2012 NFL Mock Draft: Bold Predictions for the First and Second Rounds

Here we are in the midst of NFL draft season. It really doesn't get any better than this for diehard college football and pro football fans like myself.

This is a time when we come together to argue, debate and maybe even scream at one another in regards to what certain teams should do in the draft and what players we like the most. I wouldn't have it any other way.

This is going to be my final mock draft before the all-important NFL scouting combine that kicks off later this week in Indianapolis. Things are surely to change following that monstrous event, but it makes sense to get this up here right now.

You will see a couple predicted trades throughout this mock. One is a possibility that has been bandied about by a multitude of different individuals, the other one is something that just seems to make a lot of sense to me.

This mock is also going to be two full rounds, with one slide per pick. I spent a lot of time racking my brain to come to a determination of what needs teams have to address coupled with the all-important value aspect that teams must look at.

So, let's take a look.

Trades That Will Shake Up Draft

Washington Redskins acquire second overall pick from the St. Louis Rams for sixth overall pick, second-round pick in 2012 and first-round pick in 2013.

This just seems to make a whole lot of sense for both teams involved. The Washington Redskins get their franchise quarterback, while the St. Louis Rams acquire a couple extra picks to help build a strong foundation moving forward.

This is a trade that probably will go down in April as well it should.

New England Patriots acquire WR DeSean Jackson from the Philadelphia Eagles for a second-round pick in the 2012 NFL Draft and conditional pick in the 2013 NFL Draft.

The Patriots desperately need that receiver that can stretch the field. As of right now they really don't have that type of threat on offense. Instead, this team is relying a great deal on long possessions and key third-down conversions. Look for them to attempt to get that downfield threat.

The Eagles are going to franchise DeSean Jackson with the idea that they could get a nice bounty in return if they decide to trade the enigmatic receiver. They would get a second-round pick in the 2012 NFL Draft and a conditional pick in the 2013 draft with this proposed trade.

1. Indianapolis Colts: Andrew Luck, QB, Stanford

It really doesn't matter what happens with Peyton Manning; the Indianapolis Colts are selecting this former Stanford quarterback No. 1 overall.

In a perfect world they would retain the future Hall of Fame quarterback for a year or two in order for Luck to learn from him. However, I just don't see that happening.

Fear not Colts fans; Luck is ready to start from day one.

2. Washington Redskins: Robert Griffin III, QB, Baylor (From St. Louis)

Acquired from St. Louis Rams in predicted trade

Last season the Redskins traded down in order to acquire multiple picks and reload an aging roster. It worked out a great deal with the likes of Ryan Kerrigan and Roy Helu—not so much with the rest as of yet.

There is some nice talent on this roster, but Washington is definitely lacking at the quarterback position. The Redskins have consistently looked at veteran castoffs to fill the biggest void on the football field, without much success.

While giving up two firsts and a second-round pick to acquire the services of Robert Griffin III seems a little steep, Washington has no other choice at this point. The Redskins get a player that has one of the biggest upsides that I have seen come down the pike in a long time. Griffin III immediately gives them that franchise quarterback that has been eluding the team since Doug Williams.

3. Minnesota Vikings: Matt Kalil, OT, Southern California

The Minnesota Vikings must get a franchise bookend to protect Christian Ponder and open up holes on the outside for Adrian Peterson. Phil Loadholt is a solid tackle, but not of the elite variety, while Charlie Johnson was one of the worst offensive linemen in the entire NFL last season.

Matt Kalil will come in and immediately become their best offensive linemen. He has all the physical tools needed to be a franchise tackle. This is a player that can dominate the bull rushers and has great lateral movement to fend off the speed rushers on the outside.

He will need to add some weight to that frame and tie up some loose ends when it comes to mechanics, but once that happens Kalil is a sure-fire Pro Bowl tackle.

4. Cleveland Browns: Trent Richardson, RB, Alabama

This might be a little high to pick a running back as the position has been trending downward in the drafts over the last couple seasons. Trent Richardson isn't just any running back prospect; he is the best to enter the NFL since Adrian Peterson.

The Cleveland Browns are void of the necessary weapons to succeed on offense. They are in need of a couple receivers, an every-down back and a tight end.

They fill one of those holes in a big way with this selection.

5. Tampa Bay Buccaneers: Morris Claiborne, CB, Louisiana State

To say that the Tampa Bay Buccaneers are in need of help on defense would be a gross understatement. They finished dead last in scoring defense, giving up over 30 points per game.

Morris Claiborne is the best pure cover corner in the NFL draft and it really isn't that close. He has the technique and on-ball ability to be a difference maker from day one. I am of the opinion that Claiborne is already a better cover guy then his former teammate and 2011 top-five pick, Patrick Peterson.

No reason not to fill this hole and then go front seven later on.

