2011 NFL Mock Draft: Projecting All 32 1st-Round Picks with Plenty of Surprises
By on February 22, 2011
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The 2011 NFL Draft is now two months away, and with the NFL Combine set to begin, players are going to rocket up draft boards while others will slide off the big board. Some will even fall out of the first round completely despite being there the whole time.
It seems people have finally been listening to me on the quarterback front, as only two or three are now going in the first round on most boards. The defensive linemen remain the cream of the crop, but the cornerback class could be nearly as good, with players rocketing up the draft on that front.
As for what specific players are going where, I will be looking at that below, as I go through every selection in the first round to figure out which teams are going to pick which players. Some are no-brainers, while some will make you think, "what is wrong with that guy?"
Remember that sometimes teams make picks that do not make sense, so the latter could very well happen in the actual NFL draft. For your last stop before we hit the NFL combine, here is the first-round mock version of the 2011 NFL Draft.
1. Carolina: Nick Fairley, DT | 17. New England: Aldon Smith, DE/OLB |
2. Denver: Da'Quan Bowers, DE | 18. San Diego: Corey Liuget, DT |
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3. Buffalo: Patrick Peterson, CB | 19. New York Giants: Nate Solder, OT |
4. Cincinnati: A.J. Green, WR | 20. Tampa Bay: J.J. Watt, DE |
5. Arizona: Robert Quinn, DE | 21. Kansas City: Stephen Paea, DT |
6. Cleveland: Marcell Dareus, DT | 22. Indianapolis: Anthony Castonzo, OT |
7. San Francisco: Von Miller, DE/OLB | 23. Philadelphia: Gabe Carimi, OT |
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8. Tennessee: Blaine Gabbert, QB | 24. New Orleans: Justin Houston, OLB |
9. Dallas: Prince Amukamara, CB | 25. Seattle : Mike Pouncey, G |
10. Washington: Cam Newton, QB | 26. Baltimore: Aaron Williams, CB |
11. Houston: Ryan Kerrigan, DE | 27. Atlanta: Cameron Heyward, DE |
12. Minnesota: Cameron Jordan, DE | 28. New England: Torrey Smith, WR |
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13. Detroit: Akeem Ayers, OLB | 29. Chicago: Ben Ijalana, OT |
14. St. Louis: Julio Jones, WR | 30. New York Jets: Phil Taylor, DT |
15. Miami: Mark Ingram, RB | 31. Pittsburgh: Brandon Harris, CB |
16. Jacksonville: Jimmy Smith, CB | 32. Green Bay: Adrian Clayborn, DE |
For complete draft coverage, check out our NFL Draft Hub. For a look at a video mock draft, check out All 32 Selections With Video Highlights.
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Green Bay Packers End First Round With Selection of Adrian Clayborn
The scary thing about the Packers winning the Super Bowl is that they were so injury-riddled that they will be a much better team in 2011. Any holes in their lineup will be filled by returning players. Nonetheless, the Packers still have to wrap up the first round.
Picking either an offensive or defensive lineman is the smart move, as you cannot really have too many of those. If Adrian Clayborn were to actually fall this far, then they'll jump at the opportunity to acquire him.
Clayborn has a lot of ability that we've seen out of Iowa, but there are some issues. If there's one guy that can straighten any issues Clayborn has out though, it's Dom Capers. Then could end up being a steal, and even if he's a bust, the Packers can work around that.
1. Carolina: Nick Fairley, DT | 17. New England: Aldon Smith, DE/OLB |
2. Denver: Da'Quan Bowers, DE | 18. San Diego: Corey Liuget, DT |
3. Buffalo: Patrick Peterson, CB | 19. New York Giants: Nate Solder, OT |
4. Cincinnati: A.J. Green, WR | 20. Tampa Bay: J.J. Watt, DE |
5. Arizona: Robert Quinn, DE | 21. Kansas City: Stephen Paea, DT |
6. Cleveland: Marcell Dareus, DT | 22. Indianapolis: Anthony Castonzo, OT |
7. San Francisco: Von Miller, DE/OLB | 23. Philadelphia: Gabe Carimi, OT |
8. Tennessee: Blaine Gabbert, QB | 24. New Orleans: Justin Houston, OLB |
9. Dallas: Prince Amukamara, CB | 25. Seattle : Mike Pouncey, G |
10. Washington: Cam Newton, QB | 26. Baltimore: Aaron Williams, CB |
11. Houston: Ryan Kerrigan, DE | 27. Atlanta: Cameron Heyward, DE |
12. Minnesota: Cameron Jordan, DE | 28. New England: Torrey Smith, WR |
13. Detroit: Akeem Ayers, OLB | 29. Chicago: Ben Ijalana, OT |
14. St. Louis: Julio Jones, WR | 30. New York Jets: Phil Taylor, DT |
15. Miami: Mark Ingram, RB | 31. Pittsburgh: Brandon Harris, CB |
16. Jacksonville: Jimmy Smith, CB | 32. Green Bay: Adrian Clayborn, DE |
For complete draft coverage, check out our NFL Draft Hub. For a look at a video mock draft, check out All 32 Selections With Video Highlights.
