2015 NFL Mock Draft: Full 1st-Round Projections After 1st Week of Free Agency
The NFL draft is slowly inching nearer, and the world of football is excited. As if free agency doesn't provide enough excitement, the NFL draft has football buzzing with analysis, discussion and predictions for what might happen come draft day.
Whether it's the first overall pick or the 32nd, the tension of the NFL draft is at its highest on the first day. The 32 players selected are expected to make an immediate impact and become the franchise cornerstones every team searches for.
Obviously, that doesn't happen all that much. However, the chance that you can draft a star who will be a leader and playmaker for years to come is tantalizing.
There is depth at several positions in this year's draft, and the placement of a lot of players will depend on pure team preference. There are plentiful edge-rushers and receivers, and while one team may think that a player is worth the highest possible pick, another team may see him as a last resort.
The 2015 NFL draft answers all of the questions we've had this offseason while creating additional ones: How will the team use said player? Will he start this season? Is he a bust?
There's no exact way to tell what will happen on draft day, but it's still worth analyzing and predicting. That's what I plan to do in this slideshow.
With the intro out of the way, let's dive into this mock draft.
Tampa Bay Buccaneers: Jameis Winston
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With the first overall pick, Tampa Bay Buccaneers select Jameis Winston. Winston, arguably one of the most talented and controversial players in football, won't have to travel far from Florida State to take on his new challenge as an NFL quarterback.
Winston has had two stellar seasons with Florida State. Over two seasons, he threw for 7,964 yards, 65 touchdowns and 28 interceptions. He won the 2013 Heisman Trophy and was a leader of FSU's 2013 national championship team.
He hasn't been the most consistent player, however. In 2014, Winston showed that he's not quite perfect and still has a lot to work on, as evidenced by his 18 interceptions during the season.
However, the Bucs will be patient and realize that while he may not be the most consistent or precise, Winston has too much talent to overlook. I wouldn't expect Winston to have the easiest of rookie years, but I would expect to see him on the highlight reel.
Tennessee Titans: Leonard Williams
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The Tennessee Titans took a step back in 2014 and find themselves with the second overall pick. Initially, it seemed like they would have to select a quarterback, but instead they will focus on the other side of the ball and select USC's Leonard Williams.
Williams tallied 21 sacks and 111 solo tackles in his three-year career with the Trojans and is one of the strongest defensive line players available. He is versatile on the line and can play at almost any spot.
He will be a nice addition to a defense that could use his help. In 2014, the Titans were sixth in the NFL for most yards allowed per game with 373 yards and third-worst in the NFL for most points allowed per game with 27.4 points, according to NFL.com.
Williams will be a talented option for the Titans going forward, and his ability to chase after the quarterback could provide a huge boost to a struggling defense in 2015.
Jacksonville Jaguars: Randy Gregory
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The Jacksonville Jaguars have been building in the draft for the past few years, and now it's crunch time. They are 7-25 over the past two seasons and will be looking for much better results this season. One of the key pieces of this 2015 season will be edge-rusher Randy Gregory.
Gregory totaled 17.5 sacks and 61 tackles in his two years at Nebraska. His athleticism and stature (6'6", 240 lbs) made him a star in the college game. The Jaguars will hope that his athleticism will carry over to Duval County and give them the next great pass-rusher.
Gregory has a lot to work on before he becomes the star that Jacksonville so desperately wants. He's athletic, but his technical ability is slightly below his fellow competition. He'll take some "molding," but if the Jaguars stay dedicated to him, he has a bright future.
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Oakland Raiders: Amari Cooper
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One of the most electric players of 2014, Amari Cooper has proved that he's one of the best receivers in the draft, if not the best. The Oakland Raiders will look to him to connect with Derek Carr and put the team on the right track toward success.
In a draft full of potential star receivers, Cooper stands out. He's been the No. 1 receiver for Alabama the past three years. Over that time, he brought down 228 receptions for 3,463 yards and 31 touchdowns.
