2011 NFL Mock Draft Round 1: Where Will Mark Ingram Land?
First off, I would like to apologize for abandoning my goal of putting out a weekly mock draft. I felt as though few changes would happen in a span of seven days.
Instead, I will be going with every two weeks in order to make things a little more interesting for you all.
With a little over five months remaining, teams are already getting their boards ready for whom they'll be looking at in the first round.
We already know who will likely be picking in the top three, and who will be towards the end of the first round.
The only things left unknown are which players go where, what round and with what pick in said round.
And with the first pick in the 2011 draft, the Buffalo Bills select...
1. Buffalo Bills (0-7): Andrew Luck, Quarterback, Stanford
1 of 32
Height: 6'4"
Weight: 235 lbs.
40 time: 4.76
Stock: No. 1 pick
The Buffalo Bills may be having better days with Ryan Fitzpatrick as of right now, but there is absolutely no way he can take the entire offense under his wing for years to come.
Andrew Luck has been compared to future Hall-of-Famer Peyton Manning, which should be enough reason to take him to begin with.
The Bills will take what Sam Bradford has done with the Rams into serious consideration. Andrew Luck can have the same success with Buffalo.
2. Carolina Panthers (1-6): A.J. Green, Wide Receiver, Georgia
2 of 32
Height: 6'4"
Weight: 212 lbs.
40 time: 4.49
Stock: Top five pick
Nobody anticipated Carolina being that good, yet few people thought they would be doing this poorly. I figured Matt Moore would have a breakout season with the Panthers.
With Jimmy Clausen likely being the future of the Panthers, Carolina needs weapons to surround the former Fighting Irish quarterback.
Calvin Johnson went second overall with the Lions in 2007 and has had great success. A.J. Green could be looking at the same future in the NFL.
3. Dallas Cowboys (1-6): Marcell Dareus, Defensive Lineman, Alabama
3 of 32
Height: 6'3"
Weight: 309 lbs.
40 time: 4.95
Stock: Top 10 pick
I stated several weeks ago that I guaranteed the Cowboys wouldn't be picking top 10, but I'm starting to regret my words.
The Cowboys have been awful against the run this year, which is due to a defensive line that lacks any dominant figure.
Marcell Dareus could be a slight reach here, but he's definitely the best 3-4 defensive end in the draft this year.
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4. Denver Broncos (2-6): Nick Fairley, Defensive Lineman, Auburn
4 of 32
Height: 6'4"
Weight: 298 lbs.
40 time: 4.93
Stock: Top 10 pick
Despite signing both Jamal Williams and Justin Bannan this offseason, the Denver Broncos are struggling terribly against the run.
Currently ranked 31st versus the run, Denver's defensive line is in a world of trouble. It allowed not only one, but four touchdowns to Darren McFadden.
Nick Fairley would be a wonderful fit for the Broncos 3-4 defensive scheme at defensive end.
5. San Francisco 49ers (2-6): Patrick Peterson, Cornerback, LSU
5 of 32
Height: 6'1"
Weight: 222 lbs.
40 time: 4.42
Stock: Top three pick
The San Francisco 49ers have been lackluster against the pass all year, giving up over 231 yards per game.
Even though quarterback might be a bigger need, I don't believe the 49ers will gamble on Jake Locker this early in the draft.
Patrick Peterson is an extremely talented cornerback, who could easily go in the top three picks.
6. Cleveland Browns (2-5): Allen Bailey, Defensive Lineman, Miami
6 of 32
Height: 6'4"
Weight: 288 lbs.
40 time: 4.79
Stock: Top 15 pick
With A.J. Green off the board, I believe the Browns will focus on rebuilding their below-average defensive line.
Shawn Rogers is nearing the end of his career, and he hasn't exactly been top-notch over the last couple years.
Allen Bailey would be a slight reach here, but Cleveland needs to find a stud 3-4 defensive end that can get to the quarterback.
7. Detroit Lions (2-5): Prince Amukamara, Cornerback, Nebraska
7 of 32
Height: 6'0"
Weight: 200 lbs.
40 time: 4.49
Stock: Top five pick
Detroit made two great selections within the first two rounds last year, and I don't see why it can't do the same in 2011.
The Lions, currently ranked 19th against the pass, could use a young cornerback to pair along with either Chris Houston or Alphonso Smith.
It may not be the most logical pick for Detroit, but Alphonso Smith often struggles with consistency. Prince may be too good to pass up on with the seventh pick.