6. St. Louis Rams: Justin Blackmon, WR, Oklahoma State

Pick acquired from the Washington Redskins in projected trade

Here the St. Louis Rams are able to pick up a player they probably would have selected second overall and pick up a couple extra picks to rebuild a lackluster roster.

I fully understand that Jeff Fisher is a defensive-minded head coach, but he must understand the necessity to get a No. 1 receiver for Sam Bradford to throw the ball to. Justin Blackmon is the consensus top receiver in the draft, unless you ask our friend Matt Miller.

He will come in and give Bradford that immediate threat the struggling quarterback has not had over the course of his first two NFL seasons.

7. Jacksonville Jaguars: Michael Floyd, WR, Notre Dame

Now that the Jaguars brought in Mike Mularkey to be their head coach, you can expect them to go offense with the seventh pick. The problem with this is that there really isn't good value here on that side of the ball.

Expect Jacksonville to look to trade down if it can find a willing partner that is looking defense.

If not, they are going to go with the best available offensive player and that is Michael Floyd.

He has all the necessary skills to be a true No. 1 receiver, something that Blaine Gabbert desperately needs. He will immediately become their best red-zone threat, using that frame on fades in the corner. What I like most about Floyd is the fact that he already runs pro-ready routes and doesn't struggle against press coverage.

This could be one of the better picks two years down the road.

8. Carolina Panthers: Michael Brockers, DL, Louisiana State

Much like the Tampa Bay Buccaneers earlier, this team needs a ton of help on the defensive side of the ball. The Carolina Panthers struggled on all three levels on defense in 2011. They didn't get a consistent pass rush, couldn't stop the run and struggled in the secondary.

Cornerback and inside linebacker would be huge reaches here, so they go with the tremendous upside of Michael Brockers The former LSU standout probably has the most upside of any defensive player in the entire draft.

He is a bit raw, but can dominate opposing offensive linemen both on the outside and the inside. He possesses great upper-body strength, which creates leverage in the middle of the line. At 6'6" and a little over 300 pounds, Brockers is a man among boys. What makes him much more scary is the fact that he will add some bulk to that already intimidating frame.

A perfect fit for the Carolina Panthers.

9. Miami Dolphins: Jonathan Martin, OT, Stanford

The Miami Dolphins could easily go defense (Courtney Upshaw) with this pick. The idea of adding another franchise offensive tackle opposite Jake Long might be too hard to pass up on.

Jonathan Martin would be a top-five pick and the best offensive tackle in most drafts. He has the build and technique to be as dominating as they come. You are talking about a player who was pegged to protect Andrew Luck's blind side at Stanford. Martin, who was an All-American performer in 2011, only allowed a handful of sacks in his three seasons as a starter with the Cardinal.

With this addition, Miami sets its quarterback, whomever he might be, with the ability to succeed immediately.

10. Buffalo Bills: Courtney Upshaw, LB, Alabama

The Buffalo Bills might have a need along the offensive line, but with Jonathan Martin off the board they go to the defensive side of the ball in Courtney Upshaw. The former Alabama star is not a scheme-specific player, meaning he can play in both the 3-4 and 4-3.

This is an elite talent that can drop back into coverage and rush the quarterback. Upshaw can play with his hands down at the line, inside at 'backer and outside as a pass-rusher. You just don't see those type of players come down the pike too often.

Buffalo, which is in need of major defensive upgrades, would be extremely lucky if this scenario played out.

11. Kansas City Chiefs: David DeCastro, G, Stanford

David DeCastro is the best guard prospect to enter the NFL draft in generations. He is as sure as they come in regards to finding a player to slot in and dominate for the next decade. I cannot overstate enough just how good the former Stanford guard is going to be.

If he does fall to Kansas City here, the Chiefs will be doing back flips in the war room. Not only is DeCastro a guaranteed Pro Bowl performer, he fits a huge need with the Chiefs. Ryan Lilja shouldn't be allowed anywhere near Arrowhead next season; he was an absolute travesty of a player in 2011.

This is a great value at a need position; one couldn't ask for more.

12. Seattle Seahawks: Quinton Coples, DE, North Carolina

I flirted with going Brandon Weeden here again, but figured that the Seattle Seahawks will roll the dice that one of the second-tier quarterback prospects will fall to them in the second round.

This is a team that has a tremendous amount of young talent on both sides of the ball. They are going to act as the biggest threats to dethrone the San Francisco 49ers in the NFC West. Getting a player like Quinton Coples, who has a tremendous amount of upside, would fit what Seattle is attempting to build on defense.

Despite a fairly large "bust factor," Coples could be a huge difference maker in their front seven, something they are currently missing right now.

13. Arizona Cardinals: Riley Reiff, OT, Iowa

No team is going to have sustained success in the NFL over the course of a season when their quarterback goes down over 50 times. This is the situation that both Kevin Kolb and John Skelton found themselves in last season.

