2015 NFL Mock Draft: 2-Round Pre-Scouting Combine Edition
Let the ridiculously thorough NFL combine testing begin!
NFL hopefuls are converging on the city of Indianapolis with aspirations of impressing at least one team.
As the NFL's premier scouting event approaches, major questions linger throughout this year's draft class. The combine could answer two of the most pertinent questions this weekend.
It starts at the top of the draft, where two potential franchise quarterbacks reside.
Who will the Tampa Bay Buccaneers select with the No. 1 overall pick, Florida State's Jameis Winston or Oregon's Marcus Mariota?
Two valuable pieces to the quarterback puzzle will be put into place this week. It starts with Winston's personal interviews with teams and ends with Mariota's injured throwing shoulder.
As I built this mock draft, the selections aren't based on where teams are currently leaning. That will come
in time. It's too early in the process for any of those decisions to be set in concrete.
Instead, it's a reflection of where my rankings fall in line with certain positions combined with team needs and overall value.
The second question revolves around how certain prospects will conduct themselves during interviews. Winston is merely the most obvious example.
The interview process is arguably the most important aspect of the entire combine experience. Teams will ask plenty of tough questions, and how the prospects respond is vitally important.
As I prepared this mock draft, a decision had to be made. How was I going to treat numerous off-the-field issues among a few top talents?
I decided to not exclude any talent based on previous indiscretions. Otherwise, it would have been hypocritical to include some players and not others as the process continues to unfold.
Those are the guidelines set forth, and now on to the two-round pre-combine mock draft...
1. Tampa Bay Buccaneers
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The Pick: Quarterback Marcus Mariota, Oregon
While there will be continuous discussion on which prospect the Buccaneers should select, the decision is relatively simple in terms of position. It will be a quarterback.
Which quarterback, though?
One can argue that Florida State's Jameis Winston is better prepared to make the leap from the collegiate ranks to the NFL. There is also a financial factor involved with selecting an in-state icon.
However, Mariota is the better fit for the Buccaneers based on how the team is trending.
The hiring of Dirk Koetter as offensive coordinator and Mike Bajakian as quarterbacks coach indicates the Buccaneers want to add more tempo and spread principles to their offense.
Continuous arguments will be made against Mariota based on the system he played in at Oregon, but he showed NFL-caliber traits that translate to the next level.
There is also too much made of Winston's readiness for the next level. This is the same quarterback who threw 18 interceptions as a junior—Mariota, meanwhile, threw 14 during his entire career.
The gap isn't nearly as big for Mariota as it's made out to be, and Winston isn't the surefire on-the-field talent as he is often portrayed.
2. Tennessee Titans
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The Pick: Quarterback Jameis Winston, Florida State
It would be a mistake for the Titans to pass on whichever quarterback the Buccaneers don't select with the top overall pick.
The team, however, is trying to hide its intentions as much as possible.
"There's also some other players involved, too," Titans general manager Ruston Webster told The Tennessean's Jim Wyatt. "There's going to be good defensive players, good receivers, and where do those other guys fit in? Really, the (second overall pick) is not all about the quarterbacks. A lot of other positions are involved, too."
USC's Leonard Williams is a viable option for the Titans. He is arguably the top-rated prospect in the entire class. Until an organization has its franchise quarterback, though, it should continue to acquire one. In this case, Winston can bring that type of impact for the Titans.
Winston's off-the-field concerns are well-known, but his talent as a prospect is undeniable. His ability combined with Ken Whisenhunt's penchant for developing or improving quarterbacks will go a long way toward turning around a stagnant franchise.
The quarterback position is simply too valuable to go into next season with the hope that second-year starter Zach Mettenberger can develop into a franchise-caliber signal-caller, especially when a top talent is available to replace him. Mettenberger's last two seasons have ended with major injuries. Due to his style of player as a pocket passer, injuries will be a concern every season.
Winston over Mettenberger is a pretty easy decision, whether the Titans want to talk about a quarterback at this juncture or not.
3. Jacksonville Jaguars
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The Pick: Defensive Tackle Leonard Williams, USC
Once the quarterbacks are out of the equation, this year's draft class is absolutely loaded with defensive line talent.
Williams is the headliner within a tremendous class.
At 6'5" and 300 pounds, the defensive lineman is a rare prospect, because his skills translate to basically any NFL scheme. Williams can play defensive tackle or defensive end in a four-man front. He can also be a 5-technique (defensive end) in a 3-4 front.
In Gus Bradley's system, the "Leo" pass-rusher usually receives most of the attention. Yet the position Williams projects at best—base end—can be just as important and disruptive.
Michael Bennett's play for the Seattle Seahawks during Super Bowl XLIX is the prime example of how the Jaguars can use Williams within the defense.
In a division that requires opponents to overcome Indianapolis Colts quarterback Andrew Luck, the acquisition of a superior defensive line talent at the top of the draft is a logical countermeasure. It's especially true when that prospect is as talented as Williams is.
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4. Oakland Raiders
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The Pick: Defensive End Dante Fowler Jr., Florida
The Raiders need to find an identity.
The team wasn't particularly good in any specific area last season, but it found a franchise cornerstone when it selected outside linebacker Khalil Mack with the fifth overall pick in the 2014 NFL draft.
The Raiders also selected defensive tackle Justin Ellis in the fourth round.
With the hire of former Denver Broncos defensive coordinator Jack Del Rio as head coach, Oakland should decide a strong defense is its best chance of finally building a team that pulls itself out of the AFC West's basement.
Fowler can develop into the team's primary pass-rusher and be used in myriad ways by defensive coordinator Ken Norton Jr. At Florida, Fowler rushed off the edge, blitzed from a linebacker position and dropped into space.
