2013 NFL Mock Draft

1. Kansas City Chiefs Select, OT Luke Joeckel, Texas A&M

From Bleachreport.com

The poor Kansas City fanbase has spent years waiting for the opportunity to finally draft their own franchise quarterback. Finally, all the cards fell into place as the Chiefs would up with the first overall pick, despite having a very talented overall rosters. That's right, they only had one need, a QB, and that can easily be filled on any given year by having the number 1 pick right? Leave it to the team that has not drafted a first round Quarterback since 1983 (when they chose the worst quarterback out of the most talented QB class of all time) to finally land the first pick in a year when there are no viable first overall pick quality QB's. In this case, it is best served for the Chiefs to pick the best overall player in the draft, which as of now appears to be Texas A&M LT Luke Joeckel. A technically gifted lineman who come out of the SEC and projects to have a solid long career.

2. Jacksonville Jaguars Select, DE Dion Jordan, Oregon

From Draftbrowns.com

The Jacksonville Jaguars selected a first round QB just two years ago when they picked Blaine Gabbert, unfortunately that pick has failed and has left the Jags in the same boat as the Chiefs. They are in need of a QB in a draft with no quality QB's available. Instead, the Jags take the chance to draft an electric pass rusher the anchor their defense.

3. Oakland Raiders Select, DT Shariff Floyd, Florida

From 49erswebzone.com

The Oakland Raiders have needs all over the place, so the best thing they can do is pick the best overall player available and work from there. Fortunately, the best player available in this case might also be the Raiders largest need. Shariff Floyd shows all the signs of being a dominent force on the defensive trenches for years to come and he can fill a hole made by the Raiders releasing Tommy Kelly and voiding the contract of Richard Seymour.

4. Philadelphia Eagles Select, OT Eric Fisher, Central Michigan

From philly.com

The Eagles have the opportunity to twist the knife a little more on Andy Reid after firing him by potentially selecting a better tackle than Reid did with the first pick. The Eagles are in desperate need of help on their line especially after Jason Peters tore his Achilles Tendon. Fisher is a great athlete that will be able to get out on the edge in a high flying offense. He very well could be a better option than Joeckel, but will likely go after him because of weak college competition.

5. Detroit Lions Select, OT Lane Johnson, Oklahoma

From insider.espn.go.com

Lookout folks because the run on tackles is in full swing. The Lions largest and most valuable asset still remains to be Matt Stafford who has battled an injury history and has had some up and down swings so far in his career. They know that they have to protect him and buy him more time to throw to Calvin Johnson. They surely would've wanted to snag a D Lineman here, but with tackles already flying off the board the Lions are forced to take care of this need earlier than expected.

6. Cleveland Browns Select, CB Dee Milliner, Alabama 

From overcometheworld.me

The Browns can go 1 million different ways here at the 6th pick but Dee Milliner is the one that prevails.  The Browns need a lot of help on offense at their WR and OL positions but this pick is made because of division the Browns are playing in.  Knowing that they will be facing Big Ben, Joe Flacco, Andy Dalton, and 2 times a year the Browns decide to stack their Defensive Backfield with the Premiere CB in this draft.  Although, Milliner is no Patrick Peterson, he is a phenomenal CB and because of where he comes from he is as Pro-Ready as a player can be.  Pair Milliner up with Joe Hayden... The Browns have a scary combination for the QB's in the AFC North.

7. Arizona Cardinals Select, OG Chance Warmack, Alabama

From nepatriotsdraft.com

The Cardinals have FINALLY FOUND THEIR QB! Well, at least they think so, but then again they thought they found that in Kevin Kolb.  Regardless of who they have as the Signal Caller in the Desert, they need to get protection for him.  The Cards led the NFL in sacks given up with 58 just a year ago, so this pick is a no-brainer.  Best OL available is picked right here, which some regard as the best overall player in this draft.

8. Buffalo Bills Select, QB Ryan Nassib, Syracuse

From dynastyfootballwarehouse.com

This pick is the pick that you really dont want to make because the Bills need so much help.  But their biggest and most glaring need is obviously QB.  Well if you side with everyone in the NFL world, there is not many QB's worth a first round pick on, but as we all know, once 1 QB goes, there is always a run of many more.  I wanted to go elsewhere with this pick because I think Nassib would be there in round 2 but when your guy is available, you go get your guy.  This is a perfect scenario and very reminiscent of Ryan Tannehill just a year ago.  The new head coach of the Bills is Doug Marrone who just so happened to coach Nassib at Syracuse.  Im banking on the fact that Marrone wants his boy to play ball in Buffalo and here they make it happen at #8.  Realistically, I think the Bills do something else at 8, but they will trade up and get Nassib at some point in this round.

9. New York Jets Select, DE/LB Zeke Ansah, BYU

From bleacherreport.com

Rex Ryan loves defense and loves pass rushers.  Ever since Rex has come to New York he has tried to find that elite pass rusher, although to no avail.  Zeke was the highest rising player in this draft because of his freakish skill set and have only started playing football in the last few years.  This kid has a ton of potential and look for Rex to salivate and eventually tattoo his wife wearing Zeke's jersey on his other arm.  This is a perfect fit for the Jets at #9.

