I was really curious as to how the 2012 draft might develop, so here's my take. Everyone likes a little fodder, I suppose.
1. Indianapolis Colts: Andrew Luck, Stanford
The two best players in this draft are Andrew Luck and RG3. Personally, if the Colts bring in RG3, then I think he will be the pick since, I think, he is the better prospect. Yet, Luck does seem as the pick that fits what the Colts want to do, which, imo, is to replace Peyton Manning, the cerebral pocket quarterback.
2. Washington Redskins: RG3, Baylor
BPA
3. Minnesota Vikings: Matt Kalil, USC
Since they're starting Christian Ponder, have ADP coming off a major injury, and seem to be working Percy Harvin out of the backfield, it seems natural for the to pick the best offensive lineman in the draft to progress in each of those areas, i.e. for them to protect Ponder, and give him time; protect ADP, and try to give him space; and to up the overall talent level significantly after releasing Hutchinson and McKinnie the last two years. This is a great piece to start fresh with.
4. Cleveland Browns: Trent Richardson, Alabama
Not too long ago Peyton Hillis was a star. Trent Richardson is the top talent in the draft at the offensive skill positions. This team needs this kind of player. A receiver is possible as well, but I think the best way to really see what McCoy can do is by beefing up the run game and playing to the teams strengths in the passing game. That means developing their west coast offense. Justin Blackmon is definitely the best wide receiver then; however, Richardson is the best player because he can help in the passing game by receiving and blocking, and he can touch the ball 350 times taking pressure of McCoy in the backfield. Defense, or trading down is unlikely since they were top 10 last year and there isn't a better offensive player.
5. Tampa Bay Buccaneers: Justin Blackmon, Oklahoma
The Bucs just signed Jahri Evans, and Vincent Jackson, who is a solid X receiver. Now they can bring in the best Z receiver into the mix. Moreover, they can facilitate the transition by operating more of a spread offense with all the receivers they have. With Winslow and Blount in the mix, that offense could win some games and sell a lot of tickets. Moreover, Blount is large and athletic enough to be an effective pass blocker. This is the way they can really get behind Freeman.
6. St. Louis Rams: Michael Floyd, Notre Dame
Injuries killed this team last season. Why they traded for Lloyd is a mystery to me. Just a terrible season for them in general. I think that this is the first team that is likely to move down. But, barring that option, Michael Floyd is the right pick. Sam Bradford needs someone to get open. Right now, there is no one that is capable of doing that on this team. If the Rams stay at 6, then it makes the most sense for them to build on the offense because otherwise, they're investment in the first overall selection Bradford (2010), made before the lockout, is quite optimistic. The guy needs help.
7. Jacksonville Jaguars: Riley Reiff, Iowa
Reiff is accepted as one of the better lineman in the draft. Of course, it makes sense for the Jags to draft a skill player, but they're defense is solid, and so are the special teams, so it comes down to a wide receiver then. They could work on the defensive front seven, but consider picking the best tackle. They protect Gabbart, the 12th overall in 2011, and MJD, who won the rushing title. This draft is deep in receivers and they can find them later.
8. Miami Dolphins: Kendall Wright, Baylor
Ryan Tannehill is definitely a good prospect, but so is Matt Moore. They guy is coming off his best season and he is 27. This team doesn't have enough at receiver, has a franchise left tackle, a solid backfield, and is decent at tight end. I think that the Dolphins will take a receiver, and Wright had the best year coming out of any receiver in the draft. Not to mention he is a solid prospect. With this player the team replaces Marshall, and opens up the offense. Hopefully the defense can play to its potential under a new regime.
9. Carolina Panthers: Luke Kuechly, Boston College
I think that Kuechly is the best defensive player in the draft. Think Ray Lewis, Brian Urlacher, Patrick Willis, ... Jon Beason. This pick gives them a player to build around on defense.
