Ezekiel Elliott
I Was Right, I Was Wrong: 2016 NFL Draft Edition
Of all the articles and mock drafts I write, this article is my favorite. Many draft experts will give you their opinions of players, the talented ones as well as the potential busts. However, I believe that all draft experts should own up to the players they missed on. By the same token, if a draft pundit gets an analysis right on a player, they should be able to flaunt it a bit. It’s hard analyzing the draft prospects every year, even if you have a trained eye for attributes.
I’m not a fan of draft grades or draft redos because it doesn’t let the readers and viewers know how the draft expert did with their analysis. With that being said, here’s the early verdict on the players of the 2016 Draft Class, the good, the bad, and the ones who the jury is still out on. Spoiler alert, I had a tough year.
I WAS RIGHT
1) My Power 5 Players– My final player grades of 2016 had a clear cut top five: Jalen Ramsey, Joey Bosa, Ronnie Stanley, Ezekiel Elliott, and Laremy Tunsil. No other player was remotely close to these five. Every single one of these players shined in their rookie year.
Ramsey struggled out of the gate, but he was terrific during the second half of the season. Bosa got a bad rep around draft time for “not being an elite athlete.” I felt this was a blinded point of view. Football players translate, and Bosa is a football player through and through. He proved it all throughout the season. Stanley and Tunsil were standouts on the offensive line, as virtually everyone predicted, and Zeke Elliott was well worth that top 5 selection.
Many felt that these players would become big time pros, but hey, when you’re right, you’re right.
2) Sterling Shepard- Shepard is of my big hits when it comes to last year’s draft. In the months leading up to the draft, many felt Josh Doctson, Will Fuller, and Laquon Treadwell were the top players in the wide receiver class, with Corey Coleman not too far behind. While I agreed that the wide out class was deep, I thought Shepard was being overlooked.
Shepard’s impact on the Giants offense has been undeniable. He’s taken coverage away from Odell Beckham and Victor Cruz, and he’s quickly became one of Eli Manning’s favorite targets. Shepard is someone who should be an impact player in the NFL for a while.
3) Germain Ifedi- It always feels good when you predict a player to bust and you get it right. Ifedi, along with the rest of the Seahawks offensive line, has been absolute garbage this year. They won’t replace him just yet, but don’t expect Ifedi to get much better.
Bonus Pick: Sean Davis and Artie Burns- Get ready Steelers fans, these two are going to be fun to watch. Both players really improved during the second half of the season, especially Sean Davis. He was flying around the ball late in the year. It wouldn’t shock me if these two are Pro Bowlers one day.
I WAS WRONG
1) Christian Hackenburg- Hack headlines my blunders of the 2016 Draft. While I’m hopeful this will turn around, the project looks really bad right now. Hackenburg has failed to develop during practice. He looked so bad that he couldn’t earn a shot to start down the stretch over Bryce Petty. Now the Jets think he might be two years away from potentially starting. If the last statement is true, he might never get the opportunity to start in the NFL.
2) Jack Conklin- Here’s another absolute whiff on my part. I felt Conklin was overrated all throughout the draft process. Needless to say, I wasn’t close. Conklin has solidified the right side of the Titans offensive line, and was a big help in the development of Marcus Mariota. The Titans now have two bookend tackles for years to come.
3) Laquon Treadwell and Josh Doctson- Treadwell was someone who I thought could be a red zone terror in the NFL. Even when he ran a slow 40 time, I was still confident that he would be a quality receiver in the NFL. Long story short: nope.
Doctson was my top wide receiver from last year’s draft, and someone who I thought had superstar potential. He did tear his achilles in late may, and that could be why he struggled so much. One thing’s for certain, he looked terrible before being placed on injured reserve in October.
4) The Falcons Big Three- I personally felt the Falcons reached on Keanu Neal, and totally whiffed on Deion Jones and De’Vondre Campbell. Through 16 weeks, these three have proved me wrong.
Neal has been worth the selection, and one of the best defensive rookies this year. Deion Jones has been up and down, but even that is better than I thought he’d be. He has the athleticism to be a quality starter. Lastly, Campbell was one of the most underrated rookies during the second half of the season. He has been an impact player in coverage for the Falcons, and a key piece in Dan Quinn’s defense.
5) Jonathan Bullard and Leonard Floyd- Bullard was one of my underrated players of last year’s draft. I thought going to Chicago was a perfect fit for him. Bullard’s inconsistent effort level would prevent him from seeing the field, and now the Bears are back to square one in terms of their front line on defense.
Conversely, I thought Leonard Floyd was a bust waiting to happen. He had a limited move set, and I didn’t think pure speed would translate. However, Floyd proved to be an impact pass rusher, and could break out in 2017 if he’s healthy.
TO BE DETERMINED
1) Corey Coleman- Coleman was a first round wide receiver in my opinion, but his inconsistent play has many concerned. The emergence of Terrelle Pryor should have made the transition easier for Coleman, but injuries and inconsistent routes kept him from emerging. When he’s right, he’s proved to be a playmaking receiver. Time will tell whether he can develop into a number one wideout.
2) Eli Apple- Apple was dreadful during the first half of the year, as I predicted (I had a fourth round grade on him). Even though he looked lousy, the Giants stayed with him, and his play really improved during the second half of the year. I’m almost willing to chalk up Apple as a miss, but because of his inconsistency, the jury is still out on him.
