2012 NFL Mock Draft: Full First Round Predictions

Week 7 of the NFL season is almost in the books, giving us a better look at the potential draft order. I used Matt Miller's Week 7 Power Rankings as the base for my projected draft order. Please, don't spend a ton of time debating the draft order, as it is only a prediction.

The 2012 NFL Draft will have several players capable changing a franchise, none more than Stanford's Andrew Luck. For the NFL teams out to a slow start, the hope of landing Andrew Luck is starting to consume the media.

Andrew Luck is definitely the prize of the 2012 draft, but there a lot of other talented players. Offensive tackles Matt Kalil and Jonathan Martin both have the potential to land inside the top five. Both players look like future Pro Bowl left tackles.

Defensively, this draft features three outstanding middle linebackers. Manti Te'o, Vontaze Burfict and Luke Kuechly could all immediately crack the starting lineup.

The deepest position might be cornerback, with the potential of six getting selected in the first round. LSU's Morris Claiborne is make a quick push up draft boards, potentially landing in the top 10.

Outside of Luck, the quarterback position has several intriguing prospects. Landry Jones, Matt Barkley and Robert Griffin III could all find a place in the 1st round.

The depth of the 2012 draft depends heavily on the decision of several underclassmen. My top 10 only features one senior; the rest are underclassmen.

No 1 Indianapolis Colts: Andrew Luck, Quarterback: Stanford

As much as I hate making this pick, I don't see a scenario where the Indianapolis Colts pass on their possible quarterback of the future. Stanford's Andrew Luck is head and shoulders above every other prospect in the 2012 NFL Draft.

Luck will give the Colts a clear succession plan when Peyton Manning decides to retire. Manning is a competitor, but I don't see him playing if his skills are starting to diminish. We could see Manning play another two or three years, then turn the keys over to Luck.

It will be painful to watch Andrew Luck sit on the bench for two years. However, the Colts need to be selfish and not think about what's best for the game.

I also feel that if the Colts think that Manning will be able to play for another four or five years, it could change the pick. Indianapolis could have to seriously consider whatever trade offers come their way.

No. 2 St. Louis Rams: Justin Blackmon, Wide Receiver: Oklahoma State

Last week, I had the St. Louis Rams selecting South Carolina's Alshon Jeffery. I still feel he is an option at this spot, but Oklahoma State's Justin Blackmon is making a move up the board. There is a difference between these two players. Jeffery is more of a possession receiver who uses his height and size to make plays. Blackmon tends to rely on his quickness and ability to stretch the field.

Blackmon's ability to make plays down the field is what gives him the advantage. He is someone that is capable of scoring from anywhere on the field. His explosiveness will strike fear into opposing defensive coordinators.

The Rams would benefit from adding a deep threat. This would open up the running game while taking pressure off the other receivers. Blackmon would immediately become Sam Bradford's favorite target. Adding Blackmon with the recently acquired Brandon Lloyd would greatly improve the Rams receiver corps.

No. 3 Miami Dolphins: Landry Jones, Quarterback: Oklahoma

Oklahoma's Landry Jones is a nice looking prospect, but not the Miami Dolphins' No. 1 target. If the Dolphins land Jones, it means that they were unable to draft Andrew Luck. Of all the teams in the top five, Miami is the most desperate to land Luck.

While Luck is the ideal pick, Jones is a nice consolation prize. He has all the physical skills needed to play quarterback in the NFL. Jones possesses a strong throwing arm, capable of making all the necessary throws. His passes arrive on target and with plenty of zip.

Jones has improved each season, mostly improving his accuracy. He is currently completing 68 percent of his throws, which shows more about his handle on the offense than his accuracy. However, looking at the game tape, it is easy to see he has good ball placement.

Miami needs to find some direction at quarterback. They will likely be breaking in a new coach, so they might as well break in a new quarterback.

No. 4 Kansas City Chiefs: Matt Kalil, Offensive Tackle: USC

This selection is as much about need as it is about best player available. The Kansas City Chiefs have a few needs, but finding a player worthy of the fourth overall pick is difficult. USC's Matt Kalil is an elite talent who will immediately upgrade the Chiefs offensive line.

Adding Kalil will allow them to shift Brandon Albert to the right tackle spot, a position that best fits his skill set. Kalil is an excellent player who excels in both the run and passing game. He has the ability to protect the quarterback. His quick feet allow him to reach the edge, stalling speed pass rushers.

