mock-draft

FINAL 2013 NFL MOCK DRAFT

Thu, 25 Apr 2013 04:13:02 +0100

FIRST ROUND

1. Kansas City Chiefs: Luke Joeckel, OT, Texas A&M

Sure there is a chance that this pick could be Eric Fisher, Sharrif Floyd, or Dion Jordan. But the first overall pick will more than likely be Joeckel.

2. Jacksonville Jaguars: Dion Jordan, DE/LB, Oregon

The consensus pick coming out right now is Eric Fisher, and I am really tempted to mock him there, especially since there is a general bias that Fisher if one of the two great players in the draft. But I just have a hard time of believing that a team in such a bad place would take a non-sexy pick.

3. Oakland Raiders: Sharrif Floyd, DT, Florida

I have discussed recently how the Raiders must find a way to trade down. Teams are drooling over Eric Fisher and can buy the rights to him at a discount from the Raiders.

4. Philadelphia Eagles: Star Lotulelei, NT, Utah

The Eagles have narrowed their pick to four guys, and I can't really see them taking a tackle here. Chip Kelly does value his offensive line, but his offensive styling will likely focus more on getting a few great blocking tight ends and receivers later on in the draft while also picking up guys that will be great for him. Kelly scouted Lotulelei at Oregon, and I think that him getting a guy like this could be a cornerstone start to 'his' team.

5. Detroit Lions: Eric Fisher, OT, Central Michigan

Fisher could easily go to any of the first five teams, but I think he could become a Lion when it is all said and done.

6. Cleveland Browns: Dee Milliner, CB, Alabama

The Browns are so desperate to trade out of this pick that I could see them take a 3rd and a player like Larry English to pull the trigger from the Chargers.

7. Arizona Cardinals: Barkevious Mingo, DE/LB, LSU

The Cards could go a million different ways with this pick, but I could see the team go for Mingo. He has a lot of experience, especially against read-option style teams. He might not have the upside or size of Ziggy Ansah, but I do think that he could be a major sleeper here.

8. Buffalo Bills: Tavon Austin, WR, West Virginia

I am not buying the Ryan Nassib rumor here. I know that they love him, but any organization that would let a coach take a 2nd round player (in my opinion forth round) 8th overall because he played for him in college deserves to fail. Oh wait, this is the Bills picks...

9. New York Jets: Chance Warmack, OG, Alabama

It's not a sexy pick, but it does make a lot of sense.

10. Tennessee Titans: Ziggy Ansah, DE, BYU

The Titans love Jonathan Cooper, but I just don't trust that they will value getting an upgrade at guard here after paying Levitre.

11. San Diego Chargers: Lane Johnson, OT, Oklahoma

Could he go 3rd overall? Sure. But I do think he could slide too. He has little experience, and his tape doesn't quite match him upside.

12. Miami Dolphins: Xavier Rhodes, CB, Florida State

The Dolphins cannot continue to get burned in the secondary like they did at times last year. Nolan Carroll cannot be allowed to ruin entire games for them again, and Xavier Rhodes has great potential

13. New York Jets (from TB): Jarvis Jones, DE/LB, Georgia

The Jets really like Mingo, but I think they would be just as happy with a weapon like Jones here.

14. Carolina Panthers: Kenny Vaccaro, S, Texas

The Panthers love taking the best player available. I think it could come down to Vaccaro or Jonathan Cooper.

15. New Orleans Saints: D.J Fluker, OT, Alabama

Someone is going to take D.J Fluker earlier than he should go, and it could truly be any team out there.

16. St. Louis Rams: Jonathan Cooper, OG/C, UNC

In retrospect this might be late for Cooper to go, but it could also be dead on. He plays a luxury position that teams may pass up on early. The Rams make the right move here because every team between this pick and there next one is going to consider the luxury.

17. Pittsburgh Steelers: Cordarrelle Patterson, WR, Tennessee

Usually the Steelers take the player that falls in the draft, but I don't have a deep faller here. If this happens then I think they will look at Patterson, Eifert, and a pass rusher that they may reach on.

18. Dallas Cowboys: Bjoern Werner, DE, Florida State

The Cowboys have a lot of options with this pick, but I think they will look to add a new weapon for their new 4-3 front.

19. New York Giants: Sheldon Richardson, DT, Missouri

The Giants always seem to find a player that falls in the draft, and this is my prediction this year. Richardson would be considered a steal here, but I see this as a good spot for Richardson.

20. Chicago Bears: D.J. Hayden, CB, Houston

Five of the top six corners for the Bears are free agents after 2013, so I truly think that this pick will be a corner. I think that Hayden is the perfect pick here because he won't be completely needed to start until potentially 2014.

21. Cincinnati Bengals: Eddie Lacy, RB, Alabama

The Bengals don't have a lot of pressing needs, but so look for some upgrades here. Lacy is a potential stud with a lot of potential, and he adds a great second punch for the team.

22. St Louis Rams (From Washington): Alec Ogletree, LB, Georgia

This might still be a reach for Ogletree, but I think he is an option here. He can play a number of LB positions, and could even fill in at safety on certain downs.

23. Minnesota Vikings: Marcus Trufant, CB, Washington

The Vikings have a few positions of need in this draft, but I don't think they go receiver with one of their first round picks. They have many other needs, and they paid Greg Jennings to do a lot.

24. Indianapolis Colts: Tank Carradine, DE/LB, Florida State

The Colts could go one of a million places with this pick, but I think a pass rusher could be one of them.

25. Minnesota Vikings (From Sea): Manti Te'o, MLB, Notre Dame

The team needs a MLB, and Te'o just feels like a Viking.

26. Green Bay Packers: Justin Pugh, OT/G/C, Syracuse

Pugh can be plugged in just about anywhere which is perfect for these Packers.

27. Houston Texans: Margus Hunt, DE/LB/DT, SMU

This pick scares me. Hunt to me feels like JJ Watt kind of pass rusher, and his impact in terms of blocking passes is terrifying. Oh and he also holds the NCAA record for most blocked kicks.

28. Denver Broncos: Datone Jones, DE/DT, UCLA

The Broncos are going to see who falls to them, and they might consider Carradine a steal.

29: New England Patriots: Jamar Taylor, CB, Boise State

Taylor has pro bowl potential, and I think he would shine on a team like that Pats.

30. Atlanta Falcons: Tyler Eifert, TE, Notre Dame

Eifert could find himself in the top-10, or he could fall out to about here. He plays a position that is growing in terms of potential, but there just aren't many teams that have a dire need for a tight end. This would be his best landing spot anyways.

31. San Francisco 49ers: Eric Reid, S, LSU

The 49ers need to add some depth throughout their defense, and getting an impact guy with potential defines the 49ers.

32. Baltimore Ravens: Menelik Watson, OT, FSU

Big name school that fills a need with good value. Done and done.

2013 Keller & Richardson Collaboration Mock Draft

Wed, 24 Apr 2013 01:58:36 +0100

Recently two of our featured writers got together and collaborated on a mock draft together. When on person makes a mock draft you tend to see a lot of the same picks come together, but every collaboration brings out a lot of fresh and new scenarios to watch for. With each pick I will give my own analysis to their picks.

1. Kansas City Chiefs: Luke Joeckel, OT, Texas A&M

Harman: No shock with this pick. The Chiefs need some line help if they want to give Alex Smith any chance.

2. Jacksonville Jaguars: Sharrif Floyd, DT, Florida

Harman: This isn't a pick that you see in many mocks, but it wouldn't be a huge shocker. It takes one team to love a player with Warren Sapp potential.

3. Oakland Raiders: Dion Jordan, DE/LB, Oregon

Harman: Many analysts don't have this pick mocked often, but I don't know why. Jordan is the cleanest pass rusher in the draft, and can play a lot of different positions.

4. Philadelphia Eagles: Star Lotulelei, DE/NT, Utah

Harman: This is another pick that could be dead on come draft day. The team needs a player on their line for their new 3-4 defense, and he can play just about anywhere on day one.

5. Detroit Lions: Eric Fisher, OT, Central Michigan

Harman: This is the guy that the Lions want to fall to him, and it doesn't take much to do so.

6. Cleveland Browns: Ziggy Ansah, DE/LB, BYU

Harman: Mike Lombardi likes guys with experience, but if they aren't able to trade out of this pick then you had better believe that they will consider the lethal potential of Ansah.

