AFC East Team Needs

Buffalo Bills

Wide Receiver

Robert Woods and Stevie Johnson are good, but neither are elite. This offense and Quarterback EJ Manuel would really benefit from finding a true #1 caliber wide receiver. Getting Sammie Watkins at #8 would ideal, but if he's not there, Mike Evans would be a good fallback option. However with this being a very deep receiver class, they could wait.

Tight End

It's said that a tight end is a quarterback's best friend. Starter Scott Chandler isn't going to give you much in the passing game and the Bills would be wise to find a play maker at the position. Eric Ebron would be that dynamic player, but #8 could be too high. Somebody like CJ Fiedorowicz or Troy Niklas are day two possibilities.  

Guard/Tackle

Last off-season the Bills lost Andy Levitre, but they never replaced him. Chris Williams was signed, but he's nothing more than a backup. Buffalo could either target a guard like David Yankey whose run blocking skills fit their offensive philosophy.  Or they could take Jake Matthews, Greg Robinson or Taylor Lewan and move Cordy Glenn inside to guard.

Safety

Jarius Byrd leaving wasn't surprise, but now that he's gone it doesn't take away the sting. Da'Norris Searcy would be their starter, but he's a backup. Their first round pick isn't a spot to take a new safety, but they'll go after somebody in the middle rounds.  Jimmie Ward from Northern Illinois or Stanford's Ed Reynolds would be good fits.

Outside Linebacker

Keith Rivers was just signed while Manny Lawson is serviceable.  This isn't a huge need because those two veterans could hold it down for this season.  However it would be good for the Bills to target somebody in the later rounds with upside. Kevin Pierre-Louis from Boston College tore up the Combine while Jonathan Brown from Illinois is an underrated.

Miami Dolphins

Guards
Fallout of the Martin/Incognito situation means the Dolphins need two new guards. Dallas Thomas could win one position, but they need to target somebody early.  Zach Martin from Notre Dame is an intriguing player because he could play guard or tackle.  If not, they could target somebody like Gabe Jackson (Mississippi State) or Cyril Richardson (Baylor) on day two.

Tight End
Coach Philbin came from Green Bay where the tight end was a focal point. Dustin Keller was signed last year but preseason knee injury ended his season. Taking Eric Ebron or Jace Amaro in the first round could help fill the Keller role. Otherwise the athletic Richard Rodgers from Cal in the third could be an option.

Right Tackle
The signing Brandon Albert really helps, but they still need one more tackle to be filled.  If they don't take Zach Martin in the first round, they'll likely address the position in the middle rounds. Sentreal Henderson (Miami) would give them an athletic tackle with massive size.  Or they could go with a sleeper in North Dakota State's Billy Turner.

Cornerback

Even with resigning of Brent Grimes and acquisition of Cortland Finnegan there is a need here. Finnegan hasn't played well in two years and there is little depth behind their two starters. Taking somebody in the back half of the draft could be a good idea. Players like Terrance Mitchell from Oregon or Ross Cockrell from Duke could be options.

Running Back
Lamar Miller was poised for a breakout year, but didn't produce. It's clear that the Dolphins coaching staff isn't sold on him and brought Knowshon Moreno in for competition. Moreno is in on a one year deal, so they could take always take somebody late. Wisconsin's James White or Arizona State's Marion Grice could be sixth or seventh round options.

New England Patriots

Tight End
When New England had two dynamic tight ends, their offense was unstoppable. With only Gronkowski, finding a tight end to complement him is a must. If Eric Ebron starts falling the Patriots has the ammo to trade up. However Jace Amaro (Texas Tech) in round one or Trey Burton (Florida) in the third might be more realistic.

Defensive Tackle

Aging All Pro Vince Wilfork is coming off an Achilles injury while also demanding a trade. Add in that there is little to no depth behind him and tackle should be a top priority. Notre Dame's Louis Nix is a perfect replacement for Wilfork at the end of round one, where Southern Miss Khyri Thorton is a late round option.

Center

A poor season by Ryan Wendell caused many issues in the passing game. He's a free agent and may be back on a short term deal, but this could be a chance to draft a center in the late rounds to be the eventual starter.  Utah State's Tyler Larsen is underrated and his versatility would fit well with the Patriots.

Wide Receiver

It's amazing how well New England has done offensively without much talent at receiver.  Newly signed Brandon LaFell and returning Danny Amendola is their best receiver, but he spends more time on the injury. Targeting players like Brandon Coleman (Rutgers) or Devin Street (Pittsburgh) to stretch the field could really open the offense up.