With Fowler and Mack, the Raiders could have two of the finest young edge players in the NFL with a massive run-clogger (Ellis) in the middle of the defense.
General manager Reggie McKenzie can then build the team's reputation around its defensive front seven and expand from there.
5. Washington Redskins
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The Pick: Defensive End Randy Gregory, Nebraska
Ryan Kerrigan already proved he is one of the NFL's best pass-rushers. However, the Redskins lack a true bookend for their 3-4 scheme.
Brian Orakpo was that guy, but his career has been stunted by numerous injuries, and he's about to enter free agency.
Enter Gregory, who is a smooth edge-rusher with ideal length and top-notch athleticism.
The Nebraska product admitted last week that he prefers to play in a 3-4 scheme from a two-point stance. In fact, Gregory went a step further and even said that one of the reasons he verbally committed to the Purdue Boilermakers before Nebraska was because of Kerrigan.
The duo can finally play together and wreak havoc on opposing quarterbacks.
6. New York Jets
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The Pick: Wide Receiver DeVante Parker, Louisville
In order to build a successful offense around quarterback Geno Smith, who is unlikely to be replaced if one of the top two quarterback prospect don't slide, the Jets must add talent to the offense.
What better way to help out a young quarterback than by drafting arguably the top wide receiver in the draft class?
The obvious surprise is that Parker is the top wide receiver selected.
While arguments can be made for other wide receivers as the top prospect, Parker is a tremendously gifted target who invokes comparison to the Cincinnati Bengals' A.J. Green. The Louisville product is silky smooth with a huge catch radius. After returning from a foot injury he suffered during the summer, Parker amassed 855 receiving yards in only six contests.
Since Eric Decker basically doubled the next closest receiver on the team's roster in receptions, the Jets could use a little extra production from the position.
And Smith can use all the help he can get.
7. Chicago Bears
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The Pick: Defensive End Shane Ray, Missouri
As the head coach of the Denver Broncos, John Fox was once part of the decision-making process that led to the franchise's selection of Von Miller with the second overall pick in the 2011 NFL draft.
Fox can start to rebuild the Bears' downtrodden defense in the same manner.
Ray isn't quite as fluid or explosive as Miller is, but Denver can use him in a similar role.
The defensive end can be converted to strong-side linebacker on early downs and then put his hand in the dirt to rush the quarterback during obvious passing situations.
Ray is a relentless pass-rusher with plenty of flexibility off the edge. Those qualities helped him become the SEC Defensive Player of the Year after he registered 22.5 tackles for loss and 14.5 sacks as a junior.
8. Atlanta Falcons
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The Pick: Linebacker/Safety Shaq Thompson, Washington
When the Seattle Seahawks originally built the defense Falcons head coach Dan Quinn recently left, head coach Pete Carroll and general manager John Schneider invested their initial first-round pick on a dynamic safety.
There isn't an Earl Thomas-type of free safety in this year's class, but there is a potential Kam Chancellor.
Thompson is nearly identical in size as Chancellor, and his tremendous athleticism will allow Quinn to build his defense around him as a hybrid safety/linebacker.
The former Washington Husky is most comfortable as a linebacker; however, his role as a strong safety in Quinn's system would accentuate what he does best.
In a draft diary written for USA Today, via Tom Pelissero, Thompson described his strengths as a player:
"But I want to put it out there: I'm a linebacker. Outside linebacker. Strong side, that's where I feel most comfortable. It's basically like a strong safety. Nowadays, this is a passing game. You need linebackers who can cover and drop in zone. And I'm a three-down player. You don't have to take me off the field. Even on special teams, you don't have to take me off. I love special teams, especially kickoff coverage.
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Quinn also needs a strong safety who plays close to the line of scrimmage, excels in coverage against running backs and tight ends, and sets the tone for the entire defense.
9. New York Giants
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The Pick: Defensive Tackle Malcom Brown, Texas
This pick may come as somewhat of a surprise, but Brown is as safe a pick as anyone can find in this year's draft and a solid top-10 talent.
Often overshadowed by all the turmoil in Austin, Texas, the last two seasons, Brown continued to produce and play at a high level.
At 6'2" and 320 pounds, Brown owns a rare combination of size and athleticism that allows him to play along the defensive interior or even at defensive end. The Longhorns regularly lined the talented defender up as a 5-technique in their version of a three-man front.
Brown proved to be a consistent disruptive force no matter where he was positioned and finished the season first on the team with 15 tackles for loss and 6.5 sacks.
The defensive lineman can step in immediately and upgrade a group that finished 30th overall in run defense.
10. St. Louis Rams
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The Pick: Offensive Tackle Brandon Scherff, Iowa
With the potential addition of Scherff, the Rams could be developing one of the nastiest offensive lines in football.
It may seem odd for the Rams to invest yet another top-10 pick in an offensive tackle after choosing Auburn's Greg Robinson with the No. 2 overall selection in the 2014 draft. However, Jake Long's status with the franchise is in question after a second major knee injury in as many years. Plus, right guard Davin Joseph and right tackle Joseph Barksdale are free agents.
Scherff, on the other hand, should easily slide into one of the vacated spots and dominate from Day 1.
A couple of teams could believe Scherff can be the answer at left tackle, but he has All-Pro potential as a guard, where he can best use his physical style of play.
11. Minnesota Vikings
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The Pick: Wide Receiver Kevin White, West Virginia
No prospect has built as much positive momentum as White has since the season ended. As the combine approaches, he is even being considered the top wide receiver prospect.
He is trending in the right direction, and where he ultimately falls could be determined by a team's preference at the position.
In this scenario, the Vikings would be wise to add legitimate playmakers around quarterback Teddy Bridgewater, who was as impressive as any quarterback in the league over the last month of the 2014 campaign.
