Mock,mock,and More More Drafts

[tampadawgs]

Cleveland Browns: Justin Blackmon, WR, Oklahoma State

If Robert Griffin somehow falls to No. 4, this will be a no-brainer. Colt McCoy is a lost cause, so the Brows will select Griffin as their new franchise quarterback. Is Young Griff the prototypical West Coast quarterback? No, but neither was Donovan McNabb, and Andy Reid, Mike Holmgren's pupil, selected him back in 1999.

 

However, if the Browns aren't lucky enough to land Griffin, they'll probably go with Justin Blackmon. They have such a stagnant offense with no vertical threat, and Blackmon would easily change that. I have to believe that teams will love that he performed so well in his postseason exhibition game despite playing with a leg injury.

 

 

 

Cleveland Browns: Ryan Tannehill, QB, Texas A&M

If the Browns are unfortunate to miss out on Robert Griffin, they'll have to acquire a quarterback elsewhere because it's clear that Colt McCoy is not the answer.

 

Ryan Tannehill at No. 22 makes a ton of sense. Quarterbacks tend to rise on Draft Day, so he could conceivably go much higher than this.

 

 

Second Round

 

Cleveland Browns: Chase Minnifield, CB/KR, Virginia

It's safe to say that Cleveland fans would love this pick, as Chase Minnifield's father, Frank, was a four-time Pro Bowler for the team in the 80s.

 

The Browns spent a mid-round pick on Buster Skrine, but he didn't play much as a rookie. With Sheldon Brown turning 33 soon, they'll need another talented cornerback to compete for the starting job across from Joe Haden. You can never have enough talented defensive backs in the NFL.

 

 

third round

 

Cleveland Browns: Cam Johnson, DE, Virginia

Jabaal Sheard has enjoyed a solid rookie year, but he's the only Cleveland defensive lineman consistently getting to the quarterback. Jayme Mitchell, playing on the other side, has been a big disappointment for the Browns in 2011.

 

 

4th Round

Cleveland Browns: Levy Adcock, OT, Oklahoma State

The Browns have major holes at left guard and right tackle. This is their chance to shore up the latter, so their new quarterback isn't running for his life on every down next year.

 

Cleveland Browns: Isaiah Pead, RB, Cincinnati

There's a lot of uncertainty in Cleveland's running back corps. Montario Hardesty can't stay healthy. Peyton Hillis probably won't be back. Chris Ogbonnaya is a practice squad-caliber player. The Browns may use a mid-round pick on some help.

 

 

 

4 round Mock,FYI rumor has it the browns will make a run for Fylnn. I hope not!!!! Aslo not my mock just what I saw, but I do like this...I am a RG3 fan, so I hope we can get him!!!!!I will not be unhappy if our draft turns out this way thou,even thou do not know a lot about the RB out of Cinncy

[tampadawgs]

Cleveland Browns: Robert Griffin III, QB, Baylor

The Browns can't pass on Robert Griffin III, and they would be lucky in this scenario if a team didn't trade ahead of them to take Griffin. McCoy was a third-round pick in 2010, so it is not like Cleveland has a huge investment in him. He could still be a quality backup for the Browns.

 

Griffin earned his Heisman Trophy and truly was the best player in college football this year. The 6-foot-2, 220-pounder was a big-play machine. He has a strong arm, is extremely accurate throwing the ball downfield and has superb mobility, having also been a track competitor. Griffin is very intelligent and a high-character individual. He has the makings of a franchise quarterback.

 

In 2011, Griffin completed 72 percent of his passes for 4,293 yards with 37 touchdowns and six interceptions. He has also rushed for 699 yards and 10 touchdowns. The junior has the 'it' factor that pushes his team to wins and elevates the play of his teammates.

 

 

Cleveland Browns: Melvin Ingram, DE, South Carolina

After drafting Griffin with their first choice, there isn't a receiver worth taking here to be his primary option. With that being the case, Cleveland could look to complete its young promising defensive line with another end.

 

In the last half of the first round, Ingram is a good value pick. He has versatile size (6-2, 276) and is a special athlete with a unique combination of speed and agility. In the first game of 2011, the senior recorded an interception against East Carolina. Facing Georgia, Ingram ran a fake punt 68 yards for a touchdown and returned a fumble five yards for another touchdown after beating Cordy Glenn on the play. He also recovered a fumble for a touchdown against Vanderbilt.

 

Ingram was solid in SEC play this year. He recorded 48 tackles, 15 tackles for a loss, 10 sacks, two interceptions and two passes batted away. Injuries slowed him down in the middle of the season. Ingram played well against Clemson and Nebraska to finish his career on a high note.

 

In 2010, Ingram was third in the SEC in sacks with nine (which led the Gamecocks). He also had 11 tackles for a loss, 28 tackles and one forced fumble. Ingram is strong at the point of attack and has the ability to rush from defensive tackle on passing downs. South Carolina played him at end and tackle in 2011.

