2015 NFL Mock Draft: A First-Round Blueprint for Every Team
The 2015 NFL draft is almost here after four months of speculation and evaluation. We still have little idea of what will actually occur, so mock drafts are useful to play out scenarios. This mock draft will serve as a blueprint for every team.
Of course, the thought of being "realistic" is purely subjective. Nobody expects half of the first round to play out like it will, so this mock will have a few surprise picks throughout. There are no trades projected in this blueprint.
What would you like your favorite team to do on draft day? Let me know in the comments section.
1. Tampa Bay Buccaneers
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The Pick: Jameis Winston, QB, Florida State
The Tampa Bay Buccaneers have a tough decision with the top overall pick. They have to decide which potential franchise quarterback fits their organization best. Both Jameis Winston of Florida State and Marcus Mariota of Oregon have a strong resume for the Bucs to consider.
Winston gets the nod here because his college career helps his NFL projection just a little more than Mariota’s. Jameis showed the traits we have often seen from great quarterbacks like Eli Manning and Philip Rivers. With high football intelligence and on-field toughness, Winston has all of the potential in the world to continue getting better.
The biggest roadblock for Winston to go first is his off-field history. He’s proven to be immature and the Buccaneers’ brass must become comfortable with his personality. Head coach Lovie Smith has usually avoided players with less-than-stellar character, so the team must make sure it is confident in Winston the person.
2. Tennessee Titans
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The Pick: Kevin White, WR, West Virginia
The NFL draft always bears surprises, and if the Tennessee Titans keep the second overall pick, they could shock the world. USC defensive tackle Leonard Williams is surely in the running with this pick, but it’s fair to question whether or not he’d impact this team more than Kevin White. The Titans already have a talented three-man defensive front, but they need a receiver badly.
White would be the perfect complement to receiver Kendall Wright. He can play outside and act as the dominant No. 1 receiver or slide into the slot and bully smaller cornerbacks. Since Justin Hunter has been a major disappointment, White can ease the pressure on quarterback Zach Mettenberger.
3. Jacksonville Jaguars
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The Pick: Vic Beasley, Edge, Clemson
If you want to see the perfect marriage of talent and scheme fit, then root for the Jacksonville Jaguars to select Clemson edge-rusher Vic Beasley. Beasley is the ideal LEO for head coach Gus Bradley’s defense. He’s fast, flexible and a terrific finisher.
Beasley was a one-man wrecking crew each of the last two seasons. He produced 33 sacks and 52.5 tackles for loss over the course of three years. Add in his elite combine performance, and Beasley could be the best overall prospect in this class.
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4. Oakland Raiders
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The Pick: Amari Cooper, WR, Alabama
The Oakland Raiders are at a crucial part of their franchise's development. General manager Reggie McKenzie did fairly well in free agency, and now he must add more blue-chip talent to the roster. Selecting Alabama receiver Amari Cooper at No. 4 isn’t the best value, but the move ensures quarterback Derek Carr will have a high-quality weapon.
Cooper was a dynamic playmaker at Alabama. Offensive coordinator Lane Kiffin maximized Cooper’s talents by moving him around and isolating him in single coverage. His polish as a route-runner and short-area burst to create great separation are major factors in his success.
5. Washington Redskins
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The Pick: Dante Fowler Jr., Edge, Florida
The Washington Redskins must add impact players to their roster. There’s not a perfect fit for what the Redskins need on the board, but Florida edge-rusher Dante Fowler Jr. is too good to pass up here. Fowler is one of the most aggressive and relentless players in the class, which will help him get on the field right away.
Paired with linebackers Ryan Kerrigan and Trent Murphy, the Redskins will have a solid pass rush. Each also provides solid run support off the edge. Building up the front seven is the best way to overhaul this formerly porous defense.
