2012 NFL Mock Draft Weekly Update #10
After Stanford quarterback Andrew Luck, many believe USC offensive tackle Matt Kalil is the best player available. Who falls flat for Matt in this weeks 2012 NFL Mock Draft
This will be the final weekly update where preseason predictions are used as tiebreakers for the draft.
To interact with me on draft picks or to post your take on a pick you like or dislike in the comments page. You can also reach me at [email protected].
Round 1
1. Indianapolis Colts 0-10 Andrew Luck Quarterback Stanford Junior Redshirt Due to the Miami Dolphins win Sunday the Miami Dolphins are now 1-7 with the Colts falling to 0-9 as the NFL’s only winless team. There are 2 scenarios that I think will occur assuming things hold up with the Colts getting the top pick.
The Colts lost on Sunday at home to the Jacksonville Jaguars falling to 0-10 heading into their bye week as both 1-7 Miami and St. Louis won boosting the Rams and Dolphins records to 2-7.
Barring a miracle and by miracle I mean Peyton Manning returning and helping the Colts win a couple of games, its safe to say that the Colts will have the first pick in 2012. There are 2 scenarios that I think will occur assuming things hold up with the Colts getting the top pick.
A) The Colts will draft Stanford’s Andrew Luck and release Manning on good mutual terms with Manning knowing that Luck should play right away and that Peyton Manning should go elsewhere. The Colts could also trade the pick to the highest bidder.
Washington will try to sign or trade for Peyton Manning knowing Dan Snyder’s habit of pursuing big name free agents. This will be similar to Brett Favre going to the Jets assuming the Colts and Manning part ways.
Peyton only plays Eli once every 4 years. I love the idea of Manning on the Redskins because we’d get to see Peyton face Eli twice a year rather than once every 4 years. I hate the Redskins as a fan, but I love Peyton playing for the Redskins from a business standpoint because it will generate such huge ratings for the league.
B) If the Colts deal this pick and keep Peyton Manning then the Cleveland Browns will be the frontrunner to land Andrew Luck. Andrew Luck’s dad Oliver Luck played high school football in Cleveland.
The Browns have the King’s Ransom of picks that the Colts would demand for Luck. Cleveland could offer both of their 2012 first rounders, a 2013 first rounder, a 2012 2nd rounder, and a 2013 2nd rounder or Colt McCoy as a successor to Peyton Manning down the road.
Adam Schefter stated on Sunday NFL Countdown that the team trading for Luck would have to offer 3 1st round picks and 2 2nd round picks for Luck. The only teams with the luxury of executing this trade are the Cleveland Browns, the Cincinnati Bengals, and the New England Patriots. These 3 teams have 2 2012 first round picks and a 3rd 2013 first round pick that they could use if they wanted to deal the pick to move up.
Cincinnati has Andy Dalton and New England probably would not give up on Ryan Mallett after one year or draft a quarterback of Luck’s caliber to sit behind Brady for 3 years. Luck will have some leverage if a team deals the pick and multiple teams want him. By process of elimination this means that the Cleveland Browns would be the only team who would have the ammunition trade up for Andrew Luck.
I realize the Denver Broncos may be another team that tries to trade up for Luck. I don’t think Polian will deal Andrew Luck to Denver though because the Broncos screwed the Colts over 30 years ago when the Baltimore Colts traded the #1 pick to Denver when they selected Stanford quarterback John Elway. Plus the Broncos do not have the ammunition that Cleveland has draft pick wise to trade for Andrew Luck. The only remote way Denver would get Luck is if they dealt their entire crapshoot of 2012 draft picks to Indianapolis. Kind of like how Mike Ditka threw his draft for Ricky Williams by giving Dan Snyder and the Washington Redskins a highway robbery of draft picks.
There were 2 once in a generation quarterback prospects prior to Andrew Luck. Those signal callers were John Elway and Peyton Manning.
The Colts traded Elway hoping for a King’s Ransom in return because Elway did not want to play for the Colts. That didn’t work out and the Baltimore Colts ended up relocating to Indianapolis. This may have influenced the original Cleveland Browns to relocate becoming the Baltimore Ravens.
Peyton Manning went #1 overall 15 years later in 1998. Manning has been the face of the Colts franchise ever since.
The Colts will draft Luck #1 overall if they get the top pick. There are 2 questions if the Colts take Luck #1 overall. Not questions about Luck, but rather questions about whether the Colts keep him.
A) Will the Colts keep Luck as a successor to Manning?
B) Will the Colts trade Luck like they did with another Stanford quarterback 30 years ago when the Indianapolis Colts were the Baltimore Colts?
Colts fans ask yourself those questions. Reflect on those thoughts and then generate your conclusion on what the Colts will do if they get the chance to draft Luck with the top pick.
Rumor has it that Colts owner Jim Isray has hinted that he likes Luck and would consider taking him with the top pick. Their are teams who send smokescreens and teams who reveal their draft plans to the general public.
The Colts wanted a left tackle in 2011 and revealed their draft plan to the public so I am opted to believe that the Colts are going to take Luck if they get the top pick in 2012.
The Colts want to have a quarterback in place for when Manning leaves. I could see Manning staying or going, but right now I’m inclined to believe that the latter occurs if the Colts land the top pick because Andrew Luck is such a coveted quarterback prospect.
Since I already told you I see Luck on the Browns if the Colts get the top pick or Manning on the Redskins, I’ve already addressed Washington’s need at quarterback by giving them Peyton Manning via free agency because I really do not see the Colts trading Andrew Luck.
Luck has already stated that he is leaving Stanford after this season. Its not a matter of who the #1 pick is. Its only a matter of who selects the Stanford signal caller Andrew Luck at the end of the day.
Manning stated that he would have no problem with the Colts drafting Luck with the top pick. This pick appears to be all, but a lock barring a miracle in which Manning returns to the lineup.
2. Carolina Panthers 2-7 Quinton Coples 3-4 Right Outside Linebacker North Carolina Senior I had Washington, Cincinnati, Jacksonville, Denver, Arizona, and Carolina as the bottom 6 in my preseason mock in that order. Washington is 3-6, Cincinnati is 6-3, Jacksonville is 3-6, Denver is 4-5, and Arizona is 3-6 so that leaves Carolina picking 2nd in this weeks mock draft.