 

 

2nd round

 

Cleveland Browns: Kelechi Osemele, G/T, Iowa State

The Browns could use a new right tackle since Tony Pashos is just a journeyman at this stage of his career.

 

Osemele is a powerful run blocker who also is a very good athlete for his size. The 6-foot-6, 347-pounder is a road grader who has surprisingly quick feet. If Osmele stays healthy, he will have started over 40 straight games for the Cyclones. Osemele could play right tackle or guard in the NFL. His long arms and quickness could cause some to feel that he could stay at left tackle.

 

3rd round

Cleveland Browns: Juron Criner, WR, Arizona

The Browns need help at wide receiver, and Criner could be an underrated prospect.

 

In 2010, Criner (6-4, 215) had one of the best seasons in Arizona history when he recorded 82 receptions for 1,233 yards and 11 touchdowns. The big receiver is also a plus route-runner who has good body control. Criner could be an effective possession receiver in the NFL. He made numerous big plays downfield on jump balls that were thrown up for grabs by quarterback Nick Foles. Quarterbacks should be able to trust Criner to win those plays for them in the NFL.

 

There were rumors that the senior has off-the-field concerns, but the nature of them is unclear. In 2011, Criner caught 75 passes for 956 yards and 11 touchdowns in 11 games, having missed a game because of an appendectomy.

 

4th round

Cleveland Browns: Terrance Ganaway, RB/FB, Baylor

The Browns could use a running back as many think that Peyton Hillis will leave in free agency while Montario Hardesty has had injury issues.

 

Ganaway (6-0, 240) has a nice mix of size and speed to run through tackles and break off some long runs. For the Bears, he played running back and had a good senior season. Ganaway ran against weak fronts because teams played the deep part of the field to try to limit quarterback Robert Griffin III and wide receiver Kendall Wright. Ganaway ran for 1,547 yards (6.2 average) and 21 touchdowns. He finished 2011 well with 200 yards in the Alamo Bowl against Washington. Some teams in the NFL could look at him as a fullback.

 

 

Cleveland Browns: Emmanuel Acho, ILB/OLB, Texas

The Browns could really use linebacker help from this draft. D'Qwell Jackson played well in 2011, but is a free agent. The team wants to extend him. Chris Gocong was signed to an extension, while Scott Fujita looks like he is coming to the end of the line. Jackson has also dealt with a lot of injuries, so adding a linebacker like Acho who can play outside or inside would be a good idea.

 

Acho played well in this year. He led Texas in tackles with 110 including 14.5 tackles for a loss, three sacks and six passes broken up. In 2010, Acho had 79 tackles with 8.5 tackles for a loss, 2.5 sacks and one interception. The 6-foot-2, 245-pounder has quality size and good speed.

[Represent]

Blackmon at 4 is a great start i hate the rest of your draft though every pick, i am slightly half and half on minnifield pick because of the bloodline ties tbh i might take my chances with Skrine/Brown combo next year and addressing a higher priority need like a LB or another DE opposite of Sherad in the 2nd if we can get the same quality type of DE or LB style at that pick its a homerun and a half.

[jrb12711]

I think the Giants have shown that the most important part of a defense is the line. Even with above average secondaries a dominant QB is able to rip them up. The only real way to stop is to put consistent pressure on the QB and move him around the pocket to get the offense out of rhythm. I think we have an opportunity to get that guy with the falcons pick or possibly early second in Melvin Ingram. We have to draft offense as a priority but Ingram is a great prospect that would solidify the line.

[The Gipper]

Geez, we only have Three and a half more months of this. I am afraid this draft talk is going to be so old it creaks....but, I am just as guilty as everyone else.

[tampadawgs]

As I said before it is not my Mock just what i saw, I will do my own Mock in March..I have a lot of travel do to coming up. I have the Combine I will be attending and the other Pro days I will be attending. I will get a good look at A LOT of players coming soon. I will keep all of you posted..

 

No matter who we draft some people will not like...

[brownfish]

where did you see this horrible mock? No, way we go after Blackmon or RG3 that early...come on you made this mock up, now way anyone choose these guys, really, really????

[Unsympathetic]

Good luck with the rest of your Monday trolling, "brownfish"

[ClevelandBigDawg]

where did you see this horrible mock? No, way we go after Blackmon or RG3 that early...come on you made this mock up, now way anyone choose these guys, really, really????

 

Its from WalterFootball, so yeah...

[LionsFanVisiting]

Correct me if im wrong, but the Browns are now running a 4-3 right?

[bringbackbrownie2]

Correct me if im wrong, but the Browns are now running a 4-3 right?

