First Round:
1) Cleveland Browns (1-15)
Josh Rosen QB UCLA
- Rosen is the most polished quarterback in this draft hands down. Does he have the most upside, I am not sure since Darnold, Jackson, and even Allen have possibly higher ceilings. However, he is by far the most pro ready quarterback from this class who can step in day one and be a starter out of the gates. For the Browns they need him to show some sort of competence at the position to help them gather more than 1 win a season even if he gets just 3 to 4 wins that would be great. He has a great arm, poise, and mechanics for a young quarterback with experience in a pro style offense under Jim Mora Jr. Of course, the Browns can do Brown things and trade this pick like they normally do with a possible franchise quarterback staring them in the face. I hope they take Rosen for the sake of their fans who need some sign of hope. Rosen does have some size issues, but he has a similar build to Goff which did not scare anyone. The most concerning is his outspoken nature, but in Cleveland with their soft media and general irrelevance can help him hide.
Last Week's Pick: Josh Rosen QB UCLA at Pick #1
2) New York Giants (2-14)
Sam Darnold QB USC
- Like I said last week, if the Giants look to be in the market for a quarterback and tell Darnold they want him then I think he declares for the draft. The Giants unlike a lot of teams who would normally pick here have a great history of success and competence that would tempt many players to try to get there. Darnold may be one of them and with Eli Manning there for another year or two will allow him to develop. He does have the best "it" factor among quarterbacks in this draft where he just makes big plays in the crunch time. His mechanics do need a lot of work, however, he was a linebacker in high school so I think he just needs more coaching to work on that. There is also no doubt he will get better coaching in the pros so overall I think he would be better off declaring for the draft in general.
Last Week's Pick: Sam Darnold QB USC at Pick #3
3) Chicago Bears (3-13)
Bradley Chubb DE N.C. State
- If the Bears are picking here I think they should try to trade down. Which, could be a possibility with teams vying for possibly the third quarterback taken, Chubb, or most likely Saquon Barkley who can be a sought after prospect. Especially, with the 49ers picking behind them who will take him so if someone wants him they have to leap frog San Fran. Of course, I do not predict trades so if they stay here taking Chubb could be a real possibility. He may not be a perfect scheme fit as a 4-3 base end, but he is athletic enough and quick enough to rush on his feet. Letting go of Pernell McPhee is something that should happen this off season due to how little he has given them and the older Willie Young is just a rotational piece. They could take a receiver, but none are even worthy of a top 10 pick so trading down would be the goal to land one of them.
Last Week's Pick: Calvin Ridley WR Alabama at Pick #5
4) San Francisco 49ers (3-13)
Saquon Barkley RB Penn St
- I will not be shocked if John Lynch gets the Executive of the Year award by next year with how well he is setting this rebuild up. He stole Jimmy G from the Patriots and if my prediction that he shows enough down the stretch to steal a few wins he will be back next year. Lynch has also set up his defense to be able to take a big jump next year with young talent like Arik Armstead, Solomon Thomas, Jaquiski Tartt, DeForrest Buckner, and Reuben Foster ready to take the next step by next year. All he needs to do is find some offensive to build around Jimmy and one player who can solve a lot of problems is Barkley. I like Carlos Hyde, but he is an up coming free agent and teams like the Giants, Lions, Seahawks, or others will want him. Meanwhile, I think Barkley has the explosive talent, vision, and versatility to be one of the best backs in the NFL right away. Him and Jimmy can create a one-two punch like the Cowboys have done.
Last Week's Pick: Saquon Barkley RB Penn St at Pick #2
5) Tampa Bay Buccaneers (5-11)
Derwin James S Florida St
- Much like they were forced into taking Jameis Winston being so close to Florida St. They may be forced to do the same for Derwin James at safety. However, I think James will work out much better than Winston has giving them a talented difference maker in the back end of the defense. They hoped to get that production out of T.J. Ward, but he will end up else where after this season and has not really played well for the Bucs anyways. James has the size of a linebacker with the speed of a safety and the ball skills of a receiver in the secondary. His size may remind some of Mark Barron down in Tampa, but he is more of a natural safety than Barron was and much faster. However, this team will go as far as Wintson can take them and right now it's up in the air. I would not be shocked if they are looking for another quarterback this time next year.
Last Week's Pick: Arden Key DE LSU at Pick #13
6) New York Jets (5-11)
Josh Allen QB Wyoming
- I do not understand Jets fans suddenly crying about losing, this team was never going to be a playoff contender and started tanking prior to the season. All of a sudden they want to win, but losing is the best way for them to get a quarterback to possibly figure out how to win more consistently. The rumors around the league is that the Jets love Josh Allen and have been scouting him more than any other team in the league. I would not be shocked if a team jumps in front of them if they like him just as much. Allen has a lot of Big Ben and Carson Wentz qualities to him from his size to his arm to his athleticism. I do worry about his skittish play carrying over to the NFL playing behind a bad line in college. Another pet peeve of mine is how much talent he has and he has yet to make his team relevant like other NFL quarterbacks who played on poor teams in college. However, the position is in such great need that a team will talk themselves into Allen's upside and coaches will salivate to get their hands on him to turn him into a franchise quarterback.
Last Week's Pick: Clelin Ferrell DE/OLB Clemson at Pick #9
7) Denver Broncos (5-11)
Quenton Nelson OG Notre Dame
- The Broncos will most likely trade up for a quarterback instead of sit here and wait for one. I could even see them go after a veteran like Tyrod Taylor, Jacoby Brissett, or someone else since Elway is a better evaluator of veteran players then draft picks. If they stay here they should take the best blocker available to help whoever they have at quarterback. Their only good blockers are the veteran Ronald Leary and rookie Garrett Bolles. All the others are replaceable players. Nelson is a blue chip guard who deserves to be a top 10 pick even at guard. He is a plug and play player who should be a 10 year solution at the position. For the Broncos he could help keep the interior of the pocket clean and help them run the ball more consistently.