Strong Safety
With Adrian Wilson also coming off an Achilles injury and being on the wrong side of 30, he runs the risk of being released. Either way, finding a safety in the draft to challenge Wilson would be wise. Stanford's Ed Reynolds ability to play both safety positions could make him more attractive. Otherwise LSU's Craig Loston would be another option.

New York Jets

Wide Receiver
Say what you want about Geno Smith, but he had nobody to throw the ball to. The Jets really lacked weapons, so signing Eric Decker is a good start. However they still need to find a number one caliber receiver to pair with him. It's a deep receiver class, but getting Brandin Cooks in the first would be ideal.

Cornerback
Antonio Cromartie was cut because of his contract not because of talent. They desperately needs a corner but whiffed on Revis and other top free agents.  Rex Ryan loves to put his corners on a island so that he can dial up the blitzes. TCU's Jason Verrett isn't the biggest corner, but his cover skills fit perfectly in this scheme.

Tight End
The fact that the Jets were able to get good production out of Kellen Winslow last year was nothing short of amazing. Imagine what they could do if they were able to land North Carolina's Eric Ebron. Even if Ebron isn't there in the first, they could wait till the middle rounds to get somebody like Jacob Pederson from Wisconsin.

Safety
When you're signing Ed Reed mid-season, your safety situation is terrible. Antonio Allen hasn't panned out at free safety and should be upgraded. There's a possibility of taking either Calvin Pryor or Ha'Sean Clinton-Dix in the first round, but could wait till the third or fourth to get somebody like Terrence Brooks (Florida State) or Jemea Thomas (Georgia Tech).

Guard
Outside of D'Brickashaw Furguson and Nick Mangold the Jets  line hasn't been very good, especially at guard. Brian Winters was thrown right into the fire and struggled, while Willie Colon is average at best. The Jets could target a player like Spencer Long (Nebraska) who was an All-American candidate before being injured.

AFC North Team Needs

Baltimore Ravens

Wide Receiver
The Ravens need to continue to surround Joe Flacco with weapons.  Torrey Smith and Steve Smith gives them a start, but what they are lacking is that guy that can go up and get it. Mike Evans (Texas A&M) and Kelvin Benjamin would be options in the first, but Allen Robinson (Penn State) is a sleeper pick on day two.

Defensive End
When Arthur Jones signed with Indianapolis that opened up a gaping hole at the defensive end position. Florida State's Tim Jernigan is very stout at the line and could slide right into Jones' old position, but he may not be there. They may have to wait till the third or fourth round and take somebody like UCLA's Cassius Marsh.

Free Safety
Matt Elam had an up and down year. He's average at the free safety position, but would be even better sliding over to the strong safety position. If Ha'Sean Clinton-Dix or Calvin Pryor are available it he first round they'd jump.  However they're a good chance they'd take a Jimmie Ward (Northern Illinois) in the second round.

Right Tackle
Just like Arthur Jones, the loss of Michael Oher hurts more than people think. Oher was a rock solid right tackle who also played left tackle when needed.  Baltimore has to take somebody because Ricky Wagner isn't starting material. They'll need athletic guys to run Kubiak's zone blocking scheme. Joel Bitonio (Nevada) in the second round could be an option.

Center
They want Gino Gradkowski to be their center, but he just didn't play very good this past season. He'll get a second chance, but the Ravens should look for a backup in case Gino flops again. A player to watch is Gabe Ikard from Oklahoma who is a good athlete and would fit well in the zone blocking scheme.

Cincinnati Bengals

Defensive End
With Michael Johnson with Tampa Bay the Bengals have a need for a pass rusher at defensive end. Kony Ealy and Dee Ford are possibilities, but the Bengals like ends with length at end so that could rule those players out.  Instead they could wait till the second round to take the rising 6'6 Kareem Martin from North Carolina.

Left Tackle
Andrew Whitworth really flourished moving inside to guard. The Bengals want to keep him there, but with Anthony Collins signing in Tampa Bay they'll need to find a replacement tackle. Morgan Moses of Virginia is likely the only one in the first, otherwise they'll have to take a chance on somebody like a Billy Turner from North Dakota State later.

Cornerback
A deep class should allow them to fix a position that hasn't been the same in years. Leon Hall has had three knee injuries while Terrence Newman is nearing the end. Bradley Roby (Ohio State) is an option in the first, but with bigger needs they could wait till Day 2 and take EJ Gaines (Missouri) or Marcus Roberson (Florida).

Safety
Not a huge need, but George Iloka and Reggie Nelson are only average. Safety has become so important in this league that having a playmaker can really enhance any defense. Ha'Sean Clinton-Dix of Alabama would be a slam dunk pick at 24, but he's likely gone.  Another option could be an underrated Ed Reynolds from Stanford in round three.