7. Arizona Cardinals: Lane Johnson, OT, Oklahoma

Harman: The Cards aren't as much of a slam dunk to take a linemen like many think, but you had better bet that they would love to have Johnson on their side protection Carson Palmer.

8. Buffalo Bills: Chance Warmack, OG, Alabama

Harman: The Bills lost Andy Levitre this offseason, and replacing him with a potential Hall of Famer is a good pick. Personally I would go with Geno Smith or Tavon Austin though if I were the Bills.

9. New York Jets: Barkevious Mingo, DE/LB, LSU

Harman: This is a slam dunk pick. The Jets reportedly love Mingo, and they will get one of a few studs with their other pick.

10. Tennessee Titans: Kenny Vaccaro, S, Texas

Harman: This might seem high for a safety to some, but those same people might not understand how much the safety position is improving in terms of value due to the evolution of the slot receiver & tight end.

11. San Diego Chargers: D.J. Fluker, OT, Alabama

Harman: I personally would never take a RT with this pick, but he could go as high as 6 to the Browns when it is all said and done.

12. Miami Dolphins: Dee Milliner, CB, Alabama

Harman: Milliner has the potential to be a steal here with this pick, especially given the fact that I could start for the Dolphins at corner.

13. New York Jets (from TB): Geno Smith, QB, West Virginia

Harman: Having a second 1st round pick makes this pick a good one. They find a QB that might actually want to win football games. This pick also makes a scapegoat for Rex Ryan if they have another bad season.

14. Carolina Panthers: Cordarrelle Patterson, WR, Tennessee

Harman: I think that there is about a 90% chance that Tavon Austin will go before Patterson, but I could see a team like the Panthers take the bigger receiver.

15. New Orleans Saints: Sheldon Richardson, DE/DT, Missouri

Harman: The Saints need to start building tools for their new 3-4 defense, and Richardson has good potential to be a solid end.

16. St. Louis Rams: Tavon Austin, WR, West Virginia

Harman: If the Rams are able to actually land Austin then they will be infinitely lucky. I think Austin goes earlier than this, but I also am ignorant in thinking that every team will value a gadget-slot receiver.

17. Pittsburgh Steelers: Jarvis Jones, DE/LB, Georgia

Harman: I hate this pick, because it always seems like the Steelers are able to land elite players like Jones.

18. Dallas Cowboys: Alec Ogletree, MLB, Georgia

Harman: There is talk about Ogletree moving to outside linebacker in the pros. Either way the Cowboys need to add an extra linebacker into their new 4-3 defense.

19. New York Giants: Datone Jones, DE/DT, UCLA

Harman: I don't hate this pick because if fills a need. But the Giants always go with the best player available, and I don't think that Jones is that guy.

20. Chicago Bears: Margus Hunt, DE, SMU

Harman: This is the first pick that I just don't see would truly happen. The Bears drafted Shea McClellin last year, and they already have 7-sacks Corey Wootton opposite of Julius Peppers. It could happen if the team thinks that he is the absolute best player here though.

21. Cincinnati Bengals: Eric Reid, S, LSU

Harman: No complaints here. I don't value Reid this high, but he is the perfect boom or bust player that the Bengals like.

22. St Louis Rams (From Washington): Sylvester Williams, DT, UNC

Harman: I like this pick, but I think that the Rams could do better. I personally would beg for Eddie Lacy, Jonathan Cooper, or Tyler Eifert here. With that said, Williams would definitely help the Rams grow.

23. Minnesota Vikings: Marcus Trufant, CB, Washington

Harman: This is a pick that I like. Trufant is a very safe & clean pick which matches the Viking's defense perfectly.

24. Indianapolis Colts: Jonathan Cooper, OG/C, UNC

Harman: No way does Cooper last this long. There are some teams that like him more than Warmack, and he might go as early as 9 to the Jets. If he does somehow fall though I think that this is the perfect fit for him.

25. Minnesota Vikings (From Sea): Jessie Williams, DT, Alabama

Harman: Each and every year there are a few picks that sneak into the first round, and I could see Williams be the guy. He is a mauling monster that some teams will love.

26. Green Bay Packers: Eddie Lacy, RB, Alabama

Harman: The last thing that the Packers need is to gobble up a running back that could actually help them get better on offense.

27. Houston Texans: Keenan Allen, WR, Cal

Harman: This is a pick that I hope the Texans pull. They have needed one (or two) great receivers to compliment Andre Johnson, and Allen is an insanely safe guy that they would love.

28. Denver Broncos: Bjoern Werner, DE, FSU

Harman: This is one of those picks that I think could be a slam dunk for the Broncos here. Werner could take a fall in the draft, and he could be a steal here.

29: New England Patriots: Tank Caradine, DE/DT, FSU

Harman: The Patriots could take one of a million different guys with this pick, and this Tank is one of them.

30. Atlanta Falcons: Manti Te'o, LB, Notre Dame

Harman: I haven't though about Te'o to the Falcons much this year, but I kind of like it. He doesn't fill a huge need, but he will definitely become a huge character for a team that loves high character players.

31. San Francisco 49ers: Johnathan Hankins, DT/NT, Ohio State

Harman: This is another guy that might be able to sneak into the first round for a team that loves his potential, especially if a team likes him as a zero tech.

32. Baltimore Ravens: Kevin Minter, MLB, LSU

Harman: Great last pick of the round. The Raven get a good value while also filling a need.

2013 MOCK ROUND 1

Tue, 23 Apr 2013 04:12:29 +0100

VERSION 4.0 (4/22)

*** I rarely put in a trade to mock drafts, but this is the one draft that I think could play out should trades occur. Not only will I mock the trades, but I will explain what the trade is for.

FIRST ROUND

1. Kansas City Chiefs: Luke Joeckal, OT, Texas A&M

Whomever the Chiefs take first in the draft won't quite make sense. Why take a QB when they just traded for Alex Smith? Why take a nose tackle when they drafted 350 pound Dontari Poe 11th overall last year? Why take an offensive tackle when you just franchised your starting LT?

Well out of those options it still makes the most sense to go tackle. At worst Joeckal and Brandon Albert will solidify the left side one way or the other, and they might end up trading Albert anyways.

2. Jacksonville Jaguars: Dion Jordan, DE/LB, Oregon

Blaine Gabbert has gotten 3 coaches fired in the last two seasons, and the fans need someone else. With that said, I don't think that the Jags are ready to give up on Gabbert in favor of a developmental QB like Geno Smith. I think that they go on a the pass rusher that can play all over this defense.

3. ***TRADE*** Arizona Cardinals (from OAK): Eric Fisher, OT, Central Michigan

The Cardinals could go a few ways in this draft. They could wait for a player to fall to them, but I think that they would be willing to trade up to get a premier player if they had a chance. As I wrote a few days ago the Raiders need to find a way to trade down, even if it is at a discount. In most trades the Cardinals would have to give up their 38th pick at minimum, but in this draft the Raiders settle for the Cardinal's 3rd round pick, their 7th round pick, and 2014 5th round pick. The Cards lose three lower priced picks, and the Raiders get cap help and future help.

4. Philadelphia Eagles: Star Lotulelei, NT, Utah

This isn't a sexy pick, but it is a good one. The Eagles did sign Isaac Sopoaga this off season, but he is a 31 year old two-down former backup. Lotulelei at worst will play end for those two downs while sliding in for passing downs.

5. Detroit Lions: Ziggy Ansah, DE, BYU

This pick scares me. Ziggy Ansah has the potential to be Aldon Smith on a team that already has a ton of firepower. Ansah impressed at the Senior Bowl for his then coach Jim Schwartz.

6. ***TRADE*** San Diego Chargers (from CLE): Lane Johnson, OT, Oklahoma

The Browns want to trade out of this pick, and they like the Raiders might take a value cut to do so. The only logical players to take here in terms of need and value are Dee Milliner and Barkevious Mingo, but they fill secondary needs for the team. The Browns would much rather pick up some value while also getting a blue chipper at 11.

To grab this pick the Chargers would historically need about a 2nd round pick, and you had better believe that the Browns would love to get a 2nd rounder back. In this draft I think the Chargers will give up their 2nd round pick and their 6th round pick, with the Browns giving their 3rd round pick back to the Chargers.

7. Oakland Raiders (from ARZ) : Sharrif Floyd, DE/DT, Florida

This is a slam dunk for the Raiders. They get the guy that they could have gotten with the 3rd pick while also getting some value back.