Last Week's Pick: Josh Allen QB Wyoming at Pick #8
8) Arizona Cardinals (6-10)
Christian Wilkins DT Clemson
- Rumors around the league is that Bruce Arians will start Carson Palmer if he is healthy even in week 17 if they are still in it somehow. That tells me two things that Palmer is not done yet and may be back next year. That also tells me the same about Bruce Arians otherwise he would just ride out the year as is instead of fight until the very end. That would then mean they would not draft a quarterback for next year if they want Palmer back who played well until he got hurt this season. Wilkins could be a great pick for the Cardinals who have gotten next to nothing from Robert Nkemdiche and Frostee Rucker. They need a better interior pass rush after letting Calais Campbell walk and could help clear out space for their talented linebackers. He also has an amazing motor and leadership qualities to him that will have him as a possible top 10 pick.
Last Week's Pick: Lamar Jackson QB Louisville at Pick #6
9) Cleveland Browns (From the Houston Texans (6-10))
Calvin Ridley WR Alabama
- The Browns are not a well run franchise. Which, is why I think they will take an overrated receiver over a more talented defender like Minkah Fitzpatrick here. They could use a new receiver for their quarterback next season, but this year's crop is not that talented and generally first round receivers have big bust ability. Which, is why they will force the pick to be Calvin Ridley who does remind many of Amari Cooper with his clean routes and speed. However, he is nowhere as big as Cooper to the point where he could be pushed around. I think he will be fine, but I do not see him as a great receiver at the next level. He will rise in the draft though thanks to teams desire to get more explosive on offense and the mediocre talent pool at the position this year.
Last Week's Pick: Mike McGlinchey OT Notre Dame at Pick #12
10) Indianapolis Colts (6-10)
Clelin Ferrell OLB Clemson
- The Colts I think are playing way better than anyone expected thus far and could actually end up stealing a few wins down the stretch. However, if they want to move up or get another few picks in this draft if they decide to move Jacoby Brissett if Andrew Luck is healthy next year. If they stay here there is no blocker worthy to take here, there is no stud corner, and there is no running back left to take with this pick. Instead, they can bolster their pass rush some more with John Simon and Jabaal Sheard looking like good pick ups. Ferrell is a young pass rusher if he comes out this year, but being projected as a top 20 pick I imagine he declares for the draft. He has a ton of upside, athleticism, and speed off the edge to be a major difference maker.
Last Week's Pick: Minkah Fitzpatrick S Alabama at Pick #4
11) Oakland Raiders (6-10)
Rashaan Evans LB Alabama
- The Raiders have a ton of issues on defense and it continues to be their Achilles' heel this season. They definitely need to figure out their linebacking situation since the group of Cory James, Marquel Lee, and broken Navorro Bowman are not getting it done. Evans is not getting a lot of headlines this year, but he is another athletic linebacker with clean coverage and run stopping ability. He would be an immediate upgrade for the Raiders in the middle of their defense. Not only that, but he would be able to call defensive coverages and checks thanks to his time at Bama doing a great job of it the past few years. Not saying this will solve all their defensive woes at least it's a good start.
Last Week's Pick: Rashaan Evans LB Alabama at Pick #15
12) Miami Dolphins (6-10)
Ken Webster CB Ole Miss
- The Dolphins have two solid safeties in their secondary with T.J. McDonald and Reshad Jones, but their corners have not panned out. Maybe Cordrea Tankersley can turn it around since he is just a rookie and maybe even Xavien Howard with another year. However, playing in a division with Brady you need a guy who can shut down one side of the field. Webster has been far and away the best corner prospect in this draft displaying good length, technique, and ability to be a shut down corner. The best thing is he could be even better since this year he is playing barely a season removed from his ACL and when he gets to the NFL next season he will be fully healthy.
Last Week's Pick: Christian Wilkins DT Clemson at Pick #10
13) Buffalo Bills (7-9)
Lamar Jackson QB Louisville
- The Bills clearly do not love Tyrod Taylor and it is even more clear that Nathan Peterman is not the answer even after just one start. Since they do not love Taylor's skill set I am not sure Jackson would be their pick either. They will most likely move up in the draft with their handful newly acquired draft picks to take who they want possibly. However, I love Jackson as a quarterback prospect since out of many this season in college he has actually shown improvement this year more so than even Rosen, Allen, and even Darnold. He has become a more proficient passer more willing to stay in the pocket than run and has shown better accuracy than last year. I would like to see him put more touch on passes rather than throw fastballs every time like he does, but he keeps getting better at it. I can see him being a better version of Mike Vick who looked to run more often than not.
Last Week's Pick: Derwin James S Florida St at Pick #11
14) Green Bay Packers (7-9)
Courtland Sutton WR SMU
- Receivers are like quarterbacks now a days they rise up higher than they should in the draft. Even though I really like Sutton I am not sure he deserves being picked this high, but he might due to the shallow talent pool. For the Packers they can go in a myriad of directions from the o-line to the pass rush and maybe even the secondary again. I think they might hedge towards a receiver with the possibility of losing Davante Adams this off season and Jordy Nelson finally playing like his age. Sutton to me is a young version of Brandon Marshall where he uses his big body to block receivers and can be a terrific red zone weapon. He is also a solid route runner with nice long speed and terrific hands. This is a type of bigger receiver that Rodgers has never had in his career.
Last Week's Pick: Da'Ron Payne DT Alabama at Pick #7
15) Cincinnati Bengals (8-8)
Mike McGlinchey OT Notre Dame
- The Bengals need new blockers every where in front of Andy Dalton besides maybe Clint Boling and Russel Bodine who are okay. McGlinchey is the best tackle in this draft, but where he might play is the biggest question. Scouts worry he is a little too sloppy in his technique and balance to be a pass blocking left tackle. He has the ability to do so he just seems more comfortable on the right side throughout his career where he can be more of a mauling type of blocker. For the Bengals either spot would be an upgrade for them, but if he can become a left tackle that would be the best allowing them to move Cedric Obguehi to guard where he is a better fit.