10. Tennessee Titans Select, DT Star Lotulelei, Utah

From espn.go.com

The Titans havent been the same since they lost Fat Albert (Haynesworth) a few years ago.  They have lacks a presence in the middle of that defense, a presence that is extremely needed.  Star Lotulelei was regarded as a Top 3 player before he got pulled from the combine for a heart issue.  Everything has been checked out and he has been cleared.  Look for this kid to be one of the biggest surprises of this draft.  He is a high pick but but has the talent and domination to be the number one overall pick.  The fastest way to build a team outside of QB is by building the middle of you offensive and defensive lines. Good pick up here for Bud "Middle Finger" Adams.

11. San Diego Chargers Select, OLB Jarvis Jones, Georgia

From espn.go.com

Doesn't it seem like every year a stud defensive player falls into the Chargers lap? Jarvis Jones' stock has fallen a little lately, but just a couple of months ago several considered him to be one of the top 5 players in this draft. This guy is a monster off the edge and could give the AFC quarterbacks yet another guy to be afraid of in a division stacked with quality pass rushers. The Chargers could have gone several places here, including getting a weapon for Philip Rivers in Tavon Austin, or taking one of the interior offensive and defensive linemen on board, but its hard to pass up the high ceiling of a guy like this.

12. Miami Dolphins Select, WR Tavon Austin, West Virginia

From bleacherreport.com

Much like the Chargers, there are several ways that the Fins could go here. They could take Jonathan Cooper to improve their interior line, but they likely will have already improved the line quite a bit come this pick after the imminent Branden Albert trade goes through. They could take Xavier Rhodes or Kenny Vaccaro to bolster their weak secondary. Or, they can continue to surround their young QB with playmakers. Tavon Austin has huge playmaking potential and has even begun to be considered worthy of a top ten pick. It would be hard for the Dolphins to pass on him at 12.

13. New York Jets Select, QB Geno Smith, West Virginia

From bleacherreport.com

WOAH! The Jets surprise everyone by taking Geno Smith here. Everybody knows how bad the Jets QB woes have been, and with Ryan Nassib going off the board way ahead of his graded slot the Jet might fear a run on QBs that will leave them without one. So Rex Ryan will try to revive the Jets with Geno Smith who has been evaluated as being similar to everything from Donovan McNabb to Alex Smith to Akili Smith. This is a high risk/high reward type pick that the current Jets regime will make to try and save their futures. Go big or go home.

14. Carolina Panthers Select, DT Sheldon Richarson, Mizzou

From nbcdfw.com

He probably still can't spell or do math but Sheldon Richardson can certainly terrorize offensive lines. Richardson is a rare combination of strength, speed and athleticism at the DT position that could help him become a force in the league for years to come. They could have easily taken a CB like Xavier Rhodes here, but the talent that Richardson brings to the table is too hard to pass up. The Panthers should be thrilled to have finally filled a hole at a position that has been mediocre or worse for them for years.

15. New Orleans Saints Select, OLB Barkevious Mingo, LSU

From nfl.com

To me, this seems like an obvious choice. The Saints are shifting to a 3-4 defense and need a stud on the outside to start the transition. Mingo is tall and lean, yet physical and quick enough to develop into a top-notch pass rusher in a 3-4 scheme. Kiki is a raw talent as he played mostly DE at LSU, but in the NFL is projected to be an Aldon Smith clone.  Thats exactly what Kiki Mingo is, a tall, lean, fast, rush end/linebacker.  He will fit perfectly in this roll but expect to see some growing pains for Kiki, but a great career in the long haul.  The Saints might also have interest in a defensive back like Kenny Vaccaro or Xavier Rhodes here as well.

16. St. Louis Rams Select, Kenny Vaccaro S, Texas

From espn.go.com

This is a luxury pick for the Rams because there is a good player available for every position of need they have.  The Rams need a RT, OLB, S, and WR.  Tavin Austin is their guy and who they want desperately but, he is gone at this point.  Therefore, they go with Vaccaro here because of the depth of OL and LB in this draft.  The Rams could easily get an OT or an OLB with their 2nd First round pick instead of reaching for one here at 16.  The "Experts" say take Alec Olgeltree here but I differ in opinion because the last thing I want to do here at pick 16 is take a Middle Linebacker, move him to OLB and hope he pans out.  After adding Cortland Finnegan and Janoris Jenkins last year, they have a very formidable Defensive Secondary, but desperately need a ball hawking safety to sure up that defense.  Vaccaro is the guy and one of 4 safeties that will go on the first 2 days of the draft.  Need pick in a small market makes a good move here by St. Louis.

17. Pittsburgh Steelers Select, Eddie Lacy RB, Alabama

From ontheclocknfldraft.wordpress.com

I think the Steelers trade back a few picks to make this easier but they need this guy BAD.  Rashard Mendenhall is a free agent after this season and after his many inconsistent seasons including last year, they need to bring a guy in that can take a more consistent roll at the RB position.  Big Ben lost his #1 target Mike Wallace this off season which hinders this offense even more.  They need a pounder to create a good run game to give Big Ben a little more help in mixing it up.  Lacy is a strong, powerful back with great size and acceleration.  If you watch any film from his college career you will see he seems almost untouchable.  He is know for his spin move and his bursts through the point of attack.  Great pick up here and adds multiple dimensions to this team from day 1.

