FanPost

Mock Draft 2.0: It Hits the Fan, 2015 Edition (7 rounds + Trades)


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We're officially in the last week before the draft and the plots are starting to thicken. The question of whether or not someone will trade up to #2 looms over the entire process, and it seems like the floods of craziness are being held back by a dam of uncertainty around that pick. As for the Rams, just like everyone else picking early, a lot will change based on how the first few picks play out. What trades will happen? Which players will go later than expected? Which will go earlier? The anticipation is killing us all, and all we have to satisfy our insatiable draft nerddom is a steady IV of mock drafts. In this mock, not only do I go all the way with a full 7 rounds, but I try to make things interesting with a pretty wild trade at the top and a few other to follow. Here it goes:

Round 1:

1. Buccaneers: Jameis Winston/QB (Florida State)

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Nothing new here. I made this pick in my last mock, as did everyone else. I'll never say a pick is a lock until it happens, but this is about as close as it gets. Since it's been analyzed over and over, I'll just spare you all and move on.

TRADE: Philadelphia trades Sam Bradford and a 2016 1st Round pick to Tennessee and Fletcher Cox, Mychal Kendricks, pick 20, and pick 84 to New Orleans; New Orleans trades pick 13 and pick 31 to Tennessee; Tennessee trades pick 2 to Philadelphia.

Heeeere's where the fun starts. Who, if anyone, will trade up for Marcus Mariota is the big story of this draft. Several teams are lined up to do it and ultimately any of them could, depending on what they're willing to pony up to do it. In the end I think Philly, as cliche as it's become, will be the most urgent. It's hard to say for sure what the Chip Kelly master plan is, and it very could involve Sam Bradford, but given the fact that he is not a great scheme fit and Mariota is the greatest blue chip prospect Kelly ever helped develop during his time at Oregon, it's reasonable to believe that acquiring Bradford from the Rams could be part of an evil master plan to get his guy as the future of the franchise.

Here is the problem facing Philly: They only have one first round pick this year to offer, whereas at least one competitor to move up, Cleveland, has two, and therefore a huge advantage. I think if Philly is going to do this, they'll need to involve another team. Some have said Cleveland, but I don't see that happening since Cleveland themselves want to move up for a QB, and the fit doesn't seem to be there for multiple reasons with Sam Bradford. There is one other team with to first round picks: New Orleans, who acquired pick 31 in the Jimmy Graham trade. As mentioned in my TST community mock choice, New Orleans needs to add defensive talent in bulk. Philly would have to surrender a ton of picks to entice New Orleans. What may be a better idea is offering talented players from their roster. The Saints' window may be closing with Drew Brees getting older, so they could definitely stand some established talent. The offseason has proven that Chip Kelly isn't afraid to trade off the roster. It's been rumored that Mychal Kendricks will be traded during the draft one way or another as Philly has an abundance of inside linebackers, whereas Bradford and Fletcher Cox have been rumored to be bait for a tradeup. Cox would be surprising given how successful he has become in the league, but his contract is nearing its end and the Eagles may not be wanting to re-sign him anyway. If offered, New Orleans would probably take this deal; getting two established, starting quality defensive players, getting to keep a first round pick as they receive pick 20, and gaining an extra 3rd rounder in addition. Tennessee, meanwhile, gets a highly talented QB, move down 11 picks, and gain two more first round picks, one this year and one next year. It's a hefty price, but if the Eagles want to do this, they'll have to get creative. This could be one way to do so.

2. Eagles (from Titans): Marcus Mariota/QB (Oregon)

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Again, I don't know that it's a certainty that this is the end goal of Chip Kelly's master plan, but it very well could be. If Kelly wants to implement a version of the Oregon Ducks' offense, then Mariota is the ultimate commodity as he is by far the best quarterback to come out of that system and had the most success in it at the college level. He isn't a sure thing, but has the tools and smarts to be a great NFL quarterback, especially if he is in a system that compliments him. Kelly played a huge role in making Mariota the player he is, so obviously he would be the likeliest to know how to turn him into a star in the pros. As previously said, who winds up with Mariota is the big story of this draft. In this scenario, Chip Kelly is able to get a deal done to get his guy.

3. Jaguars: Dante Fowler, Jr./DE (Florida)

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Dante Fowler himself recently said he'd be "stunned" if Jacksonville didn't take him. What players say should always be taken with a grain of salt, but in this case, I buy it anyway. Jacksonville needs premium blue chip talent, which Fowler is. Gus Bradley is a defensive-minded coach, and with this amazing group of pass rushers at the top of the draft class, I fully expect him to take one of them. With Leonard Williams on the board, he'll get some consideration, but I think a true edge-rusher is the way Jacksonville will go. They've shown the most interest in guys like Fowler, Vic Beasley, and Shane Ray even knowing that there's a distinctive chance Williams could be there at #3. The scouting consensus seems to be that of the edge-rushing group at the top, Fowler is the most complete player with the highest upside, so unless something changes with his draft stock, I expect this to be the pick next week.

4. Raiders: Leonard Williams/DL (USC)

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The Raiders would love it if the draft played out this way. Leonard Williams has said he would love to play for Oakland, and I'm sure the feeling from Oakland is mutual. Some call Williams the best overall player in this draft. I don't have an issue with that assessment. Williams can pretty much do it all: not only does he bring a rare balance of agility, strength, and athleticism, he can play basically any position on the defensive line in any system. He's the type of player you don't worry so much about fit with, because you'll go out of your way to find a spot for him just to get him snaps. Oakland is another team that needs more talent basically all the way across the board, so they'll probably take a BPA approach. A pass rusher or receiver wouldn't surprise me, but if Williams does make it to 4, I don't expect him to make it any farther.

