Donkey Punch
03-24-2007, 09:11 AM
1. Oakland Raiders: JaMarcus Russell-QB-LSU
There are rampant rumors of Al Davis trading Randy Moss to the Green Bay Packers in exchange for QB Aaron Rodgers and a draft pick. If that occurs, and it could, then Oakland will switch gears and take Calvin Johnson here, but until then, Russell is the pick. ESPN’s Todd McShay said that Russell had the best workout of any quarterback he has ever seen at LSU’s pro day.
2. Arizona Cardinals (from Detroit): Joe Thomas-OT-Wisconsin
I am about 95% sure that Joe Thomas goes with the 2nd pick, but I don’t believe it will be to Detroit. Matt Millen wants out of the pressure of having to choose between Thomas, Brady Quinn, and Calvin Johnson so a trade down is likely. The Cardinals have a huge need at offensive tackle with the departure of Leonard Davis and know there is no way he slips to them at #5. They could probably send their 1st and 3rd round picks to Detroit in order to move up to the 2nd slot.
3. Cleveland Browns: Brady Quinn-QB-Notre Dame
All of my previous mock drafts had the Browns taking Adrian Peterson here, but according to ESPN’s John Clayton, the Browns are scared of Peterson’s injury history, which is why they signed Jamal Lewis. Don’t discount the Browns taking a runner in round two, but it doesn’t appear as if they’ll use the number three pick on a ball carrier. Furthermore, Clayton said the Browns really want Joe Thomas, but I believe he’ll be the second pick so they’ll “settle” for Quinn, whose stock is on the way back up.
4. Tampa Bay Buccaneers: Calvin Johnson-WR-Georgia Tech
The one constant you see in most mock drafts is Johnson going to the Big Sombrero. I see no reason to break form. Johnson has the talent of Randy Moss and the character of Marvin Harrison. He’s the best player in this draft and the Bucs will steal him with the 4th pick.
5. Detroit Lions (from Arizona): LaRon Landry-S-LSU
What’s a draft without a “whoa” pick? Landry is a very good player and is projected as a top twelve pick, but it would be a shock nonetheless if he went in the top five. Millen is looking for a safe pick and Landry would fit the bill.
6. Buffalo Bills (from Washington): Adrian Peterson-RB-Oklahoma
If this scenario plays out, the Redskins will be the happiest team in the league. Having previously traded their 2nd, 3rd, and 4th round picks, they desperately want to trade down in the 1st round to accumulate some of their lost selections. With Clinton Portis & Ladell Betts already on the roster, the Redskins will have no interest in A.P., even though he would be the high profile name Daniel Snyder loves. Teams with running back needs such as the Bills, Packers, and Texans will all clamor to move into the 6 hole, but in the end it will be the Bills who send their 1st and 3rd round picks (and a 3rd next year) to Washington for the right to take Peterson.
7. Minnesota Vikings: Gaines Adams-DE-Clemson
Despite burning 1st round picks on Erasmus James and Kenechi Udeze in the past few years, the Vikings have a glaring need for a pass rusher. Adams is the best this draft has to offer and would be a value pick at number seven.
8. Atlanta Falcons (from Houston): Adam Carriker-DE-Nebraska
There are few players moving up the boards as fast as Carriker. With Patrick Kerney moving to Seattle, the Falcons are in need of a new defensive end that can pressure the QB. Atlanta had their hearts set on LaRon Landry, but Matt Millen ruined those plans.
9. Miami Dolphins: Ted Ginn Jr.-WR-Ohio State
KFFL is reporting that both GM Randy Mueller and Cam Cameron have fallen in love with Ginn’s potential and have their hearts set on selecting him, assuming Brady Quinn is off the board when they get on the clock.
10. Houston Texans (from Atlanta): Levi Brown-OT-Penn State
There is no guarantee that Charles Spencer will return from a devastating knee injury and even if he does, he may never realize the potential he showed last year as a rookie. Brown could finally solidify the Texas biggest weakness…pass protection.
11. Cincinnati Bengals (from San Francisco 49ers): Amobi Okoye-DT-Louisville
The two things that the Bengals need the most are high character players and men that can stop the run. They can get both with the selection of Okoye, but they’ll have to move up to pull it off. The 49ers are the perfect trading partner as they have needs in areas where value should be plentiful in the middle of the round, right where Cincinnati currently sits. A 4th round pick in this years draft and a 3rd rounder next year should do the trick.
