get for a guy they didn't want ,who only has a year and half left before he is due a new deal , and for someone they obviously didn't want to pay. Props to GM Reggie Mckenzie for reportedly playing the Eagles, Colts, and Cowboys off each other to get the best deal he could, as I thought a second would have been a good deal for him under the circumstances. Gruden needs to stop saying he isn't rebuilding though , and he dumped Mckenzie too. It's insulting to anyone with a brain to deny it. Since the Raiders went for high upside with all 4 of their top 100 picks last year I am going to give them the WR with the highest upside in the draft . Metcalf has only played 19 games at Ole Miss due to injuries , and just when I bought into him and was going to put him him in my mock he got hurt again . I though he might go back to school but he entered the draft anyway . He is big , fast, and explosive . If he had stayed healthy I think he would have blown past all the WR's in the draft right into the top 10 . All of the big WR's I have in the first round of this mock might have some trouble separating at times , or will need a very accurate QB . Metcalf has no such problem and if his medicals 7 interviews go well he could go much higher .
25.PHILADELPHIA - ** - DAVID EDWARDS - OT - WISCONSIN
NFL PLAYER COMPARISON - LANE JOHNSON - EAGLES
I'm sure they think that trading ahead of Dallas in the 2018 to take Goedert makes them crafty, and I admit it was a great pick regardless , but having a kicker troll them in Dallas was a bigger shot. It wasn't quite what Drew Pearson pulled off in Philly last year, but it sure looked like it pissed off a lot of Dallas fans . Although I think the Cowboys would have taken Connor Williams anyway . The Eagles didn't have a lot of picks , but I still think they did OK with them . The biggest weakness on the Eagles is an outside WR who can separate , but I think they go another route and great a great value here . While the Eagles season hasn't gone the way the most thought it would I think a big reason for that is injuries , especially in the secondary . The last man standing is Malcolm Jenkins, and while he is still serviceable, he seems to care more about off the field stuff than football. Even if he gets his mind right the other safeties on the roster have been bad . Buuuut with the top safety off the board here I think they think long term and get someone to help protect their young and twice injured franchise QB . Jason Peters is a first ballot HOFer in my opinion . However, he has slowed down some, looks like he's carrying some bad weight , will be 37 next year, and they can save close to 10.7 million off their cap by letting him go this off season, and Vaitai has put nothing on tape that makes me think he's the long term answer there . Wisconsin returned all 5 starters this season, including 3 that I think have a chance to go in the first 2 rounds, and David is probably the one that will get drafted the highest this year . Edwards is a former QB , who became a TE , turned OT , that has added about 50 pounds since he made the switch . Lane Johnson is the only other guy I remember having that kind of career trajectory, and he's a very good NFL RT, although I don't think Edwards is as athletic right now . Maybe another year in the weight room working on solidifying 300 plus pounds will get him there , because when you gain weight quickly it's never all good weight . He's obviously still making the transition , and you can see some inconsistencies in his tape, but that kind of athleticism is in demand outside in the NFL . Mostly he needs to consistently play lower and meaner .They are already paying current RT Lane Jhonson like a franchise LT so I they could flip him to the blindside in the off-season and install Edwards on the right .
26.INDIANAPOLIS - JJ ARCEGA-WHITESIDE-WR- STANFORD
NFL PLAYER COMPARISON - BRANDON MARSHAL - SEAHAWKS
The Colts had one of the better 2018 draft classes . I know they had a lot of ammo with the #6 , 37, 52, and 64th overall picks , but I think they got some starters and early contributors later too . Most of all I am just happy that they have decided to FINALLY make protecting Andrew Luck a priority . Getting the best player in the draft in Quentin Nelson at #6 was huge, and then coming back for Braden Smith in the 2nd gives them a potential long term duo to keep rushers out of his face. and it's even more impressive after the way Smith played when he was moved to right tackle . Other than taking Darius Leonard a round earlier then I had him I loved all their picks, but it looks like they were definitely right about him . They had a good mixture of high floors and high ceilings . Their overall talent on defense is a worry though , but I think Luck needs a WR besides TY Hilton he can count on.
JJ is big and physical. He has a wide catch radius, can go up and get it, winds contested catches left & right , and can break tackles after the catch . He could be the big target outside Luck needs, and also has the intelligence & willingness to block that the new Colts seem committed too .
27.OAKLAND-(dallas)- DEVIN BUSH - LB - MICHIGAN
27.OAKLAND-(dallas)- DEVIN BUSH - LB - MICHIGAN
NFL PLAYER COMPARISON - DEXTER COAKLEY - retired
Derrick Johnson is a future HOFer in my book ,but he looked like had lost a step and was less physical inside last year in KC, and they cut him in the middle of this season anyway . Tahir Whitehead is the other possible MLB who hasn't done much this year . They need a guy with Johnson's current football IQ and leadership capabilities , coupled with the athleticism he no longer had to run this defense . Bush may be a little undersized for the middle but he would be an ideal fit as weakside LB , and he shows the high football IQ of a player has been running a pro style defense for years. He covers a lot of ground and makes ton of plays when allowed to diagnose and run to the ball . His blitzing ability would also be a welcome addition to the Raider pass rush.
