Minnesota has been on the clock for a couple weeks now with the top two picks all but made. The Vikings have tried desperately to trade out of that pick because they aren't sold on Matt Khalil and it's too high to take Morris Claiborne.
This could be one of the most active drafts in recent memory for trades because basically every team from the 3 to 16 wants to trade out.
That means teams unhappy with their slot could reach for players if they can't trade down, as well as teams in the 20's could trade up if their favorite player is falling.
Even in the last few days, there has been some major re-shuffling of the board with the late rising of guys like Chandler Jones and Shea McClellin, coupled with the falling of Quinton Coples and Courtney Upshaw (neither of which I understand).
It's the perfect year for the draft to be on prime time television because there could be high drama with trades and last-second moves.
I will project some trades, but obviously it can be impossible to predict.
1.) Indianapolis Colts (2-14) Andrew Luck QB Stanford (Pos. Rank: 1, Overall Rank: 1)
Needs:OL,RB,LB,WR,CB,DT
Any discussion about Luck vs. RG3 here is preposterous. Even though we've known Luck was going to be the pick for over a year, people have wanted to debate the merits of each quarterback since the college football season ended. Luck has been compared to John Elway as a prospect. I don't know what else you need to know. Luck has taken a middling college program to two straight BCS Bowl games. In terms of what he was asked to do on the field and his production level, he's one of the most NFL-ready quarterback prospects ever, including Elway. Say what you want about his arm strength, but Luck is everything you could ask for from a franchise quarterback and is one of the few players who can handle walking into the shadow of Peyton Manning.
2.) Washington Redskins (F/ Rams) Robert Griffin III QB Baylor (Pos. Rank: 2, Overall Rank: 2)
Needs: QB,DL,OL,TE,DB
We've known since January that Griffin III was the likely #2 pick, it was simply a matter of determining who would make that pick. The Redskins gave up an absolute bounty for RG3 and will take the future franchise quarterback. One of the lessons I learned from Cam Newton is that just because a quarterback isn't asked to make tight throws in NFL-sized windows, doesn't mean he can't. To me, RG3 made most of his throws to what would be considered wide-open receivers by NFL standards. On the other hand, his mechanics are solid and he really spins the ball well. Has the same kind of dual-threat weapons Cam does to keep defenses honest, which should open up some of those throwing lanes. This is a boom-or-bust pick, but if Griffin III reaches his potential, then what Washington gave up to get him will look like a steal.
3.) Minnesota Vikings (3-13) Matt Khalil OT USC (Pos. Rank: 1, Overall Rank: 4)
Needs: OL,DB,WR,DT,LB
I've never seen more subterfuge around the #3 pick before, but maybe it has to do with the fact that everyone knows who is going 1 and 2. Minnesota has made it clear they'd like to trade out of this pick, but unless Tampa or St. Louis wants to leapfrog the Browns to get Trent Richardson (the Jets are also reportedly hot on the former Alabama back) the Vikings are stuck here. In the last few days Morris Claiborne's name has been hot here and Justin Blackmon has re-surfaced as a potential target with some GM's believing that's where Minnesota will go. To me, the Vikings aren't dumb enough (notice I said enough) to show their cards so overtly. Khalil is the smart pick and I expect him to be the pick.
4.) Cleveland Browns (4-12) Justin Blackmon WR Oklahoma State (Pos. Rank: 1, Overall Rank: 6)
Needs: WR,OL,S,RB,QB,OLB
While Cleveland reportedly loves Richardson, I'm not sold that Mike Holmgren and the staff are positive Richardson has enough value here to warrant a top pick. This could be a potential landing spot for a team like New York looking to trade up and land Richardson. At #17, the Browns could still get Kendall Wright and they have Atlanta's pick at #22. Richardson is the better player, but Blackmon's value is inflated by the position he plays. Not every team sees Blackmon as a legitimate #1 receiver because of his athletic limitations, but I think those question marks are vastly overstated. Cleveland lacks playmakers and in today's NFL even a solid #2 receiver has a bigger impact than a legitimate #1 running back. I think the Browns know that.
