2011 NFL Mock Draft: An In-Depth Look at 3 Rounds
It's getting closer every day. The 2011 NFL Draft is less than two months away.
The Senior Bowl and NFL Combine have come and gone, with the highest viewer ratings of all time. It's clear that amidst the current labor issues, people have continued to become more interested in the draft.
Now in mid March, things are beginning to take shape near the top. The following slide show takes an in-depth look at the first three rounds.ย
1. Carolina Panthers
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Cameron Newton โ Quarterback โ Auburn
The decision-making process behind the first overall pick could last up to the day of the draft for Carolina. The list of needs for the Panthers is a long one that includes several key positions such as: Defensive End, Defensive Tackle, Cornerback, and Wide Receiver.
The teamโs Achilles heel last season, however, was the play at the Quarterback position. Jimmy Clausen did not prove himself enough to deter the Panthers from taking the top QB on their board.
Even after a disappointing Combine performance, Cameron Newton has the upside to be a franchise signal-caller. His college resume is a small but highly decorated one and his physical tools are unparalleled. Heโll need some time to develop, but Newton offers the franchise a true face and unique talent moving forward.
Carolina may decide that Cam is too risky to warrant such a lofty selection and may instead target Clemson Defensive End DaโQuan Bowers, LSU Cornerback Patrick Peterson, or Alabama Defensive Tackle Marcell Dareus.ย
2. Denver Broncos
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Marcell DareusโDefensive TackleโAlabama
There is no doubt that the Broncos will target a defensive player with their first pick at second overall. The team is in dire need of help in the front seven and starters will need to be added on the interior defensive line. With Robert Ayers and Elvis Dumervil penciled in as starters on the edge, drafting a Defensive Tackle early will be a top priority.ย
Marcell Dareus is a very big, stout, defensive lineman with incredible athleticism and light feet for his size. He projects as an instant starter at Defensive Tackle in 4-3 schemes and could be a disruptive force in the backfield for years.ย
The team could also look at Auburn Defensive Tackle Nick Fairley, Cornerback Patrick Peterson, or Texas A&M Outside Linebacker Von Miller with this pick.ย
3. Buffalo Bills
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Patrick PetersonโCornerbackโLSU
Without potential franchise Quarterback Cam Newton on the board, the Bills will look at defense with their first round pick.ย While a front seven player would fill Buffaloโs most glaring need, Patrick Peterson may prove to be too good a value to pass up for a Cornerback-needy team.
Peterson is an incredible athlete with the look of a future shut-down corner. He has excellent cover skills and is a sure tackler in run-support. Early in his career, he also adds significant value as a game-breaking punt returner.
The Bills could also look at Defensive End prospects such as Wisconsinโs J.J. Watt, or Californiaโs Cameron Jordan. Also tempting could be Von Miller or USC Left Tackle Tyron Smith.ย
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4. Cincinnati Bengals
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A.J. GreenโWide ReceiverโGeorgia
Itโs no secret that Marvin Lewisโ Bengals will be targeting offense early in the NFL Draft after a disappointing 2010 campaign. Theyโd surely take a long look at Newton were he available, but the next best offensive move would be to take a true No. 1 Wide Receiver such as A.J. Green.
With the the loss of Terrell Owens, a void has been created at the position. The team is in dire need of a young primary receiver to complement Jordan Shipley and Jermaine Gresham, two impact rookies for this past season.
Green is an extremely gifted and fluid athlete with excellent size, speed, and a huge catching radius. He could step into the Bengals new West Coast Offense right away and provide an instant upgrade to start the Jay Gruden era.
Other options for Cincinnatiโs fourth pick include Missouri Quarterback Blaine Gabbert, Alabama Wide Receiver Julio Jones, and Defensive End DaโQuan Bowers.
5. Arizona Cardinals
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Von MillerโOutside LinebackerโTexas A&M
Everything indicates that 2010 free agent Joey Porter didnโt provide the pass-rush that the Cardinals were looking for when they signed him. His exit leaves a hole in the depth chart and an important role behind.
Despite a huge need for a franchise Quarterback, Von Miller is too good a value here for Arizona to pass on. Instantly, Miller gives the team an explosive pass-rusher off the edge that could develop into a difference-maker early. He plays with tremendous speed and is at his best turning loose and getting after the passer.
If not Miller, the Cardinals could target Baline Gabbert, Nebraska Cornerback Prince Amukamara, or even Tyron Smith.ย
6. Cleveland Browns
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DaโQuan BowersโDefensive EndโClemsonย
With the exit of coach Eric Mangini also comes the abandonment of the Browns largely unsuccessful 3-4 defensive scheme. A front seven player will more than likely be Clevelandโs top priority early in the NFL Draft.
DaโQuan Bowers is a bargain at sixth overall for a team severely lacking a gifted pass-rusher. His injuries may scare some teams off, but when healthy Bowers is a dominant player with size, elite closing speed, and three-down ability.ย He instantly gives Cleveland a new building block along the defensive line for their new 4-3 scheme.
