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Now the chickenshit is saying he is not sure he will throw at the Combine.
Draft Chatter Thread...
- Thread starter Cotton
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He is a lot of talk and basically no action. He is full of shit. He had an opportunity to show everybody what he is capable of at the Senior Bowl and he turned it down. He will have a chance to show everyone what he is capable of at the Combine and he won't throw.
If his actions actually matched up with his words I might like him as a QB prospect.
Bob Roberts
Professor StinkFinger
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AJ is praying for you, booze.
D
Deuce
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Apparently the Jax owner went to the Jerry Jones School of Pre-Draft Mouth Diahrrea.
@ryanohalloran: Shad Khan: "Everybody knows we're going to draft a quarterback - maybe two." #jaguars
@ryanohalloran: Shad Khan: "Everybody knows we're going to draft a quarterback - maybe two." #jaguars
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Why some people feel the need to talk I have no idea.
L.T. Fan
I'm Easy If You Are
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Well now it could be they are a lot like us.
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Tuesday, January 28, 2014
Updated: January 29, 12:06 PM ET
Updated NFL draft Big Board
By Mel Kiper Jr.
ESPN Insider
While the Senior Bowl certainly changed some opinions on players, you won't see a lot of movement at the top of the Big Board coming out of the week in Mobile, Ala. That's because the bulk of the top prospects couldn't play in the Senior Bowl due to the fact that they entered the draft as juniors or redshirt sophomores, and some of the top seniors didn't feel the need to participate because they're not concerned about their current draft stock and can simply concentrate on preparing for the combine and pro days.
The combine is the next big event on the calendar during the evaluation process, and all the preparation focus will be on that over the next few weeks. For my calendar, I try to go back through five to 10 players a day in tape study for the next couple of months, all while making a lot of calls for background and new opinions on players I know, and others I know less about. So you can still see changes here, even as I have a pretty good handle on the class.
Remember: Scouting reports remain similar week to week unless I change my opinion on a player, which will certainly happen in spots over the next few months.
Asterisks denote players who were juniors at the time of their entry into the draft, and two asterisks denote those who were redshirt sophomores. All players are now either officially in or out of the 2014 NFL draft.
1
Jadeveon Clowney *
AGE: 20
DOB: 2/14/93
HT: 6-6
WT: 265
POS: DE
Tkl 41
Sack 3.0
Int 0
Production aside, Clowney is still the top prospect in my rankings when I consider overall talent, and his promise of a great combine is no surprise. He's built for that. Need will factor in where he lands in the draft, especially given so much need at quarterback among teams drafting early. Clowney has a special range of traits and talent, with the quickness to beat people at the point of attack, the power to run through blockers and the speed to pursue plays all over the field. He's not just an edge-rusher looking to quickly turn the corner; he doesn't even bend that well. He can win with quickness or power and succeed in any scheme.
PREVIOUS RANK: No. 1 | PLAYER CARD
2
Anthony Barr
AGE: 21
DOB: 3/18/92
HT: 6-4
WT: 244
POS: OLB
Tkl 66
Sack 10.0
Int 0
His body profile will be of interest in Indy due to how he'll fit in various schemes. Is he likely to add bulk? That's the kind of question evaluators will consider. A disruptive pass-rushing force, Barr became a more complete player in 2013. He's a very good pass-rusher with an underrated arsenal of moves, using quick feet and hands to free himself, and he's disciplined. I love how well he pursues, even when the play runs away from him. A former fullback, he has a powerful lower half and a long frame and reach.
PREVIOUS RANK: No. 2 | PLAYER CARD
3
Jake Matthews
AGE: 21
DOB: 2/11/92
HT: 6-5
WT: 305
POS: OT
GP 13
GS 13
There's been some chatter that Matthews could move off left tackle, but his ceiling is still as a very good NFL player at that position. Matthews has a ton of experience and a feisty, competitive nature. He's a very good pass protector, with good balance, feet and hand use, too, and he plays prepared, as an intense worker who carries great NFL bloodlines; his father, brother and two cousins have played in the league. I also like his ability to finish in the run game, where he shows off a nasty streak.
PREVIOUS RANK: No. 3 | PLAYER CARD
4
Greg Robinson **
AGE: 21
DOB: 10/21/92
HT: 6-5
WT: 320
POS: OT
GP 14
GS 14
Robinson could be the first offensive lineman taken, and is certainly a possibility to go with one of the top two picks -- and it won't be just because he's a special athlete. It'll be because his tape from 2013 is exceptional. Brought in as a guard, Robinson started at left tackle in the SEC as a redshirt freshman and held his own. This past season, he was dominant, with increased strength making him closer to that complete package at tackle. He moves well, can get out in the run game and block in space and pass protects well with a wide base and quick feet; he also has long arms and delivers a solid punch. A potential star.
PREVIOUS RANK: 4 | PLAYER CARD
5
Khalil Mack
AGE: 22
DOB: 2/22/91
HT: 6-3
WT: 248
POS: OLB
Tkl 100
Sack 11.0
Int 3
Many haven't seen him play, but those who haven't aren't missing constant dominance so much as versatility. You'll see Mack lining up both at the line or on the perimeter. He is versatile and capable of rushing the passer with quickness and power, dropping into coverage and with a great ability to shed tackles and make plays in the open field. He uses good leverage to take on blocks and drive people back and uses quickness and strong hands to shed. He plays with a great motor and tackles with form.
PREVIOUS RANK: No. 5 | PLAYER CARD
6
Sammy Watkins *
AGE: 20
DOB: 6/14/93
HT: 6-1
WT: 205
POS: WR
Rec 101
Yds 1,464
Avg 14.5
TD 12
Watkins will play bigger than he measures and fights through contact to make plays on the ball, and once he has it, he's devastating after the catch. Watkins blends polish with a high level of explosiveness and can turn catches on the edges or between the hashes into big plays. He accelerates with ease and displays top-end speed combined with the willingness to power through tackles. He also does a good job of working back to the ball to become a big factor when plays break down. He's had occasional issues with drops but has strong hands and displays good technique in hauling in throws at him or outside his frame.
PREVIOUS RANK: No. 6 | PLAYER CARD
7
Eric Ebron *
AGE: 20
DOB: 4/10/93
HT: 6-4
WT: 245
POS: TE
Rec 62
Yds 973
Avg 15.7
TD 3
I'm confident he'll work out well, which will lock him into a high draft slot. Ebron should be the first tight end taken, with the skills to offer much of what you'd want out of a tall wide receiver. He has the length and flexibility to haul in anything you throw his way, is often split out and can make plays after the catch. He has the size to overwhelm cornerbacks and most safeties, good burst and above-average straight-line speed. He can go up and get the ball and does a good job of catching it with his hands away from his body. An adequate blocker, he could add size and improve there, but he'll make his name as a difficult matchup.
PREVIOUS RANK: No. 7 | PLAYER CARD
8
Taylor Lewan
AGE: 22
DOB: 7/21/91
HT: 6-8
WT: 308
POS: OT
GP 13
GS 13
Lewan had a better year than many thought as the Michigan offense struggled. I had him graded similarly at this time last year before he opted to return to school, which isn't bad in a better class. Lewan has great length and above-average athleticism. What I really like is the improved play as a run-blocker; he has strength in his lower half and a mean streak as a finisher. Lewan moves his feet well and mirrors effectively in pass protection, with an improved punch. He displays the awareness of a player who has started since his freshman season.
PREVIOUS RANK: No. 8 | PLAYER CARD
9
Teddy Bridgewater *
AGE: 21
DOB: 11/10/92
HT: 6-3
WT: 218
POS: QB
Comp 303
Att 427
Pct 71.0
Yds 3,970
TD 31
Int 4
Still a threat to go No. 1 overall. Bridgewater is poised and smart and is the QB in this draft class who most regularly made throws with good timing and anticipation; he throws to spots and openings, not just to open targets. Bridgewater also has a good blend of enough arm strength to drive the ball into tight windows and the sense of when to dial it down and make it an easy pass to catch. He adjusts his velocity really well, depending on the depth and location of the pass. He does a good job pre-snap, gets through his progressions and often scans the whole field. His ball placement is consistently good.
PREVIOUS RANK: No. 9 | PLAYER CARD
10
Blake Bortles *
AGE: 22
DOB: 12/16/91
HT: 6-4
WT: 230
POS: QB
Comp 259
Att 382
Pct 67.8
Yds 3,581
TD 25
Int 9
Bortles offers an enticing blend of the size you traditionally look for at QB with the athleticism that is now coveted across the NFL as more offenses put mobility to good use, and he has the work ethic that will get more to believe in his ceiling. He has sound mechanics, though almost rigidly so, and shows poise and good footwork in the pocket. He has above-average arm strength and can drive the ball pretty well on intermediate throws. The big issue for him is inconsistent ball placement; he can ask a lot of his wide receivers. UCF's pass-catchers turned a lot of short throws into huge plays, which inflated Bortles' passing totals a bit.
PREVIOUS RANKING: 10 | PLAYER CARD
11
Johnny Manziel **
AGE: 21
DOB: 12/6/92
HT: 6-1
WT: 206
POS: QB
Comp 300
Att 429
Pct 69.9
Yds 4,114
TD 37
Int 13
The modern NFL is a good fit for a player with Manziel's skill set. His competitiveness, ability to move and improvise and make throws off platform are all special skills, but he's also an effective pocket passer when he wants to be. He anticipates well and sees the whole field, and though he doesn't have great arm strength, he can make special throws with touch and precision both from the pocket and on the move. (He would deliver strikes with more velocity if he kept his feet underneath him consistently.) Yeah, I'm concerned that he'll allow himself to take too many hits, but he can learn not to. I also think he can prepare at an elite level.
PREVIOUS RANKING: No. 11 | PLAYER CARD
12
Timmy Jernigan *
AGE: 21
DOB: 9/24/92
HT: 6-2
WT: 298
POS: DT
Tkl 53
Sack 5.0
Int 0
The most versatile interior lineman in the draft, you really don't have to worry about scheme fit with Jernigan. I love his great sense for how to disrupt the run game in particular. He could be quicker off the snap, but he makes up for it with leverage, violent hands and quick feet to both drive blockers backward and free himself to penetrate. He's a former defensive end who brings a lot of quickness to the inside and shows off good speed in pursuit.
PREVIOUS RANK: No. 12 | PLAYER CARD
13
C.J. Mosley
AGE: 21
DOB: 6/19/92
HT: 6-2
WT: 232
POS: LB
Tkl 106
Sack 0
Int 0
Mosley has the versatility the modern game demands while never having to come off the field. He has great cover skills but attacks the run game with a good nose for the ball and a sense of gap control. He flies to the ball, tackles with underrated ferocity and scrapes effectively, getting off blocks to make a ton of plays. He simply needs to get a bit stronger and use good leverage going downhill against the run. He could be best on the weak side; he gets past blocks and chases everything down (or simply beats people to the ball).
PREVIOUS RANK: No. 13 | PLAYER CARD
14
Marqise Lee *
AGE: 22
DOB: 11/25/91
HT: 6-0
WT: 195
POS: WR
Rec 57
Yds 791
Avg 13.9
TD 4
Lee has so many NFL-ready traits. He has exceptional fluidity in and out of breaks and in changing directions after the catch. His quickness in short areas allows him to create space and big plays after the catch. He has the straight-line speed to beat defenders deep and keep safeties honest. He has reliable hands outside of the occasional drop, and is a very good route-runner -- accelerating without wasted motion. He plays bigger than his size on contested passes, with a physical style. He'll run around or through weak tackling after the catch.
PREVIOUS RANK: No. 14 | PLAYER CARD
15
Mike Evans **
AGE: 20
DOB: 8/21/93
HT: 6-5
WT: 220
POS: WR
Rec 69
Yds 1,394
Avg 20.2
TD 12
No player in the draft is better on contested throws, and every QB wants a target like this. Evans uses his reach, jumping ability and long frame to beat shorter defenders like a good rebounder (and he was a good rebounder on the basketball court). The issue is he's forced to make that kind of catch too often because he lacks great quickness and won't get much separation from good cornerbacks off the line or out of breaks. But Evans could be a versatile threat -- used on the edge or in the slot to create matchup problems -- because you simply can't defend his size. Speed and quickness will dominate his combine prep.
PREVIOUS RANK: No. 15 | PLAYER CARD
16
Justin Gilbert
AGE: 22
DOB: 11/7/91
HT: 6-0
WT: 200
POS: CB
Tkl 42
Sack 0
Int 7
Gilbert had a great season and should have a really good combine, because his "athlete" credentials are up there. He combines the short-area quickness to adjust to routes and open-field speed to run with (or past) any receiver. He has enough size and strength to redirect routes at the line and can then flip his hips and run with anybody; he rarely allows much separation. Good ball skills and hands are evident both in coverage and the return game. I think, given the need at the position, it's not out of the question that he lands in the top 10.
PREVIOUS RANK: 16 | PLAYER CARD
17
Zack Martin
AGE: 23
DOB: 11/20/90
HT: 6-4
WT: 308
POS: OT
GP 13
GS 13
I've had Zack Martin as a fringe Big Board prospect (and a likely first-round pick), but a very good Senior Bowl performance that showed off his versatility should put him safely into Round 1 consideration for most teams. Martin is a great competitor, and absorbs power well for a tackle with shorter arms, but he also handles speed pretty effectively due to his quick feet. The arms could make him a likelier bet to land at guard, but the fact that he can play tackle at a pretty high level will get him looks there.
PREVIOUS RANKING: NR | PLAYER CARD
18
Darqueze Dennard
AGE: 22
DOB: 10/10/91
HT: 5-11
WT: 197
POS: CB
Tkl 62
Sack 0
Int 4
While Dennard gets a small knock on length, he's the most versatile defensive back in the draft, with proven skill in any area of coverage. Dennard can play up and redirect routes or off in zone and make plays in front of him. He'll blanket even really good receivers in man-to-man, and he turns his head well to avoid penalties that could be called were he to not show ball awareness, given how tight he can play in coverage. He has a nice burst and will rush the passer effectively and attack the run. Good tackler.
PREVIOUS RANK: 18 | PLAYER CARD
19
Ryan Shazier *
AGE: 21
DOB: 9/6/92
HT: 6-2
WT: 225
POS: OLB
Tkl 142
Sack 6.0
Int 0
Versatile, quick, instinctive and a strong tackler, Shazier lacks size, but he balances a physical style with the ability to make plays across the field. He anticipates quickly and attacks plays in the backfield but will also track tight ends and running backs in coverage with the burst and agility to stay with them. In the mold of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers' Lavonte David, Shazier is a linebacker who looks like an oversized safety but does a great job of tracking and making tackles.
PREVIOUS RANK: No. 19 | PLAYER CARD
20
Stephon Tuitt *
AGE: 20
DOB: 5/23/93
HT: 6-7
WT: 315
POS: DE
Tkl 49
Sack 7.5
Int 1
Tuitt is another guy made for the combine given his combination of elite quickness and great size; I've compared him to a young Richard Seymour. He offers tremendous burst and power and the ability to work inside or outside and create pressure. Teams looking for a penetrating 3-4 DE will like his potential, but when healthy, he can also provide a pass rush as a 4-3 DE, which is saying something for someone playing at about 320 pounds.
PREVIOUS RANK: No. 20 | PLAYER CARD
21
Cyrus Kouandjio *
AGE: 20
DOB: 7/21/93
HT: 6-6
WT: 311
POS: OT
GP 13
GS 13
Kouandjio has the massive size, long arms and good feet that in part define the best at the position, but his 2013 season was punctuated by inconsistency. When he puts it all together, he can dominate. He has the balance of reach and power to keep rushers at bay but needs to use his arms to punch a little better and get pass-rushers off balance, eliminating speed. He's a really good run-blocker and will be drafted before he turns 21.
PREVIOUS RANKING: No. 21 | PLAYER CARD
22
Louis Nix III *
AGE: 22
DOB: 7/31/91
HT: 6-3
WT: 326
POS: DT
Tkl 27
Sack 0
Int 0
A rare commodity, Nix has the size and strength to handle a 0-technique role when he maintains proper leverage, keeping multiple blockers occupied and eating up two gaps while making life easy for linebackers cleaning up against the run. But he's not limited to that because he can really move, at least a lot better than you would expect from a player his size. Nix is occasionally moved too easily and loses gap control.
PREVIOUS RANK: No. 22 | PLAYER CARD
23
Ha Ha Clinton-Dix *
AGE: 21
DOB: 12/21/92
HT: 6-1
WT: 208
POS: S
Tkl 50
Sack 0
Int 2
Instinctive and fluid, he's the top free safety option in the draft and has proved he can play Cover 1 against teams looking to exploit him by working the perimeter. He reads the quarterback well and can accelerate or turn quickly to make plays in any direction. What he isn't yet is very physical and is not what I'd call a downhill hitter, but his ability to anticipate, take great angles and cover could add help to almost any defense.
PREVIOUS RANK: No. 23 | PLAYER CARD
24
Calvin Pryor *
AGE: 21
DOB: 7/2/92
HT: 6-2
WT: 208
POS: S
Tkl 75
Sack 0
Int 3
He put together an exceptional season at Louisville and was wise to enter the draft, playing a position of need and displaying the ability to cover significant ground in coverage with both anticipation and speed as well as a willingness to come downhill and make plays at the line of scrimmage. He gets great reviews from ex-Louisville coach Charlie Strong, and he could work out well and push Clinton-Dix to be the top safety taken.
PREVIOUS RANK: No. 25 | PLAYER CARD
25
Jace Amaro *
AGE: 21
DOB: 6/26/92
HT: 6-5
WT: 255
POS: TE
Rec 106
Yds 1,352
Avg 12.8
TD 7
At 6-foot-5, 260 pounds, Amaro is surprisingly dangerous after the catch, and he's easy to get the ball to because of his good route-running and size. He's a potentially special matchup threat at the next level. Amaro marries the pass-catching skills of a wide receiver with soft hands and the ability to work out of the slot and drive his routes down the field and to the edges. Amaro is highly productive, and I can see him landing in the first round.
PREVIOUS RANKING: 24 | PLAYER CARD
Updated: January 29, 12:06 PM ET
Updated NFL draft Big Board
By Mel Kiper Jr.
ESPN Insider
While the Senior Bowl certainly changed some opinions on players, you won't see a lot of movement at the top of the Big Board coming out of the week in Mobile, Ala. That's because the bulk of the top prospects couldn't play in the Senior Bowl due to the fact that they entered the draft as juniors or redshirt sophomores, and some of the top seniors didn't feel the need to participate because they're not concerned about their current draft stock and can simply concentrate on preparing for the combine and pro days.
The combine is the next big event on the calendar during the evaluation process, and all the preparation focus will be on that over the next few weeks. For my calendar, I try to go back through five to 10 players a day in tape study for the next couple of months, all while making a lot of calls for background and new opinions on players I know, and others I know less about. So you can still see changes here, even as I have a pretty good handle on the class.
Remember: Scouting reports remain similar week to week unless I change my opinion on a player, which will certainly happen in spots over the next few months.
Asterisks denote players who were juniors at the time of their entry into the draft, and two asterisks denote those who were redshirt sophomores. All players are now either officially in or out of the 2014 NFL draft.
1
Jadeveon Clowney *
AGE: 20
DOB: 2/14/93
HT: 6-6
WT: 265
POS: DE
Tkl 41
Sack 3.0
Int 0
Production aside, Clowney is still the top prospect in my rankings when I consider overall talent, and his promise of a great combine is no surprise. He's built for that. Need will factor in where he lands in the draft, especially given so much need at quarterback among teams drafting early. Clowney has a special range of traits and talent, with the quickness to beat people at the point of attack, the power to run through blockers and the speed to pursue plays all over the field. He's not just an edge-rusher looking to quickly turn the corner; he doesn't even bend that well. He can win with quickness or power and succeed in any scheme.
PREVIOUS RANK: No. 1 | PLAYER CARD
2
Anthony Barr
AGE: 21
DOB: 3/18/92
HT: 6-4
WT: 244
POS: OLB
Tkl 66
Sack 10.0
Int 0
His body profile will be of interest in Indy due to how he'll fit in various schemes. Is he likely to add bulk? That's the kind of question evaluators will consider. A disruptive pass-rushing force, Barr became a more complete player in 2013. He's a very good pass-rusher with an underrated arsenal of moves, using quick feet and hands to free himself, and he's disciplined. I love how well he pursues, even when the play runs away from him. A former fullback, he has a powerful lower half and a long frame and reach.
PREVIOUS RANK: No. 2 | PLAYER CARD
3
Jake Matthews
AGE: 21
DOB: 2/11/92
HT: 6-5
WT: 305
POS: OT
GP 13
GS 13
There's been some chatter that Matthews could move off left tackle, but his ceiling is still as a very good NFL player at that position. Matthews has a ton of experience and a feisty, competitive nature. He's a very good pass protector, with good balance, feet and hand use, too, and he plays prepared, as an intense worker who carries great NFL bloodlines; his father, brother and two cousins have played in the league. I also like his ability to finish in the run game, where he shows off a nasty streak.
PREVIOUS RANK: No. 3 | PLAYER CARD
4
Greg Robinson **
AGE: 21
DOB: 10/21/92
HT: 6-5
WT: 320
POS: OT
GP 14
GS 14
Robinson could be the first offensive lineman taken, and is certainly a possibility to go with one of the top two picks -- and it won't be just because he's a special athlete. It'll be because his tape from 2013 is exceptional. Brought in as a guard, Robinson started at left tackle in the SEC as a redshirt freshman and held his own. This past season, he was dominant, with increased strength making him closer to that complete package at tackle. He moves well, can get out in the run game and block in space and pass protects well with a wide base and quick feet; he also has long arms and delivers a solid punch. A potential star.
PREVIOUS RANK: 4 | PLAYER CARD
5
Khalil Mack
AGE: 22
DOB: 2/22/91
HT: 6-3
WT: 248
POS: OLB
Tkl 100
Sack 11.0
Int 3
Many haven't seen him play, but those who haven't aren't missing constant dominance so much as versatility. You'll see Mack lining up both at the line or on the perimeter. He is versatile and capable of rushing the passer with quickness and power, dropping into coverage and with a great ability to shed tackles and make plays in the open field. He uses good leverage to take on blocks and drive people back and uses quickness and strong hands to shed. He plays with a great motor and tackles with form.
PREVIOUS RANK: No. 5 | PLAYER CARD
6
Sammy Watkins *
AGE: 20
DOB: 6/14/93
HT: 6-1
WT: 205
POS: WR
Rec 101
Yds 1,464
Avg 14.5
TD 12
Watkins will play bigger than he measures and fights through contact to make plays on the ball, and once he has it, he's devastating after the catch. Watkins blends polish with a high level of explosiveness and can turn catches on the edges or between the hashes into big plays. He accelerates with ease and displays top-end speed combined with the willingness to power through tackles. He also does a good job of working back to the ball to become a big factor when plays break down. He's had occasional issues with drops but has strong hands and displays good technique in hauling in throws at him or outside his frame.
PREVIOUS RANK: No. 6 | PLAYER CARD
7
Eric Ebron *
AGE: 20
DOB: 4/10/93
HT: 6-4
WT: 245
POS: TE
Rec 62
Yds 973
Avg 15.7
TD 3
I'm confident he'll work out well, which will lock him into a high draft slot. Ebron should be the first tight end taken, with the skills to offer much of what you'd want out of a tall wide receiver. He has the length and flexibility to haul in anything you throw his way, is often split out and can make plays after the catch. He has the size to overwhelm cornerbacks and most safeties, good burst and above-average straight-line speed. He can go up and get the ball and does a good job of catching it with his hands away from his body. An adequate blocker, he could add size and improve there, but he'll make his name as a difficult matchup.
PREVIOUS RANK: No. 7 | PLAYER CARD
8
Taylor Lewan
AGE: 22
DOB: 7/21/91
HT: 6-8
WT: 308
POS: OT
GP 13
GS 13
Lewan had a better year than many thought as the Michigan offense struggled. I had him graded similarly at this time last year before he opted to return to school, which isn't bad in a better class. Lewan has great length and above-average athleticism. What I really like is the improved play as a run-blocker; he has strength in his lower half and a mean streak as a finisher. Lewan moves his feet well and mirrors effectively in pass protection, with an improved punch. He displays the awareness of a player who has started since his freshman season.
PREVIOUS RANK: No. 8 | PLAYER CARD
9
Teddy Bridgewater *
AGE: 21
DOB: 11/10/92
HT: 6-3
WT: 218
POS: QB
Comp 303
Att 427
Pct 71.0
Yds 3,970
TD 31
Int 4
Still a threat to go No. 1 overall. Bridgewater is poised and smart and is the QB in this draft class who most regularly made throws with good timing and anticipation; he throws to spots and openings, not just to open targets. Bridgewater also has a good blend of enough arm strength to drive the ball into tight windows and the sense of when to dial it down and make it an easy pass to catch. He adjusts his velocity really well, depending on the depth and location of the pass. He does a good job pre-snap, gets through his progressions and often scans the whole field. His ball placement is consistently good.
PREVIOUS RANK: No. 9 | PLAYER CARD
10
Blake Bortles *
AGE: 22
DOB: 12/16/91
HT: 6-4
WT: 230
POS: QB
Comp 259
Att 382
Pct 67.8
Yds 3,581
TD 25
Int 9
Bortles offers an enticing blend of the size you traditionally look for at QB with the athleticism that is now coveted across the NFL as more offenses put mobility to good use, and he has the work ethic that will get more to believe in his ceiling. He has sound mechanics, though almost rigidly so, and shows poise and good footwork in the pocket. He has above-average arm strength and can drive the ball pretty well on intermediate throws. The big issue for him is inconsistent ball placement; he can ask a lot of his wide receivers. UCF's pass-catchers turned a lot of short throws into huge plays, which inflated Bortles' passing totals a bit.
PREVIOUS RANKING: 10 | PLAYER CARD
11
Johnny Manziel **
AGE: 21
DOB: 12/6/92
HT: 6-1
WT: 206
POS: QB
Comp 300
Att 429
Pct 69.9
Yds 4,114
TD 37
Int 13
The modern NFL is a good fit for a player with Manziel's skill set. His competitiveness, ability to move and improvise and make throws off platform are all special skills, but he's also an effective pocket passer when he wants to be. He anticipates well and sees the whole field, and though he doesn't have great arm strength, he can make special throws with touch and precision both from the pocket and on the move. (He would deliver strikes with more velocity if he kept his feet underneath him consistently.) Yeah, I'm concerned that he'll allow himself to take too many hits, but he can learn not to. I also think he can prepare at an elite level.
PREVIOUS RANKING: No. 11 | PLAYER CARD
12
Timmy Jernigan *
AGE: 21
DOB: 9/24/92
HT: 6-2
WT: 298
POS: DT
Tkl 53
Sack 5.0
Int 0
The most versatile interior lineman in the draft, you really don't have to worry about scheme fit with Jernigan. I love his great sense for how to disrupt the run game in particular. He could be quicker off the snap, but he makes up for it with leverage, violent hands and quick feet to both drive blockers backward and free himself to penetrate. He's a former defensive end who brings a lot of quickness to the inside and shows off good speed in pursuit.
PREVIOUS RANK: No. 12 | PLAYER CARD
13
C.J. Mosley
AGE: 21
DOB: 6/19/92
HT: 6-2
WT: 232
POS: LB
Tkl 106
Sack 0
Int 0
Mosley has the versatility the modern game demands while never having to come off the field. He has great cover skills but attacks the run game with a good nose for the ball and a sense of gap control. He flies to the ball, tackles with underrated ferocity and scrapes effectively, getting off blocks to make a ton of plays. He simply needs to get a bit stronger and use good leverage going downhill against the run. He could be best on the weak side; he gets past blocks and chases everything down (or simply beats people to the ball).
PREVIOUS RANK: No. 13 | PLAYER CARD
14
Marqise Lee *
AGE: 22
DOB: 11/25/91
HT: 6-0
WT: 195
POS: WR
Rec 57
Yds 791
Avg 13.9
TD 4
Lee has so many NFL-ready traits. He has exceptional fluidity in and out of breaks and in changing directions after the catch. His quickness in short areas allows him to create space and big plays after the catch. He has the straight-line speed to beat defenders deep and keep safeties honest. He has reliable hands outside of the occasional drop, and is a very good route-runner -- accelerating without wasted motion. He plays bigger than his size on contested passes, with a physical style. He'll run around or through weak tackling after the catch.
PREVIOUS RANK: No. 14 | PLAYER CARD
15
Mike Evans **
AGE: 20
DOB: 8/21/93
HT: 6-5
WT: 220
POS: WR
Rec 69
Yds 1,394
Avg 20.2
TD 12
No player in the draft is better on contested throws, and every QB wants a target like this. Evans uses his reach, jumping ability and long frame to beat shorter defenders like a good rebounder (and he was a good rebounder on the basketball court). The issue is he's forced to make that kind of catch too often because he lacks great quickness and won't get much separation from good cornerbacks off the line or out of breaks. But Evans could be a versatile threat -- used on the edge or in the slot to create matchup problems -- because you simply can't defend his size. Speed and quickness will dominate his combine prep.