10. Buffalo Bills: Morris Claiborne, LSU
With the additions of Mario William and Mark Anderson, I think Kelsay moves to DE, and Dareus goes to DT with Williams at 4NT. That is, they will play 4-3 defense. With that, it makes sense for the team to pick up a game changing cover corner that can solidify the teams pass D. Claiborne is the best defensive player available that can help in overcoming the Patriots.
11. Kansas City Chiefs: David Decastro, Standford
The Chiefs just brought in Hillis. In addition, they have Dexter Mcluster,a WR/RB talent, and Jamal Charles, who is one of the better backs in the league and is coming off an ACL tear. Moreover, they brought in Eric Winston. This team is serious about playing power football. Not to mention that they have Bowe and Baldwin at receiver. If Cassel can gain form, then this could be a complete offense, one that plays alongside the first defense to stop the 15-2 Packers.
12. Seattle Seahawks: Melvin Ingram, South Carolina
Seattle is an interesting team. They have committed to Pete Carroll. They have one of the best secondary's in the league. A solid interior run defense. But they are lacking in the pass rush department. This is the second team I see that could potentially go down. Their defense is solid, and they have bigger needs on offense. They also made commitments to Flynn and Lynch, yet the BPA is Melvin Ingram. He adds the much needed pass rush. I could definitely see this team moving up or down to target an offensive lineman.
13. Arizona Cardinals: Michael Brockers, LSU
Arizona is in an interesting position. It has one of the better 3-4 defensive lineman in Calais Campbell and Darnell Dockery, and their linebackers are average at best, not to mention old. Yet, their secondary is solid with Peterson, Wilson and Rhodes. There is plenty of talent there. I think Brockers is a player that can put the defense over the top, and provide security if Campbell leaves in 2013
14. Dallas Cowboys: Fletcher Cox, Mississipi State
I've seen Mark Barron going here plenty of times. Let me tell you why it won't happen. This team has a solid offense, with great skill position players and a solid QB. Their weakness is in the defensive line and secondary. They have Scandricks, Carr, Jenkins at corner, so they are relatively strong there. Is safety, considering the rostered CBs really that weak? Imagine if they could add someone who can collapse pockets and create holes for Ware, Spencer, Lee, and Connor? Brockers is that guy. He is the best interior d-lineman available and is a better value at 14 than Barron.
15. Philadelphia Eagles: Dontari Poe, Memphis
Honest to God I had Philadelphia and NYG as the number 1 and 2 teams, respectively, in the NFC all season long last year. Philly has a really interesting defense that get even more interesting with Poe to suck up linemen and open gaps for Ryans. This team has gone DT recently with Patterson, and has even looked to free agency for Babin. They traded for Ryans, and they have their rotation at DE set. It really fits for them to take Poe, who is the most athletic lineman in the draft this year. He doesn't need to be a top 5 DT to work in this defense, so much as he needs to take away space from the offense effectively. I mean, he can do much in closing the gaps in the 9-wide Philly uses.
16. New York Jets: Nick Perry, USC
Perry is probably the best prospect for a 3-4 Rush Linebacker. This teams strength is its pass D, yet they can be beat over the middle since they lack at safety and nickelback; and with no pass rush last season teams exploited that. Perry comes in an joins a good, if not solid core with Harris, Thomas and Scott. He's the kind of player that can really fit into Ryan's defense and let its strengths shine.
17. Cincinatti Bengals: Quintin Coples, North Carolina
Cincy was top ten last year in sacks with the majority coming from the defensive line. Cornerback is definitely an option, but if Leon Hall returns healthy, Nate Clements can maintain his form and Jennings can improve, which I don't think is too much to ask, then they can do more by improving that pass rush and defensive line. Coples is definitely a solid prospect to do that and is great value at 17.
18. San Diego Chargers: Stephen Gilmore, South Carolina
They now have two former Ravens starting at outside linebacker. Given the players left, it looks like the BPA is Stephen Gilmore. The last time they had solid play from their corners they ranked in the top 5 in yards allowed. Couple that with the development of Weddle and their defense could be significantly improved.