 

Correct. The Browns still desperately need a pass rushing RE, and a fast OLB (maybe 2) to have a starting defensive line. Then we would need lots of depth because injuries would still destroy any chance of a pass rush..

[LionsFanVisiting]

So other than QB being arguably the top need (?), the Browns are really focusing on bolstering their front 7 huh? At this point, #4 might be a reach for any defensive lineman or LB based on todays rankings. Not saying anyone really plans on taking one that early. If for some reason the Browns trade down, that would be a prime spot. But as it looks now, #22 would be a great spot to upgrade the front 7. Some names that come to mind are Melvin Ingram, Vontaze Burfict, Bruce Irvin... Being a Lions fan, I'd love to have Burfict, but his on the field character kinda makes you scratch your head. Hes one heck of a playmaker, but you hate to see a 4 yard tackle for loss, followed by a flag for unsportsmanlike conduct.

 

What if Holmgren decided to give McCoy another year, then stayed put at #4 and drafted Morris Claiborne and then a pass rushing DE at 22? That would be a big defensive upgrade.

[miktoxic]

as been debated all over this forum with these mock draft threads i don't see heckert drafting a qb at #4, rathder i see him trading down to add another pick.

 

QB is not this teams biggest need, at this time anyway IMO. i see WR and RT being the only 2 offensive picks this coming draft.

[bringbackbrownie2]

So other than QB being arguably the top need (?), the Browns are really focusing on bolstering their front 7 huh? At this point, #4 might be a reach for any defensive lineman or LB based on todays rankings. Not saying anyone really plans on taking one that early. If for some reason the Browns trade down, that would be a prime spot. But as it looks now, #22 would be a great spot to upgrade the front 7. Some names that come to mind are Melvin Ingram, Vontaze Burfict, Bruce Irvin... Being a Lions fan, I'd love to have Burfict, but his on the field character kinda makes you scratch your head. Hes one heck of a playmaker, but you hate to see a 4 yard tackle for loss, followed by a flag for unsportsmanlike conduct.

 

What if Holmgren decided to give McCoy another year, then stayed put at #4 and drafted Morris Claiborne and then a pass rushing DE at 22? That would be a big defensive upgrade.

 

That is certainly possible. Just add Zach Brown (LB) and Whitney Mercilus (DE) to the list of players possibly taken at #22. I'm just not sure that Heckert will use both 1st rounders on defense since we have the past 2 years..

 

But if Heckert trades down I see the Browns taking a WR then a LB or DE in the 1st round. If there is no trade down, you could be right on with your prediction..

 

As for the Lions, your needs do seem to be similar to the Browns: DE and some OLBs (possibly MLB?). Vanden Bosch is still good but is getting old and will need someone to replace him at some point. I also heard Avril may have a contract situation this year so he is another question mark. And I know virtually nothing about your linebackers so I'm not convinced that they are anything too special. Thankfully the Browns get to draft twice before your lions!

[CLEVELandMILIDH]

Has there ever been a 6 foot WR drafted in the top 5 in the past 25 years? I think were reaching here to fill a need. If we have to pick I think we should take the best player (Claiborne). But I'm doing everything possible to trade down before making that pick

[miktoxic]

is zach brown better than hightower from ALA? just asking, don't know but what i saw with hightowere in the national champ game was pretty Fing amazing.

 

i wouldn't mind seeing CB LB and DE with first 3 picks.

[CLEVELandMILIDH]

is zach brown better than hightower from ALA? just asking, don't know but what i saw with hightowere in the national champ game was pretty Fing amazing.

 

iw ouldn't mind seeing CB LB and DE with first 3 picks.

 

I dont know who's better than who but I like Brown alot better in a 4-3. Hightower looks like a rushing 3-4 outside linebacker to me. I think he'd have to play DE for us.

[Cobra Kai]

My 2012 NFL mock draft, as of now... (Click on player's name for scouting reports...)

 

4.) Robert Griffin III, QB, Baylor... Ba-boom! No matter what happens, this guy is going to bring something back to Cleveland Browns football that hasn't been seen in years, (maybe even decades)... FUN! Way too much upside to pass on him.

 

22.) Kendall Wright, WR, Baylor... I think he'll be the most talented player on the board, if he's still there at the #22 spot. Moreover, he and RGIII obviously have phenomenal passing game chemistry. Why break up a good thing?

 

37.) Vontaze Burfict, MikeLB, Arizona St... Tired of always seeing Pittsburgh & Baltimore linebackers relentlessly lighting us up? Time for some payback.

 

68.) LaMichael James, RB, Oregon... Zoom, zoom, zoom! Speedy, undersized RB with soft hands. Has a gamebreaking, true 2nd gear we desperately need.

 

100.) Matt McCants, OT, Birmingham... Right side of the O-line is officially sealed. If he's still there at the #100 slot, it's a no brainer. Our right side is set.

