2011 NFL Mock Draft: Blaine Gabbert Rising to the Head of the Quarterback Class
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The real NFL Draft is next month. Until then, we will entertain you with mock drafts.
The general managers, coaches and front offices of all 32 teams are keeping busy with the draft at the moment with the lockout in place, so this year's draft could be very different.
How it will be different no one can really say, but since mock drafts are all speculation to begin with, it does not really matter.
Blaine Gabbert is becoming the talk of the draft. There is less argument now over who will be drafted first and more talk of whether Gabbert will go No. 1 overall.
The order of wide receivers and defensive tackles also is a matter of debate. Who is the best defensive tackle on the board? Marcell Dareus or Nick Fairley?
We'll find out when the real draft happens, until then, here is my latest mock draft.
| 1. Carolina Panthers: Marcell Dareus 2. Denver Broncos: Da'Quan Bowers 3. Buffalo Bills: Cam Newton 4. Cincinnati Bengals: A.J. Green | 17. New England Patriots: Aldon Smith 18. San Diego Chargers: Muhammad WIlkerson 19. New York Giants: Tyron Smith 20. Tampa Bay Buccaneers: Adrian Clayborn |
| 5. Arizona Cardinals: Von Miller 6. Cleveland Browns: Nick Fairley 7. San Francisco 49ers: Patrick Peterson 8. Tennessee Titans: Blaine Gabbert | 21. Kansas City Chiefs: Justin Houston 22. Indianapolis Colts: Anthony Castonzo 23. Philadelphia Eagles: Derek Sherrod 24. New Orleans Saints: Corey Liuget |
| 9. Dallas Cowboys: Prince Amukamara 10. Washington Redskins: Julio Jones 11. Houston Texans: Cameron Jordan 12. Minnesota Vikings: J.J. Watt | 25. Seattle Seahawks: Akeem Ayers 26. Baltimore Ravens: Torrey Smith 27. Atlanta Falcons: Aaron Williams 28. New England Patriots: Cameron Heyward |
| 13. Detroit Lions: Nate Solder 14. St. Louis Rams: Robert Quinn 15. Miamia Dolphins: Mark Ingram 16. Jacksonville Jaguars: Ryan Kerrigan | 29. Chicago Bears: Gabe Carimi 30. New York Jets: Phil Taylor 31. Pittsburgh Steelers: Mike Pouncey 32. Green Bay Packers: Titus Young |
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Boise State WR Titus Young Goes To The Super Bowl Champs With 32nd Pick
The Green Bay Packers do not have any glaring needs, so they could try and fill one of several "wants" with this pick.
With the receiving unit the thinnest on the team, Titus Young makes the most sense here. Donald Driver is getting old, James Jones could go in free agency, and Aaron Rodgers needs plenty of good targets to throw to.
The Packers also could go with a cornerback at this point, but the receivers are starting to fall of the board hot and heavy. It is a bit of a toss up, but I do think the Packers will go with a wide receiver here.
Unless the Packers want to trade up in the second round, the quality of receiver will drop a lot by the end of the second round, at which time I think they may try and find another pass rusher anyway.
| 1. Carolina Panthers: Marcell Dareus 2. Denver Broncos: Da'Quan Bowers 3. Buffalo Bills: Cam Newton 4. Cincinnati Bengals: A.J. Green |
17. New England Patriots: Aldon Smith 18. San Diego Chargers: Muhammad WIlkerson 19. New York Giants: Tyron Smith 20. Tampa Bay Buccaneers: Adrian Clayborn |
| 5. Arizona Cardinals: Von Miller 6. Cleveland Browns: Nick Fairley 7. San Francisco 49ers: Patrick Peterson 8. Tennessee Titans: Blaine Gabbert |
21. Kansas City Chiefs: Justin Houston 22. Indianapolis Colts: Anthony Castonzo 23. Philadelphia Eagles: Derek Sherrod 24. New Orleans Saints: Corey Liuget |
| 9. Dallas Cowboys: Prince Amukamara 10. Washington Redskins: Julio Jones 11. Houston Texans: Cameron Jordan 12. Minnesota Vikings: J.J. Watt |
25. Seattle Seahawks: Akeem Ayers 26. Baltimore Ravens: Torrey Smith 27. Atlanta Falcons: Aaron Williams 28. New England Patriots: Cameron Heyward |
| 13. Detroit Lions: Nate Solder 14. St. Louis Rams: Robert Quinn 15. Miamia Dolphins: Mark Ingram 16. Jacksonville Jaguars: Ryan Kerrigan |
29. Chicago Bears: Gabe Carimi 30. New York Jets: Phil Taylor 31. Pittsburgh Steelers: Mike Pouncey 32. Green Bay Packers: Titus Young |
The Steelers May Have To Trade Up To Obtain Pouncey In The Draft
The Pittsburgh Steelers have two big needs going into the draft. They need an offensive lineman and they need a new cornerback.
