2012 NFL Mock Draft: Complete First Round Mock

This latest addition of my 2012 NFL Mock draft features several major changes. Some players have used a late season run to better their draft stock. USC's Matt Barkley might have done the best job improving his overall stock.

Barkley has all but solidified a spot in the top 10. However, Oklahoma's Landry Jones has seen his draft stock go in the opposite direction. He has gone from a potential top five pick, to falling out of the top ten. Jones needs to have a strong bowl game to repair his stock.

North Carolina's Zach Brown has also seen a major jump in his draft stock. I have him currently rated as my top outside linebacker prospect. Brown's versatility will make him an option for every NFL team. However, its his athleticism that will push him into the top half of the draft.

Alabama's Mark Barron also moves up, and could eventually find himself selected in the top 20.

No. 1 Indianapolis Colts- Andrew Luck, Quarterback- Stanford

The Indianapolis Colts need to figure out the long term future of the quarterback position. Peyton Manning's injury concerns make Stanford's Andrew Luck the obvious selection. Luck has franchise quarterback written all over him. He possesses both the physical tools and mental makeup to be an effective NFL quarterback.

Manning's injury has exposed the many weaknesses on this football team. It also emphasized the importance of having a top level quarterback. Indianapolis has an opportunity to sure up their quarterback position for the next 10+ years. Luck could either step in and start from day one, or spend a year learning behind Manning.

Indianapolis could also look to trade this pick, and the rights to Andrew Luck. A trade would bring the Colts a ton of assets. This would allow them to address other needs, and possibly add a quarterback later in the draft.

No. 2 St. Louis Rams- Jonathan Martin, Offensive Tackle- Stanford

Stanford's Jonathan Martin would be the ideal section for the St. Louis Rams. He is my top rated offensive tackle, an above average run and pass blocker. Martin will be able to come in and immediately help protect Sam Bradford.

St. Louis has an unexpected need at the tackle position. Recent draft picks, Jason Smith and Roger Saffold have struggled to effectively anchor the offensive line. Smith's health is a real concern, as he has missed significant time the past several years. The left tackle position is to important to have inconsistent play.

The Rams could also look to target a wide receiver. Oklahoma State's Justin Blackmon is my top rated wide receiver, but this might be a little high for him to come off the board.

No. 3 Minnesota Vikings- Matt Kalil, Offensive Tackle- USC

The Minnesota Vikings have a handful of needs, but adding a franchise left tackle is the biggest. USC's Matt Kalil has the potential to anchor the Vikings offensive line for the next decade. He possesses the size and athletic ability to protect the passer. Kalil is also an accomplished run blocker, who will help open holes for Adrian Peterson.

Minnesota's offensive line has allowed 34 sacks, a lot of those are on left tackle Charlie Johnson. Johnson is not suited to play left tackle in the NFL. He would be more valuable as a backup. Adding Kalil would allow the Vikings to immediately replace Johnson.

Oklahoma State's Justin Blackmon could also be an option with this pick. The Vikings are lacking offensive playmakers, especially at the wide receiver position. Their top target, Percy Harvin, is in and out of the lineup with migraine issues.

No. 4 Carolina Panthers- Justin Blackmon, Wide Receiver- Oklahoma State

Oklahoma State's Justin Blackmon is one of the more explosive players eligible for the 2012 draft. He would be a great young target for Cam Newton. Blackmon uses his size and quickness to attack the defense. He is capable of both stretching the field and making plays over the middle.

The Carolina Panthers invested a lot in Cam Newton, and need to surround him with the proper weapons. Steve Smith is still a very good receiver, but only has a few years left. Adding Blackmon would be a short term and long term investment.

LSU's Morris Claiborne would also be an option at this pick. He would help bolster the Panther's secondary, and bring more athleticism to the team. I feel that Claiborne is a better prospect than Blackmon, but wide receiver is a bigger need. They are ranked close enough that the Panthers can go need over value.

