2007 NFL Mock 3-Round Draft: Final Version
by Armin Mohajeri
Here it is. My final version of the 2007 NFL Mock Draft. I have posted all three rounds with minor commentary. I'm looking forward to seeing how wrong (or hopefully, right) I was during tomorrow's draft.
First Round
1. Oakland: Jamarcus Russell, QB - LSU
Though Calvin Johnson is the best player in the draft. This is the pick that makes the most sense for Oakland. If Russell falls out of the top 2 picks, expect a surprising drop (Other possibilities: Calvin Johnson)
2. Detroit: Calvin Johnson, WR - Georgia Tech
A difficult pick. They want to trade down with Tampa and take Gaines Adams at the 4th pick. Johnson makes the most sense here, be it Detroit, Tampa or Atlanta. Tampa may dangle Simeon Rice, which Detroit should take (Other possibilities: Joe Thomas, Gaines Adams, Adrian Peterson, Brady Quinn)
3. Cleveland: Adrian Peterson, RB - Oklahoma
The Browns could go a number of ways, but Peterson would fill the teams most significant need as far as their future is concerned. Jamal Lewis is a one-year stop-gap (Other possibilities: Joe Thomas, Brady Quinn)
4. Tampa Bay: Joe Thomas, OT - Wisconsin
Tampa will either trade up with Detroit for Johnson, or pray that Johnson falls to them at #4. If they don't get their wish, Joe Thomas fills a huge need for them (Other possibilities: Gaines Adams)
5. Arizona: Levi Brown, OT - Penn St.
Surprise, surprise. Levi Brown makes a huge leap. Word is the Cards have Levi Brown rated higher than Joe Thomas. I highly doubt that. However, with Thomas off the board, the Cards decide to protect their franchise QB. Brown would probably move to right tackle to protect Leinart's blindside (Other possibilities: Gaines Adams)
6. Washington: Gaines Adams, DE - Clemson
Washington will probably trade out of this pick. However, with Gaines Adams available, the team could go for the talented DE. Look for Miami to make a strong push for this pick, and Washington to trade down at least 2 times, with the second deal possibly with Denver, swapping the 9th and 21st picks. (Other possibilities: Laron Landry, Amobi Okoye, Alan Branch, Jamaal Anderson)
7. Minnesota: Brady Quinn, QB - Notre Dame
Vikes put an end to Travaris Jackson's hopes of being the future of the team, and choose Quinn to lead the team (Other possibilities: Laron Landry, Jamaal Anderson)
8. Atlanta (from Houston): LaRon Landry, S - LSU
As much as they would like a DE to start over Chauncey Davis, Landry is just too good to pass up. Landry will start alongside Lawyer Milloy immediately, and eventually replace him (Other possibilities: Jamaal Anderson, Amobi Okoye, Alan Branch)
9. Miami: Amobi Okoye, DT - Louisville
With Branch's injury concern, the Dolphins address their need at DT with the youngster, Okoye. (Other possibilities: Jamaal Anderson, Alan Branch, Leon Hall)
10. Houston (from Atlanta): Jamaal Anderson, DE - Arkansas
The Texans are in a strange spot. Adrian Peterson would be their dream pick here. Laron Landry would have been really nice too. They could easily move Weaver inside and open a spot for Anderson, giving their team a young intimidating D-Line (Other possibilities: Leon Hall, Darrelle Revis, Alan Branch, Reggie Nelson)
11. San Francisco: Patrick Willis, LB - Mississippi
If Willis is here, he's the pick. A 240+ pound MLB who runs in the 4.3s, and has the intangibles you look for. He's a natural leader who will be the leader of this up-and-coming defense for years (Other possiblities: Alan Branch, Adam Carriker)
12. Buffalo: Darrelle Revis, CB - Pittsburgh
Revis before Hall? Better believe it. Word is that Revis has overtaken Hall on most draft boards (Other possibilities: Marshawn Lynch, Adam Carriker)
13. St. Louis: Alan Branch, DT - Michigan
A must pick for this team if he's available. DT is the weak link of the Rams defense. Branch's stress fractures are a concern, however the Rams' need is dire (Other possibilities: Leon Hall, Adam Carriker)
14. Carolina: Adam Carriker, DE - Nebraska
Mike Rucker is 32 and coming off of major knee surgery. Look for the team to take Carriker if he's available (Other possibilities: Reggie Nelson, Greg Olsen, Anthony Spencer)
15. Pittsburgh: Leon Hall, CB - Michigan
The Steelers choose to address their weakness from last year. Regardless of the names they have there, they need someone to step in place of Townsend (Other possibilities: Anthony Spencer, Jarvis Moss)
16. Green Bay: Marshawn Lynch, RB - California
As much as they would like to focus on other areas of the team, it's no secret that the Packers are in dire need of a RB. Lynch is the pick, and could surprise (Other possibilities: Ted Ginn, Greg Olsen, Jon Beason, Paul Posluszny)
17. Jacksonville: Reggie Nelson, S - Florida
Nelson fills the team's biggest need, but they could probably get good value in the 2nd round at safety. Nelson is too hard to pass on though (Other possibilities: Anthony Spencer, Jarvis Moss)
18. Cincinnati: Anthony Sprencer, DE - Purdue
I agree with Mel Kiper when he says Spencer has the best shot at being Defensive Rookie of the Year. Spencer is so vastly underrated that he's a steal at this point (Other possibilities: Jon Beason, Paul Posluszny, Greg Olsen)