PREVIOUS RANK: No. 15 | PLAYER CARD
16
Justin Gilbert
AGE: 22
DOB: 11/7/91
HT: 6-0
WT: 200
POS: CB
Tkl 42
Sack 0
Int 7
Gilbert had a great season and should have a really good combine, because his "athlete" credentials are up there. He combines the short-area quickness to adjust to routes and open-field speed to run with (or past) any receiver. He has enough size and strength to redirect routes at the line and can then flip his hips and run with anybody; he rarely allows much separation. Good ball skills and hands are evident both in coverage and the return game. I think, given the need at the position, it's not out of the question that he lands in the top 10.
PREVIOUS RANK: 16 | PLAYER CARD
17
Zack Martin
AGE: 23
DOB: 11/20/90
HT: 6-4
WT: 308
POS: OT
GP 13
GS 13
I've had Zack Martin as a fringe Big Board prospect (and a likely first-round pick), but a very good Senior Bowl performance that showed off his versatility should put him safely into Round 1 consideration for most teams. Martin is a great competitor, and absorbs power well for a tackle with shorter arms, but he also handles speed pretty effectively due to his quick feet. The arms could make him a likelier bet to land at guard, but the fact that he can play tackle at a pretty high level will get him looks there.
PREVIOUS RANKING: NR | PLAYER CARD
18
Darqueze Dennard
AGE: 22
DOB: 10/10/91
HT: 5-11
WT: 197
POS: CB
Tkl 62
Sack 0
Int 4
While Dennard gets a small knock on length, he's the most versatile defensive back in the draft, with proven skill in any area of coverage. Dennard can play up and redirect routes or off in zone and make plays in front of him. He'll blanket even really good receivers in man-to-man, and he turns his head well to avoid penalties that could be called were he to not show ball awareness, given how tight he can play in coverage. He has a nice burst and will rush the passer effectively and attack the run. Good tackler.
PREVIOUS RANK: 18 | PLAYER CARD
19
Ryan Shazier *
AGE: 21
DOB: 9/6/92
HT: 6-2
WT: 225
POS: OLB
Tkl 142
Sack 6.0
Int 0
Versatile, quick, instinctive and a strong tackler, Shazier lacks size, but he balances a physical style with the ability to make plays across the field. He anticipates quickly and attacks plays in the backfield but will also track tight ends and running backs in coverage with the burst and agility to stay with them. In the mold of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers' Lavonte David, Shazier is a linebacker who looks like an oversized safety but does a great job of tracking and making tackles.
PREVIOUS RANK: No. 19 | PLAYER CARD
20
Stephon Tuitt *
AGE: 20
DOB: 5/23/93
HT: 6-7
WT: 315
POS: DE
Tkl 49
Sack 7.5
Int 1
Tuitt is another guy made for the combine given his combination of elite quickness and great size; I've compared him to a young Richard Seymour. He offers tremendous burst and power and the ability to work inside or outside and create pressure. Teams looking for a penetrating 3-4 DE will like his potential, but when healthy, he can also provide a pass rush as a 4-3 DE, which is saying something for someone playing at about 320 pounds.
PREVIOUS RANK: No. 20 | PLAYER CARD
21
Cyrus Kouandjio *
AGE: 20
DOB: 7/21/93
HT: 6-6
WT: 311
POS: OT
GP 13
GS 13
Kouandjio has the massive size, long arms and good feet that in part define the best at the position, but his 2013 season was punctuated by inconsistency. When he puts it all together, he can dominate. He has the balance of reach and power to keep rushers at bay but needs to use his arms to punch a little better and get pass-rushers off balance, eliminating speed. He's a really good run-blocker and will be drafted before he turns 21.
PREVIOUS RANKING: No. 21 | PLAYER CARD
22
Louis Nix III *
AGE: 22
DOB: 7/31/91
HT: 6-3
WT: 326
POS: DT
Tkl 27
Sack 0
Int 0
A rare commodity, Nix has the size and strength to handle a 0-technique role when he maintains proper leverage, keeping multiple blockers occupied and eating up two gaps while making life easy for linebackers cleaning up against the run. But he's not limited to that because he can really move, at least a lot better than you would expect from a player his size. Nix is occasionally moved too easily and loses gap control.
PREVIOUS RANK: No. 22 | PLAYER CARD
23
Ha Ha Clinton-Dix *
AGE: 21
DOB: 12/21/92
HT: 6-1
WT: 208
POS: S
Tkl 50
Sack 0
Int 2
Instinctive and fluid, he's the top free safety option in the draft and has proved he can play Cover 1 against teams looking to exploit him by working the perimeter. He reads the quarterback well and can accelerate or turn quickly to make plays in any direction. What he isn't yet is very physical and is not what I'd call a downhill hitter, but his ability to anticipate, take great angles and cover could add help to almost any defense.
PREVIOUS RANK: No. 23 | PLAYER CARD
24
Calvin Pryor *
AGE: 21
DOB: 7/2/92
HT: 6-2
WT: 208
POS: S
Tkl 75
Sack 0
Int 3
He put together an exceptional season at Louisville and was wise to enter the draft, playing a position of need and displaying the ability to cover significant ground in coverage with both anticipation and speed as well as a willingness to come downhill and make plays at the line of scrimmage. He gets great reviews from ex-Louisville coach Charlie Strong, and he could work out well and push Clinton-Dix to be the top safety taken.
PREVIOUS RANK: No. 25 | PLAYER CARD
25
Jace Amaro *
AGE: 21
DOB: 6/26/92
HT: 6-5
WT: 255
POS: TE
Rec 106
Yds 1,352
Avg 12.8
TD 7
At 6-foot-5, 260 pounds, Amaro is surprisingly dangerous after the catch, and he's easy to get the ball to because of his good route-running and size. He's a potentially special matchup threat at the next level. Amaro marries the pass-catching skills of a wide receiver with soft hands and the ability to work out of the slot and drive his routes down the field and to the edges. Amaro is highly productive, and I can see him landing in the first round.
PREVIOUS RANKING: 24 | PLAYER CARD
D
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@nfldraftscout: From @russlande: According to trusted sources, Texans initially leaning towards taking Bortles or Manziel with top pick.
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Kiper: 2014 NFL Mock Draft 2.0
Johnny Manziel remains No. 1, but things change in many other spots
Updated: February 6, 2014, 11:53 AM ET
By Mel Kiper Jr. | ESPN Insider
A couple of things to remember before my second mock draft:
• Teams are starting to catch up on a number of players, but similar to my first one, I'd say I match needs to fits a little more here because "best player available" is still a work in progress for teams.
• I feel good about most of my heights, weights and speed/strength reports, but there are always surprises at the combine.
• Remember: I can't reflect trades. I will point out good spots for a move.
One final note: A few players I see as good bets for Round 1 who didn't fit in this mock: Ryan Shazier, Aaron Donald and Derek Carr. My inability to reflect possible trades factored in there.
* Denotes a junior or redshirt sophomore at the time of draft entry.
^ Indicates that Baltimore and Dallas will flip a coin to determine which team picks first.
1
Johnny Manziel *
Houston Texans (2-14)
COLLEGE: Texas A&M
AGE: 21
HT: 6-0
WT: 205
POS: QB
Analysis: My internal debate here was Mr. Football or Mr. Clowney. Thing is, I don't think that's too much different than the scenario going on with Houston right now -- just add a few players to the mix. In Manziel, you get a quarterback who in my opinion is ready to play NFL football and make plays, and is preparing with the goal of helping a team right away. In Jadeveon Clowney, you get the most talented player in the draft, a defensive force to pair somewhere along the line with J.J. Watt and create major problems for opposing offenses. Right now I'll stick with the early bet on Manziel, and the idea that coach Bill O'Brien becomes convinced this is his QB of the future.
PLAYER CARD
2
Greg Robinson *
St. Louis Rams (7-9) (From WAS)
COLLEGE: Auburn
AGE: 21
HT: 6-5
WT: 320
POS: OT
Analysis: The Rams need a tackle -- in fact, they need more than one. And while Robinson doesn't have the same level of experience as the next two tackles on the board, I think once the combine is over, the consensus will be that he's the player with the highest ceiling at the position. An absolute mauler in the run game, he has plenty of length and athleticism to also become dominant in protection. While the Rams could certainly deal this pick, I can't reflect that here.
PLAYER CARD
3
Jadeveon Clowney *
Jacksonville Jaguars (4-12)
COLLEGE: South Carolina
AGE: 20
HT: 6-5
WT: 274
POS: DE
Analysis: The owner in Jacksonville has made it pretty clear that the search for a quarterback is on, and the draft is a place they'll be looking. While I think they'd be a good fit for Manziel, in this scenario he's not around, and they instead go with the top pass-rusher in the draft. Make no mistake, QB is a huge need, but the Jags have been looking to improve the pass rush for years. If they love one of the other QB possibilities, that could certainly be the pick, but if the board breaks this way, I think Clowney proves irresistible.
PLAYER CARD
4
Teddy Bridgewater *
Cleveland Browns (4-12)
COLLEGE: Louisville
AGE: 22
HT: 6-2
WT: 220
POS: QB
Analysis: I think it's fair to say that for the first time in a while, the Browns have the talent in place to really help a young quarterback succeed. The presence of Josh Gordon and Jordan Cameron and the results those two were able to put up last season with pretty mixed levels of QB play should give the Browns' front office a reasonable level of confidence that a good decision-maker with a high level of accuracy has a chance to succeed early. And while Bridgewater still has areas where he needs to show growth, particularly in proving he can drive the ball down the field with accuracy on a consistent level, I think he also has a lot of traits that translate to early success. He reads defenses well before and after the snap, moves extremely well within the pocket, and delivers the ball on time, allowing pass-catchers to make plays. If Manziel is available here, he could certainly be the pick, but Bridgewater is no consolation prize on my board.
PLAYER CARD
5
Sammy Watkins *
Oakland Raiders (4-12)
COLLEGE: Clemson
AGE: 20
HT: 6-1
WT: 205
POS: WR
Analysis: This is a pick that could go in a number of directions, and for a team with so many needs -- including what should be a priority to simply build greater roster depth -- that could also mean trading down to add picks. I think taking a QB is certainly in play here, but if the board breaks this way, the Raiders also could look to take the best wide receiver in the draft with Watkins, an electrifying talent who can make any QB look better with his blend of competitive pass-catching and exceptional running skills with the ball in his hands.
PLAYER CARD
6
Anthony Barr
Atlanta Falcons (4-12)
COLLEGE: UCLA
AGE: 21
HT: 6-4
WT: 248
POS: OLB/DE
Analysis: There will be questions about the type of scheme Barr is best suited for, but we probably pay too much attention to that. In Atlanta, Barr could easily work in what we'd traditionally call a 4-3, standing up on the edge and using his exceptional quickness to create pressure, something the Falcons need to find. Last year, they looked to upgrade the secondary, but that group will be exposed if they can't find a more consistent rush. I also think Barr can add some muscle without losing that lightning first step.
PLAYER CARD
7
Khalil Mack
Tampa Bay Buccaneers (4-12)
COLLEGE: Buffalo
AGE: 22
HT: 6-3
WT: 245
POS: OLB
Analysis: I'm sticking with this pick from the previous mock, as Mack gives the Bucs a much-needed edge rusher with three-down capabilities because of his great leverage against the run and ability to drop into space and both cover and tackle. I expect big things from Mack at the combine. He'll face questions on his competition level, but I'm confident he'll prove he's as good an athlete as almost any defensive player in the draft.
PLAYER CARD
8
Blake Bortles *
Minnesota Vikings (5-10-1)
COLLEGE: UCF
AGE: 21
HT: 6-4
WT: 230
POS: QB
Analysis: The Vikings lack any sense of certainty at the QB position. While I think Bortles will have a bit of a learning curve because he needs to gain much greater consistency with his ball placement, he has tremendous physical upside, with a big frame that can really move, which will provide an added dimension to help the offense move the ball as the passing aspect steadily improves. Can Bortles start right away for a team that wants to take a step forward? i think that's a question for the process.
PLAYER CARD
9
Jake Matthews
Buffalo Bills (6-10)
COLLEGE: Texas A&M
AGE: 22
HT: 6-5
WT: 305
POS: OT
Analysis: The injuries to EJ Manuel last season would make you think pass-blocking has to be a priority, but where the Bills' offensive line was really bad was in creating any push in the run game. You don't just protect a young QB by creating a pretty pocket, it's also nice when he can hand the ball off with any reasonable sense of optimism. Matthews will help. I suspect he'd jump in right away at right tackle and succeed -- he can play left or right -- and his ability to finish as a run-blocker could pay early dividends.
PLAYER CARD
10
Justin Gilbert
Detroit Lions (7-9)
COLLEGE: Oklahoma St.
AGE: 22
HT: 6-0
WT: 200
POS: CB
Analysis: Gilbert has some competition to be the first corner taken, but I expect him to put up some pretty impressive numbers at the combine. He should prove to be a pretty big draw in a league where big corners who can battle at the catch point but also have elite speed and quickness are coveted. Detroit should get some development at corner on the current roster, but also could face some turnover. They need to place a bet on another young corner or two.
PLAYER CARD
11
Taylor Lewan
Tennessee Titans (7-9)
COLLEGE: Michigan
AGE: 22
HT: 6-7
WT: 315
POS: OT
Analysis: This is another pick I'm sticking with, as the Titans have some decisions to make at tackle both this offseason and next with current personnel, and Lewan could come in and provide immediate help, as well as a bridge to life after Michael Roos at left tackle. Lewan plays with a solid base and is particularly good as a run-blocker, but has the combination of power, length and good feet to handle both speed and power rushers. Going back to his junior season, he handled Jadeveon Clowney pretty well.
PLAYER CARD
12
C.J. Mosley
New York Giants (7-9)
COLLEGE: Alabama
AGE: 21
HT: 6-2
WT: 232
POS: LB
Analysis: I await the inevitable critique that the Giants never take linebackers in the first round, but I'll stick with this pick. (I know the people who authored that philosophy, so consider me unafraid to be wrong here.) I just think Mosley is as close to a plug-and-perform linebacker as you can have in this draft because of his range and special ability to cover. The guy would really help against the offenses the G-Men see in the NFC East. The Giants were helped by the presence of Jon Beason last season, but this unit is a major question mark going forward, and they could use an impact talent, not just a Band-Aid.
PLAYER CARD
13
Mike Evans *
St. Louis Rams (7-9)
COLLEGE: Texas A&M
AGE: 21
HT: 6-5
WT: 225
POS: WR
Analysis: We talk about receivers who are competitive at the catch point and can outmuscle defenders for the ball. Well, Evans isn't just good at the catch point; he makes the catch point out of reach for many defenders due to his long frame and basketball-borne air skills. He is a fluid runner, if not a quick-twitch athlete, but you don't draft Evans for his ability to separate from defenders. You draft him because it doesn't matter if he does. Just throw it high enough. Sam Bradford will love having that kind of option.
PLAYER CARD
14
Timmy Jernigan *
Chicago Bears (8-8)
COLLEGE: Florida St.
AGE: 21
HT: 6-2
WT: 298
POS: DT
Analysis: Another pick I'm sticking with because of the hand-to-glove fit of talent and need. I'm a bigger fan of Jernigan in a 4-3 look, where he's using his power to go through a blocker and not trying to beat people off the snap and use quickness. He's not a blow-by rusher, but has the strength and quick feet to eat up a running play before it goes anywhere. The Bears were a mess on the inside of the D-line last season due to injuries.
PLAYER CARD
15
Louis Nix III
Pittsburgh Steelers (8-8)
COLLEGE: Notre Dame
AGE: 22
HT: 6-3
WT: 345
POS: DT
Analysis: While I project Nix here because he's an obvious system fit working directly over the center or shading a little -- eating gaps and making everyone around him (particularly behind him) more effective -- he actually has decent quickness for such a mammoth human and could also work in a 4-3. To say Nix moves like a 300-pounder is a compliment, and Pittsburgh could use some help on the defensive line, particularly up the middle.
PLAYER CARD
16
Eric Ebron *
Baltimore Ravens (8-8)^
COLLEGE: North Carolina
AGE: 20
HT: 6-4
WT: 231
POS: TE
Analysis: I wouldn't compare Anquan Boldin to Ebron, but I will say this: Quarterbacks love to have guys they can throw to with the confidence that their guy can win a contested catch. You could say Boldin lacked the quickness to get open, but he was a trusted target because of the way he could use his size and strength to win a physical contest to catch a pass. Ebron is the kind of new-breed tight end who can be split out, line up in the slot, or take a hit from a strongside linebacker and get into a route where he becomes a constant matchup threat and a likely winner for contested passes. Joe Flacco will like having him around.
PLAYER CARD
17
Ha Ha Clinton-Dix *
Dallas Cowboys (8-8)^
COLLEGE: Alabama
AGE: 21
HT: 6-1
WT: 208
POS: S
Analysis: Defensive line could also be a pick here, as the team has some age concerns up front, but safety is a major area of need. The Cowboys could use a free safety with range, good instincts and experience who can come in and play right away. Clinton-Dix provides the added bonus of being able to help out closer to the line of scrimmage. While he's great in single high, you can bring him up and he won't shy away from contact.
PLAYER CARD
18
Marqise Lee *
New York Jets (8-8)
COLLEGE: USC
AGE: 22
HT: 6-1
WT: 198
POS: WR
Analysis: Before the flood of junior wide receivers entered the draft class, I would have told you that Lee, with his experience and reputation for reliability catching the ball and explosiveness after the catch, would easily be among the top two or three wide receivers taken. But I think the Jets will be considering a wide range of options here at that position, and because of the depth of this class, they could also wait and take a receiver later. Still, I like the fit here -- a team in serious need of added production at that position gets a very good pass-catcher who can make big plays with the ball in his hands.
PLAYER CARD
19
Zack Martin
Miami Dolphins (8-8)
COLLEGE: Notre Dame
AGE: 23
HT: 6-4
WT: 308
POS: OT
Analysis: The Dolphins are in need of a versatile offensive lineman or two, and what Martin lacks in ceiling, he brings in ready-to-play value. He's got plenty of experience at left tackle, and acquitted himself well there against Senior Bowl competition. However, I think he has the smarts and experience to handle right tackle right away, and he could also be really good if moved inside. Did I mention the Dolphins need to add some talent on the offensive line?
PLAYER CARD
20
Cyrus Kouandjio *
Arizona Cardinals (10-6)
COLLEGE: Alabama
AGE: 20
HT: 6-6
WT: 315
POS: OT
Analysis: He has the frame you'd describe if you were talking about ideal physical traits for a left tackle, but Kouandjio battled inconsistency last season, and was particularly susceptible to extremely quick pass-rushers who could drive upfield and turn the corner on him, getting under his reach. But let's be clear about something: Kouandjio could be a total steal at this point, a long and powerful tackle who won't be 21 until after the draft. The upside of an All-Pro is here.
PLAYER CARD
21
Calvin Pryor *
Green Bay Packers (8-7-1)
COLLEGE: Louisville
AGE: 21
HT: 6-2
WT: 208
POS: S
Analysis: People wonder how a prospect can have a lot of "momentum" after all of the games have been played and before the combine starts. What changed? Well, there's simply a lot of teams finally taking a closer look at prospects, and Pryor is a guy who flew under the radar earlier in the season, but closed out his career at Louisville extremely well, and teams are beginning to catch up now that it's evaluation season. Pryor is a downhill safety who will fly up to the line of scrimmage and make plays. While he's got work to do in coverage, he's instinctive and athletic enough to get better there. And he has momentum that could help him push past Clinton-Dix as the first safety taken.
PLAYER CARD
22
Odell Beckham Jr. *
Philadelphia Eagles (10-6)
COLLEGE: LSU
AGE: 21
HT: 6-0
WT: 193
POS: WR
Analysis: He could show off elite straight-line speed at the combine, but he's particularly explosive out of breaks, creating separation and making him dangerous with the ball in his hands. His speed also translates to the return game. Beckham could be a good fit in Philly not just because he's a good receiver for a team that could use help in that department, but because he's versatile, and can work in the slot or on the edge.
PLAYER CARD
23
Kelvin Benjamin *
Kansas City Chiefs (11-5)
COLLEGE: Florida St.
AGE: 22
HT: 6-4
WT: 232
POS: WR
Analysis: The Chiefs have Dwayne Bowe, and they like the development of former first-round pick A.J. Jenkins, but they also have a limited QB in Alex Smith, a player who needs receivers to be playmakers to make up for the fact that he's not exactly going to pick defenses apart. I thought Benjamin could use another year of seasoning at Florida State, but given his size, speed, catch radius and ability to beat defenders before the catch and run away from them after the catch, he could be a steal here. The Chiefs don't need him to be a hero in Week 1.
PLAYER CARD
24
Darqueze Dennard
Cincinnati Bengals (11-5)
COLLEGE: Michigan St.
AGE: 22
HT: 5-11
WT: 197
POS: CB
Analysis: This is a pick I'm staying with, as I like both the fit and the fact that the Bengals have few major needs, but corner is certainly one. To quote the previous mock, "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 can start, and he brings a physical style and an ability to press combined with great awareness and the ability to defend like he's in your jersey without simply grabbing.
PLAYER CARD
25
Marcus Roberson *
San Diego Chargers (9-7)
COLLEGE: Florida
AGE: 21
HT: 6-0
WT: 195
POS: CB
Analysis: The Chargers did a pretty good job of scheming their way around some holes at corner during the late-season run, but there's no question they could use another good cornerback (or two), particularly because I think that defensive line and pass rush could take another step forward next season. Roberson can get a little lackadaisical, but it can also look easy for him out there because he has good instincts and a sense of where routes are going. He has long arms and can get his hands on the ball. He simply needs to be more physical against the run and grab a little less in coverage.
PLAYER CARD
26
Davante Adams *
Cleveland Browns (4-12) (From IND)
COLLEGE: Fresno St.
AGE: 21
HT: 6-2
WT: 214
POS: WR
Analysis: There's a decent chance the Browns will be working with an inexperienced quarterback taking the snaps in 2014, and while Josh Gordon and Jordan Cameron are enticing matchup threats, the Browns could really use a reliable third option, because beyond those two, drops and inconsistency were an issue. In Adams, you get a strong receiver who will make plays in traffic and beat defenders for the ball on contested throws. If the Browns go QB at No. 4, they could decide to add pass-catching help by the time they get to this slot. They'll have some good options, so fit will be key.
PLAYER CARD
27
Antonio Richardson *
New Orleans Saints (11-5)
COLLEGE: Tennessee
AGE: 21
HT: 6-6
WT: 327
POS: OT
Analysis: He showed more holes in his game on tape than some tackles ahead of him here, and perhaps a few behind him, but this is a bet that Richardson will show off at the combine and move up on some boards when teams realize his ceiling. This is a 6-6, nearly 330-pound athlete, with a powerful lower half and long arms. And while I don't know if I trust him to protect Drew Brees' blindside in Week 1, some technical work could turn him into a special player. Richardson's problem is that he's so physically gifted he can be a little over-aggressive and look to dominate a matchup when sometimes he just needs to absorb a pass-rusher with his blend of size, power and quick feet. The Saints aren't settled at left tackle and need to bring in a player with the upside to fill the role.
PLAYER CARD
28
Brandin Cooks *
Carolina Panthers (12-4)
COLLEGE: Oregon St.
AGE: 21
HT: 5-10
WT: 186
POS: WR
Analysis: I had Cooks going to Carolina in the first mock, and don't see (or hear) a reason to change at this point. The need at wide receiver is obvious, and you can help a young QB not just by providing a huge target who doesn't always need to get open to be effective but by bringing in a player who specializes in getting open all of the time. Cooks separates easily with change-of-direction explosiveness and he's a reliable hands-catcher.
PLAYER CARD
29
Jace Amaro *
New England Patriots (12-4)
COLLEGE: Texas Tech
AGE: 21
HT: 6-5
WT: 260
POS: TE
Analysis: No change here, but I'll put in a backup plan. I do wonder if Amaro will drop this far. He's a special player with his blend of size, speed and pass-catching ability and he could be gone before this spot. If that's the case, I think another good tight end option could be Troy Niklas of Notre Dame, who has many of the same pass-catching attributes as Amaro and Ebron but is actually more proven as a blocker. Call it Gronk insurance.
PLAYER CARD
30
Jarvis Landry *
San Francisco 49ers (12-4)
COLLEGE: LSU
AGE: 21
HT: 6-1
WT: 195
POS: WR
Analysis: Knowing how Jim Harbaugh has raved about the pass-catching ability of Michael Crabtree, I think the coach will like what he sees of Landry when he rolls the tape. It's not Harbaugh's final call to make, but what they'd get in Landry is a really strong hands-catcher who is fluid in and out of his breaks and doesn't care about making catches in traffic. Landry is a competitor, and isn't afraid to throw a block. He's done a good job of building on the considerable base of talent he flashed coming out of high school.
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31
Bradley Roby *
Denver Broncos (13-3)
COLLEGE: Ohio St.
AGE: 21
HT: 5-11
WT: 192
POS: CB
Analysis: It wasn't their undoing in the Super Bowl -- that would be Seattle's defense -- but the Broncos need to add talent and speed in particular to their defensive backfield. In terms of raw speed, you won't do much better than Roby in this draft, and he's physical despite being slightly less than ideally sized. Roby is a quick-twitch athlete with fluid hips, can press or play off and can recover on any separation to make plays on the ball. Denver needs help, even with Chris Harris coming back.
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32
Allen Robinson *
Seattle Seahawks (13-3)
COLLEGE: Penn St.
AGE: 21
HT: 6-3
WT: 210
POS: WR
Analysis: The expectation is that Sidney Rice won't be back, and John Schneider and Co. also will have to decide what Golden Tate is worth, knowing they have a few other big checks to cut in the coming year-plus. So while guys like Jermaine Kearse have developed well here, I think adding size and starting potential at wide receiver is a pretty reasonable option. Robinson provides that, with an ability to make contested catches and a sneaky level of speed to win over the top or with the ball in his hands. Offensive line is obviously a possible play here, too. The Seahawks don't want to have to live on Russell Wilson's remarkable ability to escape forever.
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Johnny Manziel remains No. 1, but things change in many other spots
Updated: February 6, 2014, 11:53 AM ET
By Mel Kiper Jr. | ESPN Insider
A couple of things to remember before my second mock draft:
• Teams are starting to catch up on a number of players, but similar to my first one, I'd say I match needs to fits a little more here because "best player available" is still a work in progress for teams.
• I feel good about most of my heights, weights and speed/strength reports, but there are always surprises at the combine.
• Remember: I can't reflect trades. I will point out good spots for a move.
One final note: A few players I see as good bets for Round 1 who didn't fit in this mock: Ryan Shazier, Aaron Donald and Derek Carr. My inability to reflect possible trades factored in there.
* Denotes a junior or redshirt sophomore at the time of draft entry.
^ Indicates that Baltimore and Dallas will flip a coin to determine which team picks first.
1
Johnny Manziel *
Houston Texans (2-14)
COLLEGE: Texas A&M
AGE: 21
HT: 6-0
WT: 205
POS: QB
Analysis: My internal debate here was Mr. Football or Mr. Clowney. Thing is, I don't think that's too much different than the scenario going on with Houston right now -- just add a few players to the mix. In Manziel, you get a quarterback who in my opinion is ready to play NFL football and make plays, and is preparing with the goal of helping a team right away. In Jadeveon Clowney, you get the most talented player in the draft, a defensive force to pair somewhere along the line with J.J. Watt and create major problems for opposing offenses. Right now I'll stick with the early bet on Manziel, and the idea that coach Bill O'Brien becomes convinced this is his QB of the future.
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2
Greg Robinson *
St. Louis Rams (7-9) (From WAS)
COLLEGE: Auburn
AGE: 21
HT: 6-5
WT: 320
POS: OT
Analysis: The Rams need a tackle -- in fact, they need more than one. And while Robinson doesn't have the same level of experience as the next two tackles on the board, I think once the combine is over, the consensus will be that he's the player with the highest ceiling at the position. An absolute mauler in the run game, he has plenty of length and athleticism to also become dominant in protection. While the Rams could certainly deal this pick, I can't reflect that here.
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3
Jadeveon Clowney *
Jacksonville Jaguars (4-12)
COLLEGE: South Carolina
AGE: 20
HT: 6-5
WT: 274
POS: DE
Analysis: The owner in Jacksonville has made it pretty clear that the search for a quarterback is on, and the draft is a place they'll be looking. While I think they'd be a good fit for Manziel, in this scenario he's not around, and they instead go with the top pass-rusher in the draft. Make no mistake, QB is a huge need, but the Jags have been looking to improve the pass rush for years. If they love one of the other QB possibilities, that could certainly be the pick, but if the board breaks this way, I think Clowney proves irresistible.