No. 5 Miami Dolphins- Matt Barkley, Quarterback- USC

The Miami Dolphins need to end their drought of successful quarterback play. USC's Matt Barkley has the potential to be an excellent NFL quarterback. He plays the game with a lot of moxy and feel. His ability to accurately deliver the football helps him efficiently move the offense. If not for Luck, Barkley would be in the discussion for the No. 1 overall pick.

Miami has yet to find a replacement for Dan Marino, who retired in 1999. Chad Henne and Matt Moore have only proven that they are not the long term answer. Neither have shown the potential to consistently win football games.

LSU's Morris Claiborne could be another potential option at this point. He would help improve a Dolphins secondary that is allowing 248 yards per game. Miami could also attempt to make a move for Andrew Luck. If the Colts are willing to move down, Miami will be one of the first ones to call.

No. 6 Jacksonville Jaguars- Morris Claiborne, Cornerback- LSU

LSU's Morris Claiborne will be a top 10 selection, and would be a great fit for the Jacksonville Jaguars. He is a versatile defensive back, who can fit any scheme. Claiborne's combination of instincts and quickness are what makes him a great talent.

The Jacksonville Jaguars are in need of playmakers. Their needs are limited to one position, which allows him to focus on best player available. Claiborne is actually a playmaker who fits a need. Rashean Mathis is rapidly aging, and shouldn't be considered a top cornerback.

Outside of Claiborne, Jacksonville could look to upgrade the receiver position. South Carolina's Alshon Jeffery would be a nice addition. His ability to attack the ball would help the development of Blaine Gabbert.

No. 7 Arizona Cardinals- Manti Te'o, Linebacker- Notre Dame

The Arizona Cardinals need to get tougher on defense, and that starts with adding more help at linebacker. Notre Dame's Manti Te'o would bring both toughness and leadership. He does a good job playing at the line of scrimmage and stuffing the run. Te'o also does a great job pursuing the football. He is just a playmaker, who is always around the football.

Darryl Washington is a promising young linebacker, but Arizona needs someone along side of him. Ideally they would like to add someone with more bulk and strength. Washington is only 230lbs, while Te'o is 255lbs. The addition of Te'o would immediately improve the Cardinals run defense.

Arizona also need to address the offensive line. They could reach and select Iowa's Riley Reiff, but Te'o represents more value.

No. 8 Kansas City Chiefs- Vontaze Burfict, Linebacker- Arizona State

Arizona State's Vontaze Burfict is a troubled but amazing football player. He would immediately upgrade the Kansas City Chiefs linebacker corps. His ability to attack the line of scrimmage, allows him to stuff the run. Burfict also possesses the speed to make plays from sideline to sideline.

Kansas City is allowing 133 rushing yards per game, which supports their need for a run stuffing linebacker. Burfict would lineup next to Derrick Johnson, to form one of the linebacking duos in the NFL. The linebacking corps would go from a weakness to a strength.

Burfict is a risky pick, because he has some character concerns. For every great play he makes, he seems to make a bonehead mistake. Burfict has tallied up several costly personal foul penalties, which boiled over in a game against California. In this game Burfict was benched for the final 24 minutes, after two costly penalties.

The NFL Draft often comes down to risk versus reward. Burfict has some risks, but could deliver a high reward.

No. 9 Washington Redskins- Robert Griffin III, Quarterback- Baylor

The Washington Redskins need to find their quarterback of the future somewhere in the 2012 draft. Baylor's Robert Griffin III would fit that category. Griffin III's athletic ability and developing quarterback skills make him a solid first round prospect. He can make all the necessary throws, as well as create with his legs. Griffin III has as much, if not more, potential than any other prospect in this draft.

Mike Shanahan needs to forget about John Beck and Rex Grossman. Both have proven that they are not starting NFL quarterbacks. Griffin III would provide Shanahan with a young quarterback he could develop. Adding Griffin III would immediately improve the Redskins offensive explosiveness.

Outside of Griffin III, Washington could consider Oklahoma's Landry Jones. Jones is another highly rated quarterback, who possesses a lot of upside. I also wouldn't rule out the Redskins as a possible trade partner for the Colts. Shanahan would love to get his hands on Andrew Luck.