TRADE: Falcons trade pick 8, pick 42, and pick 107 to Washington for pick 5 and pick 69.

This is where this mock gets nutty. First of all, let me say I don't think Washington is in a great position at 5. They might want to take advantage of this great pass-rusher class to find a replacement for Brian Orakpo, but what Washington needs most is to add to their defensive backs, a group that seems to need improvement every year. However, the top defensive backs would all be reaches at 5, so Washington may be open to moving down a little ways. Atlanta has not been discussed as a trade-up candidate since their primary focus has been on edge rushers, but in this mock, the rising stock of one prospect changes that.

5. Falcons (from Washington): Todd Gurley/RB (Georgia)

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LET CHAOS REIGN!!!

Once I get to this point in the year, I always try to add something crazy to my mocks. This definitely fits the bill. There's a touch of uncertainty around Gurley due to his knee injury last season, but lately the word in the scouting communityis that teams aren't too worried about it and that Gurley's rare ability more than make up for any worries. In fact, Charles Robinson of Yahoo reported this week that the current range for Gurley is 6-10. Of those teams, I think the Jets and Falcons are the most likely to aim for him. This is why I have Atlanta moving up to 5 for him- in this hypothetical scenario, Atlanta falls in love with Gurley so much they decide to jump up three spots ahead of New York to ensure their chance at him. The Falcons still have Matt Ryan and that receiving corps, but lack a true bell cow in the running game unless they really like Devonta Freeman. Gurley could be a premier guy for them and totally change how teams approach them. It's not a guarantee if Dan Quinn will pass up on the defensive talent this draft offers to go offense in the first round, but this, while admittedly probably a long-shot, could be a possibility for the Falcons.

6. Jets: Vic Beasley/OLB (Clemson)

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Even if the Jets want Gurley and Atlanta takes it away from them, this doesn't play out too badly for them as they get the chance to take the second pass edge rusher in this class in Vic Beasley. There are some concerns that Beasley isn't a great fit for every scheme, but in the 3-4 defense employed by the Jets, Beasley should be a plug-and-play guy. Beasley is a freak athlete with a complete package of pass rushing skills. The Jets always seem to need improvement at pass rusher, but always seem to pass on it. With this great group, perhaps they'll finally buck that trend.

7. Bears: Amari Cooper/WR (Alabama)

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Chicago fans would have to love if the draft played out this way. With Brandon Marshall gone, they need to add a big-play receiver to replace him. I'm sure they're hoping that just one of Cooper or Kevin White falls to them so they'd be elated if they got to take their pick of the two. Why Cooper over White? I do think people understate White's readiness for the pros, but on the other hand, I've hardly ever seen a playmaking receiver as polished and complete as Amari Cooper. I give him just a slight edge over White for that reason. Cooper fits Chicago's need for a do-it-all outside receiver like Brandon Marshall was, and they can have it here with Cooper.

8. Washington (from Falcons): Trae Waynes/CB (Michigan St.)

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LET CHAOS REEEEEEEEIGN

Once again, I'm keeping this mock weird. People aren't projecting Waynes to quite crack the top 10. Then again, as it stands right now, there's nobody in the 7-9 range who is a great fit for him. If Washington trades back, though, then that changes things. They still could go for somebody like Shane Ray here, but with the aforementioned yearly struggles Washington has in the secondary, it's reasonable to think that they'd take this chance to jump on the premier defensive back in this class. Waynes is a true #1 cover corner type, with excellent speed, fluid hips, and polished skills. He'd be a huge addition to what is an annual weak spot in Washington.

TRADE: Giants trade pick 9 to Browns for pick 12, pick 77, and 2016 6th round pick.

Another fun trade scenario I haven't really seen talked about. If Cleveland does not move up for Marcus Mariota, they still have a lot of draft capital to work with and can afford to move up for somebody else if they want. In this scenario, Kevin White is surprisingly still on the board. The Giants probably won't take him, but there's basically no chance he'd get past St. Louis and Minnesota. Seeing this, in this mock draft, the Browns spring into action. They sacrifice a third round pick to move up 3 spots, but given that they still have so many high draft picks, it's something they can afford to do.

9. Browns (from Giants): Kevin White/WR (West Virginia)

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It would take a special player for Cleveland to make this move, and a special player White is. He set the college game ablaze last year with some monster numbers, starting with a huge performance against Alabama. He has immense skills, from his blazing speed to how well he catches the ball away from his body. In today's NFL, White is the type of receiver teams covet. Considering Josh Gordon may never play in the NFL again and the newly acquired Dwayne Bowe isn't what he used to be, Cleveland needs more playmakers at wide receiver for whomever is starting for them next year. If they can get White, it would be huge for them, and if they have to cough up a third rounder to move up three spots for him, then so be it.

10. Rams: Brandon Scherff/OL (Iowa)

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A boring pick here, but a solid one nonetheless. Lately, Scherff's stock has been on the rise, as it's been reported that he may not make it even this far. Teams love how clean of technique he has and his versatility. His appeal to the Rams is obvious. St. Louis still has at least two starting jobs open on the offensive line. Right now there's no starter set in stone at right guard, right tackle, or center. Scherff could fit in at either guard or tackle. While this obviously wouldn't be the ideal plan, he could possibly even serve as insurance in case Greg Robinson fails at left tackle. Either way, Scherff brings a premier talent to a place where the Rams desperately need it. To make it better, he's an excellent value at 10. Not really any reason not to like this pick.

