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Mel Kiper/McShay Mock Drafts (1 Viewer)

Scooby1974

Footballguy
Does anyone have access the Kiper and McShay Mock Drafts? I saw the first rounders scrolling across ESPN last night and wondered if you guys had any thoughts. Unfortunately I don't have a link.

 
Does anyone have access the Kiper and McShay Mock Drafts? I saw the first rounders scrolling across ESPN last night and wondered if you guys had any thoughts. Unfortunately I don't have a link.
Kiper5 - Blaine Gabbert - QB - 49ers6 - AJ Green - WR - Browns10 - Cameron Newton - QB - Redksins14 - Julio Jones - WR - Rams15 - Mark Ingram - RB - Dolphins25 - Ryan Mallet - QB - Seahawks27 - Torrey Smith - WR - Falcons28 - Mikel LeShoure - RB - Patriots
 
Not sure, but Mike Mayock>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>> anyone on ESPN.

 
McShay

3 - Blaine Gabbert - QB - Bills

4 - AJ Green - WR - Bengals

8 - Jake Locker - QB - Titans

10 - Cam Newton - QB - Redskins

14 - Julio Jones - WR - Rams

16 - Ryan Mallett - QB - Jags

28 - Mark Ingram - RB - Patriots

 
With the 1.1 pick in my dynasty draft I am thinking of taking Julio over AJ Green if they land on those projected teams. Browns (no QB) or Bengals (struggling QB lot of competition at WR) is not the greatest spots. The Rams is a great landing spot with Bradford developing into a good QB.

 
Not sure, but Mike Mayock>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>> anyone on ESPN.
I like Mayock okay and he knows his stuff for sure. It is frustrating that he does not release a mock draft though.
 
If Ingram (or another top RB) goes to NE, I will be trading from the #2 pick up in order to grab him. Also, if AJ goes to Cleveland - I will have J.Jones as the #1 WR (if he landed in STL). Talent is important, but a young player's career can be altered permanently based on the team/environment he is drafted into.

 
does anyone here like gabbert in buffalo more than in arizona? whats wrong with fitz?
Fitzgerald isn't the long-term answer at QB. If you're an NFL GM of a team that needs stability at that position and you think a franchise QB is available, you have to take him. I don't know enough about Gabbert -- or any of the QBs really -- to say that he should be drafted this high, but QB is definitely an area of need for us.
 
Pretty sure the niners pick at 7. And Gabbert looks like an Alex Smith clone to me... Would prefer that we didn't go that route.

Does anyone have access the Kiper and McShay Mock Drafts? I saw the first rounders scrolling across ESPN last night and wondered if you guys had any thoughts. Unfortunately I don't have a link.
Kiper5 - Blaine Gabbert - QB - 49ers6 - AJ Green - WR - Browns10 - Cameron Newton - QB - Redksins14 - Julio Jones - WR - Rams15 - Mark Ingram - RB - Dolphins25 - Ryan Mallet - QB - Seahawks27 - Torrey Smith - WR - Falcons28 - Mikel LeShoure - RB - Patriots
 
If Ingram (or another top RB) goes to NE, I will be trading from the #2 pick up in order to grab him. Also, if AJ goes to Cleveland - I will have J.Jones as the #1 WR (if he landed in STL). Talent is important, but a young player's career can be altered permanently based on the team/environment he is drafted into.
Seems Miami would be a more attractive spot for Ingram. Other than Corey Dillon for a few years, seems like Belichick rotates his backs too much to produce a fantasy stud. BJGE and Woodhead would be part of the 3-headed monster with Ingram. BJGE might get the goalline carries, and Woodhead the 3rd down receptions. Then they'll ride Ingram on 1st & 2nd downs.
 
With the 1.1 pick in my dynasty draft I am thinking of taking Julio over AJ Green if they land on those projected teams. Browns (no QB) or Bengals (struggling QB lot of competition at WR) is not the greatest spots. The Rams is a great landing spot with Bradford developing into a good QB.
Any WR that the Rams draft is definitely going to shoot up draft boards.~~~~~~~~I can't see Ingram falling that far to New England, not many RB's worth a first round pick this year will drive the demand and IMO, Ingram is a better prospect than Spiller or Mathews were.
 
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does anyone here like gabbert in buffalo more than in arizona? whats wrong with fitz?
Fitzgerald isn't the long-term answer at QB. If you're an NFL GM of a team that needs stability at that position and you think a franchise QB is available, you have to take him. I don't know enough about Gabbert -- or any of the QBs really -- to say that he should be drafted this high, but QB is definitely an area of need for us.
He sure isn't! He's a WR (you mean Fitzpatrick, of course).I definitely agree with the post. You just can't pass a franchise QB (IF one exists this year and I'm not sure of that). But if one is there, you're probably best served to trade Fitzpatrick to a team that is ok with a guy that wil "get the job done" but isn't ikely the next coming, and then drafting your guy. I generally don't like drafting QBs if the o-line isn't in place (I was very much against the Lions drafting Stafford...worried that they might not be able to keep him healthy and he would end up like David Carr or Joey Harrington). But in this case, the Bills have been spinning aimlessly for a long time and could use something that sticks to get them going again.

 
If Ingram (or another top RB) goes to NE, I will be trading from the #2 pick up in order to grab him. Also, if AJ goes to Cleveland - I will have J.Jones as the #1 WR (if he landed in STL). Talent is important, but a young player's career can be altered permanently based on the team/environment he is drafted into.
There are a lot of people that will argue the extrme opposite (talent trumps all) but I am with you on this. It is why I shyed away from Spiller last year and its what we have learned from guys like Braylon Edwards and Lee Evans. I don't knw where you draw the line but it definitely has to be a legit factor you weigh out.
 