3) Jared Goff- I was undecided on Goff, and when he went to Los Angeles I became concerned that he wouldn’t succeed because of the environment he was in. Jeff Fisher didn’t do him any favors by starting Case Keenum over him for most of the year, but Goff looked very bad when he took over. Plenty of rookie quarterbacks have struggled their first year and rebounded in year two, but I’m not sure Goff will be one of those players.
Jordan Katz- NFL Mock Draft 6.0: Final Mock Draft
The time has come for my final mock draft of 2016. Unlike my predictions mock draft, this one is my personal evaluations. I play general manager for all 32 teams and select players based on how the board looks, as well as my personal grades based on the scouting I have done.
There’s a little less evaluations on this one, because if you’ve kept up with my mock draft, you know where I stand on certain players. This is less about me getting the selection right, and more about me determining which players project into the best pros.
ROUND ONE
1) Los Angeles Rams via Tennessee Titans- Jared Goff, QB California- Much like my predictions mock draft, I feel that Goff being more NFL ready than Wentz makes him the selection.
2) Philadelphia Eagles via Cleveland Browns- Carson Wentz, QB North Dakota State- I think the Eagles overpaid for this pick, but I love the idea of Wentz sitting his entire first season.
3) San Diego Chargers- Jalen Ramsey, CB/S Florida State- Ramsey is my top player in the draft. I think the Chargers should take him and address the need for offensive and defensive lineman on day two.
4) Dallas Cowboys- Joey Bosa, DE Ohio State- Bosa is 1A in my draft grades to Jalen Ramsey. With Demarcus Lawrence being suspended the first four games of the season, the Cowboys are desperate for an edge rusher.
5) Jacksonville Jaguars- Laremy Tunsil, OT Ole Miss- I think the Jaguars are actually in a “best player available,” spot here, because of their offseason acquisitions. It just so happens that the best player available is also at a need position.
6) Baltimore Ravens- Ronnie Stanley, OT Notre Dame- Stanley and Tunsil have the exact same grade for me, so it’s a matter of scheme fit as to the way they were placed.
7) Chicago Bears via San Francisco 49ers- DeForest Buckner, DE Oregon- With Buckner falling, the Bears jump up to get a necessary piece on their defensive line.
8) Atlanta Falcons via Cleveland Browns from Philadelphia Eagles via Miami Dolphins- Shaq Lawson, DE Clemson– If I were running the Atlanta Falcons, I would fly up the board for whichever top tier defensive end falls. Lawson opposite Vic Beasley would be a terrific tandem.
9) Tampa Bay Buccaneers- Kevin Dodd, DE Clemson- Dodd is very high on my rankings, and the scary part is, he still has room to grow. He could be a top five player in the draft.
10) New York Giants- Vernon Hargreaves, CB Florida– For the upcoming year, Hargreaves can be a nickel corner and rotate to the X and Z positions when needed. Next year, he can replace Dominique Rodgers-Cromartie.
11) Washington Redskins from San Francisco 49ers via Chicago Bears- Ezekiel Elliott, RB Ohio State- I think the Niners should stockpile as many picks as they can, because they need depth out of this draft.
The Redskins would make a big gamble by trading up for a running back, but ‘Zeke Elliott is worth it.
12) New Orleans Saints- Robert Nkemdiche, DT Ole Miss- Despite the character concerns, Nkemdiche is slightly higher on my board than Sheldon Rankins.
13) Miami Dolphins via Philadelphia Eagles- Myles Jack, OLB UCLA- The Dolphins can thank their lucky stars that Jack’s knee is a concern amongst teams at the top. This gamble could pay off big time.
14) Oakland Raiders- Reggie Ragland, ILB Alabama- The Raiders need a quarterback in the middle of their defense. Ragland will serve as the signal caller and help them against the run.
15) Tennessee Titans via Los Angeles Rams- A’Shawn Robinson, NT Alabama- The Titans can move up with their later picks for a right tackle. Robinson has no business being here, and they need a nose tackle.
16) Detroit Lions- Sheldon Rankins, DT Louisville- The Lions need some interior pass rush and Rankins’ athleticism makes him a perfect fit.
17) Cleveland Browns via Atlanta Falcons- Josh Doctson, WR TCU- The Browns have needs up and down their roster, but the biggest is wide receiver. They haven’t had a true number one receiver since Braylon Edwards.
18) Indianapolis Colts- Mackensie Alexander, CB Clemson– Indy’s round one selection is simple; take the best defensive player available.
19) Buffalo Bills- Emmanuel Ogbah, EDGE Oklahoma State- The Bills need an edge rusher opposite Jerry Hughes to execute Rex Ryan’s defense the way he wants it run.
20) New York Jets- Noah Spence, EDGE Western Kentucky- Todd Bowles is desperate for an edge rusher. Spence is one of the better ones in the draft, and he’s available at the 20.
21) San Francisco 49ers via Washington Redskins- William Jackson III, CB Houston– The Niners were bad against the pass last year, and I think Jackson’s length can make him a very good pro.
22) Houston Texans- Austin Johnson, DT/NT Penn State- I think Jaelen Strong can become the Texans number two wide receiver, so I would address the need for a nose tackle. Vince Wilfork’s best years are definitely past him.
23) Minnesota Vikings- Corey Coleman, WR Baylor- Laquon Treadwell is higher on my personal board, but Coleman is a better scheme fit because of his quickness.