5.) Tampa Bay Buccaneers (4-12) Trent Richardson RB Alabama (Pos. Rank: 1, Overall Rank: 3)
Needs: LB,DB,OL,TE,RB,WR
Tampa would run up to the podium if Trent Richardson is still available at #5. The Bucs staff love him and he apparently is equally excited about playing for the team. Greg Schiano wants to run the football and Richardson is the best running back prospect in the last five years. Talk about a punishing backfield with LeGarrette Blount and Richardson in the backfield and Josh Freeman under center. Those guys eat their Wheaties. Morris Claiborne might be tough to pass on in a division with Brees, Ryan and Newton, but Claiborne is an overrated prospect and I think that's part of why Minnesota has shifted its strategy toward a Blackmon smokescreen. This is the right move and is one I hope, for Tampa's sake, they make.
6.) St. Louis Rams (F/ Redskins)Morris Claiborne CB LSU (Pos. Rank: 1, Overall Rank: 5)
Needs: WR,DB,OL,OLB,DT
I wouldn't be surprised to see Carolina trade up into this spot if Claiborne falls. St. Louis covets Fletcher Cox, the Mississippi defensive tackle, and could probably get him or Michael Brockers at #9 in that trade. The Panthers desperately need to upgrade their defensive backfield and it wouldn't take much to move up the three spots. I think Claiborne is the pick if he falls, whether it's the Rams or Panthers making the selection. Claiborne's athletic talents are unquestionable, but his instincts aren't outstanding and he wins late in the route, rather than early. If he watches tape and really studies, he can be an excellent corner, but I'm not convinced he can be Champ Bailey. I see him closer to Tramon Williams, someone who can make big plays when they guess right, but burned when they guess wrong.
7.) Philadelphia Eagles (F/ Jaguars) Fletcher Cox DT Mississippi State (Pos. Rank: 1, Overall Rank: 8)
**Projected Trade**
Needs:OL,LB,DT,S,RB,WR
Jacksonville really wants to move down and Philadelphia really wants to move up to get Fletcher Cox. If the Eagles want the dominated SEC defensive tackle, they'll have to move ahead of Carolina who will almost certainly take him if he's on he board. Jacksonville worked out middle first round defensive ends like Nick Perry and Chandler Jones, which could mean they have one of those players in mind in a potential trade down in the draft. For the Eagles, they basically get a bigger, stronger, younger version of Cullen Jenkins, whom Philly already has on its roster. Cox is the kind of powerful interior force who could improve this defense and take up blockers so those 'Wide 9' ends can get after the quarterback. Philly's pass rush would be scary good.
8.) Miami Dolphins (6-10) Ryan Tannehill QB Texas A&M (Pos. Rank: 3, Overall Rank: 18)
Needs: OL,QB,WR,LB,TE,S
Given all of the hype surrounding this pick, the Dolphins now have no choice but to make it. Tannehill was a second round prospect until Matt Barkley and Landry Jones returned to school and now Tannehill will go in the top 10. That just shows you how highly valued a franchise quarterback is in the NFL. I've concerned about the accuracy and mental toughness, but Joe Philbin has had a huge influence on Aaron Rodgers and Mike Sherman was Tannehill's head coach at A&M. There's no better situation for a player to flourish than that. The Dolphins have some other needs and probably could have gotten by with David Gerrard/Matt Moore for one more year, but if this is the player the Dolphins feel they have to draft, then it doesn't matter where they're picking, Tannehill has to be drafted.
9.) Carolina Panthers (6-10) Luke Kuechley MLB Boston College (Pos. Rank: 1, Overall Rank: 10)
Needs: CB,WR,S,LB, DL
This pick comes to three players: Kuechley, Stephon Gilmore and Michael Brockers. A fourth option would be a trade with a team like Dallas who wants to snag Mark Barron ahead of the Buffalo Bills who apparently have significant interest. Of the three players, Kuechley makes both the passing and rushing defense better, where as Gilmore and Brockers only help in one area. He's the best player of that group and would be a terrific leader on that defense. Carolina was at its best with that group of outstanding linebackers in the mid 90's and haven't had impact players at the position since. Quinton Coples could be a sleeper here and given the geographic connection, might be my pick if I had to make it.
10.) Buffalo Bills (6-10) Stephon Gilmore CB South Carolina (Pos. Rank: 3, Overall Rank: 20)
Needs: OL,WR,LB,DB,TE
Buffalo will be burning the phone lines trying to get Dallas to trade into this spot to snag Mark Barron before the Chiefs can. I wouldn't be at all surprised though if the Bills just went ahead and took Barron if the Cowboys couldn't offer a quality package. Buffalo has paid close attention to the first round corners in this draft and either Dre Kirkpatrick or Stephon Gilmore could be a consideration here. When you play New England twice a year, you need quality defensive backs and Gilmore has been a late riser in this draft. His best fit is in a zone coverage system where he can use his instincts and intelligence to read receivers and break on the ball. Don't be surprised to see Buffalo trade up if Matt Khalil starts to fall either.