28.LA CHARGERS - # -DEXTER LAWRENCE - DT - CLEMSON
NFL PLAYER COMPARISON - KRIS JENKINS - retired
The Chargers had one of the great players in the 2018 draft fall into their lap in Derwin James, and I also loved Chris Owusa in the 2nd, and Charger fans will too once they see how often he gets his hands on the ball. The rest of their draft was iffy for me . There were a lot of rumors leading up to the draft that the Chargers were going to take a QB in the first round, but I never believed it . Phillip Rivers is still at the top of his game .However, I did think that they might draft a developmental guy later . Since 2019 is the last year of his contract, he will also turn 37 this season , and because Rivers is a middle America guy who probably wants to go home and spend more time with his wife and house full of kids I could see him possibly retiring after 2019 . However, Rivers hasn't said anything about retiring yet , and the chargers front office publicly said they wanted to extend right after their playoff loss .so I'm going to fill another big need . Brandon Mebane has had a long distinguished career , but he is near the end and is a free agent . Lawrence is a giant beast of a man who should not be as quick as he is at that size . He's not exactly an imaginative pass rusher , but he can push the pocket, and plug up the middle in the run game .
29.KANSAS CITY - NASSIR ADDERLY - S - DELAWARE
NFL PLAYER COMPARISON - DEVIN McCOURTY - PATRIOTS
Due to the 2017 draft day trade to move up and take Pat Mahomes the Chefs were without a first rounder in the 2018 draft, but all but one (Derrick Nnadi ) of their remaining picks were reaches to me . I felt that there were multiple better players on the board on 3 of their first 4 picks. Now matter how well that Patrick Mahomes played they need a better defense or they going to have to always score a ton of points to win games. The Saints ,Steelers ,and patriots have done it for years so it can be done . Well, they almost pulled it off, but in the end it's hard to win a playoff game( especially against the Patriots ) when you give up 37 points . Eric Berry was once an elite player but his health issues have become an regular occurrence , and even when he came back late in the season he didn't look the same . I don't know if they are going to move on from him this off season or not because of the salary cap implications , but even if they keep him no one else who played safety on this roster like a above average starter . Adderly's a 4 year starter and former corner who's play leaps off the screen when you watch his tape. He's versatile and can probably play either safety spot at a high level in a zone heavy scheme in the NFL right now. Their isn't a lot of tape of him in press man, but I believe a guy this smart, physical, & hard working would pick it up pretty fast , and he does pretty well in off man . Complete 2 way safeties are a rarity in today's NFL, but I believe only the lower level of competition he has faced is keeping him from going higher . He's a little nasty , and a sure tackler against the run as well to the point some teams might even prefer him in the box, but since he could play either there is no point in limiting this chess piece .If he plays well at the Senior bowl there is a chance he could end up the first safety drafted .
30.GREEN BAY-(saints)- BRIAN BURNS - DE/OLB - FLORIDA ST.
NFL PLAYER COMPARISON - JASON TAYLOR - retired
Clay Matthews is probably still the best edge rusher on the pack, but he is getting up there in years, also plays the middle sometimes, was punished by the league for perfect form tackle sacks, and is a free agent . Burns is a long lean explosive athlete with the movement skills you want in a 3-4 OLB, but he needs to add some more muscle to his frame. Despite being light he plays with surprising power at times on tape .
31.LA RAMS - JAYLON FERGUSON - DE - LA. TECH
NFL PLAYER COMPARISON - JASON TAYLOR - retired
Clay Matthews is probably still the best edge rusher on the pack, but he is getting up there in years, also plays the middle sometimes, was punished by the league for perfect form tackle sacks, and is a free agent . Burns is a long lean explosive athlete with the movement skills you want in a 3-4 OLB, but he needs to add some more muscle to his frame. Despite being light he plays with surprising power at times on tape .
31.LA RAMS - JAYLON FERGUSON - DE - LA. TECH
NFL PLAYER COMPARISON - RYAN KERRIGAN - REDSKINS
The rams didn't have a pick until the 3rd round in the 2018 draft, but I liked Okoronkwo in the 5th and Kelly in the 6th a lot . Their off season additions make it clear they are all in this year, but other than injuries to their QB or O-line the thing I think could hurt their title chances the most is inside LB play and their possible lack of an edge rush . Ferguson has a good burst off the line and he knows hot get under a O-Linemans pads and bull him back into the QB .He would really help this overall defense because QB'S who stepped up to avoid him would run right into Aaron Donald . Also keep in mind that the Rams don't have a 2nd or 3rd round pick right now , although it's likely they will get two 3rd round compensatory picks, but they are definitely a candidate to trade out of the first .
32.NEW ENGLAND - TJ HOCKENSON - TE - IOWA
NFL PLAYER COMPARISON - GEORGE KITTLE - 49ers
I am a guy who thinks Isaiah Wynn can stay at LT, but he was knocked out for the year early with an injury. It's not about height. It's about length & feet, and he has both . Shocked they took a RB in the first though, because they haven't committed to one every down back since Corey Dillon about 15 years ago . I am one of the people who thought it possible that the Patriots would take a QB with one of their 2 first rounders in 2018, but they didn't even take one until the 7th round , and it was Danny Etling ? The Patriots have their own way of doing things ,and it's hard to argue with results, but I would be surprised if he ended up being even a solid backup . Also remember that the Patriots jettison more top 100 picks than anyone, and they often do it very early in the players career. So they do make plenty of mistakes, but they also recognize and rectify those mistakes quicker than other teams . The main reason I wont pick them to win the Superbowl this year is also the main reason they lost last years championship, and that is the lack of a consistent edge pass rush , but I don't have one with a 1rst round grade left in this scenario . The Patriots have wanted to run a 2 TE since the rookie year of Gronk & Aaron Hernandez . They did it to great success that season, and all the variations and creativity you saw out of those formations are staples of multiple offenses today. However, Gronk's injuries & the criminal career of Hernandez nixed that . TJ looks like a real old school Ferentz coached IOWA TE , and that's right down the Pats alley. He is the best run blocking TE I have watched in college over the last decade , seems to relish burying defenders ,and his frame is big enough to pack on a little more muscle without losing speed. Personally I have a top 10 overall grade on him and he is my highest ranked offensive player in this draft .