6. New York Jets
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The Pick: Marcus Mariota, QB, Oregon
It may be unlikely that Oregon quarterback Marcus Mariota falls this far on Draft Day, but the New York Jets still should consider moving up for the Heisman Trophy winner if he won’t fall to them. Of all potential fits, the Jets offer one of the most attractive situations for Mariota to land in.
Mariota is a smart, efficient quarterback that can maximize the Jets’ deep receiver core. Offensive coordinator Chan Gailey has a positive history with athletic quarterbacks like Mariota, but never one as talented as a passer. Combined with a stout defense, the Jets could quickly turn their franchise around with Mariota at quarterback.
7. Chicago Bears
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The Pick: Leonard Williams, DT, USC
If this scenario plays out, the Chicago Bears should set a record for fastest card turned in. USC defensive tackle Leonard Williams doesn’t have the elite pass-rushing skills that would endear him to teams picking ahead of Chicago, so he could drop. But Williams is still a great talent and might be the best in the class.
Chicago would love Williams’ ability to eat blocks and provide the occasional pass-rush pressure. Williams is an elite run defender as is, showing incredibly strong hands and amazing awareness. He’d also open up more pass-rushing opportunities for tackles Will Sutton and Ego Ferguson.
8. Atlanta Falcons
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The Pick: Randy Gregory, Edge, Nebraska
Nebraska’s edge-rusher Randy Gregory is the second most talented pass rusher in the draft, but his off-field concerns could drop his stock. Gregory has a history with marijuana, and his failed drug test at the NFL combine did nothing to help.
Taking Gregory is a risk that could pay off huge dividends. His blend of size, athleticism and natural strength is rare. He can play in a 3-4 front or Atlanta’s 4-3 scheme.
Head coach Dan Quinn should be looking to roll the dice on a talent like Gregory. If he can corral his off-field habits and keep him focused on the field, this will be a major steal.
9. New York Giants
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The Pick: Andrus Peat, OT, Stanford
There are a variety of directions the New York Giants can go with their first-round pick this year. They need help in the secondary and at receiver and linebacker. But the offensive line will be the key to their return to prominence if they’re going to get there.
If the Giants want to move Justin Pugh from tackle to guard, then Stanford’s Andrus Peat would be an intriguing option. Peat is enormous and has great strength. But he doesn’t play with great technique, so he’s ugly to watch.
Should Peat become more consistent with his hand usage and punch, he could become dominant. He’s not a safe prospect, but the potential payoff is worth the risk.
10. St. Louis Rams
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The Pick: Brandon Scherff, OL, Iowa
Another team that needs to rebuild its offensive line is the St. Louis Rams. The loss of tackle Jake Long forces some shifting and opens a need at right guard and right tackle. Fortunately, the Rams can add Iowa’s Brandon Scherff, who can start at either spot.
Scherff is the nastiest player in the draft. He is brutally effective as a run-blocker. His strength fits best as a run-blocker, so guard makes the most sense for his future.
That’s not to say that Scherff would be a poor tackle. The right side would help mitigate his technique inconsistencies and arm length. He can still be a mauler in the run game as well.
11. Minnesota Vikings
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The Pick: Marcus Peters, CB, Washington
Although the Minnesota Vikings have some important needs, they don’t have to force this pick. That’s why Washington’s Marcus Peters gets the nod. Pairing Peters with cornerback Xavier Rhodes would give the Vikings two of the most effective press cornerbacks in the league to build upon.
The Vikings would have to make sure that Peters is ready for an NFL lifestyle. His personality comes off as immature, and his dismissal from the Huskies program was a red flag. If he’s able to calm down a little during games and take to coaching, he could become an elite playmaker.
12. Cleveland Browns
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The Pick: DeVante Parker, WR, Louisville
With quarterback Johnny Manziel working to overcome his off-field issues, the Cleveland Browns can add a talent to help him improve on the field. Louisville receiver DeVante Parker would fit well into Cleveland’s motion offense that allows receivers to create after the catch.