It goes without saying that the Arizona Cardinals must upgrade at a few different positions along their offensive line. It is a foregone conclusion that the bust that is Levi Brown will be replaced, so there is another position to fill.

Riley Reiff might not have the upside of some of the other top tackles in the 2012 NFL Draft, but he is going to be a strong figure along the offensive line for the next decade. Arizona can pencil him in as a difference maker immediately.

14. Dallas Cowboys: Mark Barron, S, Alabama

This is a relatively weak draft class when it comes to the safety position. The drop-off from Mark Barron to the second-tier safeties like Harrison Smith and Markelle Martin is steep. The same cannot be said at corner, another position of need in Dallas.

So, it just makes sense for them to go with a player that is hands down the best at a position of tremendous need for the team.

15. Philadelphia Eagles: Dont'a Hightower, LB, Alabama

The Philadelphia Eagles are in desperate need of a couple upgrades at the linebacker position. They were the worst tackling team in the entire NFL last season, by far.

Dont'a Hightower would have easily been a top-10 pick if it wasn't for those injury concerns. It seems that he is fully healed and ready to go. The NFL scouting combine will definitely play a role in teams determining whether or not he is.

This is a player that has elite speed going sideline to sideline, can dominate double-teams in the trenches and is a reliable cover 'backer.

There is much more value than going with a player like Vontaze Burfict or Luke Kuechly here.

16. New York Jets: Whitney Mercilus, DE/LB, Illinois

The New York Jets need to get younger and more athletic in their front seven. Too often in 2011, they looked incredibly slow and relied on that great secondary to get the job done.

While I can easily envision them going running back or receiver here, I believe the Jets will address the aforementioned weakness first.

Whitney Mercilus led the entire nation in sacks last season playing against elite competition in the Big Ten. His ability to get around the edge makes him a huge pass-rushing prospect. While Mercilus might not have the elite speed of some other pass-rushers in the 2012 NFL Draft, he already has a myriad of pro-ready pass-rushing moves.

Additionally, he can play both the defensive end and outside linebacker position despite the fact that most scouts have concluded he fits better with hands down at the line.

17. Cincinnati Bengals: Lamar Miller, RB, Miami (Fla.)

Cedric Benson is as good as gone in Cincinnati, which means that the Bengals must start looking for that running back of the future. They have all the pieces to be an elite offensive teams with the exception of an every-down back to help shoulder the burden.

Lamar Miller brings a unique combination of size (5'11", 220 lbs) and speed (4.42 in the 40) that will help the Bengals become much more explosive on the offensive side of the ball.

18. San Diego Chargers: Nick Perry, LB, Southern California

Nick Perry could find himself drafted in the top 10 with a good showing at the NFL scouting combine and USC's Pro Day. At 6'3" and 250 pounds, Perry has the build to be a dominating pass-rusher at the next level. Not only that, he excels in open space and has the ability to get around the edge with a couple solid pass-rush moves.

Much like Aldon Smith last season, he will need to improve in pass defense in order to become an every-down player. With that said, there is no doubt that Perry will be able to come in immediately and rack up double-digit sacks.

The San Diego Chargers are in desperate need of a pass-rusher from their middle four. Outside of Antwan Barnes they just couldn't get to the quarterback consistently from the linebacker position. Expect that to change if Perry falls to them here.

19. Chicago Bears: Alshon Jeffery, WR, South Carolina

While I am not as high on Alshon Jeffery as others (see Matt Miller), I do think that he has a chance to be a No. 1 receiver in the NFL. He will need to work on getting separation at the line against press and not cradle the ball away from his body after the catch. These are two things that can be fixed.

All the indicators are there for Jeffery to be an elite receiver. He stands at 6'4", which will enable the former South Carolina star to beat smaller corners on the outside. Jeffery will immediately become a huge red-zone threat.

To say that the Chicago Bears need help at the wide receiver position would be a gross understatement. Jay Cutler doesn't have that true go-to guy on the outside. Instead, he relies on an inconsistent bunch of No. 2 and No. 3 wide receivers.

20. Tennessee Titans: Janoris Jenkins, CB, North Alabama

The NFL scouting combine is going to be huge for Janoris Jenkins. Not only will he have a chance to interview well, the former Florida star will be able to show off his strength in press coverage, something he was unable to do at the Senior Bowl.

A legitimate No. 1 shutdown corner if I have ever seen one, Jenkins would have been an easy top-10 pick if it wasn't for off-field issues that caused him to get kicked off of Florida's football team.

It's looking more and more like Cortland Finnegan will not be returning to the Tennessee Titans. Even if the veteran corner does return to Nashville, they are going to have to get another corner to start opposite him. This selection gives the Titans value at a need position.

