It may not come to pass….but wouldn’t it be loverly if the Bloguin Network mock draft matched up with next Thursday’s reality…and with several professional NFL Draft analysts’ predictions (including Mel Kiper’s) coming true for the Ravens …?
With the 26th pick, the Ravens select Jimmy Smith, from Colorado, CB, 6-2, 210, in the 2011 Bloguin Mock Draft…
Here’s how the rest of the Bloguin Draft went, with each NFL team writer from their respective NFL hometowns playing the part of their home team’s GM on the clock:
1. Carolina Panthers: Nick Fairley, DT, Auburn
2. Denver Broncos: Marcell Dareus, DT, Alabama
By Levi Damien of Thoughts From the Dark Side
The Broncos had one of the worst defenses in the NFL last season and the most glaring weakness was along the defensive line. They are shifting out of the 3-4 to the 4-3 and that will require some players to either move positions or move on. The return of Elvis Dumervil at the defensive end spot will help with their lack of a pass rush, but they have no one of any note on the interior. Dareus is considered an extremely safe pick. He is also an ideal 3 technique defensive tackle at the NFL level which is something the Broncos are sorely lacking. Another option here might be to go with Patrick Peterson as the best player on the board.
Here’s the scouting report on Dareus and following is the analysis of this pick, both courtesy of Eric Galko of Optimum Scouting:
A great fit scheme-wise for the Broncos, Dareus makes a lot of sense as they switch to a more 4-3 type of defense. They have already said they are comfortable with Robert Ayers and Elvis Dumervil at the ends, but they lack an impact rusher on the inside. Patrick Peterson is also an option even though the team resigned Champ Bailey because with Bailey, their secondary still ranked near the bottom of the league. If both are on the board, it’ll be a tough choice but a great position for the Broncos on draft day.
3. Buffalo Bills: Cameron Newton, QB, Auburn
By Joe Pinzone of Buffalo Wins
Well, I was afraid of this. I was totally hoping for Fairley or Dareus to be there for me. I’d rather the Bills go defense or better yet, trade down and get some additional picks. I could go with Patrick Peterson, who seems like a stud at cornerback. However, with the way the NFL rules favor wide receivers, I just feel that going with a corner that high isn’t smart. Von Miller is a nice player, but the Bills already have a lot of depth at outside linebacker with Chris Kelsay, Arthur Moats and Shawne Merriman.
So, as I’ve been saying since day 1, if the Bills believe that Cam Newton or Blaine Gabbert are franchise QBs, then you have to go in that direction. For me, I like Newton. The guy scored 50 touchdowns last year for crap sakes! He had a season of the ages, with winning (Charlie Sheen) the Heisman and guiding his team to the National Championship. Plus, and this may sound small time, he’s a MAJOR name. You draft him and the Bills go from being an afterthought to “the thought.” Also, he wouldn’t have to start right away, as Ryan Fitzpatrick is more than a serviceable QB.
Here’s the scouting report on Newton and following is the analysis of this pick, both courtesy of Eric Galko of Optimum Scouting:
As are most teams around the league, the Bills seem to be enamoured with Cam Newton. The athletic ability, arm strength, mobility, winning-ability, and the overall appeal of Newton is going to be too much for teams for him to fall out of the Top 5. Ryan Fitzpatrick can be the starter early in his career while Newton develops, but if he and Chan Gailey can co-exist and Newton is willing to develop, the Bills could be getting the next Ben Roethlisberger.
4. Cincinnati Bengals: Patrick Peterson, CB, LSU
By Dave Biddle of Three-Way Chili
The Bengals don’t have a huge need at corner with both Leon Hall and Johnathan Joseph likely in the fold for 2011 (if there is actually a season). However, I fully believe in the BPA theory and Peterson is too good to pass up. Also, Joseph is currently unsigned and would be a restricted free agent under the old collective bargaining agreement. The Bengals gave him the highest tender possible, meaning if another team signs him and Cincinnati doesn’t match, the Bengals would get that team’s first and third round draft picks the following year.
