Friday, February 10, 2012

2012 NFL Mock Draft: Post Super Bowl


Here is my Post Super Bowl 2012 NFL Mock Draft. It will be followed by updates before and after the NFL Scouting Combine up until the NFL Draft on April 26th.

My mock draft has been linked by The Football Fan Spot, Sports Jabber, DC Pro Sports ReportWalter Football, FF Toolbox, hailRedskins.com, The Football Expert, NFLDraftDog, NFL Mocks, The Phinsider, The Huddle Report and No Limits Sportsline Fantasy Sports in their Mock Draft Databases. If you're a draftnik like me, be sure to click on their hyperlinks and check out all of their extensive NFL Draft related material.

This is not a mock draft where I attempt play general manager and substitute my own judgment for the 32 NFL teams. I do my best to research what particular players or positions each team may be targeting by searching the internet for tips from reliable beat writers and NFL insiders in order to provide links and analysis as to why that team may be targeting a particular player.


FIRST ROUND

1. Indianapolis Colts – Andrew Luck, QB, Stanford: Peyton Manning's $28 million roster bonus will make this an easy transition. The Colts can select Andrew Luck with the first pick of the draft and play him right away, while Manning's uncertain health at the time that bonus comes due on March 8th will allow the Colts to cut ties with him without alienating their fan base.

http://www.indystar.com/apps/pbcs.dll/article?AID=2012120108003

2. Cleveland Browns (trade with St. Louis) – Robert Griffin III, QB, Baylor: If the Browns really want Griffin, they may have to trade up with St. Louis to assure that Washington, Seattle or Miami does not leap-frog over them. Cleveland has the picks to move up should they choose to go in that direction, but the question remains whether they are willing to part with them or are willing to gamble that the quarterback they like will still be around when they pick at #4.

http://sports.yahoo.com/blogs/nfl-shutdown-corner/report-browns-want-trade-draft-robert-griffin-iii-165909957.html;
http://www.ohio.com/news/top-stories/marla-ridenour-browns-trading-up-in-nfl-draft-wouldn-t-fit-tom-heckert-s-profile-1.256517;
http://www.ohio.com/news/break-news/would-browns-trade-up-to-pick-robert-griffin-iii-as-some-early-mock-drafts-predict-1.255604;
http://www.ohio.com/sports/browns/marla-ridenour-browns-could-trade-down-1.254093;
http://morningjournal.com/articles/2012/01/28/sports/doc4f24c41c3b6cc670946780.txt?viewmode=default

3. Minnesota Vikings – Matt Kalil, OT, USC: The Vikings appear to have made their decision to go with Christian Ponder as their quarterback of the future, assuring him that they will not select another signal caller with their first pick in this year's draft. Matt Kalil projects as a premier left tackle that Minnesota can rebuild their offensive line around. Justin Blackmon and Morris Claiborne would also fill needs here for the Vikings, but when all else is equal when it comes to talent, left tackle takes precedence over wide receiver or cornerback.

http://m.startribune.com/sports/?id=136682723;
http://m.startribune.com/news/?id=136591293;
http://m.startribune.com/news/?id=136948183

4. St. Louis Rams (trade with Cleveland) – Justin Blackmon, WR, Oklahoma State: I look for the Rams to trade down, possibly with Cleveland at #4 or Washington at #6, and still have the opportunity to select the number one wide receiver they covet for Sam Bradford in Justin Blackmon before the next team clearly seeking a wide out selects in Jacksonville at #7.

http://www.stltoday.com/sports/columns/bryan-burwell/rams-have-a-draft-chip-in-bid-for-fisher/article_727ff628-725d-5363-bca4-465178b4a424.html;
http://sports.yahoo.com/blogs/nfl-shutdown-corner/report-browns-want-trade-draft-robert-griffin-iii-165909957.html;
http://www.nationalfootballpost.com/NFP-Sunday-Blitz-3206.html


5. Tampa Bay Buccaneers – Trent Richardson, RB, Alabama: Tampa Bay is having enough problems securing a coaching staff, let alone figuring out who they are going to draft at this point. It would be hard to argue with Morris Claiborne or Justin Blackmon at the #5 spot, but an electric back like Trent Richardson would immediately make life easier on quarterback Josh Freeman by forcing an extra defender into the box.

http://www.tampabay.com/blogs/bucs/content/thursday-chat-live-gary-shelton-1230

6. Washington Redskins – Ryan Tannehill, QB, Texas A and M: Quarterback seems to be a popular pick for Washington. Rumor has it that both Peyton Manning and his center with the Colts, Jeff Saturday, will be joining the Redskins in a package deal. Another rumor floating around is that the Redskins are planning to announce a new quarterback on draft day who will "elate" their fans, suggesting that they already have some sort of deal in place. In the event that the Redskins do not acquire a new quarterback like Manning via free agency or a trade, they may look to trade down for additional picks and still select a quarterback like Ryan Tannehill. 

