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Jordan Katz- 2018 NFL Mock Draft 1.0: Two Rounds

Posted on January 4, 2018 Updated on January 12, 2018

Finally… Jordan Katz HAS COME BACK to the land of Mock Drafts! Now that the regular season has finished, it’s officially the offseason for 20 NFL teams. This year’s offseason packs more of a punch than normal years because of the amount of quarterbacks on the market. Not only will guys like Kirk Cousins and Alex Smith most likely be free agents, but there’s a ton of quarterbacks worthy of high selections. Quarterback play dictates the success of each team and this year will be full of quarterback changes.

This year’s draft has a ton of talent elsewhere too. Offensive line is loaded, the playmakers on offense and defense are better than people think, and there are some explosive edge rushers.

As always with my mock drafts, this is my personal opinion of what each team should do at each selection. Unlike other mock drafts you may see online, I like to include potential trades. Mock Drafts should be your own evaluation of the players and team needs. If that’s the case, why not throw in a trade if it makes sense?

A few notes before getting started. For the sake of the mock draft, I assumed Kirk Cousins returned to Washington. The entire offseason will change the minute Cousins signs somewhere. However, without any information as to where he could wind up, I had him re-sign.

The second note of importance is that Josh Allen and Lamar Jackson are not in my first two rounds (I currently have a 3rd round grade on both). While some in the mock draft community love these two, I think they both have a lot of technical work that they need to improve on. Neither are particularly accurate either.

The best time of the year is upon us: Mock Draft season. Let’s get to it!

ROUND ONE

1) Cleveland Browns: Josh Rosen, QB UCLA- In my opinion, Rosen is the top quarterback in the draft right now. Rosen, Sam Darnold and Baker Mayfield are very close on my personal board, but what separates Rosen from the other two is his physical attributes. He’s got NFL size and mobility, he’s the best pure passer in the draft, and he did it all with very little talent around him. If the Browns don’t grab a quarterback this year, I think Roger Goodell has to make them fold as a franchise.

2) Denver Broncos via New York Giants: Sam Darnold, QB USC- The Giants are in the same position the Dallas Cowboys were in a few years ago. They’re a talented team that underachieved, and now they sit with a top five pick. Just like Dallas, that gives you two options; take the best player available or trade down. While the Cowboys wound up with their quarterback of the future in that draft, many people forget the plan was for Tony Romo to play a few more seasons, not for Dak Prescott to start day one.

That year I suggested it was in the Cowboys best interest to trade down. It’s very rare that you get a free opportunity to acquire draft assets. So, with the Giants content on playing Eli for a few more seasons, I would have the Giants trade down.

With plenty of offers to choose from, the Giants trade down to the Broncos pick. This keeps them in the top five, and gets the Broncos their franchise quarterback on a cheap contract.

Editor’s Note: Despite his down year, Darnold still translates well for the NFL. He’s got an NFL arm, good size, mobility and he can make any throw. I believe the kinks will get worked out and he will become a quality NFL quarterback.

3) New York Jets via Indianapolis Colts: Baker Mayfield, QB Oklahoma- Once again, the Jets enter a draft not having a franchise quarterback. Mayfield is tailor-made for a west coast system. He’s got a bigger arm than people think, he’s incredibly accurate, and most importantly for the Jets, he’s a true leader. The Heisman Trophy winner would thrive under the bright lights of the “Big Apple.”

Editor’s Note: Regardless of how much their owner wants Saquon Barkley, the Colts need so much that they have to trade down and acquire assets.

4) Cleveland Browns via Houston Texans: Saquon Barkley, RB Penn State- Let’s make this simple; Saquon Barkley is the best prospect in this draft. He’s the best running back prospect since Adrian Peterson. He’s a better pro prospect than Ezekiel Elliott, Leonard Fournette, and Christian McCaffrey. If the Browns can land him at four, that could go a long way towards expediting their rebuild that’s been going on since 1999.

5) New York Giants via Denver Broncos: Quenton Nelson, OG Notre Dame- The Giants have to find an offensive line this year if they want any chance of competing next season. Nelson is the top offensive lineman in the draft. His game is complete and he’s a team captain, something the Giants organization loves.

6) Indianapolis Colts via New York Jets: Connor Williams, OT Texas- Hey Indy, quick thought on the future of your franchise. If you want Andrew Luck to succeed, then maybe it’s time to GET HIM AN OFFENSIVE LINE!

7) Tampa Bay Buccaneers: Bradley Chubb, DE NC State- The Buccaneers need a number of things this offseason, and at the top of that list is an edge rusher. Chubb is a fluid athlete with the ability to dip and bend effortlessly around the edge. His instincts and ability to win at the point of attack make him a three down player, something the Bucs desperately need up front.

8) Chicago Bears: Minkah Fitzpatrick, CB/FS/SS Alabama- Jamal Adams 2.0 this year will be Minkah Fitzpatrick. He’s got the talent to go higher, but because of needs he may fall into some team’s lap. Fitzpatrick has the ball skills to play safety and the press cover ability to line up at corner. Easy pick for a team that needs a game changer in their secondary.

9) San Francisco 49ers: Arden Key, EDGE LSU- Arden Key came out of the gate slow this year. However, when he got back to his normal playing weight, scouts were able to see the athleticism and move-set that made Key a top pick preseason.

The Niners have to get Jimmy Garoppolo some targets this offseason, but in my opinion, there are no top ten caliber receivers in this class just yet. Having failed to trade down, the Niners take the best player at a position of need.

10) Oakland Raiders: Roquan Smith, ILB Georgia- Smith plays downhill with aggression, he’s a terrific tackler, and he’s a rangy linebacker. The Raiders need an anchor in the middle of their defense. Smith would have an immediate impact on a team that allowed the second most yards per game on the ground.

11) Miami Dolphins: Tremaine Edmunds, OLB/EDGE Virginia Tech- Edmunds is an athletic freak with the ability to play in off coverage as well as rush the passer. His tape is impressive for someone that is still developing. Edmunds could dominate as a LEO linebacker at the next level.

12) Cincinnati Bengals: Mike McGlinchey, OT Notre Dame- The Bengals offensive line struggled during the 2017 season. McGlinchey is a plug and play right tackle from day one. He is great at attacking defensive lineman on running downs, getting his hands on quickly and gaining leverage to dictate where the lineman goes.

13) Green Bay Packers: Braden Smith, OT/OG Auburn- Just like the Colts, the Packers are desperate for a solid offensive line. Yes, some of the Packers issues are more about injuries than a lack of talent, but there’s still work to be done. Smith is a terrific run blocker, and his athleticism will make him a successful guard at the next level.

14) Washington Redskins: Derwin James, FS/SS Florida State- James might be the enigma of the first round. He has got a ton of talent, but his effort was nowhere to be found in 2017. If that’s a concern for GM’s, he could fall out of round one with a bad combine. If he has a good combine, it should put the effort rumors to bed, seeing as half of Florida State’s squad was injured this year.

15) Arizona Cardinals: Orlando Brown, OT Oklahoma- Brown had a really strong 2017 campaign where he showed all the traits of a pro bowl left tackle. He’s more athletic after cutting weight, which has improved his footwork drastically. The Cardinals are desperate for a quarterback of the future, but with the big three off the board (and me not being a fan of Josh Allen) it’s better to take talent at a different position than reaching for a quarterback.

16) Baltimore Ravens: Anthony Miller, WR Memphis- Allow me to introduce you to the best receiver in this draft and the one no one is talking about. Miller runs picturesque routes; he is one of the quickest receivers in the draft. He makes catches with his hands first, he can high point the ball extremely well, and he makes a ton of contested catches. The All American from Memphis would give Joe Flacco a legitimate target, something the Ravens desperately need.

17) Atlanta Falcons via Los Angeles Chargers: Christian Wilkins, DT Clemson- It’s a crime shame that Wilkins fell this far. His hands are incredibly fast, he’s terrific at gaining leverage and controlling gaps, and in case you thought his game had weaknesses, he’s got the move-set and athleticism to dominate as an interior pass rusher. Atlanta will be in need of a defensive tackle after Dontari Poe leaves, so they trade up to land a game changer in the middle.

18) Seattle Seahawks: Derrius Guice, RB LSU- I know the Seahawks need offensive line, but one of the reasons their offense stalled at times this year was a lack of a true running game. Guice is an incredibly talented back with the ability to change the dynamic of the Seahawks offense.

19) Dallas Cowboys: Dante Pettis, WR Washington- With the rapid decline of Dez Bryant, pass catcher has become priority number one for the ‘Boys. Pettis’ deep threat ability could provide a true home run threat to the Cowboys passing game. It would also help alleviate coverage from 88, which could help him bounce back in 2018.

20) Detroit Lions: Marcus Davenport, EDGE UTSA- Credit to former Draftstock contributor Mike Reynolds for this call. Back in late October, Mike told me to look out for Davenport as a first rounder, and boy was he right. Davenport is long and athletic with the move-set to match. He dips and bends around the edge with ease as well. He would be an immediate upgrade to a team that has to rush the passer better in 2018.

21) Buffalo Bills: Christian Kirk, WR Texas A&M- What a tremendous job Sean McDermott and his staff did this year in Buffalo. Despite an offense that doesn’t scare you on paper and a young defensive unit, McDermott has the Bills back in the playoffs for the first time in 18 years. If the Bills want to make it back to back appearances in 2018, then they will need to get more weapons for Tyrod Taylor.

Kirk is an explosive route runner with good hands and a quick release. His presence would give the Bills a chain mover on the outside.

22) Los Angeles Chargers via Atlanta Falcons- Chukwuma Okorafor, OT Western Michigan- Priority number one for the Chargers this offseason is upgrading the offensive tackle position. In a year with plenty of offensive line prospects to go around, this puts them in an excellent position to trade down, acquire assets, and still select a quality lineman.

Okorafor “checks all the boxes,” in terms of his measurements and athletic ability, but he’s still fairly raw in terms of his technique. What makes him an attractive prospect, in my opinion, is the fact that he’s already played both tackle positions despite picking up the game of football at a later age. That shows a knowledge and passion for the game that you can’t teach.

23) Tennessee Titans: Clelin Ferrell, EDGE Clemson- Tennessee needs to get younger and more athletic up front in 2018. Derrick Morgan and Brian Orakpo are both free agents after next season, and the Titans need to start saving money to re-sign Marcus Mariota. Ferrell has a quick first step and terrific athletic ability off the edge. I like him better in a 4-3, but he’s got the versatility to play both systems in the NFL at a high level.

24) Carolina Panthers: Denzel Ward, CB Ohio State- Do not sleep on this cornerback class. As a group, they may not have the size and athleticism of years past, but there are plenty of guys with the technique to succeed at the next level. Ward has good ball skills and he is terrific when trailing receivers. He’s one of the best athletes in the entire draft class as well. Pairing him with James Bradberry would make for an underrated secondary tandem in Carolina.

25) Buffalo Bills via Kansas City Chiefs: Vita Vea, NT Washington- The Bills were 29th in the NFL in rushing defense. They have to clean that up if they want to take the next step defensively in 2018. Vea is a space eating monster with the athleticism to rush the passer if left isolated. He would have an immediate impact on the middle of the Bills defense.

26) New Orleans Saints: Ronnie Harrison, SS Alabama- It’s hard for Alabama defenders to be “under the radar,” during draft season, yet this year they all are going unnoticed. Harrison is a hard hitting safety with freaky athleticism. He also shows enough knowledge and ball skills in coverage to be a multi-dimensional safety at the next level. Kenny Vaccaro is a free agent this year, so finding a cheap option to replace him makes sense for a team that needs to re-sign Drew Brees.

27) Jacksonville Jaguars: Billy Price, OG/OC Ohio State- Price translates well at guard and center at the next level. He’s intelligent, good at the point of attack, and he sees the second level well in the running game. Price would add more stability to an improving offensive line in Jacksonville.

28) Los Angeles Rams: Jaire Alexander, CB Louisville- Even if the Rams sign Trumaine Johnson to an extension, they still need a number two corner in the offseason. Alexander is my top cover corner in the draft, but his size (he will most likely measure in at 5’10) and his health concerns put him below Davis and Ward on my big board. Despite these concerns, if Alexander opts to enter the 2018 NFL Draft, his ball skills and technique should make him a top 40 selection with ease.

29) Pittsburgh Steelers: Rashaan Evans, ILB Alabama- This is a bit of a reach for me, but the Steelers are so desperate for an inside linebacker. With the uncertainty of whether Ryan Shazier will ever play in the NFL again, the Steelers need a run stopping signal caller in the middle of their defense. Evans can be just that.

30) Minnesota Vikings: Da’Ron Payne, DT Alabama- Payne’s athleticism and quickness off the ball would allow him to thrive next to a space eater like Linval Joseph. After the loss of Sharrif Floyd, the Vikings need to find someone to play next to Joseph in order to keep their defense “tip top,” in 2018.

31) Philadelphia Eagles: Martinas Rankin, OT Mississippi State- Philadelphia needs to bolster their offensive line this offseason. Jason Peters is an aging veteran coming off of an injury and Halapoulivaati Vaitai didn’t show the ability to be his replacement.

I’m a big fan of offensive lineman that possess good technique and have played multiple positions because it shows the knowledge needed to play the game at the next level. That is Martinas Rankin.

32) New England Patriots: Josh Jackson, CB Iowa- Whatever we collectively thought New England’s secondary was going to be this year, it surely was not. Now the Patriots are set to lose Malcolm Butler to free agency, with Eric Rowe and Jonathan Jones set to be free agents the year after. Jackson is a lengthy corner with great ball skills and a really good understanding of technique in tight coverage as well as off coverage. He’s a perfect fit in New England.

TRADES IN ROUND ONE

1) Denver Broncos trade the #5, #37 a 2019 1st and a 2019 3rd to the New York Giants for the #2 overall pick.

2) New York Jets trade the #6, #50 and a 2019 1st round pick to the Indianapolis Colts for the #3 and a 2019 3rd round pick.

