Quarterback
1. Andrew Luck, Stanford
2. Robert Griffin, Baylor
3. Nick Foles, Arizona
4. Ryan Lindley, San Diego State
5. Ryan Tannehill, Texas A&M
Sleeper: Kellen Moore, Boise State
Comments: There is a huge drop off after the top two, where I wouldn't be surprised if the 3rd QB isn't taken till the 4th round. Foles and Lindley are guys I really like on day 2 and 3. Foles is a lot better than he played at Arizona and could really turn out to be a quality QB. Ever since the college season has ended Kellen Moore has kinda been forgotten about. But look for some team to take him in the late rounds and have him be a dependable backup in the league.
Running Back
1. Trent Richardson, Alabamaba
2. David Wilson, Virginia Tech
3. Chris Polk, Washington
4. Lamar Miller, Miami
5. LeMichael James, Oregon
Sleeper: Bobby Rainey, Western Kentucky
Comments: As the NFL continues to evolve into a passing league, we are going to see less and less RBs go in the 1st round. Richardson is the only sure fire 1st rounder and could go as high as 4 to Cleveland but shouldn't last past the Broncos. Wilson, Miller, and James are all burners while Polk might be the most physical back in the draft. Keep an eye on Bobby Rainey who has been wonderful at Western Kentucky and should get a look in the 3rd or 4th round.
Wide Receiver
1. Justin Blackmon, Oklahoma State
2. Michael Floyd, Notre Dame
3. Alshon Jeffery, South Carolina
4. Kendall Wright, Baylor
5. Muhamad Sanu, Rutgers
Sleeper: Ryan Broyles WR Oklahoma
Comments: Blackmon is clearly a top 5 prospect, but don't be suprised if he falls a little bit, heck he won't get past Jacksonville. Jeffery was once thought to be the top WR in the draft, but questions about his speed and ability to seperate will hurt him. I really like Muhamad Sanu. He is a good route runner and willing to work over the middle. A creative OC could do wonders with him. Because Ryan Broyles tore his ACL not too many people have talked about him, but he is a very good route runner and can make plays. Some team is going to get a steal in the 2nd or 3rd round.
Tight End
1. Dwayne Allen, Clemson
2. Coby Fleener, Stanford
3. Michael Egnew, Missouri
4. Orson Charles, Georgia
5. LaDarius Green, Lousiana Lafayette
Sleeper: Rhett Ellison, USC
Comments: The last couple of years the TE spot hasn't been that great. Last year had some talent, but didn't have an elite level TE. This year should be much the same. Allen is the best of the group but isn't elite. Fleener is pretty good, but is a limited athlete. Egnew was thought to have a Jermaine Gresham type of season but was very dissapointing. Keep an eye on Ellison, especially since he has experience at FB too.
Tackle
1. Matt Kalil, USC
2. Riley Reiff, Iowa
3. Jonathan Martin, Stanford
4. Mike Adams, Ohio State
5. Nate Potter, Boise State
Sleeper: J'Marcus Hardrick, Nebraska
Comments: Matt Kalil is the best LT to come out in the draft since Jake Long. Reiff and Martin are good, but don't be surprised if they fall like Brian Bulaga did a couple of years ago. If Adams can show good footwork and the ability to play LT he could shoot up the boards.
Guard
1. David DeCastro, Stanford
2. Cordy Glenn, Georgia
3. Keleche Osemele, Iowa State
4. Zebrie Sanders, Florida State
5. Barrett Jones, Alabama
Sleeper: Matt Reynolds, BYU
Comments: DeCastro is shooting up draft boards and their are rumors he could go close to the top 1o. Glenn is a very good pass blocker where Osemele is a much better run blocker. But all but DeCastro played Tackle in college.
Center
1. Peter Konz, Wisconsin
2. Mike Brewster, Ohio State
3. William Vlachos, Alabama
4. Ben Jones, Georgia
5. David Molk, Michigan
Sleeper: Grant Garner, Oklahoma State
Comments: Peter Konz really helped his stock this year and is right in the 1st round territory. Brewster was once considered the top C but Konz has passed him up and is probably more of a 2nd round prospect.
Showing posts with label Andrew Luck NFL Draft. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Andrew Luck NFL Draft. Show all posts
Monday, January 9, 2012
Thursday, December 15, 2011
Mock Draft (3rd Edition)
1. Indianapolis Colts: Andrew Luck QB Stanford
It's a forgone conclusion that Luck will be the pick here. The real question is what they do with Peyton Manning. They should think about keeping him and allowing Luck to learn behind him. Even though Luck is ready, he could be even better with some time behind Manning.
