2012 NFL Draft: Predictions and Analysis for the First Two Rounds

We are only in Week 2 of the NFL free agency period, but there have already been some big deals that have sent some major shock waves through the league.

Peyton Manning joining the Denver Broncos has obviously been the biggest story of the offseason so far, but there have been plenty of other signings, trades and cuts that have altered every other team in the league in some way, shape or form.

While there are still plenty of more moves to be made in the next month before NFL draft weekend, we are now beginning to see the draft picture start to take shape now that teams have begun to invest in filling different key needs through free agency.

What we do know for sure is that quarterbacks Andrew Luck and Robert Griffin III will be the first two picks of the 2012 draft, but after that, it’s all still up in the air at this point.

Minnesota will be the catalyst team at No. 3, as what the Vikings choose to do will ultimately set up how the early part of the first round will play out.

Which teams will trade up?

Which ones will trade down?

Which prospects will rise?

Which ones will fall?

There are still a lot of questions left to be answered over the next month, but as April draws closer and the countdown to the draft keeps ticking away, things are now starting to clear up, and we are beginning to get a better feel for how things might play out.

A lot can still happen between now and April 26th, but for now, here’s an in-depth look at how I see the first two rounds of the 2012 NFL draft playing out.

1. Indianapolis Colts: QB Andrew Luck

School: Stanford

Class: Redshirt Junior

Height: 6'4''

Weight: 234

40: 4.67

No Colts fan ever thought that they would see the day when Indianapolis would cut legendary quarterback Peyton Manning. However, the circumstances dictated that a move for the future be made, and now the front office has been left trying to figure out a proper plan to replace one of the NFL's all-time greatest players. 

It's a good thing that Colts will have their choice between Andrew Luck and Robert Griffin III, two of the best quarterback prospects to emerge from the college ranks in decades. 

While Griffin may be the better overall prospect and one who possesses the higher upside, it's likely that Indianapolis will choose Luck with the No. 1 overall pick. 

Given that many Colts fans have been awaiting Luck's arrival for months, it's a move that should really energize the fan base back up after losing a legend. 

Luck may not be the "once in a decade" type of quarterback prospect that some have made him out to be, since Robert Griffin III, Cam Newton and Matt Barkley are just as good of players, if not better. But he is a special talent that is loaded with potential, there's no denying it. 

There was a reason that college football's 2011 cover boy received the type of hype and publicity that he did.

Luck has every single trait and tool that you look for in a franchise NFL quarterback—arm strength, accuracy, athleticism, intangibles, intelligence and leadership ability.

While Indianapolis may ultimately end up regretting passing on an electric player like Robert Griffin III, the Colts will definitely have a bright future with Luck under center. 

2. Washington Redskins: QB Robert Griffin

School: Baylor

Class: Redshirt Junior

Height: 6'2''

Weight: 223

40: 4.41

The Redskins have been searching for some semblance of an identity since Dan Snyder bought the team back in 1999, and now it seems like they're finally on the verge of finding it. Robert Griffin III was the savior that the Baylor football program desperately needed, and he appears to be the savior that Washington has been in search of for over a decade. 

We've never seen a quarterback prospect quite like RG3 before, which is a major part of what makes him so intriguing. 

Griffin's a world-class athlete with a cannon for an arm and he's got the type of charisma and personality that you look for in a star athlete. He's one of the most electrifying and explosive athletes to ever enter the NFL, and he's far from just your ordinary dual-threat quarterback. 

The Heisman-winner proved that in 2011 when he excelled as a pocket passer, completing 72 percent of his passes for over 4,200 yards and finishing the season with an outstanding 37-6 touchdown to interception ratio. 

Now it's true, Art Briles doesn't exactly run a conventional pro-style attack, but Griffin should have no problem adapting to an NFL offense like the one Mike Shanahan employs. 

The question that has been posed since the Redskins swapped with St. Louis for the No. 2 pick is did Washington give up too much?

That simply can't be answered right now, but I think Griffin is without a doubt the clear-cut best prospect in this year's draft and he's got the potential to be a one of the top impact players in the NFL very early in his career.

So personally, I don't think they gave up too much at all.  

Five years from now, I have a feeling that will look back on the 2012 draft and call the Redskins lucky for being able to land a player like Robert Griffin III with the No. 2 pick. 

3. Minnesota Vikings: OT Matt Kalil

School: USC

Class: Redshirt Junior

Height: 6'7''

Weight: 306

40: 4.99

Now it starts to get interesting. 

We know that Andrew Luck and Robert Griffin III will be the first two picks in this year's draft. Nobody will dispute that at this point. The real intrigue will start when Minnesota gets put on the clock at No. 3.

This is the 2012 "ripple-effect" pick that will set the rest of the first round in motion.

What makes it so interesting is that GM Rick Spielman really has four options. Of course, the first is to trade down. However, if the Vikings can't work out a deal that they like, they'll have three blue chip prospects to choose from with the third pick—OT Matt Kalil, CB Morris Claiborne and WR Justin Blackmon. 

It helps that all three would fit a specific team need. 

Kalil would seem to be the odds on favorite at this point, given that he's one of the most athletic offensive tackle prospects since the turn of the millennium, and that he would be an immediate upgrade over current left tackle Charlie Johnson, who is nothing more than average. 

Still, I wouldn't be so quick to rule out Claiborne or Blackmon, though. 

Minnesota's cornerback crop is dangerously thin, and outside of the oft-injured Percy Harvin, the Vikings lack a true consistent receiving threat. 

Kalil may make the most sense given the circumstances, but Claiborne and Blackmon also belong in the discussion. 

4. Cleveland Browns: CB Morris Claiborne

School: LSU

Class: Junior

Height: 5'11''

Weight: 188

40: 4.50

If Minnesota pulls the trigger on Matt Kalil at No. 3, it will leave the Browns with some very interesting options for the fourth pick. 

Cleveland has been in dire need of a playmaking No. 1 wide receiver like Justin Blackmon for years, but they should be able to find a quality pass-catcher with their second first-round pick at No. 22.

Plus, they did just invest a second-round selection in WR Greg Little in the 2011 draft. Little seems like he should emerge as a reliable receiving threat in the years to come, and if Mohamed Massaquoi ever reaches his potential, the two could become a dangerous pair. 

More important than receiver, the Browns could obviously also use a starting quarterback to get the ball down the field on a regular basis. Colt McCoy may make a nice backup, but it's clear he's not starting caliber material. 

The problem is, it would be hard to justify taking Texas A&M's Ryan Tannehill at No. 4, and there's very little chance that Tannehill slips out of the Top 10, especially with the Dolphins picking at eight. 

The Browns could instead wait and try to pick up one of the "second-tier" quarterback prospects like Michigan State's Kirk Cousins, Oklahoma State's Brandon Weeden or Arizona State's Brock Osweiler at No. 22 or No. 37. 

If the Browns rule out quarterback and receiver, that would leave Tom Heckert and Mike Holmgren debating between Alabama RB Trent Richardson and LSU CB Morris Claiborne. 

Former starting running back Peyton Hillis may have been overrated, but his departure does leave a sizable hole in the backfield. 

Montario Hardesty hasn't proven that he can be "the guy", but the question is, can the Browns really justify taking a running back with the fourth overall pick? Especially since there should be a quality back available at No. 22 and No. 37.

Trent Richardson may be the best running back prospect since Adrian Peterson, but given how much the position has been devalued in today's pass-happy NFL, you have to wonder if the Browns will really be willing to take him so high. 

If they choose to pass on Richardson, Tannehill and Blackmon, then Morris Claiborne will most likely be the Browns' pick at No. 4. 

Claiborne is a better pure cornerback prospect than former LSU teammate, Patrick Peterson, who was selected with the fifth pick in last year's draft, and he's the same caliber of elite athlete. 

The Browns already have a future star corner in Joe Haden, but 2012 will likely be the last season in Cleveland for fellow starting corner Sheldon Brown, as Brown is 33 years old and heading into the last year of his contract. 

Pairing Haden with Claiborne would give Cleveland one of the best cornerback tandems in the NFL for the foreseeable future. 

The dark horse to watch at No. 4 is Iowa OT Riley Reiff, as Cleveland could use an upgrade at right tackle to help balance out the line with standout left tackle Joe Thomas. Investing two big contracts at the offensive tackle position could hinder the team for the future, though, which would probably prevent the pick from happening. 

Cleveland will likely remain a mystery team until the week of the draft, as the Browns still have plenty of important decisions to make between now and April 26th. 

5. Tampa Bay Bucs: RB Trent Richardson

School: Alabama

Class: Junior

Height: 5'9''

Weight: 228

40: N/A

The Bucs had money to spend this offseason, and boy did they spend it.

Admittedly, Tampa Bay did overspend for high-priced free agents like WR Vincent Jackson, OG Carl Nicks and CB Eric Wright. However, the Bucs did manage to bolster their roster with three difference-makers at key areas of need. 

Now, new coach Greg Schiano and GM Mark Dominik will be able to focus on, and hopefully fill, some other holes through the draft. 