11.) Kansas City Chiefs (7-9) Mark Barron S Alabama (Pos. Rank: 1, Overall Rank: 17)
Needs: WR,TE,OL,NT,LB
Michael Floyd or David DeCastro make a lot of sense here as well, but the Chiefs are apparently very much in love with Barron's skills and safety is a huge position of need with Eric Berry coming off a serious knee injury. Barron is a smart, physical player with great intensity and leadership skills. New coach Romeo Crennell may immediately see Lawyer Milloy when he sees Barron play. K.C. is rumored to be extremely interested in Dont'a Hightower as well, but Barron is the better value here. If they truly covet Hightower, there's no reason they couldn't trade down with Dallas and take the Alabama linebacker three spots later.
12.) Seattle Seahawks (7-9) Quinton Coples DL North Carolina (Pos. Rank: 1, Overall Rank: 7)
Needs: OL,LB,CB,TE,WR
Take your pick of defensive lineman here. Rumors of Seattle's interest in Syracuse's Chandler Jones are rampant, but Coples has better versatility, able to play tackle or end for the Seahawks. Coples reminds me a lot of Justin Tuck with his pass rush skills from any position along the defensive line. With Seattle's needs at linebacker, Jones or South Carolina's Melvin Ingram could be considered in that hybird role Pete Carrol loves to use. Coples has more potential than either of those players however, and even though Coples is a potential bust, his 'boom' is the greatest of any player left on the board.
13.) Arizona Cardinals (8-8) Riley Reiff OT Iowa (Pos. Rank: 2, Overall Rank: 11)
Needs: OL,OLB,WR,DB,RB
My guess is that when the draft process starter, the Cardinals thought they had no chance of landing Riley Reiff, the second best offensive tackle prospect in the draft. At one point, there was talk Tampa might take the former Iowa offensive lineman at #5. Melvin Ingram will be tempting and I think David DeCastro is a better offensive line prospect overall, but Reiff plays a position where it's harder to find top-line talent. His physical style is something this Cardinal team lacks and he'd be an asset to Kevin Kolb's development in the passing game. Michael Floyd would be extremely temping and the Cards are said to be extremely interested in taking him. I wouldn't be shocked if they did, but Reiff makes much more sense and has better value here.
14.) Dallas Cowboys (8-8) Michael Brockers DT LSU (Pos. Rank: 2, Overall Rank: 15)
Needs: OL,DL,DB,WR,TE
Dallas will have to trade up if they want Barron. If they can't swing a trade, the pick comes down to David DeCastro, Michael Brockers or Dre Kirkpatrick. I have DeCastro as the highest rated prospect and Kirkpatrick plays the highest impact position, but my feeling is Dallas may not view Kirkpatrick as a Day 1 starter, while Brockers is. As a 5 technique 3-4 end, Brockers has a Richard Seymour ceiling. In two or three years, he could be one of the 10 best defensive lineman in the game because his physical skills in terms of his ability to manipulate blockers and hold the point of attack are elite. Signing Brandon Carr from Kansas City means the need for Kirkpatrick may have been blunted. Brockers is a much better prospect than Marcus Spears, a former LSU tackle who the Cowboys took in the first round several years ago.
15.) Jacksonville Jaguars (F/ Eagles) Melvin Ingram DE/DT South Carolina (Pos. Rank: 2, Overall Rank: 12)
Needs: WR,DE,OL,DB,RB
I think the Jags are fully willing to take Chandler Jones or Nick Perry if they can trade down to the middle of the first. In this case though, Ingram falls and I can't see the Jaguars passing. While I'm not as high on Ingram as others, his versatility and athleticism are outstanding and he can be effective as an end, tackle, or even a linebacker at times. I'm concerned about his size and short arms at the next level, particularly in a 4-3 defense, but he played in a big-time conference in college and was one of the best defensive players in football. I think this is just right for him and for a risk-averse franchise where character is important, Ingram is exactly what the Jags are looking for.
