2011 NFL Mock Draft: Matt Miller's 2-Rounder with Trades
In four weeks we will be done predicting the outcome of the 2011 NFL draft and instead focusing on the whos and wheres of the NFL's annual lottery.
Until then, let's have some fun with this thing.
It is nearly impossible to accurately predict what the 32 teams will choose to do on draft day, but we can at the minimum compile information, study team needs and schemes and then make a pretty good guess at who each team likes.
With just four weeks remaining we'll be bringing you a new mock draft every Monday morning, and then one more right before the draft on Thursday, April 28.
This week's mock draft shows, we hope, what we expect to be a flurry of activity at the end of the first round as teams try to move back into the top 32 picks for a chance to draft their quarterback of the future.
You might notice some players falling 10-15 picks. This is unfortunately inevitable once you lay out the board, assess team needs and look at value.
1. Carolina Panthers
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Cam Newton, Quarterback, Auburn
"And with the first overall pick in the 2011 NFL draft, the Carolina Panthers select..."
How that sentence ends is on everyone's mind right now. The Panthers have tons of needs on both sides of the ball.
New head coach Ron Rivera has said that 2010 second-round pick Jimmy Clausen is not guaranteed the starting spot at quarterback next fall, leaving open the possibility that the Panthers could draft a quarterback first overall.
The team has definite needs at almost every position, making this pick an educated guess at this point in the process. With so many needs, the Panthers can truly sit back and draft the player rated highest on their draft board.
In the end, we believe this pick will be Cam Newton whether the Panthers still hold the pick or not. Not necessarily because this is the pick we would make—it's not. Newton is ranked as our No. 16 player overall.
With so many needs this offseason and no pick in the second round, we fully expect Carolina to put the No. 1 overall pick up for a trade.
2. Denver Broncos
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Marcell Dareus, Defensive Tackle, Alabama
The Broncos are making a move back to the 4-3 defense under John Fox this year, leaving a big question mark at defensive tackle. The team moved last week to re-sign cornerback Champ Bailey, temporarily filling a need at cornerback.
This leaves Denver in position to draft Dareus, who will play next to Pro Bowler Elvis Dumervil in the four-man front.
This gives the Broncos a viable defensive line to build around and also will help pressure the quarterback and shorten the amount of time their patchwork secondary has to cover the defensive backfield.
Dareus has used the offseason to establish himself ahead of SEC rival Nick Fairley of Auburn. As the draft nears, it is becoming more likely that Dareus will be the first defensive tackle off the board.
3. Buffalo Bills
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Von Miller, Outside Linebacker, Texas A&M
Almost every mock draft we see has the Bills drafting a quarterback here. Why?
We believe in Ryan Fitzpatrick, especially if you give him an improved left tackle and a defense that can stop the run.
We also believe in Von Miller. A lot.
As our No. 2-rated player overall, Miller has an explosive skill set that reminds us of the late Derrick Thomas.
Miller is the draft's most explosive player. In the Bills' 3-4 scheme, he will team up with Shawne Merriman to give the Bills a fierce outside pass rush.
To compete in the AFC East, the Bills must be able to stop Tom Brady and Mark Sanchez. This is step one on their plan to take back the AFC.
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4. Cincinnati Bengals
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Blaine Gabbert, Quarterback, Missouri
Previous installations of our mock draft have seen the Bengals use this pick on a defensive end almost every time. Why the change?
The Bengals hopefully realize by now that Carson Palmer will never play for them again. Take a quick look at their roster and see what they have behind Palmer at quarterback. Jordan Palmer and Dan LeFevour.
While LeFevour could develop into a nice player, he's not there yet. Not even close.
Gabbert is the best quarterback in this class, in our opinion, when you combine current readiness and his potential to develop further in an NFL system.
Much like Sam Bradford last year there are questions about his arm strength and football IQ coming from a spread system at Missouri. While we don't think Gabbert is Bradford 2.0, he's still a very good prospect.
With no clear-cut franchise quarterback on the roster the Bengals cannot afford to not draft Gabbert.
5. Arizona Cardinals
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Robert Quinn, Outside Linebacker, North Carolina
Let's be honest here: the Cardinals will be livid if both Von Miller and Blaine Gabbert are off the board when they pick at No. 5.
We even considered predicting a trade here, but the inability to include players in trades currently eliminates the logic in trading the selection.
Arizona finds a very good consolation prize in Quinn.
While Von Miller is viewed as the best outside linebacker in this class, Quinn offers the best combination of skills. He is a bit raw after missing the 2010 season but his freakish athletic ability will make him a tough player to stop.