No. 10 Cleveland Browns- Quinton Coples, Defensive End- North Carolina

North Carolina's Quinton Coples is the top defensive lineman in this draft class. He would be a great addition for the Cleveland Browns, who are in need of a pass rushing defensive end. Coples boasts a rare combination of size and quickness. This allows him to fire off the ball and create pressure off the edge.

Cleveland is in the early stages of their transition to a 4-3 defense. They still need several pieces to appropriately complete the transition. Coples would be a major piece to that puzzle. The front four of a 4-3 system needs to be able to create a pass rush. Coples has that ability to flatten around the edge and create pressure.

The Browns could also consider adding a wide receiver like South Carolina's Alshon Jeffery. However, I feel that they can add a wide receiver with their second 1st round pick.

No. 11 San Diego Chargers- Riley Reiff, Offensive Tackle- Iowa

The San Diego Chargers need to focus on upgraded their offensive tackle position. Iowa's Riley Reiff could immediately upgrade the Chargers offensive line. Reiff plays with good leverage and quickness. This allows him to both protect the passer and open running lanes. Reiff would be an ideal fit at left tackle, but could also line up on the right side.

Long-time starter, Marcus McNeil's neck injury might create some long term concerns. Without McNeil, the Chargers really struggle to protect Philip Rivers. Actually, even with McNeil the Chargers struggled to prevent pressure. Reiff would provide insurance for McNeil, while also improving the right side if McNeil is healthy.

San Diego could also look to add a linebacker capable of creating a pass rush. North Carolina's Zach Brown is someone who would be a potential fit. Brown has the quickness and tenacity to provide a

No. 12 Philadelphia Eagles- Luke Kuechly, Linebacker- Boston College

Boston College's Luke Kuechly is the fundamentally sound, instinctual player the Philadelphia Eagles need to add. He is constantly around the football, and rarely misses a tackle. Kuechly would make a major impact on the Eagles defense.

Philadelphia continues to prove why strong linebacker play is important. Teams need instinctual players who are capable of making plays. This defense has struggled because of missed tackles and players out of position. Kuechly's feel for the game and hustle fix a lot of the Eagles problems.

Outside of linebacker, the Eagles could look to upgrade the offensive line. They could target Georgia's Cordy Glenn, who would provide help at either guard or right tackle.

No. 13 Seattle Seahawks- Landry Jones, Quarterback- Oklahoma

The Seattle Seahawks need to find a difference maker at quarterback. Oklahoma's Landry Jones has the skills to make a ton of plays in the NFL. He possesses a strong arm, capable of attacking all levels of the field. Jones also has the balance and athleticism needed to avoid the pass rush.

Tarvaris Jackson has done some nice things, but just doesn't have that "it" factor. He is a game manager, but Seattle needs a difference maker. Jackson's presence would allow Jones to slowly transition to the NFL game. I feel that Jones would benefit from some time on the bench learning.

Depending on the outcome of Marshawn Lynch's free agency, Seattle could look to add a running back. Alabama's Trent Richardson could get some heavy consideration with that in mind.

No. 14 Tampa Bay Buccaneers- Dre Kirkpatrick, Cornerback- Alabama

Alabama's Dre Kirkpatrick is a gifted athlete, who would look good in a Tampa Bay Buccaneer's uniform. Kirkpatrick is a physical cornerback, who loves to play close to the line of scrimmage. He uses his long arms to deliver a jolt and disrupt the timing of the route. Kirkpatrick has the potential to develop into a terrific lockdown corner.

Tampa Bay needs to add some insurance at the cornerback position. Ronde Barber and Aqib Talib both have a cloudy future. Barber is 36 years old, and could possibly retire at the end of the season. While, Talib's off the field issues could result in a suspension.

This could be a landing spot for Penn State's Devon Still. Still is the most disruptive defensive tackle in the draft. He would provide the Buccaneers with some inside pressure and penetration. However, selecting Still would mean they have given up on Gerald McCoy.

No. 15 Buffalo Bills- Zach Brown, Linebacker- North Carolina

The Buffalo Bills defense has only complied 16 sacks this season. This makes adding a pass rushing linebacker a major need. North Carolina's Zach Brown has the potential to be a dynamic pass rusher. Brown has the quickness and tenacity needed to consistently make plays.