12. Washington Redskins (from Buffalo): Jamaal Anderson-DE-Arkansas
Anderson is a guy the Redskins would consider at #6 so they would be thrilled to get him at #12 while picking up a bunch of additional picks. Michigan DT Alan Branch would also be a consideration, but his stock seems to be on the decline these days.
13. St. Louis Rams: Patrick Willis-MLB-Mississippi
By selecting Willis to play middle linebacker, the Rams can move Will Witherspoon to his more natural position outside. This pick will also sting division rival San Francisco who had hoped to grab Willis a few picks from now.
14. Carolina Panthers: Greg Olsen-TE-Miami
Quick, name Carolina’s starting tight end from last season? If you guessed Wesley Walls, then you see why this pick makes sense. The Panthers need another offensive weapon that can take the pressure off of Steve Smith, but it doesn’t necessarily have to be a wide receiver. Olsen would fit in well with Carolina’s scheme and is a good value pick midway through round one.
15. Pittsburgh Steelers: Alan Branch-DT-Michigan
In many mock drafts you’ll see Branch’s name as a top 5 pick, but I believe he’ll slip into the middle of the first round. Mike Tomlin is not married to the 3-4 defense and he knows how effective Kevin Williams & Pat Williams were in Minnesota. Branch is similar to both of those players and would be a fairly easy choice for Tomlin and company.
16. Green Bay Packers: Marshawn Lynch-RB-California
Value meets need. Lynch is one of the top two players left on the board and the Packers have a glaring hole in their backfield.
17. Jacksonville Jaguars: Reggie Nelson-S-Florida
The biggest hole in the Jaguars defense is at free safety, not to mention that their penciled in starter is Gerald Sensabaugh, who was arrested last week in Tennessee. Nelson is a terrific athlete and a great centerfielder. He would make an excellent addition to the Jacksonville secondary.
18. San Francisco 49ers (from Cincinnati): Leon Hall-CB-Michigan
Cornerback is not a huge need area for the Niners, but Hall would be outstanding value this late in the first round. I don’t think anyone expects Walt Harris to pick off 10 passes again next year besides he is entering the twilight of his career and won’t play forever.
19. Tennessee Titans: Dwayne Jarrett-WR-USC
Does anyone really think that Justin Gage is the answer to the Titans receiver questions? Jarrett is a bit of a boom-or-bust prospect, but he is worth the game with the 19th pick. A cornerback such as Darrelle Revis is also a distinct possibility with all of Pacman’s problems.
20. New York Giants: Paul Posluszny-OLB-Penn State
I actually think it could be the Chicago Bears picking in this spot by the time rolls around as it wouldn’t surprise me if they dealt Lance Briggs to the Giants for their 1st and 3rd round picks. But as it stands now, the Giants have a gaping hole at outside linebacker and Posluszny is the kind of player that Tom Coughlin loves.
21. Denver Broncos: Joe Staley-OT-Central Michigan
The Broncos had depth problems along the offensive line last year and that we BEFORE they traded away former 1st round pick George Foster to Detroit. Staley is somewhat undersized (as far as bulk goes), but he should fit the Denver zone blocking scheme. It also doesn’t hurt to know that the Chiefs reportedly love Staley so if Denver can steal him from a division rival, more power to them.
22. Dallas Cowboys: Brandon Meriweather-S-Miami
Despite all of the bad publicity this kid has gotten, he does not in fact have a criminal record. Yes, he has some character flaws and yes, he will have to be monitored closely once he signs a pro contract, but he has a lot of the on-the-field traits as Ed Reed and Jerry Jones won’t forget that.
23. New Orleans Saints (from Kansas City): Darrelle Revis-CB-Pittsburgh
Many will be surprised that Revis is still on the board with the 23rd pick including the Saints, who desperately need a cornerback that can contribute right away. By sending a 4th round pick in this years draft and a 3rd rounder next year, New Orleans moves up to take the cover corner.
24. New England Patriots (from Seattle): Arron Sears-OG-Tennessee
The Patriots say they will simply take the best available player each time they are on the clock. If that is the case, they will likely be picking between some offensive linemen such as Sears, Ben Grubbs, Justin Blacklock, et al. Sears is the most versatile of the bunch, which is something the Patriots value so let’s go with him in this spot.
