2014 NFL Draft: First Round 'Scenarios' Mock Draft
The 2014 NFL draft is still nearly three months away, but it's never too early for first-round projections. Everybody loves a mock draft, but every pick is a chance for the entire landscape of the draft to change course.
With that in mind, here's a look at three possible scenarios for each pick in the first round. The scenarios are:
In a Perfect World: The best possible option, based on who could realistically be available at that pick.
Plan B: The backup plan if the team's ideal pick is off the board.
Last Resort: The fail-safe pick if both the team's first two options are taken.
What are the top three options for your team? Trade up or trade down? Fill their biggest need or grab the best available player?
1. Houston Texans
1 of 32
In a Perfect World: Teddy Bridgewater, QB, Louisville
The Texans simply must take a swing on a franchise quarterback with this pick. Bridgewater is still the top QB in this class, and he should be the selection.
Plan B: Jadeveon Clowney, DE, South Carolina
If the Texans' brass decide they can wait on a quarterback, Clowney would be the no-brainer here. Arguably the top overall player in the draft, Clowney would team up with J.J. Watt to give Houston a formidable young defensive line.
Last Resort: Blake Bortles, QB, UCF
Bortles is the wild card here. I'm not buying the Johnny Manziel hype as the top overall pick, but Bortles has the prototypical size, NFL arm strength and upside that could end up making him Bill O'Brien's franchise signal-caller. Though he's a riskier pick, his connection to O'Brien (coached under UCF head coach George O'Leary) makes him a real possibility here.
2. St. Louis Rams (from Washington)
2 of 32
In A Perfect World: Trade Down
The Rams could easily fill their most pressing needs without picking second overall, making them prime candidates to move down. It's unlikely that they'll be able to score the king's ransom they did from the Redskins in 2012 that landed them this pick in the first place, but any solid deal that would keep them in the top 10 should be entertained.
Plan B: Jadeveon Clowney, DE, South Carolina
If they can't find a suitable trade partner, the next best option would be to take the best available player, regardless of need. Clowney fits the bill there and would give St. Louis a terrifying defensive line.
Last Resort: Jake Matthews, OT, Texas A&M
If Clowney goes to the Texans with the top pick and a trade down doesn't happen, the Rams might be forced to fill one of their needs by grabbing the most NFL-ready left tackle prospect in this year's class. Matthews is as polished as they come and has experience at both tackle spots.
3. Jacksonville Jaguars
3 of 32
In a Perfect World: Teddy Bridgewater, QB, Louisville
If I were Jags GM David Caldwell, I'd be hoping that Houston swings for the fences with either Bortles or Manziel, and that St. Louis ends up with Clowney. This would leave them with Bridgewater, who could help turn things around quickly in Jacksonville.
Plan B: Jadeveon Clowney, DE, South Carolina
If Bridgewater is off the board, it would be hard for a team who simply needs to stockpile talent at every position to pass on a player of Clowney's caliber. He would wreak havoc in Gus Bradley's defensive system.
Last Resort: Derek Carr, QB, Fresno State
If Bridgewater and Clowney are both gone, the Jags might be forced to reach a little and hope that Carr, who looked every bit the part of an NFL starter at the Senior Bowl, can be the franchise quarterback they need. Though Bortles is the in-state star, he's more of a raw prospect and a riskier pick than Carr.
4. Cleveland Browns
4 of 32
In a Perfect World: Sammy Watkins, WR, Clemson
Assuming Bridgewater is off the board, the Browns would be better off grabbing Watkins here and then possibly moving up from their later pick in the first round (25th overall) to land their franchise quarterback.
Plan B: Derek Carr, QB, Fresno State
If Watkins is gone or they don't want to risk missing out on a top QB, the Browns might go ahead and take Carr here. After a strong showing at the Senior Bowl, Carr looks as NFL-ready as any quarterback in this class.
Last Resort: Johnny Manziel, QB, Texas A&M
The Browns need to energize a loyal but frustrated fanbase, and it wouldn't be a huge surprise to see them pull the trigger on Manziel, who would definitely generate plenty of buzz in Berea, OH.