The Steelers draft 31st in this year's draft, and the guy they will want the most, Mike Pouncey, probably won't last that long. I'm mocking Pouncey here because I believe the Steelers will trade up to get him.
The Steelers drafted his twin brother Maurkice last year and he has become the best player on the offensive line and one of the most popular players in the locker room.
Drafting his twin is the top priority for this team. Not only will it fill a position of need, but the chemistry between the two brothers already is there and there will be no questions about character. This is a "can't miss" pick, and the Steelers will do what they have to do to get this guy on their squad.
| 1. Carolina Panthers: Marcell Dareus 2. Denver Broncos: Da'Quan Bowers 3. Buffalo Bills: Cam Newton 4. Cincinnati Bengals: A.J. Green |
17. New England Patriots: Aldon Smith 18. San Diego Chargers: Muhammad WIlkerson 19. New York Giants: Tyron Smith 20. Tampa Bay Buccaneers: Adrian Clayborn |
| 5. Arizona Cardinals: Von Miller 6. Cleveland Browns: Nick Fairley 7. San Francisco 49ers: Patrick Peterson 8. Tennessee Titans: Blaine Gabbert |
21. Kansas City Chiefs: Justin Houston 22. Indianapolis Colts: Anthony Castonzo 23. Philadelphia Eagles: Derek Sherrod 24. New Orleans Saints: Corey Liuget |
| 9. Dallas Cowboys: Prince Amukamara 10. Washington Redskins: Julio Jones 11. Houston Texans: Cameron Jordan 12. Minnesota Vikings: J.J. Watt |
25. Seattle Seahawks: Akeem Ayers 26. Baltimore Ravens: Torrey Smith 27. Atlanta Falcons: Aaron Williams 28. New England Patriots: Cameron Heyward |
| 13. Detroit Lions: Nate Solder 14. St. Louis Rams: Robert Quinn 15. Miamia Dolphins: Mark Ingram 16. Jacksonville Jaguars: Ryan Kerrigan |
29. Chicago Bears: Gabe Carimi 30. New York Jets: Phil Taylor 31. Pittsburgh Steelers: Mike Pouncey 32. Green Bay Packers: Titus Young |
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The jets Defensive Line Gets Younger And Faster With First Pick
Rex Ryan is guaranteeing things again. This time he is guaranteeing the Jets will win the Super Bowl in 2011. This is the usual way of things with Ryan, so he needs to start the year by drafting properly.
The Jets will not use their first pick on any part of the offense because the offense is pretty set. All it needs is some new contracts once the lockout is lifted.
The New York Jets have a very good defense, but Phil Taylor will be the future anchor of the Jets defense. Taylor has a lot of talent, and if not for some marks against him from his time at Penn State, Taylor might have been considered a Top 10 pick.
Ryan won't care about that one bit and will be happy to take Taylor with the 30th pick. With so many free agent questions, Taylor fits a need that doesn't involve a veteran waiting to sign a contract. Plus he will be a playmaker on the defense, which you can't have enough of when you play the Patriots twice a year.
| 1. Carolina Panthers: Marcell Dareus 2. Denver Broncos: Da'Quan Bowers 3. Buffalo Bills: Cam Newton 4. Cincinnati Bengals: A.J. Green |
17. New England Patriots: Aldon Smith 18. San Diego Chargers: Muhammad WIlkerson 19. New York Giants: Tyron Smith 20. Tampa Bay Buccaneers: Adrian Clayborn |
| 5. Arizona Cardinals: Von Miller 6. Cleveland Browns: Nick Fairley 7. San Francisco 49ers: Patrick Peterson 8. Tennessee Titans: Blaine Gabbert |
21. Kansas City Chiefs: Justin Houston 22. Indianapolis Colts: Anthony Castonzo 23. Philadelphia Eagles: Derek Sherrod 24. New Orleans Saints: Corey Liuget |
| 9. Dallas Cowboys: Prince Amukamara 10. Washington Redskins: Julio Jones 11. Houston Texans: Cameron Jordan 12. Minnesota Vikings: J.J. Watt |
25. Seattle Seahawks: Akeem Ayers 26. Baltimore Ravens: Torrey Smith 27. Atlanta Falcons: Aaron Williams 28. New England Patriots: Cameron Heyward |
| 13. Detroit Lions: Nate Solder 14. St. Louis Rams: Robert Quinn 15. Miamia Dolphins: Mark Ingram 16. Jacksonville Jaguars: Ryan Kerrigan |
29. Chicago Bears: Gabe Carimi 30. New York Jets: Phil Taylor 31. Pittsburgh Steelers: Mike Pouncey 32. Green Bay Packers: Titus Young |
Jamie Sabau/Getty Images
The Bears Could Have Made The Super Bowl If They Had an Offensive Line In 2010
The Chicago Bears had one of the worst offensive lines in the league in 2010. The awfulness of the line was covered up somewhat by different schemes implemented as the season went on, but all that did was put a band-aid on the situation.