 

118.) T.Y. Hilton, WR, Florida International... Small school, madman slot receiver. Obscene speed, (said to run a 40 yard dash in just under 4.3 seconds.)

 

131.) Trenton Robinson, FS, Michigan St... Smallish for a Free Safety, but a real ballhawk. Former cornerback. Great value. Never backs down to anyone.

 

164.) Jake Bequette, DE, Arkansas... Bone crusher, with potential to be a starter as a 4-3 LDE. 6'5", 270 lbs. Could gain 8-12 lbs., without losing any speed. Great depth, at the very least.

 

184.) Evan Rodriguez, FB, Temple... Regardless of what happens with Hillis, our offensive scheme needs a FB to open lanes, no matter who's running. Rodriguez has fine hands and speed, to boot.

[choco]

Even worse....

[PoeticG]

1a)Mercelious = DE opposite Sheard

1b)Brown/Burfict/Hightower/Minnifield/Claiborn/Fitzpatrick = Stud LB or stud CB

2a)Minnifield/fitzpatrick/Wright(Kendall)/Best OT = Stud CB or offensive Weapon

2b)Trade two 4th and a Third to move up into the second...to select Rg3

[Cobra Kai]

Even worse....

 

Then let's see your mock, Mel...

[choco]

we havent even see the senior bowl yet. why would i waste my time doing a mock now?

 

yours was simply selecting any and all big names you could think of and throwing them in for us.

[LionsFanVisiting]

My 2012 NFL mock draft, as of now... (Click on player's name for scouting reports...)

 

4.) Robert Griffin III, QB, Baylor... Ba-boom! No matter what happens, this guy is going to bring something back to Cleveland Browns football that hasn't been seen in years, (maybe even decades)... FUN! Way too much upside to pass on him.

 

22.) Kendall Wright, WR, Baylor... I think he'll be the most talented player on the board, if he's still there at the #22 spot. Moreover, he and RGIII obviously have phenomenal passing game chemistry. Why break up a good thing?

 

37.) Vontaze Burfict, MikeLB, Arizona St... Tired of always seeing Pittsburgh & Baltimore linebackers relentlessly lighting us up? Time for some payback.

 

68.) LaMichael James, RB, Oregon... Zoom, zoom, zoom! Speedy, undersized RB with soft hands. Has a gamebreaking, true 2nd gear we desperately need.

 

100.) Matt McCants, OT, Birmingham... Right side of the O-line is officially sealed. If he's still there at the #100 slot, it's a no brainer. Our right side is set.

 

118.) T.Y. Hilton, WR, Florida International... Small school, madman slot receiver. Obscene speed, (said to run a 40 yard dash in just under 4.3 seconds.)

 

131.) Trenton Robinson, FS, Michigan St... Smallish for a Free Safety, but a real ballhawk. Former cornerback. Great value. Never backs down to anyone.

 

164.) Jake Bequette, DE, Arkansas... Bone crusher, with potential to be a starter as a 4-3 LDE. 6'5", 270 lbs. Could gain 8-12 lbs., without losing any speed. Great depth, at the very least.

 

184.) Evan Rodriguez, FB, Temple... Regardless of what happens with Hillis, our offensive scheme needs a FB to open lanes, no matter who's running. Rodriguez has fine hands and speed, to boot.

 

 

At this point id be shocked to see Burfict fall to 37.

[Cobra Kai]

we havent even see the senior bowl yet. why would i waste my time doing a mock now?

 

yours was simply selecting any and all big names you could think of and throwing them in for us.

 

Yeah, because if there's one place people shouldn't put a mock draft, is a thread called "Mock, mock, and More More Drafts."

 

And if it's too early for mock drafts, why are you even in this thread, dummy?

[tampadawgs]

Wright will not last that long in the first.. His stock is going up crazy, and Burfict no way in hell he last that long...

 

If your mock was to happen it might be the greatest draft in Browns history

[Cobra Kai]

Wright will not last that long in the first.. His stock is going up crazy, and Burfict no way in hell he last that long...

 

If your mock was to happen it might be the greatest draft in Browns history

 

As of 1/16/12, CBS's Dane Brugler's mock draft has Wright going to us at the #22 spot. In addition, neither Rang or Brugler have Burfict going in the 1st round. Click HERE to view.

 

Walterfootball.com's mock, (click HERE,) has us trading up to the #2 spot, to insure we get RGIII. Then, with the #22 spot, they have us taking Kendall Wright, as well.

 

We shall see.