The 2014 unanimous All-American will be the lead receiver the Raiders sought in free agency but missed out on. Cooper has the athletic ability and intelligence to adapt to life in the NFL fairly quickly and should make a solid run at NFL Rookie of the Year.
Washington Redskins: Dante Fowler Jr.
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As the Washington Redskins try to improve their defense, which was tied for third worst in the NFL for most points allowed (27.4) in 2014, they'll look for help in the draft. The best available pass-rusher at their pick is Florida's Dante Fowler Jr., who'll look to make an instant impact at FedEx Field.
Fowler Jr. has had a great career as a Florida Gator, garnering 14.5 sacks and 73 solo tackles. Trained under defense guru and ex-Florida head coach Will Muschamp, he is groomed to make plays for the Redskins in 2015.
Fowler is a hardworking, versatile player. He'll have a lot to get used to when he arrives in D.C., but if his time at Florida is a sign of the future, he should have no trouble performing in 2015.
New York Jets: Marcus Mariota
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The New York Jets have a new head coach and will choose a new quarterback as well in Marcus Mariota. He is athletic and smart and may be the best all-around quarterback in the draft. In a league that seems to be gravitating toward athletic quarterbacks, Mariota will fit in nicely.
Over three years with the Oregon Ducks, he threw for 10,796 yards, 105 touchdowns and 14 interceptions. The incredible numbers aside, he also seems to have the proper attitude and determination to lead an offense in the NFL.
As ready as Mariota seems, there's no guarantee for success. However, his numbers are promising, and if the Jets decide to make him the future of the franchise, it would be worth the risk.
Chicago Bears: Vic Beasley
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As the Chicago Bears reel back from a disappointing 5-11 season, they'll focus on their defense in this year's draft. They have a need for an outside linebacker, and at the seventh pick in the draft, Clemson's Vic Beasley is the best fit available.
He started for Clemson in 2013 and 2014, and over that time he earned 25 sacks and 58 solo tackles. Beasley is quick and strong and has knack for finding the quarterback and disrupting the backfield.
He can play as both a defensive end and an outside linebacker, but I see the Bears using him at OLB. Beasley will be a vital building block for Da Bears as they look to get back to contention in the NFC North.
Atlanta Falcons: Shane Ray
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The Falcons have fallen on hard times the past couple of years. After reaching the playoffs in 2012, they've followed up with 4-12 and 6-10 seasons. As they look to make the journey back to the postseason, they'll aim to plug a still-leaky defense with Missouri's Shane Ray.
Ray burst onto the scene in 2014 with 14.5 sacks and 47 solo tackles. He was a solid depth player in the years before, but he shook up the SEC with his pass-rushing abilities last year.
The Falcons need a playmaker in their front seven for 2015, and Ray's prowess to get in the backfield may be the perfect solution. To be honest, I'm not completely sold on Ray, but he can be a solid edge defender for the Falcons going forward.
New York Giants: Andrus Peat
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Andrus Peat was a rock for Stanford's offensive line for the past two years and played for a total of three. The New York Giants need help protecting quarterback Eli Manning and may find their next "rock" in Peat.
Peat played in almost every game for Stanford the past three years and was one of the team's most consistent blockers. He doesn't get beaten easily and is gritty when he has to be. That kind of attitude is what you want in a blocker.
Peat will be the first offensive lineman taken in the draft, and while it may not be a flashy signing from the Giants, it would be a smart one.
St. Louis Rams: Kevin White
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If anyone went from an average player to a full-blown superstar in 2014, it's Kevin White. He burned defenses nearly every week for West Virginia, and as the Rams look to find connections for new quarterback Nick Foles, he only makes sense.
White had an incredible 109 receptions in 2014 and a total of 1,447 yards and 10 touchdowns. His size (6'3", 210 lbs) allows him to muscle off defenders and get open. If he continues to develop technically with the Rams, he'll be dangerous.
White will have to get used to higher-quality play in the NFL, but his size should help him considerably. If he can get on the right foot with Foles, the Rams may have a dynamic connection.
