Many thanks to Big_Jay for another incredible addition to his mock draft database here for us on Behind the Steel Curtain. Jason has added a fourth round to this version of his 2010 NFL Mock Draft. As always, I'm impressed. Yeah, yeah, I hear you. We've got 2011 to worry about, but this is as good a time as any to squeeze this in with the bye week and all, not to mention the end of the college football season approaching. Last chance coming up to see many of these prospects in action, and what better week than Turkey Week when games are a plenty to familiarize yourself with a few.
Here's the last 2012 Mock Draft we had published here about a month ago.
1. Indianapolis Colts - Andrew Luck QB, Stanford
2011 1st round Draft Pick: Anthony Castonzo OT, Boston College
Team Needs: RT/OC/WR
The million dollar question will be, do the Colts draft for the future or the present? Drafting for the future means drafting Andrew Luck, who by now everyone knows is the best quarterback prospect since Peyton Manning. But if they take him how will Peyton feel about that? It could cause a rift. Drafting for the present means taking Matt Kalil to help protect Manning for as long as possible. The third option, and smartest it they are in win-now mode, is ransoming this pick for a treasure trove. They could conceivably get two first round picks out of any deal, and that's just going to be the starting point. They could get that by dropping one pick back with the Dolphins and still get the top rated tackle.
2. Miami Dolphins - Matt Barkley QB, USC
2011 1st round Draft Pick: Mike Pouncey OG/OC, Florida
Team Needs: QB/FS/OG/TE
The rumor is that Dolphins owner Stephen Ross is absolutely infatuated with Andrew Luck. If so he's going to have to make a huge deal with the Colts to get him. Given how he's handled the franchise so far it wouldn't surprise me to see Ross mortgage the future of the team by trading up for Luck. But since I don't do trades in my mock draft I'll have to mock them the next best thing, Matt Barkley. He's gotten better every year since starting as a true freshman. Given their quarterback woes I can't see this pick being anything else, especially since they will have a new coach.
3. Carolina Panthers - Justin Blackmon WR, Oklahoma State
2011 1st round Draft Pick: Cam Newton QB, Auburn
Team Needs: WR/O-line depth
The only dependable wide receiver on the Panthers roster is Steve Smith who will be 33 years old shortly after the 2012 NFL draft. At wide receiver it'll come down to Alshon Jeffery or Justin Blackmon. Jeffery has the size and immense upside but Blackmon is quicker and a better route runner. But they are both great players for different reason so it'll basically come down to preference. If the Panthers go in any other direction it'll be for UNC DE Quinton Coples or for LSU cornerback Morris Claiborne.
4. St. Louis Rams - Matt Kalil OT, USC
2011 1st round Draft Pick: Robert Quinn DE/OLB, UNC
Team Needs: FS/DT/RB
St. Louis' downfall so far this season has been their inability to protect Sam Bradford. Fortunately for them they are the first team up that doesn't need a quarterback so that leaves them with the top tackle in the draft. Matt Kalil is the only tackle in the draft without any flaws to his game and would be a great blindside protector for Sam Bradford. Taking him means they could move Rodger Saffold over to right tackle or guard. If the Rams go in any other direction they could take Alshon Jeffery to give Bradford another weapon. Defensively they could take Quinton Coples to add to their pass-rush, or a more likely scenario would be LSU cornerback Morris Claiborne given that they are currently reduced to starting 36 year old Al Harris.
5. Minnesota Vikings - Alshon Jeffery WR, South Carolina
2011 1st Draft Pick: Christian Ponder QB, FSU
Team Needs: RG/LT/WR/SS/FS/DT
The Vikings offense is really hurting since they lost Sidney Rice to free agency and Alshon Jeffery would be a great replacement for him. However they also need a better option than Charlie Johnson at left tackle so Stanford's Jonathan Martin will certainly garner a lot of consideration. With their needs and the talent on the board I can't see the Vikings going in any other direction besides wide receiver or offensive tackle.
6. Jacksonville Jaguars - Quinton Coples DE, UNC
2011 1st round Draft Pick: Blaine Gabbert QB, Missouri
Team Needs: DE/FS/SS/CB/WR
This pick will be dependent on whether or not Jack Del Rio is the head coach in 2012 or not. If he is then it'll be Quinton Coples if he's on the board. Del Rio loves his pass rushers and defensive end is a need for them. They could also use some major help in the secondary. With the exception of Rashean Mathis, who'll be a 32 year old free agent in 2012, the Jaguars have one of the worst secondaries in all of football. And if they lose Mathis this pick will absolutely have to be a cornerback. Offensively Jacksonville has lacked a legitimate number one wide receiver since Jimmy Smith retired so if Alshon Jeffery or Justin Blackmon were to fall I could see the Jags taking either one of them.