33.ARIZONA - # -JEFFERY SIMMONS - DT - MISS. ST.
NFL PLAYER COMPARISON - FLETCHER COX - EAGLES
With Vance Joseph taking over as the D coordinator I am betting the cards will be going back to a base 3-4 . Simmons is a top 5 talent, but a highly publicized video from his high school days where he hit a woman makes me think he won't go in the first round at all . He is big , strong, and explosive enough to be a elite difference maker in all phases of the game on defense . Could play any interior spot in a odd or even front . He has been clean and apologetic since that mistake when he was a kid , and I think that he comes off the board early in the second round because there is less of a media spotlight on day 2 of the draft
34.SAN FRANCISCO -ROCK YA-SIN - CB - TEMPLE
34.SAN FRANCISCO -ROCK YA-SIN - CB - TEMPLE
NFL PLAYER COMPARISON - XAVIEN HOWARD - DOLPHINS
Richard Sherman is still a good player , but after coming off a major injury last season he is already hurt again . Throw in Sherman's age (31 next year) , and that their possible 3rd corners are struggling . I wasn't on Rock until the Senior Bowl , but he had a great day one and that night I started watching his tape, and I wasn't disappointed . Ya- Sin is a decent sized physical corner , but he only has one year of tape at Temple . He has great instincts, timing, stop/start quickness , and awareness to turn & find the ball. Plus he has the coolest name I've heard in years .
35.INDIANAPOLIS(jets)- # -JERRY TILLERY - DT - N. DAME
NFL PLAYER COMPARISON - STEPHON TUITT - STEELERS
The Colts O-line has drastically improved over the last 2 years . I personally think the previous damage to Andrew Luck could have been prevented if former GM Ryan Grigson put the same amount of resources toward protecting Luck that current GM Chris Ballard has . The interior D- Line lacks the same talent base, and none of their current DT's does much as a rusher . Tillery took his game to a new level this season, especially as a pass rusher . After years of not living up to his talent that's a good thing , although it makes you wonder if he was only going full on to get paid, and what he will do after a big signing bonus is on the bank . Otherwise I would have him in the first round . He's big , strong, long, and quick enough to play all interior positions at a high level in a odd or even front .
36.OAKLAND- JOSH JACOBS - RB - ALABAMA
NFL PLAYER COMPARISON - NICK CHUBB - BROWNS
The raiders got some good reps from older veterans running backs this season .Marshawn Lynch before his injury , and they also received some production from Doug Martin later in the season, but both are free agents this off season . Young Jalen Richard is also a restricted FA. I have trouble putting a RB with only about 300 touches over 3 years in the the first round, even though I gave him a first round grade . On top of those limited touches he has never been the starter and had less than 150 touches this season ...... buuuutttt his tape is awesome . It was difficult to bring myself to put him above Devin Singletary of FAU with this little data , but I can certainly see why someone would , and respect it. He runs hard, strong & physical, but also has good vision . His wiggle, serious jump cut, burst , , receiving ability , and a nose for the end zone stand out too . He even does some wildcat and kills it there too .Maybe after the combine I'll change my mind but for now I have to go with what my eyes see . Last year Gruden & company went for the higher ceiling guys often , and this guy has the highest upside of all the RB's in this draft in my opinion .
37.TAMPA BAY - TYTUS HOWARD - OT - ALABAMA ST.
NFL PLAYER COMPARISON - D'BRICKASHAW FERGUSON - retired
I have been waiting 2 years to see the Bucs finally move on from Smith at left tackle , and now that he is a free agent and a new coaching staff is coming in I think I may finally get my wish .Howard is a small school guy with good measureables & athleticism. He also has good feet ,but he has to learn to keep his elbows tucked to his side and throw his hands inside consistently because he can be dominant when he does. Hands are wide too often on tape, but his feet & balance bail him out. Dominated his lower level of competition, and played pretty well at the Senior Bowl too
38.NY GIANTS - ERIK McCOY - C - TEXAS A&M
38.NY GIANTS - ERIK McCOY - C - TEXAS A&M
NFL PLAYER COMPARISON - MAURKICE POUNCEY - STEELERS
Both of the Giants starting centers last year were subpar . McCoy is a 3 year starter and 2018 team captain that can be a leader on what might be a predominantly young rebuilding O-Line . Played well at the Senior Bowl . Had his best season last year in a pro scheme . He's a good short setter, but if he does it too much he is gonna get an OLAY or a swim move and get left in the dust . He is strong and physical with a fierce demeanor . Of all the draft eligible players that actually played center this year he is at the top of my list .
39.JACKSONVILLE - DAMIEN HARRIS - RB - ALABAMA
NFL PLAYER COMPARISON - DeMARCO MURRAY - retired
Leonard Fournette's injury prone tendencies only increased this year . Combining that with attitude questions , possible loss of guarantees, and upcoming free agency of backup TJ Yeldon has only made me think that the Jags will use a premium pick on a RB in this draft . Harris is as steady & reliable as the day is long , and that's the exact opposite of Fournette .Harris was one of the players I had a first round grade on for the 2018 draft that went back to school .He runs with power , vision , balance , and he even has some moves & a decent burst .He almost always falls forward , and I even saw him block a punt against Florida ST once .Not sure about his long speed though,as I saw him get caught from behind multiple times in his career.He also polished up his pass protection and he shows some skill as a receiver even though he wasn't used enough there at Alabama in my opinion .