25. New York Jets: Aaron Ross-CB-Texas
The Jets need someone who can step right in and start opposite Andre Dyson and Ross is the most polished cornerback left on the board.
26. Philadelphia Eagles: Ben Grubbs-OG-Auburn
Andy Reid likes to select linemen, whether it be offensive or defensive, early on and fill in the pieces later. Grubbs is the best on the board and could slide into a starting job if and when the Eagles decide to move Todd Herreman’s out to tackle to replace either Tra Thomas or Jon Runyan.
27. Kansas City Chiefs (from New Orleans): Robert Meachem-WR-Tennessee
The Chiefs really need a wide receiver to compliment Eddie Kennison right now and be able to grow into a #1 target in a year or two. Meachem is rated a little bit higher than Dwayne Bowe on most teams boards right now so the nod goes to the Volunteer with pick number twenty-seven.
28. New England Patriots: Lawrence Timmons-OLB-Florida State
Timmons is somewhat raw, but he is loaded with natural athleticism. He can be molded into the kind of linebacker that the Patriots love.
29. Baltimore Ravens: Justin Blalock-OL-Texas
I’m guessing that Jonathan Ogden won’t retire yet, but even if he doesn’t, the Ravens need reinforcements for their offensive line. Blalock can play guard or tackle and will give the team much needed depth and versatility.
30. San Diego Chargers: Dwayne Bowe-WR-LSU
Vincent Jackson had a nice December for the Bolts, but this team clearly would like another wide receiver to open things up for Tomlinson and Gates. Bowe would be good value late in round one.
31. Chicago Bears: Jon Beason-OLB-Miami
If Lance Briggs makes true on his holdout threats then the Bears will be glad they took Beason, who is fast and fits their defensive scheme. Even if Briggs does come to play, Beason gives them needed depth at the position and flexibility for the future.
32. Indianapolis Colts: Chris Houston-CB-Arkansas
The defending champs have some depth at cornerback already, but none of them have the speed of Houston who did the 40 in 4.36 at the combine. Houston also is the best value on the board with the last pick of round one.
There are rampant rumors of Al Davis trading Randy Moss to the Green Bay Packers in exchange for QB Aaron Rodgers and a draft pick. If that occurs, and it could, then Oakland will switch gears and take Calvin Johnson here, but until then, Russell is the pick. ESPN’s Todd McShay said that Russell had the best workout of any quarterback he has ever seen at LSU’s pro day.
2. Arizona Cardinals (from Detroit): Joe Thomas-OT-Wisconsin
I am about 95% sure that Joe Thomas goes with the 2nd pick, but I don’t believe it will be to Detroit. Matt Millen wants out of the pressure of having to choose between Thomas, Brady Quinn, and Calvin Johnson so a trade down is likely. The Cardinals have a huge need at offensive tackle with the departure of Leonard Davis and know there is no way he slips to them at #5. They could probably send their 1st and 3rd round picks to Detroit in order to move up to the 2nd slot.
3. Cleveland Browns: Brady Quinn-QB-Notre Dame
All of my previous mock drafts had the Browns taking Adrian Peterson here, but according to ESPN’s John Clayton, the Browns are scared of Peterson’s injury history, which is why they signed Jamal Lewis. Don’t discount the Browns taking a runner in round two, but it doesn’t appear as if they’ll use the number three pick on a ball carrier. Furthermore, Clayton said the Browns really want Joe Thomas, but I believe he’ll be the second pick so they’ll “settle” for Quinn, whose stock is on the way back up.
4. Tampa Bay Buccaneers: Calvin Johnson-WR-Georgia Tech
The one constant you see in most mock drafts is Johnson going to the Big Sombrero. I see no reason to break form. Johnson has the talent of Randy Moss and the character of Marvin Harrison. He’s the best player in this draft and the Bucs will steal him with the 4th pick.
5. Detroit Lions (from Arizona): LaRon Landry-S-LSU
What’s a draft without a “whoa” pick? Landry is a very good player and is projected as a top twelve pick, but it would be a shock nonetheless if he went in the top five. Millen is looking for a safe pick and Landry would fit the bill.