Rivera ran a 3-4 defense in San Diego when he was the Chargers defensive coordinator. Rivera wants to run a 3-4 defense. This makes sense because Carolina would have 2 4-3/3-4 middle linebackers with Jon Beason and Dan Conner who are both capable of starting. Why keep one of your best defenders on the bench when you can play both in a 3-4 scheme? Simone Fua one of the 2 rookie defensive tackles is a better fit for the 3-4 as he played nose tackle at Stanford. Terrell McClain could play 3-4 left end in a 5 technique role against right guards and right tackles with his 6 foot 2 297 pound frame. This would leave 2 3-4 outside linebackers, and a 3-4 right end as Carolina’s main needs for a 3-4 scheme. Carolina would also need a cornerback and a wide receiver for the 2012 NFL Draft.
Coples can be used as a 4-3 defensive end, 4-3 defensive tackle, 3-4 end, and a 3-4 outside linebacker. Coples has the versatility to translate to Ron Rivera’s 3-4 scheme. Coples can be a pass rusher or a run stuffer.
Carolina could also draft left tackle Matt Kalil. Pro Bowl center Ryan Kalil of the Carolina Panthers is Matt Kalil’s older brother. Kalil can play practically anywhere on the offensive line. Kalil is capable of playing left tackle, left guard, center, right guard, or right tackle. Maybe the Panthers should consider putting the Kalil brothers on the same offensive line. After all, Matt Kalil is considered the best player in the 2012 NFL Draft after Andrew Luck.
The problem with adding Kalil to Carolina is that he would play left tackle right away rather because the Panthers have a lot of money tied up with Jordan Gross at left tackle. Teams do not spend top 5 picks on an offensive lineman unless they want that lineman to play left tackle.
Additional options for Carolina include Oklahoma State receiver Justin Blackmon and LSU corner Morris Claiborne. Dan Conner’s contract at 3-4 middle linebacker is up in 2012. The Panthers are already paying Jon Beason a ton of money. I could see Carolina parting ways with Conner hoping to draft an inside linebacker for the 3-4. Luke Kuechly is the best 3-4 middle linebacker available at this point. The problem is Kuechly is a major reach here plus Carolina could get Donta Hightower with their 2nd round pick if he slides out of the first round.
When John Fox brought his 4-3 defense to Carolina he drafted a 4-3 sack artist from North Carolina in Julius Peppers. Coples can be just as talented plus Coples has the versatility to play in a 3-4 scheme which is why I think he’s a great fit for Carolina.
The Panthers pick was a tough pick to decide here. Comment on who you think the Panthers take 2nd if they pick 2nd overall in 2012 I want to hear your thoughts because I believe all the players I mentioned could be possibilities for the Panthers. I doubt the Panthers pick 2nd. I just want to hear people’s thoughts on what Carolina does if they pick 2nd.
3. Minnesota Vikings 2-7 Matt Kalil Left Tackle USC Junior Redshirt The Vikings need a left tackle. The Vikings will take Matt Kalil with this pick. Kalil would be a much needed upgrade over Charlie Johnson at left tackle.
4. Miami Dolphins 2-7 Matt Barkley Quarterback USC Junior Matt Moore has proven to be a serviceable backup. He’s not capable of starting long term though. Matt Barkley has the ability to beat out Moore for a starting job as a rookie plus Miami needs a quarterback here.
5. St. Louis Rams 2-7 Morris Claiborne Cornerback LSU Junior Morris Claiborne is the best player available here. The Rams really need a #1 field cornerback who excels in coverage. That is what Claiborne provides. Claiborne’s former LSU teammate Patrick Peterson also went 5th overall.
Oklahoma State receiver Justin Blackmon is the other option. The Rams have more invested at wide receiver than cornerback though. That could be the X factor when determining whether to select Blackmon or Claiborne.
Teams usually take financial aspects into account when teams end up with a top 5 pick. Looking at the Rams financial aspect you would think they would lean towards a cornerback here.
6. Washington Redskins 3-6 Luke Kuechly 3-4 Middle Linebacker Boston College Junior I think Washington will sign Peyton Manning. If Washington fails to sign Peyton Manning then Robert Griffin III could be an option here assuming he decides to come out and declare. I could also see Landry Jones in the running here. Washington could opt for other backup quarterbacks like Matt Flynn, Josh Johnson, John Skelton, or Matt Leinart if they want to take the best player available here.
Kuechly has 150 total tackles in 2011. Kuechly can be used in a 4-3 or a 3-4. Kuechly is a 3-4 middle linebacker and can play WILL, MIKE, or SAM in a 4-3. Kuechly is one of the more complete linebackers in this draft and he would make a great long term replacement for London Fletcher. Kuechly has recorded 100 or more tackles in all three of his seasons at Boston College.
Fletcher is 36 and turns 37 in May. Fletcher is in the final year of his contract so this may be his final year. Just imagine how scary the Redskins linebacking core would be with Brian Orakpo, Luke Kuechly, Rocky McKintosh, and Ryan Kerrigan in a 3-4 defense. This would be one of the youngest and most effective linebacking cores in the NFL.
Washington would be an instant contender with Peyton Manning at quarterback, the offensive line maturing at the right time, and Washington’s linebackers in 2012.
7. Jacksonville Jaguars 3-6 Justin Blackmon Wide Receiver Oklahoma State Junior Redshirt People in Jacksonville are beginning to blame Blaine Gabbert’s offensive line for all the hits he takes. Gabbert holds onto the ball too long because some of his receivers have struggled to get open.
Oklahoma State’s Justin Blackmon is a speedy receiver with soft hands. Blackmon has the crisp route running ability and explosive burst off the release to become an effective receiving target for Blaine Gabbert in Jacksonville.
8. Arizona Cardinals 3-6 Jonathan Martin Left Tackle Stanford Junior Redshirt Stanford left tackle Jonathan Martin struggled against Oregon’s speed rushers last week which is why he moves down a few spots on my draft board. Martin was originally a top 5 pick. He slides a few spots to #8 because of the performance against Oregon. Martin’s performance was not overly terrible. He did struggle against some speed rushers at times though and really failed to convince me he was a top 5 pick at left tackle.
