2013 NFL Draft thread - ( Early Entrees, Mocks, Combine etc )

NFL Draft 2013
All mock scenarios on the table
Trades could impact landing spots for quarterbacks and offensive tackles
Originally Published: April 10, 2013
By Todd McShay | ESPN Insider


NFL Draft: Fact Or Fiction?

With the NFL draft a little more than two weeks away, my final board is coming into focus, but solidifying prospect rankings doesn't mean the intrigue is subsiding for NFL teams.

There are still plenty of options on the table as team needs are adjusted and players make final visits to NFL cities, working out for teams and interviewing with coaches, scouts and front-office personnel.

With that in mind, it's time for my annual scenario-based mock draft. I've laid out three possibilities for every first-round pick, with Scenario 1 reflecting the ideal selection for each team (within reason), but not necessarily including the player ultimately projected to that team, based on how the first round unfolds.

And trades are a consideration in this mock draft projection, which means plenty of possibilities for the top quarterback and top offensive tackles on the board.

Here's how I see things playing out at this point. As always, non-seniors are noted with an asterisk.

MORE McSHAY CONTENT:
Mocks: 4.1 |4.0 | 3.0 | 2.0 | 1.0
1Luke Joeckel*Kansas City Chiefs (2-14)
COLLEGE: Texas A&MAGE: 21HT: 6-6WT: 306POS: OT
Scenario 1: With Branden Albert's future up in the air, the best bet for the Chiefs is to get a left tackle who can step in now, or perhaps a year from now after Albert plays out his franchise tender. Joeckel is a plug-and-play prospect with 39 career starts at the highest levels of college football.
Scenario 2: If not Joeckel, then Eric Fisher is the next-best option. He's not as technically sound and didn't face the same level of competition, but Fisher's ceiling is a little higher because he's a slightly better athlete.
Scenario 3: Trading out could be an option if Kansas City should get a reasonable offer that would allow it to stockpile picks, and also stay within range of Oklahoma OT Lane Johnson or a difference-making defensive end for its 3-4 scheme such as Utah's Star Lotulelei.
Stats and Info: Chiefs quarterbacks were sacked or under duress on 35.3 percent of their drop backs against five or more pass-rushers last season, the third-highest rate in the NFL. Joeckel was not responsible for any sacks against the blitz last season.

2Dion JordanJacksonville Jaguars (2-14)
COLLEGE: OregonAGE: 22HT: 6-6¼WT: 248POS: OLB
Scenario 1: The Jags would be perfectly content to stay home and take Jordan, whose rare combination of length and versatility against the pass make him a perfect fit for the Leo position in Jacksonville's new defensive scheme.
Scenario 2: If they don't opt for Jordan or another pass-rusher like BYU DE Ezekiel Ansah, the Jaguars could fill their need at cornerback with Alabama's Dee Milliner, the one elite defensive back prospect in the class.
Scenario 3: If the new coaching staff isn't sold on Blaine Gabbert as its quarterback of the future, this pick could be used (whether by trading back or staying put) to acquire the quarterback it thinks is the best fit, whether that's West Virginia's Geno Smith or USC's Matt Barkley.
Stats and Info: The Jaguars' defense averaged a sack every 32.9 drop backs using standard pressure, worst in the NFL. All 4.5 of Ansah's sacks last season came when BYU did not blitz, including two sacks when he was one of just three pass-rushers.

3Ezekiel Ansah*Oakland Raiders (4-12)
COLLEGE: BYUAGE: 24HT: 6-5¼WT: 271POS: DE
Scenario 1: For a Raiders team facing serious salary cap issues this season, the absolute best scenario is to find a trade partner that would allow Oakland to move back, get extra picks and ease its financial burden.
Scenario 2: There is a lot of speculation that Florida DL Sharrif Floyd is going to be the pick here, but I see defensive end as a bigger need. Floyd's lack of pass-rush production on the interior is a bit of a concern as well, and if I'm going to take a chance on potential I'd rather bet on Ansah and his rare physical gifts.
Scenario 3: If Oakland likes Floyd, he makes sense as a penetrating 3-technique in its system. His 13 tackles for loss last season are proof of his ability to disrupt inside.
Stats and Info: Four individual players had more sacks as part of a standard pass rush than the Raiders had as a team (12). Though Floyd had only three sacks, Florida's defense had nine players with at least two sacks, tied for third most in the country.