Parker is clearly below the top two receivers for me, but he’s still a solid playmaker. He’d likely rotate as a starter right away for the Browns offense until he can replace Brian Hartline as an outside receiver.
13. New Orleans Saints
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The Pick: Bud Dupree, Edge, Kentucky
The New Orleans Saints’ rebuild is underway, even if quarterback Drew Brees is still on the team. For far too long this defense has lacked the talent needed to complement the offense. By taking edge-rusher Bud Dupree 13th overall, the Saints can get a good jump start on the process.
Dupree is a moldable piece of clay. He’s a terrific athlete that excels in space. His hand usage must improve as a pass-rusher, but he can fit as an edge-rusher or strong-side linebacker.
14. Miami Dolphins
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The Pick: Todd Gurley, RB, Georgia
There has been chatter linking the Miami Dolphins to Georgia running back Todd Gurley since the Senior Bowl. Despite running back Lamar Miller being very productive in 2014, the Dolphins seem to love Gurley enough to go best player available with the 14th overall pick.
Gurley is certainly a great talent. I don’t think he’s as freaky as Minnesota Vikings running back Adrian Peterson, but he plays like former St. Louis Rams and Atlanta Falcons back Steven Jackson. He’ll make a big impact if he can stay healthy.
15. San Francisco 49ers
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The Pick: Breshad Perriman, WR, UCF
The San Francisco 49ers have had a good receiving corps the last two seasons, but they’ve been without a No. 1 type. Central Florida receiver Breshad Perriman has that prototypical size, elite speed and ball skills to fill that role. He’s the best deep-ball receiver in the draft that I saw all season.
Perriman has the valuable ability to track passes downfield and pluck the ball out of the air at its highest point. Many receivers struggle to do this consistently, so it’s a standout skill.
There are concerns with Perriman’s consistency catching the ball. His drops certainly look like focus issues more than technique problems. When he’s getting targeted more often in the NFL, those focus issues shouldn’t be as big of an issue.
16. Houston Texans
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The Pick: Shane Ray, Edge, Missouri
Missouri edge-rusher Shane Ray takes a tumble in this scenario. Despite having a breakout 2014 season, Ray was really a one-hit wonder in college, and his combine sparks a lot of concerns whether he will translate to the NFL.
At the very worst, Ray should be a stellar sub-package player on passing downs. He jumps snaps extremely well and shows good finishing ability. The Texans would have a scary third-down package featuring Ray, edge-rusher Jadeveon Clowney and defensive end J.J. Watt.
17. San Diego Chargers
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The Pick: Melvin Gordon, RB, Wisconsin
Depending on what happens with quarterback Philip Rivers, the San Diego Chargers could quickly overhaul their offense. Assuming this pick stays with the Chargers, they should add an impact talent in the backfield. Wisconsin tailback Melvin Gordon certainly fits that description.
Gordon has insane short-area burst and change-of-direction ability. He also has the ideal frame for a running back, at a chiseled 6’1”, 215 pounds. His ability to shed tacklers and advance upfield really makes him a special prospect.
18. Kansas City Chiefs
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The Pick: Cameron Erving, C, Florida State
There are a few directions the Kansas City Chiefs could go with their first-round pick, but adding the draft’s best center prospect has to be very appealing. Florida State’s Cameron Erving moved from tackle to center mid-way through 2014, and he looked every bit like an elite player there.
Erving has great strength and athleticism at center. His intelligence was obvious as well, as the Seminoles offense really took off when he made the blitz pickup calls. He’s the ideal replacement for Rodney Hudson, who departed via free agency.
19. Cleveland Browns
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The Pick: Danny Shelton, DT, Washington
With the Browns’ second first-round pick, adding an impact defender would be wise. Cleveland’s defensive line was ravaged by injuries last year, and bolstering that unit with one more standout player could fill out the defense.
Washington’s Danny Shelton would be a great pick at No. 19. Shelton can play tackle or nose, and he could work in a rotation with end Billy Winn. His ability as a run defender would open up a lot of holes for the Browns linebackers, while his pass-rushing talent could be developed.