16.) New York Jets (8-8) Michael Floyd WR Notre Dame (Pos. Rank: 2, Overall Rank: 13)
Needs: OLB,OL,WR,DL,RB
Jet fans would love to see Melvin Ingram fall to them here, but it seems unlikely. Chandler Jones or Nick Perry would make sense, as would DeCastro, but Floyd is the big name with the big impact. You bring in Tim Tebow to make headlines and add Michael Floyd to help your offense score points. Plus, with the range Floyd has, those Tebow underthrows and Sanchez overthrows might actually have a chance of being completed. New York is extremely interested in trading up to get Trent Richardson and has even contacted Richardson about potentially doing so. They would have to give up quite a big to get him and I'm not sure they'll be willing to offer enough to get a deal done.
17.) Bengals (F/ Oakland) Dre Kirkpatrick CB Alabama (Pos. Rank: 2, Overall Rank: 14)
Needs: DB,G,WR,RB,LB
This is a case where arguably the Bengals biggest need position is the same as the highest rated player on the board, but you'd understand if they passed. David DeCastro is a perfect fit for the Bengals who desperately need help along the interior, but Dre Kirkpatrick plays a greater impact position. His physical play is exactly what the Bengals want from their corners and with depth concerns at the position, Kirkpatrick would see plenty of time on the field as a rookie. I wouldn't be surprised though, if DeCastro is the pick given his extremely high value here. There's no chance Kirkpatrick falls to the Bengals at #21, but it's certainly possible that a player like Cordy Glenn, who can play guard or tackle, is available. In terms of the trade-off, you'd rather have Kirkpatrick and Glenn than DeCastro and then reaching for a lower tier corner.
18.) San Diego Chargers (8-8) David DeCastro G Stanford (Pos. Rank: 2, Overall Rank: 9)
Needs: DL,LB,OL,DB,WR
San Diego could end up deciding between the second-best lineman in the draft and whomever they think is the best pass rusher left. San Diego isn't going to force it here, and I think they'll take DeCastro who could step in right away as a starter on an offensive line that has really struggled lately. DeCastro isn't massive, but the Chargers aren't going to be a power running team anyway, particularly with some of the fire power San Diego amassed in the offseason. Particularly given that the best pass rushers available at this point project better in a 4-3 defense, I'd expect if a player like DeCastro falls, he'll be a welcome site for San Diego.
19.) Chicago Bears (8-8) Whitney Mercilus DE Illinois (Pos. Rank: 5, Overall Rank: 24)
Needs: OL,CB,DE,TE,LB
For some reason, Chicago has decided its top need was at defensive end, even though their offensive line was a train wreck last year and they play in a division with Aaron Rodgers, Matthew Stafford, Calvin Johnson et al., so a defensive back would be nice here. On the other hand, the Bears can feel the window of this defense closing, meaning they'd like to upgrade it with an influx of young talent. I'm fine with Chandler Jones or Andre Branch here as well, although I think Courtney Upshaw is the best pass rusher left on the board. Mercilus was a one-year wonder at Illinois, but had one of the most productive seasons in college football history for a defensive end and with a chance to learn at the feet of Julius Peppers, could turn out to be a monster in the NFL.
20.) Tennessee Titans (9-7) Dontari Poe DT Memphis (Pos. Rank: 3, Overall Rank: 16)
Needs: WR,CB,DL,TE,OL
A lot of mocks have the Titans going with Cordy Glenn or an end like Nick Perry, but Poe makes a ton of sense for a number of reasons. The first is that the Titans pass rush isn't very good and a big body like Poe would eat up space in the middle, freeing up defenders around him. Second, Poe has an extremely high ceiling despite underwhelming product at Memphis. I don't see Glenn much differently than I see Poe: big, strong, underachieving. Poe, however, is a much rarer player with his speed and quickness inside. In terms of raw ability, Poe has as many physical tools as you'll find in this draft. To me, Nick Perry or Courtney Upshaw make more sense than Glenn, but that doesn't mean Tennessee won't take him (I've been wrong before).
21.) Cincinnati Bengals (9-7) Cordy Glenn G/T Georgia (Pos. Rank: 2, Overall Rank: 21)
Needs: DB,G,WR,RB,LB
This is the scenario I described above: Cincinnati takes care of its two biggest needs while maximizing the value of their picks. The Begnals love massive lineman and Glenn fits the bill at 6-5 and nearly 350 pounds. His lack of lateral quickness precludes him from being anything but a right tackle at the next level and he seems better suited to play guard. Line him up next to Andre Smith and suddenly you an incredibly strong right side of your offensive line. Kendall Wright makes sense here as well and teams are apparently lining up to take the former Baylor Bear wide receiver. I can see the Bengals biting if Glenn is off the board here.
