1. Carolina Panthers: Cam Newton QB, Auburn
-For the past 2 months I have been going with Blaine Gabbert at this spot. Now with all the reports and clips coming out, it appears Newton will be the choice. Newton has all the physical tools to be a superstar in this league. The questions remain though with Newton. Can he be a leader? Can he be an NFL QB and take snaps under center. I for one am skeptical, but if all goes well and Newton develops the Panthers will have a star in their hands
2. Denver Broncos: Marcell Dareus, DT Alabama
-John Fox will want a big defensive guy when he arrives in Denver Marcell Dareus is that guy .Dareus has really improved his stock since the Combine and is a lock for the No.2 pick. With Dareus the Broncos will get the presence they need on defense that will make defensive coordinators cringe in the future. Dareus is a great pick and will be a great defensive player in this league.
3. Buffalo Bills: Von Miller, OLB Texas A&M
-IF in some miracle Newton falls Buffalo will likely send in the quickest time ever for the NFL Draft. Newton is the guy they want and he always has been, but with Newton gone I expect Buffalo to take Von Miller. Von Miller can be the same type of player Clay Matthews is for the Green Bay Packers. Miller is a tremendous pass rusher who will be a force off the edge. He is also good in coverage but average and defending the rush. He will be an impact player his first year and could make the Pro Bowl as a rookie.
4.) Cincinnati Bengals: A.J Green, WR Georgia
-Another team that would love to get Cam Newton, but should focus more on getting weapons for a future QB. The best selection will be A.J Green an electrifying skilled WR who has drawn comparisons to Larry Fitzgerald. With the departure of Terrell Owens and possibly Chad OchoCinco the Bengals will need that true WR, and Green will provide that. A QB target is likely in Round 2 as they begin to rebuild their team.
5.) Arizona Cardinals: Patrick Peterson, CB LSU
-If Von Miller is gone, I think the Cardinals take the most talented player of the draft in Peterson. He can come in and be a great CB and also a talented return man. While they do have Dominique Rodgers-Cromartie they need someone else. Peterson can come in and have an immediate impact. I have seen a lot of people putting Blaine Gabbert here but with an established regime in Whisenhunt, taking a young QB is not a smart move. Besides Arizona will likely look to go after Kevin Kolb (Larry Fitzgerald’s desire) or Donovan McNabb
6.) Cleveland Browns: Robert Quinn DE/OLB, North Carolina
-The Browns have several needs all across the board. If they get a chance to trade down they will, but assuming that doesn’t happen they will be looking to get a player who can translate to the 3-4. Quinn is a tireless worker who likely would be going in the Top 5 if not for his suspension all year. He has the talent you look for in an OLB, and could really help Cleveland make a smooth transition to being a better 3-4 defense. If Peterson falls he could be targeted because of their need at CB.
7.) San Francisco 49ers: Blaine Gabbert, QB Missouri
-The Niners have needs on the defensive side of the ball and would love to get Robert Quinn or Patrick Peterson. With both of those guys off the board I think Harbaugh gets his QB in Gabbert. In my opinion Gabbert is the most NFL ready QB in the draft. His accuracy issues were inflated because of frequent drops. Gabbert is a cleaner QB who is a proven leader and is a great learner. He will likely be the guy if Peterson and Quinn are off the board.
8.) Tennessee Titans: Nick Fairley, DT Auburn
-Remember when Albert Haynesworth actually tried and made the Titans defense a tough matchup. My have things changed. Haynesworth is an overpaid couch potato and the Titans. The Titans may finally have their man in Nick Fairley a big DT who can be a force up the middle and has a lot of talent. After an unimpressive performance at the Combine his stock fell, but he got the boost he needed with an improved performance at his Pro Day. The Titans could target a wide receiver but with Green off the board, I think they hold off and take Fairley, despite his maturity issues.
9.) Dallas Cowboys: Prince Amukamara, CB Nebraska
-Jerry Jones never takes an OL in the 1st round, EVER. Tyron Smith may be the first exception of the rule, but I doubt it. Jerry will look to get a true shutdown corner in Amukamara who may not have the overall talent Peterson has, he does have better man to man coverage skills and can develop into a Darrele Revis type of CB. Smith is a talented player but Jerry will stick with his policy and take the Prince.
10.) Washington Redskins: Julio Jones, WR Alaba
-The Redskins are such an unpredictable team. I have talked to several who think they may reach and take Jake Locker, I can’t see that happening. They could try and target Kolb (maybe this Philly QB will work) or they could try and find someone later. Whatever they decide to do, they will need to find someone for that QB to throw to. Julio Jones blew away at the Combine even with an injury. He is a good value at No.10 and could go as high as No.4. With the pick look for Washington to target a QB in the 2nd round
11.) Houston Texans: Cameron Jordan, DE California
-The Texans defense is something you would see from a college team. They have 2 good players but the rest make the Panthers offense look like stars. They have need at the DL, OLB and CB. Unfortunately the top 2 OLB (Miller, Quinn) and CB’s (Peterson, Amukamara) are all gone. So Wade Phillips will have to take a DE. Jordan has really risen on draft boards and can serve as an impact guy for them to get pressure on the QB. It will only be a small piece but it will be an improvement and someone to pair with Mario Williams.