11. Vikings: DeVante Parker/WR (Louisville)

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Another pick that's been done to death in mock drafts, but still makes sense. Even after trading for Mike Wallace, Minnesota has very little to like at wide receiver, especially since they seem to be souring on Cordarrelle Patterson. I like Teddy Bridgewater, but like any young QB, he needs to have sufficient talent around him if he's going to develop properly. Here, they can help out with that by bringing in his reliable target from his time at Louisville. They already have excellent chemistry so it wouldn't take time for them to gel as is the case with some young QBs and new receivers. Parker is the unanimous third receiver on the board for his supreme athleticism and his signature jump ball abilities. For a team with uncertainty at running back and a young quarterback, Parker would be a very sensible addition at 11.

12. Giants (from Browns): Shane Ray/DE (Missouri)

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The trade down works out pretty well for New York here. It's always good when a team can move down and still land a player they would have considered taking if they stayed put. There are some mixed opinions about Ray, but most agree he would fit the range here. Ray stepped up in a huge way in 2014 after Michael Sam and Kony Ealy moved on to the NFL. He dominated SEC offensive tackles and demonstrated a burst off the snap that was practically unmatched in college football. For that and his rare athleticism, he shot up draft boards and has been at times considered as early as pick 3. The Giants are a team that always follows a BPA policy, so unless they think Ray isn't a scheme fit or have other major concerns about him, he'd probably be the pick here.

13. Titans (from Saints): Alvin Dupree/OLB (Kentucky)

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With the first pick after moving down from 2, Tennessee takes a flyer on a prime defensive talent. Throughout the draft process, Dupree has risen up draft boards steadily and now is even in top 10 consideration for some. To me, he'd be a great value fit in picks 11-16. His body and natural athleticism is one of the best in the entire draft. He may need some refinement at the next level, but right now he looks good both as a pass rusher and against the run. In addition, he has a great character and is a positive presence in the locker room. Pass rusher may not be the biggest need for Tennessee since they signed Brian Orakpo and already have Derrick Morgan, but with their newly acquired boost in draft capital, they can now afford to take a premier talent here even though there are bigger needs.

14. Dolphins: Malcom Brown/DT (Texas)

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Miami might ideally look at a position other than defensive tackle here, but a lot of the guys they'd take are off the board already. They made the biggest signing of the offseason in Ndamokong Suh, but also lost both Jared Odrick and Randy Starks. Thus, another difference maker at defensive tackle would be helpful. Brown can be just that guy. Not to be confused with his Texas teammate running back Malcolm Brown, Malcom Brown has been a major riser throughout the past year. Teams love his versatility, natural bend, and good hands. He's a bit like Lenoard Williams in the way he fits most systems, except he doesn't have the ability to play outside in a 4-3 like Williams. Still, he's a plug-and-play guy who would immediately boost Miami's defense up the middle.

15. 49ers: Eric Kendricks/ILB (UCLA)

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It will be interesting to see who the 49ers go with in the first round. They could go with a receiver. If things shake out this way, I could also definitely see them going for Randy Gregory. Here, though, the need at inside linebacker is too dire to ignore. Having two of your three top inside linebackers retire is never ideal, especially with NaVorro Bowman still finding his way back from a severe injury two seasons ago. They really need to add talent at the position, and Kendricks could immediately make a major impact. The younger brother of Mychal Kendricks (who was traded to New Orleans in this mock), Eric Kendricks has caught the eye of scouts this past year. He shows great natural instincts all the way across the field and is impressive with the way he attacks the ball. He'd be a great fit in San Francisco's scheme and would go a long way to solve a major need.

16. Texans: Ereck Flowers/OT (Miami)

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I'm not a huge fan of where Houston is in this draft in that I don't think they don't have many obvious, glaring needs with players who fit the range at 16 available to fix them. One area where I think they could get stronger is offensive tackle. Duane Brown is unquestionably good, but Derek Newton has really struggled. Even though Newton was re-signed, they could still look to take a stand-out talent like Flowers here as an upgrade. He could immediately fill in on the right side and perhaps develop into the blindside protector who eventually takes over for Brown. Brandon Scherff looks to be the best overall lineman in the draft, but in my opinion, Flowers is the best true left tackle prospect and one who would not take much development to be productive. As I said, there isn't one real obvious pick for Houston at 16, but I think Flowers would be a good way to go.

17. Chargers: Melvin Gordon III/RB (Wisconsin)

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The Chargers are another team that could go a few ways with their pick. They could really use help along the defensive front, but they may also be called in by the allure of one of the top two backs if one is available at 17. Here, that's the case, and they do just that. If it wasn't for Todd Gurley, Gordon would be the best running back prospect in years. He reminds many of Jamaal Charles in his size and running style, but I actually think he might be slightly more complete than Charles, which is a scary thought. He ran all over Big Ten defenses this year and looks like a plug-and-play guy at the next level. San Diego has had issues with the running game for awhile with Ryan Mathews frequently being hurt, but that situation is even more dire now that Mathews is in Philadelphia. Especially with the tumult that appears to be going on with San Diego's quarterback situation, Gordon could be a huge difference maker for a team that, as it stands, is still a borderline contender.

