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Football Utopia
5/15/2013
Posted By Michael DiFiglia
Don't count us out examines the New York Jets and the Detroit Lions. I'll give you reasons why you cannot discount either NFL franchise in the 2013 season.
New York JetsI’ll say this right now; I did not pick the Jets for this article because I am a Jets fan or from New York. They have tons more potential than they are being given credit for.
Idzkic is a talented GM and I believe he pairs well with Rex Ryan. Rex is a motivator at heart and he really gives a high morale to this players. Remember when Rex Ryan Was the Most Wanted Coach of NFL Players? He failed with super bowl promises, his team fell apart, and Mark Sanchez has only regressed. The criticism is warranted but should be taken with a grain of salt.
They do have talent, do not forget that. Dee Miliner solidifies a CB corps that was fine in the absence of Darrelle Revis. Cromartie can play as can Wilson. Their LB are young and inexperienced, but make no mistake they can be real playmakers. The defensive line is the most exciting part of the defense; Sheldon Richardson adds another talent to an already powerful line.
Offense is the tougher part; the Jets don’t have a clear cut QB. It’s likely that Mark Sanchez will start. Backup David Garrard is expected to retire due to knee issues, and they don’t want to put Geno out too early. The wide receivers need to be there this season for whoever is throwing it. Kerley was fantastic at his role last season, Stephen Hill needs to show improvement from last season and Santonio needs to remain healthy. The offensive line is young but is led by Pro Bowlers and positive role models. Running backs are the true unknown territory of the Jets. Chris Ivory was possibly the biggest Free Agent moves for the organization. If he produces as well as Powell, they could be a solid starting committee backfield. You never know until the season gets going.
I think it’s doubtful they make it to the Super Bowl. If they get to the playoffs it will have to be through the wild cart round. The have quite the competition in Miami and New England.
Best Possible Predicted Record for Regular Season: 9-7
Playoff Limit Prediction: AFC Championship Game
Detroit LionsThose Honolulu Blue Lions of Detroit never get any love. One thing I will say is that Detroit fans are resilient. They don’t always have things to cheer for but they make with what they have. They have heart, which many fan bases seem to be lacking in today’s world.
First, in similar fashion to the Jets they need to have some upsets in division play. The Packers, Bears, and Vikings are all looking like they could be ready for a long run into the playoffs.
Detroit can compete with these teams, they need to have some defensive guys step up their play for the victories. Their offense is fine. Matthew Stafford and Calvin Johnson are rightfully adored in Michigan. They don’t have a ton of depth on offense but that just means they need people to stay healthy. One of their weakest points on offense in right tackle. The rest of the offensive line is serviceable. Their running back situation is very interesting. Reggie Bush, Mikel Leshoure, Joique Bell, Theo Riddick and apparently Javid Best are all on the roster. One of those 5 will be the lead back, and I assume there will be more rotations and fresh leg than ever before.
Defensive line needs to be more dominant than ever to anchor this team. I think they are more than capable of this, especially considering their first round pick in Ziggy Ansah. They need big time plays from their veterans at LB like DeAndre Levy and Stephen Tulloch. There is no doubt the weakest part of the defense in the Defensive Backs. Chris Houston is no CB1, we hope to see production out of Darius Slay. Delmas needs to anchor this group and become their leader. If not they will be shred to pieces.
They play Christian Ponder, Carson Palmer, Robert Griffin, Jay Cutler, Aaron Rodgers, Andy Dalton, Tony Romo, Big Ben, Michael Vick, and Eli Manning. That’s all before the playoffs. This team will either come together or collapse. There is some hype with Detroit this off season, but a tough schedule and a tough division is a daunting task.
Best Possible Predicted Record of Regular Season (10-6)
Playoff Limit Prediction: Super Bowl
4/29/2013
Posted By Chris Ransom
The Minnesota Vikings drafted 3 players in the first round of the 2013 NFL Draft. How did all 32 NFL teams do with their draft picks?
Baltimore RavensRound 1 Pick 32 Matt Elam Strong Safety Florida Ravens get a starting strong safety to replace Bernard Pollard. This was a good pick.
Round 2 Pick 56 Arthur Brown 3-4 Middle Linebacker Kansas State Insurance in case Rolando McClain gets in trouble again.
Round 3 Pick 94 Brandon Williams Nose Tackle Missouri Southern Terrence Cody failed to be a starter in 2012. Competition was needed at nose tackle to challenge Cody.
Round 4 Pick 129 John Simon 3-4 Left Outside Linebacker Ohio State Simon gives the Ravens a pass-rusher for depth.
Round 4 Pick 130 Kyle Juszczyk Fullback Harvard The Ravens needed a fullback. They got one late in Round 4.
Round 5 Pick 168 Ricky Wagner Left Tackle Wisconsin Ricky Wagner played left tackle at Wisconsin he may be able to beat out Michael Oher for the left tackle job. Likely he’ll start at right tackle forcing Kelechi Osmele inside to left guard.
Round 6 200 Kapron Lewis-Moore 3-4 Left End Notre Dame The Ravens add a 3-4 defensive end for depth.
Round 6 Pick 203 Ryan Jensen Right Guard Colorado State-Pueblo The Ravens add a player that will not make a roster spot come opening day.
Round 7 Pick 238 Aaron Mellete Wide Receiver Elon Mellette has the size to act as an eventual replacement for Anquan Boldin and a #1 target for Joe Flacco.
Round 7 Pick 241 Marc Anthony Cornerback California The Ravens use this pick to obtain a #1 field cornerback.
Baltimore Ravens Draft Grade A+ The Ravens used this draft to address most of their needs while getting tremendous value. Ravens' General Manager Ozzie Newsome knows how to reload talent year in and year out.
Cincinnati Bengals
Round 1 Pick 21 Tyler Eifert Tight End Notre Dame Bengals get a #2 tight end to compliment Jermaine Gresham. Gresham had durability issues at Oklahoma and Eifert does not have a history of injuries. Gresham and EIfert give Andy Dalton a two tight end set to win.
Round 2 Pick 37 Giovanni Bernard Running Back North Carolina Bernarrd was a sophomore redshirt when he declared. Cincinnati has youth and depth behind the teams star running back Ben-Jarvus-Green-Ellis.
Round 2 Pick 53 Margus Hunt Right End SMU The Bengals add a pass rusher for depth. Hunt has outstanding value at this pont.
Round 3 Pick 84 Shawn Williams Strong Safety Georgia Bengals need a starting safety. Not sure I would have gone Williams. There were a couple of other Georgia safeties available.
Round 4 Pick 118 Sean Porter Left Outside Linebacker Texas A&M Bengals add a left outside linebacker for depth in case Rey Maualuga fails to accept the starting left outside linebacker job on the strong side.
Round 5 Pick 156 Tanner Hawkinson Right Tackle Kansas The Bengals have a backup left tackle in Anthony Collins from Kansas. Now they add a backup right tackle in Hawkinson. Cincinnati is screwed if Hawkinson starts at right tackle in week 1.
Round 6 Pick 190 Rex Burkhead Running Back Nebraska The Bengals add one more running back.
Round 6 Pick 197 Cobi Hamilton Wide Receiver Arkansas The Bengals add one more receivers for depth.
Round 7 Pick 240 Reid Fragel Right Tackle Ohio State Cincinnati adds a right tackle that will likely compete with Hawkinson for a roster spot.
Round 7 Pick 251 TJ Johnson Center South Carolina The Bengals needed a center that will eventually replace Kyle Cook. They got one with Johnson here.
Cincinnati Bengals Draft Grade B The Bengals addressed most of the teams needs in the 2013 NFL Draft. Now the Bengals have to win games to show that these draft picks win games.
Cleveland Browns
Round 1 Pick 6 Barkevious Mingo 3-4 Left Outside Linebacker LSU Cleveland adds a pass rusher for depth. The Browns now have Paul Kruger, Jabaal Shear, Quentin Groves, and Mingo. None of these guys are proven 10+ sack artist guys. With depth maybe these guys can get compete with one emerging into a sack artist.
Round 3 Pick 68 Leon McFadden Cornerback San Diego State Browns needed a boundary corner and drafted a nickel.
Round 6 Pick 175 Janoris Slaughter Strong Safety Notre Dame He’s not even the best safety to play at Notre Dame. That honor belongs Zekke Motta.
Round 7 Pick 217 Armonty Bryant 3-4 Right Outside Linebacker East Central Oklahoma Bryant won’t make the roster. Why did Cleveland waste this pick on him?
Cleveland Browns Draft Grade F The Browns spent draft picks on players that won’t pan out. It seemed like Cleveland was going to win the AFC North. Then the 2013 NFL Draft happened.
Pittsburgh Steelers
Round 1 Pick 17 Jarvis Jones 3-4 Right Outside Linebacker Georgia Pittsburgh gets a replacement for James Harrison. Awesome pick.
Round 2 Pick 48 Le’Veon Bell Running Back Michigan State The Steelers passed on Jonathan Franklin, Christine Michael, and Eddie Lacy.
Round 3 Pick 79 Markus Wheaton Wide Receiver Oregon State Wheaton gives Pittsburgh a slot receiver with more speed than Cotchery or Burress.
Round 4 Pick 111 Shamarko Thomas Strong Safety Syracuse A safety for depth behind Polamalu and Ryan Clark.
Round 4 Pick 115 Landry Jones Quarterback Oklahoma I would have took Bray. Landry Jones is 3rd in FBS all time passing yards. His jaw dropping statistics in a spread offense make him look like a good pick. Jones is a backup at best. He’s not the successor to Ben Roethlisberger.
Round 5 Pick 150 Terry Hawthorne Cornerback Illinois Pittsburgh adds a cornerback for depth.
Round 6 Pick 186 Justin Brown Wide Receiver Oklahoma He’ll be lucky if he gets an NFL roster spot. His 6-3/209 pound frame impresses you. Pittsburgh gets a slot receiver and a size receiver.
Round 6 Pick 206 Vince Williams 3-4 Middle Linebacker Florida State Williams can challenge Stevenson Sylvester for a roster spot. I think he wins out and serves as a backup to former Seminole Lawrence Timmons.
Round 7 Pick 233 Nick Williams 3-4 Left End Samford The Steelers add a small school 3-4 defensive end for depth with this pick.
Pittsburgh Steelers Draft Grade B+ The Steelers addressed most of their needs in the 2013 NFL Draft. Pittsburgh gets a B+ because they did things like take Le’Veon Bell over Eddie Lacy, take Markus Wheaton over Quinton Patton, take Landry Jones over Tyler Bray who went undrafted, and take Justin Brown over Aaron Mellette. These mistakes make it hard for me to give the Steelers an A grade.
Houston Texans
Round 1 Pick 27 DeAndre Hopkins Wide Receiver Clemson Houston gets a wide out across from Andre Johnson now that Kevin Walter and Jacoby Jones are gone.
Round 2 Pick 57 DJ Swearinger Strong Safety South Carolina Houston gets a starting strong safety.
Round 3 Pick 89 Brennan Williams Right Tackle North Carolina Competition is needed for Derek Newton at the Texans’ right tackle job.
Round 3 Pick 97 Sam Montgomery 3-4 Right Outside Linebacker LSU Montgomery will make a good player for depth. He has some off the field concerns. Maybe Houston should draft a second rusher for insurance.
Round 4 Pick 124 Trevardo Williams 3-4 Left Outside Linebacker Connecticut Houston needed to add depth at pass-rusher. They did that with this pick. The 6-2/233 pounder will serve as a backup. He gives Houston insurance if Montgomery doesn’t work out.
Round 6 Pick 176 David Quessenberry Right Guard San Jose State Quessenberry can play anywhere on the offensive line. Perhaps he can compete with Ben Jones for the starting right guard job.
Round 6 Pick 195 Alan Bonner Wide Receiver Jacksonville State The Texans add a guy that can play special teams and may develop into a slot receiver.
Round 6 Pick 198 Chris Jones 3-4 Right End Bowling Green Jones won’t make a roster. The Texans added him for depth.
Round 6 Pick 201 Ryan Griffin Tight End Connecticut The Texans add a third string tight end with this pick.
Houston Texans Draft Grade C+ The Texans failed to address needs at 3-4 middle linebacker and nose tackle. Teams will be able to run the ball on Houston up the middle.
Indianapolis Colts
Round 1 Pick 24 Bjoern Werner 3-4 Right Outside Linebacker Florida State Werner is a steal here. Werner and Robert Mathis will make a deadly pass rushing tandem. What happens to 2010 first-round pick Jerry Hughes?
Round 3 Pick 86 Hugh Thornton Left Guard Illinois Hugh Thornton played left tackle for Illinois. I had him going in the sixth-round and the Colts took him in Round 3. The Colts believe he can start at left guard.
His former OL teammate Jeff Allen played left tackle in 2011 and started at left guard in Kansas City. Look for a similar result from Thornton.
Round 4 Pick 121 Khaled Holmes Center USC Samson Satelle can still start at center. He’s no longer the Pro Bowl player he once was. Depth at center will help. Khaled Holmes was once a first-round prospect so he helps Indianapolis out in the trenches.
Round 5 Pick 139 Montori Hughes Nose Tackle Tennessee-Martin I gave the Colts Hughes in Round 3. This is a good value pick here in Round 5.
Round 6 Pick 192 John Boyett Strong Safety Oregon The Colts add a strong safety for depth that will likely fail to make the Colts final roster.
Round 7 Pick 230 Kerwynn Williams Running Back Utah State The Colts add a rusher that will likely fail to make a roster spot. Oh well it’s Round 7.
Round 7 Pick 254 Justice Cunningham Tight End South Carolina Justice Cunningham will have to deal with the injustice of being a third string tight end behind Coby Fleener and Dwayne Allen.
Indianapolis Colts Draft Grade A- The Colts got off to a strong start on draft day before a sloppy finish. They still get an A- grade for the way they drafted early.
Jacksonville Jaguars
Round 1 Pick 2 Luke Joeckel Right Tackle Texas A&M Joeckel played left tackle at Texas A&M. There was one play on tape where he played right tackle. Don’t take the Jaguars seriously until Joeckel moves to left tackle in 2014.
Round 2 Pick 33 Jonathan Cyprien Free Safety Florida International Jacksonville needed secondary help everywhere.
Round 3 Pick 64 Dwayne Gratz Cornerback Connecticut Gratz is a boundary corner, but he could win the field cornerback job for the Jaguars. Don’t expect Gratz to do well if he does win the job. The Jags’ field corner has to deal with Reggie Wayne and Andre Johnson twice a year.
Round 4 Pick 101 Ace Sanders Wide Receiver South Carolina Jacksonville gets a slot receiver to play with Cecil Shorts and Justin Blackmon.
Round 5 Pick 135 Denard Robinson Kick Returner Michigan Jacksonville gets a special teams player here.
Round 6 Pick 169 Josh Evans Free Safety Florida The Jaguars add a backup free safety, but they still need a starting strong safety.
Round 7 Pick 208 Jeremy Harris Cornerback New Mexico State Harris can develop into a corner on the inside. He’ll need someone to challenge him for the nickel job.
Round 7 Pick 210 Demetrius McCray Cornerback Appalachin State The Jaguars get a cornerback that can challenge Harris for the nickel job on the inside.
Jacksonville Jaguars Draft Grade F The Jaguars had a horrible draft. They’ll likely draft one of the top 2 quarterbacks in 2014 like Johnny Manziel or Teddy Bridgewater.
Tennessee Titans
Round 1 Pick 10 Chance Warmack Right Guard Alabama Warmack is a pure left guard. His mammoth run blocking will help the Titans when he starts at right guard.
Round 2 Pick 34 Justin Hunter Wide Receiver Tennessee Kenny Britt and Damian Williams both have expiring contracts in 2014. Nate Washington’s deal is up in 2015. Hunter will sit out in 2013, unless legal issues or injuries occur with Britt. Still great insurance move by the Titans.
Round 3 Pick 70 Blidi Wreh-Wilson Cornerback Connecticut Adding Wilson as a nickel next to Alteraun Verner and Jason McCourty helps an anemic pass defense.
Round 3 Pick 97 Zavier Gooden Right Outside Linebacker Missouri The Titans needed a weak side linebacker for depth.
Round 4 107 Brian Schwenke Center California The Titans add an interior offensive lineman for depth that can compete for a starting job at center. Schwenke has the versatility to start at left guard, center, or right guard.
Round 5 Pick 142 Lavar Edwards Right End LSU The Titans add a defensive end for depth.
Round 6 Pick 202 Khalid Wooten Cornerback Nevada Wooten is a quarter corner on most NFL teams. He’ll be a dime corner in Tennessee.
Round 7 Pick 248 Daimion Stafford Strong Safety Nebraska The Titans add a strong safety for depth.
Tennessee Titans Draft Grade B The Titans had a solid draft. A draft like this can carry over into the 2013 season. Don’t be surprised if the Titans have a winning season in 2013.
Buffalo Bills
Round 1 Pick 16 EJ Manuel Quarterback Florida State Kevin Kolb is only getting 1 million in guaranteed money. Prediction, Manuel will be one of two quarterbacks to start in 2013.
Round 2 Pick 41 Robert Woods Wide Receiver USC Woods gives you a secondary receiver across from Stevie Johnson.
Round 2 Pick 46 Kiko Alonso Middle Linebacker Oregon Kelvin Sheppard should move to right outside linebacker. Adding Kiko Alonso allows Kelvin Sheppard to make that transition.
Round 3 Pick 78 Marquise Goodwin Wide Receiver Texas Marquise Goodwin is a good slot receiver. He’ll fit right in there with the Bills.
Round 4 Pick 105 Duke Williams Free Safety Nevada Buffalo adds a safety for depth.
Round 5 Pick 143 Jonathan Meeks Strong Safety Clemson The Bills add one more safety for depth.
Round 6 Pick 177 Dustin Hopkins Kicker Florida State The Bills add a kicker for depth.
Round 7 Pick 222 Chris Gragg Tight End Arkansas Buffalo needed an upgrade over Scott Chandler at tight end.
Buffalo Bills Draft Grade B It depends on what happens to EJ Manuel. If Manuel starts in 2013 from week 1, the Bills draft grade gets bumped up to an A. If Kolb starts this draft grade gets bumped down to a C. Right now, I’m giving the Bills a B grade.
Miami Dolphins
Round 1 Pick 3 Dion Jordan Left End Oregon The Dolphins need Jordan to bulk up and add some weight. He’ll make a good run stuffing 4-3 left end across from Cameron Wake.
Round 2 Pick 54 Jamar Taylor Cornerback Boise State Miami needs a field cornerback and now they get one with Jamar Taylor.
Round 3 Pick 77 Dallas Thomas Left Guard Tennessee The Dolphins need a right tackle and a right guard. Dallas Thomas is accustomed to playing on the left side of the offensive line. I strongly dislike this pick.
Round 3 Pick 93 Will Davis Cornerback Utah State Miami gets a nickel corner that they desperately need.
Round 4 104 Jelani Jenkins Right Outside Linebacker Florida The Dolphins may want a guy at right outside linebacker that can compete for a job on the weak side. That’s what Jenkins does.
Round 5 Pick 164 Mike Gillislee Running Back Florida The Dolphins add a third-string running back behind Daniel Thomas and Lamar Miller. Miami needed a rusher.
Round 5 Pick 166 Caleb Sturgess Kicker Florida The Dolphins add a hometown kicker.
Round 7 Pick 250 Don Jones Strong Safety Arkansas State The Dolphins add a strong safety for depth.
Miami Dolphins Draft Grade C The Dolphins failed to address one of the teams bigger needs at right tackle. The fact that Miami shored up the defense makes them a formidable opponent in 2013 if Ryan Tannehill can establish team chemistry with his receivers.
New England Patriots
Round 2 Pick 52 Jamie Collins Left End Southern Miss Collins registered 10 sacks on a winless Southern Miss team. He has the versatility that Belichick covets. He’ll have the chance to beat out Rob Ninkovich for the left end job.
Round 2 Pick 59 Aaron Dobson Wide Receiver Marshall New England has struggled with Marshall receivers in the past. Dobson has the tools to be a flanker target and emerge as NFL offensive rookie of the year with Tom Brady at quarterback. I’ll guarantee that Dobson wins offensive rookie of the week at least once in 2013.
Round 3 Pick 83 Logan Ryan Cornerback Rutgers It’s a bit early for Logan Ryan. Taking him as a developmental cornerback will help.
Round 3 Pick 91 Duron Harmon Strong Safety Rutgers Harmon played strong safety next Steven Gregory and Logan Ryan on a Rutgers secondary. Belichick is taking former players from Buccaneers head coach Greg Schiano who used to coach Rutgers.
Round 4 Pick 102 Josh Boyce Wide Receiver TCU The Patriots add a slot receiver in case Julian Edelman cannot stay healthy.
Round 7 PIck 226 Michael Buchanan Right Outside Linebacker Illinois The Patriots can use Buchanan as a 4-3 outside linebacker for depth.
Round 7 Pick 235 Steve Beauharnais Left Outside Linebacker Rutgers Beauharnais can play anywhere at right outside linebacker, middle linebacker, or left outside linebacker. He’s a good pickup for depth late in Round 7.
New England Patriots Draft Grade B- The Patriots made some picks that confused me. Trading down with Minnesota is the only thing that kept New England from getting a C grade.
New York Jets
Round 1 Pick 9 DeMarcus Milliner Cornerback Alabama The Jets can use him in a boundary or nickel corner role. Milliner will likely play the boundary across from Cromartie and become a field cornerback in two years.
Round 1 Pick 13 Sheldon Richardson 3-4 Right End Missouri The Jets add a 3-4 defensive end for depth here.
Round 2 Pick 39 Geno Smith Quarterback West Virginia The Jets have tons of quarterbacks. The Jets should wait to start Smith in 2014 once the Jets new regime steps in. Something tells me they start him right away and struggle.
Round 3 Pick 72 Brian Winters Left Guard Kent State The Jets draft a backup left guard in case Willie Colon gets injured.
Round 5 Pick 141 Oday Aboushi Right Guard Virginia The Jets add a run blocking right guard here.
Round 6 Pick 178 William Campbell Nose Tackle Michigan The Jets obtain a nose tackle for depth with this pick.
Round 7 Pick 215 Tommy Bohanon Fullback Wake Forest The Jets get a fullback for depth.
New York Jets Draft Grades D The Jets still need 3-4 outside linebackers, safeties, a right tackle, a tight end, and a running back. Without these needs the Jets will struggle. Drafting Geno Smith gives the Jets a quarterback for the future, but he’ll fail if the Jets start him in 2013. Obtaining Milliner and Smith are the only reasons why the Jets didn’t get an F grade.
Denver Broncos
Round 1 Pick 28 Sylvester Williams Defensive Tackle North Carolina The Broncos add a pass rushing defensive tackle. Solid pick, but they should have gone with a 4-3 right end.
Round 2 Pick 58 Montee Ball Running Back Wisconsin The Broncos add a running back for depth. Ball can become an immediate contributor and a 1,000 yard rusher in Denver if he starts right away. Even if he doesn’t start expect Ball to get some carries.
Round 3 Pick 90 Kayvon Webster Cornerback South Florida Bit of reach, but Denver gets a corner for depth.
Round 5 146 Quanterus Smith Right End Western Kentucky He can be a depth player behind Robert Ayers and Derek Wolfe. Not an upgrade over either player. Denver signed Shaun Phillips hoping he’ll be a 4-3 right end. In San Diego he was a 3-4 left outside linebacker. Bad move by Denver.
Round 5 Pick 161 Tavarres King Wide Receiver Georgia Cannot dislike this pick. Peyton Manning gets one more receiver for depth.
Round 6 Pick 173 Vinston Painter Right Tackle Virginia Tech A right tackle for depth behind Orlando Franklin. Franklin has the tools to start, but fatigues sometimes. That’s where Painter comes into play.
Round 7 Pick 234 Zac Dysert Quarterback Miami Ohio The Broncos add a third stringer behind Peyton Manning and Brock Osweiler. That’s what Dysert can be.
Denver Broncos Draft Grade B- Denver failed to address the team most important need at 4-3 right end.
Kansas City Chiefs
Round 1 Pick 1 Eric Fisher Right Tackle Central Michigan If Branden Albert stays Fisher plays right tackle. If Albert’s traded, Fisher becomes Alex Smith’s blindside. Joe Staley attended Central Michigan just like Fisher. He was Smith’s blindside in San Francisco.
Round 3 Pick 63 Travis Kelce Tight End Cincinnati Kelce can compete with Anthony Fasano and Tony Moeaki for a starting tight end job on the Chiefs. Like Moeaki, Kelce has durability concerns.
Round 3 Pick 96 Knile Davis Running Back Arkansas The Chiefs get a running back to compete for a roster spot. Davis becomes a backup to Jamaal Charles if he avoids injuries.
Round 4 Pick 99 Nico Johnson 3-4 Middle Linebacker Alabama Chiefs need a 3-4 middle linebacker to start right away. Johnson won national championships with Alabama.
Round 5 Pick 134 Sanders Commings Cornerback Georgia Commings can be a nickel cornerback or a safety on the inside at strong safety or free safety. The Chiefs have 4 corners so Commings would be a backup safety or a quarter corner.
Round 6 Pick 170 Eric Kush Center California PA The Chiefs add a center for depth behind Rodney Hudson. Kush is not someone that can start at center plus there were better options available.
Round 6 Pick 204 Braden Wilson Fullback Kansas State The Chiefs add a fullback here.
Round 7 Pick 207 Mike Catapano 3-4 Right Outside Linebacker Princeton He’s better served for a 4-3 defense.
Kansas City Chiefs Draft Grade C The Chiefs failed to find a playmaker to throw the ball to across from Alex Smith. One notable undrafted player that they signed was Tennessee quarterback Tyler Bray. Bray will be a free agent third-stringer behind Alex Smith and Chase Daniel if he makes the Chiefs’ roster come opening day.
Oakland Raiders
Round 1 Pick 12 DJ Hayden Cornerback Houston The Raiders have Mike Jenkins and Tracy Porter. Hayden can be a field corner if he stays healthy.
Round 2 Pick 42 Menelik Watson Right Tackle Florida State Oakland gets a right tackle to be an eventual replacement for Khalif Barnes. Would not be surprised if Watson starts at right tackle in week 1. Watson will excel in 2014.
Round 3 Pick 66 Sio Moore Left Outside Linebacker Connecticut Oakland continues to stockpile the front 7 with run-stuffing linebackers. Unfortunately the Raiders have no defensive tackles or a pass-rushing right end.
Round 4 Pick 112 Tyler Wilson Quarterback Arkansas Don’t be surprised if Wilson develops into a starter in Oakland. Just like Terrell Pryor he has the potential to become a starter. Wilson has tremendous accuracy and no character issues.
Wilson has one thing in common with star running back Darren McFadden both players attended Arkansas. That will boost team chemistry when Wilson starts.
Round 6 Pick 172 Nick Kasa Tight End Colorado The Raiders want a 6-5/270 pound tight end to be their starting pass catcher. He’ll be more of a blocker. This will be interesting to say the least.
Round 6 Pick 181 Latavius Murray Running Back Central Florida Raiders draft a rusher for depth.
Round 6 Pick 184 Mychal Rivera Tight End Tennessee Rivera will start at tight end. Kasa will be the blocking tight end. Book it.
Round 6 Pick 205 Stacey McGee Defensive Tackle Oklahoma The Raiders add a defensive tackle for depth here. Oakland gets depth here.
Round 7 Pick 209 Brice Butler Wide Receiver San Diego State Oakland gets a receiver for depth here.
Round 7 Pick 233 David Bass Right End Missouri Western Missouri The Raiders get a run stuffing right end.
Oakland Raiders Draft Grade B- The Raiders had a solid draft. It wasn’t enough to impress me. The Raiders can contend in a year from now if they get a pass rusher in 2014, and start Tyler Wilson without firing the coaching staff.
San Diego Chargers
Round 1 Pick 11 DJ Fluker Right Tackle Alabama The Chargers may plug Fluker in at left tackle. He’s a right tackle and I wouldn’t take him until Round 2.
Round 2 Pick 38 Manti Te’o 3-4 Middle Linebacker Notre Dame Think Junior Seau with off the field concerns. Pairing Te’o with the emerging Donald Butler reminds me of San Diego’s 2002-2013 season when the Chargers had Junior Seau and Donnie Edwards. Maybe the Chargers will stop the run now.
Round 3 Pick 76 Keenan Allen Wide Receiver California ESPN raved about how the Chargers landed 3 first rounders. Allen is by far San Diego’s best pick.
Phillip Rivers has Keenan Allen as his flanker, Danario Alexander as a secondary receiver, and Malcolm Floyd as a slot receiver. You also got Antonio Gates at tight end. Rivers has the playmakers and offensive mind Mike McCoy at head coach. He still lacks the offensive line to react well to pressure.
Round 5 Pick 145 Steve Williams Cornerback California Williams was a boundary corner on California, but he has the size of a nickel corner. San Diego has to use the 2014 NFL Draft to upgrade at cornerback.
Round 6 Pick 179 Tourek Williams 3-4 Left Outside Linebacker Florida International The Chargers use this pick on a pass rusher for depth behind Jarret Johnson and Melvin Ingram.
Round 7 Pick 221 Brad Sorensen Quarterback Southern Utah The Chargers need a backup behind Phillip Rivers that can become a starter. Sorensen seems like a third stringer that you develop into a backup.
San Diego Chargers Draft Grade C- The Chargers still need a left tackle and a field cornerback. San Diego needs another year to build through the draft.
Chicago Bears
Round 1 Pick 20 Kyle Long Left Guard Oregon Kyle Long is the son of Howie Long and the brother of Chris Long. He can play anywhere at offensive tackle or guard. With an outstanding Pro Day he proves to be a good pick for the Bears. Long will start right away at left guard.
Round 2 Pick 50 Jon Bostic Middle Linebacker Florida Chicago finds a second starter at middle linebacker in Jon Bostic. No Urlacher, but he can still start.
Round 4 Pick 117 Khaseem Greene Right Outside Linebacker Rutgers Love this pick. Greene is a guy that can register 100+ tackles. His problem is that he’s undersized. Making him a successor to Lance Briggs is brilliant.
Round 5 Pick 163 Jordan Mills Right Tackle Louisiana Tech The Bears get an offensive tackle that can replace J Marcus Webb down the line. Another great pick by Chicago.
Round 6 Pick 188 Cornellius Washington Left End Georgia You can use Washington as a left end or a left outside linebacker for depth. The versatility makes this another great pick by Chicago.
Round 7 Pick 236 Marquess Wilson Wide Receiver Washington State The Bears added another wide receiver for depth that may develop into a starter.
Chicago Bears Draft Grade A+ The Bears did an outstanding job building through the draft this year. If Jay Cutler cannot win with this Bears team it’s time to pull the plug and obtain a new quarterback in 2014.
Detroit Lions
Round 1 Pick 5 Ezekiel “Ziggy” Ansah Right End BYU Detroit needed two defensive ends after losing Kyle Vaden Bosch and Cliff Avril. Ansah impressed the Lions’ coaching staff at the Senior Bowl.
Round 2 Pick 36 Darius Slay Cornerback Mississippi State The Lions add another boundary corner. This team still cannot find a field cornerback to shut down the pass.
Round 3 Pick 65 Larry Warford Right Guard Kentucky Warford played left guard at the Senior Bowl and right guard at Kentucky. Warford starts off at right guard. The Lions have the interior offensive line to open up the running lanes for Bush even though they lack the pass protection for Stafford.
Round 4 Pick 132 Devin Taylor Left End South Carolina A little early for Taylor. Still he’s an SEC defensive end, and the Lions needed a starter at left end.
Round 5 Pick 165 Sam Martin Punter Appalachin State Detroit needs help on special teams. They needed a punter and got one in the NFL Draft.
Round 6 Pick 171 Corey Fuller Wide Receiver Virginia Tech The Lions add another receiver that can develop into a slot guy if Ryan Broyles continues to suffers injuries.
Round 6 Pick 199 Theo Riddick Running Back Notre Dame The Lions add a rusher for depth. Riddick isn’t even the best rusher available. That honor belongs to Cierre Wood.
Round 7 Pick 211 Michael Williams Tight End Alabama Michael Williams gives the Lions a #3 tight end on the depth chart.
Round 7 Pick 245 Brandon Hepburn Middle Linebacker Florida A&M The Lions add a middle linebacker for depth.
Detroit Lions Draft Grade B- The Lions still need to address some draft needs at left tackle, field cornerback, and outside linebacker. Detroit needs one more year to rebuild in 2014. Will Lions fans be patient?
Green Bay Packers
Round 1 Pick 26 Datone Jones 3-4 Right End UCLA Jones gives the Packers the team’s first legit 3-4 right end since Cullen Jenkins left.
Round 2 Pick 61 Eddie Lacy Running Back Alabama The Packers get a running back in Eddie Lacy. Green Bay needs a starting running back. Many had Lacy graded out as the top rusher.
