2014 Draft Thread

[Fountain City Blues]

I don't think the bad coverage is due to a lack of talent for the most part (outside of Lewis and Robinson when he is in; and they are gone now) it has a lot more to due with bad execution in Sutton's defense which is on Sutton, and if it isn't, players need to be cut.. fast.

 

[NJBuckO's]

You guys probably saw Smith more than I did living out there or with DirectTV, but in the 5-6 games I saw he got burned constantly. Cooper looks like a keeper but even he tailed off some. I like the kid Dennard from Mich St.or maybe Clinton-Dix at S.

 

[MHSL82]

Runningback may be considered. I know, Andy and a runningback? A second one? Hey, maybe one who can catch and/or runs fast instead of slowing down on a pass in the air.

RB could be needed after Knile Davis injuries - ESPN

 

[Fountain City Blues]

That just sucks, I was starting to really like the kid. I hope his career is ok.

 

[NJBuckO's]

He should be ok by training camp with healing/surgery or whatever I'd think. Maybe they add another RB in the draft anyways.

 

[Fountain City Blues]

Needs- Please note that the D is 1-gap 3-4 defense that plays predominantly Man Coverage:



Edit: Perhaps I am wrong, but I would say it is somewhat close in theory to SF or the Jets in terms of scheme; or at the very least, incorporate very similar concepts.

WR
FS
DE


Items that should be addressed but I won't have a gripe if we didn't address this in the draft:


CB Depth
OL Depth


I say DE as I look around at some of the other 1-gap 3-4 defenses and I see guys that can legitimately rush the passer.




In my personal opinion, I feel Marquise Lee would be the best fit in Andy Reid's offense; and would provide a theoretically consistent deep threat that Avery/Jenkins is not. Benjamin I don't think would be a bad idea even though he isn't exactly a burner, but that size and wingspan is something I would have a hard time passing on. I don't feel we need a CB right now and would honestly be disappointed if we drafted one in the first 3 rounds. (Again, CB's {plus a slow FS} don't execute the scheme in Sutton's D, man D is unachievable against certain formations = 30+ points). additionally, I personally think drafting a TE is utterly ridiculous when we don't know what Kelce is yet and have decent production from McGrath and Fasano when healthy. So yeah, I vehemently disagree with several of these Mock Drafts. I bolded the picks I feel fill a need. There is no Vernon Davis in this draft in my opinion to justify such a pick.


So, here is some mock drafts to give put you in the relative ballpark of what the Chiefs could do:


2014 NFL Mock Drafts - CBSSports.com - NFLDraftScout.com


QBs aplenty in Schrager's 2014 NFL Mock Draft, 1.0 | FOX Sports on MSN


2014 NFL Mock Draft 4.0: Johnny Manziel goes No. 3 to Jaguars | Audibles - SI.com


WalterFootball.com: 2014 NFL Mock Draft: First Round Continued


2014 NFL Mock Draft: Johnny Manziel, Blake Bortles jump into elite QB crop - NFL - Sporting News



2014 NFL Mock Draft: January 7th Update


NFL Mock Draft 2014 Picks 17-32


Y! SPORTS


Norris' Mock Draft: Dec. 30 - Mock Drafts - Rotoworld.com




Names listed in the 1st round: Marquise Lee (WR) Justin Gilbert (CB) Will Sutton (DT) Allen Robinson (WR) Eric Ebron (TE) Jace Amaro (TE) A Seferian-Jenkins (TE) Jarvis Landry (WR)


The other pick to pay plenty of attention to is the 3rd round pick. I didn't find a whole lot in terms of mock drafts in the 3rd round, but here is what I did find: Kasen Williams (WR) Mike Davis (RB) Tre Boston (FS)

http://www.drafttek.com/2014-NFL-Mock-Draft-Round3.asp

 

[Fountain City Blues]

With all this being said, if the best pick really is a CB, or TE, or some other position ( I don't believe that, but possible) then by all means, speculate on who that might be.

 

[MHSL82]

Some are really high on Benjamin because he's Megatron size (off by 6 pounds). What do you guys think? It might be moot because he could be picked before KC picks.

 

[Fountain City Blues]

Some are really high on Benjamin because he's Megatron size (off by 6 pounds). What do you guys think? It might be moot because he could be picked before KC picks.

That size is exactly why I would have a very hard time passing on him. If he had a better 40 time, he would be a top 5 pick.