18. Chiefs: Breshad Perriman/WR (UCF)

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The vast majority of mock drafts have the Chiefs going with a receiver, and for good reason. We all know about the crazy stat that Kansas City didn't have a single receiving touchdown by a wide receiver last year. Some of that has to do with the painfully overrated Alex Smith, but still, his receiving corps didn't help matters. Now, with Dwayne Bowe gone, the need becomes highlighted even further. Signing Jeremy Maclin was a start, but further investments should be made. DeVante Parker will be gone by the time they pick, but luckily for them a few other receivers' draft stocks have been rising. One of them is Perriman. I actually don't like Perriman this early, but hey, scouts must see something I don't. It is true that he is a dynamic receiver with big-time playmaking ability. I wouldn't take him this early or over a couple of the other receivers, but is Kansas City can develop him well, he'd be a big addition to their offense.

19. Browns (from Bills): Danny Shelton/NT (Washington)

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Cleveland is a team that has so many needs, it can basically sit on this pick and just let someone fall to them, as I have happening here. Some may be surprised to see Shelton still here at 19 as many project him in the 7-14 range after his outstanding Senior Bowl and Combine. Walterfootball recently reported, however, that teams actually see him as a player who fits in the late teens or early twenties. The range works here for Cleveland, as does the need. Athyba Rubin really struggled at the nose last year, and their defensive front n general just needs more talent. Talent is something Shelton definitely provides. He has the obvious size and strength for a nose tackle, but also has a relentless motor and surprising quickness. He's a pure nose tackle and could improve the middle of the Browns' defense dramatically.

20. Saints (from Eagles): Randy Gregory/OLB (Nebraska)

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As previously mentioned, I always consider a trade-down successful when a team takes a player it would have considered at its original pick. This wasn't a true "trade down" given the complicated nature of the three-team trade here, but it's still a nice break for the Saints that they move down 7 spots and still take a guy they might have gone for had they stayed put. Gregory is one of the most hotly-debated prospects right now. On talent and skill alone, he's a top 5 player in this draft and most other drafts. He comes along with some major concerns, however. First, there is uncertainty about his frame. He also has the well-known disciplinary problems involving marijuana use. I think the concerns about his frame are legitimate, but for the Saints' defense, it won't hold him back in my opinion. The marijuana issues are something a team will just have to talk itself into taking a chance on. At 20, the risk isn't nearly as bad as in the top 10, and for a team as starved for defense as New Orleans, taking a chance wouldn't be a bad idea.

21. Bengals: Andrus Peat/OT (Stanford)

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Cincinnati can basically sit back at 21 and wait to see if an offensive line or defensive end prospect they like falls. I could definitely see them going after Andrus Peat. The big problem for Cincinnati's line is that Andrew Whitworth needs to be replaced at left tackle eventually. Peat isn't as clean or safe of a left tackle prospect as Ereck Flowers, but may have higher upside given his athletic ability and frame. He would be a good fit for the Bengals because he could take over at left tackle whenever he's ready and they could slide Whitworth into the guard spot, but if he isn't ready immediately, Whitworth is still serviceable enough to leave there for the time being and they could start Peat at guard to start with.

TRADE: Steelers trade pick 22 and pick 199 to Panthers for pick 25 and pick 89.

It didn't seem right only having only three trades total after how chaotic this mock started off, so I'll admit I stretched a bit for this one. It's not just a huge stretch, though. Carolina has a few needs, but by far the most urgent is offensive tackle. Given how urgent this need is, they could see that there is only one really safe tackle prospect left after the Bengals pick and decide to jump three spots. It's not just a tremendous cost given how short the move up is. As for Pittsburgh, most player's they'd want here will still be around at pick 25, so they might as well jump down a bit and take the extra third round pick.

22. Panthers (from Steelers): La'el Collins/OL (LSU)

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Cam Newton is great outside of the pocket, but even the bets mobile quarterbacks have problems when instead of moving around on their own, they're being chased out of the pocket. To keep the latter from occurring more than the former, Carolina desperately needs more talent at offensive tackle. They've thus far been unable to replace what as left behind when Jordan Gross retired. As I've mentioned before, this draft class is weird for linemen in that there aren't many prospects who are clear fits in the NFL at one particular spot, but it's full of guys who could play multiple positions. Collins is one of those guys. He could be a fit at tackle or at guard, much like Brandon Scherff. Ideally, Collins could go in the teens, so if Carolina sees him slip to 22, they could swoop in to snatch him up, unless they really like D.J. Humphries or somebody in the second round.

23. Lions: Arik Armstead/DT (Oregon)

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Detroit may find it disappointing to lose out on the top linemen, but having Armstead here is a good consolation prize. I and most scouts think Armstead's best fit is as a three-technique in a 3-4, but I think he could definitely make it fit inside in the 4-3. My confidence stems from the fact that he's just a remarkable athlete and still has some developing to do. For not being the biggest defensive tackle in the draft by any means, he has some of the most impressive strength off the snap in the entire draft. Watch the tape from the Rose Bowl versus Florida State and you'll see him push a really good guard in Tre Jackson well into the backfield in the blink of an eye. Some worry that he takes plays off, but I don't think motivation is a huge factor, or at least not big enough to scare a team in the twenties away from him.