8. Buffalo Bills: Tavon Austin, WR, West Virginia

I have heard that the Bills would like to get another big receiver to match across from Stevie Johnson, but I think Tavon Austin could go here. The Bills would fill a need while also blocking the Jets from potentially getting him with the next pick.

9. New York Jets: Barkevious Mingo, DE/LB, LSU

With the Revis deal this pick gets much more interesting. They now could take Geno Smith knowing that they will have another legit player there at 13. Do they go corner here, or do they go with a playmaker like Mingo? In this mock I'm predicting Mingo because he will have the most instant impact for the Jets.

10. Tennessee Titans: Dee Milliner, CB, Alabama

This pick could be a guard like most predict, but I think that the team would value getting the last 'great' player left.

11. *** TRADE *** Saint Louis Rams (from CLE via SD): Kenny Vaccaro, S, Texas

The Browns still have no reason to take this pick, and you can bet your car that they could consider another deal. In this trade I think the Browns pick up a 3rd round pick, and lets say a player like TE Lance Kendricks who was a 2nd round pick 2 years ago by the Rams.

12. Miami Dolphins: Chance Warmack, OG, Alabama

The Dolphins have gotten quite a few upgrades this offseason, so this pick is a tricky one to predict, but I do think that they could target a corner like Warmack with this pick if he is here. The could go for DJ Fluker too if they think that he is a potential left tackle.

13. New York Jets (from TB): Xavier Rhodes, CB, Florida State

The Jets now need a corner, and Rhodes is a good pick here.

14. Carolina Panthers: Cordarrelle Patterson, WR, Tennessee

Everyone and their grandma has Sheldon Richardson going here, but I don't love it. The team just did not click last year, and while a lot of it was because of a struggling defense, it was also because of an unorganized offense. Adding a weapon like Patterson would do nothing but help the Panthers sort out some of their issues. Patterson is a big threat weapon that Cam Newton has needed across from Steve Smith.

15. New Orleans Saints: Jarvis Jones, DE/LB, Georgia

Jarvis Jones is a nightmare of a player that will be a steal for someone.

16. Cleveland (from STL): Jonathan Cooper, OG/C, UNC

This isn't the 'sexy' pick that most Browns fans want, but I think it is a good one. Cooper is worth a top-10 pick, and he will instantly solidify this offensive line's left side. Cooper has the athleticism to slide almost anywhere on the line too.

17. Pittsburgh Steelers: Tyler Eifert, TE, Notre Dame

The Steelers have a decision to make. Heath Miller is 30 and is coming off of a major knee injury, but he reportedly is healing well. Even with him healthy I think that this team would benefit from having a guy like Eifert in the mix.

18. Dallas Cowboys: D.J Fluker, OT, Alabama

The Cowboys love big offensive linemen, and Fluker has a lot of assets to love, including some 55-feet arms.

19. New York Giants: Bjoern Werner, DE, Florida State

The Giants could go a number of places, but it will all depend on who is left for them to take. I think Werner is a clean pick.

20. Chicago Bears: Alec Ogletree, MLB, Georgia

The bears have a lot more needs than their record indicates, but I think getting a guy like Ogletree will be in play.

21. Cincinnati Bengals: Sheldon Richardson, DT, Missouri

The Bengals are a tough team to pick for, because they have few major needs. I think that they may see what falls to them.

22. St Louis Rams (From Washington): Eddie Lacy, RB, Alabama

Eddie Lacy is an interesting prospect that I think could go earlier than many think.

23. Minnesota Vikings: Desmond Trufant, CB, Washington

There are two or three corners that should go in the 10-32 range, and my Trufant is an intriguing guy that might have the Vikings drooling.

24. Indianapolis Colts: D.J Hayden, CB, Houston

The Colts have a million backup-quality players that they have signed this offseason, so it will be interesting to see where they go with this pick.

25. Minnesota Vikings (From Sea): Manti Te'o, MLB, Notre Dame

This is not the first real spot that I think Te'o will end up going to, but it is maybe the most likely. The team needs a guy like him, and he would be going to a team with a lot of former teammates to back him up.

26. Green Bay Packers: Justin Pugh, OT/G, Syracuse

This could be a number of picks, but I think Pugh could fit in well for the team, especially given his versatility.

27. Houston Texans: Margus Hunt, DE/LB, SMU

If Margus Hunt becomes a Texan then I will officially be scared for other teams. Hunt has JJ Watt potential that could turn out to be lethal. What about a wide receiver? Well I've been begging for the team to do it so long that I have given up trying.

28. Denver Broncos: Jamar Taylor, CB, Boise State

The Patriots reportedly love Jamar Taylor, so it would only make sense for the Broncos to steal him. All joking aside, Taylor would be a great addition to an already great team.

29: *** TRADE *** Philadelphia Eagles (from NE): Geno Smith, QB, West Virginia

The Patriots are not going to keep this pick. It isn't happening. Sure they blew away their pick load last year, but that was in a very strong draft. The team will be begging for the chance to get out of this pick, especially if they can get value later. The Eagles give up their 2nd rounder this year, and their 2nd rounder in 2014 to get their QB of the future.

30. Atlanta Falcons: Keenan Allen, WR, California

This is a value pick more than anything, but the Falcon's are all in this year for the Super Bowl and they need to get some guys that can splash right away. Allen is a game changing receiver that will be a perfect addition on a team that saw Julio Jones struggle to stay healthy.

31. San Francisco 49ers: Eric Reid, S, LSU

The 49ers have been linked to a lot of different players in this draft, but I think a safety like Reid might be the choice.

32. Baltimore Ravens: Matt Elam, S, Florida

The Ravens have a few needs to fill, safety is one of them.

HUDDLE REPORT 1-ROUND CONTEST SUBMISSION

Tue, 24 Apr 2012 03:41:56 +0100

(OTHER MOCK) ROUND 1 ROUND 2 ROUND 3 ROUND 4

RICHARDSON'S MOCK

Each and every year THE HUDDLE REPORT takes the mock drafts of every legit source on the web and compounds them into a best of the best mock contest. You get scores for having a guy predicted in the first round, and more points for having a guy go at the projected spot (not to team but to draft spot). Here is my submission for 2012 which will look a little different than my mock draft. I also am part of the HR's top-100 big board contest as well which I will be putting out soon!

1) Indianapolis Colts: Andrew Luck, QB, Stanford

No question here. I still think that the Colts would have potentially benefited more by trading the pick for a kings ransom and drafting a guy to develop behind Manning, but Andrew Luck isn't a bad option.

2) Washington Redskins (from STL): Robert Griffin III, QB, Baylor

Another no brainer here. The Skins traded everything to get Griffin, so hopefully they use their late picks wisely.

3) Minnesota Vikings: Matt Kalil, OT, USC

This has become such a no brainer pick that I am starting to doubt it. The team really needs a force like Kalil, but that doesn't mean that they think the same way.

4) Cleveland Browns: Trent Richardson, RB, Alabama

Mike Holmgren has never been part of a team that has taken a QB in the first round. He did however do well with a runner from Alabama by the name of Shaun Alexander. I know it is WAY to early for a runningback, but there really aren't a lot of top-4 options this year.

5) Tampa Bay Buccaneers: Morris Claiborne, CB, LSU

This is an obvious pick given the fact that the team is loaded at receiver, but I wouldn't be shocked to see the team throw a hug wild ball here. For now I've got to go with Claiborne.

6) St Louis Rams (From WAS): Fletcher Cox, DT, Mississippi State

This pick should feel like a no brainer with Justin Blackmon, but I am just not sold on it. I mocked Dontari Poe here about a month ago, and in my final mock I think the team goes with the very hot Fletcher Cox. Jeff Fisher also doesn't draft offensive linemen early.

7) Jacksonville Jaguars: Justin Blackmon, WR, Oklahoma State

Gene Smith NEVER drafts the guy that is penciled in, but if Blackmon is here then he would deserve his pink slip to pass on him. No matter what I don't think the team goes with Melvin Ingram who is being penciled in here way too much.

8) Miami Dolphins: Ryan Tannehill, QB, Miami

It only makes sense for the Dolphins to take a former WR as their QB. The team really messed up this offseason and they need to take Tannehill if he is here. The question is whether or not Mike Sherman wants the team to draft the guy that got him fired by underachieved by winning 3 fewer games than expected.