What Bridgewater and the Vikings currently lack is a true No. 1 target.
Cordarrelle Patterson didn't develop to the level expected during his second season. Charles Johnson was a nice acquisition last year, but the team can certainly use a talent upgrade at wide receiver.
White burst onto the scene in 2014 with a breakout season. Due to tremendous body control, strong hands and ability to effectively use his 6'3", 210-pound frame, he made tough catches look routine and often came down with 50/50 balls. White finished his senior season with 109 receptions for 1,447 yards.
12. Cleveland Browns
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The Pick: Nose Tackle Jordan Phillips, Oklahoma
At 6'6" and 335 pounds, Phillips was an absolute wall at times in the middle of the Sooners defense.
He showed the ability to consistently take on double-teams, dip his shoulder, get skinny and shed blocks on his way to being a force against the run.
The Browns, meanwhile, finished dead last against the run in 2014. As important as addressing the quarterback position is for the Browns, the team's defensive front desperately needs a legitimate difference-maker.
However, this isn't simply a projection based on the Browns' needs. Phillips is arguably the most talented 1-technique/nose tackle in this year's draft class.
He hasn't been discussed heavily as a top pick for three reasons.
First, Phillips was an early entrant as a junior. Second, his tape was inconsistent. Third, and most importantly, he experienced back issues that required surgery in 2013. The defensive lineman played in every game during the 2014 campaign, but his medical status will be the most important part of the evaluation process for one of the class' most talented players.
As a result, Phillips' combine experience may be as important as any prospect in attendance. Positive medical evaluations and a standout workout could propel him on a Dontari Poe-like ascension on draft day.
13. New Orleans Saints
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The Pick: Offensive Tackle La'el Collins, LSU
When the Saints originally committed to quarterback Drew Brees, they built an unconventional offense.
Normally, teams invest heavily in their offensive tackles to slow the opposition's best pass-rushers. However, traditional team-building goes out the window when the franchise is heavily invested in a 6'0" pocket passer. Guards then become far more valuable to keep the pocket clean, which allows Brees better sight lines.
As a result, the Saints gave big contracts to guards Jahri Evans and Ben Grubbs. The play of both fell off dramatically in 2014.
It's all about protecting Brees at this point. At 36 years old, he has already started his decline. The quarterback can still produce at a high level, but he can't face the amount of pressure he did a year ago.
Collins can be projected as a left tackle or even right tackle, but his true value for the Saints would be to replace Evans or Grubbs and once again solidify the wall in front of Brees.
14. Miami Dolphins
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The Pick: Wide Receiver Amari Cooper, Alabama
Miami will consider overhauling its wide receiver corps this offseason.
Mike Wallace can easily be classified as a major free-agent bust. After making $17.5 million in 2014, he is due to make $12.5 in 2015.
The investment simply doesn't match the wide receiver's production, and he didn't prove to be an ideal fit in Bill Lazor's offense.
The Dolphins will consider trading or releasing the 28-year-old receiver.
Brian Hartline could share the same fate after a major drop-off in production last season and a $7.35 million cap hit in 2015.
Cooper could prove to be the ultimate replacement for either of those veteran targets. The Alabama product shattered numerous team and conference records with 124 receptions for 1,727 yards and 16 touchdowns as a junior.
At one point, he was considered an elite prospect and the top wide receiver in this year's class. He wins with precise route-running and short-area quickness; however, he doesn't have a classic combination of size (6'1", 210 lbs) and speed for a top-10 prospect. A standout performance at the combine could change that perception.
15. San Francisco 49ers
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The Pick: Cornerback Marcus Peters, Washington
No player in this year's class could benefit more from combine interviews than Peters.
The talented cornerback was dismissed from the program in November due to disagreements with the coaching staff.
Peters recently took full blame for his dismissal in an interview with USA Today's Tom Pelissero, and Washington head coach Chris Petersen still supports his former player. In fact, Peters will work out for NFL scouts at Washington's pro day, which should be a good indicator of the type of person he really is.
The process to redeem himself will start this week when teams ask the cornerback some tough questions that he will have to answer truthfully.
Good interviews could vault Peters into the range his talent dictates.
Before his dismissal, the Oakland native was firmly in the conversation to be the draft's top cornerback. At 6'0 and 198 pounds, he has the size and athleticism that teams are now searching for at the position.
For the 49ers, cornerback is a major concern since Chris Culliver and Perrish Cox are slated to enter free agency.
16. Houston Texans
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The Pick: Nose Tackle Danny Shelton, Washington
Imagine a situation where J.J. Watt and Jadeveon Clowney are screaming off the edge to get to the quarterback, while Danny Shelton collapses the pocket from the middle.
It's a scary proposition. Scary for opposing offenses, that is.
Last season, Ryan Pickett and Jerrell Powe manned the nose tackle position. Both are free agents, and neither was the long-term answer at the position. The Texans selected Louis Nix in the third round of the 2014 draft, but his future is in question after three knee surgeries last year.
Shelton is a tailor-made nose tackle at 6'2" and 343 pounds who would excel in the Texans' scheme. With Watt to one side, Shelton wouldn't demand as many double-teams as he would on other rosters. This would free him up to make plays to the level he did with the Huskies.
The First-Team All-American registered an impressive 93 tackles, 16.5 tackles for loss and nine sacks as a senior. Those are mind-boggling numbers for a true nose tackle.
17. San Diego Chargers
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The Pick: Center Cameron Erving, Florida State
The utmost concern for the San Diego Chargers is the health of 33-year-old quarterback Philip Rivers. The veteran signal-caller recently revealed he won't need surgery on his back, and he'll rehab the injury.
