Agreed about Kubiak and QB's.
According to one of the posters in the know Smith/Scouts are in charge of procuring the talent.
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McShay Mock
- Thread starter TexansFTW
- Start date
Agreed about Kubiak and QB's.
According to one of the posters in the know Smith/Scouts are in charge of procuring the talent.
Yeah... that thing with OB saying he wanted all 90 guys there wasn't insight into how the F.O. works. It was just coach speak.
OB has the same deal Kubiak had. He says who makes the team, who doesn't. Who dresses on gameday, who doesn't.
However, the overall process is a collaborative one. Rick tries to get players OB wants. Fitzpatrick, Hoyer, Mallett (?) & shuffles off players OB isn't interested in; Yates, Keenum, Schaub, OD, Andre...
OB wanted a slot receiver. Smith got him Shorts, Strong, & Mumphrey. OB decides to play Strong some games & not others.
We needed a RB. OB wanted Polk. Smith got him. We needed a strong side LB, Vrabel remembers this kid he coached at Ohio State. Smith plucks him off someone's practice squad.
OB has the same deal Kubiak had. He says who makes the team, who doesn't. Who dresses on gameday, who doesn't.
However, the overall process is a collaborative one. Rick tries to get players OB wants. Fitzpatrick, Hoyer, Mallett (?) & shuffles off players OB isn't interested in; Yates, Keenum, Schaub, OD, Andre...
OB wanted a slot receiver. Smith got him Shorts, Strong, & Mumphrey. OB decides to play Strong some games & not others.
We needed a RB. OB wanted Polk. Smith got him. We needed a strong side LB, Vrabel remembers this kid he coached at Ohio State. Smith plucks him off someone's practice squad.
TexansFTW
Veteran
McShay is a moron. Lots of Connor Cook hate. I love it. Maybe I'll buy a ticket to a game again if he falls to us and they draft him.
Doubtful though. This team has Christian Hackenberg written all over it. We're also a Dumpster diver team of the Patriots and Browns organizations. Maybe we trade for Josh McCown or Jimmy Garapolo.
Everyone that wants a QB doesn't want us to draft a 4th round QB in the first round for the sake of the "investment" or whatever point is being made. I come into this forum once a year and the same played out responses never quit being used.
If you are someone that wants the Texans to draft a 4th round evaluated QB in the first round raise your hand please and state why.
If we are sitting between #16-22 and Connor Cook is staring back at us, put my name in the Cook hat.
Doubtful though. This team has Christian Hackenberg written all over it. We're also a Dumpster diver team of the Patriots and Browns organizations. Maybe we trade for Josh McCown or Jimmy Garapolo.
Everyone that wants a QB doesn't want us to draft a 4th round QB in the first round for the sake of the "investment" or whatever point is being made. I come into this forum once a year and the same played out responses never quit being used.
If you are someone that wants the Texans to draft a 4th round evaluated QB in the first round raise your hand please and state why.
If we are sitting between #16-22 and Connor Cook is staring back at us, put my name in the Cook hat.
Marshall
Not pretty, but ALIVE!
And Miami got how many rings in those Marino years? Be careful of what you think you want.
Marshall
Not pretty, but ALIVE!
People just can't grasp the difference between authoritarian approaches (what they are used to seeing) and a consensus approach.
The entire front office shares in both success and failure. But they also get to define success and failure.
TexansSeminole
Hall of Fame
Two horribly assumptive and absolutist arguments.
It can be very difficult to have or observe a real meaningful back and forth on this forum. Posters consistently do this.
Funny that you say that after making this above statement. These two statements and their underlying points are in direct contradiction.
Actually the owner of any business is responsible for its success or failure. Whether the Texans are a success or failure depends on your definition of success/failure. The $$$$ side of the frnchise has been an unequivocal success. On the field product has been mediocre at best. The results tell you what is most important to the McNair's.
But oh well,
1. Winning the division is what's most important.
2. We're on the right track
3. We dont want to do anything to traumatic.
4. McNair, Bud Adams was a good friend and mentor to me.
I know I've left out many more McNair gems from over the yrs.
Marshall
Not pretty, but ALIVE!
No. They both indicate that there is more to success and organizational structure than absolutism. Many paths to success and many organizational structures with no guarantees.
Marshall
Not pretty, but ALIVE!
OK, 4. makes me ill.
Seriously, you want to blame Marino for that? Put me down as wanting a Marino.
Marshall
Not pretty, but ALIVE!
I'd like a Marino too. But it doesn't guarantee anything.
What exactly would "guarantee anything "? Wouldn't you agree that most great QBs have rings? Making Marino the exception to the rule.
Marshall
Not pretty, but ALIVE!
It's one of those chicken and egg things. Defining QBs who win the Superbowl as great tends to make great QBs Superbowl Winners with a couple of exceptions like Marino and Archie Manning.
I'm not defining all Super Bowl winning QBs as great. I'm not saying Doug Williams or Mark Rypien are great. Peyton, Brady, Staubach, Montana, Elway, Rodgers, Favre are great. As you say, not very many who are great haven't won a ring. And you really stretched great including Archie. Fouts would've been a better example.
Bottom line, a great QB may not guarantee a Lombardi trophy. But the odds are really good.
Mr teX
Hall of Fame
Yes, most great qbs have rings. But I don't think Kelly is less of a great qb b/c he never won 1..nor would I have thought any less of Elway if he didn't ride TD to 2 SB rings when he was well past his prime & just average at that point. It really just needs to be classified as a very good to great qb can at least lead you to one...winning one is an entirely different animal for a number of reasons.
PapaL
Loose Screw
Todd McShay's 2016 NFL Mock Draft 3.0:
With the combine behind us, pro days and individual workouts are next up on the schedule for teams evaluating players for the 2016 NFL draft.
We made some updates to our board after seeing the measurements and athletic testing results from most of the top prospects in Indianapolis, and we continue to adjust players' grades as we complete their tape evaluations. We also came away from Indy with some more ideas on the direction teams could go with their picks.
Which player will your team select in the first round? Here is our third projection of the 31 first-round picks in the 2016 NFL draft.
1. Tennessee Titans
Laremy Tunsil, OT, Mississippi Tunsil is the most talented offensive lineman in the draft, so if Tennessee is interested in filling its biggest need -- and protecting QB Marcus Mariota for the long term -- he would be a great choice. If a QB-needy team is looking to leapfrog Cleveland and trade up to the No. 1 spot, then the Titans could stockpile some extra picks and still potentially get a really good second option at tackle in Ronnie Stanley.
2. Cleveland Browns
Carson Wentz, QB, North Dakota State The Browns have a lot of needs, but none of them matter much until they find a long-term answer at QB. Wentz and Cal's Jared Goff continued to separate themselves from the rest of the QB class at the NFL combine. The decision here will come down to personal preference. Wentz has better athleticism and bigger hands to grip the ball in bad weather. Goff has more experience against high-level competition and a stronger arm. I give Wentz the edge for now, but it's close.
3. San Diego Chargers
DeForest Buckner, DE, Oregon Offensive tackle is certainly an option here, with Philip Rivers aging and the line continuing to struggle last season. But Buckner would give San Diego a much-needed scheme-versatile defender who is a disruptive force against the run. He made great strides as a pass-rusher last season, finishing the Pac-12 season with 8.0 sacks in nine games. At 6-foot-7 and 291 pounds, Buckner is a perfect 5-technique in a 3-4.
4. Dallas Cowboys
Joey Bosa, DE, Ohio State Bosa plays with great leverage and is masterful at using his hands to shed blockers. He didn't have the best showing at the combine, but once you turn on the film, it's clear that Bosa is a top-tier player in this draft. Dallas needs impact defenders, and Bosa would be ready to start from Day 1 in Rod Marinelli's 4-3 scheme. CB Jalen Ramsey is another option here.
5. Jacksonville Jaguars
Jalen Ramsey, CB, Florida State The Jaguars have needs at both corner and safety. The solution? Draft Ramsey and figure out which hole you want him to plug. The Florida State product has the lateral quickness and natural athleticism to play cornerback in the NFL, and the frame (6-foot-1, 209 pounds), top-end speed (4.41 40-yard dash) and run-stuffing ability to excel at safety. He tested off the charts in Indy and is one of the safest prospects in this draft.
6. Baltimore Ravens
Ronnie Stanley, OT, Notre Dame Stanley didn't test off the charts at the combine, but his long arms (just over 35½ inches) and big frame (6-foot-6, 312 pounds) are what you're looking for in a left tackle prospect. The Ravens would have the luxury of easing Stanley into his role at left tackle with Eugene Monroe still under contract. Two other options the Ravens could look at here: 1) RB Ezekiel Elliott and 2) Trading back. Ozzie Newsome loves to stockpile picks and a team like the Rams could be tempted to jump ahead of San Francisco and take Jared Goff.
7. San Francisco 49ers
Jared Goff, QB, Cal There's a lot still to be hashed out between the 49ers and Colin Kaepernick. But if Chip Kelly is looking to draft his QB of the future and Goff falls to No. 7, the 49ers might just pull the trigger. Goff is a naturally accurate thrower who displays above-average anticipation. His smooth release would fit perfectly within Kelly's scheme, which counts on the quarterback getting the ball out on time and on target.