8. Cincinnati Bengals (2-5): Da'Quan Bowers, Defensive End, Clemson
8 of 32
Height: 6'4"
Weight: 275 lbs.
40 time: 4.64
Stock: Top 15 pick
Cincinnati is currently having a terrible year after making the playoffs in 2010. Most of its struggles are because of their poor defensive play.
The Bengals are currently ranked 23rd against the run this year, giving up slightly over 120 yards per contest.
Da'Quan Bowers would fill a big need at defensive end for Cincinnati. I don't foresee Carlos Dunlap being the future for their D-line.
9. Minnesota Vikings (2-5): Adrian Clayborn, Defensive End, Iowa
9 of 32
Height: 6'3"
Weight: 286 lbs.
40 time: 4.79
Stock: Top 10 pick
This could be a dream pick for the Minnesota Vikings if they end up picking in the top 10. Many Vikings fans will want Jake Locker or Ryan Mallett, but it won't be happening.
However, the Vikings will likely look towards a quarterback in the second round. Christian Ponder would be a great pick if he's available.
With Ray Edwards almost a lock to leave in free agency, Adrian Clayborn would be the new defensive end on the opposite side of Jared Allen.
10. San Diego Chargers (3-5): Julio Jones, Wide Receiver, Alabama
10 of 32
Height: 6'4"
Weight: 220 lbs.
40 time: 4.49
Stock: Top 15 pick
San Diego hasn't had a tough time throwing the ball, obviously, but with Vincent Jackson likely leaving through free agency this offseason, the Chargers will need a new No. 1 receiver.
Malcom Floyd has had a solid season this year, but he's always been injured for a couple games. San Diego shouldn't stick with Floyd as their second option behind Antonio Gates.
Julio Jones may go after A.J. Green, but he may have the better career of the two because of the quarterback who's throwing him the ball.
11. Arizona Cardinals (3-4): Robert Quinn, Hybrid Linebacker, North Carolina
11 of 32
Height: 6'5"
Weight: 268 lbs.
40 time: 4.64
Stock: Top five pick
The reason I have Robert Quinn's stock in the top five is because of his talent alone. Despite being out his entire junior year, Quinn is extremely talented.
At the combine, Quinn will be able to elevate himself into the top 10. With that said, many teams might pass on him if they don't believe he's ready for the pro level.
With the Cardinals having a terrible pass rush, Robert Quinn makes the most sense for their squad.
12. Jacksonville Jaguars (4-4): Brandon Harris, Cornerback, Miami
12 of 32
Height: 5'11"
Weight: 195 lbs.
40 time: 4.45
Stock: Top 20 pick
The Jaguars secondary is currently ranked 28th against the pass this year, which should lead to Jacksonville taking a defensive back in the first round.
Derek Cox will no longer cut it as a starter any longer. Their depth situation is also a cause for concern.
Brandon Harris' stock is quickly rising, which will propel him to the first half of the first round.
13. New England Patriots From Oakland (4-4): Mark Ingram, Running Back, Alabama
13 of 32
Height: 5'10"
Weight: 215 lbs.
40 time: 4.48
Stock: Top 15 pick
Despite the recent success of BenJarvus Green-Ellis, I don't see how he'll be the future back for the New England Patriots.
The Patriots may start leaning on the running game more next season if they can get Mark Ingram, which would be the wise choice.
Ingram, last year's Heisman Trophy winner, would make the Patriots offense unstoppable if he can play the way he has this year with the Crimson Tide.
14. Washington Redskins (4-4): Ryan Mallett, Quarterback, Arkansas
14 of 32
Height: 6'6"
Weight: 238 lbs.
40 time: 5.12
Stock: Top 10 pick
Washington's problems this year cannot all be put upon Donovan McNabb, but there's clearly trouble between Mike Shanahan and McNabb.
Donovan was benched in the fourth quarter in favor of Rex Grossman. Yeah, the guy who led the Bears to a Super Bowl somehow.
Ryan Mallett is a top 10 talent that will likely slip down to the middle of the first or so. He should become the instant future of Washington's offense.
15. St. Louis Rams (4-4): Jonathan Baldwin, Wide Receiver, Pittsburgh
15 of 32
Height: 6'5"
Weight: 225 lbs.
40 time: 4.48
Stock: Top 20 pick
St. Louis is clearly a much improved team, but the one thing it certainly lacks is a definite No. 1 wide receiver.
Danario Alexander, Donnie Avery and Mark Clayton as a trio won't scare many defenses next year. Adding a 6'5" stud to the mix could spice things up.