4Star LotuleleiPhiladelphia Eagles (4-12)
COLLEGE: UtahAGE: 23HT: 6-2½WT: 311POS: DT
Scenario 1: Of all the teams in the top five overall, the Eagles did the best job in free agency and are most free to take the best available player for their schemes. The D-line isn't a pressing need, but Lotulelei is a top-five talent and would give the Eagles another solid 3-4 end and some flexibility in their new 3-4 hybrid scheme.
Scenario 2: With one of the top two offensive tackles available -- in this case Eric Fisher -- that position comes into play. Both Jason Peters and Todd Herremans are coming off injuries, and taking Fisher would allow Herremans to bump inside to guard.
Scenario 3: New coach Chip Kelly could opt for Geno Smith, who fits what Kelly wants to do in terms of making quick decisions, spreading the ball around and mixing in the zone-read option.
Stats and Info: The Eagles' offensive line allowed 120 sacks or tackles for loss last year, the most in the league. Fisher anchored a Central Michigan line that allowed 78 last season, or eight fewer than Alabama's well-publicized offensive line, albeit against lesser competition.

5Eric FisherDetroit Lions (4-12)
COLLEGE: Central MichiganAGE: 22HT: 6-7WT: 306POS: OT

Scenario 1: The Lions need to fill the hole left by the retirement of longtime OT Jeff Backus, and Fisher is the best natural pass-blocker in the class. He would be a huge asset as Detroit tries to keep franchise QB Matthew Stafford upright.
Scenario 2: Cornerback has been a top need for some time, and with Milliner still on the board in this scenario he would have to be a consideration.
Scenario 3: Were Ansah to be available, he could make sense as a rotational player early on, who could eventually develop into a difference-maker alongside DTs Ndamukong Suh and Nick Fairley.
Stats and Info: The Lions allowed a league-worst 86.2 Total QBR on passes outside the numbers last season, with 16 touchdowns and two interceptions. Milliner and his Alabama teammates allowed five touchdowns and 13 interceptions outside the hash marks last season.

6Geno SmithCleveland Browns (5-11)
COLLEGE: West VirginiaAGE: 23HT: 6-2⅜WT: 218POS: QB

Scenario 1: Ideally, the Browns would like to partner with a team looking to trade up to get Smith, or more likely one of the top three offensive tackles (in this case, Oklahoma's Lane Johnson). It's common knowledge the Cardinals would like to get Johnson with the next pick on the board, so teams looking to get ahead of Arizona could target this spot. That would allow Cleveland, which currently does not have a second-round pick, to move back and also acquire extra selections, which would make it easier to take Smith a little later in the first knowing it won't have to wait until the third round to pick again. Miami -- which has picks No. 12, 42 and 54 -- could be a prime trade candidate here.
Scenario 2: General manager Mike Lombardi hasn't hidden the fact that he was not a fan of the decision to pick QB Brandon Weeden in the first round in 2012, so Smith could very well be the pick here.
Scenario 3: This is yet another possible landing spot for Milliner, or the Browns could also look at the best guard prospect in a decade in Chance Warmack.
Stats and Info: Cleveland allowed 22 touchdowns to opposing wide receivers last season, tied for second most in the NFL. Alabama's opponents completed 52.4 percent of their passes with five touchdowns and 15 interceptions when targeting wide receivers last season.

7Lane JohnsonArizona Cardinals (5-11)
COLLEGE: OklahomaAGE: 22HT: 6-6WT: 303POS: OT

Scenario 1: Offensive line is the most pressing need for Arizona, and Johnson has the athleticism and a high enough ceiling that he could eventually become the best tackle to come out of this class.
Scenario 2: Should the Cardinals look elsewhere, and should Jordan fall because of recent shoulder surgery, they could find a good fit for their 3-4 system.
Scenario 3: If the top three offensive tackles are off the board, Warmack would be a good fit for Arizona's power-man blocking scheme and would also help shore up the pass protection.
Stats and Info: Cardinals quarterbacks were sacked every 11.7 drop backs last season, the worst rate in the NFL. Oklahoma allowed a sack every 36.7 drop backs last season, and Johnson was responsible for just two of Oklahoma's 15 sacks allowed.

8Chance WarmackBuffalo Bills (6-10)
COLLEGE: AlabamaAGE: 21HT: 6-2WT: 317POS: G

Scenario 1: Warmack is physically dominant and would fill the hole left by the departure of Andy Levitre. It's not a sexy pick, but Warmack is perhaps the most NFL-ready prospect at any position and would help protect free-agent acquisition Kevin Kolb, who had trouble staying healthy behind Arizona's suspect offensive line last season.
Scenario 2: Syracuse QB Ryan Nassib seems like a natural fit in Buffalo, with his former college coach Doug Marrone taking the reins for the Bills. This pick might be a little rich for Nassib, but Buffalo could perhaps utilize it in a trade that would allow Marrone to get Nassib later in the fist or early in the second.
Scenario 3: The Bills need a pass-rusher to help take pressure off the rest of the defensive line, and the explosiveness and natural athleticism of DE/OLB Barkevious Mingo would lend some flexibility to the defense.
Stats and Info: Buffalo used five different right guards last season, tied for the second most in the NFL. Warmack played every game on an Alabama offensive line that averaged 6.5 yards per carry on designed run plays between the tackles last season.