Round 4 Pick 109 David Bakhtiari Right Tackle Colorado Green Bay gets an offensive tackle for depth. Packers develop offensive lineman year in and year out.
Round 4 Pick 122 JC Tretter Left Guard Cornell Green Bay needed a left guard for depth because TJ Lang is becoming injury prone.
Round 4 Pick 125 Jonathan Franklin Running Back I had Franklin graded out as my top rusher. The Packers get the consensus top rusher and my favorite rusher with Lacy and Franklin. Great job by GM Ted Thompson.
Round 5 Pick 159 Micah Hyde Cornerback Iowa Hyde can play a nickel corner role. If he doesn’t work out there you can use him as a free safety for depth. Green Bay is wise to add a secondary player in the late rounds.
Round 5 Pick 167 Josh Boyd 3-4 Left End Mississippi State Josh Boyd gives Green Bay a 3-4 left end for depth. Boyd can compete for a roster spot as a backup 5 technique player.
Round 6 Pick 193 Nate Palmer 3-4 Left Outside Linebacker Illinois State The Packers add a 3-4 outside linebacker for depth in case injuries occur. Erik Walden cannot start again.
Round 7 Pick 216 Charles Johnson Wide Receiver Grand Valley State The 6-2/215 pound receiver makes a great target for depth.
Round 7 Pick 224 Kevin Dorsey Wide Receiver Maryland Another target for depth here.
Round 7 Pick 232 Sam Barrington 3-4 Middle Linebacker South Florida Green Bay adds one more 3-4 middle linebacker to fill the depth chart.
Green Bay Packers Draft Grade A The Packers needed to find a center. Since they didn’t do that they don’t get an A+ grade.
Minnesota Vikings
Round 1 Pick 23 Sharrif Floyd Defensive Tackle Florida The Vikings needed a defensive tackle after losing Pat Williams. Pairing Sharrif Floyd with Kevin Williams gives the Vikings a fearsome front 4. Floyd was supposed to go 3rd overall to Oakland.
Round 1 Pick 25 Xavier Rhodes Cornerback Florida State The 6-2/215 pound corner will make an excellent replacement for Antoine Winfield. He can play field corner right away addressing any questions on secondary.
Round 1 Pick 29 Cordarrelle Patterson Wide Receiver Tennessee The Vikings get a secondary receiver to compliment Greg Jennings. With Jennings and Patterson, Ponder has two receiving targets to throw to plus a two tight end set with Kyle Rudolph and John Carlsson.
Round 4 Pick 120 Gerald Hodges Right Outside Linebacker Penn State Gerald Hodges will make a great backup to Erin Henderson. Now the Vikings have starting outside linebackers with Erin Henderson and Chad Greenway along with backups in Gerald Hodges and Larry Dean now moving to the strong side.
Round 5 Pick 155 Jeff Locke Punter UCLA The Vikings add a punter to boost special teams.
Round 6 Pick 196 Jeff Baca Left Guard UCLA Back to back UCLA Bruins. Baca is a guy that can add depth at left guard for the Vikings.
Round 7 Pick 213 Michael Mauti Middle Linebacker Penn State Mauti is a middle linebacker that can be a sleeper starting at the mike right away.
Round 7 Pick 214 Travis Bond Right Guard North Carolina Bond played right guard on North Carolina. Now he’s a backup to Brandon Fusco.
Round 7 Pick 239 Everett Dawkins Defensive Tackle Florida State The Vikings add another defensive tackle for depth.
Minnesota Vikings Draft Grade A+ The Vikings have a brilliant draft for a third year in a row. Minnesota has all the tools to win the Super Bowl. Signing Brian Urlacher as a veteran free agent is the only thing that could top the Vikings brilliant draft.
Atlanta Falcons
Round 1 Pick 22 Desmond Trufant Cornerback Washington The Falcons add a boundary cornerback that can play across from Asante Samuel. Trufant may even challenge Samuel for the field cornerback job.
Remember Samuel was a nickel corner last year with Brent Grimes and Dunta Robinson starting. Trufant may be the field corner with Samuel being the boundary just to be safe.
Round 2 Pick 60 Robert Alford Cornerback Southeast Louisana Alford will make a great nickel corner in Atlanta.
Round 4 Pick 127 Malliciah Goodman Right End Clemson The Falcons add a run stuffing right end. They need a pass-rushing right end.
Round 4 Pick 133 Levine Toilolo Tight End Stanford Toilolo has bad route running, blocking, and hands. Making him the successor to Tony Gonzalez is a big mistake.
Round 5 Pick 153 Stansly Maponga Left End TCU Atlanta gets a run stuffing left end for depth. Atlanta is focused on using the front 7 to stop the run and relying on the secondary to stop the pass. Unfortunately that won’t work since Atlanta has no one to get to the quarterback.
Round 7 Pick 243 Kemel Ishmael Strong Safety Central Florida Ismael gives Atlanta a safety for depth.
Round 7 PIck 244 Zeke Motta Free Safety Notre Dame Motta can play strong safety or free safety on either side. He gives the Falcons even more depth at safety.
Round 7 Pick 249 Sean Renfree Quarterback Duke Atlanta gets a third-string quarterback that may develop into a backup down the line.
Atlanta Falcons Draft Grade C- The Falcons needed a right tackle and a running back for depth. Adding a receiver for depth also would have helped. The Falcons failed to find a starting 4-3 right end that can rush the passer. Atlanta is kidding themselves if they believe Levine Toilolo is the true successor to Tony Gonzalez.
Carolina Panthers
Round 1 Pick 14 Star Lotulelei Defensive Tackle Utah The Panthers needed a starting defensive tackle. Lotulelei is a guy that will be a pro bowler.
Round 2 Pick 44 Kawaan Short Defensive Tackle Purdue The Panthers add a second starter at defensive tackle. Carolina has a front 7 that can rush the quarterback and stop the run. It now comes down to the Panthers rebuilding their secondary.
Round 4 Pick 108 Edmund Kugbila Right Guard Valdosta State The Panthers lost their starter at right guard. This is a bit of a reach, but it’s an understandable pick.
Round 5 Pick 148 AJ Klein Middle Linebacker Iowa State The Panthers add a middle linebacker for depth. This seems like insurance in case Jon Beason gets injured. Don’t trust Klein on the weak side.
Round 6 Pick 182 Kenjon Barner Running Back Oregon The Panthers add one more rusher for depth.
Carolina Panthers Draft Grade C Carolina opened up with a strong draft. As the draft progressed, the Panthers made some really bad picks.
New Orleans Saints
Round 1 Pick 15 Kenny Vaccaro Strong Safety Texas New Orleans has Roman Harper and Malcolm Jenkins at safety. The Saints should have took a pass-rusher.
Round 3 Pick 75 Terron Armstead Left Tackle Arkansas-Pine Bluff Drew Brees needed a blindside now he got one.
Round 3 Pick 82 John Jenkins Nose Tackle Georgia The Saints add a backup nose tackle that will develop into a future starter. Nice value pick.
Round 5 Pick 144 Kenny Stills Wide Receiver Oklahoma The Saints add one more receiver for Drew Brees. They still had needs at right tackle and pass rusher.
Round 6 Pick 183 Rufus Johnson 3-4 Right Outside Linebacker Tarleton State He will be second string pass rusher. He’s not a starting pass rusher in the NFL.
New Orleans Saints Draft Grades D The Saints had multiple needs and should have spent a first-round pick on a left tackle or a pass rusher.
Tampa Bay Buccaneers
Round 2 Pick 43 Jonathan Banks Cornerback Mississippi State Played the field corner role at Mississippi State. Will excel at the boundary next to Darrelle Revis.
Round 3 Pick 73 Mike Glennon Quarterback North Carolina State Matt Barkley, Tyler Bray, and Tyler Wilson are all better than Glennon. I don’t understand this pick. Greg Schiano needs to write a pink slip a year early if Freeman screws up because Glennon is not the guy.
Round 4 Pick 100 Akeem Spence Defensive Tackle Illinois Tampa Bay needs a starter across from Gerald McCoy good pick here.
Round 4 Pick 126 William Gholston Right End Michigan State Tampa Bay gets a run stuffing defensive end for depth behind pass rushers Adrian Clayborn and DaQuan Bowers. Gholston has the versatility to play right end, left end, or defensive tackle.
Round 5 Pick 147 Steven Means Left End Buffalo A 4-3 pass-rushing left end for depth. Might not make a roster spot.
Round 6 Pick 189 Mike James Running Back Miami FL The Buccaneers add a running back since they traded LeGarrette Blount to New England.
Tampa Bay Buccaneers Draft Grade B Tampa Bay had a solid draft. The Buccaneers addressed most of the team needs except tight end and right tackle. After Jonathan Banks, the Buccaneers made a ton of questionable picks. Adding Big 10 studs like Akeem Spence and William Gholston gives Tampa Bay’s front 7 some much needed optimism.
Dallas Cowboys
Round 1 Pick 31 Travis Frederick Left Guard Wisconsin Frederick can play left guard or center. With Phil Costa at center, Frederick likely plays left guard. This pick will go to waste if Frederick plays center since he’s the top projected center listed as a 3rd-4th round pick.
Round 2 Pick 47 Gavin Escobar Tight End San Diego State The Cowboys take a tight end for depth behind Jason Witten. Jerry Jones wastes another second round pick.
Round 3 Pick 74 Terrance Williams Wide Receiver Baylor The Cowboys add one more receiver for depth. Dallas fails to address a need once again.
Round 3 Pick 80 JJ Wilcox Free Safety Georgia Southern Wilcox can play anywhere on secondary at cornerback, strong safety, or free safety. This is the first sensible pick that the senile Jerry Jones made.
Round 4 Pick 114 BW Webb Cornerback William & Mary Dallas adds a nickel corner when they had other needs to address.
Round 5 Pick 151 Joseph Randle Running Back Oklahoma State I had Randle going to Dallas in the third or fourth round. Good pick since Dallas needs a backup behind the injury prone DeMarco Murray.
Round 6 Pick 185 DeVonte Holloman Left Outside Linebacker South Carolina Dallas adds a left outside linebacker for depth here.
Dallas Cowboys Draft Grade F The Cowboys reached for team needs and drafted the best player available. The business savvy behind Jerry Jones drafting players for Dallas once again amazes me.
New York Giants
Round 1 Pick 19 Justin Pugh Left Guard Syracuse The Giants add a guy that can start right away at left guard.
Round 2 Pick 49 Jonathan Hankins Defensive Tackle Ohio State New York gets a defensive tackle and one of the best players available. Great pick.
Round 3 Pick 81 DaMontre Moore Left End Texas A&M The Giants get someone to compete with Justin Tuck for the starting left end job.
Round 4 Pick 110 Ryan Nassib Quarterback Syracuse Not a fan of Nassib. Some had him being the only quarterback projected to go in the first-round. Lots of Giants’ fans will favor this pick since Nassib will come in as a backup to Eli Manning.
Round 5 Pick 152 Cooper Taylor Strong Safety Richmond The 6-5/235 pound Cooper Taylor is an incredible blitzer with great size. New York needed a replacement to Kenny Phillips after he left for Philadelphia.
Round 7 Pick 225 Eric Herman Right Guard Ohio New York gets a backup to Chris Snee at right guard. Snee is getting up there in age despite being one of the top right guards in the NFL.
Round 7 Pick 253 Michael Cox Running Back U Mass The Giants got a steal with Ahmad Bradshaw in the seventh-round of the 2007 NFL Draft. Just saying!
New York Giants Draft Grade B+ This wasn’t one of the Giants better drafts. Still, GM Jerry Reese put together another solid draft class.
Philadelphia Eagles
Round 1 Pick 4 Lane Johnson Right Tackle Oklahoma You got Jason Peters and Todd Herremans. The Eagles add Johnson for depth.
Round 2 Pick 35 Zach Ertz Tight End Stanford The Eagles get a second tight end across from Brent Celek. Ertz will be the starter by 2014.
Round 3 Pick 67 Bennie Logan 3-4 Right End LSU The Eagles add a 3-4 right end since Cedric Thornton is not the guy.
Round 4 Pick 98 Matt Barkley Quarterback USC He fits Pat Shurmur’s West Coast offense plus he’s the best player available. If Kelly backs off and let’s Shurmur run his west coast offense the Eagles can win. Kelly won’t which is why the Eagles continue to struggle.
Round 5 Pick 136 Earl Wolfe Strong Safety North Carolina The Eagles get a safety that can play strong safety and free safety for depth in Earl Wolfe.
Round 7 Pick 212 Joe Kruger 3-4 Left Outside Linebacker Utah The Eagles add Paul Kruger’s little brother as a pass rusher for depth.
Round 7 Pick 218 Jordan Poyer Cornerback Oregon State The Eagles land a steal with Jordan Poyer in the seventh-round. He may end up being the field corner for the Eagles on opening day.
Round 7 Pick 239 David King 3-4 Left End Oklahoma King won’t be on the roster opening day. Enjoy Eagles’ training camp King.
Philadelphia Eagles Draft Grade B- The Eagles addressed most of their needs. Philadelphia’s draft grade can improve if these draft picks translate into NFL starters. Don’t expect much out of Philadelphia in 2013. This could be a team to watch for in 2014 if the Eagles switch to a West Coast Offense with Barkley starting.
Washington Redskins
Round 2 Pick 51 David Amerson Cornerback North Carolina State The Redskins add Amerson as a nickel corner that can also play free safety.
Round 3 Pick 85 Jordan Reed Tight End Florida The Redskins add a tight end for depth behind Fred Davis. Reed is a backup at best.
Round 4 Pick 119 Phillip Thomas Free Safety Fresno State The Redskins get a guy that can play free safety or strong safety. Thomas plays free safety for Washington.
Round 5 Pick 154 Chris Thompson Running Back Florida State The Redskins add a running back for special teams.
Round 5 Pick 162 Brandon Jenkins 3-4 Right Outside Linebacker Florida State Jenkins can be that ideal replacement to Lorenzo Alexander in Washington if Brian Orakpo or Ryan Kerrigan gets injured. Thing with Jenkins is that he’s injury prone.
Round 6 Pick 191 Bacarri Rambo Strong Safety Georgia The Redskins get a blitzing strong safety that can play safety at strong safety or free safety.
Round 7 Pick 228 Jawan Jamison Running Back Rutgers Jamison is capable of beating out Chris Thompson for a roster spot. Thompson will likely be used for special teams anyway.
Washington Redskins Draft Grade A- Washington got outstanding value with most of their picks. The only thing I would have liked to see is the Redskins add a wide receiver. Other than that, this was another outstanding draft for Washington. Hard to believe that the Redskins had the best draft in the NFC East for the second year in a row.
Arizona Cardinals
Round 1 Pick 7 Jonathan Cooper Right Guard North Carolina The Cardinals get a starting right guard. Cooper played left guard at North Carolina, but he has more versatility than Chance Warmack which may explain why he went ahead of him.
Round 2 Pick 45 Kevin Minter 3-4 Middle Linebacker LSU The Cardinals get a 3-4 middle linebacker for depth behind Jasper Brinkley.
Round 3 Pick 69 Tyrann Mathieu Cornerback/Free Safety LSU This is a huge gamble. If there’s one team that can gamble on the Honey Badger in Day 2 it’s Arizona. He’ll do well as a nickel with Patrick Peterson and Antoine Cason as teammates. Mathieu may also play free safety in the NFL.
Round 4 Pick 103 Alex Okafor 3-4 Right Outside Linebacker Texas Another Longhorn pass rusher in Round 4. Back in 2011, the Cardinals drafted Sam Acho and he’s currently starting at 3-4 right outside linebacker for Arizona.
Round 4 Pick 116 Earl Watford Left Guard James Madison The Cardinals add a left guard for depth.
Round 5 Pick 140 Stepfan Taylor Running Back Stanford The Cardinals will use Taylor as a third stringer. He may become the starter if Rashard Mendenhall struggles and Ryan Williams gets injured.
Round 6 Pick 174 Ryan Swope Wide Receiver Texas A&M Arizona gets a wide receiver for depth. Swope will compete for a roster spot and has the tools to be an effective slot guy.
Round 6 Pick 187 Andre Ellington Running Back Clemson Ellington has to compete for a roster spot. If he plays then he’ll fulfill the same role as LaRon Stephens Howling.
Round 7 Pick 219 DC Jefferson Tight End Rutgers The Cardinals add one more tight end for depth.
Arizona Cardinals Draft Grade B- Arizona will struggle at safety. Mathieu is best served in a nickel corner role. Still the Cardinals obtained good value picks which qualifies them for a C- grade.
San Francisco 49ers
Round 1 Pick 18 Eric Reid Free Safety LSU The 49ers needed a replacement for DaShon Goldson. The 49ers traded up for Reid.
Round 2 Pick 40 Tank Carradine 3-4 Right Outside Linebacker Florida State Carradine will be a 3-4 right outside linebacker. The 49ers add him for depth.
Round 2 Pick 55 Vance McDonald Tight End Rice Vance McDonald is a sleeper tight end out of Rice. He’ll have no problem replacing Delanie Walker.
Round 3 Pick 88 Corey Lemonier 3-4 Left Outside Linebacker Auburn The 49ers add 2 3-4 outside linebackers. The 49ers will be set at pass rusher for the next decade.
Round 4 Pick 128 Quinton Patton Wide Receiver Louisiana Tech The 49ers add a second-round wide receiver in Round 4. The 49ers get great value here. Just imagine what Patton can do when playing next to guys like Crabtree, Boldin, and Manningham.
Round 4 Pick 131 Marcus Lattimore Running Back South Carolina Lattimore will be a good #2 back to Frank Gore in a year. In 2013, he can recover from his injury so he’s at full health in 2014.
Round 5 Pick 157 Quinton Dial 3-4 Right End Alabama The 49ers found their successor for Justin Smith at 3-4 right end.
Round 6 Pick 180 Nick Moody 3-4 Left Outside Linebacker Florida State The 49ers add a guy that can play left outside linebacker in a 4-3 or a 3-4 scheme. He may not make the roster spot come opening day.
Round 7 Pick 237 BJ Daniels Quarterback South Florida The 49ers add a quarterback to compete with Scott Tolzien for the third-string job.
Round 7 Pick 245 Carter Bykowski Right Tackle Iowa State A backup right tackle behind Anthony Davis for depth.
Round 7 Pick 252 Marcus Cooper Cornerback Rutgers San Francisco takes a guy that played boundary corner at Rutgers. In San Francisco he’ll play a dime corner role.
San Francisco 49ers Draft Grade A San Francisco had an outstanding draft. The only reason they got an A grade instead of an A+ was because of bad draft picks after Round 5. The 49ers got great value with their draft picks and look poised to make another Super Bowl run.
Seattle Seahawks
Round 2 Pick 62 Christine Michael Running Back Texas A&M He can compete with Robert Turbin for a #2 running back job.
Round 3 Pick 87 Jordan Hill Defensive Tackle Penn State The Seahawks add a run stuffing defensive tackle with experience in the 4-3.
Round 4 Pick 123 Chris Harper Wide Receiver Kansas State The Seahawks fail to draft the best player available at wide receiver. This is a bad pick.
Round 5 Pick 137 Jesse Williams Defensive Tackle Alabama Seattle takes a 3-4 player this pick makes no sense.
Round 5 Pick 138 Tharold Simon Cornerback LSU The Seahawks add Simon as a dime corner which is his best position.
Round 5 Pick 158 Luke Willson Tight End Rice The Seahawks need a starting tight end not a backup tight end.
Round 6 Pick 194 Spencer Ware Running Back LSU The Seahawks add one more rusher for depth. It’s unlikely that Ware makes Seattle’s roster. I think he’ll make a roster on another team.
Round 7 Pick 220 Ryan Seymour Left Guard Vanderbilt Seymour can play anywhere on the offensive line. He’ll make a good depth pick at this spot.
Round 7 Pick 231 Ty Harding Middle Linebacker Harding The Seahawks take a middle linebacker for depth behind Bobby Wagner.
Round 7 Pick 241 Jared Smith Right Guard New Hampshire The Seahawks add a right guard for depth.
Round 7 Pick 242 Michael Bowie Right Tackle Northeastern State Oklahoma Seattle adds a short-term right tackle for depth behind Breno Giacomi.
Seattle Seahawks Draft Grade F This was a horrible draft after some outstanding drafts by Seattle. The Seahawks loaded up on running backs after having Marshawn Lynch and Robert Turbin. They reached for Chris Harper and took a 3-4 nose tackle in Round 5 with Jesse Williams. To top that off, they took a backup tight end in Luke Willson.
With the loss of defensive coordinator Gus Bradley, don’t be surprised if Seattle has a setback season to some extent. Seattle still needs an upgrade at right outside linebacker on the weak side.
St. Louis Rams
Round 1 Pick 8 Tavon Austin Austin is undersized and lacks the size to be a top receiver. He’s now Bradford’s top target after being Geno Smith’s top target at West Virginia. Austin’s potential must be through the roof if Austin goes in the top 10 and Smith goes in the second-round.
Round 1 Pick 30 Alec Ogletree Left Outside Linebacker Georgia Playing next to Jo Lonn Dunbar and James Laurinaitus gives the Rams the front 7 to win.
Round 3 Pick 71 TJ McDonald Free Safety USC The Rams need two starting safeties. Adding TJ McDonald in Round 3 helps.
Round 3 Pick 92 Stedman Bailey Wide Receiver West Virginia The Rams add two wide receivers from the same college. This boosts the team chemistry for St. Louis at wide receiver giving Bradford the necessary weapons to win.
Round 4 Pick 113 Barrett Jones Center Alabama Jones can play anywhere on the offensive line. He’ll likely be a backup center, but don’t rule him out as a starting left guard.
Round 5 Pick 149 Brandon McGee Cornerback Miami FL The Rams get a dime corner for depth with this pick.
Round 5 Pick 160 Zac Stacey Running Back Vanderbilt The Rams have Darryl Richardson and Isaiah Pead as their running backs. Still this team needs a third string back and that’s where Stacey comes into play.
St. Louis Rams Draft Grade B+ The Rams needed to add a left guard and a strong safety. Still, you have to be impressed with this draft. St. Louis might make a wild card appearance. They won’t make the playoffs
4/26/2013
Posted By Chris Ransom
Pittsburgh Steelers The Steelers took Georgia Bulldogs pass rusher Jarvis Jones as I expected making them the second winner for Draft Utopia. Jones can replace James Harrison as a 3-4 right outside linebacker. He posted 13.5 sacks in 2011 and an NCAA best 14.5 sacks in 2012. Jones will wreak havoc for the Black and Gold.
Minnesota Vikings The Vikings used 3 first round picks on Florida Gators defensive tackle Sharrif Floyd who I mocked 3rd overall to Oakland, Florida State Seminoles cornerback Xavier Rhodes, and Tennessee Volunteers wide receiver Cordarrelle Patterson the top receiver in the 2013 NFL Draft all in the first round.
Many were concerned that the Vikings would trade up for Notre Dame Fighting Irish middle linebacker Manti Te'o and he's still available in Round 2. Minnesota may not have a middle linebacker, but they can grab a guy like Brian Urlacher as a short-term plan in Free Agency after the NFL Draft since the Vikings have the rest of the pieces to contend for a Super Bowl right now.
New England Patriots Trading down with Minnesota makes New England a winner because now they have 2 seconds, 2 3rds, a 4th, and another seventh-round pick.
Indianapolis Colts I needed a 5th winner. Bjoern Werener registered 13 sacks and went to the Colts with the 24th pick as Michael DiFiglia predicted in his 2013 Mock Draft.
Eric Fisher Will Get Picked By Kansas City Chiefs
Reported By Chris Ransom
Kansas City will select Central Michigan left tackle Eric Fisher. Fisher has the versatility to play left tackle, right tackle, left guard, or right guard.
He outperformed Joeckel at the 2013 NFL Combine and during the Pro Day workouts. That along with Fisher's outstanding Senior Bowl performance may have been an indicator that Fisher would be the pick.
Chiefs' quarterback Alex Smith had a Central Michigan left tackle protect his blindside in San Francisco when Smith was on the San Francisco 49ers. His name was Joe Staley.
There's no guarantee that Fisher is the next Staley. One thing that's certain is that Fisher, unlike Staley will likely be the top selection in the 2013 NFL Draft.
4/25/2013
2013 NFL Mock Draft
Mocked BY Michael DiFiglia
1. Kansas City Chiefs Luke Joeckel OT Texas A&M
2. Jacksonville Jaguars Dion Jordan DE/OLB Oregon
3. Oakland Raiders Sharrif Floyd DT Florida
4. Philadelphia Eagles Eric Fisher OT Central Michigan
5. Detroit Lions Ezekiel Ansah DE/OLB BYU
6. Cleveland Browns Dee Milliner CB Alabama
7. Arizona Cardinals Lane Johnson OT Oklahoma
8. Buffalo Bills Ryan Nassib QB Syracuse
9. New York Jets Barkevious Mingo DE/OLB LSU
10. Tennessee Titans D.J. Fluker OT/G Alabama
11. San Diego Chargers Chance Warmack G Alabama
12. Miami Dolphins Johnathan Cooper G North Carolina
13. New York Jets (From Tampa Bay) Kenny Vaccaro S Texas
14. Carolina Panthers Sheldon Richardson DT Missouri
15. New Orleans Saints Jarvis Jones OLB Georgia
16. St. Louis Rams Tavon Auston WR West Virginia
17. Pittsburgh Steelers Cordarrelle Patterson WR Tennessee
18. Dallas Cowboys Star Lotulelei DT Utah
19. New York Giants Xavier Rhodes CB Florida State
20. Chicago Bears Sylvester Williams DT North Carolina
21. Cincinnatti Bengals Eddie Lacy RB Alabama
22. St. Louis Rams (From Washington) Eric Reed FS LSU
23. Minnesota Vikings Manti Te'o ILB Notre Dame
24. Indianapolis Colts Bjoern Werner DE/OLB Florida State
25. Minnesota Vikings (From Seattle) Justin Hunter WR Tennessee
26. Green Bay Packers Tyler Eifert TE Notre Dame
27. Houston Texans Alex Ogletree ILB Georgia
28. Denvery Broncos Cornellius "Tank" Carradine DE/OLB Florida State
29. New England Patriots Jamar Taylor CB Boise State
30. Atlanta Falcons Desmond Trufant CB Washington
31. San Francisco 49ers Zach Ertz TE Stanford
32. Baltimore Ravens Matt Elam S Florida
2013 NFL Mock Draft 7 Rounds
Mocked By Chris Ransom
Ryan Nassib's draft stock is emerging. Is there a landslide possibility that zero quarterbacks get selected in the first round?
1. Kansas City Chiefs 2-14 Luke Joeckel Left Tackle Texas A&M
The Kansas City Chiefs traded for Alex Smith. Even if Branden Albert is retained he'll move outside to right tackle or inside to left guard. Kansas City seems sold on Texas A&M left tackle Luke Joeckel.
Joeckel provided amazing blocking as a pass blocker, run blocker, and zone blocker for Texas A&M quarterbacks Ryan Tannehill and Johnny Football at left tackle the past two seasons.
Joe Staley was an elite pass protector for Alex Smith when healthy. Luke Joeckel may give the Chiefs new quarterback even more time in the pocket.
Joeckel was on par at his pro day. Kansas City seems set on the Aggies' left tackle with the top selection this April.
There are so many pros to Joeckel's game and hardly any cons. There's good reason why Luke Joeckel is the top selection.
Other Possibilities
None Eric Fisher was in the running. You know you are getting a pure left tackle in Luke Joeckel even though Fisher has better combine numbers, a better pro day, and more flexibility. Kansas City likes Joeckel so he should be the top pick.
2. Jacksonville Jaguars 2-14 Dion Jordan Right Outside Linebacker Oregon
Jacksonville moved right outside linebacker Russell Allen over to left outside linebacker. Allen recorded 131 total tackles in 2012. That may be a hint that Jacksonville opts for Dion Jordan.
The Jacksonville Jaguars immediately have three capable starters at linebacker with Jordan, Paul Posluszney, and Russell Allen when all three are healthy.
Other Options
Geno Smith Quarterback West Virginia The Jaguars can go with Geno Smith. He'd be an upgrade over Blaine Gabbert and Chad Henne.
Sharrif Floyd Defensive Tackle Florida The Jaguars could take the hometown Floyd second overall.
Star Lotulelei Defensive Tackle Utah Lotulelei seems like one of the three best players along with offensive tackles Luke Joekel and Eric Fisher.
Previous Pick Sharrif Floyd Defensive Tackle Florida
3. Oakland Raiders 4-12 Sharrif Floyd Defensive Tackle Florida
Oakland is sticking to a 4-3 scheme. Most NFL draft experts have Sharrif Floyd graded higher than Star Lotulelei. Since the Oakland Raiders were very impressed with Floyd at his pro day it means they will take him.
I watched Floyd's tape and he looked very shaky. There was a time when Floyd was a second-round prospect and now the former Florida Gator ballooned into the top 3 overall.
Oakland will take Floyd over Star Lotulelei. Star will have the better career becoming a Pro Bowler wherever he goes. Sharrif Floyd will bust when most expect him to succeed.
Previous Pick Bjoern Werner 3-4 Right Outside Linebacker Florida State
Other Options
Star Lotulelei Defensive Tackle Utah If the Raiders are smart they will take Lotulelei. I get the feeling they end up with Floyd.
4. Philadelphia Eagles 4-12 Star Lotulelei Nose Tackle Utah
There were some concerns about Star Lotulelei's heart condition. He did 30 reps on the bench press at his pro day. When you do 30 reps on the bench press your heart is fine.
Lotulelei posted amazing production for the Utah Utes in 2012 with 42 tackles, 10 tackles for a loss, and 5 sacks. He was also team captain of the Utah Utes defense.
Lotulelei has the intangibles plus his tape is far superior to Sharrif Floyd's. Philadelphia signed Issac Sopoaga as insurance. The Eagles can start Lotulelei off as a two down player. If his heart condition does not affect him in training camp then the Eagles can make Lotulelei a three down player.
Star Lotulelei will play next to Trent Cole a 4-3 right end transitioning to 3-4 right end and Fletcher Cox a 2012 first-round draft pick who has the skill set of a 4-3 defensive tackle and the size of a 3-4 defensive end. Star Lotulelei will be the favorite to win defensive rookie of the year with such a strong supporting cast complimenting him.
Previous Pick Eric Fisher Left Tackle Central Michigan
Other Options
Sharrif Floyd 3-4 Right End Florida Sharrif Floyd was a 5 star recruit in high school. Floyd grew up in Philadelphia. Some believe the Eagles will put Cedric Thornton at 3-4 right end instead of Trent Cole. That would be a huge mistake. Even Floyd is an upgrade over Thornton. Besides if the Raiders do the smart thing by taking Lotulelei, then the Eagles may do the stupid thing and draft Floyd.
DeMarcus Milliner Cornerback Alabama If the Eagles believe in a 3-4 defense consisting of Trent Cole, Issac Sopoaga, and Fletcher Cox on the defensive line then the Eagles would turn to secondary.
You have Connor Barwin and Brandon Graham as starting 3-4 outside linebackers plus DeMeco Ryans and Mychal Kendricks starting on the inside. There isn't a linebacker worth taking this high.
The Eagles made power play moves in free agency to improve their secondary. First they brought in Patrick Chung and Kenny Phillips as safeties. Both safeties are instant upgrades over what the Eagles had. At cornerback the Eagles signed Cary Williams of the Ravens and Bradley Fletcher.
Williams is a boundary cornerback and Fletcher is a dime corner. DeMarcus Milliner has the tools to be a field cornerback. With Milliner, the Eagles defense has the talent to give Philadelphia's abysmal quarterback play a fighting chance on any given sunday.
5. Detroit Lions 4-12 Eric Fisher Left Tackle Central Michigan
Central Michigan left tackle Eric Fisher can do all the things that Luke Joeckel can do in terms of pass blocking, run blocking, and zone blocking. He also has more versatility with experience at left tackle, left guard, right guard, and right tackle.
Fisher stood out at the Senior Bowl and continued his dominance at the NFL Combine. Eric Fisher did well at his pro day. Most scouts believe he outperformed Joeckel at the Combine and the pro day.
Detroit lost both starting offensive tackles. Jeff Backus retired and Gosder Cherillus jumped ship to Indianapolis. The Lions flirted with moving 2012 first-round pick Riley Reiff inside to left guard.
Reiff isn't in Detroit's plans to be Stafford's blindside. Eric Fisher looks like he's better than Reiff. Even if Fisher doesn't work out, he can move to right tackle if Riley Reiff redeems himself at left tackle.
That won't happen because Fisher is too talented to bust in Detroit. He practically has no flaws to his game.
