NFL Mock Draft Edition 5 (Final Edition)
1. Houston Texans Jadeveon Clowney, DE Other Possibility: QB Blake Bortles
Defensive end isn't a huge need for the Texans, quarterback might be a more pressing issue. But, not selecting Clowney here could be suicide with his potential and instant playmaking ability, and Teddy Bridgewater or Derek Carr might be available for a QB selection in the second round.
2. St. Louis Rams Greg Robinson, OT Other Possibility: WR Sammy Watkins
The Rams might trade down this pick to a team that wants Blake Bortles or Sammy Watkins, but if they use this, Greg Robinson is the right pick. Robinson's health is the only concern, although Jake Matthews may have the instant starting ability, Robinson has the higher ceiling and will be a better pick in a few years.
3. Jacksonville Jaguars Khalil Mack, DE/LB Other Possibility: WR Sammy Watkins
Defense has been a major concern for the Jaguars (offense isn't much better) and if Clowney is indeed taken earlier, Mack should be Jacksonville's selection. Mack has excellent athleticism and getting a true pass rusher will be very important for head coach Gus Bradley and the Jags.
4. Cleveland Browns Johnny Manziel, QB Other Possibility: QB Derek Carr
The Browns would be crazy to not draft a quarterback here and they have loads of options. Bortles, Bridgewater, Derek Carr or Manziel could all be options. Manziel might be the riskiest pick in the draft, but Cleveland should take the risk here.
5. Oakland Raiders Sammy Watkins, WR Other Possibility: QB Blake Bortles
If the Raiders actually believe Matt Schaub can resurrect his career in Oakland, they need to add another potent receiver. Watkins has the explosiveness to change games and Watkins has the first step to beat most NFL defensive backs.
6. Atlanta Falcons Jake Matthews, OT Other Possibility: LB Anthony Barr
The Falcons could be one of a number of teams in this area looking to trade up for a chance at Clowney or Mack. They could still get major value at the No.6 pick and could pick up Matthews, who should go along way in protecting Matt Ryan, who they just invested a ton of money into this offseason.
7. Tampa Bay Buccaners Mike Evans, WR Other Possibility: QB Blake Bortles
An improved passing game is the number one priority for the Bucs and they will have to debate between a QB of the future in Bortles or a fantastic receiver in Mike Evans. Evans has superb size and could give new QB Josh McCown something to work with.
8. Minnesota Vikings Blake Bortles, QB Other Possibility: QB Derek Carr
If Bortles doesn't go to Tampa at 7 or earlier, the Vikings shouldn't waste anytime in picking up the UCF stud. He oozes with potential and Norv Turner could help further develop him in Minnesota.
9. Buffalo Bills Taylor Lewan, OT Other Possibility: TE Eric Ebron
Lewan has the NFL frame and potential to be quite the star and Buffalo definitely needs to address their glaring need at tackle. Off-the-field issues could be a concern for Lewan but if Matthews and Robinson are off the board, this is where Buffalo should go.
10. Detroit Lions Justin Gilbert, CB Other Possibility: LB Anthony Barr
Although Detroit may feel that their young cornerbacks are fine for now, they need Gilbert in the future. Even if he doesn't start at corner right away, Gilbert could add something on special teams, he is a very dangerous returner.
11. Tennessee Titans Anthony Barr, LB Other Possibility: DL Aaron Donald
Tennessee needs help all around their defense, but a dominant pass rusher may be the paramount concern. A number of great pass rushers could be available but Barr should be the best option, he has the speed off the edge and strength to become a great player in this league for years to come.
12. New York Giants Aaron Donald, DL Other Possibility: TE Eric Ebron
Linval Joseph signed with the Vikings, leaving a pretty big hole at the defensive tackle slot. Donald, a dominant pass rusher from Pittsburgh, may be a little bit small for DT but he has the versatility to also make plays as an end.