18. Dallas Cowboys Select, Jonathan Cooper G, North Carolina

From acc.blogs.starnewsonline.com

The Cowboys just signed Tony Romo to a BIG extension, they need to protect their assets.  The interior of the Cowboy's offensive line is atrocious and can improve greatly here at this pick.  The Cowboys can go 3 ways here as they desperately need a C, RG, RT, and some DT help.  Although, the biggest need of them all is that interior offensive line.  The 2nd best OG in this draft is available at 18 and the Cowboys have no other choice.  If they cant keep Romo in the pocket, this team has no chance of succeeding.

19. New York Giants Select, Xavier Rhodes CB, Florida State

From itiswhatitis.weei.com

The Giants need DB help badly.  Prince Amukamara has been a big time disappointment, Terrell Thomas cannot stay healthy, and Corey Webster is not a #1 shut down CB.  They have tried desperately over the years to fill this void and will give it one last try here with the tall, strong Corner Back Xavier Rhodes.  Rhodes is a play maker and has been since his first day on campus at Florida State.  He is a ball hawk with good size and ball skills, giving him the skill set to play man, zone, and even tackle.  Worst case scenario here is Rhodes because mediocre and then the Giants have 4 slightly above average CB, which is still alot better than most teams in the NFC.

20. Chicago Bears Select, DJ Fluker OT, Alabama

From chicago.cbslocal.com

The experts say Tyler Eifert here to replace the production lost from Greg Olsen a few years back.  But they're overlooking the Bear's greatest need for the past 3 years.  Cutler has been murdered by opposing defensive lines.  If I'm the Bears brain-trust  I use every pick this draft to rebuild my offensive line.  They start here by getting a great tackle in DJ Fluker.  He has gone up against the best at Alabama including handling Kiki Mingo and Sam Montgomery and fared quite well winning 3 National Titles.  Fluker keeps Cutler off his back twice as often as last year if he is picked here.  No Brainer.

21.Cincinnati Bengals Select,  Jonathan Cyprien, S, Florida International 

From nepatriotsdraft.com

There are two things the Bengals desperately need at this pick, a Safety and a Linebacker.  The Bengals gambled on Vontez Burfcit last year and struck gold but the rest of their linebacking core, Ray Maualuga and Manny Lawson have greatly under-performed.  Due to that I desperately wanted to pencil in Alec Ogletree here until, they went out and sign James Harrison.  They still have a need at Linebacker because of how slow and at times terrible Maualuga is but this is a LB class that go 3 to 4 deep in 1st/2nd rounder caliber players.    After that there are two thing they can do here, go safety, or take best player available, which in my mind is Cordarrelle Patterson, who would be a great compliment to AJ Green.  Although the final decision comes down to suring up the defense.  They drafted Dre Kirkpatrick last year and have Reggie Nelson at FS but they have had a revolving door at SS for quite some time.  Here they sure that up with Cyprien.  Cyprien is a small school standout who really caught some eyes at the Senior Bowl for his aggressiveness in the box and his ability to also defend the pass very well.  The Bengals are known for the dramatic pick, so this year  they stick with their ways and take Jonathan Cyprien to fill that gaping hole that is needed when facing Flacco, and Big Ben 2 times a year.

22. St. Louis Rams Select, Cordarrelle Patterson WR, Tennessee

From dynastysportsempire.com

The Rams have desperately sought out for a big play WR for years. Unfortunately they have been to busy rebuilding their entire franchise. Now that they have secured they're franchise QB and 2 great OT in Saffold and Long, the Rams can finally take a deep breath and take their biggest need which just so happens to be Cordarrelle Patterson. Patterson only spend one year in major college football as he transferred to UT from JUCO in 2012, although, in his short time with UT he showed flashes of greatness. Don't get me wrong, Patterson is not a polished WR that will come into the league and be Calvin Johnson, but he does have the talent to be great. Patterson needs reps and needs to be coached up a bit, but what he brings to the table is quick, explosive, play making ability while standing at a stout 6'2" 216lbs. Patterson is a big versatile receiver that once the ball is in his hands he can make anything happen.

23. Minnesota Vikings Select, DeAndre Hopkins WR, Clemson

From www.elonpendulum.com

The Vikings traded away Percy Harvin and have nobody else for Christian Ponder to throw to on the outside.  This calls more an immediate attempt to fill that void.  The Vikes take DeAndre Hopkins at this pick because of his play making ability.  Not many people knew who Hopkins was until he exploded in the Chick-fil-a Bowl against LSU, but ladies and gentlemen, he has arrived.  Hopkins can be summed up by a short phrase of "Hands for Days. ESPN sports science just did a special with Hopkins and show that his hands are 20% larger than the average human hand.  At one point that put him in front of a jugs machine and he accomplished 48 consecutive one handed catches, one of which was 2 yards away from him.  To make this catch they showed he has a .014 second reaction time to make this catch.  Plain and simple, he is a play maker and that is what the Vikes need most.