Thus, the primary responsibility of the organization is building a strong wall in front of Rivers to keep him upright.
It will be a difficult task since center Nick Hardwick and guard Jeromey Clary decided to retire. Also, King Dunlap, Rich Ohrnberger, Doug Legursky and Trevor Robinson are free agents.
Center, in particular, was a major problem area for the team last season, and the Chargers went through multiple starters.
Erving spent most of his career as an offensive tackle at Florida State, but his value went through the roof when Florida State head coach Jimbo Fisher slid him inside to center. Erving raised his play to another level as an interior blocker.
His versatility and ability to play over the ball make him an ideal starting point for the Chargers' rebuilding project along their offensive line.
18. Kansas City Chiefs
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The Pick: Wide Receiver Dorial Green-Beckham, Missouri
Who is going to take a chance on a player as talented as Green-Beckham? Someone eventually will, and it will likely occur sooner rather than later.
The nation's all-time leader in receiving yardage at the high school level was once the nation's No. 1 wide receiver recruit. He eventually chose to play for the in-state Missouri Tigers. His time in Gary Pinkel's program came to a premature end due to a disturbing off-the-field incident. It wasn't the only problem Missouri had to deal with during Green-Beckham's time with the team.
There is no doubt that this prospect could prove to be a major headache for a team, but there will be a point where his perceived talent will eventually trump a team's trepidation level.
For example, the Chiefs are devoid of legit wide receiver talent, and Kansas City head coach Any Reid has worked with difficult receivers previously. The team simply can't go into next season without making a heavy investment at the position after its entire stable of wide receivers couldn't manage a single touchdown reception.
Desperate teams are sometimes forced into desperate measures.
A 6'6", 225-pound wide receiver who managed 12 touchdowns on only 59 receptions the last time he was on the gridiron could prove to be the answer.
19. Cleveland Browns (from the Buffalo Bills)
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The Pick: Offensive Tackle Ereck Flowers, Miami
The Browns are building a run-first offense to complement Mike Pettine's aggressive defense. It may be an archaic approach to today's NFL, but it's the best approach to build a winning culture when the team doesn't have an answer at the quarterback position.
Cleveland needs to shorten games and play stout defense to improve upon last year's 7-9 record. A good start would be adding to an already strong offensive line.
The left side of the Browns offensive line is set with a future Hall of Famer Joe Thomas at left tackle and one of the league's best rookies last season, Joel Bitonio, at left guard. Add a former Pro Bowl center once Alex Mack is fully healthy.
The team's right side wasn't quite as strong.
Browns general manager Ray Farmer may consider upgrading right tackle. Mitchell Schwartz is a two-year starter, but he's considered the weak link up front.
There would be questions about Flowers if he is eventually drafted to protect a quarterback's blind side, but he could be a dominant right tackle due to his physical style of play and above-average athleticism.
Cleveland would then own arguably the most talented offensive line in the league to cover up other deficiencies within the roster.
20. Philadelphia Eagles
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The Pick: Safety Landon Collins, Alabama
The Eagles need secondary help. That much is clear. The team finished 31st against the pass and 28th in total defense.
Whether the organization addresses cornerback or safety first is a far more intriguing question.
Collins is a best-of-both-worlds solution.
First of all, he has the natural ability to go much higher in this year's draft, but his value decreased this season since he struggled to make the transition from strong safety to free safety. He isn't an ideal option as a free safety who is asked to roam sideline to sideline.
Where the Alabama product excels is playing near the line of scrimmage against the run or covering in the slot. When those aspects are combined with his physical presence and overall athleticism, it makes Collins an intriguing prospect.
For the Eagles, he could easily slide into Nate Allen's vacated role if the veteran safety decides to leave via free agency.
21. Cincinnati Bengals
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The Pick: Defensive Tackle Eddie Goldman, Florida State
The Bengals defense took a major step back in 2014. The team surrendered over 50 more yards per game compared to the previous season.
Some could argue it was due to injuries or even the departure of former defensive coordinator Mike Zimmer.
The biggest difference, though, was a drop-off in play along the defensive front. The unit finished dead in sacks and 20th against the run.
The franchise can attempt to address both issues with the selection of Goldman.
The defensive tackle's junior campaign won't blow anyone away from a statistical perspective. He managed 35 total tackles and eight tackles for loss, but he led the Seminoles' talented defense with four sacks.
Goldman would bring what Domata Peko no longer does to the Bengals defense—size (6'4", 320 lbs) and explosiveness—even if the Florida State product can be a inconsistent at times.
22. Pittsburgh Steelers
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The Pick: Defensive End Vic Beasley, Clemson
A new era is beginning for the Steelers.
Dick LeBeau finally stepped down after 11 seasons as the defensive coordinator. Keith Butler will now take over a deteriorating defense.
After 30 years of finishing as one of the NFL's top 10 defenses, Pittsburgh faltered the past two seasons. The vaunted Steelers defense actually finished 20th and 18th overall in total defense in that time.
Whether it was the "Steel Curtain" or "Blitzburgh," Pittsburgh had overwhelmed opponents with dominating defensive play. That once proud tradition is now gone.
There are multiple issues with the defensive roster, but it starts with an inability to consistently apply pressure on opposing quarterbacks. Pittsburgh finished 26th overall with only 33 sacks.
After years of Kevin Greene, Jason Gildon, Joey Porter and James Harrison, Pittsburgh seemed to grow outstanding outside linebacker for its 3-4 scheme on trees. However, former first-round pick Jarvis Jones has been nothing short of a disappointment, and Jason Worilds is a free agent.
Beasley may be undersized (6'3", 235 lbs), but his explosive first step off the edge is exactly what the Steelers have been missing. The Clemson product is a coiled snake who is ready to spring after quarterbacks.