Minnesota Vikings: Trae Waynes
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Trae Waynes is continuing a Michigan State trend of top-level secondary players. He was a lockdown corner for the Spartans over the past two years and will be taking his talents to the Minnesota Vikings.
Waynes had 13 passes defended and six interceptions in his two years at Michigan State. He has terrific movement and awareness, and his numbers with the Spartans show that.
Cleveland Browns: Danny Shelton
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At the 12th overall pick, the Cleveland Browns use their first of two picks on Washington defensive tackle Danny Shelton. He is one of the biggest guys in the draft (6'2", 339 lbs), and the Browns hope that he can use that girth to become a playmaker on their defense in 2015.
In four seasons for the Huskies, he totaled 105 solo tackles and 11 sacks. He grew as a pass-rusher in 2014 and grabbed nine sacks. He was already a solid run defender, and now that he's shown his pass-rushing capabilities, the Browns may have a complete DT on their hands.
New Orleans Saints: "Bud" Dupree
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Like Shane Ray, Alvin "Bud" Dupree gained the majority of his recognition toward the end of this past season. However, he was a valuable member of Kentucky for his entire career. The New Orleans Saints will hope that he will become a valuable player for them as well as they try to get back to the top of the NFC South.
Dupree had 23.5 sacks over his four years at Kentucky, and as time went on, he silently but efficiently proved his worth as a top edge-rusher. The Saints are coming off their worst season under Sean Payton, and as they try to make do with a small amount of salary space and a lot to work on, Dupree could be an affordable but important piece.
Miami Dolphins: Marcus Peters
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Marcus Peters will be the second corner picked in the 2015 NFL draft, and he'll be trading Washington state for sunny South Florida. Peters faced a lot of adversity in his last year with the Huskies, and despite some off-the-field issues, the Miami Dolphins will take their chances with him.
Peters had nine interceptions and 23 passes defended in his three years at Washington. His numbers are some of the best in Washington history; however, questions of character and work ethic plague him.
Peters is worth the risk. He is as good as you'll find at corner, and if the right front office and coach are in place in Miami, he will behave and perform.
San Francisco 49ers: Eddie Goldman
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As the San Francisco 49ers try to rebound from their 8-8 season and an exodus of players (plus one head coach), they'll look for help on the defensive line. As a result, they'll go after defensive tackle Eddie Goldman, who has championship experience and a nose for the quarterback.
While he has injury issues, but talent and experience are worth the risk.
Over the past two years and a limited 20 games, Goldman has a total of six sacks and 27 solo tackles. He was part of FSU's national championship team in 2013, and his skill and experience are what the 49ers need as they rebuild.
Houston Texans: La'el Collins
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La'el Collins has plenty of experience with one of the consistently best teams in college football in LSU, and as the Houston Texans look to make the leap from mediocre also-ran to playoff contender, they'll select Collins to help pave the way.
He is a pedigree tackle, as evidenced by his All-American selection this past season. The Texans have a couple of places they have to improve in 2015, but one of the safer, smarter picks is Collins.
There's no telling for sure, but he comes from a school that pumps out NFL talent, and he'll be able to make the transition to the pros without a hitch.
San Diego Chargers: Todd Gurley
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Since arriving in 2012, running back Todd Gurley has been one of the biggest stars in the SEC. Fast, strong and instinctive, he has blown up defenses for the past three seasons. The recent departure of Ryan Mathews means that the San Diego Chargers will be looking for a new running back, and they'll find their man in Gurley.
Through three seasons at UGA, Gurley had 510 carries for 3,285 yards and 36 touchdowns. Sadly, he also dealt with injury issues in his 2013 and 2014 seasons. The Chargers will take the risk, however, as they look to bring in a back who can assist quarterback Philip Rivers in their goal to reach the playoffs.
Kansas City Chiefs: Ereck Flowers
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At 6'6" and 329 pounds, Ereck Flowers is one of the biggest players and offensive tackles in the draft. He has been a bulldozer of a tackle at Miami. The Kansas City Chiefs will look to him to revitalize their offense.