9) Carolina Panthers: Luke Kuechly, MLB, Boston College

Kuechly has so much buzz about him that I think he is a huge top-10 threat. The defense needs a leader to command the troops, and Kuechly is a perfect candidate. Sure Melvin Ingram might be the easy pick here, but there is going to be a team that wants Kuechly that much.

10) Buffalo Bills: Stephon Gilmore, CB, South Carolina

The pick here should be for Riley Reiff, but the Bills are one of those teams that just don't drop many early pick on offensive tackles. I think this pick will come down to Melvin Ingram to create a monster pass rush, or Stephon Gilmore with the pick. I'm going with Gilmore.

11) Kansas City Chiefs: Dontari Poe, NT, Memphis

The Chiefs have a lot of needs to address, and getting Poe here might fill their biggest hole. The Chiefs under Pioli have always had a visit from their first round pick which theoretically rules out Kuechly and DeCastro, but I don't see those guys being out of the picture.

12) Seattle Seahawks: Melvin Ingram, DE, South Carolina

The pass rusher from the other USC just might be the weapon that the Seahawks have been missing.

13) Arizona Cardinals: David DeCastro, OG, Stanford

This is a bit of a luxury pick, but getting the a guard at this level is worth it here.

14) Dallas Cowboys: Mark Barron, S, Alabama

The Cowboys desperately need safety help, and getting a do-it all kind of guy would be the perfect weapon for a team that has been a secondary away from a top defense for awhile.

15) Philadelphia Eagles: Michael Brockers, DT, LSU

Brocker's draft stock ranges all over the place, but it seems hard to believe that his potential won't get him drafted pretty close to this spot.

16) New York Jets: Riley Reiff, OT, Iowa

Sure this is a bit of a luxury pick, but the team really needs a major upgrade at RT. The team needs a pass rusher and some receivers, but the draft is fairly deep at both spots.

17) Cincinnati (From Oak): Michael Floyd, WR, Notre Dame

I don't think the Bengals need a receiver as much as others do, but if a guy like Floyd falls then I think they very well could pull the trigger on him.

18) San Diego Chargers: Shea McClellan, DE/LB, Boise State

The Chargers never pick who you think they should which is why have them taking Shea McClellan a bit too early.

19) Chicago Bears: Quinton Coples, DE, UNC

The Bears were pushing for a guy like Mario Williams to play across from Peppers. Coples is no Super Mario, but he might be a beary good pick.

20) Tennessee Titans: Dre Kirkpatrick, CB, Alabama

The Titans need to find a replacement at corner and Kirkpatrick is a tough guy with good experience.

21) Cincinnati Bengals: Cordy Glenn, OG/T, Georgia

The Bengals need to add some depth on their offensive line, and getting a versatile guy like Glenn will let them play around a bit.

22) Cleveland Browns (from ATL): Nick Perry, DE, USC

I hate giving a team two players from the same team, but when there are so many players from one team it can be hard. I think the Browns will keep their sensors open for a pass rusher and Perry has a lot of potential.

23) Detroit Lions: Courtney Upshaw, DE, Alabama

I have mocked a lot of different guys this year to the Lions, and I'm not sold that any of them will ever be on the team. For my final mock I am going with the biggest name left on the board which is Courtney Upshaw. Personally if the draft fell this way I would run up to the stage and grab Jonathon Martin or Peter Konz with the pick, but the team just doesn't value offensive lineman as highly in the draft as other teams.

What about Janoris Jenkins? It is definitely possible, but I think the team will shy away early on from taking a character risk.

24) Pittsburgh Steelers: Dont'a Hightower, MLB, Alabama

This pick makes too much sense for the Steelers. The team cut James Farrior to save cap space, and there is always a chance that the Ravens will be looking for a young force inside.

25) Denver Broncos: Kendall Wright, WR, Baylor

There are a lot of teams that are reportedly shying away from Wright because he doesn't seem to be as fit as he could be. But I think there will still be a few teams that will love his top notch potential to achieve in the league.

26) Houston Texans: Chandler Jones, DE/LB, Syracuse

I have preaching a receiver to the Texans for years, and they have never pulled the trigger. I would love to see what a guy like Stephen Hill could do next to Andre Johnson, but the Texans are bound to go defense (again) with this pick.

27) New England Patriots (From NO): Jonathon Martin, OT, Stanford

The Pats typically draft guys that they visit with before the draft, which surprises me (this year) because they haven't met with many guys. After the loss of Light though they may opt to take a steal like Martin here.

28) Green Bay Packers: Whitney Mercilus, DE/LB, Illinois

The Packers have got to turn up their defensive pressure if they want to compete in their tough division again. It is also notable that the other three teams in the division will be looking to significantly help their offensive lines in this draft.

29) Baltimore Ravens: Peter Konz, OC (OG), Wisconsin

The team needs some depth inside, and Konz would be a perfect fit at guard until Matt Birk retires.

30) San Francisco 49ers: Janoris Jenkins, CB, North Alabama

Sure the team could go a few other ways here, and tight end Coby Fleener is a popular pick here, but the team would be much better getting a guy that could potentially start right now at corner instead of a TE2. Stephen Hill is another option, but I just don't see the team going receiver here with so many vets on the roster.

31) New England Patriots: Derek Wolfe, DT (DE), Cincinnati

I personally think that this is way too early for Wolfe, but a lot of the top scouts really like him as a top-40 pick. The Pats have had a few visits with Wolfe, and seem to have some real interest in him.

32) New York Giants: Stephen Hill, WR, Georgia Tech

The Giants often go with the best guy on their board, and the best guy left on my board is Stephen Hill who is filled with potential. He also fills a need too with the recent loss of Mario Manningham and with the span of injury prone receivers on the roster.

BEN RICHARDSON'S 2012 MOCK DRAFT

Thu, 05 Apr 2012 19:33:36 +0100

1) Indianapolis Colts: Andrew Luck, QB, Stanford

This is a no brainer. One of the best, if not the best, QB prospects to come out in the last decade. Luck is a once in a lifetime prospect that cannot be passed up.

2) Washington Redskins (from STL): Robert Griffin III, QB, Baylor

Freak athlete who has the character and football IQ to match. There is a genuine argument around the league about who is a better prospect, RG3 or Luck.

3) Minnesota Vikings: Matt Kalil, OT, USC

Like Luck, Kalil is a once in a decade OT that can man the left side for 10-15 years. This is an obvious need for a team that struggled all year with protecting their QB’s blind side. Barring a surprise trade Minnesota takes a great player that can come in and start on day one.

4) Cleveland Browns: Trent Richardson, RB, Alabama

Richardson is the best RB in the draft and would take a lot of pressure off of Colt McCoy. Blackmon is a possibility but Richardson gives the Brown’s the RB they thought they were getting when they acquired Peyton Hillis.

5) Tampa Bay Buccaneers: Morris Claiborne, CB, LSU

The Bucs are hoping for Richardson here but they get the best corner in the draft. Claiborne will team up with new guy Eric Wright and the ancient Ronde Barber to give Tampa Bay a very solid group of corners.

6) St Louis Rams (From WAS): Justin Blackmon, WR, Oklahoma State

Jeff Fisher likes defense but Sam Bradford needs more help. Fisher goes outside of his comfort zone and pulls the trigger on the best receiver in the draft.

7) Jacksonville Jaguars: Riley Reiff, OT, Iowa

Jacksonville gets the second best OT in the draft. Reiff will help to solidify a line that has to watch out for second year QB Blaine Gabbert. Reiff will also open up lanes for one the league’s best RB’s MJD.

8) Miami Dolphins: Ryan Tannehill, QB, Miami

This is a prime example of over drafting based on a prospects upside. Tannehill only has 19 starts at the QB position but his athletic ability allowed him to get away with a lot. Miami is going through withdrawal from not being able to land Payton Manning so they gamble and go with Tannehill.

9) Carolina Panthers: Dontari Poe, DT, Memphis

Carolina gets the combine wonder boy and also fills an area of need. Is Poe going to be the next Nagta? No. Can he be a solid contributor? Yes. Either way the Panthers won’t pass on a giant that can move very well.

10) Buffalo Bills: Quinton Coples, DE, UNC

Coples will pair up with Mario Williams to create a scary pass rush. That’s something the Bills haven’t had since the days of Bruce Smith. The resigning of Steve Johnson along with Chan Gailey’s offensive ingenuity frees up Buffalos choices and allows them to grab a potential beast.