[Nw220]

Indianapolis Colts

 

Record: 2-14

* Andrew Luck, QB, Stanford

 

We don't know yet who will be coaching the Colts in 2012 and we don't know who will be starting at quarterback, but I have a pretty good hunch Luck will be on the roster. I've said it before: He's the best quarterback prospect I've evaluated since John Elway, which also makes him a player who should be ready to start in Week 1 if the Colts do part ways with Peyton Manning. As a college player, Luck thinks and reads the game at an advanced level, can make adjustments on the fly and call plays and audibles at a remarkably high level for his age. He throws well moving left or right, keeps his eyes down the field and gets through progressions and into checkdowns extremely well. Nobody expects an easy transition for a rookie signal-caller, but Luck has the tools to make the transition easier than most.

 

St. Louis Rams

 

Record: 2-14

* Justin Blackmon, WR, Oklahoma St.

 

There's a clear value question here, because I think St. Louis could leverage this position to trade down for more picks for 2012 and into the future, and then still target Blackmon perhaps a few spots later. But if the Rams can't find a dance partner for a trade, Blackmon still represents precisely what this offense needs. Sam Bradford took a step back in 2011, but he got little help, and Blackmon is a big target, a great route runner and a workaholic who could transition and learn the pro game quickly. St. Louis also could try to shore up an offensive line that took a step back, but Blackmon right now represents the top wide receiver in the draft and fills a big need for the Rams. It should be noted there are a number of teams drafting behind St. Louis that need an elite wide receiver.

 

Minnesota Vikings

 

Record: 3-13

* Matt Kalil, OT, USC

 

The Vikings are another team with a young quarterback, and while they could use a target such as Blackmon in the offense, they also really need to shore up their protection. You see a lot of left tackles drafted and moved to the right side as they transition into the NFL -- Tyron Smith with Dallas last year is a recent case -- but Kalil has big-time talent and could start on the left side early. I don't think the comparisons to Jake Long are too far off. Athletic, with long arms, great feet and deceptive power given an athletic frame, Kalil also could land at No. 2.

 

Cleveland Browns

 

Record: 4-12

* Robert Griffin III, QB, Baylor

 

If a team moves ahead of the Browns for Griffin, they also could be in play for Blackmon, or even the guy I have at No. 5, Trent Richardson. However, the questions on Colt McCoy's ceiling as a starting NFL quarterback are getting louder, and if the Browns don't go after a solution such as Matt Flynn, a quarterback certainly could be in play here. Griffin made big strides this past season, particularly with his deep accuracy. He is a big-time athlete at the quarterback position but has developed a very good pocket presence and the ability to read the game, and his big arm comes with a nice touch on intermediate throws. He is a leader and has intangibles that should really impress evaluators during the draft process.

 

Tampa Bay Buccaneers

 

Record: 5-11

* Trent Richardson, RB, Alabama

 

Don't simply dismiss the idea that Richardson could land here because of the presence of LaGarrette Blount. For one, we know that if you want a potent running game in the NFL, it can't be built simply around one running back. The reality of injuries is too much of a constant to overlook. Secondly, are the Bucs ready to commit to a longer deal with Blount after the 2012 season? Bottom line, the idea can't be dismissed from a team-building standpoint, and that's before you get to what kind of a player Richardson is. A physical freak, he is extraordinarily powerful, explodes from contact, has lower mileage than many third-year studs because he split carries as a freshman and sophomore with Mark Ingram and has developed as a pass-catcher. Richardson is a first-year impact player.

 

Washington Redskins

 

Record: 5-11

* Morris Claiborne, CB, LSU

 

While the "Honey Badger," Tyrann Mathieu, piled up the headlines at LSU, the best cornerback on the team was quietly dominant all season. Currently a top-five player on my Big Board, Claiborne is the top cornerback in the draft. He has good length at 6-foot-1 and is a physical player at more than 180 pounds. The Redskins will need help at corner headed into 2012, particularly in a division in which the Giants, Cowboys and Eagles have elite talent at wide receiver. While not quite the athlete, Claiborne is actually a better pure cover corner than Patrick Peterson, the No. 5 overall pick from last year.

Jacksonville Jaguars

 

Record: 5-11

Quinton Coples, DE, North Carolina

 

The Jags desperately need help at wide receiver, but they also really need help in the pass rush. They got to opposing quarterbacks less than two times a game in 2011, and Coples would fit the scheme as the current top 4-3 defensive end in the draft. Coples has great length at 6-foot-6, and while he has excellent skills as a pass-rusher, he also has the size to hold up in the run game. He doesn't quite have the athleticism of former North Carolina star Julius Peppers but should be able to upgrade the Jacksonville pass rush immediately, and guys with his size and skills aren't that easy to find.

Carolina Panthers

 

Record: 6-10

* Dre Kirkpatrick, CB, Alabama

 

Were they to line up Kirkpatrick across from Chris Gamble, the Panthers would have a pair of corners with elite size and talent in a divison in which you can't have enough good corners. Opponents completed a hair less than 65 percent of their passes against the weak Carolina secondary in 2011, and Kirkpatrick can provide an immediate upgrade. He has elite size for the position, at 6-foot-3 and nearly 200 pounds, but doesn't give much away in cover skills. Kirkpatrick has some off-the-field questions that could hurt his stock, but reserving judgement for now, he'd be a fit here.