So, not only is Peterson arguably the most-talented player in the entire draft, the Bengals might have a need at corner if Joseph leaves. And now that we’re taking Peterson, we hope someone signs Joseph and we get the aforementioned first and third rounders next year in exchange. Peterson and Hall would be a great combination for years. Many have said that Peterson is the “safest” pick in the 2011 draft and I completely agree with that. The Bengals are thrilled he fell in our lap at pick No. 4.
Here’s the scouting report on Peterson and following is the analysis of this pick, both courtesy of Eric Galko of Optimum Scouting:
Doesn’t fill a huge need for the Bengals, but getting arguably the top prospect in this draft is something that the Bengals can’t pass on. Reports are that they like Cam Newton and not Blaine Gabbert as much, so no quarterback does coincide with reports, but if Carson Palmer is serious about his desire to leave the team, they may have a tough time passing up on a quarterback. Still, adding even more talent and youth to this defense is a major need and Peterson will help in a multitude of ways.
5. Arizona Cardinals: Blaine Gabbert, QB, Missouri
Despite having an All-Pro WR, the Cardinals had the next to worst aerial attack in the NFL last year and they should be delighted if Blaine Gabbert is still available at #5 on Draft Day. Gabbert is considered to be the most NFL-ready QB and should be able to start this season and revive the Cardinals’ passing game. Sam Bradford, Matthew Stafford, Mark Sanchez, Josh Freeman, Matt Ryan and Joe Flacco are all recent proof that rookie quarterbacks can start, and succeed, so there’s no reason Gabbert can’t do the same.
Arizona’s #2 priority is a 3-4 edge rusher so I also gave strong consideration to LB Von Miller, who is arguably the best player on the board and would cure a lot of defensive woes, but when you have an opportunity to draft a franchise QB, you have to do so.
Here’s the scouting report on Gabbert and following is the analysis of this pick, both courtesy of Eric Galko of Optimum Scouting:
Finding a franchise quarterback has to be the number one priority for the Cardinals, and with the Lockout restricting their ability to trade for Carson Palmer and Kevin Kolb or trade for Donovan McNabb, they’ll need to look to the draft to find one. Gabbert isn’t as clear-cut of a prospect as recent Top 5 quarterbacks like Matt Ryan, Matt Stafford, Mark Sanchez, and Sam Bradford, but he’s got all the tools that coach Ken Whisenhunt wants in a quarterback and is the most NFL ready quarterback of this class.
6. Cleveland Browns: A.J. Green, WR, Georgia
By Nick Shook of Browns Beat
Do the Browns have serious needs on the defensive line? Absolutely, but team president Mike Holmgren and general manager Tom Heckert will not pass up on a talent such as Green. At six feet, four inches, Green has the size and speed to make the big play as the Browns’ number one target. With the switch to the West Coast offense under new head coach Pat Shurmur, the Browns are obviously looking for a number one receiver with big play capabilities, and Green fits the bill better than any other prospect in the draft. Pairing Green with another tall receiver in Carlton Mitchell (6’3″, 215 lbs) will give second-year quarterback Colt McCoy more big targets to throw to in the pass-heavy scheme under Shurmur. Green is also the definition of consistency. If the Browns want to become an excellent passing team, they will select Green with the sixth pick overall, and add a weapon that will bring instant productivity to the offensive side of the ball.
Here’s the scouting report on Green and following is the analysis of this pick, both courtesy of Eric Galko of Optimum Scouting:
The dream scenario for the Browns, arguably the best player in the draft could very well fall to them at #6 if the draft shakes out this way. Green is one of the Top 2-3 best receiver prospects of the past 10 years, and adding him to Brian Robiskie, Mohammad Massaquoi, and Josh Cribbs makes this receiver unit much better and more promising. If AJ is gone, Julio Jones or a defensive lineman likely will be the pick, but having Green here at #6 is a major win for the Cleveland Browns to build around Colt McCoy.
7. San Francisco 49ers: Von Miller, LB, Texas A&M
By Joshua Russell of The Red and Gold
With Patrick Peterson, Blaine Gabbert and Cam Newton all off the board, the 49ers have to address the defensive side of the ball. Von Miller is both a sack artist and plays the coverage really well. With Takeo Spikes having 1-2 years left max and no guarantee that free agent Manny Lawson returns, Von Miller could be the perfect complement to perennial pro bowler and all-world, Patrick Willis. The number four overall player on Mel Kiper’s ‘Big Board’, Von Miller will be too tempting for the 49ers to pass on.