3) Atlanta Falcons trade the #22, #86 and a 2019 3rd round pick to the Los Angeles Chargers for the #17 and the #161

ROUND TWO

33) Cleveland Browns: Isaiah Oliver, CB Colorado

34) New York Giants: Brian O’Neill, OT Pittsburgh

35) Indianapolis Colts: Hercules Mata’Afa, EDGE Washington State

36) Cleveland Browns via Houston Texans: DeShon Elliott, FS Texas

37) New York Giants via Denver Broncos: Ronald Jones II, RB USC

38) New York Jets: Ogbonnia Okoronkwo, OLB Oklahoma

39) Tampa Bay Buccaneers: Justin Reid, FS Stanford

40) Chicago Bears: Calvin Ridley, WR Alabama

41) New England Patriots via San Francisco 49ers: Ryan Finley, QB NC State

42) Oakland Raiders: Holton Hill, CB Texas

43) Miami Dolphins: Will Hernandez, OG UTEP

44) Cincinnati Bengals: Mike Edwards, FS/SS Kentucky

45) Green Bay Packers: Frank Ragnow, OG/OC Arkansas

46) Washington Redskins: Tegray Scales, OLB/ILB Indiana

47) Arizona Cardinals: Jarrett Stidham, QB Auburn

48) Baltimore Ravens: Dallas Goedert, TE South Dakota State

49) Los Angeles Chargers: Malik Jefferson, ILB Texas

50) Indianapolis Colts from New York Giants via Seattle Seahawks: Kendall Joseph, ILB Clemson

51) Dallas Cowboys: Josh Allen, OLB Kentucky

52) Detroit Lions: Wyatt Teller, OG Virginia Tech

53) Buffalo Bills: Mitch Hyatt, OT Clemson

54) Atlanta Falcons: Michael Gallup, WR Colorado State

55) Tennessee Titans: Harrison Phillips, DL Stanford

56) Carolina Panthers: Sam Hubbard, EDGE Ohio State

57) Kansas City Chiefs: Mason Cole, OL Michigan

58) San Francisco 49ers via New Orleans Saints: Quenton Meeks, CB Stanford

59) Jacksonville Jaguars: Mark Andrews, TE Oklahoma

60) Buffalo Bills via Los Angeles Rams: Jamarco Jones, OT Ohio State

61) Pittsburgh Steelers: Bryce Love, RB Stanford

62) Minnesota Vikings: Uchenna Nwosu, OLB USC

63) Cleveland Browns via Philadelphia Eagles: DJ Moore, WR Maryland

64) New England Patriots: Dorance Armstrong Jr., EDGE Kansas

This entry was posted in Mock Drafts, NFL Draft Articles and tagged 2018 NFL Mock Draft, Arden Key, Arizona Cardinals, Atlanta Falcons, Baker Mayfield, Baltimore Ravens, Bradley Chubb, Buffalo Bills, Carolina Panthers, Chicago Bears, Cincinnati Bengals, Cleveland Browns, Connor Williams, Dallas Cowboys, Denver Broncos, Detroit Lions, Green Bay Packers, Indianapolis Colts, Jacksonville Jaguars, Josh Allen, Josh Rosen, Kansas City Chiefs, Los Angeles Chargers, Los Angeles Rams, Miami Dolphins, Minkah Fitzpatrick, Minnesota Vikings, New England Patriots, New Orleans Saints, New York Giants, New York Jets, NFL, NFL Draft, NFL Mock Draft, Oakland Raiders, Philadelphia Eagles, Pittsburgh Steelers, Quenton Nelson, Roquan Smith, Sam Darnold, San Francisco 49ers, Saquon Barkley, Seattle Seahawks, Tampa Bay Buccaneers, Tennessee Titans, Washington Redskins.

Jordan Katz 2017 NFL Mock Draft: Final

Posted on April 26, 2017 Updated on April 26, 2017

The Draft has finally arrived! In just a few hours we will officially begin the 2017 NFL season. Most teams started forming their rosters for 2017 during free agency, but the draft is where teams rebuild and reload. The draft is where every team, regardless of their record from the previous season, is renewed with a sense of hope. Hope that the the players added will help their team take massive strides in the upcoming season. Hope that the players they draft will help them achieve the ultimate goal; winning a championship.

This mock draft is my final one for 2017. Each pick is based on what I would do at each spot. A trade is only made if I felt it was a good deal for both sides. These selections are based on my personal rankings and my personal evaluation of team needs. I didn’t analyze every selection because, if you’ve followed my mock drafts thus far, you know the players I like as well as the players I don’t. Thanks to those who kept up with my content, I really appreciate it.

*If you’re looking for my predictions mock draft, click on the link (https://draftstock.net/2017/04/19/2017-nfl-media-mock-draft/)

ROUND ONE

1- Cleveland Browns- Myles Garrett, EDGE Texas A&M

2- San Francisco 49ers- Mitchell Trubisky, QB North Carolina

3- Chicago Bears- Marshon Lattimore, CB Ohio State

4- Jacksonville Jaguars- Solomon Thomas, DE Stanford

5- Tennessee Titans from Los Angeles Rams- Jamal Adams, FS/SS LSU

6- New York Jets- Ryan Ramczyk, OT Wisconsin

7- Los Angeles Chargers- Malik Hooker, FS Ohio State

8- Carolina Panthers- Leonard Fournette, RB LSU

9- Cincinnati Bengals- Reuben Foster, ILB Alabama

10- Buffalo Bills- Corey Davis, WR Western Michigan

11- New Orleans Saints- Taco Charlton, DE Michigan

12- Cleveland Browns via Philadelphia Eagles- Jonathan Allen, DE/DT Alabama

13- Miami Dolphins via Arizona Cardinals- Forrest Lamp, OG Western Kentucky

14- Denver Broncos from Philadelphia Eagles via Minnesota Vikings- OJ Howard, TE Alabama

15- Indianapolis Colts- Zach Cunningham, OLB/ILB Vanderbilt

16- New York Giants via Baltimore Ravens- David Njoku, TE Miami Florida

17- Washington Redskins- Montravius Adams, DE/DT Auburn

18- Tennessee Titans- Evan Engram, WR/TE Ole Miss

19- Tampa Bay Buccaneers- Budda Baker, FS Washington

20- Philadelphia Eagles via Denver Broncos- Gareon Conley, CB Ohio State

21- Detroit Lions- Haason Reddick, OLB/ILB Temple

22- Arizona Cardinals via Miami Dolphins- Deshaun Watson, QB Clemson

23- Baltimore Ravens via New York Giants- TJ Watt, OLB Wisconsin

24- Oakland Raiders- Dalvin Cook, RB Florida State

25- Houston Texans- Obi Melifonwu, FS/SS UCONN

26- Seattle Seahawks- Marlon Humphrey, CB Alabama

27- Kansas City Chiefs- Jarrad Davis, OLB/ILB Florida

28- Dallas Cowboys- Adoree Jackson, CB/FS USC

29- Green Bay Packers- Derek Barnett, EDGE Tennessee

30- Pittsburgh Steelers- Tre’Davious White, CB LSU

31- Atlanta Falcons- Carl Lawson, EDGE Auburn

32- Los Angeles Rams via New England Patriots from New Orleans Saints via New England Patriots- Mike Williams, WR Clemson

TRADES IN ROUND ONE

1- Miami Dolphins trade the #22, the #54 and the #206 to the Arizona Cardinals for the #13.

2- Denver Broncos trade the #20, #82 and a 2018 3rd to the Philadelphia Eagles for the #14 and a 2018 5th.

3- New York Giants trade the #23 the #87 and a 2018 3rd to the Baltimore Ravens for the #16.

4- New England Patriots trade Malcolm Butler and a 2018 3rd to the New Orleans Saints for the #32. The Patriots then trade the #32 to the Los Angeles Rams for the #37 and the #112.

ROUND TWO

33- Cleveland Browns- Sidney Jones, CB Washington

34- San Francisco 49ers- Zay Jones, WR East Carolina

35- Houston Texans via Jacksonville Jaguars- Patrick Mahomes II, QB Texas Tech

36- Chicago Bears- Cam Robinson, OT Alabama

37- New England Patriots via Los Angeles Rams- Derek Rivers, EDGE Youngstown State

38- Los Angeles Chargers- Jordan Willis, EDGE Kansas State

39- New York Jets- Fabian Moreau, CB UCLA

40- Carolina Panthers- Tarell Basham, DE Ohio

41- Cincinnati Bengals- Alvin Kamara, RB Tennessee

42- New Orleans Saints- DeShone Kizer, QB Notre Dame

43- Philadelphia Eagles- Christian McCaffrey, RB Stanford

44- Buffalo Bills- Rasul Douglas, CB West Virginia

45- Arizona Cardinals- Ahkello Witherspoon, CB Colorado

46- Indianapolis Colts- Marcus Maye, FS Florida

47- Baltimore Ravens- Chris Godwin, WR Penn State

48- Minnesota Vikings- Pat Elflein, G/C Ohio State

49- Washington Redskins- Jabrill Peppers, SS/LB/RB Michigan

50- Tampa Bay Buccaneers- Garett Bolles, OT Utah

51- Denver Broncos- Dion Dawkins, OT/OG Temple

52- Cleveland Browns via Tennessee Titans- DeShone Kizer, QB Notre Dame

53- Detroit Lions- Chidobe Awuzie, CB/FS Colorado

54- Arizona Cardinals via Miami Dolphins- John Ross III, WR Washington

55- New York Giants- D’Onta Foreman, RB Texas

56- Oakland Raiders- Jaleel Johnson, DT Iowa

57- Jacksonville Jaguars via Houston Texans- Dan Feeney, OG Indiana

58- Seattle Seahawks- Taylor Moton, OT/OG Western Michigan

59- Kansas City Chiefs- Damontae Kazee, CB San Diego State

60- Dallas Cowboys- Charles Harris, EDGE Missouri

61- Green Bay Packers- Malik McDowell, DE/DT Michigan State

62- Pittsburgh Steelers- Tim Williams, EDGE Alabama

63- San Francisco 49ers via Atlanta Falcons- Quincy Wilson, CB Florida

64- Carolina Panthers via New England Patriots- Amara Darboh, WR Michigan

TRADES IN ROUND TWO

1- Houston Texans trade #57 and a 2018 2nd to the Jacksonville Jaguars for the #35.

2- San Francisco 49ers trade the #66 and the #198 to the Atlanta Falcons for the #63.

ROUND THREE

65- Cleveland Browns- Marcus Williams, FS Utah

66- Atlanta Falcons via San Francisco 49ers- Josh Jones, FS/SS NC State

67- Chicago Bears- Alex Anzalone, OLB/ILB Florida

68- Jacksonville Jaguars- Ryan Anderson, OLB Alabama

69- Los Angeles Rams- Chris Wormley, DE/DT Michigan

70- New York Jets- Jake Butt, TE Michigan

71- Los Angeles Chargers- Chad Hansen, WR California

72- New England Patriots via Carolina Panthers- Desmond King, CB/FS Iowa

73- Cincinnati Bengals- Elijah Qualls, NT Washington

74- Philadelphia Eagles- Teez Tabor, CB/FS Florida

75- Buffalo Bills- Delano Hill, FS Michigan

76- New Orleans Saints- Raekwon McMillian, ILB Ohio State

77- Arizona Cardinals- Tyler Orlosky, G/C West Virginia

78- Baltimore Ravens- Tanoh Kpassagnon, DE Villanova

79- Minnesota Vikings- Eddie Jackson, SS Alabama

80- Indianapolis Colts- Trey Hendrickson, EDGE Florida Atlantic

81- Washington Redskins- Anthony Walker, ILB Northwestern

82- Philadelphia Eagles via Denver Broncos- Ryan Switzer, WR North Carolina

83- Tennessee Titans- Cameron Sutton, CB/FS Tennessee

84- Pittsburgh Steelers via Tampa Bay Buccaneers- Jordan Leggett, TE Clemson

85- Detroit Lions- Bucky Hodges, TE Virginia Tech

86- Minnesota Vikings from Miami Dolphins- Eddie Vanderdoes, DT UCLA

87- Baltimore Ravens via New York Giants- Jourdan Lewis, CB Michigan

88- Oakland Raiders- Duke Riley, OLB LSU

89- Houston Texans- Adam Shaheen, TE Ashland

90- Seattle Seahawks- Daeshon Hall, EDGE Texas A&M

91- Kansas City Chiefs- Davis Webb, QB California

92- Dallas Cowboys- Tyus Bowser, OLB Houston

93- Green Bay Packers- Semaje Perine, RB Oklahoma

94- Tampa Bay Buccaneers via Pittsburgh Steelers- Vince Beigel, OLB Wisconsin

95- Atlanta Falcons- Dorian Johnson, OG Pittsburgh

96- New England Patriots- Larry Ogunjobi, DT Charlotte

97- Miami Dolphins (Compensatory Selection)- Bryan Cox Jr., DE Florida

98- Carolina Panthers (Compensatory Selection)- George Kittle, TE Iowa

99- Baltimore Ravens (Compensatory Selection)- Will Holden, OT Vanderbilt

100- Chicago Bears via Tennessee Titans from Los Angeles Rams (Compensatory Selection)- Kenny Golladay, WR Northern Illinois

101- Denver Broncos (Compensatory Selection)- Demarcus Walker, DE Florida State

102- Seattle Seahawks (Compensatory Selection)- Ar’Darius Stewart, WR Alabama

103- New England Patriots from Cleveland Browns (Compensatory Selection)- Lorenzo Jerome, SS St. Francis PA

104- Kansas City Chiefs (Compensatory Selection)- Wayne Gallman, RB Clemson

105- Pittsburgh Steelers (Compensatory Selection)- Nathan Peterman, QB Pittsburgh

106- Seattle Seahawks (Compensatory Selection)- Jarron Jones, DT/NT Notre Dame

107- New York Jets (Compensatory Selection)- Takkarist McKinnley, EDGE UCLA

TRADES IN ROUND THREE

1- Pittsburgh Steelers trade the #94 and the #135 to the Tampa Bay Buccaneers for the #84.

2- Chicago Bears trade the #111 and the #147 to the Tennessee Titans for the #100 and the #214.

This entry was posted in Mock Drafts, NFL Draft Articles and tagged Arizona Cardinals, Atlanta Falcons, Baltimore Ravens, Buffalo Bills, Carolina Panthers, Chicago Bears, Cincinnati Bengals, Cleveland Browns, Corey Davis, Dallas Cowboys, David Njoku, Denver Broncos, Detroit Lions, Forrest Lamp, Green Bay Packers, Houston Texans, Indianapolis Colts, Jacksonville Jaguars, Jamal Adams, John Ross, Jonathan Allen, Kansas City Chiefs, Leonard Fournette, Los Angeles Chargers, Los Angeles Rams, Malik Hooker, Marshon Lattimore, Miami Dolphins, Mike Williams, Minnesota Vikings, Mitch Trubisky, Montravius Adams, Myles Garrett, New England Patriots, New Orleans Saints, New York Giants, New York Jets, NFL, NFL Draft, NFL Mock Draft, Oakland Raiders, OJ Howard, Philadelphia Eagles, Pittsburgh Steelers, Ryan Ramczyk, San Fracisco 49ers, San Francisco 49ers, Seattle Seahawks, Solomon Thomas, Taco Charlton, Tampa Bay Buccaneers, Tennessee Titans, Washington Redskins, Zach Cunningham.