13. St. Louis Rams HaHa Clinton-Dix, S Other Possibility: WR Odell Beckham
If the Rams don't draft Watkins with the second pick, Beckham could well be an option as he is the best receiver to help bolster a pretty weak Rams' offense. But, the secondary is more of a concern and Clinton-Dix has the talent to have a great career in St. Louis.
14. Chicago Bears Calvin Pryor, S Other Possibility: LB C.J. Mosley
If Clinton-Dix does indeed go to the Rams at 13 or higher, it puts the Bears in an interesting position. They really need a safety with Major Wright likely gone, but a leader on defense like Mosley could also help. Pryor has been really rising up most boards and he has great size.
15. Pittsburgh Steelers Darqueze Dennard, CB Other Possibility: WR Odell Beckham
An aging secondary is a major concern for the Steelers, whose whole defense is starting to be an issue. Dennard has the physicality to fit Pittsburgh's style and Pittsburgh addressed their receiving issues by picking up Darius Heyward-Bey and others.
16. Dallas Cowboys Timmy Jernigan, DT Other Possibility: Ra'Shede Hageman, DT
Jernigan is a risky pick this high, he has a huge frame and a high ceiling but he struggled to make an impact at big times for Florida State last year. Jerry Jones may go with a flashier pick here, but Jernigan or Hagemen is the smart pick.
17. Baltimore Ravens Odell Beckham, WR Other Possibility: Jimmie Ward, S
Even with Steve Smith now on board in Baltimore, he is aging and a young receiving talent will help Flacco for years to come. Beckham was a dangerous game-changer throughout his time with LSU and he has very reliable hands.
18. New York Jets Eric Ebron, TE Other Possibility: CB Kyle Fuller
The Jets should continue to improve their offense by selecting Ebron, who could well be a steal here at 18. Ebron has the speed of a receiver and will give Geno Smith/Michael Vick a real threat to work with.
19. Miami Dolphins Zack Martin, OT/OG Other Possibility: OT Cyrus Kouandjio, OT
Offensive line is definitely where the Dolphins should be looking with this pick. The decision will be between Kouandjio, who has the potential to develop into a star tackle or Martin, an athletic linemen who can play both guard and tackle.
20. Arizona Cardinals Derek Carr, QB Other Possibility: Kony Ealy, DE
It is clear that Carson Palmer's time in the desert isn't going to last much longer. Carr will be the best available quarterback and his huge arm could really help the homerun ability that Larry Fitzgerald will bring to the table.
21. Green Bay Packers C.J. Mosley, LB Other Possibility: TE Eric Ebron
An effective young linebacker is looking like a real need for Green Bay, and Mosley could give them that. The Alabama star has incredible instincts and a brain for the game, he could easily become a playmaker.
22. Philadelphia Eagles Brandin Cooks, WR Other Possibility: WR Marqise Lee
With DeSean Jackson off to NFC East rival Washington, wide receiver becomes a major need for Philadelphia. They have a multitude of options here, including Cooks, Lee and Indiana product Cody Latimer. Cooks, the Biletnikoff winner, has game-change speed and playmaking ability, he will fit right in with Philly.
23. Kansas City Chiefs Xavier Su'a-Filo, OG Other Possibility: WR Marqise Lee
It could definitely be an option for Kansas City to trade down this selection, as all their needs could be addressed later on in the draft. Right guard is a important concern and Su'a-Filo, easily the best guard in this draft, could fill it.
24. Cincinnati Bengals Jason Verrett, CB Other Possibility: CB Bradley Roby
The Bengals' secondary is their biggest question, it is aging and it is not deep at all. Verrett was a stud at TCU throughout his time there and he could turn into quite the star; he will immediately give the secondary a huge upgrade.
25. San Diego Chargers Louis Nix, DT Other Possibility: CB Bradley Roby
Nix is massive and even if Hageman is still on the board, the Chargers should pick him up. Run defense has definitely been a concern the past couple years for San Diego and they hope to continue to address it by picking up Nix.