40.DETROIT - IRV SMITH - TE - ALABAMA
NFL PLAYER COMPARISON - TREY BURTON - BEARS
Between Levine Toiolo , Michael Roberts, and Luke Wilson the Lions still don't have a complete TE in any phase of the game . It must gall fans in Detroit to watch Eric Ebron have a good year in a limited role for the Colts when his most common contributions to their team were dropped passes, injuries, and poor blocking .Smith is a weapon on offense who can stretch the field . He is not the blocker you would expect from a Alabama TE , but he has gotten better and he is definitely willing . He lines up all over the formation , but still was primarily a inline Y . He has good hands & separation , and can run away from the defense after the catch . Irv could wash the taste of Ebron's failures out of the mouth of an entire fan base .41.DENVER - MARQUISE BROWN - WR - OKLAHOMA
NFL PLAYER COMPARISON - TY HILTON - COLTS
The broncos traded Demaryious Thomas and Emmanuel Sanders tore his Achilles at the end of last season. that's a tough injury for anyone but for a shifty WR who will be 31 next year it's probably worse . Brown is my #2 WR, but because of his lack of size I doubt he goes in the first round . He is a fast, explosive, deep threat that D coordinators have to game plan for , and he will give safeties nightmares .
42.BUFFALO - CHRIS LINDSTROM - G - BOSTON COLLEGE
NFL PLAYER COMPARISON - LARRY WARFORD - SAINTS
Continuing the rebuilding of the Bills line to give Josh Allen a chance to fulfill his potential .Lindstrom is a 4 year starter at a school known for putting O-Lineman into the NFL. He's primarily been a right guard ,although he had some starts at right tackle as a junior . His best tape was back at RG as a senior this season . He knocks people back off the ball in the run game, and while he isn't very accurate finding somebody at the second level to hit it's not for a lack of trying . He even played pretty well against Christian Wilkins & Dexter Lawrence of Clemson , and anybody who can hang with them is a NFL starter in my book .Strong anchor and great awareness for stunts in pass pro despite a tendency to lean or get off balance, and he is another guy who is an effective short setter . Also re-anchors and resets well when he loses the leverage battle on the initial clash . I just got done with his tape this week , and then he was the best interior lineman at the Senior Bowl . Of all the draft eligible players that actually played guard this year he is at the top of my list . He is the type of player that a team takes when they get stuck late in round one , either because they just missed out on someone they were waiting for , or they don't find sufficient value in a trade back . A likely day one starting guard is a good consolation prize in my book .
NFL PLAYER COMPARISON - LARRY WARFORD - SAINTS
Continuing the rebuilding of the Bills line to give Josh Allen a chance to fulfill his potential .Lindstrom is a 4 year starter at a school known for putting O-Lineman into the NFL. He's primarily been a right guard ,although he had some starts at right tackle as a junior . His best tape was back at RG as a senior this season . He knocks people back off the ball in the run game, and while he isn't very accurate finding somebody at the second level to hit it's not for a lack of trying . He even played pretty well against Christian Wilkins & Dexter Lawrence of Clemson , and anybody who can hang with them is a NFL starter in my book .Strong anchor and great awareness for stunts in pass pro despite a tendency to lean or get off balance, and he is another guy who is an effective short setter . Also re-anchors and resets well when he loses the leverage battle on the initial clash . I just got done with his tape this week , and then he was the best interior lineman at the Senior Bowl . Of all the draft eligible players that actually played guard this year he is at the top of my list . He is the type of player that a team takes when they get stuck late in round one , either because they just missed out on someone they were waiting for , or they don't find sufficient value in a trade back . A likely day one starting guard is a good consolation prize in my book .
43.CINCINNATI - CHUMA EDOGA - OT - USC
NFL PLAYER COMPARISON - KELVIN BEACHUM - JETS
The Bengals brought back former first rounder Andre Smith in the hopes that he could recapture his once above average ways, but it was not to be . Combined with the injury's and poor play of 2 other soon to be free agent OT's they took in the 1rst & 2nd round in 2015 make me think they need a new right tackle . Edoga is a bit on the small side for an OT, but his arms are long enough and his feet are good enough to stay outside. He has played both sides although his tape was better on the right side in 2017 , and he has the athleticism to excel when pulling or going to the second level . He gets his hands on the defender quickly in pass pro, plays with good knee bend , and is adept at riding speed rushers past the pocket, but he needs a more violent punch . I think all he needs is some time in the weight room ,and a slightly more aggressive & well timed punch to be an above average starter very early in his career if he does that .44.GREEN BAY - AJ BROWN - WR - OLE MISS
NFL PLAYER COMPARISON SMITH - SCHUSTER-STEELERS
The Packers started a youth movement at WR last year when they let go of long time stalwart Jordy Nelson and drafted 3 talented young receivers late in the draft . Slot receiver Randall Cobb has also had a good career for the pack , but he will 29 next year, missed a lot of time with injuries last season, and is a free agent . I really like AJ Brown's game . Despite missing most of 2 games with an injury on a roster already depleted by transfers due to NCAA penalties he was very productive in the SEC in 2017 . 75 catches for 1252 yards and 11 TD's against the defenses on their schedule is very impressive . I was going to move him down the draft board because they had more defections , including QB Shae Patterson this off season, but I really liked how he looked more polished at their spring game . Brown ended up with more catches and yards this season, but with fewer TD's .He is built more like a taller RB than a WR ,and is physical & explosive after the catch, with some make you miss thrown in . Another reason he may go lower is that he looks primarily like a power slot more than an outside guy on tape right now, but that is the primary receiver for many teams these days. Considering how much Rodgers likes to throw to the slot I am sure he could adjust to a younger bigger target just fine .45.MIAMI - DEVIN SINGLETARY - RB - FLA. ATLANTIC
NFL PLAYER COMPARISON - LeSEAN McCOY - BILLS
Frank Gore is a first ballot HOFer and having him on your team at this time is as much about teaching the younger guys how to do it all right, but he is not a feature back anymore, and Kenyan Drake has proven to be a complimentary piece . Singletary is my number one RB right now and he is as slippery as a greased eel . He is adept at making something out of nothing ,and with the interior of this O-Line needing a rebuild he might have to . The fact that he reminds me of another future HOFer is about as strong a recommendation as I can give him , but not every team will see a back his size as a every down guy like I do .