11) Kansas City Chiefs: Luke Luechly, ILB, Boston College

Romeo Crennel gets a great ILB with instincts and athletic ability. Kuechly will team up with Derik Johnson and Tambi Hali to give the Chiefs a great group of athletic LB’s. Crennel hasn’t had a group of starters like this since the days he coached defense for the Patriots.

12) Seattle Seahawks: Melvin Ingram, DE/OLB, South Carolina

It’s difficult to predict were the Seahawks go with this pick, they could take Decastro and finally replace the long departed Steve Huchtinson but I think they go defense. Ingram can play with his hand on the ground or he can line up at OLB. He also has a knack for the big play, something Seattle hasn’t had for a while.

13) Arizona Cardinals: Courtney Upshaw, DE/LB, Alabama

Ken Whisenhunt knows the importance of having a good pass rush in his aggressive defensive scheme. Upshaw can provide a steady presence in the opposition’s backfield.

14) Dallas Cowboys: Mark Barron, SS, Alabama

Barron provides an immediate upgrade to the cowboys secondary. He gives the cowboys a safety that they haven’t had since Darron Woodson was helping them win Super Bowls.

15) Philadelphia Eagles: Mike Adams, OT, Ohio State

I would have went defensive line here because the Eagles obviously need some more help with their front seven but with the offseason injury to starting left tackle Jason Peters Philadelphia needs to find his replacement. Ried’s pass happy offense requires a book-end left tackle that can pass protect. Adams is a bit raw but his physical talent is unquestioned. Even with the recent signing of Demetrius Bell it is still plausible that the team takes some depth for their line.

16) New York Jets: Michael Floyd, WR, Notre Dame

The Jets get a great compliment to Santonio Holmes and give Sanchez another option downfield. Forget about resigning Plaxico or brining back Braylon Edwards. The Jets get younger and better at WR.

17) Cincinnati (From Oak): David DeCastro, OG, Stanford

Marvin Jones gets the best OG prospect in a decade who will watch out for his young QB. DeCastro would go earlier if not for the position he plays at. The Bengals get a steal.

18) San Diego Chargers: Michael Brockers, DT, LSU

San Diego gets a great value pick. Brockers gives them more flexibility along their defensive line. There is a chance that A.J. Smith gets another weapon for Philip Rivers but he usually plays it smart and takes the best player available.

19) Chicago Bears: Cordy Glenn, OG/T, Georgia

Mike Tice is ecstatic to get the massive Glenn. He can team up with former first round picks Gabe Carimi and Chris Williams to help Chicago finally shore up their long troubled offensive line.

20) Tennessee Titans: Dre Kirkpatrick, CB, Alabama

Kirkpatrick will be more than capable of filling the hole left by Cortland Finnegan’s departure. Mike Munchek will be happy to have Kirkpatrick in the secondary knowing that he has to face Andre Johnson twice a year.

21) Cincinnati Bengals: Janoris Jenkins, CB, Northern Alabama

The Bengals need to get younger at CB. Jenkins is the second best cover corner in the draft behind Claiborne but his off field issues will scare a lot of other teams away. Marvin Jones has never shied away from troubled players. The Bengals get a potential steal with Jenkins.

22) Cleveland Browns (from ATL): Kendall Wright, WR, Baylor

Mike Holmgren has to love the fact that he not only gets the best running back in the draft in Trent Richardson but he also is getting one of the top playmakers in Wright. If the Browns can get any kind of regularity at the quarterback position they could have a potentially potent offense this season.

23) Detroit Lions: Stephon Gilmore, CB, South Carolina

Gilmore’s stock has taken a rise at the right time. He has a great combination of size and speed and with the secondary losing Eric Wright to the Bucs, this pick makes a lot of sense.

24) Pittsburgh Steelers: Dont'a Hightower, MLB, Alabama

Hightower is a perfect fit for Dick LeBeau's 3-4 defense. He is a big inside linebacker that can move. The Steelers draft another talented linebacker in the first round to continue their history of excellence at the position.

25) Denver Broncos: Fletcher Cox, DT, Mississippi State

John Fox gets a great defensive lineman in Cox. He can play a number of roles along the Bronco’s line and provide an inside rush that Denver has lacked the last few years.

26) Houston Texans: Jonathon Martin, OT, Stanford

The Texans surprised a lot of people by releasing RT Eric Winston. They can make up for the loss by picking Martin. He is a solid if not spectacular lineman who would be welcomed with open arms by injury prone quarterback Matt Schuab.

27) New England Patriots (From NO): Chandler Jones, DE/LB, Syracuse

Jones has huge upside as a pass rusher but is a bit stiff in his hips when he tries to transition to the OLB. If anybody can find a place for this lanky pass rusher its Belichick.

28) Green Bay Packers: Nick Perry, DE/LB, USC

Perry has a good closing burst when coming off the edge and can play as a DE in the 4-3 or an OLB in the 3-4 defense. Dom Capers will find a spot for Perry and he should take some blockers away from Clay Mathews.

29) Baltimore Ravens: Stephen Hill, WR, Georgia Tech

Ozzie Newsome grabs an extremely raw but very athletic wide receiver. Hill can stretch the field and give Joe Flacco the deep threat he has lacked since his arrival in Baltimore. The Ravens defense isn’t getting any younger but they can’t afford to ignore their offensive needs.

30) San Francisco 49ers: Lamar Miller, RB, Miami

Teaming Miller up with Frank Gore would make the 49er’s already potent running game that much better. Miller has Chris Johnson type explosiveness and quickness. He may be a bit of a reach at this point but he will definitely not be there when San Francisco gets to pick again.

31) New England Patriots: Harrison Smith, S, Notre Dame

Bill Belichick is thrilled to get Smith at the end of the first round. He can immediately start for the patriots and help to improve the worst secondary in the league last year.

32) New York Giants: Lavonte David, OLB, Nebraska

Lavonte David is a hard working solid linebacker that immediately upgrades the Giant defense. Tom Coughlin will love this high character overachiever on his team.

WANT MORE MOCKS? CHECK OUT MIKE HARMAN'S FOUR ROUND MOCK HERE

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2012 Mock Draft Round 4

Fri, 20 Apr 2012 05:09:06 +0100

ROUND 1 ROUND 2 ROUND 3 ROUND 4

RICHARDSON'S MOCK

1) Saint Louis Rams: Jake Bequette, DE, Arkansas

2) Indianapolis Colts: Dwight Jones, WR, UNC

3) Minnesota Vikings: Antonio Allen, S, South Carolina

4) Houston Texans (from PHI from TB): Bruce Irvin, DE/LB, West Virginia

5) Cleveland Browns: Marvin McNutt, WR, Iowa

6) Jacksonville Jaguars: Ryan Steed, CB, Furman

7) Washington Redskins: Josh Chapman, NT, Alabama

8) Miami Dolphins: Andrew Datko, OT, FSU

9) Carolina Panthers: James Brown, OT, Troy

10) Buffalo Bills: Brandon Washington, OG, Miami

11) Seattle Seahawks: Nate Potter, OT, Boise State

12) Kansas City Chiefs: Terrance Gannaway, RB/FB, Baylor

13) Denver (from JETS): George Iloka, S, Boise State

14) Washington Redskins (from OAK): T.Y Hilton, WR, FIU

15) San Diego Chargers: Tank Carder, MLB, TCU

16) Chicago Bears: Phillip Blake, OC/G, Baylor

17) Arizona Cardinals: Billy Winn, DE/DT, Boise State

18) Dallas Cowboys: Jared Crick, DE/DT, Nebraska

19) Philadelphia Eagles: Russell Wilson, QB, Wisconsin

20) Tennessee Titans: Tony Bergstrom, OG, Utah

21) Cincinnati Bengals: Sean Spence, OLB, Miami

22) Detroit Lions: Vontaze Burflict, MLB, Arizona State

23) Cleveland Browns (From ATL): Brandon Brooks, OG, Miami-OH

24) Pittsburgh Steelers: Matt McCants, OT, UAB

25) Denver Broncos: Audie Cole, MLB, NC State

26) Houston Texans: Shaun Prater, CB, Iowa

27) New Orleans: Kellen Moore, QB, Boise State

Ok, so it would be kind of funny to see 6'0 Kellen Moore go to the Saints, but this pick makes too much sense. If I were an NFL GM I would honestly take a major look at Kellen Moore about 50 picks ago because you are getting the most polished NFL QB in the draft at a steal. Moore is a top-5 pick, but his stock is low because of his height and because of his relative arm strength. If you've seen his tape though you would know that his accuracy is so good that he doesn't need the arm strength that Jay Cutler needs. At worst the Saints are getting a guy that can learn and grow behind Brees.