7. Seattle Seahawks - Landry Jones QB, Oklahoma
2011 1st round Draft Pick: James Carpenter OG/OT, Alabama
Team Needs: QB/CB/ILB
I guess no one told Seattle that there's a "Suck for Luck" sweepstakes going on. Thanks to a few meaningless wins they now have no shot at drafting Andrew Luck, and probably not Matt Barkley either. Aside from a nice little win against the Ravens current starting quarterback Tavares Jackson is not a long term answer at the position. Landry Jones has the tools necessary to be a starting QB in the NFL but there are some lingering questions. He comes from a pass-happy offense and unlike Sam Bradford he doesn't have the elite arm strength. Unfortunately for Pete Carroll he doesn't have many other options. He could wait until the second round in which case they may look at Trent Richardson if the Seahawks are unable to resign Marshawn Lynch. Defensively they needs some upgrades in the secondary so Morris Claiborne is an option as is Quinton Coples if Jacksonville passes on him.
8. Cleveland Browns - Trent Richardson RB, Alabama
2011 1st round Draft Pick: Phil Taylor NT, Baylor
Team Needs: RT/DT/OLB/WR
Cleveland drafted Greg Little in the second round of the 2011 NFL draft and he'll be a nice addition to a very underachieving WR core but they still need a legitimate number one WR. Unfortunately the only two wide receivers worthy of this pick are long gone. They could take Jonathan Martin to fill the void at right tackle but there will be plenty of solid options in the later rounds. But apparently there is a huge rift between the team and current battering ram Peyton Hillis over his contact and he will probably not be there next year. If the Browns were going to find someone to replace him who better than Trent Richardson? Richardson is better than his Heisman trophy predecessor Mark Ingram and has a perfect combination of speed and power running ability. On the other side of the ball they could take Morris Claiborne and have one of the top cornerback tandems in the league when paired with Joe Haden.
9. Washington Redskins - Morris Claiborne CB, LSU
2011 1st round Draft Pick: Ryan Kerrigan DE, Purdue
Team Needs: QB/RT/CB/RG/OC
With so many holes to fill Washington could really just go with the best player available. It's been an up and mostly down season for their quarterback situation. Unfortunately all of the top tier QB's are gone with Baylor's Robert Griffin likely to return to school. Along the offensive line they could use upgrades almost everywhere so they could take Riley Reiff. Defensively they need and upgrade over Adam Carriker at DE and London Fletcher can't player forever so Vontaze Burflict would be a perfect apprentice/successor. Claiborne is the top player available that fits any sort of need for Washington although they would be better served trading back to acquire more picks to fill the various holes.
10. Arizona Cardinals - Jonathan Martin OT, Stanford
2011 1st round Draft Pick: Patrick Peterson CB, LSU
Team Needs: LT/OLB/FS
Arizona's two biggest needs will be to upgrade the pass-rush and the offensive line. The combo of Clark Haggans and Joey Porter is just ridiculous. They drafted Sam Acho who will probably man one spot, but they'll need someone to man the other. The Cards also need to give some serious upgrades to protect their investment in Kevin Kolb. Coach Whisenhunt has stuck by Levi Brown but he is not left tackle material. Given the talent drop-off after Martin and Iowa's Riley Reiff and the fact that they could still get a quality pass-rusher in the later rounds I can't see them taking anyone else. Just for the sake of argument though they could/may take ASU linebacker Vontaze Burflict. He would certainly be a fan favorite and he can play any linebacker position, and in any defensive scheme.
11. Philadelphia Eagles - Riley Reiff OT, Iowa
2011 1st round Draft Pick: Danny Watkins OG, Baylor
Team Needs: RT/LB/S
So much for the Dream Team huh? Philly's big free agent spending spree hasn't netted them much. They still have a few holes to fill. Linebacker has been an issue for years because Andy Reid just doesn't value the position. However if he were so inclined to do so this would definitely be the right time to take one with the likes of Vontaze Burflict, Manti Te'o, and Zach Brown on the board. With so much invested in Mike Vick they need to do everything they can to protect him which is where Reiff comes into play. He's the last of the top tier offensive tackles and would seriously upgrade the awful tandem of Winston Justice and Todd Herremans.
12. Kansas City Chiefs - Vontaze Burflict LB, Arizona State
2011 1st round Draft Pick: Jonathan Baldwin WR, Pittsburgh
Team Needs: OT/RB/CB
The Chiefs have been the victim of the injury bug which has ruined their promising season. Their biggest need going into the 2012 draft will be at right tackle where Barry Richardson is just plain awful. Unfortunately there just isn't the talent left to fill that particular need. One issue they may face is resigning Brandon Carr and Brandon Flowers who will both be free agents. In this instance they go with the best player on the board which is Vontaze Burflict. He would be an instant upgrade over Javon Belcher at inside linebacker and could play outside if Justin Houston doesn't pan out.
13. Denver Broncos - Dre Kirkpatrick CB, Alabama
2011 1st round Draft Pick: Von Miller DE/OLB, Texas A&M
Team Needs: DT/CB/RT/RB
With Trent Richardson already off of the board this pick becomes a little more difficult to guess. He would've been a perfect fit as Denver has had some issues at the running back position with Knowshon Moreno's injury history and the fact that John Fox likes running a two-back system. Other areas of concern on the offense are at right tackle. Rookie Orlando Franklin would be better off playing guard. Unfortunately there isn't any value here with the remaining tackle prospects. Defensively the Broncos still need upgrades at tackle. Cornerback is also a concern. Champ Bailey is still playing at a high level but he's 33 years old and cannot continue this level of play forever. Janoris Jenkins would be a value pick but given the headaches the Broncos have incurred from Perrish Cox's legal issues I doubt they'll risk going through that again. Kirkpatrick is the only player available that fits any of Denver's needs. He's a big, physical corner with all of the tools to be an impact player in the NFL.