9Dee Milliner*New York Jets (6-10)
COLLEGE: AlabamaAGE: 21HT: 5-11⅞WT: 201POS: CB

Scenario 1: This turn of events is the perfect storm for a Jets team likely to part ways with disgruntled CB Darrelle Revis. Filling a major need with an elite player at this pick would be a slam dunk.
Scenario 2: Mingo's upfield explosiveness could be intriguing to coach Rex Ryan and his staff, who could surely put together a plan to maximize Mingo's skills.
Scenario 3: The Jets brought in G Willie Colon, but Vladimir Ducasse has become a second-round bust and New York could opt for the top guard on the board. In this case, that's Jonathan Cooper.
Stats and Info: The Jets' defense ranked 23rd in the league with a sack every 17.8 drop backs last season, and hasn't had a player record more than six sacks in a season since 2009. Mingo recorded 28 total pressures last season (QB hurries and knockdowns), tied for the second most in the SEC.

10Sharrif Floyd*Tennessee Titans (6-10)
COLLEGE: FloridaAGE: 20HT: 6-2⅝WT: 297POS: DT

Scenario 1: The Titans need a player along the defensive front who can disrupt and make life easier for DEs Kamerion Wimbley and Derrick Morgan, and getting Floyd here would be a good value.
Scenario 2: Mingo is also a great fit here. He could play in a rotation and provide pass-rush pressure while adding the necessary strength.
Scenario 3: Tennessee upgraded the offensive line with the addition of Levitre, but could still use help there, and in this scenario, Cooper would certainly help accomplish that.
Stats and Info: The Titans were one of three teams (along with the Bears and Seahawks) that failed to get at least 700 plays out of an offensive guard in 2012. Cooper hasn't missed a game since his freshman year, appearing in 46 straight games to finish his UNC career.

11Jonathan CooperSan Diego Chargers (7-9)
COLLEGE: North CarolinaAGE: 23HT: 6-2⅛WT: 311POS: G

Scenario 1: The absolute best-case scenario for the Chargers -- who can't really afford to trade up -- is to see Johnson fall to this spot. However, should they put together a package, this pick could be part of an offer that gets them up to No. 6.
Scenario 2: Warmack would be a better fit for the Chargers' power run game. However, Cooper is an exceptional talent who would add some bulk and a desperately needed upgrade to an offensive line that didn't find long-term answers in free agency.
Scenario 3: Should Lotulelei fall down the board because of lingering medical concerns, his skill set could make him a fit at nose tackle between DEs Kendall Reyes and Corey Liuget.
Stats and Info: The Chargers were one of two teams to average fewer than 2.0 yards before contact per rush last year (Steelers). On rushes between the left guard and left tackle (where Warmack played), Alabama averaged 4.2 yards before first contact and gained at least 10 yards once every 5.5 rushes.

12Xavier Rhodes*Miami Dolphins (7-9)
COLLEGE: Florida StateAGE: 22HT: 6-1½WT: 210POS: CB

Scenario 1: With the loss of OT Jake Long, the Dolphins would surely like to package picks and trade up to get ahead of Arizona and lock down their left tackle spot.
Scenario 2: Should Warmack or Cooper fall here due to positional-value concerns, they would offer good value and help solidify the offensive front.
Scenario 3: If Miami opts to stay home, Rhodes' length and top-end speed would make him a fit in the Dolphins' press-man coverage schemes.
Stats and Info: With Long on the field in the past five seasons, the Dolphins allowed a sack every 16.2 drop backs, compared to every 9.6 drop backs with him off field.