6. Cleveland Browns
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Julio Jones, Wide Receiver, Alabama
Surprised to not see A.J. Green here? After last week's mock, we went back to the drawing board and took at look at which player better fits the Browns West Coast offense under Pat Shurmur. The answer is Jones.
The Browns are facing an offseason in which they need to add targets for Colt McCoy and rebuild their defense while changing from a 3-4 to a 4-3 system. Oh, and they must replace Shaun Rogers after releasing him in a salary-cap move.
As Colt McCoy matures and becomes the Browns franchise quarterback, he will need receivers to grow with him. Cleveland could pull the trigger as early as Round 1 on a No. 1 receiver for McCoy.
7. San Francisco 49ers
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Patrick Peterson, Cornerback, LSU
The 49ers want to see Von Miller here, and would even consider Robert Quinn to play outside linebacker if he were still on the board. There are many very good prospects left that would fill a need in San Francisco. However, Trent Baalke and Jim Harbaugh simply cannot pass on the talent of Patrick Peterson.
The team has a giant need at quarterback but they do not seem to love Blaine Gabbert or Cam Newton, the only two passers worthy of a top-10 pick.
Peterson allows San Francisco the freedom to move Nate Clements to safety, keep him at left cornerback or even cut him in a salary-cap move.
Peterson is a lockdown corner who can have an immediate impact for the 49ers.
With 12 selections in the draft don't be surprised to see the 49ers move up to find their quarterback.
8. Tennessee Titans
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Nick Fairley, Defensive Tackle, Auburn
Do the Titans need a defensive tackle?
Yes, and no.
We like Jason Jones a lot, and Sen'Derrick Marks had a ton of potential as a young player. Tony Brown is a solid veteran and reliable player.
Notice that none of these players is a household name. Not one Pro Bowler in the group.
The Titans have a solid collection of players at defensive tackle, but no one who is going to take over a game or dominate the offensive line.
Nick Fairley can do this, and more.
His tenacity and aggressive style of play are a perfect fit in Tennessee.
Quarterback is the bigger need, but the Titans will not reach for Jake Locker here.
9. Dallas Cowboys
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Tyron Smith, Offensive Tackle, USC
We previously linked the Cowboys to Nebraska cornerback Prince Amukamara in this spot, but we're having a change of opinion regarding Dallas.
The Cowboys have two solid cornerbacks in Terence Newman and Mike Jenkins. Neither had a great 2010, but both can play well enough to not hurt the team. Newman is not a long-term fit in Rob Ryan's defense, but he is a better option than almost any other player available.
Where Dallas really needs help is at right tackle.
Marc Colombo is one of the nicest guys in the world, but he is not a starting right tackle.
Smith has started at right tackle for USC and has the strength to hold up against power rushers. He is also a very good athlete and can get out in front when run blocking.
10. San Diego Chargers (from Washington)
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Washington Trades No. 10 Pick to San Diego Chargers for Picks 18 and 50
Ryan Kerrigan, Outside Linebacker, Purdue
Why would San Diego give up a second-round pick to move up eight spots?
To get in front of the Houston Texans.
Kerrigan is the best remaining outside linebacker, and after him there is a significant drop-off in talent. The Chargers need to secure an edge rusher opposite the solid Shaun Phillips, and here they have.
The Redskins, with no third or fourth-round picks due to trades, will cherish picking up an extra second-rounder and also move back to a more acceptable slot for drafting a quarterback.
11. Houston Texans
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Prince Amukamara, Cornerback, Nebraska
The Texans would love to spend the No. 11 pick on an outside linebacker for their new 3-4 defense, but the Chargers ruined those plans.
Instead of reaching for Akeem Ayers or Brooks Reed Houston will look to fill a major need at cornerback.
2010 first-rounder Kareem Jackson was victimized as a rookie, in part due to a non-existent pass rush and poor safety help. Either way, Jackson is not a No. 1 cornerback.
Prince Amukamara is.
12. Minnesota Vikings
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Cameron Jordan, Defensive End, California
We do think the Vikings will be tempted by Jake Locker and Ryan Mallett, but in the end this is a Vikings team that is very close to contending for a playoff berth. A rookie quarterback is perhaps not as likely.
If we could predict trades of players this would be an ideal spot for Kevin Kolb, or a package deal to get Carson Palmer and draft picks from Cincinnati.
Until the CBA is renewed, that's not going to happen though.
With the No. 12 pick the Vikings draft a player who can help immediately in Cameron Jordan.
Other defensive ends will get more hype, but Jordan is the safest pick at end in the entire draft. His skill set is unbelievable.