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4
Teddy Bridgewater *
Cleveland Browns (4-12)
COLLEGE: Louisville
AGE: 22
HT: 6-2
WT: 220
POS: QB
Analysis: I think it's fair to say that for the first time in a while, the Browns have the talent in place to really help a young quarterback succeed. The presence of Josh Gordon and Jordan Cameron and the results those two were able to put up last season with pretty mixed levels of QB play should give the Browns' front office a reasonable level of confidence that a good decision-maker with a high level of accuracy has a chance to succeed early. And while Bridgewater still has areas where he needs to show growth, particularly in proving he can drive the ball down the field with accuracy on a consistent level, I think he also has a lot of traits that translate to early success. He reads defenses well before and after the snap, moves extremely well within the pocket, and delivers the ball on time, allowing pass-catchers to make plays. If Manziel is available here, he could certainly be the pick, but Bridgewater is no consolation prize on my board.
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5
Sammy Watkins *
Oakland Raiders (4-12)
COLLEGE: Clemson
AGE: 20
HT: 6-1
WT: 205
POS: WR
Analysis: This is a pick that could go in a number of directions, and for a team with so many needs -- including what should be a priority to simply build greater roster depth -- that could also mean trading down to add picks. I think taking a QB is certainly in play here, but if the board breaks this way, the Raiders also could look to take the best wide receiver in the draft with Watkins, an electrifying talent who can make any QB look better with his blend of competitive pass-catching and exceptional running skills with the ball in his hands.
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6
Anthony Barr
Atlanta Falcons (4-12)
COLLEGE: UCLA
AGE: 21
HT: 6-4
WT: 248
POS: OLB/DE
Analysis: There will be questions about the type of scheme Barr is best suited for, but we probably pay too much attention to that. In Atlanta, Barr could easily work in what we'd traditionally call a 4-3, standing up on the edge and using his exceptional quickness to create pressure, something the Falcons need to find. Last year, they looked to upgrade the secondary, but that group will be exposed if they can't find a more consistent rush. I also think Barr can add some muscle without losing that lightning first step.
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7
Khalil Mack
Tampa Bay Buccaneers (4-12)
COLLEGE: Buffalo
AGE: 22
HT: 6-3
WT: 245
POS: OLB
Analysis: I'm sticking with this pick from the previous mock, as Mack gives the Bucs a much-needed edge rusher with three-down capabilities because of his great leverage against the run and ability to drop into space and both cover and tackle. I expect big things from Mack at the combine. He'll face questions on his competition level, but I'm confident he'll prove he's as good an athlete as almost any defensive player in the draft.
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8
Blake Bortles *
Minnesota Vikings (5-10-1)
COLLEGE: UCF
AGE: 21
HT: 6-4
WT: 230
POS: QB
Analysis: The Vikings lack any sense of certainty at the QB position. While I think Bortles will have a bit of a learning curve because he needs to gain much greater consistency with his ball placement, he has tremendous physical upside, with a big frame that can really move, which will provide an added dimension to help the offense move the ball as the passing aspect steadily improves. Can Bortles start right away for a team that wants to take a step forward? i think that's a question for the process.
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9
Jake Matthews
Buffalo Bills (6-10)
COLLEGE: Texas A&M
AGE: 22
HT: 6-5
WT: 305
POS: OT
Analysis: The injuries to EJ Manuel last season would make you think pass-blocking has to be a priority, but where the Bills' offensive line was really bad was in creating any push in the run game. You don't just protect a young QB by creating a pretty pocket, it's also nice when he can hand the ball off with any reasonable sense of optimism. Matthews will help. I suspect he'd jump in right away at right tackle and succeed -- he can play left or right -- and his ability to finish as a run-blocker could pay early dividends.
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10
Justin Gilbert
Detroit Lions (7-9)
COLLEGE: Oklahoma St.
AGE: 22
HT: 6-0
WT: 200
POS: CB
Analysis: Gilbert has some competition to be the first corner taken, but I expect him to put up some pretty impressive numbers at the combine. He should prove to be a pretty big draw in a league where big corners who can battle at the catch point but also have elite speed and quickness are coveted. Detroit should get some development at corner on the current roster, but also could face some turnover. They need to place a bet on another young corner or two.
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11
Taylor Lewan
Tennessee Titans (7-9)
COLLEGE: Michigan
AGE: 22
HT: 6-7
WT: 315
POS: OT
Analysis: This is another pick I'm sticking with, as the Titans have some decisions to make at tackle both this offseason and next with current personnel, and Lewan could come in and provide immediate help, as well as a bridge to life after Michael Roos at left tackle. Lewan plays with a solid base and is particularly good as a run-blocker, but has the combination of power, length and good feet to handle both speed and power rushers. Going back to his junior season, he handled Jadeveon Clowney pretty well.
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12
C.J. Mosley
New York Giants (7-9)
COLLEGE: Alabama
AGE: 21
HT: 6-2
WT: 232
POS: LB
Analysis: I await the inevitable critique that the Giants never take linebackers in the first round, but I'll stick with this pick. (I know the people who authored that philosophy, so consider me unafraid to be wrong here.) I just think Mosley is as close to a plug-and-perform linebacker as you can have in this draft because of his range and special ability to cover. The guy would really help against the offenses the G-Men see in the NFC East. The Giants were helped by the presence of Jon Beason last season, but this unit is a major question mark going forward, and they could use an impact talent, not just a Band-Aid.
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13
Mike Evans *
St. Louis Rams (7-9)
COLLEGE: Texas A&M
AGE: 21
HT: 6-5
WT: 225
POS: WR
Analysis: We talk about receivers who are competitive at the catch point and can outmuscle defenders for the ball. Well, Evans isn't just good at the catch point; he makes the catch point out of reach for many defenders due to his long frame and basketball-borne air skills. He is a fluid runner, if not a quick-twitch athlete, but you don't draft Evans for his ability to separate from defenders. You draft him because it doesn't matter if he does. Just throw it high enough. Sam Bradford will love having that kind of option.
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14
Timmy Jernigan *
Chicago Bears (8-8)
COLLEGE: Florida St.
AGE: 21
HT: 6-2
WT: 298
POS: DT
Analysis: Another pick I'm sticking with because of the hand-to-glove fit of talent and need. I'm a bigger fan of Jernigan in a 4-3 look, where he's using his power to go through a blocker and not trying to beat people off the snap and use quickness. He's not a blow-by rusher, but has the strength and quick feet to eat up a running play before it goes anywhere. The Bears were a mess on the inside of the D-line last season due to injuries.
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15
Louis Nix III
Pittsburgh Steelers (8-8)
COLLEGE: Notre Dame
AGE: 22
HT: 6-3
WT: 345
POS: DT
Analysis: While I project Nix here because he's an obvious system fit working directly over the center or shading a little -- eating gaps and making everyone around him (particularly behind him) more effective -- he actually has decent quickness for such a mammoth human and could also work in a 4-3. To say Nix moves like a 300-pounder is a compliment, and Pittsburgh could use some help on the defensive line, particularly up the middle.
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16
Eric Ebron *
Baltimore Ravens (8-8)^
COLLEGE: North Carolina
AGE: 20
HT: 6-4
WT: 231
POS: TE
Analysis: I wouldn't compare Anquan Boldin to Ebron, but I will say this: Quarterbacks love to have guys they can throw to with the confidence that their guy can win a contested catch. You could say Boldin lacked the quickness to get open, but he was a trusted target because of the way he could use his size and strength to win a physical contest to catch a pass. Ebron is the kind of new-breed tight end who can be split out, line up in the slot, or take a hit from a strongside linebacker and get into a route where he becomes a constant matchup threat and a likely winner for contested passes. Joe Flacco will like having him around.
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17
Ha Ha Clinton-Dix *
Dallas Cowboys (8-8)^
COLLEGE: Alabama
AGE: 21
HT: 6-1
WT: 208
POS: S
Analysis: Defensive line could also be a pick here, as the team has some age concerns up front, but safety is a major area of need. The Cowboys could use a free safety with range, good instincts and experience who can come in and play right away. Clinton-Dix provides the added bonus of being able to help out closer to the line of scrimmage. While he's great in single high, you can bring him up and he won't shy away from contact.
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18
Marqise Lee *
New York Jets (8-8)
COLLEGE: USC
AGE: 22
HT: 6-1
WT: 198
POS: WR
Analysis: Before the flood of junior wide receivers entered the draft class, I would have told you that Lee, with his experience and reputation for reliability catching the ball and explosiveness after the catch, would easily be among the top two or three wide receivers taken. But I think the Jets will be considering a wide range of options here at that position, and because of the depth of this class, they could also wait and take a receiver later. Still, I like the fit here -- a team in serious need of added production at that position gets a very good pass-catcher who can make big plays with the ball in his hands.
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19
Zack Martin
Miami Dolphins (8-8)
COLLEGE: Notre Dame
AGE: 23
HT: 6-4
WT: 308
POS: OT
Analysis: The Dolphins are in need of a versatile offensive lineman or two, and what Martin lacks in ceiling, he brings in ready-to-play value. He's got plenty of experience at left tackle, and acquitted himself well there against Senior Bowl competition. However, I think he has the smarts and experience to handle right tackle right away, and he could also be really good if moved inside. Did I mention the Dolphins need to add some talent on the offensive line?
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20
Cyrus Kouandjio *
Arizona Cardinals (10-6)
COLLEGE: Alabama
AGE: 20
HT: 6-6
WT: 315
POS: OT
Analysis: He has the frame you'd describe if you were talking about ideal physical traits for a left tackle, but Kouandjio battled inconsistency last season, and was particularly susceptible to extremely quick pass-rushers who could drive upfield and turn the corner on him, getting under his reach. But let's be clear about something: Kouandjio could be a total steal at this point, a long and powerful tackle who won't be 21 until after the draft. The upside of an All-Pro is here.
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21
Calvin Pryor *
Green Bay Packers (8-7-1)
COLLEGE: Louisville
AGE: 21
HT: 6-2
WT: 208
POS: S
Analysis: People wonder how a prospect can have a lot of "momentum" after all of the games have been played and before the combine starts. What changed? Well, there's simply a lot of teams finally taking a closer look at prospects, and Pryor is a guy who flew under the radar earlier in the season, but closed out his career at Louisville extremely well, and teams are beginning to catch up now that it's evaluation season. Pryor is a downhill safety who will fly up to the line of scrimmage and make plays. While he's got work to do in coverage, he's instinctive and athletic enough to get better there. And he has momentum that could help him push past Clinton-Dix as the first safety taken.
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22
Odell Beckham Jr. *
Philadelphia Eagles (10-6)
COLLEGE: LSU
AGE: 21
HT: 6-0
WT: 193
POS: WR
Analysis: He could show off elite straight-line speed at the combine, but he's particularly explosive out of breaks, creating separation and making him dangerous with the ball in his hands. His speed also translates to the return game. Beckham could be a good fit in Philly not just because he's a good receiver for a team that could use help in that department, but because he's versatile, and can work in the slot or on the edge.
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23
Kelvin Benjamin *
Kansas City Chiefs (11-5)
COLLEGE: Florida St.
AGE: 22
HT: 6-4
WT: 232
POS: WR
Analysis: The Chiefs have Dwayne Bowe, and they like the development of former first-round pick A.J. Jenkins, but they also have a limited QB in Alex Smith, a player who needs receivers to be playmakers to make up for the fact that he's not exactly going to pick defenses apart. I thought Benjamin could use another year of seasoning at Florida State, but given his size, speed, catch radius and ability to beat defenders before the catch and run away from them after the catch, he could be a steal here. The Chiefs don't need him to be a hero in Week 1.
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24
Darqueze Dennard
Cincinnati Bengals (11-5)
COLLEGE: Michigan St.
AGE: 22
HT: 5-11
WT: 197
POS: CB
Analysis: This is a pick I'm staying with, as I like both the fit and the fact that the Bengals have few major needs, but corner is certainly one. To quote the previous mock, "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 can start, and he brings a physical style and an ability to press combined with great awareness and the ability to defend like he's in your jersey without simply grabbing.
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25
Marcus Roberson *
San Diego Chargers (9-7)
COLLEGE: Florida
AGE: 21
HT: 6-0
WT: 195
POS: CB
Analysis: The Chargers did a pretty good job of scheming their way around some holes at corner during the late-season run, but there's no question they could use another good cornerback (or two), particularly because I think that defensive line and pass rush could take another step forward next season. Roberson can get a little lackadaisical, but it can also look easy for him out there because he has good instincts and a sense of where routes are going. He has long arms and can get his hands on the ball. He simply needs to be more physical against the run and grab a little less in coverage.
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26
Davante Adams *
Cleveland Browns (4-12) (From IND)
COLLEGE: Fresno St.
AGE: 21
HT: 6-2
WT: 214
POS: WR
Analysis: There's a decent chance the Browns will be working with an inexperienced quarterback taking the snaps in 2014, and while Josh Gordon and Jordan Cameron are enticing matchup threats, the Browns could really use a reliable third option, because beyond those two, drops and inconsistency were an issue. In Adams, you get a strong receiver who will make plays in traffic and beat defenders for the ball on contested throws. If the Browns go QB at No. 4, they could decide to add pass-catching help by the time they get to this slot. They'll have some good options, so fit will be key.
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27
Antonio Richardson *
New Orleans Saints (11-5)
COLLEGE: Tennessee
AGE: 21
HT: 6-6
WT: 327
POS: OT
Analysis: He showed more holes in his game on tape than some tackles ahead of him here, and perhaps a few behind him, but this is a bet that Richardson will show off at the combine and move up on some boards when teams realize his ceiling. This is a 6-6, nearly 330-pound athlete, with a powerful lower half and long arms. And while I don't know if I trust him to protect Drew Brees' blindside in Week 1, some technical work could turn him into a special player. Richardson's problem is that he's so physically gifted he can be a little over-aggressive and look to dominate a matchup when sometimes he just needs to absorb a pass-rusher with his blend of size, power and quick feet. The Saints aren't settled at left tackle and need to bring in a player with the upside to fill the role.
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28
Brandin Cooks *
Carolina Panthers (12-4)
COLLEGE: Oregon St.
AGE: 21
HT: 5-10
WT: 186
POS: WR
Analysis: I had Cooks going to Carolina in the first mock, and don't see (or hear) a reason to change at this point. The need at wide receiver is obvious, and you can help a young QB not just by providing a huge target who doesn't always need to get open to be effective but by bringing in a player who specializes in getting open all of the time. Cooks separates easily with change-of-direction explosiveness and he's a reliable hands-catcher.
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29
Jace Amaro *
New England Patriots (12-4)
COLLEGE: Texas Tech
AGE: 21
HT: 6-5
WT: 260
POS: TE
Analysis: No change here, but I'll put in a backup plan. I do wonder if Amaro will drop this far. He's a special player with his blend of size, speed and pass-catching ability and he could be gone before this spot. If that's the case, I think another good tight end option could be Troy Niklas of Notre Dame, who has many of the same pass-catching attributes as Amaro and Ebron but is actually more proven as a blocker. Call it Gronk insurance.
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30
Jarvis Landry *
San Francisco 49ers (12-4)
COLLEGE: LSU
AGE: 21
HT: 6-1
WT: 195
POS: WR
Analysis: Knowing how Jim Harbaugh has raved about the pass-catching ability of Michael Crabtree, I think the coach will like what he sees of Landry when he rolls the tape. It's not Harbaugh's final call to make, but what they'd get in Landry is a really strong hands-catcher who is fluid in and out of his breaks and doesn't care about making catches in traffic. Landry is a competitor, and isn't afraid to throw a block. He's done a good job of building on the considerable base of talent he flashed coming out of high school.
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31
Bradley Roby *
Denver Broncos (13-3)
COLLEGE: Ohio St.
AGE: 21
HT: 5-11
WT: 192
POS: CB
Analysis: It wasn't their undoing in the Super Bowl -- that would be Seattle's defense -- but the Broncos need to add talent and speed in particular to their defensive backfield. In terms of raw speed, you won't do much better than Roby in this draft, and he's physical despite being slightly less than ideally sized. Roby is a quick-twitch athlete with fluid hips, can press or play off and can recover on any separation to make plays on the ball. Denver needs help, even with Chris Harris coming back.
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32
Allen Robinson *
Seattle Seahawks (13-3)
COLLEGE: Penn St.
AGE: 21
HT: 6-3
WT: 210
POS: WR
Analysis: The expectation is that Sidney Rice won't be back, and John Schneider and Co. also will have to decide what Golden Tate is worth, knowing they have a few other big checks to cut in the coming year-plus. So while guys like Jermaine Kearse have developed well here, I think adding size and starting potential at wide receiver is a pretty reasonable option. Robinson provides that, with an ability to make contested catches and a sneaky level of speed to win over the top or with the ball in his hands. Offensive line is obviously a possible play here, too. The Seahawks don't want to have to live on Russell Wilson's remarkable ability to escape forever.
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McShay: 2014 NFL Mock Draft 2.0
Clowney goes No. 1, three QBs go early in 2014 first-round projection
Updated: February 6, 2014, 1:08 PM ET
We're still three months away from the 2014 NFL draft, but there are plenty of intriguing draft questions already beginning to emerge. Who will go No. 1? How many quarterbacks will go in the first round? How will the Rams and Browns use their extra first-round picks?
We set out to answer those questions and plenty more with our second mock draft of the season, projecting all 32 first-round picks. Here's our latest prediction of how the draft could play out, based on team needs and how we currently rate the top prospects in the 2014 draft class.
As usual, draft-eligible nonseniors are denoted with an asterisk.
^ Indicates that Baltimore and Dallas will flip a coin to determine which team picks first.
1
Jadeveon Clowney*
Houston Texans (2-14)
COLLEGE: South Carolina
AGE: 20
HT: 6-5
WT: 258
POS: DE
Analysis: Passing up on a quarterback here, particularly in-state product Johnny Manziel of Texas A&M, might be a public relations nightmare, but that would pale in comparison to the nightmares the combination of Clowney and J.J. Watt would create for opposing offenses. Clowney's production dipped this season and his motor ran hot and cold as the season went on, but he is the most talented player in this class and possesses a rare blend of size, strength and athleticism, and Watt could help him develop his technique and discipline.
If the Texans do end up taking a QB, don't be surprised if it's UCF's Blake Bortles over Louisville's Teddy Bridgewater. For starters, while Manziel is more dynamic and Bridgewater is more polished, Bortles has the sturdiest frame, outstanding mental makeup, good accuracy -- both in the pocket and on the move -- and the proven ability to deliver in the clutch. Plus, Bill O'Brien was an assistant under Bortles' college coach, George O'Leary, at Georgia Tech, so that could provide O'Brien with the confidence to take Bortles if O'Leary gives him the full stamp of approval.
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2
Greg Robinson
St. Louis Rams (7-9) (From WAS)
COLLEGE: Auburn
AGE: 21
HT: 6-5
WT: 320
POS: OT
Analysis: The Rams could use a tackle, with Rodger Saffold and Chris Williams scheduled to become unrestricted free agents and Jake Long suffering a torn ACL and MCL toward the end of the 2013 season, and Robinson is the top one on our board (he's No. 2 overall behind Clowney). Robinson has the size and strength of a road-grading right tackle, but the athleticism, length and agility to develop into a star at left tackle. He was dominant at the point of attack for Auburn this season.
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3
Teddy Bridgewater*
Jacksonville Jaguars (4-12)
COLLEGE: Louisville
AGE: 21
HT: 6-2
WT: 198
POS: QB
Analysis: This draft feels like the right time for the Jaguars to get their franchise quarterback, and in this scenario they'd have their pick of every QB on the board. Bridgewater continues to be the No. 1 quarterback in our rankings, because while there are some concerns about his long-term durability in the NFL due to his lean frame, he is the most naturally accurate passer in this class with great anticipation, toughness and command of the offense.
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4
Blake Bortles*
Cleveland Browns (4-12)
COLLEGE: UCF
AGE: 21
HT: 6-4
WT: 228
POS: QB
Analysis: The Browns need a quarterback, and Bortles has the physical tools and mental makeup to develop into a good NFL starter. He will not wow scouts with a big-time arm, and, like most young quarterbacks, he can become more consistent with his decision-making. However, Bortles does have enough arm strength to make all the NFL throws, and unlike many college QBs I study on tape, Bortles sees the entire field, stands strong in the pocket and shows the ability to go through NFL-type progressions. He also has the prototypical size, accuracy, pocket presence and mobility to make plays with his legs. One thing to keep in mind: New offensive coordinator Kyle Shanahan coached a narrow-framed mobile QB in Robert Griffin III in Washington who dealt with injury issues, so he might appreciate having a mobile QB with a bigger, sturdier frame.
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5
Johnny Manziel*
Oakland Raiders (4-12)
COLLEGE: Texas A&M
AGE: 21
HT: 6-0
WT: 200
POS: QB
Analysis: The Raiders have 18 unrestricted free agents and finally have some salary cap room to add some key pieces to their team, so we're likely to see a lot of turnover on this roster this offseason. They also need to find an upgrade at quarterback over Terrelle Pryor and Matt McGloin, which is why Manziel could be a fit here even though we have a late-first-round grade on him. The NFL evaluators who have concerns about Manziel focus on his on- and off-field decision-making and lack of size (not his height, but whether his small frame can hold up over 16-game seasons, given his style of play), but the ones who love him focus on his special improvisational skills, creativity and running ability. I also thought he showed improvement with his velocity, ball placement and patience within the pocket this season.
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6
Jake Matthews
Atlanta Falcons (4-12)
COLLEGE: Texas A&M
AGE: 21
HT: 6-5
WT: 309
POS: OT
Analysis: Defensive end, offensive tackle and tight end are the Falcons' top needs in this draft, and Matthews is a guy who fills a need and is also a top-five talent in this class. He brings versatility, having played both right tackle and left tackle for the Aggies, and he has good bloodlines (Bruce Matthews is his dad), commitment to the game and an understanding of what it takes to succeed. This feels like a good, safe pick for a team that needs to better protect QB Matt Ryan in 2014 and beyond.
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7
Khalil Mack
Tampa Bay Buccaneers (4-12)
COLLEGE: Buffalo
AGE: 22
HT: 6-2
WT: 245
POS: OLB
Analysis: Mack was very productive at Buffalo (he's the NCAA's all-time career leader in tackles for loss and forced fumbles), and he has the potential to develop into a versatile playmaker in the NFL. He'd be a "Sam" linebacker in the Bucs' scheme, but they'd be able to move him around because he is a highly disruptive run defender in addition to being very effective as a pass-rusher and able to hold up in zone and man-to-man coverage against tight ends.
PLAYER CARD
8
C.J. Mosley
Minnesota Vikings (5-10-1)
COLLEGE: Alabama
AGE: 21
HT: 6-2
WT: 228
POS: OLB
Analysis: If there's anything that keeps Mosley out of the first half of the first round, my guess is it would be concerns about his durability (he's had significant shoulder, hip and elbow injuries in the past), but it's hard not to fall in love with his performance on tape. He was highly productive at Alabama, and set the tone for that defense with his motor and aggressive play. In addition to his outstanding cover skills, he's very disruptive when turned loose as a pass-rusher. He'd be a good fit in Minnesota as the Vikings' weakside linebacker.
PLAYER CARD
9
Sammy Watkins*
Buffalo Bills (6-10)
COLLEGE: Clemson
AGE: 20
HT: 6-0
WT: 205
POS: WR
Analysis: The Bills have more pressing needs than wide receiver, including offensive line (specifically guard and right tackle), tight end (if Scott Chandler is not re-signed) and safety (if Jairus Byrd is not re-signed), but pairing young and developing QB EJ Manuel with the top receiver in this year's class might be too tempting to pass up. Watkins is a physical receiver with a big-time second gear who is very competitive when the ball is in the air. Texas A&M's Mike Evans would also make a lot of sense, as his size would provide a good complement to the smaller, faster receivers on Buffalo's roster.
PLAYER CARD
10
Mike Evans*
Detroit Lions (7-9)
COLLEGE: Texas A&M
AGE: 20
HT: 6-4
WT: 220
POS: WR
Analysis: Evans still has some developing to do as a route runner, and yes, he has some immaturity issues and a tendency to get overly emotional. But he is an absolute pit bull on the field, and there is no receiver in this draft who is more dangerous when the ball is in the air. Both the tape and the advanced metrics make the case that he is the most proven down-the-field pass-catcher in the 2014 class. The Lions need a difference-maker opposite Calvin Johnson, and Johnson's leadership and experience could be just what Evans needs to avoid early-career pitfalls.
PLAYER CARD
11
Anthony Barr
Tennessee Titans (7-9)
COLLEGE: UCLA
AGE: 21
HT: 6-4
WT: 244
POS: DE/OLB
Analysis: Even if Tennessee decides to move on from Jake Locker at QB, it's hard to imagine the team liking one enough to draft him at No. 11 in this scenario. Michigan OT Taylor Lewan and Alabama safety Ha Ha Clinton-Dix would also fill needs here, but I think Barr would be a fit for new defensive coordinator Ray Horton's hybrid scheme, given Barr's experience working on the line and standing up as a 3-4 outside linebacker. I've been a little underwhelmed by what I've seen from him on tape so far, which is why I have him sliding a bit, but I still have more to study and he's a naturally gifted player with a unique combination of athleticism and size. He should continue to improve, as a converted H-back who has had limited experience playing defense.
PLAYER CARD
12
Taylor Lewan
New York Giants (7-9)
COLLEGE: Michigan
AGE: 22
HT: 6-7
WT: 314
POS: OT
Analysis: Lewan could develop into an upgrade at left tackle over Will Beatty, or he could fit in at right tackle, as some believe that Justin Pugh would be a better fit at guard even after his outstanding rookie season at RT. But regardless of where Lewan would play, the Giants need to upgrade their offensive line, and Lewan is the top O-lineman available in this scenario. Top cornerback prospect Justin Gilbert would also be an option, and adding a pass-catching weapon for Eli Manning like USC WR Marqise Lee or UNC TE Eric Ebron could likewise be tempting.
PLAYER CARD
13
Marqise Lee*
St. Louis Rams (7-9)
COLLEGE: USC
AGE: 22
HT: 6-0
WT: 195
POS: WR
Analysis: This would make for a terrific start to the Rams' 2014 draft class -- landing the top offensive lineman in the draft at No. 2 in Auburn's Greg Robinson, and then having one of the top two or three receiver prospects fall to them at No. 13. Lee dropped too many passes this season and his lean frame and durability will be a concern as well, but he has outstanding speed and is a big-play weapon both as a vertical route runner and after the catch (and his ball skills were not a problem when he had Matt Barkley throwing to him). The Rams can afford to wait until Day 2 to address their needs on defense (safety and linebacker).
PLAYER CARD
14
Timmy Jernigan
Chicago Bears (8-8)
COLLEGE: Florida State
AGE: 20
HT: 6-2
WT: 298
POS: DT
Analysis: The Bears have a lot of uncertainty along their defensive line: defensive tackles Henry Melton and Nate Collins were both placed on the injured reserve last season and are free agents this offseason; DT Jay Ratliff and DE Corey Wootton are also scheduled to become free agents; and DT Stephen Paea's contract expires after the 2014 season. Enter Jernigan, who won't wow anybody with his physique at the combine and doesn't always look pretty out on the field, but is a stout, quick and powerful football player who would be a great fit in the Bears' one-gap scheme.
PLAYER CARD
15
Louis Nix III
Pittsburgh Steelers (8-8)
COLLEGE: Notre Dame
AGE: 22
HT: 6-3
WT: 340
POS: DT
Analysis: Nix performed better in 2012 than he did in 2013, and he'll be coming off a knee injury, but you simply don't find many players with his enormous size who can move like he does. Nix has the potential to develop into the Steelers' next Casey Hampton and serve as the centerpiece of their 3-4 defensive scheme. He wouldn't be Pittsburgh's only option in this scenario, however; Alabama safety Ha Ha Clinton-Dix, Oklahoma State CB Justin Gilbert, Notre Dame OT Zack Martin and Alabama OT Cyrus Kouandjio would all be good fits. The Steelers might be able to get a bigger WR like Fresno State's Davante Adams or Florida State's Kelvin Benjamin on Day 2.
PLAYER CARD
16
Eric Ebron*
Baltimore Ravens (8-8) ^
COLLEGE: UNC
AGE: 20
HT: 6-4
WT: 231
POS: TE
Analysis: The Ravens would probably jump on one of the top three WR prospects if one falls to them here at No. 16 (or No. 17, if they lose their coin flip with the Cowboys at the combine), and they could also consider a tackle like Notre Dame's Zack Martin or consider trading back and drafting a tackle a little later. But Ebron would be a good fit, with Dennis Pitta (coming off an injury) and Ed Dickson (who has been disappointing) both set to become free agents, along with veteran Dallas Clark, and he would provide a legit vertical threat down the middle of the field for Joe Flacco. Ebron is the top TE prospect in this class.