http://www.washingtontimes.com/news/2012/jan/12/daly-where-will-qb-carousel-stop-for-the-redskins/;
http://www.csnwashington.com/football-washington-redskins/news/mel-mocks-a-cb-to-the-redskins?blockID=634232&feedID=6355;
http://www.washingtonian.com/blogarticles/people/capitalcomment/22403.html;
https://twitter.com/#!/BramWeinstein/status/157812756635066370;
http://www.washingtonpost.com/blogs/football-insider/post/too-early-to-make-a-call-on-peyton-manning/2012/01/30/gIQAMksZcQ_blog.html#pagebreak

7. Jacksonville Jaguars – Quinton Coples, DE, North Carolina: Wide receiver, defensive end and tackle seem to be the Jaguars biggest needs. In the event that go to receiver Justin Blackmon does not fall to them, they should have their choice of elite pass rushers in this year's draft, thereby representing the best value for Jacksonville at #7. 

http://jacksonville.com/opinion/blog/401949/david-johnson/2012-01-14/jaguars-gm-gene-smiths-next-moves-will-be-key;
http://jacksonville.com/opinion/blog/400617/gene-frenette/2012-01-11/gene-frenette-jaguars-gm-gene-smith-must-give-mike

* Carolina Panthers – Morris Claiborne, CB, LSU: While the Panthers certainly could use an impact interior defensive lineman, none of the defensive tackles have distinguished themselves as a clear cut top 10 pick as of yet. Should Morris Claiborne make it to Carolina at either the #8 or #9 pick (pending a coin toss at the NFL Scouting Combine), he would be the lockdown corner that the Panthers need to help solidify their porous secondary.

http://www.charlotteobserver.com/chat/;
http://blogs.charlotte.com/panthers/2012/01/early-entries-make-nfl-draft-deeper-at-top.html#storylink=misearch

* Miami Dolphins – Melvin Ingram, DE/OLB, South Carolina: While there has been speculation that the Dolphins covet Peyton Manning should he be granted his release by the Colts, the smarter money is on Matt Flynn joining his former offensive coordinator in Green Bay, Joe Philbim, who is now the Dolphins head coach. Assuming that Miami solidifies their quarterback situation via free agency, that would allow them to address needs like pass rush or right tackle in the draft. With Jake Long entrenched at left tackle for years to come, there's little value in taking a right tackle with a top 10 pick, so look for Miami to draft a defensive end/outside linebacker like Melvin Ingram, Courtney Upshaw or Quinton Coples should he slide to Miami at either pick #8 or #9 (pending a coin toss at the NFL Scouting Combine).

http://sports.yahoo.com/blogs/rumors-scoop-du-jour/packers-qb-matt-flynn-could-headed-miami-115030102.html;
http://miamiherald.typepad.com/sports-buzz/2012/02/sunday-buzz-column-with-the-dolphins-trying-to-upgrade-their-offense-especially-at-quarterback-right-tackle-right-guar.html#storylink=cpyhttp://www.miamiherald.com/2012/01/17/2592477/miami-dolphins-might-shun-qb-option.html;


10. Buffalo Bills – Courtney Upshaw, DE/OLB, Alabama: An edge pass rusher like Courtney Upshaw would be a great combination to pair alongside fellow ex Alabama teammate Marcell Dareus in the Bill's new 4-3 defense.

http://blogs.buffalonews.com/billboard/2012/01/mark-gaughans-friday-nfl-chat-2.html

* Kansas City Chiefs – Riley Reiff, OT, Iowa: The Chiefs are looking to upgrade their offensive line. By drafting a true left tackle like Iowa's Riley Reiff at either #11 or #12 (subject to a coin flip at the NFL Scouting Combine), that would allow them to move Brandon Albert either inside to guard or to right tackle, his more natural position. Either way, Kansas City would substantially upgrade two positions on their line.

http://www.kansascity.com/coveritlive/#chiefs

* Seattle Seahawks – Nick Perry, DE, USC: Seattle has needs at quarterback and defensive end. It certainly would not be surprising if the Seahawks used or packaged this pick for a new signal caller, but that scenario would require them moving from either pick #11 or #12 (subject to a coin flip at the NFL Scouting Combine) and into the top 5 to even have a chance at one of the top 3 quarterbacks in the draft. If Seattle finds their new quarterback in free agency (where they have been linked to both Peyton Manning and Matt Flynn), or if the cost of moving up in the draft is too much, the Seahawks have also been said to have exhibited an interest in USC DE Nick Perry, which would reunite him with his former USC coach Pete Carroll.

http://blog.thenewstribune.com/seahawks/2012/01/21/first-look-at-the-2012-draft/;
http://blog.seattlepi.com/football/2012/01/03/so-now-what-seahawks-time-to-talk-about-the-draft/; http://www.freep.com/article/20120127/HSS/201270417/Best-Midwest-Catching-up-2008-class

13. Arizona Cardinals – Jonathan Martin, OT, Stanford: The Cardinals not only need to improve their current offensive line, but they elect to let left tackle Levi Brown walk in free agency. Jonathan Martin of Stanford and Riley Reiff would seem to fit at #13 value wise, although the Cardinals seemed to have exhibited an interest in Ohio State left tackle Mike Adams at the Senior Bowl.