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Pittsburgh Steelers Address Cornerback Issue, Select Brandon Harris
It seemed that in earlier mock drafts, Brandon Harris was an earlier first-round pick, but he has since fallen into the second round. Nonetheless, Harris is a diamond in the rough that will be watched closely by teams at the end of the round.
Harris has an ideal size and speed combination for the cornerback position, and has produced well at Miami. The Pittsburgh Steelers don't have a cornerback group that strikes fear in the same way that the rest of the defense does, so they need someone who can do just that.
With many tackles for loss at Miami, Harris has no problem making the hard tackles, and he would be a great fit n Pittsburgh. Only person he's had a problem defending in college is Michael Floyd, and he's going back to school anyway.
1. Carolina: Nick Fairley, DT | 17. New England: Aldon Smith, DE/OLB |
2. Denver: Da'Quan Bowers, DE | 18. San Diego: Corey Liuget, DT |
3. Buffalo: Patrick Peterson, CB | 19. New York Giants: Nate Solder, OT |
4. Cincinnati: A.J. Green, WR | 20. Tampa Bay: J.J. Watt, DE |
5. Arizona: Robert Quinn, DE | 21. Kansas City: Stephen Paea, DT |
6. Cleveland: Marcell Dareus, DT | 22. Indianapolis: Anthony Castonzo, OT |
7. San Francisco: Von Miller, DE/OLB | 23. Philadelphia: Gabe Carimi, OT |
8. Tennessee: Blaine Gabbert, QB | 24. New Orleans: Justin Houston, OLB |
9. Dallas: Prince Amukamara, CB | 25. Seattle : Mike Pouncey, G |
10. Washington: Cam Newton, QB | 26. Baltimore: Aaron Williams, CB |
11. Houston: Ryan Kerrigan, DE | 27. Atlanta: Cameron Heyward, DE |
12. Minnesota: Cameron Jordan, DE | 28. New England: Torrey Smith, WR |
13. Detroit: Akeem Ayers, OLB | 29. Chicago: Ben Ijalana, OT |
14. St. Louis: Julio Jones, WR | 30. New York Jets: Phil Taylor, DT |
15. Miami: Mark Ingram, RB | 31. Pittsburgh: Brandon Harris, CB |
16. Jacksonville: Jimmy Smith, CB | 32. Green Bay: Adrian Clayborn, DE |
For complete draft coverage, check out our NFL Draft Hub. For a look at a video mock draft, check out All 32 Selections With Video Highlights.
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New York Jets Fill Middle with Phil Taylor of Baylor
With how Kris Jenkins has been declining of late, the Jets need some interiot help if they want to make another playoff push as deep as they did last season.
Their best option is likely Phil Taylor of Baylor, whose size is being noticed as he slides up the draft boards. He has good footwork, and at well over 300 pounds is going to prevent holes from being made just by being on the field.
Having Taylor fill in for Jenkins in the middle would go a long way in keeping the Jets competitive in the AFC. Muhammad Wilkerson is a possibility on draft day if they want someone who can be a defensive end as well.
1. Carolina: Nick Fairley, DT | 17. New England: Aldon Smith, DE/OLB |
2. Denver: Da'Quan Bowers, DE | 18. San Diego: Corey Liuget, DT |
3. Buffalo: Patrick Peterson, CB | 19. New York Giants: Nate Solder, OT |
4. Cincinnati: A.J. Green, WR | 20. Tampa Bay: J.J. Watt, DE |
5. Arizona: Robert Quinn, DE | 21. Kansas City: Stephen Paea, DT |
6. Cleveland: Marcell Dareus, DT | 22. Indianapolis: Anthony Castonzo, OT |
7. San Francisco: Von Miller, DE/OLB | 23. Philadelphia: Gabe Carimi, OT |
8. Tennessee: Blaine Gabbert, QB | 24. New Orleans: Justin Houston, OLB |
9. Dallas: Prince Amukamara, CB | 25. Seattle : Mike Pouncey, G |
10. Washington: Cam Newton, QB | 26. Baltimore: Aaron Williams, CB |
11. Houston: Ryan Kerrigan, DE | 27. Atlanta: Cameron Heyward, DE |
12. Minnesota: Cameron Jordan, DE | 28. New England: Torrey Smith, WR |
13. Detroit: Akeem Ayers, OLB | 29. Chicago: Ben Ijalana, OT |
14. St. Louis: Julio Jones, WR | 30. New York Jets: Phil Taylor, DT |
15. Miami: Mark Ingram, RB | 31. Pittsburgh: Brandon Harris, CB |
16. Jacksonville: Jimmy Smith, CB | 32. Green Bay: Adrian Clayborn, DE |
For complete draft coverage, check out our NFL Draft Hub. For a look at a video mock draft, check out All 32 Selections With Video Highlights.