Buffalo's current outside linebacking tandem just doesn't create enough pressure. Combined Chris Kelsay and Spencer Johnson have 3 total sacks. Any team running a 3-4 defense expects their outside linebackers to set the edge and create pressure. Brown would be an immediate upgrade over both Kelsay and Johnson.

If Iowa's Riley Reiff falls to the Bills, he would force them to make a tough decision. Buffalo's offensive line is in desperate need of a left tackle.

No. 16 Tennessee Titans- Alshon Jeffery, Wide Receiver- South Carolina

South Carolina's Alshon Jeffery has the potential to be the most productive receiver in this draft class. He would be a great addition to the Tennessee Titans offense. His size and leaping ability help him attack the ball at its highest point. Jeffery is an excellent redzone target, and could put up double digit touchdowns early in his career.

Tennessee lacks consistent playmakers at the wide receiver position. They have Kenny Britt, who is talent but an off the field distraction. His troubles seem like a suspension waiting to happen. Outside of Britt, Damian Williams is the only one showing potential. Adding Jeffery would provide the Titans with a consistent playmaker. He would be someone the quarterbacks can count on.

The Titans could also look to upgrade the interior of the defensive line. Clemson's Brandon Thompson would remind some people of Albert Haynesworth.

No. 17 Denver Broncos- Trent Richardson, Running Back- Alabama

Alabama's Trent Richardson is the most complete running back to come around in years. He would immediately improve the Denver Broncos rushing attack. Richardson plays with great leverage, allowing him to gain yards after contact. He isn't only a power runner, as he also possesses excellent breakaway speed. Richardson has the potential to be the top player out of this draft class.

The Denver Broncos have done a good job running the football, but lack a truly dynamic running back. Willis McGahee is a nice complementary piece, but he has lost some of his explosiveness. If Denver is going to move forward with Tebow as their quarterback, they will need to add a top end running back. Richardson is the perfect back to complement Tebow's style of play.

Denver could also consider adding depth to the interior of their offensive line. Clemson's Brandon Thompson would be the ideal target in that scenario.

No. 18 New York Jets- Courtney Upshaw, Linebacker- Alabama

The New York Jets defense is successful when they get great linebacker play. The current starters are providing nothing more than average play. Alabama's Courtney Upshaw would be an upgrade at either of the linebacker positions. Upshaw is a well-rounded player, who has experience in a 3-4 system. His ability to set the edge and create pressure makes him an ideal fit for the Jets defense.

Bryan Thomas, Calvin Pace, Garrett McIntyre and Jamaal Westerman are all decent players but unspectacular. Combined they have compiled only 6.5 sacks, which is an unacceptable number. Upshaw could replace either of these four players.

New York could also consider adding depth to the offensive line. Georgia's Cordy Glenn would provide versatility and talent. Both guard and right tackle would be potential spots for Glenn. 

No. 19 New York Giants- David DeCastro, Guard- Stanford

Evaluating the New York Giants needs means you have to project which injured players will return next season. After that you see that this team needs to improve along the offensive line. Stanford's David DeCastro will be the first guard selected in April. He plays with great leverage and strength, allowing him to protect the passer and open running lanes.

New York's offensive line and rushing attack has been a real problem this season. The running lanes are just not developing as they did in the past. This has to do with aging/under performing veterans at the end of their careers. DeCastro instantly improves the Giants rushing attack, while also helping protect Eli.

Don't count out Wisconsin's Peter Konz, who would be a major upgrade over David Baas.

No. 20 Detroit Lions- Alfonzo Dennard, Cornerback- Nebraska

Nebraska's Alfonzo Dennard is an underrated but talented prospect. He lost some steam because of an early season injury, but he is one of the top corners in the draft. Dennard would provide the Detroit Lions with an upgrade at cornerback. He is a physical defender, who likes to play at the line of scrimmage. Dennard also has a quick break on the ball. This allows him to collect interceptions and pass breakups.