Cowboys should get an impact DT, DE, or CB with their pick and could very well be in great position to trade down a bit of anyone wants to jump the Redskins for a QB and still get value. I really want them to land another OL (or 3) but the value just isn't there. I'd say if they can trade down a bit and still get an impact defender and then use that value to move up a few times later (if they have to) to get several OL I'd consider it a great draft.

For fantasy ... wonder where Ronnie Brown would go. I'd be surprised if the Pats take a RB. Would the Rams be a great landing spot or just be too crowded at WR with their injured guys coming back and Alexander emerging? Green to Cleveland makes sense but without a good QB that can't be great for his value. Very few existing dynasty players at RB/WR seem to be negatively affected by this mock.

 
im in a tough spot with gabbert, I live in Mo, watch him play a lot and wanna root for him to do well. The niners and Bears have been my teams since i was a kid and I would not like to see gabbert go there, idk bout him being a smith clone, but i dont see him doing super well there. With the revolving door of coaching and coordinator staff in the recent past i think hed suffer a similar fate to smith. But I think Fitzpatrick did good enough to at least give him the reigns to start the year and make it his job to lose, but when you take a qb in the top 10 they almost always are the guy within weeks. The bills have a lot of leaks to stop IMO. Just not sure if they should start with gabbert and possibly set themselves back even more if there isnt a solid OL guy worth taking or something along those lines.

 
Cowboys should get an impact DT, DE, or CB with their pick and could very well be in great position to trade down a bit of anyone wants to jump the Redskins for a QB and still get value. I really want them to land another OL (or 3) but the value just isn't there. I'd say if they can trade down a bit and still get an impact defender and then use that value to move up a few times later (if they have to) to get several OL I'd consider it a great draft.For fantasy ... wonder where Ronnie Brown would go. I'd be surprised if the Pats take a RB. Would the Rams be a great landing spot or just be too crowded at WR with their injured guys coming back and Alexander emerging? Green to Cleveland makes sense but without a good QB that can't be great for his value. Very few existing dynasty players at RB/WR seem to be negatively affected by this mock.
:lmao: Pats aren't going to draft a RB in the 1st round.
 
Anyone have a link to McShay's first round?
More importantly, why do you want this? To laugh at it?Mayock >>> Kiper >>> Every other person in the entire world >>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>McShay
 
Why wouldn't the Pats draft a RB in the first round? I don't think BJGE will be there next year and didn't this team take Maroney in the first round? If they did it once they may do it again.

And the Browns do have a QB. His name is Colt McCoy. The problem is that he faces the AFC North while Bradford gets the NFC West. I think the Browns go defense though.

PS. Both guys mock drafts are going to change a million times. They are the biggest flipfloppers around. Draft hype machine is in full effect.

 
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Why wouldn't the Pats draft a RB in the first round? I don't think BJGE will be there next year and didn't this team take Maroney in the first round? If they did it once they may do it again.

And the Browns do have a QB. His name is Colt McCoy. The problem is that he faces the AFC North while Bradford gets the NFC West. I think the Browns go defense though.

PS. Both guys mock drafts are going to change a million times. They are the biggest flipfloppers around. Draft hype machine is in full effect.
That alone might be your answer. Really do they regularly draft RBs in any round?
 
Ingram or LeShoure in New England = #1 rookie pick I think.
People just don't seem to learn from the offensive merry-go-round that is the Pats. I think people will be pulling their hair out every other week while they spread the ball around one game and run the next. Not like a RB going to NE would produce ADP #s.
 
Ingram or LeShoure in New England = #1 rookie pick I think.
People just don't seem to learn from the offensive merry-go-round that is the Pats. I think people will be pulling their hair out every other week while they spread the ball around one game and run the next. Not like a RB going to NE would produce ADP #s.
If the law firm put up 1000 yards, 4.4 ypc, and 13 TD's with a measly 12 catches for NE , how much more could a first round talent like Ingraham or LeShoure do?
 
Tackling Dummies said:
Not sure, but Mike Mayock>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>> anyone on ESPN.
:kicksrock:
 
Ingram or LeShoure in New England = #1 rookie pick I think.
People just don't seem to learn from the offensive merry-go-round that is the Pats. I think people will be pulling their hair out every other week while they spread the ball around one game and run the next. Not like a RB going to NE would produce ADP #s.
If the law firm put up 1000 yards, 4.4 ypc, and 13 TD's with a measly 12 catches for NE , how much more could a first round talent like Ingraham or LeShoure do?
Ronnie Brown could do that in the 10 games he plays in each year.
 
I don't think Woodhead goes away and Law Firm proved solid enough. Sure they may take a RB because they have so many picks but I'd think they have bigger needs ... and for a landing spot I'd think Indy, Miami, Cincy, or another team like that may be more likely to be fantasy gold for a rookie RB.

 
Carolina Panthers

Record: 2-14

Da'Quan Bowers, DE, Clemson

The Panthers made no secret of the fact that they would draft Stanford QB Andrew Luck if he were available, but with Luck off the board they turn their attention to their need for a pass-rusher. Bowers is the best available with his explosiveness, and he also has the strength to hold the edge against the run.

Denver Broncos

Record: 4-12

Nick Fairley, DT, Auburn

Denver needs to overhaul its defensive front, and while new coach John Fox has not yet named a defensive coordinator, Fairley has the versatility to play in a 3-4 or 4-3 front. Fairley is quick, disruptive and plays with an edge, and he could not be blocked by one man during the college season.

Buffalo Bills

Record: 4-12

Blaine Gabbert, QB, Missouri

The Bills are in need of a franchise quarterback, and with Luck not on the board, Gabbert is the best available signal-caller. He has the physical tools and football smarts to become a very good NFL QB once he makes the full transition to a pro-style offense.