Tampa Bay is sitting in some prime real estate at No. 5, as the Bucs will have either RB Trent Richardson, CB Morris Claiborne or OT Matt Kalil available to them, depending on how the two picks before them play out. 

The Eric Wright signing would seem to diminish the need to draft Claiborne, although he still remains an enticing option, given Aqib Talib's checkered past. 

While the Bucs could use an upgrade at both offensive tackle positions, mainly right tackle, which could mean that Riley Reiff is also a possibility, it seems like Trent Richardson would be the real home run pick for Tampa Bay at No. 5. 

Freshman phenom LeGarrette Blount fell back down to earth in his second year, and the Bucs ended up finishing 30th in the NFL in rushing offense last season. 

Schiano's greatest success at Rutgers came when he had Ray Rice and Brian Leonard leading the way on the ground, and he'll likely be looking to find a new dynamic rushing duo to exploit in Tampa. 

6. St. Louis Rams: WR Justin Blackmon

School: Oklahoma State

Class: Redshirt Junior

Height: 6'1''

Weight: 207

40: 4.48

The Rams set themselves up to be in great shape for the future after reeling in an abundance of picks to swap spots with the Redskins. Since St. Louis had no interest in taking a quarterback with their first-round pick, as Sam Bradford is already entrenched as the franchise's quarterback of the future, the Rams basically hit the lottery this year. 

The question is, now that they have moved from No. 2 to No. 6, what will their plan of attack be?

Logic dictates that the team's top target should be Oklahoma State's Justin Blackmon, a supreme playmaking receiver who tore through college defenses on a regular basis in Stillwater. However, there's no guarantee that Blackmon will be available at No. 6, as the Vikings and the Browns could both be interested in his services. 

Trading up to No. 3 could certainly be a route worth exploring, especially since the Rams now have a bunch of early picks to play around with. 

St. Louis has a few interesting young receivers on its roster such as Brandon Gibson, Austin Pettis and Greg Salas, but none of them are equipped to handle a No. 1 role. 

If the Rams can't get their hands on Blackmon, Iowa OT Riley Reiff will certainly be in play, since the Rams haven't come close to getting what they were expecting out of their two offensive tackles, Jason Smith and Rodger Saffold. Smith was especially awful last season and he was a big reason the Rams led the NFL with 55 sacks allowed.   

Also, I wouldn't rule out the possibility of St. Louis taking a good long, hard look at Trent Richardson if he's available, as long-time starting RB Steven Jackson will be 29 next season and he's got a ton of miles on his wheels (over 9,000 career carries).

7. Jacksonville Jaguars: DE Melvin Ingram

School: South Carolina

Class: Redshirt Senior

Height: 6'1''

Weight: 264

40: 4.79

It may be too early for Jacksonville to regret trading up for QB Blaine Gabbert in the 2011 draft, but obviously Gabbert is going to have to get a whole lot better in the next few years if the Jaguars want to actually make a move in the AFC South any time in the near future. 

Gabbert's poor play last season wasn't the only thing that held the Jaguars back, though, as Jacksonville has other problem areas to fix.

It's tough to narrow down just what the team will do with the No. 7 pick, and trading down is certainly possible. If the Jags opt to stay where they are, though, they could be looking for a young stud pass-rusher to groom for the future. 

Last year, Jacksonville ranked 25th in the NFL with just 31 sacks for the season. DE Jeremy Mincey was a surprising bright spot, racking up eight sacks, but more help is needed, as 33-year-old Aaron Kampman's career is in its twilight phase. 

North Carolina's Quinton Coples would seem to make sense, but given the inconsistencies that Coples battled in 2011, the better option would be South Carolina's Melvin Ingram. 

No other defensive player in the country made more money for himself last season than Ingram did, as he enjoyed a breakout senior campaign, racking up 10 sacks and 15 tackles for loss. 

Ingram is a versatile and athletic lineman who can line up at a variety of different positions, but he looks to be best suited to be a 4-3 edge rusher in the NFL. 

The Jaguars can't afford to whiff on another Top 10 pass-rusher like they did in 2008 with Derrick Harvey, but if they do take Ingram, they shouldn't have to worry about that, as he looks like the type of impact player that can come in and make a name for himself immediately. 

If the Jaguars opt to pass on Ingram, Iowa OT Riley Reiff could be the prospect who they focus in on, as Jacksonville could use an upgrade at right tackle. 

8. Miami Dolphins: QB Ryan Tannehill

School: Texas A&M

Class: Redshirt Senior

Height: 6'3''

Weight: 221

40: N/A

This hasn't exactly been an offseason to remember for Miami Dolphins fans, as the team failed to reel in either of the two coveted quarterbacks on the market, Peyton Manning and Matt Flynn. 

That's left Matt Moore and recently signed David Garrard as the team's top two options at the position, and it's also left Dolphins fans seething mad. 

So how does GM Jeff Ireland rectify the situation?

Well let's just say bringing in Garrard probably isn't a long-term solution, which means that the Dolphins will likely take Texas A&M QB Ryan Tannehill if Cleveland passes on him at No. 4 and he's available when they're on the clock. 

Is Tannehill worth the No. 8 overall pick?

Most would say no, however, given the number of quarterback needy teems out there, the former Aggie is sure to be over-drafted come April, just as Blaine Gabbert was last year. 

Tannehill will be one of the most interesting prospects to watch in this year's draft, as there sure to be plenty of rumors over the next month about which teams are truly coveting him the most. 

If Tannehill isn't available at No. 8, the Dolphins could look to fill a few different need areas, including right tackle (Riley Reiff), wide receiver (Michael Floyd) or linebacker (Courtney Upshaw).

9. Carolina Panthers: DE Quinton Coples

School: North Carolina

Class: Senior

Height: 6'6''

Weight: 284

40: 4.78

Carolina head coach Ron Rivera had to be ecstatic about the play of QB Cam Newton during his rookie season, as Newton has all the makings of a future star. However, Rivera, a former defensive coordinator, couldn't have been happy about the play of his defense, which ranked 28th in the league in total defense last season. 

The Panthers could use help at all three levels of their defense, and that's the side of the ball that they will likely address with their first-round pick. 

The defensive line, which only notched 31 sacks last season, could use help both inside and out, but the real key could be to add another pass-rusher to complement Charles Johnson, who the team signed to a mega-deal last offseason. 

Carolina may not have to look far to find that top notch defensive end, as there's a good chance that North Carolina's Quinton Coples will be available when the Panthers are picking 

Coples had a sensational junior campaign in 2010, and looked like a surefire future Top 5 pick, but after an inconsistent senior season, it remains to be seen if a team will be willing to invest a Top 10 pick for his services. 

While he certainly won't experience a Da'Quan Bowers-like fall on draft weekend, as Bowers' tumble was due to medical concerns, I wouldn't be surprised if Coples slid down the board a bit on draft night if Jacksonville, Miami and Carolina opt to pass on him in the Top 10. 

Still, the Coples-Carolina combination would seem to make perfect sense, as the Panthers seemed to do pretty well with the last big-name Tar Heel pass-rusher they drafted in the Top 10, Julius Peppers. 

Coples may not be the next Peppers, but him and Johnson could form a dangerous pass-rushing duo for Rivera to work with. 

Some other defensive prospects that could be on Carolina's radar are linebackers Courtney Upshaw and Luke Kuechly and defensive tackle Dontari Poe.

I also wouldn't even be all that surprised if the team opted to take Notre Dame WR Michael Floyd at nine to give Cam Newton another weapon to work with. 

10. Buffalo Bills: OT Riley Reiff

School: Iowa

Class: Redshirt Junior

Height: 6'6''

Weight: 313

40: 5.23

The Bills may not be able to get their hands on one of this year's truly "elite" prospects at No. 10, but the Bills should have a few upper echelon prospects to choose from when they're on the clock. Buffalo made two huge moves to bolster each side of the ball this offseason by re-signing WR Steve Johnson and picking up DE Mario Williams, who was the best defensive player on the market.

Williams should help solve a lot of the Bills' pass-rush woes, which would seem to eliminate the need to pick a defensive end like Melvin Ingram or Quinton Coples if either is available. 

What Buffalo is likely really hoping for is that Cleveland, Tampa Bay, St. Louis, Jacksonville and Miami all decide to pass on this year's second best offensive tackle prospect, Iowa's Riley Reiff. 

All five franchises could have a substantial interest in Reiff, but we'll have to wait and see if any of them like him enough to snatch him up. 

Reiff is a good enough pass-blocker and run-blocker at this stage in his development to man either the right or the left tackle spot in the NFL, and he has the potential to blossom into a franchise tackle for whatever team ultimately picks him. 

The Bills have been lacking a true anchor at the tackle position since they traded away Jason Peters before the 2009 season.

Reiff is the type of tackle that can come in and really solidify the Bills offensive line right away as a rookie. 

If the former Hawkeye isn't available at 10, Buffalo could look at linebackers Courtney Upshaw and Luke Kuechly, and possibly even WR Michael Floyd, who would be a perfect complement to Steve Johnson. 