Miami Dolphins

 

Record: 6-10

* Riley Reiff, OT, Iowa

 

The Dolphins made big improvments to the offensive line last year with their first-round pick, and Reiff would offer them an immediate starter and make the offensive line a big strength. Reiff's tape was exceptional this past season, and he has a lot of experience and a proven ability against top competition. The Dolphins were very close to being a good team in 2011, and I do think they can target a player on offense, although help at outside linebacker also makes sense. The Dolphins could be another team looking for options at quarterback, but even if they go into the season with Matt Moore back as starter, Reiff adds further stability to an offense that could continue to improve.

Buffalo Bills

 

Record: 6-10

Courtney Upshaw, LB, Alabama

 

Buffalo did well when it drafted Alabama defensive tackle Marcell Dareus with its first pick last year, but the pass rush still needs a lot of help. Upshaw is currently the best 3-4 outside linebacker in the draft, and he should be able to apply a lot of pressure to opposing quarterbacks from the edge for whoever gets him for 2012. No Buffalo player had more than 5.5 sacks in 2011, and the Bills simply can't get enough pressure without bringing extra players. Upshaw is a part of the solution. This is a big-time talent, a player who already was making an impact at Alabama as a freshman. He'll follow a similar path as a pro.

Kansas City Chiefs

 

Record: 7-9

Devon Still, DT, Penn St.

 

Romeo Crennel could use a disruptive interior line presence in his system, and Still can be a penetrator in the 3-4, capable of occupying blockers and making plays in against the run while also splitting gaps against the pass. He came on in 2011 at Penn State and should help this defense up front, as the Chiefs also get Eric Berry back in the secondary in 2012. With this kind of reinforcement, the Chiefs have a chance to become an upper-echelon defense going forward, something they showed glimpses of this past season.

Seattle Seahawks

 

Record: 7-9

Melvin Ingram, DE, South Carolina

 

The Seahawks have quietly made major strides in overhauling the roster and finding solutions to grow with in the past two years. Last year, they targeted offensive linemen early, and with the addition of Sidney Rice and Doug Baldwin, also have good talent at wide receiver. Even banged up at O-line, they ran the ball with some effectiveness. Obviously, quarterback remains a big question, but that's not something they can target at this spot in the draft. What they can do is add a final piece to a defense that is young, fast and extremely good in the secondary. The linebacking corps was strengthened by the emergence of K.J. Wright. So the work is up front and at defensive end for a team that was just 23rd in the NFL last year in sack percentage. Ingram is just big enough to fit this system as a 4-3 defensive end, and should add a boost to the pass rush early.

Arizona Cardinals

 

Record: 8-8

* Jonathan Martin, OT, Stanford

 

The Cardinals need to mend the offensive line -- they haven't drafted an offensive lineman before the fifth round since 2007 -- and Martin is an athletic, powerful left tackle who can help upgrade this unit immediately. While questions remain about what the Cardinals have at the quarterback position after they committed so much both in terms of value and dollars to Kevin Kolb, there's no question they have to be better up front regardless of who takes the snaps. Again, that's a long time to go without getting some talent up front early in a draft. Martin would be a solid value here.

Dallas Cowboys

 

Record: 8-8

* David DeCastro, OG, Stanford

 

Last year, the Cowboys got Tyron Smith at No. 9 overall, and that pick helped them turn over the offensive line. The results were pretty good in 2011. With DeCastro, the Cowboys have a chance to solidify the interior of the line, helping both the running game and protection for Tony Romo and make that unit a strength. The way I see it, the Cowboys have good pieces in place at every other spot on the offense. The talent at wide receiver and tight end is fine, Romo was quietly among the top-performing quarterbacks and there's plenty at running back. Doubling down on the O-line should be an option for Jerry Jones. If the value is there, Dallas could also target the secondary.

Philadelphia Eagles

 

Record: 8-8

* Luke Kuechly, LB, Boston College

 

The Eagles were really weak up the middle in 2011, and Kuechly is the top interior linebacker available in the draft. Since Brian Dawkins departed, safety has also been a perpetual question mark, so I could see that being considered here. But in Kuechly you get a player who can fill a massive void in the defense. He's a guy who can come in and start immediately; he's got exceptional instincts, is a very good athlete, demonstrates great form and can fly around making tackles in the middle of the field. He's just a machine. Last year, few teams were forced to utilize lesser talent at linebacker than Philly, and Kuechly can help fix that problem.