19. Tennessee: Teddy Ginn, Jr., WR - Ohio St.
Signs are pointing to Ginn being the pick, as he can also replace Bobby Wade as the return man. He'll help stretch the field with Vince Young's strong arm (Other possibilities: Robert Meachem, Aaron Ross, Chris Houston)
20. New York Giants: Joe Staley, OT - Central Michigan
Staley will be "Manning" the QB's blindside for years in New York. Possibly the most athletic offensive lineman to ever grace the draft (Other possibilities: Jon Beason, Paul Posluszny, Aaron Ross)
21. Denver: Jarvis Moss, DE - Florida
Denver could move up to the 10-13 picks to nab Adam Carriker. The Broncos are in dire need of a pass rusher. Moss will do at 21 (Other possibilities: Brandon Meriweather, Michael Griffen)
22. Dallas: Robert Meachem, WR - Tennessee
A steal by the Cowboys. He lands in the perfect situation, where he can gain mentorship in the physical part of the game from Owens (amazing that I called Owens a mentor). Meachem has it all, size, speed and hands (Other possibilities: Dwayne Bowe, Aaron Ross)
23. Kansas City: Aaron Ross, CB - Texas
With word that Marty Booker may be coming from Miami in a trade for Trent Green, the Chiefs can focus on an area where they're getting very old. Ross is the Thorpe Award winner, and brings a style similar to Surtain (Other possibilities: Dwayne Bowe, Chris Houston)
24. New England (from Seattle): Chris Houston, CB Arkansas
The Pats opt for a corner. Houston is lightning fast. With the injuries the Pats have had at CB in the past, they couldn't pass up this pick (Other possibilities: Brandon Merriweather, Michael Griffen, Marcus McCauley)
25. New York Jets: Greg Olsen, TE - Miami
Mangini lands exactly what the team needs. A steal at 25, who could give Pennington what he's missed all along (Other possibilities: Brandon Merriweather)
26. Philadelphia: Brandon Merriweather, S - Miami
Merriweather could fall if teams are concerned about his on field fight while at Miami. Merriweather can play either CB or S, but will most likely replace Michael Lewis (Other possibilities: Dwayne Bowe, Michael Griffen, Paul Posluszny, Lawrence Timmons)
27. New Orleans: Jon Beason, LB - Miami
The Saints go after an intriguing prospect. Beason is physically in the mold of D.J. Williams and Jon Vilma, but wasn't as productive in college (Other possibilities: Justin Harrell, Paul Posluszny)
28. New England: David Harris, MLB - Michigan
The Pats tend to find players that will fit their "system". Apparently, Harris fits their system. He will be Bruschi's successor (Other possibilities: Paul Posluszny)
29. Baltimore: Paul Posluszny, LB - Penn St.
Baltimore is a deep team, and can go many directions with this pick. Posluszny was the best player available (Other possibilities: Ryan Kalil, Lawrence Timmons, Ben Grubbs)
30. San Diego: Dwayne Bowe, WR - LSU
While the team likes Vincent Jackson, and he did great at the end of last season, WR is a position that must be addressed. Bowe would be a great pick for Phillop Rivers, giving him another big target to go with Jackson and Gates (Other possibilities: Marcus McCauley, Michael Griffen)
31. Chicago: Justin Harrell, DT - Tennessee
Harrell is moving up the charts and could easily sneak into this pick if Chicago stays put. Tank Johnson could be suspended for the season, and the Bears need an insurance policy (Other possibilities: Lawrence Timmons, Ben Grubbs)
32. Indianapolis: Marcus McCauley, CB - Fresno State
McCauley has all the tools to fit any defense, but his physical play and support in run defense will fit the Colts Cover-2 defense well (Other possibilities: Lawrence Timmons, Ben Grubbs, Ryan Kalil)
Second Round
33. Oakland: Tony Ugoh, OT - Arkansas
Oakland had a horrid offensive line last year, and Ugoh can easily step in at either tackle and help immediately, opening the door for Sims to move inside
34. Detroit: Trent Edwards, QB - Stanford
The new future QB of the Lions. Don't be surprised if John Beck somehow sneaks into this pick.
35. Tampa Bay: Sidney Rice, WR - South Carolina
As much as they hated missing out on Calvin Johnson, the Bucs land a player who was slated to be a Top 10 pick in next year's draft, had he not left too early.
36. Cleveland: Eric Wright, CB - UNLV
Wright ran a blazing 40 time, and could be in line to start in Cleveland. Crennell may be willing to overlook Wright's off-field concerns in order to save his job
37. Chicago (from Washington thru NY Jets): Ben Grubbs, G - Auburn
The Bears go with the best player available and land a top-5 lineman in the draft. Grubbs will pave the way for Cedric Benson for years.
38. Arizona: Lawrence Timmons, LB - Florida St.
Arizona overlooks their need at DE and drafts the best player available. Timmons projects into the first round and is a steal at this point
39. Atlanta (from Houston): Quentin Moses, DE - Georgia
A pass rusher with all the tools to be effective in the NFL. Was never very productive on the college level, but was double-teamed a lot, leaving his bookend DE (Charles Johnson) open to wreak havoc
40. Miami: Michael Griffen, S - Texas
With Jason Allen moving to CB, this opens a spot for Griffen to start. Another player projected as a first rounder who falls because he's not playing a sexy position
41. Minnesota: Ryan Kalil, C - USC
While they would like to look at a WR, Kalil was adds too much value to pass up. The team has been unhappy with Matt Birk the last few years. Kalil could move Birk to another position, possibly backup tackle
42. San Francisco: Dwayne Jarrett, WR - USC
Jarrett fills an immediate need in San Fran. The knock on Jarrett should be blamed on former teammate Mike Williams, who doesn't have the speed to separate. Jarrett may have that same issue, but the 9ers won't pass on him.