Arizona has a dire need to address on the offensive line. Arizona cannot protect their quarterback. The Cardinals need to start rebuilding the offensive line and it all starts at left tackle. Martin is the best offensive lineman available.
By the way, if Kalil and Martin are both gone I will have no problem with Arizona spending a top 10 pick on Stanford guard David DeCastro. DeCastro has played well enough to warrant a top 15 selection and is probably the best offensive line prospect after Kalil and Martin. Drafting DeCastro in the top 10 would certainly be a slight controversial reach in the eyes of some fans so it would be intriguing to see how Arizona fans react to the DeCastro pick.
9. Seattle Seahawks 3-6 Robert Griffin III Quarterback Baylor Junior Redshirt SPOILER ALERT! I have the Texans picking 31st in this mock. Texans quarterback Matt Schaub is out for the season. In the rare event that Matt Leinart guides Houston to a Super Bowl and Pete Carroll keeps his job, I believe that Seattle would sign Leinart to a 2 year deal. Tavaris Jackson still has one year left on his deal.
Even with the signing of Matt Leinart, Seattle would still need to draft a quarterback here. That’s how dire the need for a quarterback is in Seattle. Robert Griffin III has the potential to be a pro bowler. Robert Griffin III learns complex NFL plays at an average rate though. He doesn’t comprehend the play right away like Andrew Luck or Matt Barkley. Griffin III has the intangibles and skill set to succeed though.
Seattle is a perfect situation for Robert Griffin III because he could compete with Leinart and Jackson for the starting job plus people would know Robert Griffin III would be Seattle’s quarterback of the future moving forward. There would not be any pressure on Griffin to win the starting job plus he would blend in nicely in Seattle.
The Oklahoma VS Baylor game this Saturday could have implications on who is the 3rd quarterback drafted after Andrew Luck and Matt Barkley. Robert Griffin III and Landry Jones of Oklahoma are both competing for this spot.
10. Cleveland Browns 3-6 Trent Richardson Running Back Alabama Junior I think Cleveland will sign someone like Matt Flynn to compete with Colt McCoy for the starting job. Then the Browns can use their other draft picks to address more critical components on offense hoping to build around quarterback.
With Peyton Hillis likely to leave after this season you have to believe that the Browns will use this pick on Alabama running back Trent Richardson. Adding Richardson could end up being a huge upgrade to the Cleveland Browns running game long term.
11. Philadelphia Eagles 3-6 Vontaze Burfict Middle Linebacker Arizona State Junior Vontaze Burfict is the final top 10 talent available here. The Eagles need linebacker help to boost their run defense. Burfict has to be the pick here.
12. Denver Broncos 4-5 Brandon Thompson Defensive Tackle Clemson Senior Every year a defensive tackle gets drafted in the top 16. Tebow is 3-1 as a starter. Tebow does not deserve to be replaced because he is winning. If Denver brings in 2-0 John Skelton as a backup to Tebow fine. Any other talk about Tebow being replaced is hard to take seriously at this point.
Denver needs a defensive tackle. Clemson’s Brandon Thompson is the top defensive tackle available for a 4-3 scheme. There may not be a run stuffing defensive tackle who goes in the top 10 this year. I have a very hard time believing that a defensive tackle will not go in the top 16. Thompson is the best 4-3 defensive tackle available in 2012 so I have him going to Denver here.
13. Kansas City Chiefs 4-5 Landry Jones Quarterback Oklahoma Junior Redshirt Its hard to indicate whether Matt Cassel recovers from his season ending injury. Cassel’s contract runs through 2014. Jones could sit out for a year or two until he is ready to be the Chiefs long term starter. Jones could even start right away if Cassel fails to recover from his injury. With Dwayne Bowe, Jonathan Baldwin, Tony Moeaki at tight end, and Jamaal Charles at running back. Landry Jones would have the weapons to succeed in Kansas City right away. Draftniks may not want to admit it, but Kansas City is the best fit for Landry because they already have the supporting cast built around a quarterback. I have doubted Jones as as an NFL prospect because his throws are inconsistent at times. I could see Landry Jones being the Chiefs version of Ben Roethlisberger if they end up selecting him here because he would have a very strong supporting cast to work with.
Another ideal scenario for Landry Jones would be Seattle. I like Kansas City better though for Jones because its nearby his former school plus he will have an array of premium playmakers to throw to. Having the playmakers the Chiefs have is essential for any quarterbacks development. Its even more essential if that player is a rookie.
14. San Diego Chargers 4-5 Dre Kirkpatrick Cornerback Alabama Junior San Diego’s secondary looked really bad against Oakland thursday. I know a pass rusher is priority #1 in San Diego. Can you really blame San Diego for taking Dre Kirkpatrick as a successor to Quinton Jammer with this pick though?
15. Tampa Bay Buccaneers 4-5 Alfonzo Dennard Cornerback Nebraska Senior The Buccaneers want a cornerback and seem to take players in the midwest region (Oklahoma, Kansas State, Iowa) Why will that trend change? I believe Tampa Bay would take Dennard here if both Claiborne and Kirkpatrick are off the board.
16. Buffalo Bills 5-4 David DeCastro Right Guard Stanford Junior Redshirt The Bills tend to ignore needs by taking the best player available. DeCastro has played well enough to warrant a top 16 pick in 2012.
17. Dallas Cowboys 5-4 Michael Brewster Center Ohio State Senior Dallas needs interior offensive lineman. Michael Brewster is an excellent center prospect. Brewster would be a good pickup here.
18. Tennessee Titans 5-4 Alshon Jeffery Wide Receiver South Carolina Junior Alshon Jeffery has continued to struggle in terms of production. Jeffery has dropped out of the top 16 and could slide even further. The reason I have him at 18 is because I think his performance at the 2012 NFL Combine will help boost his stock a bit.
Jeffery has the size to command some mismatches while competing to be a #2 receiver next to Britt. The Titans have Britt, Nate Washington, Damian Williams, and Lavelle Hawkins. Britt can be a #1 when healthy. Jeffery has the size of a #1, but performs like a #4 receiver making him a good secondary option.
