2014 NFL Mock Draft: An Early Look at the Entire 1st Round
With a ton of elements yet to fall into place, this way-too-early look at how the first round could shake out will give plenty of hopeful fans something to cheer, yell and scream about even if their teams were eliminated from action weeks ago.
The NFL draft has reached record heights in popularity primarily because it provides every team with a chance to start anew. Each year we get to wait and discover who will emerge as the ultimate winners and losers from the highly anticipated draft.
Regardless how the draft really turns out, it’s not likely to follow any script or attempt at a mock laid out in January. But one of the elements that makes for such an interesting early look is that this class is laced with endless storylines and fascinating characters. After all, there are already a record number of underclassmen forgoing their final years of college eligibility to take a chance at the biggest stage that football has to offer.
For the sake of keeping the projections quasi-manageable, I elected to forgo all possibilities of trades in this early-version mock.
1. Houston Texans
1 of 32
Teddy Bridgewater, QB, Louisville
Houston was one of the most disappointing teams in recent memory, and its offense was clearly the primary culprit for the franchise record 14-game losing streak.
The quarterback position has become a glaring weakness as of late, and there’s no better time to upgrade from the mediocre talents of Matt Schaub than in a year where the Texans, perhaps fortuitously, have the first overall selection.
Per Bucky Brooks of NFL.com:
"Bridgewater displays outstanding arm talent as a pocket passer. He grades out near the top of the scale in arm strength (I watched him zing it in person at the 2013 Sugar Bowl against Florida), and is capable of making every throw in the book with zip or touch. Additionally, Bridgewater throws a tight spiral that rarely wobbles in-flight. Factor in his superb ball placement and touch, and it is not often the Cardinals' receivers are forced to snatch passes outside of the strike zone.
"
Bridgewater is the likely selection here, although he’s not of the same caliber of prospect as Andrew Luck or even Robert Griffin III. His size is a concern, but his consistency, polish, leadership and other intangibles are worthy of a franchise QB.
Johnny Manziel and Jadeveon Clowney could be at play here, and I wouldn’t be surprised if the Texans entertain options for trading down, given the intriguing second-day options at QB. Zach Mettenberger is a great example of a guy they could target later on.
2. St. Louis Rams
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Jadeveon Clowney, DE, South Carolina
The Rams are hardly in need of another defensive end with Robert Quinn and Chris Long already on the roster, but when you have an opportunity to draft a guy like Jadeveon Clowney, you would be wise to take it.
Besides, St. Louis has the luxury of two first-round draft picks and can afford to draft the best player available here. There’s no question that player is Clowney.
Perhaps the Rams can use this surplus of pass-rushing talent to exercise trade options later down the line.
3. Jacksonville Jaguars
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Blake Bortles, QB, Central Florida
One of my favorite analysts Matt Waldman has this to say about Bortles:
"What’s compelling about Bortles is his athleticism, a feel for managing the chaos of the pocket, flashes of pinpoint accuracy, and budding conceptual skill at manipulating defenses. Bortles most prominent struggles occur in three areas: complex coverage schemes common to the NFL, executing accurate throws outside the hash, and making consistent and mature decisions with regard to placement of targets.
"
Whenever a prospect’s stock ascends as quickly as Bortles has, a team has to be extra cautious during the predraft process.
Jacksonville needs a quarterback to build around in the worst way. Head coach Gus Bradley has an affinity for the QBs who know how to use their legs. He realized the value of a mobile quarterback from his time in Seattle during Russell Wilson’s rookie season.
The only other option I can see Jacksonville considering here is none other than Johnny Manziel, or they might trade down with a team coveting a specific prospect.
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4. Cleveland Browns
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Johnny Manziel, QB, Texas A&M
Now that Johnny Manziel has officially declared for the NFL draft, it just becomes a matter of which team and when. It’s feasible to believe that the Browns could pull the trigger on this polarizing figure, but the obvious risks could end up costing a lot of decision-makers their jobs.
The dilemma for the Browns is something of a double-edged sword. It’s risky to take Manziel fourth overall and pin the hopes of the franchise on such a wild card, but it’s also risky to pass this guy up and potentially watch him set the league on fire.
5. Oakland Raiders
5 of 32Sammy Watkins, WR, Clemson
Not every pick in the first round is based off glaring needs. We all know the Raiders are desperate for a pass-rusher in this draft, but who at No. 5 overall would make sense for them?