13. Detroit Lions
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Anthony Castonzo, Offensive Tackle, Boston College
Jeff Backus turns 34 this season. Matthew Stafford's two seasons in the NFL have ended with injuries. Offensive tackle is a need here.
Lions fans will tell you they need to focus on defense in Round 1, but we disagree. They do need to add a cornerback and outside linebacker, but this can be done later on.
Grabbing a franchise left tackle must take precedence in a draft loaded with talent in Rounds 2 and 3.
Castonzo ranks as the best tackle on most draft boards. He's a solid, safe pick for the Lions.
14. St. Louis Rams
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A.J. Green, Wide Receiver, Georgia
Could A.J. Green fall this far on draft day?
Yes, definitely, but we think that would be a huge mistake.
Green ranks as the No. 1 wide receiver on our board, and the No. 6 player overall. So why is he being drafted midway through the first round?
Two teams in the top 10 (Cincinnati and Cleveland) will consider drafting a first-round receiver. Cincinnati will draft a quarterback before a wide receiver, leaving room for Green to fall if Cleveland does not draft him.
In St. Louis, Green would team up with smaller receivers Donnie Avery and Danny Amendola as the future of the Rams offense with quarterback Sam Bradford.
15. New England Patriots from Miami
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Miami Trades Picks 15 and 146 to New England Patriots for Picks 17 and 92
J.J. Watt, Defensive End, Wisconsin
The Patriots are always willing to move up and down the draft board to find the best player. Here the Patriots' sole purpose is to jump ahead of the Jacksonville Jaguars to secure J.J. Watt.
Miami, in turn, picks up much-needed extra picks after trading its second-round choice for Brandon Marshall last year.
Watt is one of the best players in this draft, and his fit as a 3-4 defensive end is amazing.
Watt will line up next to Vince Wilfork and opposite Marcus Stroud to give New England another impressive front three.
16. Jacksonville Jaguars
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Da'Quan Bowers, Defensive End, Clemson
Why is a player many rate as a top-five pick still on the board at No. 16?
A few reasons:
1. We rate Bowers as the No. 16 player overall, and have for quite some time.
2. Bowers may not be healthy after knee surgery and could require microfracture surgery.
3. It is very likely that many NFL teams have completely removed Bowers from their draft boards.
Drafting Bowers is a huge gamble, but it could pay off with Pro Bowl results if he can overcome the knee injury that slowed him down this offseason.
17. Miami Dolphins from New England
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Miami Trades Picks 15 and 146 to New England Patriots for Picks 17 and 92
Mark Ingram, Running Back, Alabama
The Dolphins are able to move back two spots, add an extra third-round pick and still get the guy they wanted all along.
Ronnie Brown and Ricky Williams will both enter free agency this offseason. The Dolphins are not expected to bring both back and could ultimately choose to start fresh at the position and let both leave. Whichever they decide, running back figures to be a key need for Miami in the draft.
We firmly believe Miami should and will trade this pick. With no second-round pick, it could trade back, pick up an extra selection in Round 2 and still grab a running back.
If you read our mock drafts each week, you may have noticed a back-and-forth here between Ingram and Illinois running back Mikel Leshoure. In the end, this will be a pick of preference by the Miami personnel department.
Our preference is Leshoure, but Ingram's pedigree and ties to the Dolphins will be hard to overlook when the Dolphins are on the clock.
18. Washington Redskins from San Diego
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Washington Trades No. 10 Pick to San Diego Chargers for Picks 18 and 50
Jake Locker, Quarterback, Washington
A comment we are sure to receive from our dedicated readers is that Jake Locker is a reach in the first round. It's hard to argue with that.
In a normal year with free agency before the draft, we doubt Locker would be taken in the top 20 picks. In the surreal offseason of 2011, it makes sense for Washington to lock up its quarterback of the future at No. 18, even if it is a reach.
We have heard over the years that unless you have a franchise quarterback on your roster, it is never too early to draft a player you believe in at the position. That statement rings true for Washington.
19. New York Giants
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Gabe Carimi, Offensive Tackle, Wisconsin
Injuries decimated the Giants offensive line this year, but this also exposed weaknesses and areas of need. No position needs more attention than offensive tackle.
Building depth at tackle is a need, but the Giants can also look for young players who can eventually start.
Carimi is slightly underrated by NFL analysts and TV scouts, but having seen him first-hand numerous times, it is hard to not be impressed with Carimi's ability on the blind side.
He is a dominant force in the run game and he has the tools to become an elite pass protector.