The Titans receiving core would be very effective for Matt Hasselbeck or Jake Locker down the road with Britt as a flanker, Jeffery as a secondary option, Nate Washington playing slot, Damian Williams being a #4 option, and Lavelle Hawkins being a #5 option.
19. New York Jets 5-4 Brandon Jenkins 3-4 Right Outside Linebacker Florida State Junior Brandon Jenkins would give the Jets a pass rusher who can get to the quarterback. Jenkins can also stuff the run. Jenkins kept Lamar Miller to under 100 rushing yards.
20. Cleveland Browns from Atlanta Falcons 5-4 Riley Reiff Right Tackle Iowa Junior Redshirt Riley Reiff would be a steal here. Reiff would make an excellent bookend right tackle next to Joe Thomas. Adding Reiff at right tackle adds a pass blocker and run blocker. Cleveland solidifies their offensive line woes.
I believe Cleveland will sign Matt Flynn to compete with Colt McCoy. The Browns offensive line will consist of Joe Thomas at left tackle with Reiff as a bookend. Then you have Jason Pinkston and Shawn Lauvao at guard. Alex Mack was a first round pick at center in 2009. This offensive line can protect Flynn or McCoy. Plus if the Browns draft Trent Richardson the quarterback can be used as a game manager to hand the ball off to Richardson who will have a top notch blocking unit. On passing plays the Browns offensive line will give McCoy or Flynn tons to time to make the right throws.
21. Cincinnati Bengals 6-3 Chase Minnifield Cornerback Virginia Senior Redshirt The Bengals need a cornerback. A long term upgrade over Nate Clements is a priority plus Leon Hall is out for the year. If Hall fails to recover in 2012 is this pick really a reach? Even if Hall recovers this team needs a 2nd corner. Minnifield may be a reach, but you cannot really blame the Bengals for reaching for a corner here.
22. Chicago Bears 6-3 Michael Floyd Wide Receiver Senior The Bears need a flanker receiving target. Michael Floyd would be an amazing pick up at this point.
23. Detroit Lions 6-3 Manti Teo Right Outside Linebacker Notre Dame Junior The Lions usually take the best player available. Teo would be the best player available plus the Lions could use a weak side linebacker for their 4-3 defense to aid Detroit in stopping the run.
24. Cincinnati Bengals from Oakland Raiders 5-4 Devon Still Defensive Tackle Penn State Senior Redshirt Still is the best player available. I have to believe 2 defensive tackles will get selected in the top 25.
25. Baltimore Ravens Courtney Upshaw 3-4 Middle Linebacker Alabama Senior Upshaw can be utilized as a 3-4 right outside linebacker or a 3-4 right middle linebacker who can be used as a successor to Ray Lewis. Ravens GM Ozzie Newsome hinted about adding a 3-4 middle linebacker to succeed Ray Lewis.
26. New York Giants 6-3 Zach Brown Right Outside Linebacker North Carolina Senior Zach Brown is a right outside linebacker who can play the weak side. Brown would make a great addition to the Giants linebacking core.
27. New England Patriots 6-3 Andre Branch Right End Clemson Senior Redshirt Branch can be used as a pass rusher in a 4-3 or a 3-4 scheme. Branch has the size of a 4-3 end, but can lose the weight to adjust to a 3-4. Branch’s double teams at 4-3 right end enabled DeQuan Bowers to have a monster season last year.
28. New England Patriots from New Orleans Saints 7-3 Robert Lester Free Safety Alabama Junior Redshirt The Patriots need a second safety to play next to Patrick Chung. Robert Lester is the top safety available for this draft.
29. Pittsburgh Steelers 7-3 Cordy Glenn Georgia Right Guard Senior The last time the Pittsburgh Steelers took a defensive player in an even numbered draft year was 1988. 1990, 1992, 1994, 1996, 1998, 2000, 2002, 2004, 2006, 2008, and 2010 Pittsburgh drafted an offensive player in the first round in all of those even numbered years. Pittsburgh is one of the most established franchises in the NFL. Why would the Steelers change this trend if its worked? Looking at the Steelers offense this team is set at quarterback, running back, wide receiver, and tight end. Pittsburgh could use a red zone target, but the Steelers have more pressing needs on the offensive line. Max Starks has revived the Steelers at left tackle so I doubt Pittsburgh goes left tackle. The only remote offensive need is a right guard. Pittsburgh has quality starters on offense everywhere except right guard when healthy.
Cordy Glenn is 6 foot 5 348 pounds. Glenn has the size to play in Pittsburgh’s blocking scheme. He can play inside at guard despite playing left tackle at Georgia. Pittsburgh has Chris Kemoatu at left guard and Maurkice Pouncey at center. They need a right guard who can move to left guard in the event that Kemoatu gets injured. Glenn can try to win a tackle job at right tackle or left tackle down the road when Max Starks is gone because by that time Glenn’s footwork should be improved.
30. San Francisco 49ers 8-1 Barrett Jones Right Guard Alabama Junior Barrett Jones could be an upgrade at right guard. The 49ers are set on every position at the offensive line. The only hole on the 49ers offensive line is right guard. Joe Staley, Anthony Davis, Mike Iupati, and Jonathan Goodwin really playing well. The only potential crack on the 49ers offensive line would be right guard. Barrett Jones would be the top player available here as he played right guard in 2010 prior to moving to left tackle.
31. Houston Texans 7-3 DJ Fluker Right Tackle Alabama Sophomore Redshirt DJ Fluker will likely be a 2013 pick. If he comes out in 2012 he could be a late first rounder.
32. Green Bay Packers 9-0 Melvin Ingram 3-4 Right End South Carolina Senior Redshirt Melvin Ingram is a bit of a tweener. He could play 3-4 end or 3-4 outside linebacker. Green Bay has needs upgrades at both spots. Green Bay could use an end to replace Cullen Jenkins plus a second pass rusher next to Clay Mathews would really help.
Round 2
33. Indianapolis Colts 0-10 Audie Cole Left Outside Linebacker North Carolina State Senior Redshirt Gary Bracket is a middle linebacker while Pat Angerer is a right outside linebacker. The Colts need one more linebacker. Audie Cole is the best player available so he is the pick here at the top of round 2.