13Tavon AustinTampa Bay Buccaneers (7-9)
COLLEGE: West VirginiaAGE: 21HT: 5-8½WT: 174POS: WR

Scenario 1: The Bucs would likely prefer to use this pick to address a glaring hole at cornerback. There is talk about trading this pick as part of a package for Revis, and I'm also hearing buzz about potential interest in Rhodes.
Scenario 2: If Tampa doesn't deal and Rhodes is off the board, then Austin gives the Bucs a dynamic weapon who can line up all over the field and help open things up for QB Josh Freeman and his other weapons, and also contribute in the return game.
Scenario 3: Should corner or an offensive playmaker not be the pick, the Bucs could opt for the top defensive lineman on the board. In this case, that's Mingo.
Stats and Info: The Buccaneers' pass defense allowed an NFL-high 17 passing plays of at least 30 yards outside the numbers, 15 of which were thrown to wide receivers. No team allowed more receiving yards per game to wide receivers than Tampa Bay (203.7).

14Sheldon Richardson*Carolina Panthers (7-9)
COLLEGE: MissouriAGE: 21HT: 6-2½WT: 294POS: DT
Scenario 1: The Panthers are lacking a penetrating 3-technique who can get into the offensive backfield, and Richardson fits the bill with his explosiveness and playmaking ability.
Scenario 2: Corner is another need area, and if Rhodes were on the board, he would be an option here.
Scenario 3: With no offensive tackle worthy of this pick on the board in this scenario, an offensive playmaker such as Austin or Cordarrelle Patterson would come into play.
Stats and Info: The Panthers recorded only nine tackles for loss from defensive linemen last season. Only the Cowboys' defensive line (seven) had fewer. Richardson had 10 run stuffs last year (tackles for negative or no-gain rushes).

15Barkevious Mingo*New Orleans Saints (7-9)
COLLEGE: LSUAGE: 24HT: 6-4¼WT: 241POS: DE

Scenario 1: Don't be surprised to see the Saints look to move up if an elite pass-rusher begins to slide, even if Mingo is in the mix. Filling that need is important enough that New Orleans might potentially make a move if Jordan or Ansah should fall down the board.
Scenario 2: Mingo fits best at right end in a 4-3, but he's at his best rushing the passer, and defensive coordinator Rob Ryan would certainly find a way to turn him loose. Fellow DE Datone Jones of UCLA could also be an option.
Scenario 3: Like with Carolina earlier, there is not an offensive tackle here who can fill the Saints' need at that spot. That means they could opt to fill a hole on the back end with Texas S Kenny Vaccaro.
Stats and Info: Vaccaro's ability to step up in run support could be an asset for the Saints, who allowed a league-worst 5.3 yards per rush between the tackles last season.

16Cordarrelle Patterson*St. Louis Rams (7-8-1)
COLLEGE: TennesseeAGE: 21HT: 6-1⅞WT: 216POS: WR

Scenario 1: The buzz I'm hearing is that if Austin falls, he's the guy the Rams want here.
Scenario 2: With Austin off the board, the Rams jump on another offensive weapon. Patterson isn't as proven or polished as Austin, but he is bigger, stronger and has all kinds of upside with his ability in space. He's a boom-or-bust prospect, but if he lands here, St. Louis has a player who's special with the ball in his hands.
Scenario 3: If not a receiver, Vaccaro is simply a very good overall player who would offer the Rams a huge upgrade at a position that represents a significant need at this point.
Stats and Info: Safeties Quintin Mikell and Craig Dahl each played more than 95 percent of the Rams' defensive snaps. Despite that, the duo combined to defend or intercept just three total passes last season. Vaccaro had seven combined interceptions and pass breakups last season.

17Jarvis Jones*Pittsburgh Steelers (8-8)
COLLEGE: GeorgiaAGE: 23HT: 6-2⅜WT: 245POS: LB

Scenario 1: Jones is a nice fit in the Steelers' scheme, which could send him after the quarterback without asking him to do more than he's capable of in other areas.
Scenario 2: Pittsburgh could opt for a playmaker on the outside, likely Patterson if he were available, to offset the loss of Mike Wallace to Miami.
Scenario 3: The Steelers are in the unusual position for them of having multiple needs to fill. They could also use help at running back, defensive line, cornerback, and perhaps tight end with red zone threat Heath Miller coming off a knee injury.
Stats and Info: The only tight end targeted in the end zone more often than Miller (11) last season was Rob Gronkowski (13). Notre Dame TE Tyler Eifert was targeted 15 times in the end zone last season, nine more than any other Fighting Irish player.