21. Cincinnati Bengals: Dre' Kirkpatrick, CB, Alabama

It really doesn't matter whether I believe Kirkpatrick has the skill set to be a corner at the next level. He is, by definition, a playmaker in the defensive secondary. Even if No. 21 is forced to play free safety due to a lack of man coverage ability, he will be a find at that new position.

It just so happens that the Cincinnati Bengals could use help at both corner and safety. Expect them to draft the former Alabama star to play his natural position and go from there. Kirkpatrick was considered a consensus top-10 pick at the start of the 2011 season, so there is obviously a lot of value with this pick.

22. Cleveland Browns: Kendall Wright, WR, Baylor

Some scouts have indicated that Kendall Wright is more of a Robin than a Batman, meaning that he sets up nice to be a really good No. 2 receiver. I just don't see it that way; he has all the necessary skills to be a true go-to guy on the outside.

Other scouts have fabricated a hypothesis that Wright was a product of Robert Griffin III at Baylor. I just don't see it that way. He has soft hands, gets separation at the line and already runs pretty solid routes.

The Cleveland Browns need a true go-to guy for Colt McCoy. While I do like Greg Little a lot, he doesn't translate to being a No. 1 receiver; Wright does.

23. Detroit Lions: Peter Konz, C, Wisconsin

The selections of two corners immediately before the Detroit Lions pick here leaves them in an unenviable position. They could go for a player like Alfonzo Dennard or Stephon Gilmore here, but I fully expect Detroit to look to shore up the interior of their offensive line.

Peter Konz is the consensus No. 1 center in the draft. We have seen this song and dance in the previous two drafts with the Pouncey brothers. Pick this type of player and slot him in as a starter for the next decade; you really can't ask for more in the back third of the first round.

24. Pittsburgh Steelers: Mike Adams, OT, Ohio Stae

Another player that was hurt substantially by off-field issues, Mike Adams is one of my favorite players in the entire NFL draft.

He has the lateral movement and technique to be a really good offensive tackle from day one, but it is the ceiling that should really entice front offices moving forward. He reminds me a great deal of another Ohio State alum, Orlando Pace.

To say that the Pittsburgh Steelers offensive line had its issues last season wouldn't really be indicative of how badly they struggled as a unit. In short, they need to upgrade at multiple positions in order to keep Ben Roethlisberger upright for an entire season. The selection of Adams here would go a long way in fixing these issues.

25. Denver Broncos: Devon Still, DL, Penn State

The Denver Broncos could easily go with one of the top-tier corners remaining in the draft and it wouldn't surprise me. Heck, that is probably just as likely as this scenario.

With that said, Devon Still provides them with a tremendous amount of value in the mid-20s at a need position. He can dominate at the line against opposing interior linemen. This is a player with tremendous upper-body strength and a non-stop motor. Surprisingly enough, he plays much more nimble than what you would expect from someone his size (6'4", 310).

With Von Miller and Elvis Dumervil already in the mix, adding a player like Still would make them just that much better.

26. Houston Texans: Mohamed Sanu, WR, Rutgers

Imagine that matchup problems that opposing defenses would have with Andre Johnson (6'3") and Mohamed Sanu (6'2") on the outside. The Houston Texans might have a nice amount of talent on offense, but they are missing that "complementary" piece opposite Johnson.

I like the skill set of the former Rutgers star. He is physical intimidating and plays the part to a tee. As a team that promises to be among the best in the league next year, Houston doesn't have a whole lot of needs to fill. Expect the Texans to go value here with Sanu.

27. New England Patriots: Zach Brown, LB, North Carolina

A freak of an athlete is probably the best way to describe Zach Brown. This is a dude that can fly to the ball sideline-to-sideline. He runs a sub 4.5-second 40-yard dash and possesses decent field vision for such a young backer. There will be growing pains and he will have to add some bulk to that smallish frame, but Brown projects to be a really good player.

The New England Patriots need some new blood on the defensive side of the ball, I really doubt that is even in question. In fact, they could use help along all three tiers of the defense. This pick enables the Patriots to look corner and receiver with their next two selections, getting a major need out of the way.

28. Green Bay Packers: Alfonzo Dennard, CB, Nebraska

Probably the most physical corner in the entire NFL draft, Alfonzo Dennard would fit perfectly in the Green Bay Packers secondary with Charles Woodson and Tramon Williams. He excels in press coverage, which the Packers do utilize a lot as well.

There is a saying that your defensive backfield is only as good as your pass rush. While it is hard to disagree with this notion, Green Bay needs to think value at a need position. Alfonzo Dennard provides the Pack that and much more.

He could be a No. 1 corner when all is said and done.

29. Baltimore Ravens: Vonaze Burfict, LB, Arizona State

By now my opinion of Vontaze Burfict is pretty darn clear. I am not a huge fan of the former Arizona State linebacker and think he has a lot of holes in his game.