2017 NFL Media Mock Draft

Posted on April 19, 2017 Updated on April 19, 2017

Welcome to the only edition of my Media Mock Draft for 2017. This will be more of a conventional mock draft. In this one, I try to predict what every team will do in each spot. If a team is looking to trade out of their pick, I tried to make a trade happen with the teams that are interested in players on the board, not the teams that I felt should move up. For example, if a quarterback needy team had to move up to ensure they got their guy, they attempted to do so, regardless of what I thought of the quarterback. In short, this is not based on my individual analysis on players. Each selection is based on pre-draft visits and reports among scouts and reporters on what they think teams should take. I also take into account the fans perspective, because sometimes they can play a role (even though they never should).

Now every player does not have to have visited with the team they get drafted by. Plenty of players are drafted without having visited privately with the team that picks them. However, visits can be a good indication as to which way a team is leaning come draft day.

For those curious as to where the information comes from, teams release their visits with players during the draft process. After gathering the information, we have to determine which rumors are true, and which are smoke screens. I won’t get every pick right, but hopefully I will squash some of the rumors that make no sense. Let’s get started.

Round One

1) Cleveland Browns: Myles Garrett, EDGE Texas A&M- We squash the first smoke screen of the draft with this pick. I believe that the Browns are very high on Mitchell Trubisky. I believe that they want him bad.

However, there is… cue Vince McMahon’s music… “NO CHANCE,” the Browns take him over Myles Garrett.

2) San Francisco 49ers: Solomon Thomas, DE Stanford- I think the Niners hold the keys to this draft. If they decide to trade this pick, the domino effect will be massive, regardless of what team trades up and who they select.

If they choose to stay put, then the player they select will create the same domino effect. Whether that’s Marshon Lattimore, insert quarterback here, or Solomon Thomas (I think they go Thomas to complete their transition to 4-3), the Niners will determine the outcome of this draft.

3) Chicago Bears: Jonathan Allen, DE/DT Alabama- Allen and the Bears have been matched up for a while now. The Bears used a pre-draft visit on Allen and they met with him at the combine as well. Based on the Bears infatuation with DeShone Kizer, I sense they’ll draft their quarterback of the future on day two, and address a different need in round one.

4) Cincinnati Bengals via Jacksonville Jaguars: Leonard Fournette, RB LSU- This is a weird call, but let’s play this out. The Jags could definitely stay here and take Fournette. However, I have a feeling they are one of the few teams with Joe Mixon at the top of their running back boards. If that’s the case, then the Fournette rumors are a smoke screen.

It’s no secret the Bengals would love to pick Fournette and stabilize their running game. Jeremy Hill can be a UFA after the upcoming season, and he’s under-performed as of late. Therefore, the Jags use Fournette to swap places with the Bengals and add some draft capital.

5) Tennessee Titans from Los Angeles Rams: Marshon Lattimore, CB Ohio State- This is an easy fit. The Titans added Logan Ryan, but they still need a corner to play on the other side.

Where this pick could become interesting is if the 49ers take Lattimore at the two. In that case, I would expect Tennessee to take Malik Hooker.

6) Cleveland Browns via New York Jets: Mitchell Trubisky, QB North Carolina- It’s time to squash the second rumor of this draft; the Jets selecting a quarterback in round one.

I think the Jets are talking up Trubisky and Deshaun Watson to get one of the Browns, Cardinals or Texans to come up and take this spot. The Jets have a ton of roster holes and they need more assets in this draft to help address those needs.

7) Los Angeles Chargers: Malik Hooker, FS Ohio State- The Chargers haven’t met with Malik Hooker, but he’s one of the best players in the draft at a position of need for the Chargers. I’ll take my chances on this one.

8) Washington Redskins via Carolina Panthers: Jamal Adams, FS/SS LSU- Jamal Adams recently visited with the Panthers, and they could easily draft him here. The more likely alternative option is that the Panthers are using Adams’ recent fall on draft boards as leverage to move down and gain a few assets in a very talented draft.

Enter the Washington Redskins. Washington needs a second playmaker in their secondary, and it’s no secret that Adams is still an extremely good prospect. Washington trades up to land a game-changer in the secondary, while Carolina slides down and still lands a player they covet.

9) Jacksonville Jaguars via Cincinnati Bengals: Reuben Foster, ILB Alabama- Foster can anchor the middle of the Jaguars defense from day one. They can save money by cutting Paul Posluszny and improve their front seven, all in one selection.

10) Buffalo Bills: Cam Robinson, OT Alabama- Third rumor of the draft going by the wayside here. Get ready for an offensive lineman to go in the first ten picks. Even though this year’s offensive line class isn’t good, every team needs offensive line in excess. If there’s anyone who can be an everyday starter, you better believe they’ll be drafted highly this year.

11) New Orleans Saints: Takkarist McKinnley, EDGE UCLA- I think the “Vic Beasley,” LEO pass rusher is going to become a lot more common among NFL defenses, and that’s the rational behind this pick. For the Saints, Takk McKinnley will serve that role and attempt to cause havoc opposite Cameron Jordan.

12) New York Jets from Cleveland Browns via Philadelphia Eagles: Kevin King, CB Washington- After trading backwards, the Jets land one of the fastest risers in the draft. King is a fourth rounder on my personal board because I think his technique is average at best.

Despite this, many think he has the size, length and athleticism to dominant in the NFL.

13) Arizona Cardinals: Deshaun Watson, QB Clemson- The Cardinals have to get a quarterback of the future in this draft. This QB class has actually become underrated by the media as time has gone on. Most will still be over-drafted, but the talent level among them is solid. If Watson makes it out of the top ten, the Cardinals would be wise to scoop him up at 13.

14) Denver Broncos from Philadelphia Eagles via Minnesota Vikings: Garett Bolles, OT Utah- Once we hit the middle of the draft, trades become more about teams jumping others to get players they covet. The Broncos need help at both tackle spots, so they jump a few teams to ensure they land Bolles.

15) Indianapolis Colts: Gareon Conley, CB Ohio State- Unless there’s a tackle on the board that the Colts love, they should go defense with this pick. Conley’s slight dip in draft value makes him the perfect selection at 15.

16) Baltimore Ravens: John Ross, WR Washington- Following his 4.22 at the combine, many felt that John Ross would be the first wide out off the board. This is a rumor I actually agree with. The Ravens have met with him on a number of occasions, therefore they choose him over Corey Davis and prove the experts correct.

17) Carolina Panthers via Washington Redskins: OJ Howard, TE Alabama- This is a bold call on my part, but I don’t buy the rumors that OJ Howard will be a top 15 pick. He’s a terrific prospect, but I think NFL teams know that he has a lower ceiling than the top tier tight ends in the NFL.

Having said that, Howard is a terrific prospect and a perfect fit for the Panthers.

18) Tennessee Titans: Corey Davis, WR Western Michigan- The Titans are in a terrific position to grab two game changers in round one, a pass catcher and a defensive back. Those opportunities don’t come often, so expect Tennessee to capitalize on it.

19) Tampa Bay Buccaneers: Haason Reddick, OLB/ILB Temple- Reddick’s versatility will have him a highly coveted prospect in the middle of round one. If he makes it to Tampa Bay, a team that needs a strong side pass rusher, he should come off the board.

20) Philadelphia Eagles via Denver Broncos: Chidobe Awuzie, CB Colorado- Awuzie is going to surprise on draft day. Scouts love his versatility and aggressiveness. Having traded down a few spots, the Eagles land the player they probably would’ve selected at 14.

21) Seattle Seahawks via Detroit Lions: Forrest Lamp, OG Western Kentucky- The Seahawks are going to have to move past the Dolphins and Giants in order to get one of the top offensive lineman in this draft. Fortunately, Detroit can trade out of the 21 and still get the player at the top of their board.

22) Dallas Cowboys via Miami Dolphins: Obi Melifonwu, FS/SS UCONN- Having just watched the top guard, and the Dolphins top target, go off the board, the Dolphins sell this pick to the highest bidder (their next target is a bit further down the board).

The Cowboys need secondary help desperately, and someone they love is bound to fall. In this case, it’s Melifonwu.

23) New York Giants: Ryan Ramczyk, OT Wisconsin- The Giants pick is simple. If OJ Howard is off the board, then insert the best available offensive lineman here.

24) Oakland Raiders: Zach Cunningham, LB Vanderbilt- For those wondering why this isn’t a running back, the Raiders love DeAndre Washington. He showed flashes of feature back potential last year. Combine that with the impending addition of Marshawn Lynch, and the Raiders choose to address middle linebacker instead.

25) Houston Texans: Patrick Mahomes, QB Texas Tech- The Texans are currently starting Tom Savage. “But Jordan, Patrick Mahomes in round one?” The Texans are currently starting Tom Savage. “But Jordan, what about their need for a safety like Jabrill Peppers or Budda Baker?” The Texans are currently starting Tom Savage.

The only way the Texans don’t pick a quarterback in round one is if they’ve traded out of round one (cough, Jimmy Garoppolo, cough).

26) Detroit Lions via Seattle Seahawks: Taco Charlton, DE Michigan- Taco Charlton, like Jonathan Allen, is another enigma in this draft. I can see Charlton going anywhere from 11 to 31. If he winds up in the back end of round one, he becomes the steal of day one.

27) Kansas City Chiefs: Tre’Davious White, CB LSU- The Chiefs need to solidify their number two cornerback, but they also need to upgrade at the nickel cornerback position. Fortunately for them, Tre White accomplishes both goals.

28) Miami Dolphins via Dallas Cowboys: Jarrad Davis, LB Florida- Outside of Kiko Alonso, the Dolphins linebacking core is a mess. Davis gets to stay in Florida and provide stability to the Dolphins linebacker unit.

29) Green Bay Packers: Christian McCaffrey, RB Stanford- Okay, so there’s a very good chance that McCaffrey is a top 20 pick. However, here’s the counter argument. Running backs don’t have the same value they used to. While McCaffrey is a better runner between the tackles than he’s ever been given credit for, he’s still at his best in the pass game. Scheme is as important for him as anything else, and that’s why he could fall on draft day… but he probably won’t.

30) Pittsburgh Steelers: TJ Watt, EDGE/OLB Wisconsin- Watt was a fast riser the past few months, and now he’s almost assured a top 40 selection. The Steelers did piece together a decent pass rushing unit last year. However, in order for this defense to take the next step, they need an edge rusher that can change games.

31) Atlanta Falcons: Derek Barnett, EDGE Tennessee- The Falcons could go a number of different ways with this selection. If they opt to keep the pick, expect them to go best player available, regardless of need.

32) Philadelphia Eagles via New England Patriots from New Orleans Saints via New England Patriots- Dalvin Cook, RB Florida State- All the talk surrounding the New England Patriots is them trading Jimmy Garoppolo to get themselves into round one. However, they have a second trade chip that is much more likely to move; Malcolm Butler.

The Saints still need a number one cornerback, and they still have interest in Malcolm Butler. I think that when push comes to shove, the two sides will find a way to get a deal done involving the 32nd pick.

Having jumped back into the first round, the Patriots then proceed to do the most Patriots thing ever; trade down. Dalvin Cook will fall on draft day, but his tape is too good for him to fall out of round one. I expect a team like Philadelphia to try to scoop him up in the back end of round one.

TRADES IN ROUND ONE

1- Cincinnati Bengals trade the #9 and the #41 to the Jacksonville Jaguars for the #4 and the #148.

2- Cleveland Browns trade the #12, #52 and the #108 to the New York Jets for the #6, a 2018 6th round pick and Sheldon Richardson.

3- Washington Redskins trade the #17 and the #49 to the Carolina Panthers for the #8 and a 2018 6th round pick.

4- Denver Broncos trade the #20, #82 and the #101 to the Philadelphia Eagles for the #14,

5- Seattle Seahawks trade the #26 and the #102 to the Detroit Lions for the #21.

6- Dallas Cowboys trade the #28, #92, and a 2018 6th round pick to the Miami Dolphins for the #22 and the #178

7- New Orleans Saints acquire Malcolm Butler and a 2018 3rd round pick from the New England Patriots for the #32. The Patriots then trade the #32 to the Philadelphia Eagles for the #47 and a 2018 3rd round pick.

Round Two

33) Cleveland Browns: Marcus Maye, FS Florida- Maye has the tools to be a day one pick. Cleveland takes him at the top of round two to boost their secondary.

34) San Francisco 49ers: Adoree Jackson, CB/S USC- Adoree Jackson will be in the green room at the NFL draft, which means his camp expects him to be picked either on day one, or very early on day two.

35) Jacksonville Jaguars: Taylor Moton, OT Western Michigan- Eat, sleep, overdraft offensive lineman, repeat. That will be the theme of the first two days.

36) Chicago Bears: DeShone Kizer, QB Notre Dame- Kizer appears to be very high on the Bears board. It would surprise me if Chicago didn’t take him on day two.

37) Los Angeles Rams: Evan Engram, WR/TE Ole Miss- The Rams have to get another playmaker on offense in this draft.

38) Los Angeles Chargers: Jordan Willis, EDGE Kansas State- Willis had a phenomenal showing at the combine, and his draft stock has only risen since.

39) New York Jets: Carl Lawson, EDGE Auburn- The Jets could do a number of different things with this second round pick, especially if they added more assets along the way. However, if an edge rusher falls, like Lawson, I expect them to go in that direction.

40) Carolina Panthers: Tarell Basham, DE Ohio- This might be a little too high for Basham, but he’s a perfect scheme fit with the Panthers.

41) Jacksonville Jaguars via Cincinnati Bengals: Malik McDowell, DT Michigan State- I think the question about McDowell’s motor will keep him out of round one.

42) New Orleans Saints: Davis Webb, QB California- In my opinion, Davis Webb is the most interesting developmental quarterback in the draft. Sit him behind Drew Brees for two years and reap the benefits.