19. Chicago Bears: Courtney Upshaw, 'Bama
Upshaw is the best run defender left, and is one of the better DE prospects. Run defense was a weak point for this team, and with an addition like Upshaw, the defensive line is significantly improved, especially since the team can keep Peppers fresh and provide a strong option on the other side. Improving the D-line like this can also prolong, and even improve the play of Briggs and Urlacher. Of course, taking the pressure off Urlacher is probably a good idea considering his injury.
20. Tennessee Titans: Stephen Hill, Georgia Tech
I think it is fair to say that Locker's combine performance last year significantly influenced his draft position, that is to say it was probably what had the Titans draft him. Having said that I think he looked good. And with Kenny Britt coming back, Nate Washington showing chemistry with Locker, it seems that a guy who could immediately stretch the field and take time to develop at his position alongside the similarly gifted Britt is a great option. Not to mention the space it gives Chris Johnson and the pressure it takes off. Defense is an option but I think that, at 20, TEN will really consider Hill.
21. Cincinnati Bengals: Rueben Randle, LSU
A.J. Green was a phenom for the Bengals last season. With a player like Randle, the Bengals are definitely prepared to take the next step offensively. Given that Gresham is back and Dalton will definitely improve, Cincy would do well by taking the BPA at the WR position.
22. Cleveland Browns: Dre Kirpatrick, Alabama
Joe Haden and Dre Kirkpatrick. Cleveland just got really strong defensively. If they can find some pieces in FA and next years draft, then maybe four teams are not too far off from making the post-season from the AFC North.
23. Detroit Lions: Cordy Glenn, Georgia
Glenn is on the of the most intriguing prospects in the draft. He has great versatility, and is very athletic. He is the best offensive lineman available and considering that this team has Calvin Johnson, why not just give him a second longer to get open.\
24. Pittsburgh Steelers: Jonathon Martin, Stanford
This teams backfield was really battered last year. Their defense remains strong. It seems natural that they work on the offensive line. Martin is the best player available and he allows the Steelers room to potentially shed some salary in Willie Colon. They are gonna have to create space sooner, rather than later. This is the kind of player that can be the foundation for an offensive line with Maurkice Pouncey.
25. Denver Broncos: Mark Barron, Alabama
The Broncos look strong everywhere. They have a solid pass rush and strong run defense. Offensively, they are strong at QB (watch out karma), and RB and have options at receiver. I thought it was possible for them to take a guy like Coby Fleener, but they have options on their roster already that they can spread wide. A guy like Barron really plays to their strengths as he is a do it all, pass rush, play the run and ball hawk safety. The only area the Bronco's D struggled was forcing turnovers. This is a pick that could really put the ball in Manning's hands and provide high ROI.
26. Houston Texans: Cody Fleener, Stanford
Houston's defense is unchanged from its late season run. It's offense, however, is really hurting. Schaub and Johnson can't stay healthy. Jones and Walter good, at best, WR options. Owen Daniels is a solid TE. Pair him with Fleener, and the WRs gain a lot of space. Moreover, Fleener is a decent blocker with potential, and a solid receiving option that creates space in the between the markers for their zone run game. He's also a great option if the Texans decide to go with Yates.
29. New England Patriots: Whitney Mercilis, Illinois
Last year, their biggest problem was the pass rush. They played the run well, and forced turnover, but they gave up alot of yards because of this deficiency. Mercilus can play RDE and 3-4 Rush Backer. He gives this team a lot of versatility. There are still some big 3-4 End options available, so they may get the opportunity to implement more 3-4 looks with the right players.
28. Green Bay Packers: Shea McClellin, Boise
Green Bay loves dem white boys... No, seriously, the guy is being projected as one of the best options at 3-4 OLB and is a great compliment to Clay Matthews. And he's a white linebacker in Wisconsin.