Chicago Bears Bolster Offensive Line, Pick Ben Ijalana
The Chicago Bears are looking closely at the various offensive lineman available at this time in the draft, as there are a few first or second-round quality tackles that are ripe for the taking.
The player that the Bears end up selecting might be a surprise, but as Ben Ijalana continues to rise up the draft boards and as more people look at him, it makes a lot of sense.
The big man out of Villanova is a versatile fit who could absolutely be a day one starter on Chicago's line, and while the competition he faced was not as tough as other lineman, he has clearly shown that he can take his talents to the NFL.
1. Carolina: Nick Fairley, DT | 17. New England: Aldon Smith, DE/OLB |
2. Denver: Da'Quan Bowers, DE | 18. San Diego: Corey Liuget, DT |
3. Buffalo: Patrick Peterson, CB | 19. New York Giants: Nate Solder, OT |
4. Cincinnati: A.J. Green, WR | 20. Tampa Bay: J.J. Watt, DE |
5. Arizona: Robert Quinn, DE | 21. Kansas City: Stephen Paea, DT |
6. Cleveland: Marcell Dareus, DT | 22. Indianapolis: Anthony Castonzo, OT |
7. San Francisco: Von Miller, DE/OLB | 23. Philadelphia: Gabe Carimi, OT |
8. Tennessee: Blaine Gabbert, QB | 24. New Orleans: Justin Houston, OLB |
9. Dallas: Prince Amukamara, CB | 25. Seattle : Mike Pouncey, G |
10. Washington: Cam Newton, QB | 26. Baltimore: Aaron Williams, CB |
11. Houston: Ryan Kerrigan, DE | 27. Atlanta: Cameron Heyward, DE |
12. Minnesota: Cameron Jordan, DE | 28. New England: Torrey Smith, WR |
13. Detroit: Akeem Ayers, OLB | 29. Chicago: Ben Ijalana, OT |
14. St. Louis: Julio Jones, WR | 30. New York Jets: Phil Taylor, DT |
15. Miami: Mark Ingram, RB | 31. Pittsburgh: Brandon Harris, CB |
16. Jacksonville: Jimmy Smith, CB | 32. Green Bay: Adrian Clayborn, DE |
For complete draft coverage, check out our NFL Draft Hub. For a look at a video mock draft, check out All 32 Selections With Video Highlights.
In Surprise Move, New England Patriots Draft Torrey Smith out of Maryland
The Patriots need draft help on the defensive side of the ball. If they're going to select an offensive player, then it should be on the line, since Logan Mankins will certainly be gone after next year.
Despite this, here's a shocker in the draft: the Patriots will see that Atlanta passed on Torrey Smith and will draft him for themselves.The only way to improve the passing game is to get a deep ball threat, like Pittsburgh has with Mike Wallace. Wes Welker is not that guy, but Torrey Smith is.
Smith is a solid route runner who has the speed to be a playmaker as well. Tom Brady had shown that he's an elite quarterback even without weapons; imagine how he'll do with a Welker/Smith combination.
1. Carolina: Nick Fairley, DT | 17. New England: Aldon Smith, DE/OLB |
2. Denver: Da'Quan Bowers, DE | 18. San Diego: Corey Liuget, DT |
3. Buffalo: Patrick Peterson, CB | 19. New York Giants: Nate Solder, OT |
4. Cincinnati: A.J. Green, WR | 20. Tampa Bay: J.J. Watt, DE |
5. Arizona: Robert Quinn, DE | 21. Kansas City: Stephen Paea, DT |
6. Cleveland: Marcell Dareus, DT | 22. Indianapolis: Anthony Castonzo, OT |
7. San Francisco: Von Miller, DE/OLB | 23. Philadelphia: Gabe Carimi, OT |
8. Tennessee: Blaine Gabbert, QB | 24. New Orleans: Justin Houston, OLB |
9. Dallas: Prince Amukamara, CB | 25. Seattle : Mike Pouncey, G |
10. Washington: Cam Newton, QB | 26. Baltimore: Aaron Williams, CB |
11. Houston: Ryan Kerrigan, DE | 27. Atlanta: Cameron Heyward, DE |
12. Minnesota: Cameron Jordan, DE | 28. New England: Torrey Smith, WR |
13. Detroit: Akeem Ayers, OLB | 29. Chicago: Ben Ijalana, OT |
14. St. Louis: Julio Jones, WR | 30. New York Jets: Phil Taylor, DT |
15. Miami: Mark Ingram, RB | 31. Pittsburgh: Brandon Harris, CB |
16. Jacksonville: Jimmy Smith, CB | 32. Green Bay: Adrian Clayborn, DE |
For complete draft coverage, check out our NFL Draft Hub. For a look at a video mock draft, check out All 32 Selections With Video Highlights.