43) New England Patriots via Philadelphia Eagles: Derek Rivers, EDGE Youngstown State- If the Patriots can get into the top 50 this year, I think they’ll try to take an edge rusher. New England doesn’t have many weaknesses, but they need to pressure the QB better in 2017.

44) Buffalo Bills: Mike Williams, WR Clemson- It wouldn’t shock me if Mike Williams fell out of the top 50, but I think the Williams supporters saw enough at his pro day to still make him a valuable second round pick.

45) Arizona Cardinals: Marlon Humphrey, CB Alabama- Because the DB class is so good, there are bound to be several that fall into the second and third round. In this case, the Cardinals steal Marlon Humphrey.

46) Indianapolis Colts: Tyus Bowser, OLB Houston- Many draft experts and scouts love Tyus Bowser’s athleticism. I think his tape is inconsistent but he’ll be a day two pick for sure.

47) New York Giants via Baltimore Ravens: David Njoku, TE Miami Florida- I think the tight ends could fall in this draft because there’s so many that are good. If that happens, the Giants will fly up the draft board for whomever they covet.

48) Minnesota Vikings: Alvin Kamara, RB Tennessee- Despite signing Latavius Murray, the Vikings need a running back of the future.

49) Carolina Panthers via Washington Redskins: Chris Godwin, WR Penn State- The Panthers need a deep threat to replace Tedd Ginn. Godwin has tremendous upside and he could be the steal of the draft among offensive weapons.

50) Tampa Bay Buccaneers: Jabrill Peppers, SS/LB Michigan- Peppers is another draft enigma. He could be a top 20 pick, or he could fall into the third round. Regardless of where in the draft he winds up, Tampa Bay is a team I expect to covet the Michigan product.

51) Denver Broncos: Bucky Hodges, TE Virginia Tech- Hodges isn’t a great blocker, but as a “move Tight End,” he should excel in the NFL.

52) New York Jets from Cleveland Browns via Tennessee Titans: Budda Baker, FS Washington- In a loaded secondary class, it would behoove the Jets to come out of this draft with multiple starters in the secondary.

53) Detroit Lions: Duke Riley, OLB LSU- Riley is quite similar to his former teammate Deion Jones. As a 4-3 weakside ‘backer, many feel he will be a solid pro.

54) Miami Dolphins: Dan Feeney, OG Indiana- Feeney is the forgotten man among this offensive line class. He should be a plug in play right guard from day one.

55) Baltimore Ravens via New York Giants: Charles Harris, EDGE Missouri- I think Harris is better served in a 4-3, but many think he can play in any situation.

56) Oakland Raiders: Chris Wormley, DT Michigan- Wormley gives the Raiders an athletic pass rusher next to the space-eater Dan Williams.

57) Chicago Bears via Houston Texans: Quincy Wilson, CB Florida- The Bears move up to land a potential number one cornerback.

58) Seattle Seahawks: Ahkello Witherspoon, CB Colorado- Witherspoon has the height and length that the Seahawks look for in their corners. Many feel that this a layup in round two.

59) Kansas City Chiefs: Raekwon McMillian, ILB Ohio State- If the Chiefs go into the season starting Ramik Wilson, they’re asking for disaster.

60) Dallas Cowboys: Fabian Moreau, CB UCLA- Had Moreau not torn his pectoral at his pro day, he would’ve been a first round selection.

61) Green Bay Packers: Elijah Qualls, NT Washington- Qualls is the space eater that the Packers defense is desperately missing.

62) Pittsburgh Steelers: Rasul Douglas, CB West Virginia- The Steelers defense still needs help in the secondary. In my opinion, Douglas has number one cornerback potential, and he would be a great scheme fit in Pittsburgh.

63) Atlanta Falcons: Dion Dawkins, OG/OT Temple- Atlanta still needs a right guard to solidify their offensive line as one of the best in football.

64) Carolina Panthers via New England Patriots: Josh Jones, FS/SS NC State- Josh Jones has the versatility to play both safety spots, which should help him go early in this draft.

TRADES IN ROUND TWO

1- New York Giants trade the #55, #140 and #167 to the Baltimore Ravens for the #47.

2- Chicago Bears trade the #67 and the #111 to the Houston Texans for the #57.

Round Three

65) Cleveland Browns: Sidney Jones, CB Washington

66) San Francisco 49ers: Zay Jones, WR East Carolina

67) Houston Texans via Chicago Bears: Tim Williams, EDGE Alabama

68) Jacksonville Jaguars: Joe Mixon, RB Oklahoma

69) Los Angeles Rams: Will Holden, OT Vanderbilt

70) New York Jets: Pat Elflein, OG/OC Ohio State

71) Los Angeles Chargers: Ethan Pocic, OL LSU

72) New England Patriots via Carolina Panthers: D’Onta Foreman, RB Texas

73) Cincinnati Bengals: Desmond King, CB/FS Iowa

74) Philadelphia Eagles: Damontae Kazee, CB San Diego State

75) Buffalo Bills: Alex Anzalone, OLB/ILB Florida

76) New Orleans Saints: Tanoh Kpassagnon, DE Villanova

77) Arizona Cardinals: Amara Darboh, WR Michigan

78) Baltimore Ravens: Tyler Orlosky, C West Virginia

79) Minnesota Vikings: Xavier Woods, SS Louisiana Tech

80) Indianapolis Colts: Antonio Garcia, OT Troy

81) Washington Redskins: Anthony Walker, ILB Northwestern

82) Philadelphia Eagles via Denver Broncos: Isaac Asiata, OG Utah

83) Tennessee Titans: Jake Butt, TE Michigan

84) Tampa Bay Buccaneers: Marlon Mack, RB South Florida

85) Detroit Lions: Delano Hill, FS Michigan

86) Minnesota Vikings from Miami Dolphins: Jaleel Johnson, DT Iowa

87) New York Giants: Caleb Brantley, DT Florida

88) Oakland Raiders: Howard Wilson, CB Houston

89) Houston Texans: Justin Evans, SS Texas A&M

90) Detroit Lions via Seattle Seahawks: Kennay Golladay, WR Northern Illinois

91) Kansas City Chiefs: Nathan Peterman, QB Pittsburgh

92) Miami Dolphins via Dallas Cowboys: Teez Tabor, CB/FS Florida

93) Green Bay Packers: Trey Hendrickson, EDGE Florida Atlantic

94) Pittsburgh Steelers: Josh Reynolds, WR Texas A&M

95) Atlanta Falcons: Cameron Sutton, CB/FS Tennessee

96) New England Patriots: Roderick Johnson, OT Florida State

97) Miami Dolphins (Compensatory Selection): Vince Biegel, OLB Wisconsin

98) Carolina Panthers (Compensatory Selection): Julie’n Davenport, OT Bucknell

99) Philadelphia Eagles from Baltimore Ravens (Compensatory Selection): Ryan Anderson, OLB Alabama

100) Tennessee Titans via Los Angeles Rams (Compensatory Selection): Jourdan Lewis, CB Michigan

101) Denver Broncos (Compensatory Selection): Wayne Gallman, RB Clemson

102) Seattle Seahawks (Compensatory Selection): Aviante Collins, OT/OG TCU

103) Los Angeles Chargers via New Orleans Saints from New England Patriots via Cleveland Browns (Compensatory Selection): Chad Hansen, WR California

104) Kansas City Chiefs (Compensatory Selection): Danny Isidora, OG Miami Florida

105) Pittsburgh Steelers (Compensatory Selection): Nico Siragusa, OG San Diego State

106) Seattle Seahawks (Compensatory Selection): Demarcus Walker, DE Florida State

107) New York Jets (Compensatory Selection): Adam Shaheen, TE Ashland

TRADES IN ROUND THREE

1- Los Angeles Chargers trade the #113 and the #151 to the New Orleans Saints for the #103 and #196.

This entry was posted in Mock Drafts, NFL Draft Articles and tagged Arizona Cardinals, Atlanta Falcons, Baltimore Ravens, Buffalo Bills, Carolina Panthers, Chicago Bears, Cincinnati Bengals, Cleveland Browns, Dallas Cowboys, Denver Broncos, Deshaun Watson, DeShone Kizer, Detroit Lions, Green Bay Packers, Houston Texans, Indianapolis Colts, Jacksonville Jaguars, Jamal Adams, John Ross, Jonathan Allen, Kansas City Chiefs, Leonard Fournette, Los Angeles Chargers, Los Angeles Rams, Malik Hooker, Marshon Lattimore, Miami Dolphins, Mitchell Trubisky, New England Patriots, New Orleans Saints, New York Giants, New York Jets, NFL, NFL Draft, NFL Mock Draft, Oakland Raiders, Patrick Mahomes, Philadelphia Eagles, Pittsburgh Steelers, Reuben Foster, San Francisco 49ers, Seattle Seahawks, Solomon Thomas, Takk McKinnley, Tampa Bay Buccaneers, Tennessee Titans, Washington Redskins.

Jordan Katz 2017 NFL Mock Draft 3.0- Post NFL Combine

Posted on March 7, 2017 Updated on March 8, 2017

The 2017 NFL Combine was one of the most impressive combines I’ve seen during my time covering the NFL Draft. So many ridiculous performances, and only about half of those were from the Defensive Backs.

The combine often causes scouts and mock draft experts to re-arrange their big board as well as their mock drafts. The reason is not because the combine outweighs game tape. It’s because the combine can expose players weaknesses, as well as reiterate players strengths. Therefore, it’s time for my third mock draft of the year.

While I’ve made a lot of changes when it comes to players and their grades since my last mock draft, the rules of the draft remain the same. This is my evaluation of what I would do if I was in control of all 32 teams. I only made a trade if it made sense for both teams to make the move. Also, if you’re team was desperate for offensive line help, I caved and gave it to them. My condolences in advance.

Round 1

1) Cleveland Browns: Myles Garrett, EDGE Texas A&M- Garrett demonstrated this weekend why he’s the clear cut number one overall selection. He’s an athletic specimen and a star at the next level.

2) San Francisco 49ers: Mitchell Trubisky, QB North Carolina- There’s a lot of talk over the combine that Deshaun Watson had, but I think day two of the combine is easily the most overrated day in Indianapolis. Outside of footwork, there’s not much you learn from guys throwing and catching in workout clothes. Trubisky’s tape is worthy of a first round grade, so he remains my top quarterback off the board.

3) Jacksonville Jaguars via Chicago Bears: Jamal Adams, FS/SS LSU- A rare one spot trade down, but it makes sense. Chicago is desperate for more picks in a very talented draft class, and Jacksonville will address a lot of their needs in free agency. Jacksonville needs a second game changer in their secondary and trading up to ensure they land Jamal Adams is worth it.

4) Chicago Bears via Jacksonville Jaguars: Malik Hooker, FS Ohio State- I’m not as concerned about Hooker’s injuries as some are. I also don’t care that safeties are often not top ten picks. Both Hooker and Adams have incredible range, and Hooker’s ability to play “centerfield,” is unlike anyone I’ve scouted.

5) Tennessee Titans from Los Angeles Rams: Marshon Lattimore, CB Ohio State- The Titans are most likely getting a big name wide receiver before the draft, so their number one need becomes cornerback. Fortunately for them, Lattimore is one of the most technically sound corners in recent memory.

6) New York Jets: Ryan Ramczyk, OT Wisconsin- First off, I tried to trade out of this pick for Gang Green, but the asking price was too high for teams to move up. If I was in charge of the Jets, I would execute a rebuild instead of a reload. Based on this, the Jets select the top offensive tackle in the draft, even with the injury concerns.

7) Philadelphia Eagles via Los Angeles Chargers: Leonard Fournette, RB LSU- Fournette won’t play at the 240 pounds he weighed in at over the weekend. However, he proved just how athletic he truly is. The Eagles wow the Chargers with value to move up and select a game changing running back to compliment Carson Wentz.

8) Carolina Panthers: Solomon Thomas, DE Stanford- The Panthers took a massive step backwards in 2016 because they lacked the pass rush they had the year before. Solomon Thomas has unique athleticism for someone his size, and his game tape is impressive for someone playing out of position a lot (Stanford used him often as a 3-4 DE). He’s a perfect fit for the Panthers defensive front.

9) Cincinnati Bengals: Jonathan Allen, DE/DT Alabama- Allen has a few medical concerns, but according to a few doctors I spoke to, their belief is that Allen can still have a strong NFL career. If that’s the case, Cincinnati would hit a home run if they put his disruptive game style next to Geno Atkins.

10) Buffalo Bills: Deshaun Watson, QB Clemson- Watson may not be worthy of a top ten selection for me, but quarterbacks are a tricky analysis. You have to judge when to take a chance on a quarterback based on your team and the player’s skill set. Buffalo should be able to retain Stephon Gilmore, which means their top need is at quarterback. Watson would thrive with the Bills offense, so while this is a bit of a reach, I love the fit.

11) New Orleans Saints: Taco Charlton, DE Michigan- Still love this fit. Taco Charlton is one of my favorite guys in this draft because of his ability to gain leverage on opposing offensive lineman. He’d be a great compliment to Cameron Jordan.

12) Cleveland Browns via Philadelphia Eagles: Sidney Jones, CB Washington- With the top two quarterbacks off the board, Cleveland continues to address other needs. Jones’ ability to press, along with his length and his athleticism, will allow him to succeed in the NFL for a long time.

13) Arizona Cardinals: Reuben Foster, ILB Alabama- Foster will have some questions to answer about the incident in Indianapolis, but it shouldn’t affect him too much. When you put the game tape on, there’s no way this guy isn’t one of the top ten players in this draft. His range is incredible, and he’s got a great motor on the field. Arizona is in a best player available situation, and Foster also happens to be a scheme fit.

14) Los Angeles Chargers from Philadelphia Eagles via Minnesota Vikings- Derek Barnett, EDGE Tennessee- The Chargers are able to slide backward, add a second rounder, and still land the edge rusher they desperately need. Barnett is as fundamentally sound as any edge rusher in this draft. This is a perfect match.

15) Indianapolis Colts: Zach Cunningham, ILB/OLB Vanderbilt- The Colts need anything on defense you can think of, but a signal caller would go a long way towards helping them immediately. Cunningham has great length and athleticism, and can immediately help the back seven of the Colts defense.

16) Baltimore Ravens: Corey Davis, WR Western Michigan– Ozzie Newsome goes offense in the first round again? Don’t scoff at it. Davis has elite jump ball ability to go along with his terrific route running. He’d be an excellent compliment to Breshad Perriman.