2. Minnesota Vikings: Matt Kalil OT USC
The Vikings are looking to be in a good spot. Either Kalil or Blackmon would be great additions. However Kalil is their main target. Charlie Johnson is their current LT, but he isn't starting material. Kalil would be an ideal blindside protector for QB Christian Ponder.
3. St. Louis Rams: Justin Blackmon WR Oklahoma State
Even with the addition of Brandon Lloyd, the Rams still need help at WR. Blackmon is an elite WR and is on the same level as AJ Green was last year. He'll give Sam Bradford a true #1 receiver he has lacked. Don't be surprised if St. Louis passed on Blackmon for Claiborne. They could really need some defensive help.
4. Washington Redskins: Matt Barkley QB USC
The Redskins would love to get Andrew Luck, but Matt Barkley is not a bad consolation prize the latest. Barkley isn't too far behind Luck and fits the type of QB Shannahan likes.
5. Jacksonville Jaguars: Morris Claiborne CB LSU
Justin Blackmon would be the like hitting the lottery, however getting Claiborne would really help out a poor secondary. Claibrone is another in the long line of elite cornerbacks that have come out lately and he could step in and complete with Mathies and Cox for playing time.
6. Carolina Panthers: Quinton Coples DE North Carolina
Carolina's offense seems to be on track, but they could really use some help on the defensive side. They'd love to get Morris Claibrone but he's gone and Dre Kirkpatrick isn't worthy of a top 6 selection. That leaves them with Coples who is BPA. Coples can compete with Greg Hardy for a starting spot.
7. Miami Dolphins: Robert Griffin QB Baylor
Miami has shown this year that they can win games when they have consistent QB play. However you cannot trust Matt Moore to be your future. Luckily they have a shot at Heisman winning Robert Griffin. Griffin has proven this year that he has the skills to be a NFL QB, but he is still a little raw. He would really benefit from a year or maybe two on the bench. This could allow Matt Moore and Chad Henne to compete for the starting gig while Griffin develops.
8. Cleveland Browns: Trent Richardson RB Alabama
The Browns have been a complete mess this year. Offensively they looked like they were poised for a break out year. However Colt McCoy struggled in his second season and Peyton Hillis had a myriad of issues. Hillis is a free agent and because of the drama that has circled around him he might not be back next year. Even if he is, with his running style they could use a quality backup. Trent Richardson is a dynamic do it all back that we haven't seen since Adrian Peterson. Richardson will be able to make an impact right away as the sole guy or in a RB tandem. This may be high for him, but not too many people would bat an eye at it.
9. Tampa Bay Buccaneers: Dre Kirkpatrick CB Alabama
I'm not a huge fan of Kirkpatrick going in the top 10, but he fits so well with Tampa that it shouldn't matter too much. Kirkpatrick has everything you would want for in a Cover 2 CB. He has great size and strength and loves to play physical. That should help because Cover 2 CBs are asked to jam at the line, help out in run coverage and play in short zones. Kirkpatrick has the talent to thrive in this defense.
10. Philadelphia Eagles: Luke Keachley LB Boston College
Anybody that has watched the Eagles play this year knows that they have huge issues at linebacker. Jamar Chaney played well in the middle last year, but they would rather have him at the WLB spot. However they don't have anybody of quality inside. Luke Keachley would make an instant impact. Keachley is a tackling machine who has great instincts and the athleticism to play side line to side line.
11. Buffalo Bills: Courtney Upshaw LB Alabama
Buffalo when healthy played pretty well this year. However a big area of need is their pass rush. And they really don't have any quality pass rushers on their roster at the OLB spot. What makes matters worse is that this draft class isn't deep at the rush linebacker spot. That could cause the Bills to reach here (but not by much) on Upshaw who the best player at the position. And let's not forget. The Bills love to reach when they like a guy.
12. Kansas City Chiefs: Riley Reiff OT Iowa
Kansas City fans might be mad at me for not putting a QB here, but when Cassell has had time and not had his weapons injuried, he has played well. But with Jones' stock sliding, I see him returning to Oklahoma and coming out next draft where he won't have to deal with Luck and Barkley. Here I see the Chiefs looking to improve at another area of need. Offensive line. Brandon Albert is better suited to play G or RT. Taking Reiff here would allow them to move Albert and improve the overall line.