The first step toward rebuilding that line is by drafting Gabe Carimi. Carimi will help reduce the 60 sacks the line allowed in 2010. With Carimi, you stop talking about if Jay Cutler was healthy enough to come back in the game because Cutler isn't getting the crap kicked out of him.
If the Bears don't address their line at the top of the draft, it should be an offense worthy of termination for every person in that front office.
| 1. Carolina Panthers: Marcell Dareus 2. Denver Broncos: Da'Quan Bowers 3. Buffalo Bills: Cam Newton 4. Cincinnati Bengals: A.J. Green |
17. New England Patriots: Aldon Smith 18. San Diego Chargers: Muhammad WIlkerson 19. New York Giants: Tyron Smith 20. Tampa Bay Buccaneers: Adrian Clayborn |
| 5. Arizona Cardinals: Von Miller 6. Cleveland Browns: Nick Fairley 7. San Francisco 49ers: Patrick Peterson 8. Tennessee Titans: Blaine Gabbert |
21. Kansas City Chiefs: Justin Houston 22. Indianapolis Colts: Anthony Castonzo 23. Philadelphia Eagles: Derek Sherrod 24. New Orleans Saints: Corey Liuget |
| 9. Dallas Cowboys: Prince Amukamara 10. Washington Redskins: Julio Jones 11. Houston Texans: Cameron Jordan 12. Minnesota Vikings: J.J. Watt |
25. Seattle Seahawks: Akeem Ayers 26. Baltimore Ravens: Torrey Smith 27. Atlanta Falcons: Aaron Williams 28. New England Patriots: Cameron Heyward |
| 13. Detroit Lions: Nate Solder 14. St. Louis Rams: Robert Quinn 15. Miamia Dolphins: Mark Ingram 16. Jacksonville Jaguars: Ryan Kerrigan |
29. Chicago Bears: Gabe Carimi 30. New York Jets: Phil Taylor 31. Pittsburgh Steelers: Mike Pouncey 32. Green Bay Packers: Titus Young |
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The Patriots Can Not Pass Up Cameron Heyward With 28th Pick In First Round
The Patriots have two picks in each of the first three rounds, so how they spend them is a matter of some debate. The Patriots could keep trading picks, or actually use them. It does not really matter because Bill Belichick can make a seventh-round draft pick a starter.
In addition to having to improve the pass rush, the Patriots could use a downfield threat at wide receiver and some upgrades on the offensive line.
With this pick, Bill Belichick continues to improve his team's pass rush by picking Cameron Heyward. The offensive linemen he most likely will target in the first round are off the board and he can draft a good wide receiver with the first pick in the second round.
With Heyward still on the board, the decision becomes easy and now the Patriots will be poised to have the best pass rushing unit in the NFL for years to come.
| 1. Carolina Panthers: Marcell Dareus 2. Denver Broncos: Da'Quan Bowers 3. Buffalo Bills: Cam Newton 4. Cincinnati Bengals: A.J. Green |
17. New England Patriots: Aldon Smith 18. San Diego Chargers: Muhammad WIlkerson 19. New York Giants: Tyron Smith 20. Tampa Bay Buccaneers: Adrian Clayborn |
| 5. Arizona Cardinals: Von Miller 6. Cleveland Browns: Nick Fairley 7. San Francisco 49ers: Patrick Peterson 8. Tennessee Titans: Blaine Gabbert |
21. Kansas City Chiefs: Justin Houston 22. Indianapolis Colts: Anthony Castonzo 23. Philadelphia Eagles: Derek Sherrod 24. New Orleans Saints: Corey Liuget |
| 9. Dallas Cowboys: Prince Amukamara 10. Washington Redskins: Julio Jones 11. Houston Texans: Cameron Jordan 12. Minnesota Vikings: J.J. Watt |
25. Seattle Seahawks: Akeem Ayers 26. Baltimore Ravens: Torrey Smith 27. Atlanta Falcons: Aaron Williams 28. New England Patriots: Cameron Heyward |
| 13. Detroit Lions: Nate Solder 14. St. Louis Rams: Robert Quinn 15. Miamia Dolphins: Mark Ingram 16. Jacksonville Jaguars: Ryan Kerrigan |
29. Chicago Bears: Gabe Carimi 30. New York Jets: Phil Taylor 31. Pittsburgh Steelers: Mike Pouncey 32. Green Bay Packers: Titus Young |
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The Falcons Will Strive To Strike Gold With Aaron Williams
The Atlanta Falcons had one of the most complete teams in the NFL for most of the season, but Green Bay's depth proved to be superior in the playoffs.