28) Green Bay Packers: Brandon Mosley, OT, Auburn

29) Buffalo (from BALT): Leonard Johnson, CB/S, Iowa State

30) San Francisco 49ers: Ben Jones, OC, Georgia

31) New England Patriots: Michael Egnew, TE, Missouri

32) New York Giants: Robert Turbin, RB, Utah State

33) Minnesota Vikings (COMP): Nigel Bradham, OLB, FSU

34) Oakland Raiders (COMP): Tim Benford, WR, Tennessee Tech

35) Baltimore Ravens (COMP): DeQuan Menzie, CB, Alabama

36) New York Giants (COMP): Mike Martin, DT, Michigan

37) Green Bay (COMP): Ronnie Hillman, RB, SD State

38) Green Bay (COMP): Nick Jean Baptiste, NT, Baylor

39) Minnesota (COMP): Keenan Robinson, OLB, Texas

40) Dallas (COMP): Levy Adcock, OT, OK State

WANT MORE MOCKS? CHECK OUT BEN RICHARDSON'S MOCK!!!

.

2012 Mock Draft Round 3

Fri, 20 Apr 2012 05:10:00 +0100

ROUND 1 ROUND 2 ROUND 3 ROUND 4

RICHARDSON'S MOCK

ROUND 3

1) Indianapolis Colts: Alfonzo Dennard, CB, Nebraska

2) Saint Louis Rams: Zach Brown, OLB, UNC

3) Minnesota Vikings: Casey Hayward, CB, Vanderbilt

4) Cleveland Browns: Brock Osweiler, QB, Arizona State

5) Tampa Bay Buccaneers: Isaiah Pead, RB, Cincinnati

6) Washington Redskins: Kelechi Osemele, OG/RT, Iowa State

7) Jacksonville Jaguars: Amini Silatolu, OG, Midwestern State

8) Buffalo Bills: Jamell Fleming, CB, Oklahoma

9) Miami Dolphins: Dwight Bentley, CB, LA-LAFF

10) Miami (from CHI from CAR): Devon Still, DE/DT, Penn State

11) Kansas City Chiefs: Nick Toon, WR, Wisconsin

12) Seattle Seahawks: Chris Givens, WR, Wake Forest

13) Houston Texans (from PHI): Kirk Cousins, QB, Michigan State

14) New York Jets: Jonathon Massaquoi, DE/LB, Troy

15) Oakland Raiders:

16) San Diego Chargers: Tommy Streeter, WR, Miami

17) Chicago Bears: Chase Minnifield, CB, Virginia

18) Arizona Cardinals: Nick Foles, QB, Arizona

19) Dallas Cowboys: Joe Adams, WR, Arkansas

20) Tennessee Titans: Travis Lewis, OLB, Oklahoma

21) Cincinnati Bengals: Bobby Wagner, MLB, Utah State

22) Atlanta Falcons: Ladarius Green, TE, LA-Laff

23) Detroit Lions: Jayron Hosley, CB, Virginia Tech

24) Pittsburgh Steelers: Chris Polk, RB, Washington

25) Denver Broncos: Cam Johnson, DE, Virginia

26) Philadelphia Eagles (from Houston): Bernard Pierce, RB, Temple

27) New Orleans: Markelle Martin, S, OK State

28) Green Bay Packers: Brandon Boykin, CB, Georgia

29) Baltimore Ravens: Senio Kelemete, OG, Washington

30) San Francisco 49ers: Brandon Taylor, S, LSU

31) New England Patriots: Chris Rainey, SPECIALIST, Florida

** Rainey is a situational player that you give the ball 5-8 plays a game, but I think he will get drafted much earlier than expected because he had six blocked kicks in college. The Patriots love guys like him.

32) New York Giants: Marvin Jones, WR

33) Oakland Raiders (COMP): Josh Norman, CB, Coastal Carolina

GO TO ROUND 4

.

2012 Mock Draft Round 2

Fri, 20 Apr 2012 05:10:32 +0100

ROUND 1 ROUND 2 ROUND 3 ROUND 4

RICHARDSON'S MOCK

ROUND 2

1) St. Louis Rams: Jerel Worthy, DT, Michigan State

Worthy is an interesting prospect that plays like a top-12 pick sometimes while also disappearing like a 4th rounder as well.

2) Indianapolis Colts: Shea McClellin, DE/LB, Boise State

McClellin is a hot prospect right now that could go in the top-20, but he could also get washed down to this range by other pass rushers.

3) Minnesota Vikings: Alshon Jeffery, WR, South Carolina

The Vikings could opt for a corner here as well, but they might be better off getting a huge potential threat like Jeffery to help out Ponder. Christian Ponder does not have an arm that requires multiple blazing receivers, and getting a monster with some possession skills could do wonders.

4) Tampa Bay Buccaneers: Lavonte David, OLB, Nebraska

The Bucs really need to find some options at linebacker because they are very thin.

5) Cleveland Browns: Janoris Jenkins, CB, N. Alabama

The Browns will be looking at either a RB, WR, CB or QB with the 4th pick in the draft. Getting a potential steal (or simple bust) like Jenkins here is well worth the risk.

6) Jacksonville Jaguars: Vinny Curry, DE, Marshall

I love mocking for the Jags because after the first round there is a good chance that they will go with the BPA from a non Big-6 conference. Don't believe me? Well they haven't taken a Big-6 conference player outside of the first round in two straight drafts.

7) St. Louis (from Wash): Bobby Massie, OT, Ole Miss

Jeff Fisher doesn't often take offensive linemen early, but he would have to be insane to not find someone in the first few rounds to protect Sam Bradford.

8) Carolina Panthers: Harrison Smith, S, Notre Dame

The Panthers have got to fix their secondary if they ever want to compete. Cam Newton can hang all the points in the world on teams, but it won't matter if the defense can't help him out.

9) Buffalo Bills: Coby Fleener, TE, Stanford

The Bills tried turning up the TE spot last year with Scott Chandler, but he was so hit-or-miss that he could be replaced with a stud like Fleener.

10) Miami Dolphins: Rueben Randle, WR, LSU

The DolphLundgrens draft their second receiver in the draft here. Maybe Randle can play QB too.

11) Seattle Seahawks: Kevin Zeitler, OG, Wisconsin

The team doesn't have a lot of pure needs this offseason, so adding as much power and depth as possible would do wonders for the team.

12) Kansas City Chiefs: Brandon Weeden, QB, OK State

I think the Chiefs will be looking to get a passer with this pick, and the most logical pick would be to get a guy that is pro ready to push Matt Cassel. If nobody can get the job done then the team will be picking early next year.

13) Dallas Cowboys: Andre Branch, DE/LB, Clemson

On paper the Cowboys are another team that doesn't have a huge list of needs, but getting an extra pass rusher like Branch should be on the list.

14) Philadelphia Eagles: Jeff Allen, OT, Illinois

The Eagles just spent a lot of Demetrius Bell, but they really need to add a lot of depth on their line. Allen is a guy that can play either tackle spot, and possibly even fill in at guard if needed.

15) New York Jets: Dwayne Allen, TE, Clemson

Rex Ryan just got Tim Tebow because he saw what the Dolphin Wildcat did to his defenses a few years ago. You had better believe that he will be looking to add a Patriotic TE feel to his team at some point.

16) New England Patriots (from Oak): Doug Martin, RB, Boise State

The Patriots drafted some rushers last year, but they reportedly like Doug Martin who does a little bit of everything.

17) San Diego Chargers: Ronnell Lewis, DE/LB, Oklahoma

The Chargers lost their spark (pun very much intended) on defense last year, and they must look to get that back.

18) Chicago Bears: Zebrie Sanders, OT/G, Florida State

The Bears won't go far into the playoffs if they don't have their quarterback(s) healthy. Part of the problem is that the team allows about one sack per play. Ok, maybe not one per play, but it sure felt like it.

19) Philadelphia Eagles (From AZ): Josh Robinson, CB, UCF

The Eagles have talent in their backfield, but they just need to find an extra weapon if they ever want to compete as a dream team.

20) Tennessee Titans: Mohamed Sanu, WR, Rutgers

Sanu is a talented receiver with a lot of potential, and maybe reuniting with his former teammate Kenny Britt will push the duo to succeed.