18Kenny VaccaroDallas Cowboys (8-8)
COLLEGE: TexasAGE: 21HT: 6-0WT: 214POS: S

Scenario 1: Vaccaro is falling in this scenario, and safety is a top need for the Cowboys. Vaccaro has the skill set to step in as a starter for a defense that's searching for a do-it-all player on the back end.
Scenario 2: Should Dallas look for help along the defensive front as it transitions to Monte Kiffin's Tampa 2 system, North Carolina DT Sylvester Williams would be the top option as things stand in this projection.
Scenario 3: Teams can never have enough good pass-rushers, so perhaps the Cowboys could snatch up Mingo if he should fall, or consider DE Bjoern Werner.
Stats and Info: There was a lot of room for improvement on the Dallas defensive line last season. The Cowboys ranked in the bottom three in sacks, tackles for loss and batted passes in 2012. Furthermore, the D-line contacted opposing ball carriers in the backfield on just 12 percent of rushing plays, the second-lowest percentage in the league.

19D.J. Fluker*New York Giants (9-7)
COLLEGE: AlabamaAGE: 21HT: 6-4½WT: 339POS: OT

Scenario 1: The Giants aren't known for taking offensive linemen early, but Fluker would offer a boost up front with his balance, footwork and mauling presence in the running game.
Scenario 2: There is a need for more athleticism and cover skills at linebacker, and Georgia ILB Alec Ogletree could offer that if the Giants were to get comfortable with some of his off-field baggage.
Scenario 3: New York has some uncertainty at corner, and while Washington CB Desmond Trufant isn't the best in run support, he has the cover skills to contribute right away and already has a professional attitude.
Stats and Info: No team allowed a higher completion percentage or more yards per attempt last season on throws more than 10 yards downfield than the Giants. Trufant's 4.38-second 40-yard dash time was third best among defensive back prospects.

20Tyler Eifert*Chicago Bears (10-6)
COLLEGE: Notre DameAGE: 22HT: 6-5½WT: 250POS: TE

Scenario 1: Bears QB Jay Cutler could use a weapon in the middle of the field, and Eifert could help new coach Marc Trestman exploit mismatches in the passing game with his size, ball skills and versatility.
Scenario 2: Filling the shoes of Brian Urlacher would invite some pressure, but Notre Dame ILB Manti Te'o would fit Chicago's scheme, and this is about the range in which teams should start looking at Te'o.
Scenario 3: The Bears face Matthew Stafford and Aaron Rodgers twice every season, so Trufant could be an option with his ability to hold up in their man-cover schemes.
Stats and Info: Over the past five seasons, the Bears have 16 more touchdown passes allowed than interceptions with Urlacher off the field. With him on the field, they have 12 more interceptions than touchdown passes allowed. Te'o defended 11 passes in 2012, tied for most among BCS conference front-seven players.

21Desmond TrufantCincinnati Bengals (10-6)
COLLEGE: WashingtonAGE: 22HT: 5-11⅝WT: 190POS: CB

Scenario 1: Corner isn't a glaring need for Cincinnati, but Trufant would represent a good value at this point, and there is no such thing as too many good cover men for an NFL team.
Scenario 2: If free agent Andre Smith leaves town, the Bengals will be in the market for an offensive tackle. With Fluker off the board in this scenario, that could mean the athletic Menelik Watson of Florida State.
Scenario 3: This might be a bit high for a running back, but the Bengals could trade back with a team looking to get into the quarterback market at this point. Should that happen, Alabama RB Eddie Lacy would be a fit as a complement to short-term solution BenJarvus Green-Ellis.
Stats and Info: Smith was one of three Bengals linemen to play more than 99 percent of the team's offensive snaps last year. Fluker has 35 career starts at right tackle, and Alabama averaged 6.8 yards per rush to the right and 12 touchdowns in 14 games last season.

22Eddie Lacy*St. Louis Rams (7-8-1) (from WAS)
COLLEGE: AlabamaAGE: 22HT: 5-11WT: 231POS: RB

Scenario 1: Ideally, the Rams would like to see Vaccaro fall to this spot.
Scenario 2: With Vaccaro off the board, Lacy's strong running style could combine with Patterson's playmaking ability to give QB Sam Bradford some quality young talent to develop with.
Scenario 3: The Rams could take advantage of a top talent who is sliding down the board, which in this case would mean Ogletree.
Stats and Info: In addition to the options above, Tavon Austin would be a good replacement for the departed Danny Amendola, who gained more than 47 percent of his yards after the catch with the Rams. Austin led all BCS-conference receivers with 947 YAC in 2012, which was 73 percent of his total receiving yards.