11. Kansas City Chiefs: DT Dontari Poe

School: Memphis

Class: Junior

Height: 6'4''

Weight: 346

40: 4.98

Since Memphis wasn't on national television all that much over the past few years, many are still trying to play catch up on DT Dontari Poe, one of the fastest-rising prospects in this year's draft. 

Poe is one of the strongest defensive tackle prospects in years, and he possess remarkable athleticism for his size. 

The problem is, he didn't exactly dominate against Conference-USA competition while he was with the Tigers.

Still, given his type of rare physical gifts, that shouldn't stop a team from selecting him in the Top 15 of this year's draft. 

Poe could fit in as a nose tackle in either a 4-3 or a 3-4 scheme, and one team that could certainly be interested in taking him is Kansas City at No. 11. 

Right now, Jerrell Powe and Amon Gordon are the Chiefs two best options at nose tackle, and it's obvious that more help is needed inside. 

Poe would really strengthen the middle of Kansas City's defense, and with his type of potential, he could turn into a Pro Bowl player early in his career just as long as he can handle battling NFL offensive linemen. 

12. Seattle Seahawks: LB Luke Kuechly

School: Boston College

Class: Junior

Height: 6'3''

Weight: 242

40: 4.58

The Seahawks took themselves out of the Ryan Tannehill sweepstakes by signing the second-most coveted free agent quarterback on the market this year, Matt Flynn. While it might be crazy to give a quarterback that's completed just 82 passes in his career the type of money that Seattle gave Flynn, at least the Seahawks have a quarterback that fans can get excited about.

Personally, I could see Flynn turning into a nice Ryan Fitzpatrick-type of starter in the NFL, however, I also wouldn't be shocked if he turns out to be the next A.J. Feely. 

Only time will tell with Flynn, but for now at least, we know that Seattle won't have to address the quarterback position early in the draft. That means that the Seahawks are free to use the No. 12 pick to fill one of their other key needs such as linebacker, defensive end or running back. 

Since the team decided to hold onto last year's leading rusher Marshawn Lynch for a few more years, it's likely that this pick will either be a linebacker or defensive end. 

If Quinton Coples or Melvin Ingram is still on the board when Seattle is picking, the Seahawks will likely think long and hard about pouncing on one of them. However, I think the best pick for the future would be to add another proven defensive leader like linebacker Luke Kuechly to the mix. 

Kuechly was a tackling machine during his three years at Boston College, racking up an astonishing 532 total stops during his career.

While those numbers are admittedly a bit inflated, Kuechly still has the type of athleticism, leadership ability, read and recognition skills, tackling ability and overall intangibles to develop into a captain of an NFL defense. 

Kuechly is capable of having the same type of impact for the Seattle defense that former standout linebacker Lofa Tatupu had early in his career.

13. Arizona Cardinals: LB Courtney Upshaw

School: Alabama

Class: Senior

Height: 6'2''

Weight: 272

40: N/A

The Cardinals have two quality young outside linebackers in Sam Acho and O'Brien Schofield, however, neither of them seem like they're going to turn into a truly premier pass-rusher. With Clark Haggans' return still up in the air, that means that Arizona could be looking for a quality pass-rusher to add to their front seven, and one prospect who would fit in perfectly is Alabama's Courtney Upshaw. 

Upshaw was a penetrating force for the Tide over the past two years, as he made a living in opponents' backfields, racking up 15.5 sacks and 31.5 tackles for loss during that time. 

While he may not be the same caliber of athlete that other recent top rush linebacker prospects like Aldon Smith and Von Miller were, Upshaw has the type of size, strength, power and attitude to wreak havoc in the NFL, just like he did in Tuscaloosa. 

Arizona may need help along the offensive line, but if Upshaw is available at 13, he could be too hard to pass up. 

14. Dallas Cowboys: OG David DeCastro

School: Stanford

Class: Redshirt Junior

Height: 6'5''

Weight: 316

40: 5.43

The Cowboys didn't exactly make a splash by signing offensive guards Nate Livings and Mackenzy Bernadeau this offseason, as Livings is far from a standout and also on the wrong side of 30 while Benadeau has started just 20 games in four seasons of action. 

Livings can still be a starting caliber guard for the next few years, but more interior help is still needed in Dallas, especially after the departure of veteran starter Kyle Kosier. 

Jerry Jones would probably love to see a prospect like Stanford's David DeCastro, the undisputed best guard in this year's class, still on the board when his team is picking at No. 14. 

Dallas has already addressed some key defensive needs at linebacker, cornerback and safety, which means the Cowboys should be focusing on the offensive side of the ball in the first round. 

DeCastro would be a great pickup, as he and last year's first-round pick, OT Tyron Smith, would give the Cowboys a great pair of offensive linemen to build around for the future. 

15. Philadelphia Eagles: S Mark Barron

School: Alabama

Class: Senior

Height: 6'1''

Weight: 213

40: N/A

Philadelphia may have one of the deepest groups of cornerbacks in the NFL with Nnamdi Asomugha, Asante Samuel and Dominique Rodgers-Cromartie. However, the Eagles lack a true playmaker at the safety position. Nate Allen, Kurt Coleman and Jaiquawn Jarrett are all solid, but none of them are standouts. 

It's always tough to predict where the Eagles will look with their first-round pick. Obviously, the team could desperately use a top-flight linebacker, but the franchise hasn't selected a linebacker in Round 1 since 1979, and that trend will likely continue again this year, especially since Philadelphia just picked up middle linebacker DeMeco Ryans in a trade with the Texans.

The Eagles could take an interest in this year's top safety prospect, Alabama's Mark Barron, who is the type of leader and playmaker that would really bolster an already strong secondary. 

Down the line, Barron could very well end up becoming a Brian Dawkins-type of impact defender for the Eagles if Philadelphia decides to take him at No. 15. 

16. New York Jets: WR Michael Floyd

School: Notre Dame

Class: Senior

Height: 6'3''

Weight: 220

40: 4.47

The Jets have come to realize that apparently the strategy of piling as many conflicting personalities into one locker room as possible isn't the type of recipe for a Super Bowl run. Loudmouthed coach Rex Ryan and his team have had to eat crow this offseason, and rightfully so, but the truth is, the Jets could be a contender in the AFC again next season if they can fill a few critical holes.

We know that the Jets are now thankfully set at backup quarterback after trading for Tim Tebow yesterday, a move undoubtedly made to simply sell tickets and jerseys and create headlines. 

Still, there are obviously more important needs that the team needs to focus on, and one of the most glaring needs is at wide receiver, a position that is mired in uncertainty. 

Who knows what type of relationship top receiver Santonio Holmes and QB Mark Sanchez will have now after the end of the season debacle in Miami.

The Plaxico Burress experiment was a failure, as Burress and Sanchez never seemed to get on the same page. 

Last year's fifth-round steal Jeremy Kerley has a bright future, but given his skill set, he's more of a consistent No. 2 or No. 3-type of receiver than a top threat. 

That means that the Jets will likely be on the lookout for a wide receiver early in this year's draft, and you have to believe that the team would love to get its hands on Notre Dame's Michael Floyd. 

Floyd has the chance to be just as good as Justin Blackmon at the pro level, as he possesses the size, speed, hands and playmaking ability to handle a No. 1 receiver role for an NFL offense. 

The Jets are going to have to cross their fingers and hope that he's still around at 16, but if Floyd gets scooped up before then, and Kendall Wright doesn't tickle the team's fancy, then New York will likely look to upgrade its marginal pass-rush with one of this year's top edge-rusher prospects. 

USC's Nick Perry, Illinois' Whitney Mercilus and Clemson's Andre Branch could all be in the mix if that's the case. 

The Jets could also use an upgrade at right tackle, as Wayne Hunter was a complete disaster last season. Tackles like Cordy Glenn, Kelechi Osemele, Jonathan Martin and Mike Adams could all be possibilities. 

17. Cincinnati Bengals: CB Stephon Gilmore

School: South Carolina

Class: Junior

Height: 6'0''

Weight: 190

40: 4.40

It was clear that Cincinnati missed CB Johnathan Joseph last season, especially when Leon Hall went down with an injury. Hall is capable of holding down the No. 1 cornerback role for the Bengals, but more help is needed, given that fellow corner, 32-year-old Nate Clements, will be entering the final year of his deal next season. 

Finding another young corner to pair with Hall for the future has to be a priority for Cincinnati, and luckily for the Bengals, they should have plenty of corners to choose from with one of their two first round picks. 

North Alabama's Janoris Jenkins, Montana's Trumaine Johnson, Alabama's Dre Kirkpatrick and Central Florida's Josh Robinson could all be targets, but one corner that Cincinnati could really hone in on is South Carolina's Stephon Gilmore. 

Gilmore is a former 5-star recruit who excelled during his three years with the Gamecocks, and he has all the skills and tools—most notably his size, speed and tackling ability—to develop into a consistent cover corner in the NFL. 

Hall and Gilmore would give the Bengals a very strong cornerback tandem to rely on for the future. 