With that said, the talent that Burfict possesses is undeniable at this point. He has top-of-the-line speed, a tremendous mean streak and can simply tackle.

Going to the right situation will be huge for the enigmatic linebacker. There is no better situation for him than going to the Baltimore Ravens and learning from Ray Lewis.

30. San Francisco 49ers: Melvin Ingram, DL/LB, South Carolina

Why would the San Francisco 49ers go with a pass-rusher after selecting Aldon Smith last season? Easy answer: 3-4 teams tend to put a lot of onus on acquiring pressure from their outside linebackers.

Adding a player like Melvin Ingram, who can play with his hands down and drop back to the outside (depending on the scheme) would make that defense nearly unstoppable.

Just think of a front seven that includes Justin Smith, Ray McDonald, Aldon Smith, Patrick Willis, NaVorro Bowman and Melvin Ingram. That is enough to scare the living hell out of opposing offenses.

Make no mistake about it: Ingram is the real deal. I absolutely love his pass-rushing technique from the outside. He has a great combination of bull and swim moves that make him a major force.

31. New England Patriots: Stephon Gilmore, CB, South Carolina

By selecting Zach Brown with their initial first-round pick, the New England Patriots took a chance the one of the top-tier corners would fall to them a couple picks later. Well, my scenario would make their front office extremely happy.

To say that New England needs help at corner would be a libelous statement against other teams that need help at this position. They were historically bad in pass defense last season, which might have cost them the Super Bowl.

They get value at a position of great need here.

32. New York Giants: Bobby Wagner, LB, Utah State

Boy, would the New York Giants get the Bronx cheer if this ended up being their pick in April, but that really doesn't matter. Teams select the players that they think would fit best in their scheme and don't rely on the sentiment of the fanbase.

Bobby Wagner is going to be an elite linebacker in the NFL; that really isn't in question for me. He has a tremendous combination of size and speed. More than that, Wagner possesses uncanny natural instincts at the point of contact and will be a true team leader in the front seven.

New York must upgrade at the linebacker position; selecting Wagner secures one of those holes in a heartbeat.

First-Round Notes and Second-Round Primer

By now you notice there were only two quarterbacks selected in the first round. While this might change in the coming weeks, I don't expect teams to make a dramatic reach for a quarterback when a lot of the teams picking late in the first round have no need at that position.

Instead, you will see a run of quarterbacks go off the board in the second round. Somewhat similar to what we saw with Andy Dalton and Colin Kaepernick last season.

The 2012 NFL Draft is loaded with difference makers at nearly every position. Unlike what we have seen in previous seasons, there is a lot of first-round talent to be had in day two.

33. St. Louis Rams: Jamell Fleming, CB, Oklahoma

A first-round grade by most scouts, Jamell Fleming would give the Rams value at a position of dire need. He jumped up a great deal during Senior Bowl week and hasn't looked back.

I project the former Oklahoma star to be a No. 1 corner at the next level. This is something that the Rams desperately need on defense. Their rotation of corners last season bordered on horrific.

34. Indianapolis Colts: Chase Minnifield, CB, Virginia

After getting their franchise quarterback with the first overall pick, the Indianapolis Colts look to sure up a weak defensive backfield with this selection.

Chase Minnifield has hovered around a late-first/early second-round grade for a while now. He doesn't do anything great, but is extremely good on the outside in man coverage, something the Colts are in need of.

35. Minnesota Vikings: Dwight Jones, WR, North Carolina

Christian Ponder has some nice young weapons on Percy Harvin and Kyle Rudolph, but he needs that big target on the outside. Michael Jenkins really didn't provide him that in 2011, so the Minnesota Vikings look to the draft.

Dwight Jones stands at 6'4" and plays every bit of that height to his advantage by shielding off defenders on the outside. He will be an immediate red-zone threat in Minnesota.

36. Tampa Bay Buccaneers: Fletcher Cox, DL, Mississippi State

While the Tampa Bay Buccaneers could use help along the offensive line or at running back, they make the sound decision to keep building that weak defense.

Fletcher Cox would be slotted in as a 4-3 defensive tackle opposite Gerald McCoy, who has struggled over his first couple of seasons. Cox isn't an elite athlete, but does have the upper-body strength to hold up at the line and put some pressure on the quarterback. He will be a nice cog against the run, something the Bucs desperately need.

37. Cleveland Browns: Dwayne Allen, TE, Clemson

Continuing with the offensive theme, the Cleveland Browns get a player I project to be dominating between the hashes. Dwayne Allen causes a tremendous amount of matchup concerns going up against linebackers and safeties up the middle.

He has elite size and speed for a tight end, but needs to fix issues with drops.