Doubt Carimi as a left tackle? Look at his stats against the best defensive ends in the Big Ten:
vs. Adrian Clayborn (Iowa): one solo tackle, one sack
vs. Ryan Kerrigan (Purdue): two solo tackles
vs. Cameron Heyward (Ohio State): two solo tackles
20. Tampa Bay Buccaneers
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Adrian Clayborn, Defensive End, Iowa
At one point this year, we had Adrian Clayborn rated as our No. 1 overall player. That was until he decided to play poorly down the stretch and cause many to question his work ethic and character. A dominant end in 2009, Clayborn was average in 2010.
When watching Clayborn on film, you can walk away amazed or disappointed. We believe teams will look hard enough at his 2009 film to be thoroughly impressed.
If you are running a 4-3 defense, you have to consider Clayborn among the best defensive ends in the class.
Clayborn has a chance to redeem himself with a strong pre-draft workout, causing teams with a need for an outside pass rush to take a look at him late in the first round.
21. Kansas City Chiefs
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Phil Taylor, Defensive Tackle, Baylor
The popular mock draft choice for Kansas City is an outside linebacker, or maybe even a wide receiver. We're convinced the Chiefs will wait for both.
Opposite Tamba Hali, the Chiefs need an outside linebacker who can drop into coverage. None of the linebackers available can do this, except maybe Akeem Ayers, who would be a reach here.
At wide receiver, Kansas City would be reaching to draft any of the available guys.
Taylor, on the other hand, is a safe pick. Scott Pioli helped build the New England Patriots defense and knows how important a big, strong nose tackle is.
22. Indianapolis Colts
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Nate Solder, Offensive Tackle, Colorado
Peyton Manning had to feel a little human this season after being beaten into the turf by the Chargers and then the Cowboys.
Even in the playoffs, Manning looked rushed, rattled and scared in the pocket. We can hardly blame him after looking at how terrible the Colts offensive line was this year.
Solder is an elite athlete for a left tackle, a must in the Colts zone-blocking scheme. He has long arms, a big frame and the footwork to get to the second level and pull on screens and stretch plays.
Solder is rated by almost all draft experts as a late first-round pick. He is a solid tackle with good athleticism, great size and excellent length. He shows ability to play in the NFL as a rookie.
23. Philadelphia Eagles
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Corey Liuget, Defensive Tackle, Illinois
The Eagles have needs at outside linebacker, cornerback and defensive tackle. Any of these three could be addressed in the first round.
Liuget's name has been skyrocketing up draft boards since the end of the college football season.
His potential as a 3-technique defensive tackle is unlimited.
As the Eagles look to replace/upgrade over Mike Patterson, Liuget will become a fan favorite in Philly.
24. New Orleans Saints
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Aldon Smith, Defensive End, Missouri
Smith is normally projected as an outside linebacker for a 3-4 scheme, but we love his ability as a pure pass rusher from a 4-3 defensive end position.
Smith has experience with his hand in the dirt, not dropping back into coverage.
Given the task of attacking the quarterback every down, he could excel. Playing next to big tackles Shaun Rogers and Sedrick Ellis will not hurt, either.
25. Seattle Seahawks
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Mike Pouncey, Offensive Guard, Florida
ProFootballTalk.com published a report on April 1 that quoted the Seahawks general manager John Schneider as saying, “Well, starting any organization or any football team I think you have to look at both sides of your line,” when asked what his biggest priorities are on ESPN Radio. “So I would say offensive, defensive line are priorities for us, no question. But we're looking for depth at every position. But I think it starts on both sides of the ball.”
Pouncey is the best available lineman on offense or defense, and his versatility as a guard/center makes him an even more valuable player for the Seahawks.
26. Baltimore Ravens
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Jimmy Smith, Cornerback, Colorado
The Ravens have one of the slowest receiving crews in the NFL and would jump at the chance to add a burner to play opposite Anquan Boldin, but no player on the board is worth a late first-round pick.
Smith has the talent of a top-15 pick, but the attitude of a late-rounder. Like so many players before him Smith has let his mouth hurt his draft stock in the months leading up to the draft.
A strong enough locker room can control Smith. We figure Ray Lewis, Ed Reed, Haloti Ngata, Terrell Suggs and Anquan Boldin will keep him in check.
27. Atlanta Falcons
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Justin Houston, Defensive End, Georgia
Why would Atlanta draft a defensive end here instead of a wide receiver or tight end?
Need.
John Abraham had a great season in 2010, but he is only going to last another year or two at a high level.
Kroy Biermann has been good, but he is a situational player at best. Neither of the aforementioned ends offers help in stopping the run.
Houston is a freak of an athlete. He has the speed to be an true pass-rushing force off the edge.