14. San Diego Chargers - Courtney Upshaw DE/OLB, Alabama
2011 1st round Draft Pick: Corey Liuget DT, Illinois
Team Needs: OLB/ILB/RT
Offensively the Chargers are just about set. They could definitely use an upgrade over Jeromey Clary at right tackle but they can find much better value for that in the later rounds. Michael Floyd would be a San Diego-type pick but they have much bigger needs defensively. They simply have to upgrade their pass-rush. Courtney Upshaw is an absolute beast that plays against top competition in the SEC and right now is the top rated OLB for a 3-4 defense. The Chargers could also give a look at some of the available cornerbacks as well as they may be inclined to move Quinton Jammer to the strong safety position.
15. Tampa Bay Buccaneers - Alfonzo Dennard CB, Nebraska
2011 1st round Draft Pick: Adrian Clayborn DE, Iowa
Team Needs: CB/RT/OG/OC
Tampa Bay has finally solidified their defensive line spending first and second round picks in back to back years on defensive tackles and ends, now hopefully they can turn their attention elsewhere. Going into 2012 the cornerback position is going to be a huge area of need for them. Rhonde Barber will be 37 years old by the time the 2012 draft rolls around and who knows what's going to happen to Aqib Talib as he may be going to jail at some point. Offensively the Bucs need some serious upgrades on the O-line at right tackle and along the interior. Apparently they are very high on Dennard after watching him while scouting Prince Amukamara.
16. Tennessee Titans - Manti Te'o ILB, Notre Dame
2011 1st round Draft Pick: Jake Locker QB, Washington
Team Needs: LG/OC/DE
The Titans biggest needs are along the interior of the offensive line. Leroy Harris and Eugene Amano both need to be replaced in a hurry but it's a little early to take Stanford guard David DeCastro or Wisconsin center Peter Konz. Tennessee's defense clearly misses Stephen Tulloch as Barrett Ruud just isn't getting it done. Manti Te'o represents the best value for the pick and will be a force in the middle of that defense. Other options might include Washington DT Alameda Ta'amu to be the force on the line that they've been missing since Albert Haynesworth or Notre Dame wide receiver Michael Floyd.
17. Buffalo Bills - David DeCastro OG, Stanford
2011 1st round Draft Pick: Marcell Dareus DE/DT, Alabama
Team Needs: OT/OLB/OG/WR
The Bills biggest needs are on the offensive line and at outside linebacker. Their line has to be upgraded at some point if they want to sustain the success they've had to this point in the season going forward. Also their lack of pressure has been troubling as well. With Courtney Upshaw already off of the board they go for the top rated interior lineman in the draft in David DeCastro. His stock has been soaring all season as he's protected number one draft pick Andrew Luck.
18. New York Jets - Brandon Jenkins DE/OLB, FSU
2011 1st round Draft Pick: Muhammed Wilkerson DE, Temple
Team Needs: OLB/RT
The Jets are still having issues generating a consistent pass-rush. Calvin Pace has been good but the Jets still need someone opposite of him. Free safety Eric Smith looked overmatched against the Patriots but there aren't any safeties worthy of a pick this high. On the offensive line the Jets have struggled to replace Damien Woody. With the talent available Brandon Jenkins makes the most sense. Given the swagger of Rex Ryan I can see the Jets making a move upward to draft Courtney Upshaw or Vontaze Burflict. If they target any other player I can see them taking Alameda Ta'amu to replace current rookie Kendrick Ellis who is likely to be deported back to Jamaica once he's convicted of assault.
19. Cleveland Browns (via Atlanta Falcons) - Michael Floyd WR, Notre Dame
2011 1st round Draft Pick: Phil Taylor NT, Baylor
Team Needs: RT/DT/OLB/WR
Cleveland can finally get that number one wide receiver they've been lacking for so long. If the Browns decide to turn their attention to the defense after using their first pick on Trent Richardson they could take the best available pass-rusher to finish out the overhaul of the D-line. At linebacker Boston College's Luke Kuechly would be a great fit and Cleveland could take another cornerback to pair with Joe Haden given that there will still be some good ones on the board.
20. Dallas Cowboys - Janoris Jenkins CB, North Alabama
2011 1st round Draft Pick: Tyron Smith OT, USC
Team Needs: CB/FS/DE/SS
Dallas has a clear cut need at cornerback. Jenkins would be a top-10 talent if not for his past issues while at the university of Florida. Given the headache Jerry Jones endured with Adam "Pacman" Jones he may not want another trouble magnet like Jenkins and may opt to trade up for Alabama's Dre Kirkpatrick or just take Virginia's Chase Minnifield. Another option would be to upgrade the interior of their offensive line with Wisconsin's Peter Konz.