43. Buffalo: Antonio Pittman, RB - Ohio State
A speedy 1-2 punch to go with Anthony Thomas. Could find his niche on this team which will provide him many opportunities
44. Atlanta: Justin Blalock, G - Texas
He'll push Clabo for the starting spot
45. Carolina: Daymeion Hughes, CB - California
Hughes is listed as a CB, but will only be a CB on a Cover-2 team. Hughes has a physical style which will be more suited for safety in the Carolina defense. He also has that ball-hawking style that teams covet at safety
46. Pittsburgh: Ikaika Alama-Francis, DE - Hawaii
One of the sleepers in this draft. He's a former basketball player who added ~75 pounds in college, and could even add more and move inside to tackle. If the Steelers keep the 3-4 alignment, he'll fit right in at DE
47. Green Bay: Zach Miller, TE - Arizona State
A nice fit, as he'll be the pass-catching TE that Bubba Franks never really was. Miller will give Favre a nice big target as a safety valve receiver.
48. Jacksonville: Tim Crowder, DE - Texas
Crowder had an excellent day at the combines, boosting his value. He will most-likely split time with Spicer
49. Cincinnati: Tank Tyler, DT - NC State
Sam Adams is getting old. Tyler brings the same type of game as Sam Adams. He could fit right into the rotation
50. Tennessee: Jonathan Wade, CB - Tennessee
With Pacman Jones gone, the Titans take a kid from their local university. Wade is a player who has all the tools to be a #1 CB, but is raw and needs coaching to put it all together.
51. New York Giants: Tanard Jackson, DB - Syracuse
This pick will ease some of the team's concern over Gibril Wilson's health. Tanard Jackson is listed as a CB, but will move to safety in New York. A physical player who was always around the ball at Syracuse
52. St. Louis: Brian Leonard, RB - Rutgers
A steal at this point. He ends any flirtation the team has with signing Ricky Williams.
53. Dallas: Tarell Brown, CB - Texas
An interesting prospect. Could be one of the steals of the draft. Had some off-field troubles, and played his senior season with a broken bone in his foot. Overshadowed by Aaron Ross. However, coming into his senior season was considered the better NFL prospect.
54. Kansas City: Aaron Sears, G - Tennessee
Sears can play all OL spots, except C. He'll probably start out as a backup, but could replace one of the aging veterans by his 2nd season. Don't be fooled by the talent the Chiefs have on the O-Line. Most of the starters are up there in age.
55. Seattle: Ben Patrick, TE - Delaware
A Diamond in the Rough. Excellent hands, great all-around skills, and at 250 pounds is still considered a good blocker. Could become a "Highlight Reel" TE with his tools. He'll sit behind Pollard for a year before making his impact
56. Denver: Eric Weddle, S - Utah
Why not have Jon Lynch help groom the player that's been likened to him. Weddle is a gamer who just makes plays. Teams need to overlook his mediocre measurables.
57. Philadelphia: Steve Smith, WR - USC
Great pick for the Eagles. Overshadowed in college by teammates like Mike Williams and Dwayne Jarrett. Could be another Keary Colbert
58. New Orleans: Craig "Buster" Davis, WR - LSU
Another WR overshadowed by a teammate (Dwayne Bowe) in college. Davis could end up being a better as a pro than he was in college
59. New York Jets: LaMarr Woodley, DE - Michigan
He could unseat Bryan Thomas. He is versatile enough to be a stand up or down rusher
60. Miami (from New England): John Beck, QB - BYU
A QB who is rising up the charts as of late. Miami gets their future QB.
61. Baltimore: Ryan Harris, OT - Notre Dame
Offensive line must be addressed, and Harris is the best lineman on the board. Harris could be Ogden's successor
62. San Diego: Justin Durant, LB - Hampton
The Chargers front office loves these kind of players. Durant will line up inside. The kind of player that coaches love
63. New York Jets (from Chicago): Josh Wilson, CB - Maryland
Probably the fastest player on the field in this draft. What he lacks in size, he makes up for in athletic ability. Addresses depth issues the Jets had at CB last season
64. Tampa Bay (from Indianapolis): Turk McBride, DT - Tennessee
McBride could add a few pounds, but he fits the Tampa gap system like a glove.
Third round
65. Oakland: Charles Johnson, DE - Georgia
Oakland Nabs the best D-Lineman available. Johnson is projected to go in the 2nd round. He could push Tommy Kelly for the starting DE spot.