If Pittsburgh is going to return to its glory days, the acquisition of a feared pass-rusher in an absolute must.
23. Detroit Lions
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The Pick: Cornerback Trae Waynes, Michigan State
Every year it seems like cornerback is a pressing need for the Lions. Last season, for example, Detroit passed on local favorite Darqueze Dennard for tight end Eric Ebron.
This year, however, the Lions could finally spend a first-round pick—something the franchise hasn't done since it selected Terry Fair in 1998—on a talent like Waynes.
Darius Slay has developed nicely at one of the starting spots, and Rashean Mathis played well during his 11th season. But Mathis, who turns 35 years old this summer, was merely a Band-Aid at the position. The Lions need to find a long-term option opposite Slay.
Unlike his former teammate, Waynes is a far more fluid athlete with the ability to flip his hips and run with receivers. Waynes isn't as physical as Dennard near the line of scrimmage, but his ability to turn and track the football is superior.
24. Arizona Cardinals
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The Pick: Linebacker Benardrick McKinney, Mississippi State
The Cardinals' potential selection of McKinney could kill two birds with one stone. The former Bulldog can play inside and outside linebacker in Arizona's defensive scheme.
Larry Foote became a major part of the defense once Daryl Washington was suspended for the season after violating the league's substance abuse policy. The Cardinals can't rely on Washington moving forward, while Foote, who will turn 35 years old this summer, is a free agent.
General manager Steve Keim needs to find a reliable option to play next to Kevin Minter as an inside linebacker. At 6'5" and nearly 250 pounds, McKinney is an intimidating presence in the middle of the defense. He can be a step slow with his reads at times, but he often overcomes that area of his game due to top-notch athleticism.
McKinney's size and downhill style of play make him an ideal run-stuffer at inside linebacker on first and second down.
The linebacker can then slide to the outside and rush the quarterback on obvious passing downs. McKinney led his team in total tackles each of the last two seasons while also registering six sacks.
With the potential departures of Sam Acho and John Abraham in Arizona, McKinney's versatility could be exactly what the Cardinals need to address their linebacker corps.
25. Carolina Panthers
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The Pick: Offensive Tackle Andrus Peat, Stanford
Jordan Gross created a massive yearlong void at left tackle for the Panthers when he decided to retire after the 2013 campaign.
Byron Bell isn't the answer at the position. The fourth-year tackle struggled when he moved from the right to the left side this past season. He's also a free agent.
The answer to the Panthers' left tackle conundrum isn't on the roster.
Usually, a team with the 25th overall choice wouldn't be in position to adequately address one of the game's most valuable positions. Top left tackles are often selected within the top 10 picks.
This year is an odd class, though. None of the top offensive tackle prospects are guaranteed starters on the blind side.
Peat, however, has the type of potential that eventually projects to left tackle. At 6'7" and 316 pounds, he owns the natural tools to excel, but he needs to refine his technique and improve his overall pad level.
At 21 years old—he won't turn 22 until November—Peat's upside far outweighs his downside.
26. Baltimore Ravens
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The Pick: Cornerback Jalen Collins, LSU
The Ravens secondary was an absolute mess last season. The team's top cornerback, Jimmy Smith, suffered a season-ending foot injury. The rest of the team's defensive backs were underwhelming, with guys being signed late in the season to mitigate the problem.
Despite being one of the NFL's most talented and aggressive defensive fronts, the unit still finished 23rd in pass defense.
To add insult to injury, Baltimore surrendered two 14-point leads in the AFC Divisional Round, as New England Patriots quarterback Tom Brady shredded the secondary for 367 passing yards.
The selection of Collins is based on potential.
At 6'2" and 198 pounds, the LSU early entrant has prototypical size. He also flashes good short-area quickness and shutdown ability. Collins can develop opposite Smith, who is a similar cornerback, and the Ravens could have a tremendous cornerback duo as long as the LSU product learns to play at a consistent level.
27. Dallas Cowboys
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The Pick: Defensive Tackle Michael Bennett, Ohio State
Bennett proved to be a dominant player throughout the second half of the Buckeyes' national championship run. As NFL teams take a look at him, though, some will view him as a scheme-specific talent.
According to Cleveland.com's Bill Landis, Bennett's inspired late-season play came courtesy of a midseason position switch.
The senior struggled as a 1-technique (defensive tackle shaded over the center). He wasn't entirely comfortable until he returned to being a 3-technique (defensive tackle shaded over the guard), where he could take advantage of his natural quickness and ability to penetrate the opponent's backfield.
Rod Marinelli's defense requires disruptive interior tackles. The scheme was originally built with Warren Sapp in mind as the ideal 3-technique. Bennett isn't Sapp, but he can be a highly productive player in this particular system.
With the Cowboys not picking up Henry Melton's option years and Nick Hayden about to enter free agency, defensive tackle should be at the forefront of the team's offseason plans.
28. Denver Broncos
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The Pick: Tight End Maxx Williams, Minnesota
Gary Kubiak's offense relies heavily on the tight end position, and the Broncos will have a decision to make regarding Julius Thomas' future. With both Julius Thomas and wide receiver Demaryius Thomas about to enter free agency, it will be difficult for the organization to re-sign both.
According to ESPN.com's Jeff Legwold, Julius wants to be "among the league’s highest-paid players at the position."
It's far more likely that the Broncos let Julius walk in free agency before letting Peyton Manning's favorite target go. After all, Demaryius was targeted 184 times last season, which was three times more than Julius.
The team will need to address tight end position. Williams is the top tight end prospect in the class with the ability and can be a factor in both the passing and run games.
Kubiak's system requires plenty of two-tight end formations. William provides versatility and a top target alongside the athletic Virgil Green.