21. Cincinnati Bengals (via Oakland Raiders) - Zach Brown OLB, UNC
2011 1st round Draft Pick: A.J. Green WR, UGA
Team Needs: DE/CB/RB
Cincy got their franchise wide receiver and quarterback in the first two rounds of the 2011 NFL draft. Offensively they are very sound but could still use an upgrade at left guard over Nate Livings. Also Cincy needs to start looking for a future running back to replace Cedric Benson. On defense they could definitely use an upgrade over Thomas Howard at OLB. Zach Brown is an athletic freak and in the AFC North having a stacked defense is a must. Other options would be Chase Minnifield to replace the hole created by Jonathan Joseph at cornerback or Miami RB Lamar Miller to be Benson's future replacement.
22. Detroit Lions - Chase Minnifield CB, Virginia
2011 1st round Draft Pick: Nick Fairley DT/DE, Auburn
Team Needs: CB/LT/OLB/OC/SS
Detroit has a habit of taking the best player available regardless of need. It's why they have one of the best defensive lines in the NFL but also have one of the worst offensive lines in addition to one of the worst secondaries. With the talent on the board cornerback makes the most sense. Minnifield is the son of a former Pro-bowler and is better than previous Virginia alums Ras-I Dowling and Chris Cook. If they do take a lineman it could come down to any number of options that include OSU OC Michael Brewster or OT Mike Adams, UGA OG/OT Cordy Glenn, or Alabama OG/OT Barrett Jones.
23. Chicago Bears - Peter Konz OC, Wisconsin
2011 1st round Draft Pick: Gabe Carimi OT, Wisconsin
Team Needs: OG/OC/WR
Offensively Chicago needs desperately to upgrade the line. If Jay Cutler had time to throw the ball on a consistent basis they could really contend every year. Drafting Peter Konz would fill the huge hole left by Olin Kreutz and allow them to move Robert Garza to guard creating two upgrades for the price of one. Defensively the Bears could use a linebacker to replace Nick Roach and serve as an apprentice to Brian Urlacher who isn't getting any younger. And if the Bears hope to compete with the Packers they will need to upgrade/add to their secondary.
24. Houston Texans - Alameda Ta'amu NT, Washington
2011 1st round Draft Pick: J.J. Watt DT/DE, Wisconsin
Team Needs: NT/OG/CB
Now that Matt Schaub is out for the year its pretty much curtains for the Texans 2011 season. They've accumulated enough wins and have a talented enough team to win their division but it'll be a quick exit from the playoffs with Matt Leinart at the helm. Surprisingly Houston has a pretty loaded roster. They do need an upgrade at the nose tackle position over Shaun Cody. In the secondary it looks like Kareem Jackson is on the verge of being a bust but will probably be given another year, and behind him they do have rookie Brandon Harris. Offensively they are pretty solid as well but could use a couple upgrades along the offensive line. So it'll come down to Alameda Ta'amu, Cordy Glenn, or one of the top remaining cornerbacks. Drafting Ta'amu would put the finishing touches on a rebuilt defense. Wade Phillips has a reputation for preferring smaller nose tackles but that's only because Jay Ratliff in Dallas is an anomaly as 285lbs. players are not normally that stout against the run.
25. Cincinnati Bengals - Lamar Miller RB, Miami
2011 1st round Draft Pick: A.J. Green WR, UGA
Team Needs: DE/CB/RB
This time Cincy upgrades the offense. Miller has steadily climbed the draft boards and is now garnering first round consideration. Drafting him would make a great young offensive core with Andy Dalton and A.J. Green. With Leon Hall out for the season with an Achilles injury Cincy's cornerback depth will be tested the rest of the season. If it should falter then they will have to give some consideration to taking advantage of the deep crop of cornerbacks in the draft.
26. New England Patriots (via New Orleans Saints) - Ronnell Lewis DE/OLB Oklahoma
2011 1st round Draft Pick: Nate Solder OT, Colorado
Team Needs: OLB/DE/WR
There's almost no chance the Patriots use both of their 2012 first round picks. It's likely they'll find someone to give them a ridiculous deal for this selection, but I don't do trades in my mock draft. New England has two clear cut needs going into the draft. They need a receiving threat that can stretch the field vertically and they have to generate a better pass rush. Unfortunately there aren't any wide receivers available that would warrant this pick and Belichick has shied away from taking converted ends-to-OLB's early in the draft. But now that they run a hybrid 3-4/4-3 scheme it does seem plausible that he would gamble with one now. Ronnell Lewis is an OLB that was moved to defensive end this season and has flourished. That sort of experience would make him valuable to the Patriots.
27. New York Giants - Michael Brewster OC, Ohio State
2011 1st round Draft Pick: Prince Amukamara CB, Nebraska
Team Needs: OC/RB/OLB/OG
The Giants got a steal when Prince Amukamara fell to them in the 2011 draft but they failed to address a majority of their needs. They still need a left tackle because William Beatty hasn't worked out, they had to cut Shaun O'Hara and Rich Seubert, and their linebacking corps still needs an overhaul. The Giants generally do not take offensive lineman in the first round but that will have to change if they want to stay competitive. Brewster has been the highest rated center for most of the college season, only being surpassed by Wisconsin's Peter Konz recently, and would provide a serious upgrade over David Baas. Or the Giants could stick with conventional wisedom and draft another defensive lineman like Michigan State's Jerel Worthy or Clemson's Brandon Thompson.