8. Miami Dolphins
Myles Jack, LB, UCLA Jack, who is still recovering from an early-season knee injury, didn't participate in drills at the combine. But his tape shows a twitched-up athlete who thrives in coverage and can make plays all over the field versus the run. If the Dolphins are looking to add a much-needed playmaker to the second level, Jack is their best bet.
9. Tampa Bay Buccaneers
Vernon Hargreaves III, CB, Florida It's not often the best pure cover corner in the draft falls to No. 9 overall, but here we are. Hargreaves wins in man-to-man coverage with elite quickness and footwork, and he showed off excellent ball skills during his time at Florida (10 career interceptions in 37 games). Playing in a division against Cam Newton,Drew Brees and Matt Ryan, the Bucs need to continue to upgrade their secondary.
10. New York Giants
Ezekiel Elliott, RB, Ohio State Defense -- specifically DE, LB and CB -- are all bigger needs, and Clemson DEShaq Lawson could be a good fit if the Giants are unable to lure Jason Pierre-Paul back to New York. However, after a good performance in Indianapolis, I think there's a strong chance Elliott goes in the top 10, whether it's to the Giants or via a team trading up. At 6-foot and 225 pounds, he has the frame and skill set to be an every-down back in the pros. And his 4.47 40-yard dash at the combine confirmed what we saw on tape: Elliott has breakaway speed once he gets a crease.
11. Chicago Bears
Shaq Lawson, DE, Clemson The Bears need more impact players on defense, and Lawson -- who led the FBS with 25.5 tackles for loss last season -- fits the bill. He plays with a good mixture of relentlessness, technique and discipline. Lawson isn't the best athlete on tape, but he tested well at the combine and has a good first step.
12. New Orleans Saints
A'Shawn Robinson, DT, Alabama Robinson is never going to be a guy who puts up huge numbers or blows away the athletic tests in Indy, but if you're looking for an interior D-lineman to plug holes and occupy blockers, this is your guy. On tape, he consistently stands up opposing linemen and pushes them into the backfield. He does a good job of tracking the ball and redirecting for someone who's 307 pounds. Tough, physical and imposing, Robinson is exactly the type of player the Saints need to change their identity on defense.
13. Philadelphia Eagles
Jack Conklin, OT, Michigan State This would be an ideal situation for Conklin. Based on the tape I've watched, he has the skill set of a right tackle. But his athletic testing at the combine -- 5.0-second 40-yard dash, 7.63 three-cone and 4.57 short shuttle -- and his long arms (35 inches) suggest he could potentially be a left tackle someday. If he went to Philly, Conklin wouldn't be pressured to protect the QB's blind side from Day 1, given that the Eagles just signed Lane Johnson to an extension.
14. Oakland Raiders
Eli Apple, CB, Ohio State A true 6-foot-1 and 199 pounds, Apple has the size NFL teams covet in their corners. He played a lot of press-man coverage at Ohio State and has the speed (4.40 40-yard dash at the combine) to turn and run with faster wideouts. Apple still needs to refine his ball skills, but there's a lot to like about his raw skill set.
15. Los Angeles Rams
Laquon Treadwell, WR, Mississippi Would the Rams pull the trigger on Memphis QB Paxton Lynch if he's still on the board here? I'm guessing they'd pass. Would they try to package some picks and move up to, say, No. 6 to snag Goff or Wentz? Perhaps. For now, I'll give them Treadwell. Wide receiver is another top need. He didn't run at the combine, and I'm interested to see his time at his pro day on March 28, but his game isn't built on pure speed. He's a big, strong receiver with a very good combination of athletic ability, body control and ball skills.
16. Detroit Lions
Taylor Decker, OT, Ohio State Matthew Stafford was sacked 89 times the past two seasons, so the Lions have to address their offensive line somehow this offseason. Decker has good experience and is a solid fit at right tackle -- a specific need for Detroit up front. A highly efficient run-blocker, Decker plays with enough toughness and range to hold up in pass protection at the next level.
17. Atlanta Falcons
Darron Lee, OLB, Ohio State The Falcons were the worst defense in the NFL at covering running backs and tight ends last season, allowing 213 combined completions, according to ESPN Stats & Information research. Selecting Lee -- a very good cover linebacker with 4.47 speed -- would go a long way toward addressing that weakness. The former Buckeye fits into today's NFL very well and would provide an immediate upgrade to Atlanta's LB corps.
18. Indianapolis Colts
Leonard Floyd, OLB, Georgia If Laremy Tunsil, Ronnie Stanley, Jack Conklin and Taylor Decker are all off the board, the Colts will have to decide whether to reach for an O-lineman (Jason Spriggs and Germain Ifedi are next up on my board) or take an impact player elsewhere. Floyd would give Indianapolis an athlete who can pressure the QB and drop into coverage. He's not a finished product, so that might scare off some talent evaluators, but Floyd has the raw tools to develop into a playmaker.
19. Buffalo Bills
Sheldon Rankins, DT, Louisville You have to think Rex Ryan would be pretty happy if Rankins fell to No. 19 overall. He's not Sheldon Richardson, but the Louisville product would fill that type of role playing alongside Marcell Dareus in Ryan's defense. Rankins has a unique combination of quickness and power for someone who weighs 299 pounds. One of the most underrated players in this class, Rankins brings a lot of scheme versatility to the table.
20. New York Jets
Noah Spence, OLB, Eastern Kentucky How the Jets handle free agency will dictate the importance of drafting a running back or a quarterback (Paxton Lynch?) here. With a ton of dominoes still to fall, I'll give them Spence, who turned in a disappointing performance at the combine after showing rare quickness and bend around the edge at the Senior Bowl. He's a confounding prospect, especially when it comes to his personal character, but some team is going to fall in love with his ceiling.
21. Washington Redskins
Jarran Reed, DT, Alabama Reed has the skill set to be the centerpiece in a 3-4 front. At 6-foot-3 and 307 pounds, the Crimson Tide product maintains great leverage and is hard to move off the ball. While he is never going to be a consistent threat to rush the passer from the interior, Reed maintains very good gap discipline versus the run, showing the ability to beat double-teams and penetrate the backfield.
With the combine behind us, pro days and individual workouts are next up on the schedule for teams evaluating players for the 2016 NFL draft.
We made some updates to our board after seeing the measurements and athletic testing results from most of the top prospects in Indianapolis, and we continue to adjust players' grades as we complete their tape evaluations. We also came away from Indy with some more ideas on the direction teams could go with their picks.
Which player will your team select in the first round? Here is our third projection of the 31 first-round picks in the 2016 NFL draft.
1. Tennessee Titans
Laremy Tunsil, OT, Mississippi Tunsil is the most talented offensive lineman in the draft, so if Tennessee is interested in filling its biggest need -- and protecting QB Marcus Mariota for the long term -- he would be a great choice. If a QB-needy team is looking to leapfrog Cleveland and trade up to the No. 1 spot, then the Titans could stockpile some extra picks and still potentially get a really good second option at tackle in Ronnie Stanley.
2. Cleveland Browns
Carson Wentz, QB, North Dakota State The Browns have a lot of needs, but none of them matter much until they find a long-term answer at QB. Wentz and Cal's Jared Goff continued to separate themselves from the rest of the QB class at the NFL combine. The decision here will come down to personal preference. Wentz has better athleticism and bigger hands to grip the ball in bad weather. Goff has more experience against high-level competition and a stronger arm. I give Wentz the edge for now, but it's close.
3. San Diego Chargers
DeForest Buckner, DE, Oregon Offensive tackle is certainly an option here, with Philip Rivers aging and the line continuing to struggle last season. But Buckner would give San Diego a much-needed scheme-versatile defender who is a disruptive force against the run. He made great strides as a pass-rusher last season, finishing the Pac-12 season with 8.0 sacks in nine games. At 6-foot-7 and 291 pounds, Buckner is a perfect 5-technique in a 3-4.
4. Dallas Cowboys
Joey Bosa, DE, Ohio State Bosa plays with great leverage and is masterful at using his hands to shed blockers. He didn't have the best showing at the combine, but once you turn on the film, it's clear that Bosa is a top-tier player in this draft. Dallas needs impact defenders, and Bosa would be ready to start from Day 1 in Rod Marinelli's 4-3 scheme. CB Jalen Ramsey is another option here.
5. Jacksonville Jaguars
Jalen Ramsey, CB, Florida State The Jaguars have needs at both corner and safety. The solution? Draft Ramsey and figure out which hole you want him to plug. The Florida State product has the lateral quickness and natural athleticism to play cornerback in the NFL, and the frame (6-foot-1, 209 pounds), top-end speed (4.41 40-yard dash) and run-stuffing ability to excel at safety. He tested off the charts in Indy and is one of the safest prospects in this draft.