22.) Cleveland Browns (F/ Atlanta) Jonathan Martin OT Stanford (Pos. Rank: 3, Overall Rank: 26)
Needs: WR,OL,S,RB,QB,OLB
Cleveland is known to be extremely high on Brandon Weeden to the point they'd consider taking him at #22. There's also scuttlebutt that they'll use their high second round pick to trade back into the first round and assure themselves a chance to draft the Oklahoma State quarterback. Doug Martin has been a popular name in mock drafts as well with a late push into first round consideration. I think offensive line is much more likely, particularly with the drop-off at tackle after the first round. If the Browns really want a running back, there isn't a substantial difference between the second through fifth ranked running backs in this class. If they like Weeden enough to trade back into the first, then draft Martin to protect him and figure out how to snag him later.
23.) Detroit Lions (10-6) Dont'a Hightower ILB Alabama (Pos. Rank: 2, Overall Rank: 23)
Needs: DB,LB,RB,WR,OL
I've seen enough permutations of this pick to believe the Lions are simply sitting back and waiting for the right player to come to them. If they're concerned about signing Cliff Avril to a long-term deal, Courtney Upshaw and Nick Perry immediately become considerations. To me though, Hightower's power and tenacity are exactly what head coach Jim Schwartz is looking for from his middle linebacker. A dominating, downhill linebacker, Hightower also has some pass rush ability and could mitigate some of the concerns left from losing Avril. I've been on Hightower since since sophomore season and he's one of my favorite players in this draft.
24.) Pittsburgh Steelers (12-4) Courtney Upshaw LB Alabama (Pos. Rank: 3, Overall Rank: 19)
Needs: OL,DL,LB,RB,DB
To me, this is exactly the kind of pick I'd expect the Steelers to make. We know they have needs along the offensive and defensive lines, but the value isn't there with this pick. Some scouts thought Upshaw could play inside in a 3-4 defense coming into the season and after a sub-par postseason, there are some questions as to whether or not Upshaw is athletic enough to do that. I don't think it matters to Pittsburgh who could use Upshaw all over the field. The former Crimson Tide rush end was perhaps the most dominating defensive player in the best conference in football last year and that has to count for something. He has more versatility than people believe and no one is better as drafting the best player available than the Pittsburgh Steelers.
25.) Denver Broncos (8-8) Doug Martin RB Boise State (Pos. Rank: 2, Overall Rank: 32)
Needs: WR,DB,DT,TE,RB
With needs at receiver, defensive line and defensive back, Martin is a little bit of a luxury pick here. If I were John Elway and John Fox, I'd be taking Kendall Wright, but because Martin has great versatility as a receiver out of the backfield and as a pass blocker, he makes sense here for Denver. Peyton Manning was at his best when he had Edgerrin James to pick up blitzers and to use out of the backfield. Coby Fleener and Devon Still could be temping here as well, but Martin sounds like the direction Denver is leaning.
26.) Houston Texans (10-6) Kendall Wright WR Baylor (Pos. Rank: 3, Overall Rank: 32)
Needs: S,WR,OL,DE,QB
Best possible case scenario for the Texans. Wright is an ideal fit alongside Andre Johnson in this offense and will be used extensively in play-action to get over the top and take the top off of defenses. Wright's disappointing combine workouts were a red flag, but his stock is rising after impressive pro day workouts. Coby Fleener could be a good pick here as well and the Texans can't go wrong. If they want a first round pass catcher, they'll have a chance to get one here. Stephen Hill would even have value here if Wright comes off the board sooner.
27.)New England Patriots (F/ New Orleans) Chandler Jones DE Syracuse (Pos. Rank: 5, Overall Rank: 34)
Needs:DE,DB,OL,RB,LB
The best defensive lineman on the board will be picked here. Some mocks have Syracuse's Chandler Jones as high as #12, but I tend to be extremely skeptical of a guy who is a second round pick until three days before the draft and then suddenly he's a top 15 pick. That being said, Jones has outstanding pass rush potential and is everything you could want from a defensive end. He's actually similar to the Patriots now-departed defensive end Andre Carter in the way he's built, with long, lean arms. His quickness off the edge is his biggest asset and he may struggle a little setting the edge in the NFL. Mike Mayock believes Jones could be the best defensive player in this draft. That would be quite something if the Patriots could get him at #27.