28. New England Patriots - Devon Still DE/DT, Penn State
2011 1st round Draft Pick: Nate Solder OT, Colorado
Team Needs: OLB/DE/WR
As previously stated the Patriots will most likely not use both of their first round picks. Here they have the luxury of taking the best player available that fits any sort of need. Still can play end in a 3-4 and tackle when they switch to the 4-3 and he would help revamp New England's lacking pass rush. I would love to have given them a wide receiver but the value isn't there. The Patriots could continue the trend of taking a cornerback in the first round given the troubles they've had in that department as well.
29. Baltimore Ravens - Dont'a Hightower ILB, Alabama
2011 1st Draft Pick: Jimmy Smith CB, Colorado
Team Needs: OC/ILB/CB/FS/NT
The Ravens are all about taking the best player on the board as opposed to drafting to fill a need. Offensively they will need to find an eventual long-term successor to Matt Birk at center. Defensively they must find a successor to Ray Lewis. Hightower should be high on the Ravens list of wants. He's a great playmaker and a natural leader who is already experienced in the 3-4 scheme. At this point I really can't see the Ravens taking anyone else unless they want to get bold and trade up for Vontaze Burflict.
30. San Francisco 49ers - Dwight Jones WR, North Carolina
2011 1st round Draft Pick: Aldon Smith DE/OLB, Missouri
Team Needs: CB/DE/OC/NT
Thanks to Jim Harbaugh this team has completely turned around for the better. Heading into the draft the 49ers will only have a few needs and none of them should be too pressing. One will be at cornerback where Carlos Rogers will be a free agent and the second will be at wide receiver where they lack depth and Braylon Edwards will be a free agent as well. Jones is a tall, quick WR with good hands and has the potential to be a number one receiver.
31. Pittsburgh Steelers - Cordy Glenn OG/OT, UGA
2011 1st round Draft Pick: Cameron Heyward DE, OSU
Team Needs: NT/RG/ILB
For Steelers fans I really don't need to point out what the Steelers need in the draft. I myself state at least once a week that they should use all seven draft picks on offensive line help. They resigned a newly-svelte Max Starks which has made a world of difference but there are still plenty of issues. Left guard Chris Kemoeatu is not as promising as he once was. When he's not missing assignments he's jumping on the dog pile and getting 15-yard personal foul penalties. The Right guard position is still a revolving door of back-ups. At right tackle Marcus Gilbert has shown some promise but is still a work in progress. Elsewhere Casey Hampton is getting older and isn't getting the same kind of push that he used to. The Steelers have one of the best linebacking corps in the NFL but James Farrior and Larry Foote are getting older and as such they could use an ILB. I know they have Stevenson Sylvester but he is still largely unproven. And despite his timely interception against the Bengals Willie Gay still infuriates everyone in Steelers Nation. An offensive lineman is the logical and most likely choice. David DeCastro would be ideal but the Steelers will have to trade up to get him. Ohio State tackle Mike Adams would be an option but given his suspension the Steelers may pass on him. Cordy Glenn and Iowa State's Kelechi Osemele both make sense. Both are big but surprisingly agile linemen that can play both guard and tackle. The real difference is that Glenn has faced top competition all year where as Osemele has not and Glenn has the added experience of playing guard up until this season.
32. Green Bay Packers - Brandon Thompson DT, Clemson
2011 1st round Draft Pick: Derek Sherrod OT, Miss. State
Team Needs: OLB/LG/DE
Green Bay has the luxury of not really having any holes to fill. They do still need a pass-rusher to play opposite of Clay Matthews and will need to prepare for the day that Charles Woodson finally retires. Offensively they could continue to stockpile linemen. If they keep Derek Sherrod at guard they'll still need to find an heir to Chad Clifton at left tackle, or someone to play right tackle if Bryan Bulaga moves to the left side. Brandon Thompson is the best player on the board who fits any type of a need for the Packers. They could use an upgrade over Jarius Wynn and Mike Neal cannot stay healthy.
Round 2:
33. Indianapolis Colts - T.J. McDonald S, USC
With Peyton Manning in the lineup the Colts offense is good enough with what they've got. Defensively they've really missed the presence of Bob Sanders. McDonald is a hard hitter with good range.
34. Miami Dolphins - Dwayne Allen TE, Clemson
The best thing for a young QB, besides a left tackle, is a safety valve to throw to when he's in trouble.
35. Carolina Panthers - Billy Wynn DE/DT, Boise State
Carolina is going to transition to the 3-4 defense with Charles Johnson and the rest of the ends playing OLB so they'll need ends that can play the 5-technique.
36. St. Louis Rams - Jayron Hosley CB, Virginia Tech
The Rams secondary is awful.
37. Minnesota Vikings - Mike Adams OT, Ohio State
Minnesota needs an upgrade at left tackle for young Chris Ponder.
38. Jacksonville Jaguars - Ryan Broyles WR, Oklahoma
The Jags have lacked a legitimate number one WR since Jimmy Smith. I know Broyles is out for the rest of the year with an ACL injury but he'll still garner second round consideration as long as there's good progress with his injury by the draft.