In the running game, Kalil uses his leverage and strength to open running lanes. He is capable of generating a good push off the line while also engaging and turning the defender.

Kalil is a complete player who can start from day one.

No. 5 Denver Broncos: Quinton Coples, Defensive End: North Carolina

The Denver Broncos defensive line has registered two sacks this season, coming from Robert Ayers and Ryan McBean. John Fox wants to run a 4-3 scheme, which requires a strong pass rush from the front four. Elvis Dumervil is not built to play defensive end in a 4-3 system, likely making him an offseason trade chip.

North Carolina's Quinton Coples is the top pass rusher in the 2012 draft class. He has both the size and athletic ability to be an effective 4-3 defensive end. John Fox is very familiar with defensive ends out of North Carolina, as he coached Julius Peppers for many years.

Coples is not as polished as Peppers was when he was drafted, but he has a ton of potential. His quick burst off the line allows him to attack the edge and create pressure. He also has the balance to employ several counter moves.

The combination of Coples and Von Miller would provide Denver with a deadly pass rush.

No. 6 Arizona Cardinals: Jonathan Martin, Offensive Tackle: Stanford

Stanford's Jonathan Martin is one of the premier offensive tackles eligible for the 2012 NFL draft. He is currently battling USC's Ryan Kalil to be the first offensive lineman selected. At this point, I have Kalil rated slightly higher than Martin.

The Arizona Cardinals made a major investment when they acquired Kevin Kolb. The early results are not great, but that might be due to the constant pressure. Kolb is consistently under duress, as Levi Brown and Brandon Keith struggle to protect the edge. The idea would be to slide Martin in at left tackle while moving Brown to the right side.

Martin's strength is his ability to protect the passer. He has good balance and quick feet, helping him counter all pass rushing moves. In the running game, Martin needs to do a better job keeping his leg drive. It also wouldn't hurt if he added some more lower body strength.

No. 7 Minnesota Vikings: Alshon Jeffery, Wide Receiver: South Carolina

The Minnesota Vikings would have loved to land one of the top offensive tackles. However, both Ryan Kalil and Jonathan Martin are off the board. This leaves wide receiver as their next biggest need. Luckily, South Carolina's Alshon Jeffery is still available and worthy of this selection.

Jeffery is in a tight race with Justin Blackmon to be the first wide out selected. Blackmon is the more explosive player, but can't match Jeffery's size. Jeffery is a big bodied target who does a great job blocking out the defender.

He is rarely out battled for a jump ball, due to his size and leaping ability. Jeffery will be a quarterback's best friend, as he can make plays on poorly thrown balls. His ability to make the tough catch will help the development of Christian Ponder.

No. 8 Seattle Seahawks: Matt Barkley, Quarterback: USC

I don't see USC's Matt Barkley has a top 10 talent. However, he is elevated because he plays the quarterback position. We have seen this many times in the past; a quarterback is overdrafted because of a need at the position.

The Seattle Seahawks have a major need at quarterback, making Barkley a likely selection. It helps that Barkley has a history with Pete Carroll, who recruited him to USC. In the past, Carroll has shown that he isn't afraid to acquire familiar players.

During the 2011 draft, Seattle showed that they are not afraid to overdraft a player based on need. They selected James Carpenter in the first round when everyone felt he belonged in the third round.

Barkley is a good prospect; he is very experienced and has had success. He doesn't possess an elite arm, but it is more than adequate. His best attribute is his leadership, as well as his accuracy.

No. 9 Cleveland Browns: Manti Te'o, Linebacker: Notre Dame

Notre Dame's Manti Te'o is the type of player who you plug in and play right away. He combines great athletic ability with a high football IQ. Te'o will be the leader of the Cleveland Browns defense for the next decade. I have him rated higher than Arizona State's Vontaze Burfict based on his leadership ability.

The Browns are in the beginning stages of transitioning to a 4-3 defense. Two major keys to this scheme is a strong defensive line and smart middle linebacker. Te'o is the middle linebacker needed to speed up Cleveland's rebuilding process.

Te'o has both excellent size and quickness. He is capable of covering a ton of ground, making plays sideline to sideline. His size and strength allow him to attack the line and hold at the point of attack. Te'o is also capable of dropping into coverage. He has a good feel for the routes developing around him while also possessing the burst to close on the ball.

No. 10 Jacksonville Jaguars: Morris Claiborne, Cornerback: LSU

The Jacksonville Jaguars are in need of playmakers on either side of the ball. I don't see any wide receivers available worthy of the 10th overall selection. If either Justin Blackmon or Alshon Jeffery falls to this spot, they would be the pick.