29. Baltimore Ravens: Alshon Jefferey, South Carolina
Jefferey is hands down the best wide receiver in the 2012 draft. But there is so much drama, (even more than Floyd, Hill, Blackmon), that he will fall. He's fat, he's slow, he put up weak numbers in 2011-12, and he has poor work ethic. I've heard it all. Admittedly, I have not watched much tape on the other WRs, but I have a Jefferey and he looks good. Anquan Boldin had similar issues when he came out and fell to the second round. He was the best receiver in his class. By far. Jefferey has the perfect mentor, and the Ravens will give Flacco weapons so he can earn top 5 money. I've seen interior o-line come up here, but I see too much talent later to pass on Jefferey. Hightower, Devon Still, and Worthy; and Jenkins are all left, but the Ravens don't really know what they have in Kindle, Kruger, and Jones, McPhee, so they can afford to pass on solid defensive options. Jefferey is the BPA.
30. San Francisco 49ers: Devon Still, Penn State
SF really showed last season how quickly a team can improve. They have really played with their offense, so I think that they will go the dominant defense route and really beef up their DL with BPA Devon Still. Paired with Justin Smith, a DPOY candidate, the opposition will really stuggle opening holes with Brooks, Aldon Smith, Justin Smith and Still attacking. This will create plenty of room for Bowman and Willis. And the added pass rush can help cover up their relatively weak secondary. Could it be possible that they challenge 2000 BLT for best defense ever some time soon?
31. New England Patriots: Jerel Worthy, Michigan State
With Mercilus and Worthy, the Patriots can use more base 3-4 and their defense is immediately improved. And there are likely to be some RB options in the second, and DB options there as well that the Pats could consider too. But I think that improving the defense will be the number one priority.
32. New York Giants: Andre Branch, Alabama
Its great to be the champs. Andre Branch, Kendall Reyes, Hightower, Jones, Jenkins, Doug Martin, and David Wilson, among others are all available. I think the BPA is Branch, however. Hightower is alluring, but he does not provide insurance for Umenyiora. Not only that, but his primary role would be improving the run D, yet that is where the Giants excelled down the stretch. Andre Branch significantly improves that pass rush and has time to learn and develop from the best. A great fir for big blue.
1. Indianapolis Colts: Andrew Luck, Stanford
The two best players in this draft are Andrew Luck and RG3. Personally, if the Colts bring in RG3, then I think he will be the pick since, I think, he is the better prospect. Yet, Luck does seem as the pick that fits what the Colts want to do, which, imo, is to replace Peyton Manning, the cerebral pocket quarterback.
2. Washington Redskins: RG3, Baylor
BPA
3. Minnesota Vikings: Matt Kalil, USC
Since they're starting Christian Ponder, have ADP coming off a major injury, and seem to be working Percy Harvin out of the backfield, it seems natural for the to pick the best offensive lineman in the draft to progress in each of those areas, i.e. for them to protect Ponder, and give him time; protect ADP, and try to give him space; and to up the overall talent level significantly after releasing Hutchinson and McKinnie the last two years. This is a great piece to start fresh with.
4. Cleveland Browns: Trent Richardson, Alabama
Not too long ago Peyton Hillis was a star. Trent Richardson is the top talent in the draft at the offensive skill positions. This team needs this kind of player. A receiver is possible as well, but I think the best way to really see what McCoy can do is by beefing up the run game and playing to the teams strengths in the passing game. That means developing their west coast offense. Justin Blackmon is definitely the best wide receiver then; however, Richardson is the best player because he can help in the passing game by receiving and blocking, and he can touch the ball 350 times taking pressure of McCoy in the backfield. Defense, or trading down is unlikely since they were top 10 last year and there isn't a better offensive player.
5. Tampa Bay Buccaneers: Justin Blackmon, Oklahoma
The Bucs just signed Jahri Evans, and Vincent Jackson, who is a solid X receiver. Now they can bring in the best Z receiver into the mix. Moreover, they can facilitate the transition by operating more of a spread offense with all the receivers they have. With Winslow and Blount in the mix, that offense could win some games and sell a lot of tickets. Moreover, Blount is large and athletic enough to be an effective pass blocker. This is the way they can really get behind Freeman.
