My first update in about 3 months. I am really going to try to get back into blogging in 2014. First up, a mock draft of course!
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1. Houston Texans
QB Johnny Manziel, So, Texas A&M
6'1, 210 lbs
Hometown: Kerrville, TX
2013 Stats: 300-429, 4114 yards, 37 TD, 13 INT, 759 rushing yards, 9 TD
2. St. Louis Rams
(from Washington Redskins)
OT Greg Robinson, So, Auburn
6'5, 320 lbs
Hometown: Thibodaux, AL
I still think Teddy Bridgewater is the best quarterback in this class, but it looks like the Texans are focusing in on fellow quarterbacks Johnny Manziel and Blake Bortles. Out of the two, I would go with Manziel. Scouts and draft experts are torn on him, but I think he has some Brett Favre in him. He can make plays and carry teams on his back, but also deliver some absolutely head scratching throws. His attitude problems are overblown, and I think he has the ability to be a strong leader who teammates will want to rally around. He is a polarizing prospect to be sure, but looks to be a lock for the top ten. Reports have owner Bob McNair enamored with the Texas native, and that makes sense. Manziel will definitely help Houston try to escape the Dallas Cowboys Texas shadow.
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2. St. Louis Rams(from Washington Redskins)
OT Greg Robinson, So, Auburn
6'5, 320 lbs
Hometown: Thibodaux, AL
Rams fans will ultimately be a little scared by this pick, as they are still stinging from the Jason Smith disaster of a few years ago. But offensive line is easily the biggest question mark on this Rams team. There are issues, because of injuries, ineffectiveness and free agency, at all five positions. The Rams are unlikely to remain at this spot, but if they do, Greg Robinson looks like the best choice. The redshirt sophomore was the best player on Auburn, and has the look and skills to be a prototypical left tackle. He is a very strong run blocker, and would start out on the right side for the Rams, who want to be a more balanced offense with youngster Zac Stacy. Robinson lacks game experience and that is a concern, but he could be a star and has much more potential than Jake Matthews.
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3. Jacksonville Jaguars
DE Jadeveon Clowney, Jr, South Carolina
6'6, 274 lbs
Hometown: Rock Hill, SC
2013 Stats: 36 tackles, 3 sacks
The Jaguars could easily go with Blake Bortles or Teddy Bridgewater here, but I simply think Jadeveon Clowney's talent is too much to pass up here, especially for a defensive coach like Gus Bradley. Clowney's junior season has been a disappointment to say the least, but once the draft rolls around I do not think his on the field performance will matter all that much. Scouts would have liked to see Clowney go all out on every play, but they have to understand that Clowney (or more likely his representatives) were protecting their investment. Clowney is a supremely talented pass rusher who can stop the run, and makes the entire defense better. Kelcy Quarles will probably be a second round pick, and he owes half his check to Clowney. Clowney routinely occupied multiple blockers, and opposing offenses worked their entire gameplan to keep the ball carrier away from the 6'6 presence. Clowney has the ability to be a Mario Williams/Julius Peppers type at the next level. Unless he shows a complete disregard for effort and passion for the game, Clowney will not fall out of the top five on draft day. Jacksonville knows they have a long, slow rebuilding process and could be in position to draft Marcus Mariota or Jamies Winston next year.
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4. Cleveland Browns
QB Teddy Bridgewater, Jr, Louisville
6'3, 196 lbs
Hometown: Miami, FL
2013 Stats: 303-427, 3970 yards, 31 TD, 4 INT
It is a real shame that the Cleveland Browns fired Rob Chudzinski after only one season. He had little to work with on offense, yet turned no names Josh Gordon and Jordan Cameron into Pro Bowlers. But that is why the Cleveland Browns have always and will always be terrible. Quarterback is definitely the biggest need on the draft board. Teddy Bridgewater is not in the class of an Andrew Luck or Peyton Manning, but he is a very solid prospect worthy of the top overall pick. He is a classic drop back quarterback who possesses nice arm strength and has a great feel for the position. The one worry is his slight frame. He needs to pack at least 25 pounds of muscle or NFL defenses will eat him alive. I think the Browns get the drafts best quarterback here.
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5. Oakland Raiders
WR Sammy Watkins, Jr, Clemson
6'1, 205 lbs
Hometown: Fort Myers, FL
2013 Stats: 101 rec, 1464 yards, 12 TD
The Raiders are still in the infancy stages of a very long rebuilding process. Last draft, they chose to trade down and would love to do the same here. If they stay put here Sammy Watkins looks like the best available player. Watkins was tremendous as a freshman and regained all of that luster as a junior and then some. He was Tajh Boyd's favorite target, and showed his big play ability with touchdown receptions of 96, 91 and 77 yards this past season. Watkins capped off a very good Clemson career with a fantastic 16 reception, 227 yard, 2 TD performance in an Orange Bowl win. He does not have Calvin Johnson/AJ Green size but is strong and very quick. He definitely has the look of a number one wideout. Oakland has a few receivers who would be good number two or three guys, but Watkins will give Oakland's quarterback of the future a serious target.
6. Atlanta Falcons
OT Jake Matthews, Sr, Texas A&M
6'5, 305 lbs
Hometown: Missouri City, TX
Owner Arthur Blank recently addressed the media and stated the Falcons need to use the draft to get tougher along both lines. It makes sense, especially in the wake of Matt Ryan getting pummeled most of the year. Sam Baker has been up but mostly down as the Falcons left tackle, and he got abused before going down with a season ending injury. Lamar Holmes was even worse on the right side. Jake Matthews is a very solid offensive lineman that, at the worst, could be a Pro Bowl caliber right tackle. He is a great technician with a ton of experience at several positions along the line, and has the bloodlines. Matthews is a bit undersized, and his future could be on the right side, but he will be a big upgrade along Atlanta's bad offensive line. The Falcons are going as far as Matt Ryan and Julio Jones can take them, and need to make sure Ryan remains upright.