66. Detroit: Stewart Bradley, LB - Nebraska
Tough as nails run-stopper. Can play MLB or SLB. Can even play DE, as he has pass rush skills. What you see is what you get. Doesn't offer a lot as far as potential. He'll Lenon and Lehman for the starting spot at MLB
67. Cleveland: Ray McDonald, DE - Florida
Edwards will eventually replace Orpheaus Roye
68. Tampa Bay: Brandon Silar, LB - Florida
More depth at LB due to Brooks's age and Quarles's career status. Silar projects into the 2nd round
69. Arizona: Chris Henry, RB - Arizona
Don't be fooled by word that's coming out of Arizona. They don't think highly of their RB situation. Not only do they land a hometown guy, Wisenhunt gets a Willie Parker clone
70. Denver (from Washington): Quincy Black: LB - New Mexico
Another pass rusher, but from the LB position. D.J. Williams will move inside, leaving a battle between Warrick Holdman, D.D. Lewis and Black for the job on the strong side
71. Miami: Kenny Scott, CB - Georgia Tech
Has very good numbers, which make him interesting. A gamble, as he could easily be a bust, but could also pay off in a big way. He could contribute in the nickel early on
72. Minnesota: Victor Abiamiri, DE - Notre Dame
Abiamiri could help ease the situation if James gets hurt again, or Udeze is ineffective again
73. Houston: Anthony Gonzalez, WR - Ohio State
One would not expect Gonzalez to fall to the 3rd round. If Gonzalez isn't present, Aundrae Allison or Jason hill could be options
74. Buffalo: Antwan Barnes, LB - Florida International
An edge rusher in the mold of Robert Mathis. Expect him to see plenty of time on passing downs. Mark Anderson helped the cause of these types of players too, last season
75. Atlanta: Quinn Pitcock, DT - Ohio State
Grady Jackson is in a bit of trouble with the team. This could be one of those "message" picks, while still filling depth needs
76. San Francisco: Michael Coe, CB - Alabama St.
He doesn't jump off the draft charts at you, but cannot be overlooked. Excellent size to go with good speed. The only knock is the level of competition he played.
77. Pittsburgh: Tony Hunt, RB - Penn State
He'll back up Parker and Davenport, but will eventually take over Davenport's role as the short yardage and change of pace back.
78. Green Bay: Samson Satele, C - Hawaii
He could push Scott Wells for the starting spot, but will more likely sit for a year before taking the reigns
79. Jacksonville: Drew Stanton, QB - Michigan St.
At one point Stanton was the top NFL prospect at QB. The knock is that he didn't live up to his potential in big games.
Cincinnati: Forfieted Pick
80. Tennessee: Kenny Irons, RB - Auburn
Message to LenDale White: Watch your weight. Irons could take a chunk of playing time from White.
81. New York Giants: Marcus Thomas, DT - Florida
Coughlin will overlook off-field troubles, if it will help him keep his job. Thomas could have been a 2nd round prospect if not for those concerns
82. Kansas City (from St. Louis): Paul Soliai, DT - Utah
A space eater in the mold of former Chief DT, Keith Traylor. Look for him to contribute to the rotation
83. Carolina: Zak DeOssie, MLB - Brown
Another sleeper prospect. Has the tools, he just played on a small level.
84. St. Louis (from Kansas City): Kevin Kolb, QB - Houston
A "system QB" or is he the real deal? Physically, he's a top 5 QB prospect. However, we've seen how Houston QBs fare in the NFL. Kolb looks to be the best prospect in recent years though. Could be a steal
85. Seattle: Doug Free, OT - Northern Illinois
Could push to start on the right side. A versatile player who could even play guard and push Ray Willis to his more natural right tackle position
86. Denver: James Marten, OT - Boston College
Marten could eventually replace Meadows at Right Tackle.
87. Dallas: Walter Thomas, DT - NW Mississippi C.C.
A true nose tackle. He goes 6-5, 375. Very raw talent, but has limitless upside. Moves very well for someone his size. Originally went to Oklahoma State before being kicked off the team. Hasn't had any documented issues since. Could stand to lose some weight. A project who could pay off in a big way
88. New Orleans: Brandon Mebane, DT - California
A DT who made his mark by getting into opposing backfields. Doesn't have much upside, so you know what you're getting. Can be a contributor in the rotation
89. New York Jets: Andy Alleman, G - Akron
Fits the style of lineman that the Jets are going for. Alleman fits right into the zone-blocking scheme
90. Philadelphia: Fred Bennett, CB - South Carolina
A cover corner who wasn't very productive on the college level. However, he has the tools that could make him effective on the NFL level.
91. New England: John Wendling, S - Wyoming
A sleeper pick. He has the measurables that are sought after. Needs coaching to correct minor flaws. Can play either safety, and has starting potential.
92. Buffalo (from Baltimore): Aundrae Allison, WR - East Carolina
A shifty WR with deep speed. Adds value by stretching the field and also as a return man.
93. San Diego: Usama Young, CB - Kent St.
Not very well known, but put himself on the map at the combines. He has the tools that teams would look for in a starter, however he is in need of coaching
94. Chicago: Earl Everett, LB - Florida
A jack of all trades. Can play any LB position and safety too. He even has skills as a pass rusher
95. Indianapolis: Tim Shaw, LB - Penn State
A speedy LB who played multiple positions at Penn State (DE, RB). Has raw skills that can be coached. Could be a steal.
96. San Diego (COMP): Aaron Rouse, S - Virginia Tech
Rouse is a big safety, who could also project to linebacker. He could push Terrence Kiel if he fits the defense as a safety
97. San Francisco (COMP): Lorenzo Booker, RB - Florida State
A change of pace back, which the 9ers are lacking right now.
98. Indianapolis (COMP): Jacoby Jones, WR - Lane
A sleeper pick who the scouts know. Excellent athlete with great size. A track and basketball guy who is a little raw in football.