Detroit needs to find an upgrade for Chris Houston and Eric Wright. Both are good rotational players, but provide little upside. The Lions need a lockdown corner capable of providing the pass rush more time to get after the quarterback.

Adding a potential left tackle will also be in consideration for the Lions. Ohio State's Mike Adams would be an upgrade over Jeff Backus.

No. 21 Cincinnati Bengals- Janoris Jenkins, Cornerback- North Alabama

The Cincinnati Bengals need to focus on finding a long term replacement for Jonathan Joseph. North Alabama's Janoris Jenkins could easily fill that void. Jenkins has great instincts and the short area burst to make plays on the ball. He knows how to read the quarterbacks eyes and break on the football ball. His balls skills are what puts in the first round discussion.

Cincinnati's defense is one of the tops in the NFL, but they need someone opposite Leon Hall. Top level cornerback play is often the catalyst for great defense. Jenkins would provide the Bengals with good coverage and potential turnovers.

Outside of cornerback, the Bengals could look at improving the interior of the offensive line. Georgia's Cordy Glenn would be a realistic option at this point in the draft.

No. 22 Cleveland Browns (from AtL)- Michael Floyd, Wide Receiver- Notre Dame

Notre Dame's Michael Floyd has used his Senior season to rebuild his draft stock. He is a lock to be a first round selection, and would be a great fit in Cleveland. Floyd has a good combination of size and quickness, which he usues to attack the defense.

Cleveland's offense severly lacks offensive playmakers. The wide receiver position features Greg Little as their lone playmaker. Adding Floyd would open the entire Cleveland offense. He would provide Colt McCoy with a ligitamate deep threat.

The Browns could be another team interested in Georgia's Cordy Glenn. He would be an immediate upgrade for several of their offensive line positions.

No. 23 Chicago Bears- Mike Adams, Offensive Tackle- Ohio State

The Chicago Bears offensive line has shown some improvement, but is still a sub-par unit. The biggest area of concern is the left tackle position. Ohio State's Mike Adams would an upgrade over current starter J'Marcus Webb.

Adams has the size and balance needed to play left tackle in the NFL. He is able to quickly shuffle and slide, allowing him to protect the quarterback. His ability to keep his pad-level low permits him to effectively move defenders off the line.

Chicago feels that J'Marcus Webb has potential, but he has yet to completely lock-down the starting role. The left tackle position is to important to play someone based on their potential.

I could see the Bears also look to add a playmaking wide receiver. If Notre Dame's Michael Floyd is available, Chicago will have a tough decision to make.

No 24 Pittsburgh Steelers- Cordy Glenn, Offensive Line- Georgia

Georgia's Cordy Glenn is the most versatile offensive lineman in this draft class. He has experience playing guard and both tackle positions. His versatility will be very attractive to the Pittsburgh Steelers, who need help at several positions.

Glenn is a massive player who also possesses quick feet. He does a good job shuffling his feet and mirroring defenders in pass protection. Glenn also does a nice job remaining low and driving defenders off the ball.

The Steelers would likely use Glenn at guard, but he could also contend for the starting right tackle spot.

No. 25 Cincinnati Bengals (from OAK)- Brandon Thompson, Defensive Tackle-Clemson

Clemson's Brandon Thompson would be a steal at this point in the draft. He would help provide the Cincinnati Bengals will another playmaker along the defensive line. Thompson excels at occupying blockers and controlling the line of scrimmage.

He plays with a low pad level, and uses his hands to control the offensive lineman. His violent hands help him disengage and pursue the football. Thompson's teammates typically love playing with him, as he isn't afraid to eat up blockers. This allows the linebackers to freely flow to the football.

Cincinnati might not have a major need at the position, but Thompson represents great value. The defensive line is one of the positions that needs several talent players. This is a position where you need a strong rotation.

No. 26 Dallas Cowboys- Melvin Ingram, Linebacker/Defensive Line- South Carolina

The Dallas Cowboys need to add a top-notch pass rusher opposite DeMarcus Ware. South Carolina's Melvin Ingram would provide the Cowboys with a player capable of creating pressure. Ingram is extremely versatile. He is capable of lining up at outside linebacker, defensive end and defensive tackle.