28. Arizona Cardinals from New England
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New England Trades Pick 28 to Arizona for Picks 38, 103 and 2012 Fourth-Rounder
Christian Ponder, Quarterback, Florida State
Arizona knows it must find a starting quarterback in this draft.
The Cardinals narrowly missed out on Blaine Gabbert earlier in Round 1 and cannot afford to let another team trade up ahead of them in Round 2.
Pulling the trigger on a trade with New England guarantees the Cardinals will be able to draft the most NFL-ready passer in this class, Christian Ponder.
29. Chicago Bears
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Derek Sherrod, Offensive Tackle, Mississippi State
The Bears shocked everyone by making a run to the NFC championship game this past season. Had Jay Cutler not gone down to injury, the Bears had a chance to surprise people by appearing in the Super Bowl.
What does Chicago need to do to have a legitimate chance to play for the 2011 NFL championship? Adding a left tackle to protect Cutler and wide receivers who can get open are key to this offseason.
Sherrod is a left tackle by trade but has the strength to play on the right side in a zone-blocking system or West Coast offense. He is an underrated run-blocker, and in pass protection, he is NFL-ready.
30. Tennessee Titans from New York Jets
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New York Jets Trade Pick 30 to Tennessee for Picks for 39, 109 and 142
Ryan Mallett, Quarterback, Arkansas
For all the off-field issues, Mallett is still one hell of a quarterback when given time to throw. Tennessee has an underrated offensive line and will be able to protect the less-than-mobile Mallett.
We truly believe there are a few teams where Mallett could come in and perform very well. Tennessee is one of them.
Michael Roos and David Stewart can keep Mallett's jersey clean, Chris Johnson can give him relief in a strong running back and the combination of Green and Britt on the outside will allows the Titans to showcase the very strong arm of Mallett.
If you are a Titans fan, this has to excite you.
31. Pittsburgh Steelers
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Brandon Harris, Cornerback, Miami (FL)
The Steelers would love to find Derek Sherrod or Mike Pouncey on the board here, but with both gone Pittsburgh will look to shore up another weakness on an already-talented roster.
Cornerback has been a long-time weakness in Pittsburgh. Ike Taylor is the team's best cover man, but he enters free agency this year (if there is free agency).
Harris is an athletic cover man, but he is also aggressive in run support and has the speed to recover and run with the fastest receivers in the NFL.
32. Green Bay Packers
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Akeem Ayers, Outside Linebacker, UCLA
The Packers could easily go defensive end here, or even running back, but outside linebacker is the best value.
Many of you may wonder the Packers would pass on Brooks Reed for Akeem Ayers. The reason is because Brooks Reed is the same player, albeit less talented, as Clay Matthews.
In the Packers scheme they need an outside linebacker who can help in coverage, stop the run and rush the passer. That's Akeem Ayers' game.
33. New England Patriots from Carolina
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Brooks Reed, Outside Linebacker, Arizona
The NFL is a copycat league. It always has been.
In the 2009 NFL draft, the Green Bay Packers selected defensive lineman B.J. Raji and then picked up outside linebacker Clay Matthews later in Round 1. The two players eventually anchored a Packers defense that won the Super Bowl in 2010.
The Patriots picked up the draft's best 3-4 defensive end (J.J. Watt) earlier in Round 1. Now is their chance to draft a Clay Matthews clone in Brooks Reed.
New England manages to do this while picking up extra choices from Arizona, where it can begin adding to the offense.
34. San Francisco 49ers from Buffalo
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Buffalo Trades Pick 34 to San Francisco for Picks 45, 108 and 141
Andy Dalton, Quarterback, TCU
The 49ers added a key to the defense in Round 1, but now, they must focus on finding the perfect quarterback for Jim Harbaugh's West Coast offense.
Dalton is not a perfect quarterback, and for many systems, he would be a bad selection. However, in San Francisco, Harbaugh will be running a system based on timing and accuracy, Dalton's two biggest assets.
It is worth noting that new head coach Jim Harbaugh did not attend Cam Newton or Ryan Mallett's pro day workouts but did travel to see Dalton work out in person.
We normally predict Dalton to the 49ers with pick No. 45, but as we get closer to the draft it becomes less likely the underrated Dalton will be on the board that long.
35. Cincinnati Bengals
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Cameron Heyward, Defensive End, Ohio State
In the first round the Bengals added their franchise quarterback in Blaine Gabbert. Now they can focus on adding to a defense that needs an overhaul up front.
One bright spot on the roster is defensive end Carlos Dunlap. As the right end he's their pass rusher extraordinaire. The Bengals need a power end opposite him, though.