24) Cincinnati Bengals- Laquon Treadwell, WR Ole Miss- I think Sterling Shepard would be a better scheme fit, but Treadwell’s talent is too great to pass on.
25) Pittsburgh Steelers- Kenny Clark, NT UCLA- For once, I would actually agree with the Steelers on passing up the opportunity for a first round cornerback. They need a stopgap in the middle of their defense desperately.
26) Seattle Seahawks- Jason Spriggs, OT Indiana- The Seahawks biggest need in the draft is offensive line and Spriggs is the best available.
27) Tennessee Titans via Green Bay Packers- Taylor Decker, OT Ohio State- The Titans have to jump the Browns to ensure they land their right tackle. The Packers trade back because this year is deep at their biggest draft need; defensive line.
28) Kansas City Chiefs- Artie Burns, CB Miami Florida– The Chiefs top need is at cornerback after the departure of Sean Smith.
29) Dallas Cowboys via Arizona Cardinals- Christian Hackenburg, QB Penn State- The threat of Arizona taking a developmental quarterback gets Dallas to jump back into the first round for theirs.
30) Carolina Panthers- Sean Davis, CB/FS/SS Maryland- Davis is unbelievably versatile, something Ron Rivera values in a defensive player. With secondary being the top need, this pick is easy.
31) Denver Broncos- Cody Whitehair, OG Kansas State- The Broncos interior line is a big question mark. Whitehair is not only the best guard in the draft, but he’s a scheme fit as well.
TRADES IN ROUND ONE
1) Chicago Bears trade the #11, #72 and #150 to the San Francisco 49ers for the #7 and the #207.
2) Atlanta Falcons trade the #17, #50 and the #115 to the Cleveland Browns for the #8 and the #176.
3) Washington Redskins trade the #21, #53 and a 2017 4th to the San Francisco 49ers for the #11.
4) Tennessee Titans trade the #43 and the #64 to the Green Bay Packers for the #27 and the #125.
5) Dallas Cowboys trade the #34 and the #101 to the Arizona Cardinals for the #29 and the #167.
ROUND TWO
32) Cleveland Browns- Jonathan Bullard, DE Florida
33) Tennessee Titans- Sterling Shepard, WR Oklahoma
34) Arizona Cardinals via Dallas Cowboys- Kamalei Correa, EDGE Boise State
35) Miami Dolphins via San Diego Chargers- Alex Collins, RB Arkansas
36) Baltimore Ravens- Jarran Reed, DE Alabama
37) San Francisco 49ers- Connor Cook, QB Michigan State
38) Jacksonville Jaguars- Darron Lee, OLB Ohio State
39) Tampa Bay Buccaneers- Kendall Fuller, CB Virginia Tech
40) New York Giants- Joshua Garnett, OG Stanford
41) Chicago Bears- Derrick Henry, RB Alabama
42) San Diego Chargers via Miami Dolphins- Shon Coleman, OT Auburn
43) Green Bay Packers via Tennessee Titans from Los Angeles Rams via Philadelphia Eagles- Vernon Butler, DL Louisiana Tech
44) Oakland Raiders- Jihad Ward, DE/DT Illinois
45) Tennessee Titans via Los Angeles Rams- Justin Simmons, FS/SS Boston College
46) New England Patriots via Detroit Lions- Chris Jones, DT Mississippi State
47) New Orleans Saints- Will Redmond, CB Mississippi State
48) Indianapolis Colts- Ryan Kelly, C Alabama
49) Buffalo Bills- Su’a Cravens, OLB/SS USC
50) Cleveland Browns via Atlanta Falcons- Jack Conklin, OT Michigan State
51) New York Jets- Joe Haeg, OT/OG North Dakota State
52) Houston Texans- Hunter Henry, TE Arkansas
53) San Francisco 49ers via Washington Redskins- Shilique Calhoun, EDGE Michigan State
54) Minnesota Vikings- Javon Hargrave, DT South Carolina State
55) Cincinnati Bengals- Andrew Billings, NT Baylor
56) Seattle Seahawks- Landon Turner, OG North Carolina
57) Green Bay Packers- Jaylon Smith, ILB/OLB Notre Dame
58) Pittsburgh Steelers- KeiVarae Russell, CB Notre Dame
59) Kansas City Chiefs- Leonte Carroo, WR Rutgers
60) Detroit Lions via New England Patriots- Carl Nassib, DE Penn State
61) New England Patriots via Arizona Cardinals- Michael Thomas, WR Ohio State
62) Carolina Panthers- Bronson Kaufusi, EDGE BYU
63) Denver Broncos- BJ Goodson, ILB Clemson
TRADES IN ROUND TWO
1) Miami Dolphins trade the #42 and the #107 to the San Diego Chargers for the #35 and a 2017 6th.
2) New England Patriots trade the #60 and the #91 to the Detroit Lions for the #46.