28.) Green Bay Packers (15-1) Nick Perry OLB USC (Pos. Rank: 4, Overall Rank: 22)
Needs: OLB,DL,S,OL,CB
Southern Cal' has been good to Green Bay when it comes to picking outside linebackers and Perry is not just the best pass rusher on the board left, he's the best overall player. We know Ted Thompson will go with best available over biggest need, but he has a chance to get both with this pick. Perry is a freak athlete, a 271 pound former defensive end who runs a 4.64 40. Green Bay may ask him to slim down a little to play outside since Perry put on an extra 10 pounds of muscle to show he can play the 4-3 end at the next level. He'll have to work on his coverage skills, but the average match up with a rush linebacker isn't going to end well for the defense anyway. Getting a player who lead the Pac-12 in sacks is the impact Green Bay needs, even if he's a liability in coverage.
29.) Baltimore Ravens (12-4) Stephen Hill WR Georgia Tech (Pos. Rank: 4, Overall Rank: 31)
Needs: OL,OLB,DB,RB,WR
Torrey Smith was outstanding as Baltimore's deep threat last season, but the Ravens still aren't very explosive outside of Smith's big play ability. Hill wowed scouts at the combine with a blistering 40 yard time, but his limited production and polish coming out of Georgia Tech's option offense is worrisome. With another year of development and a full offseason for Smith, the Ravens could rely on Smith to do more than just run deep, while allowing Hill to step into that role. Suddenly, the Ravens would have one of the fastest and most explosive wide receiving duos in the league.
30.) San Francisco 49ers (13-3) Amini Silatolu G Midwestern State (Pos. Rank: 4, Overall Rank: 53)
Needs: CB,OL,S,RB,DL,TE
Some scouts see shades of Larry Allen when they watch Silatolu play. One of the things about small school players is you can't be sure they're great because they dominate, but you can be sure they stink if they don't. Silatolu falls into the former category and was a monster at Midwestern State, the kind of physical domination that made you wonder how he didn't play legitimate Division 1 football. So that begs the question, why didn't he? He is certainly a bigger risk at the position than Wisconsin's Kevin Zeitler, but teams see the talent and physical ability and the potential is overwhelmingly apparent. A boom-or-bust prospect who has made his way in the first round. If I'm in the San Francisco war room, I can make a pick like this because the team has so few holes. If it works, it's outstanding, if it doesn't, you're still a favorite in the NFC.
31.) Cleveland Browns (F/ New England) Brandon Weeden QB Oklahoma State (Pos. Rank: 4, Overall Rank: 45)
**Project Trade**
Needs: WR,OL,S,RB,QB,OLB
More than likely, the Patriots will be happy to trade out of this pick for a team interested in Brandon Weeden. I expect the Browns are the most likely to try and get back into the first to nab him. Fortunately, it may not take too much to trade up the six spots to make sure they get the quarterback they're looking for. If Weeden were 22, I think there's no question he'd considered a first round quarterback and in some ways his age (28) is a plus because he can walk into a locker room and command respect immediately. Weeden is NFL-ready and if you pair him with his former receiver in this offense, they don't have to spend a minute developing chemistry. The value isn't great here, but I think for the Browns it makes sense if they've already taken Blackmon.
32.) New York Giants (9-7) Levonte David LB Nebraska
Needs: OL,CB,LB,RB,WR
Coby Fleener will get a long look here to be sure, especially given the last team the Giants played has the best tight end int he game. David, though, plays a greater position of need and is a better value at this point. The former Cornhusker is one of the most underrated players in the draft and is an absolute stud playmaker at the position. If he weighed 15 more pounds, he'd be a top 20 pick in my opinion, but his instincts are terrific and he's the kind of athletic linebacker the Giants have been trying to find.
Round 2
33.) St. Louis Rams (2-14) Coby Fleener TE Stanford
Needs: WR,DB,OL,OLB,DT
St. Louis breaks Indy's heart by taking the best tight end in the draft who happens to be Andrew Luck's former teammate
34.) Indianapolis Colts (2-14) Devon Still DT Penn State
Needs:OL,RB,LB,WR,CB,DT
Colts have to improve 29th ranked rush defense from last season with one of the best run defenders in the draft.
35.) Minnesota Vikings (3-13) Janoris Jenkins CB North Alabama
Needs: OL,DB,WR,DT,LB
This is why you take Khalil at #3: you can still get a first round caliber corner here. You can't get the same value at tackle.