5. Oakland Raiders
5 of 32
In a Perfect World: Sammy Watkins, WR, Clemson
No matter who is taking snaps in Oakland next season, he'll need a dynamic weapon to stretch the field and make big plays in the passing game. Watkins has a lethal combination of speed and physicality and is a terror in the open field after the catch.
Plan B: Blake Bortles, QB, UCF
If Watkins is off the board (or if the Raiders' brass falls in love with Bortles), the former Golden Knight makes a lot of sense. Oakland's quarterback situation is muddled, to say the least, and Bortles has the physical tools to develop into a franchise guy.
Last Resort: Derek Carr, QB, Fresno State
The Raiders need a franchise quarterback bad enough to reach slightly, making Carr a legitimate possibility, especially if Watkins and Bortles are both off the board.
6. Atlanta Falcons
6 of 32
In a Perfect World: Trade Up for Clowney
The Falcons are in the market for an elite pass-rusher, and Clowney is the kind of talent that could make a team jump up to secure his services. Thomas Dimitroff and Co. have shown before that they're not afraid to pull the trigger and move up for their man.
Plan B: Jake Matthews, OT, Texas A&M
Left tackle is also a big need area for Atlanta, so grabbing one of the top two tackles—either Matthews or Auburn's Greg Robinson—would be the next-best option if they stay put.
Last Resort: Khalil Mack, OLB, Buffalo
If they can't move up and the tackles are gone, the Falcons will likely still opt to add a pass-rusher. Mack has the versatility to play a Von Miller-type role as a "Sam" linebacker who can put his hand in the dirt on passing downs.
7. Tampa Bay Buccaneers
7 of 32
In a Perfect World: Greg Robinson, OT, Auburn
The Bucs are likely to get a shot at one of the top two tackles in the draft, and either Robinson or Jake Matthews of Texas A&M would be a much-needed addition to an offensive line that grossly disappointed in 2013.
Plan B: Trade Down
The Bucs have only five picks in this draft at the moment, so trading down to pick up an extra selection or two could be their best move. Possible targets in the middle of the first round might include Missouri defensive end Kony Ealy, North Carolina tight end Eric Ebron or Alabama offensive tackle Cyrus Kouandjio.
Last Resort: Khalil Mack, OLB, Buffalo
The Bucs need a dynamic pass-rusher as bad as any team in the league. If they don't add a top free agent, Mack would make plenty of sense if they can't find a viable trade partner.
8. Minnesota Vikings
8 of 32
In a Perfect World: Blake Bortles, QB, UCF
The Vikings' quarterback situation was already a disaster even before Matt Cassel decided to void his option for 2014, making him a free agent. Bortles star is on the rise, and he could have the highest ceiling of any of this year's quarterbacks.
Plan B: Derek Carr, QB, Fresno State
If Bortles is off the board, the Vikings would be wise to grab Carr if he's still available.
Last Resort: Khalil Mack, OLB, Buffalo
If the top quarterbacks are all taken, expect the Vikings to take the best available pass-rusher to replace Jared Allen, who is likely to leave via free agency.
9. Buffalo Bills
9 of 32
In a Perfect World: Khalil Mack, OLB, Buffalo
An impact edge-rusher should be the Bills' target with this pick, and one of the best in this year's class is right in their backyard. Mack would be another stellar building block in the Bills' young linebacker corps.
Plan B: Anthony Barr, OLB, UCLA
If Mack is off the board, Barr wouldn't be a bad consolation prize. He's not quite on Mack's level, but he would still be a solid addition.
Last Resort: Mike Evans, WR, Texas A&M
If Buffalo decides not to go the outside linebacker route, they might grab a playmaker at receiver such as Evans, who would be a huge help in EJ Manuel's development.
10. Detroit Lions
10 of 32
In a Perfect World: Sammy Watkins, WR, Clemson
I would be surprised to see him still available at this point, but stranger things have happened. If given the chance, new head coach Jim Caldwell would be wise to pull the trigger on Watkins.
