2012 NFL Mock Draft: Full First-Round Predictions

The NFL has reached the midpoint of the season and we are getting a clearer picture of the potential NFL draft order. Of course, the final order won't be determined until the last week of the season, but we have whittled down the candidates for the top selection.

Stanford's Andrew Luck is the prize of this draft class. He has received a ton of hype, more than I have ever seen in my lifetime. It is so strange that some fans are actually hoping their favorite team doesn't win a game. Honestly, Luck is the type of prospect who could change the future for one franchise.

Outside of Luck, finding players capable of changing a franchise is difficult. The other top prospects all have some question marks. However, Matt Kalil and Jonathan Martin have the potential to develop into All-Pro left tackles.

The quarterback class is pretty deep; we could see three selected in the top 10. Landry Jones and Matt Barkley are in a battle to be the second quarterback selected. While Jones and Barkley possess talent, neither is a surefire prospect.

Teams searching for a middle linebacker will have three very good options: Manti Te'o, Vontaze Burfict and Luke Kueckly. Each of these players could start from Day One.

No. 1 Miami Dolphins: Andrew Luck, Quarterback (Stanford)

There isn't a team in the NFL that needs Stanford's Andrew Luck more than the Miami Dolphins. The addition of Luck would not only improve the play on the field, but also the morale of the fan base. This season has been a complete disaster; this franchise needs a reason for optimism.

Next season, the Dolphins will be breaking in both a new quarterback and new coaching staff. Tony Sparano and Chad Henne have worn out their welcome and likely don't trust the Dolphins' management.

This negative feeling surrounding the franchise could easily be erased with the addition of Luck and a high profile coach.

In order to land a high-profile coach, Miami needs to land the top overall pick. The majority of top-level coaches would welcome the opportunity to work with Andrew Luck.

No. 2 Indianapolis Colts: Matt Kalil, Offensive Tackle (USC)

In my opinion, the Indianapolis Colts will only draft a quarterback if they land the top overall pick. Andrew Luck is head and shoulders above the other quarterback prospects, and the only one you would take to sit behind Peyton Manning.

I feel that the Colts need to trade down and pick up extra picks. This team has many holes that need to be filled.

However, I don't get involved with trades in my mock drafts, leaving the Colts to make this selection. USC's Matt Kalil would be a wise choice. He would immediately start at left tackle, allowing Anthony Castonzo to move to right tackle, improving two positions.

If the Colts are going to stick with Peyton Manning, they need to ensure he is protected. Kalil is an excellent pass blocker, thanks to his balance and quick feet.

No. 3 Denver Broncos: Landry Jones, Quarterback (Oklahoma)

This pick is sure to entice a reaction from the loyal Tim Tebow fans, but the fact is Tebow is not playing good football. Tebow's poor play, lack of development and lack of confidence from John Fox is going to lead to a change in direction.

The best way to squash the Tebow hype is by selecting your quarterback of the future.

Oklahoma's Landry Jones appears on track to be the second quarterback selected in the 2012 draft. Jones has the ability to deliver the ball with accuracy and a ton of zip. His on the field experience will also play a role in his draft position.

If Tebow starts to show some promise, Denver will turn their attention to the defensive side of the ball. Defensively, this team still has a ton of holes to fill.

No. 4 St. Louis Rams: Justin Blackmon, Wide Receiver (Oklahoma State)

As disappointing as this season has been, I still feel the St. Louis Rams have a bright future. Sam Bradford possesses the ability to be an elite quarterback; he just needs to be surrounded by more talent.

Oklahoma State's Justin Blackmon is the top wide receiver eligible for the 2012 draft. His explosiveness allows him to attack the deep part of the field. Blackmon is not only a deep threat, as he does a good job working the underneath routes.

St. Louis needs a playmaker like Justin Blackmon. He would open things up for the running game, as well as provide Bradford with an explosive playmaker. The combination of Blackmon and newly acquired Brandon Lloyd would significantly improve the Rams offensive attack.

No. 5 Arizona Cardinals: Jonathan Martin, Offensive Tackle (Stanford)

The Arizona Cardinals are another team that has severely disappointed. Their play has left this team in a bit of disarray. In the offseason, Arizona traded for Kevin Kolb to be their franchise, but things haven't gone as planned.  Kolb is still the quarterback of the future in Arizona.

In order for Kolb to find success, he needs to be surrounded by talent. The biggest issue right now is the play of the offensive line. Levi Brown is not suited to play left tackle and needs to be shifted to the right side.

Stanford's Jonathan Martin would be the perfect replacement for Brown as the left tackle of the future.