The Falcons have a big choice in front of them on draft day. Roddy White is the only big threat they have at wide receiver, but they need another corner as well.
This is a coin toss and I'm choosing pass rusher. There are a lot of good wide receivers between this pick and when they come up again, but the quality of the cornerbacks is going to start really dropping after the top of the second round, so they take Aaron Williams.
Williams automatically is better than most of the corners on the Falcons roster, and it will give them a better chance against Drew Brees and other big quarterbacks in the league.
| 1. Carolina Panthers: Marcell Dareus 2. Denver Broncos: Da'Quan Bowers 3. Buffalo Bills: Cam Newton 4. Cincinnati Bengals: A.J. Green |
17. New England Patriots: Aldon Smith 18. San Diego Chargers: Muhammad WIlkerson 19. New York Giants: Tyron Smith 20. Tampa Bay Buccaneers: Adrian Clayborn |
| 5. Arizona Cardinals: Von Miller 6. Cleveland Browns: Nick Fairley 7. San Francisco 49ers: Patrick Peterson 8. Tennessee Titans: Blaine Gabbert |
21. Kansas City Chiefs: Justin Houston 22. Indianapolis Colts: Anthony Castonzo 23. Philadelphia Eagles: Derek Sherrod 24. New Orleans Saints: Corey Liuget |
| 9. Dallas Cowboys: Prince Amukamara 10. Washington Redskins: Julio Jones 11. Houston Texans: Cameron Jordan 12. Minnesota Vikings: J.J. Watt |
25. Seattle Seahawks: Akeem Ayers 26. Baltimore Ravens: Torrey Smith 27. Atlanta Falcons: Aaron Williams 28. New England Patriots: Cameron Heyward |
| 13. Detroit Lions: Nate Solder 14. St. Louis Rams: Robert Quinn 15. Miamia Dolphins: Mark Ingram 16. Jacksonville Jaguars: Ryan Kerrigan |
29. Chicago Bears: Gabe Carimi 30. New York Jets: Phil Taylor 31. Pittsburgh Steelers: Mike Pouncey 32. Green Bay Packers: Titus Young |
The Baltimore Ravens Have To Stretch The Field To Make Super Bowl
The Baltimore Ravens have a lot of ways they can go with this pick, but going with a wide receiver is the best move they can make at this point. Torrey Smith will help stretch the defenses in 2011.
Joe Flacco just didn't have a legitimate enough wide receiver downfield to keep defenses like the Steelers from creeping up on him. The Ravens also need a new center to replace the aging Matt Birk, who will be 35 years old when the 2011 season begins. But everyone has said that for the last two years, so don't hold your breath.
If the Ravens take a center, I'm now convinced they won't do it any earlier than the third round.
Jonathan Baldwin previously was mocked here, but his Pro Day showed he has no burst off of the line and he is just is not worth a No. 1 pick.
| 1. Carolina Panthers: Marcell Dareus 2. Denver Broncos: Da'Quan Bowers 3. Buffalo Bills: Cam Newton 4. Cincinnati Bengals: A.J. Green |
17. New England Patriots: Aldon Smith 18. San Diego Chargers: Muhammad WIlkerson 19. New York Giants: Tyron Smith 20. Tampa Bay Buccaneers: Adrian Clayborn |
| 5. Arizona Cardinals: Von Miller 6. Cleveland Browns: Nick Fairley 7. San Francisco 49ers: Patrick Peterson 8. Tennessee Titans: Blaine Gabbert |
21. Kansas City Chiefs: Justin Houston 22. Indianapolis Colts: Anthony Castonzo 23. Philadelphia Eagles: Derek Sherrod 24. New Orleans Saints: Corey Liuget |
| 9. Dallas Cowboys: Prince Amukamara 10. Washington Redskins: Julio Jones 11. Houston Texans: Cameron Jordan 12. Minnesota Vikings: J.J. Watt |
25. Seattle Seahawks: Akeem Ayers 26. Baltimore Ravens: Torrey Smith 27. Atlanta Falcons: Aaron Williams 28. New England Patriots: Cameron Heyward |
| 13. Detroit Lions: Nate Solder 14. St. Louis Rams: Robert Quinn 15. Miamia Dolphins: Mark Ingram 16. Jacksonville Jaguars: Ryan Kerrigan |
29. Chicago Bears: Gabe Carimi 30. New York Jets: Phil Taylor 31. Pittsburgh Steelers: Mike Pouncey 32. Green Bay Packers: Titus Young |
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Akeem Ayers Goes To Seattle As QB Situation Stays Muddled
The Seahawks can go in plenty of directions with this pick, even quarterback. Todd McShay just mocked Jake Locker here, and he may be on to something.