13. Arizona Cardinals: Jonathan Martin OT Stanford
Martin is a good fit for the Cardinals for two reason. First they need a new tackles badly. Both are ineffective and need to be replaced. 2nd, HC Ken Wisenhunt wants to establish a power running attack. Martin is an excellent run blocker and would open up holes for Chris Wells and Ryan Williams.
14. Seattle Seahawks: Whitney Mercilus DE Illinois
QB is the huge position of need for the Seahawks, but as long as they keep winning they'll either have to take a 2nd tier guy in the 2nd or 3rd round, or go after backups like Matt Flynn or Brian Hoyer. At #14 I don't see a lot for the Seahawks to go after. Dennard could be an option but they've had guys step up and look to be solid there. Devon Still could be an option, but they just gave a bunch of money to Mebane. They need some help at DE to provide a pass rush and Mercilus can do that.
15. San Diego Chargers: Michael Floyd WR Notre Dame
San Diego would love to get a OLB to rush the QB, but with Mercilus and Upshaw gone they'll have to wait. Instead the Chargers can look to improve their receiving core that could lose Vincent Jackson, but isn't the deepest anyways. Floyd has shot up the boards and even surpassed Jeffery.
16. Dallas Cowboys: Devon Still DT Penn State
Last year instead of going with the flashy big name player, the Cowboys actually filled a need in the first round and took OT Tyron Smith. That payed off and Smith looks to be a fixture. Now they could do the same thing, but this time along the defensive line. Not only is Still the top DT in the draft, but he is also the top 3-4 DE too. Dallas could really use some help at DE and Still has the size for the position and does a great job of playing 2 gaps and still being able to make plays.
17. Tennessee Titans: David DeCastro G Stanford
I've mocked Alshon Jeffery to the Titans for a long time. And I wouldn't be surprised if they still went that route, but with emergence of Damion Williams, it isn't as big of a need. They can now focus on improving the interior of their offensive line to help out RB Chris Johnson. David DeCasro is the top G in the draft and very worthy of this selection. He is an excellent run blocker and should start day 1.
18. Cincinnati Bengals: Alphonzo Dennard CB Nebraska
The Bengals have enjoyed a good season and adding two first round picks could make 2012 even better. After just missing out on David DeCastro they look to improve the defense. Losing Leon Hall to injury and Jonathan Joseph to FA left them thin here. But luckily Alphonzo Dennard is available. With this continued strong play, Dennard has risen his stock and is a top 20 prospect. He can play in any scheme and is as good in man as he is in zone.
19. Chicago Bears: Alshon Jeffery WR South Carolina
It looks like Mike Martz will no longer be in Chicago next year. That means a lot to the Bears, but the biggest change will be at WR. The Bears have been in need of a big physical WR who could go up and get jump balls. But in Martz's scheme, those receivers didn't fit. With him out they can go take Jeffery here and give Jay Cutler a reliable player he can throw the ball up to and know that they can get. Similar to what he had with Brandon Marshall.
20. Cincinnati Bengals (From Oakland): Lamar Miller RB Miami
After addressing the CB spot, the Bengals can look towards running back here. Cedric Bensen doesn't look to be back and even if he does, they have to upgrade. Lamar Miller is the 2nd best RB in this draft and the only other back worth a 1st round pick. He'll add some explosion to the position they didn't have with Bensen.
21. Cleveland Browns (From Atlanta): Zach Brown LB North Carolina
Because of the Julio Jones trade, the Browns get a 2nd 1st round pick and look to fix their terrible 2011 season. On defense the Browns are still transitioning from the 3-4 and need parts at OLB. Zach Brown is a great athlete at uses his speed and quickness well at the WLB spot.
22. New York Jets: Cordy Glenn OT Georgia
For a team that wants to pound the rock, they've had some issues blocking. Injuries have been part of the problem, but the other is holes at G and RT. Cordy Glenn plays LT for Georgia, but he is better suited to be a G. He is a good pass blocker and an improved run blocker. He could come in at RG and start, or they could have him at RT where he could have success too.
23. Detroit Lions: Mike Adams OT Ohio State
Detroit for a while has ignored their offensive line and took BPA. However that could come to an end here. Not only is Adams considered to be on of the best players available, he also fits a huge need. Best case scenario is that Adams shows the quickness and footwork to be a LT. If that doesn't work he could take over at RT and move Cherilus inside to guard.