36.)New England Patriots (F/ Cleveland) Jerel Worthy DT Michigan State
**Projected Trade**
Needs:DE,DB,OL,RB,LB
Re-signing Dan Koppen allows the Pats to nab the powerful interior rusher from Michigan State to boost the defensive front even further.
37.) Tampa Bay Buccaneers (4-12) Peter Konz C Wisconsin
Needs: LB,DB,OL,TE,RB,WR
Without a viable center on the roster, Tampa finds the cornerstone center to lead their offense which now centers around Trent Richardson.
38.) Jacksonville Jaguars (5-11) David Wilson RB Virginia Tech
Needs: WR,DE,OL,DB,RB
Alshon Jeffery is too big a risk to Jags, so Wilson gives Jacksonville terrific 1-2 punch at running back.
39.) St. Louis Rams (2-14) Alshon Jeffery WR South Carolina
Needs: WR,DB,OL,OLB,DT
Jeff Fisher not afraid to take most talented player on the board at a position of need, despite red flags. Jeffery will be terrific with a legitimate quarterback.
40.) Carolina Panthers (6-10) Brandon Boykin CB Georgia
Needs: CB,WR,S,LB, DL
Best defensive back on the board would help improve Carolina's abysmal passing defense, plus could give Steve Smith a break in the return game.
41.) Buffalo Bills (6-10) Kevin Zeitler G Wisconsin
Needs: OL,WR,LB,DB,TE
Biggest need gets addressed with polished, physical guard from Wisconsin.
42.) Miami Dolphins (6-10) Rueben Randle WR LSU
Needs: OL,QB,WR,LB,TE,S
If you're going to pick Tannehill, you better get someone for him to throw to. Raw, talented Randle will need time to develop, but has big-time upside.
43.) Seattle Seahawks (7-9) Mike Adams OT Ohio State
Needs: OL,LB,CB,TE,WR
Adams might be second best left tackle prospect in the draft and Seattle needs serious help along the offensive line.
44.) Kansas City Chiefs (7-9) Dwayne Allen TE Clemson
Needs: WR,TE,OL,NT,LB
Chiefs offense has limited weapons and Allen would help in both phases of the offense. Good value here.
45.) Dallas Cowboys (8-8) Trumaine Johnson CB Montana
Needs: OL,DL,DB,WR,TE
Versatile FBS defensive back would be a major upgrade for this struggling Dallas defense.
46.) Philadelphia Eagles (8-8) Lamer Miller RB Miami (Fla.)
Needs:OL,LB,DT,S,RB,WR
Philly gets a back to lighten the burden for LeSean McCoy and provide much-needed depth at the position.
47.) New York Jets (8-8) Andre Branch OLB/DE Clemson
Needs: OLB,OL,WR,DL,RB
Major pass rush upgrade for the Jets who failed to generate pressure last year without blitzing.
48.) New England Patriots (F/ Oakland) Harrison Smith S Notre Dame
Needs:DE,DB,OL,RB,LB
Physical box safety heading to New England, a team who was pulling guys off the street to play in the secondary last year.
49.) San Diego Chargers (8-8) Zach Brown LB North Carolina
Needs: DL,LB,OL,DB,WR
Not an ideal fit for the Chargers, but Brown is lightening fast and could learn from underrated rusher Antwan Barnes.
50.) Chicago Bears (8-8) Bobbie Massie OT Mississippi
Needs: OL,CB,DE,TE,LB
Offensive line remains a problem for the Bears and if Gabe Carimi gets healthy, Massie will have some time to develop.
51.) Jacksonville Jaguars (F/ Philadelphia) Brandon Thompson DT Clemson
**Projected Trade**
Needs: WR,DE,OL,DB,RB
Jags get a defensive line upgrade once considered to be a first round talent as part of Eagles trade for Fletcher Cox.
52.) Tennessee Titans (9-7) Shea McClellin DE Boise State
Needs: WR,CB,DL,TE,OL
Tennessee loves to get winners and McClellin is a relentless edge rusher with an excellent college background.
53.) Cincinnati Bengals (9-7) Chris Polk RB Washington
Needs: DB,G,WR,RB,LB
Cinci gets solid value with the versatile Polk to go with the Bengals' potent, young offensive core.
54.) Detroit Lions (10-6) Mitchell Schwartz OT California
Needs: DB,LB,RB,WR,OL
Lions need to do a better job of opening holes in the run game and protecting Matthew Stafford, so getting the best available offensive lineman should help do that.