PLAYER CARD
17
Ha Ha Clinton-Dix*
Dallas Cowboys (8-8) ^
COLLEGE: Alabama
AGE: 20
HT: 6-1
WT: 208
POS: S
Analysis: The Cowboys' biggest need area is their pass rush (they ranked last in the NFL in sacks per pass attempt), but it might be reaching at this point to draft a D-lineman like Missouri's Kony Ealy or Pitt's Aaron Donald. But safety is also a clear position of weakness -- particularly in coverage -- and the best one in this class is Clinton-Dix. He doesn't have elite man-to-man coverage skills but has good range in zone and is an aggressive, efficient run supporter. Safety is becoming a more important position in the NFL with the increased usage of spread formations, bigger wide receivers and athletic "F" tight ends.
PLAYER CARD
18
Brandin Cooks*
New York Jets (8-8)
COLLEGE: Oregon State
AGE: 20
HT: 5-10
WT: 185
POS: WR
Analysis: Drafting any of the available receivers here is a reach with Watkins, Lee and Evans off the board, but we could see an early run on receivers in this draft, and despite his lack of ideal size, Cooks is a proven playmaker with great burst, good top-end speed and very strong route-running instincts. Davante Adams, Odell Beckham Jr. and Kelvin Benjamin are other WRs who could be drafted in this range, although I'm not as quite as high on Benjamin as some others after studying him on tape. Ebron would have been a good fit here, and Oklahoma State CB Justin Gilbert would have been a good value pick, but wide receiver is the Jets' top need.
PLAYER CARD
19
Zack Martin
Miami Dolphins (8-8)
COLLEGE: Notre Dame
AGE: 23
HT: 6-4
WT: 308
POS: OT
Analysis: The Dolphins' offensive line issues -- both on and off the field -- have been well-documented, and the end result was an offense that finished ranked 26th in the league in rushing and set a team record for sacks allowed (58). Martin is a plug-and-play starter at either tackle or guard. The knock on him is that he has short arms, which has some projecting him as a guard (where he'd be great), but we think he has a chance to develop into a good starter at tackle because he was an outstanding OT throughout his career at Notre Dame, stood out as the top talent at this year's Senior Bowl and has good feet, good technique and a nasty disposition on the field.
PLAYER CARD
20
Cyrus Kouandjio*
Arizona Cardinals (10-6)
COLLEGE: Alabama
AGE: 20
HT: 6-5
WT: 310
POS: OT
Analysis: Arizona's offensive line played better in 2013, but the Cardinals need to find an upgrade over the physically limited Bradley Sowell at left tackle. Kouandjio is still a work in progress (he needs to improve his balance and hand placement) and would have benefited from another year at school, but he's supremely gifted at 6-5, 310 pounds with natural mobility. He likely would be projected to go higher were it not for his disappointing start and finish to the season.
PLAYER CARD
21
Justin Gilbert
Green Bay Packers (8-7-1)
COLLEGE: Oklahoma State
AGE: 22
HT: 6-0
WT: 200
POS: CB
Analysis: Cornerback is a need position for the Packers, but not as much of a need position as tight end, safety, D-line and linebacker. So this is more of a value pick than anything else. Gilbert is the top cornerback prospect in a class loaded with them, and he is an absolute ball hawk with good size and the ability to press or sit back in coverage. Other options: Clinton-Dix, if he fell here, or Louisville's Calvin Pryor would fit at safety, and Notre Dame's Stephon Tuitt and Minnesota's Ra'Shede Hageman would fit as 5-technique D-linemen. I think UNC TE Eric Ebron is the only offensive prospect the Packers would take over a defender.
PLAYER CARD
22
Darqueze Dennard
Philadelphia Eagles (10-6)
COLLEGE: Michigan State
AGE: 22
HT: 5-11
WT: 189
POS: CB
Analysis: Defense should be the Eagles' priority if the right player is available, in particular looking for an edge rusher and improving the athleticism and depth in the secondary. Dennard is a proven commodity with adequate size, good top-end speed and very good instincts and fluidity in coverage, and he was a legit shutdown corner against several opponents' top targets this season. Louisville's Pryor could also be worth a look here, and other cornerback options include Florida's Loucheiz Purifoy and Marcus Roberson, Florida State's Lamarcus Joyner, Ohio State's Bradley Roby and TCU's Jason Verrett.
PLAYER CARD
23
Odell Beckham, Jr.*
Kansas City Chiefs (11-5)
COLLEGE: LSU
AGE: 21
HT: 6-0
WT: 193
POS: WR
Analysis: The Chiefs are in need of more offensive weapons, and Beckham seems like a good fit in Kansas City. He played his best football in 2013, and in particular his ball skills and overall focus improved late in the season. He isn't as consistent as teammate Jarvis Landry, but he's more explosive, a playmaker who is a threat to stretch the field and even more dangerous after the catch and on punt returns. Notre Dame DL Stephon Tuitt would make a lot of sense here as well, as would Fresno State WR Davante Adams, but Florida State WR Kelvin Benjamin is too much of a risk-reward prospect for the Chiefs to select at No. 23.
PLAYER CARD
24
Lamarcus Joyner
Cincinnati Bengals (11-5)
COLLEGE: Florida State
AGE: 23
HT: 5-8
WT: 187
POS: CB
Analysis: Defensive end is one of Cincinnati's top needs, but the only available prospect worth drafting in this scenario is Notre Dame's Stephon Tuitt, who is a better fit as a 5-technique in a 3-4 defense. But cornerback is also among the team's top three needs, and Joyner is one of the best defensive playmakers in this class (plus, he fits the Bengals' M.O. of drafting big-name players from traditional powerhouse schools). Joyner lacks elite size but he is a quick, fast, instinctive defensive back who plays bigger than his size, and could play a Tyrann Mathieu role for this defense. If Cincy passes on a corner at No. 24, it could find a very good one in Round 2.
PLAYER CARD
25
Loucheiz Purifoy*
San Diego Chargers (9-7)
COLLEGE: Florida
AGE: 20
HT: 6-0
WT: 185
POS: CB
Analysis: The Chargers need to upgrade at cornerback and in the return game, and Purifoy could help in both areas. He is raw with his technique but has the potential to develop into a playmaker at corner because of his very good ball skills, and because he's one of the most naturally talented defensive backs in this draft. If the Chargers pass on Purifoy, they could go with a smaller but equally skilled and more polished cover corner in TCU's Jason Verrett. If they take a CB here, they could target a pass-rusher like Auburn's Dee Ford in Round 2 and a guard like Baylor's Cyril Richardson in Round 3.
PLAYER CARD
26
Davante Adams*
Cleveland Browns (4-12) (from IND)
COLLEGE: Fresno State
AGE: 21
HT: 6-2
WT: 212
POS: WR
Analysis: In this scenario the Browns got their quarterback at No. 4 overall in UCF's Blake Bortles, and their other top needs are guard, running back, wide receiver and cornerback. TCU CB Jason Verrett would be a good value pick, but adding a reliable No. 2 WR to complement Josh Gordon wouldn't be a bad idea at all. Adams is a good-sized WR who had exceptional college production. While he can improve his route-running efficiency, he shows good burst out of his cuts to separate and effectively uses his bigger frame to shield defenders. I also have yet to see him drop a pass in five games I've studied on tape.
PLAYER CARD
27
Morgan Moses
New Orleans Saints (11-5)
COLLEGE: Virginia
AGE: 22
HT: 6-6
WT: 332
POS: OT
Analysis: Notre Dame D-lineman Stephon Tuitt would be tough to pass on this late, even though the team is thrilled with the play of Cameron Jordan and Akiem Hicks. But offensive tackle is one of the Saints' top needs (others include OLB, CB, WR, C, DE and potentially TE if they can't re-sign Jimmy Graham), and Moses has the size, natural athleticism and strength to develop into a good starter at left tackle. He'd be tough to pass up this late, and he looked much more comfortable at left tackle in 2013 than he did at right tackle previously. Look for the Saints to try to find a center later in the draft, possibly USC's Marcus Martin or UNC's Russell Bodine.
PLAYER CARD
28
Kelvin Benjamin*
Carolina Panthers (12-4)
COLLEGE: Florida State
AGE: 23
HT: 6-4
WT: 233
POS: WR
Analysis: Benjamin is a boom-or-bust WR prospect at this point. He needs to learn how to run better routes, and I've seen him drop too many passes when watching him on tape. But you simply can't coach size, body control and proven ability to come down with 50-50 balls. He had eight touchdown catches in Florida State's final four games, including the game-winning grab in the BCS title game. He is a big play waiting to happen, and would give Cam Newton a big-time weapon to target downfield, especially in "scramble drill" situations when the initial play breaks down.
PLAYER CARD
29
Stephon Tuitt*
New England Patriots (12-4)
COLLEGE: Notre Dame
AGE: 20
HT: 6-6
WT: 303
POS: DE
Analysis: Tuitt has the versatility and body type that the Patriots covet, and he'd allow them to be more flexible up front. He could wind up going significantly earlier if teams are comfortable with his self-motivation, as he is big and strong enough to two-gap and also has very good mobility for his size. He needs to learn how to use his hands better and play with more consistent leverage, but he has the physical tools to be very successful. New England's other needs include interior offensive line, tight end and cornerback (if Aqib Talib departs).
PLAYER CARD
30
Ra'Shede Hageman
San Francisco 49ers (12-4)
COLLEGE: Minnesota
AGE: 23
HT: 6-5
WT: 307
POS: DT
Analysis: The Niners would like to add a receiver with the ability to take the top off of a defense, but there isn't one available here worthy of a first-round pick. But while the 49ers' defensive front seven is outstanding, now is a great time to bring in another young D-lineman to develop, with Justin Smith turning 35 in September. Hageman has some boom-or-bust qualities (he needs to improve his consistency and technique), but he showed improvement last season, is tall, well-proportioned and naturally strong, and not many guys his size move like he does. Landing with a defense like San Francisco's could be exactly what he needs.
PLAYER CARD
31
Jason Verrett
Denver Broncos (13-3)
COLLEGE: TCU
AGE: 22
HT: 5-9
WT: 174
POS: CB
Analysis: The Broncos' top need is offensive tackle, but in this scenario, with six already off the board in the first 27 picks, there isn't one worth taking at No. 31. They'll also need to address wide receiver and tight end at some point this offseason with Eric Decker a free agent and Demaryius Thomas and Julius Thomas set to become FAs after next season. But the best player available at a position of need in this scenario is Verrett. He lacks size, but he's the quickest man-to-man cover corner in this class and plays really tough. He reminds me a bit of Antoine Winfield.
PLAYER CARD
32
Jace Amaro*
Seattle Seahawks (13-3)
COLLEGE: Texas Tech
AGE: 21
HT: 6-5
WT: 255
POS: TE
Analysis: The Super Bowl champs have needs at wide receiver, offensive tackle, tight end, guard and cornerback, and while receiver and tackle are two of the deeper positions at the top of this year's draft, in this scenario -- with seven WRs and six OTs already off the board -- the well dries up before the Seahawks pick. But Amaro still fills a position of need, as the Seahawks could use a weapon down the middle of the field for Russell Wilson. Amaro is very productive, has great size to box out defenders, and he runs well. He has too many drops and needs to improve his route-running, but he has the tools to develop.
PLAYER CARD
Best remaining prospects: S Calvin Pryor, Louisville; DT Aaron Donald, Pittsburgh; DE Kony Ealy, Missouri; RB Carlos Hyde, Ohio State; DE Dee Ford, Auburn
Clowney goes No. 1, three QBs go early in 2014 first-round projection
Updated: February 6, 2014, 1:08 PM ET
We're still three months away from the 2014 NFL draft, but there are plenty of intriguing draft questions already beginning to emerge. Who will go No. 1? How many quarterbacks will go in the first round? How will the Rams and Browns use their extra first-round picks?
We set out to answer those questions and plenty more with our second mock draft of the season, projecting all 32 first-round picks. Here's our latest prediction of how the draft could play out, based on team needs and how we currently rate the top prospects in the 2014 draft class.
As usual, draft-eligible nonseniors are denoted with an asterisk.
^ Indicates that Baltimore and Dallas will flip a coin to determine which team picks first.
1
Jadeveon Clowney*
Houston Texans (2-14)
COLLEGE: South Carolina
AGE: 20
HT: 6-5
WT: 258
POS: DE
Analysis: Passing up on a quarterback here, particularly in-state product Johnny Manziel of Texas A&M, might be a public relations nightmare, but that would pale in comparison to the nightmares the combination of Clowney and J.J. Watt would create for opposing offenses. Clowney's production dipped this season and his motor ran hot and cold as the season went on, but he is the most talented player in this class and possesses a rare blend of size, strength and athleticism, and Watt could help him develop his technique and discipline.
If the Texans do end up taking a QB, don't be surprised if it's UCF's Blake Bortles over Louisville's Teddy Bridgewater. For starters, while Manziel is more dynamic and Bridgewater is more polished, Bortles has the sturdiest frame, outstanding mental makeup, good accuracy -- both in the pocket and on the move -- and the proven ability to deliver in the clutch. Plus, Bill O'Brien was an assistant under Bortles' college coach, George O'Leary, at Georgia Tech, so that could provide O'Brien with the confidence to take Bortles if O'Leary gives him the full stamp of approval.
PLAYER CARD
2
Greg Robinson
St. Louis Rams (7-9) (From WAS)
COLLEGE: Auburn
AGE: 21
HT: 6-5
WT: 320
POS: OT
Analysis: The Rams could use a tackle, with Rodger Saffold and Chris Williams scheduled to become unrestricted free agents and Jake Long suffering a torn ACL and MCL toward the end of the 2013 season, and Robinson is the top one on our board (he's No. 2 overall behind Clowney). Robinson has the size and strength of a road-grading right tackle, but the athleticism, length and agility to develop into a star at left tackle. He was dominant at the point of attack for Auburn this season.
PLAYER CARD
3
Teddy Bridgewater*
Jacksonville Jaguars (4-12)
COLLEGE: Louisville
AGE: 21
HT: 6-2
WT: 198
POS: QB
Analysis: This draft feels like the right time for the Jaguars to get their franchise quarterback, and in this scenario they'd have their pick of every QB on the board. Bridgewater continues to be the No. 1 quarterback in our rankings, because while there are some concerns about his long-term durability in the NFL due to his lean frame, he is the most naturally accurate passer in this class with great anticipation, toughness and command of the offense.
PLAYER CARD
4
Blake Bortles*
Cleveland Browns (4-12)
COLLEGE: UCF
AGE: 21
HT: 6-4
WT: 228
POS: QB
Analysis: The Browns need a quarterback, and Bortles has the physical tools and mental makeup to develop into a good NFL starter. He will not wow scouts with a big-time arm, and, like most young quarterbacks, he can become more consistent with his decision-making. However, Bortles does have enough arm strength to make all the NFL throws, and unlike many college QBs I study on tape, Bortles sees the entire field, stands strong in the pocket and shows the ability to go through NFL-type progressions. He also has the prototypical size, accuracy, pocket presence and mobility to make plays with his legs. One thing to keep in mind: New offensive coordinator Kyle Shanahan coached a narrow-framed mobile QB in Robert Griffin III in Washington who dealt with injury issues, so he might appreciate having a mobile QB with a bigger, sturdier frame.
PLAYER CARD
5
Johnny Manziel*
Oakland Raiders (4-12)
COLLEGE: Texas A&M
AGE: 21
HT: 6-0
WT: 200
POS: QB
Analysis: The Raiders have 18 unrestricted free agents and finally have some salary cap room to add some key pieces to their team, so we're likely to see a lot of turnover on this roster this offseason. They also need to find an upgrade at quarterback over Terrelle Pryor and Matt McGloin, which is why Manziel could be a fit here even though we have a late-first-round grade on him. The NFL evaluators who have concerns about Manziel focus on his on- and off-field decision-making and lack of size (not his height, but whether his small frame can hold up over 16-game seasons, given his style of play), but the ones who love him focus on his special improvisational skills, creativity and running ability. I also thought he showed improvement with his velocity, ball placement and patience within the pocket this season.
PLAYER CARD
6
Jake Matthews
Atlanta Falcons (4-12)
COLLEGE: Texas A&M
AGE: 21
HT: 6-5
WT: 309
POS: OT
Analysis: Defensive end, offensive tackle and tight end are the Falcons' top needs in this draft, and Matthews is a guy who fills a need and is also a top-five talent in this class. He brings versatility, having played both right tackle and left tackle for the Aggies, and he has good bloodlines (Bruce Matthews is his dad), commitment to the game and an understanding of what it takes to succeed. This feels like a good, safe pick for a team that needs to better protect QB Matt Ryan in 2014 and beyond.
PLAYER CARD
7
Khalil Mack
Tampa Bay Buccaneers (4-12)
COLLEGE: Buffalo
AGE: 22
HT: 6-2
WT: 245
POS: OLB
Analysis: Mack was very productive at Buffalo (he's the NCAA's all-time career leader in tackles for loss and forced fumbles), and he has the potential to develop into a versatile playmaker in the NFL. He'd be a "Sam" linebacker in the Bucs' scheme, but they'd be able to move him around because he is a highly disruptive run defender in addition to being very effective as a pass-rusher and able to hold up in zone and man-to-man coverage against tight ends.
PLAYER CARD
8
C.J. Mosley
Minnesota Vikings (5-10-1)
COLLEGE: Alabama
AGE: 21
HT: 6-2
WT: 228
POS: OLB
Analysis: If there's anything that keeps Mosley out of the first half of the first round, my guess is it would be concerns about his durability (he's had significant shoulder, hip and elbow injuries in the past), but it's hard not to fall in love with his performance on tape. He was highly productive at Alabama, and set the tone for that defense with his motor and aggressive play. In addition to his outstanding cover skills, he's very disruptive when turned loose as a pass-rusher. He'd be a good fit in Minnesota as the Vikings' weakside linebacker.
PLAYER CARD
9
Sammy Watkins*
Buffalo Bills (6-10)
COLLEGE: Clemson
AGE: 20
HT: 6-0
WT: 205
POS: WR
Analysis: The Bills have more pressing needs than wide receiver, including offensive line (specifically guard and right tackle), tight end (if Scott Chandler is not re-signed) and safety (if Jairus Byrd is not re-signed), but pairing young and developing QB EJ Manuel with the top receiver in this year's class might be too tempting to pass up. Watkins is a physical receiver with a big-time second gear who is very competitive when the ball is in the air. Texas A&M's Mike Evans would also make a lot of sense, as his size would provide a good complement to the smaller, faster receivers on Buffalo's roster.
PLAYER CARD
10
Mike Evans*
Detroit Lions (7-9)
COLLEGE: Texas A&M
AGE: 20
HT: 6-4
WT: 220
POS: WR
Analysis: Evans still has some developing to do as a route runner, and yes, he has some immaturity issues and a tendency to get overly emotional. But he is an absolute pit bull on the field, and there is no receiver in this draft who is more dangerous when the ball is in the air. Both the tape and the advanced metrics make the case that he is the most proven down-the-field pass-catcher in the 2014 class. The Lions need a difference-maker opposite Calvin Johnson, and Johnson's leadership and experience could be just what Evans needs to avoid early-career pitfalls.
PLAYER CARD
11
Anthony Barr
Tennessee Titans (7-9)
COLLEGE: UCLA
AGE: 21
HT: 6-4
WT: 244
POS: DE/OLB
Analysis: Even if Tennessee decides to move on from Jake Locker at QB, it's hard to imagine the team liking one enough to draft him at No. 11 in this scenario. Michigan OT Taylor Lewan and Alabama safety Ha Ha Clinton-Dix would also fill needs here, but I think Barr would be a fit for new defensive coordinator Ray Horton's hybrid scheme, given Barr's experience working on the line and standing up as a 3-4 outside linebacker. I've been a little underwhelmed by what I've seen from him on tape so far, which is why I have him sliding a bit, but I still have more to study and he's a naturally gifted player with a unique combination of athleticism and size. He should continue to improve, as a converted H-back who has had limited experience playing defense.
PLAYER CARD
12
Taylor Lewan
New York Giants (7-9)
COLLEGE: Michigan
AGE: 22
HT: 6-7
WT: 314
POS: OT
Analysis: Lewan could develop into an upgrade at left tackle over Will Beatty, or he could fit in at right tackle, as some believe that Justin Pugh would be a better fit at guard even after his outstanding rookie season at RT. But regardless of where Lewan would play, the Giants need to upgrade their offensive line, and Lewan is the top O-lineman available in this scenario. Top cornerback prospect Justin Gilbert would also be an option, and adding a pass-catching weapon for Eli Manning like USC WR Marqise Lee or UNC TE Eric Ebron could likewise be tempting.
PLAYER CARD
13
Marqise Lee*
St. Louis Rams (7-9)
COLLEGE: USC
AGE: 22
HT: 6-0
WT: 195
POS: WR
Analysis: This would make for a terrific start to the Rams' 2014 draft class -- landing the top offensive lineman in the draft at No. 2 in Auburn's Greg Robinson, and then having one of the top two or three receiver prospects fall to them at No. 13. Lee dropped too many passes this season and his lean frame and durability will be a concern as well, but he has outstanding speed and is a big-play weapon both as a vertical route runner and after the catch (and his ball skills were not a problem when he had Matt Barkley throwing to him). The Rams can afford to wait until Day 2 to address their needs on defense (safety and linebacker).
PLAYER CARD
14
Timmy Jernigan
Chicago Bears (8-8)
COLLEGE: Florida State
AGE: 20
HT: 6-2
WT: 298
POS: DT
Analysis: The Bears have a lot of uncertainty along their defensive line: defensive tackles Henry Melton and Nate Collins were both placed on the injured reserve last season and are free agents this offseason; DT Jay Ratliff and DE Corey Wootton are also scheduled to become free agents; and DT Stephen Paea's contract expires after the 2014 season. Enter Jernigan, who won't wow anybody with his physique at the combine and doesn't always look pretty out on the field, but is a stout, quick and powerful football player who would be a great fit in the Bears' one-gap scheme.
PLAYER CARD
15
Louis Nix III
Pittsburgh Steelers (8-8)
COLLEGE: Notre Dame
AGE: 22
HT: 6-3
WT: 340
POS: DT
Analysis: Nix performed better in 2012 than he did in 2013, and he'll be coming off a knee injury, but you simply don't find many players with his enormous size who can move like he does. Nix has the potential to develop into the Steelers' next Casey Hampton and serve as the centerpiece of their 3-4 defensive scheme. He wouldn't be Pittsburgh's only option in this scenario, however; Alabama safety Ha Ha Clinton-Dix, Oklahoma State CB Justin Gilbert, Notre Dame OT Zack Martin and Alabama OT Cyrus Kouandjio would all be good fits. The Steelers might be able to get a bigger WR like Fresno State's Davante Adams or Florida State's Kelvin Benjamin on Day 2.
PLAYER CARD
16
Eric Ebron*
Baltimore Ravens (8-8) ^
COLLEGE: UNC
AGE: 20
HT: 6-4
WT: 231
POS: TE
Analysis: The Ravens would probably jump on one of the top three WR prospects if one falls to them here at No. 16 (or No. 17, if they lose their coin flip with the Cowboys at the combine), and they could also consider a tackle like Notre Dame's Zack Martin or consider trading back and drafting a tackle a little later. But Ebron would be a good fit, with Dennis Pitta (coming off an injury) and Ed Dickson (who has been disappointing) both set to become free agents, along with veteran Dallas Clark, and he would provide a legit vertical threat down the middle of the field for Joe Flacco. Ebron is the top TE prospect in this class.
PLAYER CARD
17
Ha Ha Clinton-Dix*
Dallas Cowboys (8-8) ^
COLLEGE: Alabama
AGE: 20
HT: 6-1
WT: 208
POS: S
Analysis: The Cowboys' biggest need area is their pass rush (they ranked last in the NFL in sacks per pass attempt), but it might be reaching at this point to draft a D-lineman like Missouri's Kony Ealy or Pitt's Aaron Donald. But safety is also a clear position of weakness -- particularly in coverage -- and the best one in this class is Clinton-Dix. He doesn't have elite man-to-man coverage skills but has good range in zone and is an aggressive, efficient run supporter. Safety is becoming a more important position in the NFL with the increased usage of spread formations, bigger wide receivers and athletic "F" tight ends.
PLAYER CARD
18
Brandin Cooks*
New York Jets (8-8)
COLLEGE: Oregon State
AGE: 20
HT: 5-10
WT: 185
POS: WR
Analysis: Drafting any of the available receivers here is a reach with Watkins, Lee and Evans off the board, but we could see an early run on receivers in this draft, and despite his lack of ideal size, Cooks is a proven playmaker with great burst, good top-end speed and very strong route-running instincts. Davante Adams, Odell Beckham Jr. and Kelvin Benjamin are other WRs who could be drafted in this range, although I'm not as quite as high on Benjamin as some others after studying him on tape. Ebron would have been a good fit here, and Oklahoma State CB Justin Gilbert would have been a good value pick, but wide receiver is the Jets' top need.
PLAYER CARD
19
Zack Martin
Miami Dolphins (8-8)
COLLEGE: Notre Dame
AGE: 23
HT: 6-4
WT: 308
POS: OT
Analysis: The Dolphins' offensive line issues -- both on and off the field -- have been well-documented, and the end result was an offense that finished ranked 26th in the league in rushing and set a team record for sacks allowed (58). Martin is a plug-and-play starter at either tackle or guard. The knock on him is that he has short arms, which has some projecting him as a guard (where he'd be great), but we think he has a chance to develop into a good starter at tackle because he was an outstanding OT throughout his career at Notre Dame, stood out as the top talent at this year's Senior Bowl and has good feet, good technique and a nasty disposition on the field.
PLAYER CARD
20
Cyrus Kouandjio*
Arizona Cardinals (10-6)
COLLEGE: Alabama
AGE: 20
HT: 6-5
WT: 310
POS: OT
Analysis: Arizona's offensive line played better in 2013, but the Cardinals need to find an upgrade over the physically limited Bradley Sowell at left tackle. Kouandjio is still a work in progress (he needs to improve his balance and hand placement) and would have benefited from another year at school, but he's supremely gifted at 6-5, 310 pounds with natural mobility. He likely would be projected to go higher were it not for his disappointing start and finish to the season.
PLAYER CARD
21
Justin Gilbert
Green Bay Packers (8-7-1)
COLLEGE: Oklahoma State
AGE: 22
HT: 6-0
WT: 200
POS: CB
Analysis: Cornerback is a need position for the Packers, but not as much of a need position as tight end, safety, D-line and linebacker. So this is more of a value pick than anything else. Gilbert is the top cornerback prospect in a class loaded with them, and he is an absolute ball hawk with good size and the ability to press or sit back in coverage. Other options: Clinton-Dix, if he fell here, or Louisville's Calvin Pryor would fit at safety, and Notre Dame's Stephon Tuitt and Minnesota's Ra'Shede Hageman would fit as 5-technique D-linemen. I think UNC TE Eric Ebron is the only offensive prospect the Packers would take over a defender.
PLAYER CARD
22
Darqueze Dennard
Philadelphia Eagles (10-6)
COLLEGE: Michigan State
AGE: 22
HT: 5-11
WT: 189
POS: CB
Analysis: Defense should be the Eagles' priority if the right player is available, in particular looking for an edge rusher and improving the athleticism and depth in the secondary. Dennard is a proven commodity with adequate size, good top-end speed and very good instincts and fluidity in coverage, and he was a legit shutdown corner against several opponents' top targets this season. Louisville's Pryor could also be worth a look here, and other cornerback options include Florida's Loucheiz Purifoy and Marcus Roberson, Florida State's Lamarcus Joyner, Ohio State's Bradley Roby and TCU's Jason Verrett.
PLAYER CARD
23
Odell Beckham, Jr.*
Kansas City Chiefs (11-5)
COLLEGE: LSU
AGE: 21
HT: 6-0
WT: 193
POS: WR
Analysis: The Chiefs are in need of more offensive weapons, and Beckham seems like a good fit in Kansas City. He played his best football in 2013, and in particular his ball skills and overall focus improved late in the season. He isn't as consistent as teammate Jarvis Landry, but he's more explosive, a playmaker who is a threat to stretch the field and even more dangerous after the catch and on punt returns. Notre Dame DL Stephon Tuitt would make a lot of sense here as well, as would Fresno State WR Davante Adams, but Florida State WR Kelvin Benjamin is too much of a risk-reward prospect for the Chiefs to select at No. 23.
PLAYER CARD
24
Lamarcus Joyner
Cincinnati Bengals (11-5)
COLLEGE: Florida State
AGE: 23
HT: 5-8
WT: 187
POS: CB
Analysis: Defensive end is one of Cincinnati's top needs, but the only available prospect worth drafting in this scenario is Notre Dame's Stephon Tuitt, who is a better fit as a 5-technique in a 3-4 defense. But cornerback is also among the team's top three needs, and Joyner is one of the best defensive playmakers in this class (plus, he fits the Bengals' M.O. of drafting big-name players from traditional powerhouse schools). Joyner lacks elite size but he is a quick, fast, instinctive defensive back who plays bigger than his size, and could play a Tyrann Mathieu role for this defense. If Cincy passes on a corner at No. 24, it could find a very good one in Round 2.