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7. Tampa Bay Buccaneers
OLB Khalil Mack, Sr, Buffalo
6'3, 248 lbs
Hometown: Fort Pierce, FL
2013 Stats: 100 tackles, 10.5 sacks, 3 INT, 2 DEF TD
I like the hiring of Lovie Smith by the Buccaneers. Tampa Bay has had a lot of trouble with coaches in recent years, and hopefully bringing in a guy who had ties to the great Bucs teams of a decade and a half ago, and is well respected, should only help. The Buccaneers need to add more toughness to their defensive front seven. Khalil Mack was a one man wrecking crew for a bad Buffalo team, filling up the stat sheet as a pass rusher, tackler and pass defender. Mack tied Jason Babin for 75 career tackles for loss, which is an NCAA record. Some want to pigeonhole Mack into a 3-4 outside linebacker, but he has the versatility to play in any scheme. The Buccaneers have an emerging superstar on the weakside with Lavonte David, and Mason Foster is a solid run stopper in the middle. Adding Mack to the strong side could give Tampa Bay the most feared trio of linebackers in the NFL.
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8. Minnesota Vikings
QB Blake Bortles, Jr, Central Florida
6'4, 230 lbs
Hometown: Oviedo, FL
2013 Stats: 259-382, 3581 yards, 25 TD, 9 INT
Leslie Frazier failed to develop Christian Ponder, and as a result the Vikings have wasted most Adrian Peterson's prime. A new coach will want to build around a new quarterback. The last time the Vikings had a Pro Bowl caliber guy, they chose a big, strong kid out of Central Florida. Why not go that way again in 2014? Blake Bortles is the first rounder the casual fan will never have heard of, but he has been good enough to lead his team to a Fiesta Bowl win over Baylor. Bortles improved by leaps and bounds as the year went on, and has great size and arm strength for the position. He has the ability to withstand the pounding that the NFL will send his way, and has the complete package to succeed if he can successfully be coached up. He is still a pretty big project in my eyes, and I would not consider drafting him over Johnny Manziel or Teddy Bridgewater, but scouts will fall in love with his size/strength package, which is superior to the other two quarterbacks.
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9. Buffalo Bills
OT Taylor Lewan, Sr, Michigan
9. Buffalo BillsOT Taylor Lewan, Sr, Michigan
6'8, 308 lbs
Hometown: Cave Creek, AZ
The Bills are coming off their 9th straight losing season, and as always, have holes all over the place. Buffalo should just opt to go with the best player available here that fills a need among wide receiver, offensive line and linebacker. Taylor Lewan is a bit stiff and not the best athlete, but has had a very solid Michigan career and should do just fine on the left side. He had an up and down senior season for Michigan and developed some attitude problems, but is very experienced and has been considered a top 15 pick since his junior season. That has not changed. Cordy Glenn has held his own at left tackle, and I think he could excel on the right side. Lewan could help stabilize Buffalo's line and help protect EJ Manuel.
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10. Detroit Lions
CB Justin Gilbert, Sr, Oklahoma State
6'0, 200 lbs
Hometown: Huntsville, TX
2013 Stats: 40 tackles, 6 INT
The Lions flamed out in spectacular fashion to end the 2013 season, and that cost Jim Schwartz his job. The Lions front office has failed to build around Calvin Johnson on offense and a solid front four on defense, and Detroit should focus on rebuilding the offensive line and secondary this off season. Justin Gilbert looked like a sure fire first round pick after his sophomore season. He admitted the hype got to him as a junior, but rebounded as a senior and looks like the most complete cornerback in this class. He is big and strong, able to jam the receiver at the line of scrimmage, but is also quick enough to keep up with the speedier NFL wideouts. If he can maintain focus, he has Pro Bowl potential.
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11. Buffalo Bills
OLB Anthony Barr, Sr, UCLA
6'4, 248 lbs
Hometown: San Pedro, CA
2013 Stats: 63 tackles, 10 sacks
The Titans are going to rework their defense, most likely moving to a 3-4. Tennessee had serious issues rushing the passer as a 4-3 team, so they undoubtedly need the right personnel for the move. Akeem Ayers and Kamerion Wimbley have the size to be outside linebackers, but neither has shown much pass rushing ability in the past. There was a time where Anthony Barr was talked about as possibly being drafted higher than Jadeveon Clowney. I fully doubt that, but he is very good value here. The former fullback has had a tremendous two years at outside linebacker for the Bruins, becoming one of the most feared pass rushers in college football. He would be an ideal fit for Tennessee.
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12. New York Giants
OT Cyrus Kouandjio, Jr, Alabama
6'6, 310 lbs
Hometown: Hyattsville, MD
The Giants offensive line has gotten old, and the unit needs a serious re hauling. Justin Pugh was a solid draft pick, but his future is probably at right tackle or guard. Cyrus Kouandjio is still young and raw, and had serious growing pains for the Crimson Tide this past season, but possesses all the qualities you look for in an offensive tackle. He should be a very strong run blocker. At the worst, Kouandjio could be a Pro Bowl caliber guard, and the Giants have a need at both positions.