6. St. Louis Rams: Michael Floyd, Notre Dame
Injuries killed this team last season. Why they traded for Lloyd is a mystery to me. Just a terrible season for them in general. I think that this is the first team that is likely to move down. But, barring that option, Michael Floyd is the right pick. Sam Bradford needs someone to get open. Right now, there is no one that is capable of doing that on this team. If the Rams stay at 6, then it makes the most sense for them to build on the offense because otherwise, they're investment in the first overall selection Bradford (2010), made before the lockout, is quite optimistic. The guy needs help.
7. Jacksonville Jaguars: Riley Reiff, Iowa
Reiff is accepted as one of the better lineman in the draft. Of course, it makes sense for the Jags to draft a skill player, but they're defense is solid, and so are the special teams, so it comes down to a wide receiver then. They could work on the defensive front seven, but consider picking the best tackle. They protect Gabbart, the 12th overall in 2011, and MJD, who won the rushing title. This draft is deep in receivers and they can find them later.
8. Miami Dolphins: Kendall Wright, Baylor
Ryan Tannehill is definitely a good prospect, but so is Matt Moore. They guy is coming off his best season and he is 27. This team doesn't have enough at receiver, has a franchise left tackle, a solid backfield, and is decent at tight end. I think that the Dolphins will take a receiver, and Wright had the best year coming out of any receiver in the draft. Not to mention he is a solid prospect. With this player the team replaces Marshall, and opens up the offense. Hopefully the defense can play to its potential under a new regime.
9. Carolina Panthers: Luke Kuechly, Boston College
I think that Kuechly is the best defensive player in the draft. Think Ray Lewis, Brian Urlacher, Patrick Willis, ... Jon Beason. This pick gives them a player to build around on defense.
10. Buffalo Bills: Morris Claiborne, LSU
With the additions of Mario William and Mark Anderson, I think Kelsay moves to DE, and Dareus goes to DT with Williams at 4NT. That is, they will play 4-3 defense. With that, it makes sense for the team to pick up a game changing cover corner that can solidify the teams pass D. Claiborne is the best defensive player available that can help in overcoming the Patriots.
11. Kansas City Chiefs: David Decastro, Standford
The Chiefs just brought in Hillis. In addition, they have Dexter Mcluster,a WR/RB talent, and Jamal Charles, who is one of the better backs in the league and is coming off an ACL tear. Moreover, they brought in Eric Winston. This team is serious about playing power football. Not to mention that they have Bowe and Baldwin at receiver. If Cassel can gain form, then this could be a complete offense, one that plays alongside the first defense to stop the 15-2 Packers.
12. Seattle Seahawks: Melvin Ingram, South Carolina
Seattle is an interesting team. They have committed to Pete Carroll. They have one of the best secondary's in the league. A solid interior run defense. But they are lacking in the pass rush department. This is the second team I see that could potentially go down. Their defense is solid, and they have bigger needs on offense. They also made commitments to Flynn and Lynch, yet the BPA is Melvin Ingram. He adds the much needed pass rush. I could definitely see this team moving up or down to target an offensive lineman.
13. Arizona Cardinals: Michael Brockers, LSU
Arizona is in an interesting position. It has one of the better 3-4 defensive lineman in Calais Campbell and Darnell Dockery, and their linebackers are average at best, not to mention old. Yet, their secondary is solid with Peterson, Wilson and Rhodes. There is plenty of talent there. I think Brockers is a player that can put the defense over the top, and provide security if Campbell leaves in 2013
14. Dallas Cowboys: Fletcher Cox, Mississipi State
I've seen Mark Barron going here plenty of times. Let me tell you why it won't happen. This team has a solid offense, with great skill position players and a solid QB. Their weakness is in the defensive line and secondary. They have Scandricks, Carr, Jenkins at corner, so they are relatively strong there. Is safety, considering the rostered CBs really that weak? Imagine if they could add someone who can collapse pockets and create holes for Ware, Spencer, Lee, and Connor? Brockers is that guy. He is the best interior d-lineman available and is a better value at 14 than Barron.