39. Seattle Seahawks - Melvin Ingram DE, South Carolina
Raheem Brock needs to be replaced at left end.
40. Cleveland Browns - Luke Kuechly LB, Boston College
Cleveland has a hole at the strong side linebacker position. Others rate Kuechly much higher than this but given his lack of athleticism and difficulty shedding blocks I expect him to fall a bit on draft day like a lot of similar style ILB's. He reminds me a lot of former Buckeye and current Rams MLB James Laurinaitis.
41. Washington Redskins - Ryan Tannehill QB, Texas A&M
If Washington can't get one of the top three in the first round they must take a QB here.
42. Philadelphia Eagles (via Arizona Cardinals) - Jerel Worthy DT, Michigan State
Andy Reid loves spending early picks on two things, cornerbacks and defensive linemen. Mike Patterson is decent but can be upgraded.
43. Philadelphia Eagles - Johnathan Banks CB, Mississippi State
See Above. Asante Samuel will be a free agent and DRC has been terrible this season.
44. Kansas City Chiefs - Dontari Poe NT, Memphis
Kelly Gregg is 35 years old.
45. Denver Broncos - Kelechi Osemele OG/OT, Iowa State
If Denver is going to stick with Tim Tebow they need to do everything they can for him to succeed. Osemele can play right tackle, moving Orlando Franklin to guard, and give Tebow a power-blocking line for his triple-option offense.
46. San Diego Chargers - Stephon Gilmore CB, South Carolina
Quinton Jammer will be 33 years old next season and there's talk of moving him to safety.
47. Tampa Bay Buccaneers - LeMichael James RB, Oregon
The Bucs let Cadillac Williams walk in free agency because of LeGarrette Blount but Blount doesn't offer much in the way of speed or receiving ability. Plus it would be fun to refer to the Bucs backs as "LeRunning backs".
48. Tennessee Titans - Ben Jones OC, UGA
Tennessee needs to upgrade the interior of their offensive lines to help the running game. Jones is the emotional leader for Georgia's offense and a 4-year starter in the always tough SEC.
49. Buffalo Bills - Whitney Mercilus DE/OLB, Illinois
The Bills are seriously lacking in the pass-rush.
50. New York Jets - Nick Toon WR, Wisconsin
Plaxico Burress has only had one good game but the Jets need a solid number two WR to compliment Santonio Holmes.
51. Atlanta Falcons - Orson Charles TE, UGA
2011 1st round Draft Pick: Julio Jones WR, Alabama
Team Needs: TE/OG
In 2012 Tony Gonzalez will be gone. Charles is a local product who can step in right away as a pure pass-catching tight end.
52. Dallas Cowboys - Vinny Curry DE/OLB, Marshall
Anthony Spencer will be a free agent and has only started playing well in a contract year.
53. New England Patriots (via Oakland Raiders) - Markelle Martin S, Oklahoma State
They need to find a replacement for Brandon Meriweather.
54. Detroit Lions - Kevin Reddick ILB, North Carolina
Detroit likes to take BPA and they only signed Stephen Tulloch to a 1-year deal.
55. Chicago Bears - Lavonte David OLB, Nebraska
The Bears need to start thinking about the future of their linebacking corps. Brian Urlacher will be 34 years old in the offseason, Lance Briggs is getting old and asking for a new contract, and Nick Roach needs to be replaced now.
56. Houston Texans - Mark Barron SS, Alabama
Houston has transformed their defense but could still use an upgrade at the strong safety position.
57. Cincinnati Bengals - Kevin Zeitler OG, Wisconsin
The one weak link on Cincy's offense is left guard Nate Livings.
58. New Orleans Saints - Travis Lewis OLB, Oklahoma
2011 1st round Draft Picks: Cameron Jordan DE/DT, Cal/Mark Ingram RB, Alabama
Team Needs: RT/ILB
It's entirely possible that the Saints have the worst linebacking corps in the NFL right now with Jonathan Vilma out.
59. New York Giants - Cam Johnson DE, Virginia
The Giants love collecting pass-rushers and Cam Johnson has great value at the end of the round.
60. New England Patriots - Kendall Wright WR, Baylor
They need a WR who can stretch the field and has the potential to be a legit number one going forward.
61. Baltimore Ravens - Zebrie Sanders OT, Florida State
Bryant McKinnie is not the long term answer at left tackle.
62. San Francisco 49ers - Brandon Lindsey DE/OLB, Pittsburgh
San Fran could use a compliment to pair with Aldon Smith.
63. Pittsburgh Steelers - Barrett Jones OG/OT, Alabama
This needs to be the year that the Steelers draft heavy on the offensive line. Cordy Glenn was a great start and adding Barrett Jones would be a great finish. It would upgrade both guard spots and give the Steelers two versatile lineman that can play tackle as well, giving them the type of depth the Steelers have been lacking for years. Unlike a lot of other O-line prospects both Glenn and Jones have played extensively at both tackle and guard so there's no need to project what they'll do at both positions.
64. Green Bay Packers - Nick Perry DE/OLB, USC
The Packers need an upgrade over Erik Walden.