The Raiders run a 4-3 defensive front, and Anthony Barr is not a guy who can put his hand in the dirt with any regularity. Drafting him or Khalil Mack would be a mistake, considering they would be asked to perform duties that would not be taking advantage of their skill sets.
Sammy Watkins is a complete dynamo at the receiver position and would be the type of player who could make an instant difference in Oakland.
According to Charlie Campbell from WalterFootball.com:
"There are no mysteries when it comes to Watkins game. He is a pure speed receiver who can score any time he touches the football. Watkins has rare explosion with first-step quickness that looks a lot like Percy Harvin's. When Watkins was in the groove as a freshman, it seemed like he was starting plays a second before everybody else on the field.
"
Oakland has a lot of holes to fill this offseason, so it could trade down to accumulate more picks. That way, the Raiders could maybe draft a QB and pass-rusher in the top 40.
6. Atlanta Falcons
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Jake Matthews, OT, Texas A&M
Atlanta had a series of malfunctions that ultimately led to their demise in 2013. Offensive line is an enormous need and seems to be the smart way to rebuild a Super Bowl contender. Upgrading the blocking would bleed into every area of offensive efficiency and would shore up a glaring weakness.
Many Falcons fans will be clamoring for a pass-rusher here, but neither Khalil Mack nor Anthony Barr seems to be an ideal fit with regard to scheme. Maybe the Falcons make a move upward to snag Jadeveon Clowney, but that might be a costly proposition.
Jake Matthews is the most complete offensive lineman in the draft and would be a solid addition who may make the most sense, all things considered.
7. Tampa Bay Buccaneers
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Anthony Barr, LB, UCLA
In terms of size, production and athletic superiority, Anthony Barr is second to none of the remaining prospects. The Tampa Bay defense is not an ideal fit for him, but its need for guys who can pressure the QB may trump that nuance.
Barr is not the surefire superstar many seem to be convinced of, but his talents and potential are intriguing.
Jeremy Hyde from DraftBreakdown.com tells us more about him:
"Barr possesses elite explosiveness, speed, and flexibility on the edge. He flashes the ability to use his long arms to set the edge against the run, and the ability to shed blockers to make stops on plays run in his direction. Still very new to the position, Barr struggles to diagnose plays on the field, and is highly susceptible to misdirection and play fakes.
"
The Bucs may look to a QB, but after Bridgewater, Bortles and Manziel are gone, the pickings start getting slim for top-10 value. They should make their move for a quarterback later on. Mike Glennon did a nice job as a rookie but at least needs some worthy competition heading into camp.
8. Minnesota Vikings
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C.J. Mosley, LB, Alabama
The Minnesota Vikings could go a number of different ways here, including selecting a quarterback. They may fall in love with Derek Carr, but that could be perceived as making a Christian Ponder move all over again. Don’t expect a QB to be taken this early unless the three who are already gone have somehow slipped into their hands.
C.J. Mosley is a solid pick and the best interior linebacker available. The Vikings would improve defensively with his versatility and toughness anchoring the middle.
9. Buffalo Bills
9 of 32
Khalil Mack, DE/OLB, Buffalo
This will seem like a steal to many draft savvy fans out there and rightfully so. Khalil Mack is a big-time pass-rusher and one of the few difference-makers available on defense.
According to FFToolbox.com:
"Mack is a highly intelligent, athletic and instinctive player with almost no flaws in his game, whether he is defending the run or pass. Elite speed. Reads and reacts very quickly and can get up to speed rapidly to make plays. Seems to be one step ahead and one beat faster than every other defender.
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It’s fitting that the kid from Buffalo will be drafted by the Bills. Mack is an ideal fit in their defense and would make a team that already led the NFL in sacks even more terrifying.
10. Detroit Lions
10 of 32
Mike Evans, WR, Texas A&M
If the Detroit Lions have the opportunity to pair the 6’5”, 225-pound sophomore wideout with Calvin Johnson and pass that up, they will be making a huge mistake that could change their destiny forever. Detroit has longed lacked a true complement opposite Johnson, and Evans would open up a range of mismatch options that would present nightmares to opposing defenses for years.
Just think about the impact Julio Jones had on the Falcons when he was paired with Roddy White. This would be a vast improvement over that dynamic duo.