Last Week's Pick: Quenton Nelson OG Notre Dame at Pick #14
16) Tennessee Titans (9-7)
Da'Ron Payne DT Alabama
- I am starting to second guess if Marcus Mariota can be one of the next top signal callers in the game. After making progress last year he has taken a big step back this season looking lost, of rhythm, and a little skittish in the pocket. He is a big reason why I cannot see them making the playoffs since their defense is not good enough to make up for his miscues. Part of the reason why is their lack of a consistent interior pass rush. With a coordinator like Dick LaBeau he would love to have an inside out pass rush to flow to his linebackers and allow him to come with more exotic blitzes. Payne is a borderline blue chip talent with his upside and athletic ability to be a dominant interior pass rusher. However, he is very raw and players from Alabama especially on the line tend to slide. So the Titans may be getting a great steal here or just another mediocre Bama talent.
Last Week's Pick: Roquon Smith LB Georgia at Pick #23
17) Washington Redskins (9-7)
Vita Vea DT Washington
- The strength of the draft up top is in it's defensive tackles this season where Wilkins, Payne, and Vea should all end up being first round picks. Quite possibly even top 20 for all three of them like in this scenario. Vea could be a good pairing with last year's first rounder Jonathan Allen giving the Redskins a possible top duo on the line. The two of them could be a wrecking ball for opposing offenses by pushing the pocket up the middle and forcing quarterbacks of their spot. Vea is a big load at the nose tackle who is a terrific space eater and run stopper, but he is also quicker than expected who can become a better pass rusher as he works on his technique and stamina. Adding him could also help hide their shaky secondary that is a little up and down outside of Josh Norman.
Last Week's Pick: Ken Webster CB Ole Miss at Pick #18
18) Dallas Cowboys (9-7)
Arden Tate WR Florida St
- The Cowboys offense looks terrible without Zeke Elliott or a healthy Tyron Smith. Part of that is losing two great players, but many teams have this season and still can put up points. I think it is how poorly Dez Bryant has played the past few seasons is the biggest issue. He has lost a lot of his speed, which helped him create separation. Now in his older age he lost that step and since he was so reliant on his skills he never really developed any of his routes to create separation. Jerry Jones loves him, but the team would be better off without him and his albatross of a contract at this point. The rest of the receiving core is no better either. Drafting a big and athletic receiver like Tate can be a real benefit to Dak Prescott's development. Tate would give him a true outside threat and an easy red zone target with his 6'5" frame. If he puts up a good 40 time he should be a first rounder.
Last Week's Pick: Orlando Brown OT Oklahoma at Pick #16
19) Detroit Lions (9-7)
Dorance Armstrong DE Kansas
- The Lions need to get a better pass rush across from Ezekiel Ansah to help out their solid secondary that is always stuck in coverage for too long. Plus, Ansah is a free agent and even though he is most likely going to be franchise tagged they might want to look for a possible replacement if he leaves after next year. Armstrong is a lesser talked about talent out of a basketball school, but most scouts agree that he is a high end first round player. His numbers are low with teams double blocking him and running away from him on offense. However, he is an athletic specimen with a lot of bend and speed off the edge. I would not be shocked if he jumps out of the dome at Indy during the Combine that could light up his stock as we get closer to the draft.
Last Week's Pick: Austin Bryant DE Clemson at Pick #20
20) Carolina Panthers (11-5)
Arden Key DE LSU
- The Panthers have a terrific defense mainly do to their young corners developing and their solid linebacking core. However, it can take another step if they can get more competent pass rushers. Charles Johnson has never lived up to his big paycheck he got a few seasons ago, Mario Addison is just a rotational guy, and Julius Peppers is well one foot out the door to retirement. Key is a clear cut blue chip prospect with special explosive ability around the edge with a quick twitch jump off. However, he will probably slide in the draft due to off the field concerns, but sources say he is dedicated as a football player and is working with a pass rushing specialist to get better technique. I think he can be a great steal for whoever is not scared away from him.
Last Week's Pick: Zach Allen DE Boston College at Pick #22
21)Buffalo Bills (Kansas City Chiefs (9-7))
Taven Bryan DT Florida
- Like I said the real strength of this draft is in it's defensive tackles. Which, is not a glamorous position, which is why they will not get a lot of press. In the end, I think they will be the real bright stars from this class in a few seasons. Bryan is more of a traditional 3-technique style of tackle instead of the big power noses like Wilkins, Payne, and Vea. He is a ball of energy in the middle of a defense to the point where many scouts see his energy to be equivalent to J.J. Watts on the line. He has good length to even kick out to an end spot, but with his power and get off he may have more impact on the inside. The Bills could use better tackles after trading Marcell Dareus and Kyle Williams being a soon to be free agent. They could also trade this pick to move up for a quarterback so who knows with this pick.
Last Week's Pick: Vita Vea DT Washington at Pick #17
22) Baltimore Ravens
Nick Chubb RB Ravens
- The Ravens normally draft best player available and that is how they ended up with a great defense. Eventually however, they need to reach on offensive talent to compliment their terrific defense just a little bit to be a more consistent team. They desperately need a running back for Joe Flacco to defer to instead of relying on their mediocre pass catchers and I doubt they want to strike out again on a mid-first round receiver. Chubb is a special blend of talent with his pure power and size, but somehow he maintains a lot of speed. He is also more than just a wrecking ball displaying nifty footwork and shiftiness to get away from defenders. The big issue with him is he has limited pass catching experience differing to Sony Michel at Georgia, but if he looks good at the Combine he should still land in the first round.