99. Oakland (COMP): Jason Hill, WR - Washington St.
Great college numbers. A deep threat who could be a decent #2 for the Raiders.
by Armin Mohajeri
Here it is. My final version of the 2007 NFL Mock Draft. I have posted all three rounds with minor commentary. I'm looking forward to seeing how wrong (or hopefully, right) I was during tomorrow's draft.
First Round
1. Oakland: Jamarcus Russell, QB - LSU
Though Calvin Johnson is the best player in the draft. This is the pick that makes the most sense for Oakland. If Russell falls out of the top 2 picks, expect a surprising drop (Other possibilities: Calvin Johnson)
2. Detroit: Calvin Johnson, WR - Georgia Tech
A difficult pick. They want to trade down with Tampa and take Gaines Adams at the 4th pick. Johnson makes the most sense here, be it Detroit, Tampa or Atlanta. Tampa may dangle Simeon Rice, which Detroit should take (Other possibilities: Joe Thomas, Gaines Adams, Adrian Peterson, Brady Quinn)
3. Cleveland: Adrian Peterson, RB - Oklahoma
The Browns could go a number of ways, but Peterson would fill the teams most significant need as far as their future is concerned. Jamal Lewis is a one-year stop-gap (Other possibilities: Joe Thomas, Brady Quinn)
4. Tampa Bay: Joe Thomas, OT - Wisconsin
Tampa will either trade up with Detroit for Johnson, or pray that Johnson falls to them at #4. If they don't get their wish, Joe Thomas fills a huge need for them (Other possibilities: Gaines Adams)
5. Arizona: Levi Brown, OT - Penn St.
Surprise, surprise. Levi Brown makes a huge leap. Word is the Cards have Levi Brown rated higher than Joe Thomas. I highly doubt that. However, with Thomas off the board, the Cards decide to protect their franchise QB. Brown would probably move to right tackle to protect Leinart's blindside (Other possibilities: Gaines Adams)
6. Washington: Gaines Adams, DE - Clemson
Washington will probably trade out of this pick. However, with Gaines Adams available, the team could go for the talented DE. Look for Miami to make a strong push for this pick, and Washington to trade down at least 2 times, with the second deal possibly with Denver, swapping the 9th and 21st picks. (Other possibilities: Laron Landry, Amobi Okoye, Alan Branch, Jamaal Anderson)
7. Minnesota: Brady Quinn, QB - Notre Dame
Vikes put an end to Travaris Jackson's hopes of being the future of the team, and choose Quinn to lead the team (Other possibilities: Laron Landry, Jamaal Anderson)
8. Atlanta (from Houston): LaRon Landry, S - LSU
As much as they would like a DE to start over Chauncey Davis, Landry is just too good to pass up. Landry will start alongside Lawyer Milloy immediately, and eventually replace him (Other possibilities: Jamaal Anderson, Amobi Okoye, Alan Branch)
9. Miami: Amobi Okoye, DT - Louisville
With Branch's injury concern, the Dolphins address their need at DT with the youngster, Okoye. (Other possibilities: Jamaal Anderson, Alan Branch, Leon Hall)
10. Houston (from Atlanta): Jamaal Anderson, DE - Arkansas
The Texans are in a strange spot. Adrian Peterson would be their dream pick here. Laron Landry would have been really nice too. They could easily move Weaver inside and open a spot for Anderson, giving their team a young intimidating D-Line (Other possibilities: Leon Hall, Darrelle Revis, Alan Branch, Reggie Nelson)
11. San Francisco: Patrick Willis, LB - Mississippi
If Willis is here, he's the pick. A 240+ pound MLB who runs in the 4.3s, and has the intangibles you look for. He's a natural leader who will be the leader of this up-and-coming defense for years (Other possiblities: Alan Branch, Adam Carriker)
12. Buffalo: Darrelle Revis, CB - Pittsburgh
Revis before Hall? Better believe it. Word is that Revis has overtaken Hall on most draft boards (Other possibilities: Marshawn Lynch, Adam Carriker)
13. St. Louis: Alan Branch, DT - Michigan
A must pick for this team if he's available. DT is the weak link of the Rams defense. Branch's stress fractures are a concern, however the Rams' need is dire (Other possibilities: Leon Hall, Adam Carriker)
14. Carolina: Adam Carriker, DE - Nebraska
Mike Rucker is 32 and coming off of major knee surgery. Look for the team to take Carriker if he's available (Other possibilities: Reggie Nelson, Greg Olsen, Anthony Spencer)
15. Pittsburgh: Leon Hall, CB - Michigan
The Steelers choose to address their weakness from last year. Regardless of the names they have there, they need someone to step in place of Townsend (Other possibilities: Anthony Spencer, Jarvis Moss)
16. Green Bay: Marshawn Lynch, RB - California
As much as they would like to focus on other areas of the team, it's no secret that the Packers are in dire need of a RB. Lynch is the pick, and could surprise (Other possibilities: Ted Ginn, Greg Olsen, Jon Beason, Paul Posluszny)
17. Jacksonville: Reggie Nelson, S - Florida
Nelson fills the team's biggest need, but they could probably get good value in the 2nd round at safety. Nelson is too hard to pass on though (Other possibilities: Anthony Spencer, Jarvis Moss)
18. Cincinnati: Anthony Sprencer, DE - Purdue
I agree with Mel Kiper when he says Spencer has the best shot at being Defensive Rookie of the Year. Spencer is so vastly underrated that he's a steal at this point (Other possibilities: Jon Beason, Paul Posluszny, Greg Olsen)