Round 3:
65. Indianapolis Colts - Mohamed Sanu WR, Rutgers
Reggie Wayne is getting old, Austin Collie and Anthony Gonzalez have a history of injury issues, and Andrew Luck could use a WR to grow with when he takes over for Peyton Manning.
66. Miami Dolphins - Andrew Datko OT, Florida State
More aid for their rookie QB. They definitely need an upgrade at right tackle. Before injuring his shoulder Datko was garnering late-first round consideration and could be a steal here.
67. Chicago Bears (via Carolina Panthers) - Robert Lester S, Alabama
Chicago needs to upgrade its secondary if they are to compete with the Packers.
68. St. Louis Rams - Montee Ball RB, Wisconsin
The Rams signed Cadillac Williams and Jerious Norwood to back up Steven Jackson but both have been a disappointment so far.
69. Minnesota Vikings - Josh Chapman NT, Alabama
Minnesota needs some youth on the interior of the D-line.
70. Jacksonville Jaguars - Coryell Judie CB, Texas A&M
The Jags must improve their secondary.
71. Seattle Seahawks - Chris Polk RB, Washington
Even if they re-sign Marshawn Lynch Seattle still needs a dependable compliment.
72. Cleveland Browns - Jeff Fuller WR, Texas A&M
Cleveland may double-dip at the WR position. They need to give Colt McCoy all the help he can get and Fuller is the BPA.
73. Washington Redskins - Jared Crick DT/DE, Nebraska
Washington needs an upgrade over Adam Carriker and Shanahan seems to have developed an affinity for Nebraska players. Crick was having a mediocre year before his season ending injury but is worth the gamble here.
74. Arizona Cardinals - Bruce Irvin DE/OLB, West Virginia
Arizona's OLB tandem of Clark Haggans and Joey Porter isn't cutting it.
75. Philadelphia Eagles - Cliff Harris CB/PR, Oregon
While the Eagles should be looking to shore up a horrible linebacker corps I know Andy Reid won't pass up a first round talent like Harris whose stock has dropped dramatically due to off the field concerns.
76. Kansas City Chiefs - Levy Adcock OT, Oklahoma State
Barry Richardson needs to be replaced.
77. Denver Broncos - Kawann Short DT, Purdue
Denver has to improve their defensive tackles. Short is having an underrated year playing on an awful defense.
78. San Diego Chargers - Marvin McNutt WR, Iowa
San Diego loves big wide receivers.
79. Tampa Bay Buccaneers - T.Y. Hilton WR, Florida International
None of the Bucs WR's can stretch the field vertically.
80. Tennessee Titans - Kenny Tate SS, Maryland
The Titans definitely need an upgrade at strong safety. Tate would've been a first round pick had he declared last season.
81. Buffalo Bills - Ricky Wagner OT, Wisconsin
The Bills need to upgrade their O-line.
82. New York Jets - Frank Alexander DE/OLB, Oklahoma
The Jets continue to upgrade their pass-rush.
83. Atlanta Falcons - Nate Potter OT/OG, Boise State
The Falcons can no longer depend on Sam Baker to protect Matt Ryan's blindside. If they move Potter to guard he can fill the spot vacated by Harvey Dahl.
84. Dallas Cowboys - Kendall Reyes DT/DE, UConn
Dallas could use an upgrade at DE.
85. Oakland Raiders - Forfeited after selecting Terrelle Pryor in the supplemental draft.
86. Detroit Lions - Luca Nix OT/OG, Pittsburgh
The Lions have to better protect Matt Stafford.
87. Chicago Bears - Ryan Miller OG, Colorado
The Bears inability to keep Jay Cutler Clean and upright is by far their biggest issue. Miller could be one of the big sleepers of the draft.
88. Houston Texans - Juron Criner WR, Arizona
No more defensive picks for the Texans. Criner is still having a solid season despite the poor QB play of Nick Foles at Arizona.
89. Cincinnati Bengals - Casey Hayward CB, Vanderbilt
Cincy's secondary is going to be tested with Leon Hall out for the season.
90. New Orleans Saints - Keenan Robinson OLB, Texas
New Orleans continues to rebuild their terrible linebacking corps.
91. New York Giants - Nico Johnson LB, Alabama
The Giants finally invest in their linebackers. Nico Johnson can play ILB moving Greg Jones to WLB which is a better fit.
92. New England Patriots - Chris Rainey RB/WR, Florida
As always, by the time the Patriots get to the third round they've already had enough picks to just take the best player available. Rainey is a lightning fast hybrid RB-WR. Do the Patriots need one of either at this point, no they don't, but he'll be another toy at Tom Brady's disposal.
93. Baltimore Ravens - Chase Thomas OLB, Stanford
BPA, Thomas already has experience in a 3-4 defense and can play OLB or ILB.
94. San Francisco 49ers - Kheeston Randall DE/DT, Texas
Justin Smith is starting to get old.
95. Pittsburgh Steelers - Bacarri Rambo FS, Georgia
Aside from having one of the coolest names in all of sports Bacarri Rambo also leads the SEC in interceptions with seven. He combines soft hands and good range with hard-hitting style. He reminds me a lot of Ryan Clark in that he plays the free safety position like a strong safety.