Last Week's Pick: Trey Adams OT Washington at Pick #21
23) Los Angeles Rams (11-5)
Denzel Ward CB Ohio St
- They might lean towards offense to help out Goff some more, but I can see Sean McVay being a coach who can work with anyone on offense. Instead, adding more defensive talent may be the best way to go about it to help out Wade Phillips whose success is often tied to great corners. Trumaine Johnson is most likely going to finally hit free agency and has played well enough this season to earn a big contract. Same for Nickell Robey-Coleman who is a nice nickel corner. So the Rams could use multiple new corners this draft. Ward is a smaller corner than the past few former Ohio St corners and is more like Bradley Roby in terms of talent. He is extremely fast and displays great ball skills. I can see him doing fine outside like Jason Verrett of the Chargers, but if he is only a great slot corner that is just as good in this new pass happy league.
Last Week's Pick: Denzel Ward CB Ohio St at Pick #27
24) Atlanta Falcons (11-5)
Billy Price OG/C Ohio St
- The Falcons offensive line has taken a big step back with the retirement of Chris Chester at the guard spot. Even at right tackle they can use an upgrade with how poorly Ryan Schraeder has played this year. However, Price is a player to keep an eye on as we get closer to the draft. Some consider him a better talent than either Laken Tomlinson and Joshua Garnett who went in the first round the past few seasons. He has good strength, technique, and a nasty disposition you need to be a great offensive lineman. He is a perfect fit for the center spot, but moving over to guard should be simple for him with how well he handles both speed and strength defensive linemen. I can see him being a similar blocker to Cody Whitehair with his blue collar worker's mentality and versatility.
Last Week's Pick: Dorance Armstrong DE Kansas at Pick #19
25) Los Angeles Chargers (10-6)
Joshua Jackson CB Iowa
- Casey Hayward has been one of the best free agent pick ups over the past five seasons for the Chargers if not the whole league. However, Jason Verrett who is terrific when healthy has been awfully hard to trust to be on the field missing most of the past two seasons. Maybe he can bounce back like Keenan Allen has for them this season. Either way they could use a little bit of insurance at corner to make this a truly formidable defense. Jackson has put together a heck of a season for a mildly disappointing Iowa team flashing great athleticism as a ball hawk. Not only that he has been terrific in coverage and has ideal size teams look for in corners now a days. He should be a borderline first rounder and in my opinion may turn into the best corner in the draft.
Last Week's Pick: Joshua Jackson CB Iowa at Pick #25
26) Jacksonville Jaguars (10-6)
Clayton Thorson QB Northwestern
- The Jags should definitely be in the sweepstakes to land Kirk Cousins if he becomes available. If not they should try their hardest to trade up for one of the top guys. This defense is on the cusp of turning this team into a Super Bowl contender on it's own and with their great run game all they need is a quarterback who can scare opposing defenses. Blake Bortles has been hidden well behind smoke and mirrors thus far, but like last week against the Cardinals when asked upon he was not good enough to bring them to a win on his own. Thorson should be a first round caliber quarterback if he declares with his cannon for an arm, mobility, and intelligence. His mechanics are a bit raw and sloppy. However, scouts know he is a great leader, hard worker, and extremely intelligent obviously going to Northwestern. There is a real possibility of him going back to school, but if teams can convince him he is a first rounder he might declare for the draft.
Last Week's Pick: Arden Tate WR Florida St at Pick #28
27) Seattle Seahawks (11-5)
Orlando Brown OT Oklahoma
- Many people are writing off the Seahawks, but I will take Russell Wilson and his magic any day over any other team. They have a favorable schedule and enough good players left on defense to sneak into the playoffs to make noise with their veteran savvy play. If they do not make it I would not be shocked, but I just think they get in. They just brought in Duane Brown who is a tad older and more worn down at left tackle, but he is still better than what they ever had with Wilson. If they bring in Brown who is a massive and natural right tackle to sure up the other spot it would finally give him two solid book ends. Not only that it will allow them to kick Germain Ifedi back inside where he is more suited. That would end up giving them a rather solid line.
Last Week's Pick: Hayden Hurst TE South Carolina at Pick #24
28) New Orleans Saints (12-4)
Roquon Smith LB Georgia
- The Saints have finally built a recpectable defense that can contend in the NFL. Most of that is thanks to the outstanding play of their corners and safeties. That should not stop them from adding more defensive play makers to continue to make it better. Manti Te'o has been a fine player and Craig Robertson has been good for the past few seasons. However, none of them are as talented as Roquon Smith who is an electric sideline to sideline linebacker with a ton of speed. He is built in the mold of the modern day linebacker where he is a tad lighter than normal, which allows them to cover tight ends and slot receivers better. Off ball linebackers tend to slide in the draft so the Saints will probably have their pick of Smith, Josh Allen from Kentucky, or maybe even Rashaan Evans.
Last Week's Pick: Courtland Sutton WR SMU at Pick #26
29) Minnesota Vikings (12-4)
Tarvarus McFadden CB Florida St
- The Vikings should be in the market for a corner to pair with Xavier Rhodes with Terrence Newman's advanced age and the possibility of him leaving via free agency. They used a first round pick on Trae Waynes a few seasons to go, but he has not developed much. Same can be said about Mackensie Alexander from the 2nd round two seasons ago. McFadden could be a great fit in the Vikings press man coverage scheme that will allow him to use his length to jam receivers. His size and speed is an impressive combo that will have scouts push him up their boards. He does need to develop his technique more to be able to work in zones better. McFadden is also terrific in taking the ball away even though he does not have a pick this year, he led the country in interceptions the year prior.