The team could target a different Defensive Lineman in Nick Fairley, J.J. Watt, Cameron Jordan, or North Carolinaโs Robert Quinn. Additional options for the Browns could be Julio Jones and Prince Amukamara.
7. San Francsico 49ers
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Blaine GabbertโQuarterbackโMissouri
It will be a tough choice at seventh overall with rookie head coach John Harbaugh. The most obvious and glaring hole for the 49ers is their lack of a franchise Quarterback on the roster. If possible, Harbaugh would like to groom and develop a young player.
Though Iโm not completely sold on him, it looks as if Blaine Gabbert will go very early on April 28.ย He gives San Francisco a young signal-caller with all the physical ability you can ask for and enough mental capacity to excel in a pro-style offense.
If the team passes on a QB, the pick could be a Defensive Lineman such as J.J. Watt, Cameron Jordan or Nick Fairley. The 49ers could also potentially take a long look at a Cornerback in Prince Amukamara.ย
8. Tennessee Titans
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Nick FairleyโDefensive TackleโAuburnย
The Titans are another team that would love to add a young franchise Quarterback more than anything. Still, without Newton and Gabbert off the board, Tennessee will look to address one of their holes on defense with the eighth overall pick.ย
Nick Fairley was the most dominant defensive player in college football a year ago and would be a perfect pick to start the Mike Munchak era in Tennessee. Fairley is quick, very explosive, and plays with a rare mean streak.ย
Other potential selections with the pick are Prince Amukamara and Defensive Linemen Robert Quinn, Cameron Jordan or J.J. Watt. A real dark-horse could be Georgia Defensive End Justin Houston.
9. Dallas Cowboys
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Cameron JordanโDefensive EndโCalifornia
There are already rumors that the Cowboys covet Patrick Peterson in the NFL Draft, but at this point it does not look like that they have the assets to make a move and trade up.ย If Dallas and Jerry Jones stay put, however, itโs likely that theyโll target a Defensive Lineman with their first selection.
Cameron Jordan has been the story of the pre-draft process. After looking like a man amongst boys at the Senior Bowl, Jordan shocked fans and scouts alike by running a 4.71 at 287 pounds at the recent NFL Combine. He fits Dallasโ defense as a 5-Tech and would step into a starting role immediately.
The Cowboys may also look at Tyron Smith, Prince Amukamara or J.J. Watt with this pick. They'd ideally like to land Texas A&M's Von Miller or Peterson, as mentioned early, but it is unlikely that those players fall.
10. Washington Redskins
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J.J. WattโDefensive EndโWisconsin
The Redskins are yet another team that would ideally like to add a young signal-caller with their first pick. Itโs unlikely that Mike Shanahan will be reaching to get his guy here with so much defensive talent to be had early in this draft.
J.J. Watt was the talk of the Defensive Line group in Indianapolis after showcasing surprising athleticism and feet for a 290-pound end. He burst onto the scene originally this year in the Big Ten where he recorded 21.5 tackles for loss.
Watt would fill an enormous void at 5-Tech for the Washington defense and projects as an early contributor. Other possibilities with the 10th pick include: Julio Jones, Linebacker Robert Quinn, Washington Quarterback Jake Locker and Baylor Nose Tackle Phil Taylor.
11. Houston Texans
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Prince AmukamaraโCornerbackโNebraska
Ideally, Houston would like to add a talented 5-Tech prospect with this top pick; however, with Watt, Jordan and Dareus all off the board, the Texans could look to address another problem area on defense. Despite having spent a first round pick on Alabama Cornerback Kareem Jackson a year, the team could absolutely target the position high in the draft again in 2011.
Prince Amukamara is the consensus No. 2 corner in the class behind Peterson, but the two may not be as far apart as players as some think. Prince has some very impressive tape and is the complete package with excellent size and athletic ability.
He instantly upgrades the Texans pass-defense in a division where Peyton Manning has ruled through the air for years. Additional options for the Texans include Defensive End/Linebacker Robert Quinn, Ohio State Defensive End Cameron Heyward, or even potentially a game-breaker such as Wide Receiver Julio Jones.
12. Minnesota Vikings
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Tyron SmithโOffensive TackleโUSC
At the start of the season few would have suspected the Vikings would hold a top 15 pick in Aprilโs NFL Draft. A rookie Head Coach, Leslie Frazier, will be counted on to quickly turn Minnesota around and lead the team back into the playoffs. Quarterback is the teamโs most pressing need but they may be unwilling to reach to get their man with so much talent on the board.
Tyron Smith was a college Right Tackle that will most likely be moved to the left side in the NFL. Physically, Smith has everything you look for: extremely long arms, an excellent frame (currently 307), and shocking athletic ability. The sky is the limit for his potential and the Vikings could use his help immediately in pass-protection.
Also possible with the 12th pick are players such as: Robert Quinn, Justin Houston, Illinois Outside Linebacker Martez Wilson and Boston College Left Tackle Anthony Castonzo.