 

[MHSL82]

That size is exactly why I would have a very hard time passing on him. If he had a better 40 time, he would be a top 5 pick.

Speed stopped Bowe from scoring that TD KC didn't get. That and cutting inside (who did he see on the outside?). Oh, and Hemmingway was unable to block. He thought running behind Bowe would help Bowe point at his name on his jersey better. Man, I really thought Hemmingway should have at least turned towards the defender to make him juke or something. But run to the outside Bowe - or back to the point of this post - FASTER.

I know, 40 time is not the same as running after a near tackle.

 

[Fountain City Blues]

Speed stopped Bowe from scoring that TD KC didn't get. That and cutting inside (who did he see on the outside?). Oh, and Hemmingway was unable to block. He thought running behind Bowe would help Bowe point at his name on his jersey better. Man, I really thought Hemmingway should have at least turned towards the defender to make him juke or something. But run to the outside Bowe - or back to the point of this post - FASTER.

I know, 40 time is not the same as running after a near tackle.

Hehe, very true, but Bowe is not Benjamin big either. I was wondering what Hemmingway thought he was doing on that play.

 

[MHSL82]

Kelvin Benjamin declared for the draft only a few days after his star turn in the BCS National Championship Game, and really, it's not hard to figure out why.


Position: Receiver
Height: 6-5
Weight: 234
School: Florida State
Year: Redshirt sophomore

Bio: Caught 54 passes for 1,011 yards and a team-high 15 touchdowns this season, when he was named third-team All-ACC. Ranked fourth on the team with 30 receptions for 495 yards and four touchdowns in 2012. Redshirted in 2011. Only played three years of football in high school. Was the No. 60 overall player as a high school senior, according to Rivals.com.

Scout's take: Has great feet and good body control … fluid runner for his size … wouldn't be surprised if he runs in the 4.4-4.5s … is raw, only played three years of high school football … seems to be figuring out how good he is, really started to gain confidence as the year went on … wins contested balls … shows the ability to track and high-point the football … had a terrific quarterback, rarely had to adjust to poor throws … drops were an issue, had some concentration lapses … flashes potential as a dominating blocker ... well-spoken in interviews.

Benjamin, a redshirt sophomore receiver who caught the game-winning score in the Seminoles’ 34-31 against the Tigers, used his 6-foot-5, 234-pound frame and freakish athletic ability to terrorize defensive backs in his first year as a starter, catching 54 passes for 1,011 yards and 15 touchdowns.

With his massive size, insane reach and surprising speed for his frame ― he reportedly runs a 4.52 in the 40-yard dash ― it’s easy to see why Benjamin has been drawing comparisons to star Detroit Lions receiver Calvin Johnson. But while some may see some Megatron in Benjamin, his weaknesses may cause Chiefs fans to see another Jon Baldwin, a failed first-round pick in 2011.

“Baldwin had those character issues and they were pretty well-documented, that he just wasn't a super-hard worker,” says OptimumScouting.com draft analyst Jared Counterman. “And Baldwin was similar ― big and fast ― but I didn't see the type of body control with Baldwin that I see with Benjamin.”

Baldwin's draft profile on NFL.com called him a huge receiver with deceptive speed (4.5 in the 40-yard dash) that showed the ability to track and high-point the ball, which are all traits that Counterman says Benjamin, who only played three years high school football, has.

However, Baldwin's profile also revealed that he was a sloppy route runner who wasn't a willing run blocker and occasionally took plays off. There have been some questions about Benjamin's work ethic ― he reportedly ballooned to 260 pounds as a true freshman, when he knew he wasn't going to play as he learned a complex playbook – and even he admitted that he was lazy on and off the field when he first arrived at Florida State. But he's since cut a significant amount of weight, which shows a commitment to getting better, and has flashed ability as a run blocker, a potential boon in a Chiefs offense that is heavy on screen passes and reliant on downfield blocking for star running back Jamaal Charles.

"There's a couple of really big blocks on his tape that wide receivers don't typically make, and they're always a little bit later in the game where he starts to mentally dominate the defensive back," Counterman says. "He's demoralizing to play."

Still, Counterman says his biggest concern about Benjamin is his occasional tendency to drop passes, which he attributes to a lack of concentration from a still-raw player.

"The Florida game, he put up big numbers but he had three really brutal drops," Counterman says.