6. Baltimore Ravens
Ronnie Stanley, OT, Notre Dame Stanley didn't test off the charts at the combine, but his long arms (just over 35½ inches) and big frame (6-foot-6, 312 pounds) are what you're looking for in a left tackle prospect. The Ravens would have the luxury of easing Stanley into his role at left tackle with Eugene Monroe still under contract. Two other options the Ravens could look at here: 1) RB Ezekiel Elliott and 2) Trading back. Ozzie Newsome loves to stockpile picks and a team like the Rams could be tempted to jump ahead of San Francisco and take Jared Goff.
7. San Francisco 49ers
Jared Goff, QB, Cal There's a lot still to be hashed out between the 49ers and Colin Kaepernick. But if Chip Kelly is looking to draft his QB of the future and Goff falls to No. 7, the 49ers might just pull the trigger. Goff is a naturally accurate thrower who displays above-average anticipation. His smooth release would fit perfectly within Kelly's scheme, which counts on the quarterback getting the ball out on time and on target.
8. Miami Dolphins
Myles Jack, LB, UCLA Jack, who is still recovering from an early-season knee injury, didn't participate in drills at the combine. But his tape shows a twitched-up athlete who thrives in coverage and can make plays all over the field versus the run. If the Dolphins are looking to add a much-needed playmaker to the second level, Jack is their best bet.
9. Tampa Bay Buccaneers
Vernon Hargreaves III, CB, Florida It's not often the best pure cover corner in the draft falls to No. 9 overall, but here we are. Hargreaves wins in man-to-man coverage with elite quickness and footwork, and he showed off excellent ball skills during his time at Florida (10 career interceptions in 37 games). Playing in a division against Cam Newton,Drew Brees and Matt Ryan, the Bucs need to continue to upgrade their secondary.
10. New York Giants
Ezekiel Elliott, RB, Ohio State Defense -- specifically DE, LB and CB -- are all bigger needs, and Clemson DEShaq Lawson could be a good fit if the Giants are unable to lure Jason Pierre-Paul back to New York. However, after a good performance in Indianapolis, I think there's a strong chance Elliott goes in the top 10, whether it's to the Giants or via a team trading up. At 6-foot and 225 pounds, he has the frame and skill set to be an every-down back in the pros. And his 4.47 40-yard dash at the combine confirmed what we saw on tape: Elliott has breakaway speed once he gets a crease.
11. Chicago Bears
Shaq Lawson, DE, Clemson The Bears need more impact players on defense, and Lawson -- who led the FBS with 25.5 tackles for loss last season -- fits the bill. He plays with a good mixture of relentlessness, technique and discipline. Lawson isn't the best athlete on tape, but he tested well at the combine and has a good first step.
12. New Orleans Saints
A'Shawn Robinson, DT, Alabama Robinson is never going to be a guy who puts up huge numbers or blows away the athletic tests in Indy, but if you're looking for an interior D-lineman to plug holes and occupy blockers, this is your guy. On tape, he consistently stands up opposing linemen and pushes them into the backfield. He does a good job of tracking the ball and redirecting for someone who's 307 pounds. Tough, physical and imposing, Robinson is exactly the type of player the Saints need to change their identity on defense.
13. Philadelphia Eagles
Jack Conklin, OT, Michigan State This would be an ideal situation for Conklin. Based on the tape I've watched, he has the skill set of a right tackle. But his athletic testing at the combine -- 5.0-second 40-yard dash, 7.63 three-cone and 4.57 short shuttle -- and his long arms (35 inches) suggest he could potentially be a left tackle someday. If he went to Philly, Conklin wouldn't be pressured to protect the QB's blind side from Day 1, given that the Eagles just signed Lane Johnson to an extension.
14. Oakland Raiders
Eli Apple, CB, Ohio State A true 6-foot-1 and 199 pounds, Apple has the size NFL teams covet in their corners. He played a lot of press-man coverage at Ohio State and has the speed (4.40 40-yard dash at the combine) to turn and run with faster wideouts. Apple still needs to refine his ball skills, but there's a lot to like about his raw skill set.
15. Los Angeles Rams
Laquon Treadwell, WR, Mississippi Would the Rams pull the trigger on Memphis QB Paxton Lynch if he's still on the board here? I'm guessing they'd pass. Would they try to package some picks and move up to, say, No. 6 to snag Goff or Wentz? Perhaps. For now, I'll give them Treadwell. Wide receiver is another top need. He didn't run at the combine, and I'm interested to see his time at his pro day on March 28, but his game isn't built on pure speed. He's a big, strong receiver with a very good combination of athletic ability, body control and ball skills.
16. Detroit Lions
Taylor Decker, OT, Ohio State Matthew Stafford was sacked 89 times the past two seasons, so the Lions have to address their offensive line somehow this offseason. Decker has good experience and is a solid fit at right tackle -- a specific need for Detroit up front. A highly efficient run-blocker, Decker plays with enough toughness and range to hold up in pass protection at the next level.
17. Atlanta Falcons
Darron Lee, OLB, Ohio State The Falcons were the worst defense in the NFL at covering running backs and tight ends last season, allowing 213 combined completions, according to ESPN Stats & Information research. Selecting Lee -- a very good cover linebacker with 4.47 speed -- would go a long way toward addressing that weakness. The former Buckeye fits into today's NFL very well and would provide an immediate upgrade to Atlanta's LB corps.
18. Indianapolis Colts
Leonard Floyd, OLB, Georgia If Laremy Tunsil, Ronnie Stanley, Jack Conklin and Taylor Decker are all off the board, the Colts will have to decide whether to reach for an O-lineman (Jason Spriggs and Germain Ifedi are next up on my board) or take an impact player elsewhere. Floyd would give Indianapolis an athlete who can pressure the QB and drop into coverage. He's not a finished product, so that might scare off some talent evaluators, but Floyd has the raw tools to develop into a playmaker.
19. Buffalo Bills
Sheldon Rankins, DT, Louisville You have to think Rex Ryan would be pretty happy if Rankins fell to No. 19 overall. He's not Sheldon Richardson, but the Louisville product would fill that type of role playing alongside Marcell Dareus in Ryan's defense. Rankins has a unique combination of quickness and power for someone who weighs 299 pounds. One of the most underrated players in this class, Rankins brings a lot of scheme versatility to the table.
20. New York Jets
Noah Spence, OLB, Eastern Kentucky How the Jets handle free agency will dictate the importance of drafting a running back or a quarterback (Paxton Lynch?) here. With a ton of dominoes still to fall, I'll give them Spence, who turned in a disappointing performance at the combine after showing rare quickness and bend around the edge at the Senior Bowl. He's a confounding prospect, especially when it comes to his personal character, but some team is going to fall in love with his ceiling.
21. Washington Redskins
Jarran Reed, DT, Alabama Reed has the skill set to be the centerpiece in a 3-4 front. At 6-foot-3 and 307 pounds, the Crimson Tide product maintains great leverage and is hard to move off the ball. While he is never going to be a consistent threat to rush the passer from the interior, Reed maintains very good gap discipline versus the run, showing the ability to beat double-teams and penetrate the backfield.
PapaL
Loose Screw
22. Houston Texans
Vernon Butler, DT, Louisiana Tech While they might be tempted to take Paxton Lynch or Christian Hackenberghere, I think the Texans will wait until Round 2 to snag a QB, even if it means they have to move up a little bit. Houston's defense was outstanding down the stretch, but J.J. Watt needs some help up front. Butler has the versatility to play nose tackle or 5-technique DE. His tape is a lot better than his athletic testing at the combine indicated. Butler has the size (6-4, 323), length (35-plus-inch arms) and upper-body power (26 reps on the bench) to wreak havoc up front.
23. Minnesota Vikings
Vonn Bell, S, Ohio State WR Josh Doctson would make sense here too, but this is a pure value pick. Bell is currently No. 17 on our board, and the Vikings are in need of a playmaker opposite of Harrison Smith. With nine career interceptions, Bell has elite cover skills for a safety. He shows good recovery speed when needed and can match up with most slot wide receivers and tight ends one-on-one. Bell is ready to start from Day 1.
24. Cincinnati Bengals
Josh Doctson, WR, TCU Doctson is the best WR in this year's class at attacking the ball when it's in the air. With a good frame (6-2, 202), a wide catch radius (41-inch vertical) and big hands (nearly 10 inches), the former Horned Frog has a chance to develop into a reliable deep threat at the next level. If Vernon Butler and/or Jarran Reed fell this far, they would both be possibilities since depth is a question in the middle of the Bengals' defense.
25. Pittsburgh Steelers
Mackensie Alexander, CB, Clemson Tight end is a need, and we have a first-round grade on Hunter Henry, but you have to think the Steelers are going to spend this pick on a defender. Quick-twitched, instinctive and capable versus the run, Alexander is a really good all-around player. But he finished college with zero interceptions and lacks ideal length; he measured 5-foot-10 with arms less than 31½ inches at the combine. Houston CB William Jackson III, who had an impressive combine workout and has really underrated tape, is another possibility here.