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Atlanta Falcons Bolster Defense Instead of Picking Wide Receiver, Select Cameron Heyward
The Falcons are actually in a touch position draft-wise. They have a few holes, but are a good enough team that there aren't many obvious starters this late in the first round unless you know where to look.
While picking a wide receiver is certianly fine here, and many mocks have them replacing Tony Gonzalez with Kyle Rudolph as tight end, I see them drafting Cameron Heyward to be an addition to the defensive line alongside John Abraham.
Heyward did not have a great senior year, but was much better his junior year and can certainly create trouble for other team's offenses. He should be able to contribute to the Falcons immediately.
1. Carolina: Nick Fairley, DT | 17. New England: Aldon Smith, DE/OLB |
2. Denver: Da'Quan Bowers, DE | 18. San Diego: Corey Liuget, DT |
3. Buffalo: Patrick Peterson, CB | 19. New York Giants: Nate Solder, OT |
4. Cincinnati: A.J. Green, WR | 20. Tampa Bay: J.J. Watt, DE |
5. Arizona: Robert Quinn, DE | 21. Kansas City: Stephen Paea, DT |
6. Cleveland: Marcell Dareus, DT | 22. Indianapolis: Anthony Castonzo, OT |
7. San Francisco: Von Miller, DE/OLB | 23. Philadelphia: Gabe Carimi, OT |
8. Tennessee: Blaine Gabbert, QB | 24. New Orleans: Justin Houston, OLB |
9. Dallas: Prince Amukamara, CB | 25. Seattle : Mike Pouncey, G |
10. Washington: Cam Newton, QB | 26. Baltimore: Aaron Williams, CB |
11. Houston: Ryan Kerrigan, DE | 27. Atlanta: Cameron Heyward, DE |
12. Minnesota: Cameron Jordan, DE | 28. New England: Torrey Smith, WR |
13. Detroit: Akeem Ayers, OLB | 29. Chicago: Ben Ijalana, OT |
14. St. Louis: Julio Jones, WR | 30. New York Jets: Phil Taylor, DT |
15. Miami: Mark Ingram, RB | 31. Pittsburgh: Brandon Harris, CB |
16. Jacksonville: Jimmy Smith, CB | 32. Green Bay: Adrian Clayborn, DE |
For complete draft coverage, check out our NFL Draft Hub. For a look at a video mock draft, check out All 32 Selections With Video Highlights.
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Baltimore Ravens Look For Future Star, Select Cornerback Williams Out of Texas
There are a few first-round players that aren't quite ready for the big time, but have plenty of upside. Aldon Smith was one of them, and another is Texas cornerback Aaron Williams.
Aaron Williams has a lot of upside and is an aggressive cornerback, as evident by his five forced fumbles at Texas, but has room to improve. Where better to improve than on the Ravens' defense, playing alongside Ed Reed and Ray Lewis? He can also become a long-term starter after a year or two of growth.
Some mock drafts have the Ravens drafting a wideout, and while this is a possibility, any wide receivers would probably be a stretch at this point. Players like Randall Cobb and others will be available in the second round for the taking.
1. Carolina: Nick Fairley, DT | 17. New England: Aldon Smith, DE/OLB |
2. Denver: Da'Quan Bowers, DE | 18. San Diego: Corey Liuget, DT |
3. Buffalo: Patrick Peterson, CB | 19. New York Giants: Nate Solder, OT |
4. Cincinnati: A.J. Green, WR | 20. Tampa Bay: J.J. Watt, DE |
5. Arizona: Robert Quinn, DE | 21. Kansas City: Stephen Paea, DT |
6. Cleveland: Marcell Dareus, DT | 22. Indianapolis: Anthony Castonzo, OT |
7. San Francisco: Von Miller, DE/OLB | 23. Philadelphia: Gabe Carimi, OT |
8. Tennessee: Blaine Gabbert, QB | 24. New Orleans: Justin Houston, OLB |
9. Dallas: Prince Amukamara, CB | 25. Seattle : Mike Pouncey, G |
10. Washington: Cam Newton, QB | 26. Baltimore: Aaron Williams, CB |
11. Houston: Ryan Kerrigan, DE | 27. Atlanta: Cameron Heyward, DE |
12. Minnesota: Cameron Jordan, DE | 28. New England: Torrey Smith, WR |
13. Detroit: Akeem Ayers, OLB | 29. Chicago: Ben Ijalana, OT |
14. St. Louis: Julio Jones, WR | 30. New York Jets: Phil Taylor, DT |
15. Miami: Mark Ingram, RB | 31. Pittsburgh: Brandon Harris, CB |
16. Jacksonville: Jimmy Smith, CB | 32. Green Bay: Adrian Clayborn, DE |
For complete draft coverage, check out our NFL Draft Hub. For a look at a video mock draft, check out All 32 Selections With Video Highlights.