24. Houston Texans: Peter Konz C Wisconsin
Houston has one of the best centers in the league this year. Chris Meyers is playing at an elite level. However he is a FA at the end of the season. And with all the money they spent last year and the money they'll need to resign other top players, they could lose him. Even if they resign Meyers, they could really use some help at G and Konz could easily slide over and still play at a high level.
25. New York Giants: Vontaze Burfict LB Arizona State
MLB has been a soar spot ever since Antonio Pierce left. They've tried with late round picks and free agents, but they'll need to invest in a top tier draft pick. Burfict was once considered a top 10 pick but he hasn't shown that same potential this year. However he'd still be a bargain for the Giants here and be a good fit in their Cover 2 scheme.
26. Denver Broncos: Brandon Thompson DT Clemson
Tim Tebow gets a majority of the praise for the Broncos winning streak, but the defense deserves just as much attention. However they could still use some more pieces to help them continue their conversion to the 4-3. One of the areas of need is at DT. Thompson has enjoyed a good season at Clemson and his play has elevated his stock.
27. Baltimore Ravens: Dont'a Hightower LB Alabama
Rey Lewis isn't going to be around forever. They do need to look to find his eventual replacement. Dont'a Hightower is a good player to consider. He is a good athlete that can do a lot of different things really well. Add in his experience in the 3-4 and playing under Saban and he is a great addition.
28. San Francisco 49ers: Keleche Osemele OT Iowa State
Jim Harbaugh has done wonders in his first year as HC, but they still have a lot of work to do. Especially along the offensive line. G and RT are big areas of need. Harbaugh wants a strong run powered attack and Osemele fits that bill. Osemele played LT at Iowa State but is a much better fit at RT or G. He could start right away.
29. New England Patriots (From New Orleans): Mark Barron S Alabama
Yet another year with New England having multiple picks. Look for them to address a defense that was like a piece of gum on a leak. They cut both starting safeties before the season and had issues all the way through. With that said, it wouldn't be a bad idea to grab Mark Barron here. He is the top safety in the draft and even though he projects better at the SS spot, he can play some FS too.
30. New England Patriots: Melvin Ingram DE South Carolina
Not only was their safety play bad, but the only pass rusher they have was Kevin Carter. New England needs to get some pressure on the QB and this might be their chance to get someone. Ingram emerged this year as a feared pass rusher and his position flexability would fit well with the Patriots who love to run a 4-3/3-4 hybrid.
31. Pittsburgh Steelers: Jerel Worthy DT Michigan State
Offensive line is the biggest need but all the guys that would normally fit here have been taken. This could mean they look to add to their defense live and gain some depth and possibly an eventual replacement for Casey Hampton. Worthy started the season off slow, but he really emerged at the end and showed the dominant force people thought he'd be.
32. Green Bay Packers: Ronnell Lewis LB Oklahoma
Even before Eric Walden got into a domestic disturbance, the Packers really needed some help at OLB opposite of Clay Matthews. Ronnell Lewis plays in the 4-3 at Oklahoma but his skill set and ability to rush the passer really translate well to the Packers defense that loves to play multiple linebackers.
It's a forgone conclusion that Luck will be the pick here. The real question is what they do with Peyton Manning. They should think about keeping him and allowing Luck to learn behind him. Even though Luck is ready, he could be even better with some time behind Manning.
2. Minnesota Vikings: Matt Kalil OT USC
The Vikings are looking to be in a good spot. Either Kalil or Blackmon would be great additions. However Kalil is their main target. Charlie Johnson is their current LT, but he isn't starting material. Kalil would be an ideal blindside protector for QB Christian Ponder.
3. St. Louis Rams: Justin Blackmon WR Oklahoma State
Even with the addition of Brandon Lloyd, the Rams still need help at WR. Blackmon is an elite WR and is on the same level as AJ Green was last year. He'll give Sam Bradford a true #1 receiver he has lacked. Don't be surprised if St. Louis passed on Blackmon for Claiborne. They could really need some defensive help.
4. Washington Redskins: Matt Barkley QB USC
The Redskins would love to get Andrew Luck, but Matt Barkley is not a bad consolation prize the latest. Barkley isn't too far behind Luck and fits the type of QB Shannahan likes.
5. Jacksonville Jaguars: Morris Claiborne CB LSU
Justin Blackmon would be the like hitting the lottery, however getting Claiborne would really help out a poor secondary. Claibrone is another in the long line of elite cornerbacks that have come out lately and he could step in and complete with Mathies and Cox for playing time.