Previous Pick Ezekiel "Ziggy" Ansah Right End BYU
Other Options
Ezekiel "Ziggy" Ansah Right End BYU Ansah dominated the Senior Bowl and the Combine. He looked sluggish at his pro day. If Fisher slips to Detroit, I cannot see the Lions passing on the hometown prospect. Remember the Lions need two defensive ends. If Detroit is sold on Riley Reiff at left tackle they will take Ansah here.
6. Cleveland Browns 5-11 DeMarcus Milliner Cornerback Alabama
DeMarcus Milliner has all the tools to be a complete field cornerback. He can play man, zone, or press coverage. With Joe Haden on the roster, Milliner gels in very effectively as a boundary corner.
The Browns added Paul Kruger and Quentin Groves for depth. While another pass rusher would solidify things, adding a boundary corner is the primary need now that Sheldon Brown is gone.
Previous Pick Dion Jordan 3-4 Right Outside Linebacker Oregon
Other Options
Ezekiel "Ziggy Ansah 3-4 Right Outside Linebacker BYU The Browns may target Ansah if they want another pass rusher.
Dion Jordan 3-4 Right Outside Linebacker Oregon The Browns could add Dion Jordan here like I previously suggested.
Jarvis Jones 3-4 Right Outside Linebacker Georgia The Browns like Jones plus he has the best pass rushing statistics among 3-4 outside linebackers.
Eric Fisher Left Guard Central Michigan The Browns could draft Eric Fisher as a left guard and move Jason Pinkston to right guard if the Lions go with Ansah.
Chance Warmack Left Guard Alabama Cleveland can take Warmack here and move Pinkston to right guard.
7. Arizona Cardinals 5-11 Lane Johnson Left Tackle Oklahoma
Arizona needs to boost the pass protection on the offensive line. With Lane Johnson at left tackle plus a healthy Levi Brown at right tackle, Carson Palmer will have the pass protection to make the necessary throws. Palmer will have more success Larry Fitzgerald at wide receiver and Bruce Arians at head coach. He also has Rashard Mendenhall to hand the ball off to as well.
Previous Pick Geno Smith Quarterback West Virginia
Other Options
Eric Fisher Left Tackle Central Michigan Arizona will take Eric Fisher in a heartbeat if he slips by some miracle.
8. Buffalo Bills 6-10 Chance Warmack Left Guard Alabama 
The Buffalo Bills lost left guard Andy Levitre to the Tennessee Titans. An excellent replacement would be Alabama left guard Chance Warmack. Warmack can pass block, run block, and zone block.
Previous Pick Tyler Bray Quarterback Tennessee
Other Options
Cordarrelle Patterson Wide Receiver Tennessee Pairing Patterson up next to Stevie Johnson gives the Bills two reliable receiving targets. This would help Kevin Kolb out to some extent.
9. New York Jets 6-10 Ezekiel "Ziggy" Ansah 3-4 Right Outside Linebacker BYU
The New York Jets have 4 pass rushers to choose from. No right tackle is worth drafting at #9 overall even though that's the Jets biggest offensive need.
Ansah dominated the Senior Bowl and the NFL Combine. That makes him the best prospect at this point. New York may also consider Oregon's Dion Jordan or Georgia's Jarvis Jones.
Ansah may not be a sack artist. He's an elite athlete with tremendous speed off the edge. You also have to love his quick burst and explosive play as a rusher. He's a strong player too.
Ansah highlighted how raw he was with a shaky pro day. With more seasoning, Ansah may develop into one of the better pass rushers.
Previous Pick Barkevious Mingo 3-4 Right Outside Linebacker LSU
Other Options
Dion Jordan 3-4 Right Outside Linebacker Oregon Durability issues keep Jordan going ahead of Ansah. I can still see Jordan going ninth if the Jaguars pass on Jordan with the second pick.
10. Tennessee Titans 6-10 Desmond Trufant Cornerback Washington
The Titans could use a #1 field cornerback. Alterraun Verner and Jason McCourty anchor a pass defense that ranks 21st in the NFL. With Michael Griffin at free safety you expect better results from the this horrid secondary.
The Titans drafted Washington quarterback Jake Locker in 2011. Now the Titans grab a Washington Huskie cornerback with the tools to play man, zone, or press. Trufant is a guy that can play field cornerback.
Desmond Trufant has the tools to become a field cornerback. The Washington Huskies cornerback is the top senior cornerback in the 2013 NFL Draft.
Desmond Trufant is the little brother of Marcus Trufant. Desmond has elite man coverage skills and he was the field cornerback for the Washington Huskies. He held his own in man coverage against a Baylor offense that torched the Huskies defense in the 2011 Alamo Bowl. He finished 2011 with 2 interceptions, 14 break ups, 2 forced fumbles, and 64 tackles.
In 2012, his production dipped. He only had 36 tackles, 4.5 tackles fo a loss, and 1 interceptions. Trufant can use his man coverage on receivers or tight ends. Tight ends have massive size around 6-5/250 so it's impressive that he can utilize his man coverage on playmakers with that kind of size.
Trufant displayed his intangibles in the 2013 Under Armour Senior Bowl. At the 2013 NFL Combine he measured in at 6 ft/190 pounds. He clocked a 4.38 40 time, did a 37.5 inch vertical, and did 16 reps on the bench press.
Previous Pick DeMarcus Milliner Cornerback Alabama
Other Options
Xavier Rhodes Cornerback Florida State The Titans may prefer Xavier Rhodes over Desmond Trufant.
Bjoern Werner Right End Florida State The Titans may want a pass rushing right end here.
11. San Diego Chargers 7-9 Cordarrelle Patterson Wide Receiver Tennessee
Tennessee wide receiver Cordarrelle Patterson was a JUCO transfer. In one year at Tennessee he did an outstanding job as a complimentary receiver to Justin Hunter.
His route running and tape is better than Hunter, but his production struggles compared to Justin Hunter. Most scouts question his route running listing that as his biggest concern. When I watched Patterson's tape I was really impressed with his route running. His experience in a west coast offense will be a huge asset for third year quarterback Cam Newton.
Patterson dominated the NFL Combine. He also showed that he can be a #1 flanker receiver at Tennessee's pro day.
There's no question that Patterson would be a top 10 possibly a top 5 pick with multiple years of experience. Having only played one season at Tennessee could cause Patterson to slip out of the top 10.
With Patterson, Rivers now has a #1 flanker wide receiver that he can throw the ball to. Danario Alexander and Malcolm Floyd can act as secondary wide receivers giving Rivers multiple playmakers to stretch the field.
Previous Pick Lane Johnson Left Tackle Oklahoma
Other Options
Chance Warmack Left Guard Alabama The Chargers may pursue left guard Chance Warmack if Joeckel, Fisher, and Lane Johnson are all gone.
Justin Hunter Wide Receiver Tennessee Hunter could go as high as #12 overall if the Bills take Patterson eighth.
12. Miami Dolphins 7-9 Xavier Rhodes Cornerback Florida State
The Miami Dolphins addressed most of the teams needs in free agency. One area they need to upgrade is field cornerback. Xavier Rhodes was a field cornerback for the Florida State Seminoles since his sophomore redshirt season.
Rhodes has two years of experience as a #1 field cornerback under his belt. He has excellent size at 6-2/215 pounds. Xavier Rhodes ran a 4.43 40-yard dash time at the NFL Combine plus he looked impressive in coverage. He can play man, zone, or press coverage in the NFL.
There are concerns that Rhodes has a weakness against speedy receivers. Participating in one on one match ups against Mike Wallace, Brian Hartline, Davone Bess, Brandon Gibson will help Rhodes improve against fast speedy receivers.
Miami has veteran Brent Grimes as a boundary corner across from him. Grimes will provide guidance for the rookie cornerback.
Previous Pick Desmond Trufant Cornerback Washington
Other Options
Desmond Trufant Cornerback Washington Miami will take Trufant if the Titans draft Florida State cornerback Xavier Rhodes or his teammate defensive end Bjoern Werner with the tenth pick.
13. New York Jets from Tampa Bay Buccaneers 7-9 Sheldon Richardson 3-4 Right End Missouri
The Jets acquired this pick today by sending Revis to the Buccaneers. I put a lot of work into this seven round mock draft, and didn't want to change any of the picks since it would change the draft entirely.
Go ahead criticize me for my laziness. New York already drafted Muhammed Wilkerson and Quinton Coples as 3-4 defensive ends in the first rounds of the 2011 and 2012 NFL Drafts. Richardson can serve as a depth player in a 3-4 defensive scheme.
The Jets have a track record for doing stupid things on draft day. Don't believe me watch the Jets Draft Day Blunders on Youtube.
Remember this is the same team that passed on Dan Marino and Warren Sapp. They took a fullback in the first round of the 1987 NFL Draft. Who takes a fullback in the first round? It's too early to say, but Josh Freeman looks like a better pick than Mark Sanchez, and now Revis is playing with Freeman in Tampa Bay.
Mel Kiper Jr. said it best, "The New York Jets don't understand what the NFL Draft is all about." He said that back in 1989, but nearly 25 years later, Kiper looks like Albert Einstein for calling it how he sees it.
Guys like Jon Presser, Ted the Talking Head, and Fireman Ed will call me out here. There's good reason why Cowpote Radio refers to them as the "New York Candy Ass Jets"
Previous Pick Xavier Rhodes Cornerback Florida State
Other Options
Xavier Rhodes Cornerback Florida State If the Titans take Bjoern Werner at 10 and the Dolphins take Desmond Trufant 12th Rhodes is going to Tampa Bay. Otherwise the Buccaneers have to draft Sheldon Richardson as a starter across from Gerald McCoy.
14. Carolina Panthers 7-9 Justin Hunter Wide Receiver Tennessee
Carolina needs a secondary wide receiver to compliment Steve Smith. This wideout also has to be groomed into a #1 flanker receiver for Cam Newton when Steve Smith retired.
Justin Hunter was the #1 flanker receiver for the Tennessee Volunteers in 2012. In his junior season he posted 73 receptions, 1,083 receiving yards, and 9 receiving touchdowns.
Hunter is 6-4/215 pounds. His size gives him the tools to become a #2 target across from Steve Smith. Smith will act as a vertical threat with his speed while Hunter is used as a red zone threat.
Previous Pick Cordarrelle Patterson Wide Receiver Tennessee
Other Options
Sheldon Richardson Defensive Tackle Missouri Steve Smith loves Sheldon Richardson. Richardson will suit up for Carolina if he slips this far because Steve Smith wants Richardson. It would be in Carolina's best interest to get a receiver. At the end of the day, Richardson will be a Panthers if he slides to this pick.
15. New Orleans Saints 7-9 Barkevious Mingo 3-4 Right Outside Linebacker LSU
New Orleans plans on switching to a 3-4 defense because they hired Cowboys defensive coordinator Rob Ryan. Barkevious Mingo is a hometown prospect.
Mingo is a freak when it comes to being a speed rusher off the edge. He's fast, has an elite burst, speed, agility, applies pressure, and can command double teams.
There are some cons to his game. He struggles to shed blocks. Meeds to improve his pass rushing skills since he's not double digit sack artist. You want to see Mingo gain more physical ability and strength. One more area of concern is his work ethic.
Previous Pick DaMontre Moore 3-4 Right Outside Linebacker Texas A&M
Other Options
Jarvis Jones 3-4 Right Outside Linebacker Georgia Jarvis Jones did poorly at his combine and pro day. He still has the best statistics of any pass rusher in terms of production.
16. St. Louis Rams 7-8-1 Jonathan Cooper Left Guard North Carolina
The 2013 NFL Draft has two complete left guards in Chance Warmack and Jonathan Cooper. Cooper pass blocked for quarterback Byrn Renner and performed run blocking for running back Giovanni Bernard. He also has versatility to play anywhere on the interior offensive line as where Warmack is a pure left guard.
Previous Pick Justin Hunter Wide Receiver Tennessee
Other Options
Kenny Vaccaro Strong Safety Texas The Rams need safety help. That's why Vaccaro is also a option for the Rams at 16.
17. Pittsburgh Steelers 8-8 Jarvis Jones 3-4 Right Outside Linebacker Georgia
In even numbered years the Steelers take offensive players in the first round and in odd numbered years they take a defensive player in the first round. This has been a Black and Yellow tradition for the Steelers since the late eighties.
James Harrison got released by the Pittsburgh Steelers. Pittsburgh needs to find his replacement. Jason Worilds won't cut it. LaMaar Woodley struggled at 3-4 left outside linebacker so finding a 3-4 right outside linebacker in the 2013 NFL Draft is top priority.
My favorite player in the entire 2013 NFL Draft is Georgia 3-4 outside linebacker Jarvis Jones. Jarvis Jones recorded 13.5 sacks as a sophomore redshirt. In 2012, he led the nation with 14.5 sacks as a junior redshirt.
Many NFL scouts dislike Jones when watching his tape. He has a spinal concussion injury. Another concern is his ability to stop the run.
Other Options
Barkevious Mingo 3-4 Right Outside Linebacker LSU Pittsburgh may want Mingo. Mingo lacks the strength plus Jones has better production as a pass rusher.
18. Dallas Cowboys 8-8 Kenny Vaccaro Strong Safety Texas
Previous Pick Star Lotulelei Defensive Tackle Utah
Other Options
Menelik Watson Right Tackle Florida State Menelik Watson is one of the top right tackles. He played left tackle at his pro day and excelled. Right now he needs to start off at right tackle.
DJ Fluker Right Tackle Alabama The Cowboys could add DJ Fluker here. Fluker relies way too much on his run blocking so taking him here would be a big mistake.
19. New York Giants 9-7 Bjoern Werner Left End Florida State
Like Jason Pierre Paul, Werner is a double digit sack artist. Werner gives Justin Tuck much needed competition and may even beat out Tuck for the starting job.
Werner tallied 20 sacks in 2 seasons as a starter with 13 in 2012 during his junior campaign. Werner is also an effective run stuffer.
The Florida State defensive end falls to New York because of a poor combine and average pro day. Jerry Reese lands another steal thanks to the idiocy of NFL general managers.
Previous Pick Chance Warmack Left Guard Alabama
Other Options
Menelik Watson Right Tackle Florida State The Giants need to obtain a right tackle if they are not sold on David Diehl.
20. Chicago Bears 10-6 Arthur Brown Middle Linebacker Kansas State
The Chicago Bears need to obtain a middle linebacker. Arthur Brown recorded 101 total tackles in 2011 before following that up with 100 total tackles in 2012.
Arthur Brown has the versatility, but lacks the elite speed to start. His height and physical ability are two other issues as well. Brown has better character than Manti Te'o. That's the only reason, why I got Brown going to Chicago.
Previous Pick Jonathan Cooper Left Guard North Carolina
Other Options
Manti Te'o Middle Linebacker Notre Dame Chicago may look to add the hometown Notre Dame prospect Manti Te'o to Chicago.
21. Cincinnati Bengals 10-6 Manti Te'o Left Outside Linebacker Notre Dame
The Bengals can draft Te'o as a left outside linebacker on the strong side. When Harrison retires the Bengals can move Burfict back to the weak side at right outside linebacker allowing Te'o to play in the middle.
Notre Dame's Manti Te'o is one of the most polarizing prospects in the 2013 NFL Draft. He displays the production of a top 5 pick, but the off-the-field issues of a day 3 draft choice.
In 2009 as a freshman, Te'o displayed versatility as a right outside linebacker, middle linebacker, and left outside linebacker in a 4-3 scheme.
In 2010 as a sophomore, Te'o recorded a career high 133 total tackles as a sophomore. He also posted 9.5 tackles for a loss, 1 sack, and 1 forced fumble.
In 2011, he recorded 5 less total tackles 128. His ability as a pass rusher in 2011 improved drastically. Te'o posted 13.5 tackles for a loss and 5 sacks.
As a senior in 2012, Te'o was the Heisman runner up. During his final season at Notre Dame he recorded 113 total tackles, 5.5 tackles for a loss, 1.5 sacks, 4 pass breakups, and 7 interceptions.
At one time Te'o looked like a top 5 lock and a potential candidate to the Kansas City Chiefs. Losing to Alabama in the 2013 BCS Championship Game, the fake girlfriend hoax, and a 4.82 40 time at the NFL Combine all hurt his stock.
Manti Te'o dominated his pro day. Te'o redeemed himself at his pro day which is why he's back in the first-round conversation. Manti Te'o's one weakness is his speed. Te'o will succeed if he improves his speed.
Previous Pick Kevin Minter Middle Linebacker LSU
Other Options
Menelik Watson Right Tackle Florida State He's an option if the Bengals fail to retain Andre Smith.
DJ Fluker Right Tackle Alabama Another option at right tackle for the Bengals. Fluker and Smith both attended Alabama.
Kevin Minter Middle Linebacker LSU The Bengals need a middle linebacker and Minter may still be in the cards.
Alec Ogletree Middle Linebacker Georgia Despite a DUI many consider him to be the best inside linebacker in the 2013 NFL Draft.
22. St. Louis Rams from Washington Redskins 10-6 DeAndre Hopkins Wide Receiver Clemson 
DeAndre Hopkins recorded 82 receptions, 1,405 receiving yards, and 18 receiving touchdowns for the Clemson Tigers in 2012. The 6-1/200 pound Hopkins gives your quarterback a #1 target to throw to.
When you watch his tape you see a route runner and red zone target. He has the same elite body control and downfield play that Justin Hunter has. Hopkins has more durability than Hunter.
The only reason why Hunter is ranked ahead of Hopkins is because of the size. Both wide receivers will be consistent starters in the NFL. DeAndre Hopkins will give Sam Bradford that #1 go to target that the Rams quarterback desperately needs. Pairing second year wide receivers Brian Quick and Chris Givens next to Hopkins will also help.
Previous Pick Justin Hunter Wide Receiver Tennessee
Other Options
Tavon Austin Wide Receiver West Virginia Tavon Austin did well at the NFL Combine and his pro day.
23. Minnesota Vikings 10-6 Tavon Austin Wide Receiver West Virginia
Tavon Austin tallied 112 receptions, 1,289 receiving yards, and 12 receiving touchdowns in 2012. He'll make a good addition for the Minnesota Vikings with the 23rd overall pick.
Austin displayed his physical tools and elite speed at the 2013 NFL Combine. There are still durability concerns and issues with his 5-9/176 pound size.
Tavon displayed more reasons why he should go in the first round by showing off his intangibles at West Virginia's pro day. Austin displays outstanding eye vision as a receiver plus he's an effective route runner.
When Austin runs a streak route you have to force your safety into zone coverage and if you want to double team Austin then your corner needs to play zone. If you want your safety to blitz then your corner has to use zone on Austin.
Houston needs somebody across from Andre Johnson. Tavon Austin will be a reliable target plus his speed will create a secondary element at wide receiver.
With Greg Jennings and Tavon Austin Vikings' quarterback Christian Ponder has two third down weapons. Something the Vikings offense desperately needs.
Other Options
None
24. Indianapolis Colts 11-5 Datone Jones 3-4 Right End UCLA
The Colts have the luxury of going with the best player available. At this point that player has to be UCLA's Datone Jones.
Datone Jones emerged as a senior with 62 tackles, 5.5 sacks, and 19.5 tackles for a loss. Jones will compete for a starting job on the Colts' 3-4 defensive line right away.
Previous Pick Alex Okafor 3-4 Right Outside Linebacker Texas
Other Options
None
25. Minnesota Vikings from Seattle Seahawks 11-5 Sylvester Williams Defensive Tackle North Carolina
In my last mock draft, I gave the Seahawks tight end Tyler Eifert. That was prior to the trade that gave the Vikings a second first-round pick for wide receiver Percy Harvin, now a member of the Seahawks.
Sylvester Williams has the tools to be a complete defensive tackle in terms of pass rushing and run stuffing. Personally, I see Williams being a huge steal, and a late first-round pro bowler. Putting Sylvester Williams next to Kevin Williams gives the Vikings the defensive line to shut down the run and rush the quarterback.
Previous Pick Tyler Eifert Tight End Notre Dame
26. Green Bay Packers 11-5 Tyler Eifert Tight End Notre Dame
The Packers re-signed Jermichael Finley. This leaves center and running back as the two main needs. No center is worth taking in Round 1. Eddie Lacy ran 4.57 and 4.60 40 times at his Alabama Pro Day. Those 40 times hurt Lacy's stock.
Finley only got a one year deal. That means Green Bay may use a two tight end set with Finley and Tyler Eifert now that Greg Jennings is gone. Eifert can become the #1 tight end in 2014. Right now in 2013, Eifert has all the tools of a #1 tight end, but sitting behind a veteran like Jermichael Finley gives Eifert more luxury making his transition to the NFL a smoother one.
Previous Pick Zach Ertz Tight End Stanford
Other Options
Zach Ertz Tight End Stanford The Packers can go with Tyler Eifert or Zach Ertz here. I like Eifert better, but Draft Utopia's NFL scout Zen Bliss preferred Tyler Eifert.
27. Houston Texans 12-4 Keenan Allen Wide Receiver California
Keenan Allen may have been the first receiver drafted if he doesn't get injured. His best season came in 2011 when he had 98 receptions, 1,343 receiving yards, and 6 receiving touchdowns. The 6-2/213 pound wide receiver has the tools to become New England's flanker receiver.
He has fast speed and runs routes effectively. He's capable of being a 90 to 100 reception kind of guy that can generate 1,300-1,500 receiving yards. He'll get you 6 to 10 receiving touchdowns.
Houston needs somebody across from Andre Johnson. Keenan Allen will be a reliable target plus his speed will create a secondary element at wide receiver.
Previous Pick Jonathan Hankins Nose Tackle Ohio State
Other Options
Alec Ogletree 3-4 Middle Linebacker Georgia Ogletree has a lot of talent. He could be the pick here.
Menelik Watson Right Tackle Florida State He'd compliment Duane Brown at right tackle.
DJ Fluker Right Tackle Alabama The Texans may want a nitty run blocker so DJ Fluker could be in play here.
28. Denver Broncos 13-3 Margus Hunt Right End SMU
Denver addressed most of the teams needs in free agency. Margus Hunt dominated the 2013 Senior Bowl. He won't replace Elvis Dumervil. Hunt may make an ideal starter in Denver after registering 8 sacks for the Mustangs last season.
Previous Pick Sheldon Richardson Defensive Tackle Missouri
Other Options
Alex Okafor Right End Texas Alex Okafor is an option for the Denver Broncos at this spot. Okafor registered 12.5 sacks in 2012.
DaMontre Moore Right End Texas A&M The other first round pass rusher is DaMontre Moore. Despite a poor combine, and pro day, he's still an option for Atlanta at #30.
29. New England Patriots 12-4 Johnathan Hankins Defensive Tackle Ohio State
With no wide receivers worth selecting here. New England goes defensive tackle. Ohio State's Johnathan Hankins would be ranked a lot higher if he didn't perform poorly at the NFL Combine and his pro day.
When watching his tape, Hankins has the tools to start right away. The only major concern is that Hankins may be a two-down player.
The Patriots get a rookie that can compete with Tommie Kelly for playing time. Hankins is certainly an upgrade over Kelly.
Previous Pick Bennie Logan Defensive Tackle LSU
Other Options
Bennie Logan Defensive Tackle LSU Bennie Logan is an option. New England needs to address wide receiver first.
30. Atlanta Falcons 13-3 Menelik Watson Right Tackle Florida State
Atlanta released right tackle Tyson Clabo. Menelik Watson has the tools to be a starting right tackle.
The Falcons have to obtain a right tackle if Steven Jackson expects to rush for 1,000 rushing yards on the ground. Center Todd McClure retired which forced right guard Peter Konz to make the transition to from right guard to center. Now Atlanta needs run blocking upgrades at right tackle and right guard.
Previous Pick Margus Hunt Right End SMU
Other Options
Kyle Long Right Tackle Oregon Kyle Long had a fabulous pro day. He could be a late first round pick.
Alex Okafor Right End Texas The Falcons can obtain a double digit sack artist in Alex Okafor.
DaMontre Moore Right End Texas A&M A poor combine and pro day really hurts DaMontre Moore's NFL Draft stock.
31. San Francisco 49ers Eric Reid Free Safety LSU
The San Francisco 49ers can have more luxury than most teams with numerous draft picks. Eric Reid is a guy that's emerged on NFL draft boards thanks to a fantastic pro day. Reid has a chance to go in the first round of the 2013 NFL Draft.
Previous Pick Jesse Williams Nose Tackle Alabama
Other Options
Jonathan Cyprien Free Safety Florida International The 49ers may take Cyprien this early. They signed Craig Dahl, but can the 49ers rely on Dahl?
32. Baltimore Ravens 10-6 Alec Ogletree 3-4 Middle Linebacker Georgia
The Baltimore Ravens need to find a replacement to Ray Lewis. They also lost Dannelle Ellerbe. The Ravens signed Elvis Dumervil as a 3-4 left outside linebacker. That means that Courtney Upshaw could move to 3-4 middle linebacker to replace Ellerbe.
Still the Ravens need to find a replacement to Ray Lewis. Ogletree got arrested for a DUI, but the Ravens may look past that.
Other Options
Kevin Minter 3-4 Middle Linebacker LSU Minter registered 130 total tackles for the LSU Tigers.
33. Jacksonville Jaguars Geno Smith Quarterback West Virginia
Many expect West Virginia's Geno Smith to be the only quarterback taken in the first round. Where would Geno Smith go if the Jaguars passed on him with the second overall pick? It's possible, but unlikely that the Jaguars snatch Smith up at the beginning of Round 2.
Jacksonville can draft Geno Smith to start the second round. Smith has the physical tools that teams look for in a quarterback. He's got excellent arm strength, no durability concerns, plus the 6-3/208 pound quarterback has ideal size for an NFL quarterback.
In 2012, he threw for 4,205 passing yards, completed 71.2 percent of his passes, threw 42 passing touchdowns, and 6 interceptions.
Smith wowed NFL scouts at West Virginia's pro day with his throws. Smith's pro day is why many NFL draft junkies label Smith as the top quarterback in 2013.
Zen Bliss pointed out two critical problems with Geno. One he's not accurate on a consistent basis and two he gets upset when his team is trailing.
I get the impression that Smith lacks the leadership/alpha vibe that most of the top quarterbacks in the league display. The other thing I worry about is how Smith adapts to a pro-style offense. He played in a shotguns spread offense at West Virginia.
Smith will start right away in the NFL. He has the tools to be a good starter. He won't be an elite starter and will initially struggle against other AFC South quarterbacks like Andrew Luck, Matt Schaub, and Jake Locker.
Previous Pick DJ Fluker Right Tackle Alabama
34. San Francisco 49ers from Kansas City Chiefs Zach Ertz Tight End Stanford
San Francisco lost backup tight end Delanie Walker to free agency. Since the 49ers signed cornerback Nnamdi Asomugha, they can pass on a cornerback here and take the best player available.
Like Notre Dame's Tyler Eifert, Ertz has all the tools to be a #1 tight end. His blocking sucks which is your only concern with him as he progresses into the NFL. That won't be a problem for San Francisco since Jim Harbaugh coached Ertz for a brief period at Stanford. Ertz will improve his blocking and become a complimentary tight end to Vernon Davis.
Just imagine what Colin Kaepernick can do with weapons like Michael Crabtree, Anquan Boldin as a secondary receiver similar to his role with the Arizona Cardinals across from Larry Fitzgerald, Mario Manningham in the slot, Vernon Davis at tight end, and Zach Ertz as a #2 tight end in an Aaron Hernandez like role. With these weapons, K man has more than enough targets to throw to. It will be all on Kaepernick if the 49ers' passing attack struggles since Alex Smith is gone.
Previous Pick Jonathan Banks Cornerback Mississippi State
35. Philadelphia Eagles Jonathan Banks Cornerback Mississippi State
The Philadelphia Eagles need a field cornerback. Jonathan Banks has the tools to become that guy. Banks can play man, zone, and press. His problem is that he doesn't do these things at a Pro Bowl level. With his 6-2/215 pound size he'll be able to play field cornerback for the Philadelphia Eagles thanks to the departure of Nnamdi Asomugha.
Still, he's an upgrade over Bradley Fletcher, Cary Williams, or Brandon Boykin. With Banks, you can have those corners compete for boundary, nickel, and dime cornerback roles.
The Eagles have strong ties to Mississippi State. Last April, the Eagles drafted Bank's teammate Fletcher Cox in the first round.
Previous Pick John Jenkins Nose Tackle Georgia
36. Detroit Lions Alex Okafor Right End Texas
The Lions need two pass rushing defensive ends. Alex Okafor registered 12.5 sacks last season and makes an ideal 4-3 right end in Round 2. Okafor has the tools to play right end or left end. Even if the Lions took Ziggy Ansah in Round 1, they could still double dip at pass rusher in round 2 because the Lions like going with the best player available.
Previous Pick Jonathan Cyprien Free Safety Florida International
37. Cincinnati Bengals from Oakland Raiders Kyle Long Right Tackle Oregon
Kyle Long is the younger brother of Chris Long and the son of Howie Long. At the Senior Bowl, Long showed that he can play offensive tackle or guard on either side. His versatility and pass blocking will intrigue teams.
The Bengals have not come to terms with Andre Smith yet. Maybe they should take Kyle Long. Long did really well at Oregon's pro day, and he may move into the late first round.
Previous Pick Eddie Lacy Running Back Alabama
38. Arizona Cardinals Jonathan Cyprien Free Safety Florida International
Arizona had a promising secondary in 2012 that featured 2011 top 5 pick Patrick Peterson at field cornerback, William Gay at boundary cornerback, Adrian Wilson at strong safety, and Kerry Rhodes at free safety. The only player left on last year's secondary is Patrick Peterson.
Arizona replaced William Gay with Antoine Cason. Cason was a 2008 first-round pick that was started off as a nickel corner before moving into a boundary role after the departure of Antonio Cromartie.
Still, Arizona needs to rebuild at safety. Jonathan Cyprien seems like one of the more complete sleepers at safety in the 2013 NFL Draft. Florida International's free safety will give the Arizona Cardinals an immediate starter at safety.
Previous Pick Kyle Long Right Tackle Oregon
39. New York Jets Terron Armstead Right Tackle Arkansas Pine-Bluff
The New York Jets needed an upgrade at right tackle ever since the retirement of Damien Woody following New York's 2011 AFC Championship loss to the Pittsburgh Steelers. Armstead ran a sick 40 time plus he dominated his pro day. Arkansas-Pine Bluff's offensive tackle will make an excellent bookend right tackle to left tackle D'Brickshaw Ferguson.
It also helps that Willie Colon is playing inside at left guard next to center Nick Mangold and right guard Vladimir Ducasse. The Jets' interior offensive line will perform at a high level with offensive tackles playing on the outside.
Mark Sanchez may have a rebound season if this improved offensive line stays healthy for 16 games. Don't expect much out of Mark Sanchez or Fireman Ed Jets' fans.
Previous Pick EJ Manuel Quarterback Florida State
40. Tennessee Titans Larry Warford Right Guard Kentucky
Larry Warford has all the tools to start at left guard or right guard. He's a better fit at right guard. Since the Titans signed Andy Levitre at left guard, Warford will make the transition to right guard should the Titans take him.
It's true that the Titans signed Rob Turner in free agency. Turner has the versatility to play anywhere on the offensive line. He'd be better served as a backup right guard since Warford is capable of starting right away in the NFL.
Previous Pick Datone Jones Right End UCLA
41. Buffalo Bills Matt Barkley Quarterback USC
Kevin Kolb is due one million in guaranteed money. One quarterback that can dethrone Kolb of the starting job is Matt Barkley. Barkley played in a pro style offense for 4 years at high school and then 4 years at USC. Barkley is my pick to win 2013 Offensive Rookie of the year if he wins a starting job.
USC has failed to develop NFL starters in the past. I'm really high on Matt Barkley which is why he ends the curse of USC quarterbacks to enter the pros.
Previous Pick Tavon Austin Wide Receiver West Virginia
42. Miami Dolphins DJ Fluker Right Tackle Alabama
Miami needs a right tackle. Besides run blocking and size DJ Fluker doesn't offer much.
Previous Pick Kawann Short Defensive Tackle Purdue
43. Tampa Bay Buccaneers Darius Slay Cornerback Mississippi State
Darius Slay has the tools to become a field cornerback even though he's considered a boundary cornerback at this point. He was a sleeper that played across from Jonathan Banks at Mississippi State.
44. Carolina Panthers Bennie Logan Defensive Tackle LSU
Carolina needs a defensive tackle. Bennie Logan is the best player on LSU's defensive line. Mingo will get overdrafted, and Sam Montgomery lacks the work ethic to make it in the NFL.
Previous Pick Sylvester Williams Defensive Tackle North Carolina
45. San Diego Chargers Justin Pugh Left Tackle Syracuse
San Diego needs help everywhere except center. Justin Pugh is better suited inside at left guard. Unfortunately San Diego's offensive line is so dire he's forced to start at left tackle right away.