15. Philadelphia Eagles: Dontari Poe, Memphis
Honest to God I had Philadelphia and NYG as the number 1 and 2 teams, respectively, in the NFC all season long last year. Philly has a really interesting defense that get even more interesting with Poe to suck up linemen and open gaps for Ryans. This team has gone DT recently with Patterson, and has even looked to free agency for Babin. They traded for Ryans, and they have their rotation at DE set. It really fits for them to take Poe, who is the most athletic lineman in the draft this year. He doesn't need to be a top 5 DT to work in this defense, so much as he needs to take away space from the offense effectively. I mean, he can do much in closing the gaps in the 9-wide Philly uses.
16. New York Jets: Nick Perry, USC
Perry is probably the best prospect for a 3-4 Rush Linebacker. This teams strength is its pass D, yet they can be beat over the middle since they lack at safety and nickelback; and with no pass rush last season teams exploited that. Perry comes in an joins a good, if not solid core with Harris, Thomas and Scott. He's the kind of player that can really fit into Ryan's defense and let its strengths shine.
17. Cincinatti Bengals: Quintin Coples, North Carolina
Cincy was top ten last year in sacks with the majority coming from the defensive line. Cornerback is definitely an option, but if Leon Hall returns healthy, Nate Clements can maintain his form and Jennings can improve, which I don't think is too much to ask, then they can do more by improving that pass rush and defensive line. Coples is definitely a solid prospect to do that and is great value at 17.
18. San Diego Chargers: Stephen Gilmore, South Carolina
They now have two former Ravens starting at outside linebacker. Given the players left, it looks like the BPA is Stephen Gilmore. The last time they had solid play from their corners they ranked in the top 5 in yards allowed. Couple that with the development of Weddle and their defense could be significantly improved.
19. Chicago Bears: Courtney Upshaw, 'Bama
Upshaw is the best run defender left, and is one of the better DE prospects. Run defense was a weak point for this team, and with an addition like Upshaw, the defensive line is significantly improved, especially since the team can keep Peppers fresh and provide a strong option on the other side. Improving the D-line like this can also prolong, and even improve the play of Briggs and Urlacher. Of course, taking the pressure off Urlacher is probably a good idea considering his injury.
20. Tennessee Titans: Stephen Hill, Georgia Tech
I think it is fair to say that Locker's combine performance last year significantly influenced his draft position, that is to say it was probably what had the Titans draft him. Having said that I think he looked good. And with Kenny Britt coming back, Nate Washington showing chemistry with Locker, it seems that a guy who could immediately stretch the field and take time to develop at his position alongside the similarly gifted Britt is a great option. Not to mention the space it gives Chris Johnson and the pressure it takes off. Defense is an option but I think that, at 20, TEN will really consider Hill.
21. Cincinnati Bengals: Rueben Randle, LSU
A.J. Green was a phenom for the Bengals last season. With a player like Randle, the Bengals are definitely prepared to take the next step offensively. Given that Gresham is back and Dalton will definitely improve, Cincy would do well by taking the BPA at the WR position.
22. Cleveland Browns: Dre Kirpatrick, Alabama
Joe Haden and Dre Kirkpatrick. Cleveland just got really strong defensively. If they can find some pieces in FA and next years draft, then maybe four teams are not too far off from making the post-season from the AFC North.
23. Detroit Lions: Cordy Glenn, Georgia
Glenn is on the of the most intriguing prospects in the draft. He has great versatility, and is very athletic. He is the best offensive lineman available and considering that this team has Calvin Johnson, why not just give him a second longer to get open.\
24. Pittsburgh Steelers: Jonathon Martin, Stanford
This teams backfield was really battered last year. Their defense remains strong. It seems natural that they work on the offensive line. Martin is the best player available and he allows the Steelers room to potentially shed some salary in Willie Colon. They are gonna have to create space sooner, rather than later. This is the kind of player that can be the foundation for an offensive line with Maurkice Pouncey.