Plan B: Mike Evans, WR, Texas A&M
This is the more likely scenario. Evans would give the Lions a legitimate threat in the passing game to take pressure and attention off Calvin Johnson. If Evans or Watkins are on the board and the Lions feel comfortable with their options at corner in the second round, the value at receiver could trump the need at corner at this pick.
Last Resort: Justin Gilbert, CB, Oklahoma State
Corner is a bigger need than receiver, so it's possible that Detroit could opt to address that spot even if Evans is still available. Gilbert is arguably the top corner available and would be an instant upgrade.
11. Tennessee Titans
11 of 32
In a Perfect World: Khalil Mack, OLB, Buffalo
The Titans will be switching to a 3-4, so grabbing an edge-rusher will likely be high on their list of priorities heading into the draft. Mack would make an instant impact for the new regime in Nashville.
Plan B: Anthony Barr, OLB, UCLA
Much like the Bills, the Titans would likely go for Barr if Mack is off the board.
Last Resort: Justin Gilbert, CB, Oklahoma State
Alterraun Verner is a free agent, which could leave a need at corner if he departs. Gilbert would be the best option if he's still available at this point.
12. New York Giants
12 of 32
In a Perfect World: Kony Ealy, DE, Missouri
Tom Coughlin loves to stockpile pass-rushers, and their depth at the position isn't what it once was. Ealy's stock has been soaring as of late, and he would fit perfectly as a 4-3 end.
Plan B: C.J. Mosley, LB, Alabama
There isn't a huge need at linebacker, but Mosley is one of the top overall players in this class and wouldn't be a bad consolation prize if the Giants can't grab a good fit at defensive end.
Last Resort: Cyrus Kouandjio, OT, Alabama
Will Beatty suffered a broken leg at the end of last season, and last year's first-round pick, Justin Pugh, might be better suited to move inside and play guard. Kouandjio's experience at both tackle spots would make him a solid damage plan if New York's top targets are gone.
13. St. Louis Rams
13 of 32
In a Perfect World: Mike Evans, WR, Texas A&M
It's a long shot, but there's still a chance that Evans could be available at this pick. If so, general manager Les Snead shouldn't waste any time making him the selection, which would give quarterback Sam Bradford yet another tool with which to reach his full potential.
Plan B: Ha'Sean Clinton-Dix, S, Alabama
Safety is the Rams' biggest need, and this is the most likely scenario. Clinton-Dix is a playmaker in coverage and as sure a tackler as any safety in this class.
Last Resort: C.J. Mosley, LB, Alabama
If a team trades up ahead of the Rams for Clinton-Dix, I wouldn't be surprised to see them take the best player available. Mosley is arguably one of the top 10 players in this draft and would further cement St. Louis as one of the best defensive teams in the league.
14. Chicago Bears
14 of 32
In a Perfect World: Justin Gilbert, CB, Oklahoma State
Re-signing Tim Jennings was a big help, but the Bears will still lose Charles Tillman to free agency. The Bears have multiple needs on defense, so this pick will come down to where they get the best value and fit. If Gilbert is there, he'll likely be their best bet.
Plan B: Ra'Shede Hageman, DT, Minnesota
Especially if Gilbert is gone, Chicago might look to address the gaping hole at defensive tackle. Hageman needs to refine his technique, but his imposing frame and limitless upside make him a strong possibility.
Last Resort: Darqueze Dennard, CB, Michigan State
If the Bears do want to go with a corner, it's possible that they could even like Dennard more than Gilbert. A physical cover man with great technique, Dennard is in the conversation for the best corner in this class.
15. Pittsburgh Steelers
15 of 32
In a Perfect World: Justin Gilbert, CB, Oklahoma State
The Steelers are another team desperate for help at cornerback. Ike Taylor struggled last year when matched up against the league's top receivers, so adding a top cover man like Gilbert should be at the top of their list of targets.
Plan B: Darqueze Dennard, CB, Michigan State
Much like the Bears, the Steelers could opt for Dennard over Gilbert. If both are on the board, it will simply come down to whom the Steelers' front office thinks will be the best fit for the defensive scheme.