Here’s the scouting report on Miller and following is the analysis of this pick, both courtesy of Eric Galko of Optimum Scouting:
It’s rare that two of the top three or four players in the draft fall out of the Top Five and fall into a spot that fits them perfectly, but that very well could happen with AJ Green in Cleveland and Von Miller in San Francisco. The 49ers have been in dire need of an impact edge rusher. Rumors are that their new coach Jim Harbaugh may want to make the switch to a 4-3, but the team is built around the 3-4 now, and Miller can fit into either one, with time. Miller is both a great value and a great fit, and could make a major impact in the pass rush in his first year in the league.
8. Tennessee Titans: Robert Quinn, DE, North Carolina
By Tom Gower of Total Titans
The Titans’ biggest need is quarterback, but with Blaine Gabbert off the board, there’s not a quarterback I feel comfortable taking. The next biggest positional need is probably linebacker, but there’s not a linebacker who’s worth it. The next best option is somebody to rush the passer. The Titans have a decent grouping of defensive tackles, but could use an upgrade at end, especially if they don’t re-sign Jason Babin.
The choice then comes down to which defensive end. I considered Quinn and Da’Quan Bowers from Clemson. If this is the choice the Titans make on draft day, I expect them to choose Bowers if his knee checks out. Personally, though, I think they need a defensive end with a better burst off the edge to complement last year’s first round pick Derrick Morgan. In that case, Quinn fits the bill.
Here’s the scouting report on Quinn and following is the analysis of this pick, both courtesy of Eric Galko of Optimum Scouting:
The Tennessee Titans are known for looking at the most talented player on the board over the best values or of team need, such as Michael Griffin, Chris Johnson, and Kenny Britt. Still, while Quinn is a great athlete, he has quite a few questions marks that I would consider reasons not to take him such as a benign tumor he had in high school, not playing all of last year, and questions about his development as a player. Still, if no QBs or DTs are available here (their two biggest needs) don’t be surprised if the Titans make a somewhat surprising pick and get the most talented player on the board.
9. Dallas Cowboys: Tyron Smith, OT, USC
The biggest weakness of the 2010 Dallas Cowboys was their inability to defend the pass. The problem there was two-fold: horrible years from their pro-bowl corners, and poor play at the safety level. There’s not a whole lot the Cowboys can do to solve the safety problem and if we know anything about the way the Cowboys operate, it’s that they give their proven players every chance to rebound from disaster years.
If Michael Jenkins and Terence Newman both have job security for this year, then the Cowboys will address their biggest offensive need: an offensive lineman. Tyron Smith is simply the best bet in this draft for the Cowboys, or anyone looking for line help. He’s a two year starter at right tackle for the Trojans who projects on the left side as a pro prospect. The Cowboys are an ideal situation for Smith, as the expectation won’t be for him to start from day one, but he’ll be the first reserve in as soon as Marc Columbo gets hurt, which would figure to happen by Week 3 of the pre-season.
Here’s the scouting report on Smith and following is the analysis of this pick, both courtesy of Eric Galko of Optimum Scouting:
After cutting Flozell Adams last year and likely more cuts coming this off-season on the aging offensive line, the Cowboys will need to get younger and in a draft filled with first round tackles and tons of quality guards, it could be a great opportunity. Tyron Smith played right tackle over his career at USC, and while he’s looked at as a top left tackle potential-based prospect, he could start at right tackle with Dallas, and then if he develops and surpasses Doug Free on the field, the two could switch down the road. That type of flexibility by tackles is rare and would do a lot for the long term development of this offense. I’ve heard from many in the organization that they like Prince Amukamara a lot, but Smith would not surprise me at all.
10. Washington Redskins: Julio Jones, WR, Alabama
By Anthony Brown of Redskins Hog Heaven
The Washington Redskins have so many glaring needs that any well-chosen first round talent will help. Targeted players at quarterback, Cam Newton and Blaine Gabbert, and pass rushers, Von Miller and Robert Quinn, are off the board. That drives the ‘Skins to the best player available strategy. Three players look good in that scenario: WR Julio Jones, DE DaQuan Bowers and CB Prince Amukamara.