6. Carolina Panthers: Quinton Coples DE North Carolina
Carolina's offense seems to be on track, but they could really use some help on the defensive side. They'd love to get Morris Claibrone but he's gone and Dre Kirkpatrick isn't worthy of a top 6 selection. That leaves them with Coples who is BPA. Coples can compete with Greg Hardy for a starting spot.
7. Miami Dolphins: Robert Griffin QB Baylor
Miami has shown this year that they can win games when they have consistent QB play. However you cannot trust Matt Moore to be your future. Luckily they have a shot at Heisman winning Robert Griffin. Griffin has proven this year that he has the skills to be a NFL QB, but he is still a little raw. He would really benefit from a year or maybe two on the bench. This could allow Matt Moore and Chad Henne to compete for the starting gig while Griffin develops.
8. Cleveland Browns: Trent Richardson RB Alabama
The Browns have been a complete mess this year. Offensively they looked like they were poised for a break out year. However Colt McCoy struggled in his second season and Peyton Hillis had a myriad of issues. Hillis is a free agent and because of the drama that has circled around him he might not be back next year. Even if he is, with his running style they could use a quality backup. Trent Richardson is a dynamic do it all back that we haven't seen since Adrian Peterson. Richardson will be able to make an impact right away as the sole guy or in a RB tandem. This may be high for him, but not too many people would bat an eye at it.
9. Tampa Bay Buccaneers: Dre Kirkpatrick CB Alabama
I'm not a huge fan of Kirkpatrick going in the top 10, but he fits so well with Tampa that it shouldn't matter too much. Kirkpatrick has everything you would want for in a Cover 2 CB. He has great size and strength and loves to play physical. That should help because Cover 2 CBs are asked to jam at the line, help out in run coverage and play in short zones. Kirkpatrick has the talent to thrive in this defense.
10. Philadelphia Eagles: Luke Keachley LB Boston College
Anybody that has watched the Eagles play this year knows that they have huge issues at linebacker. Jamar Chaney played well in the middle last year, but they would rather have him at the WLB spot. However they don't have anybody of quality inside. Luke Keachley would make an instant impact. Keachley is a tackling machine who has great instincts and the athleticism to play side line to side line.
11. Buffalo Bills: Courtney Upshaw LB Alabama
Buffalo when healthy played pretty well this year. However a big area of need is their pass rush. And they really don't have any quality pass rushers on their roster at the OLB spot. What makes matters worse is that this draft class isn't deep at the rush linebacker spot. That could cause the Bills to reach here (but not by much) on Upshaw who the best player at the position. And let's not forget. The Bills love to reach when they like a guy.
12. Kansas City Chiefs: Riley Reiff OT Iowa
Kansas City fans might be mad at me for not putting a QB here, but when Cassell has had time and not had his weapons injuried, he has played well. But with Jones' stock sliding, I see him returning to Oklahoma and coming out next draft where he won't have to deal with Luck and Barkley. Here I see the Chiefs looking to improve at another area of need. Offensive line. Brandon Albert is better suited to play G or RT. Taking Reiff here would allow them to move Albert and improve the overall line.
13. Arizona Cardinals: Jonathan Martin OT Stanford
Martin is a good fit for the Cardinals for two reason. First they need a new tackles badly. Both are ineffective and need to be replaced. 2nd, HC Ken Wisenhunt wants to establish a power running attack. Martin is an excellent run blocker and would open up holes for Chris Wells and Ryan Williams.
14. Seattle Seahawks: Whitney Mercilus DE Illinois
QB is the huge position of need for the Seahawks, but as long as they keep winning they'll either have to take a 2nd tier guy in the 2nd or 3rd round, or go after backups like Matt Flynn or Brian Hoyer. At #14 I don't see a lot for the Seahawks to go after. Dennard could be an option but they've had guys step up and look to be solid there. Devon Still could be an option, but they just gave a bunch of money to Mebane. They need some help at DE to provide a pass rush and Mercilus can do that.
15. San Diego Chargers: Michael Floyd WR Notre Dame
San Diego would love to get a OLB to rush the QB, but with Mercilus and Upshaw gone they'll have to wait. Instead the Chargers can look to improve their receiving core that could lose Vincent Jackson, but isn't the deepest anyways. Floyd has shot up the boards and even surpassed Jeffery.