24. Cardinals: Jalen Collins/CB (LSU)

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Recently Bruce Arians said in reference to the idea of drafting a corner: "I'd like to add a young, long, fast one." Well, Jalen Collins at 6'1" and running a 4.48 40-yard dash definitely fits the mold. There's some dispute over who is the second best corner in this draft behind Trae Waynes. Some like Kevin Johnson, some like Marcus Peters, some even like Byron Jones. To me, the #2 guy is Collins. Not only is his size and speed combo rare and intriguing, he has excellent awareness and a quick change of direction. The only knock on him is that LSU's defense has so much talent, Collins wasn't actually on the field as much as these other guys. The tape may be lacking somewhat, but what is out there shows a lot of promise. Arizona could use a new corner to replace Antonio Cromartie, and could very well find one at pick 24.

25. Steelers (from Panthers): Landon Collins/S (Alabama)

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This is part of the reason I think a Steelers slight move down wouldn't be a bad idea. Landon Collins looks like a great fit for the now Troy Polamalu-less Steelers. However, Collins' draft stock has been slipping some as of late and could be had later than 22. They could also go corner, but they could clearly use a tough, versatile safety, and Collins is really the only immediate starting-quality guy in this draft who fits this bill. More of an in-the-box style safety than a rangy center fielder, Collins isn't as hot of a commodity as he was early in the draft process, but still is the premier safety in this class and would offer decent value to a team that could use him, like the Steelers, at 25.

26. Ravens: Marcus Peters/CB (Washington)

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Earlier this month, the usually reliable Tony Pauline reported that Baltimore is hoping Marcus Peters lasts until this pick. I really like that fit. There's no questioning Peters' talent as a cover corner. He shut down numerous Pac-12 receivers during his time as a Husky. However, he brings some serious character concerns as he quit on the Washington program last year. Now, obviously quitting after a regime change isn't as serious an offense as, say, domestic violence or drug problems, but it's still not something a franchise wants to worry about. I think Baltimore is a good fit for him though. First of all, it's a stable franchise with a coach who looks to be in place for some time. It's not encouraging that regime changes may make Peters give up on his team, but if there are no regime changes, that doesn't really matter. Also, Baltimore traditionally has a strong locker room that offers its players lots of support. If you can't cut it in the Ravens' locker room, you probably can't cut in the NFL. For those reasons, and because a corner is a top need for Baltimore, I think Peters would be a great fit at pick 26.

27. Cowboys: Kevin Johnson/CB (Wake Forest)

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And the run on defensive backs continues with Dallas grabbing one of the rising stars of this draft class in Wake Forest's Kevin Johnson. Dallas has brought in a number of corners for pre-draft visits and clearly seem interested in upgrading at the position with this pick. Orlando Scandrick is solid, but they haven't found a legitimate answer across from him. Johnson gets knocked some for his rail-thin frame, but watching tape, he has some of the best cover skills in the draft. He looks like a natural cover corner at the pros. The concern is that even though he plays more physical than his frame would suggest, he still hasn't proven he can be adequately physical at the next level. Still, he fits the range here in the late twenties and makes a lot of sense for Dallas.

28. Broncos: D.J. Humphries/OL (Florida)

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The Broncos need help all across the offensive front. It's feasible that they'll use pick 28 to add an upgrade, especially if somebody like Humphries falls to them. Humphries may have served his best interest to stay in school for another year, but his undeniable talent has put him into first-round consideration. Just a whole ago Albert Breer noted that he took 15 pre-draft visits. Denver wouldn't have to worry about having to shoehorn him into a position where he may not fit right away because they have needs at multiple positions. He could start over the newly-signed Shelley Smith as Orlando Franklin's replacement or he could take over at right tackle, a position that was a sieve last season, as was much of Denver's line (just look at what the Rams did to them). Peyton Manning is no spring chicken anymore. He still is a top echelon quarterback, but needs more than ever to be kept upright. There's plenty of work to do, but Humphries is a start.

29. Colts: Denzel Perryman/ILB (Miami)

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Inside linebacker was a huge problem position for Indianapolis last season. D'Qwell Jackson isn't what he once was and Jerrell Freeman just wasn't that good. The team signed Nate Irving but needs to keep building. This would be a good place to do it as they'll possibly have their pick of any inside linebacker with the exception of Eric Kendricks. I could see them going with Benardrick McKinney, especially since they struggled covering tight ends last year and McKinney is better in coverage than Perryman, but most teams appear to have Perryman as the second inside linebacker over McKinney and more NFL-ready than McKinney. For that reason, I gave Perryman the edge here. He may not be the athlete McKinney or Kendricks are, but he's a proven imposing physical force in the middle of a linebacker and has the ability to be a player teams have to gameplan around.

30. Packers: Benardrick McKinney/ILB (Mississippi State)

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Green Bay follows up on Indianapolis here and takes one of the top linebackers in the draft. Teams seem to love McKinney as he has drawn interest from all over the league. He's a superb athlete- he was a quarterback in high school- and brings with him great versatility, having played both inside and outside at Mississippi State. In fact, some teams that run the 3-4 have evaluated him as a pass-rushing outside linebacker for their system. Green bay had major issues with their inside linebacker group last year, having to move Clay Matthews inside at one point. Now, with A.J. Hawk in Cincinnati, that problem is compounded even more. McKinney's versatility fits well in the Green Bay system, and given how much interest he has from NFL teams, he may just be a steal at pick 30.