Wide Receiver
AJ Green is arguably one of the top five recievers in the NFL, but the rest of his supporting cast is average at best. If the Bengals offense is to take the next step it would help to add a competent second option. LSU's Jarvis Landry or South Carolina's Bruce Ellington in the third or fourth round could really give them a dynamic player out in the slot.

Cleveland Browns

Quarterback
Forget franchise quarterback, they've struggled finding a quarterback to give them consecutive good seasons. Brian Hoyer showed promise, but not enough to convince he is their future. Picking fourth the Browns have a shot at the top quarterbacks, but with an additional first rounder they have the luxury of letting one fall to them or taking Fresno State's David Carr.

Guard
With Alex Mack, Joe Thomas, and Mitchell Schwartz, the Browns have the foundations of one of the best lines in football.  But their guard play is what's holding them back.  With Kyle Shanahan as their new offensive coordinator they'll be running a zone scheme and want good athletes. UCLA's Xavier Su'a-Filo and Baylor's Cyril Richardson would fit perfectly.

Free Safety
Losing TJ Ward was huge, mainly because Tashaun Gipson would be their starter. Gipson plays like a backup. Having the 26th pick the Browns would love to see Calvin Pryor or Ha'Sean Clinton-Dix be available. Instead they should target Florida State's Lamarcus Joyner in the second round. Joyner's play making ability is getting Tyrann Mathieu comparisons. 

Wide Receiver
Picking Josh Gordon in the supplemental draft was a steal for the Browns. But outside of Gordon and Jordan Cameron, the Browns lack reliable threats. If available at pick four Sammie Watkins is a no brainer. Although settling for either Florida State's Kelvin Benjamin or Vanderbilt's Jordan Matthews would be good additions to work the middle of the field.

Cornerback
Since finding gold in Joe Haden, they've struggled to pair him with another quality cornerback. Taking Justin Gilbert with the fourth overall pick could be an option, they'd be better off waiting till at least day two.  Nebraska's Stanley Jean-Baptiste has the size teams are coveting, while Florida's Marcus Roberson's film shows more than his predraft work.

Pittsburgh Steelers

Cornerback
Ike Taylor has been their top cornerback but he's struggled to slow other teams top receiver. If they can find a lock down corner their blitz packages could be deadly. Pittsburgh doesn't normally trade up, but to get either Justin Gilbert or Darqueze Dennard they'd need to. Otherwise they'd have to hope they can get lucky on day two.

Wide Receiver
With Emmanuel Sanders signing with the Broncos it makes it two years straight the Steelers have lost a starting receiver. Oregon State's Brandin Cooks or Colorado's Paul Richardson are both similar to what they've had with Sanders and Wallace. However offensive coordinator Todd Haley likes more of a shorter passing game, so Texas A&M's Mike Evans could be their target.

Defensive End
Even though Evander Hood hadn't been playing up to his potential, his departure leaves a void. Steve McLendon could be moved to end, but they'd still need some more depth no matter what.  They won't target anybody early, but the Steelers could target one of the Stanford duo of Ben Gardner and Josh Mauro in the fourth round.

Outside Linebacker
Jason Worilds emergence allows the Steelers to part ways with Lamar Woodley.  But that means they need Jarvis Jones to step up and be the guy who was projected as a top five pick. With all that aside they need to add depth. BYU's Kyle Van Noy and Stanford's Trent Murphy would fit their scheme well.

Inside Linebacker
Lawrence Timmons continues to be solid in the middle, but the Steelers should really try to upgrade from Vince Williams. CJ Mosley from Alabama is an option at fifteen if there isn't a better value, otherwise they'd likely have to wait till the third or fourth rounds and get a player like Louisville's Preston Brown.

AFC South Team Needs

Houston Texans

Quarterback
New regimes mean new quarterbacks. Matt Schaub was traded off to Oakland which opens the door for a new quarterback. Blake Bortels is the popular pick and has been linked to Bill O'Brien. But with there being no consensus top choice the Texans could always wait till the second round and take David Carr or Eastern Illinois' Jimmy Garappalo.

Outside Linebacker
Brooks Reed will likely move inside, but even if he doesn't the Texans really lack anything besides Whitney Mercilus. Having the first pick they can fix it by taking Jadeveon Clowney or even Buffalo's Khalil Mack. But they need a quarterback more and could go with  BYU's Kyle Van Noy or Georgia Tech's Jeremiah Attaochu at thirty three.