34. Carolina Panthers 2-7 Donta Hightower 3-4 Middle Linebacker Alabama Junior Redshirt Carolina is switching to a 3-4. The Panthers paid Jon Beason top dollar. Dan Conner is in a contract year. Carolina may want to add another inside linebacker next to Jon Beason if the Panthers decide not to pay Conner.
35. Minnesota Vikings 2-7 Mike Adams Right Tackle Ohio State Senior The Vikings offensive line situation is so dire that you really could not blame Minnesota for double dipping by taking Mike Adams at right tackle after selecting Matt Kalil in round 1.
36. Miami Dolphins 2-7 Tyler Eifert Tight End Notre Dame Junior Miami need to get a tight end for their new quarterback to throw to. Anthony Fasano will likely leave Miami after this season unless Sparano keeps his job by some miracle. More than likely a new tight end will need to be brought in for the new quarterback to throw to.
37. St. Louis Rams 2-7 Montee Ball Running Back Wisconsin Junior The Rams could use a 2nd running back to pair with Steven Jackson. Montee Ball is beginning to look like the 2nd best back after his recent performance. Ball could take some pressure off of Steven Jackson.
38. Washington Redskins 3-6 Kevin Zeitler Right Guard Wisconsin Senior Kevin Zeitler would make a great upgrade at right guard for the Redskins. Adding an interior lineman would help Washington moving forward.
39. Jacksonville Jaguars 3-6 Stephon Gilmore Cornerback South Carolina Junior Gilmore is just the cornerback Jacksonville needs to pair up with Rashean Mathis. South Carolina is 3rd i pass defense. Gilmore has the man coverage and zone coverage ability to play in this league.
40. Philadelphia Eagles from Arizona Cardinals 3-6 Dontari Poe Defensive Tackle Memphis Junior The 6 foot 5 350 pound nose tackle can play in a 4-3 or a 3-4 at defensive tackle. The Eagles could use a defensive line presence to surge the Eagles run support on run defense.
41. Seattle Seahawks 3-6 Mohammed Sanu Wide Receiver Rutgers Junior Mohammed Sanu could develop into a receiver for Robert Griffin III to throw to down the road. I realize Sidney Rice and Mike Williams are both effective. Neither player is playing up to their potential in 2011. Why not bring in another target for the first round quarterback of the future that Seattle drafts?
42. Cleveland Browns 3-6 Nick Toon Wide Receiver Wisconsin Senior Redshirt The Browns need a #1 flanker receiver to throw to. Toon would be a good target available to throw to at this point.
43. Philadelphia Eagles 3-6 Nigel Bradham Right Outside Linebacker Florida State Senior Nigel Bradham can play the WILL, MIKE, or SAM in a 4-3 scheme. The Eagles need a right outside linebacker for their run defense. Bradham has to be the pick here.
44. Denver Broncos 4-5 Alameda Ta’amu Defensive Tackle Washington Senior Denver could use 2 defensive tackles. The Broncos need an A gap defensive tackle with the size of a nose guard and then a B gap defensive tackle who can also play 5 technique. Denver adds Ta’amu with this pick solidifying their defensive line.
45. Kansas City Chiefs 4-5 Chris Polk Running Back Washington Junior Redshirt Chris Polk could split carries with Charles. Todd Haley had Thomas Jones ahead of Charles on the Chiefs depth chart. I think Landry Jones will go to the Chiefs in the first round. Imagine how good Jones could become in Kansas City if the Chiefs add Chris Polk.
46. San Diego Chargers 4-5 Nico Johnson 3-4 Right Outside Linebacker Alabama Junior The Chargers need a 3-4 right outside linebacker to play next to Shaun Phillips. Nico Johnson can play anywhere at linebacker in a 3-4 scheme.
47. Tampa Bay Buccaneers 4-5 Mark Barron Strong Safety Alabama Senior Tampa Bay could use a safety for depth. Can you really blame Tampa Bay for taking the best player available here?
48. Buffalo Bills 5-4 Jerry Franklin 3-4 Middle Linebacker Arkansas Senior Redshirt Jerry Franklin has the ability to be a 3-4 middle linebacker. The Bills could use a 3-4 middle linebacker next to Nick Barnett.
49. Dallas Cowboys 5-4 Chase Thomas 3-4 Left Outside Linebacker Junior Redshirt Dallas needs to get a 3-4 left outside linebacker to play next to DeMarcus Ware. Chase Thomas would be a good addition to Stanford.
50. Tennessee Titans 5-4 TJ McDonald Strong Safety USC Junior The Titans need a strong safety to replace Chris Hope.
51. New York Jets 5-4 Ricky Wagner Right Tackle Wisconsin Junior Redshirt The Jets need a right tackle who can play next to Debrickishaw Ferguson. Ricky Wagner is the best player available at this point.
52. Atlanta Falcons 5-4 Dwayne Allen Tight End Clemson Junior Redshirt The Falcons draft a tight end here as a successor to the aging Tony Gonzalez. Allen is the best player available here.
53. Cincinnati Bengals 6-3 Travis Lewis Right Outside Linebacker Oklahoma Senior Redshirt Lewis would mainly serve a backup role for depth with this selection. The Bengals will feel some sort of luxury for taking the best player available if they end up making the playoffs.
54. Chicago Bears 6-3 Ronnell Lewis Left Outside Linebacker Oklahoma Junior The Bears need a left outside linebacker for their 4-3 defense.
55. Detroit Lions 6-3 Peter Konz Center Wisconsin Junior Redshirt Detroit needs a new center. Peter Konz is the best available player here.
56. New England Patriots from Oakland Raiders 5-4 Desmond Trufant Cornerback Washington Junior The Patriots usually draft a cornerback in the first 2 rounds.
57. Baltimore Ravens 6-3 Ray Ray Armstrong Strong Safety Miami FL Junior The Ravens need a strong safety as a long term upgrade over Bernard Pollard. Ray Ray Armstrong will be the best player available if he declares.
58. New York Giants 6-3 Jerel Worthy Defensive Tackle Michigan State Junior Redshirt The Giants need a defensive tackle. Worthy is the best defensive tackle available at this point.