13. Detroit Lions
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Robert QuinnโDefensive EndโNorth Carolina
It looks certain that the Lions will target a defensive player with their first round pick in the upcoming draft. Detroit has several holes in the depth chart on that side of the ball and the team desperately will look to add a Cornerback or Linebacker.
The value of Robert Quinn would ultimately be too much for the organization to pass on as they continue building a scary front four. A young, dynamic pass-rusher would take double-teams away from 2010 second overall pick Ndamukong Suh.ย Quinn flies off the edge, is very athletic, and lives in the backfield. He could be a big part of future Lions playoff efforts.
It would not be a shock to see Detroit go after a Linebacker such as Martez Wilson here. If they were to go with another pass-rusher, it'd likely be Justin Houston. The dark horse pick could be an Offensive Tackle such as Anthony Castonzo or Wisconsinโs Gabe Carimi.ย
14. St. Louis Rams
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Julio JonesโWide ReceiverโAlabama
Realistically, itโs not likely that the Rams could be so lucky to have a terrific Wide Receiver prospect fall into their laps here at 14th overall. If Julio Jones were to fall past Washingtonโs 10th pick, phones would be ringing off the hook with teams trying to move up for the Alabama product.
Jones was the talk of the NFL Combine in Indianapolis, proving himself as a rare athlete for his size. Heโd be a perfect addition to for Sam Bradford in St. Louis and has the potential to be a star in the league. The broken foot he sustained in Indy is notย likely to affect his draft stock.
The Rams would be crazy to pass on this slam-dunk pick, but if they were to look another direction it could be Linebacker Martez Wilson, Miami Cornerback Brandon Harris or a pass-rushing Defensive End such as Georgiaโs Justin Houston.ย ย
15. Miami Dolphins
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Mark IngramโRunning BackโAlabama
Without a second round pick, it looks likely that the Dolphins will be willing to part with this pick to add more later on. If they must keep the pick, Miamiโs pressing needs are on the offensive side of the ball. The team is in the market for a Quarterback capable of getting the ball down-field to Brandon Marshall, but a new Running Back may be the best value with this pick.
Mark Ingram is a former Heisman Trophy winner and brings a rare blend of balance, vision, burst, and power. He appears very capable of carrying a load early on and looks to have a bright future in the NFL.
The Dolphins could also target a Quarterback such as Arkansasโ Ryan Mallett or Jake Locker. Although unlikely, the team could fall in love with Notre Dame Tight End Kyle Rudolph in the first round.ย
16. Jacksonville Jaguars
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Martez WilsonโOutside LinebackerโIllinois
This past season, the Jaguars were able to make things very interesting in the AFC South as they challenged Indianapolis for a playoff spot. Though they were outlasted by the Colts, Jacksonville appears a tweak or two away from again pushing to play in January next season.
The team has a gaping hole at Linebacker, where Martez Wilson could make an instant impact.ย At 6โ4, 250, Wilson is an extremely gifted athlete who can contribute as a blitzer and take over a starting job either in the middle or on the strong-side.
If they donโt target a Linebacker early, they could go after a Cornerback such as Coloradoโs Jimmy Smith or Brandon Harris. Another attractive option for Jacksonville would be a pass-rushing Defensive End like Justin Houston, Missouri's Aldon Smith or Purdueโs Ryan Kerrigan.ย
17. New England Patriots (from Oakland Raiders)
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Justin HoustonโOutside Linebacker โGeorgia
Ironically, the Patriots win 14 games during the regular season but wind up with more draft picks in the first three rounds than any team. Bill Belichick has built his Super Bowl-caliber teams almost entirely through the draft, where heโs largely unpredictable.
We can accurately assume that heโll move at least a couple of the picks he currently holds in order to stock some for next season when he may need them more. If New England stays put here, a pass-rusher looks to be the primary need.
Justin Houston in an experienced rush-backer from the SEC who possesses tremendous size, power, and ability in pursuit. He lacks elite fluidity but appears athletic enough to gradually develop into a great 3-4 Outside Linebacker.
If they choose to go with another linebacker, Ryan Kerrigan may fit the Patriots mold. Itโs hard to put anything past this team and they are always a threat to move up for another Linebacker or perhaps Wide Receiver.ย
18. San Diego Chargers
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Cameron HeywardโDefensive EndโOhio Stateย
A slow start and the lack of star receiver, Vincent Jackson, for most of the season ultimately doomed the Chargers in 2010, as they failed to win the AFC West and make the playoffs. With three picks in the draftโs first two rounds, San Diego will be aiming to return to the playoffs next season with some new faces.ย
The team is in need of front seven help and Cameron Heyward fills a gaping hole opposite Luis Castillo at 5-Tech.ย Heyward is a prototypical two-gap end with excellent size, power, and good quickness.