Tight End
We know Bill O'Brien loves his tight ends.  He did it in New England and at Penn State.  Houston has Garrett Graham but need two more. Having the first pick of the second round they'll have a shot at Jace Amaro and Troy Niklas.  But Colorado State's Crockett Gillmore's is a name to keep an eye on in the third.

Guard
Wade Smith has given the Texans some quality production over the years, but he's still a free agent and past his prime. Add in that they're moving away from the zone blocking scheme they'll be looking for more physical blockers. O'Brien could look back to his Penn State days and take John Urschel in the fourth round.

Running back
The Texans need a running back because Arian Foster is injury prone and Ben Tate is now with Cleveland. But Bill O'Brien loves to run multiple backs. He did it in New England and Penn State.  Kent State's Dri Archer gives him a Danny Woodhead type weapon. Otherwise Florida State's James Wilder would also complement Foster well.

Indianapolis Colts

Guard
Protecting Andrew Luck is the highest priority. So when your owner calls out the offensive line, you know it's probably going to get attention. Right Guard Mike McGlynn was terrible last year and won't be back. The Colts could look to former Luck teammate David Yankey or even Clemson's Brandon Thomas on day two.

Center
Continuing with the offensive line, the Colts other big weakness is at center. Khaled Holmes was drafted late last year, but he isn't a long term answer. Phil Costa was brought in but he's just depth. They could go back to USC and take Marcus Martin's whose skill in the run game fits the Colts philosophy.

Outside Linebacker
Eric Walden was a big free agent for the Colts last year, but they wasted their money with him. Add in that Bjoern Werner being a poor schematic fit and the Colts should look to find another pass rusher opposite of Mathies. Arizona State's Carl Bradford is a better version of Walden and could be had in the fourth round.

Strong Safety
Losing Antoine Bethea is big because he's one of the elite. They could go two different ways to replace him. Targeting a strong safety like Washington State Deone Buccannon or USC's Dion Bailey on day two is one option. Or they could go with a free safety like Northern Illinois Jimmie Ward and move Laron Landry to strong safety.

Cornerback
Vontae Davis is one of the better cornerbacks in the league while Toler does alright. After that its all questions. Finding a starter would be great, but getting a good nickel back is a must. Jason Verrett of TCU has the cover skills needed for Pagano's system and should be available in the second because of his size.

Jacksonville Jaguars

Quarterback
Going into last off-season the Jaguars were confident in Blaine Gabbert, but then traded him for a sixth round pick. It's important that they find the right quarterback. Picking third they'll have a shot at one of the top quarterbacks. This could be the landing spot for Johnny Manziel because of Gus Bradley's experience with smaller playmakers while in Seattle.

Cornerback
With Gus Bradley helping build the Seahawks defense, he's gonna try to do the same here. To do so he needs those big corners.  Luckily he'll have some options on day two with Nebraska's Stanley Jean-Baptiste and Utah's Keith McGill who both stand 6'3. Later round options could be Lindenwood's Pier Desir or Liberty's Walt Aikens on day three.

Free Safety
Last year's second round pick Jonathan Cyprien is a keeper, but Bradley wants his own version of the Legion of Boom and lacks that Earl Thomas player. Lamarcus Joyner could be an option in the second round otherwise they may have to go with Antoine Exum of Virginia Tech or Joyner's teammate Terrence Brooks in the third and fourth rounds.

Outside Linebacker
The linebacker situation is a mess. Paul Posluszny is fine in the middle but both outside backers should go. Khalil Mack would give them a Von Miller type player at the strongside while Ohio State's Ryan Shazier would give them a run and tackle player at the weakside. Florida State's Christian Jones could give them a player to play both.

Wide Receiver
If Justin Blackman can get his personal life in order he might be able to live up to his potential.  In the meantime the Jaguars lack a legit number one receiver.  Sammie Watkins will get a serious look with the third pick.  Otherwise Clemson's Martavis Bryant or Fresno State's Davante Adams physical play would complement the Jaguars current speed receivers.

Tennessee Titans

Outside Linebacker
Before moving to the 3-4 the Titans lacked a good pass rusher, now with the switch the need is greater. Shaun Phillips was signed, but they need to find a dynamic rusher because Kamerion Wimbley has busted. UCLA's Anthony Barr could be their choice at pick eleven, or they could wait till round two and take Stanford's Trent Murphy.

Cornerback
Losing Alterrun Verner will hurt because he was their top cornerback. Tommie Campbell and Blidi Wreh-Wilson will compete for the starting spot, but neither is projected to be star. Oklahoma State's Justin Gilbert or Michigan State's Darqueze Dennard are options at eleven. If they wait they could take Ohio State's Bradley Roby or Oregon's Terrence Mitchell on day two.