"But he's a big guy and he's gonna run really fast. The NFL is gonna love him. He's that trendy talent right now. He's going to win contested catches."

For all of Benjamin’s gifts, it’s still early in the evaluation process, and it remains to be seen how high he will go in May's draft. ESPN has him ranked as the draft's No. 29 prospect while Optimum Scouting lists him at No. 43, which means he could be in play for the Chiefs, who pick No. 23 in the first round but don't have a second-round pick due to the Alex Smith trade.

But while it remains to be seen if Benjamin is the type of receiver the Chiefs ― who are certainly in the market for another receiving type ― really covet, Counterman does think Benjamin could work in Reid's West Coast Offense.

“You saw Dwayne Bowe ― he ripped Indianapolis up on the slant route, and that's what Benjamin can do,” Counterman says. “This won't be the case in the NFL, but when he goes over the middle in college, no one wants a piece of him because he's 6-5 and 240 pounds. He's just really really big, I think he'd be a good fit in that offense, sure.”

Read more here: http://www.kansascit...l#storylink=cpy

 

[MHSL82]

Kiper's First Mock Draft

1. Johnny Manziel *
Houston Texans (2-14)
COLLEGE: Texas A&M
AGE: 21
HT: 6-0
WT: 205
POS: QB

Analysis: I spoke to a number of high-ranking NFL evaluators this week, and this is the one QB anyone felt certain was a top-5 pick. So consider this an early bet, with one major caveat: Bill O'Brien just arrived, is still putting his staff together, knows a good QB when he sees one, and hasn't had enough time (if any) to study the draft class. But we know quarterback is a major need here. O'Brien likes a QB with presence, a leader and a guy who will out-prepare the competition. And while Manziel has gotten his share of bad press, he's a dynamic talent, and I feel he can lead at the next level; I'm not alone in that opinion. While Manziel is currently ranked No. 11 on my Big Board, this reflects the draft.

Manziel doesn't fit the old prototypes of a QB drafted No. 1, and I have concerns about how well he can protect himself given his smaller frame, but he is a magician on the field, and is made for the current NFL. This league protects and welcomes QBs who can improvise, run and make plays beyond the playbook. It's early, but Manziel is a special player and has the draft process to prove it further.

2. Jake Matthews
St. Louis Rams (7-9) (From WAS)
COLLEGE: Texas A&M
AGE: 21
HT: 6-5
WT: 309
POS: OT

Analysis: Rams general manager Les Snead has already said that he'll take calls on this draft slot, which makes plenty of sense given the fact that the three teams drafting directly after St. Louis need a quarterback. So if you want a certain QB, you might be trying to work out a deal with the Rams to assure you get him. That said, I can't project a trade, and Matthews would be a tremendous fit for the Rams, who need to bring in an upgrade at left tackle this offseason given the uncertainty regarding Jake Long's health. Matthews has proved capable of dominating on both the left and right side, in fact, and comes with more assurances in that regard than the tackles drafted at the top of the board last season. At tackle, I also think Greg Robinson could compete with Matthews to be the first one taken, and I don't think it's out of the question that St. Louis takes a QB or top defensive lineman.

3. Jadeveon Clowney *
Jacksonville Jaguars (4-12)
COLLEGE: South Carolina
AGE: 20
HT: 6-5
WT: 274
POS: DE

Analysis: There is no question that the Jags need a QB. It is questionable whether they will take one at this draft slot unless they believe that QB will make them better at that position in 2014. So consider this an early bet on a front office that will look to hit what is still a major need (the pass rush) by drafting the best available player in the draft. Clowney got questioned on his motor in his final college season, but that has more to do with stats than the tape. And any evaluator who saw a tentative player could also imagine what Clowney had on the line. Clowney is physically prepared to come in and make a major impact, and I think there's a good chance the Jags draft for upside and angle for a QB later. Don't forget: Free agency and trades can still shift the QB market in the draft. Think of Kansas City last year at this time.

As well, I recall when the Texans took Mario Williams at a time when QB was a question, and their GM told us it wasn't just about needing a QB, it was about the QBs they had to beat. Peyton Manning was in the division. Indy still has a good QB the Jags have to face.