20. Philadelphia Eagles
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The Pick: Kevin Johnson, CB, Wake Forest
The secondary overhaul for the Philadelphia Eagles continues with the selection of Wake Forest cornerback Kevin Johnson. Paired with free-agent acquisition Byron Maxwell, the Eagles would suddenly have one of the more talented young duos in the league.
Johnson is experienced as an off-ball and on-ball cornerback. He’s added 15 pounds to his frame since the beginning of the 2014 season, so his physicality and ability to hold up against big receivers won’t be as much of a concern. He’s a true cover corner that can mirror receivers and compete at the catch point.
21. Cincinnati Bengals
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The Pick: Eddie Goldman, DT, Florida State
The Cincinnati Bengals have one of the stronger rosters in the NFL, but there has been a major weakness at the defensive tackle spot next to Geno Atkins. The duo of Domata Peko and Brandon Thompson has struggled to make an impact for the Bengals, so it’s time to upgrade.
Florida State’s Eddie Goldman is a big, stout run defender. He eats up double teams with great efficiency. His pass-rush skills are nearly nonexistent right now, but next to Atkins, that’s not the most pressing skill needed.
22. Pittsburgh Steelers
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The Pick: Landon Collins, SS, Alabama
With the career of legendary safety Troy Polamalu over, the Pittsburgh Steelers need to figure out a replacement plan. The Shamarko Thomas experiment hasn’t gone well, and the defense relies on an impact safety.
Since Landon Collins is on the board, the Steelers wouldn’t need to think twice before taking him. The Alabama product has the size, mindset and versatility to fit perfectly within the Steelers defense. He excels as an in-the-box defender but has coverage talent too.
Just don’t ask him to be a single-high safety, as he struggled there with the Crimson Tide.
23. Detroit Lions
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The Pick: D.J. Humphries, OT, Florida
For the Detroit Lions to reach the playoffs in 2015, the trench play must improve. Detroit’s anemic running game needs improvement, and by adding Florida’s D.J. Humphries, the Lions would be one step closer. Humphries is a great athlete with elite potential as a tackle.
After adding 22 pounds between the end of the 2014 season and the 2015 NFL combine, Humphries is more of a finished product as far as his physical upside. His natural strength despite playing underweight was evident, but now he could be dominant. Adding Humphries to the Lions would certainly boost their pass protection and run blocking.
24. Arizona Cardinals
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The Pick: Owamagbe Odighizuwa, Edge, UCLA
Arizona Cardinals general manager Steve Keim has done a great job building this roster in his tenure. The Cardinals have impressive depth and impact players. With the 24th overall pick, they can afford to take the best grade available.
Enter UCLA edge-rusher Owamagbe Odighizuwa to the mix and the defensive front seven will continue to thrive. Odighizuwa is a power-rusher that was misplaced as a block-eater in UCLA’s 3-4 front. The best role for Odighizuwa would be the strong-side outside linebacker in a 3-4, which the Cardinals can offer.
25. Carolina Panthers
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The Pick: Nelson Agholor, WR, USC
The Carolina Panthers have shown the tendency to go best-grade-available with their first-round pick in recent years. If USC dynamo receiver Nelson Agholor falls to the 25th pick, general manager Dave Gettleman would be wise to add Agholor to his team.
Agholor is a dangerous playmaker that would fit perfectly with receiver Kelvin Benjamin and quarterback Cam Newton. He can play in the slot or outside and can use his speed to take advantage of mismatches. His ability to create after the catch is special to watch, and it translates to punt returns as well.
26. Baltimore Ravens
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The Pick: Dorial Green-Beckham, WR, Missouri/Oklahoma
Former Missouri and Oklahoma receiver Dorial Green-Beckham is one of the most talented prospects in the draft, but his off-field history will narrow the amount of teams interested in him greatly. One team unlikely to be scared off is the Baltimore Ravens. The Ravens have a history of developing young players on and off the field into productive professionals.