18. San Diego Chargers: DT/DE Fletcher Cox

School: Mississippi State

Class: Junior

Height: 6'4''

Weight: 298

40: 4.79

The Chargers have filled some key areas of need through free agency so far this offseason, as San Diego has addressed positions like wide receiver, inside linebacker, outside linebacker and safety. That means that the team could look to add another defensive end early in this year's draft to pair with last year's first-round pick, Corey Liuget, especially after cutting Luis Castillo loose. 

One prospect that would fit in perfectly as a defensive end in the Chargers' 3-4 defensive scheme is Mississippi State's Fletcher Cox. 

Cox played tackle in a 4-3 system in college, but he has the size, strength and athleticism to develop into a dominant 3-4 end in the NFL. 

The Chargers would likely jump all over Cox if he's available at 18, but given that his stock has been steadily trending upwards since he declared for the draft back in January, there's no guarantee that he'll still be on the board. 

If Cox isn't available, the Chargers could look to address their offensive line needs by selecting an offensive tackle like Jonathan Martin, Cordy Glenn, Mike Adams or Kelechi Osemele. 

If you're looking for a dark horse pick here, don't be shocked if San Diego scoops up Stanford TE Coby Fleener. 

19. Chicago Bears: OT Cordy Glenn

School: Georgia 

Class: Senior 

Height: 6'5''

Weight: 345

40: 5.15

Chicago's offensive line has been a work in progress for what seems like far too long; just ask QB Jay Cutler. The Bears ranked dead last in the NFL in sacks allowed in 2010, and 27th last season. 

The team needs to make sure it keeps Cutler upright and healthy, as we saw last season when Chicago imploded after Cutler went down for the year in mid-November. 

The high sack total will likely go down now that pass-happy coordinator Mike Martz is no longer with the team, but that doesn't mean that the Bears shouldn't address their offensive line woes early in this year's draft. 

The team could use help at both guard and tackle, which means that the front office could have its eye on a tweener prospect like Georgia's Cordy Glenn. 

Glenn is a big, strong, athletic wrecking ball-type of tackle, who could flourish either inside or out in the NFL. 

Even though the Bears just traded for WR Brandon Marshall, they could also be looking for another target for Jay Cutler, and if Baylor's Kendall Wright is available at No. 19, the team would likely give him some strong consideration. 

Stanford TE Coby Fleener would also make a lot of sense for the Bears. 

20. Tennessee Titans: DE Whitney Mercilus

School: Illinois 

Class: Redshirt Junior

Height: 6'4''

Weight: 261

40: 4.68

Illinois DE Whitney Mercilus was one of the most surprising stories of the 2011 college football season, as he rose from relative obscurity to become an All-American performer last year. Mercilus wound up leading the country with 16 sacks and he also notched 22.5 tackles for loss. 

His breakout campaign opened the eyes of plenty of scouts, and it has many wondering if he was just a one-year wonder or if he's a truly top notch pass-rusher. 

Mercilus is still raw and rough around the edges, but he has the tools to develop into a dangerous edge-rusher in the NFL. 

One team that could benefit from his presence on the outside is the Tennessee Titans, who certainly missed Jason Babin last season. 

The Titans ranked 31st in the NFL in total sacks in 2011, which means that the team will likely be looking for a defensive end early in this year's draft. 

Adding Kamerion Wimbley will help, but more work still needs to be done, as former first-round pick Derrick Morgan hasn't come close to giving the team the return on its investment that it was hoping for.  

21. Cincinnati Bengals: RB Doug Martin

School: Boise State

Class: Redshirt Senior

Height: 5'9''

Weight: 223

40: 4.55

Every year, there's always a couple of players who surprisingly sneak into the first round of the draft, and this year, don't be surprised if one of those players is Boise State RB Doug Martin. 

There's a lot of debate about who the No. 2 running back is behind Trent Richardson, and it seems that that's an argument which won't be settled until draft night. 

Martin had a terrific career with the Broncos, rushing for over 1,200 yards in each of his final two seasons and accounting for 43 touchdowns during his time in Boise. 

The strong, compact and versatile back has all the tools to be a featured offensive weapon in the NFL, and one team that could be very interested in picking him up is the Cincinnati Bengals. 

The Bengals are likely ready to move on from Cedric Benson, who has been the team's leading rusher for the past four seasons. 

If that's the case, then the Bengals will probably strongly consider taking a running back with one of their two first-round picks, even though they did just add BenJarvus Green-Ellis. 

Green-Ellis should be able to carry a good deal of the rushing load, but finding another young back to pair with him has to be something that Cincinnati considers. 

22. Cleveland Browns: WR Kendall Wright

School: Baylor

Class: Senior

Height: 5'10''

Weight: 196

40: 4.61

If the Browns don't take Justin Blackmon with the No. 4 pick, Cleveland could look to add a receiver at No. 22. The offense could use a speedy game-changing receiver that has the ability to stretch a secondary and create room for bigger targets like Greg Little and Mohamed Massaquoi underneath. One top receiver prospect who fits that mold is Baylor's Kendall Wright.  

While Wright disappointed with his slow 40-yard-dash time at the NFL combine, he had a much better showing at the Bears' pro day yesterday, as he was reportedly timed somewhere between 4.41 and 4.45. Really though, all you had to do was watch him play at Baylor to realize that the former high school track star can flat out burn a defense. 

As a senior, Wright was QB Robert Griffin's top target, as he caught 108 passes for over 1,600 yards and scored 14 touchdowns, topping off a highly productive 4-year career at Baylor.  

Cleveland's choice at 22 will likely depend largely on what the team chooses to do with the fourth pick, and the Browns could look at quarterback, running back, wide receiver, offensive tackle, defensive end or cornerback with their second first-round selection. 

23. Detroit Lions: OT Jonathan Martin

School: Stanford 

Class: Redshirt Junior

Height: 6'5''

Weight: 312

40: N/A

The Lions may have re-signed starting left tackle Jeff Backus this offseason, but that may not necessarily prevent Detroit from looking for a tackle in Round 1 of this year's draft.

Backus will be 35 next season and fellow tackle Gosder Cherilus will be entering the final year of his deal next season. 

Both Backus and Cherilus could be upgraded by a talented young tackle, and the Detroit front office has to have an eye towards the future and have a plan in place to keep QB Matt Stafford protected. 

One intriguing tackle prospect that the Lions could have a strong interest in is Stanford's Jonathan Martin. 

While some analysts have put Martin in the same category as Matt Kalil and Riley Reiff, don't be fooled, he's got more work to do than both of them, and if you want evidence of that then just go watch last year's USC-Stanford game when he got schooled by DE Nick Perry. 

While Martin has been over-hyped a bit, there is a reason for it. He's a smart, strong and athletic tackle who fits the traditional framework of what you look for in a franchise-type of bookend. 

Martin will have some work to do in order to reach his full potential in the NFL, but Detroit could end up being the perfect place for him to develop his game. 

If the Lions feel confident in their current crop of tackles, then the team could look at adding a cornerback like Janoris Jenkins, Josh Robinson or Dre Kirkpatrick in the first round. 

24. Pittsburgh Steelers: OT Mike Adams

School: Ohio State

Class: Senior

Height: 6'7''

Weight: 323

40: 5.40 

It seems like the Steelers have had to deal with offensive line problems for the past few years, as injuries always seem to take some sort of toll on the unit and force some sort of shuffling to take place. Last season was no different. Two of the Steelers tackles, Willie Colon and Max Starks, experienced significant injuries last year. 

While the club is grooming 2011 second-round pick Marcus Gilbert to take one of the tackle spots, pairing Gilbert with another top young tackle might be in the team's best interests. 

One tackle prospect that Pittsburgh could have an interest in taking at No. 24 is Ohio State's Mike Adams. 

Adams is a former 5-star recruit who really shined during his final two seasons in Columbus. 

While he didn't impress many onlookers at the NFL combine, Adams should still be right in the late first round mix, as he has the type of size, athleticism and overall skill set that teams are looking for in a starting caliber offensive tackle. 

25. Denver Broncos: RB David Wilson

School: Virginia Tech 

Class: Junior

Height: 5'10''

Weight: 206

40: 4.49 

In case you haven't heard, Denver has signed QB Peyton Manning. That will put the spotlight squarely on the Broncos and Manning for next season, and it will be interesting to see if the 4-time NFL MVP can actually lead the team to the promised land. To get them there, the Broncos are going to need to surround the soon-to-be 36-year-old quarterback with some playmakers, especially at the running back position. 

Willis McGahee was surprisingly productive last year but he will be 31 next season. Former first-round pick Knowshon Moreno, who tore his ACL last season and was recently arrested for a DUI, has been a disappointment up to this point in his career. That means some fresh blood in the backfield is desperately needed. 

One top running back prospect that Denver could consider with the 25th pick is Virginia Tech's David Wilson. 

Wilson led the ACC with 1,709 yards last season, and he proved that he has the speed and athleticism to be a dynamic back in the NFL. 

Also, don't be surprised if Denver takes TE Coby Fleener if he's available, as he would be a perfect Dallas Clark-type of target for Manning to work with. 