4. Blake Bortles *
Cleveland Browns (4-12)
COLLEGE: UCF
AGE: 21
HT: 6-4
WT: 230
POS: QB

Analysis: Suffice to say, no coach in Cleveland makes this a pretty difficult projection. While there's plenty of debate in NFL circles regarding which QB in this class has the most upside in terms of overall ability, from a physical standpoint Bortles is at the top of the list. At 6-foot-4, 230 pounds, with not elite but good arm strength, and the ability to move both in the pocket and to make plays down the field as a runner, he has a chance to add value and eliminate negative plays with his mobility as he develops as a passer. It goes without saying that Cleveland will look to address its QB situation through the draft or via a trade, and this is potentially a good fit for Bortles. He's still somewhat limited as a progression passer and struggles with ball placement, and can also be rigid with his mechanics, but the presence of Josh Gordon and Jordan Cameron gives any new QB here matchup threats to exploit. Cleveland is, for the first time in a while, a really attractive environment for a young QB to grow and succeed.

5. Sammy Watkins *
Oakland Raiders (4-12)
COLLEGE: Clemson
AGE: 20
HT: 6-1
WT: 205
POS: WR

Analysis: I count Oakland among the teams that could use a talent upgrade at QB, but the Raiders need to take really good football players who can help the team right away -- and I believe their front office knows it. Watkins qualifies as an experienced and explosive combination of a pass-catcher and dynamic runner after the catch. And while he lacks elite size for the position, Watkins brings an elite level of explosiveness before and after the catch and is a significant threat and can beat defenses over the top. Unless you count a healthy Darren McFadden (who is an unrestricted free agent this offseason), Oakland has lacked a player who is a constant threat to create big plays. Watkins can fill that void.

6. Anthony Barr
Atlanta Falcons (4-12)
COLLEGE: UCLA
AGE: 21
HT: 6-4
WT: 248
POS: OLB/DE

Analysis: Three years ago the Broncos drafted Von Miller, a move that caused many to ask whether Miller would fit in John Fox's scheme. Fox was known as a 4-3 guy, and Miller seemed well-equipped physically to be a 3-4 outside linebacker. I could hear some saying the same about this pick, but (A) great players make great systems more often than the other way around, so don't get too caught up in the whole 3-4 vs. 4-3 thing, and (B) the Falcons really need a pass-rusher. Barr gives them that, as an explosive matchup problem on the edge who does more than disrupt the passing game. And he can certainly add weight.

7. Khalil Mack
Tampa Bay Buccaneers (4-12)
COLLEGE: Buffalo
AGE: 22
HT: 6-3
WT: 245
POS: OLB

Analysis: The Bucs are another team that must create more pressure to take advantage of the fact that they have a good defensive core in place to stop the run and make plays in the secondary. Mack gives Tampa a three-down linebacker who can rush the quarterback and drop and make plays in space. He could be plugged in across the formation from Lavonte David and won't need to come off the field. This could be a really good defense in 2014 for Lovie Smith.

8. Teddy Bridgewater *
Minnesota Vikings (5-10-1)
COLLEGE: Louisville
AGE: 22
HT: 6-2
WT: 220
POS: QB

Analysis: In terms of his ability as a passer, Bridgewater could go higher. But while I currently have him rated as the top QB on my Big Board, Bridgewater will need to prove to teams that he can command an NFL huddle and be the face of a franchise. I think he has the necessary physical tools to succeed, and shows an advanced approach with his footwork, anticipation, pre-snap command and ability to improvise. He's a very good value here for a team with a huge need at the position. Whether he can start right away is a question we'll need more time to answer.

9. Greg Robinson *
Buffalo Bills (6-10)
COLLEGE: Auburn
AGE: 21
HT: 6-5
WT: 320
POS: OT

Analysis: Cordy Glenn has been an adequate and at times above-average NFL left tackle, but the Bills definitely need a right tackle. That could be Robinson as a rookie, or he could come in and Glenn could move to the right side. Robinson has the physical tools and proven level of performance against SEC competition of a potential star at the next level, and the Bills must protect the investment they have in EJ Manuel, who has had issues staying healthy.

10. Justin Gilbert
Detroit Lions (7-9)
COLLEGE: Oklahoma St.
AGE: 22
HT: 6-0
WT: 200
POS: CB

Analysis: With continued improvement from Ezekiel Ansah to go with the dominance of the interior of that defensive line, the Lions could create a ton of pressure on opposing QBs next season. The problem is if they can't do a better job of covering, it might not make a difference. Gilbert would help the cause coming off a season where you could argue that no cornerback in college football performed better. He has the size to compete with bigger wide receivers and the agility and speed to run with anybody. He also brings strong return skills.