26. Cleveland Browns Kyle Fuller, CB Other Possibility: WR Kelvin Benjamin
The Browns real star is cornerback Joe Haden, but beyond him the position is definitely an issue. Fuller has some minor concerns but the Browns should take a chance at him, even over Benjamin or another receiver that can help Manziel.
27. New Orleans Saints Dee Ford, DE Other Possibility: WR Marqise Lee
Even though it made huge strides last year, the Saints' defense is still pretty weak. They need another strong pass rusher, and Auburn star Dee Ford could help a lot. He has superb athleticism and he should fit right in with New Orleans.
28. Carolina Panthers Marqise Lee, WR Other Possibility: OT Morgan Moses
The offensive line may be enough of a problem for the Panthers to guy with Moses or another linemen here but their receivers are just so bad right now, Jericho Cotchery is their number one guy. Although inconsistent, Marqise Lee's electric game-breaking ability should really help Cam Newton.
29. New England Patriots Ra'Shede Hagmen, DT Other Possibility: DE Kony Ealy
At times, Hagemen is dominant and looks like a sure-fire first-rounder. Other times, he struggles to be any type of factor. New England needs pass rushers and Hagemen should give them that, even with his consistency issues.
30. San Francisco Niners Bradley Roby, CB Other Possibility: DT Stephon Tuitt
San Francisco could seek an impact receiver to help out Colin Kaepernick but a cornerback is needed. Roby was fantastic with Ohio State while facing some big receivers in the Big Ten, and should develop nicely under Jim Harbaugh.
31. Denver Broncos Joel Bitonio, OG Other Possibility: LB Kyle Van Noy
Denver may look to add another impact linebacker like Van Noy, but help on the offensive line should be a priority. Bitonio has been rising up draft boards and he could easily help the defending AFC Champs. Scouts love what he did this past year, especially having a great game against eventual champion Florida State.
32. Seattle Seahawks Cody Latimer, WR Other Possibility: TE Jace Amaro
If there is one thing that the Seahawks will really want to address, it could be adding another receiving option. Golden Tate is now gone, and Sidney Rice and Percy Harvin constantly are injured. Latimer has speed to stretch defenses and open up room for Marshawn Lynch and give Russell Wilson a playmaker for years to come.
2. St. Louis Rams Greg Robinson, OT Other Possibility: WR Sammy Watkins
The Rams might trade down this pick to a team that wants Blake Bortles or Sammy Watkins, but if they use this, Greg Robinson is the right pick. Robinson's health is the only concern, although Jake Matthews may have the instant starting ability, Robinson has the higher ceiling and will be a better pick in a few years.
3. Jacksonville Jaguars Khalil Mack, DE/LB Other Possibility: WR Sammy Watkins
Defense has been a major concern for the Jaguars (offense isn't much better) and if Clowney is indeed taken earlier, Mack should be Jacksonville's selection. Mack has excellent athleticism and getting a true pass rusher will be very important for head coach Gus Bradley and the Jags.
4. Cleveland Browns Johnny Manziel, QB Other Possibility: QB Derek Carr
The Browns would be crazy to not draft a quarterback here and they have loads of options. Bortles, Bridgewater, Derek Carr or Manziel could all be options. Manziel might be the riskiest pick in the draft, but Cleveland should take the risk here.
5. Oakland Raiders Sammy Watkins, WR Other Possibility: QB Blake Bortles
If the Raiders actually believe Matt Schaub can resurrect his career in Oakland, they need to add another potent receiver. Watkins has the explosiveness to change games and Watkins has the first step to beat most NFL defensive backs.
6. Atlanta Falcons Jake Matthews, OT Other Possibility: LB Anthony Barr
The Falcons could be one of a number of teams in this area looking to trade up for a chance at Clowney or Mack. They could still get major value at the No.6 pick and could pick up Matthews, who should go along way in protecting Matt Ryan, who they just invested a ton of money into this offseason.