12.) Minnesota Vikings: Tyron Smith, OT USC
-It is the 2nd scenario the Vikings wanted while Amukamara is off the board Smith is still available. After a strong Pro Day his stock has only improved and he will be the Vikings new stud LT. He still is a bit underdeveloped but once he develops he will be a true blindside protector. Smith can move to LT and allow Bryant Mckinnie to move to the easier RT position. It is a move that will help the Vikings, help Adrian Peterson and give their future QB some good protection.
13.) Detroit Lions: Aldon Smith, DE/OLB Missouri
-Detroit would jump at the chance to draft Amukamara but he is gone, so they will have to go with a DE. Kyle Vanden Bosch is old and they need to find his replacement, Aldon Smith can be that guy. He has the potential to be a 10+ sacks per season guy. Putting him with Suh could make the ultimate scenario and scare some offensive lineman. With guys like Cutler and Aaron Rodgers and facing them twice a season they need to find a way to get pressure and Smith will do exactly that.
14.) St. Louis Rams: Cory Liuget, DT Illinois
-The Rams made the right pick taking Sam Bradford going from No.1 to No.14 is a big improvement, but they are still far away from being competitors outside of the NFC West. Reports are surfacing that Liuget is the guy they want, and who they are going to get. Liuget is a tough hardnosed player with a strong motor. Falls a little because of his height, but can be a good defensive lineman in the league and help make the Rams better on defense.
15.) Miami Dolphins: Mark Ingram, RB Alabama
-The Dolphins are an interesting team to pick for they have several needs but many of those are not worth reaching for. One need they have is at RB. With Ronnie Brown wearing down and Ricky Williams expected retirement, RB will be a need. Ingram is a big back who has speed in the first 10 yards. He can break tackles and can also catch out of the backfield. He may fall because of knee issues but I think Miami takes him.
16.) Jacksonville Jaguars: Ryan Kerrigan, DE Purdue
-The Jaguars need help on the defensive side of the ball. They need someone who can get after the QB and create some pressure. Kerrigan is the perfect fit a tireless worker, who is great off the edge. His love for the game is unquestioned and he is willing to do whatever it takes to get better. He is a good pick now and will only get better later on.
17.) New England Patriots: Da’Quan Bowers, DE Clemson
-Bowers is really beginning to fall after disappointing workouts and concerns over his knee and attitude. His work ethic is also a big question mark and is a big risk to take. That said the Patriots can’t pass on him. They need a pass rushing DE, and Bowers is just that. If he can stay healthy and if New England can get him motivated, this will be a steal.
18.) San Diego Chargers: J.J Watt, DE Wisconsin
The Chargers have needs at OT and DE. A.J Smith has a track record of not taking an OL in the 1st round, and I expect him to follow that. J.J Watt is a young DE who although is inexperienced has the tools to be great. If he develops he can be a great player off the edge with his speed and agility. He will definitely make the Chargers a legitimate defense again.
19.) New York Giants: Anthony Costonzo, Boston College
-After seeing Eli Manning gets hit so much, it is evident that the Giants need an OT. Anthony Costonzo can be their future LT and he has Boston College ties which Coughlin will like. He was dominant at the Combine showing his athleticism and his blocking skills. He is a great pick for the Giants and can help protect Eli.
20.) Tampa Bay Buccaneers: Justin Houston DE/OLB, Georgia
The Buccaneers were a big surprise last year. Their offense filled with young guys broke onto the scene and nearly led the team to the playoffs. Unfortunately they aren’t ready on defense yet. Having a big need at DE, Justin Houston is the perfect fit. He is an athletic player who can come around the corner and get to the QB or if needed cover the TE. He is a perfect fit for what Raheem Morris is building.
21.) Kansas City Chiefs: Gabe Carimi, OT Wisconsin
21.) Kansas City Chiefs: Gabe Carimi, OT Wisconsin
-The Chiefs have needs at OT, DT, and WR. All could be picked with their 1st pick. However I think Pioli is leaning towards taking an OT. Matt Cassell is a good QB but he needs to be given time to throw to Bowe or to give it to Charles. Carimi can step right in and serve as a protector for Cassell and open up more running lanes for JC. Look for Kansas City to go WR in Round 2.
22.) Indianapolis Colts: Derek Sherrod, OT Mississippi State
-Peyton Manning is getting old and the hits he is taking are not making him any younger. What once used to be a strong OL is now a big weakness. Sherrod is a big guy who can give Manning more time to find his open receivers, and will finally help the Colts rebound and probably add a year on Manning’s career
23.) Philadelphia Eagles: Jimmy Smith, CB Colorado
-It was evident in the playoffs that Philly needs big time help at OT and CB. With the Top 4 OT’s on the board I think Andy Reid will want to go with Jimmy Smith. Jimmy Smith has character issues coming into the draft, but so did Michael Oher. Philly will definitely do their homework but Smith is a NFL ready corner who could be paired with Asante to make a good combo. It is a good value pick for the Eagles even with the character concerns.