6. Buffalo Bills (from Washington): Adrian Peterson-RB-Oklahoma
If this scenario plays out, the Redskins will be the happiest team in the league. Having previously traded their 2nd, 3rd, and 4th round picks, they desperately want to trade down in the 1st round to accumulate some of their lost selections. With Clinton Portis & Ladell Betts already on the roster, the Redskins will have no interest in A.P., even though he would be the high profile name Daniel Snyder loves. Teams with running back needs such as the Bills, Packers, and Texans will all clamor to move into the 6 hole, but in the end it will be the Bills who send their 1st and 3rd round picks (and a 3rd next year) to Washington for the right to take Peterson.
7. Minnesota Vikings: Gaines Adams-DE-Clemson
Despite burning 1st round picks on Erasmus James and Kenechi Udeze in the past few years, the Vikings have a glaring need for a pass rusher. Adams is the best this draft has to offer and would be a value pick at number seven.
8. Atlanta Falcons (from Houston): Adam Carriker-DE-Nebraska
There are few players moving up the boards as fast as Carriker. With Patrick Kerney moving to Seattle, the Falcons are in need of a new defensive end that can pressure the QB. Atlanta had their hearts set on LaRon Landry, but Matt Millen ruined those plans.
9. Miami Dolphins: Ted Ginn Jr.-WR-Ohio State
KFFL is reporting that both GM Randy Mueller and Cam Cameron have fallen in love with Ginn’s potential and have their hearts set on selecting him, assuming Brady Quinn is off the board when they get on the clock.
10. Houston Texans (from Atlanta): Levi Brown-OT-Penn State
There is no guarantee that Charles Spencer will return from a devastating knee injury and even if he does, he may never realize the potential he showed last year as a rookie. Brown could finally solidify the Texas biggest weakness…pass protection.
11. Cincinnati Bengals (from San Francisco 49ers): Amobi Okoye-DT-Louisville
The two things that the Bengals need the most are high character players and men that can stop the run. They can get both with the selection of Okoye, but they’ll have to move up to pull it off. The 49ers are the perfect trading partner as they have needs in areas where value should be plentiful in the middle of the round, right where Cincinnati currently sits. A 4th round pick in this years draft and a 3rd rounder next year should do the trick.
12. Washington Redskins (from Buffalo): Jamaal Anderson-DE-Arkansas
Anderson is a guy the Redskins would consider at #6 so they would be thrilled to get him at #12 while picking up a bunch of additional picks. Michigan DT Alan Branch would also be a consideration, but his stock seems to be on the decline these days.
13. St. Louis Rams: Patrick Willis-MLB-Mississippi
By selecting Willis to play middle linebacker, the Rams can move Will Witherspoon to his more natural position outside. This pick will also sting division rival San Francisco who had hoped to grab Willis a few picks from now.
14. Carolina Panthers: Greg Olsen-TE-Miami
Quick, name Carolina’s starting tight end from last season? If you guessed Wesley Walls, then you see why this pick makes sense. The Panthers need another offensive weapon that can take the pressure off of Steve Smith, but it doesn’t necessarily have to be a wide receiver. Olsen would fit in well with Carolina’s scheme and is a good value pick midway through round one.
15. Pittsburgh Steelers: Alan Branch-DT-Michigan
In many mock drafts you’ll see Branch’s name as a top 5 pick, but I believe he’ll slip into the middle of the first round. Mike Tomlin is not married to the 3-4 defense and he knows how effective Kevin Williams & Pat Williams were in Minnesota. Branch is similar to both of those players and would be a fairly easy choice for Tomlin and company.
16. Green Bay Packers: Marshawn Lynch-RB-California
Value meets need. Lynch is one of the top two players left on the board and the Packers have a glaring hole in their backfield.
17. Jacksonville Jaguars: Reggie Nelson-S-Florida
The biggest hole in the Jaguars defense is at free safety, not to mention that their penciled in starter is Gerald Sensabaugh, who was arrested last week in Tennessee. Nelson is a terrific athlete and a great centerfielder. He would make an excellent addition to the Jacksonville secondary.
18. San Francisco 49ers (from Cincinnati): Leon Hall-CB-Michigan
Cornerback is not a huge need area for the Niners, but Hall would be outstanding value this late in the first round. I don’t think anyone expects Walt Harris to pick off 10 passes again next year besides he is entering the twilight of his career and won’t play forever.