Last Resort: Kelvin Benjamin, WR, Florida State
Depending on what happens with free-agent receivers Emmanuel Sanders and Jerricho Cotchery, receiver could end up being a more pressing need. Benjamin is still raw but has freakish size and natural athletic ability.
16. Baltimore Ravens
16 of 32
In a Perfect World: Kelvin Benjamin, WR, Florida State
The absense of Anquan Boldin had a huge impact on Baltimore's offensive productivity in 2013. Benjamin's skill set has some similarities to that of Boldin, making him a smart choice here.
Plan B: Odell Beckham Jr., WR, LSU
Benjamin might not make it to this pick, but the Ravens still need to address the receiver position. Beckham has arguably the best ball skills of any receiver in this class and plays way bigger than his 6'0" frame.
Last Resort: Cyrus Kouandjio, OT, Alabama
If Ozzie Newsome thinks he can grab a capable receiver in the second round, he may opt to add a top tackle instead. It's unsure whether Eugene Monroe or Michael Oher will return, and Kouandjio has experience at both tackle spots.
17. Dallas Cowboys
17 of 32
In a Perfect World: Ra'Shede Hageman, DT, Minnesota
The Cowboys desperately need a disruptive presence at defensive tackle as they continue to transition their personnel to the 4-3. Hageman is a monster in the middle who needs refinement, but he could be a force in a couple of seasons.
Plan B: Aaron Donald, DT, Pittsburgh
If Hageman's gone, Dallas could opt for one of the Senior Bowl's biggest standouts. Donald elevated his stock by constantly bullying opposing linemen all week in Mobile and has catapulted himself into first-round consideration.
Last Resort: Timmy Jernigan, DT, Florida State
The need at tackle is dire enough that even their third-best option at the position would likely be the best decision for this pick. Jernigan was as disruptive as any defensive tackle in college football last year.
18. New York Jets
18 of 32
In a Perfect World: Mike Evans, WR, Texas A&M
Again, this is not a very likely scenario at this point, but it's still possible. Evans is exactly the type of impact player the Jets need to help Geno Smith grow into a legitimate starting quarterback.
Plan B: Kelvin Benjamin, WR, Florida State
Benjamin is similar to Evans in many ways, so he would be a great consolation prize. An imposing presence in the red zone, Benjamin will need some refining but his ceiling is extremely high.
Last Resort: Odell Beckham Jr., WR, LSU
Yes, the Jets need a receiver this bad. Beckham wouldn't be a bad third option, as he brings the skill set of a No. 1 target as well as stellar return skills.
19. Miami Dolphins
19 of 32
In a Perfect World: Cyrus Kouandjio, OT, Alabama
Tackle is by far the biggest need for Miami. Kouandjio has played both tackle spots at a high level, and though his technique needs some work, he's got all the physical tools to become an anchor at the position.
Plan B: Zack Martin, OT, Notre Dame
If Kouandjio isn't available, Martin would make sense as a backup plan. Another Senior Bowl darling, Martin proved in Mobile that he can hold his own at tackle instead of having to move inside and play guard.
Last Resort: Taylor Lewan, OT, Michigan
Lewan's stock has slipped slowly throughout 2013 and in the weeks following the conclusion of the season. But he's still worth a first-round pick. If he's the top tackle available, the Dolphins need one bad enough to grab him.
20. Arizona Cardinals
20 of 32
In a Perfect World: Zack Martin, OT, Notre Dame
Yet another team with a huge need at tackle, the Cards need to address the issue early. Martin would be an instant upgrade and would start from day one.
Plan B: Taylor Lewan, OT, Michigan
Much like the Dolphins, Arizona would likely go with Lewan as a backup plan if Martin is off the board. The need at tackle is just too great.
Last Resort: Dee Ford, OLB, Auburn
If the Cardinals don't like what's available at tackle, they could opt for one of the top edge-rushers available. Ford was one of the top defensive performers at the Senior Bowl.