Previous Pick Keenan Allen Wide Receiver California
46. St. Louis Rams Matt Elam Strong Safety Florida
The Rams need a safety on defense. Matt Elam is the best safety available.
Previous Pick Dion Sims Tight End Michigan State
47. Dallas Cowboys Kawann Short Defensive Tackle Purdue
Dallas needs help at defensive tackle. Kawann Short registered 6 sacks in 2010, 6.5 in 2011, and 7 in 2012. His pass rushing in the Cowboys new 4-3 defense will assist DeMarcus Ware and Anthony Spencer. Ware and Spencer were 3-4 outside linebackers now making the transition to a 4-3 defense.
Previous Pick Matt Elam Strong Safety Florida
48. Pittsburgh Steelers Jesse Williams Nose Tackle Alabama
Jesse Williams can pass rush, run stuff, and block shed. He has the tools to be an explosive rusher off the edge plus he provides the size. He's not as big as Terrence Cody, but he has a lot more versatility.
Williams makes an ideal replacement for Casey Hampton. With these first two draft picks, Pittsburgh addresses the teams main needs on defense grabbing two starters.
Current backup nose tackle Steve McLendon has the size of a 3-4 defensive end. Pittsburgh can move McLendon to 3-4 defensive end giving the Steelers 4 3-4 defensive ends with 2 starters and 2 backups.
Previous Pick Manti Te'o 3-4 Middle Linebacker Notre Dame
49. New York Giants Khaseem Greene Right Outside Linebacker Rutgers
The Giants need an outside linebacker for depth. Khaseem Greene posted mind boggling 2012 stats with 136 total tackles, 6 sacks, 6 forced fumbles, 5 pass deflections, 2 interceptions, and 12 tackles for a loss. In 2011 Greene posted 141 total tackles. The Giants can put Greene in as an immediate starter at right outside linebacker.
Previous Pick Arthur Brown Middle Linebacker Kansas State
50. Chicago Bears EJ Manuel Quarterback Florida State
New regimes mean new quarterbacks. EJ Manuel is too good to pass on at this point, even if Jay Cutler is still the starter for the next two seasons.
Manuel has a cannon arm and better physical tools than Smith. He's raw and struggled against a Florida Gators defense that was stacked with NFL talent.
EJ Manuel did well at the Senior Bowl, the NFL Combine, and Florida State's pro day. Generating momentum like that led to Manuel being one of two quarterbacks besides Geno Smith that received an invite to Day 1 of the NFL Draft.
Mike Mayock had Manuel graded higher than his predecessor Christian Ponder. Ponder was drafted by the Minnesota Vikings in the first-round of the 2011 NFL Draft. Manuel's physical tools are better than Ponder's, but his intangibles are not in the same class as Ponder.
Previous Pick Matt Barkley Quarterback USC
51. Washington Redskins Tharold Simon Cornerback LSU
The Washington Redskins need to obtain a cornerback to upgrade a horrid secondary. Tharold Simon ran a 4.39 40 time at LSU's pro day. Simon can play dime cornerback for a Redskins secondary that features DeAngelo Hall, Josh Wilson, and EJ Biggers.
Simon's role with Washington will increase in 2014. For now Simon serves as a depth cornerback during his rookie season.
Previous Pick Jamar Taylor Cornerback Boise State
52. Minnesota Vikings Jamar Taylor Cornerback Boise State
The Vikings need a #1 field cornerback now that Antoine Winfield is gone. Jamar Taylor dominated at Boise State's pro day. Taylor can be that #1 cornerback for the Vikings.
Previous Pick Eric Reid Free Safety LSU
53. Cincinnati Bengals Jonathan Franklin Running Back UCLA
Thanks to Eddie Lacy's awful pro day, Jonathan Franklin is now the top running back in the 2013 NFL Draft.
In 2012, Franklin ran for 1,734 rushing yards and 13 rushing touchdowns. He ran for 976 rushing yards as a junior and 1,127 rushing yards as a sophomore.
He impressed at the 2013 Senior Bowl, and did well at the 2013 NFL Combine in Indianapolis as well.
Jonathan Franklin will make an excellent complimentary back to BenJarvus Green-Ellis. With Franklin in Cincinnati's backfield, the Bengals have a one two punch that can take pressure off of Andy Dalton.
Previous Pick Barrett Jones Center Alabama
54. Miami Dolphins from Indianapolis Colts Christine Michael Running Back Texas A&M
Miami should add a second running back to compliment Lamar Miller. Christine Michael did well at the East West Shrine game plus he performed well at the NFL Combine.
Michael emerged at the East West Shrine game. In 2009 during his freshman season, Michael burst onto the season posting an impressive 10 rushing touchdowns. The following season, Michael had a sophomore slump only posting 126 carries, 631 rushing yards, and 4 rushing touchdowns.
Michael appeared ready for redemption in 2011. His 149 carries, 899 rushing yards, and 8 receiving touchdowns helped the Aggies in 2012. Michael complimented Aggies running back Cyrus Gray in 2010 and 2011.
Michael's durability issues are a concern. If Michael stays healthy he will be a huge NFL draft steal.
Previous Pick Tank Carradine Left End Florida State
55. Green Bay Packers Eddie Lacy Running Back Alabama
The Green Bay Packers obtain the best running back in terms of production. Lacy not running in the NFL Combine along with a poor pro day causes him to fall to the Packers in round 2.
As a freshman in 2010, Lacy was a third string rusher behind Mark Ingram and Trent Richardson. During his freshman campaign he had 56 carries, 406 rushing yards, and 6 rushing touchdowns.
As a sophomore in 2011, he complimented Trent Richardson. That season he had 95 carries, 674 rushing yards, and 7 rushing touchdowns.
Eddie Lacy finally became the Alabama Crimson Tide starter in 2012. In 2012, he had 204 carries, 1,322 rushing yards, and 17 rushing touchdowns.
Lacy isn't as good as Mark Ingram or Trent Richardson. He's good enough to become the starting running back on the Green Bay Packers.
Previous Pick Jonathan Franklin Running Back UCLA
56. Seattle Seahawks Dion Sims Tight End Michigan State
Dion Sims is an effective blocking tight end. He has the playmaking, route running, and hands to be a tight end. The downside with Sims is that he's not a three down tight end. You also have to question his speed.
Seattle needs a starting tight end. Sims is my top available tight end at this point. The Seahawks could also look to San Diego State's Gavin Escobar and Rice tight end Vance McDonald.
Previous Pick Terrance Williams Wide Receiver Baylor
57. Houston Texans John Jenkins Nose Tackle Georgia
John Jenkins has the tools to start at nose tackle in the NFL. He's not going to be a Pro Bowl player.
Previous Pick Ryan Swope Wide Receiver Texas A&M
58. Denver Broncos Kevin Minter Middle Linebacker LSU
Denver needs a middle linebacker. Neither Joe Mays or Nate Irving is the answer. Kevin Minter registered 130 total tackles for LSU in 2012. Minter is a steal at this point in the second-round.
Previous Pick Larry Warford Right Guard Kentucky
59. New England Patriots Terrance Williams Wide Receiver Baylor
New England needs a #1 flanker wide receiver. Terrance Williams has the size plus he led the nation with 1,832 receiving yards in 2012. In addition he provided Baylor with 97 receptions and 12 receiving touchdowns after losing quarterback Robert Griffin III and wide receiver Kendall Wright.
Just imagine what New England's offense can do with Williams and Danny Amendola. The Patriots may even add Emmanuel Sanders to the lineup.
Previous Pick David Amerson Cornerback North Carolina State
60. Atlanta Falcons DaMontre Moore Right End Texas A&M
Atlanta needs a right end to act as a pass rusher. DaMontre Moore registered 12.5 sacks plus he provides solid value here.
Previous Pick Knile Davis Running Back Arkansas
61. San Francisco 49ers Robert Alford Cornerback Southeast Louisiana
The 49ers have Nnamdi Asomugha, Carlos Rodgers, and Chris Culliver at cornerback. Robert Alford has all the intangibles to start in the NFL. The only problem is that Alford lacks the size of a starting NFL cornerback at 5-10/188 pounds.
Putting him in a dime role next to Nnamdi Asomugha makes his job easier. Alford also gives you depth at cornerback.
Previous Pick Robert Woods Wide Receiver USC
62. Baltimore Ravens Ryan Swope Wide Receiver Texas A&M
In 2011, Ryan Swope surpassed teammate Jeff Fuller as the flanker receiver on Texas A&M's depth chart. Swope finished the 2011 season with 89 receptions, 1,207 receiving yards, and 11 receiving touchdowns.
In 2012 teams payed more attention to Swope. Ryan encountered a lot of double teams. Still, Swope posted great numbers with 72 receptions, 913 receiving yards, and 8 receiving touchdowns.
The Texas A&M wide receiver did well at the 2013 NFL Combine. There's a chance that the 6-1/206 pounder gets selected by a team like Houston, New England, or Baltimore in the late second-round.
The Ravens need help at wide receiver after trading Anquan Boldin. Baltimore reloads at wide receiver by adding Ryan Swope to compliment Torrey Smith giving Joe Flacco two targets that can catch deep passes.
Previous Pick Quinton Patton Wide Receiver Louisiana Tech
63. Kansas City Chiefs Robert Woods Wide Receiver USCKansas City retained Dwayne Bowe giving him a five year deal. Still, Bowe has the numbers of a #2 wide receiver which is why the Chiefs have to draft a receiver here so Alex Smith can be successful.
Robert Woods has the production of a #1 wide out. In 2010, he caught 65 passes, for 792 receiving yards, and 6 receiving touchdowns as a freshman. The following season he recorded 111 receptions, 1,292 receiving yards, and 15 receiving yards. Woods lost the Biletnikoff Award to Justin Blackmon in 2011. As a junior he had 76 receptions, 846 receiving yards, and 11 receiving touchdowns.
Woods has the production, soft hands, route running, and blocking that you look for in a #1 receiver. His 6-0/201 pound size is also above average. He lacks the elite game changing speed or the physical tools to create separation. There are also durability concerns when it comes to Woods. That's why Woods is a safer bet as a #2 wide receiver.
Overall you're impressed with his tape. Robert is capable of competing with Steve Breaston, Mardy Gilyard, Dexter McCluster, Donnie Avery, Jonathan Baldwin, and Devon Wylie for playing time. Will he start right away? Woods is likely to start, but he still has to earn the job.
The good thing about this pick is that Andy Reid is getting a receiver that gives Alex Smith insurance if Dwayne Bowe cannot be that guy who generates 80 receptions, 1,000 receiving yards, and 10 receiving touchdowns.
Previous Pick Markus Wheaton Wide Receiver Oregon State
64. Jacksonville Jaguars Brennan Williams Right Tackle North Carolina
Brennan Williams is an extremely talented right tackle. He pass blocked for Byrn Renner and did run blocking for Giovanni Bernard at right tackle. Williams is a right tackle only. The lack of versatility and footwork is the one thing that hurts his game.
Previous Pick Robert Alford Cornerback Southeast Louisana
65. Detroit Lions Tank Carradine Left End Florida StateTank Carradine can be a great pass rusher at left end sort like Cliff Avril was with the Lions. He will struggle as a run stuffer plus he's got durability issues. If the Lions take Carradine, they need to obtain a run stuffing left outside linebacker at some point later in the 2013 NFL Draft.
Previous Pick Tharold Simon Cornerback LSU
66. Oakland Raiders Tyler Bray Quarterback TennesseeMatt Flynn has no business starting in the NFL. The Raiders new regime may want to draft someone to compete with Matt Flynn and Terrell Pryor for the starting job in Oakland. My top quarterback available is Tennessee signal caller Tyler Bray.
College recruiters raved about Tyler Bray's accuracy and intangibles coming out of high school. They weren't sold on his physical tools which is why he was a 3 star recruit rather than a 5 star one.
Tyler Bray saw limited time late in the season as a freshman in 2010, but he threw for 300+ passing yards in 4 of his final 5 starts that year. Bray began showing teams his promise.
In 2011, Bray got off to a promising start throwing 14 touchdowns and 2 interceptions in his first 4 games. He lost to Florida and Georgia before missing 5 games with an injury. If it's any consolation, wide receiver Justin Hunter got injured against Florida missing the rest of the season. Bray finished his 2011 campaign on a low note throwing 3 touchdowns and 4 interceptions in his final games against Vanderbilt and Kentucky.
In 2012 some thought Tyler Bray would be a first-round sleeper for the 2013 NFL Draft. Bray torched a very promsing North Carolina State secondary throwing 27/41, 333 passing yards, 2 touchdowns, and no interceptions. He followed that up going 18/20 against Georgia State throwing 4 touchdowns and no picks.
With Justin Hunter back at full health plus an emerging Cordarrelle Patterson, there was an expectation for Tennessee to defeat Florida with the Vols hosting the game. ESPN's College Gameday was at Tennessee when the Volunteers were scheduled to play the Florida Gators.
Tyler Bray was horrible against SEC powerhouse teams like Florida, Georgia, and Alabama. In those 3 contests Bray threw 4 touchdowns and 7 interceptions. That just shows you how raw Bray really is.
The good news is that Bray finished the season on a high note. In his final 5 games he threw 18 touchdowns and 3 interceptions.
One of the key issues with Tyler Bray is that he only performs well against sub-par competition. That's a huge concern that will need to be addressed in the NFL.
Bray had an outstanding supporting cast at wide receiver and offensive line. He never developed a 70 percent completion percentage and disappointed college recruiters that raved about his accuracy coming out of high school. Another concern is will Bray stay out of trouble off the field?
Terrell Pryor and Tyler Bray both have off the field concerns. With each quarterback having a competitive nature, it could lead to poor team chemistry on Oakland's part. Both Pryor and Bray have accuracy issues at the next level. Tyler Bray's poor footwork is the only thing that makes you believe he's a third stringer behind Matt Flynn and Terrell Pryor. Both quarterbacks have more potential than Matt Flynn, but Flynn may have the best chance of winning the starting job at this point because of his ability to gel into a situation by creating team chemistry whether he's a starter or a backup.
Bray has the tools of third round pick. He rebounded with a strong combine and pro day. Scouts rave about Bray's physical tools and quick release.
I'd have no problem with a team taking Tyler Bray in the first-round. The problem is he's ranked behind other quarterbacks like Geno Smith, Matt Barkley, and EJ Manuel. After those guys, he's the best quarterback in the 2013 NFL Draft.
Previous Pick Sam Montgomery 3-4 Left Outside Linebacker LSU
67. Philadelphia Eagles David Bakhtiari Right Tackle Colorado
Jason Peters and Todd Herremans can be effective offensive tackles if both stay healthy. That's a huge if though. Depth should be added at offensive tackle just in case.
2011 first round pick Danny Watkins is ranked behind Dennis Kelly at right guard on the Eagles depth chart. Maybe the Eagles should gamble on Bakhtiari because he has experience on both sides.
Worst case scenario you get a backup right tackle. Best case scenario you get an immediate starter at right tackle and potentially a future left tackle. He won't be a pro bowler, but I can see him becoming a left tackle at some point if he develops and if Jason Peters fails to recover from his injury.
Those are two big ifs though. Right now Bakhtiari needs to worry about making a team so he can compete for a starting job.
Previous Pick Corey Lemonier 3-4 Right Outside Linebacker Auburn
68. Cleveland Browns Tyler Wilson Quarterback Arkansas
The Cleveland Browns have Brandon Weeden as a starter and Jason Campbell as a backup. Both quarterbacks are in their 30's so a third stringer for depth is needed.
Michael Lombardi was very high on Arkansas quarterback Ryan Mallett back in 2011. Cleveland takes Mallett's successor from Arkansas as a third stringer here.
Some believe Tyler Wilson is the best quarterback in this draft because he displays outstanding accuracy on tape. His lack of arm strength and small hands tell you otherwise. Wilson struggled at the Senior Bowl and the NFL Combine causing him to slip from a second-round pick to a fourth-round pick. He rebounded at Arkansas's pro day so he looks like a third-round prospect.
Previous Pick Mike Glennon Quarterback North Carolina State
69. Arizona Cardinals DJ Swaringer Strong Safety South Carolina
Thanks to the departure of Adrian Wilson, Arizona has to find a strong safety. DJ Swaringer would be a steal in the third round.
Previous Pick Dallas Thomas Left Guard Tennessee
70. Tennessee Titans Corey Lemonier Right End Auburn
Tennessee needs depth behind Kamerion Wimbley and Derrick Morgan. Corey Lemonier is the best pass rusher available.
Previous Pick David Quessenberry Right Guard San Jose State
71. Buffalo Bills Gavin Escobar Tight End San Diego State
Buffalo needs an upgrade at tight end over Scott Chandler. Escobar is a second to third round pick. Escobar caught passes from Ryan Lindley at tight end and he also blocked for running back Ronnie Hillman.
Escobar might be what the Bills need at tight end. The Aztecs tight end recorded 13 receiving touchdowns over the past two seasons.
72. New York Jets Vance McDonald Tight End Rice
Vance McDonald is one tight end in the third-round that can step in and start right away. McDonald dominated the Senior Bowl and the NFL Combine. If he puts up a sick pro day, he may even get drafted in the late portion of round 1.
Previous Pick Menelik Watson Right Tackle Florida State
73. Tampa Bay Buccaneers David Amerson Cornerback North Carolina State
David Amerson recorded a massive 13 interceptions as a sophomore. He disappointed as a junior struggling in coverage against Tennessee.
Tampa Bay would be a good fit for Amerson. Worst case scenario he moves inside to free safety ALA Malcolm Jenkins. Best case scenario Amerson beats out second-round draft pick Darius Slay for the field cornerback job.
Previous Pick Vance McDonald Tight End Rice
74. San Francisco 49ers from Carolina Panthers Brian Schwenke Center CaliforniaSchwenke makes an ideal successor for the aging Jonathan Goodwin. Schwenke lined up at left guard and right guard during the Senior Bowl.
Schwneke's natural position is at center. The 49ers will draft him as a center and plug him in at right guard if things don't pan out. San Francisco could also plug Schwenke into a right guard role right away like Atlanta did with Peter Konz or Houston did with Ben Jones.
75. New Orleans Saints Chris Faulk Left Tackle LSUThe Saints are releasing left tackle Jermon Bushrod. The Saints take another hometown prospect from the LSU Tigers. This time it's left tackle Chris Faulk. Faulk is a huge sleeper in this year's NFL Draft because he's a 6-6/325 pound left tackle coming off an injury that ended his season back in week 2.
Previous Pick Terron Armstead Left Tackle Arkansas Pine-Bluff
76. San Diego Chargers Travis Frederick Left Guard Wisconsin
Frederick played left guard and center for the Wisconsin Badgers. Despite transitioning to center in the NFL, he lacks the proper size and footwork of a center at 6 foot 4/338 pounds.
Frederick will stick to a left guard role in the NFL. In 2011, Wisconsin had one of the best offensive lines in the nation. Ricky Wagner played left tackle, Frederick played left guard, Peter Konz was center, Kevin Zeitler started at right guard, and Josh Oglesby was a bookend to Wagner at right tackle.
San Diego struggled in 2012 because they failed to find a replacement for Kris Dielman. Dielman retired prior to the 2012 season.
77. Miami Dolphins Everett Dawkins Defensive Tackle Florida StateMiami obtains one more defensive tackle for depth. Everett Dawkins is the best player available and he's a hometown prospect.
Previous Pick David Bakhtiari Right Tackle Colorado
78. St. Louis Rams Sio Moore Left Outside Linebacker Connecticut
Sio Moore is a sleeper at left outside linebacker. Putting him next to Jo-Lonn Dunbar and James Laurinaitis gives the Rams the front 7 that they need to win games.
Previous Pick Chris Faulk Left Tackle LSU
79. Pittsburgh Steelers Knile Davis Running Back ArkansasQuarterback Ben Roethlisberger is 31 years old. He can still play at a high level posting Pro Bowl numbers. It would make his job a lot easier if he had a rusher like Knile Davis that he can hand the ball off to.
Davis dominated the 2013 NFL Combine with 31 reps on the bench press along with a 4.37 40-yard dash time. His biggest concern is durability. When he's healthy he can be a quarterback's biggest asset. In 2010, he had 204 carries, 1,322 rushing yards, and 13 rushing touchdowns helping quarterback Ryan Mallett operate a balanced offense. Injuries affected Davis the last two seasons.
Pittsburgh retained Issac Redman and Jonathan Dwyer. The Steelers need a running back for depth. Having a starter to assert the job would help, but Davis seems like he has the tools to become the starter. Pittsburgh has the luxury to take a flyer on Davis.
If things don't work out they can always obtain a running back next season when Redman and Dwyer's contracts are up. Washington running back Bishop Sankey looks like the top rusher for 2014.
Previous Pick Giovanni Bernard Running Back North Carolina
80. Dallas Cowboys Joseph Randle Running Back Oklahoma State
Dallas needs to find a #2 running back to compliment DeMarco Murray. Oklahoma State's Joseph Randle has the production to be that guy.
In 2011, he had 208 carries, 1,216 rushing yards, and 24 rushing touchdowns with Brandon Weeden at quarterback and Justin Blackmon at wide receiver. This season he had 274 carries, 1,417 rushing yards, and 14 rushing touchdowns.
Joseph Randle was a second-round prospect, but he struggled at the NFL Combine. His combine performance causes him to slip to the 80th overall pick.
Previous Pick Brennan Williams Right Tackle North Carolina
81. New York Giants JJ Wilcox Strong Safety Georgia Southern
The New York Giants have to find a strong safety to replace Kenny Phillips. JJ Wilcox can play anywhere on secondary. He also has solid 6-2/215 pound size.
Previous Pick Khaseem Greene Right Outside Linebacker Rutgers
82. Miami Dolphins from Chicago Bears Quinton Patton Wide Receiver Louisiana Tech
Quinton Patton has the hands and route running of a top notch wide out. He can be a good blocker. His lack of speed keeps him from being a #1 flanker.
Miami has Mike Wallace as the flanker in the Z and Brian Hartline as the secondary X receiver. Quinton Patton can compete with Davone Bess and Brandon Gibson to be a slot receiver for Miami. The Dolphins can use all three of those wide receivers in the slot on Hail Mary's.
Patton lacks the speed to be a hail mary guy, so he'd be used as a backup until Miami improves his speed. That's one thing Patton has to work on when he gets into training camp.
Previous Pick Joseph Randle Running Back Oklahoma State
83. Minnesota Vikings Marc Anthony Cornerback CaliforniaMinnesota uses their day 2 draft selections on cornerbacks. Marc Anthony covered Keenan Allen as a field cornerback on California's roster. Drafting Jamar Taylor and Marc Anthony gives the Vikings a formidable cornerback tandem.
Previous Pick Everett Dawkins Defensive Tackle Florida State
84. Cincinnati Bengals Phillip Thomas Safety Fresno State
Phillip Thomas has the tools to be a safety. He may not develop into a starter, but the Bengals can use Thomas for depth.
85. Washington Redskins Jon Bostic 3-4 Middle Linebacker FloridaWashington needs a 3-4 middle linebacker to compliment London Fletcher. Jon Bostic is capable of starting right away in the nations capital.
Previous Pick Ryan Otten Tight End San Jose State
86. Indianapolis Colts DJ Hayden Cornerback Houston
The Colts obtain a cornerback to compete with Greg Toler and Darius Butler for the boundary cornerback starting job on the Colts' roster. DJ Hayden can be that guy. Even if he doesn't win the starting job, he can still contribute in a nickel or dime role.
Mike Mayock has DJ Hayden as his top overall corner in the 2013 NFL Draft. It's strange that Mayock has Hayden graded ahead of first-round corners like Milliner, Rhodes, and Trufant.
Previous Pick Brennan Williams Nose Tackle Missouri Southern
87. Seattle Seahawks Jelani Jenkins Right Outside Linebacker FloridaSeattle needs a starting right outside linebacker. Jelani Jenkins are Jon Bostic are two Florida linebackers that can get drafted in the top 100.
Previous Pick Sio Moore Right Outside Linebacker Connecticut
88. Green Bay Packers David Quessenberry Center San Jose State
The Packers 3 biggest needs lie at center, running back, and tight end. David Quessenberry can play anywhere on the offensive line.
Previous Pick Logan Ryan Cornerback Rutgers
89. Houston Texans Kiko Alonso 3-4 Middle Linebacker OregonHouston needs to find someone that can play next to Brian Cushing. Kiko Alonso is a sleeper that may sneak into Day 2 of the 2013 NFL Draft.
90. Denver Broncos Giovanni Bernard Running Back North CarolinaGiovanni Bernard rushed for 1,200 rushing yards in back to back seasons after being redshirted in 2010. John Fox loves prospects from North Carolina. Maybe Denver will add Bernard as a running back for depth with this pick.
Previous Pick Montee Ball Running Back Wisconsin
91. New England Patriots Barrett Jones Right Guard AlabamaBarrett Jones has the versatility to play anywhere on the offensive line. Despite some durability concerns with his knees, Jones has a tremendous supporting cast.
Previous Pick Marquis Goodwin Wide Receiver Texas
92. Atlanta Falcons Vince Williams Middle Linebacker Florida StateAtlanta never found a middle linebacker to replace Curtis Lofton. Adding a guy like Vince Williams may help here.
Previous Pick Nick Kasa Tight End Colorado
93. San Francisco 49ers Bacarri Rambo Strong Safety GeorgiaSan Francisco's secondary was horrible on Super Bowl Sunday. DaShon Goldson and Donte Whitner have some contract issues. Even if both get retained you may as well add a safety for depth.
Previous Pick DJ Swaringer Strong Safety South Carolina
94. Baltimore Ravens Sanders Commings Strong Safety GeorgiaLike Bacarri Rambo, Commings has the versatility to play strong safety or free safety. Baltimore needs a strong safety thanks to the departure of Bernard Pollard.
Previous Pick JJ Wilcox Strong Safety Georgia Southern
95. Houston Texans Compensation Pick Stedman Bailey Wide Receiver West VirginiaStedman Bailey has the hands, speed, and route running that you look for in a wide receiver. His 5-10/195 pound size limits him to a slot role. With Andre Johnson and Keenan Allen replacing Kevin Walter as the secondary receiver, Stedman Bailey can play a Jacoby Jones like role for the Texans.
Bailey's production was through the roof. 114 receptions, 1,622 receptions, and 25 receiving touchdowns.
96. Kansas City Chiefs Compensation Pick AJ Klein 3-4 Middle Linebacker Iowa State
AJ Klein can step in as a starter to replace Jovan Belcher. He's not going to be a Pro Bowl player, but he can still have an impact on the Chiefs.
97. Tennessee Titans Compensation Pick Da Rick Rodgers Wide Receiver Tennessee Tech
Da Rick Rodgers has the tools to become a complimentary starter for Kendall Wright down the road. Rodgers won't get his chance unless Kenny Britt avoids trouble and Nate Washington keeps dropping passes.
Coming out of high school, Rodgers was a 5 star recruit. Many compared him to a young Hines Ward before he committed to Tennessee. He never lived up to the Hines Ward comparisons despite having better size than Ward.
Rodgers has some character issues of his own. I doubt he'd fit in Tennessee since the Titans have a lot of team chemistry issues right now. The 6-3/208 pound receiver is a hometown guy from Tennessee with the talent to become a starting receiver in this league.
In 2011, Rodgers stepped up for Tennessee with 67 receptions, 1,040 receiving yards, and 12 receiving touchdowns. After legal issues he transferred to Tennessee Tech and opted to declare for the 2013 NFL Draft.
Round 4
98. Jacksonville Jaguars Blidi Wreh-Wilson Cornerback ConnecticutBlidi Wreh-Wilson was the field cornerback at Connecticut. The Jaguars have nobody on secondary that can step up at cornerback, free safety, or strong safety.
99. Kansas City Chiefs Ryan Nassib Quarterback SyracuseThe Chiefs may pursue a third string quarterback behind Alex Smith and Chase Daniel at this point. Syracuse signal-caller Ryan Nassib would be a steal at this point because some believe he can go in the late first-round.
Guys like Geno Smith, Matt Barkley, and EJ Manuel have the tools to start in the NFL. Guys like Tyler Bray and Tyler Wilson have the potential to become starters down the line. Ryan Nassib has more of a backup vibe to him.
His accuracy and intangibles will keep him from being a long-term starter in the league.
100. Oakland Raiders Dwayne Gratz Cornerback ConnecticutOakland has to find more cornerbacks. You need depth behind Mike Jenkins and Tracy Porter. Dwayne Gratz is the top corner in a draft with depth at corner in the later rounds.
101. Philadelphia Eagles John Simon 3-4 Left Outside Linebacker Ohio StateThe Eagles would be wise to invest in a 3-4 pass-rusher for depth. John Simon is the best pass rusher available.
102. Minnesota Vikings from Detroit Lions Dallas Thomas Left Guard TennesseeMinnesota has to find a replacement for Charlie Johnson. He played left tackle in 2011 and was horrendous. That's why the Vikings selected USC left tackle Matt Kalil with the fourth overall pick in the 2012 NFL Draft.
Johnson struggled against a third string Tampa Bay Buccaneers defensive line when the Vikings lost to the Tampa Bay Buccaneers. Brandon Fusco deserves one more year at right guard, but Johnson has to go because playing left guard is a lot harder than playing right guard.
The left guard needs to have experience as a pass blocker and a run blocker. Right guards and right tackles can focus more on run blocking to open up the lanes.
Dallas Thomas played left tackle before moving inside to left guard. Thomas will have no problem at left guard considering that Matt Kalil and Phil Loadholt are the offensive tackles on the Vikings' roster.
103. Arizona Cardinals Le'Veon Bell Running Back Michigan StateThe Arizona Cardinals may want to add a third-string rusher at some point. Rashard Mendenhall got a one-year deal and Ryan Williams is injury prone.
104. Cleveland Browns Markus Wheaton Wide Receiver Oregon State
The Cleveland Browns have to get a slot receiver. This slot receiver has to present some sort of competition for Greg Little. Markus Wheaton has the tools to be an effective slot receiver with effective speed and crisp route running.
105. Buffalo Bills Aaron Dobson Wide Receiver Marshall
The Buffalo Bills have to find a receiver that will compliment Stevie Johnson. Aaron Dobson has the size, speed, hands, and route running. Dobson makes a good sleeper prospect, and a draft steal in Round 4.
106. New York Jets Montee Ball Running Back WisconsinMontee Ball has production that wows NFL General managers. In 2010, he posted 5 straight games of 100 rushing yards. In 2011, he ran for 1,923 rushing yards, and 33 rushing touchdowns. A year later he lost a ton of talent including 3 offensive lineman and quarterback Russell Wilson. That didn't stop him from rushing for 1,830 rushing yards and 22 rushing touchdowns in 2012.
He lacks the burst to be a starter despite his impressive production. You also have to be concerned with what Ball does off-the-field.
107. Tennessee Titans Dalton Freeman Center ClemsonThe Tennessee Titans have to find help at center. In 2012, Dalton was the most experienced offensive lineman for Clemson. The Tigers had offensive tackles and guards to compliment Freeman for the past few seasons. Dalton has no durability concerns and seems like a solid starter in the NFL.
108. Carolina Panthers Jordan Poyer Cornerback Oregon StateJordan Poyer recorded 7 interceptions for Oregon State. He would make an ideal complimentary cornerback on the Carolina Panthers.
109. New Orleans Saints Xavier Nixon Right Tackle FloridaThe New Orleans Saints need two offensive tackles one at left tackle and one at right tackle. Here the Saints obtain a right tackle on day 3 after spending a day 2 pick on a left tackle in the third round.
110. San Diego Chargers Matt Scott Quarterback Arizona
Matt Scott is one of the sleeper quarterbacks in the 2013 NFL Draft. His emergence at the East West Shrine game makes him an intriguing fourth round prospect.
Miami may want a backup tight end that competes with third stringer Michael Egnew for playing time. Ryan Otten dominated the Senior Bowl, but has injury concerns. Good thing the Fins signed Dustin Keller.
112. Tampa Bay Buccaneers Nick Kasa Tight End ColoradoNick Kasa is 6-5/270 pounds. He's got the size and blocking to be an effective tight end. Does he have the hands to beat out Luke Stocker for the starting job at tight end now that Dallas Clark is gone? Maybe not, but the Buccaneers will find a way to bring in competition for Stocker.
113. St. Louis Rams Stefpan Taylor Running Back StanfordSt. Louis has to obtain one more rusher for depth if Pro Bowl running back Steven Jackson is released. Stefpan Taylor had 3 consecutive seasons of 1,000+ rushing yards. He's no Steven Jackson, but he's capable of beating out Darryl Richardson and Isaiah Pead for the Rams' starting job at running back.
114. Dallas Cowboys Mike Glennon Quarterback North Carolina StateMike Glennon has a cannon for an arm and has good size. His quick release and gunslinger mentality make him a tremendous asset when it comes to throwing deep passes.
He brings little to offer in the short passing game. You also have to question how his accuracy will translate in the NFL.