Allen will act as a great safety valve for Colt McCoy as the Browns hope to extend the field with these new-found weapons.

38. Jacksonville Jaguars: Cordy Glenn, OL, Georgia

Cordy Glenn would definitely drop a great deal if he fell to the Jacksonville Jaguars here. I have him as a top-25 prospect.

With that said, the pickings weren't right for teams in the late first round to spend a selection on an interior lineman. Their loss is the Jaguars gain.

While some project the former Georgia mauler to play on the outside in the NFL, I view him strictly as a guard at the next level. He has great balance and strength, which will be huge for Maurice Jones-Drew in the running game.

39. St. Louis Rams: Jared Crick, DL, Nebraska

Pick acquired from the Washington Redskins in predicted trade

The St. Louis Rams could definitely use some beef along the interior of their defensive line. Fred Robbins and Justin Bannan are not the answers at the defensive tackle position.

Jeff Fisher, as a defensive mastermind, fully understands that building this unit is important for the success of the franchise moving forward.

They get first-round value in Jared Crick here.

40. Miami Dolphins: Orson Charles, TE, Georgia

The Miami Dolphins will probably release Anthony Fasano in March, so they need to fill the void left by the underperforming tight end. Orson Charles has the highest upside of any player at this position in the entire draft, right up there with Ladarius Green.

He is a physically intimidating player that will create matchup problems for opposing defenses sooner rather than later. Charles stands at 6'3" and weighs over 240 pounds already; expect him to add some more muscle to that already intimidating frame. 

The former Georgia star will be a great weapon for the Dolphins' next quarterback, probably Matt Flynn.

41. Buffalo Bills: Zebrie Sanders, OT, Florida State

The Buffalo Bills look to address that tackle position in the second round after going defense in the first. Zebrie Sanders is an extremely raw player that has the ability of a top-20 talent. He will need to add some weight to that massive 6'6" frame, but once he does watch out. Senior Bowl struggles aside, I really like how Sanders' game translates to the next level.

They get a possible franchise bookend in the second round. Not too shabby.

42. Carolina Panthers: Jayron Hosley, CB, Virginia Tech

You can get on the Carolina Panthers' front seven for a lack of playmaking ability, but their secondary didn't do the defense any favors.

When your top two corners are Chris Gamble and Captain Munnerlyn, there are a lot of issues in regards to the secondary.

Jayron Hosley might struggle against bigger corners due to his 5'10" height, but he is a force on the outside. This is a guy that has tremendous speed and on-ball ability. He will also help out on special teams as a returner.

43. Seattle Seahawks: Brandon Weeden, QB, Oklahoma State

If it weren't for his age, Brandon Weeden would have been a top-10 pick this season. In fact, I do envision a scenario in which the Seahawks spend their first-round pick on the talented quarterback.

At this point it just seems like too much of a reach, even after I had them selecting him there in my last mock draft. Instead, they get tremendous value in the second round with the former Oklahoma State signal-caller.

He has the size, strength and accuracy to be an elite player in the NFL. Mechanics are going to be an issue early on, but that is usually the case with rookie quarterbacks.

Despite the fact that Tarvaris Jackson played decent last season, he is not the long-term answer in Seattle.

44. Kansas City Chiefs: Nick Foles, QB, Arizona

The second-tier quarterback prospects start to line into place with Brandon Weeden going to the Seattle Seahawks the pick before and Nick Foles heading to the AFC West with Kansas City.

He was, by far, the most impressive quarterback in the Senior Bowl. The former Arizona star showed great field awareness and a tremendous amount of zip on the ball, both at the game and in practice. A good performance at the NFL scouting combine could actually push Foles into the first round.

Sure the Chiefs have Matt Cassel in the fold, but I am not too sure that they are sold on him as the long-term answer. At the very least, Foles would provide some much-needed competition in training camp next season.

45. Dallas Cowboys: Brandon Boykin, CB, Georgia

I have been extremely impressed by the play of Brandon Boykin in watching tape this offseason. He only stands at 5'9", but plays much bigger than that relatively small stature would suggest. Boykin is extremely good in press coverage and can dominate receivers on the outside with his ability to jump routes.

It goes without saying that the Dallas Cowboys are in desperate need of young corners in the defensive secondary. Terence Newman is sure to be release this offseason, Alan Ball is a free agent and Mike Jenkins continues to struggle with injuries.

Boykin is a perfect fit for Dallas here in the second round.

Philadelphia Eagles: Kelechi Osemele, OL, Iowa State

Evan Mathis really came on strong for the Philadelphia Eagles last season and was probably their second-best offensive linemen behind Jason Peters. With that said, they need to upgrade at both the tackle and guard position.

Kelechi Osemele will fill one of those voids, probably on the inside as a guard. He will need to work on footwork and become much better in regards to technique in order to be successful at the next level.