24. Indianapolis Colts Select, Bjoern Werner DE/OLB, FSU

From stache24.com

The Colts have just about filled every position of need through free agency but there is one large hole that they need to at least add depth to.  For nearly a decade the Colts had the assurance of one of the premiere pass rushers in the game with Dwight Freeney.  Bu now that Freeney is gone the Colts are bolstering Corey Redding at DE and putting Eric Walden at OLB.  Although this is not a bad combination, neither are great pass rushers.  Here in lies my case for Bjoern Werner with the Colts first round pick.  Werner was at one point regarded as a top 5 player but has since dropped.  Although, what I love about Werner is his versatility   At FSU he stood up at OLB and rushed the QB, but also put his hand down and rushed from the DE position.  Werner has a high motor is a gritty guy, which I think mends well with the new look Colts. 

25. Minnesota Vikings Select, Sylvester Williams DT, UNC

From acc.blogs.starnews.com

The Vikes have already secured their play making receiver to replace Percy Harvin, now they need to fill the hole left by Pat Williams who retired today as a Viking.  They need a young DT to step in next to Kevin Williams who is again but is still productive.  Oddly enough, the Vikes can retain the Williams wall by adding Sylvester here with their 2nd pick in the first round.  Williams is a strong good looking kid from UNC who in recent years have punched out DLine men more than any school other than LSU.  The Vikes could also suprise and take a MLB here in the likes of Kevin Minter or Manti Teo both of whom the Vikes have shown interest.


26. Green Bay Packers Select, Justin Hunter WR, Tennessee

From www.knoxnews.com

Seems as though many people are picking the Packers to take a wide receiver with this pick, and for obvious reasons as one of Aaron Rodgers go to guys, Greg Jennings, departed this year for division rival Minnesota Vikings. Justin Hunter is a tall lanky receiver with an ability to go up and get it. He seems to be in that category of late-round receivers that have heavy boom or bust potential, luckily for him and the Packers he has much more potential to pan out thanks to the MVP caliber arm that will be throwing to him.

27. Houston Texans Select, Tyler Eifert TE, Notre Dame

From beyondthecombine.com

Everybody knows that the Texans desire a wide receiver to lineup opposite of Andre Johnson, in fact, Andre even requested it himself. Unfortunately for the Texans, three of the best receiver options have been taken. Still on the board are Cal WR Keenan Allen, or USC WR Robert Woods, who each have been given first round consideration by many. I would imagine they would settle with one of them in most cases, but there is a glaring name still on the board as well. Tyler Eifert has a much higher all around grade that the available receivers at this point, and still has an ability to greatly help the passing game in Houston. Despite Houston's ability in the past to develop late-round Tight Ends, the talent that Eifert brings is too hard for Houston to pass up with the 27th pick.

28. Denver Broncos Select, Darius Slay CB, Miss St.

From ajc.com

UPDATE: It has been reported that Slay tore his meniscus but will not require surgery.  This could scare away a team from picking him in the first round but I think Denver likes him enough to work through it.  If they do get scared, look for Denver to take DJ Hayden out of Houston or Trufant out of Washington, both smaller corners but the skill to be an NFL shut sown corners.

This pick is tough as there is a plethora of CB's that aren't separated by much.  If there is one thing we have seen from John Elway's leadership is picking the guy that fit's their system best and not necessarily  who all the experts think is best.  My expert pick would be Trufant, he has NFL pedigree and is all around a solid corner.  The only thing that keeps him out for the Broncos is he does not have very good size and isn't that physical.  Denver has been outspoken about being intrigued by what is going on in Seattle in that big, tall, physical corners are the way to go.  Slay is a kid that caught a lot of eyes at the combine because of his size, speed, and ball skills.  Slay is a 6' CB who runs a 3.4 and is extremely athletic being a converted RB.  I like this pick because Slay can jump right in and contribute, but will not be thrown into a #1 or #2 starter job.  Perfect match for the team and the player.

29. New England Patriots Select, Keenan Allen, WR, Cal

From www.sfgate.com

In recent years, Wide Receivers have not been as valued in the first round, however there is a good chance that this first round has a run on wide receivers because there are several guys at similar talent levels as well as several teams with wide receiver as a top need. The Patriots have their anchor tight ends and Danny Amendola on the inside, but they need someone to stretch the field on the outside. They get a tremendous value here with Keenan Allen, who is thought by some analysts as the second best receiver in the class. He gives Brady a more physical downfield threat when not throwing to his slot receivers or tight ends.

30. Atlanta Falcons Select, Sam Montgomery, DE, LSU



From athlonsports.com

The Scouting reports on Sam Montgomery seem to swing all over the place. Some are very high on him, some are very low on him. I see him as a good option for the Falcons and their pass rushing woes. This is a good spot to take a guy who can develop behind some veterans and get in on pass rush packages. Sam Montgomery's size and physicality bring a lot to a defense, especially if he can play a little looser.

31. San Francisco 49ers Select, Tank Carradine, DE/OLB, FSU

From twincities.com

Tank Carradine missed a lot of the pre draft process while rehabbing a torn ACL surgery. The concern over that may have scared several off, but once Carradine finally worked out he was very impressive. The torn ACL is slowly becoming a full recovery type injury as we have seen several athletes come back even better such as Adrian Peterson and Jamaal Charles. Carradine's size, strength, and athleticism make him a great weapon on the edge for the 49ers, and this should be considered a steal if he falls to here.