PLAYER CARD
25
Loucheiz Purifoy*
San Diego Chargers (9-7)
COLLEGE: Florida
AGE: 20
HT: 6-0
WT: 185
POS: CB
Analysis: The Chargers need to upgrade at cornerback and in the return game, and Purifoy could help in both areas. He is raw with his technique but has the potential to develop into a playmaker at corner because of his very good ball skills, and because he's one of the most naturally talented defensive backs in this draft. If the Chargers pass on Purifoy, they could go with a smaller but equally skilled and more polished cover corner in TCU's Jason Verrett. If they take a CB here, they could target a pass-rusher like Auburn's Dee Ford in Round 2 and a guard like Baylor's Cyril Richardson in Round 3.
PLAYER CARD
26
Davante Adams*
Cleveland Browns (4-12) (from IND)
COLLEGE: Fresno State
AGE: 21
HT: 6-2
WT: 212
POS: WR
Analysis: In this scenario the Browns got their quarterback at No. 4 overall in UCF's Blake Bortles, and their other top needs are guard, running back, wide receiver and cornerback. TCU CB Jason Verrett would be a good value pick, but adding a reliable No. 2 WR to complement Josh Gordon wouldn't be a bad idea at all. Adams is a good-sized WR who had exceptional college production. While he can improve his route-running efficiency, he shows good burst out of his cuts to separate and effectively uses his bigger frame to shield defenders. I also have yet to see him drop a pass in five games I've studied on tape.
PLAYER CARD
27
Morgan Moses
New Orleans Saints (11-5)
COLLEGE: Virginia
AGE: 22
HT: 6-6
WT: 332
POS: OT
Analysis: Notre Dame D-lineman Stephon Tuitt would be tough to pass on this late, even though the team is thrilled with the play of Cameron Jordan and Akiem Hicks. But offensive tackle is one of the Saints' top needs (others include OLB, CB, WR, C, DE and potentially TE if they can't re-sign Jimmy Graham), and Moses has the size, natural athleticism and strength to develop into a good starter at left tackle. He'd be tough to pass up this late, and he looked much more comfortable at left tackle in 2013 than he did at right tackle previously. Look for the Saints to try to find a center later in the draft, possibly USC's Marcus Martin or UNC's Russell Bodine.
PLAYER CARD
28
Kelvin Benjamin*
Carolina Panthers (12-4)
COLLEGE: Florida State
AGE: 23
HT: 6-4
WT: 233
POS: WR
Analysis: Benjamin is a boom-or-bust WR prospect at this point. He needs to learn how to run better routes, and I've seen him drop too many passes when watching him on tape. But you simply can't coach size, body control and proven ability to come down with 50-50 balls. He had eight touchdown catches in Florida State's final four games, including the game-winning grab in the BCS title game. He is a big play waiting to happen, and would give Cam Newton a big-time weapon to target downfield, especially in "scramble drill" situations when the initial play breaks down.
PLAYER CARD
29
Stephon Tuitt*
New England Patriots (12-4)
COLLEGE: Notre Dame
AGE: 20
HT: 6-6
WT: 303
POS: DE
Analysis: Tuitt has the versatility and body type that the Patriots covet, and he'd allow them to be more flexible up front. He could wind up going significantly earlier if teams are comfortable with his self-motivation, as he is big and strong enough to two-gap and also has very good mobility for his size. He needs to learn how to use his hands better and play with more consistent leverage, but he has the physical tools to be very successful. New England's other needs include interior offensive line, tight end and cornerback (if Aqib Talib departs).
PLAYER CARD
30
Ra'Shede Hageman
San Francisco 49ers (12-4)
COLLEGE: Minnesota
AGE: 23
HT: 6-5
WT: 307
POS: DT
Analysis: The Niners would like to add a receiver with the ability to take the top off of a defense, but there isn't one available here worthy of a first-round pick. But while the 49ers' defensive front seven is outstanding, now is a great time to bring in another young D-lineman to develop, with Justin Smith turning 35 in September. Hageman has some boom-or-bust qualities (he needs to improve his consistency and technique), but he showed improvement last season, is tall, well-proportioned and naturally strong, and not many guys his size move like he does. Landing with a defense like San Francisco's could be exactly what he needs.
PLAYER CARD
31
Jason Verrett
Denver Broncos (13-3)
COLLEGE: TCU
AGE: 22
HT: 5-9
WT: 174
POS: CB
Analysis: The Broncos' top need is offensive tackle, but in this scenario, with six already off the board in the first 27 picks, there isn't one worth taking at No. 31. They'll also need to address wide receiver and tight end at some point this offseason with Eric Decker a free agent and Demaryius Thomas and Julius Thomas set to become FAs after next season. But the best player available at a position of need in this scenario is Verrett. He lacks size, but he's the quickest man-to-man cover corner in this class and plays really tough. He reminds me a bit of Antoine Winfield.
PLAYER CARD
32
Jace Amaro*
Seattle Seahawks (13-3)
COLLEGE: Texas Tech
AGE: 21
HT: 6-5
WT: 255
POS: TE
Analysis: The Super Bowl champs have needs at wide receiver, offensive tackle, tight end, guard and cornerback, and while receiver and tackle are two of the deeper positions at the top of this year's draft, in this scenario -- with seven WRs and six OTs already off the board -- the well dries up before the Seahawks pick. But Amaro still fills a position of need, as the Seahawks could use a weapon down the middle of the field for Russell Wilson. Amaro is very productive, has great size to box out defenders, and he runs well. He has too many drops and needs to improve his route-running, but he has the tools to develop.
PLAYER CARD
Best remaining prospects: S Calvin Pryor, Louisville; DT Aaron Donald, Pittsburgh; DE Kony Ealy, Missouri; RB Carlos Hyde, Ohio State; DE Dee Ford, Auburn
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- Apr 7, 2013
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CNNSI
2014 NFL Mock Draft 1.0
BY DOUG FARRAR
2014 NFL Mock Draft: Teddy Bridgewater has all the skills needed to succeed at the next level.
Now that Super Bowl XLVIII is in the books, it’s time to move on to the Silly Season — that is, the time before the scouting combine and various Pro Days in which we analysts try to guess what teams are thinking, or what they should be thinking, just as teams are ramping up their own film work and putting their initial heavy draft boards together.
Still, there are obvious needs and great fits all over the place, and since Mock Draft Season is more popular than Wabbit Season and Duck Season put together (not to mention the fact that my colleague Chris Burke is way ahead of the game with his own mocks), it’s time to get rolling with more virtual drafts than you can shake a proverbial stick at.
In this mock, we’re going with overall talent as opposed to pure fit, which is why some players, who may go overdrafted based on positional importance (like Fresno State quarterback Derek Carr), are out of the picture. We will of course come at this mockery from several different angles over the next few months.
1. Houston Texans (2-14): Teddy Bridgewater, QB, Louisville.
The Houston Texans clearly need a franchise quarterback as they start a rebuild under new head coach Bill O’Brien. And though there are several intriguing quarterbacks in this draft class, none possess Bridgewater’s combination of mobility, ability to throw on the run, capability to make every throw and command of the game that will pay dividends at the next level. Size is a concern, but take a look at Tom Brady and Drew Brees — NFL training programs can make quarterbacks better, faster and stronger, and Bridgewater has everything else needed to succeed.
2. St. Louis — via Washington (3-13): Jake Matthews, OT, Texas A&M.
The Rams may look at a quarterback later in the draft, and it would be very tempting to take a receiver this high, but it’s pretty clear that protection is the primary issue. Sam Bradford may still have a shot at franchise-level production if he can stay upright and healthy. Matthews is the premier outside lineman in this class — the kind of player you can set and forget (in a very good sense) for the next five years.
3. Jacksonville Jaguars (4-12): Jadeveon Clowney, DE, South Carolina.
Clowney doesn’t dip in this mock because of any nonsense about his motor, motivation, or production — it’s simply a matter of team need, and how the draft rolls sometimes. In this case, going third will be an ideal situation for him, because head coach Gus Bradley learned a lot from Pete Carroll as Seattle’s defensive coordinator from 2009 through ’12, including how to use defensive linemen in variable situations and in rotational packages. In such a system, Clowney’s ability to play outside and move inside at times, taking on double teams and still getting production all the while, will be featured in the best possible ways
4. Cleveland Browns (4-12): Johnny Manziel, QB, Texas A&M.
He’s not the safest pick, that’s for sure — the YOLO lifestyle and occasionally weird on-field decisions will leave some teams wondering how he’ll handle things once the playbooks and defenses get a lot more complicated. Manziel has an element of randomness in his play that brings Tony Romo to mind, but the Browns desperately need something at that position — and Manziel also possesses the ability to carry his team on his back at times.
5. Oakland Raiders (4-12): Sammy Watkins, WR, Clemson.
The Raiders still have a bunch of needs as they continue their interminable post-Al Davis rebuilding process, but let’s give them a sure playmaker in Watkins. Few draft prospects in recent years have possessed his combination of speed, acceleration and ability to catch the ball on the run — and then hit a second gear. Like Percy Harvin and Cordarrelle Patterson, Watkins can line up all over the field, giving Oakland’s quarterback du jour all kinds of new possibilities.
6. Atlanta Falcons (4-12): Greg Robinson, OT, Auburn.
Falcons general manager Thomas Dimitroff is one of the league’s most respected personnel men, but his failures on both lines are coming home to roost more and more. This team lacks a consistent pass rusher, can be beaten inside in the run game, and protection is a fairly major issue. In Robinson, the Falcons will at least have a player capable of taking care of Matt Ryan’s blindside and clearing the way in the run game. Robinson is a mauler who needs technical refinement, but the Falcons need to start amassing pure physical talent at the heart of their franchise.
7. Tampa Bay Buccaneers (4-12): Khalil Mack, OLB, Buffalo.
New Bucs head coach Lovie Smith has inherited an estimable linebacker corps, but as he built his Bears teams on the combination of linebacker acumen and pass-rush consistency, Mack would be a tremendous addition to a defense that is in for a major upgrade from a coaching perspective. He set FBS career records with 75 tackles for loss and 16 forced fumbles, and with his physical talents, Mack can do everything from drop into coverage to clog up the A-gaps in the dual-linebacker blitzes Smith loves to set up.
8. Minnesota Vikings (5-10-1): Blake Bortles, QB, UCF.
Matt Cassell will void his contract and become a free agent, and it’s not like he was the long-term answer at the position, anyway. And Christian Ponder isn’t really the answer to any question at this point. New head coach Mike Zimmer has a quandary at the game’s most important position, and Bortles would be an intriguing pick here. He’s already impressed many of those who would ordinarily dismiss him due to the small-school bias. The next step will be to take his impressive size (6-foot-5, 230 pounds) and surprising mobility and add an advanced playbook understanding. Right now, Bortles is a see-it-and-throw-it guy who will bail against pressure.
9. Buffalo Bills (6-10): C.J. Mosley, LB, Alabama.
Mosley and Kiko Alonso in the same defense? Seems unfair to the rest of the AFC East, but that’s how it goes sometimes. This is high for a linebacker, but you don’t see a lot of linebackers with Mosley’s range, versatility and field awareness. Putting him in this defense would give the Bills one unreal base front seven, and allow the team to play nickel and dime with impunity, because the linebackers would be flying all over the place.
10. Detroit Lions (7-9): Darqueze Dennard, CB, Michigan State.
The Lions have a new head coach in Jim Caldwell, but the same old problem on defense — a group of cornerbacks that should surely play better given the amount of pressure provided up front. Dennard, the 2013 Jim Thorpe Award winner, would provide a home-state solution with the legitimate shutdown fluidity that makes him the best cornerback in this draft class.
11. Tennessee Titans (7-9): Anthony Barr, OLB, UCLA.
If the Titans don’t go quarterback here (and they very well might), perhaps an edge rusher would fit the bill. Barr still needs a bit of finishing work, but he absolutely explodes off the tape. Barr comes off the ball well inside and outside, has tremendous flexibility and strength, and he could be even scarier once he gets into an NFL training program.
12. New York Giants (7-9): Taylor Lewan, OT, Michigan.
New York’s regression on offense had a great deal to do with an offensive line that just didn’t step up. Eli Manning was an interception festival at times, and the formerly dominant run game was nothing special in 2013. Tom Coughlin’s team can pick up interior linemen later in the draft, but adding Lewan up top gives that line an edge and flexibility. Toughness will mask certain technique issues as Lewan gets the hang of the NFL game.
13. St. Louis Rams (7-9): Marquise Lee, WR, USC.
Whoever the Rams’ quarterback is in 2014 and beyond, the need for targets has been clear for years. And as this team tries to ascend in the brutally tough NFC West, Lee would go a long way toward spicing the offense right up. A star in USC’s pro-style offense, Lee can beat the press coverage that is a divisional staple, understands the advanced routes and cuts that the NFL requires and can simply blast off over the top at times.
14. Chicago Bears (8-8): Aaron Donald, DT, Pitt.
Injuries marred Chicago’s defensive line in 2013, but projecting Donald here is more about the future than any short-term spackle. Pitt opponents tried just about everything to slow him down, and nothing worked. Because you won’t often see an interior lineman blast off and kill the gaps as he does, Donald would have the chance to become Chicago’s best interior defensive lineman since Tommie Harris’ glory days.
15. Pittsburgh Steelers (8-8): Louis Nix III, DT, Notre Dame.
Yes, cornerback is a sure need. And this team always seems to require more help on the offensive line. But Dick LeBeau’s defenses are built on a root hog up the middle who can soak up double teams and let everyone else fly around. Not only can Nix do that at 6-2 and 345 pounds — he can also bull through those schemes arrayed against him to add to any team’s pressure concepts. Conditioning is a slight concern, but Nix would be around veterans who understand what it takes.
16. Baltimore Ravens (8-8)*: Mike Evans, WR, Texas A&M.
Baltimore’s offense fell off a cliff in 2013, and while the run game was the major issue, nobody with a brain is ready to give up on Ray Rice. Instead, the Ravens should be looking at better targets for Joe Flacco, who desperately missed Anquan Boldin last season. Evans has the size at 6-5 and 225 pounds to deal with aggressive defensive backs, but he can also get free in a straight line — something he showed over and over when he was on the receiving end of footballs from Johnny Manziel. Given Flacco’s natural feel for the deep ball, Evans would have Rookie of the Year potential in this offense.
17. Dallas Cowboys (8-8)*: Ha Ha Clinton-Dix, FS, Alabama.
Because this is a mock draft, we can make a sensible pick in the Cowboys’ war room. Dallas’ safety play has been a problem for years, and if Jerry Jones ever wants to get back to the postseason, he’s either got to wait for Roger Goodell to increase the number of postseason teams, or take a hammer and nails to his deep secondary. Clinton-Dix is less a pure tackler and more a coverage specialist, but coverage is what this team needs. He reads quarterbacks very well, breaks on the ball with speed and fluidity and can take care of center field.
18. New York Jets (8-8): Eric Ebron, TE, North Carolina.
The Jets could go a few different ways on offense here, and there are some who wouldn’t be surprised if they dipped back into the quarterback pool. But giving Geno Smith some reliable targets before moving on would seem to make sense.
19. Miami Dolphins (8-8): Cyrus Kouandjio, OT, Alabama.
The future of the Dolphins’ offensive line is uncertain in the wake of whatever actually happened between Richie Incognito and Jonathan Martin. The addition of Kouandjio would give the Dolphins a versatile, technique-sound left tackle able to man a position that was iffy even when the inconsistent Martin was in there.
20. Arizona Cardinals (10-6): Zack Martin, OT, Notre Dame.
Like the Rams, the Cardinals are trying to put the finishing touches on an excellent team that will have to become even better to challenge San Francisco and Seattle in the NFC West in future years. If the Cards took Martin or someone of his caliber in this draft, and got Jonathan Cooper back from the broken left fibula that cost him the 2013 season, they’d add two first-rounders to a front five that has been under construction for eons.
21. Green Bay Packers (8-7-1): Justin Gilbert, CB, Oklahoma State.
Ted Thompson and his staff have an innate understanding of the value of versatile cornerbacks — the kinds who can play nickel and outside with equal skill, and even slip out to safety depth at times. Green Bay could go in other directions here, but a team facing opponents looking to play catch-up with Aaron Rodgers’ passing game can always use another high-quality defensive back. Gilbert led the Big 12 in picks with six in 2013, and he’s also an amazing return man.
22. Philadelphia Eagles (10-6): Jason Verrett, CB, TCU.
Similarly, as Chip Kelly’s offense comes together in its second NFL season, pass coverage will be at a premium. Verrett would be a great addition to Billy Davis’ aggressive defense. He can trail receivers, will undercut routes with aplomb and is tough enough to provide run support.
23. Kansas City Chiefs (11-5): Kelvin Benjamin, WR, Florida State.
The Chiefs would be wise to go with defensive reinforcements as their defense collapsed down the stretch as injuries took their toll, but there’s also the need for more targets for Alex Smith in the short term — and the quarterback of the future in Andy Reid’s offense in the long term. Benjamin is a big receiver who uses his impressive wingspan to win battles on fades and other red-zone routes.
24. Cincinnati Bengals (11-5): Timmy Jernigan, DT, Florida State.
The Bengals have an elite penetrating defensive tackle in the great Geno Atkins, but when Atkins was hurt last season, there weren’t any real complementary answers. Besides, rotational stability is the key to great defensive fronts these days. Jernigan is an attack tackle who needs to improve his speed and timing off the snap, but has all the elements to be a fine presence in any defensive line.
25. San Diego Chargers (9-7): Kony Ealy, DE, Missouri.
Year 2 of the Chargers’ recovery from five years of A.J. Smith sees them in need of reinforcements along the defensive line. Corey Liuget has shown improved potential, but it’s been hit-and-miss otherwise. Ealy shoots off the snap, and though he needs to lower his pad level consistently, he can play well in hybrid lines at multiple positions.
26. Cleveland Browns — via Indianapolis (11-5): Odell Beckham Jr., WR, LSU.
Josh Gordon somehow had an amazing season with Cleveland’s Quarterbackapalooza, but with Davone Bess’ predilection for dropping everything thrown in his direction, whoever’s throwing the ball for the Browns in 2014 would appreciate another consistent receiver. Beckham is a smaller, fluid receiver who would be a great complement on crosses, slants and other slot routes.
27. New Orleans Saints (11-5): Dee Ford, DE, Auburn.
Saints defensive coordinator Rob Ryan knows how to bring the best out of pass rushers with all different dimensions, and in Ford, he could have a new pass-rush presence to add to a defense that already brings pressure from several angles. Ford could play a Von Miller or Bruce Irvin role, excelling in various Sam linebacker concepts.
28. Carolina Panthers (12-4): Calvin Pryor, FS, Louisville.
The Panthers may very well have the NFL’s most dangerous front seven, and though their secondary improved as the 2013 season went on, a little star power wouldn’t hurt. Pryor is a big hitter in the front half of the defense, but he also can cover slots and seams.
29. New England Patriots (12-4): Jace Amaro, TE, Texas Tech.
Clearly, Tom Brady needs more targets. And clearly, with Aaron Hernandez out of the picture and Rob Gronkowski bringing new definitions to the term “injury-prone,” the Pats could use a productive and consistent presence at the tight end position. That’s how Bill Belichick has designed New England’s current offense. Amaro was a yards-after-catch monster in college, lining up in the slot most of the time and creating nightmares for linebackers and safeties. He’d be a perfect plug-in for Hernandez’s old role, and could take some of the heat off of Brady should Gronk continue his recent injury trends.
30. San Francisco 49ers (12-4): Ra’Shede Hageman, DT, Minnesota.
At some point in the draft, head coach Jim Harbaugh and general manager Trent Baalke will look hard at receivers, knowing that if Michael Crabtree had been healthy all season, the NFC might have gone a different way. But there’s also the matter of the defensive line over the long term — and that’s the cornerstone of Vic Fangio’s defense. Hageman, with his knack for blasting opposing linemen from the nose-shade and three-technique spots, would be an exceptional complement to Justin Smith in the short term — and Smith’s ultimate replacement over time.
31. Denver Broncos (13-3): Kyle Van Noy, OLB, BYU.
The Broncos got to the Super Bowl despite losing their entire projected front four, which is a tribute to defensive coordinator Jack Del Rio. But without Von Miller and Elvis Dumervil, Denver’s defense failed to bring heat at a consistent level. Van Noy has been a standout for a long time not because of his speed, but because of his sound technique and understanding of the requirements of his position.
32. Seattle Seahawks (13-3): David Yankey, OG, Stanford.
Seattle’s guards have been average at best since Steve Hutchinson poison-pilled his way out of the Emerald City after the Seahawks’ last Super Bowl appearance in February 2006, and the fact that the franchise nabbed its first Lombardi Trophy last Sunday doesn’t erase that issue. Pete Carroll and John Schneider have had great success with low-drafted (Richard Sherman) and undrafted (Doug Baldwin) players from Stanford, and Yankey could fill a major hole at a patchwork position. He’s a tremendously strong blocker with impressive athleticism, and an implicit understanding of NFL-level concepts.
2014 NFL Mock Draft 1.0
BY DOUG FARRAR
2014 NFL Mock Draft: Teddy Bridgewater has all the skills needed to succeed at the next level.
Now that Super Bowl XLVIII is in the books, it’s time to move on to the Silly Season — that is, the time before the scouting combine and various Pro Days in which we analysts try to guess what teams are thinking, or what they should be thinking, just as teams are ramping up their own film work and putting their initial heavy draft boards together.
Still, there are obvious needs and great fits all over the place, and since Mock Draft Season is more popular than Wabbit Season and Duck Season put together (not to mention the fact that my colleague Chris Burke is way ahead of the game with his own mocks), it’s time to get rolling with more virtual drafts than you can shake a proverbial stick at.
In this mock, we’re going with overall talent as opposed to pure fit, which is why some players, who may go overdrafted based on positional importance (like Fresno State quarterback Derek Carr), are out of the picture. We will of course come at this mockery from several different angles over the next few months.
1. Houston Texans (2-14): Teddy Bridgewater, QB, Louisville.
The Houston Texans clearly need a franchise quarterback as they start a rebuild under new head coach Bill O’Brien. And though there are several intriguing quarterbacks in this draft class, none possess Bridgewater’s combination of mobility, ability to throw on the run, capability to make every throw and command of the game that will pay dividends at the next level. Size is a concern, but take a look at Tom Brady and Drew Brees — NFL training programs can make quarterbacks better, faster and stronger, and Bridgewater has everything else needed to succeed.
2. St. Louis — via Washington (3-13): Jake Matthews, OT, Texas A&M.
The Rams may look at a quarterback later in the draft, and it would be very tempting to take a receiver this high, but it’s pretty clear that protection is the primary issue. Sam Bradford may still have a shot at franchise-level production if he can stay upright and healthy. Matthews is the premier outside lineman in this class — the kind of player you can set and forget (in a very good sense) for the next five years.
3. Jacksonville Jaguars (4-12): Jadeveon Clowney, DE, South Carolina.
Clowney doesn’t dip in this mock because of any nonsense about his motor, motivation, or production — it’s simply a matter of team need, and how the draft rolls sometimes. In this case, going third will be an ideal situation for him, because head coach Gus Bradley learned a lot from Pete Carroll as Seattle’s defensive coordinator from 2009 through ’12, including how to use defensive linemen in variable situations and in rotational packages. In such a system, Clowney’s ability to play outside and move inside at times, taking on double teams and still getting production all the while, will be featured in the best possible ways
4. Cleveland Browns (4-12): Johnny Manziel, QB, Texas A&M.
He’s not the safest pick, that’s for sure — the YOLO lifestyle and occasionally weird on-field decisions will leave some teams wondering how he’ll handle things once the playbooks and defenses get a lot more complicated. Manziel has an element of randomness in his play that brings Tony Romo to mind, but the Browns desperately need something at that position — and Manziel also possesses the ability to carry his team on his back at times.
5. Oakland Raiders (4-12): Sammy Watkins, WR, Clemson.
The Raiders still have a bunch of needs as they continue their interminable post-Al Davis rebuilding process, but let’s give them a sure playmaker in Watkins. Few draft prospects in recent years have possessed his combination of speed, acceleration and ability to catch the ball on the run — and then hit a second gear. Like Percy Harvin and Cordarrelle Patterson, Watkins can line up all over the field, giving Oakland’s quarterback du jour all kinds of new possibilities.
6. Atlanta Falcons (4-12): Greg Robinson, OT, Auburn.
Falcons general manager Thomas Dimitroff is one of the league’s most respected personnel men, but his failures on both lines are coming home to roost more and more. This team lacks a consistent pass rusher, can be beaten inside in the run game, and protection is a fairly major issue. In Robinson, the Falcons will at least have a player capable of taking care of Matt Ryan’s blindside and clearing the way in the run game. Robinson is a mauler who needs technical refinement, but the Falcons need to start amassing pure physical talent at the heart of their franchise.
7. Tampa Bay Buccaneers (4-12): Khalil Mack, OLB, Buffalo.
New Bucs head coach Lovie Smith has inherited an estimable linebacker corps, but as he built his Bears teams on the combination of linebacker acumen and pass-rush consistency, Mack would be a tremendous addition to a defense that is in for a major upgrade from a coaching perspective. He set FBS career records with 75 tackles for loss and 16 forced fumbles, and with his physical talents, Mack can do everything from drop into coverage to clog up the A-gaps in the dual-linebacker blitzes Smith loves to set up.
8. Minnesota Vikings (5-10-1): Blake Bortles, QB, UCF.
Matt Cassell will void his contract and become a free agent, and it’s not like he was the long-term answer at the position, anyway. And Christian Ponder isn’t really the answer to any question at this point. New head coach Mike Zimmer has a quandary at the game’s most important position, and Bortles would be an intriguing pick here. He’s already impressed many of those who would ordinarily dismiss him due to the small-school bias. The next step will be to take his impressive size (6-foot-5, 230 pounds) and surprising mobility and add an advanced playbook understanding. Right now, Bortles is a see-it-and-throw-it guy who will bail against pressure.
9. Buffalo Bills (6-10): C.J. Mosley, LB, Alabama.
Mosley and Kiko Alonso in the same defense? Seems unfair to the rest of the AFC East, but that’s how it goes sometimes. This is high for a linebacker, but you don’t see a lot of linebackers with Mosley’s range, versatility and field awareness. Putting him in this defense would give the Bills one unreal base front seven, and allow the team to play nickel and dime with impunity, because the linebackers would be flying all over the place.
10. Detroit Lions (7-9): Darqueze Dennard, CB, Michigan State.
The Lions have a new head coach in Jim Caldwell, but the same old problem on defense — a group of cornerbacks that should surely play better given the amount of pressure provided up front. Dennard, the 2013 Jim Thorpe Award winner, would provide a home-state solution with the legitimate shutdown fluidity that makes him the best cornerback in this draft class.
11. Tennessee Titans (7-9): Anthony Barr, OLB, UCLA.
If the Titans don’t go quarterback here (and they very well might), perhaps an edge rusher would fit the bill. Barr still needs a bit of finishing work, but he absolutely explodes off the tape. Barr comes off the ball well inside and outside, has tremendous flexibility and strength, and he could be even scarier once he gets into an NFL training program.
12. New York Giants (7-9): Taylor Lewan, OT, Michigan.
New York’s regression on offense had a great deal to do with an offensive line that just didn’t step up. Eli Manning was an interception festival at times, and the formerly dominant run game was nothing special in 2013. Tom Coughlin’s team can pick up interior linemen later in the draft, but adding Lewan up top gives that line an edge and flexibility. Toughness will mask certain technique issues as Lewan gets the hang of the NFL game.
13. St. Louis Rams (7-9): Marquise Lee, WR, USC.
Whoever the Rams’ quarterback is in 2014 and beyond, the need for targets has been clear for years. And as this team tries to ascend in the brutally tough NFC West, Lee would go a long way toward spicing the offense right up. A star in USC’s pro-style offense, Lee can beat the press coverage that is a divisional staple, understands the advanced routes and cuts that the NFL requires and can simply blast off over the top at times.
14. Chicago Bears (8-8): Aaron Donald, DT, Pitt.
Injuries marred Chicago’s defensive line in 2013, but projecting Donald here is more about the future than any short-term spackle. Pitt opponents tried just about everything to slow him down, and nothing worked. Because you won’t often see an interior lineman blast off and kill the gaps as he does, Donald would have the chance to become Chicago’s best interior defensive lineman since Tommie Harris’ glory days.
15. Pittsburgh Steelers (8-8): Louis Nix III, DT, Notre Dame.
Yes, cornerback is a sure need. And this team always seems to require more help on the offensive line. But Dick LeBeau’s defenses are built on a root hog up the middle who can soak up double teams and let everyone else fly around. Not only can Nix do that at 6-2 and 345 pounds — he can also bull through those schemes arrayed against him to add to any team’s pressure concepts. Conditioning is a slight concern, but Nix would be around veterans who understand what it takes.