Martin is a terrific athlete who excels at protecting the passer. His ability to protect the edge will be something Arizona will appreciate. The addition of Martin will improve both the left tackle and right tackle position, while providing Kolb with the time he needs to be effective.

No. 6 Seattle Seahawks: Matt Barkley, Quarterback (USC)

The Seattle Seahawks need to find their franchise quarterback; neither Tarvaris Jackson or Charlie Whitehurst are the answer. Every time you turn on the TV, you will hear about how the NFL is a quarterback-driven league, meaning a top-notch player is needed at this position.

USC's Matt Barkley is in a heated battle with Landry Jones to be the second quarterback selected in the 2012 draft. He doesn't possess the physical abilities of Jones, but he has played more consistent football. What Barkley lacks in physical abilities, he makes up for with his feel for the game.

Barkley's best attributes are his leadership abilities and experience in a pro style offense. He uses his knowledge and experience to quickly diagnosis post-snap information. His ability to read a defense helps him throw the ball with great anticipation.

No. 7 Minnesota Vikings: Riley Reiff, Offensive Tackle (Iowa)

The left tackle position is arguably the second most important position on the football field. He is responsible for protecting the quarterback, a team's most important asset. Teams lacking an elite left tackle struggle to find offensive consistency.

Iowa's Riley Reiff is currently the third rated offensive tackle eligible for the 2012 NFL draft, sitting behind Jonathan Martin and Matt Kalil. Reiff is in a very good position, as plenty of teams will be coveting his services. He comes out of an Iowa program known for their ability to produce technically sound offensive linemen. Reiff is not only technically sound, but also very athletic.

The Minnesota Vikings need to add either a left tackle or wide receiver. I feel their bigger need is at left tackle, making Reiff an excellent fit.

No. 8 Washington Redskins: Alshon Jeffery, Wide Receiver (South Carolina)

Unfortunately for the Washington Redskins, all of the top quarterback prospects are off the board. Finding a young franchise quarterback is the Redskins top need. However, I don't see another quarterback worthy of a top 10 selection.

Some will point to Baylor's Robert Griffin III as a possible top 10 pick, but I feel he needs another season in college. He is just scratching the surface of his abilities, which only will improve with more experience.

Outside of the need at quarterback, Washington could stand to improve their wide receiving corps. Santana Moss is the only true threat, and could use some help on the outside. South Carolina's Alshon Jeffery would be a great complement to Moss. He is more of a possession receiver, who uses his size to make plays.

No. 9 Cleveland Browns: Quinton Coples, Defensive End (North Carolina)

The Cleveland Browns have more than a few needs, which allows them to go after the best player available. However, I have a feeling they would love to continue to upgrade the defense, especially the defensive line. The Browns are still working on adding players to help with their transition to the 4-3 defense.

North Carolina's Quinton Coples would be a great addition to the Browns' defensive line. He would bring another player capable of creating pressure on the quarterback. Coples has the quick first step and burst needed to flatten out around the edge. He is a complete player, as he also does a good job playing the run.

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

The Jacksonville Jaguars have actually been playing some good football, especially on the defensive side of the ball. This unit has been responsible for the entire team's competitive play. However, they could still use some added talent.

Offensively, Jacksonville is at the mercy of rookie quarterback Blaine Gabbert and his development. They do need to had some help at wide receiver, but at this point nobody is worthy of the 10th pick. Jacksonville has enough holes that they could go with the best player available.

LSU's Morris Claiborne is one of the top players in this draft class. He is a fluid athlete, who always seems to make a big play. Claiborne's skills are still developing, but he is more than capable of making an instant impact.

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

Clemson's Brandon Thompson is still my pick for the Carolina Panthers. I have had him landing in this spot for the past several weeks. Thompson is an excellent defensive tackle prospect, but is unlikely to crack the top eight. However, I don't see him falling past the 15th pick.

Thompson has a lot of versatility, but his best attribute is his strength. He uses his strength, leverage and balance to create a push on the pocket. His ability to disrupt the timing of an offense is something every defense covets.

The defensive tackle rotation of Thompson, Sione Fua and Terrell McClain would provide the Panthers with a young core.

No. 12 Dallas Cowboys: Dre Kirkpatrick, Cornerback (Alabama)

The Dallas Cowboys' secondary is both aging and ineffective, making this a position of need. Terrence Newman is on the back end of his career and is no longer suited to match up with a team's top target. On the other side, Mike Jenkins continues to struggle remaining healthy. Even when Jenkins is in the lineup, he isn't playing at a very high level.

Alabama's Dre Kirkpatrick is the second-rated cornerback prospect on my draft board. He is terrific athlete who is only scratching the surface of his talents. Kirkpatrick is capable of playing in any system, but might be a better fit in a zone scheme. His strength is his ability to close on the football.