http://www.azcentral.com/sports/articles/2012/01/23/20120123arizona-cardinals-2012-mock-draft-agency.html?page=4; http://www.azcentral.com/sports/articles/2012/01/20/20120120arizona-republic-nfl-mock-draft-2012-first-edition.html; http://www.freep.com/article/20120127/HSS/201270417/Best-Midwest-Catching-up-2008-class

14. Dallas Cowboys – Dre Kirkpatrick, CB, Alabama: The Cowboys have several glaring holes in their secondary, which for an aspiring Super Bowl contender like Jerry Jones is a recipe for disaster in the pass happy NFC. Look for the Cowboys to address that need and let their young interior offensive line develop another season before deciding whether it needs to be addressed.

http://www.dallasnews.com/sports/dallas-cowboys/headlines/20120123-mock-drafts-despite-drug-charge-cowboys-could-select-dre-kirkpatrick.ece;
http://www.dallasnews.com/sports/dallas-cowboys/headlines/20120124-gosselin-cowboys-taking-three-cbs-in-draft-wouldn-t-surprise-me.ece;
http://www.dallasnews.com/sports/dallas-cowboys/headlines/20120124-gosselin-secondary-overhaul-expect-one-new-cowboys-starter-for-opener.ece;
http://www.dallasnews.com/sports/dallas-cowboys/headlines/20120119-moore-cowboys-must-get-more-playmakers-on-the-defensive-side-of-the-ball.ece
 
15. Philadelphia Eagles – Luke Kuechly, LB, Boston College: Despite spending significant amounts of money on the defensive side of the ball last season, it was relatively easy to foresee that the Eagles would struggle due to an inability to stop the run. The Eagles were woefully undersized and thin on depth at the linebacker position, where a complete overhaul is necessary.

http://www.philly.com/philly/blogs/moving_the_chains/The-Eagles-options-at-LB.htmlhttp://phillyburbs.csnphilly.com/01/27/12/Draft-Watch-Senior-Bowl-LB-options-for-B/phillyburbs_landing.html?blockID=639606&feedID=10498;
http://www.philly.com/philly/blogs/moving_the_chains/The-Eagles-options-at-LB.html 

16. New York Jets - Mark Barron, S, Alabama: The Jets entire secondary was brought down last season due to a lack of speed at the safety position. A potential playmaker like Mark Barron at that position would help turn a weakness into a strength, and push the Jets back towards the top defenses in the AFC.

http://fifthdown.blogs.nytimes.com/2012/01/01/what-are-jets-biggest-off-season-needs/?scp=6&sq=NFL%20Draft%20Jets&st=cse
http://fifthdown.blogs.nytimes.com/2012/01/01/what-are-jets-biggest-off-season-needs/?scp=6&sq=NFL%20Draft%20Jets&st=cse

17. Cincinnati Bengals (from Oakland) – David DeCastro, G, Stan: From the interior of their offensive line to an explosive back, the Bengals could stand to improve their running game. David DeCastro projects as one of the highest rated guards in recent draft history, possibly going as high as the top half of the first round. Cornerback and safety will also be considerations depending on the value available when it comes to Cincinnati's draft board.

http://cincinnati.com/blogs/bengals/2012/01/20/the-20-questions-mailbag-offseason-edition/; http://cincinnati.com/blogs/bengals/2012/01/12/bengals-chat-with-joe-reedy-at-noon-5/; http://cincinnati.com/blogs/bengals/2012/01/26/coyle-to-fins-nearly-done-talking-senior-bowl-corners/

18. San Diego Chargers – Vontaze Burfict, LB, Arizona State: The Chargers could have plenty of needs depending upon whether they re-sign all of their own free agents. Offensive line could be a huge concern depending on the statuses of Marcus McNeil, Jared Gaither, Nick Hardwick and Kris Dielman. Adding a playmaker at linebacker is also a major need, and could represent better value at the 18th pick if the Chargers can sure up their line before the draft.

http://www.utsandiego.com/bigmailbag/chargers/?page=2;
http://www.utsandiego.com/news/2012/jan/24/chargers-looking-pass-rusher/ 

19. Chicago Bears – Michael Floyd, WR, Notre Dame: Replenishing an aging offensive line has to be a priority for the Bears, as is adding a true number 1 receiver. With Mike Martz having been run out of Chicago and into retirement, new offensive coordinator and offensive line guru Mike Tice might be able to make do with the pieces he currently has. In that case, Michael Floyd of Notre Dame would give Jay Cutler a natural go-to receiver to work with, allowing Devin Hester to work as a complimentary deep threat.

http://aggbot.com/Chicago-Bears-News/article/16064714;
http://espn.go.com/blog/chicago/bears/post/_/id/4674880/nds-floyd-to-bears-at-no-19-makes-sense


20. Tennessee Titans – Andre Branch, DE, Clemson: The Titans appear to be looking for help at defensive end. In the middle of the first round, they could find value in edge rushers like Nick Perry of USC or Andre Branch of Clemson. Cornerback could also be a consideration if Tennessee lets Courtland Finnegan walk in free agency.