19. Tennessee: Teddy Ginn, Jr., WR - Ohio St.
Signs are pointing to Ginn being the pick, as he can also replace Bobby Wade as the return man. He'll help stretch the field with Vince Young's strong arm (Other possibilities: Robert Meachem, Aaron Ross, Chris Houston)
20. New York Giants: Joe Staley, OT - Central Michigan
Staley will be "Manning" the QB's blindside for years in New York. Possibly the most athletic offensive lineman to ever grace the draft (Other possibilities: Jon Beason, Paul Posluszny, Aaron Ross)
21. Denver: Jarvis Moss, DE - Florida
Denver could move up to the 10-13 picks to nab Adam Carriker. The Broncos are in dire need of a pass rusher. Moss will do at 21 (Other possibilities: Brandon Meriweather, Michael Griffen)
22. Dallas: Robert Meachem, WR - Tennessee
A steal by the Cowboys. He lands in the perfect situation, where he can gain mentorship in the physical part of the game from Owens (amazing that I called Owens a mentor). Meachem has it all, size, speed and hands (Other possibilities: Dwayne Bowe, Aaron Ross)
23. Kansas City: Aaron Ross, CB - Texas
With word that Marty Booker may be coming from Miami in a trade for Trent Green, the Chiefs can focus on an area where they're getting very old. Ross is the Thorpe Award winner, and brings a style similar to Surtain (Other possibilities: Dwayne Bowe, Chris Houston)
24. New England (from Seattle): Chris Houston, CB Arkansas
The Pats opt for a corner. Houston is lightning fast. With the injuries the Pats have had at CB in the past, they couldn't pass up this pick (Other possibilities: Brandon Merriweather, Michael Griffen, Marcus McCauley)
25. New York Jets: Greg Olsen, TE - Miami
Mangini lands exactly what the team needs. A steal at 25, who could give Pennington what he's missed all along (Other possibilities: Brandon Merriweather)
26. Philadelphia: Brandon Merriweather, S - Miami
Merriweather could fall if teams are concerned about his on field fight while at Miami. Merriweather can play either CB or S, but will most likely replace Michael Lewis (Other possibilities: Dwayne Bowe, Michael Griffen, Paul Posluszny, Lawrence Timmons)
27. New Orleans: Jon Beason, LB - Miami
The Saints go after an intriguing prospect. Beason is physically in the mold of D.J. Williams and Jon Vilma, but wasn't as productive in college (Other possibilities: Justin Harrell, Paul Posluszny)
28. New England: David Harris, MLB - Michigan
The Pats tend to find players that will fit their "system". Apparently, Harris fits their system. He will be Bruschi's successor (Other possibilities: Paul Posluszny)
29. Baltimore: Paul Posluszny, LB - Penn St.
Baltimore is a deep team, and can go many directions with this pick. Posluszny was the best player available (Other possibilities: Ryan Kalil, Lawrence Timmons, Ben Grubbs)
30. San Diego: Dwayne Bowe, WR - LSU
While the team likes Vincent Jackson, and he did great at the end of last season, WR is a position that must be addressed. Bowe would be a great pick for Phillop Rivers, giving him another big target to go with Jackson and Gates (Other possibilities: Marcus McCauley, Michael Griffen)
31. Chicago: Justin Harrell, DT - Tennessee
Harrell is moving up the charts and could easily sneak into this pick if Chicago stays put. Tank Johnson could be suspended for the season, and the Bears need an insurance policy (Other possibilities: Lawrence Timmons, Ben Grubbs)
32. Indianapolis: Marcus McCauley, CB - Fresno State
McCauley has all the tools to fit any defense, but his physical play and support in run defense will fit the Colts Cover-2 defense well (Other possibilities: Lawrence Timmons, Ben Grubbs, Ryan Kalil)
Second Round
33. Oakland: Tony Ugoh, OT - Arkansas
Oakland had a horrid offensive line last year, and Ugoh can easily step in at either tackle and help immediately, opening the door for Sims to move inside
34. Detroit: Trent Edwards, QB - Stanford
The new future QB of the Lions. Don't be surprised if John Beck somehow sneaks into this pick.
35. Tampa Bay: Sidney Rice, WR - South Carolina
As much as they hated missing out on Calvin Johnson, the Bucs land a player who was slated to be a Top 10 pick in next year's draft, had he not left too early.
36. Cleveland: Eric Wright, CB - UNLV
Wright ran a blazing 40 time, and could be in line to start in Cleveland. Crennell may be willing to overlook Wright's off-field concerns in order to save his job
37. Chicago (from Washington thru NY Jets): Ben Grubbs, G - Auburn
The Bears go with the best player available and land a top-5 lineman in the draft. Grubbs will pave the way for Cedric Benson for years.
38. Arizona: Lawrence Timmons, LB - Florida St.
Arizona overlooks their need at DE and drafts the best player available. Timmons projects into the first round and is a steal at this point
39. Atlanta (from Houston): Quentin Moses, DE - Georgia
A pass rusher with all the tools to be effective in the NFL. Was never very productive on the college level, but was double-teamed a lot, leaving his bookend DE (Charles Johnson) open to wreak havoc
40. Miami: Michael Griffen, S - Texas
With Jason Allen moving to CB, this opens a spot for Griffen to start. Another player projected as a first rounder who falls because he's not playing a sexy position
41. Minnesota: Ryan Kalil, C - USC
While they would like to look at a WR, Kalil was adds too much value to pass up. The team has been unhappy with Matt Birk the last few years. Kalil could move Birk to another position, possibly backup tackle
42. San Francisco: Dwayne Jarrett, WR - USC
Jarrett fills an immediate need in San Fran. The knock on Jarrett should be blamed on former teammate Mike Williams, who doesn't have the speed to separate. Jarrett may have that same issue, but the 9ers won't pass on him.