No. 13 San Diego Chargers: Courtney Upshaw, Linebacker (Alabama)

In my opinion, the Larry English era is over in San Diego, officially earning the bust label. English was expected to be a ferocious pass rusher and take over for Shawne Merriman. However, he has never lived up to those expectations.

San Diego needs to find another outside linebacker capable of creating pressure off the edge. They are currently counting on Travis Laboy and Shaun Phillips to create pressure. Laboy is nothing more than a rotational player and Phillips is constantly battling injuries.

Alabama's Courtney Upshaw would be a great addition to any defense. He is a versatile player, capable of stopping the run and creating pressure. His combination of size and athletic ability allows him to fit any number of roles.

No. 14 Tampa Bay Buccaneers: Vontaze Burfict, Linebacker (Arizona State)

The Tampa Buccaneers currently have 2011 draftee Mason Foster starting at middle linebacker. Foster has done a great job this season, but might be a better fit on the outside. Often times, the best draft strategy is to add versatile players. Foster's versatility will allow the Buccaneers to go in a few directions.

One direction could be adding Arizona State's Vontaze Burfict. The addition of Burfict would allow Foster to shift outside, improving two linebacker positions. At this point, Burfict would be considered a steal, as he is a top 10 talent.

Burfict is a big and nasty defensive player. He loves to deliver the big hit and is always pursuing the football. His motor skills and athletic ability allow him to cover a lot of ground, making plays sideline to sideline.

No. 15 Cincinnati Bengals (from OAK): Trent Richardson, Running Back (Alabama)

The Cincinnati Bengals and owner Mike Brown played the Carson Palmer situation perfectly. They waited until a team was desperate enough to offer them an incredible trade. This strategy landed the Bengals two high draft picks, including a first-rounder in 2012.

Cincinnati has a lot of young talent at core positions, but one spot that remains a question is running back. Cedric Benson has played good football, but his off the field issues make me very uneasy. The Bengals need to have a good running game to help the development of Andy Dalton.

Alabama's Trent Richardson is one of the most talented players in the country. However, running backs have a tendency to slip come draft day. Selecting Richardson with the 15th pick would be considered a major steal.

No. 16 Tennessee Titans: Manti Te'o, Linebacker (Notre Dame)

Barrett Ruud is a fine football player, but is only effective in certain situations. His limited size has an impact on his ability to make plays. He might benefit from a move outside, which would open a spot in the middle of the Tennessee Titans defense.

It is a hard thing for everyone to understand the strategy of drafting someone at a position that isn't a major need. However, some players are just too talented to pass up, and will improve the long-term future of a team.

Notre Dame's Manti Te'o is the type of player who can change the future of a team. He is not only a great player, but also an excellent leader. Te'o combines his athletic ability with a passion for the game. His ability to make plays sideline to sideline makes him a special player.

No. 17 New York Jets: Cordy Glenn, Offensive Line (Georgia)

The New York Jets want to play a physical style of football, especially on the offensive side. Rex Ryan constantly uses the phrase "ground and pound," which refers to his preference of running the football. However, New York is struggling to establish an effective rushing attack.

A lot of the rushing struggles can be placed on the offensive line. The right side of the Jets offensive line needs an infusion of youth and talent. Georiga's Cordy Glenn is one of the top offensive line prospects in the draft. He is the most versatile lineman, capable of playing guard or tackle.

Glenn could step in and start at either guard or right tackle from day one. His physical play would fit in with the way New York likes to play football.

No. 18 Chicago Bears: David DeCastro, Guard (Stanford)

The Chicago Bears biggest need is along the offensive line, basically every position could be upgraded. It appears that only Gabe Carimi is guaranteed a long-term starting position.

Ideally, Chicago would love to land a left tackle, as that is their biggest need. However, there isn't a left tackle available worthy of the 18th pick.

Stanford's David DeCastro is not a flashy player, but he is exactly what you look for in an interior lineman. DeCastro plays the game with a nasty streak and loves to run block. He is a good athlete who possesses a natural bend and a strong anchor. DeCastro is a plug-and play-prospect who will start from day one.

No. 19 Philadelphia Eagles: Luke Kuechly, Linebacker (Boston College)

The early struggles of the Philadelphia Eagles were blamed on the poor play of the offensive line and linebackers. Philadelphia struggled to protect Michael Vick, which resulted in inconsistently offensive production.

However, the play of the defense is what was the most concerning.

Philadelphia's linebacking corps took the majority of blame for the defensive struggles. This unit wasn't playing good football, especially when it came to stopping the run. However, the defensive scheme did really help the linebackers.