26. Seattle Seahawks
Robert Nkemdiche, DT, Mississippi The Seahawks have shown a willingness to take a chance on risk/reward prospects in the past, and Nkemdiche, who comes with plenty of off-field baggage, certainly fits that bill. Even though his tape is inconsistent, he has top-10 talent, and his combine workout confirmed his rare athletic ability. According to ESPN Stats & Information data, Nkemdiche is just the fifth defensive lineman since 2006 to weigh in at 290-plus pounds, run a sub-5.00 40-yard dash and jump at least 35 inches in the vertical.
27. Green Bay Packers
Reggie Ragland, ILB, Alabama With Clay Matthews set to move back to OLB, you'd have to think the Packers would jump at the chance to take the No. 14 overall player on our board -- and the best ILB in the class -- at pick No. 27. I wouldn't be surprised if Ragland went a little earlier to the Bears, Falcons, Jets or Bengals, but he could fall due to team needs and positional value. Ragland's football intelligence, toughness and straight-line speed will be an asset to whichever team takes him.
28. Kansas City Chiefs
Chris Jones, DT, Mississippi State With so many key defenders set to be free agents, the Chiefs' focus with this pick could change greatly over the coming months. Kansas City could gamble on LB Jaylon Smith here, who is one of the most talented players in this class but suffered a significant injury at the worst time. Jones comes with risk too. He plays with an inconsistent motor, and there's some concern about his overall work ethic. But his freakish combination of length, strength and straight-line burst gives him a high ceiling.
29. Arizona Cardinals
Kamalei Correa, OLB, Boise State This would be an interesting -- and ideal -- situation for Paxton Lynch, who would have a chance to sit behind and learn from Carson Palmer. If they don't pull the trigger on a QB in Round 1, look for the Cardinals to take a developmental prospect like Connor Cook or Christian Hackenberg on Day 2. Arizona also needs to address its pass rush, which is where Correa comes in. With 19 sacks in his final two seasons, Correa is a dynamic athlete with the versatility to rush the QB and hold up in coverage.
30. Carolina Panthers
Emmanuel Ogbah, DE, Oklahoma State The Panthers will be in the market for more depth at cornerback, so you'd have to think William Jackson III and Kendall Fuller would be in the mix here too. And while Ogbah had a terrific combine, his motor runs hot and cold on tape, which is a concern. When he decides to cut loose as a pass-rusher, he has an outstanding combination of length, quickness and power.
31. Denver Broncos
Jason Spriggs, OT, Indiana Spriggs was one of the big winners in Indy. He's inconsistent on tape, but his size (just over 6-foot-5½) and athleticism (he crushed the short shuttle and 40 at the combine) make him an appealing prospect, especially in Denver's zone-blocking scheme. Adding depth up front will be one of the Broncos' top offseason priorities.
Best prospects remaining
Hunter Henry, TE, Arkansas
Andrew Billings, DT, Baylor
Will Fuller, WR, Notre Dame
Paxton Lynch, QB, Memphis
Germain Ifedi, OT, Texas A&M
Jaylon Smith, OLB, Notre Dame
Adolphus Washington, DT, Ohio State
Connor Cook, QB, Michigan State
Austin Johnson, DT, Penn State
Michael Thomas, WR, Ohio State
Kevin Dodd, DE, Clemson
Kendall Fuller, CB, Virginia Tech
Karl Joseph, S, West Virginia
Kenny Clark, DT, UCLA
Corey Coleman, WR, Baylor
Ryan Kelly, OC, Alabama
William Jackson III, CB, Houston
Hassan Ridgeway, DT, Texas
Jerell Adams, TE, South Carolina
Christian Hackenberg, QB, Penn State
There will be only 31 picks in the first round of the 2016 draft, with New England's first-round pick forfeited.
Vernon Butler, DT, Louisiana Tech While they might be tempted to take Paxton Lynch or Christian Hackenberghere, I think the Texans will wait until Round 2 to snag a QB, even if it means they have to move up a little bit. Houston's defense was outstanding down the stretch, but J.J. Watt needs some help up front. Butler has the versatility to play nose tackle or 5-technique DE. His tape is a lot better than his athletic testing at the combine indicated. Butler has the size (6-4, 323), length (35-plus-inch arms) and upper-body power (26 reps on the bench) to wreak havoc up front.
23. Minnesota Vikings
Vonn Bell, S, Ohio State WR Josh Doctson would make sense here too, but this is a pure value pick. Bell is currently No. 17 on our board, and the Vikings are in need of a playmaker opposite of Harrison Smith. With nine career interceptions, Bell has elite cover skills for a safety. He shows good recovery speed when needed and can match up with most slot wide receivers and tight ends one-on-one. Bell is ready to start from Day 1.
24. Cincinnati Bengals
Josh Doctson, WR, TCU Doctson is the best WR in this year's class at attacking the ball when it's in the air. With a good frame (6-2, 202), a wide catch radius (41-inch vertical) and big hands (nearly 10 inches), the former Horned Frog has a chance to develop into a reliable deep threat at the next level. If Vernon Butler and/or Jarran Reed fell this far, they would both be possibilities since depth is a question in the middle of the Bengals' defense.
25. Pittsburgh Steelers
Mackensie Alexander, CB, Clemson Tight end is a need, and we have a first-round grade on Hunter Henry, but you have to think the Steelers are going to spend this pick on a defender. Quick-twitched, instinctive and capable versus the run, Alexander is a really good all-around player. But he finished college with zero interceptions and lacks ideal length; he measured 5-foot-10 with arms less than 31½ inches at the combine. Houston CB William Jackson III, who had an impressive combine workout and has really underrated tape, is another possibility here.
26. Seattle Seahawks
Robert Nkemdiche, DT, Mississippi The Seahawks have shown a willingness to take a chance on risk/reward prospects in the past, and Nkemdiche, who comes with plenty of off-field baggage, certainly fits that bill. Even though his tape is inconsistent, he has top-10 talent, and his combine workout confirmed his rare athletic ability. According to ESPN Stats & Information data, Nkemdiche is just the fifth defensive lineman since 2006 to weigh in at 290-plus pounds, run a sub-5.00 40-yard dash and jump at least 35 inches in the vertical.
27. Green Bay Packers
Reggie Ragland, ILB, Alabama With Clay Matthews set to move back to OLB, you'd have to think the Packers would jump at the chance to take the No. 14 overall player on our board -- and the best ILB in the class -- at pick No. 27. I wouldn't be surprised if Ragland went a little earlier to the Bears, Falcons, Jets or Bengals, but he could fall due to team needs and positional value. Ragland's football intelligence, toughness and straight-line speed will be an asset to whichever team takes him.
28. Kansas City Chiefs
Chris Jones, DT, Mississippi State With so many key defenders set to be free agents, the Chiefs' focus with this pick could change greatly over the coming months. Kansas City could gamble on LB Jaylon Smith here, who is one of the most talented players in this class but suffered a significant injury at the worst time. Jones comes with risk too. He plays with an inconsistent motor, and there's some concern about his overall work ethic. But his freakish combination of length, strength and straight-line burst gives him a high ceiling.
29. Arizona Cardinals
Kamalei Correa, OLB, Boise State This would be an interesting -- and ideal -- situation for Paxton Lynch, who would have a chance to sit behind and learn from Carson Palmer. If they don't pull the trigger on a QB in Round 1, look for the Cardinals to take a developmental prospect like Connor Cook or Christian Hackenberg on Day 2. Arizona also needs to address its pass rush, which is where Correa comes in. With 19 sacks in his final two seasons, Correa is a dynamic athlete with the versatility to rush the QB and hold up in coverage.
30. Carolina Panthers
Emmanuel Ogbah, DE, Oklahoma State The Panthers will be in the market for more depth at cornerback, so you'd have to think William Jackson III and Kendall Fuller would be in the mix here too. And while Ogbah had a terrific combine, his motor runs hot and cold on tape, which is a concern. When he decides to cut loose as a pass-rusher, he has an outstanding combination of length, quickness and power.
31. Denver Broncos
Jason Spriggs, OT, Indiana Spriggs was one of the big winners in Indy. He's inconsistent on tape, but his size (just over 6-foot-5½) and athleticism (he crushed the short shuttle and 40 at the combine) make him an appealing prospect, especially in Denver's zone-blocking scheme. Adding depth up front will be one of the Broncos' top offseason priorities.
Best prospects remaining
Hunter Henry, TE, Arkansas
Andrew Billings, DT, Baylor
Will Fuller, WR, Notre Dame
Paxton Lynch, QB, Memphis
Germain Ifedi, OT, Texas A&M
Jaylon Smith, OLB, Notre Dame
Adolphus Washington, DT, Ohio State
Connor Cook, QB, Michigan State
Austin Johnson, DT, Penn State
Michael Thomas, WR, Ohio State
Kevin Dodd, DE, Clemson
Kendall Fuller, CB, Virginia Tech
Karl Joseph, S, West Virginia
Kenny Clark, DT, UCLA
Corey Coleman, WR, Baylor
Ryan Kelly, OC, Alabama
William Jackson III, CB, Houston
Hassan Ridgeway, DT, Texas
Jerell Adams, TE, South Carolina
Christian Hackenberg, QB, Penn State
There will be only 31 picks in the first round of the 2016 draft, with New England's first-round pick forfeited.