46.ATLANTA - ANTHONY NELSON - DE - IOWA
NFL PLAYER COMPARISON - JARED ALLEN - retired
I was a big fan of Vic Beasley's when he entered the draft, and the former number 8 over pick started out OK, and had a huge 2nd season. Year 3 he went down hill , and then his one trick pony play fell off a cliff in 2018 . The Falcons picked up his 5th year option but I would move on from him at a salary of 12.8 million . Maybe he would fit better with a 3-4 team. That would open up a spot on the edge though . Nelson could give them some size and length outside , and he can also out quick interior O-Lineman when you kick him inside on passing downs .47.WASHINGTON - TAYLOR RAPP - S - WASHINGTON
NFL PLAYER COMPARISON - KEVIN BYARD - TITANS
The skins already moved on from DJ Swearinger at safety and Ha-Ha Clinton-Dix is also a free agent . Montae Nicholson also had a down year . Rapp is just plain good in every phase of the game. Coverage, ball skills , blitzing , run support, and a reliable tackler . I think he can play high or low , and he can cover the slot , but he is a little grabby at times . I think single high will be his best fit long term once he gets coached up a little , but complete 2 way safeties are rare .
48.CAROLINA - GARRETT BRADBURY - C - NC ST.
Cannon for an arm , but his delivery is a little low . I have a 3rd rounder on him, but you
Both of the giants centers were subpar this year . In fact they basically need a new center , right guard, and right tackle if they want to be competitive in 2019 . Bradbury's not the biggest guy , but he gets by on technique , positioning ,smarts, quickness, and will . Equally effective in the running and passing games, but he needs to get stronger or some nose tackles will put him on skates. Plus the 3 year starter can make all the line calls, but is a better fit in zone.
49.CLEVELAND - YODNEY CAJUSTE - OT - TAMPA BAY
NFL PLAYER COMPARISON - DUANE BROWN - SEAHAWKS
The Browns were probably caught off guard when Joe Thomas retired and the duo of Desmons Harrison & Greg Robinson didn't get it done . This Florida natives only question mark for me is arm length & polishing his techniques , but he seems to have the feet to play outside and he is adept at pushing speed rushers past the pocket . He seems to have a nasty streak , a hard punch , and a good short set as well. He's a people mover who comes off the ball hard in the run game so if he does lack left tackle arm length he could probably play inside in a zone scheme now . He seems pretty good at combos and second level blocking as well . Most of all I like the tone setting toughness he displays. 50.MINNESOTA - CHARLES OMENIHU - DE/DT - TEXAS
NFL PLAYER COMPARISON - DAVID IRVING - COWBOYS
Sheldon Richardson was supposed to provide interior pass rush for the Vikes this year, but it din't go so well, and now he is a free agent on a cap strapped team .Charles is tall with really long arms and a lean frame, but he plays with more power inside than I thought he would at that weight . I think his best position is as 4-3 three technique because is too quick and explosive for most interior lineman . Some other 4-3 teams may want to try at strong side end and kick him inside on passing situations. 3-4 teams will love him as 5 technique as well because he shows the ability to 2 gap on tape in the longhorns hybrid 3-4 , but I think he would need to add another 15 - 20 pounds of muscle to pull that off all game in the NFL .
51.PITTSBURGH - DEANDRE BAKER - CB - GEORGIA
NFL PLAYER COMPARISON - CHRIS HARRIS - BRONCOS
The Steelers have had a lot corners play significant snaps this year and none look capable of being a number one corner going forward, In fact 30 year old Joe Haden looks like the best of them , and they can save 10 million off next years cap by cutting him before next year . Baker had a really good National championship game last year, and it has carried over to this year . Deandre sticks to his man like glue, but he needs to do a better job of regularly reading receiver's and turning to find the ball at the right time , although he did break up a lot of passes anyway . He has quick feet and I think he can play inside or outside, but unless he gets bigger many teams will just want him inside, and his long speed is in question for some . Even if Baker is primarily a slot guy he would be a stud there , and most NFL defenses are in nickel two thirds of the time anyway . I actually love his tape and have a first round grade on him based off it, but whenever a healthy guy who isn't a lock to even go in the first round pulls out of the Senior Bowl it sends up warning flags to me and I moved him back a round .