21. Green Bay Packers
21 of 32
In a Perfect World: Ha'Sean Clinton-Dix, S, Alabama
Another long-shot scenario, but it's still remotely possible that the Clinton-Dix could fall into Green Bay's lap.
Plan B: Calvin Pryor, S, Louisville
If Clinton-Dix is indeed off the board, the Pack might still stick with addressing their need at safety. Pryor is a physical presence and would be an instant starter.
Last Resort: C.J. Mosley, LB, Alabama
Green Bay had depth issues at both inside and outside linebacker last year. Mosley can play either spot, and needs of teams in front of Green Bay could push him this far down the board.
22. Philadelphia Eagles
22 of 32
In a Perfect World: Calvin Pryor, S, Louisville
There are likely too many teams who need a safety for Pryor to make it this far, but there's an outside chance. Don't rule out Philadelphia moving up for either Pryor or Ha'Sean Clinton-Dix.
Plan B: C.J. Mosley, LB, Alabama
The Eagles need an edge-rusher to line up opposite Trent Cole. Mosley is an elite overall talent who would be a perfect fit for Philly's scheme.
Last Resort: Darqueze Dennard, CB, Michigan State
Cary Williams struggled at times after signing a lucrative free-agent contract. If Mosley and the top safeties are off the board, and a top corner like Dennard is available, don't be surprised to see them go that route.
23. Kansas City Chiefs
23 of 32
In a Perfect World: Odell Beckham Jr., WR, LSU
Dwayne Bowe is as inconsistent as they come, and the Chiefs don't have much past him in terms of impact players at receiver. Beckham would give Alex Smith a playmaker who can stretch the field and take pressure off Bowe in the red zone.
Plan B: Eric Ebron, TE, North Carolina
A dynamic tight end could have just as much of an impact as a top wideout on Kansas City's offense, making Ebron a real possibility at this pick.
Last Resort: Marqise Lee, WR, USC
If Beckham and Ebron are gone, Lee could be the best option for Kansas City. After a stellar 2012 season, Lee struggled last season thanks to shaky quarterback play, but he's as explosive as any receiver in this class.
24. Cincinnati Bengals
24 of 32
In a Perfect World: Darqueze Dennard, CB, Michigan State
Defense is definitely the Bengals' strength, but depth at corner is needed. Dennard will probably be gone by this pick, but he'd likely be their dream target.
Plan B: Bradley Roby, CB, Ohio State
If Dennard goes before this pick, Cincy wouldn't have to look far for the next-best option at corner. Roby's cover skills are as good as any in this class.
Last Resort: Jason Verrett, CB, TCU
Verrett is a bit undersized, and might be best suited as a slot corner. However, his toughness and technique might allow him to survive on the outside.
25. San Diego Chargers
25 of 32
In a Perfect World: Bradley Roby, CB, Ohio State
The Bolts need help at corner in the worst way. Roby isn't the most consistent player, but his natural physical ability can't be overlooked.
Plan B: Jason Verrett, CB, TCU
Again, Verrett's size may keep him from ever becoming a guy who can shut down the bigger receivers at the next level. However, he's a gritty competitor who will likely come into the league with a chip on his shoulder.
Last Resort: Taylor Lewan, OT, Michigan
Adding D.J. Fluker last year was huge, but there are still improvements to be made on the offensive line. If the Chargers think the value at tackle is better than what's left at corner, they could very well go in that direction.
26. Cleveland Browns (from Indianapolis)
26 of 32
In a Perfect World: Marqise Lee, WR, USC
If the Browns land a quarterback with their first pick, their focus should shift to receiver with this selection. Lee is dangerous after the catch and would be a fine complement to Josh Gordon.
Plan B: Jordan Matthews, WR, Vanderbilt
Cleveland could opt for Matthews if they'd prefer more of a possession receiver with a bigger frame.
Last Resort: Allen Robinson, WR, Penn State
Robinson isn't the most polished pass-catcher in this year's bunch, but he's a threat in space and has a great combination of size and speed.
27. New Orleans Saints
27 of 32
In a Perfect World: C.J. Mosley, LB, Alabama
Again, Mosley is one of the best overall prospects in this year's class. However, team needs could easily push him down this far, which would make him a huge steal for the Saints.