29. Indianapolis Colts
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The Pick: Guard Laken Tomlinson, Duke
Quarterback Andrew Luck is the present and future of the Colts. In order to protect their primary asset, the Colts must improve the offensive line.
Luck has already faced an inordinate amount of pressure early in his career. The quarterback's mobility often allowed him to avoid sacks, but he has taken his fair share of punishment throughout his first three seasons.
It's time for general manager Ryan Grigson to invest heavily along the team's offensive front.
Tomlinson certainly wouldn't be a sexy pick. Guards never are. But he's a Day 1 starter at right guard over the likes of Lance Louis and Hugh Thornton.
The Duke product is a tremendous small-area blocker who can dominate at the point of attack. He's also as smart as he is physically talented.
Tomlinson, who was born in Jamaica, may be the only 6'3", 323-pound man walking this planet who double-majored in evolutionary anthropology and psychology. He plans on going to medical school and becoming a doctor once his NFL career comes to an end.
30. Green Bay Packers
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The Pick: Linebacker Paul Dawson, TCU
Clay Matthews may have played well at inside linebacker when called upon to do so this past season, but it's not his natural position.
The Packers' issues at inside linebacker have persisted over the past few seasons.
The play of A.J. Hawk, who turned 31 years old in January, continues to decline, and Sam Barrington wasn't nearly as stout against the run as the team needed him to be.
Green Bay lacks a true three-down player at the position.
Dawson can be that type of contributor as long as teams are comfortable with him as a person. On the field, he shows tremendous instincts and athleticism. He racked up 136 total tackles in 2014 and finished second among linebackers with 20 tackles for loss.
However, the linebacker has been plagued with the infamous "character concerns." He addressed those concerns in a draft diary for USA Today, via Tom Pelissero:
"Now I'm reading that I've got 'character concerns.' My sophomore year when I got there, I failed one drug test for Adderall, and I got a prescription for it a couple months later. I never failed another drug test, never got in any trouble, never suspended. I was tardy a lot. I'd probably be a couple minutes late to that meeting or a weight-room session. But everybody loved me. I got along with everybody — all the coaches, all the offensive coaches. We made jokes throughout the facility all day. On Saturdays, they knew that I was going to go big, do my thing.
"
31. Seattle Seahawks
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The Pick: Defensive End Hau'oli Kikaha, Washington
You cannot underestimate the value of a top pass-rusher.
The Seahawks' recent Super Bowl appearances showed that the team can affect even the game's best quarterbacks when it can apply pressure.
In one case, the Denver Broncos' Peyton Manning basically folded, whereas the New England Patriots and Tom Brady eventually adjusted in the second half.
Seattle's ability to apply pressure is based on a deep defensive line that can come at a quarterback in waves. Those same players up front are also versatile athletes who can play multiple positions to attack quarterbacks from multiple angles.
Kikaha, who led the nation with 19 sacks, isn't simply a polished pass-rusher. He has shown the ability to play both defensive end spots and potentially develop at "Sam" linebacker to help soften the blow of possibly losing O'Brien Schofield and Bruce Irvin in free agency over the course of a year.
32. New England Patriots
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The Pick: Running Back Todd Gurley, Georgia
If the reigning Super Bowl champions don't trade out of the first round yet again, the potential selection of Todd Gurley at the end of the first round may be a perfect Belichickian move.
The Patriots are adept at making the best out of nearly any draft situation.
In this case, the team could land the best running back prospect to enter the draft in a number of years even though no one at the position has been selected in the first round during the past two drafts.
Gurley, though, is a special talent. However, he's still recovering from a torn ACL in his left knee. Normally, this would scare teams away from spending a first-round pick even on a top talent. This week's medical examinations will be important for the Georgia running back, but the Patriots already proved they'll take a chance on a highly regarded yet injured prospect when they chose defensive tackle Dominique Easley in the first round of last year's draft.
During the team's previous two playoff runs, the running game was vitally important to the offense's success. But the team hasn't has a workhorse behind Tom Brady since Corey Dillon was on the roster. Plus, Shane Vereen and Stevan Ridley are free agents this year.
Gurley can add yet another dynamic to a Super Bowl-caliber offense.
Round 2: Picks 33 to 48
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33. Titans—DE Alvin "Bud" Dupree, Kentucky
One of the positives of playing so poorly during the previous year is getting the chance to select good talent at the top of each round. Tennessee desperately needs a legitimate pass-rusher in Ray Horton's 3-4 scheme. Dupree is a tremendous athlete, but he will disappear for long stretches. If the Titans can harness his natural ability, they will end up with two legit first-round talents in this class.
34. Buccaneers—OT T.J. Clemmings, Pitt
After selecting a quarterback with the No. 1 overall pick, the Buccaneers' next goal will be to protect their investment. Clemmings is the most physically talented offensive lineman in this year's class. However, the former Pitt Panther only played along the offensive line at right tackle for two seasons. He'll need to develop, but he has to the potential to become a top left tackle.
35. Raiders—WR Jaelen Strong, Arizona State
Quarterback Derek Carr put together an impressive rookie season despite having one of the NFL's worst supporting casts at the skill positions. The Raiders desperately need to add talent at wide receiver and running back. Strong is a physical wide receiver who excels in winning 50/50 balls. He also owns the strongest pair of hands in this year's class.
36. Jaguars—RB Jay Ajayi, Boise State
The comparison being floated around for Ajayi is Marshawn Lynch. What better team to go to than the one patterning itself after the Seattle Seahawks? The Boise State product is a physical runner with tremendous vision and balance. He can also contribute in the passing game. Due to Toby Gerhart's disappointing season and concerns over Denard Robinson's health, running back remains a pressing concern.