http://www.tennessean.com/article/20120124/SPORTS01/301240034/Tennessee-Titans-begin-take-note-top-college-prospects;
http://www.tennessean.com/article/20120127/COLUMNIST0202/301270066/David-Climer-Tennessee-Titans-likely-make-ripples-not-splash-free-agent-pool


21. Cincinnati Bengals – Janoris Jenkins, CB, North Alabama: The Bengals should look to upgrade their secondary at either corner or safety with at least one of their two first round picks. Janoris Jenkins claims to have distanced himself from the marijuana problems he had that caused him to get kicked out of the University of Florida. Given that the Bengals have a tendency to overlook character concerns, Jenkins may be a fit in Cincinnati given that he just may be the best cover corner in the draft.

http://cincinnati.com/blogs/bengals/2012/01/26/coyle-to-fins-nearly-done-talking-senior-bowl-corners/; http://cincinnati.com/blogs/bengals/2012/01/20/the-20-questions-mailbag-offseason-edition/; http://cincinnati.com/blogs/bengals/2012/01/12/bengals-chat-with-joe-reedy-at-noon-

22. Cleveland Browns (from Atlanta) – Kendall Wright, WR, Baylor: If the Browns can either land Robert Griffin III without having to give up their second pick in the first round or sign a franchise quarterback like Matt Flynn via free agency, the 22nd pick would be an ideal spot to grab an elite wide receiver. The thought of pairing Griffin with his number one target at Baylor has to be intriguing to Cleveland's front office.

http://bleacherreport.com/articles/1033057-nfl-draft-2012-4-upgrades-the-cleveland-browns-must-make#/articles/1033057-nfl-draft-2012-4-upgrades-the-cleveland-browns-must-make/page/4; http://www.cleveland.com/browns/index.ssf/2012/01/have_the_cleveland_browns_real.html

23. Detroit Lions - Alfonzo Dennard, CB, Nebraska: Offensive line and the secondary are Detroit's biggest areas of need. However, William Clay Ford, Jr., Martin Mayhew and Tom Lewand have quickly changed the culture in Detroit by taking a best player available approach instead of reaching for players. Janoris Jenkins and Dre Kilpatrick have the talent at cornerback that the Lions would be looking for, but their character concerns may not fit with the Lions organization even if they were to fall to the #23 pick. Alternatively, the Lions could target OT Mike Adams of Ohio State, C Peter Konz of Wisconsin, or even look to trade down for an additional 2nd rounder plus a first round pick in next year's draft. If the Lions stay put, Alfonzo Dennard certainly did not help his draft stock with a poor showing at the Senior Bowl, but he may be schematic fit for a team like the Lions who value tackling  in their secondary but do not rely too heavily on man-to-man coverage.

http://www.mlive.com/lions/index.ssf/2012/01/detroit_lions_general_manager_4.html; http://www.mlive.com/lions/index.ssf/2012/01/detroit_lions_watch_north_alab.html; http://www.mlive.com/lions/index.ssf/2012/01/from_playoff_team_to_super_bow.html; https://twitter.com/#!/ttwentyman/status/

24. Pittsburgh Steelers – Dontari Poe, DT, Memphis: With Casey Hampton's health and contract jeopardizing his return to the Steelers, Pittsburgh could be looking for a nose tackle to replace him or a 3-4 defensive end so that Ziggy Hood can move inside. Dontari Poe of Memphis would be an ideal two-gap DT that Pittsburgh is looking for in their 3-4 defense.

http://bleedblackandgold.com/blog/2012/01/26/could-the-casey-hampton-injury-push-steelers-towards-a-4-3-defense/?utm_source=feedburner&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=Feed%3A+BleedBlackAndGold+%28Bleed+Black+and+Gold%29

25. Denver Broncos – Lamar Miller, RB, Miami: The Broncos have more needs than there is value to them at the #25 pick. Ideally, Denver would probably like to trade out of the first round and accumulate players at positions of need like running back, center, defensive tackle and the secondary.

http://www.denverpost.com/woodysmailbag/ci_19822168?obref=obnetwork; http://www.denverpost.com/broncos/ci_19512192?IADID=Search-www.denverpost.com-www.denverpost.com

26. Houston Texans – Muhammed Sanu, WR, Rutgers: The Texans need a compliment to Andre Johnson at wide receiver, who's injury last season magnified that problem. Muhammed Sanu is an explosive receiver, who many at Rutgers believe is more talented than Hakeem Nicks. If he's even close to that good, the Texans would instantly become a contender in the AFC.

http://msn.foxsports.com/nfl/story/John-McClain-evaluates-the-TexansHeres-the-catch-Expect-an-upgrade-at-receiver-via-draft-46289422

27. New England Patriots (from New Orleans) – Michael Brockers, DT/DE, LSU: New England has two picks in both the 1st and the 2nd rounds of this year's draft. With glaring holes at DE, OLB CB/S and possibly even WR, they should be in position to make major improvements to a team that narrowly missed winning the Super Bowl. Michael Brockers of LSU would be an ideal 3-4 end to provide the Patriots with some much needed pass rush.