LSU's Morris Claiborne is a special player who is making a push up draft boards. He has excellent cover skills while also possessing the ball skills necessary to create turnovers. Claiborne's ability to break on the ball makes him a constant interception threat.

Jacksonville's cornerbacks are solid, but neither are top level players. Rashean Mathis was once a very good player, but is starting to show signs of aging. He also has a high salary, putting him on alert to be an offseason cap causality.

No. 11 Carolina Panthers: Brandon Thompson, Defensive Tackle: Clemson

The Carolina Panthers are another team who could be targeting a playmaking wide receiver. However, they have enough holes to go best player available. At this point, Clemson's Brandon Thompson represents both great value and fills a need.

Carolina utilized two 2011 draft picks to select Terrell McClain and Sione Fua. Both rookies currently make up the starting defensive tackle tandem. Even with their presence, Brandon Thompson would still be a good selection.

NFL defensive lines are only as good as their depth. The defensive line is constantly rotated in order to keep players fresh. A three player rotation of Thompson, McClain and Fua would give the Panthers a talented trio.

Thompson is an exciting player who is strong against both the run and pass. His best attribute is his ability to collapse the pocket. He does a great job of rolling his hips into the offensive line and creating a push. Thompson is a very disruptive player.

No. 12 Chicago Bears: Riley Reiff, Offensive Tackle: Iowa

Iowa's Riley Reiff is sitting in a very good position. He is currently the third best offensive tackle prospect and possibly the last first round worthy left tackle. Reiff is going to be a very coveted player, even making a push for the top 10.

The left tackle position is one of the most important position in the NFL. This importance often pushes prospects up the draft board. I can see Reiff as someone a team trades up to acquire.

Offensive line play in Chicago has been terrible. The Chicago Bears are in desperate need of an upgrade at several positions along the offensive line. Their biggest need is at the left tackle position, where JaMarcus Webb has really struggled.

Reiff is an athletic player who is capable of protecting the quarterback. He is receiving excellent coaching at Iowa, who routinely produces technically sound offensive linemen.

No. 13 New York Jets: Trent Richardson, Running Back: Alabama

The New York Jets' offense is a complete mess, as they are struggling both running and passing the ball. Rex Ryan wants to "ground and pound," but doesn't have the horses to execute that game-plan. Shonn Greene has not been able to find his stride. As the season progresses, the running back position is becoming a bigger and bigger need.

Alabama's Trent Richardson is by far the top running back prospect, likely the only one to be selected in the first round. Richardson has a rare combination of power and speed, making him a complete running back. He is solidly built and is rarely brought down by the first tackler.

In order for the Jets to "ground and pound," they need to find a way to add a running back like Trent Richardson.

No. 14 Philadelphia Eagles: Vontaze Burfict, Linebacker: Arizona State

The Philadelphia's Eagles have a few needs, but none more pressing than at the linebacker position. Their current collection of starters are not players capable of consistently winning. This team needs a linebacker who can bring some attitude to the defense. They need a player capable of attacking the line, filling the hole and stopping the run.

Arizona State's Vontaze Burfict is a big, nasty and athletic middle linebacker. He excels at stepping up and stuffing the run. His quickness allows him to cover a lot of ground, making plays sideline to sideline. Burfict has some maturity concerns, but is too talented to fall past the Eagles.

No. 15 Washington Redskins: Robert Griffin III, Quarterback: Baylor

Baylor's Robert Griffin III is the most intriguing draft eligible player. He is a terrific athlete, who also possesses a strong throwing arm. Griffin III has world class speed, and until now, was seen as more of an athlete than a quarterback.

The success of Cam Newton has helped convince people that extremely athletic quarterbacks can be successful. More so, he has shown that it is possible to be successful despite not having experience in a pro style offense. Griffin III is not just an athlete, as he is a leader and quarterback.

Griffin III has taken a major step forward in his development as a quarterback. He is completing 78 percent of his passes while also attacking the deep part of the field. Griffin III is doing a great job protecting the football, only throwing two interceptions.

The Washington Redskins desperately need to find an upgrade at the quarterback position. Neither Rex Grossman or John Beck are capable of becoming a franchise quarterback. Mike Shanahan needs to find a talented quarterback he can mold into a star.