Dallas seems set with Tony Romo as a starter and Kyle Orton as a backup. Still, Dallas needs a third string quarterback. That's where Glennon comes into play.
115. Pittsburgh Steelers Marquis Goodwin Wide Receiver TexasPittsburgh needs a new wide receiver to groom into a slot receiver because Jerio Cotchery and Plaxico Burress are both aging. Remember the last time they took a receiver from Texas in 2008? Good times.
116. New York Giants Luke Marquardt Right Tackle Azusa PacificCould not find an Azusa Pacific logo. The New York Giants may want to add a right tackle behind David Diehl for depth.
117. Chicago Bears Jordan Reed Tight End FloridaThe Chicago Bears may add a tight end for depth. Martellus Bennett can start. Since the Bears lost Matt Spaeth, a backup is needed.
118. Cincinnati Bengals Braden Hansen Center BYUThe Cincinnati Bengals need a starting center. Braden Hansen can play anywhere on the interior offensive line.
119. Washington Redskins Jamie Collins 3-4 Left Outside Linebacker Southern Miss
Washington needs a pass rusher for depth behind Brian Orakpo and Ryan Kerrigan. Jamie Collins registered 10 sacks on a winless Southern Mississippi Golden Eagles squad.
120. Minnesota Vikings Kevin Reddick Middle Linebacker North CarolinaThe Minnesota Vikings need a middle linebacker. Kevin Reddick is a very underrated sleeper that will end up being a day 3 pick. Maybe the Vikings should consider him in round 4.
121. Indianapolis Colts Montori Hughes Nose Tackle Tennessee Martin
The Colts add a nose tackle for depth. There are two small school nose tackles worth drafting in the fourth round. The Colts draft the first one with this draft pick.
122. Green Bay Packers Oday Aboushi Left Guard Virginia
The Green Bay Packers need depth at left guard in case injuries on the offensive line occur again. Oday Aboushi is a horrible prospect, but he may be a serviceable depth player on a team like the Green Bay Packers.
123. Seattle Seahawks Reid Fragel Right Tackle Ohio StateThe Seattle Seahawks might want to find a right tackle that serves as an upgrade over Breno Giacomi. Reif Fragel helped an Ohio State team go 12-0 as the Buckeyes' right tackle.
124. Houston Texans Vinston Painter Right Tackle Virginia Tech
Houston needs a right tackle to compliment Duane Brown. Derek Newton is a serviceable starter. Still, an upgrade needs to be made. Duane Brown and Vinson Painter both attended Virginia Tech.
Pairing Painter at right tackle across from Brown gives Houston a possible upgrade from Newton. It also gives the Texans better team chemistry on the offensive side of the ball.
125. Denver Broncos TJ McDonald Free Safety USCDenver can use some depth at free safety. TJ McDonald emerged as an outstanding starter in 2010 when he posted 89 tackles. The 6-3/205 pound safety has the versatility to play free safety or strong safety.
A hard hit on Stanford wide receiver Chris Owusu during his junior season led to the physical safety being suspended for a game. McDonald was still considered a late first round to early second-round pick before returning to Southern California for a senior season.
McDonald was named defensive captain prior to the start of the 2012 season. After being suspended for hitting Owusu, he stopped playing aggressive despite an outstanding football IQ.
The lack of aggressive play led to McDonald's draft stock dropping. TJ McDonald will still be a day 3 pick.
126. Tampa Bay Buccaneers from New England Patriots Marcus Lattimore Running Back South CarolinaBackup running back LeGarrette Blount has an expiring contract at the end of the season. Marcus Lattimore has the tools to become a decent running back if he recovers from his injury.
Lattimore was a 5-star recruit coming out of high school and many believed he would go on to be one of the top running backs in college football.
Initially, he showed a lot of promise as a freshman 1,197 rushing yards and 17 rushing touchdowns. Lattimore failed to rush for 1,000 rushing yards during his final two seasons due to injuries. Marcus rushed for 10 rushing touchdowns as a sophomore and 11 rushing touchdowns during his junior season with the Gamecocks.
Marcus Lattimore will be a great complimentary running back to Doug Martin in a year. For now give him a year to recover from his injury while LeGarrette Blount serves the final year of his contract.
127. Atlanta Falcons Mychal Rivera Tight End TennesseeAtlanta has to draft a tight end to groom for the future. Retaining Tony Gonzalez to a one-year deal fills a short term void. What will Atlanta do at tight end when Gonzalez retires?
128. San Francisco 49ers Brandon Williams Nose Tackle Missouri SouthernAgain, we don't have a logo for Missouri Southern to upload onto the site. One of the concerns with the site is that we don't have logos for every college to upload.
The 49ers have Ian Williams and Glenn Dorsey as starting nose tackles for the time being. Can either guy be trusted to be a long-term starter? Brandon Williams is a small school sleeper at nose tackle. He did well at the Senior Bowl. Maybe he's worth taking at this point as a developmental prospect.
129. Baltimore Ravens Kwame Geathers Nose Tackle GeorgiaThe Baltimore Ravens demoted Terrence Cody to second string in 2012. Baltimore will bring in a nose tackle at some point in the 2013 NFL Draft. Kwame Geathers is the only day 3 defensive tackle with quality value. Maybe the Ravens draft Geathers here.
130. Baltimore Ravens Compensation Pick Leon McFadden Cornerback San Diego StateThe Baltimore Ravens may want to add another cornerback for depth. Leon McFadden is the top cornerback available at this point. He may be a nickel corner at best. Still he's the top corner.
131. San Francisco 49ers Compensation Pick Ontarrio McCaleb Running Back AuburnThe 49ers can add one more running back for depth. Ontarrio McCaleb is the top running back available. His impressive 2013 NFL combine makes him a potential sleeper prospect. At the Combine, he ran an official 4.21 40-yard dash time which was fastest among running back prospects.
132. Detroit Lions Compensation Pick Trevardo Williams Right Outside Linebacker ConnecticutDetroit lost two starters at outside linebacker to free agency. Detroit has to use the draft to compensate for this. The Lions may not find those starters this year due to an overwhelming amount of team needs.
133. Atlanta Falcons Compensation Pick BW Webb Cornerback William & Mary
Atlanta has to find a starting cornerback across from Asante Samuel. The Falcons lost Dunta Robinson and Brent Grimes to free agency.
Samuel, once a Pro Bowl cornerback on the New England Patriots has a chance to redeem himself with an outstanding 2013 campaign. Paring him up with a young rookie like BW Webb might not be a bad idea.
BW Webb won the 2009 conference of the year award in Division 1. The small school corner was an all-conference pick each of the past three seasons for the Tribe. His ability against competition at the Senior Bowl plus his man coverage makes him an asset to some extent.
The Combine cemented his status as a day 3 draft pick. Webb had a shot of going on day 2 before his 4.51 40 time.
BW Webb weighs 5-10/184 pounds and the lack of size limits him. He has the size of a quarter corner and the production of a field cornerback. Best case scenario he develops into a nickel corner.
In Atlanta, Webb may have to start out in the boundary role. Hopefully, the Falcons sign a veteran like former San Diego Chargers cornerback Quentin Jammer allowing Webb to transition into the nickel role.
Round 5
134. Kansas City Chiefs Mike Gillislee Running Back FloridaKansas City has to find a second rusher that compliments Jamaal Charles. Cyrus Gray is struggling to beat Shaun Draughn for the backup job.
More depth at running back is needed even though the Chiefs have 4 rushers on the depth chart. Mike Gillislee has the same questions that Chris Rainey had coming out of Florida. He has better size and higher draft value, but compensates for it with less potential.
135. Jacksonville Jaguars Kyle Juszcyk Fullback Harvard
Jacksonville needs a new fullback. Maurice Jones Drew is unhappy with the lack of protection at fullback.
136. Philadelphia Eagles Travis Kelce Tight End Cincinnati
Philadelphia may as well add a tight end for depth to compete with Clay Harbor. Travis Kelce and Eagles starting tight end Brent Celek both attended Cincinnati.
Kelce and Celek both have history with injuries. Free agent signee James Casey will play fullback for the Eagles.
137. Detroit Lions Oday Aboushi Left Guard VirginiaVirginia offensive tackle Oday Aboushi had experience at left tackle and right tackle during his days with the Virginia Cavaliers.
Many NFL pundits projected the 6-6/310 pounder as a right tackle. Even though he has great run blocking his footwork sucks. Because of this he'll be forced inside to guard.
Pairing Aboushi at left guard next to Eric Fisher helps if the Lions move Riley Reiff over to right tackle.
138. Seattle Seahawks from Oakland Raiders Jordan Hill Defensive Tackle Penn State
Seattle has to find help at defensive tackle. Penn State defensive tackle Jordan Hill is the top 4-3 defensive tackle available.
139. Cleveland Browns Hugh Thornton Right Guard Illinois
Shaun Lauvao needs to go at right guard. Hugh Thornton has experience at offensive tackle and guard. He started his freshman season at right tackle before moving to left guard. Then he became a left tackle.
Cleveland has Joe Thomas and Mitchell Schwartz at offensive tackle. Thornton can beat out Lauvao at right guard, and may challenge left guard Jason Pinkston to start at left guard. That forces Pinkston to transition to right guard.
140. Arizona Cardinals Will Davis Cornerback Utah State
Arizona has to draft a cornerback to replace nickel cornerback Greg Toler. Will Davis was once considered a second-round prospect. He makes great value here in Round 5 as a nickel corner.
141. New York Jets Chase Thomas 3-4 Left Outside Linebacker StanfordThe Jets obtain a 3-4 left outside linebacker to compliment the 3-4 right outside linebacker they take in the first-round. Chase Thomas provides good value in Round 5.
142. Tennessee Titans Zaviar Gooden Right Outside Linebacker MissouriTennessee has to obtain depth at linebacker. Zaviar Gooden makes an ideal backup for Zach Brown at right outside linebacker on the weak side.
143. Buffalo Bills Devin Taylor Left End South CarolinaThe Buffalo Bills need to add a left end for depth to boost the pass rush. South Carolina defensive end Devin Taylor was once considered a highly regarded draft prospect. He makes a solid pick in round 5.
144. New Orleans Saints Sam Montgomery 3-4 Left Outside Linebacker LSUThe Saints will need 2 3-4 outside linebackers. The Saints get a 3-4 outside linebacker to clash against right tackles with this pick.
Sam Montgomery's Draft stock fell because he's flirted with the idea of quitting football. Perhaps being teammates with Barkevious Mingo on the New Orleans Saints will motivate him to stick around.
There are a lot of cons to Montgomery's game he struggles to shed blocks, he struggles against double teams, he lacks awareness, and his pass rushing sucks.
One thing Montgomery can do is stop the run. Will he be an effective three down run stuffer?
145. San Diego Chargers Tyrann Mathieu Cornerback LSUSan Diego needs to find two cornerbacks in the 2013 NFL Draft after losing Quentin Jammer and Antoine Cason to free agency. Tyrann Mathieu AKA the Honey Badger is the top corner available.
The Chargers turn to Tyrann Mathieu as their solution at cornerback. His production and all-around instincts make Mathieu an intriguing late-round corner.
In 2010, he was a nickel cornerback when Patrick Peterson and Morris Claiborne were the starters. As a freshman he tallied 57 tackles, 8.5 tackles for a loss, 4.5 sacks, 5 forced fumbles, 2 interceptions, and 7 pass break ups. Many wondered if the Honey Badger would continue to strike after the loss of Patrick Peterson.
Mathieu continued to build momentum in the 2011 campaign when he became LSU's boundary cornerback. He was a finalist for the Heisman Trophy. ESPN gave him more hype than Morris Claiborne even though Morris was a 2012 NFL Draft Prospect last year.
During his Heisman campaign, he led LSU with 76 tackles. He also posted 7.5 tackles for a loss, 1.5 sacks, 6 forced fumbles, 2 interceptions, and 9 pass break ups.
Off the field concerns led to the dismissal of Mathieu. He's using the 2013 off-season to revive his draft stock.
146. Miami Dolphins Cornellius Washington Left End GeorgiaMiami adds a left end for depth. Cornellius Washington is the top pass rusher available.
147. Tampa Bay Buccaneers Landry Jones Quarterback OklahomaBuccaneers head coach Greg Schiano isn't sold on Josh Freeman. Landry Jones looks horrible on tape. Then he looked worse at the 2013 Senior Bowl.
Jones has the physical tools plus he looked good at his pro day. Am I crazy to think that Landry Jones would make a good backup to Josh Freeman in the fifth-round?
148. Carolina Panthers Ricky Wagner Right Tackle WisconsinCarolina has to find a right tackle to compliment left tackle Jordan Gross this April. Fragel is the top offensive tackle available.
149. St. Louis Rams Josh Evans Free Safety FloridaJosh Evans joins his teammate Matt Elam with this pick. It wouldn't hurt for the Rams to have two starters at safety. If both safeties attended the same college it would boost the team chemistry greatly.
150. Pittsburgh Steelers Brian Winters Left Guard Kent State
Pittsburgh needs to find another left guard. Ramon Foster is not starting left guard material. David DeCastro can move to left guard, but he's better suited at right guard for the time being.
151. Dallas Cowboys JC Tretter Left Guard Cornell
Dallas needs a left guard. Cornell offensive lineman JC Tretter was a left tackle at Cornell winning All Ivy League honors in all 4 seasons. The Cowboys need help on the interior offensive line so go ahead and grab JC Tretter.
152. New York Giants Michael Mauti Middle Linebacker Penn StateThe New York Giants need one more middle linebacker for depth. Penn State's Michael Mauti is projected to go around this range.
153. Chicago Bears Brandon McGee Cornerback Miami FL
The Chicago Bears have to add a cornerback for depth. All of their cornerbacks have expiring deals after the 2013-2014 NFL season.
154. Washington Redskins Shawn Williams Strong Safety GeorgiaThe Redskins add a strong safety here. The Redskins' secondary is an abomination. Georgia has three safeties that can play strong safety or free safety.
155. Minnesota Vikings Zac Dysert Quarterback Miami Ohio
Zac Dysert is the best quarterback from Miami Ohio to enter the NFL since Ben Roethlisberger. The Redhawks finished 4-8 in 2012, but Dysert posted 3,400+ passing yards in his last two consecutive seasons.
Dysert had a career game in a road win against Akron Zips. Miami Ohio triumphed 56 to 49 over Akron. He was 34 for 49 on passing attempts. Zac Dysert threw 516 passing yards and 6 passing touchdowns against the Zips.
Dysert is capable of being a solid backup to Christian Ponder if he can put on that kind of performance against teams in the NFL during Ponder's absence. Right now he's a backup at best.
156. Cincinnati Bengals Josh Boyce Wide Receiver TCU
Bengals quarterback Andy Dalton attended TCU. He has AJ Green, Mohammed Sanu, and Marvin Jones to throw to.
It's uncertain that Sanu or Jones will emerge as a wide receiver across from AJ Green. The Bengals draft a TCU receiver that plays the slot in Josh Boyce here.
157. San Francisco 49ers from Indianapolis Colts Aaron Mellette Wide Receiver Elon
158. Seattle Seahawks Cobi Hamilton Wide Receiver ArkansasSeattle adds one more receiver for depth. Hamilton is the top target here.
159. Green Bay Packers Prentiss Wagner Cornerback/Safety TennesseeGreen Bay needs secondary depth. Prentiss Wagner can play anywhere on secondary at cornerback, free safety, or strong safety.
160. Houston Texans Michael Williams Tight End AlabamaThe Texans may need a tight end for depth in case James Casey leaves. Michael Williams had a dominant Senior Bowl. He was a very effective red zone tight end for Alabama. He'll have a similar role with the Houston Texans.
161. Denver Broncos Duke Williams Strong Safety Nevada
Denver grabs a strong safety for depth. Duke Williams is the top safety available.
162. Washington Redskins from New England Patriots Robert Lester Safety AlabamaRobert Lester is a talented safety. Washington may bring him in. He did well next to Mark Barron, but regressed to some extent without Barron. Lester struggled at the 2013 Senior Bowl. Maybe Barron becomes a sleeper pick that blossoms into a steal.
163. Atlanta Falcons William Gholston Left End Michigan StateWilliam Gholston can serve as a defensive tackle or a run stuffing left end for depth. He weighs 6-5/278 pounds.
164. Cleveland Browns from San Francisco 49ers Levine Toilolo Tight End StanfordCleveland obtained this pick by trading Colt McCoy to the San Francisco 49ers. The Browns decide to use this pick on a tight end to help out Brandon Weeden. Head coach Rob Chudzinski developed Antonio Gates into a Pro Bowl tight end. I'll doubt he'll have the same luck with such an undisciplined tight end in Toilolo.
165. Baltimore Ravens Walter Stewart 3-4 Left Outside Linebacker CincinnatiThe Ravens must obtain a pass rusher for depth if Paul Kruger leaves. Walter Stewart would be a first to second round draft pick if he stayed healthy all 4 years at Cincinnati. Maybe Stewart becomes a serviceable depth player in Jacksonville.
166. Miami Dolphins Compensation Pick Chris Harper Wide Receiver Kansas StateThe Miami Dolphins add another receiver for depth. Chris Harper will be a guy that competes for a roster spot and probably gets cut in training camp.
167. Green Bay Packers Compensation Pick Ty Powell 3-4 Middle Linebacker HardingThe Packers use this pick to obtain a 3-4 middle linebacker for depth behind AJ Hawk. Green Bay has 3 3-4 middle linebackers with AJ Hawk, Desmond Bishop, and Brad Jones. One more wouldn't hurt.
168. Baltimore Ravens Compensation Pick Jawan Jamison Running Back RutgersBaltimore drafted a Rutgers running back back in 2008 named Ray Rice. The Ravens' running back tandem consists of Rice and 2012 draft pick Bernard Pierce.
Baltimore adds sophomore redshirt Jawan Jamison to compete with the third string backs on the Ravens' depth chart.
The Ravens can afford to make a one luxury pick. Most of the picks have to be spent on team needs after losing players following a Super Bowl 47 win.
169. Jacksonville Jaguars Logan Ryan Cornerback RutgersJacksonville has an awful secondary. The Jaguars use this pick on a second cornerback after taking a corner atop of Round 4. Logan Ryan is a huge sleeper. A lousy 2013 NFL Combine causes his stock to slip to the top of Round 6 in a draft that has tons of depth at cornerback as usual.
170. Kansas City Chiefs Nick Williams 3-4 Right End Samford
The Chiefs use this pick to add a 3-4 right end for depth. Samford has a small school five-technique player in Nick Williams.
171. Detroit Lions Demetrius McCray Cornerback Appalachin State
The Lions have to find a #1 cornerback. McCray is the top cornerback available at this point.
172. Oakland Raiders Jake Stoneburner Tight End Ohio StateOakland has to find a tight end after losing Brandon Myers to free agency. Stoneburner is the top tight end left in Round 6.
173. San Francisco 49ers from Cleveland Browns via Philadelphia Eagles Brandon Jenkins 3-4 Left Outside Linebacker Florida StateThe 49ers need another pass rusher for depth. Brandon Jenkins provides amazing value here if he can stay healthy. The 6-3/265 lb pass rusher can be a double digit sack artist if he stays healthy.
174. Arizona Cardinals Nico Johnson 3-4 Middle Linebacker AlabamaArizona needs a 3-4 middle linebacker across for depth behind Darryl Washington and Jasper Brinkley. Nico Johnson makes a lot of sense at this spot.
175. Cleveland Browns Tom Wort 3-4 Middle Linebacker OklahomaCleveland can use one more 3-4 middle linebacker for depth. It's crazy to think that Tom Wort was considered a 2013 first-round prospect back in 2011. Cleveland gets Wort with a late-round pick here.
176. Oakland Raiders from Arizona Cardinals via Minnesota Vikings and Tennessee Titans Alex Hurst Right Guard LSUOakland uses this draft pick to find a future starting right guard. Alex Hurst can play right tackle or right guard. He serves a great depth role with this pick here.
177. Buffalo Bills Micah Hyde Cornerback Iowa
The Buffalo Bills need a cornerback for depth. Aaron Williams and Stephon Gilmore have the tools to start. Depth is needed because the Bills posted one of the worst pass defenses in 2012.
178. New York Jets Tavarres King Wide Receiver GeorgiaThe Jets add one more receiver to compete with Jeremy Kerely for depth. Tavarres King is a bargain in Round 6.
179. San Diego Chargers Nickell Roby Cornerback USCQuentin Jammer and Antoine Cason are both set to be free agents. San Diego needs a field and boundary cornerback. Roby is a hometown corner that may fit the bill for the Chargers.
180. San Francisco 49ers from Miami Dolphins Collin Klein Quarterback Kansas StateSan Francisco gets a third string quarterback. Klein can compete with Scott Tolzien for a roster spot. Collin Klein nearly led Kansas State to an undefeated season and was the frontrunner to win the Heisman at one point.
He deserves a tryout at the very least. Maybe Jim Harbaugh will find a way for Klein to succeed.
181. Tampa Bay Buccaneers Jeff Nady Right Tackle NevadaTampa Bay is in dire need of a right tackle. Jeff Nady is one of the top offensive tackles available in Round 6.
182. Carolina Panthers Earl Wolfe Free Safety North Carolina StateCarolina needs a free safety. Earl Wolfe, a hometown prospect at safety is the top free safety available.
183. New Orleans Saints Travis Howard Cornerback/Safety Ohio StateNew Orleans gets more depth for their secondary. Travis Howard is a poor mans Malcolm Jenkins.
184. St. Louis Rams Rod Sweeting Cornerback Georgia Tech
St. Louis uses this pick on a dime corner for depth by taking the best player available. That player is Sweeting at this point.
185. Dallas Cowboys Manase Foketi Right Tackle West Texas A&MDallas may need a right tackle to replace Doug Free over the long-term. Foketi is a small school offensive tackle.
186. Pittsburgh Steelers Josh Johnson Cornerback PurduePittsburgh adds one more cornerback for depth. Josh Johnson will play a dime role, and may even compete for a nickel spot.
187. New York Giants Lucas Reed Tight End New Mexico
The Giants add one more tight end for depth. Lucas Reed is a huge sleeper tight end in the 2013 NFL Draft class. Maybe the Giants take a chance on him adding Reed for depth behind Brandon Meyers.
188. Chicago Bears Mike Catapano Left End Princeton
Chicago adds one more defensive end for depth. Mike Catapano is a defensive end that may get drafted.
189. Minnesota Vikings Kenjon Barner Running Back OregonMinnesota adds a running back for depth here. Toby Gerhart has an expiring contract after the 2013 season. One more rusher for depth has to be added.
190. Cincinnati Bengals Chris Gragg Tight End ArkansasGragg gives the Bengals one more tight end. He's also the best player available.
191. Washington Redskins Joseph Fauria Tight End UCLAJoseph Fauria was once a promising 2013 tight end prospect. His draft stock dropped due to competition at tight end plus a poor NFL Combine. Washington can take Fauria as a developmental tight end for depth.
192. Indianapolis Colts Sean Porter 3-4 Left Outside Linebacker Texas A&MThe Colts have the luxury of adding one more 3-4 pass rusher for depth. Sean Porter is the best 3-4 pass rusher available.
193. Green Bay Packers Damion Square 3-4 Right End AlabamaDamion Square may be a sleeper at 3-4 right end. Green Bay's had a dire need at 3-4 right end ever since Cullen Jenkins left.
194. Seattle Seahawks Garrett Gilkey Left Guard Chadron StateAnother incident where I cannot find a logo for a team. Garrett Gilkey makes an ideal starting left guard in the NFL.
195. Houston Texans Caleb Sturgis Kicker FloridaHouston has to improve their special teams. Caleb Sturgis is the top kicker in the 2013 NFL Draft.
196. Tampa Bay Buccaneers from Philadelphia Eagles via Denver Broncos Braxston Cave Center Notre DameTampa Bay can afford to add another interior offensive lineman for depth. That guy will be Braxston Cave.
197. Cincinnati Bengals from New England Patriots Ryan Allen Punter Louisiana TechThe Bengals need to make upgrades on special teams. Ryan Allen is the top punter in April's 2013 NFL Draft.
198. Atlanta Falcons Nigel Malone Cornerback Kansas StateAtlanta adds one more guy at corner that can develop into a nickel cornerback. Nigel Malone also has the speed to play special teams.
199. Baltimore Ravens from San Francisco 49ers John Wetzel Left Tackle Boston College
The Ravens need to add a left tackle so Michael Oher can move to right tackle and Kelechi Osmele can move to left guard. John Wetzel can play left tackle as the Ravens make these adjustments on the offensive line.
200. Baltimore Ravens Tommy Bohanon Fullback Wake Forest
201. Houston Texans Compensation Pick Tony Jefferson Strong Safety OklahomaThe Houston Texans need a safety after the departure of Glover Quin. Why not Tony Jefferson?
In 2010, Jefferson won Big 12 freshman of the year. As a sophomore he had 74 tackles, 4 interceptions, 4.5 sacks, 7.5 tackles for a loss, 3 pass break ups, and one forced fumble.
Jefferson improved his run defense as a junior with 119 total tackles in 2012. Some coaches question his work ethic which is why Jefferson slips here.
202. Tennessee Titans Compensation Pick Lavar Edwards Left End LSUThe Tennessee Titans add one more defensive end for depth. Lavar Edwards got some reps at the 2013 Senior Bowl. He looked solid in those reps. Sitting behind Sam Montgomery and Barkevious Mingo causes Edwards to slip to this pick.
203. Baltimore Ravens Compensation Pick Phillip Lutzenkirchen Tight End Auburn
The Ravens may add another tight end for depth. Ed Dickson and Dennis Pitta will both have contract issues to deal with in a year from now.
204. Kansas City Chiefs Compensation Pick Khaled Holmes Center USCKansas City adds another Trojan here. The Chiefs can afford to draft an offensive lineman for depth. Rodney Hudson is considered injury prone to some extent. Khaled Holmes would be a good plan B if Hudson cannot recover.
205. Oakland Raiders Compensation Pick Stefphon Jefferson Running Back NevadaStefphon Jefferson excelled as a junior. In 2012, he had 375 carries, 1,883 rushing yards, and 24 rushing touchdowns. The Raiders can bring Jefferson in as a third-string running back for depth.
206. Pittsburgh Steelers Compensation Pick Mike Niam 3-4 Middle Linebacker Wofford
Mike Niam is an underrated small school linebacker. He can compete with Stevenson Sylvester for a roster spot. Someone tweeted me a leak to a Mike Niam interview.
Mike Niam Interview
207. Kansas City Chiefs Alvin Bailey Left Guard ArkansasThe Kansas City Chiefs use this pick on an interior offensive lineman to challenge left guard Jeff Allen for his job. Arkansas guard Alvin Bailey can play left guard or right guard.
His run blocking, pass blocking, and versatility may serve well on a team like the Kansas City Chiefs.
208. Jacksonville Jaguars Shamarko Thomas Strong Safety SyracuseThe Jaguars get the best available player. Jacksonville has needs at both safety positions. Shamarko Thomas could go as early as Round 3. It will be a steal if he falls to Round 7.
209. Oakland Raiders Stansly Maponga Right End TCUOakland needs a 4-3 right end. Maponga is the best defensive end available.
210. Philadelphia Eagles Andre Ellington Running Back ClemsonPhiladelphia traded Dion Lewis to Cleveland. The Eagles draft Andre Ellington as a third-stringer here since he's the best player available.
211. Detroit Lions Devonte Holloman Left Outside Linebacker South CarolinaThe Lions have to find a starter at left outside linebacker. Holloman is a 4-3 outside linebacker available in Round 7.
212. Philadelphie Eagles from Cleveland Browns Kenny Stills Wide Receiver Oklahoma
The Eagles use this pick to obtain another wide receiver for depth. Kenny Stills is the top wide receiver available in Round 7.
The Vikings need a strong safety to pair next to free safety Harrison Smith. Zeke Motta played strong safety across from Smith at Notre Dame.
214. Minnesota Vikings from Seattle Seahawks via Buffalo Bills Omoregie Uzzie Right Guard Georgia TechThe Vikings add a right guard for depth. He's a backup to Brandon Fusco.
215. New York Jets Brad Sorensen Quarterback Southern Utah
The Jets' quarterback situation is a mess. New York drafts small school quarterback to compete for a roster spot on a team with many mediocre quarterbacks.
216. Tennessee Titans Akeem Spence Defensive Tackle IllinoisTennessee adds one more defensive tackle for depth. Akeem Spence is the best player available.
217. Miami Dolphins Earl Watford Right Guard James Madison
Miami adds a right guard for depth. Earl Watford is a small school prospect that may hear his name called in Round 6 or 7.
218. Philadelphia Eagles from Tampa Bay Buccaneers Mario Benevides Center Louisville
The Eagles may need to find a starting center in the draft. Mario Benevides is the top center available in Round 7.
219. Arizona Cardinals from Oakland Raiders via Carolina Panthers Denard Robinson Wide Receiver/Kick Returner/Punt Returner Michigan
Denard Robinson deserves credit for being on the cover of NCAA Football 14. Now he needs to make a roster spot. He can provide the Cardinals with a special teams role that LaRod Stephens Howling provided in previous seasons.
Seattle adds one more rusher for depth. Zac Stacey is the top running back available.
221. San Diego Chargers Edmund Kugbila Right Guard Valdosa StateWe don't have a logo for Valdosa State. Edmund Kugbila make sense here since the Chargers need a replacement for right guard Louis Vasquez.
222. St. Louis Rams Malliciah Goodman Defensive Tackle ClemsonSt. Louis needs a defensive tackle for depth. Malliciah Goodman is a late-round sleeper. He makes an ideal depth player at defensive tackle in a 4-3 defense.
223. Pittsburgh Steelers Rashard Hall Free Safety ClemsonPittsburgh gets a free safety for depth behind Ryan Clark. Rashard Hall is the top free safety available in the seventh-round.
224. Miami Dolphins from Dallas Cowboys Cooper Taylor Strong Safety Richmond
Cooper Taylor is a 6-5/235 lb strong safety with instinctive blitzing ability. Miami adds him for depth here.
225. New York Giants Kayvon Webster Cornerback South Florida
New York adds a corner for depth. The Giants have ties to South Florida. Remember they drafted Jason Pierre Paul back in 2010.
226. New England Patriots from Philadelphia Eagles via Tampa Bay Buccaneers and Chicago Bears Terry Hawthrone Cornerback IllinoisNew England adds a cornerback for depth. Terry Hawthrone is a bargain at this point.
227. Cleveland Browns from San Francisco 49ers via Cincinnati Bengals Travis Long 3-4 Right Outside Linebacker Washington State
Cleveland brought in Paul Kruger and Quentin Groves through free agency. One more rush linebacker must be added to give the Browns the necessary pass rushing depth on the 3-4 defense.
228. Washington Redskins Connor Vernon Wide Receiver Duke
Right now Washington has a two wide receivers for Robert Griffin III in Pierre Garcon and Leonard Hankerson. A slot receiver for the long-term could be added.
Connor Vernon was a flanker receiver for a Duke offense. He's more likely to play as a slot receiver in the NFL.
229. Minnesota Vikings Steve Beauharnais Left Outside Linebacker RutgersMinnesota uses this pick to add one more 4-3 outside linebacker for depth. Steve Bauharnais gives you a lot of value at this point.
230. Indianapolis Colts Ace Sanders Wide Receiver South CarolinaThe Colts obtain one more receiver for depth in case TY Hilton and Lavon Brazil both struggle without Bruce Arians. Ace Sanders bailed Alshon Jeffery out on a lot of plays for the Gamecocks back in 2011. He continued that success in 2012.
231. Seattle Seahawks Blaine Foltz Right Guard TCUSeattle adds a right guard for depth. Blaine Foltz gave Margus Hunt some problems. Maybe the Seahawks spend a late-round pick on Foltz.
232. Green Bay Packers Zach Rodgers Wide Receiver TennesseeThe Packers have Jordy Nelson, James Jones, and Randall Cobb. One more receiver for depth is needed. Zach Rodgers was a depth guy at Tennessee. He reprises that role on the Packers.
233. Houston Texans Michael Buchanan 3-4 Right Outside Linebacker IllinoisHouston drafted a 3-4 outside linebacker from Illinois in the 2012 NFL Draft in Whitney Mercilus. Now they draft his former teammate Michael Buchanan as a backup. The 6-6/240 lb Buchanan has the ideal tools of a 3-4 outside linebacker.
234. Denver Broncos Jason Weaver Right Tackle Southern MissJason Weaver was a right tackle at Southern Miss. Broncos starting right tackle Orlando Franklin has some fatigue issues. Maybe Denver drafts Franklin's backup here.
235. New England Patriots Jordan Rodgers Quarterback VanderbiltI'm not sold on Ryan Mallett as the Patriots backup quarterback. Maybe the Patriots should bring in Aaron Rodgers little brother for a tryout.