37. Jets—RB Melvin Gordon, Wisconsin
Last season, the Jets attempted to strike gold in free agency by squeezing whatever was left out of running back Chris Johnson. The veteran didn't look nearly explosive as he once was and gained an unimpressive 663 yards. Subsequently, the Jets didn't pick up his upcoming option year. Gordon has the potential to take over as the Jets' lead back or provide the spark opposite Chris Ivory the franchise thought it acquired in Johnson.
38. Redskins—CB P.J. Williams, Florida State
Washington finished 24th overall in pass defense last season and needs to upgrade the secondary. The Redskins' top four cornerbacks all finished the season with negative grades, according to Pro Football Focus. Williams has the length, athleticism and physical style of play to eventually develop into the team's top cornerback.
39. Bears—DE Arik Armstead, Oregon
The defensive overhaul continues in Chicago. In order to build a strong 3-4 defense under the supervision of new coordinator Vic Fangio, the Bears must add the right talent along the defensive front. At 6'8" and 290 pounds, Armstead is an ideal 5-technique for the system.
40. Giants—LB Eric Kendricks, UCLA
Due to injuries and a lack of quality depth, the Giants' linebacker corps suffered in 2014. Jon Beason is a fine linebacker, but his injury history makes him unreliable. Kendricks, on the other hand, can step in from the onset of his career and start at middle or weak-side linebacker. The reigning Butkus Award winner displays tremendous instincts. His major downfall is less-than-ideal size (6'0", 230 lbs).
41. Rams—QB Brett Hundley, UCLA
Sam Bradford's future with the Rams appears set. While the former No. 1 overall pick should remain the team's starter, the Rams still need to address the quarterback position due to Bradford's injury history. Hundley is a developmental project, but he is clearly the No. 3 quarterback in a weak class.
42. Falcons—DE Nate Orchard, Utah
Dan Quinn's primary job as the new head coach of the Falcons will be to bring his defensive expertise and apply it to the league's worst defense. In order to do so, the team desperately requires a player who can consistently get after the quarterback. Orchard finished second in the NCAA with 18.5 sacks in 2014. The Utah product is a perfect fit as the hybrid "Leo" in Quinn's scheme.
43. Browns—WR Breshad Perriman, UCF
As it currently stands, Cleveland would enter the season with Andrew Hawkins and Taylor Gabriel as its top receivers. Neither is taller than 5'8". With Josh Gordon's suspension and Miles Austin's impending free agency, the Browns desperately need an outside receiver who can serve as a deep threat. Perriman is one of the draft's hottest names at the moment with plenty of ability to develop into a top target.
44. Saints—DE Eli Harold, Virginia
Last week, the Saints re-signed starting outside linebacker Parys Haralson to a new one-year deal. Haralson, 31, obviously isn't the team's long-term answer opposite Junior Galette. Galette and Cam Jordan still need help from teammates to create pressure on opposing quarterbacks, particularly in the team's base defense. Harold is a tremendous athlete and natural pass-rusher who can develop behind Haralson before replacing him.
45. Vikings—OT D.J. Humphries, Florida
Minnesota cannot continue to allow as much pressure on the quarterback as it did last season without it affecting Teddy Bridgewater's maturation. Humphries is an athletic tackle who can take over for Matt Kalil if he continues to struggle, or the young lineman could initially line up on the right side.
46. 49ers—DT Carl Davis, Iowa
Once a strength of the defense, the 49ers' defensive line needs to be rebuilt. Ray McDonald's contract was terminated in December. Justin Smith is on the verge of retirement. The rest of the unit consists of Glenn Dorsey, Quinton Dial, Tony Jerod-Eddie and Tank Carradine. Davis would add a versatility with the size (6'5", 315 lbs) to play nose tackle and enough athleticism to start as a 5-technique.
47. Dolphins—CB Kevin Johnson, Wake Forest
Often overlooked due to a poor overall season by the Demon Deacons, Johnson has all the tools to develop into a top-flight cornerback. The defensive back is long (6'1") and smooth in his transition through his backpedal. Johnson, who started 36 straight games, also led his team with 18 pass breakups over the past two seasons. The Wake Forest product could prove to be a nice complement to Brent Grimes.
48. Chargers—DE Lorenzo Mauldin, Louisville
San Diego's outside linebackers amassed a total of 10 sacks. That's completely unacceptable for a team that employs a 3-4 base defense. The Chargers spent a second-round pick on the position last year, but Jeremiah Attaochu didn't live up to expectations. Neither has Melvin Ingram. The ability to rush the passer is too important to ignore.
Round 2: Picks 49 to 64
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49. Chiefs—OT Jeremiah Poutasi, Utah
Kansas City may retool its offensive line this offseason. Center Rodney Hudson, right tackle Ryan Harris and guard Jeff Linkenbach are free agents. Hudson will be a priority for the team, but the Chiefs could address the other positions at some point. Poutasi, who started at left tackle for the Utes, has been referred to as "Mike Iupati Jr." by scouts, according to DraftInsider.net's Tony Pauline.
50. Bills—S Jaquiski Tartt, Samford
Last year, the New York Jets spent a first-round pick on an intimidating strong safety prospect in Louisville's Calvin Pryor. Fast forward a year, and Rex Ryan is now the head coach of the Bills. What does the NFL's fourth-ranked defense currently lack? A hard-hitting presence over the middle in its secondary. Tartt is an imposing 6'1", 220-pound prospect who is ready to fill the role.
51. Texans—WR Devin Funchess, Michigan
Andre Johnson can't play forever. The veteran receiver will turn 34 years old this summer, and his combined cap hit during the final two seasons of his contract is well over $30 million. Houston must prepare for life without him. Funchess is massive target at 6'5" and 230 pounds, but he's proved to be inconsistent during his Michigan career. He would be a nice target opposite DeAndre Hopkins, though.