http://espn.go.com/boston/nfl/story/_/page/reissmailbag-week18/new-england-patriots-mailbag-defense-continues-main-concern;
http://boston.sbnation.com/new-england-patriots/2012/1/25/2732129/2012-nfl-draft-new-england-patriots-mark-barron;
http://bleacherreport.com/articles/1010063-nfl-draft-2012-new-england-patriots-biggest-needs-in-draft#/articles/1010063-nfl-draft-2012-new-england-patriots-biggest-needs-in-draft/page/5


28. Green Bay Packers – Fletcher Cox, DT, Mississippi State: The Packers are still looking for a replacement for Cullen Jenkins, who departed after their 2011 Super Bowl victory in free agency. Mississippi State DT would be a disruptive force at end in Green Bay's 3-4 defense that could occupy some of the attention that Clay Mathew received this year, freeing him up to get after the passer.

http://www.fanfeedr.com/nfl/green-bay-packers?id=7e1688b3-f368-5429-8b48-6db40e994ec0; http://packersnews.greenbaypressgazette.com/article/20120128/PKR07/120128052/Mike-Vandermause-column-Anemic-pass-rush-falls-Thompson?odyssey=tab;
http://packersnews.greenbaypressgazette.com/interactive/article/20120124/PKR01/301250033/Green-Bay-Packers-chat


29. Baltimore Ravens - Peter Konz, C, Wisconsin: Baltimore takes a best player available approach when it comes to the draft. Fortunately for them, interior offensive linemen may represent the best value on the board when they select, as they could stand to lose G Ben Grubbs to free agency and C Matt Birk to retirement. Peter Konz could either replace Birk should he retire, or he could play along side Birk for a year at guard in order to learn the calls a center needs to make in the NFL.

http://www.fanfeedr.com/nfl/green-bay-packers?id=7e1688b3-f368-5429-8b48-6db40e994ec0; http://www.baltimoresun.com/sports/ravens/ravens-insider/bal-ravens-qa-with-mike-preston-20120125,0,217052.story

30. San Francisco 49ers – Alshon Jeffery, WR, South Carolina: The 49ers will take the best player available on their draft board. However, if they are unable to sign at least one wide receiver in free agency, that position has to become a priority in the draft. Alshon Jeffery of South Carolina seems to have had his draft stock fall this season, but he certainly has the talent of a #1 receiver. 

http://msn.foxsports.com/nfl/story/Biggest-need-is-steady-target49ersLack-of-production-in-playoffs-exposed-SFs-wide-receiver-corps-34425840; http://www.csnbayarea.com/blog/niners-talk/post/49ers-CHAT-NOW-with-Matt-Maiocco?blockID=643492&feedID=5884

31. New England Patriots – Whitney Mercilus, DE/OLB, Illinois: If the Patriots can address defensive end with the first selection in the first round, a 3-4 outside linebacker needs to be their next priority with Kevin Carter coming off of a substantial injury and Mark Anderson set to hit the free market. Whitney Mercilus of Illinois is a talented pass rusher who's skill set translates to standing up in the NFL.

http://bleacherreport.com/articles/1010063-nfl-draft-2012-new-england-patriots-biggest-needs-in-draft#/articles/1010063-nfl-draft-2012-new-england-patriots-biggest-needs-in-draft/page/5; http://boston.sbnation.com/new-england-patriots/2012/1/25/2732129/2012-nfl-draft-new-england-patriots-mark-barron

32. New York Giants – Cordy Glenn, OT/G, Georgia: The Giants were able to mask holes on their offensive line and in their secondary all season. With their secondary returning depth and talent that was lost due to injury, the Giants can focus on their line. Cordy Glenn of Georgia has the versatility to play either right tackle or right guard, both of which the Giants could stand to improve. Given that the Giants take a best player available philosophy under Jerry Reese, a defensive tackle or end would not be surprising given the depth and value at those positions in this year's draft.

http://www.nydailynews.com/sports/football/giants/ny-giants-aim-super-bowl-repeat-questions-jerry-reese-face-2012-article-1.1019587;
http://nygreporter.com/tag/2012-new-york-giants-draft/http://espn.go.com/boston/nfl/story/_/page/reissmailbag-week18/new-england-patriots-mailbag-defense-continues-main-concern

Friday, May 6, 2011

2011 NFL Draft Grades



Grading Scale:
A = Tremendous value for a player who should make an immediate impact.
B = Good value for a player who will immediately play a solid role.
C = Decent player who should contribute.
D = Player of questionable value, ability, character, or fit for team's system.
E = Tremendous reach for a player of questionable ability.

1. Carolina Panthers – Cam Newton, QB, Carolina
GradeD-
Analysis
: Projecting Cam Newton to be your quarterback is a risky proposition. Drafting him with the first overall pick in the draft is utterly insane. Then again, Carolina owner Jerry Richardson is said to the be the one who was enamoured with Newton, so there you go. Quite simply, the 10 - yard out is the bread and butter throw that any starting caliber NFL quarterback must be able to make, and Newton has not demonstrated the ability to make that throw in his workouts, let alone when there are defenders on the field. Now the only question is whether or not the Panthers will take a quarterback three years in a row when they have the first overall pick in next year's draft and Stanford's Andrew Luck is on the board.