236. Atlanta Falcons Spencer Ware Running Back LSULSU has two running backs that will get drafted. Spencer Ware is an underrated sleeper. He may be a third stringer to Steven Jackson and Jacquizz Rodgers. Expect Ware to compete for a roster spot.
237. San Francisco 49ers Josh Boyd 3-4 Right End Mississippi StateSan Francisco needs a successor to Justin Smith. Why not Josh Boyd? Boyd played across from 2012 first-round pick Fletcher Cox.
238. Baltimore Ravens Damontre Hurst Cornerback OklahomaBaltimore is thin at cornerback. One more corner wouldn't hurt. Oklahoma's Damontre Hurst deserves to go a lot higher than this. The Ravens will take Hurst at this spot considering the value of the pick.
Philadelphia adds one more 3-4 middle linebacker for depth. Keith Pough is one of the top small school linebackers available.
240. Cincinnati Bengals Compensation Pick Lonnie Pryor Fullback Florida StateThe Bengals get the best player available. Lonnie Pryor is a fullback that provides good value at this point.
241. Seattle Seahawks Compensation Pick Cody Davis Strong Safety Texas Tech
Cody Davis is a strong safety that can play a depth role as a backup. Seattle already has Earl Thomas and Kam Chancellor. Davis can be a backup at strong safety for depth.
242. Seattle Seahawks Compensation Pick Marques Wilson Wide Receiver Washington StateSeattle adds one more receiver for depth. Hard to believe that Marques Wilson was once considered a 2013 first-round prospect.
243. Atlanta Falcons Compensation Pick Eric Herman Right Guard Ohio
Peter Konz is moving from right guard to center now that Todd McClure retired. Now the Falcons use this pick to find a solution at right guard.
244. Atlanta Falcons Compensation Pick Stephane Mihim Left Tackle Massachusetts
Atlanta adds a left tackle for depth behind Sam Baker. Stephane Mihim has the tools to be a backup offensive tackle in the NFL.
245. Detroit Lions Compensation Pick Michael Ford Running Back LSUDetroit adds a running back for depth behind Reggie Bush. Like Stephen Ware, Michael Ford is an LSU running back that will crack an NFL roster. Ware is the better of the two backs, he'll be a third-stringer while Michael Ford is a backup behind Bush.
246. San Francisco 49ers Compensation Pick Jonathan Stewart 3-4 Middle Linebacker Texas A&MSan Francisco adds a 3-4 middle linebacker for depth. The 49ers have two elite 3-4 middle linebackers in Patrick Willis and Navarro Bowman.
247. Baltimore Ravens Compensation Pick TJ Barnes Nose Tackle Georgia TechBaltimore drafts two nose tackles so the nose tackle situation gets shored up. I gave the Ravens Georgia's Kwame Geathers and Georgia Tech's TJ Barnes in this mock. Geathers and Barnes can compete for a roster spot.
248. Tennessee Titans Compensation Pick Emmett Cleary Right Tackle Boston CollegeThe Titans need a right tackle for depth behind David Stewart. Spending a late-round pick on Boston College right tackle Emmett Cleary may solve the Titans problem with offensive tackle depth.
249. Atlanta Falcons Compensation Pick Jasper Collins Wide Receiver Mt. UnionI don't have a logo for Mt. Union. What I will say is that Mt. Union developed previous NFL wide receivers like Pierre Garcon and Cecil Shorts. Jasper Collin is the next Mt. Union receiver to join the league. Atlanta needs a #4 receiver for depth and Collins fits the criteria.
250. Miami Dolphins Compensation Pick Ray Graham Running Back Pittsburgh
Miami obtains one more running back for special teams. Ray Graham can play as a kick returner and punt returner.
Graham has suffered durability issues in the past and cannot afford to get injured. One injury in training camp and Graham gets cut.
251. Cincinnati Bengals Compensation Pick Steve Williams Cornerback CaliforniaCincinnati adds one more corner for depth. Steve Williams makes an outstanding corner on the inside at the nickel, dime, or quarter cornerback role. His lack of size and outstanding speed may also serve him well on special teams.
252. San Francisco 49ers Compensation Pick Sam Schwartzstein Center StanfordSan Francisco 49ers center Jonathan Goodwin is aging. What to do with this compensation pick?
Jim Harbaugh was the head coach at Stanford before taking the 49ers job. There's a Stanford center in Sam Schwartzstein who snapped the ball to Andrew Luck at Stanford.
Maybe the 49ers should select Schwartzstein. They can groom him to be Goodwin's successor.
253. New York Giants Compensation Pick Cierre Wood Running Back Notre DameCierre Wood's rushing led Notre Dame to a BCS Championship appearance. Some Giants' fans are uncertain about the performance of 2012 first-round pick David Wilson moving forward now that Ahmad Bradshaw is gone.
The Giants can spend a late-round pick here to give Wood some insurance. Remember, Bradshaw became a starter as a seventh-round pick. Maybe, Wood will seize the same opportunity.
254. Indianapolis Colts Compensation Pick Rashaan Melvin Cornerback Northern Illinois
Last year the Colts had the final pick in the 2012 NFL Draft. Now the Colts have the final pick once again.
Last year's Mr. Irrelevant was Northern Illinois quarterback Chandler Harnish. Now the Colts go with a cornerback from Northern Illinois one year after selecting Harnish, now a third-stringer with the Colts. Rashaan Melvin is this year's Mr. Irrelevant.
4/18/2013
Ranked By Michael DiFiglia
1. Drew Brees Quarterback New Orleans SaintsDrew Brees threw for 5,100+ passing yards and 45+ passing touchdowns in the past two seasons. Pretty scary that Brees led the NFL in passing yards without Sean Payton thanks to Bountygate.
Brees lost his two best starters at offensive tackle. He still has the quick release and accuracy to fire passes downfield.
Look for Brees to guide New Orleans to a possible post-season birth in 2013. When Sean Payton and Drew Brees are head coach and quarterback you always got a shot at hoisting the Lombardi Trophy.
2. Tom Brady Quarterback New England PatriotsTom Brady is one of the NFL's best quarterbacks year in and year out. The three time Super Bowl Champion is motivated to win a fourth one. Unfortunately Denver stands in the way plus the Patriots will fall apart if their playmakers get injured like last year in 2012.
3. Aaron Rodgers Quarterback Green Bay PackersAaron Rodgers continues to play at an elite level. When will his new contract get done?
4. Matt Ryan Quarterback Atlanta FalconsMatt Ryan showed detractors why he deserves to be a top 5 quarterback in 2012. With Steven Jackson at running back instead of Michael Turner, he'll have more balance on the offensive side of the ball this time around.
5. Peyton Manning Quarterback Denver BroncosYou always have a chance to win when #18 is your quarterback. Denver has to be the favorite to win the Lombardi Trophy if Manning stays healthy.
6. Colin Kaepernick Quarterback San Francisco 49ersExpect Colin Kaepernick to continue to blossom. He has all the tools on offense to succeed. It's all on him if the 49ers offense struggles without Alex Smith since the rest of the pieces to contend are there.
7. Joe Flacco Quarterback Baltimore RavensSome will argue that Joe Flacco deserves to be lower on this list and rightfully so. The Ravens quarterback won a Super Bowl and that's why he's seventh for now.
8. Robert Griffin III Quarterback Washington RedskinsRobert Griffin III took the NFL by storm in 2012. He may get the Redskins a playoff win or a first-round bye if he fully recovers from his playoff injury against Seattle.
9. Andrew Luck Quarterback Indianapolis ColtsAndrew Luck displayed all the tools of a future pro bowl quarterback. Calling him a potential hall of famer at this point is an overstatement since he threw 18 interceptions during his rookie season.
The loss of offensive coordinator Bruce Arians also has you slightly concerned. At the end of the day expect Andrew Luck to lead Indianapolis to a Super Bowl.
10. Phillip Rivers Quarterback San Diego ChargersThe San Diego Chargers have a horrible supporting cast. The only thing keeping them in contests is a top 10 NFL quarterback in Phillip Rivers.
11. Matt Schaub Quarterback Houston TexansMatt Schaub is a great quarterback. He's not an elite one. Guys like Arian Foster, Andre Johnson, Owen Daniels, and Duane Brown make him who he is as a quarterback.
12. Russell Wilson Quarterback Seattle SeahawksSeattle Seahawks quarterback Russell Wilson has the supporting cast and all the tools to win. He'd be a top 10 quarterback if it weren't for height issues.
13. Matthew Stafford Quarterback Detroit LionsMatthew Stafford threw for over 5,000 passing yards in 2011 when he led the Lions to the playoffs. He nearly accomplished the same feat in 2012 throwing for 4,967 passing yards. Only difference is that he went from throwing 41 TD's/16 INT's to 20 TD's/17 INT's. That difference kept the Lions from winning games in 2012.
14. Ben Roethilsberger Quarterback Pittsburgh SteelersBen Roethlisberger plays like a top 5 quarterback when he's completely healthy and when he has a legit supporting cast in place. Big Ben would be higher on this list if he had another guard and an additional wide receiver that's not aging like Cotchery or Burress.
15. Eli Manning Quarterback New York GiantsEli Manning struggled near the end of 2012. He'll move up on this list if he can regain his confidence in 2013.
16. Sam Bradford Quarterback St. Louis RamsSam Bradford has the tools to be a top 10 NFL quarterback. Injuries plus a lack of a supporting cast keep him from being that guy.
17. Cam Newton Quarterback Carolina PanthersCam Newton had two impressive seasons in Carolina. How will he play in year three with the loss of offensive coordinator Rob Chudzinski?
18. Alex Smith Quarterback Kansas City ChiefsThe Kansas City Chiefs traded a second-round pick for quarterback Alex Smith. The last time they dealt a second-round pick for a quarterback they got Matt Cassel.
How did that work out? Maybe things will be different this time. Right now, I have my reservations.
19. Tony Romo Quarterback Dallas CowboysThere's always a mixed review when it comes to Romo. Pro-Romo fans believe he's a top 10 NFL quarterback. Anti-Romo fans believe he fails to qualify for a spot in the top 20.
Nineteenth is a reasonable spot for the Cowboys quarterback. After all, he got a six year contract extension.
20. Jay Cutler Quarterback Chicago BearsJay Cutler's best season came in 2008-2009 when he had Brandon Marshall and rookie left tackle Ryan Clady on the Denver Broncos. He'll have a similar supporting cast in Chicago this time around.
Cutler has to work on his attitude. Whenever he gets hit hard enough he flips out on his offensive lineman.
21. Carson Palmer Quarterback Arizona CardinalsI'll get some criticism from Bengals' fans for putting Carson Palmer ahead of Andy Dalton. Carson never had a receiver like Larry Fitzgerald to throw the ball to.
There was a time when the Bengals were a promising team with Palmer, Johnson, and Houshmenzadeh anchoring the passing game. Those glory days are gone in Cincinnati, plus Fitzgerald has more talent than Chad Ocho Cinco at wide receiver.
22. Andy Dalton Quarterback Cincinnati BengalsChris Ransom pretty much summarized my thoughts on Dalton. Read the Ransom quote below.
"Andy Dalton is one of the NFL's most overrated quarterbacks for two reasons. First his lack of arm strength sucks because he's got a noodle for an arm. Second, he cannot win in the playoffs. He lost to Houston as a rookie, and went 0/9 on third-down conversions against the Texans in a 2013 wild card rematch from the previous season. You call that a franchise quarterback? Child please! No offense to #85."
23. Ryan Tannehill Quarterback Miami DolphinsMiami Dolphins quarterback Ryan Tannehill did much better than most expected as a rookie. He threw 12 touchdowns and 13 interceptions in a run-first offense where he had no playmakers to get the ball to.
With the departure of running back Reggie Bush and left tackle Jake Long, expectations will be a lot higher. The additions of playmakers like wideout Mike Wallace, slot receiver Brandon Gibson, and tight end Dustin Keller increase pressure on Tannehill.
It's essential for Ryan Tannehill to lead by example in year two. If the Dolphins' new receivers want to establish team chemistry it all starts with the second-year Dolphins quarterback.
24. Michael Vick Quarterback Philadelphia EaglesMichael Vick has one more chance to pull it together under Chip Kelly. Can Vick pull it off? Probably not, still he'll get another try due to a really bad quarterback class.
25. Matt Flynn Quarterback Oakland RaidersMatt Flynn was an outstanding backup in Green Bay. His injury and the emergence of Russell Wilson kept him from blossoming in Seattle. Now he gets one more chance to succeed with the Raiders.
26. Josh Freeman Quarterback Tampa Bay BuccaneersGreg Schiano is not fond of Josh Freeman. In his four years with Tampa Bay, he's never guided the Buccaneers to the NFL Playoffs. 2013 is put up or shut up for Freeman.
27. Kevin Kolb Quarterback Buffalo BillsThe Buffalo Bills signed Kevin Kolb to a 2-year $13 million dollar deal with 1 million in guaranteed money. He was decent in Philadelphia and Arizona before injuries occurred. Expect minimal success from the journeyman quarterback that may soon become a permanent NFL backup.
28. Mark Sanchez Quarterback New York JetsMark Sanchez is just as bad as the previous four quarterbacks mentioned on my list. At least Sanchez has some experience under his belt.
29. Christian Ponder Quarterback Minnesota VikingsSome are high on Christian Ponder. He's really just a product of Adrian Peterson with the Vikings success running the football. Why did the Vikings bring in Matt Cassel? Why do some NFL draft pundits believe that EJ Manuel is a better NFL prospect than Christian Ponder coming out of Florida State after Ponder left?
Despite the addition of Greg Jennings, there are too many questions with Ponder over the long-term. That's why Ponder ranks 29th on this list.
30. Jake Locker Quarterback Tennessee TitansJake Locker may be a future NFL bust in the making. He was inconsistent in 2012 throwing 10 touchdowns and 11 interceptions in 11 starts. Locker needs a strong 2013 season to save his career.
31. Brandon Weeden Quarterback Cleveland BrownsBrandon Weeden turns 30 in October. Even with an improbable winning season, he's not a long-term starter in this league.
32. Blaine Gabbert Quarterback Jacksonville JaguarsThe Jaguars will struggle to win regardless of who starts. Blaine Gabbert, Chad Henne, or a rookie quarterback will all have problems in Jacksonville. Since there is no clear cut starter this team is obviously last.
2013 NFL Power Rankings
Peyton Manning did not get Denver to New Orleans last year. Archie Manning was disappointed Will Peyton crash Eli's place in New York leading the Broncos to a Super Bowl 48 victory? 
1. Denver Broncos
There isn’t much to not like about this team even after losing Dumerville, Elway continued to add talent to an already powerful team.
2. Seattle Seahawks
This team was intimidating before this off season, but with the additional weapons added during free agency especially considering the price tags they are straight scary now.
3. San Francisco 49ers
Made it to the Super Bowl last season. They added more weapons in Boldin & Asomugha. Really well put together team and the draft hasn't even happened yet.
4. New England Patriots
Somehow the Patriots are always on the top end of these rankings. A lot of production and they have several young guys who are ready to have explosive and breakout years.
5. Atlanta Falcons
Another team that improved through free agency. They’re well put together and are all around a strong competitor in the NFC.
6. Baltimore Ravens
People will knock them for losing starters but sometimes it is just time to the part ways, like with Ed Reed. In addition, there’s no sense in keeping Boldin for his $6 million cap his this season. Stole Dumerville from Denver. Even with Ray Lewis retired look for this team to be competing with the best.
7. Houston Texans
Texans are loaded with weapons, especially adding the experience of Ed Reed on defense. These guys will be moving up in the power rankings this season, bet on it.
8. Green Bay Packers
This might be high for them, but per usual they have incredible potential. What keeps them so high to me is that they keep their players happy. They didn’t lose anyone too vital in Free Agency.
9. Cincinnati Bengals
The Bengals seemed so lost just a few seasons ago, they have built incredibly through the draft and therefore I have no issues placing them here at the number 9 spot. Another solid draft class would move them up even higher.
10. Washington Redskins
Some people will say this is too high for Washington, I disagree. Their defense surprised many and proved how reliable they can be. Combine that with their exciting QB and offense. I think we have a deadly combo.
11. Indianapolis Colts
Andrew Luck took this team to the next level; they went from virtually no wins to a playoff run season. Adding Vontae Davis along with Landry in the DBs makes that a really solidified starting group. If they can address the need at pass rusher, they’ll be one hell of a defense.
12. New York Giants
I wanted to rank them higher, however they have loss quite a lot during FA/are letting players walk. I’m not sure how their 2nd year RB will hold up in the fully starting role. They made some low key signing that added quality to their team. They need more consistency, once the loss to the Steelers happened it felt as if they gave up on their season even though they were 6-3.
13. Chicago Bears
I love the Martellus Bennett signing, however what scares me most is their new coach is coming from the CFL. The NFL can be boom or bust with coaches, look at Pete Carol compared to Nick Saban. The Bears let a veteran and legendary Bears player walk in Urlacher, not that he was doing much at this point anyway.
14. New Orleans Saints
The Saints are an interesting team this season, with a lot of mobility to move both up or down in power rankings. They got jerked around in Free Agency thanks to their horrible cap situation, and actually lost several quality starters in the process. Look for a strong draft from the Saints.
15. Minnesota Vikings
The Minnesota Vikings surprised many last season, the team seemed to have a real character of heart attached to them. Peterson had one of the most memorable seasons in some time for RBs. If he continues his ways, the defense remains stout, and they come out of the season with a few upsets they could win the whole NFC North. Greg Jennings helps the growth of Ponder.
16. St. Louis Rams
St. Louis Rams seem to be flying underneath the radar, they are a talented group that could cause some problems for teams. Their biggest issue was OL, which they addressed in Free Agency. If they can keep their team healthy and build more through the draft they will become even bigger of a threat.
17. Dallas Cowboys
Anyone saying the Romo contract was a stupid move by Jerry Jones doesn’t understand how the contract is structured, look into it if you haven’t. They need to improve the defense, the talent is there in offense. Dallas is always a team of question marks.
18. Carolina Panthers
They won 5 of their 6 last games on the season. They have weapons, but they are more financially strapped then most teams. I predict a lot of draft moments for this team.
19. Pittsburgh Stealers
Pittsburgh in my eyes let too many key players walk, however I don’t think it was totally stupid. A $60 million contract for Mike Wallace wouldn’t have happened in Pitt. They need help pass rushing, they need help at running back, and now they have keep veterans to replace.
20. Miami Dolphins
The Dolphins are my pick for a dark horse championship run. After an impressive free Agent season Coach Philbin looks to have some key players in place. Lamar Miller is poise to have a breakout season and Tannehill looked impressive last year. I expect them to be the Patriots biggest adversaries in the AFC East.
21. Tampa Bay Buccaneers
Acquiring Revis from the Jets would move them up this list but there are many holes that they need to fill. Their defensive ends are scary as anything with Bowers and Clayborne. They need to address their secondary seriously. Again, this is another team that if built through the draft properly and having key players take their game up a few notches will help them out big time.
22. Detroit Lions
Lions are low on this list but if they can really build up their defense and get their RBs to stay healthy they can compete for the NFC North Title. Reggie Bush is a great addition but losing Avril hurt. They need a strong draft.
23. San Diego Chargers
This is a very generous ranking for the team. No real playmakers to be found. River’s is only getting older and their offensive line keeps getting worse as time goes on. They have many problems but still find ways to win games.
24. New York Jets
Again, probably another generous ranking. However I don’t believe they are as worse off as seems. Their young defensive players are finding their ways but the problems still exist in their offense. If they can get some offensive playmakers in this draft it would help them out a lot.
25. Cleveland Browns
This ranking is pretty simple. They have a solid defense, Joe Haden is a monster, in addition to an offense who can make plays. The reason they aren’t higher is their QB situation is just as random as always. Weeden needs to step up if he plans on being a starter for long.
26. Philadelphia Eagles
Where do we begin with this team…it’s a disaster. They have hired more inexperienced coaches to their staff than any other team, Oregon + Brown’s coaches/staff. Their QB has seen better days. I’m not exactly sure how their 3-4 defense is going to work when most of their players aren’t well suited to play in that system. But if Chip Kelly can avoid the same fate as other college coaches turned pro maybe he can bring the city of Philadelphia some excitement finally.
27. Arizona Cardinals
Carson Palmer may in fact be an upgrade, but all it means Is they have someone to throw the ball for once. Their WR are stellar, we will know where Palmer stands in his career very quickly. I’d happily move them up in the rankings if Mendenhall and Palmer really come to play.
28. Buffalo Bills
Another team in turmoil. No franchise QB to be found, no playoff run since the 99 season, and I completely forgot they have big names like Stevie Johnson and Mario Williams on this team. They need a lot of help, not sure where to begin.
29. Tennessee Titans
Here are the problems, Chris Johnson apparently is trying to earn a spot on Dancing with the Stars rather than simply running the ball the fantasy owners of America expect. He calls out his offensive line so I cannot imagine that helping the Titans locker room. For some reason instead of addressing needs they went after depth in Free Agency and over paid for average at best players. They better do some serious drafting.
30. Kansas City Chiefs
I don’t care what Chief fans believe, as much talent that is here Andy Reid is not the best problem solver. We have no idea how Alex Smith with play at QB, and they grossly overpaid for a 30 year old Robinson at CB and a CB2 out of Smith. Their team has potential and will win games but until they can put the pieces together it’s all useless.
31. Oakland Raiders
I don’t even know a starting point for the Raiders. Hopefully Matt Flynn can provide some relief on offense. They’re totally rebuilding, and it’s pretty obvious why.
32. Jacksonville Jaguars
The Jaguars are last since they still believe in Gabbert. They can’t hand the ball to MJD every time, and their defense…nowhere to be found. They pick very early in this draft, they should address their QB problem with Geno Smith or add a threat at pass rusher. They probably will leave their fans disappointed, which is nothing new.
3/24/2013
Posted By Chris Ransom
Joe Flacco got a long term deal after leading the Baltimore Ravens to a Super Bowl 47 win. The rest of the Ravens supporting cast left. Below is a list of 2013 off-season needs for every NFL team. This list will be updated constantly leading up to the 2013 NFL Draft.
Kansas City Chiefs
Quarterback Kansas City’s top need was finding a starting signal caller. Matt Cassel, Brady Quinn, and Ricky Stanzi won’t cut it.
Result: Traded For Alex Smith and obtained Chase Daniel as a backup.
The Chiefs traded a 2013 2nd round pick 34th overall and a 2014 mid rounder for Alex Smith. This is a huge gamble, and I think it has a shot of backfiring. Still this is a really bad year for a quarterback. Can you blame the Chiefs for making this move? Smith is a former #1 overall pick. Geno Smith was the only quarterback worth making the case for.
Even though the Chiefs have Alex Smith as a starter, and Chase Daniel as a backup, I still expect KC to draft a quarterback. Ricky Stanzi couldn’t even beat out Matt Cassel or Brady Quinn for starting time, so Kansas City may as well draft a third string project for the new regime.
Left Tackle Kansas City will need a new left tackle if Branden Albert does not re-sign with Kansas City. He struggled early in his career as a pass blocker. Durability issues were also a concern. Albert has excelled the last two seasons and needs to be retained.
Result: Kansas City released right tackle Eric Winston and franchise tagged Branden Albert. This means that Luke Joeckel will likely be the top pick with Albert moving to right tackle.
Kansas City could also keep Albert at left tackle and draft Central Michigan’s Eric Fisher with the top pick. Fisher would play right tackle in his rookie season before moving over to left tackle. Kansas City is better served drafting Joeckel.
Flanker Receiver Kansas City needs to find a #1 flanker receiver for Alex Smith. Dwayne Bowe led the Chiefs with 59 receptions, 801 receiving yards, and 3 receiving touchdowns. That’s good for a #2 secondary target, but simply unacceptable for a quarterback’s #1 target.
Signing a receiver like Wes Welker, Greg Jennings, or Mike Wallace in free agency becomes top priority. Dwayne Bowe is a solid #2 receiver. Can he lead this group of wide receivers?
Still, Bowe’s numbers are better than Dexter McCluster, Steve Breaston, or 2011 first round pick Jonathan Baldwin. McCluster has the skills of a slot receiver.
Breaston only had 7 receptions. Baldwin had 20 receptions, 325 receiving yards, and 1 receiving touchdown in his second season. Baldwin had 21 receptions, 254 receiving yards, and 1 receiving touchdown as a rookie.
Kansas City signed Mardy Gilyard for depth. Gilyard will compete with second-year receiver Devon Wylie for a roster spot in 2013. Tight end Tony Moeaki is injury prone plus the Chiefs lack depth at tight end. Smith had outstanding playmakers like Michael Crabtree and Vernon Davis in San Francisco. Even with the offensive line some playmakers have to be added for Smith to succeed.
Even though I want to be objective about the Chiefs’ receivers the production does not translate. Kansas City has to find someone to help Smith.
Result: Re-signed Dwayne Bowe to a 5 year deal. Alex Smith doesn’t have the supporting cast of receivers that he had in San Francisco. This Chiefs receiving unit struggled.
3-4 Middle Linebacker Kansas City needs a 3-4 middle linebacker. Jovan Belcher wasn’t starting material to begin with and thanks to the tragedy they need a new identity on defense.
3-4 Right End Kansas City is losing 3-4 right end Glenn Dorsey to free agency. 3-4 left end Tyson Jackson could be upgraded as well. Kansas City has to make ends meet with Jackson for now.
Result: Kansas City signed Mike DeVito and Marcus Dixon for depth. It’s not a long term fix, but the short term depth gives the Chiefs a chance.
Kansas City will likely have to make ends meet with Dixon and Jackson in 2013 unless they want to waste the top pick on Star Lotulelei and plug him into the 3-4 right end role.
Fullback Kansas City needs a new fullback.
Tight End Depth Kansas City could use competition for Ricky Stanzi.
Result: Signed Anthony Fasano to be the tight end. Fasano and Stanzi can be an effective tight end tandem if both stay healthy. It won’t be a Gronkowski Hernandez tandem, but it gives Smith two intermediate targets to throw to if the receivers don’t step up in 2013.
Fasano is a blocking tight end and Stanzi is a playmaking injury prone tight end. It would have been cool if Gonzalez ended his career a Chief, but it’s understandable why the Chiefs did this.
Interior Offensive Line Depth The Chiefs need depth on the interior offensive line.
Result: The Chiefs brought in Geoff Schwartz to compete with Jeff Allen for the left guard spot.
#2 Running Back I’d like to see the Chiefs get a #2 running back to replace Peyton Hillis. It’s a very minor need considering you got Shaun Draughn, Nate Eachus, and Cyrus Gray competing to replace Hillis.
Adding a back in the seventh-round would help. Addressing the other needs is Kansas City’s main priority.
Cornerback Depth Kansas City needs nickel and dime corners for depth if Javier Arenas starts across from field cornerback Brandon Flowers.
Result: Sean Smith was an excellent boundary cornerback in Miami, but sucked as a field cornerback when Vontae Davis went to the Colts. Dunta Robinson was once a promising field cornerback, but his declining play in Atlanta resulted in him playing the boundary corner role.
Now Robinson will get to play a nickel role. Robinson’s experience as a starting corner will make him a huge asset in the nickel.
Arenas did well as a dime corner early in his career. He has experience playing nickel and boundary. Having Arenas at dime gives teams difficulty throwing on Kansas City. You’ll have to run the ball to beat Kansas City.
Kansas City Chiefs Pre Draft Thoughts The Chiefs have the tools to contend down the road if Andy Reid sticks around. The Chiefs pass defense got stronger with the additions made at cornerback.
Kansas City will have success running the football in their run first offense with run blocking offensive lineman. It all comes down to the Chiefs receivers. Don’t blame Alex Smith or backup Chase Daniel if these quarterbacks struggle in year one.
On defense the Chiefs will excel as a pass defense, but Kansas City will struggle at stopping the run.
Jacksonville Jaguars
Quarterback Jacksonville needs an upgrade over Chad Henne and Blaine Gabbert. 2013 is such a weak quarterback class. The Jaguars new regime may keep Henne and Gabbert around and address defense first come April.
2014 features Louisville quarterback Teddy Bridgewater and Texas A&M Heisman Winner Johnny Manziel. Jacksonville can obtain one of these quarterbacks if Jacksonville’s quarterback woes continue in 2013.
Right End Jacksonville needs a right end that will register 10 sacks. Jacksonville has 4 defensive ends in Jeremy Mincey, Jason Babin, Austin Lane, and 2012 second-round draft pick Andre Branch.
As much as I’d like to see the Jaguars draft a right end, they’ll probably stick with their defensive ends hoping head coach Gus Bradley can mold them into quality pass rushers.
Secondary: Jacksonville needs upgrades everywhere on secondary.
Result: Jacksonville signed a bum named Alan Ball. This Jaguars team still needs upgrades on secondary.
Defensive Tackle The Jaguars have to find a defensive tackle that can stuff the run. Tyson Alualu is overpaid, but has to start for now. Jacksonville needs another player across from Alualu. CJ Mosley sucks and Terrance Knighton was benched earlier this season.
Result: Signed Roy Miller. Roy Miller and Tyson Alualu will start at defensive tackle. Sharrif Floyd has bust written all over him and Star Lotulelei doesn’t have the speed that the Jaguars look for.
Right Tackle The Jaguars need a right tackle to compliment Eugene Monroe.
Slot Receiver Who does Jacksonville have besides Cecil Shorts and Justin Blackmon?
Interior Offensive Line Depth A center for depth behind Michael Brewster is needed. Adding depth at left guard or right guard would also help. Will Rackley and Austin Pasztor are competing at left guard with an aging, but effective Uche Nwaneri playing right guard.
Result: Re-signed Brad Meester. Jacksonville added Brad Meester. That means Jacksonville isn’t sold on Brewster at center yet. Maybe the Jaguars will have Brewster play another season at left guard.
Left Outside Linebacker Adding a left outside linebacker will be necessary if Daryl Smith is no longer a member of the Jaguars. Jarvis Jones was once projected to go to Jacksonville. Many expect Jones to slide on draft day.
Result: Jacksonville signed Geno Hayes. Now the Jaguars are set at linebacker.
#2 Tight End It wouldn’t hurt to get a #2 tight end next to the overpaid Marcedes Lewis. Zach Potter sucks plus Lewis only plays well in a contract year. Adding a tight end with a late-round draft pick is absolutely necessary.
#2 Running Back Maurice Jones Drew is too injury prone to be relied on as the #1 back.
Result: Jacksonville signed Justin Forsett. Forsett will compliment Maurice Jones Drew.
Fullback The Jaguars need a fullback.
Jacksonville Jaguars Pre Draft Thoughts The Jaguars are going to suck next year regardless of what happens. Why not draft Geno Smith and attempt to get something going on offense?
He’s the only quarterback in this draft class to complete over 70 percent of his passes coming out of college. He’s got better physical tools than Russell Wilson plus he can run out of the pocket. Bradley will be reminded of Wilson when watching Smith throw the football. You can use a 2014 first round pick on a cornerback if you fail to land South Carolina right end Jadevon Clowney.
Oakland Raiders
Right End The Raiders need a 4-3 right end to compliment Lamaar Houston.
Result: Oakland signed Jason Hunter, but he’s for depth purposes.
Secondary Oakland needs upgrades everywhere on secondary. Michael Huff and Michael Mitchell are both free agents.
Defensive Tackles Oakland needs two defensive tackles for the 4-3 defense.
Result: Oakland obtained Pat Simms and Vance Walker. They may pursue Star Lotulelei in the 2013 NFL Draft.
Outside Linebackers Oakland needs two 4-3 outside linebackers to compliment middle linebacker Rolando McClain. A linebacker for depth also helps.
Result: Oakland obtained one the best 4-3 right outside linebackers in Kevin Burnett. Nick Roach and Kaluka Maiava will compete to be 4-3 left outside linebackers. Oakland did a good job addressing the linebacker position.
Right Tackle Khalif Barnes sucks. He needs to go. Hopefully Oakland drafts a right tackle in April.
Result: Re-signed Khalif Barnes. It’s not a good move over the long term, but Barnes may contribute for one more season. Considering all of Oakland’s needs I”m not surprised the Raiders did this.
Slot Receiver Oakland needs to find a slot receiver in the 2013 NFL Draft.
Tight End The Raiders need a tight end now that Brandon Myers is gone.
Right Guard Cooper Carlisle is a horrible right guard. He’s another player that Oakland should not consider re-signing.
Backup Quarterback Carson Palmer is 33 years old. He’s not going to be capable of starting by the time Oakland finishes rebuilding this team. Oakland can wait for a quarterback in 2014 like Johnny Manziel or Teddy Bridgewater.
For now Oakland should stick with Carson Palmer and Terrell Pryor. If Palmer gets released then drafting a quarterback third overall becomes a priority.