Baldwin would instantly become the new favorite target for Rookie of the Year favorite, Sam Bradford.
16. Chicago Bears (4-3): Ryan Kerrigan, Defensive End, Purdue
16 of 32
Height: 6'4"
Weight: 263 lbs.
40 time: 4.82
Stock: Top 15 pick
Chicago made an excellent choice in picking up Julius Peppers during free agency, but it has a huge need on the opposite end.
Israel Idonije is having a decent year, but Bears fans can't truly expect that to last much longer.
The Bears have already been linked to Kerrigan in the past, and they should go with him in the first round.
17. Seattle Seahawks (4-3): Janoris Jenkins, Cornerback, Florida
17 of 32
Height: 5'1"
Weight: 186 lbs.
40 time: 4.52
Stock: Top 20 pick
The Seahawks have several needs that they could look towards fixing with this pick, but one main problem that's always inconsistent is their secondary.
Currently ranked 29th against the pass, Seattle is constantly getting torched through the air. They need to solve this problem.
Janoris Jenkins is a prospect quickly on the rise. He would be a huge factor in turning around Seattle's secondary.
18. Philadelphia Eagles (4-3): Aaron Williams, Cornerback, Texas
18 of 32
Height: 6'1"
Weight: 192 lbs.
40 time: 4.49
Stock: Top 20 pick
The Eagles has been decent this year, but they lack quality starters in a few areas. Cornerback is one of those areas that could use fixing.
Asante Samuel is a tremendous cornerback, but can you name the cornerback on the opposite side of the field?
Aaron Williams is one of the bigger cornerbacks eligible for the 2011 draft. Williams could potentially make the Eagles top five against the pass next season.
19. Miami Dolphins (4-3): Ras-I Dowling, Defensive Back, Virginia
19 of 32
Height: 6'2"
Weight: 200 lbs.
40 time: 4.54
Stock: Top 25 pick
The Dolphins secondary is currently ranked 12th against the pass, but Jason Allen has seriously cooled down after his hot start this season.
Miami could either reach for Ryan Williams with this pick, or it can choose to add depth in their secondary.
Ras-I Dowling has the ability to play either cornerback or safety, but he's listed as a cornerback on most sites.
20. Houston Texans (4-3): Michael Floyd, Wide Receiver, Notre Dame
20 of 32
Height: 6'3"
Weight: 220 lbs.
40 time: 4.52
Stock: Top 25 pick
Matt Schaub has been very solid this year, but it's extremely likely that he would be having an MVP-like season if he had another receiver to throw to.
Kevin Walter is one of the most inconsistent players in the NFL, and he may end up being traded or cut in the offseason.
Michael Floyd is a tremendous receiver, but he has trouble with injuries quite often. It's a wonder if Houston will make the risk.
21. Tennessee Titans (5-3): Travis Lewis, Outside Linebacker, Oklahoma
21 of 32
Height: 6'2"
Weight: 232 lbs.
40 time: 4.53
Stock: Top 25 pick
A big area of need that makes sense for the Titans. Travis Lewis is the best player available, and he will fit in nicely with a youthful Tennessee defense.
Jamie Winborn, Will Witherspoon and Gerald McRath make up the Titans current starting linebackers. Not very sexy is it?
Travis Lewis has the potential to be an immediate starter for Tennessee.
22. Green Bay Packers (5-3): Derek Sherrod, Offensive Tackle, Mississippi State
22 of 32
Height: 6'5"
Weight: 305 lbs.
40 time: 5.22
Stock: Top 20 pick
Best player available for the Packers yet again. Many Green Bay fans will hate this pick because they selected an offensive tackle in the first round last year.
Chad Clifton will be 35 years of age soon, and he will likely hang up the cleats for good within the next couple of years.
Derek Sherrod is on the rise, quickly, and would make the Green Bay Packers line a dominant force for Aaron Rodgers to throw behind.
23. New Orleans Saints (5-3): Bruce Carter, Outside Linebacker, North Carolina
23 of 32
Height: 6'3"
Weight: 230 lbs.
40 time: 4.57
Stock: Top 25 pick
The Saints were intending on taking Jerry Hughes in the first round last year before the Colts took him one pick prior.
New Orleans' defense is usually solid, but it could use some improvements in a couple key areas.
The Saints have several options at linebacker that they could look at here, but I feel Bruce Carter would be the best choice.