Last Week's Pick: Taven Bryan DT Florida at Pickk #29
30) Pittsburgh Steelers (12-4)
Derrius Guice RB LSU
- The Steelers could lose Le'Veon Bell this off season since they are already using a ton of their cap on other players. Meanwhile, his off-field suspensions, injury history, and the brutal position he plays would make me hesitant to hand him a big contract. I would rather just stomach seeing him elsewhere playing well and find a cheaper option. Guice is not having the season I expected after looking great the year before in relief of Leonard Fournette. Part of it is LSU's terrible offense and him being their only viable player on that side of the ball. Allowing defenses to key in and load the box on him. In the pros however, I can see him being a better back than Fournette with his quicker footwork and ability to avoid big hits unlike his predecessor who looks for contact. His hands also look more natural than Fournette's did coming out of college.
Last Week's Pick: Ronnie Harrison S Alabama at Pick #30
31) Philadelphia Eagles (13-3)
Josh Allen LB Kentucky
- A receiver may be the pick here, but this draft's receiving class is weak and I suspect that the Eagles would like to bring back Alshon Jeffrey who has clicked with Carson Wentz. Instead, they can look towards a different position whether it's filling a hole or bolstering another spot. In this case, they can get a great player like Allen who is a terrific linebacker prospect with the abilities of Leonard Floyd, and Zach Cunningham. He could take the spot of Nigel Bradham who is an upcoming free agent and is just a good player for Jim Schwartz' defense. Allen is a much better athlete can actually make more plays than Bradham who is just a good tackler.
Last Week's Pick: Josh Allen LB Kentucky at Pick #31
32) New England Patriots (13-3)
Austin Bryant DE/OLB Clemson
- I suspected that the Patriots would have trouble finding a pass rush after letting Chandler Jones, Jamie Collins, and Jabaal Sheard go the past few off seasons. Now they must rely on Kyle Van Noy, Shea McClellin, Cassius Marsh, and Elandon Roberts to put pressure on opposing offenses. Now I doubt they keep this pick the Patriots never do. Bryant the other young pass rusher on the Clemson line is more of the speed option who is strictly a pass rushing end. He looks like he would be the perfect fit for the Patriots with his versatility to stand up or rush with his hand in the dirt. The only question is if he declares for the draft.
Last Week's Pick: Sam Hubbard DE Ohio St at Pick #32
Second Round:
1) Cleveland Browns
Jamarco Jones OT Ohio St.
- An end of an era is upon us with Joe Thomas hitting the twilight of his career. Not only that, but Shon Coleman on the right side has been terrible for them. Which, is a shame since their interior blocking is a real strength of their team. Adding a blue collar blocker like Jones can be a nice pick even if it's not a very flashy move. He is a solid left tackle prospect who should be able to transfer to the right tackle spot or even kick inside if need be. The Browns need hit on players like this who are just solid players who can get the job done at a high level.
Last Week's Pick: Nick Chubb RB Georgia at Pick #2
2) New York Giants
Connor Williams OT Texas
- There is no prospect who splits scouts and analysts more than Connor Williams who has the athleticism to be a terrific blindside blocker. However, he has had a very up and down season. Between injuries and his up and down play he has just not looked as good as people expected. Like many young blockers he does need to get stronger and get better in his technique to be a more consistent blocker. He did look good coming back so far so maybe he can recuperate his image enough to declare for the draft. There is no secret that the Giants need a new left tackle and they can take the ultimate boom or bust prospect to solve it.
Last Week's Pick: Desmond Harrison OT West Georgia at Pick #3
3) New England Patriots (From the San Francisco 49ers)
Hayden Hurst TE South Carolina
- The Patriots offense is at it's best when it has two tight ends to throw the ball to. They currently have a broken and one-foot out to retirement Martellus Bennett and a zero catch Dwayne Allen across from Gronk. None of that is good if Gronk ends up going down again at any point. Hurst is the best pass catching tight end in this draft with good length and hands to be a weapon on the interior of an offense. The biggest draw back is that he is already 25 years old by the time the season starts. He is a solid enough blocker to not be a liability in that department as well. More thank likely however, is that the Patriots will probably move this pick for an established veteran.
Last Week's Pick: Mark Andrews TE Oklahoma at Pick #1
4) Chicago Bears
Equanimeous St.Brown WR Notre Dame
- The Bears may not be as desperate at receiver come next year as some people think. Which, is why they can wait until the 2nd round to find a young option to add to their depth. They should be able to bring back both Dontrelle Inman and Cameron Meredith next season to go along with the rest of their depth that has been getting a lot of experience. It would not hurt to bring in a towering outside presence like St.Brown who is a signature height-weight-speed prospect. He is a solid route runner and has terrific hands to high point red zone targets. St.Brown and Mitchell Trubisky can create a nice young tandem together.
Last Week's Pick: Carlton Davis CB Auburn at Pick #8
5) New York Jets
Damien Harris RB Alabama
- Normally when you draft a new young quarterback you normally pair him with a weapon, running back, or blocker to help him out. Since the Jets o-line is actually pretty solid and same goes for their receiving core I think they should look towards a running back. Matt Forte is gassed as a runner and at this point is just a Kevin Faulk older pass catching back at this point. Meanwhile, they seem reluctant to give the reigns to Bilal Powell at this point. Harris is a compact, quick, and powerful runner that has stood out this year among Alabama's stable of other runners. Many scouts compare him to Doug Martin in terms of size and style of running. His hands need work, but many say he is a dedicated worker who keeps striving to get better.
Last Week's Pick: Damien Harris RB Alabama at Pick #15
6) Denver Broncos
Mark Andrews TE Oklahoma
- I am tempted to mock a quarterback here, but I think they would be more inclined to get a veteran instead of another rookie. Instead, I have them taking a tight end that has been a weak spot on their offense since Julius Thomas left a few seasons ago. Most of that was Peyton Manning anyways so finding an actually talented tight end can help who ever is their starting quarterback next year. Andrews has been a go to weapon for Baker Mayfield this season displaying good quickness and size down the seams. He has plus athleticism to be a dangerous receiver more than an inline blocking tight end that may cause him to be taken after Hayden Hurst.