52.TENNESSEE - JACE STERNBERGER - TE - TEXAS A&M
NFL PLAYER COMPARISON - DENNIS PITTA - retired
NFL PLAYER COMPARISON - DENNIS PITTA - retired
The Titans like to run a lot of power and 2 TE sets . With Delanie Walke's age and recent woes a young 2 way TE is a big need . Good sized already, but has the frame to add another 10-15 of muscle .Above average route runner . Quick off the ball whether running a route or blocking .Smooth transitions and catch it on stride. physical competitive blocker or running with the ball after the catch , Shows a good burst and is tough to bring down with the ball in his hands . You see him running away from defenders , breaking tackles, or dragging would be tacklers down the field . Difficult matchup for the defense ,Probably needs to be covered by a big DB to have a chance to stop him because he eats up LB's on tape, and a accurate QB could allow him to use his size and dominate DB's too . Willing to block DE's and while he gets overpowered from time to time, he definitely holds his own and gets his share of wins there ,
53.HOUSTON(seattle) - OSHAYNE XIMINES - OLB/DE - OLD DOMINION
NFL PLAYER COMPARISON - JERRY HUGHES BILLS
The Texans are about to hit a cap crunch because Clowney is going to want a landmark deal, and he hasn't shown the consistency to deserve one , but somebody would give it to him so he will probably get the franchise tag . Plus Whitney Mercilus has dropped off some . Ximines has some serious bend and burst off the edge . He is ideally suited to be a 3-4 OLB in a attacking scheme liek the one Houston runs .
NFL PLAYER COMPARISON - JERRY HUGHES BILLS
The Texans are about to hit a cap crunch because Clowney is going to want a landmark deal, and he hasn't shown the consistency to deserve one , but somebody would give it to him so he will probably get the franchise tag . Plus Whitney Mercilus has dropped off some . Ximines has some serious bend and burst off the edge . He is ideally suited to be a 3-4 OLB in a attacking scheme liek the one Houston runs .
54.PHILADELPHIA(ravens) - RILEY RIDLEY - WR - GEORGIA
NFL PLAYER COMPARISON - DAVANTE ADAMS - PACKERS
Alshon Jeffery is the only outside WR the Eagles can count on and he has missed more than his fair share of games in 3 of the last 4 years .Ridley is the kind of route runner they need outside .He can create separation , has the speed to stretch the defense and help open up this offense .
55.HOUSTON - ZACH ALLEN - DE/DT - BOSTON COLLEGE
55.HOUSTON - ZACH ALLEN - DE/DT - BOSTON COLLEGE
NFL PLAYER COMPARISON - GREG HARDY - retired
Personally I think of Watt as more of an interior rusher although he does spend some time on the edge . As of now the only Texans getting any interior pass rush are Watt or Clowbey when they are inside . At BC Allen was a throwback big strongside end with power pass rushing chops . He's smart and fierce against the run. He not the kind of athlete that can run the arc outside, but his bull rush , inside moves, push/pull , and motor make him a threat as a pass rusher anyway . His best fit in the NFL might be as a 3 technique inside or as a 3-4 five technique here .56.NEW ENGLAND-(bears) - HAKEEM BUTLER - WR - IOWA ST.
NFL PLAYER COMPARISON - PLAXICO BURRESS
For years I kept thinking the Patriots should take a WR or RB with their late 1rst rounders, and they didn't .Finally I just figured it was one of the places they tended to find value later and in free agency. Then they broke the mold and took Sony Michel in the first in 2018 . This coming year they have even more of a possible need at WR . Chris Hogan , Cordarrelle Patterson , and Philip Dorsett are free agents this off season . However the addition of Josh Gordon made it less likely to me , but then he got suspended again . Butler is a GIANT wide receiver, and a accurate QB like Brady could eat up the league with slants, back shoulders, fade's . He could be the big red zone receiver they need too .
57.PHILADELPHIA - AMANI ORUWARIYE - CB - PENN ST
NFL PLAYER COMPARISON - JIMMY SMITH - RAVENS
The Eagles secondary was a mess last year, and while a lot of it was due to injuries, some highly picked payers also dissappointed when they got playing time .Amani is a big physical press corner with long arms, but he's also good in zone . If he was as physical in the run game as he is in coverage I would have him higher grade. He also needs betetr timinh and instincts on when to turn and fins the ball .
58.INDIANAPOLIS - JOHNATHAN ABRAMS - S - MISS. ST.
The Eagles secondary was a mess last year, and while a lot of it was due to injuries, some highly picked payers also dissappointed when they got playing time .Amani is a big physical press corner with long arms, but he's also good in zone . If he was as physical in the run game as he is in coverage I would have him higher grade. He also needs betetr timinh and instincts on when to turn and fins the ball .
58.INDIANAPOLIS - JOHNATHAN ABRAMS - S - MISS. ST.
NFL PLAYER COMPARISON - TYRANN MATHIEU - TEXANS
Pairing Abrams with Hooker would give the Colts a talented young safety combination that continue building this defense into a force . He is a nasty box safety that scares receivers & running backs that get in his way .He probably would be a first round pick 10 years ago, but in the new pussified NFL he will probably have to temper his aggression some . In their zone heavy scheme he should be fine in coverage as well .
