2012 NFL Draft: Power Ranking the 5 Best Mock Draft Experts

There are a number of so-called NFL draft experts clogging the airways, the Internet and Twitter now that the season is upon us.

Here are my power rankings of the top five most well-known draft analysts in the game.

 No. 5: Todd McShay, ESPN

Todd McShay was brought on by ESPN as a counterpart for the much longer-established Mel Kiper, Jr., and the fact that he’s employed by the Worldwide Leader is the only reason we know his name.

He’s got draft knowledge, to be sure, but he wields it sloppily.

 No. 4: Mike Mayock, NFL Network

Mike Mayock is well-known for his clever turns of phrase to describe draft prospects and his all-around knowledge and enthusiasm for the game. A former defensive back for the New York Giants, he’s one of the few dedicated draft analysts to have played at the pro level.

 No. 3: Matt Miller, Bleacher Report

Bleacher Report’s own homegrown draft guru Matt Miller climbed the ranks to become one of the rising stars of draft analysis. Both a writer and a scout, his work has been both featured by every major sports media outlet and used by NFL teams.

 No. 2: Dan Shonka, OurLads.com

Dan Shonka’s name isn’t as well known as it should be, considering he’s one of the pioneers of draft analysis. He’s been in the game for nearly 40 years as a player, coach, scout and recruiter. If anyone knows his stuff, it’s clearly Shonka.

 No. 1: Mel Kiper, Jr., ESPN

Mel Kiper, Jr. has been the face of the NFL draft, thanks to covering the event for ESPN since 1984.

Kiper’s known just as well for his analysis as for his enduring head of hair, which has become his trademark. Kiper isn’t always right, and he’s received his fair share of criticism.

But when it comes to the draft, he’s many fans’ first and last source for info.

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