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WR Marqise Lee, Jr, USC
6'0, 195 lbs
Hometown: Inglewood, CA
2013 Stats: 57 rec, 791 yards, 4 TD
The Rams have drafted plenty of receivers in the second round and later, but none has really panned out. Marquise Lee looked like a top five pick after two brilliant seasons, where he racked up 191 receptions, 2864 yards and 25 TD's. 2013 was a disaster for USC football, but Lee held on and should still be a mid first round pick. He is very quick and has great natural ability. Drops plagued him as a junior, as did durability concerns, but a nice combine will remind folks of how dominating he was as a freshman and sophomore. Theoretically, St. Louis will have Lee and Chris Givens on the outside, with Tavon Austin in the slot and Jared Cook coming off the line. Sounds great on paper, maybe the offensive coordinator will know how to utilize that talent in 2014. Sam Bradford is running out of excuses.
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14. Chicago Bears
DT Timmy Jernigan, Jr, Florida State
6'2, 298 lbs
Hometown: Lake City, FL
2013 Stats: 53 tackles, 5 sacks
The Bears spent several drafts on offense. That side of the ball is now a strength, but it has left the defense in complete shambles. There is not a player on that side of the ball under contract that you could call an integral part of Chicago's future. It all starts with the defensive line. Timmy Jernigan is a solid all around defender, good against the run and, as a former defensive end, quick enough to get to the quarterback. The Bears need to use every single draft pick to add reinforcements to a terrible defense.
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15. Pittsburgh Steelers
S Ha Ha Clinton-Dix, Jr, Alabama
6'1, 208 lbs
Hometown: Orlando, FL
2013 Stats: 50 tackles, 2 INT
The Steelers have always drafted with a year or two ahead of time in mind. Recently, age has really caught up with them, and the reinforcements were not there. Pittsburgh could use upgrades on the offensive line, receiver and every level of the defense. Ha Ha Clinton-Dix is the top safety in this class, and has a very nice overall game. Clinton-Dix struggled with injuries as a junior, but at his best is a very good safety who excels in pass coverage. Clinton-Dix can play either safety spot and would be a nice replacement for Troy Polamalu in a year or two.
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16. Baltimore Ravens
WR Mike Evans, So, Texas A&M
6'5, 225 lbs
Hometown: Galveston, TX
2013 Stats: 69 rec, 1394 yards, 12 TD
There are few, if zero, GM's better than Ozzie Newsome. One thing he has had trouble with, other than Torry Smith, is drafting wide receivers. Trading Anquan Boldin made sense from a financial standpoint, but his loss was really felt. Mike Evans would be a nice replacement and an ideal counterpart to the speedy Torrey Smith. Evans is not the best athlete, but uses his 6'5 frame to out muscle undersized cornerbacks. That will be more difficult at the NFL level, but he should be a fine possession type receiver, who will show a bit more explosiveness than thought.
17. Dallas Cowboys
18. New York Jets
It is not difficult to figure out what the Jets need to do during the 2014 draft. Offense, offense, offense. Offensive line, wide receiver, tight end, you name it. Eric Ebron is a part of the new breed of tight end, a guy who runs routes and catches like a receiver, but is simply too big and strong for single coverage. He reminds me of Vernon Davis, and while not a wide receiver, would act as a safety blanket and reliable target for Geno Smith.
19. Miami Dolphins
It is no secret that the Dolphins offensive line was in shambles, even before a bullying scandal cost Miami 2/5ths of it's starting line. Former GM Jeff Ireland decided to spend a ton of money to downgrade the linebacking unit, and ignore protection for Ryan Tannehill, who predictably was sacked a league high 58 times. The Dolphins need to spend free agent dollars and draft picks to attempt to shore up this position. Zack Martin is not the prototypical left tackle the Dolphins would like to draft, but those guys usually are not available this late. Martin is a versatile, all around lineman who could be a solid right tackle or Pro Bowl guard. The Dolphins have serious need at those positions as well.
20. Arizona Cardinals
The Cardinals were the unlucky 10-6 team to miss out on the playoffs completely. Bruce Arians is quickly becoming one of the best coaches in the NFL, and this team could use this pick on an offensive tackle or pass rusher to help them now. However, I like the selection of Derek Carr here. He has problems with footwork and mechanics, and I do not see him as a top ten pick right now. You cannot ignore the stats, and he has a very strong arm. With the Cardinals he can sit for two or three years, learn from one of the best offensive minds in football, and take over for Carson Palmer in a few years. Arizona would probably like to select a quarterback of the future in the second or third round, but Carr is too good of a value to pass up here.
21. Green Bay Packers
As the case in recent years, the Packers defense was a liability once again in 2013. The secondary, in particular, played poorly. Morgan Burnett was a disaster after signing a nice contract extension, but Green Bay will give him a chance to bounce back. MD Jennings, a former undrafted free agent, was badly exposed all year. Calvin Pryor will be a monumental upgrade at safety, and help the defense as a whole. He tackles like a linebacker (75 stops on the year) and can make plays as well. He could easily surpass Ha Ha Clinton-Dix as the top safety in this class.
22. Philadelphia Eagles
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17. Dallas Cowboys
DE/DT Stephon Tuitt, Jr, Notre Dame
6'7, 322 lbs
Hometown: Monroe, GA
2013 Stats: 49 tackles, 7.5 sacks, 1 INT
The Cowboys hiring of Monte Kiffin and move to the 4-3 proved to be catastrophic. Dallas lacked the pieces to run that defense, and put forth one of the worst defensive seasons in NFL history. It all starts with the defensive line, which is in complete shambles. Stephon Tuitt is a unique talent, who
can handle playing end in a 4-3 at 6'7, 320 pounds. He came on towards
the end of the year as injuries healed, and offers unique versatility
for a man his size. Weight issues plagued him, but I expect Tuitt's name to be hot once the combine
rolls around and would not be surprised if he ends up a top ten pick.