59.DALLAS - KADEN SMITH - TE - STANFORD
NFL PLAYER COMPARISON- JACK DOYLE - COLTS
I personally believe the loss of Jason Witten was far more important than Dez . His precise route running, reliable hands, blocking , and leadership have been missed on this offense . Dallas most complete TE right now is Geoff Swaim , he is injured , would probably be best as a solid #2 TE, and is a free agent after the year . They haven't seen fit to put match up nightmare Rico Gathers in a position to succeed, which probably shouldn't be a surprise from this boring coaching staff that lacks a innovative bone in it's body so far, and he is also a free agent after the year . Blake Jarwin showed flashes late in the season , and those just mostly as a route runner & receiver , although his pass blocking has improved . Not mention 4th rounder Dalton Schultz (also from Stanford) was inactive all season until Swaim got hurt, but at least he played a little after that . So basically they are committed to none of these guys for the future as they have no real money invested in any for the long haul. Kaden could be the complete 2 way inline Y tight end that this team is missing now, although he is definitely more athletic than Witten was in the later stages of his career . My bro Ryno will tell me that they are going to fire Garrett, but I will believe it when I see it . Jerry will be looking for any excuse to keep his boy . Dallas ended up as the NFL EAST champ for the 3rd time in 5 years with the clapper at the helm ,but they went on a hot streak after trading for Amari Cooper & switching O-Line coaches . plus they won a playoff game before getting bounced out of the tournament by the Rams , but at least they are switching offensive coordinators . .It is very probable that Garrett & Dak are back next year running the show with Jerry pushing the narrative that they finished strong even if they get bounced from the first round of the playoffs.
60.LA CHARGERS - MAX SCHARPING - OT - N. ILLINOIS
NFL PLAYER COMPARISON - RILEY REIFF - VIKINGS
RT Joe Barksdale has had some problems with depression . Then he got hurt, lost his job, and was cut late in the regular season . Replacement Sam Tevi has been below average and they only have a 6th rounder invested in him . Scharping is tall and lean with just long enough arms. In pass pro . Very consistent kickstep ,and adept at riding his man past the pocket outside, despite his feet being a little slow at times. Good arm extension . Smart and picked up multiple stunts correctly and I never saw him holding in the games of his I did this year . In the run game .Not a mauler. Content to just keep his man away from the play without trying to bury him, except on down blocks from the side . Too often lets his man disengage in the run game when he thinks he's out of the play . Hit and miss down the field often lacking proper angles , indecisive on who to block, or the balance to change direction quickly because he gets too upright when searching for his man . Has a tendency to get tall when run or pass blocking once engaged or when hunting down the field . Needs to learn to bend his knees better or he will get bulled into the QB in the NFL . The Senior is a small school guy , but his tape is pretty good, especially as a pass blocker . He needs to get stronger in order to enforce his will in the run game and against a higher level of competition .Max held hid own against better competition at the Senior Bowl . Also, he has played both tackle spots so worst case scenario is he could be an upgrade as a swing tackle as a rookie .
NFL PLAYER COMPARISON - RILEY REIFF - VIKINGS
RT Joe Barksdale has had some problems with depression . Then he got hurt, lost his job, and was cut late in the regular season . Replacement Sam Tevi has been below average and they only have a 6th rounder invested in him . Scharping is tall and lean with just long enough arms. In pass pro . Very consistent kickstep ,and adept at riding his man past the pocket outside, despite his feet being a little slow at times. Good arm extension . Smart and picked up multiple stunts correctly and I never saw him holding in the games of his I did this year . In the run game .Not a mauler. Content to just keep his man away from the play without trying to bury him, except on down blocks from the side . Too often lets his man disengage in the run game when he thinks he's out of the play . Hit and miss down the field often lacking proper angles , indecisive on who to block, or the balance to change direction quickly because he gets too upright when searching for his man . Has a tendency to get tall when run or pass blocking once engaged or when hunting down the field . Needs to learn to bend his knees better or he will get bulled into the QB in the NFL . The Senior is a small school guy , but his tape is pretty good, especially as a pass blocker . He needs to get stronger in order to enforce his will in the run game and against a higher level of competition .Max held hid own against better competition at the Senior Bowl . Also, he has played both tackle spots so worst case scenario is he could be an upgrade as a swing tackle as a rookie .
61.KANSAS CITY - # -JACHAI POLITE - OLB/DE - FLORIDA
NFL PLAYER COMPARISON - BRIAN ORAPKO - TITANS
On defense it looks the Chiefs have potential problems on the edge , Dee Ford is a FA after the season and his health has regularly been a question . I doubt they will want to sink big money into him , because I am always wary of players who only get healthy & ball out when they are about to get paid . Also, Justin Houston seemed on the decline , but he did rebound some this season.
62.NEW ORLEANS - JULIAN LOVE - CB - N. DAME
NFL PLAYER COMPARISON - BRENT GRIMES - BUCCANEERS
The saints made the trade for Eli Apple hoping that reuniting him with a bunch of his buckeye secondary brethren would help him to be more consistent , but I wouldn't count on him just yet . The Saints only have their second round pick available in the first 4 rounds right now , and that;s because they were all in this year. If not for a bad NO CALL against the Rams they might have made the Superbowl, but I guess it didn't workout .I don't know if that means Brees or Payton (or even both) will be leaving after this season , but it wouldn't surprise me one bit either way . If they don't trade this pick to get more picks I am betting they will be looking for a corner . I have a mid 2nd round grade on Love right now , but he has a chance to sneak into the late first, or fall to the 3rd based on his measurements and workouts .