Cincinnati Bengals

Record: 4-12

A.J. Green, WR, Georgia

The Bengals need to find the heir apparent to Carson Palmer at some point but won't find him in this scenario. With Terrell Owens and Chad Ochocinco likely on their way out of town, Green would be an ideal replacement. He is very smooth for his size and plays the ball better than any receiver in the 2011 class.

Arizona Cardinals

Record: 5-11

Patrick Peterson, CB, LSU

Another team with a quarterback need but no signal-caller worthy of its pick available, the Cardinals turn their attention to their next-biggest need. Peterson has a freakish combination of size and athleticism, plays the ball well and can also contribute in the return game.

Cleveland Browns

Record: 5-11

Robert Quinn, DE, North Carolina

This is a tough call. The Browns need help at receiver and would take Green if he's available, but Quinn offers great potential as a pass-rusher despite sitting out the entire 2010 season because of off-the-field issues and would fill another big need in Cleveland.

San Francisco 49ers

Record: 6-10

Marcell Dareus, DT, Alabama

New defensive coordinator Vic Fangio brings a 3-4 scheme with him, and Dareus proved his effectiveness in three-man fronts under Nick Saban at Alabama. Dareus is quick, strong and mobile and would further upgrade a defense that already ranks in the top 10 against the run.

Tennessee Titans

Record: 6-10

Jake Locker, QB, Washington

Gabbert is the only quarterback in this class worthy of a top-10 grade. This is a reach for the Titans, but with the departure of Vince Young they need to find a long-term answer under center. Locker has some accuracy issues but his intangibles and work ethic are assets.

Dallas Cowboys

Record: 6-10

Prince Amukamara, CB, Nebraska

Defenses field a lot of nickel packages in today's NFL and the Cowboys need help at corner. Mike Jenkins took a big step backward in 2010, Terence Newman isn't getting any younger and Orlando Scandrick is a No. 3 corner at best. Amukamara is fluid, has great instincts and anticipation and plays the ball well and is even versatile enough to help out at safety if needed.

Washington Redskins

Record: 6-10

Cam Newton, QB, Auburn

This is another reach for a quarterback, but the Redskins have parted ways with Donovan McNabb, and Rex Grossman is clearly not the answer. There's no doubt Newton has the physical tools, and coach Mike Shanahan and his staff believe in their ability to develop quarterbacks, but he's still a long-term project as a pro-style passer.

Houston Texans

Record: 6-10

Von Miller, OLB, Texas A&M

There is a lot of talk about the Texans becoming more versatile in their fronts, and while Miller played end in college we believe he is a good fit as a SAM linebacker in a 4-3 or an inside linebacker in a 3-4. He is a freakish athlete who plays sideline-to-sideline against the run, has upside in coverage and can get after the quarterback as a blitzing linebacker.

Minnesota Vikings

Record:6-10

Tyron Smith, OT, USC

This was one of the hardest projections to make. The Vikings need a quarterback and a safety but there are none on the board worthy of this pick, and GM Rick Spielman is not going to reach for a player who doesn't belong. Offensive line is not Minnesota's biggest need but Smith is emerging as the top offensive tackle in the class with his natural feet and athleticism, and you can never go wrong drafting good offensive linemen.

Detroit Lions

Record: 6-10

Nate Solder, OT, Colorado

Jeff Backus isn't getting any younger and Gosder Cherilus has been nicked up, and while offensive tackle isn't a top need, the Lions would get a big, naturally talented player who could be the long-term answer at tackle when Backus moves along.

St. Louis Rams

Record: 7-9

Julio Jones, WR, Alabama

Jones is a big, physical receiver who can run. He came into his own in 2010 and is ready to contribute right away, and he would give second-year QB Sam Bradford another weapon on a rapidly improving offense.

Miami Dolphins

Record: 7-9

Mike Pouncey, C, Florida

Mike is not quite as good as his brother Maurkice, who has solidified Pittsburgh's interior offensive line and is one of the top rookies in the league, but the Dolphins need help on the interior and Mike is ready to start right now. The Dolphins need a running back as well, but as much as we like Mark Ingram, this is too high for him.

Jacksonville Jaguars

Record: 8-8

Ryan Mallett, QB, Arkansas

We have a second-round grade on Mallett. Others might disagree with our evaluation, but the Jaguars have a quarterback need and Mallett is the only remaining quarterback on the board who appears to have starting potential. If Mallett should get past this pick there's a strong chance he won't come off the board until Day 2.

New England Patriots (from Oakland)

Record: 14-2

Ryan Kerrigan, DE, Purdue

The Patriots have a lot of options here but Kerrigan fits their mold of a player with the height and bulk to play outside linebacker and get after the quarterback in their 3-4 scheme. He's not an exceptional athlete, but Kerrigan is instinctive and relentless.

San Diego Chargers

Record: 9-7

Akeem Ayers, OLB, UCLA

The San Diego defense has not been the same since Shawne Merriman was injured and eventually released. Larry English has been a disappointment and Ayers would fill the Chargers' need for a 5-technique who can get after the passer.

New York Giants

Record: 10-6

Corey Liuget, DT, Illinois

After studying tape of Liuget we feel he's not far behind Fairley and Dareus among defensive tackles. The Giants have spent a lot of money on ends and pass-rushers in recent years, and Liuget would help provide a strong presence in the middle as an every-down defensive tackle.

Tampa Bay Buccaneers

Record: 10-6

Adrian Clayborn, DE, Iowa

Tampa Bay has a lot of needs along the defensive front seven but there's not a traditional 4-3 linebacker worth taking here, so Clayborn makes sense with his strength. He would team with DTs Gerald McCoy and Brian Price to form one of the best young defensive lines in the league.