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Seattle Seahawks Pass on Quarterback, Select Mike Pouncey To Improve Line
In one of my more surprising picks, the Seattle Swahawks will take Mike Pouncey. I may give Mel Kiper flack for some of his picks, but after thinking about his selection of Mike Pouncey by the Seahawks, it would actually make sense.
Not only is Seattle's offensive line not that good, but they couldn't get a solid five down for the season. The end result was Matt Hasselbeck getting hurt and missing time. At this stage of his career, Hasselbeck cannot afford an injury, and line help is needed both for him and the future quarterback after him.
There's no question Pouncey will be a great player no matter where he ends up.
1. Carolina: Nick Fairley, DT | 17. New England: Aldon Smith, DE/OLB |
2. Denver: Da'Quan Bowers, DE | 18. San Diego: Corey Liuget, DT |
3. Buffalo: Patrick Peterson, CB | 19. New York Giants: Nate Solder, OT |
4. Cincinnati: A.J. Green, WR | 20. Tampa Bay: J.J. Watt, DE |
5. Arizona: Robert Quinn, DE | 21. Kansas City: Stephen Paea, DT |
6. Cleveland: Marcell Dareus, DT | 22. Indianapolis: Anthony Castonzo, OT |
7. San Francisco: Von Miller, DE/OLB | 23. Philadelphia: Gabe Carimi, OT |
8. Tennessee: Blaine Gabbert, QB | 24. New Orleans: Justin Houston, OLB |
9. Dallas: Prince Amukamara, CB | 25. Seattle : Mike Pouncey, G |
10. Washington: Cam Newton, QB | 26. Baltimore: Aaron Williams, CB |
11. Houston: Ryan Kerrigan, DE | 27. Atlanta: Cameron Heyward, DE |
12. Minnesota: Cameron Jordan, DE | 28. New England: Torrey Smith, WR |
13. Detroit: Akeem Ayers, OLB | 29. Chicago: Ben Ijalana, OT |
14. St. Louis: Julio Jones, WR | 30. New York Jets: Phil Taylor, DT |
15. Miami: Mark Ingram, RB | 31. Pittsburgh: Brandon Harris, CB |
16. Jacksonville: Jimmy Smith, CB | 32. Green Bay: Adrian Clayborn, DE |
For complete draft coverage, check out our NFL Draft Hub. For a look at a video mock draft, check out All 32 Selections With Video Highlights.
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New Orleans Saints Take Best Linebacker On Board, Justin Houston.
The New Orleans Saints don't have any holes that are all that gaping, so they can simply take the player that can help their team the most, even if it may not be immediately.
Houston would be a great pass rusher for the Saints, and putting him on the edge would certainly help that aspect of his game. Houston is raw, so it could be a year or two before he's an everyday starter, but the Saints are a great team to learn from and grow under right now.
Muhammad Wilkerson and Phil Taylor are options if they would rather bolster their interior defense, but there are opportunities to do that later in the draft. Besides, in Houston you get a sack machine who had 10 for Georgia last year; can say the same about those nose tackles.
1. Carolina: Nick Fairley, DT | 17. New England: Aldon Smith, DE/OLB |
2. Denver: Da'Quan Bowers, DE | 18. San Diego: Corey Liuget, DT |
3. Buffalo: Patrick Peterson, CB | 19. New York Giants: Nate Solder, OT |
4. Cincinnati: A.J. Green, WR | 20. Tampa Bay: J.J. Watt, DE |
5. Arizona: Robert Quinn, DE | 21. Kansas City: Stephen Paea, DT |
6. Cleveland: Marcell Dareus, DT | 22. Indianapolis: Anthony Castonzo, OT |
7. San Francisco: Von Miller, DE/OLB | 23. Philadelphia: Gabe Carimi, OT |
8. Tennessee: Blaine Gabbert, QB | 24. New Orleans: Justin Houston, OLB |
9. Dallas: Prince Amukamara, CB | 25. Seattle : Mike Pouncey, G |
10. Washington: Cam Newton, QB | 26. Baltimore: Aaron Williams, CB |
11. Houston: Ryan Kerrigan, DE | 27. Atlanta: Cameron Heyward, DE |
12. Minnesota: Cameron Jordan, DE | 28. New England: Torrey Smith, WR |
13. Detroit: Akeem Ayers, OLB | 29. Chicago: Ben Ijalana, OT |
14. St. Louis: Julio Jones, WR | 30. New York Jets: Phil Taylor, DT |
15. Miami: Mark Ingram, RB | 31. Pittsburgh: Brandon Harris, CB |
16. Jacksonville: Jimmy Smith, CB | 32. Green Bay: Adrian Clayborn, DE |
For complete draft coverage, check out our NFL Draft Hub. For a look at a video mock draft, check out All 32 Selections With Video Highlights.