16. Dallas Cowboys: Devon Still DT Penn State
Last year instead of going with the flashy big name player, the Cowboys actually filled a need in the first round and took OT Tyron Smith. That payed off and Smith looks to be a fixture. Now they could do the same thing, but this time along the defensive line. Not only is Still the top DT in the draft, but he is also the top 3-4 DE too. Dallas could really use some help at DE and Still has the size for the position and does a great job of playing 2 gaps and still being able to make plays.
17. Tennessee Titans: David DeCastro G Stanford
I've mocked Alshon Jeffery to the Titans for a long time. And I wouldn't be surprised if they still went that route, but with emergence of Damion Williams, it isn't as big of a need. They can now focus on improving the interior of their offensive line to help out RB Chris Johnson. David DeCasro is the top G in the draft and very worthy of this selection. He is an excellent run blocker and should start day 1.
18. Cincinnati Bengals: Alphonzo Dennard CB Nebraska
The Bengals have enjoyed a good season and adding two first round picks could make 2012 even better. After just missing out on David DeCastro they look to improve the defense. Losing Leon Hall to injury and Jonathan Joseph to FA left them thin here. But luckily Alphonzo Dennard is available. With this continued strong play, Dennard has risen his stock and is a top 20 prospect. He can play in any scheme and is as good in man as he is in zone.
19. Chicago Bears: Alshon Jeffery WR South Carolina
It looks like Mike Martz will no longer be in Chicago next year. That means a lot to the Bears, but the biggest change will be at WR. The Bears have been in need of a big physical WR who could go up and get jump balls. But in Martz's scheme, those receivers didn't fit. With him out they can go take Jeffery here and give Jay Cutler a reliable player he can throw the ball up to and know that they can get. Similar to what he had with Brandon Marshall.
20. Cincinnati Bengals (From Oakland): Lamar Miller RB Miami
After addressing the CB spot, the Bengals can look towards running back here. Cedric Bensen doesn't look to be back and even if he does, they have to upgrade. Lamar Miller is the 2nd best RB in this draft and the only other back worth a 1st round pick. He'll add some explosion to the position they didn't have with Bensen.
21. Cleveland Browns (From Atlanta): Zach Brown LB North Carolina
Because of the Julio Jones trade, the Browns get a 2nd 1st round pick and look to fix their terrible 2011 season. On defense the Browns are still transitioning from the 3-4 and need parts at OLB. Zach Brown is a great athlete at uses his speed and quickness well at the WLB spot.
22. New York Jets: Cordy Glenn OT Georgia
For a team that wants to pound the rock, they've had some issues blocking. Injuries have been part of the problem, but the other is holes at G and RT. Cordy Glenn plays LT for Georgia, but he is better suited to be a G. He is a good pass blocker and an improved run blocker. He could come in at RG and start, or they could have him at RT where he could have success too.
23. Detroit Lions: Mike Adams OT Ohio State
Detroit for a while has ignored their offensive line and took BPA. However that could come to an end here. Not only is Adams considered to be on of the best players available, he also fits a huge need. Best case scenario is that Adams shows the quickness and footwork to be a LT. If that doesn't work he could take over at RT and move Cherilus inside to guard.
24. Houston Texans: Peter Konz C Wisconsin
Houston has one of the best centers in the league this year. Chris Meyers is playing at an elite level. However he is a FA at the end of the season. And with all the money they spent last year and the money they'll need to resign other top players, they could lose him. Even if they resign Meyers, they could really use some help at G and Konz could easily slide over and still play at a high level.
25. New York Giants: Vontaze Burfict LB Arizona State
MLB has been a soar spot ever since Antonio Pierce left. They've tried with late round picks and free agents, but they'll need to invest in a top tier draft pick. Burfict was once considered a top 10 pick but he hasn't shown that same potential this year. However he'd still be a bargain for the Giants here and be a good fit in their Cover 2 scheme.
26. Denver Broncos: Brandon Thompson DT Clemson
Tim Tebow gets a majority of the praise for the Broncos winning streak, but the defense deserves just as much attention. However they could still use some more pieces to help them continue their conversion to the 4-3. One of the areas of need is at DT. Thompson has enjoyed a good season at Clemson and his play has elevated his stock.
27. Baltimore Ravens: Dont'a Hightower LB Alabama
Rey Lewis isn't going to be around forever. They do need to look to find his eventual replacement. Dont'a Hightower is a good player to consider. He is a good athlete that can do a lot of different things really well. Add in his experience in the 3-4 and playing under Saban and he is a great addition.