Flowers was a bright spot in what has been a pretty tough few years for the Hurricanes. He was one of the best linemen in the ACC.
The Chiefs are looking to take the next step to the playoffs, and they may get a lot of help from a tackle like Flowers. One thing can be sure: Jamaal Charles will be happy with another top blocker to get behind.
Cleveland Browns: Jaelen Strong
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The Cleveland Browns will focus on defense with their first pick of the first round, but with their second pick they will look at the other side of the ball. Jaelen Strong was a powerhouse receiver for Arizona State the past couple of years, and the Browns will hope he'll be a star target for whoever starts at quarterback next season.
Strong started for two seasons for the Sun Devils, bringing down 157 receptions for 2,287 yards and 17 touchdowns. The star of ASU's offense, he was a consistent performer who rarely had a bad game. The Browns will hope that his consistency will translate to NFL success in 2015.
Philadelphia Eagles: Landon Collins
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Few safeties in this year's draft deserve first-round consideration, but if any of them do, it's Alabama's Landon Collins. The Philadelphia Eagles need a tough, smart safety to help improve their defense, and they'll select Collins with their first-round pick.
Over his two seasons as a starter, he had five interceptions and 12 passes defended. He was a leader and clutch performer for the Crimson Tide in both seasons. The Eagles need to round out their defense, and Collins is a guy they can rely on for any situation.
Cincinnati Bengals: Arik Armstead
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As a member of team that is known for flash and offense, Arik Armstead isn't either. He's a tough, strong defensive tackle who was an anchor for the Oregon Ducks in his career. As the Cincinnati Bengals look to return to the playoffs, they'll hope for Armstead to become an anchor for them as well.
Armstead is an excellent nose tackle who may not blow up the stat sheet but is a vital space-eater. He can play against the run and the pass and will be a guy that the Bengals can use for multiple situations in 2015 and the future.
Pittsburgh Steelers: Kevin Johnson
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Kevin Johnson's 2013 season was one to remember. Three interceptions and 12 passes defended had him as one of the top prospects for the 2015 draft. His 2014 numbers may have dropped off, but Johnson is still a top corner, and the Pittsburgh Steelers could use his talent.
The Steelers and Mike Tomlin will look to develop Johnson and bring back the greatness he showed in 2013. It's a gamble, but they need help in the secondary, and they can make that happen with Johnson.
Detroit Lions: Malcom Brown
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One of the underrated defensive linemen of the draft, Malcom Brown will slip to the 20s of the first round, and the Detroit Lions will reap the benefits. Brown helped Texas get back on its feet in 2014, and he'll be able to help the Lions get back to the playoffs.
Brown had a huge 2014, totaling 25 solo tackles and 6.5 sacks. He took the new coaching change of Mack Brown to Charlie Strong in stride, and he should adapt to the NFL as well. Brown has tremendous work ethic, and as the Lions look to help replace Ndamukong Suh, his discipline will be a big help in his transition.
Arizona Cardinals: Jordan Phillips
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Jordan Phillips is a big man. At 6'6" and 339 pounds, he is an absolute giant. The Arizona Cardinals have just lost a lot of depth in free agency, and they'll look to replenish and help their defense in 2015.
Phillips didn't earn a whole lot of recognition in 2012 and 2013, but as the weeks went by in the 2014 season, it became apparent that he's a top defensive tackle. Phillips is incredible at using his size and becoming a hard obstacle to overcome for opposing offenses.
Phillips won't be the leader on the stat sheet but can become an important player for the Cardinals in 2015 as they work to return to the playoffs.
Carolina Panthers: T.J. Clemmings
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As a player whose draft stock has fluctuated with his play and the rise of the corners and receivers, T.J. Clemmings finds himself at the 25th overall spot. The Carolina Panthers will try to make a long-term selection with Clemmings as they look to protect quarterback Cam Newton and improve the offense.
Clemmings is a solid tackle who despite a lack of exposure and competition at Pittsburgh has made a name for himself. He has solid balance and technical skills but is slightly undersized at 6'5", 309 pounds. The Panthers will look to focus on improving his strength and sharpening those skills to make him a top tackle.