7. Tampa Bay Buccaners Mike Evans, WR Other Possibility: QB Blake Bortles
 |
| Mike Evans |
8. Minnesota Vikings Blake Bortles, QB Other Possibility: QB Derek Carr
If Bortles doesn't go to Tampa at 7 or earlier, the Vikings shouldn't waste anytime in picking up the UCF stud. He oozes with potential and Norv Turner could help further develop him in Minnesota.
9. Buffalo Bills Taylor Lewan, OT Other Possibility: TE Eric Ebron
Lewan has the NFL frame and potential to be quite the star and Buffalo definitely needs to address their glaring need at tackle. Off-the-field issues could be a concern for Lewan but if Matthews and Robinson are off the board, this is where Buffalo should go.
10. Detroit Lions Justin Gilbert, CB Other Possibility: LB Anthony Barr
Although Detroit may feel that their young cornerbacks are fine for now, they need Gilbert in the future. Even if he doesn't start at corner right away, Gilbert could add something on special teams, he is a very dangerous returner.
11. Tennessee Titans Anthony Barr, LB Other Possibility: DL Aaron Donald
Tennessee needs help all around their defense, but a dominant pass rusher may be the paramount concern. A number of great pass rushers could be available but Barr should be the best option, he has the speed off the edge and strength to become a great player in this league for years to come.
12. New York Giants Aaron Donald, DL Other Possibility: TE Eric Ebron
Linval Joseph signed with the Vikings, leaving a pretty big hole at the defensive tackle slot. Donald, a dominant pass rusher from Pittsburgh, may be a little bit small for DT but he has the versatility to also make plays as an end.
13. St. Louis Rams HaHa Clinton-Dix, S Other Possibility: WR Odell Beckham
If the Rams don't draft Watkins with the second pick, Beckham could well be an option as he is the best receiver to help bolster a pretty weak Rams' offense. But, the secondary is more of a concern and Clinton-Dix has the talent to have a great career in St. Louis.
14. Chicago Bears Calvin Pryor, S Other Possibility: LB C.J. Mosley
If Clinton-Dix does indeed go to the Rams at 13 or higher, it puts the Bears in an interesting position. They really need a safety with Major Wright likely gone, but a leader on defense like Mosley could also help. Pryor has been really rising up most boards and he has great size.
15. Pittsburgh Steelers Darqueze Dennard, CB Other Possibility: WR Odell Beckham
An aging secondary is a major concern for the Steelers, whose whole defense is starting to be an issue. Dennard has the physicality to fit Pittsburgh's style and Pittsburgh addressed their receiving issues by picking up Darius Heyward-Bey and others.
16. Dallas Cowboys Timmy Jernigan, DT Other Possibility: Ra'Shede Hageman, DT
Jernigan is a risky pick this high, he has a huge frame and a high ceiling but he struggled to make an impact at big times for Florida State last year. Jerry Jones may go with a flashier pick here, but Jernigan or Hagemen is the smart pick.
17. Baltimore Ravens Odell Beckham, WR Other Possibility: Jimmie Ward, S
Even with Steve Smith now on board in Baltimore, he is aging and a young receiving talent will help Flacco for years to come. Beckham was a dangerous game-changer throughout his time with LSU and he has very reliable hands.
18. New York Jets Eric Ebron, TE Other Possibility: CB Kyle Fuller
The Jets should continue to improve their offense by selecting Ebron, who could well be a steal here at 18. Ebron has the speed of a receiver and will give Geno Smith/Michael Vick a real threat to work with.
19. Miami Dolphins Zack Martin, OT/OG Other Possibility: OT Cyrus Kouandjio, OT
Offensive line is definitely where the Dolphins should be looking with this pick. The decision will be between Kouandjio, who has the potential to develop into a star tackle or Martin, an athletic linemen who can play both guard and tackle.