The Chargers could instead target an Offensive Tackle such as Anthony Castonzo or Gabe Carimi. Another position the team could go after is Outside Linebacker, with UCLAโs Akeem Ayers or Ryan Kerrigan both on the board.
19. New York Giants
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Anthony CastonzoโOffensive Tackle โBoston Collegeย
For a team that failed to make the playoffs in 2010, the Giants have few holes that need to be filled for the team to contend next season. Adding youth along the offensive line and improving pass-protection figure to be priorities for New York moving forward.
Anthony Castonzo is this classโ most NFL-ready pass protector at Left Tackle. He has great size, feet, technique, and experience on the left side.
If not the Boston College product, the Giants could still go Offensive Tackle with Gabe Carimi, Coloradoโs Nate Solder, or Mississippi Stateโs Derek Sherrod. On defense, the team would like to add a Linebacker but value may not match up. A surprise pick could be Defensive Tackle Phil Taylor or Illinois Running Back Mikel LeShoure.
20. Tampa Bay Buccaneers
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Aldon SmithโDefensive EndโMissouri
The Buccaneers were perhaps the most surprising team in the 2010 season, with young franchise Quarterback Josh Freeman quickly coming into his own. The team has done a nice job putting pieces together on the offensive side of the ball and has already begun to overhaul their defense with 2010 second overall pick Gerald McCoy at Defensive Tackle. For McCoy to do as much damage as heโs capable of, Tampa Bay must add an edge-rusher to take attention from him.
Aldon Smith is a good fit in the team's Tampa 2 defense and has the versatility to move around in that front. Heโs athletic with great size and vines for arms.
The Bucs could look to add another end such as Iowaโs Adrian Clayborn or Ryan Kerrigan. Like New York, theyโd love to go Linebacker but value does not really match up here.ย
21. Kansas City Chiefs
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Phil TaylorโNose TackleโBaylor
No playoff team in the AFC faced tougher odds than the Chiefs, who went from picking in the top five a year ago to the AFC West champions this season. For years Kansas Cityโs 3-4 scheme has been held back by the lack of a big, space-eating Nose Tackle in the middle.
In Phil Taylor, the team gets the big two-gap plugger they need. Heโs huge, athletic, and plays with a high motor. Immediately, Taylor would step into a starting spot and fill the teamโs greatest need.
The Chiefs could also look at a Right Tackle such as Gabe Carimi, a Wide Receiver like Pittsburghโs Jonathan Baldwin, or an Outside Linebacker a la Akeem Ayers or Ryan Kerrigan.ย
22. Indianapolis Colts
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Derek SherrodโOffensive TackleโMississippi State
Thereโs little doubt as to where the Colts would like to go with their early draft picks in April. Pass-protection will be the top priority for Indianapolis as they plan to preserve Peyton Manning for years to come. The team has used a variety of interior linemen that have been largely unsuccessful, but their largest need seems to be outside at the Offensive Tackle spots.
Derek Sherrod is the most NFL-ready Left Tackle prospect remaining on the board for the pass-heavy Colts. He has an excellent frame for the position, decent feet, and is a decent technician. He may not be a star in the NFL, but Sherrod would surely be an upgrade.
Other Offensive Linemen that could be considered with this pick are Gabe Carimi, Nate Solder and Georgiaโs Clint Boling.ย
23. Philadelphia Eagles
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Gabe CarimiโOffensive TackleโWisconsin
The Eagles got a great surprise last year after Kevin Kolb left with an injury in the first game of the season. Michael Vick came back better than ever and carried the Philadelphia team into the playoffs on his back.ย The teamโs future depends now on Vickโs arm; theyโll be building around him.
Gabe Carimi screams Andy Reid lineman, standing 6โ7, 315 with long arms and a history of tossing around Big Ten linemen.ย He is this classโ premier run blocker and has the feet and athleticism to make it in pass-protection. The Eagles could find a starting spot for Carimi right away if they make him their first round pick.
Another position the team could target is Cornerback, with Jimmy Smith and Brandon Harris still on the board.ย With some injury concerns at Linebacker, Philadelphia could also go that way early.ย
24. New Orleans Saints
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Adrian ClaybornโDefensive EndโIowa
There may not be a team in the NFL with fewer holes than New Orleans. The teamโs lone glaring hole seems to be Outside Linebacker, where a starting spot may be up for grabs immediately. If value is not there, the Saints may look to address the thin defensive line.
Adrian Clayborn has the look of a tremendous Left End at the next level with impressive quickness and power. Not only is he one of this draft classโ best run-stopping ends, he also does a nice job getting after the Quarterback. Clayborn could find a spot in New Orleansโ rotation and contribute immediately.
The team could also aggressively target a Linebacker such as Akeem Ayers or Washingtonโs Mason Foster.
25. Seattle Seahawks
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Jake LockerโQuarterbackโWashington
No team has ever entered the playoffs in the manner the Seahawks did, with a sub .500 record of 7-9 in the regular season. If Seattle would like to be playing in January again next year it all starts at the Quarterback position. Charlie Whitehurst is not the answer for Pete Carroll, and thereโs little doubt that heโll seek a young successor in this NFL Draft.