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18. New York Jets
TE Eric Ebron, Jr, North Carolina
6'4, 235 lbs
Hometown: Greensboro, NC
2013 Stats: 62 rec, 973 yards, 3 TD
It is not difficult to figure out what the Jets need to do during the 2014 draft. Offense, offense, offense. Offensive line, wide receiver, tight end, you name it. Eric Ebron is a part of the new breed of tight end, a guy who runs routes and catches like a receiver, but is simply too big and strong for single coverage. He reminds me of Vernon Davis, and while not a wide receiver, would act as a safety blanket and reliable target for Geno Smith.
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19. Miami Dolphins
OT/OG Zack Martin, Sr, Notre Dame
6'4, 308 lbs
Hometown: Indianapolis, IN
It is no secret that the Dolphins offensive line was in shambles, even before a bullying scandal cost Miami 2/5ths of it's starting line. Former GM Jeff Ireland decided to spend a ton of money to downgrade the linebacking unit, and ignore protection for Ryan Tannehill, who predictably was sacked a league high 58 times. The Dolphins need to spend free agent dollars and draft picks to attempt to shore up this position. Zack Martin is not the prototypical left tackle the Dolphins would like to draft, but those guys usually are not available this late. Martin is a versatile, all around lineman who could be a solid right tackle or Pro Bowl guard. The Dolphins have serious need at those positions as well.
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20. Arizona Cardinals
QB Derek Carr, Sr, Fresno State
6'3, 218 lbs
Hometown: Bakersfield, CA
2013 Stats: 453-659, 5082 yards, 50 TD, 8 INT
The Cardinals were the unlucky 10-6 team to miss out on the playoffs completely. Bruce Arians is quickly becoming one of the best coaches in the NFL, and this team could use this pick on an offensive tackle or pass rusher to help them now. However, I like the selection of Derek Carr here. He has problems with footwork and mechanics, and I do not see him as a top ten pick right now. You cannot ignore the stats, and he has a very strong arm. With the Cardinals he can sit for two or three years, learn from one of the best offensive minds in football, and take over for Carson Palmer in a few years. Arizona would probably like to select a quarterback of the future in the second or third round, but Carr is too good of a value to pass up here.
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21. Green Bay Packers
S Calvin Pryor, Jr, Louisville
6'2, 208 lbs
Hometown: Port Saint Joe, FL
2013 Stats: 75 tackles, 3 INT
As the case in recent years, the Packers defense was a liability once again in 2013. The secondary, in particular, played poorly. Morgan Burnett was a disaster after signing a nice contract extension, but Green Bay will give him a chance to bounce back. MD Jennings, a former undrafted free agent, was badly exposed all year. Calvin Pryor will be a monumental upgrade at safety, and help the defense as a whole. He tackles like a linebacker (75 stops on the year) and can make plays as well. He could easily surpass Ha Ha Clinton-Dix as the top safety in this class.
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22. Philadelphia Eagles
CB Darqueze Dennard, Sr, Michigan State
5'11, 197 lbs
Hometown: Dry Branch, GA
2013 Stats: 62 tackles, 4 INT
The Eagles had a nice bounce back season in 2013, but make no mistake, the roster still needs a pretty big talent upgrade, especially on defense. Free agent signings Cary Williams and Bradley Fletcher are stop gap solutions at best. Brandon Boykin has a nice future, and Darqueze Dennard would be a solid fit on the other side. Dennard does not have great size, and won't be able to contain the Dez Bryant's of the world, but neither can anyone else. Dennard has a ton of experience and good speed and play making ability. He is one of a handful of cornerbacks who should go off the board in the late first, early second round range.
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23. Kansas City Chiefs
DE/DT Ra'Shede Hageman, Sr, Minnesota
6'6, 311 lbs
Hometown: Minneapolis, MN
2013 Stats: 38 tackles, 2 sacks
Andy Reid loves drafting offensive and defensive lineman in the first round. With Tyson Jackson an impending free agent and no in house replacement available, he could very well go that direction again. Ra'Shede Hageman has a story that ESPN will eat up during the draft, and the talent and physique to be a very good defensive end/tackle hybrid. His production was hot and cold at Minnesota, but expect a playoff team in need of reinforcements along the line late in the first round to go after him. He could wind up a very good 3-4 end in this system.
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24. Cincinnati Bengals
OT Antonio Richardson, Jr, Tennessee
6'6, 327 lbs
Hometown: Nashville, TN
The Bengals are a pretty deep team, but since they hardly resign their own free agents, the drat is always important to plug holes. Anthony Collins had a solid season as Cincinnati's starting left tackle and may price himself out of the Bengals price range. Antonio Richardson has the look of a franchise left tackle. He is big, strong and athletic. If he was most consistent, he would be a top ten pick, but, like the rest of the Tennessee team, he struggled with consistency for much of 2013. He will need to be coached up, but the talent is there and he should be a mid to late first round pick based on upside.
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25. San Diego ChargersDE/OLB Dee Ford, Jr, Auburn
6'2, 240 lbs
Hometown: Odenville, AL
2013 Stats: 31 tackles, 10.5 sacks
The Chargers have used several first round picks on pass rushers, with little results. Larry English was a bust a long time ago, and the jury is still out on Melvin Ingram. Dee Ford is undersized, but a relentless pass rusher who should be able to come right in and provide production during passing downs, while he gains strength and experience.
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26. Cleveland Browns(from Indianapolis Colts)
WR Brandin Cooks, Jr, Oregon State
5'10, 186 lbs
Hometown: Stockton, CA
2013 Stats: 128 rec, 1730 TD, 16 INT
The Browns got their (hopeful) quarterback of the future with their first pick, and need to add talent for him here. Josh Gordon should continue to excel as the top wideout in new OC Kyle Shanahan's scheme, but is one more slip up away from possibly flushing his career down the toilet. Regardless, Cleveland needs to replace the ineffective Greg Little and certafiably insane Davone Bess. Brandin Cooks does not have elite size but his college numbers speak for themselves. No one was as productive as he was last year. Cooks could be a very solid weapon out of the slot, and be Shanahan's Santana Moss in Cleveland.