43. Buffalo: Antonio Pittman, RB - Ohio State
A speedy 1-2 punch to go with Anthony Thomas. Could find his niche on this team which will provide him many opportunities
44. Atlanta: Justin Blalock, G - Texas
He'll push Clabo for the starting spot
45. Carolina: Daymeion Hughes, CB - California
Hughes is listed as a CB, but will only be a CB on a Cover-2 team. Hughes has a physical style which will be more suited for safety in the Carolina defense. He also has that ball-hawking style that teams covet at safety
46. Pittsburgh: Ikaika Alama-Francis, DE - Hawaii
One of the sleepers in this draft. He's a former basketball player who added ~75 pounds in college, and could even add more and move inside to tackle. If the Steelers keep the 3-4 alignment, he'll fit right in at DE
47. Green Bay: Zach Miller, TE - Arizona State
A nice fit, as he'll be the pass-catching TE that Bubba Franks never really was. Miller will give Favre a nice big target as a safety valve receiver.
48. Jacksonville: Tim Crowder, DE - Texas
Crowder had an excellent day at the combines, boosting his value. He will most-likely split time with Spicer
49. Cincinnati: Tank Tyler, DT - NC State
Sam Adams is getting old. Tyler brings the same type of game as Sam Adams. He could fit right into the rotation
50. Tennessee: Jonathan Wade, CB - Tennessee
With Pacman Jones gone, the Titans take a kid from their local university. Wade is a player who has all the tools to be a #1 CB, but is raw and needs coaching to put it all together.
51. New York Giants: Tanard Jackson, DB - Syracuse
This pick will ease some of the team's concern over Gibril Wilson's health. Tanard Jackson is listed as a CB, but will move to safety in New York. A physical player who was always around the ball at Syracuse
52. St. Louis: Brian Leonard, RB - Rutgers
A steal at this point. He ends any flirtation the team has with signing Ricky Williams.
53. Dallas: Tarell Brown, CB - Texas
An interesting prospect. Could be one of the steals of the draft. Had some off-field troubles, and played his senior season with a broken bone in his foot. Overshadowed by Aaron Ross. However, coming into his senior season was considered the better NFL prospect.
54. Kansas City: Aaron Sears, G - Tennessee
Sears can play all OL spots, except C. He'll probably start out as a backup, but could replace one of the aging veterans by his 2nd season. Don't be fooled by the talent the Chiefs have on the O-Line. Most of the starters are up there in age.
55. Seattle: Ben Patrick, TE - Delaware
A Diamond in the Rough. Excellent hands, great all-around skills, and at 250 pounds is still considered a good blocker. Could become a "Highlight Reel" TE with his tools. He'll sit behind Pollard for a year before making his impact
56. Denver: Eric Weddle, S - Utah
Why not have Jon Lynch help groom the player that's been likened to him. Weddle is a gamer who just makes plays. Teams need to overlook his mediocre measurables.
57. Philadelphia: Steve Smith, WR - USC
Great pick for the Eagles. Overshadowed in college by teammates like Mike Williams and Dwayne Jarrett. Could be another Keary Colbert
58. New Orleans: Craig "Buster" Davis, WR - LSU
Another WR overshadowed by a teammate (Dwayne Bowe) in college. Davis could end up being a better as a pro than he was in college
59. New York Jets: LaMarr Woodley, DE - Michigan
He could unseat Bryan Thomas. He is versatile enough to be a stand up or down rusher
60. Miami (from New England): John Beck, QB - BYU
A QB who is rising up the charts as of late. Miami gets their future QB.
61. Baltimore: Ryan Harris, OT - Notre Dame
Offensive line must be addressed, and Harris is the best lineman on the board. Harris could be Ogden's successor
62. San Diego: Justin Durant, LB - Hampton
The Chargers front office loves these kind of players. Durant will line up inside. The kind of player that coaches love
63. New York Jets (from Chicago): Josh Wilson, CB - Maryland
Probably the fastest player on the field in this draft. What he lacks in size, he makes up for in athletic ability. Addresses depth issues the Jets had at CB last season
64. Tampa Bay (from Indianapolis): Turk McBride, DT - Tennessee
McBride could add a few pounds, but he fits the Tampa gap system like a glove.
Third round
65. Oakland: Charles Johnson, DE - Georgia
Oakland Nabs the best D-Lineman available. Johnson is projected to go in the 2nd round. He could push Tommy Kelly for the starting DE spot.