16. Baltimore Ravens (8-8)*: Mike Evans, WR, Texas A&M.
Baltimore’s offense fell off a cliff in 2013, and while the run game was the major issue, nobody with a brain is ready to give up on Ray Rice. Instead, the Ravens should be looking at better targets for Joe Flacco, who desperately missed Anquan Boldin last season. Evans has the size at 6-5 and 225 pounds to deal with aggressive defensive backs, but he can also get free in a straight line — something he showed over and over when he was on the receiving end of footballs from Johnny Manziel. Given Flacco’s natural feel for the deep ball, Evans would have Rookie of the Year potential in this offense.
17. Dallas Cowboys (8-8)*: Ha Ha Clinton-Dix, FS, Alabama.
Because this is a mock draft, we can make a sensible pick in the Cowboys’ war room. Dallas’ safety play has been a problem for years, and if Jerry Jones ever wants to get back to the postseason, he’s either got to wait for Roger Goodell to increase the number of postseason teams, or take a hammer and nails to his deep secondary. Clinton-Dix is less a pure tackler and more a coverage specialist, but coverage is what this team needs. He reads quarterbacks very well, breaks on the ball with speed and fluidity and can take care of center field.
18. New York Jets (8-8): Eric Ebron, TE, North Carolina.
The Jets could go a few different ways on offense here, and there are some who wouldn’t be surprised if they dipped back into the quarterback pool. But giving Geno Smith some reliable targets before moving on would seem to make sense.
19. Miami Dolphins (8-8): Cyrus Kouandjio, OT, Alabama.
The future of the Dolphins’ offensive line is uncertain in the wake of whatever actually happened between Richie Incognito and Jonathan Martin. The addition of Kouandjio would give the Dolphins a versatile, technique-sound left tackle able to man a position that was iffy even when the inconsistent Martin was in there.
20. Arizona Cardinals (10-6): Zack Martin, OT, Notre Dame.
Like the Rams, the Cardinals are trying to put the finishing touches on an excellent team that will have to become even better to challenge San Francisco and Seattle in the NFC West in future years. If the Cards took Martin or someone of his caliber in this draft, and got Jonathan Cooper back from the broken left fibula that cost him the 2013 season, they’d add two first-rounders to a front five that has been under construction for eons.
21. Green Bay Packers (8-7-1): Justin Gilbert, CB, Oklahoma State.
Ted Thompson and his staff have an innate understanding of the value of versatile cornerbacks — the kinds who can play nickel and outside with equal skill, and even slip out to safety depth at times. Green Bay could go in other directions here, but a team facing opponents looking to play catch-up with Aaron Rodgers’ passing game can always use another high-quality defensive back. Gilbert led the Big 12 in picks with six in 2013, and he’s also an amazing return man.
22. Philadelphia Eagles (10-6): Jason Verrett, CB, TCU.
Similarly, as Chip Kelly’s offense comes together in its second NFL season, pass coverage will be at a premium. Verrett would be a great addition to Billy Davis’ aggressive defense. He can trail receivers, will undercut routes with aplomb and is tough enough to provide run support.
23. Kansas City Chiefs (11-5): Kelvin Benjamin, WR, Florida State.
The Chiefs would be wise to go with defensive reinforcements as their defense collapsed down the stretch as injuries took their toll, but there’s also the need for more targets for Alex Smith in the short term — and the quarterback of the future in Andy Reid’s offense in the long term. Benjamin is a big receiver who uses his impressive wingspan to win battles on fades and other red-zone routes.
24. Cincinnati Bengals (11-5): Timmy Jernigan, DT, Florida State.
The Bengals have an elite penetrating defensive tackle in the great Geno Atkins, but when Atkins was hurt last season, there weren’t any real complementary answers. Besides, rotational stability is the key to great defensive fronts these days. Jernigan is an attack tackle who needs to improve his speed and timing off the snap, but has all the elements to be a fine presence in any defensive line.
25. San Diego Chargers (9-7): Kony Ealy, DE, Missouri.
Year 2 of the Chargers’ recovery from five years of A.J. Smith sees them in need of reinforcements along the defensive line. Corey Liuget has shown improved potential, but it’s been hit-and-miss otherwise. Ealy shoots off the snap, and though he needs to lower his pad level consistently, he can play well in hybrid lines at multiple positions.
26. Cleveland Browns — via Indianapolis (11-5): Odell Beckham Jr., WR, LSU.
Josh Gordon somehow had an amazing season with Cleveland’s Quarterbackapalooza, but with Davone Bess’ predilection for dropping everything thrown in his direction, whoever’s throwing the ball for the Browns in 2014 would appreciate another consistent receiver. Beckham is a smaller, fluid receiver who would be a great complement on crosses, slants and other slot routes.
27. New Orleans Saints (11-5): Dee Ford, DE, Auburn.
Saints defensive coordinator Rob Ryan knows how to bring the best out of pass rushers with all different dimensions, and in Ford, he could have a new pass-rush presence to add to a defense that already brings pressure from several angles. Ford could play a Von Miller or Bruce Irvin role, excelling in various Sam linebacker concepts.
28. Carolina Panthers (12-4): Calvin Pryor, FS, Louisville.
The Panthers may very well have the NFL’s most dangerous front seven, and though their secondary improved as the 2013 season went on, a little star power wouldn’t hurt. Pryor is a big hitter in the front half of the defense, but he also can cover slots and seams.
29. New England Patriots (12-4): Jace Amaro, TE, Texas Tech.
Clearly, Tom Brady needs more targets. And clearly, with Aaron Hernandez out of the picture and Rob Gronkowski bringing new definitions to the term “injury-prone,” the Pats could use a productive and consistent presence at the tight end position. That’s how Bill Belichick has designed New England’s current offense. Amaro was a yards-after-catch monster in college, lining up in the slot most of the time and creating nightmares for linebackers and safeties. He’d be a perfect plug-in for Hernandez’s old role, and could take some of the heat off of Brady should Gronk continue his recent injury trends.
30. San Francisco 49ers (12-4): Ra’Shede Hageman, DT, Minnesota.
At some point in the draft, head coach Jim Harbaugh and general manager Trent Baalke will look hard at receivers, knowing that if Michael Crabtree had been healthy all season, the NFC might have gone a different way. But there’s also the matter of the defensive line over the long term — and that’s the cornerstone of Vic Fangio’s defense. Hageman, with his knack for blasting opposing linemen from the nose-shade and three-technique spots, would be an exceptional complement to Justin Smith in the short term — and Smith’s ultimate replacement over time.
31. Denver Broncos (13-3): Kyle Van Noy, OLB, BYU.
The Broncos got to the Super Bowl despite losing their entire projected front four, which is a tribute to defensive coordinator Jack Del Rio. But without Von Miller and Elvis Dumervil, Denver’s defense failed to bring heat at a consistent level. Van Noy has been a standout for a long time not because of his speed, but because of his sound technique and understanding of the requirements of his position.
32. Seattle Seahawks (13-3): David Yankey, OG, Stanford.
Seattle’s guards have been average at best since Steve Hutchinson poison-pilled his way out of the Emerald City after the Seahawks’ last Super Bowl appearance in February 2006, and the fact that the franchise nabbed its first Lombardi Trophy last Sunday doesn’t erase that issue. Pete Carroll and John Schneider have had great success with low-drafted (Richard Sherman) and undrafted (Doug Baldwin) players from Stanford, and Yankey could fill a major hole at a patchwork position. He’s a tremendously strong blocker with impressive athleticism, and an implicit understanding of NFL-level concepts.
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[h=1]NFL Draft: Norris' Top 50[/h]Tuesday, February 04, 2014
The draft process is upon us. Prospects have attended the East-West Shrine game and Senior Bowl and will soon converge on Indianapolis for the annual NFL Combine. Please note that these rankings are fluid, but I would never list a player without having a firm understanding of their play style and projection.Quarterbacks are not just thrown in among other positions; there is a thought process behind their slotting. If I firmly believe a quarterback is a quality starter, they transcend the board and jump to the top. The next tier, which includes prospects I think have a good chance of becoming quality starters, follows first-round talents.
1. QB Teddy Bridgewater, Louisville
NFL Comparison: Russell Wilson, but three inches taller and less explosive movements.
Where He Wins: Excellent pocket movement. Bounces off his back foot to step up against edge pressure and isn’t afraid to slide laterally when faced with an interior rush. Keeps eyes up to survey coverages and works to multiple reads. Placement and touch are there, but has the velocity to hit vertical routes on the move. Not afraid to give a covered receiver in single coverage a chance to win. Reports have stated he takes care of many checks at the line of scrimmage.
Where He Fits: He fits any offense. Sustains success from the pocket but also has mobility which isn’t showcased often. Hits every level with placement and timing.
2014 Draft Projection: No. 1 or 2 pick.
2. Edge player Jadeveon Clowney, South Carolina
NFL Comparison: Uses a J.J. Watt like swim move, athleticism might be Julius Peppers-esque.
Where He Wins: Predominantly lines up at right defensive end in a three-point stance as a five, seven, or nine technique. His explosion off the snap is ridiculous, gaining an instant advantage against his competition. Obviously the swarming wingspan and closing speed is there, and he enjoys finishing hits with force. Has frequently taken the inside line this year, likely due to the shorter distance to the backfield. Loves to utilize an arm over swim and athletic footwork is on displays when avoiding cut blocks. Loops inside with ease. A rare power and speed athlete.
Where He Fits: Most experience in a four man front, but his talent could be used in any defensive scheme.
Draft Projection: The first non-QB off the board. Top-5 pick.
3. Edge player Khalil Mack, Buffalo
NFL Comparison: Ahmad Brooks-plus
Where He Wins: Displays a unique combination of size and strength. Has quickness to get underneath an offensive lineman’s pads and then use his strength to drive that lineman into the backfield. Controls run blockers, maintaining outside leverage and resetting the line of scrimmage. Has enough athleticism to be a factor in coverage and can avoid cut blocks.
Where He Fits: As a stand up weakside pass rusher alongside a three man line or could play a strong side linebacker in a 4-3 under.
Draft Projection: Has off-field question stemming from a suspension, but likely top-10 pick.
4. WR Sammy Watkins, Clemson
NFL Comparison: The current Torrey Smith but more of a threat after the catch.
Where He Wins: The combination of burst and smooth movements in and out of his breaks or after catch moves is great. Hands catcher away from his body. An explosive player with the ball in his hands, gets up to high gear very quickly. Will go across the middle and catch passes in tight windows. Cuts routes off very quickly. Has balance to stay up beyond first defender. Wins from slot or outside.
Where He Fits: Will help in a variety of ways, including yards after the catch, vertical routes, and in the return game.
Draft Projection: Expected to be the first receiver off the board, unless a team goes for a taller target who specializes in winning at the catch point. Top-10.
5. T Jake Matthews, Texas A&M
NFL Comparison: Jordan Gross
Where He Wins: Doesn’t sit back and wait, finds contact through his hands and is an aggressive blocker. Obtains inside hand positioning and adjusts if necessary. Athletic feet to keep proper shoulder alignment, which prevents bending from the waist. Displays ability to bend at the knee to absorb and redirect. Sets up cut blocks and drives through with force. Moving from right to left tackle.
Where He Fits: Has experience and played at a high level at left or right tackle. If a team wants him at center they will not get him.
Draft Projection: Top-10.
6. T Greg Robinson, Auburn
NFL Comparison: Trent Williams
Where He Wins: An absolute mauler of a run blocker. His power is ridiculous. Can dominate even the strongest of defensive linemen with leverage and brute force. Is a very good athlete for his size, and that is evident while playing in space. Opens a clear road when asked to crash down or get to the second level. Powerful hands.
Where He Fits: Still a bit inexperienced as a pass protector on an island, which is evident with flashes of waist bending, but he has the athleticism to fix it. Can play on the left or right side.
Draft Projection: Will be the first tackle selected.
7. Off LOS LB C.J. Mosley, Alabama
NFL Comparison: Sean Lee
Where He Wins: Very little wasted movement. Lines up as inside linebacker behind three and four man fronts. Has so much range, chases down athletic quarterbacks to the edge. Same range is visible in pass coverage. Contacts crossing routes and keeps footwork to sustain and trail. Works over top of blocks with quick steps. Keeps nice vision at the second level by strafing then attacks uphill. Will finish tackles.
Where He Fits: Has transitioned from a coverage linebacker to the complete package. Scheme versatile at inside linebacker. Could potentially see time on the weakside.
Draft Projection: Very dependent on how teams react to his injury history. Top-20.
8. DT Dominique Easley, Florida
NFL Comparison: Jay Ratliff or Earl Mitchell
Where He Wins: Easley’s success inside compared to when on the edge is a no contest. His quickness to force his opposition off balance or shoot face up gaps causes instant disruption, displaying active hands to keep separation and a forward momentum. He impacts games when gaining promising positioning.
Where He Fits: Everywhere. Has experience as a five technique end but thrived in a one or zero technique role this season. Could be a disrupting, upfield nose tackle.
Draft Projection: This is difficult. Easley is a top-10 talent but has two ACL tears to his name on opposite knees. Played at a high level this season after the first one. I still think top-40, like Cornelius “Tank” Carradine.
9. S Ha Ha Clinton-Dix, Alabama
NFL Comparison: Reshad Jones
Where He Wins: Has excellent length for the position. Controlled aggressiveness when closing towards the line of scrimmage. Not a watcher, he gets in the action. Reads run and reacts quickly, even from single high. Has seen time from free or strong safety. Capable in playing man and zone situations, either near or off the line of scrimmage. A really, really good safety.
Where He Fits: A likely interchangeable safety that can play near the line of scrimmage or in the deep half.
Draft Projection: Top-15 selection.
10. DT Louis Nix, Notre Dame
NFL Comparison: Flashes of Vince Wilfork
Where He Wins: Lines up as a nose tackle or shade in a three man front. Can work over top of a block and create penetration at the same time. Stops momentum very quickly and changes direction well for a big man. Has the leg drive to penetrate face up and strength to shed it close spaces. Can disrupt the run upfield or hold his spot with anchor versus the run. Has some Vince Wilfork to him.
Where He Fits: Likely a one or zero shade in a three man front, but don’t rule him out of four man fronts.
Draft Projection: Has been a letdown at times this season, but likely top-32.
11. WR Mike Evans, Texas A&M
NFL Comparison: Vincent Jackson
Where He Wins: Absolutely dominant at the catch point. Wins on the edge with long speed, excellent body control, strong hands, and high pointing ability. When he is covered he is still open. Winning in these situations might be more important than separation at the NFL level. Yards after catch ability is often overlooked.
Where He Fits: Outside receiver with a quarterback who is not afraid to test tight single coverage.
Draft Projection: First-round and would not be shocked if he is the first receiver off the board. I bet he tests faster than expected.
12. CB Darqueze Dennard, Michigan State
NFL Comparison: Aqib Talib
Where He Wins: An extremely physical corner who loves to press at the line of scrimmage. Frequently patient with his jam, not overextending but rather allowing the receiver to enter contact area. Rides inside hip downfield while sustaining position. Hand fights and flips his head quickly when receiver looks back for the football at the top of their route.
Where He Fits: Press corner or a few yards off on the edge. Will be physical in run support. Matches up at the catch point in contested situations which is critical.
Draft Projection: Might run a slow forty, which will lead to overreaction. Top-40.
13. TE Jace Amaro, Texas Tech
NFL Comparison: Does some Jimmy Graham-like things, but not as tall.
Where He Wins: A matchup nightmare. Uses his frame against corners and safeties to gain a positional advantage. Can do the same with safeties while creating space with fluid routes. An easy mover against linebackers. Has always been a willing blocker in space, but he has added an inline blocking element to his game. Getting stronger at the catch point when climbing the ladder. Presents some yards after catch skills.
Where He Fits: A receiving tight end in 12 personnel. Can play out on the edge, in the slot, and has added an inline blocking element to his game.
Draft Projection: Mentioned he would return for his senior season, but that could change in January. Suffered a major injury in 2012. I expect a top-32 selection.
14. TE Eric Ebron, UNC
NFL Comparison: A physical Jared Cook Jr.
Where He Wins: An outstanding straight-line athlete with some bend/flexibility for his size. Will stretch defenses and then cut his route back to the quarterback. Presents a big target and can separate after the catch. Improving consistency at the catch point and a willing blocker.
Where He Fits: An inline option who can be split out to matchup with different defenders.
15. Off LOS LB Ryan Shazier, Ohio State
NFL Comparison: Some Lavonte David, but with more length. What many want Alec Ogletree to be.
Where He Wins: Long and lean. Projects to weakside linebacker. His speed to the edge is excellent. There are some wasted movements when working the backside, but once the target and ally are located he gets there in a hurry. Zone drops are smooth. Asked to blitz from inside and on the edge. Takes tight angles into the backfield on edge runs.
Where He Fits: Likely as a weakside linebacker who will stay on in nickel situations.
Draft Projection: Top-40.
16. DT Will Sutton, Arizona State
NFL Comparison: La’Roi Glover
Where He Wins: Sutton takes advantage of space. Whether it be shooting past reach blocks in the sliver of time afforded to him thanks to an animated first step and forward lean, or hand use and quick feet to generate that separation on his own, Sutton finishes with closing speed. His flexibility to bend and gain positive positioning is tough to find.
Where He Fits: Likely as a three technique in a four man front, could play some in pass rushing situations.
Draft Projection: Too much has been made about his added weight. He isn’t a different player. The foundation of Sutton’s game was never quickness, it was leverage and technical hand use. Still, he will get knocked for lack of size or added weight. Top-64.
17. DT Aaron Donald, Pitt
NFL Comparison: Mike Daniels.
Where He Wins: Excellent burst off the line to play on the other side of the line of scrimmage. Despite size knocks, he has good length and active hands. Able to get skinny to work through gaps and trash. Closing quickness is there to make tackles for loss.
Where He Fits: Obvious nickel or dime rusher, but likely not limited to that. He disrupts fronts. Could see him lining up in a variety of sub-package sets at 1, 3, or 5 technique.
Draft Projection: Top-40 due to measurement minimums, but he could go much, much higher.
18. OL Zack Martin, Notre Dame
NFL Comparison: Logan Mankins
Where He Wins: Held up at tackle well this season and during Senior Bowl week. Hands are so strong to prevent inside moves or latch on and control at the point of attack. Willing to sustain blocks with position and leg drive.
Where He Fits: Can make a good tackle but an outstanding guard. Wide base can be troublesome against agile edge rushers who weave inside and out.
Draft Projection: Has a legitimate chance to be the third offensive lineman selected. Likely as a tackle.
19. WR Odell Beckham Jr., LSU
NFL Comparison: Antonio Brown-plus
Where He Wins: Mainly an outside receiver but has seen snaps in the slot. An excellent intermediate to downfield threat, but likely has the skills near the LOS. He just was not used there. The downfield routes are not usually go or straight-line patterns, instead most of his success comes off breaks. Has quickness and explosion to his game, but does not mind winning at the catch point in contested situations.
Where He Fits: Shines on inside and outside breaking routes, like posts and corners, and also works towards his quarterback.
Draft Projection: Tough to know right now. Would not be surprised if he is the third WR off the board.
20. Edge player Dee Ford, Auburn
NFL Comparison: Robert Mathis
Where He Wins: Great burst off the snap and explosion upfield. Bends very well around the corner once beating offensive lineman's depth. Has also displayed hand use, leverage, and strength to keep his opposition on skates. The Texas A&M game shows the complete package.
Where He Fits: Line him up wide and let him run, likely as a 7 or 9 technique. Stance (stand up or three-point) does not matter to me.
Draft Projection: First-round
21. Edge player Anthony Barr, UCLA
NFL Comparison: Athleticism could be similar to Bruce Irvin.
Where He Wins: The lightning-quick pass rusher is able to gain an advantage on the edge and keep it thanks to his burst off the line, ability to cut off either foot towards the quarterback, and flexibility to bend around the corner. He closes distances quickly, which can be effective from a variety of alignments.
Where He Fits: Experience as a stand up rusher next to a three man front. Able to loop inside.
Draft Projection: Top-15 selection.
22. DT Ra'shede Hageman, Minnesota
NFL Comparison: Michael Brockers
Where He Wins: Predominantly used as a 1/0 technique this season. Obviously has a natural anchor. Improving hand use to create separation. Flashes of good athleticism for someone his size. Has the necessary power and leg drive to keep his opposition off balance.
Where He Fits: Appears his career can be taken on one two ways, either as a 1 in an even front or 5 technique in an odd front. I bet he will test well at the Combine, leading many to pick the latter, but I prefer him inside. Needs to deliver a consistent initial punch.
Draft Projection: First-round.
23. T Taylor Lewan, Michigan
NFL Comparison: Sebastian Vollmer
Where He Wins: Wide stance, wants to find contact through his hands. Has an aggressive mentality, but that can get him in trouble. Even if positioning is off balance, his strong base helps anchor and stop momentum. Better run blocker than pass protector, but wins when gaining a latch in either situation. Asked to pull inside and lead blocks well.
Where He Fits: Could see him on the left or right side.
Draft Projection: Obviously the NFL values offensive tackles. Possible top-15 selection.
24. Edge player Jeremiah Attaochu, Georgia Tech
NFL Comparison: Cliff Avril
Where He Wins: Line him up wide as a 7 or 9 and let him run to a spot in the backfield. Explosive off the snap and can win around the corner, on inside moves, or when engaging into the opponents’ chest.
Where He Fits: Many will attempt to project him to an outside linebacker role and drop Attaochu into coverage. I do not see it. He played that role through his junior season, but was so much better as a senior with limited responsibilities in a disruption role.
Draft Projection: Top-50
25. WR Brandin Cooks, Oregon State
NFL Comparison: Victor Cruz
Where He Wins: An explosive receiver that wins at every level of the field. Can take short passes for long gains after creating even more separation. Creates space on intermediate patterns. Tracks vertical passes exceptionally well. Takes the top off coverages. Has a large catch radius for someone his size.
Where He Fits: Some might only see a slot receiver, but he’s an accomplished edge target as well.
Draft Projection: Top-50.
26. CB Bradley Roby, Ohio State
NFL Comparison: Jason McCourty
Where He Wins: Attacks the jam or blocking receiver, frequently gets into the action. Will play off or press man coverage, attacks the catch point by cutting in front of the target. Even plays on special teams. Trails in close distances and prevents the sliver of separation at the catch point. Makes things difficult on the opposition.
Where He Fits: Not locked into one side of the field. Likely better in press due to physical nature, but shows he can attack and drive in off coverage.
Draft Projection: Poor performance against Jared Abbrederis, but likely top-32.
27. QB Johnny Manziel, Texas A&M
NFL Comparison: Tony Romo in terms of improvisational style.
Where He Wins: Wearing down defenses with tempo. A master of broken plays. Stretches teams laterally with his feet. Forces defenses to match up with quick passes followed by elongated plays with little time to rest in between.
Where He Fits: Has shown development from the pocket, but could thrive in a creative system. Thrives on broken plays. Drops his eye level, but can magically find open space and available passing lanes to connect on ridiculous completions. Will test tight single coverage. Gives his receiver a shot. Can also be a quick decision maker, which is key to Air Raid. Has made more throws outside the numbers and downfield this season. Obviously extremely mobile.
Draft Projection: Top-10.
28. QB Blake Bortles, UCF
NFL Comparison: A poor man’s Andrew Luck in terms of mannerisms, running ability and pocket movement.
Where He Wins: Strong pocket mover results in handling pressure others might fold under. Not afraid to work through multiple reads and multiple levels of the field. Spent a lot of time in shotgun, but throws from multiple arm angles. Does not hesitate when throwing to covered receivers to let them win at the catch point.
Where He Fits: Velocity has dropped since 2012, and I am not sure why. With that said, I don’t think he has limitations in terms of an offense in the NFL.
Draft Projection: A top-10 selection, possibly No. 1 overall.
29. QB Derek Carr, Fresno State
NFL Comparison: Jay Cutler
Where He Wins: Has an incredible arm, not only when discussing velocity but also touch. Is forced to throw a lot of screens, but flashes upside as a vertical passer when given the opportunity. Shows athleticism when scrambling outside of the pocket. Aren’t many windows he can’t test.
Where He Fits: Doesn’t always throw from a balanced base but has improved willingness to take a hit on release.
Draft Projection: Likely the fourth quarterback off the board.
30. G Xavier Su’a-Filo, UCLA
NFL Comparison: Louis Vasquez
Where He Wins: Has great balance, rarely on the ground. Does not possess a punishing first punch, but certainly has the movement skills to mirror defensive linemen and is active when looking for rushers.
Where He Fits: Has experience at tackle but should play guard at the next level.
Draft Projection: Possible first guard selected.
31. T Cyrus Kouandjio, Alabama
NFL Comparison: Doug Free
Where He Wins: Does occasionally bend at the waist but is athletic enough to recover and regain balance. Best when keeping separation thanks to great length. Can get a bit short in his drops, but again, has the athletic lower half to react and keep positioning. Better in pass protection than run blocking.
Where He Fits: Likely left tackle but could start on the right side as well. The two aren’t so different anymore.
Draft Projection: Has shown weaknesses this season, mainly in the form of overextension or slow feet off the snap, but talent is there. Top-30.
32. WR Kelvin Benjamin, FSU
NFL Comparison: Plaxico Burress
Where He Wins: Huge frame and length to win at the catch point in contested situations. Very good body control to slow down, time catch, and contort frame to haul in a catch. Long strides allow him to get downfield. Unafraid to work across the middle on deep posts. Able to make adjustments with the ball in the air that other receivers can’t. Displays strength after the catch.
Where He Fits: Can dominate in the red zone, on vertical passes, and with strength on slants. Mainly an outside receiver.
Draft Projection: Needs to improve consistencies in the form of drops, but he and Mike Evans could draw similar interest.
33. S Calvin Pryor, Louisville
NFL Comparison: T.J. Ward
Where He Wins: A huge hitter. Takes aggressive angles downhill. Wants to get in on the action. Very good flashes while playing in the box or closer to the LOS.
Where He Fits: Was forced to play a lot of single high safety or far off the LOS. That is not where he should play at the next level. Was late on passes, but delivered big hits at the catch point.
Draft Projection: Second safety selected, possible top-25 draft pick.
34. TE Troy Niklas, Notre Dame
NFL Comparison: Baby Gronk?
Where He Wins: Displays good speed when running down the seam. Has flashed winning with breaking routes or bodying defensive backs at the catch point. A very good blocker for the position.
Where He Fits: It is difficult to project Niklas right now. First, his best trait is blocking. He was kept in during pass protection situations because of it. But receiving and complete TE skills are there.
Draft Projection: Top-64 selection
35. TE Austin Seferian-Jenkins, Washington
NFL Comparison: Martellus Bennett
Where He Wins: Displays enough agility to be detached from the line of scrimmage but also can in inline. Has the body control to win at the catch point. Movement skills are there to win in the short and intermediate areas. Can be a more than adequate blocker when willing.
Where He Fits: Likely an inline TE but is not stuck there.
Draft Projection: Top-64.
36. DT Timmy Jernigan, FSU
NFL Comparison: Barry Cofield
Where He Wins: Can be very disruptive when gaining the momentum and balance advantage from the 1/0. Drives interior OL back and has quick feet to make a play in the backfield once creating the operable space. Much better when working upfield. Loves to utilize a pull and swim motion.
Where He Fits: I do not like Jernigan’s game from the 3 technique and/or when he is asked to work around blockers rather than through them. Run defense is hit or miss. I would rather he become an upfield disruptor close to the center.
Draft Projection: Could be the first defensive tackle off the board.
37. Edge player Marcus Smith, Louisville
NFL Comparison: Jason Worilds
Where He Wins: The more I watched the Cardinal, the more I liked him. Not only can he bend around tackles, Smith loves to chase from the backside and converts speed to power with good length and hand use. I know I keep bringing up hands and technical skill, but it really does set great rushers that can win on counter moves apart from good ones that have one trick.
Where He Fits: Like Attaochu, I don’t care how Smith lines up as much as where. He can stand up or play in a sub-package, hand in the dirt pass rushing role.
Draft Projection: Top-75
38. WR Marqise Lee, USC
NFL Comparison: Reggie Wayne
Where He Wins: Long, lean strider. Best as a straight-line receiver. Doesn't mind chipping the edge when in motion or finishing off runs with low shoulder. Obvious burst of quickness in first or second step, then it builds after that. Lines up in the slot and outside, smooth runner in his breaks to avoid contact. Frequently sent in motion. Can make people miss in the open field, but doesn't have outstanding lateral agility.
Where He Fits: Likely outside receiver who gets vertical with fluid routes and long speed. Can easily peel back patterns and create separation when working towards the quarterback.
Draft Projection: Has dealt with injuries, drops, and bad quarterback play this year. Still a top-40 selection.