Heyward has the size of a defensive tackle with the speed and agility of an end. He'll be an instant fixture at left end in Cincinnati.
36. Denver Broncos
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Aaron Williams, Cornerback, Texas
Denver was able re-sign future Hall of Fame cornerback Champ Bailey before the lockout began. While this move brings good PR at a time when NFL news has not been optimistic, it is but a Band-Aid on the roster needs of the Broncos.
Bailey will turn 33 this summer and has regressed in recent years. He is still a good cornerback, but he is far from his days as an elite "shutdown" cornerback.
Williams will not be able to fill the hole left when Bailey does eventually retire, but he is a promising cornerback with great size and very good natural instincts. He would have a strong chance to start as a rookie at cornerback or free safety.
37. Cleveland Browns
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Muhammad Wilkerson, Defensive Tackle, Temple
In the first round Cleveland found its go-to receiver for quarterback Colt McCoy. Now it's time to fix a broken defense.
The Browns will move to a 4-3 scheme this year after playing in a 3-4 previously. This roster was built for the 3-4 and will require a complete re-build to play in the 4-3.
Starting the rebuilding process is Muhammad Wilkerson. A powerful defensive tackle, Wilkerson is a big body with surprising agility. He's the type of defensive tackle you build around.
38. New England Patiots from Arizona
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New England Trades Pick 28 to Arizona for Picks 38, 103 and 2012 Fourth-Round
Rodney Hudson, Guard/Center, Florida State
Bill Belichick has not historically drafted running backs high, especially after missing on Laurence Maroney. Danny Woodhead and BenJarvus Green-Ellis did a fine job, leading us to believe running back will be addressed later on.
Rodney Hudson fills two potential needs. He can step in and play guard or center immediately.
Hudson is an ideal replacement for free agent Logan Mankins at left guard. There is also the matter of replacing a retired Stephen Neal at right guard to address.
Hudson carries great value for the Patriots here.
39. New York Jets from Tennessee
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New York Jets Trade Pick 30 to Tennessee for Picks for 39, 109 and 142
Bruce Carter, Outside Linebacker, North Carolina
Had it not been for a torn ACL late in the 2010 season, Bruce Carter would have been a candidate for many teams picking in the middle of the first round.
The Jets may have to sit Carter for most, if not all, of the 2011 season but once healthy he will become a solid force at outside linebacker.
Carter, unlike most outside linebackers drafted for the 3-4 defense, is ready to step in as a cover man and pass rusher immediately.
40. Dallas Cowboys
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Rahim Moore, Free Safety, UCLA
The Cowboys focus in Round 2 to Round 7 will be on fixing a defense that gave up way too many points last year.
Step one is fixing a bad secondary.
With Rahim Moore patrolling the field at free safety Dallas cornerbacks will be able to make more plays in man coverage, and also be more confident in deep help.
By adding a solid free safety here Dallas' entire defense gets better.
41. Washington Redskins
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Torrey Smith, Wide Receiver, Maryland
Torrey Smith won't have to move far to play in the NFL.
The Maryland product will bring his track-star speed to the anemic Redskins offense, where he will team up with fellow rookie Jake Locker at quarterback.
In addition to 2010 first-rounder Trent Williams at tackle the Redskins have three solid pieces to an improving offense.
42. Houston Texans
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Sam Acho, Outside Linebacker, Texas
The Texans found their shutdown cornerback in Round 1. Now they must focus on adding an edge rusher for their 3-4 defense.
Acho, who played defensive end at Texas, is a wonderfully gifted athlete. He has the burst to jump into the backfield and make plays, and the athleticism to surprise NFL offensive tackles.
Acho, like Prince Amukamara in Round 1, will be an Opening Day starter.
43. Minnesota Vikings
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Colin Kaepernick, Quarterback, Nevada
Minnesota wisely waited until the second round to find its quarterback of the future.
In all likelihood the Vikings will pick up a veteran quarterback this offseason, perhaps Marc Bulger or Matt Leinart. Their plan should be to let the veteran play while grooming Kaepernick for a year or two. This method works. Ask Aaron Rodgers.
Minnesota is a great situation for Kaepernick. They have a dominating run game, good receivers and an offensive line that can protect a young quarterback. The defense is also capable of playing well.
In Kaepernick the Vikings have a Fran Tarkenton clone to build around for the next decade.
44. Detroit Lions
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Ras-I Dowling, Cornerback, Virginia
The Lions fixed their need for an offensive tackle in Round 1. Now they need to address needs across the board on defense.
Dowling's stock is soaring in our eyes. He's a physical cover man with the speed to turn and run, as well as the courage to help in run support. He is also the best defensive player on the board with pick No. 44 and brings great value.