New York Jets

 

Record: 8-8

Mark Barron, S, Alabama

 

Last year the Jets targeted help up front in the first round, and while the pass rush still needs some work, the secondary is a big concern because of the way the Jets' safeties got abused this year. You'd see teams lining up bigger receivers in the slot to target New York's smaller safeties and force Rex Ryan to make some tough decisions in coverage. In Barron, the Jets would get the best safety in the draft, a big, rangy talent with big-game experience and the ability to match up against taller receivers and tight ends. The Jets have schemed around a weakness at safety, but it's time to put a better talent back there.

Cincinnati Bengals (from Oakland)

 

Record: 8-8

Alfonzo Dennard, CB, Nebraska

 

It says a lot about last year's draft that Cincinnati can put the focus back on defense with one of its first-round picks in 2012. Dennard is a solid, physical cover corner who would offer a talent upgrade in the secondary. The Bengals could go a few directions here, but after getting a decent year out of veteran Nate Clements, they should look at getting a younger player who can develop even as he helps early. Dennard fits the bill.

San Diego Chargers

 

Record: 8-8

Cordy Glenn, OG, Georgia

 

The Chargers fell apart up front this past season, mostly due to injury, and Glenn is one of those really attractive picks who can help you immediately because he can play pretty much everywhere. That's what he did during his time at Georgia, as a dominating guard who also has worked on the edge at a high level. Glenn is a safe pick, and the Chargers simply must do something up front to help Philip Rivers get comfortable again. He struggled in 2011, but his problems started up front.

Chicago Bears

 

Record: 8-8

Michael Floyd, WR, Notre Dame

 

If the Bears learned anything when Jay Cutler went down this season, it was that the offense wasn't very pretty without him. But Cutler also needs help. Last year, Chicago had to start up front because the offensive line was such a weakness. But as the Bears anticipate getting some healthy bodies back up front to start 2012, they now must find some help for Cutler at wide receiver. The current group has some speed, but he could use a big target, and Floyd can be that guy. He has a big frame, but Floyd actually dropped some weight for the 2011 season, and he managed to look quicker and more explosive in and out of his breaks without giving up much as a physical receiver. He'd be a nice option in this offense and a threat in the red zone.

Tennessee Titans

 

Record: 9-7

* Nick Perry, DE, USC

 

He started as a freshman at Southern Cal, and it's because he is just a natural pass-rusher. This season, he added to his repertoire, and he can help a team early as a pass-rushing specialist in a 4-3 defense. Tennessee's pass rush was really bad this season; the Titans got to opposing quarterbacks on just 4.52 percent of drop-backs, a rate that was 31st in the NFL. Perry probably could add some bulk to his frame, but his instincts as a pass-rusher are in place and the Titans certainly need the help.

Cincinnati Bengals

 

Record: 9-7

* Lamar Miller, RB, Miami (Fla.)

 

Cedric Benson has been serviceable for the Bengals, but they desperately need to add some explosiveness in the run game. Even with what I considered an underrated offensive line, the Bengals managed just 3.9 yards per rush attempt this season. With solutions now in place in the passing game, they are one of the teams that can afford to take a shot on a potentially elite running back in the first or second round. Miller can run inside but also break off the big run, something the Bengals never got with Benson.

Cleveland Browns (from Atlanta)

 

Record: 4-12

Kendall Wright, WR, Baylor

 

Quietly, Wright had a season that almost matched Blackmon's in the Big 12. The Browns might not end up with Griffin with the No. 4 pick, but his teammate would make a lot of sense here. Greg Little is a developing big target and had a pretty good rookie season given the overall performance of the Cleveland offense. Wright is smaller at about 5-10, 190 pounds, but could add a speed threat this offense really needs. He can beat teams over the top with straight-line speed but also works underneath and will do a lot of damage after the catch. The Browns need weapons, and Wright, who also has great hands, fits the profile.

Detroit Lions

 

Record: 10-6

Zach Brown, LB, North Carolina

 

Detroit again will go into the 2012 season with perhaps the best front four in the NFL. Martin Mayhew and Jim Schwartz calculated well that the secondary would make strides after being such a weakness in previous seasons. Where the Lions could use help is at linebacker, and Brown would be a good fit. Brown has great instincts as a rangy tackler, and he has a lot of speed and can run with tight ends. I certainly can see the Lions looking for help on the offensive line at this spot, but if a top tackle doesn't fall to them here, Brown makes sense.

Pittsburgh Steelers

 

Record: 12-4

* Dontari Poe, DT, Memphis

 

Dick LeBeau can do a lot of things, but he can't scheme around age. The Steelers were very good on defense this season, but they simply have to get younger, particularly up front, if they want to maintain it. Poe has risen a lot for me in terms of value, but he's also a rarity, that zero-technique centerpiece to a 3-4 defense, the guy who simply eats up tacklers and is a human wall in the run game. If he develops, Poe can be the heir to Casey Hampton in the middle of that scheme, a human boulder who will free up those linebackers.