Last Week's Pick: Dre'Mont Jones DT Ohio St at Pick #7
7) Tampa Bay Buccaneers
Zach Allen DE Boston College
- The Bucs pass rush has been surprisingly ineffective this season so far. The likes of William Gholston and Robert Ayers are just not getting the job done. Plus, Noah Spence has not had the second year jump many people expected out of him. Zach Allen not Harold Landry is the better of the two Boston College pass rushers. He fits a more defined position as a base end with a good base, power, and run stopping ability compared to the tweener Landry. Allen has an impressive first step and power rush to get to the quarterback. If he adds a swim or club move to his repertoire he can become an even better pass rusher.
Last Week's Pick: Justin Reid S Stanford at Pick #12
8) Cleveland Browns (From the Houston Texans)
Sony Michel RB Georgia
- This is a great draft if you need a running back as there are a handful of runners I can see turning in solid careers at the next level. The Browns could use one of them to pair with their rookie signal caller to allow them to take some pressure off of him with a good runner. Michel is the other great back on the Bulldogs roster who would be a bonafide starter on literally any other college program. Some scouts even see him as the better pro back than Chubb thanks to his pass catching ability and pass blocking prowess. His size worries me a bit to handle a full NFL workload to go along with his shaky injury history. If the Browns were smart rotating both he and Duke Johnson can give them two dangerous versatile backs.
Last Week's Pick: Parris Campbell WR Ohio St at Pick #11
9) Indianapolis Colts
Isaiah Wynn OL Georgia
- The Colts have some nice developing blockers like Ryan Kelly, Le'Raven Clark, and veteran Anthony Castonzo. However, upgrading the other spots would be a great way to keep Luck healthy and create a more consistent run game. Wynn has been one of the best blockers in the league regardless of position this year. He is a tad small to be an NFL left tackle, but with his technique I can see him staying there. Moving him to guard though will allow him to be less exposed and more valuable using his athleticism against his opponents. He is a pure football player who gets the job done and continues to get better. This would be a great pick for the Colts.
Last Week's Pick: Tarvarus McFadden CB Florida St at Pick #4
10) Oakland Raiders
Harold Landry OLB Boston College
- The Raiders need to find a pass rusher to compliment Khalil Mack who is consistently double blocked, while the rest of his teammates still cannot create a semblance of a rush. Landry may not be my favorite pass rusher in this draft due to his limited strength and inability to be a real force in the run game. Though for the Raiders it can be a perfect fit since they are strictly in need of a pass rusher and that is exactly what Landry is. He is a fast, athletic, and twitchy pass rusher with good bend around the edge. He should carve out a good niche in the NFL in that aspect and possibly prove me wrong if he gets stronger.
Last Week's Pick: Harold Landry OLB Boston College at Pick #14
11) Miami Dolphins
Maurice Hurst DT Michigan
- If I were the Dolphins, this off season I would look into ways I could get rid of Ndamukong Suh who has definitely not been giving them the production they are paying for. He does play a lot of snaps, but he hardly gets pressure on the quarterback anymore and he gets pushed around like a rag doll in the run game. Not only does he stink on the field, he also stinks in the locker room and rumor has it that he is partly to blame for the Dolphins bad attitude problems the past few years. Hurst is a tad bit on the lighter side that could cause him to slide in the draft, but he has one of the quickest first steps in the game. He should be a perfect 3-technique for the Dolphins and possibly pair with Davon Godchaux who has been a solid rookie so far.
Last Week's Pick: Jamarco Jones OT Ohio St at Pick #9
12) Arizona Cardinals
Luke Falk QB Washington St
- I had the Cardinals pass on a quarterback since I have a gut feeling that Palmer will be back. However, that should not stop them from taking a quarterback to develop at some point in this draft. Falk is a lesser talked about quarterback up in Washington St, but scouts love his arm strength, accuracy, and feel in the pocket. He does need to learn how to run a pro style offense and a huddle after working in Mike Leach's arcade like offense. Possibly after next year he will be ready to take over for Palmer and give the Cardinals an actual young quarterback for once.
Last Week's Pick: Isaiah Wynn OL Georgia at Pick #5
13) Green Bay Packers
Sam Hubbard OLB/DE Ohio St
- One player who has fallen off the face of the Earth that no one is mentioning is Clay Matthews. After being an electric pass rusher throughout his career and his reckless style of play that fans loved is starting to catch up with him. The past few seasons he has looked more than a step slower than he was and is starting to get dinged up more often. At some point they need to replace him so they can get more consistent in the pass rush and take pressure off their young secondary. Hubbard is a talented pass rusher with good strength, energy, and speed. The problem is sharing a workload at Ohio St on the line I think stunted his growth and development as a pass rusher. I can see him being a good rotational guy at first and then take a big jump year two.
Last Week's Pick: Will Hernandez OG UTEP at Pick #6
14) Buffalo Bills
Carlton Davis CB Auburn
- The Bills seem to have hit it out of the park with Tre'Davious White in the first round last year, but they should be in the market for more help at corner. They have a bunch of players at the position heading into free agency this off season including E.J. Gaines, Shareece Wright, and Leonard Johnson. I would be tempted to bring back Gaines, but with his injury history and sudden great play I would be nervous as well to give him a big contract. Davis has been a solid corner this year displaying good physical play and length outside. He should be a great weapon to erase bigger and stronger receivers. However, he may be susceptible to speed receivers who can beat him deep down the field.
Last Week's Pick: Tremaine Edmunds LB Virginia Tech at Pick #10
15) Cincinnati Bengals
Will Hernandez OG UTEP
- Another blocker for the Bengals to help keep Dalton upright and enhance their run game. A run game that could be a focal point if they learned to run the ball more with Joe Mixon who finally had a full work load last week and put up some good stats. Hernandez will be a Senior Bowl and East-West Shrine game darling this year with how balanced and nasty he is as a blocker. He is not the biggest or most athletic player, but he has good pad level and a great base to anchor against bigger tackles. Some scouts even project him as one of the best linemen in this draft so getting him here is almost a steal for the Bengals.