39. CB Jason Verrett, TCU
NFL Comparison: Chris Harris Jr.
Where He Wins: Active player who doesn’t wait to react. Keeps close trailing distance and makes tackles for a loss on crossing routes by forcing receivers back. Quick in his movements once diagnosing and locating. Has great vision, baits quarterbacks from off man with success. Coverage versatile. Hides blitz very well.
Where He Fits: Plays a lot of off coverage, but that doesn’t mean he lacks physical play. Best role will likely be as a slot corner.
Draft Projection: First-round.
40. DL Kony Ealy, Missouri
41. OL Brandon Thomas, Clemson
42. T Jack Mewhort, Ohio State
43. WR Jarvis Landry, LSU
44. CB Kyle Fuller, Virginia Tech
45. CB Justin Gilbert, Oklahoma State
46. S Jimmie Ward, NIU
47. DB Lamarcus Joyner, FSU
48. CB Terrance Mitchell, Oregon
49. Off LOS LB Telvin Smith, FSU
50. RB Devonta Freeman, FSU
The draft process is upon us. Prospects have attended the East-West Shrine game and Senior Bowl and will soon converge on Indianapolis for the annual NFL Combine. Please note that these rankings are fluid, but I would never list a player without having a firm understanding of their play style and projection.Quarterbacks are not just thrown in among other positions; there is a thought process behind their slotting. If I firmly believe a quarterback is a quality starter, they transcend the board and jump to the top. The next tier, which includes prospects I think have a good chance of becoming quality starters, follows first-round talents.
1. QB Teddy Bridgewater, Louisville
NFL Comparison: Russell Wilson, but three inches taller and less explosive movements.
Where He Wins: Excellent pocket movement. Bounces off his back foot to step up against edge pressure and isn’t afraid to slide laterally when faced with an interior rush. Keeps eyes up to survey coverages and works to multiple reads. Placement and touch are there, but has the velocity to hit vertical routes on the move. Not afraid to give a covered receiver in single coverage a chance to win. Reports have stated he takes care of many checks at the line of scrimmage.
Where He Fits: He fits any offense. Sustains success from the pocket but also has mobility which isn’t showcased often. Hits every level with placement and timing.
2014 Draft Projection: No. 1 or 2 pick.
2. Edge player Jadeveon Clowney, South Carolina
NFL Comparison: Uses a J.J. Watt like swim move, athleticism might be Julius Peppers-esque.
Where He Wins: Predominantly lines up at right defensive end in a three-point stance as a five, seven, or nine technique. His explosion off the snap is ridiculous, gaining an instant advantage against his competition. Obviously the swarming wingspan and closing speed is there, and he enjoys finishing hits with force. Has frequently taken the inside line this year, likely due to the shorter distance to the backfield. Loves to utilize an arm over swim and athletic footwork is on displays when avoiding cut blocks. Loops inside with ease. A rare power and speed athlete.
Where He Fits: Most experience in a four man front, but his talent could be used in any defensive scheme.
Draft Projection: The first non-QB off the board. Top-5 pick.
3. Edge player Khalil Mack, Buffalo
NFL Comparison: Ahmad Brooks-plus
Where He Wins: Displays a unique combination of size and strength. Has quickness to get underneath an offensive lineman’s pads and then use his strength to drive that lineman into the backfield. Controls run blockers, maintaining outside leverage and resetting the line of scrimmage. Has enough athleticism to be a factor in coverage and can avoid cut blocks.
Where He Fits: As a stand up weakside pass rusher alongside a three man line or could play a strong side linebacker in a 4-3 under.
Draft Projection: Has off-field question stemming from a suspension, but likely top-10 pick.
4. WR Sammy Watkins, Clemson
NFL Comparison: The current Torrey Smith but more of a threat after the catch.
Where He Wins: The combination of burst and smooth movements in and out of his breaks or after catch moves is great. Hands catcher away from his body. An explosive player with the ball in his hands, gets up to high gear very quickly. Will go across the middle and catch passes in tight windows. Cuts routes off very quickly. Has balance to stay up beyond first defender. Wins from slot or outside.
Where He Fits: Will help in a variety of ways, including yards after the catch, vertical routes, and in the return game.
Draft Projection: Expected to be the first receiver off the board, unless a team goes for a taller target who specializes in winning at the catch point. Top-10.
5. T Jake Matthews, Texas A&M
NFL Comparison: Jordan Gross
Where He Wins: Doesn’t sit back and wait, finds contact through his hands and is an aggressive blocker. Obtains inside hand positioning and adjusts if necessary. Athletic feet to keep proper shoulder alignment, which prevents bending from the waist. Displays ability to bend at the knee to absorb and redirect. Sets up cut blocks and drives through with force. Moving from right to left tackle.
Where He Fits: Has experience and played at a high level at left or right tackle. If a team wants him at center they will not get him.
Draft Projection: Top-10.
6. T Greg Robinson, Auburn
NFL Comparison: Trent Williams
Where He Wins: An absolute mauler of a run blocker. His power is ridiculous. Can dominate even the strongest of defensive linemen with leverage and brute force. Is a very good athlete for his size, and that is evident while playing in space. Opens a clear road when asked to crash down or get to the second level. Powerful hands.
Where He Fits: Still a bit inexperienced as a pass protector on an island, which is evident with flashes of waist bending, but he has the athleticism to fix it. Can play on the left or right side.
Draft Projection: Will be the first tackle selected.
7. Off LOS LB C.J. Mosley, Alabama
NFL Comparison: Sean Lee
Where He Wins: Very little wasted movement. Lines up as inside linebacker behind three and four man fronts. Has so much range, chases down athletic quarterbacks to the edge. Same range is visible in pass coverage. Contacts crossing routes and keeps footwork to sustain and trail. Works over top of blocks with quick steps. Keeps nice vision at the second level by strafing then attacks uphill. Will finish tackles.
Where He Fits: Has transitioned from a coverage linebacker to the complete package. Scheme versatile at inside linebacker. Could potentially see time on the weakside.
Draft Projection: Very dependent on how teams react to his injury history. Top-20.
8. DT Dominique Easley, Florida
NFL Comparison: Jay Ratliff or Earl Mitchell
Where He Wins: Easley’s success inside compared to when on the edge is a no contest. His quickness to force his opposition off balance or shoot face up gaps causes instant disruption, displaying active hands to keep separation and a forward momentum. He impacts games when gaining promising positioning.
Where He Fits: Everywhere. Has experience as a five technique end but thrived in a one or zero technique role this season. Could be a disrupting, upfield nose tackle.
Draft Projection: This is difficult. Easley is a top-10 talent but has two ACL tears to his name on opposite knees. Played at a high level this season after the first one. I still think top-40, like Cornelius “Tank” Carradine.
9. S Ha Ha Clinton-Dix, Alabama
NFL Comparison: Reshad Jones
Where He Wins: Has excellent length for the position. Controlled aggressiveness when closing towards the line of scrimmage. Not a watcher, he gets in the action. Reads run and reacts quickly, even from single high. Has seen time from free or strong safety. Capable in playing man and zone situations, either near or off the line of scrimmage. A really, really good safety.
Where He Fits: A likely interchangeable safety that can play near the line of scrimmage or in the deep half.
Draft Projection: Top-15 selection.
10. DT Louis Nix, Notre Dame
NFL Comparison: Flashes of Vince Wilfork
Where He Wins: Lines up as a nose tackle or shade in a three man front. Can work over top of a block and create penetration at the same time. Stops momentum very quickly and changes direction well for a big man. Has the leg drive to penetrate face up and strength to shed it close spaces. Can disrupt the run upfield or hold his spot with anchor versus the run. Has some Vince Wilfork to him.
Where He Fits: Likely a one or zero shade in a three man front, but don’t rule him out of four man fronts.
Draft Projection: Has been a letdown at times this season, but likely top-32.
11. WR Mike Evans, Texas A&M
NFL Comparison: Vincent Jackson
Where He Wins: Absolutely dominant at the catch point. Wins on the edge with long speed, excellent body control, strong hands, and high pointing ability. When he is covered he is still open. Winning in these situations might be more important than separation at the NFL level. Yards after catch ability is often overlooked.
Where He Fits: Outside receiver with a quarterback who is not afraid to test tight single coverage.
Draft Projection: First-round and would not be shocked if he is the first receiver off the board. I bet he tests faster than expected.
12. CB Darqueze Dennard, Michigan State
NFL Comparison: Aqib Talib
Where He Wins: An extremely physical corner who loves to press at the line of scrimmage. Frequently patient with his jam, not overextending but rather allowing the receiver to enter contact area. Rides inside hip downfield while sustaining position. Hand fights and flips his head quickly when receiver looks back for the football at the top of their route.
Where He Fits: Press corner or a few yards off on the edge. Will be physical in run support. Matches up at the catch point in contested situations which is critical.
Draft Projection: Might run a slow forty, which will lead to overreaction. Top-40.
13. TE Jace Amaro, Texas Tech
NFL Comparison: Does some Jimmy Graham-like things, but not as tall.
Where He Wins: A matchup nightmare. Uses his frame against corners and safeties to gain a positional advantage. Can do the same with safeties while creating space with fluid routes. An easy mover against linebackers. Has always been a willing blocker in space, but he has added an inline blocking element to his game. Getting stronger at the catch point when climbing the ladder. Presents some yards after catch skills.
Where He Fits: A receiving tight end in 12 personnel. Can play out on the edge, in the slot, and has added an inline blocking element to his game.
Draft Projection: Mentioned he would return for his senior season, but that could change in January. Suffered a major injury in 2012. I expect a top-32 selection.
14. TE Eric Ebron, UNC
NFL Comparison: A physical Jared Cook Jr.
Where He Wins: An outstanding straight-line athlete with some bend/flexibility for his size. Will stretch defenses and then cut his route back to the quarterback. Presents a big target and can separate after the catch. Improving consistency at the catch point and a willing blocker.
Where He Fits: An inline option who can be split out to matchup with different defenders.
15. Off LOS LB Ryan Shazier, Ohio State
NFL Comparison: Some Lavonte David, but with more length. What many want Alec Ogletree to be.
Where He Wins: Long and lean. Projects to weakside linebacker. His speed to the edge is excellent. There are some wasted movements when working the backside, but once the target and ally are located he gets there in a hurry. Zone drops are smooth. Asked to blitz from inside and on the edge. Takes tight angles into the backfield on edge runs.
Where He Fits: Likely as a weakside linebacker who will stay on in nickel situations.
Draft Projection: Top-40.
16. DT Will Sutton, Arizona State
NFL Comparison: La’Roi Glover
Where He Wins: Sutton takes advantage of space. Whether it be shooting past reach blocks in the sliver of time afforded to him thanks to an animated first step and forward lean, or hand use and quick feet to generate that separation on his own, Sutton finishes with closing speed. His flexibility to bend and gain positive positioning is tough to find.
Where He Fits: Likely as a three technique in a four man front, could play some in pass rushing situations.
Draft Projection: Too much has been made about his added weight. He isn’t a different player. The foundation of Sutton’s game was never quickness, it was leverage and technical hand use. Still, he will get knocked for lack of size or added weight. Top-64.
17. DT Aaron Donald, Pitt
NFL Comparison: Mike Daniels.
Where He Wins: Excellent burst off the line to play on the other side of the line of scrimmage. Despite size knocks, he has good length and active hands. Able to get skinny to work through gaps and trash. Closing quickness is there to make tackles for loss.
Where He Fits: Obvious nickel or dime rusher, but likely not limited to that. He disrupts fronts. Could see him lining up in a variety of sub-package sets at 1, 3, or 5 technique.
Draft Projection: Top-40 due to measurement minimums, but he could go much, much higher.
18. OL Zack Martin, Notre Dame
NFL Comparison: Logan Mankins
Where He Wins: Held up at tackle well this season and during Senior Bowl week. Hands are so strong to prevent inside moves or latch on and control at the point of attack. Willing to sustain blocks with position and leg drive.
Where He Fits: Can make a good tackle but an outstanding guard. Wide base can be troublesome against agile edge rushers who weave inside and out.
Draft Projection: Has a legitimate chance to be the third offensive lineman selected. Likely as a tackle.
19. WR Odell Beckham Jr., LSU
NFL Comparison: Antonio Brown-plus
Where He Wins: Mainly an outside receiver but has seen snaps in the slot. An excellent intermediate to downfield threat, but likely has the skills near the LOS. He just was not used there. The downfield routes are not usually go or straight-line patterns, instead most of his success comes off breaks. Has quickness and explosion to his game, but does not mind winning at the catch point in contested situations.
Where He Fits: Shines on inside and outside breaking routes, like posts and corners, and also works towards his quarterback.
Draft Projection: Tough to know right now. Would not be surprised if he is the third WR off the board.
20. Edge player Dee Ford, Auburn
NFL Comparison: Robert Mathis
Where He Wins: Great burst off the snap and explosion upfield. Bends very well around the corner once beating offensive lineman's depth. Has also displayed hand use, leverage, and strength to keep his opposition on skates. The Texas A&M game shows the complete package.
Where He Fits: Line him up wide and let him run, likely as a 7 or 9 technique. Stance (stand up or three-point) does not matter to me.
Draft Projection: First-round
21. Edge player Anthony Barr, UCLA
NFL Comparison: Athleticism could be similar to Bruce Irvin.
Where He Wins: The lightning-quick pass rusher is able to gain an advantage on the edge and keep it thanks to his burst off the line, ability to cut off either foot towards the quarterback, and flexibility to bend around the corner. He closes distances quickly, which can be effective from a variety of alignments.
Where He Fits: Experience as a stand up rusher next to a three man front. Able to loop inside.
Draft Projection: Top-15 selection.
22. DT Ra'shede Hageman, Minnesota
NFL Comparison: Michael Brockers
Where He Wins: Predominantly used as a 1/0 technique this season. Obviously has a natural anchor. Improving hand use to create separation. Flashes of good athleticism for someone his size. Has the necessary power and leg drive to keep his opposition off balance.
Where He Fits: Appears his career can be taken on one two ways, either as a 1 in an even front or 5 technique in an odd front. I bet he will test well at the Combine, leading many to pick the latter, but I prefer him inside. Needs to deliver a consistent initial punch.
Draft Projection: First-round.
23. T Taylor Lewan, Michigan
NFL Comparison: Sebastian Vollmer
Where He Wins: Wide stance, wants to find contact through his hands. Has an aggressive mentality, but that can get him in trouble. Even if positioning is off balance, his strong base helps anchor and stop momentum. Better run blocker than pass protector, but wins when gaining a latch in either situation. Asked to pull inside and lead blocks well.
Where He Fits: Could see him on the left or right side.
Draft Projection: Obviously the NFL values offensive tackles. Possible top-15 selection.
24. Edge player Jeremiah Attaochu, Georgia Tech
NFL Comparison: Cliff Avril
Where He Wins: Line him up wide as a 7 or 9 and let him run to a spot in the backfield. Explosive off the snap and can win around the corner, on inside moves, or when engaging into the opponents’ chest.
Where He Fits: Many will attempt to project him to an outside linebacker role and drop Attaochu into coverage. I do not see it. He played that role through his junior season, but was so much better as a senior with limited responsibilities in a disruption role.
Draft Projection: Top-50
25. WR Brandin Cooks, Oregon State
NFL Comparison: Victor Cruz
Where He Wins: An explosive receiver that wins at every level of the field. Can take short passes for long gains after creating even more separation. Creates space on intermediate patterns. Tracks vertical passes exceptionally well. Takes the top off coverages. Has a large catch radius for someone his size.
Where He Fits: Some might only see a slot receiver, but he’s an accomplished edge target as well.
Draft Projection: Top-50.
26. CB Bradley Roby, Ohio State
NFL Comparison: Jason McCourty
Where He Wins: Attacks the jam or blocking receiver, frequently gets into the action. Will play off or press man coverage, attacks the catch point by cutting in front of the target. Even plays on special teams. Trails in close distances and prevents the sliver of separation at the catch point. Makes things difficult on the opposition.
Where He Fits: Not locked into one side of the field. Likely better in press due to physical nature, but shows he can attack and drive in off coverage.
Draft Projection: Poor performance against Jared Abbrederis, but likely top-32.
27. QB Johnny Manziel, Texas A&M
NFL Comparison: Tony Romo in terms of improvisational style.
Where He Wins: Wearing down defenses with tempo. A master of broken plays. Stretches teams laterally with his feet. Forces defenses to match up with quick passes followed by elongated plays with little time to rest in between.
Where He Fits: Has shown development from the pocket, but could thrive in a creative system. Thrives on broken plays. Drops his eye level, but can magically find open space and available passing lanes to connect on ridiculous completions. Will test tight single coverage. Gives his receiver a shot. Can also be a quick decision maker, which is key to Air Raid. Has made more throws outside the numbers and downfield this season. Obviously extremely mobile.
Draft Projection: Top-10.
28. QB Blake Bortles, UCF
NFL Comparison: A poor man’s Andrew Luck in terms of mannerisms, running ability and pocket movement.
Where He Wins: Strong pocket mover results in handling pressure others might fold under. Not afraid to work through multiple reads and multiple levels of the field. Spent a lot of time in shotgun, but throws from multiple arm angles. Does not hesitate when throwing to covered receivers to let them win at the catch point.
Where He Fits: Velocity has dropped since 2012, and I am not sure why. With that said, I don’t think he has limitations in terms of an offense in the NFL.
Draft Projection: A top-10 selection, possibly No. 1 overall.
29. QB Derek Carr, Fresno State
NFL Comparison: Jay Cutler
Where He Wins: Has an incredible arm, not only when discussing velocity but also touch. Is forced to throw a lot of screens, but flashes upside as a vertical passer when given the opportunity. Shows athleticism when scrambling outside of the pocket. Aren’t many windows he can’t test.
Where He Fits: Doesn’t always throw from a balanced base but has improved willingness to take a hit on release.
Draft Projection: Likely the fourth quarterback off the board.
30. G Xavier Su’a-Filo, UCLA
NFL Comparison: Louis Vasquez
Where He Wins: Has great balance, rarely on the ground. Does not possess a punishing first punch, but certainly has the movement skills to mirror defensive linemen and is active when looking for rushers.
Where He Fits: Has experience at tackle but should play guard at the next level.
Draft Projection: Possible first guard selected.
31. T Cyrus Kouandjio, Alabama
NFL Comparison: Doug Free
Where He Wins: Does occasionally bend at the waist but is athletic enough to recover and regain balance. Best when keeping separation thanks to great length. Can get a bit short in his drops, but again, has the athletic lower half to react and keep positioning. Better in pass protection than run blocking.
Where He Fits: Likely left tackle but could start on the right side as well. The two aren’t so different anymore.
Draft Projection: Has shown weaknesses this season, mainly in the form of overextension or slow feet off the snap, but talent is there. Top-30.
32. WR Kelvin Benjamin, FSU
NFL Comparison: Plaxico Burress
Where He Wins: Huge frame and length to win at the catch point in contested situations. Very good body control to slow down, time catch, and contort frame to haul in a catch. Long strides allow him to get downfield. Unafraid to work across the middle on deep posts. Able to make adjustments with the ball in the air that other receivers can’t. Displays strength after the catch.
Where He Fits: Can dominate in the red zone, on vertical passes, and with strength on slants. Mainly an outside receiver.
Draft Projection: Needs to improve consistencies in the form of drops, but he and Mike Evans could draw similar interest.
33. S Calvin Pryor, Louisville
NFL Comparison: T.J. Ward
Where He Wins: A huge hitter. Takes aggressive angles downhill. Wants to get in on the action. Very good flashes while playing in the box or closer to the LOS.
Where He Fits: Was forced to play a lot of single high safety or far off the LOS. That is not where he should play at the next level. Was late on passes, but delivered big hits at the catch point.
Draft Projection: Second safety selected, possible top-25 draft pick.
34. TE Troy Niklas, Notre Dame
NFL Comparison: Baby Gronk?
Where He Wins: Displays good speed when running down the seam. Has flashed winning with breaking routes or bodying defensive backs at the catch point. A very good blocker for the position.
Where He Fits: It is difficult to project Niklas right now. First, his best trait is blocking. He was kept in during pass protection situations because of it. But receiving and complete TE skills are there.
Draft Projection: Top-64 selection
35. TE Austin Seferian-Jenkins, Washington
NFL Comparison: Martellus Bennett
Where He Wins: Displays enough agility to be detached from the line of scrimmage but also can in inline. Has the body control to win at the catch point. Movement skills are there to win in the short and intermediate areas. Can be a more than adequate blocker when willing.
Where He Fits: Likely an inline TE but is not stuck there.
Draft Projection: Top-64.
36. DT Timmy Jernigan, FSU
NFL Comparison: Barry Cofield
Where He Wins: Can be very disruptive when gaining the momentum and balance advantage from the 1/0. Drives interior OL back and has quick feet to make a play in the backfield once creating the operable space. Much better when working upfield. Loves to utilize a pull and swim motion.
Where He Fits: I do not like Jernigan’s game from the 3 technique and/or when he is asked to work around blockers rather than through them. Run defense is hit or miss. I would rather he become an upfield disruptor close to the center.
Draft Projection: Could be the first defensive tackle off the board.
37. Edge player Marcus Smith, Louisville
NFL Comparison: Jason Worilds
Where He Wins: The more I watched the Cardinal, the more I liked him. Not only can he bend around tackles, Smith loves to chase from the backside and converts speed to power with good length and hand use. I know I keep bringing up hands and technical skill, but it really does set great rushers that can win on counter moves apart from good ones that have one trick.
Where He Fits: Like Attaochu, I don’t care how Smith lines up as much as where. He can stand up or play in a sub-package, hand in the dirt pass rushing role.
Draft Projection: Top-75
38. WR Marqise Lee, USC
NFL Comparison: Reggie Wayne
Where He Wins: Long, lean strider. Best as a straight-line receiver. Doesn't mind chipping the edge when in motion or finishing off runs with low shoulder. Obvious burst of quickness in first or second step, then it builds after that. Lines up in the slot and outside, smooth runner in his breaks to avoid contact. Frequently sent in motion. Can make people miss in the open field, but doesn't have outstanding lateral agility.
Where He Fits: Likely outside receiver who gets vertical with fluid routes and long speed. Can easily peel back patterns and create separation when working towards the quarterback.
Draft Projection: Has dealt with injuries, drops, and bad quarterback play this year. Still a top-40 selection.
39. CB Jason Verrett, TCU
NFL Comparison: Chris Harris Jr.
Where He Wins: Active player who doesn’t wait to react. Keeps close trailing distance and makes tackles for a loss on crossing routes by forcing receivers back. Quick in his movements once diagnosing and locating. Has great vision, baits quarterbacks from off man with success. Coverage versatile. Hides blitz very well.
Where He Fits: Plays a lot of off coverage, but that doesn’t mean he lacks physical play. Best role will likely be as a slot corner.
Draft Projection: First-round.
40. DL Kony Ealy, Missouri
41. OL Brandon Thomas, Clemson
42. T Jack Mewhort, Ohio State
43. WR Jarvis Landry, LSU
44. CB Kyle Fuller, Virginia Tech
45. CB Justin Gilbert, Oklahoma State
46. S Jimmie Ward, NIU
47. DB Lamarcus Joyner, FSU
48. CB Terrance Mitchell, Oregon
49. Off LOS LB Telvin Smith, FSU
50. RB Devonta Freeman, FSU
Smitty
DCC 4Life
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Did I miss it, or did Ealy not go in the first in any of those drafts?
Another guy I think may shoot up is Scott Crichton.
Last edited:
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I like that player...not a fan of Ealy.
Simpleton
DCC 4Life
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I'm not a huge fan of Ealy but I see why he is talked about as a top 20 pick. He has solid production and an ideal frame to play either DE spot or inside situationally in a 4-3.
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Mizzou has a pretty good track record with D-lineman in recent history.
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Top 32: Robinson, Bortles rising
Auburn OT, UCF quarterback move up in latest ranking of top NFL prospects
Updated: February 5, 2014, 8:12 PM ET
By Todd McShay | ESPN Insider
The major postseason all-star games are now behind us, meaning that the NFL combine is the next big draft event on the horizon.
What does our board of Top 32 draft prospects look like right now, after we've seen some of the highest-ranked prospects in person and studied several more on tape? Here is our updated ranking of the best prospects for the 2014 NFL draft, with an SEC offensive lineman climbing into the top three and a fast-rising quarterback moving up to No. 12.
(Note: The scouting reports will largely stay the same for each edition of these rankings, but we'll update as needed based on recent performances and news developments. Draft-eligible non-seniors are noted with an asterisk.)
1
Jadeveon Clowney*
COLLEGE: South Carolina
AGE: 20
HT: 6-5
WT: 258
POS: DE
Tkl 41
Sack 3.0
Int 0
Analysis: Clowney made an appearance at last week's Senior Bowl, meeting with NFL team officials and media members -- including saying he'll participate in all the drills at the NFL combine in February. Clowney has been scrutinized a lot over the past several months (relating to questions about his motor/effort, production and a couple of speeding tickets), but he remains the most talented player in this class. He has a rare blend of size, athleticism, strength and speed, and he can beat opponents with either his speed rush or his bull rush.
PREVIOUS RANK: 1 | PLAYER CARD
2
Greg Robinson*
COLLEGE: Auburn
AGE: 21
HT: 6-5
WT: 320
POS: OT
GP 13
GS 13
Analysis: Robinson not only has the size and frame of a massive right tackle, but also the natural athleticism and agility that will allow him to thrive at left tackle. Auburn's run-heavy offensive system gave him more opportunities to shine than most tackles get, but even taking that into account he really jumps out on tape and is dominant at the point of attack. He was a star in the Tigers' BCS title game loss to Florida State.
PREVIOUS RANK: 6 | PLAYER CARD
3
Jake Matthews
COLLEGE: Texas A&M
AGE: 21
HT: 6-5
WT: 309
POS: OT
GP 13
GS 13
Analysis: Matthews doesn't have Robinson's physical tools, but he is a very effective blocker both against the run and in pass protection. He possesses versatility, having played both right and left tackle for the Aggies, in addition to good durability and pedigree (he's the son of Bruce Matthews).
PREVIOUS RANK: 2 | PLAYER CARD
4
Sammy Watkins*
COLLEGE: Clemson
AGE: 20
HT: 6-0
WT: 205
POS: WR
Rec 101
Yds 1464
YPC 14.5
TD 12
Analysis: Watkins is the top wide receiver prospect in a deep class, and one of the top overall players on our board. He has excellent speed, acceleration and run-after-catch abilities, and while we'll have to wait and see what he runs in the 40 (he might not post as good a time as, say, USC's Marqise Lee), he has very good football speed. He was dominant in Clemson's Orange Bowl win over Ohio State, catching 16 passes for 227 yards and 2 TDs.
PREVIOUS RANK: 4 | PLAYER CARD
5
Timmy Jernigan*
COLLEGE: FSU
AGE: 20
HT: 6-2
WT: 298
POS: DT
Tkl 53
Sack 4.5
Int 0
Analysis: Jernigan is a very disruptive player, a classic 3-technique defensive tackle who can get into opposing backfields and wreak havoc with his very good first-step quickness and range versus the run.
PREVIOUS RANK: 7 | PLAYER CARD
6
Anthony Barr
COLLEGE: UCLA
AGE: 21
HT: 6-4
WT: 244
POS: OLB
Tkl 66
Sack 10.0
Int 0
Analysis: Barr is a disruptive player with very good first-step quickness and closing burst as a pass-rusher and a run-defender. He also possesses ideal size, length and versatility for his position, and he's a hard worker. But we were a little surprised when we went to study his tape from this season -- we didn't see as much explosiveness as we'd expected. We'll continue to update his evaluation as we study him further.
PREVIOUS RANK: 3 | PLAYER CARD
7
C.J. Mosley
COLLEGE: Alabama
AGE: 21
HT: 6-2
WT: 228
POS: LB
Tkl 106
Sack 0
Int 0
Analysis: Mosley is one of the top defensive playmakers in this draft class. He has good change-of-direction ability and closing burst against the run, good range in pass coverage and above-average instincts as a pass-rusher. Teams will have to look into his medical history (shoulder surgery, dislocated elbow, dislocated hip).
PREVIOUS RANK: 8 | PLAYER CARD
8
Khalil Mack
COLLEGE: Buffalo
AGE: 22
HT: 6-2
WT: 245
POS: OLB
Tkl 100
Sack 10.5
Int 3
Analysis: Mack was very productive at Buffalo, and he possesses impressive upper-body power, explosiveness and closing burst. He also provides great versatility, as he excels as a pass-rusher, run-defender and in pass coverage.
PREVIOUS RANK: 5 | PLAYER CARD
9
Teddy Bridgewater*
COLLEGE: Louisville
AGE: 20
HT: 6-2
WT: 198
POS: QB
Comp 303
Att 427
Pct 71.0
Yds 3970
TDs 31
INT 4
Analysis: Bridgewater continues to hang onto the No. 1 spot among QBs on our board, although there are questions about his long-term durability in the NFL, which is something the QB-needy teams picking in the first eight picks will have to consider. But his anticipation and accuracy is much more natural than the other QBs in this class, and he also has an impressive command of his offense.