Oakland Raiders Pre Draft Thoughts Oakland is likely due for another horrible year in the AFC West. I bet the Raiders finish last place in this division. They may avoid the #1 overall pick if they draft the right defensive player with the 3rd overall pick. Still the Raiders will struggle in 2013.
Philadelphia Eagles
Quarterback The Eagles will have a new system where Chip Kelly is using his goofy Oregon offense. It doesn’t help that Pat Shurmur is offensive coordinator. Shurmur is a west coast guy and doesn’t fit what Kelly wants to do.
The Eagles will likely hold an open competition with Michael Vick, Dennis Dixon, and Nick Foles for the job. There is talk that Foles will get dealt. I think Foles should start the year with Dixon stepping in should Foles struggle. It looks like another long season for the Eagles.
Result: Eagles will hold quarterback competition with Michael Vick, Dennis Dixon, and Nick Foles.
The Eagles have DeSean Jackson, Jeremy Maclin, Riley Cooper, Arrelious Benn, Brent Celek, and
Left Tackle The Eagles need to obtain a left tackle like Eric Fisher with their top 5 pick. Fisher is an outstanding pass blocker with experience at offensive tackle or guard on either side. With Joeckel projected to go #1 to the Chiefs, Fisher makes a lot of sense here.
Result: Jason Peters will play left tackle. That means that someone will have to play right tackle. Do the Eagles draft Eric Fisher as a right tackle here? He certainly has the talent, but top 5 picks are usually spent on left tackles.
3-4 Outside Linebackers Trent Cole and Brandon Graham both have the size of 4-3 defensive ends. The Eagles need to obtain 3-4 pass rushers this April. Cole and Graham can serve as 3-4 defensive ends.
Result: The Eagles signed Texans pass rusher Connor Barwin. Barwin has the tools to be a starting 3-4 right outside linebacker for the Eagles. Brandon Graham will play a Lamaar Woodley like role and compliment him.
Secondary The Eagles need a field and boundary cornerback. Brandon Boykin is an outstanding nickel cornerback. Two safeties are also needed.
Result: Acquired safeties Patrick Chung and Kenny Phillips. The Eagles got two safeties that can shut down multiple tight ends. These safeties can also work together to double team tight ends which may be a problem for Jason Witten.
At cornerback the Eagles signed Cary Williams and Bradley Fletcher. Williams can be a boundary corner while Fletcher adapts to a dime role. I can really see the Eagles secondary doing some damage if they draft Alabama cornerback DeMarcus Milliner with this pick.
Milliner gives the Eagles a field cornerback plus the depth on defense to form an aggressive speedy defense that Chip Kelly likes to run.
Nose Tackle The Eagles need a nose tackle for their 3-4 defense.
Result: Signed 49ers nose tackle Isaac Sopoaga. This gives the Eagles Sopoaga, Trent Cole, and Fletcher Cox on the 3-4 defensive line. You have to like that defensive line.
Center Unless the Eagles want to move 2011-first round pick Danny Watkins or pro bowl left guard Evan Mathis to center, the Eagles have to draft a starting center at some point in 2013.
Philadelphia Eagles Pre Draft Thoughts The Eagles have been aggressive in free agency. I like most of their signings. If the Eagles get Alabama cornerback Dee Milliner and Jason Peters stays healthy, the Eagles have a chance if Michael Vick doesn’t start. If Vick starts, the Eagles may lose early in the season before Dennis Dixon or Nick Foles takes command of the starting job. I doubt the Eagles get the top pick in 2014 after all of their moves.
Detroit Lions
Offensive Tackles Jeff Backus retired, Gosder Cherillus is a free agent, and some think Riley Reiff needs to move inside to left guard.
Detroit could draft Eric Fisher and plug Reiff in at right tackle. Then Jason Fox acts as a backup left tackle while Hilliard acts as a backup right tackle.
Defensive Ends Kyle Vaden Bosch didn’t register enough sacks in 2012. He only had 3.5 sacks all year at right end. Left tackles got the best of the aging pass rusher. Left end Cliff Avril is a free agent.
Result: Kyle Vaden Bosch is gone and Avril signed with Seattle. Detroit needs two defensive ends now.
Secondary Detroit needs to upgrade their whole secondary in general. The only player worth re-signing is Louis Delmas.
Result: Re-signed Chris Houston, Amari Spivey, and Louis Delmas. The Lions also added DJ Johnson for depth at cornerback. Signing Glover Quin as a safety may have been icing on the cake for the Lions.
The Lions have too many problems to deal with on both sides of the ball. Giving the secondary one more year to clean up their act is understandable when no cornerbacks are worth taking here.
Outside Linebackers Detroit needs to obtain two starting outside linebackers for a 4-3 defense.
Interior Offensive Line The Lions need interior offensive lineman.
Result: Detroit is contempt with Dominic Raiola and Dylan Gandy for one more season at center. The Lions have nothing at guard and brought back backup offensive tackles Jason Fox and Corey Hilliard. These guys could move inside to guard, but that gives the Lions no depth at offensive line.
Running Back Detroit needs a running back to run the football.
Result: Lions sign Reggie Bush. The Lions are a run blocking team and Bush gives the Lions offense some much needed balance.
Special Teams Adding a kicker, punter, and returner is necessary.
Detroit Lions Pre Draft Thoughts Detroit will have one of the leagues best offenses if they draft Eric Fisher at left tackle while signing Reggie Bush.
The defense looks like it will rely on stopping the run while struggling to rush the passer or cover at cornerback. Other NFC North teams will have an easier time throwing to the Detroit Lions on passing situations.
The Lions have too much offensive talent to land Clowney. It’s hard to say what Detroit should do after 2013 since this team has the offense, but lacks the defense.
Cleveland Browns
3-4 Right Outside Linebacker Cleveland needs to find a starting 3-4 right outside linebacker. This is the Browns one and only need for 2013. There are other areas the team could improve in. Cleveland has built through the NFL Draft the past few years. The main problem with the Browns is they’ve had no coaches.
Result: Sign Paul Kruger to a 5 year 40 million dollar deal. while adding Quentin Groves.
Cleveland now has Kruger, Sheard, and Groves for depth. If the Browns drafted Jarvis Jones.
Boundary Cornerback The Browns need a boundary cornerback to replace Sheldon Brown.
Backup Quarterback The Browns need a backup for the new regime. Brandon Weeden is 30 years old.
Result: Signed Jason Campbell. Campbell is an ideal backup plus he fits Cleveland's scheme.
Kicker Cleveland needs a kicker if Phil Dawson leaves.
Result: Cleveland re-signs Phil Dawson.
Cleveland Browns Pre Draft Thoughts Regardless of what Cleveland does, they are in a win now mentality. The Browns only need is to obtain a cornerback to replace Sheldon Brown. That will be addressed this APril in a deep 2013 NFL draft.
Arizona Cardinals
Quarterback Obtaining a quarterback is a big need. Arizona released Kevin Kolb. They pretty much have to draft a quarterback with the 7th pick. Geno Smith and Matt Barkley are the two guys to eye on. If either is gone, then look for Arizona to turn to Tyler Bray or EJ Manuel. Thanks to Alex Smith being on the Chiefs, Arizona has to draft Geno Smith at quarterback. Smith completed over 71 percent of his passes at West Virginia. Bruce Arians is now the Arizona Cardinals head coach. Arians developed Ben Roethlisberger and Andrew Luck. Geno Smith just may turn Arizona around under coach Arians.
Arizona has Levi Brown returning from an injury at left tackle. Potter and Massie can compete for the right tackle job. The Cardinals can draft a quarterback and worry about an offensive tackle later.
Left Tackle Tackle Rookies Nate Potter and Bobbie Massie struggled at offensive tackle in 2012. Levi Brown will be back from an injury plus Arizona may use this pick on Lane Johnson at left tackle if the Cardinals are still reserved about a quarterback. Luke Joeckel and Eric Fisher will both be top 5 picks.
3-4 Left Outside Linebacker Obtaining someone next to Sam Acho is a priority that Arizona has to address on day 2 of the NFL Draft. Arizona may look to add someone in the second-round.
Result: Arizona added Lorenzo Alexander to a 3 year deal hoping he’ll compete with Sma Acho and O Brien Schofield. Only 2 of these 3 3-4 pass rushers get to start at outside linebacker.
3-4 Middle Linebacker Arizona needs a 3-4 middle linebacker to start because Paris Lenon sucks.
Result: Signed Jasper Brinkley. Brinkley will be effective in a 3-4 scheme across from Darryl Washington.
Running Back Arizona can use a fifth-round pick on a rusher. Arizona released Beanie Wells and Ryan Williams is too injury prone. LaRon Stephens Howling was released. Finding a running back in free agency or the draft is a top priority.
Result: Signed Rashard Mendenhall to a 1 year deal.
Arizona Cardinals Pre Draft Thoughts Arizona only has one major need in finding a quarterback now that Levi Brown is back. There are 4 quarterbacks that impressed me on film. Geno Smith, Matt Barkley, Tyler Bray, and EJ Manuel.
Buffalo Bills
Quarterback The Bills released Ryan Fitzpatrick. This means they will draft a quarterback with the 8th pick.
Left Tackle The Bills could draft a left tackle, move Chris Hairston to right tackle, and move Cordy Glenn to left guard. Something needs to occur on the offensive line
Secondary Wide Receiver Buffalo has to obtain a wide receiver to compliment Mark Sanchez.
Tight End Buffalo needs a starting tight end. The question is where can they get one.
Right Outside Linebacker With Nick Barnett gone a new right outside linebacker is needed. Alec Ogletree may slip to round 2 due to character concerns. He may be an option if Buffalo cannot get a quarterback in round 2.
Buffalo needs to make defensive upgrades. It’s just uncertain where since the Bills may move to a 3-4 defense.
Buffalo Bills Pre Draft Thoughts Buffalo needs to draft a quarterback. Geno Smith, Matt Barkley, Tyler Bray, and EJ Manuel all have the potential to develop into solid starters. The rest of this quarterback class is a complete joke. If Buffalo doesn’t want Smith starting right away, they should bring someone in.
New York Jets
Quarterback The Jets need a new quarterback. Mark Sanchez, Tim Tebow, and Greg McElroy are not long-term answers. Unfortunately Sanchez has a contract that takes up tons of cap space. New York needs to address defense and hope that they draft high enough to obtain a quarterback in 2014.
Result: Signed David Garrard to 1 year deal and rumored to sign Brady Quinn. The Jets also have Matt Simms on the depth chart. New York needs to find a permanent upgrade over these so called scrubs. The Jets will likely wait until 2014 to draft a quarterback.
3-4 Right Outside Linebacker The Jets need to find a 3-4 right outside linebacker. New York will probably use the 9th overall pick to address this need. The Jets addressed 3-4 left outside linebacker with Antwan Barnes.
Right Tackle The Jets need a right tackle. One reason why Sanchez sucks is because the Jets lack a right tackle that can compliment D’Brickshaw Ferguson.
Result: Jets tendered Austin Howard. Howard sucked in 2012 so the Jets better move him inside to guard or draft his replacement in 2013.
Safeties LaRon Landry won’t take a discount and Yeremiah Bell are both free agents. Something has to give.
Guards Brandon Moore and Matt Slauson are free agents. One must be retained. Vladimir Ducasse will get a chance at the other spot. If neither guard is retained Chance Warmack at #9 is a slight possibility.
Result: The Jets signed Willie Colon as a left guard. He may move to right tackle. Colon is an ideal upgrade over Brandon Moore with more versatility.
Tight End What will New York do without Dustin Keller at tight end?
3-4 Middle Linebacker Someone will be needed next to Bart Scott. David Harris is due more than 10 million in 2013.
Running Back The Jets may want a different rusher if Shonn Green is not retained.
Result: Signed Mike Goodson to a 3 year deal.
New York Jets Pre Draft Thoughts The Jets need to get this quarterback issue straightened out. The Jets also have issues at right tackle and running back. New York has receiving targets like Santonio Holmes, Stephen Hill, and Jeremy Kerley. Adding another receiver and tight end in the draft is necessary for the team to succeed long term.
New York also has an issue at pass rusher. The Jets defense has to find a sack artist that can generate double-digit sacks this April.
Tennessee Titans
Guards Tennessee Left Guard Steve Hutchinson retired and the other guards on the roster are free agents.
Result: Signed left guard Andy Levitre to a 6 year 46.8 million dollar deal. Rob Turner can play anywhere on the offensive line. Tennessee is set on the interior offensive line for now. The Titans tendered enter Fernando Velasco.
Cornerback Tennessee still has Jason McCourty and Alteraun Verner. Since the Titans’ secondary did so bad, they may draft DeMarcus Milliner hoping he fills the void that Cortland Finnegan left.
Defensive End The Titans need a defensive end for depth behind Kamerion Wimbley and Derrick Morgan.
Strong Safety Tennessee needs an upgrade over Jordan Babineaux at strong safety.
Result: The Titans sign Bernard Pollard to a one year deal and George Wilson for insurance.
Tight End The Titans should add a tight end at some point in the 2013 NFL Draft.
Result Signed 49ers backup Delanie Walker.
Fullback The Titans need an upgrade at fullback over Quinn Johnson.
Re-signed Quinn Johnson.
Kicker The Titans may need a kicker if Rob Bironas isn’t retained.
Result: Re-signed Rob Bironas.
Tennessee Titans Pre Draft Thoughts The Titans seem like they have most of the pieces to contend. The Titans defense can add some depth at defensive end and cornerback. At the end of the day all comes down to quarterback Jake Locker. He needs to stay healthy and have a breakout season in 2013.
San Diego Chargers
Offensive Line Outside of center with Nick Hardwick San Diego needs upgrades everywhere at offensive line. Hardwick flirted with retirement last year before taking a 3 year contract worth 13.5 million dollars. Finding a left tackle in the draft should be priority A. Resigning Louis Vasquez should be priority B. Addressing left guard in the draft is priority C.
Result: Lost right guard Louis Vasquez and signed offensive tackle King Dunlap and Chad Rineheart. The Chargers are making lots of downgrades in free agency once again.
The Chargers offensive line just gets worse. If Luke Joeckel, Eric Fisher, and Lane Johnson are all gone by the 11th overall pick, San Diego is royally screwed.
Cornerbacks San Diego needs a field and boundary cornerback if Quentin Jammer and Antoine Cason both leave.
Result: Signed Derek Cox and Johnny Patrick Neither cornerback has the talent that Jammer or Cason displayed.
Flanker Receiver Phillip Rivers needs a #1 target. Danario Alexander and Malcolm Floyd are secondary targets.
3-4 Middle Linebacker The Chargers need a 3-4 middle linebacker to replace the aging Takeo Spikes.
Nose Tackle A run stuffing nose tackle is needed.
Tight End Antonio Gates will probably decline next season. San Diego needs to spend a late round pick on a tight end. The Chargers released backup tight ends so obtaining one in the NFL draft is absolutely necessary.
Result: Signed John Phillips. San Diego makes way with Antonio Gates in 2013 with John Phillips as a backup.
Running Back San Diego needs a running back to replace Ryan Matthews.
Result: Danny Woodhead and Ronnie Brown are serviceable for now. Realistically this is a short term gap on offense.
Quarterback Even though I think Rivers can still start for San Diego, the new regime should bring in a quarterback. It’s understandable if they draft a late-round quarterback in 2013. Rivers contract is up after next season. San Diego may as well clean slate and obtain Johnny Football or Teddy Bridgetwarter should Rivers contract run out.
Kicker San Diego will need a kicker if Nick Novak goes.
San Diego Chargers Pre Draft Thoughts The Chargers continue to make idiotic moves in free agency and through the draft. The only thing keeping San Diego from picking atop the NFL Draft is quarterback Phillip Rivers.
Miami Dolphins
Cornerbacks Getting Miami a cornerback to replace the presence of Vontae Davis is huge. Miami may look at cornerbacks like Demarcus Milliner, Jonathan Banks, and Desmond Trufant here. If Miami addresses cornerback, the Dolphins will have the defense to stay in ball games. Miami also has to re-sign Sean Smith. Smith was the Dolphins boundary cornerback when Miami had Davis. He had to adjust to a field cornerback role which he wasn’t comfortable in.
Flanker Receiver Ryan Tannehill needs a #1 target to throw to. Miami seems set on Mike Wallace, Greg Jennings, or Dwayne Bowe. A receiver will be selected on day 2 in round 3.
Result Signed Mike Wallace and re-signed Brian Hartline. Miami now has the tools to give Ryan Tannehill the weapons to be a successful quarterback. Miami has Wallace, Hartline, and Davone Bess as Tannehill’s top 3 targets. Miami also got Brandon Gibson. There are no excuses for Tannehill in year 2.
Defensive Tackle Miami needs a defensive tackle if Randy Starks leaves.
Result: Miami re-signed Randy Starks.
Left End Miami needs someone next to Cameron Wake. A guy Jared Odrick is good you need depth to challenge Odrick for his job. You can plug Odrick into a defensive tackle role next to Randy Starks or a defensive tackle you draft.
Right Tackle Miami seems contempt with Jonathan Martin replacing Jake Long at left tackle due to his salary. The Dolphins need a right tackle to compliment Martin.
Tight End Anthony Fasano is no longer part of the Dolphins. This means Miami has to find a replacement.
Result: Signed Dusitn Keller. Dustin Keller is an upgrade over Anthony Fasano. He also goes from the New York Jets to the Miami Dolphins.
#2 Running Back Reggie Bush is a free agent. Miami may want Jake Long and a wide receiver. Miami’s staff isn’t sold Daniel Thomas. You got to get that back to compliment Lamar Miller.
Linebacker Depth: Miami has Kevin Burnett, Karlos Dansby, and Koa Misi. They have the starters at linebacker, but lack depth.
Result: Miami parted ways with Burnett and Dansby for Ellerbe and Phillip Wheeler. While Miami’s offense will be stronger, the linebacker play will be weaker.
Miami Dolphins Pre Draft Thoughts Miami has the talent on offense to be explosive. There’s no question that Ryan Tannehill has 4 or 5 different playmakers to throw to. The defense looks a little shaky with the changes at linebacker. Adding a field cornerback in the 2013 NFL Draft becomes the Dolphins top need.
Tampa Bay Buccaneers
Cornerbacks Tampa Bay needs a field and boundary cornerback.
Tight End Tampa Bay is likely going to part ways with Dallas Clark. 2011 fourth-round pick Luke Stocker has yet to meet expectations. Bringing in a tight end for competition.
Result: Signed Tom Crabtree. Luke Stocker and Tom Crabtree might make a solid tandem. If Tampa Bay really wants to upgrade this position for good then they should draft a tight end in April.
Right Tackle Tampa Bay needs a right tackle to replace Jeremy Trueblood.
Left Outside Linebacker Tampa Bay needs an upgrade over Quincy Black.
Result: Tampa Bay signs Jonathan Casillas to a short term deal. Tampa Bay may need to draft someone for the future.
Free Safety Tampa Bay needs a replacement for Ronde Barber. Someone needs to compliment Mark Barron at free safety. Ahmad Black has had off the field issues with marijuana possession. Can Tampa Bay rely on Black in 2013?
Result: Signed Dashon Goldson to a 5 year deal.
Defensive End Depth Tampa Bay will need depth at defensive end behind Adrian Clayborn and DeQuan Bowers if Michael Bennett jumps via free agency.
Slot Receiver Arrellious Benn just got dealt. Tampa Bay needs a new slot.
Result: Signed Kevin Ogletree.
Tampa Bay Buccaneers Pre Draft Thoughts Tampa Bay needs to upgrade their cornerbacks. Adding a right tackle on offense also helps. The only impressive thing Tampa did was sign DaShon Goldson. Most of the free agent signings were downgrades.
Carolina Panthers
Cornerbacks Chris Gamble is retiring so the Panthers need to obtain two cornerbacks.
Result: Carolina re-signed Captain Munnerlyn and signed DJ Moore plus Drayton Florence. Carolina lost Chris Gamble. Carolina has some depth here.
Defensive Tackle Carolina needs a defensive tackle. They might target Jonathan Hankins or Sheldon Richardson here.
Result: Signed Colin Cole. Cole is a backup and he’s not a player that will compliment Sione Fua. Carolina still needs to find a defensive tackle.
Right Tackle Carolina needs a right tackle to compliment Jordan Gross.
Free Safety Hiro Nakamura needs to be upgraded.
Result: Signed Michael Moore. Moore provides competition for Nakamura.
#2 Secondary Wide Receiver Carolina needs a #2 target across from Steve Smith.
Result: Signed Ted Ginn Jr. Ted Ginn will likely be used as a depth receiver and a special teams player. Carolina still needs to draft a receiver that acts as a #2 receiver.
Carolina Panthers Pre Draft Thoughts The Panthers made some moves in free agency. None of the moves stood out. The secondary has more depth. Carolina needs to find a way to cope with the loss of Chris Gamble.
New Orleans Saints
Offensive Tackles New Orleans needs two starting offensive tackles.
3-4 Outside Linebackers New Orleans needs two 3-4 outside linebackers that can get pressure on the quarterback for Rob Ryan’s 3-4 scheme.
Result: Junior Galette can compete for a starting job at 3-4 left outside linebacker. The Saints have to bring in a 3-4 right outside linebacker.
Cornerbacks The Saints secondary needs a field and boundary cornerback.
Result: Signed Keenan Lewis as a field cornerback. I get the impression that Lewis may thrive in his hometown. Jabari Greer and Patrick Robinson are still on the Saints.
Backup Nose Tackle Broderick Bunkley is only 306 pounds. He can start at nose tackle for now, but a long-term solution may need to be addressed at some point in 2013 or down the road.
#2 Tight End David Thomas was cut. Adding a second tight end behind Jimmy Graham helps.
Result: Signed Ben Watson. Watson has starting experience, plus he’d make an ideal backup next to Jimmy Graham. Brees has an effective two tight end set with Graham and Watson. David Thomas was good, but Watson may be better.
New Orleans Saints Pre Draft Thoughts The Saints did an excellent job during free agency.
St. Louis Rams
Left Tackle St. Louis needs to move Rodger Saffold to right tackle. The Rams need to obtain a left tackle so they can move Saffold to right tackle.
Result: The Rams signed Jake Long. Now the Rams have the protection necessary to win ball games.
Flanker Receiver The Rams need to find a #1 flanker receiver for Sam Bradford to throw to. Danny Amendola is a secondary receiver while Chris Givens is suited to play the slot.
Left Guard St. Louis also needs a left guard to solidify the offensive line.
Free Safety St. Louis needs an upgrade over free safety Craig Dahl.
Left Outside Linebacker Getting a left outside linebacker next to JoLonn Dunbar and James Laurinaitis is vital.
Tight End Lance Kendricks is a #2 tight end at best. Obtaining a tight end that would be an upgrade over Kendricks is necessary.
Result: Signed Jared Cook Jr. to a 5 year deal.
When Jared Cook Jr. is healthy he’s a top 5 tight end in the NFL. The problem is he usually has durability concerns.
Running Back If Steven Jackson leaves, St. Louis could take Eddie Lacy or Giovanni Bernard with their draft pick from the Redskins. Daryl Richardson and Isaiah Pead may have to split carries in 2013, if St. Louis isn’t sold on a running back.
St. Louis Rams Pre Draft Thoughts The Rams seem contempt with building through the draft. They signed tight end Jared Cook Jr. and left tackle Jake Long in free agency. The Rams expect to use the rest of their needs to build through the NFL Draft.
Pittsburgh Steelers
3-4 Right Outside Linebacker James Harrison is getting older. Pittsburgh may use this pick on a 3-4 right outside linebacker.
Cornerbacks Keenan Lewis may leave via free agency plus Ike Taylor is overpaid.
Result: Ike Taylor will remain the field cornerback while former Steeler William Gay moves back to a boundary role.
#2 Secondary Wide Receiver Antonio Brown is being paid like a #1 wide out. Emmanuel Sanders is not a #2 target and Pittsburgh will need to fill a void at this spot now that Mike Wallace is gone.
Result: Antonio Brown and Emmanuel Sanders will be the top 2 receivers on Pittsburgh. The Steelers have two aging receivers in Jerio Cotchery and Plaxico Burress for the short-term. The Steelers should draft a receiver with size to develop for the short term.
Nose Tackle Casey Hampton is getting older. I’m not sure Steve McLendon is the answer.
3-4 Middle Linebacker Pittsburgh needs a replacement for Larry Foote. The Steelers may go with Sean Spence if he impresses in training camp.
Result: Pittsburgh will keep Larry Foote and develop Sean Spence and Stevenson Sylvester.
Running Back Pittsburgh needs a new starting running back.
Result: Pittsburgh re-signed Dwyer and tendered Redman. They will draft one more rusher.
Tight End Heath Miller tore his ACL, MCL, and PCL. The 2013 NFL Draft is stacked at tight end. Miller’s eventual replacement may be found in this draft.
Result: Signed Matt Speath. Speath excelled with Ben Roethlisberger. He may have similar results for the Steelers in 2013.
Fullback David Johnson is coming off an ACL.
Punter The Steelers need a punter. Drew Butler sucks.
Backup Quarterback Charlie Batch and Byron Leftwich are gone. The Steelers need a backup behind Ben Roethlisberger.
Result: Signed Bruce Gradkowski and John Parker Wilson. Pittsburgh gets two free agent quarterbacks with Gradkowski and John Parker Wilson.
Offensive Line Depth The Steelers have Marcus Gilbert, Willie Colon, Maurkice Pouncey, David DeCastro, and Mike Adams when healthy. This is a decent offensive line at full health. Pittsburgh gets injuries on the offensive line every year.
Result: Pittsburgh re-signed Ramon Foster and released Willie Colon. Pittsburgh still needs depth everywhere on the offensive line.
Safety Depth Troy Polamalu has injury issues and Ryan Clark is beginning to age. Polamalu and Clark can remain starters, but depth is needed.
3-4 Defensive End Ziggy Hood and Cameron Heyward look expendable. Pittsburgh has too many needs to replace either player at this point.
Pittsburgh Steelers Pre Draft Thoughts The Steelers addressed their offensive needs during free agency for the short-term. They’ll probably look to defense in the 2013 NFL Draft with pass rusher being the top need in Round 1.
Dallas Cowboys
Offensive Line Dallas needs upgrades everywhere on the offensive line. Tyron Smith is better suited at right tackle. Doug Free sucks and needs to go. The Cowboys interior offensive line is a joke.
Result: Dallas re-signed center Phil Costa to a two year deal. Dallas needs a right tackle and two guards now.
Defensive Tackle The Cowboys need a defensive tackle for their 4-3 defensive scheme. Sharrif Floyd and Sheldon Richardson are both options. Don’t rule out Bennie Logan. Logan’s had a bigger impact on LSU than Sam Montgomery or Barkevious Mingo.
Left End The Cowboys need to find someone that can play next to DeMarcus Ware in the new 4-3 scheme.
Result: Franchise Tagged Anthony Spencer. Dallas doesn’t have to draft a defensive end in the first round because they re-signed
Outside Linebackers Dallas needs two outside linebackers to compliment Sean Lee.
Result: Ernie Sims will start at right outside linebacker. He was once a Pro Bowl starter in Detroit.
Strong Safety The Cowboys need a strong safety.
Result: Tendered Danny McCray. He’s just a backup and Dallas will likely find him competition in the 2013 NFL Draft.
Backup Running Back The Cowboys need a backup running back behind DeMarco Murray.
Third String Quarterback Dallas can add a third stringer behind Tony Romo and Kyle Orton. It’s unlikely that he’ll be on the roster in 2014 considering that the 2013 quarterback class is one of the weakest in years.
Dallas Cowboys Pre Draft Thoughts Dallas has addressed a few of the teams needs. Dallas has a lot left to work on in the draft.
New York Giants
Linebackers Keith Rivers, Chase Blackburn, and Michael Boley are all set to hit free agency. The Giants have to upgrade their linebackers as well.
Result: Re-signed Keith Rivers and signed Dan Connor. New York did two necessary things by re-signing Rivers and adding Connor through free agency.
Defensive Tackle Bernard is a free agent. Marvin Austin was once a promising 2011 second-round pick. Austin looks like an NFL bust at this juncture.
Result: Signed Cullen Jenkins and re-signed Shaun Rodgers. The Giants run defense will be a lot better in 2013.
Left End Bringing in competition for Justin Tuck is essential. Both Umenyiora and Tuck struggled last season. The Giants have bigger needs at offensive tackle, linebacker, and defensive tackle to address first though.
Tight End New York can either re-sign Martellus Bennett or draft Tyler Eifert or Zach Ertz with the 19th overall pick. Doing the former would be in the teams best interest.
Result: Signed Brandon Myers and re-signed Bear Pascoe. It’s hard to tell if Myers will be an upgrade or downgrade over Martellus Bennett.
Right Tackle The Giants need a right tackle to compliment William Beatty who they just re-signed.
Left Guard Adding a left guard for depth is necessary. I feel like 2012 fourth-round pick Brandon Mosley is ready to step in and cement the left guard job for the Giants.
Result: Re-signed Kevin Boothe. The Giants interior offensive line will remain the same. That means running back David Wilson should do well with running through running lanes.
New York Giants Pre Draft Thoughts The New York Giants lost safety Kenny Phillips. The Giants have the front 7 to stop the run. The Giants weakness on defense lies at safety.
Chicago Bears
Offensive Line Upgrading the offensive line is Chicago’s top priority. Jay Cutler cannot continue to get abused. Upgrades need to be made everywhere in the trenches.
Jake Long is a free agent that Chicago needs to target should Miami part ways with him. I get the sense that Miami will do this because the Dolphins want Mike Wallace plus they believe Jonathan Martin can fill Long’s void at left tackle.
Chicago’s offensive line is so bad, that they have nothing to lose and everything to gain by overpaying for Jake Long.
Result: Chicago signed Jermon Bushrod. Bushrod will be Jay Cutler’s blindside and they will move J Marcus Webb to right tackle. You signed Jonathan Scott to a one year deal as a backup. He may move to left guard. All Chicago has to do to solidify the offensive line is to draft a left guard in the first round. Jonathan Cooper is an option at 20.
Linebacker Lance Briggs is getting up there in age. The Bears right outside linebacker can perform at a high level for one more season. Middle linebacker Brian Urlacher is a 35-year-old linebacker. Left outside linebacker Nick Roach just sucks.
Urlacher may get a starting gig on another team once he leaves Chicago. He won’t be a long-term solution.
Defensive Tackle Chicago needs to re-sign Henry Melton so they can pair him with Stephen Paea.
Result: Franchised Henry Melton. Because the Bears franchised Henry Melton,
Tight End Chicago needs a tight end. Kellen Davis sucks.
Result: Signed Martellus Bennett.
Nickel Cornerback Chicago has two effective corners in Tim Jennings and Charles Tillman. DJ Moore, Zackary Bowman, and Kelvin Hayden are all expected to hit free agency. Chicago can find a cornerback on day 3 of the NFL draft if they don’t want to re-sign any of these cornerbacks.
Result: Re-signed Zackary Bowman. The Bears have their field, boundary, and nickel cornerbacks. Maybe they can spend a late round pick on a dime corner.
Backup Quarterback Jason Campbell sucked as a backup. Third-stringer Josh McCown is also a free agent. Campbell will likely get an offer to Plus new regimes mean new quarterbacks. Maybe the Bears new head coach drafts a quarterback to groom behind Cutler. If Cutler continues to struggle the rookie could take his job down the line. For now Cutler is still the starter.
Chicago Bears Pre Draft Thoughts Chicago has a stellar defense. The huge hole rests at middle linebacker. If Chicago retains Brian Urlacher for one or two more years then I can see the Bears competing for a playoff spot. There’s no guarantee they’ll get there, but this team has the tools to be more competitive.
Chicago made the necessary upgrades on offense at tight end and offensive line. Adding a left guard is the missing piece to complete Chicago's offense.
Cincinnati Bengals
Right End Michael Johnson had 11.5 sacks in 2012. The 2009 third-round pick once had an outside shot of being a top 5 NFL Draft pick. Johnson is coming off a career season with the Cincinnati Bengals. Johnson has to be retained unless Cincinnati feels like they one of the 2013 defensive end prospects can immediately replace Johnson.
That would be a huge mistake on Cincinnati’s part because Johnson was one of the key reasons why the Bengals defense stepped up this season.
Result: Cincinnati franchised Michael Johnson. This was the right move. Cincinnati will have a healthy Leon Hall at field cornerback plus a second year cornerback in Dre Kirkpatrick that is ready to assert the boundary role.
Right Tackle Andre Smith is the Bengals best run blocker. He’s also one of the top right tackles in the NFL. Smith must be retained unless the Bengals feel like DJ Fluker can fill the void that Smith left. Re-signing Smith would be the easier route. With DJ Fluker you’ll either get a pro bowler like Andre Smith or somebody that looks like a future NFL bust like James Carpenter. You just don’t know.
Result: Re-signed backup Dennis Roland.