TexansSeminole
Hall of Fame
Someone will make a move on a QB past the top 10 in the first round, it's just hard to project that in a mock draft. I think that waiting until the second round leaves you vulnerable to not being able to make a trade happen to move up with your second pick. We may have to wait until our natural second rounder comes up and I would bet that both Lynch and Cook are gone, maybe even another guy like Hackenburg or Prescott too.
If Goff and Wentz go in the top 7, I would expect that we would have to probably move up in order to snag Lynch or Cook, assuming we are targeting one. They seem to be pretty evenly rated but different so teams may prefer one much more than the other. I think that only heightens the likelihood that teams make moves up for their guy.
If Goff and Wentz go in the top 7, I would expect that we would have to probably move up in order to snag Lynch or Cook, assuming we are targeting one. They seem to be pretty evenly rated but different so teams may prefer one much more than the other. I think that only heightens the likelihood that teams make moves up for their guy.
TexansSeminole
Hall of Fame
What would it take to move to 8, 9, or 10? If SF doesn't take a QB and one of Goff or Wentz is still available, that might be a spot to look at moving to.
We need to move to at least 6 to have a shot, imo
Our first, second, and third ... ballpark.
WolverineFan
Hall of Fame
Daniel Jeremiah mock draft 3.0 today...
1. Tennessee - Laremy Tunsil (OT, Mississippi)
- A trade down would be nice for Tennessee, but I don't see that happening.
2. Cleveland - Carson Wentz (QB, North Dakota State)
- Wentz has aced the Senior Bowl and the combine.
3. San Diego - Jalen Ramsey (CB, Florida State)
- Ramsey moved around like a premier CB at the combine.
4. Dallas - Joey Bosa (DE, Ohio State)
- The Cowboys can't count on Randy Gregory, and Bosa will have an immediate impact.
5. Jacksonville - Myles Jack (OLB, UCLA)
- The Jags need to get more explosive on defense, and Jack can lineup at just about any position on defense.
6. Baltimore - DeForest Buckner (DE, Oregon)
- Buckner has a rare combination of size/agility/motor and he's built to play in the AFC North.
7. San Francisco - Jared Goff (QB, California)
- The 49ers can't afford to pass on a potential franchise QB in their own backyard.
8. Miami - Kevin Dodd (DE, Clemson)
- The Dolphins need to add some youth on the edge and Dodd has tremendous upside.
9. Tampa Bay - Vernon Hargreaves (CB, Florida)
- The Bucs need to get more dynamic at this position and Hargreaves is a ball magnet.
10. NY Giants - Shaq Lawson (DE, Clemson)
- Lawson plays with great technique/effort and his production is outstanding.
11. Chicago - Ronnie Stanley (OT, Notre Dame)
- Stanley is a Day 1 starting left tackle.
12. New Orleans - Sheldon Rankins (DT, Louisville)
- Rankins will add some quickness to the Saints' defensive front.
13. Philadelphia - Corey Coleman (WR, Baylor)
- The Eagles need more explosiveness at the WR spot and Coleman is a big-play machine.
14. Oakland - Jack Conklin (OT, Michigan State)
- Conklin proved has the skill set and demeanor to excel at multiple positions on the OL.
15. Los Angeles - Paxton Lynch (QB, Memphis)
- The Rams need to address the QB spot and while very raw, Lynch has a huge upside.
16. Detroit - Laquon Treadwell (WR, Mississippi)
- Treadwell isn't a burner, but I love his physical style of play and he'll be a double-digit TD producer very early in his career.
17. Atlanta - Leonard Floyd (OLB, Georgia)
- Floyd would team up with Vic Beasley to give the Falcons two fastballs coming off the edge.
18. Indianapolis - Taylor Decker (OT, Ohio State)
- Keeping Andrew Luck upright has to be priority No. 1.
19. Buffalo - Jarran Reed (DT, Alabama)
- There are flashier DTs available here, but Reed is the most consistent and he brings a rugged playing style as well.
20. NY Jets - Ezekiel Elliott (RB, Ohio State)
- Elliott is clearly the top RB in this class and he will fit perfectly in this offense.
21. Washington - Darron Lee (OLB, Ohio State)
- Lee has the speed, instincts and play-making ability to be a difference maker from Day 1.
22. Houston - Will Fuller (WR, Notre Dame)
- There is a lot of buzz building around Fuller and I expect him to be picked in this range.
23. Minnesota - Josh Doctson (WR, TCU)
- The Vikings need more weapons on offense and Doctson turned some heads with his performance at the combine.
24. Cincinnati - Reggie Ragland (ILB, Alabama)
- Ragland doesn't wow you with timed speed, but he plays plenty fast and can dominate against the run.
25. Pittsburgh - Noah Spence (DE, Eastern Kentucky)
- If Spence checks out off the field, this would be a tremendous value for the Steelers.
26. Seattle - A'Shawn Robinson (DT, Alabama)
- Robinson is one of the top interior defenders in the draft and he would fit perfectly in Seattle.
27. Green Bay - Andrew Billings (NT, Baylor)
- I was very impressed with the athleticism Billings displayed at the combine.
28. Kansas City - Robert Nkemdiche (DT, Mississippi)
- The Chiefs took a chance with their first-round pick last year (Marcus Peters) and it paid off. Nkemdiche has top-5 pick talent, but off-field issues will likely cause him to drop.
29. Arizona - Mackensie Alexander (CB, Clemson)
- There are concerns about his speed and production, but Alexander is very athletic and tough.
30. Carolina - Eli Apple (CB, Ohio State)
- Apple had an excellent combine workout and alleviated any concerns about his speed.
31. Denver - Germain Ifedi (OG, Texas A&M)
- The Broncos need to address the OL and Ifedi has excellent size and versatility.
1. Tennessee - Laremy Tunsil (OT, Mississippi)
- A trade down would be nice for Tennessee, but I don't see that happening.
2. Cleveland - Carson Wentz (QB, North Dakota State)
- Wentz has aced the Senior Bowl and the combine.
3. San Diego - Jalen Ramsey (CB, Florida State)
- Ramsey moved around like a premier CB at the combine.
4. Dallas - Joey Bosa (DE, Ohio State)
- The Cowboys can't count on Randy Gregory, and Bosa will have an immediate impact.
5. Jacksonville - Myles Jack (OLB, UCLA)
- The Jags need to get more explosive on defense, and Jack can lineup at just about any position on defense.
6. Baltimore - DeForest Buckner (DE, Oregon)
- Buckner has a rare combination of size/agility/motor and he's built to play in the AFC North.
7. San Francisco - Jared Goff (QB, California)
- The 49ers can't afford to pass on a potential franchise QB in their own backyard.
8. Miami - Kevin Dodd (DE, Clemson)
- The Dolphins need to add some youth on the edge and Dodd has tremendous upside.
9. Tampa Bay - Vernon Hargreaves (CB, Florida)
- The Bucs need to get more dynamic at this position and Hargreaves is a ball magnet.
10. NY Giants - Shaq Lawson (DE, Clemson)
- Lawson plays with great technique/effort and his production is outstanding.
11. Chicago - Ronnie Stanley (OT, Notre Dame)
- Stanley is a Day 1 starting left tackle.
12. New Orleans - Sheldon Rankins (DT, Louisville)
- Rankins will add some quickness to the Saints' defensive front.
13. Philadelphia - Corey Coleman (WR, Baylor)
- The Eagles need more explosiveness at the WR spot and Coleman is a big-play machine.
14. Oakland - Jack Conklin (OT, Michigan State)
- Conklin proved has the skill set and demeanor to excel at multiple positions on the OL.
15. Los Angeles - Paxton Lynch (QB, Memphis)
- The Rams need to address the QB spot and while very raw, Lynch has a huge upside.
16. Detroit - Laquon Treadwell (WR, Mississippi)
- Treadwell isn't a burner, but I love his physical style of play and he'll be a double-digit TD producer very early in his career.
17. Atlanta - Leonard Floyd (OLB, Georgia)
- Floyd would team up with Vic Beasley to give the Falcons two fastballs coming off the edge.
18. Indianapolis - Taylor Decker (OT, Ohio State)
- Keeping Andrew Luck upright has to be priority No. 1.
19. Buffalo - Jarran Reed (DT, Alabama)
- There are flashier DTs available here, but Reed is the most consistent and he brings a rugged playing style as well.
20. NY Jets - Ezekiel Elliott (RB, Ohio State)
- Elliott is clearly the top RB in this class and he will fit perfectly in this offense.
21. Washington - Darron Lee (OLB, Ohio State)
- Lee has the speed, instincts and play-making ability to be a difference maker from Day 1.
22. Houston - Will Fuller (WR, Notre Dame)
- There is a lot of buzz building around Fuller and I expect him to be picked in this range.
23. Minnesota - Josh Doctson (WR, TCU)
- The Vikings need more weapons on offense and Doctson turned some heads with his performance at the combine.
24. Cincinnati - Reggie Ragland (ILB, Alabama)
- Ragland doesn't wow you with timed speed, but he plays plenty fast and can dominate against the run.