No. 16 Dallas Cowboys: Dre Kirkpatrick, Cornerback: Alabama

It will be interesting to see how the Dallas Cowboys finish their season. A terrible finish could lead to a change at quarterback. This pick is made with the assumption that Tony Romo will remain Dallas' starting quarterback.

In 2010, the Dallas secondary was one of the worst in the NFL. They have made some improvements, but are still in need of a talent upgrade. Dallas is also dealing with an aging Terence Newman, who is on the downside of his career.

Alabama's Dre Kirkpatrick would be a nice addition to the Dallas secondary. He is an athletic player, capable of playing tight coverage. Kirkpatrick plays with good balance, allowing him to explode out of his stance and break on the football.

No. 17 Tennessee Titans: Michael Floyd, Wide Receiver: Notre Dame

Outside of Chris Johnson and Kenny Britt, the Tennessee Titans lack a true playmaking threat. The injury to Britt only made this void more apparent. Tennessee is at the point where they are actually considering adding Terrell Owens.

Going forward, Tennessee needs to focus on bringing in a playmaking wide out. Kenny Britt will need time to recover from his injury and is always an off-the-field concern. Britt isn't someone this Titans team can count on, making this an even more pressing need.

Notre Dame's Michael Floyd would be a great addition to the Titans receiver corps. He has a good combination of size and speed. Floyd uses his size to block out the defender and attack the football. While Floyd isn't a burner, but he possesses enough speed to stretch the field.

No. 18 Cleveland Browns (from ATL): Cordy Glenn, Offensive Line: Georgia

The Cleveland Browns have had a disappointing start to the season. It appears they have more roster questions than answers. Last season, they were able to establish a strong running game, however this season has been a different story.

Some of the struggles running the ball can be attributed to Peyton Hills. However, the offensive line has not performed at a high level. Jason Pinkston, Shawn Lauvao and Tony Pashos could all be replaced. Cleveland wants to run a west coast type of offense, but also feature a strong running game. In order to run a that type of attack, Cleveland needs to upgrade their offensive line.

Georgia's Cordy Glenn would be a perfect fit in Cleveland. He is a versatile player, capable of playing guard or tackle. His versatility would allow Cleveland to keep their five best offensive linemen on the field. Glenn is a massive human, but also a fluid athlete. He will be able to immediately upgrade the Browns running and passing game.

No. 19 Cincinnati Bengals: Janoris Jenkins, Cornerback: North Alabama

The recent trade of Carson Palmer has put the Cincinnati Bengals in a good position. They have two first round picks, allowing them to address multiple needs. Cincinnati's roster is full of young talent, but they could use some help at cornerback.

Leon Hall is a stud, but they could use a young upgrade for Nate Clements. Clements is having a nice season, but his skills are declining.

North Alabama's Janoris Jenkins is a top 10 talent, but his character concerns are hurting his draft stock. Jenkins was kicked off the Florida football team for repeated issues with drugs. The Bengals have shown that that are not afraid to take a risk on a character concern.

Jenkins is a terrific athlete with a great feel for the game. He has excellent instincts, showing the ability to anticipate routes. His instincts are combined with a great short area burst. Jenkins is always a threat to come down with an interception.

No. 20 Pittsburgh Steelers: Alameda Ta'amu, Defensive Tackle: Washington

The Pittsburgh Steelers linebackers get all the glory, but nose tackle Casey Hampton is the key to their success. The 3-4 system requires a run stuffing nose tackle, capable of occupying blockers. Casey Hampton and fellow nose tackle Chris Hoke are both over 34 years old. The Steelers need to be concerned about finding a long term replacement.

Washington's Alameda Ta'amu is the top rated nose tackle in this draft class. He possesses good size and strength, showing the ability to occupy blockers. Ta'amu has some explosiveness to his game, as he is capable of creating a push on the pocket.

Adding Ta'amu would help the Steelers get younger, while also providing depth.

No. 21 San Diego Chargers: Ronnell Lewis, Linebacker: Oklahoma

The San Diego Chargers will likely be looking to bolster their pass rush. Larry English is in his third year and has only registered a total of seven sacks. English was expected to be a pass rushing force, but is on the verge of being labeled a bust. He lost the starting job to Travis LaBoy.

Oklahoma's Ronnell Lewis will likely be the first 3-4 edge rusher selected in the 2012 draft. He is having a terrific season for the Oklahoma Sooners. His ability to attack the edge has put him in the first round discussion.

Lewis has a quick first step and excellent short area burst. He is a constant threat to reach the edge and pressure the quarterback. At Oklahoma, Lewis typically lines up at defensive, but will need to move to linebacker in the NFL.