45. Buffalo Bills from San Francisco
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Buffalo Trades Pick 34 to San Francisco for Picks 45, 108 and 141
Orlando Franklin, OT, Miami (FL)
The Bills grabbed a keystone to their defense in Round 1 with outside linebacker Von Miller. In Round 2 they find the bookend left tackle to anchor an impressive and young offensive line.
Franklin has the versatility to play guard or either tackle position, but we like his size, strength and agility combination protecting the blind side.
46. Denver Broncos from Miami
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Kyle Rudolph, Tight End, Notre Dame
Using the pick they received in exchange for wide receiver Brandon Marshall, the Broncos find a great threat for quarterbacks Kyle Orton and Tim Tebow.
Rudolph could be drafted in the first round based on pure talent, but two seasons of injuries could push him into the middle of Round 2. Wherever he is drafted, it is all but certain that Rudolph will be an impact player if healthy.
47. St. Louis Rams
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Jabaal Sheard, Defensive End, Pittsburgh
The Rams got lucky when A.J. Green fell to them in Round 1. Luck strikes again in Round 2 with the best of the second-tier pass rushers still on the board.
Sheard is a great athlete, and a surprisingly underrated player in this draft class. He could see himself sneak in to the late first round should there be an early run on defensive ends.
48. Oakland Raiders
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Danny Watkins, Offensive Guard, Baylor
The Raiders surprised everyone with a very good 2010 draft class. In 2011, they are off to a strong start with their first pick.
With Bruce Campbell expected to take over one starting spot, Ijalana could easily move in at left guard or right tackle during his rookie season.
Watkins could start at guard or tackle for Oakland, and replacing Robert Gallery with Watkins is an early option for the team.
49. Jacksonville Jaguars
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Curtis Brown, Cornerback, Texas
At some point in this draft, the Jaguars will need to add a young quarterback and at least one wide receiver, but first they must address the weak link on their roster: the secondary.
In Round 1, Jacksonville added a defensive end who has the potential to be the best in the draft. Here, they find a cover man who can lock down NFL receivers and create turnovers.
Adding a solid pass rush will make an immediate impact on the Jaguars defense. Grabbing an NFL-ready cornerback will help complete the puzzle.
50. Washington Redskins
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Washington Trades No. 10 Pick to San Diego Chargers for Picks 18 and 50
Mikel Leshoure, Running Back, Illinois
The Redskins have drafted wisely so far in our 2011 mock draft. By adding a quarterback and wide receiver already they can start filling needs on both offense and defense, or draft the best available player.
Leshoure ranks as a top-20 player on our board, but the lack of need for running backs will push him down when the actual draft takes place. His talent is unquestioned.
Leshoure will fill the void left by the expected departure of Clinton Portis, giving Washington a reliable three-down back.
51. Tampa Bay Buccaneers
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Martez Wilson, Inside Linebacker, Illinois
The Buccaneers defense is getting a massive overhaul via the draft this year.
Martez Wilson has first-round talent but is playing a position that is generally not drafted very high. While he could hear his name called anywhere from the middle of the first round on, we believe he will see a small drop down the board on draft day.
52. New York Giants
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Ryan Williams, Running Back, Virginia Tech
The Giants offseason will be dictated by running back Ahmad Bradshaw's 2011 status with the team.
If Bradshaw leaves, the Giants will need to move immediately to replace him.
Williams is not only a potential replacement for Ahmad Bradshaw, but he's a likely improvement over him. Where Bradshaw is solid and consistent, Williams has a breakaway ability unlike any player on the Giants roster.
53. Indianapolis Colts
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Stephen Paea, Defensive Tackle, Oregon State
Paea is a beast at the defensive tackle position. At only 300 pounds, he set the NFL combine record for bench press reps...with a damaged shoulder.
He'll sit out a few weeks while recovering from surgery, which could cause him to miss offseason workouts with teams before the draft.
Paea's stock may suffer because of this, but teams will wisely scoop him up if he starts to fall in Round 2.
54. Philadelphia Eagles
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Ben Ijalana, Offensive Guard, Villanova
The Eagles know they need to beef up their offensive and defensive lines through the draft this year. In Round 1 we saw them grab a dominating defender in Corey Liuget to anchor the defensive line.
Round 2 brings the Eagles Ben Ijalana, from local college Villanova. Ijalana is a road grader at guard, but he has the feet to move outside to tackle if needed.
We like him best at left guard, where he can pull and trap to set up the outside run game.