2. Denver Broncos – Von Miller, OLB, Texas A and M
Grade: B-
Analysis: I think Von Miller is an elite talent, I just don't think he projects as well in a 4-3 defense as he does in a 3-4. I also question Denver's decision to go with Miller when they are absolutely devoid of talent at the defensive tackle position given their release of starters Jamal Williams and Justin Bannan as they transition from a 3-4 to a 4-3 this season, especially when Nick Fairley and Marcell Dareus were on the board and rated similarly to Miller in terms of draft grade.

3. Buffalo Bills – Marcell Dareus, DT, Alabama
Grade: B
Analysis: While I don't think Dareus is an elite playmaker, he is a solid run stopper that the Bills were in desperate need of on their front seven. I applaud the Bills for resisting the urge to take a quarterback, none of whom were deserving of being selected with a high first round pick in this year's draft. I was going to say that GM Buddy Nix is not necessarily crazy after all, but then his shrink threatened me with legal action if I put that statement in writing.  

4. Cincinnati Bengals – A.J. Green, WR, Georgia
Grade: B
Analysis: Sure, A.J. Green is regarded as an elite talent at wide receiver, but I'm not sure that the Bengals really needed to draft a wide receiver given their other needs and the wealth of talent on the defensive line in this year's draft. Nonetheless, he steps in immediately as a starter following the pending releases of Chad Johnson and Terrell Owens. He just might have to wait a few years until the Bengals find a quarterback who can get him the ball...and no, Andy Dalton is NOT the answer.

5. Arizona Cardinals – Patrick Peterson, CB, LSU
Grade: B+
Analysis: While the Cardinals would have loved an elite 3-4 pass rusher like Von Miller, it is hard to argue with the value of drafting Patrick Peterson, who will team with Dominque Rodgers-Cromartie to give them a dynamic tandem at cornerback. I like the idea of Peterson playing conservative lock down coverage, with the Cardinals letting DRC gamble a little bit, meaning that he either returns an interception for a touchdown or gets burned deep every single play that comes his way.

6. Atlanta (from Cleveland) – Julio Jones, WR, Alabama
Grade: D+
Analysis: Giving up two first round picks, a second round pick, and two fourth round picks for any player is too much, let alone for a risky position like wide receiver. Not only have there been more first round busts at wide receiver than any other position aside from maybe quarterback, but Atlanta just traded away the better part of two entire drafts for Julio Jones...not Calvin Johnson...but Julio Fucking Jones!! With only a handful of picks remaining over the next few years, I was pleased to see that the Falcons still found a way to take a punter in the 6th round. However, since I am only grading first round picks, I am unable to lower their grade any further.

7. San Francisco 49ers – Aldon Smith, OLB/DE, Missouri
Grade: C-
Analysis: A prominent NFL scouting director told me that Aldon Smith has the potential to be one of the biggest busts at DE/OLB since Aaron Maybin of the Buffalo Bills. Robert Quinn not only would have been the safer pick, but he probably would have had more upside. Then again, San Francisco just seems to love taking it up the rear from dudes named "A. Smith."

8. Tennessee Titans – Jake Locker, QB, Washington
Grade: D+
Analysis: Not only are there many questions surrounding Jake Locker's accuracy given his inability to complete passes against competition at the college level, but the Titans made a tremendous reach to draft him without trading down. Sure Washington might have been looking at Locker at the 10th pick, which should've have been the first red flag for Tennessee to go against their draft board and look elsewhere for their quarterback of the future.

9. Dallas Cowboys – Tyron Smith, OT, USC
Grade: B
Analysis: For the first time since the departures of Gil Brandt, Jimmy Johnson and Bill Parcells, Jerry Jones actually made a nice first round pick with value that filled a glaring area of need. He then made up for it by wasting his third round pick on yet another running back.

10. Jacksonville Jaguars (from Washington) – Blaine Gabbert, QB, Missouri
Grade: C-
Analysis: For the life of me I can't figure out why Jacksonville would give up a second round pick in order to select Missouri quarterback Blaine Gabbert. Sure any guy named Blaine will look great in teal and pink during the NFL's breast cancer awareness month (and yes, that IS an indirect Pretty in Pink reference in a sports column), but there are not many people who think that Gabbert will develop into any better of a quarterback than current starter David Garrard. If Jacksonville wanted to reach on a quarterback they should have concentrated on saving their franchise by drafting Florida quarterback Tim Tebow last year. That way they could have secured season ticket orders from Gainesville, FL religious zealot Terry Jones and his three parishioners...which would have only left the Jags only 11,997 tickets short of getting blacked out every week. Speaking of Jesus, when are the Jags going to get it over with and move this franchise to L.A.?

11. Houston Texans – J.J. Watt, DE, Wisconsin
Grade: B
Analysis: Not only was J.J. Watt a nice pick as a 5 technique end in their 3-4 defense, but they took Arizona OLB/DE Brooks Reed in the second round. I would say that this team has an affinity for white dudes, but then I remembered that they took a chance on an undrafted African-American running back who lead the NFL in rushing last year named Arian Foster... 