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Philadelphia Eagles Help Michael Vick and Bolster Offensive Line, Select Gabe Carimi
Like the Colts before them, the Philadelphia Eagles need to bolster the offensive line. They have scrambler Michael Vick behind them, which means they need lineman who can help protect beyond the pocket area.
Gabe Carimi might be one of the best piece in terms of fit in the entire draft. He fits right into the offensive scheme that the Eagles' have, he has good tape against top prospects, and Wisconsin has been providing great offensive linemen in recent years.
If you're an Eagles fan, there's really nothing not to like about this pick. As long as his combine is not awful or terrific (then he might be off the board), the Eagles will be in prime position to grab him.
1. Carolina: Nick Fairley, DT | 17. New England: Aldon Smith, DE/OLB |
2. Denver: Da'Quan Bowers, DE | 18. San Diego: Corey Liuget, DT |
3. Buffalo: Patrick Peterson, CB | 19. New York Giants: Nate Solder, OT |
4. Cincinnati: A.J. Green, WR | 20. Tampa Bay: J.J. Watt, DE |
5. Arizona: Robert Quinn, DE | 21. Kansas City: Stephen Paea, DT |
6. Cleveland: Marcell Dareus, DT | 22. Indianapolis: Anthony Castonzo, OT |
7. San Francisco: Von Miller, DE/OLB | 23. Philadelphia: Gabe Carimi, OT |
8. Tennessee: Blaine Gabbert, QB | 24. New Orleans: Justin Houston, OLB |
9. Dallas: Prince Amukamara, CB | 25. Seattle : Mike Pouncey, G |
10. Washington: Cam Newton, QB | 26. Baltimore: Aaron Williams, CB |
11. Houston: Ryan Kerrigan, DE | 27. Atlanta: Cameron Heyward, DE |
12. Minnesota: Cameron Jordan, DE | 28. New England: Torrey Smith, WR |
13. Detroit: Akeem Ayers, OLB | 29. Chicago: Ben Ijalana, OT |
14. St. Louis: Julio Jones, WR | 30. New York Jets: Phil Taylor, DT |
15. Miami: Mark Ingram, RB | 31. Pittsburgh: Brandon Harris, CB |
16. Jacksonville: Jimmy Smith, CB | 32. Green Bay: Adrian Clayborn, DE |
For complete draft coverage, check out our NFL Draft Hub. For a look at a video mock draft, check out All 32 Selections With Video Highlights.
Indianapolis Colts Bolster Offensive Line, Draft Anthony Castonzo
Despite now needing a safety since they got rid of the injury-riddled Bob Sanders, the Colts are not gong to change their focus in the first round. They need offensive line help, and there are many first-round quality linemen available.
The Colts are most likely looking at either Tyron Smith or Anthony Castonzo. Boston College's offensive line was the strength of the team in college, and Castonzo was the star there. He has few spots that he needs to work on, but if there's any team that can help him out in that regard it's the Colts.
The tackle out of Boston College should fit perfectly into Indianapolis's plans.
1. Carolina: Nick Fairley, DT | 17. New England: Aldon Smith, DE/OLB |
2. Denver: Da'Quan Bowers, DE | 18. San Diego: Corey Liuget, DT |
3. Buffalo: Patrick Peterson, CB | 19. New York Giants: Nate Solder, OT |
4. Cincinnati: A.J. Green, WR | 20. Tampa Bay: J.J. Watt, DE |
5. Arizona: Robert Quinn, DE | 21. Kansas City: Stephen Paea, DT |
6. Cleveland: Marcell Dareus, DT | 22. Indianapolis: Anthony Castonzo, OT |
7. San Francisco: Von Miller, DE/OLB | 23. Philadelphia: Gabe Carimi, OT |
8. Tennessee: Blaine Gabbert, QB | 24. New Orleans: Justin Houston, OLB |
9. Dallas: Prince Amukamara, CB | 25. Seattle : Mike Pouncey, G |
10. Washington: Cam Newton, QB | 26. Baltimore: Aaron Williams, CB |
11. Houston: Ryan Kerrigan, DE | 27. Atlanta: Cameron Heyward, DE |
12. Minnesota: Cameron Jordan, DE | 28. New England: Torrey Smith, WR |
13. Detroit: Akeem Ayers, OLB | 29. Chicago: Ben Ijalana, OT |
14. St. Louis: Julio Jones, WR | 30. New York Jets: Phil Taylor, DT |
15. Miami: Mark Ingram, RB | 31. Pittsburgh: Brandon Harris, CB |
16. Jacksonville: Jimmy Smith, CB | 32. Green Bay: Adrian Clayborn, DE |
For complete draft coverage, check out our NFL Draft Hub. For a look at a video mock draft, check out All 32 Selections With Video Highlights.