11. Taylor Lewan
Tennessee Titans (7-9)
COLLEGE: Michigan
AGE: 22
HT: 6-7
WT: 315
POS: OT

Analysis: The Titans have some decisions to make at tackle in the short term, with David Stewart likely not to return at right tackle and Michael Roos a free agent after the 2014 season. If they want this offense to take another step forward, adding talent and continuity on the offensive line will be pivotal. Lewan comes off a fine career at Michigan where he started since his freshman season, and added power as a run-blocker to his already ideal frame for a tackle. He could start at right tackle as a rookie and transition to the left side.

12. C.J. Mosley
New York Giants (7-9)
COLLEGE: Alabama
AGE: 21
HT: 6-2
WT: 232
POS: LB

Analysis: The Giants never draft linebackers in the first round, but if a player of Mosley's caliber is on the board, I think that streak could end. If not for the signing of Jon Beason, this linebacking corps would have been even more of a mess in 2013, and Beason isn't yet a lock for 2014. I'm not sure any team in the NFL has a greater need at the position. Mosley is instinctive and fast, deft in coverage and a physical tackler even if he's not big for the position. He offers immediate help.

 

[MHSL82]

13. Mike Evans *
St. Louis Rams (7-9)
COLLEGE: Texas A&M
AGE: 21
HT: 6-5
WT: 225
POS: WR

Analysis: Last year the Rams added Tavon Austin, a player who is explosive in space and hard to cover due to his quickness and straight-line speed. In Evans, they get a mammoth wide receiver who can't be covered capably because he can simply box out defenders for passes and get to the ball at a point higher than anybody around him. Johnny Manziel benefited greatly from his presence; so can Sam Bradford. We've seen basketball players like Julius Thomas, Antonio Gates and Jimmy Graham transition well to the NFL after doing very little in college football. Well, Evans was a basketball player and was dominant in college football. Speed is a concern, but it can't ruin the value of his size advantage.

14. Timmy Jernigan *
Chicago Bears (8-8)
COLLEGE: Florida St.
AGE: 21
HT: 6-2
WT: 298
POS: DT

Analysis: This would be a dream scenario for the Bears, who were repeatedly gashed by the run down the stretch in 2013 due to a lack of interior defenders. They even had to move undersized 4-3 defensive ends inside. Jernigan is an active run-stuffer, a player who disrupts the run game with penetration due to unusual quickness for his size, and with leverage and violent hands that make him hard to move. He'd come in and help Chicago rebuild that interior rotation.

15. Louis Nix III *
Pittsburgh Steelers (8-8)
COLLEGE: Notre Dame
AGE: 22
HT: 6-3
WT: 345
POS: DT

Analysis: Nix is one of those rare players, a two-gap nose tackle with the feet and quickness to be useful within any scheme. He can hold up at the point of attack and handle double-teams, but also will occasionally use his hands and ability to get off blocks, find a gap and make a play in the backfield. A versatile but huge defender like this will pay dividends in any system, but certainly the Steelers need a player like him, without a true nose tackle on the roster and with Brett Keisel now 35.

16. Eric Ebron *
Baltimore Ravens (8-8)^
COLLEGE: North Carolina
AGE: 20
HT: 6-4
WT: 231
POS: TE

Analysis: The Ravens desperately need a matchup problem for Joe Flacco, and tight end is a position of uncertainty headed into 2014 as both Ed Dickson and Dennis Pitta are at the end of their contracts. Ebron has the size, speed, hands and catch radius you want out of a new-breed tight end who can be split out, but he also has the frame to add some size and not get totally pushed around as an inline blocker. I have him rated higher than this slot on my Big Board.

17. Ha Ha Clinton-Dix *
Dallas Cowboys (8-8)^
COLLEGE: Alabama
AGE: 21
HT: 6-1
WT: 208
POS: S

Analysis: I don't see a decent free safety solution on the Cowboys' roster, and good ones typically don't make it to free agency, so this pick lines up need and board value pretty effectively. Clinton-Dix has the range to handle the deep role in man-free coverage as he did for Nick Saban. He has good instincts, is generally strong with his routes and angles to the ball, and does a good job of not letting quarterbacks get him going in the wrong direction with their eyes.