23Alec Ogletree*Minnesota Vikings (10-6)
COLLEGE: GeorgiaAGE: 21HT: 6-2½WT: 242POS: ILB
Scenario 1: There has been a lot of talk about Te'o in this spot, but if Ogletree should fall this far, the Vikings would have to jump on him. He is one of the best pound-for-pound athletes in the class, and has tremendous range against the run.
Scenario 2: The Vikings' defensive line is beginning to show its age, so the team could opt for North Carolina DT Sylvester Williams, who would make sense as a disruptive presence in the middle of Minnesota's 4-3 scheme.
Scenario 3: This is yet another fit for Trufant should he slide. The Vikings also deal with Stafford and Rodgers regularly, and Trufant would help fill the void should longtime Viking Antoine Winfield sign elsewhere.
Stats and Info: The three Vikings defensive linemen who played the most snaps last season -- Jared Allen, Brian Robison and Kevin Williams -- will all be 30 or older in Week 1 of the 2013 season. Sylvester Williams led all BCS interior line prospects with 25 total pressures (QB hurries plus knockdowns) last season.

24D.J. HaydenIndianapolis Colts (11-5)
COLLEGE: HoustonAGE: 22HT: 5-11⅛WT: 191POS: CB

Scenario 1: The Colts play man-cover schemes, and Hayden's smooth movement skills and ability to manufacture turnovers would be a solid fit.
Scenario 2: Receiver doesn't appear to be a pressing need, but QB Andrew Luck can never have too many options and Keenan Allen is an NFL-ready talent who can make plays downfield.
Scenario 3: If other options aren't attractive, Indianapolis could opt for Lacy as the potential engine that drives its power running game.
Stats and Info: The Colts' pass rush sacked, hit or put the quarterback under duress on 17.8 percent of drop backs, the second-worst rate in the league. Jarvis Jones led the FBS with 14.5 sacks, as well as all BCS defensive prospects with 31 total pressures last season.

25Sylvester WilliamsMinnesota Vikings (10-6) (from SEA)
COLLEGE: North CarolinaAGE: 24HT: 6-2⅝WT: 313POS: DT

Scenario 1: With a linebacker locked up earlier in the round, Williams would bring good value here.
Scenario 2: If the Vikings don't opt for Ogletree at No. 23, Te'o could fill that need with this pick.
Scenario 3: With Percy Harvin having been traded away, there is a need for a quality weapon for QB Christian Ponder. That would make Keenan Allen an intriguing option here.
Stats and Info: Harvin posted an average target depth of 4.1 yards downfield, shortest of any NFL wide receiver with at least 20 targets in 2012. Among the 65 wide receivers in BCS conferences with at least 700 receiving yards last season, Keenan Allen gained the fifth-highest percentage of his yards after the catch.

26Justin Pugh*Green Bay Packers (11-5)
COLLEGE: SyracuseAGE: 22HT: 6-4½WT: 307POS: G

Scenario 1: The Packers have a need at offensive tackle, and Pugh is an underrated talent who played tackle in college and could help solidify the Green Bay offensive line. Watson and Oregon's Kyle Long could also be in play here.
Scenario 2: Running back is another need area, so Lacy could make sense if he is on the board at this point.
Scenario 3: The secondary has a hole at safety, which could put FIU's John Cyprien or Florida's Matt Elam on the radar.
Stats and Info: Packers running backs have combined for 12 rushing touchdowns over the past three seasons, the fewest in the NFL. Lacy had 17 rushing touchdowns last season, and would likely improve on Green Bay's league-worst 3.8 yards per rush over the past three seasons.

27Menelik Watson*Houston Texans (12-4)
COLLEGE: Florida StateAGE: 24HT: 6-5⅛WT: 317POS: OT

Scenario 1: The Texans could stand to get an upgrade over Derek Newton at right tackle, and Watson's athleticism and movement skills would be a perfect fit in their zone-blocking scheme.
Scenario 2: If offensive line isn't the target area here, then Houston could look for a complementary weapon for WR Andre Johnson. Fits could include Keenan Allen, Clemson's DeAndre Hopkins or USC's Robert Woods.
Scenario 3: Defensive line could also be a consideration, and Georgia's Johnathan Jenkins has the versatility to line up at nose tackle or the 5-technique and provide depth and flexibility.
Stats and Info: Johnson's 158 targets made up 58.1 percent of the Texans' pass attempts to wide receivers, the highest percentage for an individual receiver in the league. Hopkins caught 10 touchdowns on passes thrown 20 yards or longer in 2012, tied with West Virginia's Stedman Bailey for most in the FBS.