Kansas City

Record: 10-6

Aldon Smith, DE, Missouri

Kansas City needs a pass-rusher opposite Tamba Hali and Smith is one of the more underrated players in this draft. He's a little undersized for a 4-3 end but is a perfect fit at outside linebacker in the Chiefs' 3-4 defense.

Indianapolis Colts

Record: 10-6

Anthony Castonzo, OT, Boston College

Castonzo needs to develop his overall skill set a bit and get stronger in the lower body, but given how desperate the Colts are for linemen who can protect Peyton Manning, this pick makes sense.

Philadelphia Eagles

Record: 10-6

Gabe Carimi, OT, Wisconsin

The Eagles have been up-and-down with their offensive line picks in recent years, but while Carimi has some limitations athletically there is little doubt in my mind he's NFL-ready and will be a quality starter at right tackle for the next 10 years. He's the most technically sound and consistent lineman in this year's class.

New Orleans Saints

Record: 11-5

Stephen Paea, DT, Oregon State

New Orleans continues to look for upgrades along the front seven, and while Paea is not a pass-rusher he is tough to move and would make the Saints more stout against the run, offering a good complement to current DT Sedrick Ellis.

Seattle Seahawks

Record: 7-9

J.J. Watt, DE, Wisconsin

Seattle has a lot of positions to upgrade but no truly glaring need, and Watt offers good value here. Some feel his best fit is as a 5-technique in a 3-4, but given the way he is always on the move I think he's better off at left end in a 4-3 front like the one the Seahawks run.

Baltimore Ravens

Record: 12-4

Cameron Heyward, DE, Ohio State

Heyward proved in the Sugar Bowl win over Arkansas that he is a versatile playmaker when motivated. He would be a nice addition to an already-strong defensive line and a good complement to Terrell Suggs on the opposite end.

Atlanta Falcons

Record: 13-3

Justin Houston, OLB, Georgia

Houston played a hybrid role in college and could be a 3-4 outside linebacker, but he makes sense here as the heir apparent to DE John Abraham. Houston would help the aging Abraham stay fresh and have the chance to develop his skill set.

New England Patriots

Record: 14-2

Mark Ingram, RB, Alabama

Running back is not necessarily a need and this is a bit of a luxury pick, but if the Patriots get a pass-rusher at No. 18 it would be hard for them to pass on the best running back in the draft.

Green Bay Packers

Record: 10-6

Cameron Jordan, DE, California

The Packers have a ridiculous amount of talent at linebacker and Jordan would help them become more stout along the defensive front. He is an underrated prospect with the strength to hold the edge and make plays.

Chicago Bears

Record: 11-5

Drake Nevis, DT, LSU

Tommie Harris has not taken the next step to become an elite force, and the Bears are always looking for smaller, quicker defensive linemen who fit their scheme. Nevis could provide depth while preparing to step into a starting role. Chicago needs an offensive tackle but the talent dropoff is significant after the top four and no available tackle is worth this pick.

New York Jets

Record: 11-5

Phil Taylor, DT, Baylor

Veteran NT Kris Jenkins has played only seven games during the past two seasons and the Jets cannot count rely on him to be a constant presence in the middle of their defense. Taylor has the size to anchor in the middle and good feet for a 350-pounder.

Pittsburgh Steelers

Record: 12-4

Benjamin Ijalana, OT, Villanova

Ijalana might be a bit of a surprise here but he has good physical tools and a lot of upside. A lack of depth along the offensive line has become an issue for the Steelers, and assuming Ijalana checks out medically after playing with some nagging injuries he would offer help in that area while preparing to step into a full-time role.

 
and Kipers...

Carolina Panthers

Record: 2-14

* Nick Fairley, DT, Auburn

The No. 1 overall player on the Big Board, and one who can pay immediate dividends. Fairley isn't just a safe pick because of his excellent burst, violent hand action and ability to effectively penetrate and be a constant nuisance against both the run and pass; he also has the chance to be a dominant player regardless of system. Detroit and Tampa Bay drafted the top defensive tackles at Nos. 2 and 3 last year. Carolina should start earlier in 2011. A slight mean streak in a DT isn't the worst trait. Even Ndamukong Suh showed a bit of one this season.

Denver Broncos

Record: 4-12

* Patrick Peterson, CB, LSU

Denver CB Champ Bailey is a future Hall of Famer, but he's a free agent entering his 13th NFL season and Peterson has the physical skills to be an immediate starter in the secondary and a force in the return game. Denver has enough needs where it could go several directions with this pick, but getting the best size-speed combo in the draft, a guy who can help immediately, is a smart play. Simply an electrifying talent.

Buffalo Bills

Record: 4-12

* Marcell Dareus, DE, Alabama

Buffalo has started to assemble the pieces for its 3-4 defense and Dareus has outstanding pass-rush skills and fits as a defensive end in the system. This is too early to take an offensive tackle in terms of value, but it's a good opportunity to land an ideal fit if the Bills don't want to trade down. I'm sure some Bills fans would clamor for a guy like A.J. Green in this spot, but after 2010 the Bills simply have to address the lines, and the development of Stevie Johnson limits the receiver need anyway.

Cincinnati Bengals

Record: 4-12

* Da'Quan Bowers, DE, Clemson

Rookie Carlos Dunlap came on late for the Bengals and finished with 9.5 sacks, but the chance to draft the best pure pass-rusher on the board and immediately have in place a more formidable pass rush is too much to pass up. Bowers has the skill-set, explosiveness and relentless pass-rushing skills of a No. 1 overall pick. He's a good value, even at No. 4.