Last Week's Pick: Malik Jefferson LB Texas at Pick #13
16) Washington Redskins
Tremaine Edmunds LB Virginia Tech
- With guys like Mason Foster, Will Compton, Trent Murphy, and Zach Brown up coming free agents the Redskins will need to reload on their linebacking core. Guys like Foster and Brown already expressed their dislike of the organization, so more than likely they will not be back. Edmunds is a less known prospect who has been playing amazingly well for the Hockies this year and even the seasons prior. He is really quick, instinctive, and plays really well in coverage. I can see him being a better on tape than in shorts type of prospect and the tape is what should matter most anyways.
Last Week's Pick: Clayton Thorson QB Northwestern at Pick #17
17) Dallas Cowboys
Ronnie Harrison S Alabama
- The Cowboys secondary is still getting a make over after losing three starters last off seasons. Byron Jones keeps flashing some nice potential to be a mainstay at safety. However, the spot next to him has been a revolving door next to him this season. Bringing in their own version of Landon Collins in their own. Harrison is a roaming strong safety type who is a great run defender, but is also a plus defender in coverage. To me he is a bit further along than Collins was with better ball skills and coverage ability coming out of college than the current Giant did.
Last Week's Pick: Terell Edmunds S Virginia Tech at Pick #16
18) Detroit Lions
Akrum Wadley RB Iowa
- The Lions need to give Stafford someone who can actually run the ball consistently. They rely too heavily on him each week to bring them back into games and play perfectly almost. However, that's just not his style of play really and his inconsistent play proves it. Wadley has been a terrific all around runner for the Hawkeyes this season. He may be the only power back with actual experience catching the ball in this class. Combine that with his solid blocking he may be a great pick on the second day of the draft. Hopefully he can actually give the Lions their first 100 yard rusher since Reggie Bush.
Last Week's Pick: Billy Price C Ohio St at Pick #20
19) Tennessee Titans
Parris Campbell WR Ohio St
- I was not sold on Corey Davis being picked 5th overall and he has looked just okay thus far. They brought in Harry Douglas and Eric Decker to bring in a veteran presence, but that just has not happened this year. That leaves Rishard Matthews as Mariota's number one target outside of an old Delanie Walker. That's not good enough and especially as it seems like Mariota has taken a step back this year in his ability to find open receivers. Bringing in another young explosive option like Campbell can help out a bit to open the top off of defenses and give them an actual speed option to throw to. Of course they need to find a coach who actually wants to run a modern day offense.
Last Week's Pick: Braden Smith OG Auburn at Pick #23
20) Carolina Panthers
Christian Kirk WR Texas A&M
- Kirk going to the Panthers is just a perfect match in my opinion. They want to get faster on offense and bringing in a down field threat like Kirk is just what they need. Newton has a cannon for an arm like he demonstrated on many long throws with Ted Ginn before he left for the Saints. Kirk has a lot of untapped potential with his explosive athleticism and quickness. Many scouts see him having the same potential as OBJ with similar sizes and skill sets. However, he needs to work on his routes to get to that next level. Combine him with McCaffrey, Samuel, and Funchess could actually give the Panthers an interesting and difficult to defend offense.
Last Week's Pick: Christian Kirk WR Texas A&M at Pick #22
21) Kansas City Chiefs
Jaire Alexander CB Louisville
- Marcus Peters has been terrible this year and it has me worried since he runs with the same crowd as Marshawn Lynch who has been known to be lazy. You can get away with that as a running back, but a corner needs to continue to get better and work on his technique. Even if he does bounce back next year they need to solve the corner spot across from him. They got so desperate they brought Darrelle Revis back into the league. Alexander is an uber athletic player that the Chiefs look for in their prospects now a days and has the upside to be a ball hawking difference maker across from Peters. His technique does need work, but his speed and athleticism is unteachable.
Last Week's Pick: Equanimeous St.Brown WR Notre Dame at Pick #18
22) Baltimore Ravens
Desmond Harrison OT West Georgia
- The Ravens are still miraculously still in the playoff chase and more likely than not could land one of the Wild Card spots. None of that is thanks to their offense and in particularly their offensive line that has been ravaged by injuries. Not only that, but they had to watch Ricky Wagner walk out the door due to a cap crunch. They should rectify that with a solid tackle pick to sure up the right side and give them two solid young tackles. Harrison was apart of the Texas program prior to being let go for a failed drug test. Since being at West Georgia he has been clean and continues to display great athleticism for a tackle. If he does well leading up to the draft he might create some real buzz around him.
Last Week's Pick: Derrius Guice RB LSU at Pick #21
23) Buffalo Bills (From the Los Angeles Rams)
Malik Jefferson LB Texas
- The Bills have a few linebackers heading to free agency this off season. Plus, under head coach Sean McDermott, Lorenzo Alexander who fit Rex Ryan's scheme perfectly has not had the same success with this new regime. Jefferson could fit perfectly off the ball for McDermott and his athletic ability fits in well to be able to roam in coverage. He is one of those players with a ton of ability who can jump out the roof at Indy. However, his on field play has never played up to his potential and some worry about his love for the game. With so many picks here though the Bills can afford to take a flyer on a possible stud.
Last Week's Pick: Baker Mayfield QB Oklahoma at Pick #27
24) Atlanta Falcons
Dre'Mont Jones DT Ohio St
- The Falcons should be in the market for an upgrade next to Grady Jarrett. They brought in Dontari Poe, but he is nowhere near the player he once was. Plus, with the Falcons' fast moving offense they will need players to rotate in to keep fresh still. Jones has been a disruptive force in the middle of the Buckeyes defense. He may not get the hype like the pass rushers next to him do, but he does his part to take up space and attention. His strength combined with Jarrett's quickness can create a nice one-two punch in the middle of their defense.