11. Tennessee Titans
11 of 32Derek Carr, QB, Fresno State
With the recent hire of Ken Whisenhunt as the next head coach, expect the Titans to consider options for acquiring their franchise quarterback—assuming they remain unconvinced that Jake Locker can be anything more than just an average starter.
Drafting Derek Carr is a risk considering the offensive system at Fresno State may have covered up some major red flags. He will have ample opportunities to show what he’s made of between now and May.
Per Brendan Leister of DraftBrowns.com:
"Carr possesses excellent arm strength that will allow him to make all of the necessary throws at the next level. When he is able to step into his throws, he shows the ability to drive the ball down the field and throw into tight windows. This means that his offensive coordinator will not be restricted in what plays he can put in the game plan and opposing defenses will be forced to cover the entire field against him.
"
12. New York Giants
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Greg Robinson, OT, Auburn
The Giants crumbled last year in a way that had many crying for the head of two-time Super Bowl-winning coach Tom Coughlin. Eli Manning had the worst year of his career in 2013, and poor offensive-line play was an obvious weakness.
Manning needs to be protected, and Greg Robinson could turn out to be one of the best offensive linemen in the NFL. That’s an asset Manning has never experienced.
Hopefully the Giants are not scared off by their odd choice to draft Justin Pugh in the first round last year. Robinson would be the true star to build around up front.
13. St. Louis Rams
13 of 32
Ha Ha Clinton-Dix, S, Alabama
The Rams can further complete the development of one of the scariest defenses in the league with the draft’s most talented safety prospect.
Charlie Campbell from WalterFootball.com delivers the verdict on Clinton-Dix:
"Clinton-Dix hasn't really shown to be a big hitter, but considering he played in a platoon role, it remains to be seen if he has some enforcer to his game. Clinton-Dix has the size to be a hard hitter and Saban has said that Clinton-Dix is a good tackler. He has the measurements to cover big receivers and tight ends.
"
Pairing him with T.J. McDonald would be no laughing matter for NFL offenses—especially if the Rams grab Jadeveon Clowney with the second overall selection.
14. Chicago Bears
14 of 32
Ra'Shede Hageman, DT, Minnesota
The Bears have been gashed all season long in the running game and are in desperate need of a solid anchor who can still contribute in the playmaking department. Hageman is that guy who will bring a tough, hard-nosed attitude to the trenches.
He is a strong, talented athlete with good size and nice NFL potential. He does engage too high at times but has still distinguished himself as one of the premier interior defensive linemen in this draft.
Defense is the primary area that the Bears need to address in May. Hageman not only fills a need, but he is a very talented prospect worthy of the 14th pick.
15. Pittsburgh Steelers
15 of 32
Louis Nix III, DT, Notre Dame
The Pittsburgh defense has never been the same since the departure of longtime anchor Casey Hampton.
Louis Nix III is one of those nose tackles who only come around every few years. He seems destined to be the next Vince Wilfork as an unusually athletic anchor who can clog up a hole like few others can.
Barry Every of Rivals.com had this to say when Nix was just a high school prospect:
"Nix is very physical and a dominant force when he has low pad level at the point of attack. He has surprisingly good agility and athleticism for a big man. Knows how to extend his arms and control the opponent by steering where he wants.
"
16. Baltimore Ravens
16 of 32
Darqueze Dennard, CB, Michigan State
The Ravens need a talented wideout perhaps more than anything else, but with the Lions snatching up Mike Evans, they'll have to settle for the best cornerback in the draft. In a league defined by ungodly passing numbers, it pays to have a surplus of talent at the cornerback position.
Darqueze Dennard is an instinctual cover corner with ideal ball skills and a great locker room personality. His addition will aid in the reloading of the Ravens defense.
17. Dallas Cowboys
17 of 32
Kony Ealy, DE/OLB, Missouri
The Cowboys are a talented team with no direction or leadership to incubate cohesiveness or continuity. Pass rush and defensive talent overall are musts in May, and Kony Ealy fits perfectly into a 3-4 defensive front—that is, assuming Dallas isn't going to change defensive schemes in back-to-back years.
According to Bleacher Report's draft ninja Matt Miller:
"A big, versatile pass-rusher, Missouri’s Kony Ealy has consistently risen up the board this year. Ealy, who considered leaving school last season for the NFL, has built on a resume that netted him a top-100 grade last year. His length, strength and pass-rushing skills make him an intriguing prospect with scheme versatility.