Arizona Cardinals

Record: 5-11

* Blaine Gabbert, QB, Missouri

The Cardinals were a mess at quarterback in 2010, and while Max Hall and John Skelton showed glimpses, both are projects, and there's no real solution in place for next season outside of a trade. Gabbert will be under the microscope during the testing process perhaps more than any other player, but at this stage he's the most NFL-ready QB in the draft. Arizona is in a tough spot: If the Cardinals pass on Gabbert, there won't be a QB who can do more for them sooner than Skelton or Hall later in the draft. Gabbert offers a strong arm, protoype size, reads the game well and has a lot of upside.

Cleveland Browns

Record: 5-11

* A.J. Green, WR, Georgia

The Browns need a No.1 wideout and Green has fit the profile since he landed between the hedges at Georgia. Green is a complete package, with size, speed and solid route-running skills, and he will be the best friend of a young quarterback as a player that's able to go up and take the ball away. Cleveland has some good pieces, and Green is exactly what Colt McCoy needs.

San Francisco 49ers

Record: 6-10

* Robert Quinn, DE, North Carolina

It's an understatement to say that Quinn will be fresh. After sitting out his entire junior year at Chapel Hill, it's a testament to Quinn's talent that he's this high on the draft board. And make no mistake -- scouts think extremely highly of Quinn. If his preparations for the draft process are up to par, at this spot he offers the Niners a pure pass-rusher at defensive end that can only be matched by Bowers.

Tennessee Titans

Record: 6-10

Von Miller, OLB, Texas A&M

Miller has the reputation of a big-time sack artist but his game is more diversified than he gets credit for. What Miller brings in Week 1 is a great third-down option. A gifted edge-rusher, he can get to the quarterback, but you can also mix it up and drop him into zone coverage, where he has speed and developing awareness at the position. A solid tackler, Miller will only get better in the 4-3 system as he adjusts to the NFL game.

Dallas Cowboys

Record: 6-10

Prince Amukamara, CB, Nebraska

A great value here, Amukamara is the best pure ball-hawking corner in the draft. A technician with outstanding instincts, ball skills and anticipation, he immediately provides an upgrade in the Dallas secondary. The Cowboys need help at corner, and this spot is still a tad too early to go with offensive line help based on current grades, so this makes sense. Amukamara is the kind of player that can help the pass rush and also make quick decisions turn into interceptions.

Washington Redskins

Record: 6-10

* Cam Newton, QB, Auburn

A gifted athlete, Newton has good arm strength and size, has developing accuracy and continues to show that the more you ask him as a passer, the more he'll develop. This spot might be a bit high based on his current grade in the eyes of scouts, but Newton's skill-set is such that personnel people are going to become more enamored, if they already aren't. Newton has character questions that need to be answered, but the Redskins have a long-term need at this position and the prospect of developing Newton is a tantalizing one.

Houston Texans

Record: 6-10

* Aldon Smith, OLB, Missouri

A late addition to the Big Board, Smith's declaration moved him up among draft-eligible pass-rushers. Smith is more athlete than refined pass-rusher at this stage, but he has a great wing-span and is a perfect size and speed combination to develop as an outside linebacker. We know Houston has to address the defensive side of the ball and Smith is the kind of high-upside player that will fly up the board as personnel people start seeing the tape. He'll improve a weak pass rush.

Minnesota Vikings

Record:6-10

Nate Solder, OT, Colorado

Offensive line has gone from a strength to a weakness in a short period for the Vikings and Solder offers a solution as an athletic player who can help immediately on the right side. He has the massive frame and footwork to eventually become a top-flight left tackle. Durable, smart and a guy who sustains his blocks, Solder is my top-rated tackle, a position that usually would be gone before this stage.

Detroit Lions

Record: 6-10

* Akeem Ayers, OLB, UCLA

Detroit needs help in the secondary, but unless it moves down it can't get good value here with the top two corners off the board. However, the Lions won't complain if Ayers, a freakish athlete with smarts and outstanding versatility at the linebacker position, is still here. After upgrading their defensive line in 2010, the Lions need guys that can fly to the ball, and Ayers is a sideline-to-sideline tackler who can also rush the QB and drop into coverage. A safe pick.

St. Louis Rams

Record: 7-9

* Julio Jones, WR, Alabama

When they drafted No. 1 overall last year, many people thought the Rams could be looking at wideouts within the top 5 of this year's draft. But their great improvement has them further down the board. Good thing for them, Jones offers top-10 talent at a bargain in this spot. Big and physical, Jones showed a more refined game this past season, eliminating drops and making catches all over the field from every formation. A perfect fit to grow with Sam Bradford.

Miami Dolphins

Record: 7-9

* Mark Ingram, RB, Alabama

The top-rated running back on the board, Ingram will step in effectively for Ricky Williams and improve the Miami ground game. Ingram runs with great pad level and leverage and seems to explode from contact. He has a good burst through the hole and is a terror once he gets to the second level.

Jacksonville Jaguars

Record: 8-8

Adrian Clayborn, DE, Iowa

Jacksonville worked on its defensive line last offseason and via the draft, and Clayborn offers a final piece to solidify a good unit. A powerful edge-rusher, Clayborn batters opposing linemen with a relentlessness that makes him among the most difficult players to prepare for. Smart and disciplined enough to hold the edge, he's a perfect fit for the Jacksonville system.

New England Patriots (from Oakland)

Record: 14-2

* J.J. Watt, DE, Wisconsin

The Patriots need to target their defensive line and Watt can help them early as a 3-4 DE. A penetrator, Watt is constantly in the backfield and will occupy blocks with a variety of moves. He was a tackles-for-loss machine at Wisconsin and at 6-foot-6 gets his hands in passing lanes. A smart player, he should adjust quickly to Bill Belichick's system. The Patriots have to build a more formidable pass-rush and Watt can help.