A head feint towards Jones might trigger a best-case scenario where St. Louis or Detroit offers their first and third round pick for Washington’s tenth overall selection. That preserves the Redskins’ shot at Bowers or Amukamara while backfilling the third round pick traded to New Orleans for OL Jammal Brown. Mock drafts don’t allow for draft order swaps. So the Redskins select Julio Jones, hoping that this upgrade at wide receiver will make Donovan McNabb palatable for one more season.
Here’s the scouting report on Jones and following is the analysis of this pick, both courtesy of Eric Galko of Optimum Scouting:
The Redskins could have a lot of options to fill their needs here at the bottom of the Top 10. With their biggest needs being receiver, quarterback, and pass rushing, they could target Robert Quinn, who could be deadly opposite Brian Orakpo, Jake Locker, who they loved last year and I think is a very strong possibility based on how he fits in Mike Shanahan’s offense, and Julio Jones, the likely best player available here on most teams’ boards. Jones can be a Calvin Johnson type number one receiver for the Redskins as they hope to find their franchise quarterback (Matt Stafford) in future years. Jake Locker is a very real possibility as well as Daniel Snyder’s love for high potential defenders, but Jones would be hard to pass on for the Redskins here at #10.
11. Houston Texans: Prince Amukamara, CB, Nebraska
By Mike Kerns of Texans Tribune
With the heartbreaking realization of North Carolina defensive end Robert Quinn off the board, I knew where I was going to go with this pick. But then Washington took him ahead of me. But it is hard to not be pleased with the idea of adding a potential lockdown corner to one of the worst defenses in NFL history from last year.
Despite not picking off a pass in 2010 for the Huskers, Amukamara’s lockdown ability is undeniable. He was targeted 53 times and only 18 passes were completed against him, a stat which helped him earn Big 12 Defensive Player of the Year honors.
Aside from Patrick Peterson, Prince is considered the top prospect at his position headed into April. And even after the disaster that was Kareem Jackson for Houston last year, Prince is too hard to pass up here.
Here’s the scouting report on Amukamara and following is the analysis of this pick, both courtesy of Eric Galko of Optimum Scouting:
The Texans have been trying to find consistent starters for years now in the secondary, and the addition of Kareem Jackson last year doesn’t seem like enough to make the position one of strength. Despite rumors of him falling on draft boards, people I’ve talked to have said that he’s a solid Top 10 pick and could be a number one, shut down cornerback in the right system. Addressing the pass rush for the new Wade Phillips defense is an option as well, so guys like JJ Watt, Robert Quinn, and Cameron Jordan are all solid options as well. But if Prince Amukamara is here at #11, it will be tough for the pass defense-less Texans to let him slide any further.
12. Minnesota Vikings: Da’Quan Bowers, DE, Clemson
By PJD of The Purple Jesus Diaries
With each pick in this mock draft, the hearts of Vikings fans and organization members was sinking faster than Butler’s National Championship hopes. Cam Newton taken at three? Both top notch CBs gone? Gabbert out? Are there any defensive linemen left? Can we just sign free agents instead?
The problem with the Vikings in this draft is that they aren’t choosing picks 1 – 12 for themselves. Whoever the Vikings pick at #12 is going to need to be an immediate impact player to help this team get back on track, only one year removed from an NFC Championship game. The team is still a bit of a veteran squad, and although new coach Leslie Frazier has said he wants to get younger overall, they are still poised to make a strong push for a title, IF they can shore some things up.
With the best rookie QBs gone (the area of most focus for Viking fans) and the best DTs off the board too, there’s only really one pick that stands out here that makes sense for Leslie Frazier; Clemson DE Da’Quan Bowers. The guy is a freak athletically and can help get the Vikings defense back to where Frazier use to have it; punishing. Ray Edwards is likely out, as is Pat Williams, and the DE depth behind the returners is questionable. When you have a talent like Bowers available still, you probably have to take him.