96. Green Bay Packers Ray Ray Armstrong S, Miami
At this point Green Bay doesn't really having any pressing needs so they can afford to go with the BPA, or in this case the player with the highest upside potential. Armstrong was suspended at the beginning of the season and has had an average season thus far but he was a budding star in his sophomore season. With Nick Collins coming back from injury the Packers could use some depth anyway and might get a gem here at the end of the third round.
Round 4:
97. Indianapolis Colts - Brandon Boykin CB, UGA
Indy's defense is getting torched.
98. Miami Dolphins - Cyrus Gray RB, Texas A&M
Reggie Bush has been a disappointment and the Dolphins could use a pass-catching compliment to Daniel Thomas.
99. Carolina Panthers - Winston Guy jr. SS, Kentucky
Carolina needs to upgrade its safeties.
100. St. Louis Rams - Danny Trevathan, OLB, Kentucky
BPA, Trevathan is a tackling machine.
101. Minnesota Vikings - Lonnie Edwards, G, Texas Tech
Anthony Herrera needs to be replaced.
102. Jacksonville Jaguars - Sean Spence OLB, Miami
The Jags lack LB depth.
103. Seattle Seahawks - Andre Branch DE, Clemson
Seattle needs pass-rushers.
104. Cleveland Browns - Bob Massie OT, Ole Miss.
Tony Pashos is one of the worst tackles in the NFL.
105. Washington Redskins - Senio Kelemete OG, Washington
Kory Lichtensteiger suffered a knee injury and will be a free agent.
106. Arizona Cardinals - Donnie Fletcher, CB, Boston College
Arizona needs to replace DRC and Fletcher is the BPA.
107. Philadelphia Eagles - Nigel Bradham, OLB, Florida State
This is just about where Andy Reid will choose to start overhauling his linebacking corps.
108. Kansas City Chiefs - Micah Hyde, CB, Iowa
Brandon Carr will be a free agent.
109. Denver Broncos - Marcus Forston DT, Miami
Denver might double-dip at DT to shore up the position.
110. San Diego Chargers - Matt Reynolds, OT, BYU
I know they resigned Jeromey Clary but he's just awful and even Marcus McNeill hasn't looked that good this season.
111. Philadelphia Eagles (via Tampa Bay Buccaneers) - William Vlachos, OC, Alabama
Philly needs O-line depth, especially at center over the last few years.
112. Tennessee Titans - Derek Wolfe, DT, Cincinnati
What would a Titans draft be without investing in at least one D-lineman?
113. Buffalo Bills - Joe Adams WR, Arkansas
The Bills could use a compliment to Stevie Johnson.
114. New York Jets - Tony Dye SS, UCLA
The Jets need an upgrade over Eric Smith.
115. Cleveland Browns (via Atlanta Falcons) - Shea McClellin, DE/OLB, Boise State
The Browns could use an upgrade at right DE.
116. Dallas Cowboys - Shaun Prater, CB, Iowa
Dallas needs an eventual replacement for Terrance Newman.
117. Washington Redskins (via Oakland Raiders) - Tank Carder ILB, TCU
London Fletcher can't play forever.
118. Detroit Lions - Julian Miller, DE/OLB, West Virginia
BPA, Miller would be depth at DE and is athletic enough to play OLB.
119. Chicago Bears - Keith Tandy, CB, West Virginia
Tim Jennings will be a free agent.
120. Houston Texans - Rokevious Watkins OG/OT, South Carolina
As Houston becomes more of a power running team they could use some size and depth on the O-line, as well as an upgrade over Wade Smith.
121. Cincinnati Bengals - Tydreke Powell DT, North Carolina
D-line depth, Pat Sims will be a free agent.
122. New Orleans Saints - Devin Taylor DE, South Carolina
Will Smith is starting to look old. Taylor hasn't had the best season but could be a real steal this late in the draft.
123. New York Giants - Doug Martin RB, Boise State
Given Ahmad Bradshaw and Brandon Jacobs injury histories it wouldn't be a bad thing to invest in a RB at some point.
124. New England Patriots - Omar Bolden CB, Arizona State
What would a New England draft be without a CB? Bolden tore his ACL before the season started but was once graded as a first round pick. The Pats took a chance with Marcus Cannon so they may take one with Bolden.
125. Buffalo Bills (via Baltimore Ravens) - Jamell Fleming CB, Oklahoma
BPA, Buffalo could use some CB depth.
126. San Francisco 49ers - Tanner Hawkinson OT, Kansas
O-line depth.
127. Pittsburgh Steelers - Coby Fleener, TE, Stanford
Fleener is the best player available that fits any sort of need for the Steelers. Behind Heath Miller they have David Johnson who can block but doesn't offer much as a pass-catching threat and Weslye Saunders who is a largely unproven pass-catcher and not much of a blocker. It would be nice if they had someone who can do both like Miller and take some of the pressure off of Miller.
128. Green Bay Packers Trumaine Johnson CB/S, Montana
Johnson is a small school prospect that Green Bay can afford to take a chance on at the end of the fourth round. He has a great size/speed combo and if not for a run in with the law could possibly creep into third round consideration.