26. Houston Texans: WR Rueben Randle

School: LSU 

Class: Junior

Height: 6'3''

Weight: 210

40: 4.55

Houston may have one of the best wide receivers in the NFL, Andre Johnson, but the Texans don't appear to have a proper No. 2 receiver to complement him, as neither Kevin Walter nor Jacoby Jones pose much of a threat to opposing secondaries. 

After stacking up on the defensive side of the ball with the first five picks in the 2011 draft, the Texans will now likely turn to the offensive side of the ball early on in this year's draft, and wide receiver could be one of the top positions they look at. 

One receiver prospect who really made a name for himself this past season is LSU's Rueben Randle. 

Randle, a former 5-star recruit, finally lived up to his high school hype in 2011, hauling in 53 passes for 917 yards and scoring eight touchdowns. 

With the size-speed-hands combination that Randle has to offer, he's going to look awfully enticing if he's available when Houston is picking at No. 26. 

27. New England Patriots: DT Michael Brockers

School: LSU

Class: Redshirt Sophomore

Height: 6'5''

Weight: 322

40: 5.36

New England has one of the best defensive tackles in the NFL in Vince Wilfork, the leader of the Patriots' defensive line. However, the team could be searching for a young versatile tackle to develop and mold for the future. One tackle prospect that would be a great fit for New England's defense is LSU's Michael Brockers. 

Brockers only started for one year down in Baton Rouge, but he managed to cause quite a buzz in 2011, as he was one of the key pieces for college football's most dominant defensive line last season. 

While he may still be very raw and underdeveloped from a technical standpoint, Brockers possesses all the physical traits—size, power, quickness and athleticism—that you look for in a future Pro Bowl defensive tackle. 

New England could look at a few different positions with this pick, including center, defensive end and cornerback, and since it's the Patriots, there's always the possibility of trading down.

If Brockers drops to No. 27, though, he would be mighty tough to resist. 

28. Green Bay Packers: C Peter Konz

School: Wisconsin

Class: Redshirt Junior 

Height: 6'5''

Weight: 314

40: N/A

The Packers made the decision to let long-time starting center Scott Wells walk this offseason. The 31-year-old Wells was getting up there in age, but the fact is, he started 100 games over the last eight years in Green Bay, and he was one of the key leaders for the offensive line during that time. 

The team will likely now be hoping that this year's top center prospect, Wisconsin's Peter Konz, will be available at the No. 28 pick, but that's not a given, as Konz is a hot commodity that teams like Detroit, Denver and New England could all be interested in.

Konz is a big, powerful blocker and he was the leader of one of college football's top offensive lines, starting 31 games during his three years on the field in Madison.

If Green Bay could somehow get its hands on Konz, he's the type of rare center prospect that can come in and instantly become one of the anchors of the offensive line as a rookie next season. 

29. Baltimore Ravens: DE/LB Nick Perry

School: USC

Class: Redshirt Junior

Height: 6'3''

Weight: 271

40: 4.64

Baltimore has one of the top outside linebackers in the NFL, Terrell Suggs, to unleash onto passers on a regular basis, however, the Ravens could use another edge-rusher to complement Suggs on the other side and balance out the front seven. That's especially true now that Jarret Johnson has moved on to San Diego. 

Paul Kruger had a solid campaign in 2011, racking up 5.5 sacks, but adding another pass-rusher wouldn't hurt, especially since Suggs will be turning 30 next season. 

The Ravens defense is built on getting pressure on the quarterback with a strong pass-rush, and one player that could certainly provide that for them is USC DE Nick Perry. 

Perry has the type of versatile skill set to line up as either a 4-3 end or a 3-4 rush linebacker in the NFL. 

After a solid junior campaign in which he racked up 9.5 sacks and 13 tackles for loss, Perry has really caught the attention of scouts and GM's, and teams in need of a consistent pass-rushing force will certainly consider taking him in the mid-to-late first round area. 

If Baltimore ends up feeling comfortable with its pass-rush the way it's already set up, the Ravens could instead be interested in addressing some concerning offensive line holes. 

Wisconsin's two top interior offensive linemen, Peter Konz and Kevin Zeitler, could both be near the top of Baltimore's wish list. 

30. San Francisco 49ers: TE Coby Fleener

School: Stanford

Class: Redshirt Senior

Height: 6'6''
 
Weight: 247

40: 4.45

San Francisco worked on fixing its wide receiver corps this offseason by bringing in Randy Moss and Mario Manningham to try to spice up a passing offense that ranked 29th in the NFL last season. However, it may not hurt to add another pass-catcher to the mix as well, since Moss will be 35 and Manningham was inconsistent at times during his stay with the Giants. 

Even though the team already has one of the NFL's top tight ends, Vernon Davis, it may not hurt to add another dangerous receiving tight end to the mix, especially with coach Jim Harbaugh's preference for two tight end sets. 

The one tight end in this year's class that Harbaugh obviously has great affection for is Stanford's Coby Fleener, who Harbaugh coached during his time in Palo Alto. 

Fleener is this year's most complete tight end prospect, and he proved in 2011 that he can be a dangerous threat in the passing game, as he hauled in 34 passes for 667 yards and scored 10 touchdowns.

While his blocking still has room for improvement, Fleener is the type of big, fast and savvy tight end that can create a ton of matchup problems for a defense.

If Fleener isn't available at No. 30, the 49ers could look to add some help in the trenches with an offensive guard like Kevin Zeitler.

31. New England Patriots: CB Josh Robinson

School: Central Florida

Class: Junior

Height: 5'10''

Weight: 199

40: 4.33 

New England managed to get to the Super Bowl last season, even though the Patriots had one of the worst secondaries in the NFL. 

The team could use help at both cornerback and safety, but corner looks like an especially important need.

Devin McCourty, Kyle Arrington, Ras-I Dowling and Sterling Moore are all serviceable players, who can be used effectively in different coverages and schemes, but none of them are true No. 1-type lock down corners. 

Adding a smart, speedy, fundamentally sound and experienced cover corner to the mix could really help bolster the secondary, and that's just what Central Florida's Josh Robinson happens to be. 

After an eye-opening performance at the NFL combine, Robinson has become one of this year's biggest risers. He's ascending in a similar fashion to 2010 No. 32 overall pick CB Patrick Robinson, and it wouldn't be surprising to see him crack the late first round by the time draft night rolls around. 

32. New York Giants: OT Kelechi Osemele

School: Iowa State

Class: Redshirt Senior

Height: 6'6''

Weight: 333

40: 5.36

After a surprising Super Bowl run last season, the Giants are now feeling the effects of the "everyone wants more money" syndrome that always seems to follow a championship year. RB Brandon Jacobs, WR Mario Manningham and CB Aaron Ross are just a few of the players who won't be back for 2012. 

Even after parting ways with some key pieces, New York is still in pretty good shape on both sides of the ball, but that doesn't mean that there isn't still work to do in this year's draft. 

One unit that has been neglected for far too long is the offensive line. 

The Giants have some big questions to answer at both tackle spots, as neither Will Beatty or James Brewer are exactly proven commodities. 

Picking up a solid young offensive tackle could finally be one of GM Jerry Reese's top priorities, and one tackle that the G-men could have their eye on in the first round is Iowa State's Kelechi Osemele. 

Osemele may possess the most potential out of any offensive linemen in the 2012 class besides Matt Kalil, but he's also still a raw project who is going to take some time to learn the nuances of an NFL blocking scheme. 

Still, the athletic and powerful Osemele has Pro Bowl potential and he could grow into a leader of an NFL offensive line if handled and coached properly at the next level. 

First Round Recap: Picks 1-32

1. Indianapolis Colts: QB Andrew Luck, Stanford

2. Washington Redskins: QB Robert Griffin, Baylor

3. Minnesota Vikings: OT Matt Kalil, USC

4. Cleveland Browns: CB Morris Claiborne, LSU

5. Tampa Bay Buccaneers: RB Trent Richardson, Alabama

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

7. Jacksonville Jaguars: DE Melvin Ingram, South Carolina

8. Miami Dolphins: QB Ryan Tannehill, Texas A&M

9. Carolina Panthers: DE Quinton Coples, North Carolina

10. Buffalo Bills: OT Riley Reiff, Iowa

11. Kansas City Chiefs: DT Dontari Poe, Memphis

12. Seattle Seahawks: LB Luke Kuechly, Boston College

13. Arizona Cardinals: LB Courtney Upshaw, Alabama

14. Dallas Cowboys: OG David DeCastro, Stanford

15. Philadelphia Eagles: S Mark Barron, Alabama

16. New York Jets: WR Michael Floyd, Notre Dame

17. Cincinnati Bengals: CB Stephon Gilmore, South Carolina

18. San Diego Chargers: DT/DE Fletcher Cox, Mississippi State

19. Chicago Bears: OT/OG Cordy Glenn, Georgia

20. Tennessee Titans: DE Whitney Mercilus, Illinois

21. Cincinnati Bengals: RB Doug Martin, Boise State

22. Cleveland Browns: WR Kendall Wright, Baylor

23. Detroit Lions: OT Jonathan Martin, Stanford

24. Pittsburgh Steelers: OT Mike Adams, Ohio State

25. Denver Broncos: RB David Wilson, Virginia Tech

26. Houston Texans: WR Rueben Randle, LSU

27. New England Patriots: DT Michael Brockers, LSU

28. Green Bay Packers: C Peter Konz, Wisconsin

29. Baltimore Ravens: DE/LB Nick Perry, USC

30. San Francisco 49ers: TE Coby Fleener, Stanford

31. New England Patriots: CB Josh Robinson, Central Florida

32. New York Giants: OT Kelechi Osemele, Iowa State

33. St. Louis Rams: DT Jerel Worthy

School: Michigan State

Class: Redshirt Junior

Height: 6'2''

Weight: 308

40: 5.08

If the Rams can get their hands on WR Justin Blackmon with their first-round pick, they will likely look to address either their offensive line or defensive line with one or both of their second round picks, as they could really use some help in the trenches on both sides of the ball. 