Jake Locker may very well be the top signal-caller on the board here and the guy Seattle chooses as their new franchise QB. He possesses a big league arm, excellent mobility, and top intangibles. Additionally, the local fans would likely get behind the move as Locker is seen as an icon in the Pacific Northwest.
The team could be tempted to add a Cornerback here, such as Jimmy Smith or Brandon Harris. A Defensive Lineman could also interest the Seahawks; Ryan Kerrigan, Illinoisโ Corey Liuget, and Oregon Stateโs Stephen Paea are all available.ย
26. Baltimore Ravens
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Jimmy SmithโCornerbackโColorado
It all seems to be coming together for the Ravens, with great young offensive pieces in Quarterback Joe Flacco and Running Back Ray Rice.
The defense in Baltimore is still a team strength, but theyโd like to add youth and talent on that side of the ball early in this draft. Itโs hard to ignore the need for several good Cornerbacks in an increasingly pass-happy league.
Jimmy Smith is a tremendous talent with rare size for the position and terrific athleticism. He may fall to them here based on attitude concerns, but it would be hard for the Ravens to turn down such an instant upgrade.
The team may also look at an Inside Linebacker like Mason Foster here. Wide Receiver is another need for Baltimore and there is some talent here in Jonathan Baldwin and Miamiโs Leonard Hankerson.ย
27. Atlanta Falcons
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Ryan KerriganโDefensive EndโPurdue
The Falcons entered the playoffs as the top dogs in the competitive NFC, but fizzled out at home in their match-up with Green Bay, the future Super Bowl champs. Itโs clear that while Atlanta has a very talented core, improvements can and need to be made.
Ryan Kerrigan gives the team a much-needed second pass-rushing option opposite John Abraham. Heโs a talented, high-motor player and a frustrating matchup for Offensive Tackles of any caliber.
The Falcons could also target an offensive playmaker such as Wide Receivers like Boise Stateโs Titus Young, Leonard Hankerson or Tight End Kyle Rudolph. Additional possibilities for the team include Offensive Linemen Nate Solder and Clint Boling.ย
28. New England Patriots
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Leonard HankersonโWide ReceiveโMiami
The only team with two picks in the first round may be the team that needs them the least. Realistically, this pick wonโt be made by New England but rather likely sold to the highest bidder. Thatโs not to say the Patriotsย could notย use the pick to improve their team.
Since trading away Randy Moss, the team has lacked a big Wide Receiver who could threaten downfield.
Leonard Hankerson has had a great showing in the pre-draft process after a productive Senior season. He possesses good size for the position and helped to put some speed questions to rest at the NFL Combine where he ran a 4.43. Hankerson could improve the already scary Patriots passing attack immediately.
Other positions of interest for the team could be Running Back, Nose Tackle or an Offensive Lineman such as Clint Boling.ย
29. Chicago Bears
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Clint BolingโOffensive Guard/TackleโGeorgia
During Chicagoโs deep playoff run it became painfully obvious that the team has serious issues up front, especially in pass-protection. The Bears first round pick is almost sure to be an Offensive Lineman in the 2011 NFL Draft.
With a number of quality linemen already off the board, the team opts for the versatile Clint Boling. He projects as a starter at potentially any position along the line and instantly offers an upgrade over their current situation.
Other Offensive Linemen the team could consider include Nate Solder and TCUโs Marcus Cannon. The Bears could opt to help Jay Cutler in another way by selecting a Wide Receiver such as Jonathan Baldwin, Titus Young or Marylandโs Torrey Smith.
30. New York Jets
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Brooks ReedโOutside LinebackerโArizona
Rex Ryan has officially guaranteed his Jets will win the Super Bowl at the conclusion of the 2011-2012 season. To do that, New York must add additional pieces on both sides of the ball.
An impact pass-rusher would allow Ryan to be even more successful with his blitz packages and Outside Linebacker is a spot on the depth chart in need of an upgrade.
After showing surprising fluidity and athleticism at the Senior Bowl, Brooks Reed went to the Combine and turned in an impressive 4.68 40 and a strong workout overall. He seems to have the ability to make a quick transition from college end to NFL Linebacker and could develop into an impact starter in time.
The Jets could instead go after a 5-Tech such as Iowaโs Christian Ballard or Templeโs Muhammed Wilkerson. Another potential fit at Outside Linebacker would be Akeem Ayers.
31. Pittsburgh Steelers
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Brandon HarrisโCornerbackโMiami
It did notย take long for the Steelers to bounce back after missing the playoffs a year ago. Despite not being perfect, Pittsburgh clawed their way back to another Super Bowl with health issues lingering all the way.
An Offensive Lineman may again be the top priority for the team, but if thereโs value at the Cornerback position, youth and talent is needed.