20. Arizona Cardinals Derek Carr, QB Other Possibility: Kony Ealy, DE
It is clear that Carson Palmer's time in the desert isn't going to last much longer. Carr will be the best available quarterback and his huge arm could really help the homerun ability that Larry Fitzgerald will bring to the table.
21. Green Bay Packers C.J. Mosley, LB Other Possibility: TE Eric Ebron
An effective young linebacker is looking like a real need for Green Bay, and Mosley could give them that. The Alabama star has incredible instincts and a brain for the game, he could easily become a playmaker.
22. Philadelphia Eagles Brandin Cooks, WR Other Possibility: WR Marqise Lee
With DeSean Jackson off to NFC East rival Washington, wide receiver becomes a major need for Philadelphia. They have a multitude of options here, including Cooks, Lee and Indiana product Cody Latimer. Cooks, the Biletnikoff winner, has game-change speed and playmaking ability, he will fit right in with Philly.
23. Kansas City Chiefs Xavier Su'a-Filo, OG Other Possibility: WR Marqise Lee
It could definitely be an option for Kansas City to trade down this selection, as all their needs could be addressed later on in the draft. Right guard is a important concern and Su'a-Filo, easily the best guard in this draft, could fill it.
24. Cincinnati Bengals Jason Verrett, CB Other Possibility: CB Bradley Roby
The Bengals' secondary is their biggest question, it is aging and it is not deep at all. Verrett was a stud at TCU throughout his time there and he could turn into quite the star; he will immediately give the secondary a huge upgrade.
25. San Diego Chargers Louis Nix, DT Other Possibility: CB Bradley Roby
Nix is massive and even if Hageman is still on the board, the Chargers should pick him up. Run defense has definitely been a concern the past couple years for San Diego and they hope to continue to address it by picking up Nix.
26. Cleveland Browns Kyle Fuller, CB Other Possibility: WR Kelvin Benjamin
The Browns real star is cornerback Joe Haden, but beyond him the position is definitely an issue. Fuller has some minor concerns but the Browns should take a chance at him, even over Benjamin or another receiver that can help Manziel.
27. New Orleans Saints Dee Ford, DE Other Possibility: WR Marqise Lee
Even though it made huge strides last year, the Saints' defense is still pretty weak. They need another strong pass rusher, and Auburn star Dee Ford could help a lot. He has superb athleticism and he should fit right in with New Orleans.
28. Carolina Panthers Marqise Lee, WR Other Possibility: OT Morgan Moses
The offensive line may be enough of a problem for the Panthers to guy with Moses or another linemen here but their receivers are just so bad right now, Jericho Cotchery is their number one guy. Although inconsistent, Marqise Lee's electric game-breaking ability should really help Cam Newton.
29. New England Patriots Ra'Shede Hagmen, DT Other Possibility: DE Kony Ealy
At times, Hagemen is dominant and looks like a sure-fire first-rounder. Other times, he struggles to be any type of factor. New England needs pass rushers and Hagemen should give them that, even with his consistency issues.
30. San Francisco Niners Bradley Roby, CB Other Possibility: DT Stephon Tuitt
San Francisco could seek an impact receiver to help out Colin Kaepernick but a cornerback is needed. Roby was fantastic with Ohio State while facing some big receivers in the Big Ten, and should develop nicely under Jim Harbaugh.
31. Denver Broncos Joel Bitonio, OG Other Possibility: LB Kyle Van Noy
Denver may look to add another impact linebacker like Van Noy, but help on the offensive line should be a priority. Bitonio has been rising up draft boards and he could easily help the defending AFC Champs. Scouts love what he did this past year, especially having a great game against eventual champion Florida State.
32. Seattle Seahawks Cody Latimer, WR Other Possibility: TE Jace Amaro
If there is one thing that the Seahawks will really want to address, it could be adding another receiving option. Golden Tate is now gone, and Sidney Rice and Percy Harvin constantly are injured. Latimer has speed to stretch defenses and open up room for Marshawn Lynch and give Russell Wilson a playmaker for years to come.
No comments:
Post a Comment