32. Baltimore Ravens Select, Manti Te'o, ILB, Notre Dame

From usatoday.com

Ok so let me just get this out there, we know this guy is kind of weird. However, I think that Ozzie Newsome will have the ability to look past the controversy and the underwhelming combine results to understand that Te'o is capable of anchoring a defense in the middle. The departure of Ray Lewis leaves a gaping hole in the middle of the vaunted Raven defense, however, the system is still one that can consistently develop linebackers, and it is a great fit for a guy like Te'o who has talent and is in need of rebuilding his image. Plus, the guy has a smokin' hot girlfriend! Wait....what?



2012 NFL Mock Draft FINAL

      1.                  Indianapolis Colts- ANDREW LUCK, QB, STANFORD

With the first pick in the 2012 NFL Draft, the Indianapolis Colts will select Andrew Luck. There is really no debate. Anyone that speculates that the Colts will go the other way and take RGIII is simply trying to be unique or draw attention to them. Luck has been the pick for the Colts since they finished the season 2-14 and "earned" the top pick. Luck, according to nearly every NFL scout, is the best pro QB prospect since John Elway. You can't pass on that kind of talent, and Jim Irsay won't. He will draft Luck and hope that he is the second coming of Peyton Manning, if not better. 

2.               Washington Redskins- RGIII, QB, BAYLOR

Much like the Colts choice of Andrew Luck, this is a no-brainer.  The Redskins have long been hurting for a quarterback and they did not trade away three first round picks and a second round pick to draft anything short of a potential superstar QB.
Griffin has shown all the intangibles of a great QB, he is poised, smart, confident, has a great arm, and can run well.  If you remember correctly, Baylor's football program was a laughing stock before Griffin came along....in fact so were almost all of their sports.  Griffin is so good that he changed the face of an entire school.  There is no better place for a son of a military man like Griffin to land than in Washington, and expect him to guide the Redskins away from their years of mediocrity.  

3.               Minnesota Vikings – MATT KALIL, OT, USC
I was really torn between Kalil and Claiborne, as Corner is the Vikings most immediate need after letting Cedric Griffin and Jared Page go.  Reaching for a Corner at #3 isn't the smartest thing to do especially when you are in a rebuilding stage as the Vikings are.  The safest pick and honestly the smartest pick is Matt Kalil, mainly because of the investment they have in Christian Ponder.  The Vikings gave up 49 sacks last year which was the 5th highest in the NFL.  Needless to say Offensive Line is a must in a pass heavy league and nothing can turn around a franchise quicker than having a great tackle to pair with a young franchise QB.  

4.               Cleveland Browns- JUSTIN BLACKMON, WR, OKST
What more can I say other than, the Browns receiving corp has stunk ever since, well... EVER!  They won't get a QB in the first round this year, and will probably hold out for next year as there will be 3 outstanding QB options in, Tyler Bray, Matt Barkley, and Aaron Murray.  They need a playmaker and with 2 first round picks I expect them to make a splash.  Blackmon is a monster and the most impressive receiver since Calvin Johnson came out of Georgia Tech.  They need a weapon on offense and the only other option here is Trent Richardson.  I don't see a RB ever going top 15 ever again in the NFL Draft.  Blackmon will pair with a QB drafted next year and they will form one of the most dominant connections in the league.  Plain and simple, Blackmon is a freak of nature!

5.               Tampa Bay Bucs- TRENT RICHARDSON, RB, BAMA
He is probably the only running back that will go in the first round, and with good reason. He is a physical specimen -- his coaches capped him at 600 pounds on the squat and at 475 on the bench (see video below). Plus, he runs the 40 in the 4.4 range and has incredible shiftiness while maintaining his top speed, just ask Ole Miss. Richardson is the best overall athlete in the draft (I give him a slight edge over RGIII simply because of the strength component) and the Bucs could use some new life in their backfield. Josh Freeman is solid at QB but needs a better RB than LaGarrette Blount to back him up. They just signed Vincent Jackson to a huge deal and if they manage to snag Richardson in the draft, the Bucs will look more like the 10-6 team of 2010 than the mess of 2011.  And while it’s not "trendy" to pick running backs early in the draft any more, don't expect a beast like Trent Richardson to slip out of the top-10. He is too good to pass up.

6.               St. Louis Rams- MICHAEL FLOYD, WR, ND

The Rams have many needs on this team outside of QB but they desperately need a playmaking WR to pair with QB Sam Bradford, who they need to build around.   I am willing to bet that the Rams wanted Justin Blackmon but with him off the board the Rams need to switch to plan B. I also expect the Rams to field calls for a trade down but for the sake of this post they stand pat and take one of the best talents available.   Floyd had character issues in his college days but nothing that should warrant falling out of the top 15 picks. Floyd did nothing but make plays while in school and the Rams need all the help they can get.  Other possibilities are CB Morris Claiborne or OT Riley Reiff.

7.               Jacksonville Jags- MELVIN INGRAM, DE, SC

Coming into this offseason, the Jaguars had to know they needed to make a splash in free agency, via trade, or in the draft. They need to fill seats or the team could end up in Los Angeles. Fortunately, the perfect situation fell into their laps when Denver snagged Peyton Manning, but unfortunately Mr. Tebow chose to head to the Big Apple. The team didn't land any big names in free agency and now, with the seventh pick in the draft, they will settle for Melvin Ingram, a name that won't bring in many new fans but one that will hopefully improve a dreadful pass rush.  Ingram has a few weaknesses that worry NFL teams, including his short arms and below average height, but his explosiveness off the ball makes him worthy of a top-ten pick. The Jaguars hope he will shore up a defense that will need to play very well to keep this team in close, low scoring games.