A lot depends on what happens in court April 6 and if the Seahawks are able to make a play for a veteran quarterback before the draft because the lockout has been lifted.
If Locker goes in the first round, I still believe it will be because one team decides to trade back up into the end of the first round to get him.
Ayers had a good year but only a so-so Combine. In my book, you go with the game tape, so Ayers stays in the first round and becomes a steal for the Seahawks here.
Ayers is a great player who manages to be in almost every play and he can get to the quarterback.
| 1. Carolina Panthers: Marcell Dareus 2. Denver Broncos: Da'Quan Bowers 3. Buffalo Bills: Cam Newton 4. Cincinnati Bengals: A.J. Green |
17. New England Patriots: Aldon Smith 18. San Diego Chargers: Muhammad WIlkerson 19. New York Giants: Tyron Smith 20. Tampa Bay Buccaneers: Adrian Clayborn |
| 5. Arizona Cardinals: Von Miller 6. Cleveland Browns: Nick Fairley 7. San Francisco 49ers: Patrick Peterson 8. Tennessee Titans: Blaine Gabbert |
21. Kansas City Chiefs: Justin Houston 22. Indianapolis Colts: Anthony Castonzo 23. Philadelphia Eagles: Derek Sherrod 24. New Orleans Saints: Corey Liuget |
| 9. Dallas Cowboys: Prince Amukamara 10. Washington Redskins: Julio Jones 11. Houston Texans: Cameron Jordan 12. Minnesota Vikings: J.J. Watt |
25. Seattle Seahawks: Akeem Ayers 26. Baltimore Ravens: Torrey Smith 27. Atlanta Falcons: Aaron Williams 28. New England Patriots: Cameron Heyward |
| 13. Detroit Lions: Nate Solder 14. St. Louis Rams: Robert Quinn 15. Miamia Dolphins: Mark Ingram 16. Jacksonville Jaguars: Ryan Kerrigan |
29. Chicago Bears: Gabe Carimi 30. New York Jets: Phil Taylor 31. Pittsburgh Steelers: Mike Pouncey 32. Green Bay Packers: Titus Young |
Corey Liuget Can Solve A Lot Of Problems For The Saints Defense
The Saints need to acquire better run defenders, which was made quite obvious by Marshawn Lynch in the playoffs. The Saints have to shore up their line, and Corey Liuget becomes a steal at this pick.
The Saints defense got exposed at the end of the 2010 season, and the Seahawks exploited it in the Wildcard game. The Saints had no answers as the game went on and the Seahawks advanced as a result.
The Saints have to use their first-round pick to shore up the defense. While arguments can be made for other positions, the defensive line is the team's biggest need right now.
Liuget also is a good pass rusher, so the Saints get double the value out of this pick. Liuget has great hands and can beat blockers who are a step too slow. Liuget is big and strong and will be a great addition to the Saints line.
| 1. Carolina Panthers: Marcell Dareus 2. Denver Broncos: Da'Quan Bowers 3. Buffalo Bills: Cam Newton 4. Cincinnati Bengals: A.J. Green |
17. New England Patriots: Aldon Smith 18. San Diego Chargers: Muhammad WIlkerson 19. New York Giants: Tyron Smith 20. Tampa Bay Buccaneers: Adrian Clayborn |
| 5. Arizona Cardinals: Von Miller 6. Cleveland Browns: Nick Fairley 7. San Francisco 49ers: Patrick Peterson 8. Tennessee Titans: Blaine Gabbert |
21. Kansas City Chiefs: Justin Houston 22. Indianapolis Colts: Anthony Castonzo 23. Philadelphia Eagles: Derek Sherrod 24. New Orleans Saints: Corey Liuget |
| 9. Dallas Cowboys: Prince Amukamara 10. Washington Redskins: Julio Jones 11. Houston Texans: Cameron Jordan 12. Minnesota Vikings: J.J. Watt |
25. Seattle Seahawks: Akeem Ayers 26. Baltimore Ravens: Torrey Smith 27. Atlanta Falcons: Aaron Williams 28. New England Patriots: Cameron Heyward |
| 13. Detroit Lions: Nate Solder 14. St. Louis Rams: Robert Quinn 15. Miamia Dolphins: Mark Ingram 16. Jacksonville Jaguars: Ryan Kerrigan |
29. Chicago Bears: Gabe Carimi 30. New York Jets: Phil Taylor 31. Pittsburgh Steelers: Mike Pouncey 32. Green Bay Packers: Titus Young |
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Protecting The Franchise Determines How Eagles Draft In 2011
Andy Reid traded away one starting quarterback last year, and he is poised to trade away another this year. When Michael Vick is on your roster, you have that luxury.