66. Detroit: Stewart Bradley, LB - Nebraska
Tough as nails run-stopper. Can play MLB or SLB. Can even play DE, as he has pass rush skills. What you see is what you get. Doesn't offer a lot as far as potential. He'll Lenon and Lehman for the starting spot at MLB
67. Cleveland: Ray McDonald, DE - Florida
Edwards will eventually replace Orpheaus Roye
68. Tampa Bay: Brandon Silar, LB - Florida
More depth at LB due to Brooks's age and Quarles's career status. Silar projects into the 2nd round
69. Arizona: Chris Henry, RB - Arizona
Don't be fooled by word that's coming out of Arizona. They don't think highly of their RB situation. Not only do they land a hometown guy, Wisenhunt gets a Willie Parker clone
70. Denver (from Washington): Quincy Black: LB - New Mexico
Another pass rusher, but from the LB position. D.J. Williams will move inside, leaving a battle between Warrick Holdman, D.D. Lewis and Black for the job on the strong side
71. Miami: Kenny Scott, CB - Georgia Tech
Has very good numbers, which make him interesting. A gamble, as he could easily be a bust, but could also pay off in a big way. He could contribute in the nickel early on
72. Minnesota: Victor Abiamiri, DE - Notre Dame
Abiamiri could help ease the situation if James gets hurt again, or Udeze is ineffective again
73. Houston: Anthony Gonzalez, WR - Ohio State
One would not expect Gonzalez to fall to the 3rd round. If Gonzalez isn't present, Aundrae Allison or Jason hill could be options
74. Buffalo: Antwan Barnes, LB - Florida International
An edge rusher in the mold of Robert Mathis. Expect him to see plenty of time on passing downs. Mark Anderson helped the cause of these types of players too, last season
75. Atlanta: Quinn Pitcock, DT - Ohio State
Grady Jackson is in a bit of trouble with the team. This could be one of those "message" picks, while still filling depth needs
76. San Francisco: Michael Coe, CB - Alabama St.
He doesn't jump off the draft charts at you, but cannot be overlooked. Excellent size to go with good speed. The only knock is the level of competition he played.
77. Pittsburgh: Tony Hunt, RB - Penn State
He'll back up Parker and Davenport, but will eventually take over Davenport's role as the short yardage and change of pace back.
78. Green Bay: Samson Satele, C - Hawaii
He could push Scott Wells for the starting spot, but will more likely sit for a year before taking the reigns
79. Jacksonville: Drew Stanton, QB - Michigan St.
At one point Stanton was the top NFL prospect at QB. The knock is that he didn't live up to his potential in big games.
Cincinnati: Forfieted Pick
80. Tennessee: Kenny Irons, RB - Auburn
Message to LenDale White: Watch your weight. Irons could take a chunk of playing time from White.
81. New York Giants: Marcus Thomas, DT - Florida
Coughlin will overlook off-field troubles, if it will help him keep his job. Thomas could have been a 2nd round prospect if not for those concerns
82. Kansas City (from St. Louis): Paul Soliai, DT - Utah
A space eater in the mold of former Chief DT, Keith Traylor. Look for him to contribute to the rotation
83. Carolina: Zak DeOssie, MLB - Brown
Another sleeper prospect. Has the tools, he just played on a small level.
84. St. Louis (from Kansas City): Kevin Kolb, QB - Houston
A "system QB" or is he the real deal? Physically, he's a top 5 QB prospect. However, we've seen how Houston QBs fare in the NFL. Kolb looks to be the best prospect in recent years though. Could be a steal
85. Seattle: Doug Free, OT - Northern Illinois
Could push to start on the right side. A versatile player who could even play guard and push Ray Willis to his more natural right tackle position
86. Denver: James Marten, OT - Boston College
Marten could eventually replace Meadows at Right Tackle.
87. Dallas: Walter Thomas, DT - NW Mississippi C.C.
A true nose tackle. He goes 6-5, 375. Very raw talent, but has limitless upside. Moves very well for someone his size. Originally went to Oklahoma State before being kicked off the team. Hasn't had any documented issues since. Could stand to lose some weight. A project who could pay off in a big way
88. New Orleans: Brandon Mebane, DT - California
A DT who made his mark by getting into opposing backfields. Doesn't have much upside, so you know what you're getting. Can be a contributor in the rotation
89. New York Jets: Andy Alleman, G - Akron
Fits the style of lineman that the Jets are going for. Alleman fits right into the zone-blocking scheme
90. Philadelphia: Fred Bennett, CB - South Carolina
A cover corner who wasn't very productive on the college level. However, he has the tools that could make him effective on the NFL level.
91. New England: John Wendling, S - Wyoming
A sleeper pick. He has the measurables that are sought after. Needs coaching to correct minor flaws. Can play either safety, and has starting potential.
92. Buffalo (from Baltimore): Aundrae Allison, WR - East Carolina
A shifty WR with deep speed. Adds value by stretching the field and also as a return man.
93. San Diego: Usama Young, CB - Kent St.
Not very well known, but put himself on the map at the combines. He has the tools that teams would look for in a starter, however he is in need of coaching
94. Chicago: Earl Everett, LB - Florida
A jack of all trades. Can play any LB position and safety too. He even has skills as a pass rusher
95. Indianapolis: Tim Shaw, LB - Penn State
A speedy LB who played multiple positions at Penn State (DE, RB). Has raw skills that can be coached. Could be a steal.
96. San Diego (COMP): Aaron Rouse, S - Virginia Tech
Rouse is a big safety, who could also project to linebacker. He could push Terrence Kiel if he fits the defense as a safety
97. San Francisco (COMP): Lorenzo Booker, RB - Florida State
A change of pace back, which the 9ers are lacking right now.
98. Indianapolis (COMP): Jacoby Jones, WR - Lane
A sleeper pick who the scouts know. Excellent athlete with great size. A track and basketball guy who is a little raw in football.
99. Oakland (COMP): Jason Hill, WR - Washington St.
Great college numbers. A deep threat who could be a decent #2 for the Raiders.
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