One intriguing defensive tackle prospect that should be available when the Rams kick off Day 2 of the draft is Michigan State's Jerel Worthy. 

While St. Louis brought in Kendall Langord during free agency, more help is still needed in the defensive interior to help improve a run defense that ranked 31st in the NFL last season. 

Worthy played inconsistent at times during his college career, but he is a big, powerful run-stuffer that can really help sure up the middle of St. Louis' defense. 

34. Indianapolis Colts: CB Trumaine Johnson

School: Montana

Class: Senior

Height: 6'2''

Weight: 204

40: 4.61

While much of the focus of Indianapolis' draft will be on QB Andrew Luck, the Colts have plenty of other areas of need that they'll have to address throughout the rest of the draft as well. One need is cornerback where the team is extremely thin and lacking a proven playmaker, so taking a corner with the No. 34 overall pick is a definite possibility for the Colts. 

Montana's Trumaine Johnson is the type of corner that would fit in well in new defensive coordinator Greg Manusky's scheme.

Johnson was a standout at the FCS level for the past three years, and he's the type of big, athletic physical specimen that has the potential to develop into a No. 1 corner for an NFL defense. 

35. Minnesota Vikings: CB Dre Kirkpatrick

School: Alabama 

Class: Junior

Height: 6'2''

Weight: 186

40: 4.51

If Minnesota chooses to take OT Matt Kalil over CB Morris Claiborne with the No. 3 pick, the Vikings will most likely be looking to add a cornerback in the second round, as the team's current cornerback situation is in need of repair. 

One cornerback prospect that would fit in well with the Tampa Cover 2 scheme that coach Leslie Frazier and defensive coordinator Alan Williams like to employ is Alabama's Dre Kirkpatrick. 

Kirkpatrick is a big, physical corner who is reminiscent of NFL players like Miami's Sean Smith and Chicago's Charles Tillman. 

If Kirkpatrick drops into the second round because of maturity issues, the Vikings would be one of the teams that would love to pick him up. 

36. Tampa Bay Bucs: LB Lavonte David

School: Nebraska 

Class: Senior

Height: 6'2''

Weight: 233

40: 4.65

Tampa Bay filled three key needs by adding WR Vincent Jackson, OG Carl Nicks and CB Eric Wright in free agency, and the team would fill another by adding RB Trent Richardson with the No. 5 pick. Still, linebacker is also a position that will have to be addressed on Day 2. Mason Foster looks like he's going to become a stalwart in the middle, but the Bucs could use some help at both outside spots. 

One weak side linebacker prospect who would fit in well in Tampa Bay's 4-3 scheme is Nebraska's Lavonte David. 

David racked up 285 tackles during his two years at Nebraska, and he and Foster would make quite a tag team for Tampa's defense for years to come. 

37. Cleveland Browns: QB Kirk Cousins

School: Michigan State

Class: Redshirt Senior

Height: 6'3''

Weight: 214

40: 4.93

If the Browns choose to pass on QB Ryan Tannehill with the No. 4 pick, Cleveland could look at a quarterback prospect like Michigan State's Kirk Cousins in either the late first or early second round. 

Cousins may not be a very flashy quarterback prospect, and he may not be blessed with elite physical ability, but he does have the potential to be an effective starter in the NFL, and he could come in and play an Andy Dalton-type of role for a team like the Browns.

If the Browns aren't interested in Tannehill, they will likely choose to use one of their Day 2 picks on either Cousins, Oklahoma State's Brandon Weeden or Arizona State's Brock Osweiler.

38. Jacksonville Jaguars: WR Alshon Jeffery

School: South Carolina

Class: Junior

Height: 6'3''

Weight: 216

40: N/A

Given how poorly quarterback Blaine Gabbert played last season, it wouldn't exactly be the worst idea to surround Gabbert with as many quality receivers as possible to aid in his development. Jacksonville brought in WR Laurent Robinson this offseason, but more help is still needed.

Mike Thomas, who only had one touchdown catch last season, seems better suited for a No. 3 role, and Brian Robiskie, Cecil Shorts and Jarrett Dillard don't exactly strike fear in the hearts of opposing secondaries.

Finding Gabbert a big target like South Carolina's Alshon Jeffery could really help him out.

Jeffery's stock took a big hit after he had a down campaign in 2011, but he at least has the physical traits that will get some teams excited if he drops down into Round 2.

39. St. Louis Rams: OG Kevin Zeitler

School: Wisconsin

Class: Senior

Height: 6'4''

Weight: 314

40: 5.39

The Rams clearly have some work to do with their offensive line, as St. Louis gave up a league-leading 55 sacks last season. The underwhelming play of both offensive tackles, Rodger Saffold and Jason Smith, is concerning, but the interior could use some help as well.

One interior offensive lineman that the Rams could be hoping to have a shot at in Round 2 is Wisconsin OG Kevin Zeitler.

Zeitler is a versatile guard that is equally strong as a pass-blocker and a run-blocker, and he could add some much needed stability to St. Louis' line and help keep QB Sam Bradford safe.

40. Carolina Panthers: DT Kendall Reyes

School: Connecticut

Class: Redshirt Senior

Height: 6'4''

Weight: 299

40: 4.95

Carolina drafted two defensive tackles, Terrell McClain and Sione Fua, in the third round of the 2011 draft, but neither of them could stop the Panthers from giving up 4.6 yards per carry last season. Ron Edwards, who missed last season with a triceps injury, will return to help out inside, but the Panthers still don't have a true proven playmaker in the defensive interior.

If Carolina chooses to pass on defensive tackles such as Dontari Poe and Fletcher Cox at No. 9, the team could look to add a defensive tackle like UConn's Kendall Reyes in the second round.

Reyes is a productive and proven commodity who enjoyed a strong senior campaign, racking up 13.5 tackles for loss and 4.5 sacks in 2011. The former Husky has the quickness and agility to rush the passer and the strength and size to stay stout against the run.

41. Buffalo Bills: WR Stephen Hill

School: Georgia Tech 

Class: Junior 

Height: 6'4''

Weight: 215

40: 4.36

The Bills may have re-signed top wide receiver Steve Johnson, but it wouldn't hurt to add one or two more young talented pass-catchers to help out QB Ryan Fitzpatrick. Buffalo could look to draft a receiver or a tight end on Day 2 of the draft. One receiver that could really be a great complement to Johnson is Georgia Tech's Stephen Hill, who has seen his stock skyrocket after some great offseason workouts. 

Hill is a tall, athletic and fluid receiver who can create mismatches with almost any corner he goes up against. 

Although he didn't get many chances to prove himself, playing in Paul Johnson's run-heavy triple-option offense at Georgia Tech, that doesn't mean that Hill doesn't have the potential to be a go-to target at the NFL level. 

42. Miami Dolphins: WR Chris Givens

School: Wake Forest

Class: Redshirt Junior

Height: 5'11''

Weight: 198

40: 4.41

Miami shipped out talented but troubled receiver Brandon Marshall last week, which leaves Davone Bess and Brian Hartline as the team's top two receiving options. Obviously, the Dolphins are going to have to look for another receiver early on in this year's draft.

One prospect that they could consider in the second round is Wake Forest's Chris Givens. 

Givens had a breakout season in 2011, hauling in 83 passes for 1,330 yards and nine touchdowns, and his performance really caught the attention of scouts. 

While he may never be a true No. 1 receiver, Givens does have the potential to be a highly productive and reliable weapon in the passing game at the NFL level. 

43. Seattle Seahawks: CB Janoris Jenkins

School: North Alabama

Class: Senior

Height: 5'10''

Weight: 193

40: 4.46

Seattle looks like it found a future stud corner in Richard Sherman, who had a terrific rookie campaign in 2011, but the Seahawks could still use some help across from him, as Brandon Browner is good but not great.

Sherman and Browner are a nice pair, but adding another cornerback to the fold has to be something that Pete Carroll and the front office consider in the draft, especially since the team released Marcus Trufant a few weeks ago.

One of the most interesting cornerback prospects in this year's draft is former Florida Gator Janoris Jenkins.

Jenkins was a showcase player in Gainesville before multiple run-ins with the law forced him out. While his off-the-field concerns will likely drop him into the second round, Jenkins is a true physical specimen who has all of the traits you look for in a standout corner, and he certainly won't last long on Day 2, even with the red flags that plague his collegiate resume.