Running back
Chris Johnson is still on the roster, but his high salary and diminishing play isn't going to keep him there for long. Look for the Titans will be looking for a future starter considering Wisenhunt loves to run the ball. Ka'Deem Carey from Arizona or UCF's Storm Johnson could be options in the third or fourth rounds.

Nose Tackle
Moving to the 3-4 means they'll have to find a space eating nose tackle. Jurrell Casey is projected to start there, but he would be better at one of the ends. Notre Dame's Louis Nix could be had at eleven, but they'd be wise to wait for Penn State's DaQuan Jones in round three or even Louisiana Tech's Justin Ellis.

Quarterback
With a new head coach, Jake Locker is in limbo. He could either flourish under new guidance or be on the way out. He'll get this year to prove it. However if one of the top quarterbacks fall, they could go there. Likely take somebody late to develop like Georgia's Aaron Murray or Wyoming's Brett Smith.

AFC West Team Needs

Denver Broncos

Middle Linebacker
Stopping the run was an issue for the Broncos last year and a lot of that fell on the middle linebacker. Wesley Woodyard struggled last year and is gone. Wisconsin's Chris Borland is an option at 31 but his size may scare Denver off. Western Kentucky's Andrew Jackson's downhill style could be an option in the third round.

Guard
With Peyton Manning not having great movement skills it's very important to keep the pocket clean, especially up front. They still like athletic lineman so UCLA's Xavier Su'a-Filo is an option at thirty one, or they could wait till the third or fourth rounds and take somebody like Wisconsin's Ryan Groy who isn't like most Badger lineman.

Cornerback
Getting Aqib Talib was huge because it gives them a lock down corner.  But Champ Bailey was cut and Domminique Rodgers-Cromartie wasn't resigned and have Chris Harris tore his ACL. A quick fix is to draft Bradley Roby or Kyle Fuller (Virginia Tech) at 31.  Or they could wait till the second round like Missouri's EJ Gaines.

Defensive End
Demarcus Ware was a big get and he'll be an upgrade over Shaun Phillips who played well.  But besides him and Derek Wolfe there isn't anybody. Adding a third pass rusher and a rotation would help. Oregon State's Scott Crichton would be a good scheme fit in the first, while Louisville's Marcus Smith could be an option on day two.

Running Back
With Knowshon Moreno signing with the Dolphins, it's Monte Ball's time. But there are plenty of questions that remain. Is Hillman going to get out of the doghouse, and can Ball step up in his pass game protection? Look for them to take somebody late to add to the rotation. Boston College's Andre Williams would fit well.

Kansas City Chiefs

Wide Receiver
Their only reliable pass catcher is Dwayne Bowe.  They need to take some pressure off of him and give Alex Smith another weapon. In the first they could go with Oregon State's Brandin Cooks who gives Reid a Desean Jackson type of player. If not, they could wait till the second round and take Colorado's Paul Richardson.

Tight End
Andy Reid likes to use tight ends, but the Chiefs lack a viable threat.  Picking 23rd they could have a shot at Eric Ebron but likely would have to consider Jace Amaro.  That may be a reach so waiting till day two to find a better value with Washington's Austin Seferian-Jenkins or California's Richard Rodgers.

Safety
With Eric Berry the Chiefs have one of the best, but they've struggled at free safety. Because they blitz so frequently they could really use someone with good coverage skills. Calvin Pryor would be a good fit because he can play centerfield while also covering man to man. If not, North Carolina's Tre Boston could be a fourth round option.

Guard
Both starting guards from this past year are now on different teams which leaves a big void along the offensive line. Andy Reid loves to draft offensive lineman in the first round and has reached before. However they'll likely wait till day two to address the position. Mississippi State's Gabe Jackson or Clemson's Brandon Thomas are options.

Defensive End
They gladly let Tyson Jackson leave in free agency and have Allen Bailey poised to step up. But at 23 they'll have the opportunity to take either Notre Dame's Stephon Tuit and Minnesota's Ra'Shede Hageman available.  They'd be luxury picks, although both players are ideal fits int he Chiefs defense because of their ability to attack and play two gaps.

Oakland Raiders

Linebacker
Both the middle and weakside linebacker spots need to be addressed because Nick Roach and Kevin Burnett aren't getting it done. Ryan Shazier would be great at the weakside if available in the second, but they may have to go with Florida State's Telvin Smith in the third round. While Connecticut's Yawin Smallwood could be a fourth round option.