28Bjoern Werner*Denver Broncos (13-3)
COLLEGE: Florida StateAGE: 22HT: 6-3¼WT: 266POS: DE

Scenario 1: Denver could use help along the defensive line, and Werner would fill that need with his production, strong hands and nonstop motor.
Scenario 2: If the Broncos look elsewhere on the front seven, Te'o would solidify the second level. He has enough playing speed to get from sideline to sideline and could thrive in their scheme if protected by Denver's linemen.
Scenario 3: Champ Bailey is on the down side of his career, and Boise State CB Jamar Taylor's cover skills could make him the heir apparent and an immediate asset as a sub-package corner.
Stats and Info: Replacing Elvis Dumervil's production (11 sacks last season) with Werner makes sense. Denver allowed a league-best 36.1 Total QBR with four or fewer rushers, and 12 of Werner's 13 sacks came as part of a standard pass rush, most among players rated in the top 100 by Scouts Inc.

29Datone JonesNew England Patriots (12-4)
COLLEGE: UCLAAGE: 22HT: 6-3⅞WT: 283POS: DE

Scenario 1: Jones could offer help along the defensive front, giving the Patriots another versatile player who can line up at end opposite Chandler Jones and reduce inside to rush the passer in sub packages.
Scenario 2: If defensive line isn't the pick and Keenan Allen remains on the board, he would provide the downfield presence the New England offense has been lacking in recent years.
Scenario 3: Should the Pats look to another area on defense, a cornerback like Taylor or Connecticut's Blidi Wreh-Wilson could help shore up a secondary that has had its issues.
Stats and Info: Only the Jets faced more passes thrown more than 20 yards downfield than the Patriots did in 2012. New England allowed a 41.7 completion percentage on those throws (NFL average: 33.9), and was one of three teams to allow double-digit touchdowns on deep throws.

30Jamar TaylorAtlanta Falcons (13-3)
COLLEGE: Boise StateAGE: 23HT: 5-10⅝WT: 192POS: CB

Scenario 1: Taylor would fill one of the few needs the Falcons have at this point. He is an underrated corner who fits their scheme with his ability to play both man and zone coverage.
Scenario 2: Te'o is also an option in Atlanta, which would get an upgrade over current starter Akeem Dent and good value in taking Te'o at this point.
Scenario 3: The Falcons are getting TE Tony Gonzalez back for one more season, but they could opt for his eventual replacement in Stanford's Zach Ertz, who would also offer flexibility in multiple-TE packages. A pass-rusher such as Florida State DE Cornellius Carradine might also be a consideration.
Stats and Info: Over the past three seasons, John Abraham recorded 28.5 sacks when the Falcons sent four or fewer pass-rushers, and no other Falcons defensive end recorded more than eight. Carradine had eight sacks from a four-man rush last season alone.

31John CyprienSan Francisco 49ers (11-4-1)
COLLEGE: FIUAGE: 22HT: 6-0¼WT: 217POS: S

Scenario 1: Craig Dahl came in via free agency, but he's not the long-term answer. Cyprien has size and range and is a hitter, and if his recognition skills catch up to his physical tools, he will be a huge asset as a do-everything safety.
Scenario 2: There is a need for a versatile defensive lineman in San Francisco. That would put Jenkins in play. He's mobile for his size, has a good motor and is versatile enough to add to the problems the Niners' defensive front can create for opposing offenses.
Scenario 3: If the 49ers look to the offense, the best available pass-catcher would be an option, whether that is Ertz or a value receiver like Keenan Allen or Woods.
Stats and Info: Justin Smith's injury exposed a lack of depth along the defensive line last season. The 49ers recorded a sack once every 16.2 drop backs with Smith on the field, compared to every 29.4 with Smith off the field. They also allowed two touchdowns on 305 rushing attempts last season with him in the game, and five touchdowns on 102 rushes without him.

32Manti Te'oBaltimore Ravens (10-6)
COLLEGE: Notre DameAGE: 22HT: 6-1¼WT: 241POS: ILB

Scenario 1: The retirement of Ray Lewis leaves a huge void in the middle of the Raven's defense, and Te'o's overall skill set could help offset that loss.
Scenario 2: Baltimore made a long-term commitment to QB Joe Flacco this offseason, and providing him with weapons will be a priority. Keenan Allen could function as a nice complement to the speedy Torrey Smith.
Scenario 3: With Ed Reed having left for Houston via free agency, the Ravens could opt for the best available safety on the board. In this case, that's Elam.
Stats and Info: Replacing Lewis could improve Baltimore's pass defense immediately. Opponents' yards per pass attempt with Lewis on the field rose from 5.9 in 2008 to 7.7 last season. Opponents averaged 5.1 yards per attempt when targeting against Te'o last season, who led FBS linebackers with seven interceptions.
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McShay knows that the Dolphins are running Kevin Coyle's defense, and therefore more zone than press man, right?

Also, sounds like Miami has zero interest in CB in round 1 since the class is deep enough, we can add 1-2 in the mid rounds with our extra picks.