San Diego Chargers

Record: 9-7

Cameron Jordan, DE, California

Jordan is a good fit for the Chargers, particularly as they consider their defensive direction. He's not a system-specific player (Jordan thrives as a 3-4 defensive end), but his quickness means he could handle edge duties in a 4-3. His dad, Steve, was a six-time Pro Bowl tight end, so the NFL lineage is there. The Chargers should address defense first, and Jordan offers solid mid-first round value here.

New York Giants

Record: 10-6

Mike Pouncey, G/C, Florida

His brother went to Pittsburgh at No. 18 overall last year, looked like a Pro Bowl player early and became one late in his rookie season. The other Pouncey has similar attributes. He's durable, smart and versatile along the interior. By far the best player at his position in this draft, he should pay immediate dividends for the Giants and be effective as both a run- and pass-blocker.

Tampa Bay Buccaneers

Record: 10-6

Ryan Kerrigan, DE, Purdue

Last season, Tampa addressed the interior of its defensive line with the first two picks. Now, the Bucs should target the edge, because even though they've improved, this team still lacks a steady pass rush. Kerrigan is a pass-rusher; he led the nation in tackles for loss this past season and was all but unblockable. He is developing his secondary moves but is among the more relentless players in the college game; he is a potential long-term solution as a sack artist.

Kansas City Chiefs

Record: 10-6

Stephen Paea, DT, Oregon State

Among personnel people, I find a wide range of opinion on Paea. Some think he's an anchor on the defensive line, a force that could go much higher. Others see some inconsistency and believe he could fall to the second round. He'll be a guy to watch during the draft process. Still, what he can do is immediately strengthen a rush defense. He occupies blocks with great leverage and big-time strength. Paea will do a number on the bench-press. Not a great penetrator but he frees up tacklers and fits this system.

Indianapolis Colts

Record: 10-6

Anthony Castonzo, OT, Boston College

The Colts need to strengthen their offensive line in order to reclaim the running game and keep heat off Peyton Manning, who will be 35 when the 2011 season kicks off. Castonzo offers stability as a versatile tackle who will never miss a snap. He could add some bulk, but that's not the most difficult area to address. With well-above-average smarts, awareness and work-rate, he'd fit well in Indy at a position the Colts need to fill.

Philadelphia Eagles

Record: 10-6

Gabe Carimi, OT, Wisconsin

The Eagles are loaded at the skill positions and did a nice job of hitting defense early in last year's draft, so they should address the offensive line at a place where the value meets the need. In Carimi they get a guy who loves to run-block and will sustain his blocks into the parking lot. He plays with an edge but needs continued development as a pass-blocker. His film against some big-time prospects this year shows a guy ready to contribute.

New Orleans Saints

Record: 11-5

* Justin Houston, DE, Georgia

An outside linebacker to some, I see Houston developing into a great edge-rusher as a 4-3 defensive end. The Saints need help at that spot and Houston is a guy who could pay big dividends into the second half of his rookie season as he grows into the role. With great length, quickness and pass-rushing instincts, he'll help the Saints get to opposing QBs without being forced to rely on the blitz.

Seattle Seahawks

Record: 7-9

* Ryan Mallett, QB, Arkansas

Everything about Mallett's arm screams top 10, but he could fall a bit as a player who needs to develop footwork and the willingness to bite off only as much as he can chew. That said, Mallett's game progressed in 2010. He showed improved accuracy and a willingness to move around and consider the dump-off passes he often passed up as a younger player. With a year of development, he could be a good value here and a long-term answer for the Seahawks. It'll be asked, but my sources tell me the Seahawks prefer him to Washington's Jake Locker -- at least right now.

Baltimore Ravens

Record: 12-4

* Brandon Harris, CB, Miami

The Ravens ran into some really bad luck last year, when their first pick, Sergio Kindle, got hurt off the field. And among all their other picks, one spot they didn't hit was cornerback. Harris is a solid value at this stage, as he carries a late-first round grade. A coach's son, he offers prototype size at 5-11, 195 pounds, good instincts and isn't shy in run support. The Ravens need to address the secondary and Harris is a good option.

Atlanta Falcons

Record: 13-3

* Torrey Smith, WR, Maryland

Atlanta needs to develop a pass-catching target across from Roddy White, and Smith is a guy who can get downfield, work underneath and will always be a home run threat when he catches the ball. He also offers a serious threat in the return game. Atlanta doesn't have a lot of holes and Smith could help take this offense to another level as an explosive threat opposite White.

New England Patriots

Record: 14-2

Mikel Leshoure, RB, Illinois

The Patriots, year after year, manage to find solutions at running back. But there are solutions, and there are threats. And the fast-rising Leshoure, a chiseled 6-foot, 227-pound back who ran well in a physical Big Ten this past season, could be the alpha running back the Patriots could use. New England could go a lot of ways with this pick, but remember, the Pats have another pick just a handful of spots down the board and if they want a difference-maker at RB in a draft short on them, this is an option.

Green Bay Packers

Record: 10-6

Christian Ballard, DE, Iowa

Clayborn gets a lot of the attention, but he wasn't the most productive defensive lineman for the Hawkeyes by many accounts this past season. That was Ballard, who fits as a 3-4 defensive end to fortify an improving Packers defense. At 6-4 and a hair under 300 pounds, Ballard is another high-energy guy who can play multiple positions and holds up well against the run.

New York Jets

Record: 11-5

* Muhammad Wilkerson, DE, Temple

The other option here might be to take UCLA free safety Rahim Moore, but I like Wilkerson with the Jets. He offers great value as a defensive lineman to develop, because if he came back, he'd be a likely top-15 pick in 2012. At over 6-4 and 306 pounds, he slots in with the Jets' 3-4 as a defensive end, but was a penetrating defensive tackle. The only guy who's had more sacks than Wilkerson over the last two years from that position is Nebraska's Jared Crick, another big-time prospect. Scheme-versatile, Wilkerson is a great growth-piece for Rex Ryan.