28. San Francisco 49ers: Keleche Osemele OT Iowa State
Jim Harbaugh has done wonders in his first year as HC, but they still have a lot of work to do. Especially along the offensive line. G and RT are big areas of need. Harbaugh wants a strong run powered attack and Osemele fits that bill. Osemele played LT at Iowa State but is a much better fit at RT or G. He could start right away.
29. New England Patriots (From New Orleans): Mark Barron S Alabama
Yet another year with New England having multiple picks. Look for them to address a defense that was like a piece of gum on a leak. They cut both starting safeties before the season and had issues all the way through. With that said, it wouldn't be a bad idea to grab Mark Barron here. He is the top safety in the draft and even though he projects better at the SS spot, he can play some FS too.
30. New England Patriots: Melvin Ingram DE South Carolina
Not only was their safety play bad, but the only pass rusher they have was Kevin Carter. New England needs to get some pressure on the QB and this might be their chance to get someone. Ingram emerged this year as a feared pass rusher and his position flexability would fit well with the Patriots who love to run a 4-3/3-4 hybrid.
31. Pittsburgh Steelers: Jerel Worthy DT Michigan State
Offensive line is the biggest need but all the guys that would normally fit here have been taken. This could mean they look to add to their defense live and gain some depth and possibly an eventual replacement for Casey Hampton. Worthy started the season off slow, but he really emerged at the end and showed the dominant force people thought he'd be.
32. Green Bay Packers: Ronnell Lewis LB Oklahoma
Even before Eric Walden got into a domestic disturbance, the Packers really needed some help at OLB opposite of Clay Matthews. Ronnell Lewis plays in the 4-3 at Oklahoma but his skill set and ability to rush the passer really translate well to the Packers defense that loves to play multiple linebackers.
Thursday, October 13, 2011
NFL Draft Position Rankings: Top 5s (Offense)
Quarterback
1. Andrew Luck, Stanford
2. Landry Jones, Oklahoma
3. Matt Barkley, USC
4. Nick Foles, Arizona
5. Robert Griffin, Baylor
Comments: Landry Jones moves ahead of Matt Barkley with his excellent play this year. Jones has been on a roll and in any other draft could be a #1 caliber pick. Robert Griffin cracks into the top 5 with his play. Most people remember him doing damage with his legs, but this year he has improved his throwing and is deadly accurate down the field. Something that NFL teams love.
Running Backs
1. Trent Richardson, Alabama
2. Cyrus Gray, Texas A&M
3. LeMichael James, Oregon
4. Chris Polk, Washington
5. David Wilson, Virginia Tech
Comments: Its Trent Richardson and then everybody else. Cyrus Gray has been very impressive running the ball this season. He has been one of the bright spots on a disappointing A&M squad. David Wilson is another player to keep an eye on. He was hidden behind Ryan Williams and Darren Evans last year, but has flourished being the feature back. He has the potential to develop into a Jamaal Charles type of back.
Wide Receiver
1. Justin Blackmon, Oklahoma State
2. Alshon Jeffery, South Carolina
3. Michael Floyd, Notre Dame
4. Ryan Broyles, Oklahoma
5. Jeff Fuller, Texas A&M
Comments: A lot of people still have Jeffery #1, but Blackmon is the better receiver. Blackmon can do it all and is a hard worker. Floyd wasn't in my top 5 at the beginning of the year but has been very impressive all season long. I still really like Ryan Broyles and think he is an underrated prospect. Whichever team gets him will be very happy.
Tight End
1. Dwayne Allen, Clemson
2. Michael Egnew, Missouri
3. Colby Fleener, Stanford
4. David Paulson, Oregon
5. Jake Stoneburner, Ohio State
Comments: Dwyane Allen is one of the reasons the Clemson offense has been so dangerous this year. He has shown he can be both a receiving threat and help in the running game. Fleener is a throw back TE. Somebody who is a blocker first, but able to make reliable catches when you need him. Stoneburner isn't well known yet, but he is another solid TE that has been one of the bright spots on offense for the Buckeyes.
Tackle
1. Matt Kalil, USC
2. Jonathan Martin, Stanford
3. Riley Reiff, Iowa
4. Nate Potter, Boise State
5. DJ Fulker, Alabama
Comments: This might be one of the strongest positions in the upcoming draft. Kalil, Martin, and Reiff could all go in the top 10. Potter has proven this year that he is capable of being an NFL LT when he shut down Georgia at the beginning of the year. He has the long arms and footwork that you need at the position.