19. Tennessee Titans: Dwayne Jarrett-WR-USC
Does anyone really think that Justin Gage is the answer to the Titans receiver questions? Jarrett is a bit of a boom-or-bust prospect, but he is worth the game with the 19th pick. A cornerback such as Darrelle Revis is also a distinct possibility with all of Pacman’s problems.
20. New York Giants: Paul Posluszny-OLB-Penn State
I actually think it could be the Chicago Bears picking in this spot by the time rolls around as it wouldn’t surprise me if they dealt Lance Briggs to the Giants for their 1st and 3rd round picks. But as it stands now, the Giants have a gaping hole at outside linebacker and Posluszny is the kind of player that Tom Coughlin loves.
21. Denver Broncos: Joe Staley-OT-Central Michigan
The Broncos had depth problems along the offensive line last year and that we BEFORE they traded away former 1st round pick George Foster to Detroit. Staley is somewhat undersized (as far as bulk goes), but he should fit the Denver zone blocking scheme. It also doesn’t hurt to know that the Chiefs reportedly love Staley so if Denver can steal him from a division rival, more power to them.
22. Dallas Cowboys: Brandon Meriweather-S-Miami
Despite all of the bad publicity this kid has gotten, he does not in fact have a criminal record. Yes, he has some character flaws and yes, he will have to be monitored closely once he signs a pro contract, but he has a lot of the on-the-field traits as Ed Reed and Jerry Jones won’t forget that.
23. New Orleans Saints (from Kansas City): Darrelle Revis-CB-Pittsburgh
Many will be surprised that Revis is still on the board with the 23rd pick including the Saints, who desperately need a cornerback that can contribute right away. By sending a 4th round pick in this years draft and a 3rd rounder next year, New Orleans moves up to take the cover corner.
24. New England Patriots (from Seattle): Arron Sears-OG-Tennessee
The Patriots say they will simply take the best available player each time they are on the clock. If that is the case, they will likely be picking between some offensive linemen such as Sears, Ben Grubbs, Justin Blacklock, et al. Sears is the most versatile of the bunch, which is something the Patriots value so let’s go with him in this spot.
25. New York Jets: Aaron Ross-CB-Texas
The Jets need someone who can step right in and start opposite Andre Dyson and Ross is the most polished cornerback left on the board.
26. Philadelphia Eagles: Ben Grubbs-OG-Auburn
Andy Reid likes to select linemen, whether it be offensive or defensive, early on and fill in the pieces later. Grubbs is the best on the board and could slide into a starting job if and when the Eagles decide to move Todd Herreman’s out to tackle to replace either Tra Thomas or Jon Runyan.
27. Kansas City Chiefs (from New Orleans): Robert Meachem-WR-Tennessee
The Chiefs really need a wide receiver to compliment Eddie Kennison right now and be able to grow into a #1 target in a year or two. Meachem is rated a little bit higher than Dwayne Bowe on most teams boards right now so the nod goes to the Volunteer with pick number twenty-seven.
28. New England Patriots: Lawrence Timmons-OLB-Florida State
Timmons is somewhat raw, but he is loaded with natural athleticism. He can be molded into the kind of linebacker that the Patriots love.
29. Baltimore Ravens: Justin Blalock-OL-Texas
I’m guessing that Jonathan Ogden won’t retire yet, but even if he doesn’t, the Ravens need reinforcements for their offensive line. Blalock can play guard or tackle and will give the team much needed depth and versatility.
30. San Diego Chargers: Dwayne Bowe-WR-LSU
Vincent Jackson had a nice December for the Bolts, but this team clearly would like another wide receiver to open things up for Tomlinson and Gates. Bowe would be good value late in round one.
31. Chicago Bears: Jon Beason-OLB-Miami
If Lance Briggs makes true on his holdout threats then the Bears will be glad they took Beason, who is fast and fits their defensive scheme. Even if Briggs does come to play, Beason gives them needed depth at the position and flexibility for the future.
32. Indianapolis Colts: Chris Houston-CB-Arkansas
The defending champs have some depth at cornerback already, but none of them have the speed of Houston who did the 40 in 4.36 at the combine. Houston also is the best value on the board with the last pick of round one.