Boston College's Luke Kuechly is a very instinctual player, always in position to make a tackle. He uses his ability to read keys to quickly identify the developing play. Kuechly isn't an elite athlete but is quick enough to make plays from sideline to sideline. He would be an immediate starter in the Eagles linebacking corps.

No. 20 Cincinnati Bengals: Janoris Jenkins, Cornerback (North Alabama)

In my opinion, the Cincinnati Bengals have two major needs at cornerback and running back. Earlier in this mock, I had the Bengals select Alabama's Trent Richardson, which settles their need at running back. This is a good spot for Cincinnati to address the cornerback position.

North Alabama's Janoris Jenkins is a top 10 talent, who has dropped due to character concerns. Jenkins won't be a fit for every system, but could be great in a zone scheme. His strength is his ability to read a quarterback and jump routes. This ability makes Jenkins a threat to create a turnover.

Jenkins would be the long-term replacement for Jonathan Joseph, and would allow Nate Clements to work in the nickel package.

No. 21 Kansas City Chiefs: Alameda Ta'amu, Defensive Tackle (Washington)

One of the most underrated offseason moves was the Kansas City Chiefs' acquisition of nose tackle Kelly Gregg. Gregg has helped stabilize the defensive line with his ability to occupy blockers. His performance shows how important the nose tackle position is in a 3-4 system.

However, Gregg is 35 years old and doesn't have many years left.

Washington's Alameda Ta'amu is the top rated nose tackle in the draft. He is a massive player who excels at playing two-gap football. Ta'amu has the capability to step in and replace the aging Kelly Gregg. While he is a good run stuffer, Ta'amu also has the quickness to create a little bit of a pass rush. He boasts a very good short area burst.

No. 22 Cleveland Browns (from ATL): Michael Floyd, Wide Receiver (Notre Dame)

I am not sold on Colt McCoy as the Cleveland Browns quarterback of the future, but in order to make that determination he needs more weapons. The current receiving corps is not filled with talent, aside from the recently drafted Greg Little.

Adding more offensive weapons is going to be one of the main focuses of the Browns front office. Notre Dame's Michael Floyd has done a great job rebuilding his draft stock. He appears to be a lock to land in the first round. Floyd combines good size and quickness, which allows him to make plays on the football.

Floyd has the ability to step in and make an early impact. The combination of Floyd and Little would provide McCoy with the weapons needed to succeed.

No. 23 New England Patriots (from NO): Ronnell Lewis, Linebacker (Oklahoma)

The entire NFL is aware of the New England Patriots' defensive struggles, which has really lowered the expectations of this team. I put a lot of the blame on the Patriots offense, which isn't doing their defense any favors. They are constantly running a hurry-up attack, limiting the amount of rest for the defense. The offense's success also forces opponents try and keep pace.

However, this unit still needs help at more than a few positions. Ideally, Bill Belichick wants to run a 3-4 system, but he doesn't have the parts needed. The biggest need is at outside linebacker, where they need someone who can create pressure.

Oklahoma's Ronnell Lewis is quickly becoming the top rated rush linebacker. He is showing that he has the ability to attack the edge and create pressure. His addition would allow the Patriots to return to their 3-4 roots.

No. 24 Detroit Lions: Alfonzo Dennard, Cornerback (Nebraska)

The Detroit Lions are a team loaded with good young talent. This talent is on both sides of the ball, which is why they are contending for a playoff spot.

However, the defense could use an upgrade in the secondary. This team wants to be defensively dominant, thanks to the leadership of head coach Jim Schwartz.

Nebraska's Alfonzo Dennard is the type of physical player that Detroit is looking to add. He likes to get up on the line and disrupt the timing of the offense. Dennard isn't afraid to come up in run support; he actually enjoys the contact. This selection would greatly improve the back end of the Detroit defense.

I could see the Lions looking at the available offensive linemen, but cornerback might be the bigger need.

No. 25 Buffalo Bills: Mike Adams, Offensive Tackle (Ohio State)

Sorry Buffalo Bills fans, but I don't see your offensive line as a unit that can consistently help you win. This offensive line consists of several players playing out of position, but the left tackle spot has been a problem for some time. Buffalo has been searching for a good left tackle since the trade of Jason Peters.

Ohio State's Mike Adams is going to be a first-round selection in the 2012 draft. He is too talented of a player to not to be on more than a few teams' radars. His stock took a hit because of his early season suspension due to the selling of apparel.

However, since his return he has played the best football of his career. Adams has the skills to step in and start from day one. This addition would allow Chris Hairston to move back to right tackle, where he has a bright future.