Ingram is a four down player, who does a nice job on special teams. He is a terrific athlete, who has the ball skills to drop back and pull down interceptions. Ingram will be someone that a defensive coordinator will love to add.

Dallas could also look to upgrade the interior of their offensive line. Wisconsin's Peter Konz or Kevin Zietler could be potential targets.

No. 27 Baltimore Ravens- Mark Barron, Safety- Alabama

Alabama's Mark Barron is the only safety worthy of first round consideration. He would be a great option to learn from and eventually replace Ed Reed. Barron is a physical defender, who loves to come up and support the run.

He also does a good job patrolling the back end of the defense. Barron possesses the range to cover sideline to sideline. He also does a good job reading the quarterback, and anticipating the throws.

Ed Reed has considered retiring in each of the past two seasons. It would be ashame if Reed didn't have someone to mentor before he decides to end his career. Barron would be a good understudy, but also be an upgrade over Bernard Pollard.

Baltimore will also need to considered adding a left tackle. If Ohio State's Mike Adams is still available he would be the selection here.

No. 28 New England Patriots (from NO)- Devon Still, Defensive Line- Penn State

The New England Patriots need to add playmakers on the defensive side of the ball. Penn State's Devon Still is a disruptive player. He does a great job firing off the ball and penetrating the pocket. His ideal position would be at the 3-technique position. However, he is more than capable of playing some 5-technique.

New England has to find someone capable of disrupting the time of the offense. They have really struggled to consistently stop opposing offenses. Adding Still would help stop the run and disrupt the passing game.

No. 29 Houston Texans- Alameda Ta'amu, Defensive Tackle- Washington

The Houston Texans defense is a nose tackle away from being a great unit. Washington's Alameda Ta'amu would fit that need. Ta'amu plays with great leverage and strength. He is capable of occupying blockers, and playing two gap football.

Houston's defense has greatly improved, but they can still make some improvements. A space eating nose tackle would allow the linebackers to freely flow towards the football. The top 3-4 defenses all have a dominant nose tackle. Shaun Cody is a decent player, but has limited upside.

The Texans could also look to add a playmaker at receiver. Texas A&M's Jeff Fuller would be great opposite Andre Johnson.

No. 30 San Francisco 49ers- Peter Konz, Center- Wisconsin

Wisconsin's Peter Konz has the ability to be an All-Pro center. He would help strengthen an already strong San Francisco 49ers offensive line. Konz is a smart and tough player, who will instantly become the leader of any offensive line.

He uses excellent technique to gain position. In the running game, Konz gets inside hand position and drives the defender off the ball. His strong base allows him to anchor after contact and protect the passer. Konz will take the 49ers offensive line to another level.

Current starter Jonathan Goodwin is capable of starting in the NFL, but he is nothing more than a fringe starter. Adding a player of Konz's ability would help the 49ers continue running their power attack.

No. 31 New England Patriots- Ronnell Lewis, Linebacker- Oklahoma

The New England Patriots defense lacks someone who can consistently create pressure on the quarterback. Oklahoma's Ronnell Lewis has the skill set needed to generate a pass rush. He has a quick burst off the line, allowing him to attack the edge.

Lewis can lineup at either outside linebacker or defensive end, but his ideal position is at linebacker. He lacks the ideal size to consistently hold at the point of attack.

Bill Belichick is a great defensive mind, who excels at putting his players in good position to make a play.

New England could also look to add a playmaking safety. If Alabama's Mark Barron is available he would be in consideration for this spot.

No. 32 Green Bay Packers- Kendall Reyes, Defensive Line- Connecticut

The Green Bay Packers have enough talent on offense, and need to focus on upgraded the defense. Connecticut's Kendall Reyes would provide an immediate upgrade at defensive end. Reyes has a good combination of size, strength and quickness. 

He gets his hands extended, which helps him control the blocker. Reyes is not only a strong two-gap player. He also has the quickness to penetrate the pocket and create pressure.

Green Bay's current starters Ryan Pickett and Jarius Wynn would be better served to be part of a rotation. Reyes has more upside than any of the defensive end on the current roster.