Brandon Harris lacks great size, but makes up for his physical shortcomings with exceptional feed, closing speed and coverage skills. He projects an instant impact man-corner that could help Pittsburgh right away.
If the team does go offensive line, Nate Solder, Marcus Cannon, and Villanovaโs Ben Ijalana all potentially fit their mold.ย
32. Green Bay Packers
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Akeem AyersโOutside LinebackerโUCLA
Quarterback Aaron Rodgers became the player that we all thought he could this past season for Green Bay. What was more surprising was the resurgent Packers defense that consistently made big plays.
The roster appears to be young and for the most part, complete as far as starting positions are concerned. One starting spot that may be up for grabs is at Outside Linebacker opposite All-Pro Clay Matthews.
A talented edge-rusher falls to them here in Akeem Ayers. He may not have fully lived up to his athletic billing at the NFL Combine, but he still possesses the size, fluidity, and pass-rushing potential to warrant a late first round selection.
Green Bay could also go with an Offensive Lineman for the second year in a row with Tackle Nate Solder or Baylor Guard Danny Watkins.ย
Second Round (Picks 33-35)
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33. New England Patriots (f/CAR)โMikel LeShoureโRunning BackโIllinois
With a full night to weigh trade options, I think itโs almost a given that the Patriots will move this pick judging by their track record. If they keep it, LeShoure adds talent, youth, and depth at Running Back. Heโs a big, powerful runner with surprising agility and heโll contribute early.
34. Buffalo BillsโChristian PonderโQuarterbackโFlorida State
After passing on a potential franchise signal-caller in the first round, the Bills get their guy here at the top of the second. Ponder is an excellent fit in Chan Gaileyโs offense, possessing the feet and intangibles to be very successful down the road.
35. Cincinnati BengalsโRyan MallettโQuarterbackโArkansas
The Bengals chose to bypass a Quarterback in the first round, but they find a solution early in the second. Itโs unlikely that Ryan Mallettโs character concerns will turn away Cincinnati, who will be looking for an instant replacement for Carson Palmer. Mallett would start immediately with an array of young weapons.ย
Second Round (Picks 36-38)
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36. Denver BroncosโKyle RudolphโTight EndโNotre Dame
It would be hard to turn down an offensive talent like Kyle Rudolph here, even with the Broncosโ array of needs on the other side of the ball. The former Irish Tight End has excellent size, hands, and athletic ability. Heโd start right away and contribute both in the passing and rushing game as a rookie.
37. Cleveland BrownsโTitus YoungโWide Receiver - Boise State
The Browns are another team that must target front seven defenders over all else. Cleveland would have a hard time turning down Titus Youngโs speed on the outside. Colt McCoy can only be expected to be successful with competent weapons around him. Young adds the perfect downfield threat to the Browns offense.
38. Arizona CardinalsโNate SolderโOffensive TackleโColorado
Yards did notย come easily for the Cardinals a year ago and it was clear the team suffered, in part due to a shaky offensive line. Nate Solder is too good a value to pass up here with prototypical size and athleticism. He has the potential to be an anchor at Left Tackle.
Second Round (39-41)
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39. Tennessee TitansโMason FosterโOutside LinebackerโWashington
After Keith Bulluck departed from Tennessee, the team instantly felt the drop-off at Outside Linebacker. Mason Foster is an underrated prospect that could be a very solid starter for the Titans for a long time. Heโs an excellent tackler that plays with great range.
40. Dallas CowboysโDanny WatkinsโOffensive GuardโBaylor
The most pressing need for Jerry Jones & Co. to address is on the offensive line. The pass-protection for the Cowboys was notย great by any means, but the run-blocking was absolutely pathetic. Danny Watkins is a big, nasty lineman that will likely move inside to Guard at the next level. He gives Dallasโ line the physicality they desperately need.
41. Washington RedskinsโMike PounceyโOffensive GuardโFlorida
The Redkins are another team desperate for help along the offensive line. Washington was beaten up in the trenches last year and will look to add an athletic interior lineman to fit Mike Shanahanโs zone-blocking scheme. Pouncey is an excellent fit and would be a major upgrade anywhere on the Redskins line.
Second Round (Picks 42-44)
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42. Houston TexansโChristian BallardโDefensive EndvIowa
After striking out in the first round, Houston gets their Defensive End here in the second. Christian Ballard is a great fit at end for the Texans and is capable of moving up and down the line in a variety of schemes. He has the size, power, and athleticism to make an impact early.
43. Minnesota VikingsโRas-I DowlingโCornerbackโVirginia
Unable to land the franchise Quarterback they desired, the Vikings turn to defense and upgrade their defensive backfield. Dowling was hurt during the 2010 season, but has the size, range, and speed to contribute at either Cornerback or Free Safety.
44. Detroit LionsโColin McCarthyโLinebackerโMiami
There havenโt been many players that have made the most out of the pre-draft process the way Colin McCarthy has. Heโs a smart player with range, good athleticism, and is a secure tackler. Detroit could use his help immediately in the middle or on the weak-side.