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27. New Orleans Saints
DE/OLB Kony Ealy, Jr, Missouri
6'5, 275 lbs
Hometown: New Madrid, MO
2013 Stats: 43 tackles, 9 sacks
Rob Ryan made a huge different for the Saints defense, as a new philosophy really improved that side of the ball. But the fact is, there is a serious lack of talent on defense. The Saints need someone who can rush the passer from the outside, and Kony Ealy has the potential to do that. He doesn't have a set position on defense, but could provide pass rushing skills from linebacker or the defensive line on obvious passing downs. He would be a nice part of the rotation for the Saints.
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28. Carolina Panthers
WR Odell Beckham, Jr, LSU
6'0, 187 lbs
Hometown: New Orleans, LA
2013 Stats: 59 rec, 1152 yards, 8 TD
LSU receivers have often flopped when reaching the NFL, but the Panthers will hope Odell Beckham can buck that trend and replace one of those aforementioned flops, Brandon LaFell. Beckham has very good speed and solid hands as well. He averaged almost 20 yards per reception for the Tigers. There are snaps to be had at wideout in Carolina with Steve Smith nearing the end of his career and the rest of the receivers unable to distinguish themselves.
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29. New England Patriots
DT Louis Nix, Sr, Notre Dame
6'3, 357 lbs
Hometown: Jacksonville, FL
2013 Stats: 27 tackles
A lot of draft experts have Louis Nix as a top ten pick. I just don't see it. GM's want their defensive lineman to rush the passer if they are going to draft them that high. Star Lotulelei fell last year, even though he should have a long career as a solid run defender. Nix is a mountain of a man but is already battling knee issues. Couple that with a complete inability to rush the passer, I have a hard time putting him that high. He could find a spot here in New England, however. He has been compared to Vince Wilfork and Bill Belichick might not be able to resist pairing those two mountains next to each other.
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30. San Francisco 49ers
CB Marcus Roberson, Jr, Florida
6'0, 195 lbs
Hometown: Fort Lauderdale, FL
2013 Stats: 9 tackles
Marcus Roberson could have been a top 15 pick, but injuries ruined his junior season. If he has shown those injuries are behind him, a late first round pick awaits. He has the look and skills to be a very solid overall cornerback, and the 49ers are deep enough to take a flyer on him late in the first round. The secondary is aging in San Francisco, and Roberson could play a big role right off the bat.
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31. Denver Broncos
5'10, 176 lbs
Hometown: Fairfield, CA
2013 Stats: 39 tackles, 2 INT
2013 Stats: 39 tackles, 2 INT
The Broncos defense was not quite as bad as it showed during the Super Bowl, but draft picks definitely need to be used on this side of the ball. Dominique Rodgers-Cromartie revitalized his career in Denver and should be resigned. Champ Bailey is nearing the end of his career and showed during the Super Bowl that he cannot handle slot receivers. Jason Verrett is too undersized to be drafted higher than this and might be relegated to slot duties himself, but in today's NFL, the third cornerback is basically a starter.
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32. Seattle Seahawks
OT Morgan Moses, Sr, Virginia
6'6, 335 lbs
Hometown: Richmond, VA
The Seahawks have the best roster from top to bottom in the NFL, but that does not mean they can't find a starter at this point in the draft. The offensive line has been a troublesome unit, especially on the right side. Morgan Moses would be regarded higher if he did not play for a terrible Virginia team. He has the size you look for in a tackle, and has plenty of experience. He could be an instant starter on the right side for Seattle.
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Round 2
33. Houston Texans - LB CJ Mosley, Sr, Alabama. Not the best fit, but by far the best player available. The top ten talent falls because he does not rush the passer, has had injury concerns and linebacker is simply the least important position on the field. Would be developed as a counterpart to Brian Cushing in the middle.
34. Washington Redskins - CB/S LaMarcus Joyner, Sr, Florida State. Undersized, but fearless. Has drawn Tyrann Mathieu comparisons. The Redskins have major issues all along the secondary, so Joyner could play a variety of roles.
35. Cleveland Browns - CB Bradley Roby, Jr, Ohio State. Running back is a logical choice here, but Kyle Shanahan turned late round draft pick Alfred Morris into a star and could try to do the same here. The Browns have nothing at cornerback other than Joe Haden. Roby has starting corner potential if he can be successfully coached up.
36. Oakland Raiders - CB Loucheiz Purifoy, Jr, Florida. The Raiders need to go best player available throughout this entire draft. Purifoy is a major work in progress at cornerback, but has Pro Bowl potential as a return man.
37. Atlanta Falcons - DE Scott Crichton, Jr, Oregon State. Crichton is undersized and not the most athletic, but has a non stop motor and will help the Falcons with rushing. The Falcons need major help on both offensive and defensive line.
38. Tampa Bay Buccaneers - WR Kelvin Benjamin, So, Florida State. Mike Williams regressed badly after signing a big contract, and there is little depth behind him and Vincent Jackson. Benjamin has some Jackson-like qualities and could be a red zone terror.
39. Jacksonville Jaguars - QB Jimmy Garoppolo, Sr, Eastern Illinois. Garoppolo has used the pre draft process to really make a name for himself, and looks like a solid second or third round prospect right now. Jacksonville could wait until next year to draft a signal caller, but GM's rarely look that far in advance.