The Eagles will be putting the franchise in the hands of Vick, who will be signing a fat new contract at some point. He will get this huge contract despite being injured twice during the course of the 2010 season. That is just how good Vick is, and it shows why the Eagles have to do everything they can to protect Vick in 2011.
Enter Derek Sherrod. Sherrod is the kind of raw offensive line talent Andy Reid can plug right in and have him start in Week 1. Sherrod is big and athletic and should be able to make the transition to the pros in short order.
The Eagles gave up 52 sacks last year, so Sherrod's job will be to reduce that number significantly and protect the franchise.
| 1. Carolina Panthers: Marcell Dareus 2. Denver Broncos: Da'Quan Bowers 3. Buffalo Bills: Cam Newton 4. Cincinnati Bengals: A.J. Green |
17. New England Patriots: Aldon Smith 18. San Diego Chargers: Muhammad WIlkerson 19. New York Giants: Tyron Smith 20. Tampa Bay Buccaneers: Adrian Clayborn |
| 5. Arizona Cardinals: Von Miller 6. Cleveland Browns: Nick Fairley 7. San Francisco 49ers: Patrick Peterson 8. Tennessee Titans: Blaine Gabbert |
21. Kansas City Chiefs: Justin Houston 22. Indianapolis Colts: Anthony Castonzo 23. Philadelphia Eagles: Derek Sherrod 24. New Orleans Saints: Corey Liuget |
| 9. Dallas Cowboys: Prince Amukamara 10. Washington Redskins: Julio Jones 11. Houston Texans: Cameron Jordan 12. Minnesota Vikings: J.J. Watt |
25. Seattle Seahawks: Akeem Ayers 26. Baltimore Ravens: Torrey Smith 27. Atlanta Falcons: Aaron Williams 28. New England Patriots: Cameron Heyward |
| 13. Detroit Lions: Nate Solder 14. St. Louis Rams: Robert Quinn 15. Miamia Dolphins: Mark Ingram 16. Jacksonville Jaguars: Ryan Kerrigan |
29. Chicago Bears: Gabe Carimi 30. New York Jets: Phil Taylor 31. Pittsburgh Steelers: Mike Pouncey 32. Green Bay Packers: Titus Young |
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The Colts Will Draft To Protect Peyton Manning Or Face Consequences
Peyton Manning spent a lot of time in 2010 not throwing the ball because he was running for his life. This has to change in 2011, or the Colts may miss the playoffs for the first time since Prohibition. At least it seems like that long.
Manning will sign a huge new contract at some point before the 2011 season starts, and he isn't getting any younger. Manning has been very resistant to injury throughout his career, but how long can that last? Brett Favre really wasn't a victim of the injury bug until he passed the age of 40, but you can't just say Manning will be the same way.
Colts fans hope he'll be as healthy as ever, but a lot of that depends on protection. The Colts changed up the offensive line last year and it didn't work, so it's back to the drawing board and the Colts will welcome Anthony Castonzo into the fold.
Castonzo can have an immediate impact on the game, allowing Manning to do his job while opening holes for Joseph Addai.
| 1. Carolina Panthers: Marcell Dareus 2. Denver Broncos: Da'Quan Bowers 3. Buffalo Bills: Cam Newton 4. Cincinnati Bengals: A.J. Green |
17. New England Patriots: Aldon Smith 18. San Diego Chargers: Muhammad WIlkerson 19. New York Giants: Tyron Smith 20. Tampa Bay Buccaneers: Adrian Clayborn |
| 5. Arizona Cardinals: Von Miller 6. Cleveland Browns: Nick Fairley 7. San Francisco 49ers: Patrick Peterson 8. Tennessee Titans: Blaine Gabbert |
21. Kansas City Chiefs: Justin Houston 22. Indianapolis Colts: Anthony Castonzo 23. Philadelphia Eagles: Derek Sherrod 24. New Orleans Saints: Corey Liuget |
| 9. Dallas Cowboys: Prince Amukamara 10. Washington Redskins: Julio Jones 11. Houston Texans: Cameron Jordan 12. Minnesota Vikings: J.J. Watt |
25. Seattle Seahawks: Akeem Ayers 26. Baltimore Ravens: Torrey Smith 27. Atlanta Falcons: Aaron Williams 28. New England Patriots: Cameron Heyward |
| 13. Detroit Lions: Nate Solder 14. St. Louis Rams: Robert Quinn 15. Miamia Dolphins: Mark Ingram 16. Jacksonville Jaguars: Ryan Kerrigan |
29. Chicago Bears: Gabe Carimi 30. New York Jets: Phil Taylor 31. Pittsburgh Steelers: Mike Pouncey 32. Green Bay Packers: Titus Young |
Kevin C. Cox/Getty Images
The Chiefs Decide to Draft For Defense With First Pick
The Kansas City Chiefs went from drafting ahead of the Cleveland Browns in 2010 to the playoffs. The Chiefs opened a lot of eyes in 2010, but they did have a relatively easy schedule.