ROUND THREE
64) Green Bay Packers via Tennessee Titans- Deion Jones, OLB/ILB LSU
65) Cleveland Browns- Leonard Floyd, EDGE Georgia
66) San Diego Chargers- Keanu Neal, SS Florida
67) Dallas Cowboys- CJ Prosise, RB Notre Dame
68) San Francisco 49ers- Jerald Hawkins, OT LSU
69) Jacksonville Jaguars- Kyler Fackrell, EDGE BYU
70) Baltimore Ravens- Devontae Booker, RB Utah
71) New York Giants- Yannick Ngakoue, EDGE Maryland
72) San Francisco 49ers via Chicago Bears- Tyler Boyd, WR Pittsburgh
73) Miami Dolphins- Darian Thompson, FS/SS Boise State
74) Tampa Bay Buccaneers- Braxton Miller, WR Ohio State
75) Oakland Raiders- Kenneth Dixon, RB Louisiana Tech
76) Tennessee Titans via Los Angeles Rams- Christian Westerman, OG Arizona State
77) Cleveland Browns from Philadelphia Eagles via Detroit Lions- TJ Green, CB/FS/SS Clemson
78) New Orleans Saints- Paxton Lynch, QB Memphis
79) Philadelphia Eagles- Harlan Miller, CB Southeastern Louisiana State
80) Buffalo Bills- Cardale Jones, QB Ohio State
81) Atlanta Falcons- Austin Hooper, TE Stanford
82) Indianapolis Colts- Jordan Jenkins, EDGE Goergia
83) New York Jets- Nick Vannett, TE Ohio State
84) Washington Redskins- Maelik Collins, DL Nebraska
85) Houston Texans- Nick Martin, OG/C Notre Dame
86) Minnesota Vikings- Jeremy Cash, SS Duke
87) Cincinnati Bengals- Miles Killebrew, SS Southern Utah
88) Green Bay Packers- Connor McGovern, OG Missouri
89) Pittsburgh Steelers- Vonn Bell, SS Ohio State
90) Seattle Seahawks- Hassan Ridgeway, DT Texas
91) Detroit Lions via New England Patriots- Will Fuller, WR Notre Dame
92) Arizona Cardinals- Jeff Driskel, QB Louisiana Tech
93) Carolina Panthers- Willie Beavers, OT Western Michigan
94) San Francisco 49ers via Denver Broncos- Nick Kwiatkoski, ILB West Virginia
95) Detroit Lions- Caleb Beneroch, OT UCLA
96) New England Patriots- Xavien Howard, CB Baylor
97) Seattle Seahawks- Joshua Perry, OLB Ohio State
98) Denver Broncos- Jerell Adams, TE South Carolina
TRADES IN ROUND THREE
1) Denver Broncos trade the #94 to the San Francisco 49ers for Colin Kaepernick.
Jordan Katz- Media Mock Draft: Final Predictions
The NFL Draft is finally upon us. For many fans, this is the official start of the new season. Regardless of what your team did or did not do in free agency, the draft is where everyone has a chance to improve their team and set up success in the future.
For mock draft pundits, however, this is the culmination of the draft process. From the hours of scouting, to the evaluation of the combines and pro days, to deciphering which rumors have merit, and which ones have been facilitated to the media to create buzz, the NFL Draft is our chance to see where our predictions and evaluations stacked up.
In this year’s draft, there isn’t as much talent as in the last couple of years. There are significantly more question marks surrounding the top picks, and there might not be a true “can’t miss,” prospect in the draft.
In my opinion, that’s when the draft is the most fun. It becomes harder to find the true gems, harder to predict, and typically you see a lot of chaos in round one. We have already seen the top two picks in the draft get traded.
In this final “media mock draft,” I tried to get all the picks correctly. I based my selections on the rumors I’ve read, teams pre-draft workouts and visits, and team needs. I did not use my personal evaluations, this is strictly a predictions mock draft. There’s not as much analysis in this one, as my views on players and team needs have bee well documented. Let’s hope I get a few right.
ROUND ONE
1) Los Angeles Rams via Tennessee Titans- Jared Goff, QB California- Goff being more NFL ready than Carson Wentz will be the deciding factor.
2) Philadelphia Eagles via Cleveland Browns- Carson Wentz, QB North Dakota State– I think the Eagles decision to “redshirt,” Wentz will benefit him greatly.
3) San Diego Chargers- DeForest Buckner, DE Oregon- It’s hard to decipher which rumors are true and which are smoke screens at this stage in the draft. One thing is for sure though; the Chargers decision between Buckner, Laremy Tunsil and Jalen Ramsey will have a domino effect on the rest of the draft.
4) Dallas Cowboys- Jalen Ramsey, CB/S Florida State- If Ramsey is available, I believe he will be the pick. If he’s not, I think the Cowboys take ‘Zeke Eliiott.
5) Jacksonville Jaguars- Myles Jack, OLB UCLA- The Jaguars have loved Myles Jack throughout the process. If his knee checks out, he’ll be the pick.
6) Baltimore Ravens- Laremy Tunsil, OT Ole Miss- General Manager Ozzie Newsome takes what many feel is the best player in the draft.
7) Tennessee Titans via San Francisco 49ers- Ronnie Stanley, OT Notre Dame- I think the Niners are talking up the idea of them going offensive line to get Tennessee to trade up for the pick. The Titans trade back into the top ten for their right tackle; the Niners get extra draft picks.
8) Miami Dolphins via Cleveland Browns from Philadelphia Eagles via Miami Dolphins- Ezekiel Elliott, RB Ohio State- The rumors around the Dolphins are that they’d love to jump the Bears for Ezekiel Elliott. The Browns have so many options here, so they can slide down a few spots and pick up the player they want while adding a day two pick.
9) Tampa Bay Buccaneers- Joey Bosa, DE Ohio State- I think Bosa could slide on draft day, and it wouldn’t shock me if the Bucs were given a gift at this pick.