40. Minnesota Vikings - LB Ryan Shazier, Jr, Ohio State. Shazier is too undersized to be a first round pick, but is quick and instinctive and should settle in nicely on the weak side for Minnesota.
41. Buffalo Bills - TE Jace Amaro, Jr, Texas Tech. Scott Chandler is a nice red zone target but he does not offer the big play ability Amaro does. If he can cut down on his drops, he has Pro Bowl potential.
42. Tennessee Titans - RB Tre Mason, Jr, Auburn. Chris Johnson's Tennessee career is all but over. Shonn Greene is a decent red zone back, so pairing him with a change of pace back like Mason would be ideal.
43. New York Giants - OT/OG David Yankey, Jr, Stanford. The Giants went offensive line with thier first pick and return to that well with Yankey, who has a ton of experience and will probably move inside to guard.
44. St. Louis Rams - CB Bashaud Breeland, Jr, Clemson. Breeland is a "Seahawks cornerback", with the size of a safety. The Rams have witnessed how well that has worked out for Seattle, and you know the NFL is a copycat league.
45. Detroit Lions - OT Seantrel Henderson, Sr, Miami. Henderson is a former top recruit who struggled plenty during his Hurricanes career, but should test very well during the pre draft workouts and looks like a solid second round pick. The Lions have issues all along their offensive line.
46. Pittsburgh Steelers - OT Jack Mewhort, Sr, Ohio State. Pittsburgh whiffed on the Mike Adams pick, and still need bodies at offensive tackle bad. Mewhort may be relegated to the right side, but has the ability to be a long time starter.
47. Dallas Cowboys - S Jimmie Ward, Northern Illinois. The Cowboys have serious issues at safety, along with every other position on defense. Ward is a fast riser who looks like a second round pick.
48. Baltimore Ravens - OG Gabe Jackson, Sr, Mississippi State. The Ravens have serious issues on offensive line and could use upgrades everywhere. Drafting the mauling run blocker Jackson is a good start.
49. New York Jets - WR Davante Adams, So, Fresno State. The Jets need to go offense offense offense. Adams had a flat out spectacular sophomore season as Derek Carr's top target. If he was faster, he would be a mid first round pick.
50. Miami Dolphins - RB Ka'Deem Carey, Jr, Arizona. Lamar Miller still could become a factor in Miami, but it was clear that the Dolphins lacked explosiveness on offense. The running back position has been devalued in drafts, but Carey has the look of a starting NFL running back.
51. Chicago Bears - DE/OLB Demarcus Lawrence, Sr, Boise State. Lawrence will probably be a better fit as a 3-4 outside linebacker, but the Bears are starved for someone who can get after the quarterback.
52. Arizona Cardinals - OLB Trent Murphy, Sr, Stanford. Murphy is not the most athletic linebacker, but is a pretty big steal here. He has good size and a non stop motor.
53. Green Bay Packers - TE Austin Seferian-Jenkins, Jr, Washington. Seferian-Jenkins was thought of as a future top ten pick, but a suspension and bad junior season knocked him down the board. If he can land in the right situation, he has Pro Bowl potential as both a receiver and blocker.
54. Philadelphia Eagles - OLB Kyle Van Noy, Sr, BYU. Van Noy did not have as good a senior season, but still profiles as a nice pass rusher who can play end or linebacker in passing downs. He is a good fit for Philadelphia's new 3-4.
55. Cincinnati Bengals - DT Aaron Donald, Sr, Pittsburgh. Donald had a very productive senior season and is an absolute steal here. He is undersized but very good at getting to the quarterback. The Bengals have had success finding defensive lineman in the second round or later.
56. San Francisco 49ers (from Kansas City Chiefs) - WR Jordan Matthews, Sr, Vanderbilt. Matthews is not a terribly athletic receiver, but no one is smarter or better prepared than Matthews. The bust potential is pretty low, and the 49ers have a need for more guys who can catch the ball.
57. San Diego Chargers - WR Allen Robinson, Sr, Penn State. The Chargers struck gold with Keenan Allen, injuries and ineffectiveness have ruined every other receiver on the roster. Robinson has nice size and good hands.
58. New Orleans Saints - DE/OLB Marcus Smith, Sr, Louisville. The Saints need to continue to add pass rushers to the defense. Smith had 15 sacks in 2013.
59. Indianapolis Colts - OG Xavier Su'a-Filo, Jr, UCLA. Part of the reason Trent Richardson struggled so much with the Colts was a lack of talent on the interior of the offensive line.
60. Carolina Panthers - OT Ja'Wuan James, Sr, Tennessee. The Panthers need someone to play on the right side of the line. Like Antonio Richardson, James is a talented tackle who struggled along with the rest of the Volunteers team.
61. San Francisco 49ers - WR Jarvis Landry, Jr, LSU. The 49ers go with best player available and add more reinforcements to the wide receiver group.
62. New England Patriots - TE Troy Niklas, Jr, Notre Dame. The Patriots are at their best with two talented tight ends. Niklas did not have a great junior season, but possesses great size and Notre Dame tight ends have fared well in the NFL in recent seasons.
63. Denver Broncos - WR Paul Richardson, Jr, Colorado. Eric Decker is a free agent this off season and Deymarius Thomas the next. Richardson is undersized but was very productive for a dreadful Colorado team. He could be groomed for a big role in 2015.
64. Seattle Seahawks - DT Dominique Easley, Jr, Florida. Easley would have easily been a first round pick if he had not suffered a devestating injury. The Seahawks are deep enough to draft him now and reap the rewards later.