44. Kansas City Chiefs: LB Dont'a Hightower

School: Alabama

Class: Redshirt Junior

Height: 6'2''

Weight: 265

40: 4.68

If Kansas City takes NT Dontari Poe at No. 11, that will really help sure up the middle of the Chiefs defense. However, if the team really wants to strengthen the middle of its defense, Scott Pioli would be best served finding a new inside linebacker to pair with Derrick Johnson, as Brandon Siler and Jovan Belcher can both be upgraded. 

This year's top 3-4 inside linebacker prospect is Alabama's Dont'a Hightower, who bounced back from a serious knee injury to wreak plenty of havoc for the Tide defense over the past two seasons.

Hightower is a big, physical presence in the middle of the field, who makes up for his lack of straight line and lateral speed with his playmaking ability and versatility.

While he may not be the next Patrick Willis, Hightower has the chance to develop into a dominant figure for an NFL defense over the next few years.

45. Dallas Cowboys: WR Brian Quick

School: Appalachian State

Class: Redshirt Senior

Height: 6'4''

Weight: 220

40: 4.55

Dallas already has two of the top receivers in the NFC in Miles Austin and Dez Bryant, but after losing Laurent Robinson this offseason, the Cowboys could be in search of finding a No. 3 receiving option early in this year's draft.

Since he's shown that he's never been hesitant to dip into the FCS ranks, Jerry Jones could look at a receiver like Appalachian State's Brian Quick in Round 2 to help fill the hole that Robinson left.

While most of us draftniks have only had Youtube highlights like this one to judge Quick off of, it's obvious that this young man possesses a great deal of potential, even though he was hidden away out of the public eye during his college career.

Price is the type of big, ultra-athletic and reliable receiver that should garner heavy interest from clubs on Day 2 of this year's draft.

46. Philadelphia Eagles: DT Devon Still

School: Penn State

Class: Redshirt Senior

Height: 6'5''

Weight: 303

40: 5.08

Andy Reid never minds adding linemen early in the draft and strengthening his team in the trenches, and he will likely do the same thing again this year with one of Philadelphia's two second-round picks. 

While the Eagles defensive line played very well last season, it wouldn't hurt to add a young run-stuffer to the mix, as Cullen Jenkins likely won't be able to match the season he had last year. 

Penn State's Devon Still is the type of defensive tackle that would fit in well in Philadelphia's defense.

Still had a monster senior campaign in 2011, racking up 4.5 sacks and 17 tackles for loss, and he's the type of powerful run-stuffing tackle that could eventually take over for Jenkins in a few years.  

47. New York Jets: DE/LB Andre Branch

School: Clemson

Class: Redshirt Senior

Height: 6'4''

Weight: 259

40: 4.70

If the Jets pick a receiver like Michael Floyd or Kendall Wright at No. 16, New York will likely be in search of an outside edge-rusher on Day 2, as the Jets have been in desperate need of a playmaking outside linebacker for their 3-4 system ever since coach Rex Ryan first arrived. 

One player that they would likely target in Round 2 is Clemson DE Andre Branch, who looks like he has the proper skill set to handle standing up and making the transition to rush linebacker in a 3-4 system. 

Branch enjoyed a breakout senior season in 2011, racking up 10.5 sacks and 17 tackles for loss, and he showed that he's the type of athletic edge-rusher that could add a valuable dynamic to an NFL defensive front seven. 

48. New England Patriots: DE Chandler Jones

School: Syracuse

Class: Redshirt Junior

Height: 6'5''

Weight: 266

40: 4.87

The Patriots just lost DE Mark Anderson, who had 10 sacks last season, to Buffalo, and it remains to be seen if fellow free agent defensive end Andre Carter, who also had 10 sacks, will be back with the club. While New England should be able to survive without Anderson and Carter, obviously losing half of your sack production from the past season is a big blow. 

If Carter isn't re-signed, the Pats could look for a versatile pass-rusher early in this year's draft, and it wouldn't be surprising to see them take an end with one of their four picks in the first two rounds. 

One prospect that fits the mold of what New England is looking for is Syracuse's Chandler Jones. 

Jones is a big, athletic pass-rusher who can penetrate into the backfield and who can also hold his own against the run. 

49. San Diego Chargers: TE Dwayne Allen

School: Clemson

Class: Redshirt Junior

Height: 6'3''

Weight: 255

40: 4.89

Antonio Gates has been one of the best tight ends in the NFL since his breakout season in 2004, however, Gates has been slowed down by injuries in recent years and he'll turn 32 this summer. Finding a young tight end that can eventually take over for Gates in the next few years could be something that San Diego has to consider in this year's draft, especially since the Chargers did a good job of filling some key needs through free agency. 

If an athletic tight end like Clemson's Dwayne Allen or Georgia's Orson Charles is available for the Chargers at No. 49, the team should definitely consider taking one of them. 

While Allen may not be a standout blocker, he's a great weapon to have in the passing game, which he proved this past season at Clemson when he hauled in 50 passes for 598 yards and eight touchdowns. 

50. Chicago Bears: S Harrison Smith

School: Notre Dame

Class: Redshirt Senior

Height: 6'2''

Weight: 213

40: 4.57

Chicago's secondary ranked 28th in the NFL in pass defense last season, and a big reason why was the instability at the safety position. Chris Conte and Major Wright are both adequate back-end players, but neither of them are exactly irreplaceable.

Adding a young playmaking safety to the defensive backfield is something that the Bears should be looking to do fairly early in this year's draft, and they couldn't go wrong picking a player like Notre Dame's Harrison Smith.

Smith had over 90 tackles in each of his final two seasons in South Bend, and he's the type of big, physical and athletic safety that could really help improve Chicago's shoddy secondary. 

51. Philadelphia Eagles: RB LaMichael James

School: Oregon

Class: Redshirt Junior

Height: 5'8''

Weight: 194

40: 4.45

LaMichael James has been one of college football's biggest stars for the past three years, however, because of his smaller stature and size, James won't be able to crack the first round of this year's draft.

Still, that doesn't mean that there won't be a few teams waiting for him in the second.

One offense that James would be a great fit for is Philadelphia's, and wouldn't you know it, the Eagles will likely be in search of a complement to LeSean McCoy with one of their early picks in this year's draft.

Andy Reid has shown that he loves fast and explosive offensive playmakers, and there aren't many backs in this year's class who have James' type of game-breaking speed.

52. Tennessee Titans: LB Zach Brown

School: North Carolina

Class: Senior

Height: 6'1''

Weight: 244

40: 4.50

Tennessee is a team that has the potential to be one of the AFC's top squads for the foreseeable future, as long as the Titans' young talent can keep developing and maturing. 

While the Titans don't have many glaring weaknesses outside of their almost nonexistent pass-rush, it wouldn't hurt to find a young linebacker in this year's draft to team with last year's second-round pick Akeem Ayers and fourth-round pick Colin McCarthy for the future.  

Will Witherspoon is still a starting caliber weak side 'backer, but he'll be 32 next season, and 2012 will be the final year of his contract. 

The Titans could use a 4-3 weak side linebacker, and one prospect that would fit in well in their system is North Carolina's Zach Brown.

Brown is supremely athletic and has the range and the instincts to emerge as a valuable playmaker for an NFL defense very early in his career. 

53. Cincinnati Bengals: WR Mohamed Sanu

School: Rutgers

Class: Junior

Height: 6'2''

Weight: 211

40: 4.67

Cincinnati has a future star in last year's first-round pick, WR A.J. Green, but the Bengals could use another piece to add to their wide receiver corps, especially with Jerome Simpson's future still up in the air after Simpson pleaded guilty to felony drug charges. 

If the Bengals choose to pass on taking a receiver with one of their two first-round picks, they could look to add one with their second-round selection. One player that would be a perfect secondary option on the other side of Green is Rutgers' Mohamed Sanu. 

Sanu had a huge junior campaign in 2011, hauling in 115 passes for over 1,200 yards.

While he may lack the burst and top end speed that some teams look for in a receiver, Sanu has the size and hands to be a consistent No. 2 receiving weapon for an NFL offense. 

54. Detroit Lions: CB Brandon Boykin

School: Georgia

Class: Senior

Height: 5'9''

Weight: 182

40: N/A

The loss of CB Eric Wright in free agency was a tough blow for Detroit, as that leaves Chris Houston and Aaron Berry as the team's top two options at the position. Obviously, more help is needed, and cornerback is definitely a position that the Lions should look to strengthen early in the draft. 

One corner who would fit in particularly well in Gunther Cunningham's defense is Georgia's Brandon Boykin.

Boykin is still raw as far as technique and fundamentals go, but he's one of the most athletic defensive backs in this year's class and he has three years of starting experience against SEC competition. 

55. Atlanta Falcons: DE Vinny Curry

School: Marshall

Class: Redshirt Senior

Height: 6'3''

Weight: 266

40: 4.98

Atlanta decided to re-sign veteran DE John Abraham to a 3-year deal this offseason, but that may not prevent the Falcons from targeting a pass-rusher early in this year's draft.