18. Marqise Lee *
New York Jets (8-8)
COLLEGE: USC
AGE: 22
HT: 6-1
WT: 198
POS: WR

Analysis: It almost goes without saying that New York lacks anything resembling a No. 1 receiver, and a healthy Lee certainly resembles that as a prospect, making him a great fit here. Lee had a balky knee for a portion of 2013, but he looked close to 100 percent toward the end of the season, and we again saw that trademark explosiveness. Lee is a receiver who competes for the ball, runs good routes and can beat corners and safeties deep, but also has exceptional quickness and fluidity as a runner with the ball. He can change direction with so little noticeable loss of speed, it's a treat to watch.

19. Cyrus Kouandjio *
Miami Dolphins (8-8)
COLLEGE: Alabama
AGE: 20
HT: 6-6
WT: 315
POS: OT

Analysis: The offensive line was a source of chaos for Miami in 2013, for all kinds of reasons. Bryant McKinnie, whom the Dolphins acquired from Baltimore midseason and isn't signed into 2014, won't be the answer at left tackle. While Kouandjio had his inconsistencies at the position for Alabama in 2013, he also has the physical tools of a potentially dominant NFL starter at left tackle, which says plenty. He has length, a wide base, long arms and easy feet to absorb power and mirror quickness. Miami should come away from the draft with a potential starter and some depth on the O-line.

20. Zack Martin
Arizona Cardinals (10-6)
COLLEGE: Notre Dame
AGE: 23
HT: 6-4
WT: 308
POS: OT

Analysis: The Cardinals will get a boost from the addition of a healthy Jonathan Cooper at guard next season after he lost his rookie year to injury. But the situation at both tackle positions is pretty unsettled in terms of both contracts and performance going forward, and a versatile offensive lineman with a lot of experience at left tackle and the ability to move elsewhere makes a lot of sense. If you can't block in the NFC West, you're going to be in a lot of trouble.

 

[MHSL82]

21. Calvin Pryor *
Green Bay Packers (8-7-1)
COLLEGE: Louisville
AGE: 21
HT: 6-2
WT: 208
POS: S

Analysis: The Packers have a good strong safety in Morgan Burnett, but they need more reliability and versatility at the free safety position. Pryor is a rising talent with the speed and instincts to cover a ton of ground in coverage, but also the willingness to fly downhill and make tackles at the line of scrimmage. The onetime high school running back (and safety) was pretty dominant as a junior and enters the draft with a lot of momentum in terms of his tape. Charlie Strong told me this is one of the best players he's ever coached.

22. Kelvin Benjamin *
Philadelphia Eagles (10-6)
COLLEGE: Florida St.
AGE: 22
HT: 6-4
WT: 232
POS: WR

Analysis: I'd consider this more of a "best player available" pick than an outright need, but Benjamin would fill a distinctive role for the Eagles. Riley Cooper has decent size, but doesn't create separation with speed (and is a free agent), and DeSean Jackson is exceptionally quick still, but lacks a physical presence. Benjamin combines some of both, with a huge frame for a wide receiver at near 6-5 and a lean 230-plus pounds. He possesses not just speed, but a lot of change-of-direction burst. He can simply overwhelm defenders and make plays, and would be a nice weapon for Chip Kelly.

23. Stephon Tuitt *
Kansas City Chiefs (11-5)
COLLEGE: Notre Dame
AGE: 21
HT: 6-6
WT: 310
POS: DE

Analysis: The Chiefs got exposed some along the defensive line as the season progressed. A 9-0 start for the Chiefs masked the fact that Dontari Poe's play tailed off considerably, and there really isn't an above-average 3-4 DE on the roster. Tuitt has a rare combination of size and quickness, a player who will play at 300-plus pounds and drive blockers with power but can also turn, rip, bend and get around defenders with agility. He's not a "perfect fit for this scheme" as much as he's a great fit in any scheme. He sometimes reminds me a young Richard Seymour.

24. Darqueze Dennard
Cincinnati Bengals (11-5)
COLLEGE: Michigan St.
AGE: 22
HT: 5-11
WT: 197
POS: CB

Analysis: The Cincinnati secondary was better in performance than I thought it'd be on paper this season, but there are some concerns going forward at a couple of spots, with both age (Adam Jones and Terence Newman are north of 30) and health (Leon Hall ended the season on injured reserve), so the Bengals don't just need depth, they could use a player capable of starting. Dennard is the most complete corner in the draft in terms of the overall skill profile to work in any kind of coverage, and he brings a great work ethic and competitive temperament to the field. Three words: Ready to play.