21) Cincinnati Bengals: Lamar Miller, RB, Miami

The Bengals have to find a true replacement for Cedric Benson in the draft, and a guy like Lamar Miller fits the team's desires very well.

22) Detroit Lions: David Wilson, RB, Virginia Tech

Lions fans will hate this move, but I love it for a few reasons. First Jahvid Best can only handle 10-15 carries a game to avoid injury. Kevin Smith's no better. Mikel Leshoure is coming off an Achilles tear and has had two marijuana charges this offseason. The team needs a consistent guy, and Wilson's possibly the BPA here too.

23) Atlanta Falcons: Mitchell Schwartz, OT, Cal

This might be a bit early for Schwartz, but he is one of the last guys with some LT potential.

24) Pittsburgh Steelers: Alameda Ta'Amu, NT, Washington

The Steelers might go for a NT like Ta'Amu in the first round, but getting one here is perfect.

25) Denver Broncos: Brian Quick, WR, Appalachian State

The Broncos are going to have to add some weapons for Peyton at some time, and Quick is a guy booming up some boards right now.

26) Houston Texans: Juron Criner, WR, Arizona

The Texans desperately need to add some depth at receiver in this draft.

27) New Orleans Saints:

28) Green Bay Packers: Brandon Thompson, DE/DT, Clemson

The Packers may opt to go a few different ways, but Thompson is a great value here that will improve the run and pass defense as a whole.

29) Baltimore Ravens: Mychal Kendricks, MLB, California

The Ravens don't have a lot of needs, so getting a guy like Kendricks could add a lethal piece of depth into the middle of the defense.

30) San Francisco 49ers: LaMichael James, RB, Oregon

Harbaugh's last collegiate coaching loss was to Oregon in 2010 when LaMichael James ran for 257 yards and three scores. He is the perfect change of pace for the team.

31) New England Patriots: Trumaine Johnson, CB/S, Montana

The Pats have so many needs that it is laughable that they are the favorites to win the Super Bowl next year. The team would really love to get a guy like Trumaine Johnson that projects as a nickel corner and a full time safety.

32) New York Giants: Orson Charles, TE, Georgia

The Giants usually try to load up on value in the draft, and a guy like Charles is a huge value that fills a need.

GO TO ROUND 3

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2011 NBA Mock Draft

Tue, 21 Jun 2011 01:32:55 +0100

If there is one thing that I have learned while covering the NFL Draft over the last two years is that it doesn't matter how much, thought, research, and care that you put into a mock draft. Sure many get the first picks right, but nobody can truly anticipate trades, reaches, and falling stars in the mock draft. Here is my honest attempt at an NBA mock draft through the mind of an NFL wannabe scout. I hope to soon have some actual NBA, MLB, NHL, and other sports coverage from people
with a passion in their sport, but until then here is my take on the NBA.

1) Cleveland Cavaliers: Derrick Williams, SF, Arizona

This pick is a major surprise to some, but you will find out my reason later in the 4th pick. In all reality it does seem like Williams is good enough to go first overall, and he could easily go here if my hunch is right.

2) Minnesota Timberwolves: Kyrie Irving, PG, Duke

If you were wondering if I was a T-Wolves fan, then you should know I'm not (I honestly don't know if anyone is). This is the best possible pick for the team though. Sure a center might fill a bigger need, but getting the likely best player in the draft is the best move for the team.

There is also a rumor that the Cavs want to trade for this pick which pretty much locks it down as Irving or Williams.

3) Utah Jazz: Enes Kanter, C, Kentucky

Sure this is becoming a lock of a pick, but it fits a fair need for the team and the talent is pretty good for Kanter.

4) Cleveland Cavaliers: Kemba Walker, PG, UConn

If the Cavs take Kyrie Irving with the first pick then they are essentially locking themselves into taking an unproven European with this pick. If the team takes the (at worst) 2nd best player in the draft with the first pick, then they lock themselves in to get either Kanter, Walker or Brandon Knight here. Irving is good, but he isn't THAT much better than Knight/Walker to the point that you have to take him.

5) Toronto Raptors: Brandon Knight, PG, Kentucky

I don't see Knight falling past here. Knight adds a new dimension for the team and should compete instantly.

6) Washington Wizards: Jan Vesely, F, Czech Republic

For the record this is the earliest that I think a European goes this year. I hate being so down on them, but many of them are one or two years away from playing in the league, and many more never even see the American courts.

7) Sacramento Kings: Kawhi Leonard, F, San Diego State

There are some that believe Leonard could be a top-4 player when it is all said and done, and it honestly wouldn't surprise me. He has a ton of overall potential and is a double-double waiting to happen.

8) Detroit Pistons: Jonas Valanciunas, F/C, Lithuania

The Pistons desperately need a big man and many scouts are high on Valanciunas going much earlier than this.

9) Charlotte Bobcats: Chris Singleton, F, Florida State

There are three guys that I think we will remember 15 years down the road out of this class. Kemba Walker is one of them, and so is the defensively experienced Singleton.

10) Milwaukee Bucks: Klay Thompson, SG, Washington State

Klay Thompson is the better shooting guard if you ask me to pick between Alex Burks and him. Thompson would be a great weapon plugged into the Brandon Jenkins pool.

11) Golden State Warriors: Marcus Morris, F, Kansas

Morris is a rising talent that shouldn't make it much farther than here.

12) Utah Jazz: Kenneth Faried, F, Morehead State

Remember how I said that I thought there were three potential studs from this class? Well Faried is one of them. The Jazz also finished 26th in the league in rebounding so getting the NCAA D1 rebound record holder could do a ton. Sure it is a little early, but I think some team will fall in love with him.

13) Pheonix Suns: Tristan Thomas, F, Texas

The Suns will likely go with the best player available that fills a need. Tristan Thomas could be that guy, but so could Alec Burks.

14) Houston Rockets: Jordan Hamilton, SF, Texas

Some people have the team reaching for a post, while others think the team will take another guard. I could see Hamilton come off the board early to fill a role.

15) Indiana Pacers: Bimack Biyombo, F/C, Spain/Congo

The Pacers don't have a lot of needs, but they also don't have many stars. If I were the front office I would try to trade up for some star power, but getting a versatile big man could help them too.

16) Philadelphia 76ers: Nikola Vucevic, C, USC

I completely expect some team to reach for a center like Vucevic somewhere in the 10-20 range.

17) New York Knicks: Alec Burks, SG, Colorado

The Knicks need some guard support, and I completely expect them to take the best one available with the pick. Burks could wind up a top-5 pick, or he could slide given the other guard depth in the draft.

18) Washington Wizards: Markieff Morris, F, Kansas

The Wizards need help just about everywhere, and outside of PG this pick is pretty much open.

19) Charlotte Bobcats: Jimmer Fredette, PG, BYU

I truly don't believe that Jimmer will be a top-15 pick. I mentioned earlier that I think the league is getting sick of disappointing European draft picks. I also believe that they are getting sick of the great college players because they just don't translate that well.

20) Minnesota Timberwolves: Marshon Brooks, SG, Providence

The team will end up with a ton of star power after their 2nd overall pick, and it would be fun to see what they could do with another one by taking the BPA here.

21) Portland Trailblazers: Tobias Harris, F, Tennessee

The team would love to get Kenneth Faried if he falls here, but I really think they will have to trade up to get him.

22) Denver Nuggets: Donatas Motiejunas, F, Lithuania

It's a good year to need a forward if you have a pick in the 20-30 range.

23) Houston Rockets: JaJuan Johnson, F, Purdue

Sure I had the Rockets taking a big forward with the last pick, but getting a potential threat here could be great. To be fair, both JuJuan and Hamilton play different forward spots, and they will both get looks on the post too.

24) Oklahoma City Thunder: Justin Harper, PF, Richmond

Just about every scouting service out there has this pick being a SF. One thing that I have learned in the NFL draft is that teams that are 'shoe ins' to take certain positions rarely do. I could see the team take someone like Harper that might get slotted in to train as Durant's backup, while also contributing some minutes at PF.

25) Boston Celtics: Jeremy Tyler, PF/C, Tokyo Apache

Each and every year there are guys in the NFL draft that you hear are really good, but there is so little tape on them. Jeremy Tyler is that guy in this draft.