25. Denver Broncos: Mark Barron, Alabama
The Broncos look strong everywhere. They have a solid pass rush and strong run defense. Offensively, they are strong at QB (watch out karma), and RB and have options at receiver. I thought it was possible for them to take a guy like Coby Fleener, but they have options on their roster already that they can spread wide. A guy like Barron really plays to their strengths as he is a do it all, pass rush, play the run and ball hawk safety. The only area the Bronco's D struggled was forcing turnovers. This is a pick that could really put the ball in Manning's hands and provide high ROI.
26. Houston Texans: Cody Fleener, Stanford
Houston's defense is unchanged from its late season run. It's offense, however, is really hurting. Schaub and Johnson can't stay healthy. Jones and Walter good, at best, WR options. Owen Daniels is a solid TE. Pair him with Fleener, and the WRs gain a lot of space. Moreover, Fleener is a decent blocker with potential, and a solid receiving option that creates space in the between the markers for their zone run game. He's also a great option if the Texans decide to go with Yates.
29. New England Patriots: Whitney Mercilis, Illinois
Last year, their biggest problem was the pass rush. They played the run well, and forced turnover, but they gave up alot of yards because of this deficiency. Mercilus can play RDE and 3-4 Rush Backer. He gives this team a lot of versatility. There are still some big 3-4 End options available, so they may get the opportunity to implement more 3-4 looks with the right players.
28. Green Bay Packers: Shea McClellin, Boise
Green Bay loves dem white boys... No, seriously, the guy is being projected as one of the best options at 3-4 OLB and is a great compliment to Clay Matthews. And he's a white linebacker in Wisconsin.
29. Baltimore Ravens: Alshon Jefferey, South Carolina
Jefferey is hands down the best wide receiver in the 2012 draft. But there is so much drama, (even more than Floyd, Hill, Blackmon), that he will fall. He's fat, he's slow, he put up weak numbers in 2011-12, and he has poor work ethic. I've heard it all. Admittedly, I have not watched much tape on the other WRs, but I have a Jefferey and he looks good. Anquan Boldin had similar issues when he came out and fell to the second round. He was the best receiver in his class. By far. Jefferey has the perfect mentor, and the Ravens will give Flacco weapons so he can earn top 5 money. I've seen interior o-line come up here, but I see too much talent later to pass on Jefferey. Hightower, Devon Still, and Worthy; and Jenkins are all left, but the Ravens don't really know what they have in Kindle, Kruger, and Jones, McPhee, so they can afford to pass on solid defensive options. Jefferey is the BPA.
30. San Francisco 49ers: Devon Still, Penn State
SF really showed last season how quickly a team can improve. They have really played with their offense, so I think that they will go the dominant defense route and really beef up their DL with BPA Devon Still. Paired with Justin Smith, a DPOY candidate, the opposition will really stuggle opening holes with Brooks, Aldon Smith, Justin Smith and Still attacking. This will create plenty of room for Bowman and Willis. And the added pass rush can help cover up their relatively weak secondary. Could it be possible that they challenge 2000 BLT for best defense ever some time soon?
31. New England Patriots: Jerel Worthy, Michigan State
With Mercilus and Worthy, the Patriots can use more base 3-4 and their defense is immediately improved. And there are likely to be some RB options in the second, and DB options there as well that the Pats could consider too. But I think that improving the defense will be the number one priority.
32. New York Giants: Andre Branch, Alabama
Its great to be the champs. Andre Branch, Kendall Reyes, Hightower, Jones, Jenkins, Doug Martin, and David Wilson, among others are all available. I think the BPA is Branch, however. Hightower is alluring, but he does not provide insurance for Umenyiora. Not only that, but his primary role would be improving the run D, yet that is where the Giants excelled down the stretch. Andre Branch significantly improves that pass rush and has time to learn and develop from the best. A great fir for big blue.