25. Bradley Roby *
San Diego Chargers (9-7)
COLLEGE: Ohio St.
AGE: 21
HT: 5-11
WT: 192
POS: CB

Analysis: Roby isn't yet a complete package at cornerback, but he has top-end speed and quickness, with fluid hips that allow him to turn and run with any kind of receiver. Where he needs to improve is in his ball skills and in not grabbing too much, which will cause him to draw too many flags at the NFL level. But with refinement he can be really good. San Diego was leaky in the secondary all season and could use a talent upgrade.

26. Carlos Hyde *
Cleveland Browns (4-12) (From IND)
COLLEGE: Ohio St.
AGE: 22
HT: 6-0
WT: 240
POS: RB

Analysis: A couple things about this pick. For one, I think this is a good spot for the Browns to move down and allow a team that really wants a QB to move up and grab one. This is a good spot to go and get a player like Derek Carr. So while it might seem crazy that Cleveland would trade a running back for a first-round pick, then go out and take one with the pick it got in return, it also reflects the fact that this becomes a pretty mobile spot on the board for the Browns, and they do need to get a starting-level RB at some point, perhaps in Round 2. It's also important to realize that trading Trent Richardson reflects how the organization feels about the player. Hyde is certainly no lock here, but this does reflect where I think the league will value him.

27. Antonio Richardson *
New Orleans Saints (11-5)
COLLEGE: Tennessee
AGE: 21
HT: 6-6
WT: 327
POS: OT

Analysis: Drew Brees will turn 36 on the day this mock draft is published, and his blind side was protected at the end of the season by rookie 2013 third-round pick Terron Armstead. I think Armstead can be a pretty good player, but I'm not coming away from this offseason without a player I think can be an effective NFL left tackle if I'm the Saints. "Tiny" Richardson can be. While he can struggle with speed rushers, Richardson is an athlete at this size, and can absorb power and simply overwhelm big or small defensive ends in the run game. He's a solid fit here.

28. Brandin Cooks *
Carolina Panthers (12-4)
COLLEGE: Oregon St.
AGE: 21
HT: 5-10
WT: 186
POS: WR

Analysis: Wide receiver is obviously a huge need for the Panthers, and while it's popular to look for matchup threats in today's game, the matchup threat of a receiver who is really hard to cover is a constant, and Cooks has a great ability to free himself. He's explosive both before and after the catch, with quick feet and the ability to change direction without a loss of speed or wasted motion, and he's got great ball awareness and hands. A player whom some will probably compare to Steve Smith based just on size could certainly learn from the master and help the Panthers in the immediate term.

29. Jace Amaro *
New England Patriots (12-4)
COLLEGE: Texas Tech
AGE: 21
HT: 6-5
WT: 260
POS: TE

Analysis: It's a credit to the Patriots the way they've battled through a decimated group of tight ends compared to what they had going into the summer, but Amaro can offer immediate help for 2014. Amaro has great size but far more quickness than you'd expect from a player with this frame, and worked out of the slot for Tech. He catches the ball with ease, away from his body, and will get you yards after the catch. The fit seems clear given the uncertainty at the position for the Patriots, but I'm also sure the phone lines will be open as the Patriots look for options to move down and pile up picks.

30. Odell Beckham Jr. *
San Francisco 49ers (12-4)
COLLEGE: LSU
AGE: 21
HT: 6-0
WT: 193
POS: WR

Analysis: The 49ers have been a different team with a healthy Michael Crabtree, but I don't think they should be in the position again of having only one wide receiver with a really dynamic skill set on the roster given how much Crabtree not being healthy limited the offense. Beckham's top trait is great acceleration, which can force cornerbacks to give him space or risk press coverage, where he also has quick feet and does a decent job of clearing without too much route disruption. He has good hands, which also helps in the return game, where he's been good.

31. Scott Crichton *
Denver Broncos (13-3)
COLLEGE: Oregon St.
AGE: 21
HT: 6-3
WT: 265
POS: DE

Analysis: The loss of Von Miller to injury left the Broncos pretty thin there, and if Peyton Manning is back and healthy again in 2014, the Broncos need to add some help in that department to help them play with leads. Crichton is a relentless 4-3 defensive end who has had consistent production and does a good job of using good leverage to drive blockers backward. The question with Crichton is whether he can develop more as a pass-rusher and not rely on simply energy and leverage, because NFL blockers won't be as susceptible.