If Green-Beckham pans out, the Ravens passing attack will be much improved. Quarterback Joe Flacco would love Green-Beckham’s huge catch radius and “my ball” mentality.
27. Dallas Cowboys
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The Pick: Byron Jones, CB, UConn
Connecticut cornerback Byron Jones has been shooting up draft boards since the NFL combine. His showing was absolutely fantastic, proving to be one of the rarest athletes ever at the event. On tape, Jones has yet to unlock that physical potential, and injuries kept him from playing any quality competition in 2014.
Jones has been linked to numerous teams in the NFC East, and the Dallas Cowboys look like a good fit. He needs some time to perfect his craft, as he plays high and doesn’t consistently break on the ball. But his tools are elite and worthy of this developmental investment.
28. Denver Broncos
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The Pick: Jake Fisher, OT, Oregon
The Denver Broncos have had an offseason filled with change. They’re now left with a major need at right tackle but must find an instant starter with the 28th overall pick. In this scenario, they get their man: Oregon tackle Jake Fisher.
Fisher is a tremendous athlete that every NFL team searches for. He’s not just about upside. though, as he’s started 35 games in his career and is ready to play tomorrow. His hand usage and efficiency as a pass-blocker will endear him to quarterback Peyton Manning quickly.
29. Indianapolis Colts
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The Pick: Eli Harold, Edge, Virginia
Despite being a playoff team the last two seasons, the Indianapolis Colts roster is relatively weak in comparison to other contenders. Their coaching staff has done a nice job to maximize the talent general manager Ryan Grigson has given to them. For the Colts to take the next step, they must find some impact players.
Virginia edge-rusher Eli Harold is a high-upside athlete with some solid pass-rusher skills. He has strong, violent hands that must be developed. He’s also fast enough to get around offensive lineman, but he needs technique work and to become more consistent.
At the end of the first round, Harold is a great risk. He has the talent to become a very good pass-rusher in a short time.
30. Green Bay Packers
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The Pick: Eric Kendricks, LB, UCLA
The Green Bay Packers purged their starting inside linebacker pair from 2014. This isn’t really a negative, but the moves left the Packers with a major need. If UCLA linebacker Eric Kendricks is on the board at No. 30 overall, this isn’t a tough choice.
Kendricks lacks ideal size, but he is a solid tackler nonetheless. His instincts and ability to read plays is what really stands out. Paired with great athleticism and coverage talent, he’s a three-down linebacker that can start Day 1.
31. New Orleans Saints
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The Pick: La’el Collins, OL, LSU
With the New Orleans Saints’ second first-round pick, it’s time to help quarterback Drew Brees. LSU offensive lineman La’el Collins is one of the nastier and more versatile players in the class, and the Saints would benefit from his presence at left guard.
Collins can play guard for the next year or two until Zach Strief is finished. At guard, Collins’ hand placement wouldn’t be as much of an issue, and he can develop his consistency as a pass-blocker. He’d thrive in the Saints’ power-run scheme, where he will be allowed to seek and destroy defenders.
32. New England Patriots
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The Pick: Trae Waynes, CB, Michigan State
The New England Patriots suffered a major loss when cornerback Darrelle Revis left the team. Even when his counterpart Brandon Browner departed, the Patriots all of a sudden found themselves lacking talent at corner.
Michigan State cornerback Trae Waynes would be a solid value at this point in the draft. Waynes was a combine darling after running a 4.31 40-yard dash, and the Patriots could allow him to play more Cover 3 than most teams. Waynes is tight in the hips and struggles covering inside routes, so he falls in this scenario because he’ll need an elite free safety to help him. The Patriots can offer that exact situation.
All stats used are from sports-reference.com.
Ian Wharton is an NFL Draft Featured Columnist for Bleacher Report.
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