55. Kansas City Chiefs
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Randall Cobb, Wide Receiver, Kentucky
Kansas City looks set at receiver with Dwayne Bowe playing well this year. Depth is a concern here, as is finding a legitimate receiver to take pressure off Bowe.
Kansas City could also benefit from adding a slot receiver to open up the downfield passing game.
Cobb's ability as a slot receiver, return man and even a runner out of the backfield is exciting. He's a poor man's Percy Harvin, and a great fit in the Chiefs' explosive offense.
56. New Orleans Saints
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Marvin Austin, Defensive Tackle, North Carolina
The Saints offense is good enough to win another Super Bowl in 2011; it is their defense that will hold them back.
Marvin Austin will be brought in to rotate with Sedrick Ellis and recently signed Shaun Rogers. The three big men will give the Saints an excellent line of defenders to stop the run and attack the pocket in the offense-heavy NFC South.
57. Seattle Seahawks
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Marcus Cannon, Offensive Tackle, TCU
The Seahawks' plan of building up their offensive and defensive lines through the draft is working.
Cannon will step in immediately at right tackle, replacing free agent Sean Locklear from day one.
Seattle can now focus on finding a young quarterback to groom and building up talent in the secondary.
58. Baltimore Ravens
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Titus Young, Wide Receiver, Boise State
Looking for a steal or sleeper Rookie of the Year pick? Remember the name Titus Young.
Young is a dynamic return man, slot receiver and runner with the ball in his hands. Young's playmaking skills will be a welcome addition to the painfully slow Ravens receiving crew.
59. Atlanta Falcons
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Leonard Hankerson, Wide Receiver, Miami (Fla.)
Roddy White emerged as one of the NFL's best receivers during the 2010 season. What is more surprising is that White is doing so well without a legitimate threat opposite him.
Michael Jenkins has been average and inconsistent at times. We do like Harry Douglas in the slot, but Atlanta could look to upgrade over Jenkins in Rounds 1 or 2.
Hankerson is wildly talented, but he is also an inconsistent player who will drop easy passes and run sloppy routes. He'll need work, but he has the skills to be a very good NFL player.
60. New England Patriots
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James Brewer, Offensive Tackle, Indiana
James Brewer is built like a brick house.
At 6'6" and 323 lbs., he ran a quick 5.21 seconds in the 40-yard dash, proving he has the athleticism to survive as a right tackle in the NFL.
Brewer ranks as our No. 87th player overall, and the ninth offensive tackle, but we love his potential as a right tackle.
61. San Diego Chargers
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Christian Ballard, Defensive End, Iowa
Despite their record in 2010, the Chargers have one of the most talented rosters in the NFL, which makes their predictably slow start every season more puzzling.
With five of the first 96 picks, the Chargers can reload at their thin spots or use their extra picks as trade bait to secure more picks next year.
San Diego's 3-4 defense is only as good as the pressure it can place on the quarterback. The Chargers focus for 2011 will be adding pass rushers, as well as looking to get better at inside linebacker and defensive end.
Ballard carried a first-round grade on some boards after the college football season ended. His stock has cooled some since then but he is still a great value pick in the middle of Round 2.
Ballard has the agility of a defensive end and the size of a defensive tackle.
62. Chicago Bears
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Jon Baldwin, Wide Receiver, Pittsburgh
The Bears defense and running game are good enough to win a Super Bowl, but they had no passing attack in 2010 due in large part to the inability of their receivers to get open and to secure easy catches.
Jon Baldwin will come in and immediately challenge incumbents Johnny Knox and Earl Bennett for the No. 1 receiver position.
Give Jay Cutler a solid receiver, and you will see his production soar through the roof.
Baldwin has impressive talent, but his production has been so-so, and there are concerns about his attitude. We feel the Bears locker room is strong enough to keep a brash rookie in check.
63. Pittsburgh Steelers
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James Carpenter, Offensive Tackle, Alabama
The Steelers will be tempted to look at offensive guards and defensive linemen after filling their need at cornerback in Round 1. Instead they focus on the offensive line.
Pittsburgh has had a need at offensive tackle for the last five years and it has never drafted to fill the holes.
Instead of overpaying for Band-Aid solutions through free agency, Mike Tomlin and Co. draft a versatile lineman who can play right or left tackle.
64. Green Bay Packers
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Allen Bailey, Defensive End, Miami (FL)
The Packers must replace free agent Cullen Jenkins and recently arrested Johnny Jolly this offseason.
Mike Neal was drafted out of Purdue last year and can step in at one position, but he does not have the athletic ability to get upfield like Allen Bailey.
An incredible athlete for his size, Bailey will be an Opening Day starter for the Packers.
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