Denver Broncos

 

Record: 8-8

* Fletcher Cox, DT, Mississippi St.

 

Denver had some really good stretches on defense, particularly in the pass rush, but the Broncos weren't very consistent and the numbers were a little worse than people might realize. The pass rush is there on the outside, but Cox is a guy who can penetrate and get tackles for loss from the inside. The Broncos could go a few ways, including receiver if they see a value or perhaps corner. But the way the board falls here, Cox would be a good fit for a defense that better be elite as the offense attempts to find consistency.

Houston Texans

 

Record: 10-6

* Mohamed Sanu, WR, Rutgers

 

When Andre Johnson was lost for a long stretch this season, it didn't totally derail the Houston offense. What it did do was severely hamper the Texans' play-action game, which can be simply devastating with the combination of a steady run game and the presence of Matt Schaub. In that scheme, the Texans can pile up chunk yardage with the pass, and Sanu is the type of guy who can stretch the field and be a huge threat across from Johnson. And when you consider that Johnson will be 31 entering the 2012 season, the Texans need this kind of presence around if he misses any more time. Sanu is hugely productive, creates space, has good speed and can contribute early.

New England Patriots (from Saints)

 

Record: 13-3

* Michael Brockers, DL, LSU

 

The Patriots have a pair of picks in the first round, and my guess is they'll look to get younger on the defensive line and work to add some pieces to a pass rush. That was something they really didn't address in last year's draft, but as creative and resourceful as they are, it might be time. Brockers could end up a lot higher than this when the evaluation process is over because his reputation is growing. I list him simply as a defensive lineman because the Pats could use him in a couple of different ways up front in that scheme. What he can do is add explosiveness on the interior -- he's a pentrator with the ability to dominate if left to a single blocker, which frees people up.

Green Bay Packers

 

Record: 15-1

Whitney Mercilus, LB, Illinois

 

It was masked somewhat by reputation, but no team in the NFL had a lower sack rate than Green Bay during the regular season. And it was on display again in the playoffs -- the Packers simply can't create pressure without bringing blitzers, leaving the secondary vulnerable. Mercilus (pronounced "merciless") played to that description at Illinois this past season. I see him standing up as an outside linebacker after playing with his hand on the ground in college. At 6-4, 265 pounds, he has a good profile for the position, and he really knows how to get to the quarterback. The question on him is he really exploded this season, so the body of work is lighter than some, but the Packers need to find some pass-rush help and Mercilus is a good value here based on his current grade.

New York Giants

 

Record: 9-7

Zebrie Sanders, OT, Florida St.

 

The Giants have done a fantastic job of coaching up this offensive line after some big changes heading into the season, but they could get younger and add some talent, and Sanders would be a solid fit. This offense is going to be dynamic if it can open holes for the run game and provide time for Eli Manning, so an investment in the offensive line is never a bad idea.

Baltimore Ravens

 

Record: 12-4

* Vontaze Burfict, LB, Arizona St.

 

He's been drawing comparisons to Ray Lewis since he got to Tempe, and hopefully Lewis will be around for another year to mentor Burfict. But either way, the Ravens have to consider what they'll do, as retirement talk now is a reality for their legendary linebacker, and Burfict is the kind of player who could develop into a star in his own right in that defense. He is instinctive and rangy, and plays with an edge. He developed a bit of a reputation as a guy who was prone to the personal foul, but if he channels that energy, Burfict could be a very good one. He has a ton of experience as an immediate freshman starter and reads the game pretty well.

San Francisco 49ers

 

Record: 13-3

* Alshon Jeffery, WR, South Carolina

 

The 49ers got much better production out of the offense this season, but I still see a need for a big target on the outside, something Braylon Edwards wasn't able to provide. Jeffery is an absolute beast, a guy who plays at more than 230 pounds and easily could top 6-foot-4 when he measures out. He goes up over corners and attacks the ball, catching it away from his body like a rebounder. The Niners struggled mightily in the red zone all season, and Jeffery might not be a burner but is the kind of player you can post up in the end zone to help solve that problem.

New England Patriots

 

Record: 13-3

Andre Branch, LB, Clemson

 

A defensive end at the college level, Branch would convert to outside linebacker and add some immediate help to the New England pass rush. He racked up 10.5 sacks this past season and has a 6-foot-5, 260-pound frame, a good physical fit for the transition. Branch also has the athleticism to be more than a pure pass-rusher, as he should be able to develop into a well-rounded OLB under Bill Belichick.

 

 

 

Mel Kiper Jrs. First Mock, He dosent Predict trades in his Mocks *note*

[choco]

why are you even in this thread, dummy?[/font]

i enjoy watching the circus. ya know...my amusement at your expense.