32. Allen Robinson *
Seattle Seahawks (13-3)
COLLEGE: Penn St.
AGE: 21
HT: 6-3
WT: 210
POS: WR

Analysis: The Seahawks are sure to look at the offensive line, but the wide receiving corps has all kinds of uncertainty next season. Is Sidney Rice retained with his constant health issues? Is Percy Harvin healthy? Is Golden Tate worth a big-time raise? How much do you shell out for Doug Baldwin? Turnover seems inevitable, and the lack of size on the perimeter is obvious. Robinson is a big player with room to grow, accelerates quickly and has solid top-end speed. He does a nice job of helping his QB by finding space when the play is extended -- which happens a lot in Seattle -- and will make contested catches. Good fit.

 

[MHSL82]

MOBILE, Ala. — Along with the rest of the NFL, the Chiefs’ primary decision-makers have descended
upon the Senior Bowl this week in hopes of learning more about prospects, including several at a
few positions of need.

Wide receiver. Safety. Tight end. Cornerback. Those are the obvious ones.

But it would be wise not to sleep on the Chiefs’ need for more pass rushers. That’s right — a team
that boasts one of the league’s top pass-rushing duos in outside linebackers Tamba Hali and
Justin Houston needs help getting after the passer, and that couldn’t have been more obvious
over the last half of the season.

With Hali and Houston both dinged up over that stretch — Houston missed the last five games
of the regular season with Hali fought through knee and ankle problems — reinforcements Frank Zombo,
Josh Martin and Dezman Moses largely failed to generate any significant pressure.

According to Pro Football Focus, the trio logged only two sacks and 11 hurries in 586 defensive snaps,
a pittance compared to Houston (11 sacks, 42 hurries in 724 snaps) and Hali (11 sacks, 58 hurries in 970 snaps).

And with Houston set to become a free agent in a year and Hali set to turn 31 next year,
well, it wouldn’t be a bad time for the Chiefs to protect themselves against the worst-case scenario.

Fortunately for them, this year’s Senior Bowl offers a number of intriguing prospects who project
as 3-4 outside linebackers at the next level, according to Shane Hallam of draftTV.com.

“I think it’s probably one of the stronger positions down here,” Hallam said. “If you want to go from
top to bottom and count up how many guys at these positions are going to go in the top 50,
I think the pass-rushing d-ends/outside linebackers will be right up there.”

Hallam can’t wait to see what Dee Ford, a 6-foot-2, 240-pound defensive end who terrorized Florida State
in the BCS national championship game and registered 8 1/2 sacks and 17 hurries in 2013, does this week.
He could be around when the Chiefs pick 23rd in the first round.

“I think he’s a second-round guy because his size is gonna scare some teams off,” Hallam said. “
But stopping him is just so difficult because his pad leverage is very good and he has a variety
of pass rush moves.”

Hallam is also intrigued by Stanford’s bulky Trent Murphy (6-6, 261), who doesn’t have freaky athleticism
but is a hard worker with great strength, and smaller speed guys like Missouri’s Michael Sam, Virginia Tech’s
James Gayle, Georgia Tech’s Jeremiah Attaochu and Louisville’s Marcus Smith, who are all college 4-3
defensive ends trying to prove they can play 3-4 outside linebacker.

“It’s something (Senior Bowl executive director) Phil Savage did last year, taking these d-ends and having
them come in and play outside linebacker,” Hallam said. “It’s kind of nice because if they don’t do well,
(they can say) they never played the position before. But if they do well, then you know they can
play the position and it opens up a lot of possibilities for them. So it will be a fun week.”

Read more here: http://www.kansascit...l#storylink=cpy

 

[MHSL82]

NFL's problem with underclassmen declaring for draft is getting bigger | The MMQB with Peter King

 

[MHSL82]

This website simulates the draft. You pick a team, only one per simulation, of course. Then, it picks people based upon either some mock out there or based upon what others have taken on previous simulations by other fans.

http://fanspeak.com/ontheclock/

 

[Fountain City Blues]

Starting to get close enough to draft (and now in FA) to start thinking about who exactly we should draft.