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Round 3
65. Houston Texans - S Ed Reynolds, Sr, Stanford
66. Washington Redskins - DE/OLB Jackson Jeffcoat, Sr, Texas
67. Oakland Raiders - QB Zach Mettenberger, Sr, LSU
68. Atlanta Falcons - C Travis Swanson, Sr, Arkansas
69. New York Jets (from Tampa Bay Buccaneers) - OG Cyril Richardson, Sr, Baylor
70. Jacksonville Jaguars - DT Will Sutton, Sr, Arizona State
71. Cleveland Browns - RB Carlos Hyde, Sr, Ohio State
72. Minnesota Vikings - DE Chris Smith, Sr, Arkansas
73. Buffalo Bills - DE Kareem Martin, Sr, North Carolina
74. New York Giants - CB Kyle Fuller, Sr, Virginia Tech
75. St. Louis Rams - QB AJ McCarron, Sr, Alabama
76. Detroit Lions - S Deone Bucannon, Sr, Washington
77. San Francisco 49ers (from Tennessee Titans) - DT Kelcy Quarles, Sr, South Carolina
78. Baltimore Ravens - DE/OLB Trevor Reilly, Sr, Utah
79. Dallas Cowboys - DE George Uko, Jr, USC
80. New York Jets - WR Bruce Ellington, Jr, South Carolina
81. Miami Dolphins - DT Ego Ferguson, Jr, LSU
82. Chicago Bears - LB Shayne Skov, Sr, Stanford
83. Cleveland Browns (from Pittsburgh Steelers) - S Dion Bailey, Jr, USC
84. Arizona Cardinals - CB Victor Hampton, Jr, South Carolina
85. Green Bay Packers - DT DaQuan Jones, Sr, Penn State
86. Philadelphia Eagles - WR Martavis Bryant, Jr, Clemson
87. Kansas City Chiefs - OT James Hurst, Sr, North Carolina
88. Cincinnati Bengals - QB Tajh Boyd, Sr, Clemson
89. San Diego Chargers - CB Stanley Jean-Baptiste, Sr, Nebraska
90. Indianapolis Colts - CB Pierre Desir, Lindenwood
91. New Orleans Saints - CB Terrance Mitchell, Jr, Oregon
92. Carolina Panthers - OG Brandon Thomas, Sr, Clemson
93. New England Patriots - C Marcus Martin, Jr, USC
94. San Francisco 49ers - DT Anthony Johnson, Jr, LSU
95. Denver Broncos - DE Aaron Lynch, So, South Florida
96. Minnesota Vikings (from Seattle Seahawks) - DE/OLB Adrian Hubbard, Jr, Alabama
37. Atlanta Falcons - DE Scott Crichton, Jr, Oregon State. Crichton is undersized and not the most athletic, but has a non stop motor and will help the Falcons with rushing. The Falcons need major help on both offensive and defensive line.
38. Tampa Bay Buccaneers - WR Kelvin Benjamin, So, Florida State. Mike Williams regressed badly after signing a big contract, and there is little depth behind him and Vincent Jackson. Benjamin has some Jackson-like qualities and could be a red zone terror.
39. Jacksonville Jaguars - QB Jimmy Garoppolo, Sr, Eastern Illinois. Garoppolo has used the pre draft process to really make a name for himself, and looks like a solid second or third round prospect right now. Jacksonville could wait until next year to draft a signal caller, but GM's rarely look that far in advance.
40. Minnesota Vikings - LB Ryan Shazier, Jr, Ohio State. Shazier is too undersized to be a first round pick, but is quick and instinctive and should settle in nicely on the weak side for Minnesota.
41. Buffalo Bills - TE Jace Amaro, Jr, Texas Tech. Scott Chandler is a nice red zone target but he does not offer the big play ability Amaro does. If he can cut down on his drops, he has Pro Bowl potential.
42. Tennessee Titans - RB Tre Mason, Jr, Auburn. Chris Johnson's Tennessee career is all but over. Shonn Greene is a decent red zone back, so pairing him with a change of pace back like Mason would be ideal.
43. New York Giants - OT/OG David Yankey, Jr, Stanford. The Giants went offensive line with thier first pick and return to that well with Yankey, who has a ton of experience and will probably move inside to guard.
44. St. Louis Rams - CB Bashaud Breeland, Jr, Clemson. Breeland is a "Seahawks cornerback", with the size of a safety. The Rams have witnessed how well that has worked out for Seattle, and you know the NFL is a copycat league.
45. Detroit Lions - OT Seantrel Henderson, Sr, Miami. Henderson is a former top recruit who struggled plenty during his Hurricanes career, but should test very well during the pre draft workouts and looks like a solid second round pick. The Lions have issues all along their offensive line.
46. Pittsburgh Steelers - OT Jack Mewhort, Sr, Ohio State. Pittsburgh whiffed on the Mike Adams pick, and still need bodies at offensive tackle bad. Mewhort may be relegated to the right side, but has the ability to be a long time starter.
47. Dallas Cowboys - S Jimmie Ward, Northern Illinois. The Cowboys have serious issues at safety, along with every other position on defense. Ward is a fast riser who looks like a second round pick.
48. Baltimore Ravens - OG Gabe Jackson, Sr, Mississippi State. The Ravens have serious issues on offensive line and could use upgrades everywhere. Drafting the mauling run blocker Jackson is a good start.
49. New York Jets - WR Davante Adams, So, Fresno State. The Jets need to go offense offense offense. Adams had a flat out spectacular sophomore season as Derek Carr's top target. If he was faster, he would be a mid first round pick.
50. Miami Dolphins - RB Ka'Deem Carey, Jr, Arizona. Lamar Miller still could become a factor in Miami, but it was clear that the Dolphins lacked explosiveness on offense. The running back position has been devalued in drafts, but Carey has the look of a starting NFL running back.