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Kansas City Chiefs Bolster Front, Select Stephen Paea
The Chiefs need some help on the front seven, and luckily for them, this is just the draft to do it in. They have some solid pieces, including Tamba Hali, but he can't carry a defense on his own.
They seem ready to select a nose tackle, since Akeem Ayers is off the board at this time, who many others have gong here. Muhammad Wilkerson could be an option, as could Phil Taylor. In the end, they'll take the solid nose tackle out of Oregon State in Stephen Paea.
Paea could be a risk, as he has fallen off of many draft boards completely due to injury. I don't think his descent is justified, as he has shown that he can fill the middle very well, and as long as he has a good combine, he will move back up the draft board so this move doesn't look like such a reach.
1. Carolina: Nick Fairley, DT | 17. New England: Aldon Smith, DE/OLB |
2. Denver: Da'Quan Bowers, DE | 18. San Diego: Corey Liuget, DT |
3. Buffalo: Patrick Peterson, CB | 19. New York Giants: Nate Solder, OT |
4. Cincinnati: A.J. Green, WR | 20. Tampa Bay: J.J. Watt, DE |
5. Arizona: Robert Quinn, DE | 21. Kansas City: Stephen Paea, DT |
6. Cleveland: Marcell Dareus, DT | 22. Indianapolis: Anthony Castonzo, OT |
7. San Francisco: Von Miller, DE/OLB | 23. Philadelphia: Gabe Carimi, OT |
8. Tennessee: Blaine Gabbert, QB | 24. New Orleans: Justin Houston, OLB |
9. Dallas: Prince Amukamara, CB | 25. Seattle : Mike Pouncey, G |
10. Washington: Cam Newton, QB | 26. Baltimore: Aaron Williams, CB |
11. Houston: Ryan Kerrigan, DE | 27. Atlanta: Cameron Heyward, DE |
12. Minnesota: Cameron Jordan, DE | 28. New England: Torrey Smith, WR |
13. Detroit: Akeem Ayers, OLB | 29. Chicago: Ben Ijalana, OT |
14. St. Louis: Julio Jones, WR | 30. New York Jets: Phil Taylor, DT |
15. Miami: Mark Ingram, RB | 31. Pittsburgh: Brandon Harris, CB |
16. Jacksonville: Jimmy Smith, CB | 32. Green Bay: Adrian Clayborn, DE |
For complete draft coverage, check out our NFL Draft Hub. For a look at a video mock draft, check out All 32 Selections With Video Highlights.
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Buccaneers Pass on Issues With Adrian Clayborn, Snag Wisconsin's J.J. Watt
The Buccaneers are going to draft a defensive lineman, there's no question about that. The only question is which one. At this time, Adrian Clayborn, Cameron Heyward, and J.J. Watt are all available.
Of the three Big Ten lineman, I like Heyward the best, but his mediocre senior year will probably keep teams from drafting him unless he has a great combine. Adrian Clayborn's character issues might cause him to slide down the draft board, leaving Watt.
Watt has a great frame for the position, and he should fit in well with the Bucs. He may not be as dominant as other linemen onthe board, but he gets the job done.
1. Carolina: Nick Fairley, DT | 17. New England: Aldon Smith, DE/OLB |
2. Denver: Da'Quan Bowers, DE | 18. San Diego: Corey Liuget, DT |
3. Buffalo: Patrick Peterson, CB | 19. New York Giants: Nate Solder, OT |
4. Cincinnati: A.J. Green, WR | 20. Tampa Bay: J.J. Watt, DE |
5. Arizona: Robert Quinn, DE | 21. Kansas City: Stephen Paea, DT |
6. Cleveland: Marcell Dareus, DT | 22. Indianapolis: Anthony Castonzo, OT |
7. San Francisco: Von Miller, DE/OLB | 23. Philadelphia: Gabe Carimi, OT |
8. Tennessee: Blaine Gabbert, QB | 24. New Orleans: Justin Houston, OLB |
9. Dallas: Prince Amukamara, CB | 25. Seattle : Mike Pouncey, G |
10. Washington: Cam Newton, QB | 26. Baltimore: Aaron Williams, CB |
11. Houston: Ryan Kerrigan, DE | 27. Atlanta: Cameron Heyward, DE |
12. Minnesota: Cameron Jordan, DE | 28. New England: Torrey Smith, WR |
13. Detroit: Akeem Ayers, OLB | 29. Chicago: Ben Ijalana, OT |
14. St. Louis: Julio Jones, WR | 30. New York Jets: Phil Taylor, DT |
15. Miami: Mark Ingram, RB | 31. Pittsburgh: Brandon Harris, CB |
16. Jacksonville: Jimmy Smith, CB | 32. Green Bay: Adrian Clayborn, DE |
For complete draft coverage, check out our NFL Draft Hub. For a look at a video mock draft, check out All 32 Selections With Video Highlights.