59. New England Patriots 6-3 Marvin McNutt Wide Receiver Iowa Senior Redshirt The Patriots could use a deep threat target for down the road. Marvin McNutt would be a great addition to the Patriots in the 2nd round.
60. New Orleans Saints Elvis 7-3 Fisher Right Tackle Missouri Senior Redshirt The Saints need to get a right tackle. Finding a pass blocking right tackle who can serve as a bookend to Saints left tackle Jermon Bushrod is priority #1. The Saints have to do everything necessary to protect Brees.
61. Pittsburgh Steelers 7-3 Jayron Hosley Cornerback Virginia Tech Junior Hosley was considered a top 10 prospect prior to the season. A bad season by Hosley could cause him to slide out of the top 60. The Steelers pass defense has reliable assets like Ike Taylor, Troy Polamalu, and Ryan Clark. The Steelers biggest secondary weakness is finding that boundary corner to play next to Ike Taylor.
William Gay is serviceable having an impact from time to time. Gay is better suited for a nickel role. Rookies Curtis Brown and Cortez Allen are nickel corners at best down the road in terms of potential plus Bryant McFadden moved down on the Steelers depth chart. This would be a good time for the Pittsburgh Steelers to address cornerback.
I would give the Steelers another need if a better player at a certain need was available. Hosley is the best player available at one of Pittsburgh’s needs. Finding a #2 corner may be a small need. Its still a need that cannot be ignored.
62. San Francisco 49ers 8-1 Eddie Whitley Free Safety Virginia Tech Senior The 49ers need a free safety. Eddie Whitley is the best free safety and only safety left who provides 2nd round value.
63. Houston Texans 7-3 Nate Potter Left Guard Boise State Senior Redshirt Houston needs a left guard. Potter addresses a need long term as DJ Fluker is mainly a right tackle who could serve as depth behind Eric Winston.
64. Green Bay Packers 9-0 Vinny Curry 3-4 Left Outside Linebacker Marshall Senior Green Bay should move Clay Matthews to the 3-4 right outside linebacker spot putting him up against blue chip left tackles. He is going up against right tackles and abusing them with ease. Green Bay needs a 2nd pass rusher across from Matthews.
Curry is not a 3-4 right outside linebacker. Curry is best suited to go up against right tackles. Matthews is good enough to face left tackles so the Packers kill 2 birds with 1 stone by moving Matthews to the right side of the defense while adding a 2nd pass rusher.
Round 3
65. Indianapolis Colts 0-10 LaMichael James Running Back Oregon Junior Redshirt James provides amazing value in the 3rd round.
66. Chicago Bears from Carolina Panthers 2-7 Michael Egnew Tight End Missouri Senior The Bears need to add a tight end to their roster. Angelo has shown that he will spend money on a tight end in the past. Egnew is the best player available with this pick.
67. Minnesota Vkings 2-7 Devin Taylor Left End South Carolina Junior Redshirt The Vikings could afford to add a 2nd 4-3 left end to play next to Jared Allen. Devin Taylor would be the best available player with this pick.
68. Miami Dolphins 2-7 Matt Reynolds Right Tackle BYU Senior Redshirt The Dolphins add a right tackle who can play next to Jake Long.
69. St. Louis Rams 3-6 Brian Quick Wide Receiver Appalachin State Senior Redshirt The Rams could use another receiving target. Brian Quick has the size and hands that teams look for in a #1 flanker go to guy wide receiver who is a quarterbacks best friend.
70. Washington Redskins 3-6 Ryan Tannehill Quarterback Texas A&M Senior Redshirt Tannehill would make an amazing successor to Peyton Manning. Tannehill is the best quarterback available at this point and he would make a great quarterback of the future for Washington.
71. Jacksonville Jaguars 3-6 Whitney Mercilus Right End Illinois Junior Redshirt Mercilus can be used as a pass rusher in a 4-3 or a 3-4 at outside linebacker. Mercilus can stuff the run.
72. Arizona Cardinals 3-6 Bobbie Massie Right Tackle Ole Miss Junior The Cardinals need 2 offensive tackles. Can you really blame Arizona for wanting to upgrade this spot twice?
73. Seattle Seahawks 3-6 Ryan Steed Cornerback Furman Senior Steed seems like the cornerback that Seattle wants.
74. Cleveland Browns 3-6 Janoris Jenkins Cornerback Northern Alabama Senior Janoris Jenkins has some character concerns which could drop him to the 3rd round. Jenkins does have first round talent though. The Browns have a #1 corner in Joe Haden. Janoris Jenkins played next to Haden at Florida. Why not reunite the Gators dynamic duo in Cleveland?
75. Philadelphia Eagles 3-6 Trumaine Johnson Cornerback Montana Senior Johnson is 6 foot 2 210 pounds. Johnson could be a long term addition. Asante Samuel’s days as an Eagle are nearing a close and Dominque Rodgers Cromartie has not lived up to the hype as a #2 corner.
The Eagles need to add a corner to play next to Asomugha. Johnson is the best player available at this point.
76. Denver Broncos 4-5 Lamar Miller Running Back Miami FL Sophomore Redshirt Lamar Miller struggled against Florida State. Miller is not worth drafting in the first 2 rounds. Broncos fans will jump for joy if their team selects Miller in the 3rd round.
77. Kansas City Chiefs 4-5 Levi Adcock Right Tackle Oklahoma State Senior Redshirt The Chiefs could use a right tackle to replace Barry Richardson. Richardson has not lived up to the bill as the Chiefs right tackle. An upgrade is needed. Even if Adcock flops, he can still be a serviceable depth player by kicking inside to guard.
78. San Diego Chargers 4-5 Daniel “Boom” Herron Running Back Ohio State Senior Redshirt Ohio State has a prestigious tradition for producing NFL running backs. San Diego needs another back for depth so Herron would provide good value in the 3rd round.
79. Tampa Bay Buccaneers 4-5 David Wilson Running Back Virginia Tech Junior Tampa Bay needs a 2nd back to team up with LeGarrette Blount.
80. Buffalo Bills 5-4 Bruce Irvin 3-4 Right Outside Linebacker West Virginia Senior Dave Wannstedt will develop a Big East pass rusher into a pro bowler with this pick. West Virginia’s Bruce Irvin provides good value with this pick.