8.               Miami Dolphins- RYAN TANNEHILL, QB, A&M

This offseason was a complete disaster for the Miami Dolphins as they exhausted every possibility in  a search for a QB, and with each option the failed miserably.  Peyton Manning would not give them the time of day, nor would Matt Flynn.  They had a little excitement when Alex Smith came for a visit, but he later admitted to just using Miami to push the 49ers to act.  What is clear is that Miami is desperate for a QB, and while they could not land a free agent, and are not picking high enough to land Andrew Luck or Robert Griffin III, they are fortunate enough to come away with Ryan Tannehill in this mock draft.  This decision would be a very difficult one as Morris Claiborne is by far the best player on the board and has somehow fallen this far, but the possibility of a franchise quarterback is worth the risk.  Tannehill is a fantastic athlete with tremendous upside.  He is a converted wide receiver with great speed and agility, but has also demonstrated a presence in the passing game.  The word upside is key, as many do not feel that he is ready to play right away, but the upside is great enough that some believe a team will move up the the #3 spot to grab Tannehill.  At worst Tannehill pushes Matt Moore this year to become a higher quality QB, at best Tannehill becomes a powerful force at the position in the NFL. 

9.               Carolina Panthers- MORRIS CLAIBORNE, CB, LSU

This is a dream scenario for the Panthers, who pick up the best defensive back in the 2012 class with the ninth pick. Carolina struggled against the pass last season, allowing 246.8 yards per game, a rate that ranked 24th in the NFL. With a rising offense led by last season's rookie sensation Cam Newton, the Panthers could be back in playoff contention sooner rather than later if they can shore up the defense. Claiborne would be a huge improvement for the Panthers over incumbent cornerbacks Chris Gamble and Darius Butler and would mark another step in the right direction for this rising franchise.

10.           Buffalo Bills- RILEY REIFF, OT, IOWA

This is a difficult pick for the Bills to make as many talent evaluators are split on Reiff's abilities.  A few, including ESPN's Todd McShay believe that Reiff is not an elite option at the tackle position.  Others believe that he is a top ten pick.  While this pick may be a risk, it seems to be a better option than others at this spot.  David DeCastro could only be used as a G while Reiff could be used at either G or T.  Quinton Coples would be the best player available at the spot, and while the thought of lining him up across from Mario Williams is nice, it is probably not the most logical choice.  The Bills need a WR opposite of Stevie Johnson but the top caliber WR options (Blackmon, Floyd) are already off of the board.  The only other logical option would be a CB, but no corner truly stands out as a top ten pick, and it is a deep cornerback class anyway.   So ultimately Riley Reiff is the best option here for the Bills.  He can help them in their quest to protect Ryan Fitzpatrick and could potentially develop into a top tier OT or OG for the Bills.  

11.           Kansas City Chiefs- LUKE KUECHLY, LB, BC

In Kuechly the Chiefs bolster their stout defense with a tackling machine, the best linebacker in this draft, and the best player available.  The Chiefs only have one quality inside linebacker on their roster and that is pro bowler Derrick Johnson.  Kuechly can take over Jovan Belcher's "mike" position and not only load up on tackles but improve the pass defense as well.  The Chiefs could have gone with a nose tackle here like Dontari Poe, but his stock has been falling as of late.  The only other truly glaring need for the Chiefs is quarterback and no remaining quarterbacks are worthy of this high of a selection.  Kuechly is a classic "Pioli" type player and will make an already good defense even better.  

12.           Seattle Seahawks- DRE KIRKPATRICK, CB, BAMA
The Seahawks recently let go of longtime corner Marcus Trufant and need to stabilize the position with the 2nd best corner in the draft.  Kirkpatrick had three very good years at Alabama and was a top prospect coming out of high school.  Pete Carroll loves tall corners and Kirkpatrick checks in at 6'2".  He has the potential to shut down his side of the field at the next level and that will only help the rest of Seattle's defense. 

13.           Arizona Cardinals- JONATHAN MARTIN, OT, STANFORD

With this pick the Cardinals protect their 60 million dollar quarterback Kevin Kolb.  Martin will come in andinstantly make the entire offense better for Arizona.  The Cardinals must upgrade their offensive line or they will not be able to keep pace with the division favorite San Francisco 49ers. Other positions of need for the Cardinals are the linebacking corps and the wide receiving corps.

14.           Dallas Cowboys- FLETCHER COX, DE/DT, MISS ST

The Cowboys had several nice options to pursue here, but they decide to go with ESPN's 7th overall ranked player.  Not only is he a top ten player in this draft, but he fits a need at the 5-technique spot for the Cowboys.  He slides nicely into a defense that includes DeMarcus Ware and the newly signed cornerback Brandon Carr.  Cox will have the ability to stuff the run game and create lanes for his linebackers better than anybody else in this entire draft.  They also get a chance to steal him off of the board just before the division rival Philadelphia Eagles can.  