The Broncos and Chargers were competing against each other to see who could torpedo their season faster and the Raiders just are not a playoff team yet. So the Chiefs had enough talent and enough good coaches on the sideline to bring the 2010 season together.
In 2011 Justin Houston gives the Chiefs a great option in their pass-rushing schemes and is one of the best players available. The Chiefs could go to other positions on the defensive line, but I'm going with Houston at the moment.
The Chiefs also could try and find another wide receiver to play opposite Dwayne Bowe with this pick, but the Chiefs front office knows they still can fill that role in the second round.
| 1. Carolina Panthers: Marcell Dareus 2. Denver Broncos: Da'Quan Bowers 3. Buffalo Bills: Cam Newton 4. Cincinnati Bengals: A.J. Green |
17. New England Patriots: Aldon Smith 18. San Diego Chargers: Muhammad WIlkerson 19. New York Giants: Tyron Smith 20. Tampa Bay Buccaneers: Adrian Clayborn |
| 5. Arizona Cardinals: Von Miller 6. Cleveland Browns: Nick Fairley 7. San Francisco 49ers: Patrick Peterson 8. Tennessee Titans: Blaine Gabbert |
21. Kansas City Chiefs: Justin Houston 22. Indianapolis Colts: Anthony Castonzo 23. Philadelphia Eagles: Derek Sherrod 24. New Orleans Saints: Corey Liuget |
| 9. Dallas Cowboys: Prince Amukamara 10. Washington Redskins: Julio Jones 11. Houston Texans: Cameron Jordan 12. Minnesota Vikings: J.J. Watt |
25. Seattle Seahawks: Akeem Ayers 26. Baltimore Ravens: Torrey Smith 27. Atlanta Falcons: Aaron Williams 28. New England Patriots: Cameron Heyward |
| 13. Detroit Lions: Nate Solder 14. St. Louis Rams: Robert Quinn 15. Miamia Dolphins: Mark Ingram 16. Jacksonville Jaguars: Ryan Kerrigan |
29. Chicago Bears: Gabe Carimi 30. New York Jets: Phil Taylor 31. Pittsburgh Steelers: Mike Pouncey 32. Green Bay Packers: Titus Young |
Christian Petersen/Getty Images
The Buccaneers Are One Draft Pick Away From Getting To Postseason
With Akeem Ayers, Ryan Kerrigan and Aldon Smith off the Board, Adrian Clayborn becomes the target of the Buccaneers.
The Bucs had no pass rush against the Falcons at the end of the season, and they're not going to go far in the NFC South against the Falcons and Saints if they can't get to the quarterback. The Bucs saw all their flaws exposed down the stretch, so this is their best opportunity to plug those holes.
With Matt Ryan and Drew Brees in the division, it's the same problem the Jags and the Texans face. If you have dominant quarterbacks in your division, you have to build a defense that can put pressure on the quarterbacks and take them out of their game.
Clayborn showed great speed and agility at the Combine, which will serve to keep him in the first round on draft day.
| 1. Carolina Panthers: Marcell Dareus 2. Denver Broncos: Da'Quan Bowers 3. Buffalo Bills: Cam Newton 4. Cincinnati Bengals: A.J. Green |
17. New England Patriots: Aldon Smith 18. San Diego Chargers: Muhammad WIlkerson 19. New York Giants: Tyron Smith 20. Tampa Bay Buccaneers: Adrian Clayborn |
| 5. Arizona Cardinals: Von Miller 6. Cleveland Browns: Nick Fairley 7. San Francisco 49ers: Patrick Peterson 8. Tennessee Titans: Blaine Gabbert |
21. Kansas City Chiefs: Justin Houston 22. Indianapolis Colts: Anthony Castonzo 23. Philadelphia Eagles: Derek Sherrod 24. New Orleans Saints: Corey Liuget |
| 9. Dallas Cowboys: Prince Amukamara 10. Washington Redskins: Julio Jones 11. Houston Texans: Cameron Jordan 12. Minnesota Vikings: J.J. Watt |
25. Seattle Seahawks: Akeem Ayers 26. Baltimore Ravens: Torrey Smith 27. Atlanta Falcons: Aaron Williams 28. New England Patriots: Cameron Heyward |
| 13. Detroit Lions: Nate Solder 14. St. Louis Rams: Robert Quinn 15. Miamia Dolphins: Mark Ingram 16. Jacksonville Jaguars: Ryan Kerrigan |
29. Chicago Bears: Gabe Carimi 30. New York Jets: Phil Taylor 31. Pittsburgh Steelers: Mike Pouncey 32. Green Bay Packers: Titus Young |
Jeff Golden/Getty Images
The Giants Need To Get Better Play Out Of Their Offense In 2011
For those wondering, I think the Steelers trade up to No. 18 to take Mike Pouncey to avoid the chance of the Giants drafting him. Even if Pouncey still is on the board, I think the Giants choose Tyron Smith first.