Baltimore Ravens: Dorial Green-Beckham
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Despite being dismissed from his original school Missouri, Dorial Green-Beckham is still a highly thought-of receiver. The Baltimore Ravens are now without lead receiver Torrey Smith, and they will hope that Green-Beckham can be his replacement.
Green-Beckham had 87 receptions for 1,278 yards and 17 touchdowns in his two seasons at Missouri. He is a complete receiver with solid technical skills and athletic ability.
However, Green-Beckham's off-the-field issues are something to be wary of, and the Ravens will have to keep a close eye on him if they do select him.
Dallas Cowboys: Melvin Gordon
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Falling in with the trend of talented Wisconsin running backs, Melvin Gordon is worth more than the 27th pick but is a casualty of a passing-oriented league. The Dallas Cowboys are now without a lead running back thanks to DeMarco Murray's departure to the Eagles, and Gordon will replace him.
He is one of the most productive running backs in this year's draft. Over four seasons with Wisconsin and two as a starter, Gordon had 631 carries for 4,915 yards and 45 touchdowns.
He was one of the biggest names in college football, and if the Cowboys select him, he'll continue to be a star as he faces the pressure of being a starter in Dallas.
Denver Broncos: Cedric Ogbuehi
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The Denver Broncos almost reached the AFC Championship Game for two consecutive seasons, and while their season wasn't a failure by any means, they're looking for more in 2015. The big return of Demaryius Thomas and the leadership of Peyton Manning will be major parts of their success, but they'll look for more help in Cedric Ogbuehi.
Ogbuehi has been a top tackle in college football for a couple of years, and while his draft stock has fallen, it may not be a bad thing. He will get a chance to work with Manning and a veteran offense at Denver. This will be great for his development and a smart decision for the Broncos.
Indianapolis Colts: D.J. Humphries
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The Indianapolis Colts have a new running back in Frank Gore and a new receiver in Andre Johnson, and they'll pick up a new tackle in the draft. The Colts don't need much more to have a frightening offense, and with D.J. Humphries coming in, they'll be one step closer.
The one inhibiting factor of the Colts has been their offensive line. Andrew Luck gets put on the ground a bit too much for their liking. Humphries will look to protect him, and his size (6'5", 307 lbs) and balance will be a huge part of his success in Indianapolis.
Green Bay Packers: Benardrick McKinney
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In terms of inside linebackers, Benardrick McKinney stands out above the rest. He was a playmaker for Mississippi State, and with him the Green Bay Packers will have a strong candidate to recently departed A.J. Hawk.
McKinney had 65 solo tackles through two seasons as a starter for the Bulldogs. He has incredible vision and is able to make instinctive plays around the field.
While he's good enough to immediately start for the Packers, he still has a lot to learn. McKinney will be the immediate replacement for Hawk and work with veterans like Clay Matthews to learn his role for the Packers.
New Orleans Saints: Jalen Collins
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With their second pick of the first round, I see the New Orleans Saints continuing to focus on rebuilding their defense with Jalen Collins from LSU. The Saints need some fresh talent on defense, and the attitude and ability of Jalen Collins can be a big part of that going forward.
Collins had an impressive career at LSU, bringing down three interceptions and defending 15 passes. Collins was an important part of the LSU defense for the past couple of years, and as he transitions to the NFL, he'll look to become the next star of the Saints' secondary.
New England Patriots: DeVante Parker
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While the New England Patriots may be the Super Bowl champions, they are not without their holes. Tom Brady still needs a top receiver to throw to, and DeVante Parker is the best available receiver with the last pick of the first round.
Parker was a contributor to the Louisville offense for four years and a starter for three of them. He had 156 receptions for 2,775 yards and 33 touchdowns in his four years, and while he didn't post the highest numbers, he's a reliable target, which is all the Patriots and Brady can ask for.
All stats were provided by ESPN.com unless otherwise stated.
Evan Reier is a member of Bleacher Report's APSM program. Follow Evan on Twitter at @evanreier.
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