25. Pittsburgh - Noah Spence (DE, Eastern Kentucky)
- If Spence checks out off the field, this would be a tremendous value for the Steelers.
26. Seattle - A'Shawn Robinson (DT, Alabama)
- Robinson is one of the top interior defenders in the draft and he would fit perfectly in Seattle.
27. Green Bay - Andrew Billings (NT, Baylor)
- I was very impressed with the athleticism Billings displayed at the combine.
28. Kansas City - Robert Nkemdiche (DT, Mississippi)
- The Chiefs took a chance with their first-round pick last year (Marcus Peters) and it paid off. Nkemdiche has top-5 pick talent, but off-field issues will likely cause him to drop.
29. Arizona - Mackensie Alexander (CB, Clemson)
- There are concerns about his speed and production, but Alexander is very athletic and tough.
30. Carolina - Eli Apple (CB, Ohio State)
- Apple had an excellent combine workout and alleviated any concerns about his speed.
31. Denver - Germain Ifedi (OG, Texas A&M)
- The Broncos need to address the OL and Ifedi has excellent size and versatility.
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bah007
Hall of Fame
If Goff is there at #6 I would very much encourage trading up for him. I know that the cost will be high but I just can't fathom not pulling the trigger there. I really think this kid is going to be the guy.
If Wentz and Goff just can't be had then I would be totally fine with Butler. He is going to be a stud NT in the future and this defense will need one. That would be a fantastic pick actually. But the flip side to that is the QB situation. I don't trust Cook enough to use a 1st and Lynch is just so far away from his potential that he may not be worth the investment either. That leaves us either sweating it out in the 2nd for Hackenberg or taking Prescott at #52. Anything after that and you're wasting a pick because you'd be better off just rolling with Savage.
If Wentz and Goff just can't be had then I would be totally fine with Butler. He is going to be a stud NT in the future and this defense will need one. That would be a fantastic pick actually. But the flip side to that is the QB situation. I don't trust Cook enough to use a 1st and Lynch is just so far away from his potential that he may not be worth the investment either. That leaves us either sweating it out in the 2nd for Hackenberg or taking Prescott at #52. Anything after that and you're wasting a pick because you'd be better off just rolling with Savage.
Texian
Hall of Fame
The Atlanta Falcons selected Jones with the sixth overall pick of the 2011 NFL Draft. Atlanta traded five draft picks to the Cleveland Browns to move up into their spot and take Jones, giving up their 27th, 59th, and 124th picks from the 2011 draft, and their first and fourth round picks from the 2012 draft.
PapaL
Loose Screw
5.0 Mock:
1. Los Angeles Rams
Jared Goff, QB, Cal
After making the move from No. 15 all the way up to No. 1, it seems the worst-kept secret in the world that L.A. is going to pick Goff. The Rams are an ideal landing spot for the Cal product. With a great defense and run-first offense, Goff won't be asked to carry the team from day one.
*Acquired in trade with Titans.
2. Philadelphia Eagles
Carson Wentz, QB, North Dakota State
The Eagles traded up from No. 8 to No. 2 with the goal of getting whichever quarterback Los Angeles passes on. All signs point to that being Wentz. Big, strong and athletic, he'll face a steep learning curve coming from the FCS, but he has a high ceiling if developed properly. Pairing him with QB guru Doug Pederson would be a great fit.
*Acquired in trade with Browns.
3. San Diego Chargers
Jalen Ramsey, DB, Florida State
Protecting Philip Rivers would seem like the bigger priority, so Laremy Tunsil and Ronnie Stanley are distinct possibilities. But I keep hearing Ramsey. Is he a safety? Is he a corner? I don't really care. One of the best pure football players in this class, Ramsey is a true difference-maker. The Chargers have a need at safety, which he could fill, while also contributing as a corner.
4. Dallas Cowboys
Ezekiel Elliott, RB, Ohio State
I've heard three names all along with Dallas: Elliott, Ramsey and Joey Bosa. It'd be tough for the Cowboys to pass on Bosa, my No. 1 overall player, but Elliott is a perfect fit to play behind Dallas' elite offensive line. He has the skill set to be an every-down RB from day one.
5. Jacksonville Jaguars
Joey Bosa, DE, Ohio State
This defense needs a lot of work, and Bosa has the technique and tenacity to be a difference-maker in Gus Bradley's scheme. He's a versatile 4-3 base DE who can kick inside and rush the passer in sub-package situations.
6. Baltimore Ravens
Ronnie Stanley, OT, Notre Dame
Some teams are cooling a little bit on Laremy Tunsil. He could go as high as No. 3, but he also could slide a bit within the top 10. Can you rely on him after he missed time in each of his three college seasons because of injury and suspension? Stanley is the safer prospect in some eyes. His long arms (35½ inches) and athletic skill set bode well for his eventual development into an NFL left tackle.
7. San Francisco 49ers
Laremy Tunsil, OT, Mississippi
If San Diego passes on Tunsil at No. 3 -- which I'm hearing is a distinct possibility -- it's not out of the question that he could slide this far down the board. The 49ers could try to trade back in this situation, but Chip Kelly loves athletic offensive linemen, and Tunsil is a twitchy 310-pounder who excels in pass protection.
8. Cleveland Browns
DeForest Buckner, DE, Oregon
This would be a perfect fit for the Browns. Buckner has some versatility, but he's best suited to play 3-4 DE, which just so happens to be one of Cleveland's biggest needs. Buckner is disruptive against the run and plays with a great motor.
*Acquired in trade with Eagles.
9. Tampa Bay Buccaneers
Jack Conklin, OT, Michigan State
Look out for a trade at this spot. Tennessee could move up from No. 15 to get a tackle like Conklin to protect Marcus Mariota. Even if Tampa Bay slides down the draft board, the Bucs could still get Vernon Hargreaves III (more on him later).
10. New York Giants
Darron Lee, OLB, Ohio State
The Giants spent big in the offseason to improve their front four and secondary, but they still need to get a few more linebackers who can cover and get sideline-to-sideline against the run. It would mark the first time since Carl Banks in 1984 that the Giants drafted a linebacker in Round 1. Lee has been blessed with an elite combination of speed (4.47 40-yard dash) and athleticism.
11. Chicago Bears
Leonard Floyd, OLB, Georgia
Floyd is one of the hottest players in the draft right now. Oakland would love him at No. 14, and the Giants could take him at No. 10. With upper-tier athleticism for the position, Floyd would give the Bears a high-ceiling pass-rusher off the edge.
12. New Orleans Saints
Sheldon Rankins, DT, Louisville
Getting stronger along the front four should be the Saints' biggest priority in this draft. Enter Rankins, who has very good quickness and lower-body explosiveness. An exceptional run defender, he flashed as a pass-rusher in his final two college seasons (14.0 sacks).
13. Miami Dolphins
Shaq Lawson, DE, Clemson
Hargreaves could be another option here, but I went with Lawson, who led the FBS last season with 25.5 tackles for loss, playing with a good mixture of relentlessness, technique and discipline. He does his best work against the run and would be a perfect fit for Miami's 4-3 scheme.
*Acquired in trade with Eagles.
14. Oakland Raiders
Reggie Ragland, ILB, Alabama
The Raiders need to get tougher up the middle of their defense. Other than having some limitations in coverage, Ragland is a complete football player who has the size, speed, power and toughness to thrive as the middle linebacker in a 4-3.
15. Tennessee Titans
Vernon Hargreaves III, CB, Florida
If stuck at No. 15 overall, Hargreaves would certainly make sense for Tennessee, filling a position of need with a good value selection. But as I mentioned earlier, I think there's a chance Tennessee could make a deal with Tampa Bay at No. 9 to move back into the top 10. In which case, Hargreaves -- who has the best man-to-man cover skills in this class -- would provide an immediate boost to the Bucs' secondary.
16. Detroit Lions
A'Shawn Robinson, DT, Alabama
I'm not as high on Robinson as others -- ahem, Mel -- but he could go in the top 20, especially to a team such as Detroit, which needs to start planning for the future at defensive tackle. Though Robinson has tremendous raw ability, his motor runs a little too hot and cold for my liking.
1. Los Angeles Rams
Jared Goff, QB, Cal
After making the move from No. 15 all the way up to No. 1, it seems the worst-kept secret in the world that L.A. is going to pick Goff. The Rams are an ideal landing spot for the Cal product. With a great defense and run-first offense, Goff won't be asked to carry the team from day one.
*Acquired in trade with Titans.
2. Philadelphia Eagles
Carson Wentz, QB, North Dakota State
The Eagles traded up from No. 8 to No. 2 with the goal of getting whichever quarterback Los Angeles passes on. All signs point to that being Wentz. Big, strong and athletic, he'll face a steep learning curve coming from the FCS, but he has a high ceiling if developed properly. Pairing him with QB guru Doug Pederson would be a great fit.
*Acquired in trade with Browns.
3. San Diego Chargers
Jalen Ramsey, DB, Florida State
Protecting Philip Rivers would seem like the bigger priority, so Laremy Tunsil and Ronnie Stanley are distinct possibilities. But I keep hearing Ramsey. Is he a safety? Is he a corner? I don't really care. One of the best pure football players in this class, Ramsey is a true difference-maker. The Chargers have a need at safety, which he could fill, while also contributing as a corner.