Second Round (Picks 45-47)
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45. San Francisco 49ersโMuhammed WilkersonโDefensive EndโTemple
In the first round, rookie Head Coach John Harbaugh got his franchise passer. After addressing Quarterback, the 49ers will turn to defense. Wilkerson is a 5-Tech prospect with prototypical size and good athleticism. He could fight for a starting spot right away in San Francisco.
46. Denver Broncos (f/MIA)โQuan SturdivantโMiddle LinebackerโNorth Carolina
In transitioning to their new 4-3 scheme, the Broncos will need to add at least one starting Linebacker. Sturdivant is an underrated prospect with great instincts, range, and is a very secure tackler. Upon arriving in Denver, he could push D.J. Williams back to his more natural spot on the weak-side.
47. St. Louis RamsโCorey LiugetโDefensive TackleโIllinois
The Rams got lucky in the first round when a top receiver prospect fell right into their laps. The team still needs help on the other side of the ball and Liuget offers great value here. He is a quick, powerful Defensive Tackle that would give St. Louis another young building block on defense.ย
Second Round (Picks 48-50)
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48. Oakland RaidersโMarcus CannonโOffensive Guard/Tackle โ TCU
With recent news that Robert Gallery is leaving the Raiders, their first pick could now be used to address the offensive line. Cannon is an enormous physical wonder capable of playing inside at Guard or at Right Tackle. Heโd start right away in Oakland and fits the Al Davis draftee mold.
49. Jacksonville JaguarsโColin KaepernickโQuarterback โ Nevada
It appears as if the Jaguars have gone about as far as they can go with David Garrard. Though Garrard has a couple decent years in him as a starter, itโs time they added a young Quarterback to develop and eventually push the incumbent starter. Kaepernick has great size, a rocket arm, and excellent mobility, but heโll need time to be groomed.
50. San Diego ChargersโJonathan BaldwinโWide ReceiverโPittsburgh
Quarterback Philip Rivers is among the leagueโs elite, but the receiver position in San Diego has been plagued by injuries and a high-profile hold out. Baldwin is an extremely gifted athlete with excellent size, speed, and leaping ability. He fits right in for the Chargers as a dangerous vertical option.ย
Second Round (Picks 51-53)
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51. Tampa Bay BuccaneersโBen IjalanaโOffensive Tackle/GuardvVillanova
Itโs crucial for the Buccaneers to protect their franchise passer in Josh Freeman. Though a small-school guy, Ijalana has the size, length, and agility to start immediately at Guard or perhaps Tackle. Heโs a good run-blocker and pass-blocker that upgrades Tampa Bayโs line immediately.
52. New York GiantsโRyan WilliamsโRunning BackโVirginia Tech
With little certainty about the future of the position, the Giants could target a Running Back in the second round. Williams is a tremendous slashing back that runs with burst and power. Heโll fall on draft day due to injuries that hampered him during the 2010 college football season.
53. Indianapolis ColtsโStephen PaeaโDefensive TackleโOregon State
After the Colts get their help along the offensive line, theyโll turn their attention to the defensive line. Paea would likely be a higher pick were he able to fully workout at the Combine, but heโs a great value due to exceptional power, strength, and quickness. He would start right away in the trenches in Indianapolis.
Second Round (Picks 54-56)
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54. Philadelphia EaglesโChykie BrownโCornerbackโTexas
Andy Reid will be looking to add some size to the Cornerback position during the draft weekend. Brown gives the Eagles a player with all the physical tools to be a very successful pro. If healthy, he could turn into one of this classโ pleasant surprises at the position.
55. Kansas City ChiefsโGreg LittleโWide ReceiverโNorth Carolina
The Chiefs filled a gaping hole in the first by landing a Nose Tackle, so the next order of business is surrounding Matt Cassel with more weapons. Little did notย play in 2010, but he re-asserted himself at the NFL Combine. Heโs flying under the radar right now and has the ability to start and flourish alongside Dwayne Bowe.
56. New Orleans SaintsโK.J. WrightโOutside LinebackerโMississippi State
One of the most complete teams in football has perhaps only one starting spot up for grabs, and thatโs at Outside Linebacker. Wright has the size, fluidity, and athletic ability teams look for in this range. This durable, reliable backer could solve some of the Saintsโ most current problems.
Second Round (Picks 57-59)
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57. Seattle SeahawksโCurtis BrownโCornerbackโTexas
In the first round, Seattle made a decisive move for their future by adding Jake Locker. In the second, theyโll likely turn their focus to the other side of the ball, or more particularly, the defensive backfield. Brown is the second Texas corner off the board this round and perhaps the more NFL-ready. He has excellent feet and man-cover skills.
58. Baltimore RavensโKelvin SheppardโInside LinebackerโLSU
For the Ravens, no defensive position is due for an improvement as much as the inside backer spot next to Ray Lewis. Sheppard has great size, instincts, and enough range to make it as a starter early in the NFL. Heโs a terrific fit for the Ravens and could not ask for a better mentor to learn from.