12. Minnesota Vikings – Christian Ponder, QB, Florida State
Grade: D+
Analysis: So, the Vikings passed on huge positions of need when highly rated players like DT Nick Fairley and DE Robert Quinn were still available and made a big time reach for a weak armed quarterback with a history of arm injuries? While I don't think that Christian Ponder is the man to replace Brett Favre, he is ahead of Favre when it comes to success with the women.

I'd take Christian Ponder's girlfriend over Jenn Sterger any day.
13. Detroit Lions – Nick Fairley, DT, Alabama
Grade: A-
Analysis: When Matt Millen was still the Lions GM, bust worthy wide receivers climbed up draft boards and enticed the Lions into drafting them. In the Martin Mayhew era, game changing defensive tackles just seem to fall from the sky to Detroit. I'm Fairley Suh it all has to do with karma, but maybe lazy and drug addicted wide receivers just naturally gravitate towards mustaches con queso.* In any event the "Silver Rush" of the early 80's just re-emerged as the "Silver Crush."

*A "mustache con queso" is a cheesy mustache
14. St. Louis Rams – Robert Quinn, DE, North Carolina
Grade: A-
Analysis: While the Rams have a history of wasting high first round picks on defensive linemen, this time I actually like this pick. You use your high first round picks on swift rush ends, not stiff base ends like Chris Long and Adam Carriker...Awww, somebody is learning!

15. Miami Dolphins – Mike Pouncey, G/C, Florida
Grade: B-
Analysis: Mike Pouncey was able to capitalize on the success that his twin brother had with the Pittsburgh Steelers as an All Pro guard in his rookie season, much like Charlie O'Connell parlayed being Jerry O'Connell's less successful twin brother into a gig as ABC's "The Bachelor." Oh wait, that's not exactly a compliment.

16. Washington Pigskins (from Jacksonville) - Ryan Kerrigan, DE/OLB, Purdue
Grade: B
Analysis: Cheers for trading back and getting a much needed second round pick to go along with a much needed 3-4 pass rusher. Jeers for insisting to any NFL insider who would listen that Rex Grossman really will be your quarterback this season, and then following up on it by not drafting ANY quarterbacks.

17. New England Patriots (from Oakland) – Nate Solder, OT, Colorado
Grade: B
Analysis: This was a solid pick at a position of need by the Patriots, but I question why they decided to go with Nate Solder instead of Anthony Castonzo, who was graded higher by most scouts and draft analysts. Could it be because they knew Solder was coveted by their rivals in Indianapolis? The Patriots have such an inferiority complex, I'm pretty sure that Tom Brady would hit on Peyton Manning's wife and jeopardize his relationship with supermodel Gisele Bundchen if thought he could get under his skin and piss him off.

18. San Diego Chargers – Corey Liuget, DT, Illinois
Grade: B-
Analysis: Corey Liuget of Illinois a fairly solid pick by the Chargers at the 18th selection. I just question whether a nose tackle like Phil Taylor of Baylor would have been a better fit than Liuget, who is probably better suited to play DT in a 4-3 defense, especially when Cameron Jordan clearly projects as the better end in a 3-4. Then again, it's all part of A.J. Smith's master plan to avoid playing in the Super Bowl at any cost.

19. New York Giants – Prince Amukamara, CB, Nebraska
Grade: B+
Analysis: The Giants received tremendous value in Nebraska cornerback Prince Amukamara falling to them at the 19th pick. I wanted to grade this pick a little higher, but Amukmara is yet to show that he's an elite playmaker with ball skills. Still a good pick though, "Crazy Carl" would be proud. 



20. Tampa Bay Buccaneers – Adrian Clayborn, DE, Iowa
Grade: B
Analysis: While I think Adrian Clayborn is a decent player, he's not exactly the elite pass rusher that most analysts thought the Bucs should take in the first round. Fortunately, they got a Mulligan and were able to draft Da'Quan Bowers of Clemson in the second round.

21. Cleveland Browns (from Kansas City) – Phil Taylor, DT, Baylor
Grade: A
Analysis: While Phil Taylor doesn't exactly blow me away, he's a solid player considering the Browns acquired him in addition to the astonishing 1st, 2nd and two 4th round picks that they received in return for trading the 6th overall pick to the Atlanta Falcons for the 27th pick. I'm just surprised that the Browns didn't give up all of those extra picks when they traded with Kansas City for the 21st selection given their history of getting abused whenever they try to move up in the draft.

22. Indianapolis Colts – Anthony Castanzo, OT, Boston College
Grade: A-
Analysis: Not only did Indy address a glaring need on their offensive line, but they probably got the best value available on their draft board with Anthony Castonzo falling to them at the 22nd pick. Fortunately for Colts fans, Bill Polian is not Bill Tobin.


Sadly, the video of Kiper's original exchange with Tobin could not be located, but this video is worth watching if for no other reason than the classic snarky shot that ESPN anchor Keith Olbermann takes at Tobin at the end of his rant.