"
18. New York Jets
18 of 32
Marqise Lee, WR, USC
Sadly, the West Virginia offense that Geno Smith ran a year ago had more offensive weapons on it than the New York Jets. Something has got to give in that department, and if it isn’t going to be an elite speed rusher on the outside, it better be a skilled position on offense.
Gang Green could go tight end here with Eric Ebron, but Marqise Lee is too amazing with a ball in his hand to pass up. He would provide the offense with an instant home run hitter and give Smith a fighting chance in 2014.
19. Miami Dolphins
19 of 32
Cyrus Kouandjio, OT, Alabama
As is the case with just about any Crimson Tide lineman, we can expect that Cyrus Kouandjio will be physical and relentless against the run.
There’s no denying Miami is desperate for offensive linemen. Quarterback Ryan Tannehill was sacked more times than anyone in the NFL last season and was lucky to survive all 16 games—credit his toughness. As a result, the Dolphins cannot ignore their need for help up front in terms of protection.
Last year was a defensive draft for former general manager Jeff Ireland, which turned out to yield some positive results throughout the season but obviously not enough to preserve the status quo. It’s now time to get serious about the draft in South Beach and stop overspending on free agents.
20. Arizona Cardinals
20 of 32
Taylor Lewan, OT, Michigan
The Arizona Cardinals have been taking steps in a positive direction over the last few drafts. Offensive line and tight end are still pressing needs moving forward. Taylor Lewan has Pro Bowl potential at tackle and can be a huge piece to helping Arizona get over the hump in the challenging NFC West.
Per Ryan Heckman of RantSports.com:
"Lewan is 6’7” and has put on 50 pounds since his senior year in high school, now lining up at 315 pounds. He has quick feet, enabling him to play on either side of the line but, more importantly, he can play the left side if needed. Lewan used to play defensive line, which is where his mean and nasty style of play comes from.
"
21. Green Bay Packers
21 of 32
Eric Ebron, TE, North Carolina
If Eric Ebron happens to be available for the Packers at No. 21 overall, it would be difficult for them to pass this talented tight end up.
Sure, Green Bay had gaping holes on defense that will need to be addressed. But let’s not forget how injuries contributed to the ineptitude of that unit overall. Taking the best player available is a smart move later in the first round. Ebron may be that guy.
After all, Green Bay wants to make sure Aaron Rodgers is fully equipped with dangerous weapons to maximize his abilities. Defense can wait till the later rounds unless a talented player falls into the team's lap.
22. Philadelphia Eagles
22 of 32
Timmy Jernigan, DT, Florida State
The Eagles are still making the transition from a 4-3 to a 3-4 defense, and Timmy Jernigan would provide them with a versatile option who can play anywhere on the defensive line.
Snagging a talent of Jernigan’s caliber this late in the first round is a steal. Philadelphia may look to add a wide receiver here, but defense seems like the obvious priority.
23. Kansas City Chiefs
23 of 32
Justin Gilbert, CB, Oklahoma State
For all intents and purposes, Kansas City can afford to draft the best player available here. I would love to see the Chiefs add some competition at quarterback by drafting Zach Mettenberger, but there’s a perception that first-round quarterbacks have to play right away. Mettenberger would be the perfect candidate to sit for a year or two and learn while Alex Smith does his thing.
But the tension that would cause Smith is likely something Andy Reid and Co. would rather shy away from. Quarterbacks are apparently too sensitive to have competition breathing down their necks.
Justin Gilbert gives the team depth at a priority position and would be a great value pick here.
Here is Gilbert's ESPN.com profile (paid site):
"Appears to have natural FBIs. Above-average anticipation skills. Good eyes in zone coverage. Will relax on occasion and can lose leverage as a result. Will gamble jumping routes which can make him vulnerable to double moves at times. Quick diagnosis defending the run.
"
24. Cincinnati Bengals
24 of 32
Ryan Shazier, LB, Ohio State
The Cincinnati Bengals will be moving on without the services of defensive coordinator Mike Zimmer. Hopefully they’ll be able to not skip a beat and continue to improve overall.
Safety is a need that may be addressed here, but Ryan Shazier is a guy who can add a versatile dimension to their already talented crop of linebackers, led by Vontaze Burfict.
One intriguing question that everyone will be waiting for is whether or not the Bengals decide to give Andy Dalton some competition.