4. Dallas Cowboys
Ezekiel Elliott, RB, Ohio State
I've heard three names all along with Dallas: Elliott, Ramsey and Joey Bosa. It'd be tough for the Cowboys to pass on Bosa, my No. 1 overall player, but Elliott is a perfect fit to play behind Dallas' elite offensive line. He has the skill set to be an every-down RB from day one.
5. Jacksonville Jaguars
Joey Bosa, DE, Ohio State
This defense needs a lot of work, and Bosa has the technique and tenacity to be a difference-maker in Gus Bradley's scheme. He's a versatile 4-3 base DE who can kick inside and rush the passer in sub-package situations.
6. Baltimore Ravens
Ronnie Stanley, OT, Notre Dame
Some teams are cooling a little bit on Laremy Tunsil. He could go as high as No. 3, but he also could slide a bit within the top 10. Can you rely on him after he missed time in each of his three college seasons because of injury and suspension? Stanley is the safer prospect in some eyes. His long arms (35½ inches) and athletic skill set bode well for his eventual development into an NFL left tackle.
7. San Francisco 49ers
Laremy Tunsil, OT, Mississippi
If San Diego passes on Tunsil at No. 3 -- which I'm hearing is a distinct possibility -- it's not out of the question that he could slide this far down the board. The 49ers could try to trade back in this situation, but Chip Kelly loves athletic offensive linemen, and Tunsil is a twitchy 310-pounder who excels in pass protection.
8. Cleveland Browns
DeForest Buckner, DE, Oregon
This would be a perfect fit for the Browns. Buckner has some versatility, but he's best suited to play 3-4 DE, which just so happens to be one of Cleveland's biggest needs. Buckner is disruptive against the run and plays with a great motor.
*Acquired in trade with Eagles.
9. Tampa Bay Buccaneers
Jack Conklin, OT, Michigan State
Look out for a trade at this spot. Tennessee could move up from No. 15 to get a tackle like Conklin to protect Marcus Mariota. Even if Tampa Bay slides down the draft board, the Bucs could still get Vernon Hargreaves III (more on him later).
10. New York Giants
Darron Lee, OLB, Ohio State
The Giants spent big in the offseason to improve their front four and secondary, but they still need to get a few more linebackers who can cover and get sideline-to-sideline against the run. It would mark the first time since Carl Banks in 1984 that the Giants drafted a linebacker in Round 1. Lee has been blessed with an elite combination of speed (4.47 40-yard dash) and athleticism.
11. Chicago Bears
Leonard Floyd, OLB, Georgia
Floyd is one of the hottest players in the draft right now. Oakland would love him at No. 14, and the Giants could take him at No. 10. With upper-tier athleticism for the position, Floyd would give the Bears a high-ceiling pass-rusher off the edge.
12. New Orleans Saints
Sheldon Rankins, DT, Louisville
Getting stronger along the front four should be the Saints' biggest priority in this draft. Enter Rankins, who has very good quickness and lower-body explosiveness. An exceptional run defender, he flashed as a pass-rusher in his final two college seasons (14.0 sacks).
13. Miami Dolphins
Shaq Lawson, DE, Clemson
Hargreaves could be another option here, but I went with Lawson, who led the FBS last season with 25.5 tackles for loss, playing with a good mixture of relentlessness, technique and discipline. He does his best work against the run and would be a perfect fit for Miami's 4-3 scheme.
*Acquired in trade with Eagles.
14. Oakland Raiders
Reggie Ragland, ILB, Alabama
The Raiders need to get tougher up the middle of their defense. Other than having some limitations in coverage, Ragland is a complete football player who has the size, speed, power and toughness to thrive as the middle linebacker in a 4-3.
15. Tennessee Titans
Vernon Hargreaves III, CB, Florida
If stuck at No. 15 overall, Hargreaves would certainly make sense for Tennessee, filling a position of need with a good value selection. But as I mentioned earlier, I think there's a chance Tennessee could make a deal with Tampa Bay at No. 9 to move back into the top 10. In which case, Hargreaves -- who has the best man-to-man cover skills in this class -- would provide an immediate boost to the Bucs' secondary.
16. Detroit Lions
A'Shawn Robinson, DT, Alabama
I'm not as high on Robinson as others -- ahem, Mel -- but he could go in the top 20, especially to a team such as Detroit, which needs to start planning for the future at defensive tackle. Though Robinson has tremendous raw ability, his motor runs a little too hot and cold for my liking.
PapaL
Loose Screw
17. Atlanta Falcons
Myles Jack, OLB, UCLA
I'm still trying to get all of the info on Jack's medical reports, but right now, I'm not sure if teams in the top 10 are willing to take the risk on his knee. When healthy, there's no doubting Jack's ability. A true sideline-to-sideline defender, he excels in coverage and would fill a major need for Atlanta.
18. Indianapolis Colts
Taylor Decker, OT, Ohio State
After failing to protect Andrew Luck last season, the Colts must come out of this draft with a more solidified offensive line. Decker would be a great place to start. He's a perfect fit at right tackle, Indy's biggest need, and has one of the highest floors of anyone in this draft.
19. Buffalo Bills
Chris Jones, DT, Mississippi State
One of the ultimate boom/bust players in the 2016 class, Jones has the potential to develop into a highly disruptive inside presence if he remains focused. He has a rare combination of length, strength and athleticism. Another player to keep an eye on here: Kevin Dodd from Clemson. The Bills love ACC guys, and while this would be a too early for him based on my board, they do have a bigger need for a perimeter rusher.
20. New York Jets
Eli Apple, CB, Ohio State
There's lots of noise surrounding the Jets and Paxton Lynch. It might happen, but I think it'd be a huge mistake to take such a raw QB prospect this early. Apple has an outstanding size-speed combination; his 4.40 40-yard dash is the fourth-fastest by a DB 6-foot-1 or taller at the NFL combine since 2006. The Jets need a playmaker opposite Darrelle Revis.
21. Washington Redskins
Jarran Reed, DT, Alabama
A physical tone-setter with a great motor, Reed would fit perfectly into the team Scot McCloughan is building. The Alabama product is the best interior run-stuffer in the draft, showing the strength and toughness to fight through double-teams.
22. Houston Texans
Corey Coleman, WR, Baylor
Speed, speed and more speed -- that's what QB Brock Osweiler needs from the wide receiver who ends up playing opposite of DeAndre Hopkins, which is why I opted for Coleman over Mississippi's Laquon Treadwell. Coleman has sub-4.4 wheels and the change-of-direction ability to create big plays after the catch.
23. Minnesota Vikings
Laquon Treadwell, WR, Mississippi
With outstanding hand-eye coordination and body control, Treadwell is highly effective on contested throws and jump balls. He'd give QB Teddy Bridgewater a receiver who can consistently win on short-to-intermediate throws. Great value at No. 23, too.
24. Cincinnati Bengals
Josh Doctson, WR, TCU
Doctson would look good lining up opposite of A.J. Green. The TCU product is a natural pass-catcher who shows the ability to contort his body in contested-catch situations. He's not a burner (4.50 40), but Doctson is fast enough to threaten when he gets a seam after the catch.
25. Pittsburgh Steelers
William Jackson III, CB, Houston
Jackson is coming off a highly productive senior campaign in which he led the FBS with 28 pass breakups, and had five interceptions. He has a good frame (6-0, 189 pounds) and elite speed (4.37 40), along with the work ethic to develop into a steady corner at the next level.
26. Seattle Seahawks
Robert Nkemdiche, DT, Mississippi
This would mark Seattle's first Round 1 selection since 2012, but it could be a spot where a QB-needy team looks to trade ahead of Kansas City, Arizona and Denver. If Seattle says put, I wouldn't be surprised to see them take a shot on Nkemdiche or OLB Noah Spence, two high-risk, high-reward defenders. Nkemdiche is a top-10 talent who fell this far because of inconsistent 2015 tape and behavioral concerns.
27. Green Bay Packers
Andrew Billings, DT, Baylor
The Packers picked a good year to have one of their most glaring needs be a 3-4 nose tackle. Billings has an outstanding combination of quickness, athleticism and power, which helps him wreak havoc on the interior. He'd be a plug-and-play starter for the Packers, who are looking to find a difference-maker on the interior after B.J. Raji announced he's taking a hiatus from football.
28. Kansas City Chiefs
Artie Burns, CB, Miami (FL)
Burns' stock continues to rise. With his extremely long arms (33¼ inches) and ability to play bump-and-run coverage, he'd be a perfect fit for Bob Sutton's defense, which is in need of a corner to play opposite defensive rookie of the year Marcus Peters after Sean Smith left in free agency.
29. Arizona Cardinals
Ryan Kelly, C, Alabama
The top-ranked interior lineman on our board, Kelly has the frame, quickness, toughness and football intelligence to be a starter from day one in the NFL. There's a chance Arizona would think about drafting its QB of the future here, but center is the team's biggest need.