PREVIOUS RANK: 12 | PLAYER CARD
10
Marqise Lee*
COLLEGE: USC
AGE: 21
HT: 6-0
WT: 195
POS: WR
Rec 57
Yds 791
YPC 13.9
TD 4
Analysis: Lee has the rare combination of being able to beat defenses with his big league speed as a vertical route-runner and also after the catch. He doesn't have the size of a couple of the other receiving prospects in this class, but his speed, quickness and acceleration make him a dangerous weapon in the passing game.
PREVIOUS RANK: 9 | PLAYER CARD
11
Justin Gilbert
COLLEGE: Oklahoma State
AGE: 22
HT: 6-0
WT: 200
POS: CB
Tkl 42
Sack 0
Int 7
Analysis: Gilbert is a playmaker at the cornerback position who is good in coverage as well as being willing and able to help his team in run support. He also possesses good size for the position, which is an asset against bigger receivers.
PREVIOUS RANK: 11 | PLAYER CARD
12
Blake Bortles*
COLLEGE: UCF
AGE: 21
HT: 6-4
WT: 228
POS: QB
Comp 259
Att 382
Pct 67.8
Yds 3581
TD 25
Int 9
Analysis: Bortles has a strong arm and very good mobility and playmaking ability for his size. He isn't Cam Newton in terms of his speed or agility (he's more of a cross between Ben Roethlisberger and Joe Flacco), but he's more creative than he gets credit for and can make plays with his legs and make throws with defenders hanging from his frame. He is still a work in progress, and needs to improve his mechanics and decision-making, but I've yet to hear one negative thing as it pertains to his mental makeup and intangibles.
PREVIOUS RANK: 15 | PLAYER CARD
13
Mike Evans*
COLLEGE: Texas A&M
AGE: 20
HT: 6-4
WT: 220
POS: WR
Rec 69
Yds 1394
YPC 20.2
TD 12
Analysis: The more I watch Evans on tape, the more I like his game. He is a long-strider who takes a while to accelerate, but for the most part that doesn't matter because he has good size and the ability to separate when the ball is in the air. He has strong hands, is a tough, competitive runner after the catch and is the best receiver in this class at going up and getting the ball. I've heard he's expected to test well at the combine, too.
PREVIOUS RANK: 20 | PLAYER CARD
14
Taylor Lewan
COLLEGE: Michigan
AGE: 22
HT: 6-7
WT: 314
POS: OT
GP 13
GS 13
Analysis: Lewan doesn't always make it look pretty, but he is a very effective blocker in the running game and in pass protection. He has been even stronger and more consistent this season.
PREVIOUS RANK: 10 | PLAYER CARD
15
Stephon Tuitt*
COLLEGE: Notre Dame
AGE: 20
HT: 6-6
WT: 303
POS: DE
Tkl 49
Sack 7.5
Int 1
Analysis: Tuitt has very good athleticism for his size, and his versatility (he can play the 3-technique in a four-man front or the 5-technique in a three-man line) adds to his value as a prospect. He does a very good job against the run, and can also get to the QB on occasion (7.5 sacks in 2013).
PREVIOUS RANK: 13 | PLAYER CARD
16
Ha Ha Clinton-Dix*
COLLEGE: Alabama
AGE: 20
HT: 6-1
WT: 208
POS: S
Tkl 50
Sack 0
Int 2
Analysis: Clinton-Dix is a playmaker at the safety position, with excellent awareness and above-average anticipation and instincts. He also has the range, tackling ability and ball skills required to excel as an NFL safety.
PREVIOUS RANK: 16 | PLAYER CARD
17
Louis Nix III
COLLEGE: Notre Dame
AGE: 22
HT: 6-3
WT: 340
POS: DT
Tkl 27
Sack 0
Int 0
Analysis: Nix struggled some in 2013 after a dominant 2012 campaign, and his stock could suffer as a result. But it's hard to see him falling out of the first round, given his physical abilities. He is a disruptive, space-eating, two-gap nose tackle with ideal size and above-average lateral agility and quickness for the position, and his snap anticipation and first-step quickness are excellent.
PREVIOUS RANK: 17 | PLAYER CARD
18
Darqueze Dennard
COLLEGE: Michigan State
AGE: 22
HT: 5-11
WT: 189
POS: CB
Tkl 62
Sack 0
Int 4
Analysis: Dennard is a playmaker who is at his best in press coverage, utilizing his very good instincts and route-recognition skills. He doesn't have great strength, but he plays with an edge, fights off blocks and doesn't shy away from contact.
PREVIOUS RANK: 19 | PLAYER CARD
19
Zack Martin
COLLEGE: Notre Dame
AGE: 23
HT: 6-4
WT: 308
POS: OT
GP 13
GS 13
Analysis: We thought that Martin was the best player at the Senior Bowl in Mobile, Ala., last week. His lack of ideal length (32¼-inch arms) is a concern at the tackle position, and he could quickly develop into a high-level guard in the NFL if he's forced to move inside, but we think he has the potential to wind up as a successful left or right tackle in the pros. He has quick feet, good hand placement and plays with toughness and an edge.
PREVIOUS RANK: 31 | PLAYER CARD
20
Ra'Shede Hageman
COLLEGE: Minnesota
AGE: 23
HT: 6-5
WT: 307
POS: DT
Tkl 38
Sack 2.0
Int 1
Analysis: Hageman is an outstanding athlete who has room to improve in terms of his hand usage and playing with leverage, but he was very effective as a bull-rusher and run-defender at Minnesota and could be even better as a pro. We would have liked to have seen more consistency out of him at the Senior Bowl, and there is a boom-or-bust quality to his game, but theres no denying his talent.
PREVIOUS RANK: 22 | PLAYER CARD
21
Johnny Manziel*
COLLEGE: Texas A&M
AGE: 20
HT: 6-0
WT: 200
POS: QB
Comp 300
Att 429
Pct 69.9
Yds 4114
TD 37
Int 13
Analysis: Manziel has improved his arm strength, consistency with his ball placement and pocket presence this season, but what makes him special is his ability to improvise. He's the best at creating beyond the called play among QBs in this class, and he's one of the best I've seen at it in 15 years of evaluating prospects. The concerns with him involve his decision-making both on and off the field, and whether he can stay healthy given his lack of ideal size and style of play.
PREVIOUS RANK: 18 | PLAYER CARD
22
Eric Ebron*
COLLEGE: UNC
AGE: 20
HT: 6-4
WT: 231
POS: TE
Rec 62
Yds 973
YPC 15.7
TD 3
Analysis: Ebron is a tough matchup threat in the passing game because of his versatility to line up in-line, flexed out in the slot or split out wide, and his above-average speed and run-after-catch ability.
PREVIOUS RANK: 14 | PLAYER CARD
23
Loucheiz Purifoy*
COLLEGE: Florida
AGE: 20
HT: 6-0
WT: 185
POS: CB
Tkl 24
Sack 2.0
Int 2
Analysis: Purifoy is still raw as a cover corner, but he is an elite athlete, with very good quickness, length and top-end speed. He also has great playmaking instincts and can stop and start on a dime, and is aggressive in run support.
PREVIOUS RANK: 27 | PLAYER CARD
24
Cyrus Kouandjio*
COLLEGE: Alabama
AGE: 20
HT: 6-5
WT: 310
POS: OT
GP 13
GS 13
Analysis: Kouandjio is one of the most physically gifted tackle prospects in this class, and has prototypical measurements for an NFL offensive tackle. He struggled with his consistency while at Alabama, but did show signs of improvement at different points during the 2013 season, playing more under control and with more balance.
PREVIOUS RANK: 21 | PLAYER CARD
25
Aaron Donald
COLLEGE: Pittsburgh
AGE: 22
HT: 6-0
WT: 281
POS: DT
Tkl 59
Sack 11.0
Int 0
Analysis: Donald is a quick, disruptive 3-technique who was one of the most productive defensive players in college football last season. The biggest knock on him is his short frame, but hes been able to overcome that throughout his career because of his excellent snap anticipation and first-step quickness. He also uses his hands well, and has good instincts once he gets into the backfield.
PREVIOUS RANK: 32 | PLAYER CARD
26
Kony Ealy*
COLLEGE: Missouri
AGE: 22
HT: 6-4
WT: 275
POS: DE
Tkl 42
Sack 8.0
Int 1
Analysis: Ealy is a versatile prospect who played multiple positions along the defensive line for Mizzou, including defensive end and as an interior rusher on passing downs. He has a very good motor, a very quick first step for his size as a pass-rusher and is a very active run-defender who is at his best on the move.
PREVIOUS RANK: 30 | PLAYER CARD
27
Lamarcus Joyner
COLLEGE: Florida State
AGE: 23
HT: 5-8
WT: 187
POS: CB
Tkl 69
Sack 5.5
Int 2
Analysis: Joyner played a hybrid safety/cornerback position for the Seminoles, similar to the nickel corner role that Tyrann Mathieu played at LSU. That's a position that's becoming more valuable in the NFL, with so many teams spreading out to three-receiver sets. Having a guy like Joyner with the versatility to line up in the slot in man-to-man or zone coverages and also be effective in run support and a threat as a pass-rusher is very useful. Joyner is undersized (5-8, 187 pounds), but so was Mathieu when he came out, and he had a heck of a rookie season. Joyner is competitive and a playmaker.
PREVIOUS RANK: NR | PLAYER CARD
28
Jason Verrett
COLLEGE: TCU
AGE: 22
HT: 5-9
WT: 174
POS: CB
Tkl 39
Sack 1.0
Int 2
Analysis: Verrett is an adequate run-defender despite his lack of size (5-9, 174 pounds), as he is aggressive and attacks blockers, but where he really stands out is in pass coverage. He is a quick-twitched athlete with explosive movement skills including good change-of-direction ability and short-area burst. He has above-average anticipation and playmaking instincts, in addition to very good hands and body control.
PREVIOUS RANK: NR | PLAYER CARD
29
Morgan Moses
COLLEGE: Virginia
AGE: 22
HT: 6-6
WT: 332
POS: OT
GP 12
GS 12
Analysis: Moses has the potential to develop into a solid starting tackle in the NFL because of his natural ability. He has good size and length and looks a lot more natural at left tackle since switching over from right tackle after the 2012 season. He is still working on his technique and consistency, but has shown improvement in both areas.
PREVIOUS RANK: 23 | PLAYER CARD
30
Davante Adams*
COLLEGE: Fresno State
AGE: 21
HT: 6-2
WT: 212
POS: WR
Rec 131
Yds 1718
YPC 13.1
TD 24
Analysis: If Adams were just a little bit faster, he'd be several spots higher in this ranking. Outside of elite speed, he has everything you look for in a receiver prospect, with really good hands, good size and strength, and good run-after-catch abilities.
PREVIOUS RANK: NR | PLAYER CARD
31
Calvin Pryor*
COLLEGE: Louisville
AGE: 22
HT: 6-2
WT: 208
POS: S
Tkl 65
Sack 0
Int 3
Analysis: We haven't been able to do a full evaluation of Pryor yet, but what we've seen so far has been very impressive. He's a hammer in run support, and while he spends a lot of time in the box, he showed good range in zone coverage (we haven't yet seen what he can do in man coverage). He is an instinctive player, and reminds us some of Jonathan Cyprien (Jaguars) and D.J. Swearinger (Texans).
PREVIOUS RANK: NR | PLAYER CARD
32
Carlos Hyde
COLLEGE: Ohio State
AGE: 22
HT: 5-11
WT: 238
POS: RB
Rush 208
Yds 1521
YPC 7.3
TD 15
Analysis: Given his size, it isn't surprising that Hyde possesses good power and strength as an inside runner. But what really stands out about him is how well he moves laterally, which allows him to get in and out of small creases quickly. He also has good acceleration off of his cuts.
PREVIOUS RANK: 28 | PLAYER CARD
Auburn OT, UCF quarterback move up in latest ranking of top NFL prospects
Updated: February 5, 2014, 8:12 PM ET
By Todd McShay | ESPN Insider
The major postseason all-star games are now behind us, meaning that the NFL combine is the next big draft event on the horizon.
What does our board of Top 32 draft prospects look like right now, after we've seen some of the highest-ranked prospects in person and studied several more on tape? Here is our updated ranking of the best prospects for the 2014 NFL draft, with an SEC offensive lineman climbing into the top three and a fast-rising quarterback moving up to No. 12.
(Note: The scouting reports will largely stay the same for each edition of these rankings, but we'll update as needed based on recent performances and news developments. Draft-eligible non-seniors are noted with an asterisk.)
1
Jadeveon Clowney*
COLLEGE: South Carolina
AGE: 20
HT: 6-5
WT: 258
POS: DE
Tkl 41
Sack 3.0
Int 0
Analysis: Clowney made an appearance at last week's Senior Bowl, meeting with NFL team officials and media members -- including saying he'll participate in all the drills at the NFL combine in February. Clowney has been scrutinized a lot over the past several months (relating to questions about his motor/effort, production and a couple of speeding tickets), but he remains the most talented player in this class. He has a rare blend of size, athleticism, strength and speed, and he can beat opponents with either his speed rush or his bull rush.
PREVIOUS RANK: 1 | PLAYER CARD
2
Greg Robinson*
COLLEGE: Auburn
AGE: 21
HT: 6-5
WT: 320
POS: OT
GP 13
GS 13
Analysis: Robinson not only has the size and frame of a massive right tackle, but also the natural athleticism and agility that will allow him to thrive at left tackle. Auburn's run-heavy offensive system gave him more opportunities to shine than most tackles get, but even taking that into account he really jumps out on tape and is dominant at the point of attack. He was a star in the Tigers' BCS title game loss to Florida State.
PREVIOUS RANK: 6 | PLAYER CARD
3
Jake Matthews
COLLEGE: Texas A&M
AGE: 21
HT: 6-5
WT: 309
POS: OT
GP 13
GS 13
Analysis: Matthews doesn't have Robinson's physical tools, but he is a very effective blocker both against the run and in pass protection. He possesses versatility, having played both right and left tackle for the Aggies, in addition to good durability and pedigree (he's the son of Bruce Matthews).
PREVIOUS RANK: 2 | PLAYER CARD
4
Sammy Watkins*
COLLEGE: Clemson
AGE: 20
HT: 6-0
WT: 205
POS: WR
Rec 101
Yds 1464
YPC 14.5
TD 12
Analysis: Watkins is the top wide receiver prospect in a deep class, and one of the top overall players on our board. He has excellent speed, acceleration and run-after-catch abilities, and while we'll have to wait and see what he runs in the 40 (he might not post as good a time as, say, USC's Marqise Lee), he has very good football speed. He was dominant in Clemson's Orange Bowl win over Ohio State, catching 16 passes for 227 yards and 2 TDs.
PREVIOUS RANK: 4 | PLAYER CARD
5
Timmy Jernigan*
COLLEGE: FSU
AGE: 20
HT: 6-2
WT: 298
POS: DT
Tkl 53
Sack 4.5
Int 0
Analysis: Jernigan is a very disruptive player, a classic 3-technique defensive tackle who can get into opposing backfields and wreak havoc with his very good first-step quickness and range versus the run.
PREVIOUS RANK: 7 | PLAYER CARD
6
Anthony Barr
COLLEGE: UCLA
AGE: 21
HT: 6-4
WT: 244
POS: OLB
Tkl 66
Sack 10.0
Int 0
Analysis: Barr is a disruptive player with very good first-step quickness and closing burst as a pass-rusher and a run-defender. He also possesses ideal size, length and versatility for his position, and he's a hard worker. But we were a little surprised when we went to study his tape from this season -- we didn't see as much explosiveness as we'd expected. We'll continue to update his evaluation as we study him further.
PREVIOUS RANK: 3 | PLAYER CARD
7
C.J. Mosley
COLLEGE: Alabama
AGE: 21
HT: 6-2
WT: 228
POS: LB
Tkl 106
Sack 0
Int 0
Analysis: Mosley is one of the top defensive playmakers in this draft class. He has good change-of-direction ability and closing burst against the run, good range in pass coverage and above-average instincts as a pass-rusher. Teams will have to look into his medical history (shoulder surgery, dislocated elbow, dislocated hip).
PREVIOUS RANK: 8 | PLAYER CARD
8
Khalil Mack
COLLEGE: Buffalo
AGE: 22
HT: 6-2
WT: 245
POS: OLB
Tkl 100
Sack 10.5
Int 3
Analysis: Mack was very productive at Buffalo, and he possesses impressive upper-body power, explosiveness and closing burst. He also provides great versatility, as he excels as a pass-rusher, run-defender and in pass coverage.
PREVIOUS RANK: 5 | PLAYER CARD
9
Teddy Bridgewater*
COLLEGE: Louisville
AGE: 20
HT: 6-2
WT: 198
POS: QB
Comp 303
Att 427
Pct 71.0
Yds 3970
TDs 31
INT 4
Analysis: Bridgewater continues to hang onto the No. 1 spot among QBs on our board, although there are questions about his long-term durability in the NFL, which is something the QB-needy teams picking in the first eight picks will have to consider. But his anticipation and accuracy is much more natural than the other QBs in this class, and he also has an impressive command of his offense.
PREVIOUS RANK: 12 | PLAYER CARD
10
Marqise Lee*
COLLEGE: USC
AGE: 21
HT: 6-0
WT: 195
POS: WR
Rec 57
Yds 791
YPC 13.9
TD 4
Analysis: Lee has the rare combination of being able to beat defenses with his big league speed as a vertical route-runner and also after the catch. He doesn't have the size of a couple of the other receiving prospects in this class, but his speed, quickness and acceleration make him a dangerous weapon in the passing game.
PREVIOUS RANK: 9 | PLAYER CARD
11
Justin Gilbert
COLLEGE: Oklahoma State
AGE: 22
HT: 6-0
WT: 200
POS: CB
Tkl 42
Sack 0
Int 7
Analysis: Gilbert is a playmaker at the cornerback position who is good in coverage as well as being willing and able to help his team in run support. He also possesses good size for the position, which is an asset against bigger receivers.
PREVIOUS RANK: 11 | PLAYER CARD
12
Blake Bortles*
COLLEGE: UCF
AGE: 21
HT: 6-4
WT: 228
POS: QB
Comp 259
Att 382
Pct 67.8
Yds 3581
TD 25
Int 9
Analysis: Bortles has a strong arm and very good mobility and playmaking ability for his size. He isn't Cam Newton in terms of his speed or agility (he's more of a cross between Ben Roethlisberger and Joe Flacco), but he's more creative than he gets credit for and can make plays with his legs and make throws with defenders hanging from his frame. He is still a work in progress, and needs to improve his mechanics and decision-making, but I've yet to hear one negative thing as it pertains to his mental makeup and intangibles.
PREVIOUS RANK: 15 | PLAYER CARD
13
Mike Evans*
COLLEGE: Texas A&M
AGE: 20
HT: 6-4
WT: 220
POS: WR
Rec 69
Yds 1394
YPC 20.2
TD 12
Analysis: The more I watch Evans on tape, the more I like his game. He is a long-strider who takes a while to accelerate, but for the most part that doesn't matter because he has good size and the ability to separate when the ball is in the air. He has strong hands, is a tough, competitive runner after the catch and is the best receiver in this class at going up and getting the ball. I've heard he's expected to test well at the combine, too.
PREVIOUS RANK: 20 | PLAYER CARD
14
Taylor Lewan
COLLEGE: Michigan
AGE: 22
HT: 6-7
WT: 314
POS: OT
GP 13
GS 13
Analysis: Lewan doesn't always make it look pretty, but he is a very effective blocker in the running game and in pass protection. He has been even stronger and more consistent this season.
PREVIOUS RANK: 10 | PLAYER CARD
15
Stephon Tuitt*
COLLEGE: Notre Dame
AGE: 20
HT: 6-6
WT: 303
POS: DE
Tkl 49
Sack 7.5
Int 1
Analysis: Tuitt has very good athleticism for his size, and his versatility (he can play the 3-technique in a four-man front or the 5-technique in a three-man line) adds to his value as a prospect. He does a very good job against the run, and can also get to the QB on occasion (7.5 sacks in 2013).
PREVIOUS RANK: 13 | PLAYER CARD
16
Ha Ha Clinton-Dix*
COLLEGE: Alabama
AGE: 20
HT: 6-1
WT: 208
POS: S
Tkl 50
Sack 0
Int 2
Analysis: Clinton-Dix is a playmaker at the safety position, with excellent awareness and above-average anticipation and instincts. He also has the range, tackling ability and ball skills required to excel as an NFL safety.
PREVIOUS RANK: 16 | PLAYER CARD
17
Louis Nix III
COLLEGE: Notre Dame
AGE: 22
HT: 6-3
WT: 340
POS: DT
Tkl 27
Sack 0
Int 0
Analysis: Nix struggled some in 2013 after a dominant 2012 campaign, and his stock could suffer as a result. But it's hard to see him falling out of the first round, given his physical abilities. He is a disruptive, space-eating, two-gap nose tackle with ideal size and above-average lateral agility and quickness for the position, and his snap anticipation and first-step quickness are excellent.
PREVIOUS RANK: 17 | PLAYER CARD
18
Darqueze Dennard
COLLEGE: Michigan State
AGE: 22
HT: 5-11
WT: 189
POS: CB
Tkl 62
Sack 0
Int 4
Analysis: Dennard is a playmaker who is at his best in press coverage, utilizing his very good instincts and route-recognition skills. He doesn't have great strength, but he plays with an edge, fights off blocks and doesn't shy away from contact.
PREVIOUS RANK: 19 | PLAYER CARD
19
Zack Martin
COLLEGE: Notre Dame
AGE: 23
HT: 6-4
WT: 308
POS: OT
GP 13
GS 13
Analysis: We thought that Martin was the best player at the Senior Bowl in Mobile, Ala., last week. His lack of ideal length (32¼-inch arms) is a concern at the tackle position, and he could quickly develop into a high-level guard in the NFL if he's forced to move inside, but we think he has the potential to wind up as a successful left or right tackle in the pros. He has quick feet, good hand placement and plays with toughness and an edge.
PREVIOUS RANK: 31 | PLAYER CARD
20
Ra'Shede Hageman
COLLEGE: Minnesota
AGE: 23
HT: 6-5
WT: 307
POS: DT
Tkl 38
Sack 2.0
Int 1
Analysis: Hageman is an outstanding athlete who has room to improve in terms of his hand usage and playing with leverage, but he was very effective as a bull-rusher and run-defender at Minnesota and could be even better as a pro. We would have liked to have seen more consistency out of him at the Senior Bowl, and there is a boom-or-bust quality to his game, but theres no denying his talent.
PREVIOUS RANK: 22 | PLAYER CARD
21
Johnny Manziel*
COLLEGE: Texas A&M
AGE: 20
HT: 6-0
WT: 200
POS: QB
Comp 300
Att 429
Pct 69.9
Yds 4114
TD 37
Int 13
Analysis: Manziel has improved his arm strength, consistency with his ball placement and pocket presence this season, but what makes him special is his ability to improvise. He's the best at creating beyond the called play among QBs in this class, and he's one of the best I've seen at it in 15 years of evaluating prospects. The concerns with him involve his decision-making both on and off the field, and whether he can stay healthy given his lack of ideal size and style of play.
PREVIOUS RANK: 18 | PLAYER CARD
22
Eric Ebron*
COLLEGE: UNC
AGE: 20
HT: 6-4
WT: 231
POS: TE
Rec 62
Yds 973
YPC 15.7
TD 3
Analysis: Ebron is a tough matchup threat in the passing game because of his versatility to line up in-line, flexed out in the slot or split out wide, and his above-average speed and run-after-catch ability.
PREVIOUS RANK: 14 | PLAYER CARD
23
Loucheiz Purifoy*
COLLEGE: Florida
AGE: 20
HT: 6-0
WT: 185
POS: CB
Tkl 24
Sack 2.0
Int 2
Analysis: Purifoy is still raw as a cover corner, but he is an elite athlete, with very good quickness, length and top-end speed. He also has great playmaking instincts and can stop and start on a dime, and is aggressive in run support.
PREVIOUS RANK: 27 | PLAYER CARD
24
Cyrus Kouandjio*
COLLEGE: Alabama
AGE: 20
HT: 6-5
WT: 310
POS: OT
GP 13
GS 13
Analysis: Kouandjio is one of the most physically gifted tackle prospects in this class, and has prototypical measurements for an NFL offensive tackle. He struggled with his consistency while at Alabama, but did show signs of improvement at different points during the 2013 season, playing more under control and with more balance.
PREVIOUS RANK: 21 | PLAYER CARD
25
Aaron Donald
COLLEGE: Pittsburgh
AGE: 22
HT: 6-0
WT: 281
POS: DT
Tkl 59
Sack 11.0
Int 0
Analysis: Donald is a quick, disruptive 3-technique who was one of the most productive defensive players in college football last season. The biggest knock on him is his short frame, but hes been able to overcome that throughout his career because of his excellent snap anticipation and first-step quickness. He also uses his hands well, and has good instincts once he gets into the backfield.
PREVIOUS RANK: 32 | PLAYER CARD
26
Kony Ealy*
COLLEGE: Missouri
AGE: 22
HT: 6-4
WT: 275
POS: DE
Tkl 42
Sack 8.0
Int 1
Analysis: Ealy is a versatile prospect who played multiple positions along the defensive line for Mizzou, including defensive end and as an interior rusher on passing downs. He has a very good motor, a very quick first step for his size as a pass-rusher and is a very active run-defender who is at his best on the move.
PREVIOUS RANK: 30 | PLAYER CARD
27
Lamarcus Joyner
COLLEGE: Florida State
AGE: 23
HT: 5-8
WT: 187
POS: CB
Tkl 69
Sack 5.5
Int 2
Analysis: Joyner played a hybrid safety/cornerback position for the Seminoles, similar to the nickel corner role that Tyrann Mathieu played at LSU. That's a position that's becoming more valuable in the NFL, with so many teams spreading out to three-receiver sets. Having a guy like Joyner with the versatility to line up in the slot in man-to-man or zone coverages and also be effective in run support and a threat as a pass-rusher is very useful. Joyner is undersized (5-8, 187 pounds), but so was Mathieu when he came out, and he had a heck of a rookie season. Joyner is competitive and a playmaker.
PREVIOUS RANK: NR | PLAYER CARD
28
Jason Verrett
COLLEGE: TCU
AGE: 22
HT: 5-9
WT: 174
POS: CB
Tkl 39
Sack 1.0
Int 2
Analysis: Verrett is an adequate run-defender despite his lack of size (5-9, 174 pounds), as he is aggressive and attacks blockers, but where he really stands out is in pass coverage. He is a quick-twitched athlete with explosive movement skills including good change-of-direction ability and short-area burst. He has above-average anticipation and playmaking instincts, in addition to very good hands and body control.
PREVIOUS RANK: NR | PLAYER CARD
29
Morgan Moses
COLLEGE: Virginia
AGE: 22
HT: 6-6
WT: 332
POS: OT
GP 12
GS 12
Analysis: Moses has the potential to develop into a solid starting tackle in the NFL because of his natural ability. He has good size and length and looks a lot more natural at left tackle since switching over from right tackle after the 2012 season. He is still working on his technique and consistency, but has shown improvement in both areas.
PREVIOUS RANK: 23 | PLAYER CARD
30
Davante Adams*
COLLEGE: Fresno State
AGE: 21
HT: 6-2
WT: 212
POS: WR
Rec 131
Yds 1718
YPC 13.1
TD 24
Analysis: If Adams were just a little bit faster, he'd be several spots higher in this ranking. Outside of elite speed, he has everything you look for in a receiver prospect, with really good hands, good size and strength, and good run-after-catch abilities.
PREVIOUS RANK: NR | PLAYER CARD
31
Calvin Pryor*
COLLEGE: Louisville
AGE: 22
HT: 6-2
WT: 208
POS: S
Tkl 65
Sack 0
Int 3
Analysis: We haven't been able to do a full evaluation of Pryor yet, but what we've seen so far has been very impressive. He's a hammer in run support, and while he spends a lot of time in the box, he showed good range in zone coverage (we haven't yet seen what he can do in man coverage). He is an instinctive player, and reminds us some of Jonathan Cyprien (Jaguars) and D.J. Swearinger (Texans).
PREVIOUS RANK: NR | PLAYER CARD
32
Carlos Hyde
COLLEGE: Ohio State
AGE: 22
HT: 5-11
WT: 238
POS: RB
Rush 208
Yds 1521
YPC 7.3
TD 15
Analysis: Given his size, it isn't surprising that Hyde possesses good power and strength as an inside runner. But what really stands out about him is how well he moves laterally, which allows him to get in and out of small creases quickly. He also has good acceleration off of his cuts.
PREVIOUS RANK: 28 | PLAYER CARD
D
Deuce
Guest
Jernigan in the top 5? Yikes.