52. Eagles—LB Denzel Perryman, Miami
Veteran linebacker DeMeco Ryans never came off the field for the Eagles until he tore an Achilles tendon against the Houston Texans on Nov. 2. Now 30 years old with a $6.9 million cap hit and coming off a major injury, Ryans is a potential salary-cap casualty. Perryman could replace Ryans and become the Eagles' new heat-seeking missile in the middle of the defense.
53. Bengals—CB Quinten Rollins, Miami (OH)
Cincinnati has leaned heavily on the likes of Leon Hall, Terrence Newman and Adam Jones in recent years. All three of them will be 31 years old or older by the end of the season. Rollins, who is a former basketball player, only played one year of college football and finished tied for third in the nation with seven interceptions. The local product can join Dre Kirkpatrick and Darqueze Dennard as the new faces of the team's cornerback crew.
54. Lions—WR Sammie Coates, Auburn
Coates will serve as the Lions' insurance plan for Calvin Johnson. Megatron will turn 31 in 2016, and his cap hit will escalate to a whopping $24 million. The Auburn product can learn from Johnson before he eventually takes over for him. It's a tall task to ask of anyone, but Coates is one of the most physically gifted wide receivers in this year's class.
55. Cardinals—DE Henry Anderson, Stanford
A major overhaul could be coming to the Cardinals' defensive front. Nose tackle Dan Williams is a free agent. Darnell Dockett tore an ACL in August, and he'll turn 34 years old in May. That basically leaves Calais Campbell as the one piece to build around. The team could add a talent like Anderson, though, and continue to field a strong defensive front. Anderson won't blow anyone away, but he is a constant presence with the right mentality to excel in Arizona's scheme.
56. Steelers—S Cody Prewitt, S Ole Miss
Pittsburgh general manager Kevin Colbert could use every pick in the 2015 draft to improve the Steelers defense, and it still may not be enough. The Steelers need help everywhere on that side of the ball. Prewitt is a skilled safety who can take over for Mike Mitchell, who disappointed after signing as a free agent, and eventually take over for Troy Polamalu once the future Hall of Famer decides to retire.
57. Panthers—DE Owamagbe Odighizuwa, UCLA
Ron Rivera's defense faltered in 2014 after being one of the league's best during the prior season. One reason was Greg Hardy's absence opposite Charles Johnson. Hardy isn't expected to return to the team, and Kony Ealy has yet to prove he's the answer at right defensive end. Odighizuwa is a tenacious pass-rusher who could really shoot up boards as long as his medical evaluations go well in Indianapolis.
58. Ravens—DE Markus Golden, Missouri
A primary reason behind the Ravens' success on defense this past season was their ability to get after quarterbacks. It wasn't just Terrell Suggs and Elvis Dumervil, either. Pernell McPhee proved to be a valuable commodity, but he's a free agent who is expected to cash in next month. Suggs and Dumervil are both over 31 years of age. Ravens general manager Ozzie Newsome should gladly select a prospect like Golden, who is lightning-quick off the edge.
59. Broncos—DE Preston Smith, Mississippi State
The transition to a 3-4 defense under Wade Phillips should come relatively easily for the Broncos. Most of the pieces are already in place. Smith could come in and play a similar role as Malik Jackson due to his natural size and athleticism. At 6'6" and 270 pounds, the First-Team All-SEC performer provides versatility and depth to a transitioning defensive front.
60. Cowboys—CB Ladarius Gunter, Miami
It's safe to say the Morris Claiborne experiment (a seemingly great band name along the lines of Pearl Jam once being called "Mookie Blaylock") has been a failure. As well as Dallas' defense played last year, the unit still finished 26th overall in pass defense. Plus, Sterling Moore, who was third among cornerbacks in total snaps last year, is a free agent. Gunter has the length and ability to win with his jam, which makes him a strong fit for Rod Marinelli's version of the Tampa 2 defense.
61. Colts—RB Duke Johnson, Miami
As the Colts' season came to a close, Daniel "Boom" Herron and Zurlon Tipton were the team's top running backs. Quarterback Andrew Luck needs more help from the run game. Trent Richardson isn't the answer, and Ahmad Bradshaw's injury history makes him unreliable. Johnson would add a new dynamic to the backfield with his speed. Plus, he will immediately help the special teams as a returner.
62. Packers—NT Ellis McCarthy, UCLA
Aside from Letroy Guion's off-the-field issues, he was already scheduled to be a free agent this year. Nose tackle was clearly a problem area for the Packers entering this offseason. The space-eater in the middle of the defense is vitally important for a base 3-4 team. McCarthy already played in a three-man front at UCLA. He may only be a two-down player, but he's difficult to uproot at 6'5" and 325 pounds.
63. Seahawks—CB Eric Rowe, Utah
Seattle's legendary "Legion of Boom" secondary could experience its second defection in as many offseasons. Last year, Brandon Browner landed with the New England Patriots. This year, Byron Maxwell will test the free-agent market. Plus, Richard Sherman and Jeremy Lane will be coming off major injuries. Rowe is built like a Seahawks cornerback at 6'1" and 204 pounds with a physical style of play.
64. Patriots—OG Tre' Jackson, Florida State
Bill Belichick surprised everyone when he traded former All-Pro guard Logan Mankins to the Tampa Bay Buccaneers prior to the start of the season. The Patriots spent the rest of the season trying to find the best starting offensive line combination. It came together in the playoffs, but neither Dan Connolly nor Jordan Devey is the answer at one guard spot. Jackson can be an instant starter alongside former Florida State teammate Bryan Stork.
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