10) New York Giants- Vernon Hargreaves, CB Florida- The Giants didn’t get good play out of Dominique Rodgers-Cromartie last year. Based on their massive spending this offseason, he could be a cap cut next year. This means the Giants would need a replacement.
11) Chicago Bears- Leonard Floyd, EDGE Georgia- The Bears need a dominant pass rusher and many feel Floyd is that.
12) New Orleans Saints- Sheldon Rankins, DT Louisville- The Saints are enamored with Rankins, but they’ve also had internal discussions about Robert Nkemdiche. My guess is that one of the two will be the pick.
13) Cleveland Browns from Miami Dolphins via Philadelphia Eagles- Jack Conklin, OT Michigan State- The Browns slide down and still get the right tackle they want.
14) Oakland Raiders- Robert Nkemdiche, DT Ole Miss- I’ve read that we should expect Nkemdiche off the board somewhere in the top 20. Rumor has it that the Raiders are one of the teams connected with taking him.
15) San Francisco 49ers from Tennessee Titans via Los Angeles Rams- Paxton Lynch, QB Memphis- I think the Niners are still heavily interested in Paxton Lynch, and they can easily trade down and select him.
16) Indianapolis Colts via Detroit Lions- Ryan Kelly, C Alabama- The Lions are being linked to Ryan Kelly, a player whom the Colts desire. I think the Lions can finagle extra value out of this pick if they choose to.
17) Atlanta Falcons- Darron Lee, OLB Ohio State- I have a second round grade on Lee, but I think this is a very good scheme fit.
18) Detroit Lions via Indianapolis Colts- Taylor Decker, OT Ohio State- The Lions need a tackle to start next year and move to the left side once Riley Reiff departs.
19) Buffalo Bills- Jarran Reed, DE/DT Alabama- There are two edge rushers from Clemson on the board for Rex Ryan, but I hear the Bills like Jarran Reed. Don’t be surprised if this is Christian Hackenburg either.
20) New York Jets- Shaq Lawson, EDGE Clemson- The Jets ideal scenario is to go edge rusher at this pick. Lawson could fall on draft day, but that’s not a reflection on the player he is.
21) Washington Redskins- A’Shawn Robinson, NT Alabama- The Redskins need someone in the middle of the defense to replace Terrance Knighton.
22) Houston Texans- Corey Coleman, WR Baylor- The Texans are going to look to give Brock Osweiler a new weapon on draft day. Coleman’s speed and route running will make him an attractive player to Head Coach Bill O’Brien.
23) Minnesota Vikings- Josh Doctson, WR TCU- The Vikings cut Mike Wallace to make room for a wide receiver in this draft, and many think it will be Doctson.
24) Cincinnati Bengals- Will Fuller, WR Notre Dame- I think the Bengals will pass on Laquon Treadwell for a deep threat like Fuller.
25) Pittsburgh Steelers- Karl Joseph, FS/SS West Virginia- I’ll believe the Steelers selecting a first round cornerback when I see it.
26) New York Giants via Seattle Seahawks- Reggie Ragland, ILB Alabama- Seattle is being incredibly quiet on their draft plans. I think that’s because they’d like to get a few extra picks.
It would be very anti-Giants to trade back into the first round. However, word from Giants camp is that this could be an unorthodox draft for the G-Men. They move back up to get the quarterback of their defense that they need.
27) Green Bay Packers- Chris Jones, DE/DT Mississippi State- Jones is getting a lot of buzz in the back end of round one. The Packers need defensive line help, so they could be Jones’ ultimate destination.
28) Kansas City Chiefs- William Jackson III, CB Houston- The Chiefs need to replace Sean Smith, and rumor is they want a cornerback in round one rather than on day two.
29) Dallas Cowboys via Arizona Cardinals- Kevin Dodd, DE Clemson- I think the Cardinals will trade out of round one on draft day. In this case, the Cowboys come up to get an edge rusher they desperately need.
30) Carolina Panthers- Mackensie Alexander, CB Clemson- Cornerback is now priority number one for the defending NFC Champs after the departure of Josh Norman.
31) Denver Broncos- Nick Martin, C/OG Notre Dame- There’s always a surprise in round one where a team takes a player at a need over best available player. I think Nick Martin could be that guy.
TRADES IN ROUND ONE
1) Tennessee Titans trade the #15 and the #43 to the San Francisco 49ers for the #7 and the #178.
2) Miami Dolphins trade the #13, #42 and the #147 to the Cleveland Browns for the #8 and the #77.
3) Indianapolis Colts trade the #18 and the #82 to the Detroit Lions for the #16 and the #151.
4) New York Giants trade the #40, #71 and the #184 to the Seattle Seahawks for the #26 and the #124.
5) Dallas Cowboys trade the #34 and the #101 to the Arizona Cardinals for the #29 and the #167.