23. Philadelphia Eagles - Danny Watkins, C, Baylor
Grade: C+
Analysis: The Eagles can certainly use some help on their offensive line, although Watkins may have been a slight reach this early in the draft, especially when Gabe Carimi was still on the board. Given Watkins background as a firefighter and his visits to "ground zero" and the NYFD while he was in New York for the draft, I have to think that "Fireman Ed" was hoping that he'd go to his J-E-T-S!



I'm pretty sure that Danny Watkins was drafted by the wrong team. Leave it to the city of Philadelphia to mess up fate.

24. New Orleans Saints – Cameron Jordan, DE, Cal
Grade: A-
Analysis: Not only does he fill a position of need for the Saints at defensive end, and not only is he versatile enough to move inside on passing downs much like Mike Hargrove, but some draft analysts thought he could have been a top ten pick. I'm just surprised that Mickey Loomis didn't turn in a draft card for Jordan Cameron, the TE - Southern California instead of Cameron Jordan, the DE out of California after after he foolishly overpayed to move back into the first round and select Mark Ingram, Jr.

25. Seattle Seahawks – James Carpenter, OT, Alabama
Grade: D+
Analysis: This pick was an incredible reach by the Seahawks. I'm not a big fan of drafting offensive linemen who can only play right tackle in the first round. If Seattle's target really was Alabama tackle James Carpenter over someone like the more highly regarded Gabe Carimi, I would have suggested trading down to the top of the third round where most analysts projected him to go. At the very least, the Seahawks should have made tentative arrangements for a trade with Chicago in order to allow them to pass on a couple of draft slots and save a few bucks.

26. Kansas City Chiefs – Jonathan Baldwin, WR, Pittsburgh
Grade: C
Analysis: The Chiefs made nice moves in picking up an extra 3rd round pick by moving back from the 21st spot to the 27th pick, and then by moving up one spot from the 27th pick to the 26th when Baltimore failed to turn in their selection within the allotted time. Unfortunately, Kansas City reached to take Pittsburgh receiver Jonathan Baldwin, who will compliment Dwayne Bowe perfectly when it comes to big athletic receivers who lack focus and work ethic (see Detroit Lions, 2003-2005).


27. Baltimore Ravens – Jimmy Smith, CB, Colorado
Grade: C
Analysis: While the Ravens looked foolish when their time on the clock expired and Kansas City leap-frogged them to take the 26th pick, it was actually because Chicago GM Jerry Angelo failed to report a trade where the Ravens would have traded down to the 29th pick. In any event, it looks like the Ravens got the player they were targeting in cornerback Jimmy Smith, who fills an immediate need in their secondary, although Ravens did miss out on the 4th round pick that Chicago had agreed to trade them in order to move up (more on this below).

28. New Orleans Saints (from New England) – Mark Ingram, Jr., RB, Alabama
Grade: D
Analysis: Note on how not to manage the draft - don't trade your second round pick and a first round pick the following season in order to trade back into the first round for a running back who not only was projected to fall to the second round, but has a skill set that is nearly identical to the undrafted tailback you already have.

29. Chicago Bears - Gabe Carimi, OT, Wisconsin
Grade: B+
Analysis: The Bears stayed at the 29th pick and got the offensive tackle that they targeted in Gabe Carimi. Of course, Bears GM Jerry Angelo actually tried to trade their 4th round pick in order to move up with with Baltimore to get him three spots earlier, but admittedly botched that trade when he failed to report it to the league while the Ravens were still on the clock. While this whole scenario reeks of the Bears mismanaging their team's war room, I guess I can't downgrade a team when their mistake actually netted them the same player that they were targeting and saved them a 4th round pick. Then again, Baltimore still might be seeking compensation from the Bears for that mistake.

30. New York Jets – Muhammad Wikerson, DE/DT, Temple
Grade: B
Analysis: Muhammad Wilkerson is a solid pick who will fit the 3-4 defensive system that Rex Ryan runs. Sadly, I long for the days when the Jets botched their first round pick on an annual basis.


31. Pittsburgh Steelers – Cameron Heyward, DE, Ohio State
Grade: B
Analysis: Cameron Heyward was a solid pick this late in the first round, as he fills one of several positions of need for the Steelers. Bonus points for bringing the son of former NFL star Craig "Ironhead" Heyward to the "Steel City." I already see an endorsement deal for him with Iron City Brewery. Draftees can technically endorse alcohol if there's a lockout, right?

32. Green Bay Packers – Derek Sherrod, OT, Missippi State
Grade: B
Analysis: Coincidence or not? The Detroit Lions picked Nick Fairley to pair with Ndamukong Suh (who knocked Aaron Rodgers out of their game last season with a concussion), and the Packers proceeded to draft additional help for their offensive line with Mississippi State's Derek Sherrod. Maybe it was just a coincidence, but the Packers did refuse to trade down three spots into the top of the second round for an additional mid round pick from Cincinnati (who wanted to secure Andy Dalton) because they feared that either New England or Buffalo would draft Sherrod. Sherrod may not start right away, but he will provide Green Bay with some much needed depth and peace of mind at tackle until he does.


And with the draft over and a pending lockout, here's to next year's football season!