Remember, Abraham will turn 34 this summer. 

One defensive end that the team could be interested in is Marshall's Vinny Curry. 

Over the past three years, Curry was a standout player for the Thundering Herd, and he had the beast season of his career as a senior, racking up 11 sacks and 22 tackles for loss in 2011. 

Curry's the type of athletic and powerful young pass-rusher that can be groomed to be Abraham's eventual replacement. 

56. Pittsburgh Steelers: DT Brandon Thompson

School: Clemson 

Class: Senior

Height: 6'2''

Weight: 314

40: N/A

Even though the Steelers have two talented young defensive linemen in former first-round picks Ziggy Hood and Cameron Heyward, Pittsburgh could still use some help up front to bolster it's three-man defensive line, especially since NT Casey Hampton is coming off a serious knee injury and DE Aaron Smith was released this offseason. 

One defensive line prospect that could have the versatility to line up all over the line in a 3-4 front is Clemson's Brandon Thompson. 

Thompson is a big, strong and very quick tackle who could line up at either nose tackle or defensive end in a 3-4 system, depending on the situation.

57 Denver Broncos: CB Alfonzo Dennard

School: Nebraska

Class: Senior

Height: 5'10''

Weight: 204

40: 4.55

The Broncos main priority in this year's draft will be to find some more weapons for new QB Peyton Manning. However, that doesn't mean that Denver can neglect the defensive side of the ball.

Cornerback is one spot where the team could use a young starting caliber player, as Champ Bailey will be 34-years-old next season.

One potential starting cornerback that could be available for the Broncos in Round 2 is Nebraska's Alfonzo Dennard. 

Dennard entered the 2011 season as a projected Top 15 pick, but after an inconsistent senior campaign, he's now a Day 2 value. 

Still, Dennard has the talent and the physical ability to be a No. 2 cornerback for an NFL defense, and he's the type of prospect that a team like Denver would have to strongly consider in Round 2. 

Given the recent trade of Tim Tebow to the Jets, it also wouldn't be surprising if the Broncos targeted a backup quarterback like Oklahoma State's Brandon Weeden or Arizona State's Brock Osweiler on Day 2. 

58. Houston Texans: CB Casey Hayward

School: Vanderbilt

Class: Senior

Height: 5'11''

Weight: 185

40: 4.57

The Texans really got their money's worth out of CB Johnathan Joseph last season, as he proved to be the top notch defensive back that Houston has been waiting for for years. The problem is, outside of Joseph, there really isn't a lot to get excited about at the position, as former first-rounder Kareem Jackson has been wildly inconsistent so far in his career and last year's third-round pick Brandon Harris is still unproven.

It also certainly doesn't help that Jason Allen signed with the Bengals.

Adding a smart, athletic and tough corner like Vanderbilt's Casey Hayward to the mix would make a lot of sense.

Hayward may not have elite physical skills, but he held his own in the SEC as a three-year starter for the Commodores, and he has the potential to develop into a starting cornerback in the NFL early in his career.

59. New Orleans Saints: Forfeited

New Orleans has been stripped of this pick as part of the punishment for the Saints' defensive bounty program.

60. Green Bay Packers: DE/LB Shea McClellin

School:  Boise State 

Class: Senior

Height: 6'3''

Weight: 260

40: 4.63

Green Bay already has a premier pass-rusher in outside linebacker Clay Matthews, but the Packers lack a proper player on the other side to complement him. That means that the team will likely be looking for a rush linebacker early on in this year's draft.

One prospect that could pique their interests is Boise State's Shea McClellin.

McClellin is the quintessential hustle player, who possesses the type of motor that never stops running. That doesn't mean he isn't a great athlete, though, as he proved over the last two years that he could be a dynamic edge-rusher, racking up 16.5 sacks and 26 tackles for loss during that time.

Matthews and McClellin would form a great pass-rushing duo for the Packers to play around with.

61. Baltimore Ravens: OG Amini Silatolu

School: Midwestern State

Class: Redshirt Senior

Height: 6'4''

Weight: 311

40: 5.43

Baltimore could pretty much use reinforcements all over its offensive line, but the Ravens could really use an offensive guard after the departure of Ben Grubbs this offseason. The team could consider taking a guard-tackle tweener prospect like Cordy Glenn or Kelechi Osemele or a true guard like Kevin Zeitler if they're available at No. 29.

Baltimore could also wait until the second round, though, and take a look at a player like Midwestern State's Amini Silatolu.

Silatolu is one of the top small school prospects in this year's draft class, and he was a standout All-American performer at Midwestern State in 2011. 

Although he played left tackle in college, Silatolu has the size, strength and run-blocking ability to excel as a starting interior offensive lineman in the NFL. 

62. San Francisco 49ers: DT Alameda Ta’amu

School: Washington

Class: Senior

Height: 6'3''

Weight: 348

40: 5.37

San Francisco's defensive line was a big reason the team finished with the fourth ranked defense in the NFL last season, as the three-man group really played above expectations and gave opposing offensive lines fits all year long. 

Still, that doesn't mean that there isn't room to add some young depth for the future early in this year's draft, as NT Isaac Sopoaga and DE Justin Smith are both over 30 years of age. 

Sopoaga will be entering the final year of his deal next season, and the 49ers could be in search of his future replacement in this year's draft. 

Washington's Alameda Ta'amu is the type of monstrous nose tackle prospect that could do the trick.

Ta'amu has the size and the strength to clog up the middle of the field and eat up blockers and he would really fit in well in San Francisco's defensive scheme. 

63. New England Patriots: C Philip Blake

School: Baylor

Class: Senior

Height: 6'2''

Weight: 311

40: 5.25

In my opinion, Baylor center Philip Blake is one of the most underrated prospects in the 2012 NFL draft. Blake is the type of smart, strong and athletic center who can come in and handle and control being the centerpiece of an NFL offensive line right away. 

One team that could be interested in his services late in the second round is the New England Patriots. 

The Patriots had four different starting centers last season, and they lack a true standout at the position. 

Blake could come in and be a starter right from the get go if New England picks him up in this year's draft. 

64. New York Giants: RB Lamar Miller

School: Miami

Class: Redshirt Sophomore

Height: 5'11''

Weight: 212

40: 4.40

The Giants decided to part ways with Brandon Jacobs this offseason, as Jacobs proved to be ineffective and unreliable in short yardage situations last season. It also didn't help that he'll turn 30 this summer. 

Ahmad Bradshaw is capable of taking on a bigger role in the running game. However, given that the Giants ranked dead last in the NFL in rushing during their Super Bowl run this past season, the team would be wise to find a proper complement to take some of the pressure off of Bradshaw's shoulders. 

One strong, powerful back that has shown that he is capable of pounding it inside the tackles is Miami's Lamar Miller. 

While Miller only had one truly great season and only played in 23 games when he was down in Coral Gables, he's got the type of physical package that will really intrigue teams in the mid-to-late second round. 

Second Round Recap: Picks 33-64

33. St. Louis Rams: DT Jerel Worthy, Michigan State

34. Indianapolis Colts: CB Trumaine Johnson, Montana

35. Minnesota Vikings: CB Dre Kirkpatrick, Alabama

36. Tampa Bay Buccaneers: LB Lavonte David, Nebraska

37. Cleveland Browns: QB Kirk Cousins, Michigan State

38. Jacksonville Jaguars: WR Alshon Jeffery, South Carolina

39. St. Louis Rams: OG Kevin Zeitler, Wisconsin

40. Carolina Panthers: DT Jared Crick, Nebraska

41. Buffalo Bills: WR Stephen Hill, Georgia Tech

42. Miami Dolphins: WR Chris Givens, Wake Forest

43. Seattle Seahawks: CB Janoris Jenkins, North Alabama

44. Kansas City Chiefs: LB Dont’a Hightower, Alabama

45. Dallas Cowboys: WR Brian Quick, Appalachian State

46. Philadelphia Eagles: DT Devon Still, Penn State

47. New York Jets: DE/LB Andre Branch, Clemson

48. New England Patriots: DE Chandler Jones, Syracuse

49. San Diego Chargers: TE Dwayne Allen, Clemson

50. Chicago Bears: S Harrison Smith, Notre Dame

51. Philadelphia Eagles: RB LaMichael James, Oregon

52. Tennessee Titans: LB Zach Brown, North Carolina

53. Cincinnati Bengals: WR Mohamed Sanu, Rutgers

54. Detroit Lions: CB Brandon Boykin, Georgia

55. Atlanta Falcons: DE Vinny Curry, Marshall

56. Pittsburgh Steelers: DT Brandon Thompson, Clemson

57. Denver Broncos: CB Alfonzo Dennard, Nebraska

58. Houston Texans: CB Casey Hayward, Vanderbilt

59. New Orleans Saints: Forfeited 

60. Green Bay Packers: DE/LB Shea McClellin, Boise State

61. Baltimore Ravens: OG Amini Silatolu, Midwestern State

62. San Francisco 49ers: DT Alameda Ta’amu, Washington

63. New England Patriots: C Philip Blake, Baylor

64. New York Giants: RB Lamar Miller, Miami