No. 26 New York Giants: Dwayne Allen, Tight End (Clemson)

The New York Giants could address several different positions, as they have several holes. This offseason they were shocked when tight end Kevin Boss decided to sign with the Oakland Raiders. Jake Ballard and Travis Beckum have done a nice job filling in, but neither are the long-term answer.

Clemson's Dwayne Allen is the top tight end prospect on my draft board. He is the best all-around tight end, with the ability to block and attack the seam. Allen has excellent hands and always catches the ball at the highest point.

Allen's versatility makes him a great fit for the New York Giants. The Giants love to employ a balanced offensive attack. Allen's blocking ability makes him a three down player. 

No. 27 Houston Texans: Jeff Fuller, Wide Receiver (Texas A&M)

I firmly believe that the Houston Texans need to add some more offensive playmakers. This past offseason, they put most of their attention to adding defensive talent. Houston added players like Johnathan Joseph and J.J. Watt.

Texas A&M's Jeff Fuller is the type of wideout who could come in and make an instant impact. He would look good lining up opposite Andre Johnson. His ability to make the tough catch and work over the middle would fit in this offensive scheme.

Andre Johnson has struggled with nagging injuries, which has forced him to miss games the last two seasons. With Johnson out of the lineup, the Texans are forced to heavily feature the running game. Adding Fuller would provide some insurance in case of another Johnson injury.

No. 28 Baltimore Ravens: Zebrie Sanders, Offensive Tackle (Florida State)

The Baltimore Ravens offensive line strategy is very confusing, as they seem to not have a long-term plan. I understand they are in a "win now" mode, but bringing in Bryant McKinnie has only stunted the growth of Michael Oher. However, it might actually show that Baltimore doesn't see Oher as a legitimate left tackle option.

If Baltimore doesn't see Oher as a left tackle, it leaves this position as a major need. Bryant McKinnie only has a few years of decent football left in the tank. The left tackle position is too important to not have a long-term plan in place.

Florida State's Zebrie Sanders is going to be a prospect who sees his stock rise the closer we get to the draft. He is a very athletic offensive tackle, who projects as a left tackle in the NFL. Sanders hasn't received a lot of attention, but will be someone we all know come April.

No. 29 New England Patriots: Kendall Reyes, Defensive Tackle (Connecticut)

New England's uncertain defensive future means that they will likely target versatile players. No matter what defensive alignment the Patriots employ, they could use some defensive line help. Ideally, they would add a defensive tackle prospect who is capable of also playing the 5-technique.

Connecticut's Kendall Reyes is a good prospect who is capable of playing multiple positions. His ability to play two-gap football means that he is capable of lining up at the 5-technique. However, Reyes also has the quickness to play some 3-technique.

No. 30 San Francisco 49ers: Stephon Gilmore, Cornerback (South Carolina)

Some have argued that the San Francisco 49ers have the best defensive front seven in the entire NFL. They have definitely been playing some excellent football, leading this team to several wins. It appears that Jim Harbaugh wants to win football games by playing tough defense and avoiding mistakes.

This focus on defense means that San Francisco could target players on that side of the ball. South Carolina's Stephon Gilmore could be added to help improve the defensive secondary. The 49ers secondary needs an influx of talent, especially at the cornerback spot.

Gilmore would be a good replacement for Tarell Brown, and insurance if Carlos Rogers leaves in free agency. 

No. 31 Pittsburgh Steelers: Mark Barron, Safety (Alabama)

The Pittsburgh Steelers will likely use the draft to add some youth and talent to their defense. Pittsburgh will always be a team that inspires to play good defense. In order to ensure they remain a strong defensive team, the Steelers need to continue to bring in young talent.

Alabama's Mark Barron is a terrific football player, who possesses a ton of experience. Barron has been successful in the highly talented SEC. He is the type of safety who does most of his damage near the line of scrimmage. However, he does have the quickness to hold up in coverage.

Barron would be the long-term replacement for the aging Ryan Clark.

No. 32 Green Bay Packers: Jared Crick, Defensive Line (Nebraska)

The Green Bay Packers are not a team with a lot of needs. However, the defensive line could benefit from an infusion of talent. Neither Ryan Pickett or Jarius Wynn are top level players and would serve better as part of a rotation. Improving the defensive line would help the entire defense.

Nebraska's Jared Crick is a borderline first-round prospect, whose stock is declining. Crick recently suffered a season-ending injury, which will limit his opportunities to improve his draft position.

During his career, Crick has lined up at defensive tackle, but doesn't possess the bulk to play there in the NFL. His future is as a 5-technique in a 3-4 system.