Guard
1. Devin DeCastro, Stanford
2. Keleche Osemele, Iowa State
3. Cordy Glenn, Georgia
4. Kevin Zeitler, Wisconsin
5. Barrett Jones, Alabama
Comments: I was tempted to not put DeCastro on the list because I doubt he declares. However if he does he'll easily be the top guard taken. Osemele is a LT at Iowa State, but he'll be a G at the next level. Glenn has struggled this year after being moved out to LT, but he should be fine back at the more comfortable G spot.
Center
1. Mike Brewster, Ohio State
2. Williams Vlachos, Alabama
3. Peter Konz, Wisconsin
4. David Molk, Michigan
5. Ben Habern, Oklahoma
Comments: Center has been a weak position with a top player going in the first round and the rest being later round picks. This year is similar in that Brewster is the only C that could go early, but the depth is much better. Konz and Molk are very underrated and could be 3rd rounders if they declare.
1. Andrew Luck, Stanford
2. Landry Jones, Oklahoma
3. Matt Barkley, USC
4. Nick Foles, Arizona
5. Robert Griffin, Baylor
Comments: Landry Jones moves ahead of Matt Barkley with his excellent play this year. Jones has been on a roll and in any other draft could be a #1 caliber pick. Robert Griffin cracks into the top 5 with his play. Most people remember him doing damage with his legs, but this year he has improved his throwing and is deadly accurate down the field. Something that NFL teams love.
Running Backs
1. Trent Richardson, Alabama
2. Cyrus Gray, Texas A&M
3. LeMichael James, Oregon
4. Chris Polk, Washington
5. David Wilson, Virginia Tech
Comments: Its Trent Richardson and then everybody else. Cyrus Gray has been very impressive running the ball this season. He has been one of the bright spots on a disappointing A&M squad. David Wilson is another player to keep an eye on. He was hidden behind Ryan Williams and Darren Evans last year, but has flourished being the feature back. He has the potential to develop into a Jamaal Charles type of back.
Wide Receiver
1. Justin Blackmon, Oklahoma State
2. Alshon Jeffery, South Carolina
3. Michael Floyd, Notre Dame
4. Ryan Broyles, Oklahoma
5. Jeff Fuller, Texas A&M
Comments: A lot of people still have Jeffery #1, but Blackmon is the better receiver. Blackmon can do it all and is a hard worker. Floyd wasn't in my top 5 at the beginning of the year but has been very impressive all season long. I still really like Ryan Broyles and think he is an underrated prospect. Whichever team gets him will be very happy.
Tight End
1. Dwayne Allen, Clemson
2. Michael Egnew, Missouri
3. Colby Fleener, Stanford
4. David Paulson, Oregon
5. Jake Stoneburner, Ohio State
Comments: Dwyane Allen is one of the reasons the Clemson offense has been so dangerous this year. He has shown he can be both a receiving threat and help in the running game. Fleener is a throw back TE. Somebody who is a blocker first, but able to make reliable catches when you need him. Stoneburner isn't well known yet, but he is another solid TE that has been one of the bright spots on offense for the Buckeyes.
Tackle
1. Matt Kalil, USC
2. Jonathan Martin, Stanford
3. Riley Reiff, Iowa
4. Nate Potter, Boise State
5. DJ Fulker, Alabama
Comments: This might be one of the strongest positions in the upcoming draft. Kalil, Martin, and Reiff could all go in the top 10. Potter has proven this year that he is capable of being an NFL LT when he shut down Georgia at the beginning of the year. He has the long arms and footwork that you need at the position.
Guard
1. Devin DeCastro, Stanford
2. Keleche Osemele, Iowa State
3. Cordy Glenn, Georgia
4. Kevin Zeitler, Wisconsin
5. Barrett Jones, Alabama
Comments: I was tempted to not put DeCastro on the list because I doubt he declares. However if he does he'll easily be the top guard taken. Osemele is a LT at Iowa State, but he'll be a G at the next level. Glenn has struggled this year after being moved out to LT, but he should be fine back at the more comfortable G spot.
Center
1. Mike Brewster, Ohio State
2. Williams Vlachos, Alabama
3. Peter Konz, Wisconsin
4. David Molk, Michigan
5. Ben Habern, Oklahoma
Comments: Center has been a weak position with a top player going in the first round and the rest being later round picks. This year is similar in that Brewster is the only C that could go early, but the depth is much better. Konz and Molk are very underrated and could be 3rd rounders if they declare.
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