81. Dallas Cowboys 5-4 Amini Silatalu Left Guard Midwestern State Senior Redshirt Silatalu has a chance to be this years Ben Ijalana. Silatalu deserves a shout out and a debut in my weekly mock draft for week 10 after his recent play this season. Dallas needs a left guard and Silatalu is the best left guard available.
82. Tennessee Titans 5-4 Coby Fleener Tight End Stanford Senior Redshirt Coby Fleener provides good value at this point. Fleener is the best tight end available at this point. I am not sold on Jared Cook Jr and Craig Stevens is too injury prone. The Titans have to add a tight end for depth who can eventually become the Titans playmaking tight end.
83. New York Jets 5-4 Dwight Jones Wide Receiver North Carolina Senior The Jets need a #2 receiver to replace Burress. Dwight Jones is the best receiver available at this point.
84. Atlanta Falcons 5-4 Brandon Lindsey Right End Pittsburgh Senior Redshirt The Falcons need a 4-3 right end who can be a successor to Jonathan Abraham. Lindsey is the best player available at this point.
85. Cincinnati Bengals 6-3 Cyrus Gray Running Back Texas A&M Senior The Bengals need a running back. Cyrus Gray would be a good pick because Gray is the only 3rd round running back prospect left on the draft board.
86. Chicago Bears 6-3 Omar Bolden Cornerback Arizona State Senior Omar Bolden could be a good #2 corner starter across from Charles Tillman. The only thing keeping Bolden from becoming a pro bowl corner is his durability issues which cause him to get injured. Zach Bowman and DJ Moore are capable of filling in for Bolden when Omar Bolden gets injured.
87. Detroit Lions 6-3 Vince Browne Right End Northwestern Senior Redshirt The Lions take the best player available here. Kyle Vaden Bosch is entering his mid 30′s. The Lions have to groom a successor t Vaden Bosch on the defensive line at defensive end.
88. Baltimore Ravens 6-3 Jerrell Harris 3-4 Left Outside Linebacker Alabama Senior The Ravens need a pass rusher to play next to Suggs. Sergio Kindle has struggled to reach his potential coming out of college.
89. New York Giants 6-3 Orson Charles Tight End Georgia Junior Orson Charles provides good value here. Jake Ballard has played well. Charles is more of a #2 tight end though and getting a second tight end for depth is something the Giants could use.
90. New England Patriots 6-3 Jared Crick Defensive Tackle Nebraska Senior Redshirt The Patriots need a defensive tackle that play in a 4-3 and a 3-4 defense. That player is Jared Crick.
91. New Orleans Saints 7-3 Sean Spence Right Outside Linebacker Miami FL Senior The Saints need a right outside linebacker. Spence is the best player available at this point.’
92. Pittsburgh Steelers 7-3 Baker Steinkuhler 3-4 Left End Nebraska Junior Redshirt Evander Hood only has 14 tackles. Aaron Smith will be tough to replace. Hood does not look like the answer. Pittsburgh needs too bring in someone for depth. Steinkuhler is a good 3-4 left end for depth.
93. San Francisco 49ers 8-1 Juron Criner Wide Receiver Arizona Senior The 49ers could use another wide receiver. Juron Criner is the best receiver available at this point.
94. Houston Texans 7-3 Josh Chapman Nose Tackle Alabama Senior Redshirt The Texans like Chapman. Its pretty clear that Chapman would be a steal at this point.
95. Green Bay Packers 9-0 Chandler Harnish Quarterback Northern Illinois Senior Redshirt The Packers will add a developmental backup behind Rodgers once Matt Flynn leaves. The Packers can trade Harnish when the time arrives.
19 Rants to “2012 NFL Mock Draft Weekly Update #10”
Check out what others are saying about this post...
-
[...] 2012 NFL Mock Draft Weekly Update #10Rant SportsWho falls flat for Matt in this weeks 2012 NFL Mock Draft This will be the final weekly update where preseason predictions are used as tiebreakers for the draft. To interact with me on draft picks or to post your take on a pick you like or dislike in … [...]
-
[...] 2012 NFL Mock Draft Weekly Update #10 Cleveland Browns 3-6 Nick Toon Wide Receiver Wisconsin Senior Redshirt The Browns need a #1 flanker receiver to throw to. Toon would be a good target available to throw to at this point. 43. Philadelphia Eagles 3-6 Nigel Bradham Right Outside … Read more on Rant Sports [...]
-
[...] The Colts traded Elway hoping for a Kingt work out and the Baltimore Colts ended up relocating to Indianapolis. This may have influenced the original Cleveland Browns to relocate becoming the Baltimore Ravens. More follow Source here http://www.rantsports.com [...]
Leave a Rant
and oh, if you want a pic to show with your comment, go get a gravatar!
FEATURED PARTNERS
- Navy Chooses Two Women To Share Traditional First Kiss
- The Baby With Two Heads
- Bill Cosby Ate Himself Into This
- Floyd Mayweather -- 90 Days in Jail for Beating Up Baby Mama
- Khloe Kardashian and Lamar Odom Trigger Dallas Real Estate War
- Robert Griffin III -- Dad to Agents: Don't Talk to My Son!
- Hot Girl Links for December 21: So Kate Upton Is Mark Sanchez’s Girlfriend, Eh?
- Win a HP Envy 14 Beats Edition In BroBible’s Ultimate Laptop Giveaway!
- Tom Brady’s $20 Million Mansion in Los Angeles Looks Cozy
Draft Looks Good, I’m A Huge Browns Fan And Obviously I Analyzed Your Picks For Them. I Like Trent Richardson And Riley Reiff And Riley Reiff Makes Since And It Would Solidify The Browns O-Line For The Next 10 Years But Mike Floyd Was On The Board And He Would Make More Since Because He Would Give Clevelands Receiving Core Instance Relevance With Floyd As Your #1 Little #2 Massaquoi/Cribbs #3. Third Round Pick Jenkins Would Be Great Not Sure He Will Last That Long Though.