17) Washington Redskins: Malik McDowell, DE/DT Michigan State- As long as a team can get McDowell to compete on ever down, he’s well worth a top 20 selection. McDowell has length, athleticism, and the ability to gain consistent leverage when he wants. If Jay Gruden tamed Desean Jackson, he should be able to do the same with McDowell.

18) Tennessee Titans: OJ Howard, TE Alabama- Marcus Mariota definitely needs a big time target, but based on the type of quarterback he is, it might help him more if that top target is a tight end. Howard paired with Delanie Walker would add a different dimension to a team poised to break out in 2017.

19) Tampa Bay Buccaneers: Dalvin Cook, RB Florida State- Cook had a terrible combine, and it has made a lot of scouts question his value in the NFL. The tape is still incredible, so I think he’s still worthy of a top tier selection. However, if his pro day is another struggle, that may raise more red flags.

20) Denver Broncos: Forrest Lamp, OG Western Kentucky- Forrest Lamp is going to be an all pro guard in the NFL. I love his athleticism and his ability to control the point of attack. He may go higher than this on my final mock draft, but for now he’s a still at 20 for the Broncos.

21) Detroit Lions: Adoree Jackson, CB/FS USC- Jackson is one of my favorite players in this draft. He may not have the most technically sound footwork, but he’s a ball-hawk extraordinaire. I’ll ride with Jackson as a first round talent until the end this year.

22) Miami Dolphins: Carl Lawson, EDGE Auburn- What makes so many of the edge rushers so good in this draft class is how good they are technically. They may not all have Myles Garrett’s athleticism, but they have a good move set and their technique allows them to gain leverage on opposing tackles. Lawson isn’t the best athlete, but his ability to use his hands to direct O-Lineman is excellent. He’s an NFL player on tape.

23) New York Giants: Cam Robinson, OT/OG Alabama- The Giants need offensive line help so badly, that they overdraft Cam Robinson. A lot of people would love this value pick, but I think Robinson is a day two right tackle or a day two guard.

24) Oakland Raiders: Montravius Adams, DT Auburn- Adams is so disruptive on the interior. Putting him with Khalil Mack and Bruce Irvin might honestly be illegal in most states. A great way to take pressure of a secondary is to develop a dominant pass rush. The Raiders have done that with this selection.

25) Houston Texans: Obi Melifonwu, FS/SS UCONN- Shoutout to my fellow DraftStock contributor (Mike Reynolds) on this one. Obi Melifonwu was on his radar as a top two round selection way back in October. After the combine Melifonwu had, if he’s not a round one guy I’d be stunned.

26) Cleveland Browns via Seattle Seahawks: Budda Baker, CB/FS/SS Washington- Seattle is desperate for offensive line. Because the big three are gone, they can easily move down and get the player they desire. Cleveland shouldn’t overdraft a quarterback just because it’s a quarterback driven league, but they should use their extra picks to get back into the first round for a player they covet.

Baker is going to be a big time player at the next level. He doesn’t possess the best ball skills just yet, but he flies to the football and makes impact plays defensively. With Jones at the 12 and Baker at the 26, the Browns have rebuilt their secondary.

27) Kansas City Chiefs: Jarrad Davis, OLB/ILB Florida- Davis is much higher on my personal board than most. I think he’s a complete linebacker and can play in a 4-3 or a 3-4. The Chiefs start Ramik Wilson. Any questions?

28) Dallas Cowboys: Mike Williams, WR Clemson- Williams’ decision to not run the 40 brings his ability to separate from defenders at the next level into question. I think he’ll be okay because of the way he uses his size, but until he proves his speed, he falls a bit in this draft.

29) Green Bay Packers: Tim Williams, EDGE Alabama- Tim Williams didn’t have a good combine, but I still believe in the player I saw on film. Putting him opposite a premier edge rusher like Clay Matthews will allow him to flourish in the NFL.

30) Pittsburgh Steelers: TJ Watt, EDGE/OLB Wisconsin- The Steelers are in need of a second edge rusher, but they also need linebacker depth in general. Watt is incredibly versatile. He can be a 4-3 outside linebacker, a 3-4 weak-side linebacker, or a straight edge rusher. Pittsburgh will use his versatility well.

31) Atlanta Falcons: Jabril Peppers, ATH Michigan- Dan Quinn loves players that compete on every down, and Jabril Peppers does just that. I still believe in Peppers’ ability to be a SS in the NFL, but his offensive ability will also be valuable to a lot of NFL teams.

32) New England Patriots: Hasson Reddick, OLB/ILB Temple- Reddick can rush the passer off the edge, but in the NFL he will be asked to be a complete linebacker. Fortunately for him, there’s no greater teacher than “The Hoodie,” in New England.

Trades in Round One

1- Jacksonville Jaguars trade the #4, #68, #110 and a 2018 4th to the Chicago Bears for the #3, #221 and a 2018 6th round pick

2- Philadelphia Eagles trade the #14 and the #43 to the Los Angeles Chargers for the #7 and the #113

3- Cleveland Browns trade the #33, #53 and the #108 to the Seattle Seahawks for the #26 and the #58

Round 2

33) Seattle Seahawks via Cleveland Browns: Garett Bolles, OT Utah- Bolles isn’t polished yet but he’s a good athlete with solid upside.

34) San Francisco 49ers: John Ross III, WR Washington- 4.22?! He might have some focus drops but you can’t teach that speed.

35) Jacksonville Jaguars: Tre’Davious White, CB LSU- Tre White is a steal here for a team well on their way towards a dominant secondary.

36) Chicago Bears: DeShone Kizer, QB Notre Dame- Kizer could benefit from sitting a year, and hopefully Chicago will do that if they pick him.

37) Los Angeles Rams: Dion Dawkins, OT/OG Temple- Dawkins had a very good combine. He showed athleticism that I didn’t think he had based on his tape.

38) Los Angeles Chargers: Desmond King, CB/FS Iowa- I still think King can be an NFL corner. If he does convert to safety, he’s a smart enough player to make a smooth transition.

39) New York Jets: Gareon Conley, CB Ohio State- Conley has great length and athleticism. If his technique catches up to his physical traits, lookout.

40) Carolina Panthers: Alvin Kamara, RB Tennessee- Kamara is a terrific runner in space, but he’s better between the tackles than people think.

41) Cincinnati Bengals: Quincy Wilson, CB Florida- Wilson will need a solid pro day after a bad combine. Despite this, his tape still has him as a top tier player in this draft.

42) New Orleans Saints: Marlon Humphrey, CB Alabama- Humphrey has a tendency to gamble too much. He’s much better when he mirrors receivers and stays disciplined. New Orleans needs a turnover guy though, and Humphrey has that ability.

43) Los Angeles Chargers via Philadelphia Eagles: Zay Jones, WR East Carolina- Zay Jones is the big winner this draft season. He’d fit right in with the Chargers offense and help take pressure off of Keenan Allen.

44) Denver Broncos via Buffalo Bills: David Njoku, TE Miami Florida- Denver moves up to land a game changing tight end in Njoku.

45) Arizona Cardinals: Patrick Mahomes, QB Texas Tech- As someone who loves to play backyard football, you can’t help but root for the “backyard artist,” himself.

46) Indianapolis Colts: Teez Tabor, CB Florida- Teez Tabor had a horrendous combine. He looked slow footed during every test. However, his technique shined during the drills, so he has become a very tough evaluation moving forward.

47) Baltimore Ravens: Jourdan Lewis, CB Michigan- Lewis will excel as a nickel corner in the NFL. Fortunately for Baltimore, that’s what they need.

48) Minnesota Vikings: Pat Elflein, OG/OC Ohio State- Elflein would be a third round guy for me in a normal offensive line year. However, this isn’t that year.

49) Washington Redskins: Elijah Qualls, NT Washington– Qualls eats blockers as well as anyone in this draft, a necessity for a strong nose tackle.

50) Tampa Bay Buccaneers: Marcus Williams, FS Utah- I think a lot of people are sleeping on Marcus Williams this year. I love his ability to hawk the ball on tape.

51) Buffalo Bills via Denver Broncos: Chris Godwin, WR Penn State- Buffalo trades down and still gets the receiver they would’ve taken in their original spot.

52) Seattle Seahawks from Cleveland Browns via Tennessee Titans- Taylor Moton, OG/OT Western Michigan- Moton is a mixed bag. He has good athleticism and a strong frame, but his footwork is often clunky. I think Seattle should be able to utilize his strengths and make him a solid pro.

53) Detroit Lions: Tarell Basham, DE Ohio- Basham showed elite athleticism in Indy. This guy could become an elite pass rusher in a few years.

54) Miami Dolphins: Evan Engram, TE Ole Miss- Engram is a game changer in the pass game. If a team uses him as a hybrid between a receiver and a tight end, the sky is the limit.

55) New York Giants: Caleb Brantley, DT Florida- Brantley is disruptive as a one tech or a three tech. His versatility will compliment Snack Harrison in the middle of the Giants defense.

56) Oakland Raiders: D’Onta Foreman, RB Texas- Foreman is a mammoth and a skilled runner between the tackles. He’d be a great fit in Oakland.

57) New England Patriots via Houston Texans: Jordan Willis, EDGE Kansas State- Jordan Willis could be the winner from the weekend in Indy. New England trades up to land the pass rusher they need.

58) Cleveland Browns via Seattle Seahawks: Davis Webb, QB California- Webb is another developmental quarterback. Much like Mahomes and Kizer, if the Browns are patient with Webb, he can turn into an NFL starter.

59) Kansas City Chiefs: Damontae Kazee, CB San Diego State- Kazee needs to improve his footwork, but he’s a beast when the ball is in his vicinity.

60) Dallas Cowboys: Cordrea Tankersley, CB Clemson- Tankersley is a solid corner in all forms of coverage. Dallas needs stability in the back end of their defense.

61) Green Bay Packers: Christian McCaffrey, RB Stanford- McCaffrey in the Packers offense is a match made in heaven.

62) Pittsburgh Steelers: Curtis Samuel, WR/RB Ohio State- Samuel’s speed and ability to space will make him a matchup problem in the NFL.

63) Atlanta Falcons: Jaleel Johnson, DT Iowa- Johnson fell down my board a bit, but that’s not a reflection on his talent. He eats space and gets good leverage on opposing lineman.

64) Houston Texans via New England Patriots: Jarron Jones, NT Notre Dame- Jones is the only other nose tackle with a day two grade or better for me, so Houston slides down and still gets their guy.

Trades in Round Two

1- Denver Broncos trade #51 and #101 to the Buffalo Bills for the #44

2- New England Patriots trade the #64, #137 and #163 to the Houston Texans for the #57 and the #243.

Round 3

65) Cleveland Browns: Antonio Garcia, OT Troy

66) San Francisco 49ers: Rasul Douglas, CB West Virginia

67) Chicago Bears: Julie’n Davenport, OT Bucknell

68) Chicago Bears via Jacksonville Jaguars: Jake Butt, TE Michigan

69) Los Angeles Rams: Malachi Dupre, WR LSU

70) New York Jets: Jordan Leggett, TE Clemson

71) Los Angeles Chargers: Eddie Jackson, SS Alabama

72) Carolina Panthers: Chidobe Awuzie, CB/FS Colorado

73) Cincinnati Bengals: Dan Feeney, OG Indiana

74) Philadelphia Eagles: Chris Wormley, DT Michigan

75) Buffalo Bills: Cameron Sutton, CB/FS Tennessee

76) New Orleans Saints: Raekwon McMillian, ILB Ohio State

77) Arizona Cardinals: Fabian Moreau, CB UCLA

78) Baltimore Ravens: Takkarist McKinnley, EDGE UCLA

79) Minnesota Vikings: Alex Anzalone, OLB/ILB Florida

80) Indianapolis Colts: Lorenzo Jerome, SS St. Francis PA

81) Washington Redskins: Justin Evans, SS Texas A&M

82) Denver Broncos: Carlos Watkins, DE/DT Clemson

83) Tennessee Titans: Dawuane Smoot, EDGE Illinois

84) Tampa Bay Buccaneers: Ryan Anderson, OLB Alabama

85) Detroit Lions: Bucky Hodges, TE Virginia Tech

86) Minnesota Vikings from Miami Dolphins: Bryan Cox Jr., DE Florida

87) New York Giants: Nathan Peterman, QB Pittsburgh

88) Oakland Raiders: Marcus Maye, FS Florida

89) Houston Texans: Gerald Everett, TE South Alabama

90) Seattle Seahawks: Ahkello Witherspoon, CB Colorado

91) Kansas City Chiefs: DJ Jones, NT Ole Miss

92) Dallas Cowboys: Adam Shaheen, TE Ashland

93) Green Bay Packers: Dorian Johnson, OG Pittsburgh

94) Pittsburgh Steelers: Jalen Myrick, CB Minnesota

95) Atlanta Falcons: Daeshon Hall, EDGE Texas A&M

96) New England Patriots: John Johnson, FS Boston College

97) Miami Dolphins (Compensatory Selection): Ethan Pocic, OG LSU

98) Carolina Panthers (Compensatory Selection): Ar’Darius Stewart, WR Alabama

99) Baltimore Ravens (Compensatory Selection): Demarcus Walker, DE Florida State

100) Tennessee Titans from Los Angeles Rams (Compensatory Selection): Eddie Vanderdoes, DE/DT UCLA

101) Buffalo Bills via Denver Broncos (Compensatory Selection)- Aviante Collins, OT TCU

102) Seattle Seahawks (Compensatory Selection): Tanoh Kpassagnon, DE Villanova

103) New England Patriots from Cleveland Browns (Compensatory Selection): George Kittle, TE Iowa

104) Kansas City Chiefs (Compensatory Selection): Brad Kaaya, QB Miami Florida

105) Pittsburgh Steelers (Compensatory Selection): Josh Jones, FS/SS NC State

106) Seattle Seahawks (Compensatory Selection): Cooper Kupp, WR Eastern Washington

107) New York Jets (Compensatory Selection): Jeremy McNichols, RB Boise State

This entry was posted in Mock Drafts, NFL Draft Articles and tagged 2017 NFL Mock Draft, Arizona Cardinals, Atlanta Falcons, Baltimore Ravens, Buffalo Bills, Carolina Panthers, Chicago Bears, Cincinnati Bengals, Cleveland Browns, Dallas Cowboys, Dalvin Cook, Denver Broncos, Deshaun Watson, DeShone Kizer, Detroit Lions, Green Bay Packers, Houston Texans, Indianapolis Colts, Jacksonville Jaguars, Jamal Adams, Jonathan Allen, Kansas City Chiefs, Leonard Fournette, Los Angeles Chargers, Los Angeles Rams, Malik Hooker, Marshon Lattimore, Miami Dolphins, Mitchell Trubisky, Myles Garrett, New England Patriots, New Orleans Saints, New York Giants, New York Jets, NFL, NFL Draft, NFL Mock Draft, Oakland Raiders, Patrick Mahomes, Philadelphia Eagles, Pittsburgh Steelers, Reuben Foster, Ryan Ramczyk, San Francisco 49ers, Seattle Seahawks, Solomon Thomas, Taco Charlton, Tampa Bay Buccaneers, Tennessee Titans, Washington Redskins.