ROUND TWO
32) Cleveland Browns- Laquon Treadwell, WR Ole Miss
33) Tennessee Titans- Eli Apple, CB Ohio State
34) Arizona Cardinals via Dallas Cowboys- TJ Green, CB/FS/SS Clemson
35) San Diego Chargers- Jason Spriggs, OT Indiana
36) Baltimore Ravens- Noah Spence, EDGE Western Kentucky
37) San Francisco 49ers- Cody Whitehair, OG Kansas State
38) Jacksonville Jaguars- Shon Coleman, OT Auburn
39) Tampa Bay Buccaneers- Sean Davis, CB/FS/SS Maryland
40) Seattle Seahawks via New York Giants- Germain Ifedi, OT Texas A&M
41) Chicago Bears- Derrick Henry, RB Alabama
42) Cleveland Browns via Miami Dolphins- Kamalei Correa, EDGE Boise State
43) San Francisco 49ers via Tennessee Titans from Los Angeles Rams via Philadelphia Eagles- Michael Thomas, WR Ohio State
44) Oakland Raiders- Su’a Cravens, OLB/SS Southern California
45) Tennessee Titans via Los Angeles Rams- Kenny Clark, NT UCLA
46) Detroit Lions- Vernon Butler, DL Louisiana Tech
47) New Orleans Saints- Artie Burns, CB Miami Florida
48) Indianapolis Colts- Justin Simmons, FS/SS Boston College
49) Buffalo Bills- Emmanuel Ogbah, EDGE Oklahoma State
50) Atlanta Falcons- Keanu Neal, SS Florida
51) New York Jets- Christian Hackenburg, QB Penn State
52) Houston Texans- Austin Johnson, DT/NT Penn State
53) New England Patriots via Washington Redskins- Leonte Carroo, WR Rutgers
54) Minnesota Vikings- Vonn Bell, SS Ohio State
55) Cincinnati Bengals- Javon Hargrave, DT South Carolina State
56) Seattle Seahawks- Joshua Garnett, OG Stanford
57) Green Bay Packers- Jaylon Smith, ILB/OLB Notre Dame
58) Pittsburgh Steelers- Andrew Billings, NT Baylor
59) Kansas City Chiefs- Sterling Shepard, WR Oklahoma
60) Washington Redskins via New England Patriots- CJ Prosise, RB Notre Dame
61) New England Patriots via Arizona Cardinals- Yannick Ngakoue, EDGE Maryland
62) Chicago Bears via Carolina Panthers- Jonathan Bullard, DE Florida
63) Denver Broncos- Hunter Henry, TE Arkansas
TRADES IN ROUND TWO
1) New England Patriots trade the #60 and a 2017 4th to the Washington Redskins for the #53.
2) Chicago Bears trade #72 and a 2017 4th to the Carolina Panthers for the #62.
ROUND THREE
64) Tennessee Titans- Chris Moore, WR Cincinnati
65) Cleveland Browns- Nick Kwiatkoski, OLB/ILB West Virginia
66) San Diego Chargers- Darian Thompson, FS/SS Boise State
67) Dallas Cowboys- Connor Cook, QB Michigan State
68) San Francisco 49ers- Shilique Calhoun, EDGE Michigan State
69) Jacksonville Jaguars- Jordan Jenkins, EDGE Georgia
70) Baltimore Ravens- Alex Collins, RB Arkansas
71) Seattle Seahawks via New York Giants- Jihad Ward, DE/DT Illinois
72) Carolina Panthers via Chicago Bears- Tyler Boyd, WR Pittsburgh
73) Miami Dolphins- Kendall Fuller, CB Virginia Tech
74) Tampa Bay Buccaneers- Darian Thompson, FS/SS Boise State
75) Oakland Raiders- Paul Perkins, RB UCLA
76) Tennessee Titans via Los Angeles Rams- Christian Westerman, OG Arizona State
77) Miami Dolphins via Cleveland Browns from Philadelphia Eagles via Detroit Lions- Austin Hooper, TE Stanford
78) New Orleans Saints- Deion Jones, OLB LSU
79) Philadelphia Eagles- Jalen Mills, CB/S LSU
80) Buffalo Bills- Cardale Jones, QB Ohio State
81) Atlanta Falcons- Nick Vannett, TE Ohio State
82) Detroit Lions via Indianapolis Colts- KeiVarae Russell, CB Notre Dame
83) New York Jets- Le’Raven Clark, OT Texas Tech
84) Washington Redskins- Kyler Fackrell, EDGE BYU
85) Houston Texans- Joe Schoebert, OLB Wisconsin
86) Minnesota Vikings- Hassan Ridgeway, DT Texas
87) Cincinnati Bengals- Connor McGovern, OG Missouri
88) Green Bay Packers- Caleb Beneroch, OT UCLA
89) Pittsburgh Steelers- Xavien Howard, CB Baylor
90) Seattle Seahawks- Kenneth Dixon, RB Louisiana Tech
91) New England Patriots- Joshua Perry, OLB Ohio State
92) Arizona Cardinals- De’Vondre Campbell, OLB Minnesota
93) Carolina Panthers- Carl Nassib, DE Penn State
94) San Francisco 49ers via Denver Broncos- Harlan Miller, CB Sotheastern Louisiana State
95) Detroit Lions (compensatory)- Braxton Miller, WR Ohio State
96) New England Patriots (compensatory)- Jerald Hawkins, OT LSU
97) Seattle Seahawks (compensatory)- Bronson Kaufusi, EDGE BYU
98) Denver Broncos (compensatory)- BJ Goodson, ILB Clemson
TRADES IN ROUND THREE
1) Denver Broncos trade the #94 to the San Francisco 49ers for Colin Kaepernick.
Enjoy the Draft everyone.
Jordan Katz- NFL Mock Draft 5.0 (Three Rounds)
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 1st and a 2017 4th 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 5th to the Cleveland Browns for the #32 and a 2017 6th.
2) Atlanta Falcons trade the #50, #81 and a 2017 6th to the San Diego Chargers for the #35 and a 2017 4th
3) Seattle Seahawks trade the #90 and a 2017 2nd 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 3rd, a 2017 5th and the #123 to the Miami Dolphins for the #73.