Smith is a big guy who weighed in at 307 at the Combine. Scouts note he has tremendous talent and should be a first-year starter.
Smith is a good prospect, and with his size and agility, he should be able to transition to the NFL quickly.
The Giants were not as good as they were supposed to be in 2010, and part of the reason was the offense was not as productive as everyone assumed they would be. With a better offensive line, Eli Manning will have more time to let plays develop and the running game also should be more productive.
| 1. Carolina Panthers: Marcell Dareus 2. Denver Broncos: Da'Quan Bowers 3. Buffalo Bills: Cam Newton 4. Cincinnati Bengals: A.J. Green |
17. New England Patriots: Aldon Smith 18. San Diego Chargers: Muhammad WIlkerson 19. New York Giants: Tyron Smith 20. Tampa Bay Buccaneers: Adrian Clayborn |
| 5. Arizona Cardinals: Von Miller 6. Cleveland Browns: Nick Fairley 7. San Francisco 49ers: Patrick Peterson 8. Tennessee Titans: Blaine Gabbert |
21. Kansas City Chiefs: Justin Houston 22. Indianapolis Colts: Anthony Castonzo 23. Philadelphia Eagles: Derek Sherrod 24. New Orleans Saints: Corey Liuget |
| 9. Dallas Cowboys: Prince Amukamara 10. Washington Redskins: Julio Jones 11. Houston Texans: Cameron Jordan 12. Minnesota Vikings: J.J. Watt |
25. Seattle Seahawks: Akeem Ayers 26. Baltimore Ravens: Torrey Smith 27. Atlanta Falcons: Aaron Williams 28. New England Patriots: Cameron Heyward |
| 13. Detroit Lions: Nate Solder 14. St. Louis Rams: Robert Quinn 15. Miamia Dolphins: Mark Ingram 16. Jacksonville Jaguars: Ryan Kerrigan |
29. Chicago Bears: Gabe Carimi 30. New York Jets: Phil Taylor 31. Pittsburgh Steelers: Mike Pouncey 32. Green Bay Packers: Titus Young |
Muhammad Wilkerson Finds His Way to San Diego To Help Pass Rush
Muhammad Wilkerson is a prospect that flew under the radar most of the season, but has been getting more and more notice as the pre-draft evaluations swing into full gear and more people see his game tape.
Wilkerson impressed his coaches and the scouts not only with his natural talents, but with his ability to learn quickly. Wilkerson grew by leaps and bounds in college, and that bodes well for his professional career where the ability to learn fast and adapt will allow him to have an immediate impact.
The Chargers need to re-energize their defense, and Wilkerson is big enough and athletic enough to get the job done.
The Chargers could trade down here depending on circumstances. The Steelers may try and move ahead of New York in an attempt to grab Mike Pouncey.
| 1. Carolina Panthers: Marcell Dareus 2. Denver Broncos: Da'Quan Bowers 3. Buffalo Bills: Cam Newton 4. Cincinnati Bengals: A.J. Green |
17. New England Patriots: Aldon Smith 18. San Diego Chargers: Muhammad Wilkerson 19. New York Giants: Tyron Smith 20. Tampa Bay Buccaneers: Adrian Clayborn |
| 5. Arizona Cardinals: Von Miller 6. Cleveland Browns: Nick Fairley 7. San Francisco 49ers: Patrick Peterson 8. Tennessee Titans: Blaine Gabbert |
21. Kansas City Chiefs: Justin Houston 22. Indianapolis Colts: Anthony Castonzo 23. Philadelphia Eagles: Derek Sherrod 24. New Orleans Saints: Corey Liuget |
| 9. Dallas Cowboys: Prince Amukamara 10. Washington Redskins: Julio Jones 11. Houston Texans: Cameron Jordan 12. Minnesota Vikings: J.J. Watt |
25. Seattle Seahawks: Akeem Ayers 26. Baltimore Ravens: Torrey Smith 27. Atlanta Falcons: Aaron Williams 28. New England Patriots: Cameron Heyward |
| 13. Detroit Lions: Nate Solder 14. St. Louis Rams: Robert Quinn 15. Miamia Dolphins: Mark Ingram 16. Jacksonville Jaguars: Ryan Kerrigan |
29. Chicago Bears: Gabe Carimi 30. New York Jets: Phil Taylor 31. Pittsburgh Steelers: Mike Pouncey 32. Green Bay Packers: Titus Young |



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