Safety
Charles Woodson is a first ballot Hall of Famer, but he's done. They have to improve one of the worst pass defenses. Northern Illinois Jimmie Ward is an option at the top of the second round. They may have to try and find a diamond in the rough with the likes of Georgia Tech's Jamea Thomas or Louisville's Hakeem Smith.

Left Tackle
It's been a complete dumpster fire for the Raiders at left tackle this off-season. Donald Penn helps, but there's a reason he got cut. Picking fifth they have a chance at Jake Matthews and Greg Robinson. But Penn allows them to pass and take a chance on Miami's Sentreal Henderson in the third who has a world of potential.

Quarterback
Since Rich Gannon took them to a Super Bowl they've had a revolving door.They traded for Matt Schaub to be their starter, but even if Schaub plays well he's isn't a long term answer. Taking a quarterback late like Pittsburgh's Tom Savage in the fifth that has the cannon they like to be a developmental project.

Wide Receiver
Not a huge need, but if the Raiders can get that true number one caliber guy, the offense could really take off. Sammie Watkins if available at five should be their pick. Florida State's Kelvin Benjamin could slide into the second round and would be a great. But Wyoming's Robert Herron gives them something in the middle rounds.

San Diego Chargers

Cornerback
Not too long ago the Chargers had one of the best cornerback duo, now it's one of the worst. They realistically need two guys. Darqueze Dennard being available would be ideal, but at pick 25 he's long gone. That means they'll likely have go with Virginia Tech's Kyle Fuller or Ohio State's Bradley Roby.

Outside Linebacker
They've really busted with their pass rushers lately. Melvin Ingram struggled to get things going and last year they brought in Dwight Freeney and he did nothing. If they decide to try again Auburn's Dee Ford fits the scheme well and has experience play in a standing up. Another player could be USC's Devon Kennard in the fifth round.

Wide Receiver
Keenan Allen was a steal in the third round last year and gives them a number one guy.  However they could really use a complement to Allen and to add with Vincent Brown. Kelvin Benjamin's size and strength would give Phillip Rivers a chain mover, while LSU's Jarvis Landry would give them another quick receiver with yards after catch potential.

Nose Tackle
Cam Thomas leaving for Pittsburgh means Kwame Geathers is the starter. Geathers has played alright but he may not be a full time starter. Notre Dame's Louis Nix is an option in the first round, but taking a two down player in the first isn't always a good idea. Mike Pennel from Colorado State-Pueblo could be a sixth round option.

Left Tackle
Going into last year, the left tackle position was a huge concern. Out of nowhere King Dunlap stepped up and shored up the position. They don't have to take anybody early, but taking North Carolina's James Hurst whose coming off a knee injury in the fifth round could be a good value as a swing tackle.

Player Profile: Stanley Jean-Baptiste

Height:  6'3
Weight:  218
School:  Nebraska
Position:  Cornerback
Ranking:  #6 Cornerback
Projection: Day 2 Pick

Strengths
-Height (6'3) and length (32 1/2") are what teams are falling in love with
-Good speed (4.41 at Pro Day) to stick with receivers deep
-Good leaper (41.5" vertical leap at Combine) to be able to contest jump balls
-Displays good ball skills. 4 INTs in 2013.  One returned for TD. 12 pass breakups. A former WR
-Shows the ability of turning his hips to turn and run deep with receivers
-Willing tackler.  Not afraid to come up and make a hit. Drag to the ground type
-Does a good job of changing directions without losing speed.
-Shows the explosion to jump a route to make a play on the ball
-Potential. Only played CB for 2 1/2 years (was a WR in JUCO and start of career). Only going to get better

Weaknesses
-Still Raw.  Only played the position for 2 /12 years. 
-Will struggle to track the ball at times
-Despite his size he isn't very strong.  Needs to learn to be more physical
-Will struggle to disengage from blocks.
-May have to be moved to safety

Summary
Three years ago Stanley Jean-Baptiste was just another receiver hidden on the Nebraska depth chart.  But with an opening at cornerback and a desire to get on the field might have been the best move of Jean-Baptiste's career.  Now with the success Seattle's defense has had, every team wants to find that next Richard Sherman who stands 6'3 and can run with wide receivers.  That should only help Jean-Baptiste who after a stellar senior year really got his name out there with a good Senior Bowl performance. SJB is at his best when he's playing off man to man coverage. Take his speed and explosion and match it with his length and he has the ability to take away a receiver.  That's exactly what he did against Michigan's speedster Jeremy Gallon and Penn State's big physical Allen Robinson. Nebraska didn't run a lot of zone coverage, but when he was he was able to read and make quick plays on the ball. You'd think that with his size he'd be good at press coverage and being physical, but that's not his strong suite. He'll likely go in the third round based on talent, but don't be surprised to see him go somewhere in the second round for a team looking to copy what Seattle is doing.  Jacksonville, Seattle, and San Francisco are all teams that he'd fit schematically and because of needs.  But big corners are in vogue so he could go to any team that has a need.