No. 22 Tampa Bay Buccaneers: Alfonzo Dennard, Cornerback: Nebraska

The Tampa Bay Buccaneers continue to find ways to win despite their roster full of youth. This team remains one of the youngest groups in the NFL. They appear to be set at most of the major positions, with only a few spots lacking youthful talent.

Cornerback is one of the positions that needs to be addressed. They have talent at the position, but also possess some question marks. The current starters Ronde Barber and Aqib Talib, both have uncertain futures. Barber is 36 years old and on the downside of his career, there is no telling how many years he has left.

Opposite Barber is the troubled Aqib Talib. Talib has had more than his share of off the field issues, which could result in a suspension. The uncertainty at the position makes it an area of concern.

Nebraska's Alfonzo Dennard is one of the top cornerbacks in the 2012 draft class. He has seen his stock slip a little due to a string of injuries. However, he still possesses the talent to be a lock-down defender. Dennard likes to play a physical brand of football, specializing in bump and run coverage.

No. 23 Cincinnati Bengals (from OAK): Jeff Fuller, Wide Receiver: Texas A&M

The Cincinnati Bengals roster is full of young talent. This talent makes it tough to identify a major need on their roster. However, it would be a good move to add more playmakers around quarterback Andy Dalton. The rookie quarterback has shown a lot of promise so far this season.

Dalton has built a strong relationship with fellow rookie A.J. Green, but this is something opposing defense will key on. Cincinnati needs to bring in another receiver capable of drawing attention away from Green. Adding one more receiver to this offense would give them a very talented core group.

Texas A&M's Jeff Fuller has the ability to complement A.J. Green. He is a bigger target who can also stretch the field. Fuller's biggest strength is his ability to control his body and make catches in traffic. A receiving corps of A.J. Green, Fuller, Jordan Shipley and Jermaine Gresham has potential to do special things.

No. 24 New York Giants: Luke Kuechly, Linebacker: Boston College

Boston College's Luke Kuechly is a very talented linebacker who could potentially go much higher. He is a very instinctual player, as he is always in the best position to make a play. Kuechly isn't the quickest player on the field, but he has more than enough speed to cover sideline to sideline.

Kuechly is not only a good football player; he is also an exceptional leader. His ability to read an offense will allow him to put his teammates in good position. Kuechly is the type of player you want leading your defense.

The New York Giants have been searching for a middle linebacker since the retirement of Antonio Pierce. They currently are starting rookie Greg Jones, who is a better fit in a rotation. Even if Jones develops into a long term option, Kuechly could be used on the outside.

No. 25 Houston Texans: Dwayne Allen, Tight End: Clemson

The Houston Texans need to bring in a few more offensive playmakers. Andre Johnson is a great wide out, but has had some trouble staying healthy. This is the second straight season where Johnson was forced to miss a few games.

With Johnson out of the lineup, Houston is forced to rely on Kevin Walter and Jacoby Jones. These two receivers are decent players, but neither are consistent playmakers. Even with Johnson healthy, Houston could use someone to draw double teams away from Johnson.

At this point in the mock, there isn't a wide receiver worthy of the 25th selection. However, Clemson's Dwayne Allen would represent an upgrade at the tight end position. Allen is a well rounded football player, capable of contributing in both the running and passing game.

Allen would be an upgrade over Owen Daniels, who has struggled to return to form after a major knee injury. Quarterback Matt Shaub would quickly learn to appreciate the talents of Dwayne Allen.

No. 26 Buffalo Bills: Bruce Irvin, Linebacker: West Virginia

The Buffalo Bills desperately need to find someone capable of creating pressure on the quarterback. As a team, Buffalo has only registered four total sacks. The lack of a pass rush has impacted the effectiveness of the Bills defense.

Despite their good start, Buffalo will not be able to sustain success unless they develop a pass rush. An explosive offense can only carry you so far. Shawn Merriman and Chris Kelsay are not the long term solution.

West Virginia's Bruce Irvin is one of the premier pass rushers in all of college football. He is extremely explosive, possessing the ability to quickly get off the ball. His ability to explode out of his stance allows him to attack the edge.

Irvin is still developing a feel for the game, likely needing some extra coaching. He will remind a lot of Bills fans of Aaron Maybin, which isn't a name they want to hear. However, that failed pick cannot keep the Bills from adding a potentially great pass rusher.