Jordan Katz- NFL Mock Draft 5.0 (Three Rounds)

Posted on April 15, 2016

Less than two weeks until the big day and the Titans and Rams have shook up the landscape of the NFL Draft. The trade will almost ensure that a quarterback is taken with the first overall pick, which has a domino affect on the rest of the board. It impacts what the Browns will decide to do with the second overall pick, how far Laremy Tunsil now falls, which teams now look to trade up, and so on and so forth.

Unlike the media mock draft, this is my personal mock draft. This means that I went back to my personal evaluations, and what I would do if I were the teams in each spot (with the exception of the 49ers, as you will see). There’s a little less analysis to this one, as my personal opinions of players have been well documented by now.

ROUND ONE

1) Los Angeles Rams via Tennessee Titans- Carson Wentz, QB North Dakota State- The Rams are reportedly torn between Wentz and Jared Goff, and will continue to do their due diligence right up until draft day. I think Goff is more NFL ready, but Wentz will be the pick because of his upside.

2) San Francisco 49ers via Cleveland Browns- Jared Goff, QB California- It’s so weird to me that these two QBs appear to be destined for the top two picks, but that’s where were at. I think the challenge the Browns have will be to build enough buzz around them taking Goff to get the Niners or Eagles to move up.

3) San Diego Chargers- Deforest Buckner, DE Oregon- The move here by mock draft pundits will be to give the Chargers Laremy Tunsil. However, San Diego just extended King Dunlap and Joe Barksdale. Neither of them are cap cut options for a few years.

If I were running the Chargers, I would take Buckner to add to an improving front seven.

4) Dallas Cowboys- Joey Bosa, DE Ohio State- As much as I would love to give the Cowboys Jalen Ramsey and have him play safety, Bosa is a must have. The Cowboys are in desperate need of a pass rusher opposite Demarcus Lawrence.

5) Jacksonville Jaguars- Laremy Tunsil, OT Ole Miss- The Jaguars have been looking to replace Luke Joeckel, and they’ve been gift wrapped the best offensive player in the draft. Easy pick here.

6) Baltimore Ravens- Myles Jack, OLB/ILB UCLA- CJ Mosley, Terrell Suggs, and Myles Jack in a linebacking core? This is too good of a scenario for Ozzie Newsome to pass on.

7) Cleveland Browns via San Francisco 49ers- Jalen Ramsey, CB/S Florida State- Hi, were the Browns, and we need talent.

8) Philadelphia Eagles via Miami Dolphins- Vernon Hargreaves, CB Florida- The Eagles must grab a cornerback early in this draft. Hargreaves may be undersized, but he’s worth this selection.

9) Tampa Bay Buccaneers- Shaq Lawson, DE Clemson- Lawson slightly edged out Dodd after further evaluation. Therefore, he becomes the pick for Tampa Bay.

10) New York Giants- Kevin Dodd, DE Clemson- I don’t trust JPP to bounce back this season, which means unless I become magically correct on Owamagbe Odighizuwa (safe to say I missed that evaluation), the Giants will need a starting defensive end for this year and beyond.

11) Chicago Bears- Ezekiel Elliott, RB Ohio State- I wouldn’t go into this season starting Jeremy Langford if I ran the Bears. I would take Elliott here because all the top tier pass rushers are off the board.

12) New Orleans Saints- Sheldon Rankins, DE/DT Louisville- I struggled to find a trade partner for the Saints, so they stay put at the 12.

I think Rankins would give the Saints true multiple defense personnel, similar to what Todd Bowles has in New York right now.

13) Washington Redskins from Miami Dolphins via Philadelphia Eagles- A’Shawn Robinson, NT Alabama- Interestingly enough, I stole a trade from my media mock draft. However, with Elliott off the board, the Redskins address nose tackle and jump up for A’Shawn Robinson.

14) Oakland Raiders- Reggie Ragland, ILB Alabama- Eat. Sleep. Ragland. Repeat.

15) Tennessee Titans via Los Angeles Rams- Ronnie Stanley, OT Notre Dame- I tweeted on Thursday that the big loser of the Rams trade is going to be Ronnie Stanley. I think he’s a top 10 talent, but he’s going to fall because Laremy Tunsil falls outside the top three.

16) Detroit Lions- Jason Spriggs, OT Indiana- I think Spriggs is a perfect fit at right tackle from day one, and the Lions need a right tackle in the worst way.

17) Atlanta Falcons- Robert Nkemdiche, DT Ole Miss- Dan Quinn has the staff and the personality to get the best out of a player with character issues. Nkemdiche’s talent is well documented, as are his character issues.

18) Indianapolis Colts- Mackensie Alexander, CB Clemson- I still have Alexander slightly ahead of William Jackson III, so the Colts get a multi-dimensional cornerback rather than one that is more suited top play on the outside.

19) Buffalo Bills- Emmanuel Ogbah, EDGE Oklahoma State- I’m sticking with the Bills taking a pass rusher to play opposite Jerry Hughes. I think it’s what’s best for business.

20) Tennessee Titans via New York Jets- Josh Doctson, WR TCU- General Manager Jon Robinson said that he doesn’t feel that his team is done making moves in this draft. With the top wide out falling to 20, he moves up to get Marcus Mariota a second target out wide.

21) Miami Dolphins via Washington Redskins- William Jackson III, CB Houston- Jackson flew up my personal board since a few weeks ago, making this pick the exact same as the media mock draft.

22) Houston Texans- Austin Johnson, DT/NT Penn State- I still can’t believe a guy that looks as athletic as Austin Johnson does on tape isn’t getting more buzz in a weak draft class. He would help free up rushers for the Texans defense.

23) Minnesota Vikings- Laquon Treadwell, WR Ole Miss- In my opinion, the Vikings cut Mike Wallace in preparation to take a wide out in this draft. Treadwell’s big frame will make him an easy target for Teddy Bridgewater.

24) Cincinnati Bengals- Corey Coleman, WR Baylor- The Bengals offense is going to open up the minute they get a true possession receiver. Coleman will help alleviate pressure from Tyler Eifert in the middle of the field.

25) Pittsburgh Steelers- Kenny Clark, NT UCLA- I believe Clark is a better space eater than Andrew Billings, and possesses a more complete game. That’s why he’s here instead of Billings.

26) Seattle Seahawks- Taylor Decker, OT Ohio State- For the first time in the 2016 version of my mock drafts, the Seahawks don’t draft Robert Nkemdiche… because he’s not available.

Decker would be a necessity for the Seahawks because their offensive line went from good to horrendous in a little over a year.

27) Green Bay Packers- Jonathan Bullard, DE Florida- Bullard is a guy that I have wanted to put in my first round for a long time. His versatility and ability to penetrate are as good as any of the “second tier,” defensive lineman in the draft.

28) Kansas City Chiefs- Sterling Shepard, WR Oklahoma- Shepard would be a dream come true for any west coast offense. His sharp cuts in and out of routes would make him one of Alex Smith’s favorite targets in a hurry.

29) Arizona Cardinals- Christian Hackenburg, QB Penn State- I still believe the best long-term investment for the Arizona Cardinals is to select Hackenburg and sit him a year or two.

30) Carolina Panthers- Jusitn Simmons, FS/SS Boston College- Simmons is a perfect match for the Panthers secondary. He’s a terrific athlete and a very solid tackler in the back end. He’s got some playmaking ability as well.

31) Denver Broncos- Connor Cook, QB Michigan State- In my last mock draft I said that Cook’s ideal fit is to be the Broncos game managing quarterback next season. It’s a reach, but I think the fit is too good to pass on.

TRADES

1) San Francisco 49ers trade the #7, #37 a 2017 1^st and a 2017 4^th to the Cleveland Browns for the #2, #99 and the #223

2) Washington Redskins trade the #21 and the #52 to the Miami Dolphins for the #13 and the #186.

3) Tennessee Titans trade the #33 and the #64 to the New York Jets for the #20.

ROUND TWO

32) Indianapolis Colts via Cleveland Browns- Noah Spence, EDGE Western Kentucky

33) New York Jets via Tennessee Titans- Jaylon Smith, ILB/OLB Notre Dame

34) Dallas Cowboys- Alex Collins, RB Arkansas

35) Atlanta Falcons via San Diego Chargers- Kamalei Correa, EDGE Boise State

36) Baltimore Ravens- Cody Whitehair, OG/OT Kansas State

37) Cleveland Browns via San Francisco 49ers- Will Fuller, WR Notre Dame

38) Jacksonville Jaguars- Darron Lee, OLB Ohio State

39) Tampa Bay Buccaneers- Su’a Cravens, OLB/SS USC

40) New York Giants- Joshua Garnett, OG Stanford

41) Chicago Bears- Vernon Butler, DL Louisiana Tech

42) Miami Dolphins- Derrick Henry, RB Alabama

43) Tennessee Titans from Los Angeles Rams via Philadelphia Eagles- Kendall Fuller, CB Virginia Tech

44) Seattle Seahawks via Oakland Raiders- Jarran Reed, DE/DT Alabama

45) Tennessee Titans via Los Angeles Rams- Andrew Billings, NT Baylor

46) Detroit Lions- Shilique Calhoun, EDGE Michigan State

47) New Orleans Saints- Will Redmond, CB Mississippi State

48) Cleveland Browns via Indianapolis Colts- Jihad Ward, DE Illinois

49) Buffalo Bills- Germain Ifedi, OT Texas A&M

50) San Diego Chargers via Atlanta Falcons- Keanu Neal, SS Florida

51) New York Jets- Paxton Lynch, QB Memphis

52) Houston Texans- Ryan Kelly, C Alabama

53) Miami Dolphins via Washington Redskins- Chris Jones, DE/DT Mississippi State

54) Minnesota Vikings- Jerald Hawkins, OT LSU

55) Cincinnati Bengals- Darian Thompson, FS Boise State

56) Seattle Seahawks- Nick Martin, C/OG Notre Dame

57) Green Bay Packers- Landon Turner, OG North Carolina

58) Pittsburgh Steelers- Artie Burns, CB Miami Florida

59) Kansas City Chiefs- Hassan Ridgeway, DE/DT Texas

60) New England Patriots- Nick Kwiatkoski, ILB West Virginia

61) New England Patriots via Arizona Cardinals- Braxton Miller, WR Ohio State

62) Chicago Bears via Carolina Panthers- Joe Haeg, OT North Dakota State

63) Denver Broncos- Devontae Booker, RB Utah

TRADES IN ROUND TWO

1) Indianapolis Colts trade the #48, #82 and a 2017 5^th to the Cleveland Browns for the #32 and a 2017 6^th.

2) Atlanta Falcons trade the #50, #81 and a 2017 6^th to the San Diego Chargers for the #35 and a 2017 4^th

3) Seattle Seahawks trade the #90 and a 2017 2^nd to the Oakland Raiders for the #44 and the #194.

4) Chicago Bears trade the #72 and the #150 to the Carolina Panthers for the #62

ROUND THREE

64) New York Jets via Tennessee Titans- Jack Conklin, OT Michigan State

65) Cleveland Browns- Shon Coleman, OT Auburn
66) San Diego Chargers- Leonard Floyd, EDGE Georgia

67) Dallas Cowboys- Cardale Jones, QB Ohio State

68) San Francisco 49ers- Christian Westerman, OG Arizona State

69) Jacksonville Jaguars- Adolphus Washington, DT Ohio State

70) Baltimore Ravens- Tyler Boyd, WR Pittsburgh

71) New York Giants- Michael Thomas, WR Ohio State

72) Carolina Panthers via Chicago Bears- KeiVarae Russell, CB Notre Dame

73) Pittsburgh Steelers via Miami Dolphins- Hunter Henry, TE Arkansas

74) Tampa Bay Buccaneers- Leonte Carroo, WR Rutgers
75) Oakland Raiders- Harlan Miller, CB Southeastern Louisiana State

76) Tennessee Titans- Joshua Perry, OLB Ohio State

77) Philadelphia Eagles- CJ Prosise, RB Notre Dame

78) New Orleans Saints- Sebastian Tretola, OG Arkansas

79) Philadelphia Eagles- Dak Prescott, QB Mississippi State

80) Buffalo Bills- Maliek Collins, DE Nebraska

81) San Diego Chargers via Atlanta Falcons- Le’Raven Clark, OT Texas Tech

82) Cleveland Browns via Indianapolis Colts- Kentrell Brothers, ILB Missouri

83) New York Jets- Austin Hooper, TE Stanford

84) Washington Redskins- Jeremy Cash, SS Duke

85) Houston Texans- Kenny Lawler, WR California

86) Minnesota Vikings- Jordan Jenkins, EDGE Georgia

87) Cincinnati Bengals- Bronson Kaufusi, DT BYU

88) Green Bay Packers- Jordan Howard, RB Indiana

89) Pittsburgh Steelers- Connor McGovern, OG Missouri

90) Oakland Raiders via Seattle Seahawks- Nick Vannett, TE Ohio State

91) New England Patriots- Cyrus Jones, CB Alabama

92) Arizona Cardinals- Kyle Murphy, OT Stanford

93) Carolina Panthers- Carl Nassib, DE Penn State

94) Denver Broncos- Deion Jones, ILB LSU

95) Detroit Lions- Von Bell, SS Ohio State
96) New England Patriots- Kyler Fackrell, OLB Utah State

97) Seattle Seahawks- Paul Perkins, RB UCLA

98) Denver Broncos- Max Tuerk, C USC

TRADES IN ROUND THREE

1) Pittsburgh Steelers trade a 2017 3^rd, a 2017 5^th and the #123 to the Miami Dolphins for the #73.