Player Profile: Kyle Van Noy

Height:  6'3
Weight:  243
School:  BYU
Position:  Outside Linebacker
Ranking:  #5 Outside Linebacker
Projection:  2nd Round

Strengths
-Experienced. 52 games played. 36 games started
-Has the size (6'3 243) to be able to play the OLB in a 3-4 defense
-Above average speed (4.71) for a linebacker
-Explodes off the ball (1.60 10 yard shuttle). Can turn speed into power
-Uses his speed and quickness to get past tackles and to the QB (26 career sacks)
-Has some savyness to his pass rushing.  Good spin move and quick changes of direction.
-Has experience playing in a 3-4 and rushing from a two point stance
-Relentless pass rusher. Doesn't give up on getting to the QB
-Does a good job of setting the edge in the run game
-Uses his hands well to disengage from blockers and make plays
-Experience dropping into coverage
-Versatile. Lined up at OLB, DE, ILB, and out on slot WRs
-Has a knack for making splash plays 11 Forced fumbles in career
-Durable. No injury issues to speak of.

Weaknesses
-Shorter arms (31 5/8") could make it harder to disengage from blockers in the NFL
-Doesn't always take the best angles. Forces him to have to make a arm tackle
-Lack of strength could be an issue. Can be rocked back by a good punch
-Will relax if the play goes away from him
-Is gonna struggle to match up man to man in coverage

Summary
Kyle Van Noy is one of the better players nobody is talking about.  Why? I'm not sure, but he's a flat out football player who has a knack for making plays.  Van Noy plays all over the field in the Cougars defense but he's at his best when he's attacking.  He has 26 (13 in 2012) career sacks to go with 62 tackles for losses and can just take over games (Texas).  He has a knack for getting the quarterback with his speed and quickness.  It's not just his athletic ability he have some savyness to his rushing with change of speed and a nasty spin move.  Add in that he has the ability to play in coverage and there is a lot for teams to like.  Van Noy's best fit as a Strongside LB in a 3-4 defense or in a 4-3 Under.  There he can still blitz a lot and play in coverage.  I see Van Noy going in the second round, but wouldn't be surprised to see a team like New Orleans take him in the first, especially if Dee Ford is off the board.

Player Profile: Antonio Richardson

Height:  6'6
Weight:  336
School:  Tennessee
Position:  Offensive Tackle
Ranking:  #13 Offensive Tackle
Projection:  Day 3

Strengths
-Ideal size (6'6) and length (35" arms) to play tackle
-Experienced.  Three year starter in the SEC
-Good Strength. 36 Bench reps at combine is impressive with arm length
-Good quickness (1.81 10 yard split) for somebody his size
-Can a good job of using his body to wall off defenders
-Shows a good kickstep that allows him to get deep in pass protection
-Able to mirror defenders when consistently moving his feet
-Can show flashes of good quickness to beat a lineman to a spot
-Will show a nasty streak you like in lineman

Weaknesses
-Lacks a strong anchor.  Can get pushed back pretty easily.
-Struggles to block in space.  May have to play in a man blocking scheme exclusively.
-Lateral agility isn't good.  Gets beat frequently with quick moves inside
-Not an overpowering run blocker.  Isn't gonna move defenders off their spot
-Doesn't use his hands very well.  Grabs way too much
-Bends too much at the waist.  Creates balance issues
-Struggles to sustain blocks
-Gets called for a lot of false starts


Summary
This summer when everybody moved past the 2013 draft class and started looking towards 2014 we often saw Antonio Richardson as somebody who was mentioned as one of the top tackles in the class and a potential first round pick.  And why not?  Richardson has prototypical size and length teams covet out of left tackles and despite his size he moves well.  However as you watch Richardson you see somebody who just isn't that good.  Despite his size he isn't overly strong or powerful.  In the run game he's a position blocker, he's not going to move anybody off their spot.  In pass protection he gets pushed back against bull rushes.  When playing South Carolina, Jadeveon Clowney made Richardson look like he was on skates.  Kony Ealy of Missouri regularly beat him. Now his size and length makes it hard to get past him quickly and the fact that Tennessee ran a spread and got the ball out quickly he didn't give up a ton of sacks or pressure.  However pass rushers in the NFL would have a hay day with him. There were several times in each game where he doesn't block anybody.  So where does Richardson go?  I believe he'll go somewhere in the fourth round where a team will take a chance of trying to fix his technique and get the most out of him.  However it wouldn't shock me at all of he fell to the sixth or seventh round.  He'll be drafted.  Just not where everybody had him this past summer.