@HooverHerd 2012 Browns Mock Draft
*Based On Rankings From CBS Sports
1a: Trent Richardson Bama
1b: Mike Floyd Notre Dame
2: Cam Johnson Virgina
3: Cliff Harris Oregon
4a: Travis Lewis Oklahoma
4b: Montee Ball Wisconsin
5: B.J. Cunningham Mich St
6a: Case Keenum Houston
6b: Jeff Demps Florida
Floyd would be another good option. Most people believe Riley Reiff won’t fall to the Browns which is why I changed the pick from Floyd to Reiff this week.
You seemed like you know a bit about each team and a lot of the players but I have to ask where on Earth you got your information that Ron Rivera wishes to switch back to the 3-4. Yes, he coached a 3-4 in SD the past few seasons but that was because they were already running that. RR has publicly stated he does not wish to make our base-D a 3-4 in Carolina (but rather just have some sub packages) and you don’t draft a player in the first or second round for sub packages. I agree with you, I do not think Carolina will be picking #2 overall and how they draft is really uncertain. Brandon Hogan just recently came off PUP and if he does well then our need for a top corner is lessened (Claiborne potential pick if drafting top 6). WR is another potential position for many fans though I don’t see it (we don’t have a bonafide WR behind Steve Smith, but we have a couple guys on IR, a few young developing players & an offense that already ranks in the top 5 in the league without a second big name receiver). As you mentioned Kalil is always an option if drafting #2.
Finally, what our team lacks is defensive stars & special teams players. We have a lot of solid players on IR this year but in the NFL you’re only as good as your depth. With several QB hungry teams out there (and one team specifically that has a few extra draft picks to burn: Cleveland Browns) I see the Panthers trading down & piling up some draft picks. Zach Brown is my top choice but Coples versatility could give him an edge up in a flexible and constantly changing defense.
Carolina was a tough team to evaluate Will. There were so many directions the Panthers could have gone in. I gave Carolina Coples. I could see Carolina going in a multitude of directions. They may even trade down like you pointed out. Carolina should trade down for Zach Brown if they keep their 4-3. For a while I thought Zach Brown was a better prospect than Manti Teo I have been hesitant to make a permant switch as I still have Teo ranked higher over Brown on my draft board. Would you advise me to make that change this week Will?
I’m a huge Skins fan. So…
I just can’t see them taking an ILB in a 3-4 system this high up, especially if one of the top 3/4 qbs (I don’t know if RG3 is declaring and Landry Jones might not fit Shanahans offense). I really do like Luke Kuelky though. He reminds me of Kerrigan last year. Hard working. Not too flashy but talented and works and is consistent (Vontaze Burfict is the ridiculouly talented one of the bunch).
I like your later round picks. Absolutely f’in love the RG pick in round 2!!! But I don’t see Tannehill falling to the third round, but great value lol (I wish!).
The VIKES has SOOOO many holes: LT, WR, Corner, S, LB (last yr for EJ henderson) They will NOT take a RT in 2nd. Loadholt actually has done OK. DE in third wont happen either–see list above. On other hand you put forth an interesting, informed draft. Thanks
I love the vikings 1st round pick. Kalil is by far the best LT to me, would be thrilled to see him go to us.
Why another tackle in the 2nd? Loadholt is solid, he has really bad and really good games. We need a WR/CB in the 2nd moreso then a RT.
we need a defensive end opposite Allen? Brian Robison has played very well this season for us. I’d rather see us go for a WR/Cb(whichever we didn’t take before) or a guard or safety.
I like the value. I agree that wide receiver and corner are other needs. I just think that the Vikings may address value and pass on need at the top of the 2nd round if a late first round talent like Mike Adams falls to their pick. I agree with you though Andy. Wide receiver and corner are the biggest needs after left tackle.
As a Rams and an Oregon Duck fan, If the Rams re-sign Lloyd Yes i’d be happy with Morris Claiborne going 5th. If not I’d say Blackmon. Jackson is our power back for the next 3-5 years. So in the 2nd round I want Stl to get a speedy back, hopefully Oregons LMJ. And 3rd round they need corner back depth, I hope to see Cliff Harris or Janoris Jenkins. I’d be happy with that.
I like the description you have with each player. I am a chiefs fan and I can see the Polk and Adcock picks maybe happening but I don’t see them if they were going to pick a quarterback going with Jones because his build and attributes are very much like Cassel’s. You said that Jones was inconsistent so is Cassel from what I’ve seen. I don’t think Palko or Stanzi is the answer I would prefer if they traded up for Barkley but Pioli doesn’t like to trade up. Do you think the quarterback position is the Chiefs #1 need in this draft and how better do you think Landry Jones is than Matt Cassel?
Landry Jones has the cannon arm and size that Cassel lacked coming out of college. His accuracy is inconsistent at times. He can fix that with his supporting cast in Kansas City which is why I think the Chiefs should take Landry if he falls to #12 overall. Some of the 2nd round picks are value picks like the Mike Adams pick to the Vikings. Teams pass on needs to address value sometimes which is why I mix and match certain picks to get controversy and feedback from fans. Some of the feedback is good other is bad, but I learn from my feedback moving forward that’s my goal.
I think you have the top quarterbacks pegged for the right teams this week. The big question mark, is if the Redskins can get Manning. That really makes a lot of sense to me. I could see Cleveland getting in on the Luck sweepstakes, or take a shot Jones, but Holmgren may look elsewhere for an answer at quarterback. It wouldn’t be a shock to see Miami grab Griffin either, if he does come out. This will probably the most interesting draft I’ve seen in many years.
Carolina needs to take Morris Claiborne or Justin Blackmon.
Why would the buds draft a running back they are in dire need of a wide receiver coach raheem Morris said it himself hat they needed an explosive wide receiver
Georgia center Ben Jones is the best center prospect in the draft, and even if you think Brewster is, Jones will go late first or early-mid second. Landry Jones is a better QB prospect than RGIII. I also dont think the Jets would pass up Riley Reiff, if available. they desperately need a RT to replace Damien Woody. Wayne Hunter sucks, which is why they haven’t been able to run the ball this year. And Matt Schaub is out for the year, so no way Houston is picking 31st in the draft.
Ben Jones is moving up from a 4th round grade to a 3rd round grade. He looked impressive after a sluggish start.