24. Tampa Bay Buccaneers (5-2): Justin Houston, Defensive End, Georgia
24 of 32
Height: 6'3"
Weight: 260 lbs.
40 time: 4.73
Stock: Top 30 pick
The Buccaneers will have Brian Price and Gerald McCoy starting on the defensive line for years to come, but who will be at either defensive end spot?
Alex Magee has potential, but Tampa Bay won't know how good he is until he hits the field.
Justin Houston may be undersized, however, he's a sack machine. He would be a great pick for the Buccaneers.
25. New York Giants (5-2): Kyle Rudolph, Tight End, Notre Dame
25 of 32
Height: 6'6"
Weight: 260 lbs.
40 time: 4.64
Stock: Late first, early second
The New York Giants have had a great season thus far on both sides of the ball, but they could be doing even better if they had a talented tight end to throw to.
Kevin Boss has been told to focus more on blocking this year, so it's safe to say that he won't be catching many balls for the time being.
Kyle Rudolph is by far the best tight end in the draft, and would be a stellar pick for New York.
26. Kansas City Chiefs (5-2): Akeem Ayers, Hybrid Linebacker, UCLA
26 of 32
Height: 6'4"
Weight: 254 lbs.
40 time: 4.68
Stock: Top 25 pick
The Chiefs, obviously much improved, have looked great so far but still have a few holes on both offense and defense.
Tamba Hali has been as great as ever, but they lack a strong pass-rusher on the opposite side.
Akeem Ayers is a great pass-rusher that will make the Chiefs defense even better.
27. Indianapolis Colts (5-2): Joseph Barksdale, Offensive Tackle, LSU
27 of 32
Height: 6'5"
Weight: 318 lbs.
40 time: 5.26
Stock: late first
The Colts are picking late in the first round, as is almost always the case. This time I have them going for an offensive lineman.
Charlie Johnson is scheduled to be a free agent in 2011, and there's a good chance he won't be retained.
If Johnson is let go, Joseph Barksdale could be his potential replacement.
28. New York Jets (5-2): Von Miller, Hybrid Linebacker, Texas A&M
28 of 32
Height: 6'2"
Weight: 232 lbs.
40 time: 4.56
Stock: Top 25 pick
The New York Jets defense is usually a force to be reckoned with, but they could use improvements at rush-linebacker.
Jason Taylor will retire after the end of this year, especially if the Jets win the Super Bowl.
Von Miller is a tremendous hybrid linebacker that would become an instant starter for the Jets. Goodbye, Vernon Gholston.
29. Baltimore Ravens (5-2): Anthony Castonzo, Offensive Tackle, Boston College
29 of 32
Height: 6'7"
Weight: 308 lbs.
40 time: 5.06
Stock: Late first
The Ravens haven't been able to run the ball as effectively as they did last year, which is likely because Jared Gaither has been injured all year long.
Baltimore needs to find a replacement for Gaither, who will likely be on a different team in 2011.
Anthony Castonzo, a huge offensive tackle, will be a great fit for the Ravens.
30. Pittsburgh Steelers (5-2): Brandon Burton, Cornerback, Utah
30 of 32
Height: 6'0"
Weight: 185 lbs.
40 time: 4.49
Stock: Late first, early second
The Steelers have a smashmouth defense, but they need to find a replacement for the struggling Bryant McFadden.
Pittsburgh often times goes for the best player available, but that won't be the case this time around.
Brandon Burton is a cornerback on the rise, who could even go higher than pick 30.
31. Atlanta Falcons (5-2): Cameron Heyward, Defensive Lineman, Ohio State
31 of 32
Height: 6'5"
Weight: 285 lbs.
40 time: 4.92
Stock: Top 25 pick
The Falcons' main problem is their secondary, but there really isn't a player worth taking late in the first round to fix that problem.
John Abraham is near the end of his career, so Atlanta will need to look for depth or a potential future replacement.
Cameron Heyward might be a better fit for a 3-4, but he can definitely play in a 4-3 if needed.
32. New England Patriots (6-1): Greg Jones, Outside Linebacker, Michigan State
32 of 32
Height: 6'1"
Weight: 235 lbs.
40 time: 4.64
Stock: Early second
The Patriots are great at finding talent, so Greg Jones could very well end up being a star in the future.
New England's pass rush has been fairly pedestrian all season longer, so it'll be looking for some pass-rushers in the 2011 draft.
Greg Jones may be a target for the Ravens in the first round, but that might be a tad early. Nonetheless, he'll be a great fit for New England.
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