55.) Atlanta Falcons (10-6) Vinny Curry DE Marshall
Needs: OL,DB,DE,WR,TE
Falcons desperately need a pass rusher to generate pressure opposite John Abraham and Curry is a good fit for 4-3 scheme.
56.) Pittsburgh Steelers (12-4) Kendall Reyes DT Connecticut
Needs: OL,DL,LB,RB,DB
It would be a gift if a fringe first round talent like Reyes fell all the way to Steelers here.
57.) Denver Broncos (8-8) Kirk Cousins QB Michigan State
Needs: WR,DB,DT,TE,RB
Wouldn't be popular with Peyton Manning, but Broncos get QB of the future who (like Tebow) is proven winner.
58.) Houston Texans (10-6) Bobby Wagner ILB Utah State
Needs: S,WR,OL,DE,QB
Athletic replacement for departed Demeco Ryans and Houston continues to build a dominating defense.
59.) Green Bay Packers (15-1) Jared Crick DL Nebraska
Needs: OLB,DL,S,OL,CB
Packers get defensive line upgrade they desperate need to pair with first round stud Nick Perry.
60.) Baltimore Ravens (12-4) Josh Robinson CB Central Florida
Needs: OL,OLB,DB,RB,WR
Speedy corner would be terrific nickelback for Ravens in a division full of terrific young receivers.
61.) San Francisco 49ers (13-3) Jamell Flemming CB Oklahoma
Needs: CB,OL,S,RB,DL,TE
Thin 49ers secondary gets upgrade with rising Oklahoma corner who is excellent in man coverage.
62.) New England Patriots (13-3)Mohamed Sanu WR Rutgers
Needs:DE,DB,OL,RB,LBHighly-productive college receiver would give Patriots a young weapon outside to pair with their terrific tandem of tight ends.
63.) New York Giants (9-7) Brian Quick WR Appalachian State
Needs: OL,CB,LB,RB,WR
Raw receiver would have time to develop for Giants, could eventually be a terrific trio with Cruz and Nicks.
Round 3
64.)Indianapolis Colts - Orson Charles TE Georgia
65.) St. Louis Rams - Kelechi Osemele OL Iowa State
66.) Minnesota Vikings - Ronnell Lewis OLB/DE Oklahoma
67. Cleveland Browns - Bruce Irvin OLB West Virginia
68.) Tampa Bay Buccaneers - Chase Minnifield CB Virginia
69.) Washington Redskins - Alameda Ta'amu NT Washington
70.) Jacksonville Jaguars - Joe Adams WR Arkansas
71.) Buffalo Bills - Zebrie Sanders OT Florida State
72.) Miami Dolphins - LaMichael James RB Oregon
73.) Dolphins F/ Chicago - Markelle Martin S Oklahoma State
74.) Kansas City Chiefs - Brock Osweiler QB Arizona State
75.) Seattle Seahawks - Jayron Hosley CB Virginia Tech
76.) Texans F/ Philadelphia - Jeff Allen OL Illinois
77.) New York Jets - Casey Heyward CB Vanderbilt
78.) San Diego Chargers - Jonathan Massoquoi OLB Troy
79.) Chicago Bears - Chris Givens WR Wake Forest
80.) Arizona Cardinals - Nick Toon WR Wisconsin
81.) Dallas Cowboys - Marvin Jones WR California
82.) Tennessee Titans - Brandon Brooks G Miami (OH)
83.) Cincinnati Bengals - Cameron Johnson DE Virginia
84.) Atlanta Falcons - Mike Martin DT Michigan
85.) Detroit Lions - Mychal Kendricks LB California
86.) Pittsburgh Steelers - Tyronne Crawford DE Boise State
87.) Denver Broncos - Dwight Bentley CB LA-Lafeyette
88.) Eagles F/ Houson - George Iloka S Boise State
89.) New Orleans Saints - Brandon Washington G Miami (Fla.)
90.) Green Bay Packers - Isaiah Pead RB Cincinnati
91.) Baltimore Ravens - Ben Jones C Georgia
92.) San Francisco 49ers - Trevor Guyton DL California
93.) New England Patriots - Matt McCants OT UAB
94.) New York Giants - Ledarius Green TE LA-Lafeyette
95.) Oakland Raiders (Comp. Pick) - Nigel Bradham LB Florida State
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