Chicago Bears

Record: 11-5

* Aaron Williams, CB, Texas

Chicago needs help at corner and Williams is a safe pick. A solid character guy with exceptional ball skills, he has good speed, awareness and above-average size for the position, at a hair under 6-1 and 192 pounds. A guy who excels at the takeaway, he'll be able to deliver INTs for a coach who craves turnovers. He is also a very good special teams player.

Pittsburgh Steelers

Record: 12-4

* Tyron Smith, OT, USC

If the current trend holds, Smith may not last this long, as he is drawing raves from scouts over the last couple months. Regardless, Pittsburgh would be thrilled to get him here, because it's a position the Steelers must address. Smith can start early on the right side and develop into a left tackle, as he has the long frame, excellent footwork, instincts and athleticism that the position requires.

dont ban me...

 
Shutout said:
fdctrumpet said:
If Ingram (or another top RB) goes to NE, I will be trading from the #2 pick up in order to grab him. Also, if AJ goes to Cleveland - I will have J.Jones as the #1 WR (if he landed in STL). Talent is important, but a young player's career can be altered permanently based on the team/environment he is drafted into.
There are a lot of people that will argue the extrme opposite (talent trumps all) but I am with you on this. It is why I shyed away from Spiller last year and its what we have learned from guys like Braylon Edwards and Lee Evans. I don't knw where you draw the line but it definitely has to be a legit factor you weigh out.
I'm personally not sure Green is that much more talented than Jones anyway (although the consensus states he is) and I'll take a 9 with Bradford over a 10 with McCoy - and I actually kind of like McCoy.
 
Ryan Fitzpatrick > Any QB in this draft.
I have to agree. None of these guys excite me. Chance are more likely that they turn out to be a Alex Smith or David Carr than Matt Ryan, Joe Flacco or Sam Bradford. My team has so many needs that I would rather go with Grossman and pick a top player like Julio Jones than one of them that wont be NFL ready for 2-3 years.Also, if there is a CBA agreement signed before the draft, the rookie RB's will fall in the draft because there are alot of FA rb's on the market and available for trade.
 
Tackling Dummies said:
Not sure, but Mike Mayock>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>> anyone on ESPN.
:mellow:
For the 5 players that Mayock ranks, this might be true. If you are interested in the draft beyond 2 rounds, he ain't your guy.
 
massraider said:
Not sure, but Mike Mayock>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>> anyone on ESPN.
:homer:
For the 5 players that Mayock ranks, this might be true. If you are interested in the draft beyond 2 rounds, he ain't your guy.
Mayock may not rank them all but if you listen to him and read what he rights about multiple players, you'll be just as informed. Mocking the later rounds is often just about as accurate as reading tea leaves. So much changes with every pick and every week.I love mocks, but they aren't he only source of info even for later rounds. Besides, what use is a mock which in the fifth round lists the players name and that's it? Which is what many mocks do past the second or third round.I like them, they at least give me an idea of what a guy THINKS a team may be looking at late. But that's about it.
 
Buffalo Bills

Record: 4-12

Blaine Gabbert, QB, Missouri

The Bills are in need of a franchise quarterback, and with Luck not on the board, Gabbert is the best available signal-caller. He has the physical tools and football smarts to become a very good NFL QB once he makes the full transition to a pro-style offense.
fixedi just wonder who these guys talk to for this information? the school's SID, LOL?

hey draft guru fellas, talk to the position coaches please!

 
massraider said:
Not sure, but Mike Mayock>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>> anyone on ESPN.
:shrug:
For the 5 players that Mayock ranks, this might be true. If you are interested in the draft beyond 2 rounds, he ain't your guy.
Mayock may not rank them all but if you listen to him and read what he rights about multiple players, you'll be just as informed. Mocking the later rounds is often just about as accurate as reading tea leaves. So much changes with every pick and every week.I love mocks, but they aren't he only source of info even for later rounds. Besides, what use is a mock which in the fifth round lists the players name and that's it? Which is what many mocks do past the second or third round.

I like them, they at least give me an idea of what a guy THINKS a team may be looking at late. But that's about it.
I am not interested in mocks for the later rounds, but I am interested in players that will be drafted in later rounds. I completely disagree that you'll be just as informed by listening to Mayock. But this isn't meant as a slam. I love Mayock, and his commentary during Senior Bowl practices, and video breakdown is probably the best stuff you'll hear leading up to the draft.

But he just doesn't know as many players. He doesn't discuss as many players, doesn't rank players beyond top 5, and during all-star games and pre-draft stuff, he tends to harp on a few players. How much time did he spend talking about Mike Iupati vs. every other player at the Senior Bowl last year?

I really think Kiper and Mayock are different animals, and bring different things to the table. Kiper gets a lot of flack, and I really think it's mainly because of the way he comes off. He's not great on TV. But on Day 2 of the draft, I watch ESPN, because Kiper is the guy that is gonna have actual info about the 5th round LB that just got drafted. There just isn't a guy that I know of that knows more about these players, and can recite that info at will, than Kiper.

Mayock does the X's and O's, and points out flaws in a guy's game better than anyone. But when your team takes some Appalachian State CB in the 6th, and you want to know who the heck he is, Mayock ain't the guy.

 
I am sure if anyone here brought up the term "luxury pick" to Bill Belichick he would get that really sour look on his face and say something like "luxury pick, what the bleep does that mean; we can't afford any luxuries around here"!!!!!

From what I saw on Sunday last the Pats can't afford to make any "luxury picks". The team NEEDS help on the D-line and someone who can get a modicum of pressure on the QB when they are facing a team with a better than average line. Schemes can only take a team so far and BB knows it. WE NEED TALENT, there are major holes to fill on that team.