Plan B: Ryan Shazier, LB, Ohio State
If Mosley isn't there, the Saints might still look for a playmaking linebacker who fits their 3-4 scheme. Shazier is a phenomenal natural athlete who can make plays all over the field.
Last Resort: Jace Amaro, TE, Texas Tech
If they can't retain Jimmy Graham, tight end obviously becomes a more pressing need. Amaro has a very similar skill set to Graham, creating mismatches no matter where you line him up.
28. Carolina Panthers
28 of 32
In a Perfect World: Marqise Lee, WR, USC
Steve Smith isn't getting any younger, so it's time for Carolina to look for his replacement. If Lee is still on the board, he's a no-brainer.
Plan B: Jordan Matthews, WR, Vanderbilt
If Lee isn't available, the Panthers would be wise to grab Matthews. His elite work ethic was on display throughout the Senior Bowl week, where he routinely stayed late after practice to get more reps with teammates.
Last Resort: Allen Robinson, WR, Penn State
Again, Robinson is still a little rough around the edges, but he has the size and physical tools to develop into a No. 1 target.
29. New England Patriots
29 of 32
In a Perfect World: Louis Nix, NT, Notre Dame
The Pats found out this year what happens when Vince Wilfork isn't in the lineup, and it's not pretty. Nix has a very similar skill set to Wilfork, and would be a great overall value this late.
Plan B: David Yankey, G, Stanford
New England's offensive line underperformend in 2013, and an upgrade at guard could be in order. Yankey is a mauler in the run game who slid inside after playing tackle in 2012.
Last Resort: Dominique Easley, DE, Florida
Bill Belicheck has an affinity for Gators and loves to have depth on the defensive line. Easley has had multiple knee surgeries but can be as dominant as any defender in this year's draft.
30. San Francisco 49ers
30 of 32
In a Perfect World: Trade Up for a Wide Receiver
Even if the 49ers are able to bring back Anquan Boldin, they'd be smart to start looking for his eventual replacement. They have the ammo to move up, so targeting Mike Evans or Kelvin Benjamin isn't out of the question.
Plan B: Jordan Matthews, WR, Vanderbilt
If they stay put at this pick, Matthews gives them a big-framed target who will consistently move the chains.
Last Resort: Allen Robinson, WR, Penn State
Though he's not as physical, Robinson in an explosive player who can make big plays in the open field when he gets the ball in his hands.
31. Denver Broncos
31 of 32
In a Perfect World: Bradley Roby, CB, Ohio State
Even when Champ Bailey wasn't injured, he wasn't his old self. The Broncos need to draft his replacement this year, and they'll be hoping that Roby falls to them.
Plan B: Kyle Fuller, CB, Virginia Tech
If the top few corners are gone, Denver might still need one bad enough to just grab the next guy on their list. Fuller opened the season with a stellar performance against Alabama, and has kept himself in the first round conversation.
Last Resort: Trent Murphy, DE, Stanford
Shaun Phillips played extremely well as Elvis Dumervil's replacement, but he turns 33 in May and has an expiring contract. Murphy's best scheme fit still isn't clear yet, but he's an effective pass-rusher who could make an immediate impact.
32. Seattle Seahawks
32 of 32
In a Perfect World: Allen Robinson, WR, Penn State
Free agency might claim one or more of Russell Wilson's favorite targets, so adding a top receiver like Robinson could be high on the list of needs for the Super Bowl champs.
Plan B: Brandin Cooks, WR, Oregon State
If Robinson is gone, Seattle could look to the underrated Cooks. Similar to Odell Beckham Jr., Cooks plays way bigger than his height would indicate, and he's a terror after the catch and in the red zone.
Last Resort: Trent Murphy, DE, Stanford
The defensive line is another unit that could be decimated by free agency. If the 'Hawks end up losing a couple of veterans, they might address that need with someone like Murphy.
.jpg?w=600 "Latest Trade Buzz for Cowboys, Lions")