Last Week's Pick: Maurice Hurst DT Michigan at Pick #19
25) Los Angeles Chargers
Trenton Thompson DT Georgia
- The Chargers are transitioning to a 4-3 front this season and it has gone well for their pass rushing duo Melvin Ingram and Joey Bosa. However, the tackles could use some improvement. The likes of Brandon Mebane, and Corey Liuget are just barely holding the fort together with some nice depth behind them. Bringing in a possible stud like Thompson could give them a true pass rushing interior threat to really keep opposing quarterbacks up at night. Thompson is this year's latest version of an amazing tackle talent with a lot of laziness to him and a low motor on the field. He needs to be more consistent on each down, but players with his gift to get after the passer from the interior is a rare thing. If he pans out he can be a real steal.
Last Week's Pick: Luke Falk QB Washington St at Pick #25
26) Jacksonville Jaguars
Troy Fumagalli TE Wisconsin
- The Jags have a good foundation to build around thanks to their talented defense. Along with that they have a terrific run game if Fournette stays healthy and their o-line continues to be a steady force. One spot on offense that has been a sore spot for awhile is the tight end position that was filled by the disappointing Julius Thomas who was just traded this summer and Mercedes Lewis who has never been consistent as a pass catcher. Fumagalli is a great two-way tight end who can block well and go out on routes to catch passes. He is a plus route runner as a tight end and couple that with his athleticism he can be a very nice tight end for the next level.
Last Week's Pick: Mason Rudolph QB Oklahoma St at Pick #28
27) New York Jets (From the Seattle Seahawks)
Duke Ejiafor DE Wake Forest
- The Jets have a very over hyped pass rush with Leonard Williams and Muhammad Wilkerson where neither has played up to their billing thus far. Kony Ealy has easily outplayed those two, but he may go elsewhere after being just a rental for New York. Ejiafor would be a perfect fit for the Jets defense as a base end with good twitchy athleticism. His numbers are not great being the best player on a Wake Forest defense, but scouts know he has a rare blend of quickness and size for the position. The only issue is him becoming more consistent on every play and work on his technique instead of relying on his athleticism.
Last Week's Pick: Jaire Alexander CB Louisville at Pick #24
28) San Francisco 49ers (From the New Orleans Saints)
Martinas Rankin OT Mississippi St
- The 49ers should go offensive heavy to help support Jimmy G or any other young quarterback they decide to take instead. One way to help their quarterback out is by getting rid of Trent Brown from the right tackle spot and even finding a possible heir apparent for Joe Staley. Rankin has talent and ability to be a solid swing tackle prospect for the next level. He has good technique, footwork, and versatility to be a solid tackle. However, like a lot of blockers coming out of college he needs to get stronger to get a better base that can help him stop getting pushed to the ground. If he fixes those issues he can be a nice find here for the 49ers.
Last Week's Pick: Martinas Rankin OT Mississippi St at Pick #26
29) Minnesota Vikings
Mason Rudolph QB Oklahoma St
- All three of the quarterbacks on Minnesota's roster this season are set to be free agents next year. I imagine they most likely bring back Teddy Bridewater after taking him in the first round. However, if he walks out on them Case Keenum can be the guy, but I would be worried if this is just a flash in the pan this year with him. Sam Bradford to me is done and will probably retire after so many knee issues throughout his career. Just in case, they land none of them or even if Keenum falters or Bridgewater gets hurt again finding a quality back up is never a bad idea. Their roster is good enough to take a flyer on a guy like Rudolph who can develop into a good signal caller. He has the arm, size, and athleticism to be a solid quarterback. However, he needs to work on his mechanics, accuracy, and learn a pro style offense. If given a year to develop he could be ready to be a full time starter.
Last Week's Pick: Troy Fumagalli TE Wisconsin at Pick #29
30) Pittsburgh Steelers
Justin Reid S Stanford
- Mike Mitchell has many fans around the league due to his fiery leadership off the field. However, the play on the field is just not good enough with his inability to cover slot receivers or tight ends well. Sean Davis at the strong safety spot has not developed as well as expected either and finding someone to push him may help him play better. Reid the brother of Eric Reid over in San Fran is a clean safety prospect who is solid in every aspect. He is not an explosive athlete or a highly talented cover guy or anything. However, he is good in the run and pass with good instincts. People compare him to Ha-Ha Clinton-Dix who is solid at everything as a safety. That could help tighten things up in the Steelers' secondary.
Last Week's Pick: Sony Michel RB Georgia at Pick #30
31) Cleveland Browns (From the Philadelphia Eagles)
Ronnie Harrison S Alabama
- Talented safeties tend to slide further down than people expect so I would not be shocked if Harrison goes this low. For the Browns they need a guy who can actually cover next to Jabrill Peppers who has been terrible in coverage. Harrison is a solid all around safety much like Landon Collins was coming out of Alabama. In fact, I think Harrison is a better cover safety right now than Collins was coming out of Bama. Harrison is a terrific instinctive safety who is great at taking the ball away. For the Browns if he turns out to be the next Landon Collins would be terrific for them to solidify their otherwise solid secondary.
Last Week's Pick: DeShon Elliott S Texas at Pick #31
32) New England Patriots
Anthony Averett CB Alabama
- It is beginning to look like Stephon Gilmore could be a free agent bust for the Patriots since he is regularly out of position and has not learned the playbook as well as Belichick would like. Then they could lose Malcolm Butler after last off season's back and forth battle on if they would trade him or not. Plus, Butler could command a big contract on the open market and a more valuable player in Nate Solder is a possible free agent as well who is more likely to get the franchise tag. So, bringing in a new corner is probably going to needed and a guy like Averett is a perfect match for them. He comes from Belichick's protege Nick Saban who he has a lot of confidence in and has drafted a bunch of players from Bama in recent years.
Last Week's Pick: Anthony Averett CB Alabama at Pick #32
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