Jordan Katz: NFL Mock Draft 2.0-Post Super Bowl Mock Draft
The NFL offseason has officially begun, which means the Tennessee Titans are on the clock, more or less. Now it is true that the NFL Combine, and most major free agency moves, will occur before the Titans are actually on the clock.
However, that doesn’t mean that things haven’t changed since our last mock draft. Not only is the draft order finalized, but also Senior Bowl week had a major impact on many players’ draft stock.
Plenty of things will change in the coming months, but for now, this is the way I think the first round of the draft should go down.
ROUND ONE
1) Tennessee Titans- Ronnie Stanley, OT Notre Dame- I think the Titans will listen to trade offers leading up to the draft, but if they stay put, Stanley or Laremy Tunsil seem like the only viable options.
2) Cleveland Browns- Jared Goff, QB California- Even though I wouldn’t take any of the quarterbacks this high, the Browns are going to. Personally, I would trade down if I was in charge. I don’t believe their franchise quarterback is in this draft class. Even if he is, the Browns have so many needs that their quarterback might turn into David Carr due to a lack of pieces around him.
3) San Diego Chargers- Laremy Tunsil, OT Ole Miss- Eventually the Chargers will figure out that in order for Philip Rivers to be successful, he needs to be protected in the pocket. Hopefully it’s this draft, considering there are two talented tackles at the top of the board.
4) Atlanta Falcons via Dallas Cowboys- Joey Bosa, DE Ohio State- I think the Dallas Cowboys are in an ideal position to trade down. They can acquire future draft picks for a top five selection that they don’t need to use. This is how the good franchises stay good.
The Falcons will have to give multiple early selections to move up this high, but it might be worth it. Atlanta’s defense really struggled to get to the quarterback last season, mostly because they didn’t have anyone opposite Vic Beasley. Bosa is an unbelievable talent and he would make a major impact on Atlanta’s defense from day one.
5) Jacksonville Jaguars- Jalen Ramsey, CB/S Florida State- Unless a team trades up past the Jaguars to select Ramsey, then this is probably the easiest selection in 2016. The Jaguars need secondary in the worst way, and Ramsey is a star in the making.
6) Baltimore Ravens- Vernon Hargreaves, CB Florida- I think the Ravens are a sneaky “trade down,” candidate, but the versatility that Hargreaves brings to the cornerback position is too much for them to pass up on.
7) Detroit Lions via San Francisco 49ers- Laquon Treadwell, WR Ole Miss- The Niners have more than one big need, and the positions they need would be a reach here.
Fortunately for them, the Lions just lost Calvin Johnson, and must replace him with a number one receiver if they want to get back to where they were in 2014.
Treadwell would become Stafford’s favorite target in a hurry because of his ability to be physical and his ability to high point the football.
8) Miami Dolphins- Myles Jack, OLB UCLA- This is another pick that seems like a match made in heaven. Jack’s athletic ability would allow him to shine behind an underrated front four.
9) Tampa Bay Buccaneers- Kevin Dodd, DE Clemson- In my opnion, Dodd is the most complete defensive end in this draft class not named Joey Bosa. He seems like the pick for the Bucs, who are in desperate need of a true pass rushing threat.
10) New York Giants- Shaq Lawson, DE Clemson- The Clemson boys go back-to-back in this mock draft. Lawson might have a more complete move set than his counterpart, which makes him a hot commodity in the 2016 draft.
11) Chicago Bears- DeForest Buckner, DE Oregon- Bucker has moved up my personal big board since my last mock draft because of his athleticism and ability to gap the run.
However, he remains at 11 because the teams that need defensive ends at the top of the draft are 4-3 teams.
12) New Orleans Saints- Mackensie Alexander, CB Clemson- Despite solid play from Delvin Breaux last season, the Saints don’t have a true number two corner. Alexander has the versatility to play on the outside as well as in the slot, a skill that the Saints could desperately use.
13) Seattle Seahawks via Philadelphia Eagles- Robert Nkemdiche, DT Ole Miss- I still think this deal is a perfect match. The Eagles add extra draft picks; the Seahawks get a pass-rushing monster to replace Brandon Mebane.
14) Oakland Raiders-Reggie Ragland, ILB Alabama- It’s hard to know whether a Nick Saban defensive product is one that looks good, or one that is good. Ragland appears to be the latter based on his range and ability to read and react in coverage.
15) Los Angeles Rams- Josh Doctson, WR TCU- In the last mock draft I had the Rams jump up to ensure that they landed Doctson, who’s home run threat ability makes him a bona-fide number one receiver. In this mock draft, they don’t have to move up to get him.
16) San Francisco 49ers via Detroit Lions- Carson Wentz, QB North Dakota State- I know Wentz isn’t going to make it this far on draft day, and he might soon surpass Jared Goff on my personal board.
However, based on my evaluations, no quarterback in this class deserves to go in the top 15 (I excluded the Browns from this because they’re going to go quarterback at the second overall pick regardless of logic).
17) Dallas Cowboys via Atlanta Falcons- Ezekiel Elliott, RB Ohio State- One of the reasons that I think the Cowboys are a great candidate to trade down is because their top need is number one running back, which is not something you draft at four. Trading down allows them to pick up assets and select a game changing running back.