51. Chicago Bears - DE/OLB Demarcus Lawrence, Sr, Boise State. Lawrence will probably be a better fit as a 3-4 outside linebacker, but the Bears are starved for someone who can get after the quarterback.
52. Arizona Cardinals - OLB Trent Murphy, Sr, Stanford. Murphy is not the most athletic linebacker, but is a pretty big steal here. He has good size and a non stop motor.
53. Green Bay Packers - TE Austin Seferian-Jenkins, Jr, Washington. Seferian-Jenkins was thought of as a future top ten pick, but a suspension and bad junior season knocked him down the board. If he can land in the right situation, he has Pro Bowl potential as both a receiver and blocker.
54. Philadelphia Eagles - OLB Kyle Van Noy, Sr, BYU. Van Noy did not have as good a senior season, but still profiles as a nice pass rusher who can play end or linebacker in passing downs. He is a good fit for Philadelphia's new 3-4.
55. Cincinnati Bengals - DT Aaron Donald, Sr, Pittsburgh. Donald had a very productive senior season and is an absolute steal here. He is undersized but very good at getting to the quarterback. The Bengals have had success finding defensive lineman in the second round or later.
56. San Francisco 49ers (from Kansas City Chiefs) - WR Jordan Matthews, Sr, Vanderbilt. Matthews is not a terribly athletic receiver, but no one is smarter or better prepared than Matthews. The bust potential is pretty low, and the 49ers have a need for more guys who can catch the ball.
57. San Diego Chargers - WR Allen Robinson, Sr, Penn State. The Chargers struck gold with Keenan Allen, injuries and ineffectiveness have ruined every other receiver on the roster. Robinson has nice size and good hands.
58. New Orleans Saints - DE/OLB Marcus Smith, Sr, Louisville. The Saints need to continue to add pass rushers to the defense. Smith had 15 sacks in 2013.
59. Indianapolis Colts - OG Xavier Su'a-Filo, Jr, UCLA. Part of the reason Trent Richardson struggled so much with the Colts was a lack of talent on the interior of the offensive line.
60. Carolina Panthers - OT Ja'Wuan James, Sr, Tennessee. The Panthers need someone to play on the right side of the line. Like Antonio Richardson, James is a talented tackle who struggled along with the rest of the Volunteers team.
61. San Francisco 49ers - WR Jarvis Landry, Jr, LSU. The 49ers go with best player available and add more reinforcements to the wide receiver group.
62. New England Patriots - TE Troy Niklas, Jr, Notre Dame. The Patriots are at their best with two talented tight ends. Niklas did not have a great junior season, but possesses great size and Notre Dame tight ends have fared well in the NFL in recent seasons.
63. Denver Broncos - WR Paul Richardson, Jr, Colorado. Eric Decker is a free agent this off season and Deymarius Thomas the next. Richardson is undersized but was very productive for a dreadful Colorado team. He could be groomed for a big role in 2015.
64. Seattle Seahawks - DT Dominique Easley, Jr, Florida. Easley would have easily been a first round pick if he had not suffered a devestating injury. The Seahawks are deep enough to draft him now and reap the rewards later.
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Round 3
65. Houston Texans - S Ed Reynolds, Sr, Stanford
66. Washington Redskins - DE/OLB Jackson Jeffcoat, Sr, Texas
67. Oakland Raiders - QB Zach Mettenberger, Sr, LSU
68. Atlanta Falcons - C Travis Swanson, Sr, Arkansas
69. New York Jets (from Tampa Bay Buccaneers) - OG Cyril Richardson, Sr, Baylor
70. Jacksonville Jaguars - DT Will Sutton, Sr, Arizona State
71. Cleveland Browns - RB Carlos Hyde, Sr, Ohio State
72. Minnesota Vikings - DE Chris Smith, Sr, Arkansas
73. Buffalo Bills - DE Kareem Martin, Sr, North Carolina
74. New York Giants - CB Kyle Fuller, Sr, Virginia Tech
75. St. Louis Rams - QB AJ McCarron, Sr, Alabama
76. Detroit Lions - S Deone Bucannon, Sr, Washington
77. San Francisco 49ers (from Tennessee Titans) - DT Kelcy Quarles, Sr, South Carolina
78. Baltimore Ravens - DE/OLB Trevor Reilly, Sr, Utah
79. Dallas Cowboys - DE George Uko, Jr, USC
80. New York Jets - WR Bruce Ellington, Jr, South Carolina
81. Miami Dolphins - DT Ego Ferguson, Jr, LSU
82. Chicago Bears - LB Shayne Skov, Sr, Stanford
83. Cleveland Browns (from Pittsburgh Steelers) - S Dion Bailey, Jr, USC
84. Arizona Cardinals - CB Victor Hampton, Jr, South Carolina
85. Green Bay Packers - DT DaQuan Jones, Sr, Penn State
86. Philadelphia Eagles - WR Martavis Bryant, Jr, Clemson
87. Kansas City Chiefs - OT James Hurst, Sr, North Carolina
88. Cincinnati Bengals - QB Tajh Boyd, Sr, Clemson
89. San Diego Chargers - CB Stanley Jean-Baptiste, Sr, Nebraska
90. Indianapolis Colts - CB Pierre Desir, Lindenwood
91. New Orleans Saints - CB Terrance Mitchell, Jr, Oregon
92. Carolina Panthers - OG Brandon Thomas, Sr, Clemson
93. New England Patriots - C Marcus Martin, Jr, USC
94. San Francisco 49ers - DT Anthony Johnson, Jr, LSU
95. Denver Broncos - DE Aaron Lynch, So, South Florida
96. Minnesota Vikings (from Seattle Seahawks) - DE/OLB Adrian Hubbard, Jr, Alabama
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