26) Dallas Mavericks: Darius Morris, PG, Michigan

Sure the Mavs just won the title, but I'm not sold that they are one of the five best teams in the league. They are great defensively, but they can't rebound and they have very little star power. Darius Morris is too tall to play PG, but his size and presence might just be perfect for the Mavs.

27) New Jersey Nets: Tyler Honeycutt, F, UCLA

The Nets are an intriguing young team that may need only a few more weapons until they can really compete.

28) Chicago Bulls: Nolan Smith, G, Duke

The Bulls have two of the last three picks in the first round. I wouldn't be shocked to see them trade one if not two of the picks, but for the sake of mocking I think a safe scorer like Nolan Smith is the type of depth the Bulls could use.

29) San Antonio Spurs: Nikola Mirotic, SF, Serbia

Many people think that Mirotic would go a lot sooner than this because of his talent, but I can't imagine many teams will want to wait the 2-4 years for him to get out of his European contract.

30) Chicago Bulls: Kyle Singler, F, Duke

Ok, so drafting two straight guys from Duke likely will never happen, but I do think that getting both of the Duke veterans would be perfect additions for the team. They will be able to add some great leadership abilities for some of the younger players going forward, and they would be able to step in off the bench and produce.

2012 Mock Draft Round 1

Fri, 20 Apr 2012 05:21:54 +0100

ROUND 1 ROUND 2 ROUND 3 ROUND 4

RICHARDSON'S MOCK

1) Indianapolis Colts: Andrew Luck, QB, Stanford

No question here. I still think that the Colts would have potentially benefited more by trading the pick for a kings ransom and drafting a guy to develop behind Manning, but Andrew Luck isn't a bad option.

2) Washington Redskins (from STL): Robert Griffin III, QB, Baylor

Another no brainer here. The Skins traded everything to get Griffin, so hopefully they use their late picks wisely.

3) Minnesota Vikings: Matt Kalil, OT, USC

This has become such a no brainer pick that I am starting to doubt it. The team really needs a force like Kalil, but that doesn't mean that they think the same way.

4) Cleveland Browns: Trent Richardson, RB, Alabama

Mike Holmgren has never been part of a team that has taken a QB in the first round. He did however do well with a runner from Alabama by the name of Shaun Alexander. I know it is WAY to early for a runningback, but there really aren't a lot of top-4 options this year.

5) Tampa Bay Buccaneers: Morris Claiborne, CB, LSU

This is an obvious pick given the fact that the team is loaded at receiver, but I wouldn't be shocked to see the team throw a hug wild ball here. For now I've got to go with Claiborne.

6) St Louis Rams (From WAS): Justin Blackmon, WR, OK State

This pick should feel like a no brainer to me, but I am just not sold on it. Jeff Fisher doesn't draft offensive linemen early, and there are enough top-40 receivers in this draft to maybe make him go with a wild card pick, but the odds are stacked for Blackmon.

7) Jacksonville Jaguars: Michael Floyd, WR, Notre Dame

I have been going against Floyd this early for the whole season, but I've come to realize that there will be a few teams that ignore the off the field problems and the injury prone issues when it comes to Floyd. Gene Smith NEVER drafts the guy that is penciled in, and Melvin Ingram is that guy right now.

8) Miami Dolphins: Ryan Tannehill, QB, Miami

It only makes sense for the Dolphins to take a former WR as their QB. The team really messed up this offseason and they need to take Tannehill if he is here.

9) Carolina Panthers: Luke Kuechly, MLB, Boston College

Kuechly has so much buzz about him that I think he is a huge top-10 threat. The defense needs a leader to command the troops, and Kuechly is a perfect candidate.

10) Buffalo Bills: Riley Reiff, OT, Iowa

This pick makes too much sense which does nothing but make me doubt that it will ever happen. The team desperately needs a left tackle, but the team has been scared to take a 1st round tackle since Mike Williams.

11) Kansas City Chiefs: Dontari Poe, NT, Memphis

The Chiefs have a lot of needs to address, and getting Poe here might fill their biggest hole. I love David DeCastro going here, but I'm just not sold on it.

12) Seattle Seahawks: Melvin Ingram, DE, South Carolina

The pass rusher from the other USC just might be the weapon that the Seahawks have been missing.

13) Arizona Cardinals: David DeCastro, OG, Stanford

This is a bit of a luxury pick, but getting the a guard at this level is worth it here.

14) Dallas Cowboys: Mark Barron, S, Alabama

The Cowboys reportedly desperately need safety help, and getting a do-it all kind of guy would be the perfect weapon for a team that has been a secondary away from a top defense for awhile.

15) Philadelphia Eagles: Fletcher Cox, DT, Mississippi State

Cox is a guy rising up the boards, and he could go as early as 6th to the Rams. If he falls past the Panthers though then he could tumble.

16) New York Jets: Kendall Wright, WR, Baylor

This is about as low as I typically have a weapon like Wright falling in the draft. He is a dominate speedster that can do it all. He also is the perfect complimenting weapon the match with Tim Tebow.

17) Cincinnati (From Oak): Dre Kirkpatrick, CB, Alabama

This very well could be Stephon Gilmore, but I think that the Bengals would go with a solid talent like Dre Kirkpatrick here.

18) San Diego Chargers: Cordy Glenn, OG/T, Georgia

The Chargers need some help at both tackle and guard, and Glenn can play a little bit of both very well.

19) Chicago Bears: Quinton Coples, DE, UNC

The Bears were pushing for a guy like Mario Williams to play across from Peppers. Coples is no Super Mario, but he might be a beary good pick.

20) Tennessee Titans: Stephon Gilmore, CB, South Carolina

The Titans need to find a replacement at corner and Gilmore is a tough guy with good experience.

21) Cincinnati Bengals: Whitney Mercilus, DE, Illinois

The Bengals don't have a severe need at end, but they just might bite if a guy like Mercilus is there for them to add to the roster. A team can never have too many pass rushers.

22) Cleveland Browns (from ATL): Courtney Upshaw, DE, Alabama

I hate giving a team two players from the same team, but when there are so many players from one team it can be hard. I think the Browns will keep their sensors open for a pass rusher and Upshaw has a lot of potential.

23) Detroit Lions: Mike Adams, OT, Ohio State

I got some hate for mocking Adams (the first OT that I have ever mocked to the Lions ever because there is an ok chance) here the last time, but I'm sticking with it. The Lions too often go with the best player on their boards, and outside of Michael Brockers it just might be a guy like Mike Adams. I won't go into how bad Jeff Backus is (today atleast), because I am mocking him here because he is the best prospect of need available, but Mike Adams actually compares to Backus in quite a few ways.

24) Pittsburgh Steelers: Dont'a Hightower, MLB, Alabama

This pick makes too much sense for the Steelers. The team cut James Farrior to save cap space, and there is always a chance that the Ravens will be looking for a young force inside.

25) Denver Broncos: Michael Brockers, DT, LSU

The Broncos really need to add some good power inside and Brockers is a great value here.

26) Houston Texans: Jonathon Martin, OT, Stanford

I have preaching a receiver to the Texans for years, and they have never pulled the trigger. I would love to see what Stephen Hill could do next to Andre Johnson, but I think the Texans go a different way if there is a better value on the board.

27) New England Patriots (From NO): Nick Perry, DE/LB, USC

I wanted to give the Packers Chandler Jones or Janoris Jenkins, but the Patriots typically draft guys that they haven't interviewed with. Jenkins is one of those guys, and Jones only met them at the combine. Perry on the other hand had an official visit to match up with some talks at his pro day.

28) Green Bay Packers: Chandler Jones, DE/LB, Syracuse

The Packers have got to turn up their defensive pressure if they want to compete in their tough division again. It is also notable that the other three teams in the division will be looking to significantly help their offensive lines in this draft.

29) Baltimore Ravens: Stephen Hill, WR, Georgia Tech

I don't think that this as big of a need as advertised, but Hill is a good value here that adds another blazer in the backfield.

30) San Francisco 49ers: Peter Konz, OC (OG), Wisconsin

Jonathon Goodwin will be 34 at the end of the year, and he will need a replacement over the next few years. Konz can slide into the RG spot until then.

31) New England Patriots: Derek Wolfe, DT (DE), Cincinnati

The Pats need as much power on defense as they can find. The defense isn't as bad as some give them, but it does need to add a lot of depth.

32) New York Giants: Kendall Reyes, DT, UConn

The Giants very well could go with their BPA like they often do, and a guy like Reyes might just be that guy.

GO TO ROUND 2

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