This entry was posted in Mock Drafts and tagged Baltimore Ravens, Carson Wentz, Cleveland Browns, Dallas Cowboys, Deforest Buckner, Ezekiel Elliott, Jacksonville Jaguars, Jalen Ramsey, Jared Goff, Joey Bosa, Kevin Dodd, Laremy Tunsil, Myles Jack, NFL, NFL Draft, NFL Mock Draft, Ronnie Stanley, San Diego Chargers, San Francisco 49ers, Shaq Lawson, Tennessee Titans.

Mike Reynolds 2016 NFL Mock Draft 1.0

Posted on January 4, 2016

Tennessee Titans: Ronnie Stanley, OT Notre Dame
Cleveland Browns: Jared Goff, QB California
San Diego Chargers: Laremy Tunsil, OT Ole Miss
Dallas Cowboys: Robert Nkemdiche, DT Ole Miss
Jacksonville Jaguars: Jalen Ramsey, FS/CB FSU
Baltimore Ravens: Vernon Hargreaves, CB Florida
San Francisco 49ers: Joey Bosa, DE Ohio State
Miami Dolphins: Jaylon Smith, ILB Notre Dame
Tampa Bay Buccaneers: LaQuon Treadwell, WR Ole Miss
New York Giants: Shaq Lawson, EDGE Clemson
Chicago Bears: Deforest Buckner, DE Oregon
New Orleans: Saints: Kenny Clark, NT UCLA
Philadelphia Eagles: Josh Doctson, WR TCU
Oakland Raiders: Reggie Ragland, ILB Alabama
St. Louis: Rams: Corey Coleman, WR Baylor
Detroit Lions: A’Shawn Robinson, DT Alabama
Atlanta Falcons: Myles Jack, OLB UCLA
Indianapolis: Colts: Desmond King, CB Iowa
Buffalo Bills: Taylor Decker, OT Ohio State
New York Jets: Ezekiel Elliot, RB Ohio State
Minnesota Vikings: Su’a Cravens, SS/LB
Pittsburgh Steelers: Austin Johnson, NT Penn State
Seattle Seahawks: Sheldon Rankins, DT Louisville
Kansas: City Chiefs: Landon Turner, OG UNC
Washington Redskins: Darian Thompson, FS Boise State
Houston Texans: Connor Cook, QB Michigan State
Green Bay Packers: Jack Conklin, OT Michigan State
Cincinnati Bengals: Tyler Boyd, WR Pittsburgh
Arizona Cardinals: Paxton Lynch, QB Memphis
Denver Broncos: Jason Spriggs, OT Indiana
Carolina Panthers: Mackensie Alexander, CB Clemson

(New England forfeits their pick)

This entry was posted in Mock Drafts, NFL Draft Articles and tagged 2016 NFL Draft, 2016 NFL Mock Draft, Baltimore Ravens, Carson Wentz, Christian Hackenburg, Cleveland Browns, Dallas Cowboys, Deforest Buckner, Desmond King, Ezekiel Elliott, Jacksonville Jaguars, Jalen Ramsey, Jared Goff, Joey Bosa, Josh Doctson, Laquon Treadwell, Laremy Tunsil, NFL, Paxton Lynch, Robert Nkemdiche, Ronnie Stanley, San Diego Chargers, San Fracisco 49ers, Shaq Lawson, Tennessee Titans, Vernon Hargreaves.

Jordan Katz- 2016 NFL Mock Draft 1.0

Posted on January 4, 2016 Updated on January 4, 2016

It’s that time of year! With the NFL regular season completed, it is officially mock draft season. We still have a long way to go until the NFL Draft, and most of my analysis of players will change with further scouting. This first mock draft is based on the tape that I’ve seen of guys thus far.

*Seeds 21-32 are based on the team’s records heading into the postseason, while taking seeding into account. For instance, because the Washington Redskins own the 21, the 10-6 Seattle Seahawks got the 23, not the 10-6 Green Bay Packers. In terms of the matchups where the teams have the same record, the higher seed gets the later pick.

ROUND ONE

1) Tennessee Titans- Ronnie Stanley, OT Notre Dame- The Titans need defensive help, and they could go there with this pick. However, I don’t think Joey Bosa is a good scheme fit here, and taking a safety like Jalen Ramsey is a bit of a reach.

Stanley gives the Titans two bookend tackles to protect their franchise quarterback, Marcus Mariota.

2) Cleveland Browns- Jared Goff, QB California- Goff is the only quarterback in this draft class that I gave a first round grade. While I do think this is a major reach, the Browns are so desperate for a franchise quarterback.

3) San Diego Chargers- Laremy Tunsil, OT Ole Miss- The Chargers couldn’t block for Phillip Rivers at all this season, so offensive line is definitely a need. Tunsil is one of the top players in this draft because of his size and athleticism at tackle.

4) Dallas Cowboys- Joey Bosa, DE Ohio State- I highly doubt the Cowboys bring back Greg Hardy next year. Therefore, even though they have Randy Gregory waiting, they need a pass rusher.

Bosa is the best player in the draft, in my opinion. His ability to stop the run, and rush off the edge makes him an outstanding collegiate prospect.

5) Jacksonville Jaguars- Jalen Ramsey, CB/S Florida State- This seems like a match made in heaven. The Jaguars need a game changing secondary player, and Ramsey can fix a need at corner or free safety, depending on how Gus Bradley wants to use him.

6) Baltimore Ravens- Desmond King, CB Iowa- Most have the top corner in this draft as Vernon Hargreaves, but I think King has the ability to be a shut down corner. His ability to mirror receivers and play man-to-man defense is incredibly impressive. I think he would be a terrific addition to the Ravens secondary.

7) San Francisco 49ers- Vernon Hargreaves, CB Florida- Yes, the Niners need a quarterback. However, if they draft one here it would be completely unnecessary and a massive reach.

Hargreaves is the best player available at a position of need. He plays solid in both zone and man, and possesses great instincts. The Niners take him, and address quarterback with their next pick.

8) Miami Dolphins- Myles Jack, OLB UCLA- A few days ago this pick would’ve been Jaylon Smith. However, with his knee injury pending diagnosis, the Dolphins take Jack instead.

Jack is an interesting scout because I’ve never seen a player quite like him. His athleticism is unexplainable, but he doesn’t jump off the page in terms of the amount of plays he makes. Having said that, he’s terrific in coverage and disciplined versus the run, so I expect him to have a long, productive career.

9) Tampa Bay Buccaneers- Laquon Treadwell, WR Ole Miss- I have Treadwell and Josh Doctson neck and neck right now for my top wide receiver in this draft. In terms of this pick, Treadwell is a little more polished, which is why I have him here instead of Doctson.

10) St. Louis Rams via New York Giants- Josh Doctson, WR TCU- I think the Giants are a team that could move up or down in this draft, depending on how the board falls. In this case, they have plenty of options, so they can afford to slide down.

The Rams desperately need a true number one wide receiver and I think Doctson has that ability. He’s incredible when the ball is in the air, and his route running is significantly better than people think.

11) Chicago Bears- DeForest Buckner, DE Oregon- This pick is easy. The Bears need defensive line help desperately. Buckner is not only a game changing defensive player, but he’s the only 3-4 defensive end worthy of a first round selection.

12) New Orleans Saints- Kenny Clark, NT UCLA- The Saints should take the best player available that plays defense and fits their scheme. For me, that’s Kenny Clark. He’s a space eating nose tackle and he will help New Orleans stop the run.

13) Seattle Seahawks via Philadelphia Eagles- Robert Nkemdiche, DT Ole Miss- This could be a home run deal for Seattle, but let’s start with the Eagles decision to move down. I think Philadelphia should look to trade out on draft day. The personnel they possess are unlikely to match with the incoming head coach. If they find the right deal, they should take it.

Seattle is going to need a replacement for Brandon Mebane, who should leave via free agency. Nkemdiche has the talent of a top five player in this draft. If his off the field issues can be silenced, this could be a massive addition to the Seahawks defense.

14) Oakland Raiders- Mackensie Alexander, CB Clemson- Alexander can be an immediate boost to the Raiders secondary. He can play in the slot, as well as on the outside, and his technique is what allows him to be strong at both.

15) New York Giants via St. Louis Rams- Shaq Lawson, DE Clemson- The Giants could not have played this draft better. They trade down, pick up an extra draft pick, and still select the game changing pass rusher they would have taken at the 10.

16) Detroit Lions- A’Shawn Robinson, DT Alabama- The Lions need to get better on defense, and A’Shawn Robinson can produce from day one. He’s an athletic defensive tackle who stops the run very well. He does have some developing to do, but he’s going to contribute right away.

17) Atlanta Falcons- Jaylon Smith, OLB Notre Dame- This may not please Falcons fans who want a defensive player that can play right away, but at some point you just take talent and figure it out later.

Smith has top five talent, so even if his knee injury is bad, he should still be a first round pick. After all, Todd Gurley missed four games to start the year, and he went 10^th.

18) Indianapolis Colts- Emmanuel Ogbah, EDGE Oklahoma State- Anything on defense for the Colts will do just fine here on draft day. Ogbah has good speed off the edge and can help bolster Indy’s pass rush.

19) Buffalo Bills- Jonathan Bullard, EDGE Florida- It sounds like Buffalo is going to cut Mario Williams, which makes edge rusher a priority. Bullard has the versatility to line up on the edge and inside the tackles, something Rex Ryan values in a defensive player.

20) New York Jets- Ezekiel Elliott, RB Ohio State- For Jets fans wondering why this pick isn’t a quarterback, don’t overreact to one game. Ryan Fitzpatrick played excellent this season, and deserves to be back under center next year (especially during a year where the quarterback class in the draft is below average).

‘Zeke Elliott would be a terrific replacement for Chris Ivory, a free agent to be. His size and athleticism make him tough to bring down, and he’s more of a “do-it-all,” back than he gets credit for.

21) Washington Redskins- Reggie Ragland, ILB Alabama- The Redskins could use a middle linebacker that can do… well, anything. Ragland covers well, and has great range from sideline to sideline. Plus, and I can’t stress this enough, his presence would mean the benching of Mason Foster. That is what you call a great draft pick.

22) Houston Texans- Carson Wentz, QB North Dakota State- The easy answer here is to give Bill O’Brien his Penn State quarterback, Christian Hackenburg. However, I think Wentz is actually a better fit for what Houston wants to do.

Wentz has great size and arm strength, just like Hackenburg. Where I think Wentz separates himself is his accuracy and mobility. Wentz showed better touch on tape, and he’s also the most mobile quarterback among the top five.

Since the Texans can afford to let both learn while playing (they’re 9-7 with four different quarterbacks), I think Wentz should be the selection on draft day.

23) Philadelphia Eagles via Seattle Seahawks- Corey Coleman, WR Baylor- Even though the Eagles drafted Nelson Agholor last season, they should still look for a playmaker at receiver.

Coleman was a beast this season at Baylor, but it’s his sharp cuts and route running ability that makes me think he can succeed in the NFL.

24) San Francisco 49ers via Pittsburgh Steelers- Paxton Lynch, QB Memphis- The Steelers don’t take first round cornerbacks, which means that there isn’t much for them to do here except trade down.

In terms of the Niners selection, Lynch is an interesting case. On the one hand, he’s massive, with great mobility, and a cannon for an arm.

On the other hand, his accuracy is questionable, and he has a tendency to force throws.

I think he’s got good upside, but he’s a work in progress for sure.

25) Green Bay Packers- Carl Lawson, EDGE Auburn- I really liked the Packers defense when they had Clay Matthews at inside linebacker. Lawson’s pass rushing ability off the edge would allow Matthews to go back to being a menace in the middle of the field.

26) Kansas City Chiefs- Leontae Carroo, WR Rutgers- It might be too much to ask of the Chiefs to add a wide out in consecutive years. However, I am running this draft based on what I would do.

Carroo seems like a very good fit in Andy Reid’s offense. He’s a solid route runner who does great things with the ball in his hands. He also has big play ability, something the Chiefs currently are missing in their offense.

27) Minnesota Vikings- Michael Thomas, WR Ohio State- Thomas has a tendency to commit some bad focus drops, but he’s a strong route runner and makes plays with the ball in his hands, two traits that are vital in Norv Turner’s current offense.

28) Cincinnati Bengals- Austin Johnson, DT/NT Penn State- Austin Johnson could be a terrific fit in Cincy. He’s a nose tackle that has the athleticism to pass rush out of a zero tech in a 4-3. Domata Peko, the Bengals current zero tech, is a like cap casualty that would save the Bengals close to four million dollars.

29) New England Patriots- (Forefeit)

30) Arizona Cardinals- Christian Hackenburg, QB Penn State- Carson Palmer isn’t getting any younger, and his backup will have to be taken eventually. Hackenburg had an awful final two seasons at Penn State, but James Franklin’s system didn’t benefit his skill set. If he gets an opportunity to sit and learn during his first NFL season, he could become the star that scouts thought he was going to be.

31) Denver Broncos- Taylor Decker, OT Ohio State- Decker has limited upside, but he’s a good option at right tackle right away. The Broncos are desperate for offensive line help, so this fit makes sense.

32) Carolina Panthers- Tre’Davius White, CB LSU- Josh Norman has been unbelievable this season, but his counterpart, Bene Benwikere, is probably best served as a nickel corner. White would give them some cornerback depth, and another solid man cover guy.

TRADES

1) St. Louis Rams trade the #15 and the #79 to the New York Giants for the #10.

2) Seattle Seahawks trade the #23, #55 and a 2017 4^th rounder to the Philadelphia Eagles for the #13.

3) San Francisco trades the #39 and the #71 to the Pittsburgh Steelers for the #24.

This entry was posted in Mock Drafts and tagged 2016 NFL Draft, 2016 NFL Mock Draft, Baltimore Ravens, Carson Wentz, Christian Hackenburg, Cleveland Browns, Dallas Cowboys, Deforest Buckner, Desmond King, Ezekiel Elliott, Jacksonville Jaguars, Jalen Ramsey, Jared Goff, Joey Bosa, Josh Doctson, Laquon Treadwell, Laremy Tunsil, NFL, Paxton Lynch, Robert Nkemdiche, Ronnie Stanley, San Diego Chargers, San Fracisco 49ers, Shaq Lawson, Tennessee Titans, Vernon Hargreaves.

2015 NFL Draft Grades: AFC

Posted on May 8, 2015

One of the best sports weekends ever has come and went, and with it, the NFL Draft has been completed. The NFL Draft has become a spectacle in recent years, and while some fans may not know every player their favorite team selected, every fan has the same question after the draft ends. “How did my team do?” Well, here are my 2015 NFL Draft Grades for the AFC teams.