63.KANSAS CITY -(rams)- NOAH FANT - TE - IOWA
NFL PLAYER COMPARISON - ERIC EBRON - COLTS
The Chiefs run a lot of 2 TE sets and they are about to lose their #2 TE Demetrius Harris in free agency . Fant is basically a big WR masquerading as a TE . He does block some but he doesn't get after it the way you want from a every down inline Y 2 way TE like his teammate Hockenson . He is definitely explosive and athletic, but he isn't polished or smooth as a route runner and drops too many easy balls. I understand that many will expect him to go higher, but I have done 12 of his games over the last 2 years and I am confident of my evaluation .If he destroys the combine like I think he will he could go higher, but I don't expect him to run a low 4.4 like Evan Engram , or I would just move him to WR full time. He reminds me of a guy who was a over drafted bust in Detroit, but seemed to come into his own in a more specialized ( receiving and occasionally pass blocking ) role in INDY this year . Basically he's Eric Ebron to me . That's still valuable, especially with Andy Reid calling the plays , but he's not a first round player on my board . Even if I classified him as a TE in my rankings he would still only be the 5th TE on my board, and I have a 3rd round grade on him, but I think he goes in the 2nd .64.NEW ENGLAND - DANIEL JONES - QB - DUKE
NFL PLAYER COMPARISON - CHAD PENNINGTON - retired
The patriots don't have anybody in the pipeline if Brady gets hurt or walks away . Jones is smart with consistent mechanics, and he throws with anticipation & touch , but his arm strength is below average unless he winds up. That was basically Tom Brady in college , although Jones has much better scrambling ability . Jones rarely throws down the field on tape, and that scares me . You have to learn from your mistakes doing this, and that gives me a Blaine Gabbert vibe , but at least Jones makes his own reads & goes through progressions( unlike Gabbert in college) . Another big worry is that he too often stares down his primary target before throwing the ball . I'm not asking him to be Mahomes and chuck no look passes on a rope, but at least show better eye discipline . My last big concern is why isn't he better ? He was a 3 year starter at Duke , a noted academic institution, and was coached by the Manning's personal QB coach David Cutcliffe . Shouldn't he be a smarter player based on those 3 criteria ? How much better will he really get? If Brady can hook Jones up with the drills that helped him build up his arm strength I would feel a lot better about him, but I don't see any kind of high ceiling even then . I have a 3rd round grade on him, and Jones is the 5th QB on my board if Kyler Murray gives up baseball , but I have heard people in football media predict that he could go in the first. I just don't see it, but this mock isn't about what I think teams should do . It's about what I think they will do , and taking a third round QB in the late 2nd is perfectly reasonable . His best fits are in either a west coast offense or on a team like the Patriots that throws a lot of high percentage short passes . Maybe in the Patriots short controlled passing game this will work out,but he still needs to take those 5-7 shots down the field like Brady does or defenders will be sitting on those short routes . I'll give him this . In the actual Senior Bowl game he won the MVP. I don't think he looked particularly special doing so , but when you are a QB with 2 TD's ( 1 passing , 1 running ) in limited playing time during the game on the winning team you kind of deserve it .
Just a heads up... You've got the draft order wrong. In the second round the Niners drop to the 36th pick, the Jets climb to #34 and the Raiders to #35. These three teams finished tied and rotate draft positions. Don't trust me, check it out for yourself. It's always this way.
ReplyDeleteYou are right too. I'll change that in next Monday's mock as well .
DeleteThe Buffalo and Denver picks are in the wrong order.
ReplyDeleteMy bad. Thanks for the heads up. I will change it my 3 round mock next Monday.
DeleteYour comparison of Dwayne Haskins to Deshaun Watson could not be more off-base. Haskins has a big arm with great touch and accuracy. Watson is very mobile and often makes something out of nothing, but is less accurate.
ReplyDeleteI agree about the arm, but not the accuracy . I think both are good there . Here are the 3 franchise QB'S ( yes I think Haskins is a fraanchise QB) I was thinking about comparing to Haskins . Matthew Stafford, Carson Palmer , and Deshaun watson . Stafford's arm is too big in comparison and I have never been a big fan because he is so inconsistent .He is also a underrated athlete and since I tend to look for ceilings with players I have a first round grade on I decided not to go with him . Carson Palmer was one of the most highest graded college QB's I ever saw on tape . He was far more athletic than most people realize before his first knee injury . I once saw him outrun a DB for 40 yards before it got called back because of a penalty .He also had a lot more starts in college, and went through full route progressions even back to college. Played in a pro style west coast offense at USC too . The only 2 QB'S I can remember going in the top 5 who had close to so few starts were Mark Sanchez and Mitch Trubisky . I thought Sanchez was a 3rd rounder , and while I did have a late first on Trubisky I never have been a huge fan of his either . So I decided to take the lack of experience out of the equation .While Haskins may not be quite as athletic or as good a runner as Watson he is just fine there , and I really do like Haskins . Here are the main reasons why I chose Watson .Both are pass first guys who usually only run when they have to . Also their offenses in college are very similar and both tend to scramble first to buy time for a throw if their first 2 reads aren't open , and then run or throw it away if they can't find someone open. Maybe I should have used Palmer . He does have the bigger arm and those same traits , but with all the injuries in his career and his inability to win big games I just felt Watson would give a more positive shine to a player I really like despite only having one year of tape as a starter . If Haskins had 2 years of tape this good I would actually have him ahead of Sam Darnold, Baker Mayfield, and Josh Rosen from last year . It's only due to that lack of experience and view-able tape that he goes behind all 3 based off their college tape on my grading scale , but after Bakers rookie year I tend to think I undervalued him then. So basically it's more about play style and size to me in this case, but I can at least partially see your point . Hey I'm not too proud. If you have a better suggestion I agree with I will actually change it , and give you credit in my write-up of him. Personally it's more about getting it right than it is credit for me . Take care .
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