31. Titans (from Saints): Nelson Agholor/WR (USC)

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With the second pick acquired in the Eagles/Saints three-team trade, Tennessee can add some more talent around Sam Bradford (or, when he gets hurt, Zach Mettenberger). Nelson Agholor has been another rising receiver lately. If Philadelphia stays put at 20, many believe that's who the pick will be. Thus, if the Titans are picking at 31, they would feel fortunate that Agholor is still there. They're a team that really needs a playmaker at receiver. Nate Washington moved on to Houston and it's still uncertain if Justin Hunter will develop into the player they thought he would be when they traded up to pick him. Agholor is a fairly polished receiver with outstanding hands so there would not be much of a learning curve for him in the NFL. He'd add stability to Tennessee's receiving corps.

32. Patriots: Eddie Goldman/DT (Florida State)

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I really like this fit. New England is thin on the interior of the defensive line, especially after Vince Wilfork signed with Houston. Here's a guy who could fill in immediately in Wilfork's spot. Goldman demonstrates tremendous strength and good hands to shed and gain leverage over blockers. He's mostly a run-stopper who can occasionally generate a good bull rush. His lack of a pass rush may give 4-3 teams pause, but for somebody looking for a nose tackle like New England should see his outstanding power as a great fit. Obviously New England doesn't have a ton to upgrade on, but have some spots where players who have moved on need to be replaced. Vince Wilfork was a mainstay on the Patriots' defense for years, and perhaps Goldman could take his spot for years to come.

Round 2:

33. Titans: T.J. Clemmings/OT (Pitt)

34. Buccaneers: Jake Fisher/OT (Oregon)

35. Raiders: Jaelen Strong/WR (Arizona State)

36. Jaguars: Tevin Coleman/RB (Indiana)

37. Jets: Garrett Grayson/QB (Colorado State)

38. Washington: Damarious Randall/S (Arizona State)

39. Bears: Eli Harold/OLB (Virginia)

40. Giants: Shaq Thompson/LB (Washington)

41. Rams: Cameron Erving/C (Florida State)

42. Washington (from Falcons): Owamagbe Odighizuwa/OLB (UCLA)

43. Browns: Maxx Williams/TE (Minnesota)

44. Saints: Byron Jones/CB (UConn)

45. Vikings: Paul Dawson/LB (TCU)

46. 49ers: Dorial Green-Beckham/WR (Missouri)

47. Dolphins: Ronald Darby/CB (Florida State)

48. Chargers: Donovan Smith/OT (Penn State)

49. Chiefs: Stephone Anthony/ILB (Clemson)

50. Bills: Bryce Petty/QB (Baylor)

51. Texans: Philip Dorsett/WR (Miami)

52. Eagles: Eric Rowe/CB (Utah)

53. Bengals: Nate Orchard/DE (Utah)

54. Lions: Ameer Abdullah/RB (Nebraska)

55. Cardinals: Markus Golden/OLB (Missouri)

56. Steelers: Alex Carter/CB (Stanford)

57. Panthers: Devin Smith/WR (Ohio State)

58. Ravens: Clive Walford/TE (Miami)

59. Broncos: Jordan Phillips/NT (Oklahoma)

60. Cowboys: Mario Edwards. Jr./DT (Florida State)

61. Colts: A.J. Cann/G (South Carolina)

62. Packers: P.J. Williams/CB (Florida State)

63. Seahawks: Quinten Rollins/CB (Miami-OH)

64. Patriots: Laken Tomlinson/G (Duke)

Round 3:

65. Buccaneers: Preston Smith/DE (Mississippi State)

66. Titans: Ifo Ekpre-Olomu/CB (Oregon)

67. Jaguars: Tyler Lockett/WR (Kansas State)

68. Raiders: Jay Ajayi/RB (Boise State)

69. Falcons (from Washington): Lorenzo Mauldin/OLB (Louisville)

70. Jets: T.J. Yeldon/RB (Alabama)

71. Bears: Tre Jackson/G (Florida State)

72. Rams: Brett Hundley/QB (UCLA)

73. Falcons: Nick O'Leary/TE (Florida State)

74. Giants: Michael Bennett/DT (Ohio State)

75. Saints: Sammie Coates/WR (Auburn)

76. Vikings: Steven Nelson/CB (Oregon State)

77. Giants (from Browns): Cedric Ogbuehi/OT (Texas A&M)

78. Saints (from Dolphins): Devin Funchess/TE/WR (Michigan)

79. 49ers: Carl Davis/DT (Iowa)

80. Chiefs: Daryl Williams/OT (Oklahoma)

81. Bills: Jake Ryan/ILB (Michigan)

82. Texans: Hroniss Grasu/C (Oregon)

83. Chargers: Arie Kouandjio/G (Alabama)

84. Saints (from Eagles): Jaquiski Tartt/S (Samford)

85. Bengals: Gabe Wright/DT (Auburn)

86. Cardinals: Anthony Harris/S (Virginia)

87. Steelers: Trey Flowers/OLB (Arkansas)

88. Lions: Ali Marpet/OL (Hobart)

89. Steelers (from Panthers): Tyrus Thompson/OT (Oklahoma)

90. Ravens: Duke Johnson/RB (Miami)

91. Cowboys: Mike Davis/RB (South Carolina)

92. Broncos: Reese Dismukes/C (Auburn)

93. Colts: David Johnson/RB (Northern Iowa)

94. Packers: Hau'Oli Kikaha/OLB (Washington)

95. Seahawks: Rashad Greene/WR (Florida State)

96. Patriots: D'Juon Smith/CB (Florida Atlantic)

97. Patriots: Justin Hardy/WR (ECU)

98. Chiefs: B.J. Finney/C (Kansas State)

99. Bengals: Hayes Pullard/LB (USC)

Round 4:

100. Titans: Durell Eskridge/S (Syracuse)

101. Patriots (from Buccaneers): Josue Matias/G (Florida State)

102. Raiders: Ty Sambrailo/OT (Colorado State)

103. Jaguars: Doran Grant/S (Ohio State)

104. Jets: Jeremiah Poutasi/G (Utah)

105. Washington: Chaz Green/OT (Florida)

106. Bears: Henry Anderson/DE (Stanford)

107. Washington (from Falcons): James Sample/S (Louisville)

108. Giants: Kurtis Drummond/S (Michigan State)

109. Buccaneers (from Rams): Robert Myers/G (Tennessee State)

110. Vikings: Jeremy Langford/RB (Michigan State)

111. Browns: Sean Mannion/QB (Oregon State)

112. Seahawks (from Saints): Grady Jarrett/DT (Clemson)

113. Eagles (from 49ers via Bills): Christian Covington/DE (Rice)

114. Dolphins: Chris Conley/WR (Georgia)

115. Browns (from Bills): Za'Darius Smith/OLB (Kentucky)

116. Texans: Kwon Alexander/LB (LSU)

117. Chargers: Senquez Golson/CB (Ole Miss)

118. Chiefs: Tre McBride/WR (William & Mary)

119. Rams (from Eagles): Ramik Wilson/LB (Georgia)

120. Bengals: Ty Montgomery/WR (Stanford)

121. Steelers: Charles Gaines/CB (Louisville)

122. Ravens (from Lions): John Miller/G (Louisville)

123. Cardinals: Buck Allen/RB (USC)

124. Panthers: Josh Robinson/RB (Mississippi State)

125. Ravens: Gerod Holliman/S (Louisville)

126. 49ers (from Mike Hull/ILB (Penn State)

127. Cowboys: Anthony Chickillo/DE (Miami)

128. Colts: Ladarius Gunter/CB (Miami)

129. Packers: Xavier Cooper/DL (Washington State)

130. Seahawks: Deion Barnes/DE (Penn State)

131. Patriots: Cameron Artis-Payne/RB (Auburn)

132. 49ers: Lynden Trail/OLB (Norfolk State)

133. Broncos: Taiwan Jones/LB (Michigan State)

134. Seahawks: Andy Gallik/C (Boston College)

135. Bengals: Quandre Diggs/CB (Texas)

136. Ravens: Darius Philon/DL (Arkansas)

Round 5:

137. Vikings (from Buccaneers via Bills): Jamil Douglas: OL (Arizona State)

138. Titans: Mitch Morse/G (Missouri)

139. Jaguars: Tray Walker/CB (Texas Southern)

140. Raiders: Ben Koyack/TE (Notre Dame)

141. Washington: Kevin White/CB (TCU)

142. Bears (from Jets): Bryce Hager/ILB (Baylor)

143. Broncos (from Bears): Jeff Heuermann/TE (Ohio State)

144. Giants: Mark Glowinski/G (West Virginia)

145. Eagles (from Rams): Tony Washington/OLB (Oregon)

146. Falcons: Josh Shaw/S (USC)

147. Browns: Corey Robinson/OT (South Carolina)

148. Saints: Shane Carden/QB (ECU)

149. Dolphins (from Vikings): Matt Jones/RB (Florida)

150. Dolphins: Ibraheim Campbell/S (Northwestern)

151. 49ers: Tyler Kroft/TE (Rutgers)'

152. Texans: Ray Drew/DE (Georgia)

153. Chargers: Max Garcia/C (Florida)

154. Saints (from Chiefs): Corey Crawford/DL (Clemson)

155. Bills: Jamon Brown/OT (Louisville)

156. Eagles: Adrian Amos/S (Penn State)

157. Bengals: Clayton Geathers/S (UCF)

158. Ravens (from Lions): Obum Gwacham/OLB (Oregon State)

159. Cardinals: Ellis McCarthy/NT (UCLA)

160. Steelers: Karlos Williams/RB (Florida State)

161. Panthers: Derron Smith/S (Fresno State)

162. Buccaneers (from Ravens): Troy Hill/CB (Oregon)

163. Cowboys: Justin Cox/S (Mississippi State)

164. Broncos: Marcus Hardison/DL (Arizona State)

165. Colts: Stefon Diggs/WR (Maryland)

166. Packers: Dezmin Lewis/WR (Central Arkansas)

167. Seahawks: Jordan Hicks/OLB (Texas)

168. Lions (from Patriots via Buccaneers): Lorenzo Doss/CB (Tulane)

169. Panthers: Zach Hodges/OLB (Harvard)

170. Seahawks: Jermaine Whitehead/S (Auburn)

171. Ravens: Dres Anderson/WR (Utah)

172. Chiefs: Craig Mager/CB (Texas State)

173. Chiefs: Sam Carter/S (TCU)

174. Panthers: Cedric Reed/DE (Texas)

175. Texans: Frank Clark/OLB (Michigan)

176. Ravens: Sean Hickey/OT (Syracuse)

Round 6:

177. Titans: Malcolm Brown/RB (Texas)

178. Patriots (from Buccaneers): Rakeem Nunez-Roches/DT (Southern Miss)

179. Raiders: Cody Prewitt/S (Ole Miss)

180. Jaguars: Rob Havenstein/OT (Wisconsin)

181. Seahawks (from Jets): Brandon Bridge/QB (South Alabama)

182. Washington: Amarlo Herrera/ILB (Georgia)

183. Bears: Joey Mbu/NT (Houston)

184. Buccaneers (from Rams): James Vaughters/LB (Stanford)

185. Falcons: Vince Mayle/WR (Washington State)

186. Giants: Bobby McCain/CB (Memphis)

187. Saints: Jarvis Harrison/G (Texas A&M)

188. Bills (from Vikings): Jordan Richards/S (Stanford)

189. Browns: Kaleb Eulls/DT (Mississippi State)

190. 49ers: Jacoby Glenn/CB (UCF)

191. Dolphins: Darrian Miller/OL (Kentucky)

192. Chargers: David Parry/NT (Stanford)

193. Chiefs: Justin Coleman/CB (Tennessee)

194. Bills: Terrance Magee/RB (LSU)

195. Texans: Bryan Bennett/QB (Southeastern Louisiana)

196. Eagles: Jamison Crowder/WR (Duke)

197. Bengals: Shaq Mason/C (Georgia Tech)

198. Cardinals: Tony Lippett/WR (Michigan State)

199. Panthers (from Steelers): Geneo Grissom/DE (Oklahoma)

200. Lions: Davis Tull/LB (Chattanooga)

201. Panthers: Austin Shepherd/OT (Alabama)

202. Browns (from Ravens): Derrick Malone, Jr./ILB (Oregon)

203. Broncos: Cody Fajardo/QB (Nevada)

204. Ravens (from Cowboys): Zac Vigil/ILB (Utah State)

205. Colts: Gregory Mancz/C (Toledo)

206. Packers: Corey Grant/RB (Auburn)

207. Colts (from Seahawks): Leterrius Walton/DL (Central Michigan)

208. Titans (from Patriots): Trenton Brown/OL (Florida)

209. Seahawks: Tayo Fabuluje/OL (TCU)

210. Packers: Connor Halliday/QB (Washington State)

211. Texans: Dominique Brown/RB (Louisville)

212. Steelers: Tyeler Davison/DL (Fresno State)

213. Packers: Trey DePriest/ILB (Alabama)

214. Seahawks: Kenny Bell/WR (Nebraska)

215. Rams: Darren Waller/WR (Georgia Tech)

216. Texans: Blake Bell/TE (Oklahoma)

217. Chiefs: Jesse James/TE (Penn State)

Round 7:

218. Buccaneers: John Crockett/RB (North Dakota State)

219. Patriots (from Titans): Alani Fua/OLB (BYU)

220. Jaguars: Martell Spaight/OLB (Arkansas)

221. Raiders: Cody Riggs/CB (Notre Dame)

222. Washington: Quinton Spain/G (West Virginia)

223. Jets: Terrance Plummer/ILB (UCF)

224. Jets (from Bears): Titus Davis/WR (Central Michigan)

225. Falcons: Laurence Gibson/OT (Virginia Tech)

226. Giants: Josh Harper/WR (Fresno State)

227. Rams: Deshazor Everett/CB (Texas A&M)

228. Vikings: Chris Hackett/S (TCU)

229. Browns: Justin Manton/K (Louisiana-Monroe)

230. Saints: Devante Davis/WR (UNLV)

231. Buccaneers (from Dolphins via Ravens via Lions): Bobby Richardson/DT (Indiana)

232. Vikings (from 49ers via Dolphins): Terry Poole/OT (San Diego State)

233. Chiefs: Hutson Mason/QB (Georgia)

234. Bills: Michael Dyer/RB (Louisville)

235. Texans: Imoan Claiborne/CB (Northwestern State)

236. Cowboys (from Ravens): Jalston Fowler/FB (Alabama)

237. Eagles: Shaq Riddick/OLB (West Virginia)

238. Bengals: Chris Bonner/QB (Colorado State-Pueblo)

239. Steelers: Taylor Kelly/QB (Arizona State)

240. Lions: Austin Hill/WR (Arizona)

241. Cardinals: Reshard Cliett/ILB (USF)

242. Panthers: Kyle Loomis/P (Portland State)

243. Cowboys (from Ravens): Max Valles/OLB (Virginia)

244. Colts (from Cowboys): Darryl Baldwin/OT (Ohio State)

245. Giants (from Broncos): Mycole Pruitt/TE (Southern Illinois)

246. 49ers (from Colts): Miles Dieffenbach/G (Penn State)

247. Packers: Rory Anderson/TE (South Carolina)

248. Seahawks: Wes Saxton/TE/FB (South Alabama)

249. Falcons (from Patriots via Rams): Donald Celiscar/S (Western Michigan)

250. Broncos: Junior Salt/G (Utah)

251. Broncos: Trey Williams/RB (Texas A&M)

252. Broncos: Antwan Goodley/WR (Baylor)

253. Patriots: Connor Lefeld/OT (Cincinnati)

254. 49ers: Anthony Jefferson/S (UCLA)

255. Colts: Nick Marshall/CB (Auburn)

256. Cardinals: Tyler Varga/RB/FB (Yale)

So there it is, a piece I put entirely too much time into and was probably a waste of effort overall...but hey, it's draft season! That's what this time of year is for! Anyway, hopefully you all enjoyed it. Feel free to leave encouraging comments, scathing reviews, or lewd innuendos below.