Player Profile: Joel Bitonio

Height:  6'4
Weight:  302
School:  Nevada
Position:  Offensive Tackle
Ranking:  #5 Offensive Tackle
Projection:  2nd Round

Strengths
-Experience.  Three year starter.  36 games started
-Good athlete who moves with ease
-Adequate arm length (33 7/8") to push defenders pass the pocket
-Elite Quickness. 2nd best 10 yard shuttle (1.68) for lineman at Combine
-Fires off the ball hard and fast.  Takes it to the defensive lineman
-Stout at the point of attack.  Good functional strength.
-Powerful blocker.  Can move defenders off their spot
-Solid anchor.  Rarely gets pushed off his spot
-Uses his hands to control the defenders. Locks you in when he gets his hands on a defender
-Good footwork and lateral agility to slide to mirror defenders
-Position flexibility.  Has the potential to play all five offensive line positions
-Has shown the ability to pull effectively
-Never gives up on a block.  Always going hard
-Durable.  No injury issues to speak of

Weaknesses
-Size (6'4 302) and may prevent him from playing Left Tackle
-Can be more of a grabber than a punch. Will lead to holding calls
-Will struggle with footwork on deep drops
-Could stand to redistribute some of his weight
-Can get too high at times which affects his power in the run game and balance in pass pro
-Doesn't have that nastiness you would like out of a lineman
-Needs to clean up his pass protection technique

Summary
When you are a tackle and only stand 6'4 you are already getting doubters before they even watch you play. But once you watch Joel Bitonio you are going to leave impressed. Bitonio is at his best in the run game. There he uses his athletic ability to generate power and open up holes in the run game. He has even shown the ability to pull and make blocks in the open field. In pass protection he uses his quickness to shield off defenders and keep them out of the backfield. His biggest weakness is his length and lateral agility causes him to have issues with speed rushers. He did shut down Anthony Barr the first game of the season, but Barr did give him some fits. Bitonio is much better dealing with power rushers and that showed when he didn't allow any pressure against Florida State. Bitonio has the athletic ability to get a chance at left tackle, however his skill set might end up moving him inside to guard or right tackle. I see him going somewhere in the late second round, but wouldn't be shocked to see him go higher.

Player Profile: David Yankey

Height:  6'6
Weight:  315
School:  Stanford
Position:  Guard
Ranking:  #4 Guard
Projection:  Day 2

Strengths
-Ideal size (6'6) and bulk (314) to play guard or tackle in the NFL
-Experienced.  Started every game for three years
-Has played both Left Tackle and Left Guard
-Uses size to overwhelm defenders
-Very physical blocker.  Is gonna hit you
-Understands angles, leverage, and how to use his body to shield defenders
-Shows the ability to drive opponents off their spot when using proper pad level
-Does a good job blocking in space.  Rarely misses a block while on the move
-Utilized in pulling and trapping frequently
-Uses good footwork to make up for lack of elite athletic ability
-Finishes blocks.  Once he locks in, your done

Weaknesses
-Lacks a strong anchor in the pass game.  Can be pushed back by a good bull rush
-Can be more of a grabber than a puncher
-Inconsistent pad level.  Can get too high at times which causes him to lose leverage
-Lacks good balance.  Tends to lunge
-Struggles to sustain blocks

Summary
Andrew Luck helped bring Stanford back, but it's the play of the offensive line that has done most of the work.  A big part of that is David Yankey.  A three year starter, Yankey has been the backbone of the line.  He's played both left guard and tackle and excelled at both.  Yankey uses his size and strength to overwhelm defenders and open up holes in the run game.  He's very physical and will hit you in the mouth, but he isn't overly strong and won't move defenders off their spot.  Yankey isn't a great athlete, but has good footwork and Stanford took advantage of that by pulling and trap blocking with him on 90% of run plays. Yankey uses that same footwork and length to keep defenders at bay in the pass game.  He completely shut down Pac 12 Defensive Player of the Year Will Sutton in two games this past season.  Now Yankey has a lot to like, but his big weaknesses is his balance.  Yankey often gets too far out in front of himself and often falls down or looses his balance.  If he gets that fixed he could be even better.  But for interior lineman, their balance is key.  Yankey should likely be a 2nd round pick but I wouldn't be surprised to see him go at the end of the first round or even fall to the 3rd round.