59. Atlanta FalconsโRandall CobbโWide ReceiverโKentucky
While gearing up for future Super Bowl runs, the Falcons must give Matt Ryan additional weapons to keep defenses off balance. Cobb is an extremely versatile, explosive offensive weapon that could develop into a very effective Wide Receiver in Atlanta. Additionally, he offers return value.
Second Round (Picks 60-62)
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60. New England PatriotsโStefan WisniewskiโCenter/GuardโPenn State
Is there any other young player that can help New England this coming year? Wisniewski is a versatile interior lineman that will be ready to start right away at Guard or Center for the Patriots. He's a pick that will help them solidify their line for the future.
61. Chicago BearsโTorrey SmithโWide ReceiverโMaryland
After helping Jay Cutler out in the form of an Offensive Lineman in the first round, Chicago adds another young, dynamic weapon for him to throw to. Smith has big-league speed along with good size and kick return ability. The Bears plan to make the most of the trade that brought them a franchise Quarterback and more talent at Wide Receiver is helpful.
62. San Diego Chargers (f/NYJ)โRahim MooreโFree SafetyโUCLA
Thereโs no denying that the Chargers would welcome a ball-hawk Free Safety to their defense. San Diegoโs โDโ must find a way to force more turnovers in the future and Moore may be just the guy to help him. Although mistake-prone, heโs very athletic with good feet and excellent ball skills.ย
Second Round (Picks 63-64)
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63. Pittsburgh SteelersโOrlando FranklinโOffensive Guard/TackleโMiami
Young talent along the offensive line has been needed in Pittsburgh for years. 2010 first round pick Maurkice Pouncey was a revelation a year ago for the team. Franklin offers a potential starter inside at Guard or potentially at Tackle for the Steelers.
64. Green Bay PackersโJerel JerniganโWide Receiver โ Troy
Without much value here along the offensive line, the Packers may make this second round pick one for luxury. Jerel Jernigan gives the team a young, versatile, and speedy slot receiver capable of handling return duties from day one. Though he does notย fill a pressing need, Jernigan could contribute for this team.
Third Round (Picks 65-75)
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65. Carolina PanthersโDrake NevisโDefensive TackleโLSU
66. Cincinnati BengalsโBruce CarterโOutside LinebackerโNorth Carolina
67. Denver BroncosโAaron WilliamsโFree Safety/CornerbackโTexas
68. Buffalo BillsโSam Acho โOutside LinebackerโTexas
69. Arizona CardinalsโAndy DaltonโQuarterbackโTCU
70. Cleveland BrownsโMarvin AustinโDefensive TackleโNorth Carolina
71. Dallas CowboysโQuinton CarterโFree SafetyโOklahoma
72. New Orleans Saints (f/WAS)โEdmond GatesโWide ReceiverโAbilene Christian
73. Houston TexansโShane VereenโRunning BackโCalifornia
74. New England Patriots (f/MIN)โKenrick EllisโNose TackleโHampton
75. Detroit LionsโDavon HouseโCornerbackโNew Mexico Stateย
Third Round (Picks 76-86)
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76. San Francisco 49ersโJohn MoffittโOffensive GuardโWisconsin
77. Tennessee TitansโLuke StockerโTight EndโTennessee
78. St. Louis RamsโDeMarco MurrayโRunning BackโOklahoma
79. Miami DolphinsโLance KendricksโTight EndโWisconsin
80. Jacksonville JaguarsโJabaal SheardโDefensive EndโPittsburgh
81. Oakland RaidersโCurtis MarshโCornerbackโUtah State
82. San Diego ChargersโChris CarterโOutside LinebackerโFresno State
83. New York GiantsโNate IrvingโLinebackerโNorth Carolina State
84. Tampa Bay BuccaneersโLawrence WilsonโOutside LinebackerโConnecticut
85. Philadelphia EaglesโDelone Carterโ Running BackโSyracuse
86. Kansas City ChiefsโJames CarpenterโOffensive Tackle/GuardโAlabama
Third Round (Picks 87-96)
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87. Indianapolis ColtsโWill RackleyโOffensive Guard/TackleโLehigh
88. New Orleans SaintsโJarvis JenkinsโDefensive TackleโClemson
89. San Diego (f/SEA)โMarcus GilbertโOffensive TackleโFlorida
90. Baltimore RavensโRonald JohnsonโWide ReceiverโUSC
91. Atlanta FalconsโJordan TodmaโRunning BackโConnecticut
92. New England PatriotsโTyler SashโStrong SafetyโIowa
93. Chicago BearsโMarcus GilchristโSafety/CornerbackโClemson
94. New York JetsโLawrence GuyโDefensive EndโArizona State
95. Pittsburgh SteelersโJerrell PoweโNose TackleโMississippi
96. Green Bay PackersโRodney HudsonโCenter/Offensive GuardโFlorida State
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