 
Dawg Pound 69 said:
If Ingram (or another top RB) goes to NE, I will be trading from the #2 pick up in order to grab him. Also, if AJ goes to Cleveland - I will have J.Jones as the #1 WR (if he landed in STL). Talent is important, but a young player's career can be altered permanently based on the team/environment he is drafted into.
Seems Miami would be a more attractive spot for Ingram. Other than Corey Dillon for a few years, seems like Belichick rotates his backs too much to produce a fantasy stud. BJGE and Woodhead would be part of the 3-headed monster with Ingram. BJGE might get the goalline carries, and Woodhead the 3rd down receptions. Then they'll ride Ingram on 1st & 2nd downs.
On the contrary, I think BB will use a player to his ability - ala Corey Dillon.But, like Dillon, I wouldn't be surprised to see NE grab a veteran back, like DeAngelo Williams... and use the high pick on another position.
 
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Ingram or LeShoure in New England = #1 rookie pick I think.
People just don't seem to learn from the offensive merry-go-round that is the Pats. I think people will be pulling their hair out every other week while they spread the ball around one game and run the next. Not like a RB going to NE would produce ADP #s.
I hear you, but they used to say this about WR, too. Again, I think, BB will use a player to their ability.
 
I am not interested in mocks for the later rounds, but I am interested in players that will be drafted in later rounds.

I completely disagree that you'll be just as informed by listening to Mayock. But this isn't meant as a slam. I love Mayock, and his commentary during Senior Bowl practices, and video breakdown is probably the best stuff you'll hear leading up to the draft.

But he just doesn't know as many players. He doesn't discuss as many players, doesn't rank players beyond top 5, and during all-star games and pre-draft stuff, he tends to harp on a few players. How much time did he spend talking about Mike Iupati vs. every other player at the Senior Bowl last year?

I really think Kiper and Mayock are different animals, and bring different things to the table. Kiper gets a lot of flack, and I really think it's mainly because of the way he comes off. He's not great on TV. But on Day 2 of the draft, I watch ESPN, because Kiper is the guy that is gonna have actual info about the 5th round LB that just got drafted. There just isn't a guy that I know of that knows more about these players, and can recite that info at will, than Kiper.

Mayock does the X's and O's, and points out flaws in a guy's game better than anyone. But when your team takes some Appalachian State CB in the 6th, and you want to know who the heck he is, Mayock ain't the guy.
I agree with you here. Mayock admittedly focuses on the top 100 or so players. ESPN is enormously larger than the NFL Network. I think Kiper has quite bit more to his disposal than Mayock does. Despite all that, has Kiper's comments on those later round picks ever helped you out at all? I don't keep track, so I don't know.
 
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Mayock does the X's and O's, and points out flaws in a guy's game better than anyone. But when your team takes some Appalachian State CB in the 6th, and you want to know who the heck he is, Mayock ain't the guy.
The reality is that is that the 6th round pick is an outlier and makes the team, much less breaking down film of his 2010 season. Sure, there are undrafted and late round picks that do make it, but the picks during that phase of the draft are little more than than names on a ticker. Garda pointed out earlier about reading tea leaves and that applies ideally from the first pick.
 
Ryan Fitzpatrick > Any QB in this draft.
I have to agree. None of these guys excite me. Chance are more likely that they turn out to be a Alex Smith or David Carr than Matt Ryan, Joe Flacco or Sam Bradford. My team has so many needs that I would rather go with Grossman and pick a top player like Julio Jones than one of them that wont be NFL ready for 2-3 years.Also, if there is a CBA agreement signed before the draft, the rookie RB's will fall in the draft because there are alot of FA rb's on the market and available for trade.
People like new toys. The QB class this year is awful. I would take Fitz over any of these guys and it isn't close IMO.
 
Mayock does the X's and O's, and points out flaws in a guy's game better than anyone. But when your team takes some Appalachian State CB in the 6th, and you want to know who the heck he is, Mayock ain't the guy.
The reality is that is that the 6th round pick is an outlier and makes the team, much less breaking down film of his 2010 season. Sure, there are undrafted and late round picks that do make it, but the picks during that phase of the draft are little more than than names on a ticker. Garda pointed out earlier about reading tea leaves and that applies ideally from the first pick.
Garda was talking about mock drafts. Which I was not. Mocks are strictly coversation fodder for the pre-draft days. Something for fans to debate. You are bringing up a different point, which I don't agree with either. You are basically saying (correct me if I am wrong), "late round guys don't matter so much, so who care about Kiper's knowledge of them." Or something along those lines. And unless you have been under a rock for 30 years, you know that a LOT of people care. The draft has become a three day televised monster. That most of these players drafted after the 3rd round have little chance of success doesn't matter one tiny little bit. Fans still want to know about them. And on day three, when they go team-by-team, Kiper is they guy that can speak intelligently about every player on every teams board. Period. No one else. No one on TV, anyway. On Day Three, it's ESPN on TV, and NFL Draft Scout on the laptop. Anyone who has been following the draft for awhile, can remember a Kiper whiff. He's been there for 30+ years, for Pete's sake. There are a lot of draftnik with misguided hatred for him, when he is in fact the granddaddy of their current obsession. McShay and Mayock have their current jobs because of Kiper. And they still can't do it as good as he can, although as I said, Mayock does a different job. And Kiper still brings it. He is still the biggest draft dweeb of them all, and knows the players inside and out. Watching him rattle off info on a guy that just got picked on Day 3 is unreal. He will get made fun of, relentlessly, for pimping Clausen so hard last year. And as long as McShay gets the same static for having McCoy ranked over Suh, I am fine with that.
 

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