With the right level of coaching, the former Iowa State star can be a dominating guard.

47. New York Jets: Chris Polk, RB, Washington

Chris Polk's fall is the New York Jets' gain. He struggled a great deal in front of scouts during the Senior Bowl and needs a great performance at the NFL combine in order to rebuild his stock.

What I will say is that Polk has the build and talent to be an every-down back in the NFL, something the New York Jets desperately need. It goes without saying that they cannot rely on Mark Sanchez to lead the offense on his shoulders; that just isn't going to happen.

48. Philadelphia Eagles: Jerel Worthy, DL, Michigan State

Pick acquired from the New England Patriots in predicted DeSean Jackson trade

This is the offseason where the Philadelphia Eagles are going to go back to conventional wisdom. This means that they will probably going to avoid free agency as much as possible, while focusing on the draft more.

In Jerel Worthy they get a defensive tackle that has first-round talent, but continues to get mired in a rut due to some character concerns. When motivated, he can dominate the trenches.

49. San Diego Chargers: Rueben Randle, WR, Louisiana State

I am not as high on Rueben Randle as some other people, but do believe he can be a good complementary type of receiver in the NFL. He does have the size/speed combination that teams kill for in the draft. With that said, Randle does tend to struggle against press coverage, which is surprising considering his 6'4" frame.

The San Diego Chargers' look at wide receiver early in the 2012 NFL Draft is all contingent on whether Vincent Jackson returns or not. At this point I put those odds at less than 50 percent. If so, they are going to have to address this position.

A receiver corps of Malcom Floyd, Vincent Brown and Rueben Randle doesn't seem too shabby to me.

50. Chicago Bears: Luke Kuechly, LB, Boston College

A dramatic drop for a player that I project as a first-round talent, but I am sure the Chicago Bears wouldn't be too upset with this scenario. They do need to find an eventual replacement for Brian Urlacher; this is probably the best player to fit that bill.

Luke Kuechly is simply a tackling machine. He barely has trouble shedding blockers, gets to the ball-carrier in short order and is pretty damn athletic. He will not do much in the offensive backfield, but the Bears wont be asking him to.

51. Philadelphia Eagles: Lavonte David, LB, Nebraska

With the third of a predicted three second-round picks, the Philadelphia Eagles look to shore up a weakened linebacker group with the selection of the talented Lavonte David from Nebraska.

This is a player that seems to fit the new trend toward athletic 'backers in the league. He can fly to the ball sideline-to-sideline and has a great nose for the ball-carrier. He quickly closes up running lanes and can take the back out before he hits the corner.

He will need to add some bulk to that unassuming 6'1", 225-pound frame.

52. Tennessee Titans: Harrison Smith, S, Notre Dame

While this might seem like a little bit of a reach, I am extremely impressed by Harrison Smith. I have watched over 30 of his games at Notre Dame and he never seems to take a bad angle on the backside of the defense. Smith consistently performs at an extremely high level and can play both safety positions.

Tennessee will not retain Michael Griffin this offseason, which quickly makes safety a huge need for the team. The Titans get a really good football player in the second round. 

53. Cincinnati Bengals: Andre Branch, DE, Clemson

The Cincinnati Bengals have some really nice young pieces on both sides of the ball as they have done it right building through the draft. With this said, they could use some more depth and strength along the defensive line.

Andre Branch projects to be a pure 4-3 defensive end at the next level. He already has multiple pro-ready pass-rushing moves and can get to the quarterback on a consistent basis. The NFL scouting combine could actually push him up into the last third of the first round.

54. Detroit Lions: Leonard Johnson, CB, Iowa State

Right up there with Janoris Jenkins as one of the best jam corners in the draft, Leonard Johnson is sure to hear his name a lot over the course of the next couple of months leading to April. He is tremendously physical at the line, playing well as a press cover man.

When forced to play zone, Johnson has the technique to stay with the receivers as well. He rarely gets turned round and plays with fluid hips.

The Detroit Lions must find at least one upgrade at the corner position this offseason. They were proven to be frauds against the New Orleans Saints in the postseason. In order to become an elite team in the NFC, they need to get better in pass defense—it's really that simple.

55. Atlanta Falcons: Coby Fleener, TE, Stanford

Tony Gonzalez announced his retirement after the 2012 season a couple weeks ago, which caught me off guard. The Atlanta Falcons rely a great deal on tight ends in their system, so this has become an immediate need.

Coby Fleener was Andrew Luck's favorite target at Stanford, which should speak volumes for his abilities between the hashes. The Falcons give Matt Ryan another toy to play with.

56. Pittsburgh Steelers: Dontari Poe, NT, Memphis

After addressing their offensive line issues in the first round, the Pittsburgh Steelers look for that future nose tackle in their 3-4 scheme. Casey Hampton is a prime candidate to get released due to the Steelers' salary cap issues, so it just makes sense to find a replacement right now.