24.) New Orleans Saints: Brooks Reed, OLB Arizona
-is Brooks Reed the next Clay Matthews. An energizer bunny, who gives it his all on every play, has the long blonde hair and is scary for QB’s. Well New Orleans hopes he can be something like that. They need the big time pass rusher and reed could turn into that. His stock has really risen after his season and I think he is a good pick for the Saints
25.) Seattle Seahawks: Mike Pouncey OG, Florida
-The Seahawks could take hometown favorite Jake Locker here, but he doesn’t fit their scheme. He isn’t the faster accurate QB they need in a West Coast offense and they could always get a QB in Round 2 or 3 to develop. Matt Hasselbeck is not the answer and he is old but improving the OL will help him now and protect the evident QB of the future. Pouncey is not as good as his brother but he is still a great player, and quality guards are always important to have.
26.) Baltimore Ravens: Cameron Heyward, DE Ohio State
- From all reports it sounds like if Heyward is available at 26 Baltimore will not hesitate to take him. He appeared to be a Top 15 guy to start the season but fell because of inconsistency. He still has a lot of talent and would fill a big need for the Ravens. He can play DE and help them defending the run or rushing the pass. Another addition to this defense makes it even scarier.
27.) Atlanta Falcons: Torrey Smith, WR Maryland
-I have seen mock drafts giving them Smith, Brooks Reed, Mike Pouncey, Mark Ingram and everything in between. I think they give Matt Ryan another weapon to play with. Tony Gonzalez said he may retire if the lockout continues, and that leaves the Falcons with only Roddy White who will get double teamed a lot next season. Smith is a great player who also has a great work ethic. A perfect fit for a good Atlanta team.
28.) New England Patriots: Nate Solder, OT Colorado
After taking Da’Quan Bowers at 17 I expect the Patriots to either trade down or take an OT. Since I don’t have any trades going on they get an OT. If Matt Light leaves they will definitely need one. Solder is a good player who can help protect Brady. He would be a great fit and a great teammate for the Patriots in their pursuit for the Trophy.
29.) Chicago Bears: Aaron Williams, CB/S Texas
-With the best OT off the board Jay Cutler will have to wait a little longer to get some help. So instead the Bears decide to help their secondary. Aaron Williams is young but showed at the Combine he has the tools you look for in a Corner. He would be a good fit in Lovie Smiths system and could help protect against guys like Percy Harvin, Greg Jennings, and Calvin Johnson.
30.) New York Jets: Muhammad Wilkerson, DT/DE Temple
-Defense is the key for the Jets and why not add to it with more depth. Wilkerson can play both DE and DT which serves a big help. Shaun Ellis was big in the playoffs but at the age of 34 his career is winding down. Even if he is resigned his replacement will need to be found and Wilkerson can be that guy.
31.) Pittsburgh Steelers: Benjamin Ijalana OG, Villanova
-Ijalana seems like a reach here but his stock is rising fast after a good pro day. He is a good Guard who can help the run and protect the QB. After a disappointing loss in the Super Bowl and being dominated up front, it is obvious the Steelers need someone to help Pouncey up front. If Aaron Williams is still available he could be the pick.
32.) Green Bay Packers: Akeem Ayers OLB, UCLA
-After winning the Super Bowl with 16 players on IR the Packers have no glaring needs with so many players returning. DE could be the pick but there are none worth reaching for at this point. Randall Cobb is another option especially since they need help in the return game and James Jones may leave. However I think they look to take an OLB to help take some pressure off Clay Matthews. While Ayers isn’t a great pass rusher or run defender he is very athletic. He is agile and has long arms and can also create turnovers. Having him learn from Clay Matthews could make him into a very good OLB and make the Green Bay Packers LB core a very scary group
Round 2
33 (TRADE) Seattle Seahawks: Andy Dalton
34 Bills: Colin Kaepernick
35 Bengals: Christian Ponder
36 Broncos: Bruce Carter
37 Browns: Randall Cobb
38 Cardinals: Kyle Rudolph
39 Titans: Ryan Mallet
40 Cowboys: Adrian Clayborn
41 Redskins: Jake Locker
42 Texans: Stephen Paea
43 Vikings: Jon Baldwin
44 Lions: Brandon Harris
45 49ers: Jabaal Sheard
46 Broncos: Ryan Williams
47 Rams: Titus Young
48 Raiders: Stefen Wisniewski
49 Jaguars: Rahim Moore
50 Chargers: Danny Watkins
51 Buccaneers Allen Bailey
52 Giants: Mike Leshoure
53 Colts: Leondard Hankerson
54 Eagles: Davon House
55 Chiefs: Jerrel Jernigan
56 Saints: Rodney Hudson
57 (TRADE) Patriots: Will Rackley
58 Ravens: Martez Wilson
59 Falcons: Ras-I Dowling
60 Patriots: Chris Carter
61 Chargers: Curtis Brown
62 Bears: James Carpenter
63: Steelers Orlando Franklin
64 Packers: Christian Ballard
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