15.           Philadelphia Eagles- MARK BARRON, S, BAMA

The Eagles have not really recovered at the safety position since losing Brian Dawkins.  Barron should finally stabilize the other half of the secondary and help solidify the Eagles secondary as one of, if not the best, secondaries in the league.  Barron does come with a little injury baggage including one injury in his past that was the result of a questionable one car accident.  Hopefully Barron can stay healthy and out of trouble.  If he does then the Eagles are fortunate enough to have landed by the far the best Safety in this draft.

16.           New York Jets- QUINTON COPLES, DE, UNC

Coples is a difficult prospect as some are very high on him and others are not. He is at a difficult size since he is around the 280 pound mark which makes people wonder if he is too big and slow to be a 4-3 pass rusher, or if he is too small to play the 5-technique. The best hope here for the Jets is that they grabbed the best available athlete on the board and can unleash Rex Ryan on him to hopefully turn him into a great defensive football player in the NFL. 

17.           Cincinnati Bengals- DAVID DECASTRO, OG, STANDFORD

The Bengals need a lot of help on the defensive side of the ball.  Due to this and the loss of their top CB Jonathan Joseph last year, Corner Back is the obvious choice.  There are 2 very solid corners available still, Janoris Jenkins and Stephan Gilmore and because of that I think the Bengals will wait.  They have 2 picks in the first round, #17 and #21.  None of the teams at # 18, 19, or 20 looks set to take a corner so If I'm the Bengals I sure up my other glaring need which is interior offensive line.  DeCastro has somehow dropped to #17 and the Bengals are chomping at the bit because of their good fortune.  Lest we forget, they will then get their top flight Corner 3 picks later.  Good Day for the Cincinnati Bengals.

18.           San Diego Chargers- COURTNEY UPSHAW, DE/OLB, BAMA

Put simply, the Chargers need a pass rush.  They haven't been the same since Shawn Merriman was cut.  Upshaw is the best possible option here at pick 18 for the Chargers.  Upshaw brings experience, leadership, and immense amounts of ability.  He can play as a run stopping linebacker or come down on the ends and bring the rush.  A lot of versatility here at this pick and a proven winner to try and rejuvenate this inept defense.  Another need here is Offensive Tackle, so don't be surprised if the Chargers move up in the draft so they can snag their cornerstone tackle, picks 3 and 4 are intriguing of the chargers.  Although, I think they need to much help to give up that much for a higher pick.  Norv Turner will be screaming Roll Tide on draft day.

19.           Chicago Bears- DONTARI POE, DT, MEMPHIS

This guy is a monster.  Combine Warrior. Cant Miss type guy.  Dontari shot up the boards following the combine and this makes you wonder.  Is he a small school standout or a Combine All Star bust.  His potential is HUGE and the Bears will trust him with that potential.  The bears have cleaned up a lot of their glaring needs at CB and WR.  There isn't really a drastic need here but DL needs some help.  The Bears have options here with many DTs and DE but here is why Poe is the man.  The bears run a multiple defense, they will go 4-3, 3-4, and sometimes even a 5-2.  They need versatility, a guy who can play Nose Guard and Defensive Tackle.  This is your guy.  You just signed Lance Briggs to an extension and you need to convince Urlacher to stay after this year.  Get a guy to protect Briggs and Urlacher.  You lost Tommie Harris and Amobi Okoye over the last 2 years. Poe is your guy plain and simple.

20.           Tennessee Titans- STEPHON GILMORE, CB, SC

Gilmore is a player that has been shooting up draft boards since the draft process officially began a few months ago. He has a good blend of size (6-1, 193) and speed (4.40 in the 40, the second fastest time at the NFL combine). He has been a starter from the time he stepped on campus at South Carolina and started earning recognition early when he was named to several Freshman All-America teams.  His best collegiate season came in 2010, when he recorded 79 tackles, three interceptions and six tackles for loss. Gilmore was a little more inconsistent as a junior in 2011 but he made enough great plays to warrant a first round selection. With the loss of Cortland Finnegan in free agency, the Titans need cornerback help and Gilmore is the perfect fit. He has unlimited upside and, with proper coaching, has a chance to be a great cornerback for several years in the NFL.

21.           Cincinnati Bengals- JANORIS JENKINS, CB, N. ALA

Many think Jenkins will fall into the second round because of his off the field issues.  Well, enter the Bengals who are notorious for taking players with issues and solely base there decision on skill and potential.  Janoris has unquestionable talent.  He was slated to be a 1st round pick last year until he decided to stay at Florida and then got kicked off.  The Bengals need Corner Back help and he is the best available at this time in this draft.  Great draft building up for the Bengals.

22.           Cleveland Browns- KENDAL WRIGHT, WR, BAYLOR

This may surprise some people and this may be thought of as stupid due to the Browns taking Justin Blackmon at #4.  Here is my thought, the Browns have NEVER had an elite WR.  They literally need help at every position and in a year where they have 2 first rounders, they must make an impact.  They have a lot of viable options here, Cordy Glenn, Brockers, Hightower, Mike Adams, and Kendall Wright.  The Browns will be taking a QB in the first round next year regardless of what Colt does this year.  Therefore, why not get 2 elite weapons to season for a year before you get your QB of the future.  Wright and Blackmon combination could be an unstoppable force for years to come, especially being thrown to by a Matt Barkley....