AFC EAST

New York Jets (A-)

Picks: DE Leonard Williams (6^th), WR Devin Smith (37^th), OLB Lorenzo Mauldin (82^nd), QB Bryce Petty (103^rd), OG Jarvis Harrison (152^nd), NT Deon Simon (223^rd)- The Jets hit a home run with their first pick in the draft when they selected Leonard Williams. Any time you get the best player in the draft outside of the top five, you basically can snooze for the next six rounds. While I would’ve rather seen the Jets take Jaelen Strong at the 37, they needed a guy that could stretch the field, and Devin Smith is that. Mauldin and Petty were good value picks (I had Brett Hundley over Petty), and you can’t forget that the Jets turned a fifth and seventh round pick in a horrifically weak draft class into Brandon Marshall and Zac Stacy. This was a great first draft for Mike Maccagnan.

New England Patriots (B-)

Picks: DT Malcom Brown (32^nd), SS Jordan Richards (64^th), DL Geneo Grissom (97^th), DE Trey Flowers (101^st), OG Tre Jackson (111^th), OG/C Shaq Mason (131^st), LS Joe Cardona (166^th), LB Matthew Wells (178^th), TE A.J Derby (202^nd), CB Darryl Roberts (247^th), LB Xzavier Dickson (253^rd)- This draft was a tale of the good, the bad, and the ugly. The good was Malcom Brown. Belichick stole someone who many, including myself, was a top 20 player in this draft. Brown will be a force in the middle of the Pats defensive line. The bad were the Patriots later round picks. Now in New England’s defense, there was not a lot of back end talent in this draft. However, any time you take a long snapper, you’ve got some explaining to do. Many felt that Tre Jackson and Shaq Mason were good value, but I never felt either team would be a key contributor at the next level. Then there were the Patriots day two selections, aka the ugly. Jordan Richards and Geneo Grissom were extreme reach picks, and both will probably be special teams players. Overall, Malcom Brown and Trey Flowers keep this draft afloat, but it was average at best.

Buffalo Bills (F)

Picks: CB Ronald Darby (50^th), OG John Miller (81^st), RB Karlos Williams (155^th), LB Tony Steward (188^th), TE Nick O’Leary (194^th), WR Dezmin Lewis (234^th)- The Bills easily had the worst draft in the AFC. Ronald Darby is a good player, and he will be a solid addition to the Bills secondary. Outside of that, the Bills did not address a need, nor did they take anyone that was a good value pick. Not a good first draft for Rex Ryan and company. However, there’s no reason to panic in Buffalo. Rex is great at maximizing talent, and his teams are typically not built through the draft anyway.

Miami Dolphins (A-)

Picks: WR DeVante Parker (14^th), DT/NT Jordan Phillips (52^nd), OL Jamil Douglas (114^th), CB Bobby McCain (145^th), RB Jay Ajayi (149^th), S Cedric Thompson (150^th), CB/WR Tony Lippett (156^th)- The Dolphins had a great draft. They got a wide receiver with true number one potential in Parker. They nabbed one of my favorite players in the in Jordan Phillips, who will bolster their defensive line even further. Phillips will help gap the run and free up Ndamukong Suh and Cameron Wake. Jay Ajayi in the fourth round was incredible value. He will help take pressure off Lamar Miller, and, in my opinion, replace him one day. The final piece was Tony Lippett, who is a terrific football player. He may not be great at one particular thing, but he will contribute from day one.

AFC NORTH

Baltimore Ravens (A-)

Picks: WR Breshad Perriman (26^th), TE Maxx Williams (55^th), NT Carl Davis (90^th), OLB Za’Darius Smith (122^nd), RB Buck Allen (125^th), CB Tray Walker (136^th), TE Nick Boyle (171^st), OL Robert Myers (176^th), WR Darren Waller (204^th)- Ozzie Newsome addressed offense early in the draft, a rarity in the Ozzie Newsome regime. Perriman has a lot of upside, but he’s raw. Just like the Jets earlier, I think Jaelen Strong should’ve been the pick. However, just like Devin Smith, I had Perriman with a top 40 grade, so I don’t mind the selection. Maxx Williams makes a lot of sense as well. While I would’ve rather seen the Ravens go with an impact defensive player, Williams can help the Ravens offense from day one. Of course, in classic Ozzie Newsome fashion, he got his impact defensive player in round three. Carl Davis was an absolute steal. Buck Allen was an underrated pick as well. He will be an impact player on third down. Overall, Ozzie Newsome got a lot of weapons for Joe Flacco in this draft, and helped sure up the middle of the Ravens defense.

Cincinnati Bengals (A-)

Picks: OT Cedric Ogbuehi (21^st), OT/OG Jake Fisher (53^rd), TE Tyler Kroft (85^th), LB Paul Dawson (99^th), CB/S Josh Shaw (120^th), DE Marcus Hardison (153^rd), TE C.J Uzomah (157^th), FS Derron Smith (197^th), WR Mario Alford (238^th)- The Bengals had a great draft, because they preemptively addressed their needs for next year. Ogbuehi and Fisher are great insurance for Andrew Whitworth and Andre Smith, both of whom are expiring contracts and neither of whom appear to be high on the Bengals priority list. Ogbuehi can sit the year and fully recover from his injury. Fisher can move to guard for the time being and replace Clint Boling. Tyler Kroft is a good blocking tight end, and while he may have been a reach, the Bengals needed a blocking tight end after losing Jermaine Gresham. Paul Dawson can play anywhere on the Bengals linebacking core, and Derron Smith or Josh Shaw is bound to be productive enough to replace Reggie Nelson. This was a great draft for Cincinnati.

Pittsburgh Steelers (C+)

Picks: OLB Bud Dupree (22^nd), CB Senquez Golson (56^th), WR Sammie Coates (87^th), CB Doran Grant (121^st), TE Jesse James (160^th), DT Leterrius Walton (199^th), DE Anthony Chickillo (212^th), FS Gerod Holliman (239^th)- This is a polarizing draft for me. On the one hand, they nabbed Bud Dupree about ten picks later than he should’ve gone. On the other hand, every single other pick was either a reach or a risk. Golson is undersized, and there were plenty of other corners I would’ve rather have seen them selected. Sammie Coates has a bad case of the drops and I’m not sure it’ll be corrected during his NFL career. Last but certainly not least, Doran Grant wasn’t worth drafting. The Steelers got good value in Dupree and Gerod Holliman, but other than that the draft was below average.

Cleveland Browns (B)

Picks: NT Danny Shelton (12^th), C/OG Cameron Erving (19^th), OLB Nate Orchard (51^st), RB Duke Johnson (77^th), DE/DT Xavier Cooper (96^th), S Ibraheim Campbell (115^th), WR Vince Mayle (123^rd), CB Charles Gaines (189^th), TE Malcolm Johnson (195^th), TE Randall Telfer (198^th), ILB Hayes Pullard (219^th), CB Ifo Ekpre-Olomu (241^st)- The Browns drafted a ton of players that I really like, yet I’m not a huge fan of this draft. Shelton is a big body to put in the middle of an improving defense, but I would’ve rather have seen them take the versatility of Eddie Goldman or Jordan Phillips. Cameron Erving is best suited at center, but unless Alex Mack opts out of his contract after this season, Erving will be playing guard for the Browns, and I’m not a huge fan of him there. Nate Orchard was better served as a 4-3 defensive end, Duke Johnson was unnecessary because of Terrance West and Isaiah Crowell, and Xavier Cooper will have to convert to a 3-4 defensive end. Having said all of that, I can’t get on the Browns too much, because they took a lot of talent in this draft, and addressed needs in the process (minus wide receiver).

AFC South

Tennessee Titans (B)

Picks: QB Marcus Mariota (2^nd), WR Dorial Green-Beckham (40^th), OL Jeremiah Poutasi (66^th), DE/DT Angelo Blackson (100^th), FB Jalston Fowler (108^th), RB David Cobb (138^th), LB Delontrez Mount (177^th), C Andy Galilk (208^th), WR Tre McBride (245^th)- The Titans made the difficult, yet correct decision in taking Marcus Mariota. I believe he can be a franchise quarterback, and Ken Whisenhunt should be able to work with him to get the best out of him. DGB is a great risk/reward pick because he can learn to grow on a team that is still a few years away. Also, I fully expect David Cobb to compete for the majority of touches in the Titans backfield as early as next season. Outside of those three, there wasn’t much value. Yet, the Titans did what they had to do.

Jacksonville Jaguars (A-)

Picks: DE Dante Fowler (3^rd), RB T.J Yeldon (36^th), OG A.J Cann (67^th), S James Sample (104^th), WR Rashad Greene (139^th), DT Michael Bennett (180^th), WR Neal Sterling (220^th), TE Ben Koyack (229^th)- The Jags draft would’ve been the best of all the 32 teams if it weren’t for unnecessarily reaching on T.J Yeldon, who I full on expect to be a waste of a pick. Fowler, Cann, Sample, Greene and Bennett can all contribute from day one, and Greene and Bennett were absolute steals. The Jags are on the rise.

Houston Texans (C)

Picks: CB Kevin Johnson (16^th), ILB Benardrick McKinney (43^rd), WR Jaelen Strong (70^th), WR Keith Mumphery (175^th), LB Reshard Cliett (211^th), DT Christian Covington (216^th), RB Kenny Hilliard (235^th)- The Texans draft didn’t start off great. I felt Kevin Johnson was a major reach, even though they needed a corner. Benardrick McKinney is just very overrated, and I’ve made my opinions on him well known. However, their draft took a turn when they grabbed Jaelen Strong in round three. I think Strong might just be their number one receiver by the end of this year. Unfortunately, there were no day three value picks at all. Overall, the draft was sub par, despite addressing needs. Despite that, draft Strong late in your fantasy football leagues this year, especially in keeper leagues.

Indianapolis Colts (C-)

Picks: Phillip Dorsett (29^th), CB D’Joun Smith (65^th), DE Henry Anderson (95^th), S Clayton Geathers (109^th), NT David Parry (151^st), RB Josh Robinson (205^th), LB Amarlo Herrera (207^th), OL Denzell Goode (255^th)- I was baffled when the Colts selected Phillip Dorsett with their first pick. Dorsett is a good player, but he won’t play much his first year and wide receiver wasn’t a need. The first pick needed to be an impact defensive player. I like Smith and Anderson in the second and third rounds. Both are needs on defense, and both have a lot of upside. However, there was no late round value picks and they missed on their first selection.

AFC West

Denver Broncos (C-)

Picks: DE Shane Ray (23^rd), OG Ty Sambrailo (59^th), TE Jeff Heuerman (92^nd), C Max Garcia (133^rd), CB Lorenzo Doss (164^th), DT Darius Kilgo (203^rd), QB Trevor Siemian (250^th), CB Taurean Nixon (251^st), S Josh Furman (252^nd): Shane Ray was a good value pick if you talked to most, however I had him as a second round grade. I like the fit because he can learn from Demarcus Ware and Von Miller, but I still say Ray shouldn’t have been a first round pick. Now, Sambrailo was a good selection because he adds versatility to the Broncos offensive line. Other than that though, this was a very weak draft. There’s no value in the picks in the later rounds, and just not enough contributors to their team for the upcoming season.

Oakland Raiders (B)

Picks: WR Amari Cooper (4^th) DE/DT Mario Edwards Jr. (35^th) TE Clive Walford (68^th) OG Jon Feliciano (128^th) LB Ben Heeney (140^th) LB Neiron Ball (161^st) LB Max Valles (179^th) OL Anthony Morris (218^th) WR Andre Debose (221^st) CB Dexter McDonald (242^nd): Mike and I said throughout the whole draft process that scouts would make their money in the second, third and fourth round. The Raiders had a very solid draft in the first four rounds. I’ll move past the Amari Cooper selection because it’s self-explanatory. Mario Edwards isn’t a 4-3 fit as a defensive end, so he’ll probably move inside as a defensive tackle. I’m not opposed to that, but I felt there were a number of better players on the board for the Raiders to take. Clive Walford will provide a good safety blanket for Derek Carr on third down, assuming Walford can keep his head on straight. Lastly, Feliciano has good upside and could become a starting guard. It wasn’t a particularly “sexy,” draft, but the Raiders drafted players of need and a true number one wide receiver.

Kansas City Chiefs (B+)

Picks: CB Marcus Peters (18^th), C Mitch Morse (49^th), WR Chris Conley (76^th), CB Steven “Mighty Mouse” Nelson (98^th), ILB Ramik Wilson (118^th), LB D.J Alexander (172^nd), TE James O’Shaughnessy (173^rd), DT Rakeem Nunez-Roches (217^th), WR Da’Ron Brown (233^rd): I was surprised the Chiefs didn’t address offensive tackle in this draft, but other than that this was another solid draft from Andy Reid and company. Peters has a ton of upside, and Reid has done well with guys with character issues in the past. Morse and Conley both elevated their stocks during the NFL Combine, and both have very good upside themselves. I loved the selections of Nelson and Wilson. Nelson should develop into a very solid nickel corner and Ramik Wilson could become their second ILB in the Chiefs 3-4 set. This was a really good draft for Kansas City.

San Diego Chargers (B-)

Picks: RB Melvin Gordon (15^th), ILB Denzel Perryman (48^th), CB Craig Mager (83^rd), OLB Kyle Emanuel (153^rd), DE/DT Darius Philon (192^nd): The Chargers went into this draft with the intention of getting a number one running back, and they did that with Melvin Gordon. Even though I think it was a little too high for Gordon, after Gurley went tenth, can you really blame San Diego for being cautious and trading up? Perryman was a solid choice because his biggest asset is stopping the run, and the Chargers needed help in the middle of their defense. The Chargers draft will hinge upon Craig Mager. He’s raw, but his upside is immense. If they get a productive corner out of Mager, and Perryman pans out, this could prove to be a very good draft. For now, it’s an average one with potential.

This entry was posted in Uncategorized and tagged Baltimore Ravens, Buffalo Bills, Cincinnati Bengals, Cleveland Browns, Denver Broncos, Houston Texans, Indianapolis Colts, Jacksonville Jaguars, Kansas City Chiefs, Miami Dolphins, New England Patriots, New York Jets, NFL Draft, Oakland Raiders, Pittsburgh Steelers, San Diego Chargers, Tennessee Titans.

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2015 NFL Draft Grades: AFC