Dontari Poe is one of the strongest players that I have seen come down the pike in a long time. He can dominate opposing linemen, take on double-teams and open up avenues for oncoming pass-rushers. Those are things that 3-4 teams look for in a nose tackle.

57. Denver Broncos: Ryan Tannehill, QB, Texas A&M

If I were the Denver Broncos I would think long and hard about drafting a quarterback early in 2012. They need to show confidence in Tim Tebow as the quarterback of the future; selecting a signal-caller here just wouldn't do that.

With that said, John Elway really doesn't seem sold on Tebow as their franchise guy. Another year at Texas A&M would have served Ryan Tannehill extremely well, as he would have projected to be a top-10 pick.

Technique is a major issue when it comes to the talented quarterback. He has an extended arc in his throwing motion, which will be exposed at the next level. Despite that, he does have the arm and accuracy to be a really good quarterback in the NFL.

58. Houston Texans: Alameda Ta'amu, NT, Washington

Some would disagree that nose tackle is a position of need for the Houston Texans. Their argument is surrounded by the idea that Wade Phillips and Co. thinks Shaun Cody is the answer at that position.

I just don't see it. Cody stands at less than 300 pounds, which is extremely small for a 3-4 nose tackle. After six seasons in the league, it's hard to imagine that he will put on the necessary weight.

Enter into the equation Alameda Ta'amu, who impressed me a great deal during the Senior Bowl. He has the size and strength to be a dominating force, taking up double-teams for Houston in their front seven. This opens up avenues for speed rushers on the outside.

This is a no-brainer pick if you ask me.

59. New Orleans Saints: Brandon Thompson, DL, Clemson

Brandon Thompson was exposed a great deal in Clemson's embarrassing Orange Bowl loss to West Virginia. He was consistently thrown off the line of scrimmage against the Mountaineers. This caused his draft stock to plummet a great deal.

With that said, I really think that Thompson has a nice combination of strength and technique. He works well as an A-gap player, taking on double-teams. This is something that the New Orleans Saints are in desperate need of. They are not going to be able to retain Aubrayo Franklin because of their salary cap situation.

It makes perfect sense to plug this whole with a high-ceiling player like Thompson.

60. Green Bay Packers: Vinny Curry, DE/LB, Marshall

After passing up on an outside linebacker in the first round, the Green Bay Packers get lucky with Vinny Curry falling to them in the second round.

As of right now I have Curry with an early second-round grade, a rating that could move up a great deal post-combine.

The Packers struggled a great deal generating a consistent pass rush last season, so this is a definite area of need.

61. Baltimore Ravens: Markelle Martin, S, Oklahoma State

The Baltimore Ravens got the eventual replacement for Ray Lewis in the first round. Now they attempt to replace Ed Reed in the secondary.

Markelle Martin has remained steady as a second-round projection since the 2011 college football season ended. He does tend to struggle with field vision and taking bad angles. These are two things that will get your burnt at the next level. They are also two things that can be fixed in relatively short order.

Who else to learn from than Ed Reed? That's what I thought!

62. San Francisco 49ers: Brian Quick, WR, Appalachian State

It is no secret that the San Francisco 49ers are going to get multiple upgrades at wide receiver this offseason. If there was one glaring weakness on this team, it was its inability to make plays on the outside and downfield.

After all, their receivers combined for just one catch in the NFC Championship Game.

Despite playing at a small school, Brian Quick has to be considered one of the biggest sleepers in the entire 2012 NFL Draft. At 6'4", he towers over smaller corners and creates a great amount of separation downfield. Quick did play in a run-happy offense at Appalachian State, which gave us a really small sample size.

In short, he has No. 1 receiver talent.

63. New England Patriots: Antonio Allen, S, South Carolina

The New England Patriots continue to rebuild that weak defensive unit. Antonio Allen might not be getting a lot of play in the draft, but he is a gifted safety.

This is someone that rarely ever takes a bad angle, can cover over the top and break into the box in the run game.

He would immediately become the Patriots' best all-around safety, which speaks volumes to their struggles and his ability.

64. New York Giants: Doug Martin, RB, Boise State

It might be pure conjecture at this point, but I don't think that Brandon Jacobs will be on the New York Giants to start the 2012 season. He lost a tremendous amount of playing time to Ahmad Bradshaw and just doesn't seem to fit what the Giants are building on offense.

Some people have compared Doug Martin to Maurice Jones-Drew, while I liken him more to Ray Rice. Either way, if you are being compared to those two backs, you are doing something right.

Martin is already a willing blocker, has soft hands out of the backfield and has amazing field vision for such a young back.

This would be a steal of epic proportions.

Follow @VincentFrankNFL