We're lookin at either OT, DE, Austin or Eifert. CB in round 2-3 probably. And I'm ok with that, just don't want us trading up for a damn lineman. :smh:
 
651akathePaul said:
Ya know...I've been caught up in a lot debates about the receivers in this draft, and I find it funny that between Nuk, Woods, and Patterson, it can be argued that none of them were even the best receivers on their team and in Patterson's case, him and Hunter not even being the best in Tennessee.

I don't know. Found it humurous.
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Well anyone who watched Clemson this year saw that Nuk was the best WR on that team this year.

Woods has the unfortunate distinction of being next to a top 5 freak of a WR :lol:

http://profootballtalk.nbcsports.com/2013/04/16/nix-defends-quarterback-class-says-not-a-reach-at-8/

Guess that means Nassib is going at 8 :lol:

Ziggy Ansah going top 5 :lol: :lol: :lol: :lol:

While he certainly could turn out to be a great player, nothing he has shown on the field in games is top 5 worthy. He wasn't anywhere near Kyle Van Noy and idk if even he will go top 5
 
CP1708 said:
McShay knows that the Dolphins are running Kevin Coyle's defense, and therefore more zone than press man, right?

Also, sounds like Miami has zero interest in CB in round 1 since the class is deep enough, we can add 1-2 in the mid rounds with our extra picks.

We're lookin at either OT, DE, Austin or Eifert. CB in round 2-3 probably. And I'm ok with that, just don't want us trading up for a damn lineman.
mean.gif
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Every mock I've seen has you guys taking Xavier Rhodes it seems.

If we do get the Bucs 13th overall though - I wouldn't mind getting him if he drops to our lap
 
Desmond Trufant to the Bengals is a horrible pick. No need for a CB in the 1st after Dre got drafted next year.

Tank Carradine running for scouts Saturday.
 
DaComeUP said:
Desmond Trufant to the Bengals is a horrible pick. No need for a CB in the 1st after Dre got drafted next year.

Tank Carradine running for scouts Saturday.
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I had seen that too, It seems like Cincy has a long-jam at CB.
 
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NFL.com's Ian Rapoport reported Thursday night that the Minnesota Vikings are looking to trade up in the first round. They have the ammunition with the No. 23 and No. 25 picks. Mr. RapSheet believes the Vikings would be targeting a wide receiver, likely Tavon Austin or Cordarrelle Patterson.

The San Diego Chargers could be a potential trade fit; they want to move down from the No. 11 slot if they can't get the tackle they want. (That could be difficult.)

If the Vikings were to trade up, Rapoport believes they would attempt to do so while likely still holding on to their No. 25 overall pick.
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McShay has D.J. Hayden as his number 1 corner and tavon Austin as his number 1 receiver. He said no corner should be taken top 10.
 
yvespo3 said:
McShay has D.J. Hayden as his number 1 corner and tavon Austin as his number 1 receiver. He said no corner should be taken top 10.
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tavon should come with an asterisk.. because if a team is going to try and use him strictly as an X or Y reciever, then you wont get his true value

you have to get imaginative with tavon.. use him all over the place.. and also have to let him get some returns in

and milliner is a very solid corner.. he just isnt a game charger..

and watching some of his highlights, it looks like he's fighting with the ball when he does intercept it.. so he might have those carlos rodgers (who went 9th)  type intercepting skills

i see him as leon hall though (who went 18th)
 
itsaboutthattime said:
yvespo3 said:
McShay has D.J. Hayden as his number 1 corner and tavon Austin as his number 1 receiver. He said no corner should be taken top 10.
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tavon should come with an asterisk.. because if a team is going to try and use him strictly as an X or Y reciever, then you wont get his true value

you have to get imaginative with tavon.. use him all over the place.. and also have to let him get some returns in
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A la Percy. I don't think he's Percy though.
 
651akathePaul said:
itsaboutthattime said:
yvespo3 said:
McShay has D.J. Hayden as his number 1 corner and tavon Austin as his number 1 receiver. He said no corner should be taken top 10.
Click to expand...


tavon should come with an asterisk.. because if a team is going to try and use him strictly as an X or Y reciever, then you wont get his true value

you have to get imaginative with tavon.. use him all over the place.. and also have to let him get some returns in
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A la Percy. I don't think he's Percy though.
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might be better than percy
 
he can definitely be better than percy , theres something to be said about durabilty.

he hasn't missed a single practice since highschool. he's got crazy upper body strength

too so you dont have to worry about wear n tear if you line him up from the half back.
 
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