18) Indianapolis Colts- Kevin Peterson, CB Oklahoma State- Peterson is a technician at the cornerback position, which allows him to stay with receivers that are bigger than him. He may not be a first rounder in the eyes of most right now, but I think it’s only a matter of time until the National media puts him there.
19) Buffalo Bills-Noah Spence, EDGE Western Kentucky- Noah Spence is the “flavor of the day,” after a phenomenal showing at the Senior Bowl. He flies off the edge and has a very good move set for a 3-4 edge rusher.
20) New York Jets- Jaylon Smith, OLB/ILB Notre Dame- If ‘Zeke is off the board, I think the Jets become the most difficult team to decipher in this draft. They could look to grab an edge rusher like Emmanuel Ogbah, Heisman trophy winner Derrick Henry, or maybe a quarterback to sit behind Ryan Fitzpatrick.
However, I think the most likely option, assuming he’s on the board, is Jaylon Smith. Demario Davis didn’t have a great season, and David Harris isn’t getting any younger. So why not get the third best player in the draft at the 20th overall pick?
21) Washington Redskins- Kenny Clark, NT UCLA- I know Terrance Knighton has said he wants to resign with the Redskins, but I would let him walk. The depth at defensive tackle in this draft is too great to ignore, and they can easily find a space eater to replace him (like Kenny Clark).
22) Houston Texans- Derrick Henry, RB Alabama- If Arian Foster doesn’t return, then the Texans are in desperate need of a number one running back. Assuming Henry’s 40 time in Indianapolis is solid, his power and vision make him worthy of a first round selection.
23) Minnesota Vikings- Landon Turner, OG North Carolina- Turner isn’t a great athlete on tape, but he’s a smart player and shows great strength at the point of attack. For a team that runs the ball a lot, he seems like a good fit.
24) Cincinnati Bengals- A’Shawn Robinson, NT Alabama- Robinson could go anywhere from 12-24, in my opinion. In this draft, the rise of Alexander and Peterson force him to fall a bit. I’ll bet Bengals fans won’t be complaining.
25) Pittsburgh Steelers- Austin Johnson, DT/NT Penn State- The Steelers are never going to take a first round cornerback. Therefore, even though I think they should trade up for one, we’ll move past that.
One of the Steelers more pressing needs is someone in the middle of their 3-4 defense. Steve McLendon was below average last season, and is an impending free agent.
Austin Johnson’s a great athlete for a nose tackle with very good pass-rushing ability. I think his versatility will help strengthen the Steelers front seven.
26) Philadelphia Eagles via Seattle Seahawks- Corey Coleman, WR Baylor- New Head Coach Doug Pederson is almost surely going to bring the west coast offense to Philadelphia, which means route running technicians are a necessity. Coleman’s biggest weapons are his quickness out of cuts and his ability with the ball in his hands. Both are key in a west coast system.
27) Green Bay Packers- Andrew Billings, NT Baylor- I have Billings slightly higher than Austin Johnson on my own personal board (for now), but Billings seems more limited in terms of his potential. I get the sense he’s strictly a space eater where as Johnson has star potential.
Having said that, the Packers need a run stuffer in the middle of their defense. That is Andrew Billings in a nutshell.
28) Kansas City Chiefs- Taylor Decker, OT Ohio State- I’m not a huge fan of Taylor Decker, but he’s a solid option as a right tackle. The Chiefs are desperate for some stability at that position.
29) New England Patriots- (Forefeit)
30) Arizona Cardinals- Emmanuel Ogbah, EDGE Oklahoma State- The Cardinals still lack a dominant edge rusher that can get to the quarterback at will. Ogbah has to become more consistent against the run, but he can have an immediate impact in Arizona on third down plays.
31) Dallas Cowboys via Carolina Panthers- Christian Hackenburg, QB Penn State- Having picked up extra assets, the Cowboys have the luxury of moving back into the first round for a quarterback of the future.
Many are going to argue that they should just take a quarterback at four, but if you’re going to roll the dice, why not try to roll a natural seven?
Once upon a time Christian Hackenburg was a lock to be the number one overall pick of this class. He still has the size and arm strength of an NFL quarterback; Penn State’s system just didn’t fit him well. If he gets the opportunity to sit and learn behind Tony Romo, maybe he becomes the star we all thought he would be two years ago.
32) Denver Broncos- Darian Thompson, FS Boise State- This is definitely a luxury pick, but when you’re the defending Super Bowl champions, you can afford to make such a pick.
Thompson is a ball hawk in every sense of the word. The only weakness on the Broncos defense was Darian Stewart, who didn’t even play that poorly. Imagine what someone with 19 career collegiate interceptions could do on a defense where he can afford to constantly take risks.
TRADES
1) Atlanta Falcons trade the #17, #50 and a 2017 2nd round pick to the Dallas Cowboys for the #4 pick.
2) Detroit Lions trade the #16, #46 and the #139 to the San Francisco 49ers for the #7 pick.
3) Seattle Seahawks trade the #23, #55 and a 2017 4th rounder to the Philadelphia Eagles for the #13.
4) Dallas Cowboys trade the #34 and a 2017 4th rounder to the Carolina Panthers for the #31.
Mike Reynolds 2016 NFL Mock Draft 1.0
- 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)
Jordan Katz- 2016 NFL Mock Draft 1.0
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 10th.
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 4th rounder to the Philadelphia Eagles for the #13.
3) San Francisco trades the #39 and the #71 to the Pittsburgh Steelers for the #24.
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