23.           Detroit Lions- MIKE ADAMS, OT, OSU

The Lions were in need of an offensive tackle before they sign Jeff Backus, but even he isn't the answer.  They have had a hole at LT for quite a while and it is vital at this point to fill that hole.  With the success of the Lions offense and the fragile Matt Stafford, it is a must in this draft.  The Lions need a lot of help in the Defensive Backfield to help Louis Delmas, but there are not legitimate options here at 23.  Adams will be a great addition and could fit right in being the starting LT.  Adams is kind of a under the radar guy because he was one of the five OSU players suspended for the first five games last season.  Don't over look this guy, he could very easily and secretly be the second best OT in this draft.

24.           Pittsburgh Steelers- CORDY GLENN, OG/OT, UGA

Cordy is an under the radar guy because of the deep class of Offensive Linemen in this years draft.  Most think the Steelers will take Donta Hightower with this pick because they are always very defensive minded.  Well, they need to upgrade at offensive line badly.  Cordy Glenn is a guy that could come in right away and start at either Guard or Tackle.  He had prototypical OT size at 6'6" 345lbs but has impressive versatility as he started at both guard and tackle for the dawgs throughout his college career.  The Steeler's LT Max Starks tore is ACL in the Playoff game at Denver last year and may not be ready and they have had very inconsistent play by LG Chris Kemoeatu.  Glenn could very well start every game this year for Pittsburgh at 2 different positions.

25.           Denver Broncos- MICHAEL BROCKERS, DT, LSU

The Broncos most glaring needs is finally filled.  Last year they passed on Marcel Darius to get Von Miller and nowthis year they get the second best DT in the draft.  Brockers is raw, coming out early as a redshirt sophomore, he hasa lot of room to grow and will be a project player.  With the likes of Denver’s pass rushers, Dumervil, Ayers, and Von Miller, Brockers should have a hard time at all playing alongside veteran Ty Warren.  Jon Chavis, LSU’s DCoordinator is quoted as saying Brockers is the best he has ever coached.  Chavis has coached Glen Dorsey and Albert Haynesworth… Enough Said, Brock is a steal at 25.

26.           Houston Texans- STEPHEN HILL, WR, GT

There are 4 top tier receivers in this class and Hill is the last one.  The Texans have always lacked a solid #2 behind Andre Johnson.  The obvious pick here is Hightower to replace recently traded Demeco Ryans.  I just think it is a lot harder to find a top receiver than a consistent MLB.  Matt Schaub is nearing his end and he wants to win, he will have a lot of push for an offensive weapon especially with offensive minded Gary Kubiak.

27.           New England Patriots- CHANDLER JONES, DE/OLB, SU

Chandler Jones is Bill Belichick’s type of player, endless motor with great athleticism.  Versatility is key to thePatriots and that is the definition of Jones.  The Pats need a pass rush bad and they have two chances here at theback end of the first round to grab two very good pass rushers, the first being Jones.  He is very raw and doesn’t havea lot of experience, but there is no better person in the NFL at developing raw talent than Bill.

28.           Green Bay Packers- NICK PERRY, DE/OLB, USC

Outside of Clay Mathews, the Pack’s pass rush is nonexistent.  Nick Perry is an under the radar guy that I think can be very productive next to Matthews.  At 6-3, 250, Perry is a monster, he ran a 4.64 and had a 38.5 vertical, these numbers are impressive for a guy his size.  He’s quick, strong and explosive, why wouldn’t he be appealing to a team that has no pass rush.

29.           Baltimore Ravens- DONTA HIGHTOWER, ILB, BAMA

(Pan Right and see Ray Lewis Dancing)  Steal is the only word to describe this pick.  Hightower is very talented and did nothing but produce against the best competition in college football for 3 years.  Hightower is a monster and belongs in the top 15 pick.  The Ravens bring youth to the line backing corps and line up Ray Lewis’ predecessor.

30.           San Francisco 49ers- COBY FLEENER, TE, STANFORD

The 49ers needs include WR,OT,OG, and at this point in the draft there isn’t any available worth taking in the first round.  It’s best available for Jim Harbaugh in this year’s first round.  A great fit for the 49ers as Harbaugh gets his old player to go opposite of Vernon Davis.  Fleener shocked a lot of people at the Stanford Pro Day because of how athletic he was.  Fleener ran a 4.46 40 time and stands at 6-6 247.  He is very similar to Vernon Davis and no one knows his better than Jim Harbaugh.  Alex Smith is a happy man and the offense doesn’t even really need a receiver.

31.           New England Patriots- ANDRE BRANCH, DE/OLB, CLEMSON

With this pick the Pats will again address their pass rush.  Branch is another versatile guy that is able to line up at OLB or DE and when paired with Chandler Jones this could be a deadly duo for opponents.  It wouldn’t surprise anyone for Bill to trade out of this spot and get more picks, but I think it is time the Pats address the pass rush and make sure they get a multitude of it.

32.           New York Giants- KENDALL REYES, DT/DE, UCONN

The Giants need help on the offensive side of the ball, particularly at G and TE but neither are available here.  Look for the Giants to trade up with San Francisco and take Colby Fleener.  If they stay put I think they will add depth to their greatest strength.  They are set at DE with a lot of depth but lack depth at DT.  Reyes is a guy not much is known about but he is a big, fast, very versatile defensive lineman.  Good add a great compliment to Chris Canty and last year’s first round pick Marvin Austin. 

~Dahm, Brett, TK, & Louie