30. Carolina Panthers
Kevin Dodd, DE, Clemson
Yes, the Panthers suddenly have a glaring need at CB after rescinding Josh Norman's franchise tag, but with four CBs off the board, pass-rusher is a better value. Dodd has only one season of full-time starting experience, but he took advantage of his opportunity, posting 23.5 tackles for loss. That was second overall in the FBS and up from 2.5 the season before. He'd fill one of the Panthers' biggest holes and get a chance to develop along one of the most dominant defenses in the league.
31. Denver Broncos
Germain Ifedi, OT, Texas A&M
Ifedi needs to work on his technique, but the raw tools are there. He has the length (36-inch arms), quickness and balance to thrive in pass protection. He could develop into a solid right tackle or guard at the next level.
Note: There will be only 31 picks in the first round of the 2016 draft, with New England's first-round pick forfeited.
Five best players remaining
1. Karl Joseph, S, West Virginia
2. Vernon Butler, DT, Louisiana Tech
3. Will Fuller, WR, Notre Dame
4. Vonn Bell, S, Ohio State
5. Hunter Henry, TE, Arkansas
Myles Jack, OLB, UCLA
I'm still trying to get all of the info on Jack's medical reports, but right now, I'm not sure if teams in the top 10 are willing to take the risk on his knee. When healthy, there's no doubting Jack's ability. A true sideline-to-sideline defender, he excels in coverage and would fill a major need for Atlanta.
18. Indianapolis Colts
Taylor Decker, OT, Ohio State
After failing to protect Andrew Luck last season, the Colts must come out of this draft with a more solidified offensive line. Decker would be a great place to start. He's a perfect fit at right tackle, Indy's biggest need, and has one of the highest floors of anyone in this draft.
19. Buffalo Bills
Chris Jones, DT, Mississippi State
One of the ultimate boom/bust players in the 2016 class, Jones has the potential to develop into a highly disruptive inside presence if he remains focused. He has a rare combination of length, strength and athleticism. Another player to keep an eye on here: Kevin Dodd from Clemson. The Bills love ACC guys, and while this would be a too early for him based on my board, they do have a bigger need for a perimeter rusher.
20. New York Jets
Eli Apple, CB, Ohio State
There's lots of noise surrounding the Jets and Paxton Lynch. It might happen, but I think it'd be a huge mistake to take such a raw QB prospect this early. Apple has an outstanding size-speed combination; his 4.40 40-yard dash is the fourth-fastest by a DB 6-foot-1 or taller at the NFL combine since 2006. The Jets need a playmaker opposite Darrelle Revis.
21. Washington Redskins
Jarran Reed, DT, Alabama
A physical tone-setter with a great motor, Reed would fit perfectly into the team Scot McCloughan is building. The Alabama product is the best interior run-stuffer in the draft, showing the strength and toughness to fight through double-teams.
22. Houston Texans
Corey Coleman, WR, Baylor
Speed, speed and more speed -- that's what QB Brock Osweiler needs from the wide receiver who ends up playing opposite of DeAndre Hopkins, which is why I opted for Coleman over Mississippi's Laquon Treadwell. Coleman has sub-4.4 wheels and the change-of-direction ability to create big plays after the catch.
23. Minnesota Vikings
Laquon Treadwell, WR, Mississippi
With outstanding hand-eye coordination and body control, Treadwell is highly effective on contested throws and jump balls. He'd give QB Teddy Bridgewater a receiver who can consistently win on short-to-intermediate throws. Great value at No. 23, too.
24. Cincinnati Bengals
Josh Doctson, WR, TCU
Doctson would look good lining up opposite of A.J. Green. The TCU product is a natural pass-catcher who shows the ability to contort his body in contested-catch situations. He's not a burner (4.50 40), but Doctson is fast enough to threaten when he gets a seam after the catch.
25. Pittsburgh Steelers
William Jackson III, CB, Houston
Jackson is coming off a highly productive senior campaign in which he led the FBS with 28 pass breakups, and had five interceptions. He has a good frame (6-0, 189 pounds) and elite speed (4.37 40), along with the work ethic to develop into a steady corner at the next level.
26. Seattle Seahawks
Robert Nkemdiche, DT, Mississippi
This would mark Seattle's first Round 1 selection since 2012, but it could be a spot where a QB-needy team looks to trade ahead of Kansas City, Arizona and Denver. If Seattle says put, I wouldn't be surprised to see them take a shot on Nkemdiche or OLB Noah Spence, two high-risk, high-reward defenders. Nkemdiche is a top-10 talent who fell this far because of inconsistent 2015 tape and behavioral concerns.
27. Green Bay Packers
Andrew Billings, DT, Baylor
The Packers picked a good year to have one of their most glaring needs be a 3-4 nose tackle. Billings has an outstanding combination of quickness, athleticism and power, which helps him wreak havoc on the interior. He'd be a plug-and-play starter for the Packers, who are looking to find a difference-maker on the interior after B.J. Raji announced he's taking a hiatus from football.
28. Kansas City Chiefs
Artie Burns, CB, Miami (FL)
Burns' stock continues to rise. With his extremely long arms (33¼ inches) and ability to play bump-and-run coverage, he'd be a perfect fit for Bob Sutton's defense, which is in need of a corner to play opposite defensive rookie of the year Marcus Peters after Sean Smith left in free agency.
29. Arizona Cardinals
Ryan Kelly, C, Alabama
The top-ranked interior lineman on our board, Kelly has the frame, quickness, toughness and football intelligence to be a starter from day one in the NFL. There's a chance Arizona would think about drafting its QB of the future here, but center is the team's biggest need.
30. Carolina Panthers
Kevin Dodd, DE, Clemson
Yes, the Panthers suddenly have a glaring need at CB after rescinding Josh Norman's franchise tag, but with four CBs off the board, pass-rusher is a better value. Dodd has only one season of full-time starting experience, but he took advantage of his opportunity, posting 23.5 tackles for loss. That was second overall in the FBS and up from 2.5 the season before. He'd fill one of the Panthers' biggest holes and get a chance to develop along one of the most dominant defenses in the league.
31. Denver Broncos
Germain Ifedi, OT, Texas A&M
Ifedi needs to work on his technique, but the raw tools are there. He has the length (36-inch arms), quickness and balance to thrive in pass protection. He could develop into a solid right tackle or guard at the next level.
Note: There will be only 31 picks in the first round of the 2016 draft, with New England's first-round pick forfeited.
Five best players remaining
1. Karl Joseph, S, West Virginia
2. Vernon Butler, DT, Louisiana Tech
3. Will Fuller, WR, Notre Dame
4. Vonn Bell, S, Ohio State
5. Hunter Henry, TE, Arkansas
bah007
Hall of Fame
I realize I'm just not the biggest Coleman fan but taking him with Doctson AND Treadwell still on the board? I don't get it. If you actually think he's the better player then fine, pull the trigger. But just because he's faster? Really?
I also don't get people who don't like Spriggs but do like Ifedi. The only knock against Spriggs also applies to Ifedi, and he also comes with other negatives on top of that.
I also don't get people who don't like Spriggs but do like Ifedi. The only knock against Spriggs also applies to Ifedi, and he also comes with other negatives on top of that.
Number19
Hall of Fame
Yah, I remember your early March analysis. You had Coleman rated as a third round prospect.
McShay along with most all the other so called professional analysts are nothing more than talking heads paid to fill air time and/or fill out a written article with a minimum word count. Most of them don't know an individual teams needs because they report on the NFL as a whole and don't do any in depth analysis of individual teams. Most of them also rely on the number of hits they can bring to their companies website thus they intentionally write controversial stuff that will bring notoriety/hits. These guys are half a step higher on the evolutionary scale above the Kardashians and pond scum. Think of them as entertainers, not serious analysts or journalists. They're something to amuse yourself with but not to be taken seriously.
Only Kiper and McShay take McShay and Kiper seriously
edit: Oh, and perhaps Skip Bayless
beerlover
Hall of Fame
We're fine, have couple younger versions right here (2.0 & 3.0) Bah007 & WolverineFan
CloakNNNdagger
Hall of Fame
FYI:
**********************************************************************************
Chondral Defects (of the knee) by Position
Review of three years of NFL Combine Data (2008):
_____________________________________
Position /% of player demonstrating chondral defects
DE
23.2%
NT
20.4%
OC/OG
22.7%
WR
22.2%
OT/C
18.3%
DB
12.9%
TB
15.8%
LB
32.2%
TE/FB
23.2%
QB
20.0%
**********************************************************************************
Chondral defects of the knees of athletes is not uncommon...........in fact, in general they are found in approximately 1/3rd. The term "chondral defect" by itself is too vague from which to base a prognosis.............depends on size, location, mechanism of injury, other associated knee injuries (most commonly meniscus and ligamentous [mostly ACL]), whether it is accompanied by arthritis............and whether it is symptomatic or asymptomatic. The examining team doctors better gain all these answers first hand (not through rumors or media) before they make recommendations either way to their interested teams..........otherwise, the consequences could be very significant.
I hate the Colts getting Ryan Kelly.