25. San Diego Chargers
25 of 32
Vic Beasley, DE, Clemson
As of January 13, we’re stilling waiting for Vic Beasley to let us know whether he’s returning to school or declaring for the NFL draft. If he chooses to forgo his senior year, the Chargers can benefit from his immense talents as a highly productive pass-rusher.
He lacks the size to be an every-down lineman, but he knows how to get around 300-pound offensive linemen.
The Chargers do have some other needs worth considering here, but it would be a shocker if the defense was somehow not given first-round dibs.
26. Cleveland Browns
26 of 32
Allen Robinson, WR, Penn State
With the second of two first-round selections, the Browns will be able to get what might turn out to be the steal of the draft. Bringing in a dynamic complement to Josh Gordon can instantly make this offense a dangerous unit.
Per Mackenzie Pantoja from NFLMocks.com:
"Robinson is a good route runner for his size. He’s decent at basic option routes but doesn’t consistently find holes in zone coverage. However, his eyes are extremely deceptive and he can beat plenty of corners with head fakes. Still, his quickness is mediocre like most 6’3 receivers, and NFL corners are athletic enough that they won’t feel the need to bite on any of his fakes.
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The Browns may also consider a cornerback here, but Robinson would be the true value pick. Despite the criticism from Pantoja, remember that Robinson is wonderful with the ball in his hands and has rare vision for finding lanes to run through. He is one of the more difficult receivers to bring down that I've ever scouted. He's very similar in style to Dez Bryant.
27. New Orleans Saints
27 of 32
Jason Verrett, CB, TCU
Rob Ryan and the New Orleans Saints did a marvelous job of turning a ragtag bunch of misfits into a potent defense, but the job is far from over. The Saints need to invest on the defensive side of the ball, and cornerback Jason Verrett out of TCU is the type of corner coach who can hang out on an island in man coverage, while Ryan blitzes his socks off.
There is no way the Saints don't draft defense here. Pass-rusher could be another option if a worthy prospect is available.
28. Carolina Panthers
28 of 32
Kelvin Benjamin, WR, Florida State
Few prospects in the draft are as physically gifted as the 6’5” speedster. Benjamin is still rough around the edges but can provide mismatches on the outside that are just plain unfair.
Cam Newton has long waited for a big target to launch the ball up to on the outside. Benjamin is that person. He is the type of difference-maker for Carolina who can elevate Newton to that next level as a quarterback.
29. New England Patriots
29 of 32
Jace Amaro, TE, Texas Tech
We already know the Patriots love to create mismatches using the size of talented tight ends—so what else would they do but add one of the most dangerous receiving tight ends in history?
Jace Amaro had more than 1,300 yards receiving in 2013 alone. Tom Brady and the offense would love to return to having dual threats at the tight end position. Drafting Amaro would give them what they once had—or perhaps something even better.
30. San Francisco 49ers
30 of 32
Stephon Tuitt, DE, Notre Dame
If Stephon Tuitt somehow manages to fall into the the 49ers' lap here, they would have to take him. He is perhaps the best 3-4 defensive end in the draft and is sure to have a highly productive career in the NFL.
They may consider a wide receiver if better talent is still available. Jordan Matthews and Brandin Cooks are not first-round talents, despite what other people may be saying.
31. Denver Broncos
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Marcus Roberson, CB, Florida
Denver is sure to have a few options here at No. 31. Peyton Manning will probably end up playing at least one more year of football before hanging up the cleats. That means it should be a high priority of the Broncos to make sure he is protected.
With that said, Marcus Roberson is a gifted athlete who also fills a need at corner with an aging Champ Bailey and a defense that seems beatable.
32. Seattle Seahawks
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Zack Martin, OT, Notre Dame
The Seahawks could be sitting pretty with a chance to shore up one of the few positions of need they have and become a true superpower. Tight end is a high possibility with the final pick in the first round, and wide receiver is another position of consideration.
According to Peter Smith via WithTheFirstPick.com:
"Zack Martin is an extremely effective technical left tackle for the Irish and excels in large part because of it. He is not an overwhelming athlete and uses his understanding of the game to play at a much higher level. Between his understanding of angles, how well he mirrors, and hand technique, Martin seems to do everything in his power to compensate for his weaknesses.
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Offensive tackle may not be the sexy pick here, but if things shake out a certain way, Martin is not a bad option, especially when you consider the glaring need for offensive linemen. He is considered one of the best.
Ryan Riddle is a former NFL player and currently writes for Bleacher Report. To talk more NFL, draft hit him up on Twitter.
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