No. 27 New England Patriots (from NO): David DeCastro, Offensive Guard: Stanford

Bill Belichick and the New England Patriots know the value of having a strong offensive line. They have used first round draft picks on current starters Logan Mankins and Nate Solder. Belichick isn't afraid to make the unsexy pick.

Stanford's David DeCastro is an excellent football player, and worthy of a first round selection. He has proven to be one of the better interior offensive linemen in the country. His ability to both protect the passer and open running lanes will put him on many team's draft boards.

DeCastro plays the game with a lot of passion and discipline, making him a candidate to start early in his career. He would quickly become one of Bill Belichick's favorite players.

The interior of the Patriots offensive line is starting to age, with Brian Waters, Dan Connolly and Dan Koppen all over 30 years old. Koppen is currently out with a major injury, with his long term future a little in question.

No. 28 Baltimore Ravens: Courtney Upshaw, Linebacker: Alabama

The Baltimore Ravens will always rely on the strength of their defense. They have found years of success because of the way they play defense. I don't see that formula changing, even when we start to see a change in leadership.

This Ravens defense is dealing with some aging stars at the end of their careers. Ray Lewis and Ed Reed do not have many more season left. Baltimore needs to find some young talent to learn under these great players.

Alabama's Courtney Upshaw would be an ideal candidate to learn from Ray Lewis. He is a bigger linebacker, who possesses excellent quickness. His ability to play the run is something you want to see from a linebacker. Upshaw is also very versatile, capable of playing several positions.

Upshaw can potentially play all four linebacker positions, as well as line up on the defensive line. His versatility would allow him to see early playing time.

No. 29 Detroit Lions: Stephen Gilmore, Cornerback: South Carolina

The Detroit Lions are playing some great football, especially on the defensive side of the ball. Detroit's defensive success is tied to the defensive line. This unit does a great job getting into the backfield, disrupting the timing of the offense.

While the defense has played well, they still need to upgrade the cornerback position. Chris Houston and Eric Wright are serviceable, but are not guys you want to leave on an island. Both have appeared to play better than they actually have, thanks to the pressure created by the front four.

South Carolina's Stephen Gilmore is an excellent cover guy who also possesses good ball skills. Gilmore is still developing, but has tremendous upside. He has the potential to develop into someone capable of locking down an opponents top target.

No. 30 San Francisco 49ers: Jayron Hosley, Cornerback: Virginia Tech

The San Francisco 49ers are winning football games because of their defense and ball control. This defensive unit has done a great job stuffing the run, allowing only 74 rushing yards per game. However, they haven't been nearly as good stopping the pass. The secondary is allowing 261 passing yard per game, something that needs to improve.

Current starters Carlos Rogers and Tarell Brown are not the long term answer at the position. Each have their strengths, but neither have a lot of potential.

Jayron Hosley is an extremely athletic and quick cornerback. He has great ball skills, recording 12 career interceptions. Hosley uses his instincts to break on the football and make a play. His short area burst is what allows him to close quick enough to create turnovers.

No. 31 New England Patriots: Brandon Jenkins, Defensive End/Linebacker- FSU

The New England Patriots have adjusted their defensive alignment to fit their personal, with their base defense being a 4-3. However, I feel the future of this Patriots defense still is based off the 3-4 system. Bill Belichick will need to use his many draft picks to find players to fit that scheme.

New England's biggest need is at the outside linebacker position, where they need to add a pass rushing threat. Starters Dane Fletcher and Rob Ninkovich don't possess the quickness to consistently attack the edge.

Florida State's Brandon Jenkins is among the outside linebackers in the first round discussion. He is an explosive player who specializes at creating pressure off the edge. Jenkins' future appears to be at the outside linebacker position, as he is under-sized for a defensive end.

No. 32 Green Bay Packers: Kendall Reyes, Defensive Tackle: Connecticut

The Green Bay Packers are not suffering from a Super Bowl hangover, starting the season an impressive 6-0. Aaron Rodgers gets a lot of the attention, but they wouldn't have won a championship without the play of the defense.

However, the defense has not played very well this season. This unit could use someone else to rush the passer, but they also need help at the 5-technique. Ryan Pickett and Jarius Wynn both could find themselves out of the rotation next season.

Kendall Reyes is an impressive football player, capable of playing a few positions. He has the quickness to get off the ball and penetrate the pocket. However, he also has the strength to hold at the point of attack and play two gap football. Reyes would be a good fit as a 5-technique as someone who could get after the quarterback but also stuff the run.