Middle Linebacker An upgrade over Rey Maualuga needs to be made. He allowed more first downs than any middle linebacker in the NFL. Cincinnati will overlook the off the field concerns of Notre Dame’s Manti Te’o if he’s there at 21.
Result: Re-signed Rey Maualuga. The Bengals may not like Kevin Minter, Alec Ogletree, or Manti Te’o at middle linebacker. It’s understandable that Mauluga got resigned. While I’m not in favor of the move, you can’t be opposed by it if you don’t see Minter, Ogletree, or Te’o as a first round pick.
Center The Bengals need to obtain a starting center in the 2013 NFL Draft.
#2 Running Back A second rusher to compliment Ben-Jarvus Green-Ellis is in order.
Safety Taylor Mays and Chris Crocker are awful. Clements and Crocker are free agents in their 30’s.
Special Teams The Bengals need upgrades at both kicker and punter.
Result: Cincinnati retained Mike Nugent and Kevin Huber. Special teams is no longer an issue.
Backup Quarterback Andy Dalton lacks the arm strength to be a long term starter. He has good leadership qualities and he’s a winner in the regular season. You also have to be impressed with Dalton’s accuracy at times.
The main concern is that Dalton cannot perform in the playoffs. As a rookie he lost to TJ Yates. This year Dalton went 0 for 9 in a rematch against the Texans. Cleveland is getting better, Pittsburgh is usually a powerhouse even with an 8-8 season, and Baltimore is the reigning Super Bowl Champion.
Dalton can win against inferior competition. Andy Dalton needs to show that he can defeat an elite defense.
A backup behind Dalton needs to be brought in. Tennessee quarterback Tyler Bray would be the perfect candidate in my mind. He has the physical tools. The main concern is Bray’s character. He had good accuracy and awareness coming out of high school.
Result: Signed Josh Johnson. Josh Johnson was on the brink of being a starter at one point.
Cincinnati Bengals Pre Draft Thoughts Cincinnati still has some work to do while addressing the running game. You have to like the Bengals chances of winning the AFC North now that Pittsburgh and Baltimore look weaker.
Washington Redskins
Secondary Washington needs upgrades everywhere on secondary. They overpaid a lot of players like DeAngelo Hall, Josh Wilson, Madieu Williams, and Brandon Meriweather. Didn’t Washington sign Tanard Jackson last off-season before releasing him?
Result: Signed EJ Biggers.
3-4 Middle Linebackers How will Washington stop the run once London Fletcher calls it a career? Two 3-4 middle linebackers need to be added for insurance.
Result: London Fletcher to return. London Fletcher is expected to return.
Tight End When Fred Davis first entered the NFL I viewed him as an overrated prospect. He really showed his skills when stepping in for Chris Cooley when Cooley got injured. Davis tore his achilles in October. The 2013 NFL Draft has depth at tight end. Washington might want to re-sign Davis and add a second tight end in the draft.
Right Tackle The Washington Redskins offensive line responded because Robert Griffin III provided such an infectious presence for a rookie quarterback. Even with Griffin out, I still see this team playing well with Kirk Cousins because he looked solid as a backup.
The one area the Redskins need to improve up front is right tackle. Jammal Brown was once a highly regarded offensive tackle back in 2008. His injury issues have made him a backup offensive lineman at best. Someone will sign Brown for depth though.
Result: Signed Tony Pashos, Jeremy Trueblood, and re-signed Tyler Polumbus. Washington added some offensive tackles for depth. Regardless of whether Robert Griffin III or Kirk Cousins starts, it’s safe to say that the Redskins won’t have any issues at offensive tackle.
Left Guard Korey Lichstensteiger was solid last season. The 10 penalties make you wonder if Washington should find a new starter at left guard.
Slot Receiver Washington needs a slot receiver.
3-4 Outside Linebacker Depth Rob Jackson did well when Brian Orakpo was injured. He’s a good backup that could be re-signed. You can also draft a pass rusher in the middle rounds to develop for depth.
Result: Re-signed Rob Jackson for depth.
Washington Redskins Pre Draft Thoughts Washington does not a have a first-round pick in 2013 because they traded for Robert Griffin III in 2012. RGIII’s health status is unknown. In 2012, pass rusher Brian Orakpo was injured. Washington can contend for a Super Bowl if Orakpo and RGIII both return to full health. Those are two big ifs though.
Minnesota Vikings
Two Wide Receivers Minnesota traded Percy Harvin for a first-rounder. The Vikings need two wide receivers. Jerome Simpson is a slot receiver with guys like Greg Childs and Jarius Wright being used for depth.
Result: Signed Greg Jennings and re-signed Jerome Simpson. The Vikings got a #1 flanker receiver and a slot receiver to compliment Minnesota. The Vikings will draft a #2 target in the 2013 NFL Draft with one of their two first round picks.
Cornerbacks The Vikings cut cornerback Antoine Winfield. Now Minnesota needs two cornerbacks.
Defensive Tackle Kevin Williams is getting up there in age. Letroy Guion struggled to replace Pat Williams. Adding a defensive tackle for the future is essential.
Right Tackle Minnesota needs to retain Phil Loadholt. He struggled in pass protection against third string Buccaneers pass rushers. You have to look past that because he’s so proficient as a run blocker.
Result: Re-signed Phil Loadholt.
Left Guard Minnesota needs a left guard that can pass protect and adapt to the Vikings blue collar run blocking scheme. The Vikings will pick at the bottom of the draft.
Taking someone like Oday Aboushi or Justin Pugh and insert them into a guard right away is a foolish move on Minnesota’s behalf. Unfortunately that's Minnesota's only choice since Andy Levitre and Kevin Boothe are gone.
Safety Minnesota needs a safety to compliment Harrison Smith.
Backup Quarterback Getting a guy like Zac Dysert as a backup would help. Minnesota could also draft Landry Jones solely based on his arm strength. His accuracy and tape is a red flag in my opinion.
Result: Signed Matt Cassel. Cassel will be a good backup to Christian Ponder in Minnesota. He lacks the credentials to start, but he can contribute as a backup.
Minnesota Vikings Pre Draft Thoughts Minnesota has the tools to contend for a Super Bowl. All they have to do is draft a wide receiver. There is no question that the Vikings offense will light up scoreboards next season. Can the defense do enough to keep them in ball games?
Indianapolis Colts
3-4 Right Outside Linebacker The Colts need a pass rusher if Dwight Freeney is gone. They may draft someone at 24. Odds are all the quality pass rushers will be gone by this point.
Result: Signed Erik Walden Walden is a depth player. Jerry Hughes registered 4 sacks in the Colts 3-4 scheme. Robert Mathis registered 8 sacks as a 3-4 outside linebacker. YOu got
Basically the Colts have Jerry Hughes, Robert Mathis, Erik Walden, and Lawrence Sidbury as 3-4 outside linebacker.
Boundary Cornerback The Colts need a boundary corner next to Vontae Davis. Indianapolis had one of the worst secondaries in 2012.
Signed: Greg Toler. Toler is a nickel cornerback, but he’ll have to play the boundary role in Indianapolis.
Toler is a nickel cornerback, but it’s going to be hard to find a boundary cornerback that can come in and start right away considering where Indianapolis is picking in the 2013 NFL Draft.
The Colts also re-signed Darius Butler. Butler was outstanding with recording interceptions. Butler will have even more success as a nickel corner.
3-4 Defensive Line The Indianapolis Colts need 3-4 defensive line help everywhere.
Result: Signed Ricky Jean Francois as a 3-4 right end and Aubrayo Franklin as a nose tackle. The Colts made two oustanding moves to shore up the 3-4 defensive line. FIli Moala and Drake Nevis are now backups for depth at 3-4 right end. I love what the Colts have done so far.
Right Tackle The Colts need an upgrade over Winston Justice. Signing Max Starks to a short-term deal may not be a bad idea. His experience would be an asset to a team like the Colts. If Justice is retained, you have to obtain an offensive tackle to develop for depth should injuries occur with Justice in 2013.
Result: Signed Gosder Cherillus
I love this move. This pretty much ensures that the Colts offense will put up points until Reggie Wayne retires. Now all the Colts need to do is address the defense.
Punter Pat McAfee is a free agent. He needs to be re-signed.
Result: Pat McAfee franchised by the Colts.
Indianapolis Colts Pre Draft Thoughts The Colts addressed most of their needs in free agency. Indianapolis replaced Tom Zbkowski with LaRon Landry. Getting a boundary cornerback in the 2013 NFL Draft seems like the teams only need. The Colts seem really focused on contending for a Super Bowl spot in New York for Super Bowl 48.
Making the AFC Championship is a very realistic possibility. One team that may get in the Colts way is the Denver Broncos led by former Colt Peyton Manning.
Seattle Seahawks
Flanker Receiver It’s amazing how good Russell Wilson was even without a #1 receiver. You have to give credit to running back Marshawn Lynch along with left tackle Russell Okung credit. Just imagine what Seattle can do if Wilson has a #1 target to throw to.
Result: Gave up a first-round pick for Percy Harvin.
I like this move because Percy Harvin and Sidney Rice were teammates on the 2010 Minnesota Vikings team that made the NFC Championship. Darrell Bevell was the offensive coordinator of that Vikings team and he’s in Seattle too.
Tight End Seattle needs a tight end to. Notre Dame’s Tyler Eifert and Stanford Cardinal tight end Zach Ertz are both options.
Defensive Tackle Seattle needs to obtain a defensive tackle on defense.
Right Tackle Seattle needs a right tackle that can provide an upgrade. Andre Smith and Sebastian Vulmer are likely to re-sign with their current teams. That means Seattle will likely be stuck with Giacomi. Breno Giacomi may be a short-term answer, but he’s not the guy for the long haul.
Kicker Seattle needs a new kicker in the event that Seven Hauschka leaves.
Seattle Seahawks Pre Draft Thoughts Seattle added more insurance at defensive end by adding Michael Bennett and Cliff Avril to compliment Chris Clemons and Bruce Irvin. Seattle also dealt a first-round draft pick for Minnesota Vikings wide receiver Percy Harvin. Still the Seahawks have a few needs to address.
Green Bay Packers
Center Green Bay needs an upgrade at center over Jeff Saturday. Barrett Jones is the top center available in the 2013 NFL Draft. He’s not first-round material though.
Tight End If Jermichael Finley goes then Green Bay needs to use this pick on a tight end.
Result: Did not cut Jermichael Finley and will pay his 2013 salary.
Running Back Green Bay needs a running back that can step in and start right away. No running back is first-round material this year. I can see Green Bay getting Eddie Lacy here if the Alabama rusher has an impressive combine.
Nick Saban has developed running backs at Alabama the past few years. 2011 Mark Ingram, 2012 Trent Richardson, 2013 may be Eddie Lacy with a good 40 time and a standout pro day.
Green Bay Packers Pre Draft Thoughts Expect Green Bay to build through the draft. The Packers are being very quiet during free agency. Since Jermichael Finley is returning, all Green Bay has to do is find a running back and a starting center.
Houston Texans
Nose Tackle Houston needs a new nose tackle. An upgrade over Shaun Cody is certainly in order.
3-4 Middle Linebacker Brian Cushing missed the 2012 season. Another injury makes him injury prone. Bradie James isn’t the answer. Darryl Sharpton has the potential to replace James. Sharpton struggles to stay healthy. One more player to look out for is Tim Dobbins.
Secondary Wide Receiver The Texans need released Kevin Walter. This means a receiver to compliment Andre Johnson is needed.
Free Safety Houston needs to retain Glover Quin or find a replacement.
Result: Signed Ed Reed. Ed Reed is still one of the leagues best safeties. I expect Reed to play at an elite level for Houston.
Fullback James Casey is a nice pass-catcher. Arian Foster misses a powerful lead back. Casey can also be serviceable as a tight end when Owen Daniels is out.
Special Teams Houston needs upgrades at both kicker and punter. It wouldn’t hurt to add a return specialist too. Getting the kicker an punter are the Texans main priorities on special teams.
Result: Signed Shane Lechler. Houston has a top notch punter in Shane Lechler. The Texans have to find a kicker to compliment Lechler.
Houston Texans Pre Draft Thoughts The big move the Texans made was at safety. Houston released Glover Quin and replaced him with Ed Reed. Many fans will debate whether the team made the right move. Quin is younger, but Reed has more talent. Ed Reed played with an immense amount of passion during his ten seasons with the Ravens. It was time for both teams to move on.
Denver Broncos
Left Tackle Denver will need a new left tackle if Ryan Clady is gone. He did a good job protecting Peyton Manning. Expect Clady to be back with Denver.
Result: Franchised by Denver.
Right End Denver currently has Robert Ayers at right end and Derek Wolfe at left end because they released Elvis Dumervil. Denver may draft a defensive end with the 28th pick.
Cornerbacks Denver needs to rebuild their secondary after being torched by Joe Flacco in the playoffs. Champ Bailey needs to move to safety like Charles Woodson or Ronde Barber. Release Bailey if he cannot accept those terms.
Result: Keep Champ Bailey and signed Dominque Rodgers Cromartie as a boundary cornerback. Denver may have another deadly cornerback tandem. Two things have to occur though. One Bailey cannot perform like he did in Denver’s playoff loss to the Baltimore Ravens.
Defensive Tackles Getting two starting defensive tackles is also a priority for Denver.
Result: Signed Terrance Knighton and re-signed Kevin Vickerson. Denver makes two moves to keep the run defense stout.
Middle Linebacker Denver also needs a new starting middle linebacker. Brooking is 37 and will be 38 within the next year or two. An upgrade on defense needs to be made.
Result: Signed Stewart Bradley. Denver gets a veteran middle linebacker. You have to love this acquisition because Bradley will make more plays. Most teams will avoid running to the outside because the Broncos have Wesley Woodard and Von Miller as the teams outside linebackers. That leaves Bradley as Denver’s option at middle linebacker.
Slot Receiver A slot receiver next to Demaryius Thomas and Eric Decker would certainly help.
Result: Signed Wes Welker to a two year deal. Wow, Denver struck gold here. Welker will thrive as a slot receiver. He posts amazing fantasy numbers, but drops passes too frequently. In a reduced role, Welker has a chance to make a huge impact.
Right Guard Denver needs a right guard to replace Chris Kuper.
Result: Signed Louis Vasquez to a 4 year deal. Denver has Ryan Clady at left tackle, Zane Beadles at left guard, JD Walton at center, Louis Vasquez at right guard, and Orlando Franklin at right tackle.
Backup Safety Denver could use a backup safety for depth.
Denver Broncos Pre Draft Thoughts Denver spent most of the free agency period finding starters for a win now team. The Broncos need to find a starting 4-3 right end in the 2013 NFL Draft to establish themselves as a Super Bowl contender.
New England Patriots
Field Cornerback New England needs to re-sign Aqib Talib as a field cornerback. None of the second-round corners can step into a field cornerback role right away in weaker than usual cornerback crop. There are usually depth players. There are usually only one or two guys that have the talent to become #1 field cornerbacks right off the bat.
Result: Re-signed Aqib Talib. New England will make ends meet with Talib, Kyle Arrington, and Alfonzo Dennard at cornerback. The Patriots will use these cornerbacks to shut down receivers in coverage. You also have to consider the possibility of the
Flanker Receiver Wes Welker is not a primary #1 target. Brandon Lloyd can be a secondary target. I hate how Welker drops passes in the playoffs despite being a productive regular-season target. I’ll applaud the Patriots if they pull the trigger and draft a new receiver.
Patriots fans are nervous about what New England will become the departure of Welker, but I feel like an upgrade needs to be made here. The 2013 NFL Draft has tons of receivers projected to go between the late first-round and the early second round. New England may obtain one at this spot.
Result: New England cut Wes Welker and Brandon Lloyd. They brought in Danny Amendola and Donald Jones. Amendola can be a secondary receiver, but the Patriots have to draft a flanker target in the first round.
Defensive Tackle New England can get a defensive tackle to compete with Armond Armstead for the starting job across from Vince Wilfork.
Safety The Patriots released Patrick Chung. If McCourty moves back to corner, then safety becomes an even bigger issue.
Result: Signed Adrian Wilson. Wilson once considered one of the NFL’s top safeties is aging. He can contribute on the New England Patriots.
Right Tackle The Patriots need a right tackle if Sebastian Vulmer leaves. Re-signing Vulmer is paramount.
Result: Re-signed Sebastian Vulmer to a 4 year deal. The Patriots offensive line will remain in check.
New England Patriots Pre Draft Thoughts New England will have some work to do. The Patriots have to find a wide receiver and defensive tackle. Going with a wide receiver in round 1 and a defensive tackle in round 2 seems to be New England’s best bet.
Atlanta Falcons
Left Tackle Retaining left tackle Sam Baker is one of Atlanta’s top priorities.
Result: Re-signed Sam Baker. Atlanta had to resign Sam Baker. This was a good move.
Defensive Ends John Abraham is getting older. Kroy Bierman is not a long-term answer. Atlanta released Ray Edwards after paying him a good deal. Obtaining defensive ends will be a top priority for Atlanta. Margus Hunt is an option for Atlanta.
Result: Signed Osi Umenyoria as a left end. Atlanta still needs a right end, but they took the first step by signing a left end.
Boundary Cornerback Getting a boundary cornerback across from Asante Samuel helps. Samuel recorded 5 picks in 2012.
Tight End Tony Gonzalez will likely retire this off-season. An upgrade needs to be made.
Result: Re-signed Tony Gonzalez. Atlanta gets Tony Gonzalez back for another season at tight end.
Running Back Atlanta needs a true starter at running back. Jaquizz Rodgers and Jason Snelling are solid depth backs. Michael Turner is no longer equipped to manage Atlanta’s backfield.
Result: Signed Steven Jackson. The former Rams rusher will do well in Atlanta. Jackson was never surrounded with a passing game like the one the Falcons have in St. Louis. Atlanta’s offense will be deadlier than last year simply because they got a younger back in Steven Jackson.
Strong Safety Re-signing William Moore is a top priority.
Result: Re-signed William Moore. Atlanta has two safeties in Thomas DeCoud and William Moore.
Right Guard Atlanta needs a right guard in case Todd McClure retires. The Falcons can move right guard Peter Konz to center. Konz played center with the Wisconsin Badgers before being selected by the Atlanta Falcons as a 2012 NFL Draft pick.
Atlanta Falcons Pre Draft Thoughts Atlanta has Sam Baker at left tackle, Justin Blaylock at left guard, Peter Konz at center, and Tyson Clabo at right tackle. The Falcons also retained Tony Gonzalez and signed Steven Jackson. Atlanta has the offensive tools to dominate on offense once again. The question is whether the defense shows up in 2013.
San Francisco 49ers
Secondary San Francisco needs to upgrade their secondary everywhere after trailing 28-6 in the Super Bowl.
Result: San Francisco adds Craig Dahl to compensate for loss of Dashon Goldson.
Nose Tackle The 49ers also need to add a nose tackle.
Result: The 49ers added Glenn Dorsey as a nose tackle. This moves baffles me and the 49ers need to add someone for depth.
Center Getting a center to succeed Jonathan Goodwin is a huge priority. The 34 year old won’t be around forever.
3-4 Defensive End A successor to Justin Smith is needed. Smith is 34-years old.
Offensive Tackle Depth The 49ers need offensive tackle depth in case Joe Staley gets injured or in case Anthony Davis sucks in 2013.
Wide Receiver Depth Mario Manningham is going to take up tons of cap room plus Randy Moss is aging. I don’t trust 2012 first-round pick AJ Jenkins. San Francisco needs another receiver.
Result: San Francisco trades for Anquan Boldin. Mario Manningham is is still on the roster. The 49ers have Crabtree, Boldin, and Mannigham alongg with Vernon Davis at tight end.
3rd String Running Back San Francisco needs a third string rusher for depth. With all the picks they have, the 49ers have the flexibility to make this occur.
Kicker Time to find a replacement for David Akers.
Result: Signed Phil Dawson. Former Cleveland Browns kicker Phil Dawson is now a member of the 49ers.
San Francisco 49ers Pre Draft Thoughts The 49ers may have a setback season. Seattle and St. Louis both really improved. San Francisco may face competition from the Rams. It wouldn’t surprise me if Arizona surpassed the 49ers, but that’s extremely unlikely.
Baltimore Ravens
Left Tackle Bryant McKennie stepped in at left tackle just in time for the post-season. He’s a free agent. McKennie needs to get paid.
Secondary The Ravens need help everywhere on secondary.
Result: Baltimore is maintaining the cornerbacks on the current roster and signing Michael Huff. A strong safety is needed to complete Baltimore's secondary.
Flanker Receiver Anquan Boldin is gone and the Ravens need a receiver with size to compliment Torrey Smith.
3-4 Middle Linebacker The Baltimore Ravens need a 3-4 middle linebacker for when Ray Lewis leaves. Since the Ravens signed Elvis Dumervil, they can finally move Courtney Upshaw to 3-4 middle linebacker. Upshaw was a 3-4 middle linebacker at Alabama so moving him there gives the Ravens one less 3-4 middle linebacker. Upshaw will replace Danelle Ellerbe's presence. Baltimore now has to draft a 3-4 middle linebacker to replace Ray Lewis.
While no one will replace the presence Ray Lewis provided, the Ravens have to find a legit starter to replace Lewis before they can contend.
Nose Tackle Ma’ake Kemoatu and Terrence Cody both need to be upgraded.
Result: Signed Chris Canty. The Ravens have Haloti Ngata, Chris Canty, and Pernell McPhee on the 3-4 defensive line. Baltimore has to focus on the 3-4 middle linebackers and the secondary this April.
3-4 Outside Linebacker Depth Sure Baltimore has Terrell Suggs and Courtney Upshaw. Depth is needed if Paul Kruger jumps via free agency.
Result: Signed Elvis Dumervil to a 5 year deal. You have to love this move. Suggs and Dumervil can both start at 3-4 outside linebacker. Courtney Upshaw played 3-4 middle linebacker at Alabama. Having Suggs and Dumervil might influence the Ravens to move Upshaw to 3-4 middle linebacker.
Baltimore Ravens Pre Draft Thoughts The Ravens offense lacks a left tackle or a flanker receiver. The Ravens will remain dominant as a pass rushing team. You cannot take the Ravens' run defense seriously until they find a nose tackle or a 3-4 middle linebacker. The Ravens' secondary is a complete mess.
3/23/2013
Scouted By Zen Bliss
|
Athletic Ability |
Competitive Instincts |
Intangibles/knowledge |
Strength/Injury |
“The It Factor” |
Grade: SCALE |
|
Has ideal height Compact release that allows ball to come out quick. Flexible throws with good knee bend. Can scramble to buy that extra second. Also to pick up 1st downs. Fundamentals need to be worked on due to accuracy issues. Has the ability to step up and slide in the pocket.
|
Tough kid shows by willingness to run for 1st downs. Plays his best when the when it matters. Doesnt Looks off defenders well and struggles finding 2nd-3rd receivers in certain coverages. |
Smith is a very good athlete, and can hurt you with his legs on the move. He shows good ability to reset after contact, and find his man down field. Smith can pick up extra yardage with his feet, and will have to be accounted for at the next level. Has that Has the “QB Timer clock” has some trouble diag already is.nosing defenses pre snap which causes his accuracy to be worse than it |
Has enough power to get the job done. Needs to add muscle and a few pounds, |
His arm is the strongest in the draft, but his accuracy is why I have him go in the draft 15-25 range. The kid has everything but consistent accuracy. |
A=RARE B=SOLID C=AVERAGE D=WEAK F=POOR
Section Grade: C+ |
|
TECHNIQUE: ---- Efficient; Mechanics weren’t as good as they will be. LEADERSHIP: ----- Kid had great command of the huddle. The line was average. Made thing happen.
POISE: ___Great poise; Stood in the pocket and took some big hits and kept popping back, |
ARM STRENGTH AND ACCURRACY SHORT/LONG ----His deep balls had nice touch and made all the throws required, however there are accuracy problems with throws short and medium Accuracy is average. Zip is outstanding. Able to force throws into tight windows. |
BIG PLAYS: Made the big plays in the crunch consistently. Has the ability to complete passes that allow his receivers and backs to have nice R.A.C. |
READ DEFENSES: ___This kid has average feel for what the defense is trying to do to him. Checks out of bad plays and into the correct call 65% of the 13 audibles he called in the games I scouted him. |
ON MOVE: __Made a lot of key throws on the move this past season. Average accuracy in the 5 to 15 yd area in the smash routes. moving to his right. To his left on several different types of curl/flat throws was accurate from 5 to 10 yd He will miss open guys in the NFL. |
Section Grade: B |
|
PLAY SPEED
Fast QB. Nice drop back. Evades the rush with smarts buys time with feet. That p.art of his game is NFL ready |
STRONG POINTS
Evades rush well. Always a running threat. Can make every throw |
GAMES VIEWED FOR REPORT:
|
What Scouts are Saying: Worried about his accuracy. Loves his toughness, size, arm strength. Some guys see accuracy improving with coaching. I have heard he wont make it past 10th pick |
My Take:
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|
Final Grade:
C+ |
3/15/2013
Scouted By Chris Ransom
Florida Gators defensive tackle Sharrif Floyd is the fastest defensive tackle in the 2013 NFL Draft. Considering that Jacksonville Jaguars head coach Gus Bradley thrives on speed, it's hard to see the Jaguars pass on Floyd with the second overall pick in this years NFL Draft.
Pros
Versatility Floyd displays the versatility to play defensive tackle in a 4-3 or defensive end in a 3-4 scheme.
Football IQ Floyd has an outstanding football IQ.
5 Star Recruit Floyd is a 5 star recruit coming out of high school.
Size Slightly undersized at 6-3/297 pounds for a defensive tackle.
Mental Intangibles He will take 2-3 years to learn an NFL playbook despite an outstanding football IQ. He struggles against the pass rush.
Production Floyd looked really sluggish when watching his tape. He struggled against Tennessee and Vanderbilt.
Potential Floyd is a boom or bust prospect. He was ranked a second-round prospect in the regular season and now he's in the discussion to be a top 5 pick because of an outstanding combine. Something in NFL locker rooms smells fishy.
3/14/2013
Scouted By Chris Ransom
Pros
Mental Attributes Joeckel learns NFL plays at a fast rate. He pass protects for your quarterback, displays run blocking, and does a nice job as a zone blocker. Joeckel has the footwork that teams look for.
Production Joeckel displayed top notch pass protection for Ryan Tannehill and Johnny Manziel. His pass protection is an asset for any team that drafts him.
You cannot question how he performs against defensive ends. He's had an easy time in one on one matches making mincemeat out of defensive ends like Sam Montgomery and Alex Okafor.
None
Summary
The Chiefs may also target Central Michigan's Eric Fisher. Right now, Joeckel holds an slight edge over Fisher.
3/10/2013
Scouted By Zen Bliss
|
Athletic Ability |
Competitive Instincts |
Intangibles/knowledge |
Strength/Injury |
“The It Factor” |
Grade: SCALE |
|
Doesn’t have ideal height. Compact release that allows ball to come out quick. Flexible throws with good knee bend. Can scramble to buy that extra second. Fundamentals need to be worked on due to arm strength issues. Lacks mobility. Has the ability to step up and slide in the pocket.
|
Tough kid shows by willingness to run for 1st downs. Plays his best when the chips are down. Looks off defender well and finds 2nd-3rd receivers. |
Great head on his shoulders. “Football smart” Reads defenses with ease. Great grasp of the pro style offense he ran at USC and that will serve him well in a long NFL career. Student of the game who I compare to Andrew Luck. |
Injured his throwing shoulder last season. No injury history. Not the strongest QB. Has enough power to get the job done. |
This kid has that “IT” factor. His arm isn’t the strongest, but it will improve. This kid reminds me a lot like Tom Brady. He wont make it past the 10th pick. |
A=RARE B=SOLID C=AVERAGE D=WEAK F=POOR
Section Grade: B- |
|
TECHNIQUE: ---- Efficient; Mechanics weren’t as good as in previous years.
LEADERSHIP: ----- Kid had great command of the huddle. The line was a mess when the center was hurt. Tried to make things happen.
POISE: ___Great poise; Stood in the pocket and took some big hits and kept popping back, |
ARM STRENGTH AND ACCURRACY SHORT/LONG ----His deep balls had nice touch and made all the throws required, however there was problems with under throws beyond 25+ yds.Short and medium accuracy are superb. Zip is lacking. Unable to force throws into tight windows |
BIG PLAYS: Made the big plays in the crunch consistently. Has the ability to complete passes that allow his receivers and backs to have nice R.A.C |
READ DEFENSES: ___This kid has a great feel for what the defense is trying to do to him. Checks out of bad plays and into the correct call 92% of the 17 audibles he called in the games I scouted him. |
ON MOVE: __made a lot of key throws on the move this past season. Great accuracy in the 5 to 15 yd area in the smash routes. moving to his right. To his left on several different types of mesh plays was very accurate from 5 to 10 yds. |
Section Grade: B |
|
PLAY SPEED
Not The Fastest QB. Nice drop back. Evades the rush with smarts buys time with feet. |
STRONG POINTS
Football smarts. Evades rush well. Poor man’s Tom Brady. |
GAMES VIEWED FOR REPORT:
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What Scouts are Saying: Worried about his arm strength. Not fast enough. Intelligent. |
My Take:
Remember a man named Brady? He wont make it past Arizona at #7. Best QB in this draft. Will be a multiple Pro Bowler |
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|
Final Grade:
B+ |
3/6/2013
Scouted By Zen Bliss
|
Final Grade |
Abilities |
Report |
Section Grade |
|
|
Quick Feet
Change Of.Direction
Flexibility |
Coordination Great size for the position. Good awareness in passing game. Awareness in the run game is above average. Excellent hands. Good route runner. Not the best yac TE in this draft..Doesnt make tough catches. Adjusts well to poorly thrown balls. Times his jump decent . Good offside run blocking. Excellent effort on playside runs. Doesn’t use a wide base. Has more upper body power than his his body shows. |
5.0 |
||
|
Football Toughness
Crunch Time
Productivity
Consistentency
Team Player Pride / Quit |
Catches ball in traffic well. Match ups determine success. 63 receptions last season were among the top of any TE in the nation. Has a conviction for his blocking. Lined up wide on occasion. Always in position to make the catch. Doesn’t drop the ball and catches with his hands. Technique is there as a blocker. |
4.5 |
||
|
Football Smarts
Reaction
Concentration |
Drops shoulder on defenders to move them away from his spot. Doesn’t snap in and out of breaks. Clears defenders on his routes. Will take the big hit over the middle. |
5.0 |
||
|
Descriptions and Comments |
Information based on 2011 and 2012 |
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|
Body Type
Durability
Explosion |
Proto-typical size lacks elite speed for the TE position.
Use his size vs. DB’S. and LB’S. Minor injury history.
He has elite quickness and athleticism to get open. Will struggle down the seam. |
Vs. USC 2012 Vs Ucla 2011 Vs. Cal 2012 |
4.5 |
|
|
Hands Initial Quickness Release Off line
Patterns Adjust ability
Deep Threat
R.A.C
|
Great Hands Good burst in and out of breaks Uses size and quick feet to get off the ball.
Excellent routes. Slant, hitch, and Post corner
Speed to get deep down the seam.
Struggles to create R.A.C. |
4.0 |
||
|
Run Block
Pass Blocking |
Good. Gives great effort.
Average to good. Will improve with coaching. |
3.5
3.5 |
||
|
Strengths
Decent receiver. Lacks Snap in and out of breaks. Has average speed. Decent hands. Great size. Excellent routes. Gets open short and medium Lacks the ability to high point ball in the air. Great Coordination. Lacks deep is excellent short and medium routes. Good blocker. |
5.0 |
|||
|
Weakness
Will not scare anyone deep. Disappears vs. cover 2. |
4.5 |
|||
|
4.5 |
COMMENTS:
Eiffert will be a chosen by a team that needs a good route runner in the middle of the field. His run blocking at the next level makes him the 2nd TE drafted. His ability to add weight and strength will h success. Ertz will help him stay in the NFL. be a productive NFL TE.
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3/3/2013
Scouted By Zen Bliss
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Final Grade |
Abilities |
Report |
Section |
|
|
|
Quick Feet
Change Of.Direction
|
Coordination Great size for the position.
|
5.0 |
|
|
|
Football Toughness
Productivity
|
Doesn’t catch ball in traffic well. Match ups determine success. |
4.5 |
|
|
|
Football Smarts
|
Drops shoulder on defenders to move them away from his spot. |
|
|
|
|
Descriptions and Comments |
Information based on 2011 and 2012 |
|
|
|
Body Type
Durability
Explosion |
Proto-typical size and speed for the TE position.
Use his size vs. DB’S. and LB’S. No injury history.
He has real quickness and athleticism to get deep down the seam.
|
Vs. USC 2012 VS. Notre Dame 2012 Vs. San Jose Spartans 2012
|
5.5 |
|
|
Hands Initial Quickness Release Off line
Patterns Adjust ability |