New York Giants Take Top Offensive Lineman Nate Solder
The Giants were likely already planning to take an offensive lineman, and were looking closely at Tyron Smith. They weren't expecting Nate Solder to be available here, however.
The physical specimen out of Colorado has been having scouts enamored since he declared. He's huge, with 300 pounds of almost pure muscle, and has not had problems knocking around opposing defensive lineman.
Eli Manning seems to panic easily with how many interceptions he's throwing. Put Solder on the line and that should help cause fewer bad throws, or if not that then fewer sacks.
1. Carolina: Nick Fairley, DT | 17. New England: Aldon Smith, DE/OLB |
2. Denver: Da'Quan Bowers, DE | 18. San Diego: Corey Liuget, DT |
3. Buffalo: Patrick Peterson, CB | 19. New York Giants: Nate Solder, OT |
4. Cincinnati: A.J. Green, WR | 20. Tampa Bay: J.J. Watt, DE |
5. Arizona: Robert Quinn, DE | 21. Kansas City: Stephen Paea, DT |
6. Cleveland: Marcell Dareus, DT | 22. Indianapolis: Anthony Castonzo, OT |
7. San Francisco: Von Miller, DE/OLB | 23. Philadelphia: Gabe Carimi, OT |
8. Tennessee: Blaine Gabbert, QB | 24. New Orleans: Justin Houston, OLB |
9. Dallas: Prince Amukamara, CB | 25. Seattle : Mike Pouncey, G |
10. Washington: Cam Newton, QB | 26. Baltimore: Aaron Williams, CB |
11. Houston: Ryan Kerrigan, DE | 27. Atlanta: Cameron Heyward, DE |
12. Minnesota: Cameron Jordan, DE | 28. New England: Torrey Smith, WR |
13. Detroit: Akeem Ayers, OLB | 29. Chicago: Ben Ijalana, OT |
14. St. Louis: Julio Jones, WR | 30. New York Jets: Phil Taylor, DT |
15. Miami: Mark Ingram, RB | 31. Pittsburgh: Brandon Harris, CB |
16. Jacksonville: Jimmy Smith, CB | 32. Green Bay: Adrian Clayborn, DE |
For complete draft coverage, check out our NFL Draft Hub. For a look at a video mock draft, check out All 32 Selections With Video Highlights.
Chargers Bolster Defensive Interior, Take Illinois' Corey Liuget
The San Diego Chargers have a lot of options here. Then again, it seems that the further down a team is in the draft, the more options they have since they have fewer holes. Where do you build when you led the league in yards on both sides of the ball yet miss the playoffs?
Corey Liuget is a player who is shooting up draft boards of late. He is also a great pass rusher in the middle, and that is exactly what the Chargers could use to bolster their team. The Chargers could also go with an offensive lineman here since all of them are still on the board, but I think Liuget is the ideal fit here.
1. Carolina: Nick Fairley, DT | 17. New England: Aldon Smith, DE/OLB |
2. Denver: Da'Quan Bowers, DE | 18. San Diego: Corey Liuget, DT |
3. Buffalo: Patrick Peterson, CB | 19. New York Giants: Nate Solder, OT |
4. Cincinnati: A.J. Green, WR | 20. Tampa Bay: J.J. Watt, DE |
5. Arizona: Robert Quinn, DE | 21. Kansas City: Stephen Paea, DT |
6. Cleveland: Marcell Dareus, DT | 22. Indianapolis: Anthony Castonzo, OT |
7. San Francisco: Von Miller, DE/OLB | 23. Philadelphia: Gabe Carimi, OT |
8. Tennessee: Blaine Gabbert, QB | 24. New Orleans: Justin Houston, OLB |
9. Dallas: Prince Amukamara, CB | 25. Seattle : Mike Pouncey, G |
10. Washington: Cam Newton, QB | 26. Baltimore: Aaron Williams, CB |
11. Houston: Ryan Kerrigan, DE | 27. Atlanta: Cameron Heyward, DE |
12. Minnesota: Cameron Jordan, DE | 28. New England: Torrey Smith, WR |
13. Detroit: Akeem Ayers, OLB | 29. Chicago: Ben Ijalana, OT |
14. St. Louis: Julio Jones, WR | 30. New York Jets: Phil Taylor, DT |
15. Miami: Mark Ingram, RB | 31. Pittsburgh: Brandon Harris, CB |
16. Jacksonville: Jimmy Smith, CB | 32. Green Bay: Adrian Clayborn, DE |
For complete draft coverage, check out our NFL Draft Hub. For a look at a video mock draft, check out All 32 Selections With Video Highlights.
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