Here’s the scouting report on Bowers and following is the analysis of this pick, both courtesy of Eric Galko of Optimum Scouting:
Before the knee surgery concerns, Bowers was viewed as one of the top five or six best players in the draft on about every draft board. He was the country’s sack leader last year, has great 4-3 defensive end size, has strong hands, moves well for a defensive end, and still has lots of room to grow. While the Vikings may consider a quarterback here as well as a left tackle based on the way Bryant McKinnie played last year, getting a Top 5 talent at pick 12 and him being a perfect fit for the defense makes too much sense.
13. Detroit Lions: Anthony Castonzo, OT, Boston College
In an ideal draft, the Lions would be thrilled if CB Prince Amukamara was still available when they select at #13. However, with him off the board, the Lions turn to their next biggest need, which is protecting Matthew Stafford.
Anthony Castonzo is the best offensive tackle on the board. While he doesn’t have the long-term upside of Nate Solder, he is more NFL-ready and can be plugged in immediately at left tackle to protect Stafford’s blindside. Castonzo will also be a key to revitalizing the Lions’ ground attack, opening holes for a hopefully healthy Jahvid Best.
Here’s the scouting report on Castonzo and following is the analysis of this pick, both courtesy of Eric Galko of Optimum Scouting:
Over the past five years, the Lions have been able to add an elite receiver (Calvin Johnson), a game-breaking running back (Jahvid Best), a franchise quarterback (Matt Stafford), and players at every level of the defense (Ndamukong Suh, Cliff Avril, DeAndre Levy, Louis Delmas). However, the only thing really missing is the offensive line, where Gosder Cherilus could be set on the right side, and Jeff Backus could be great inside at guard. Adding Castonzo could “complete” this offense and put the Lions in position to actually make a playoff run. If Prince Amukamara was here, he’d be the pick, and they could also look at impact pass rushers like Aldon Smith as well, but getting Castonzo or Tyron Smith of USC would be the smartest option for them.
14. St. Louis Rams: Aldon Smith, DE, Missouri
By Will of Rams Herd
The Rams will find themselves in a very tough value spot if both elite receivers are off the board and none of the falling elite defensive prospects (Fairley, Bowers, Quinn in various mocks) drop to 14. Sitting on top of a huge depth of second-tier defensive line talent, getting value for the pick is the first priority. In an ideal world, the Rams would trade down here, but since trades aren’t allowed, I’m going to go with the player with the highest ceiling and hope that Spagnuolo’s coaching and further growth into his young frame turns him into the next Justin Tuck or Demarcus Ware.
However, this was not a slam-dunk decision. 3-technique defensive tackle is a more immediate need, and Corey Liuget is a popular pick for that reason. I just don’t see a high-enough ceiling to justify a top-15 pick. Cameron Jordan’s ability to disrupt from the DE or DT spot made him a very intriguing option, and was almost my pick here. However, I worry he would be miscast in the Rams’ 4-3 front. There are notable risks with Aldon Smith as well, but as the decision to draft OT Jason Smith shows, the Rams aren’t afraid to draft on potential, if they think that potential is sky-high.
15. Miami Dolphins: Ryan Mallett, QB, Arkansas
By Cody Strahm of Phins Phocus
The Dolphins have several pressing needs on offense. They could fill all of these needs this offseason, but until they find a franchise quarterback, they will never be a legitimate title contender.
Ryan Mallett is the best pure passer in the draft. People want to rant and rave about the athletic ability of some of the quarterbacks in this year’s class, but the top two signal callers in the game, Tom Brady and Peyton Manning, are average Joes athletically. I’ll take the guy with the best arm.
Some may consider this a reach. Ideally, the Dolphins would trade down and still snag Mallett later in the first, but if they are as convicted as I am that he can be a franchise quarterback it may be worth staying put to make sure they get their man.
16. Jacksonville Jaguars: Ryan Kerrigan, DE, Purdue
This selection is all about value for the Jaguars. Their biggest need is to improve an atrocious pass defense, which is a necessity when facing the Colts and Texans twice a year, but there is little value to be found at #16 for any of the available cornerbacks or safeties. On the other hand, there is good value in the selection of a pass rusher who can pressure opposing quarterbacks.
Ryan Kerrigan, a relentless pass rusher with a non-stop motor, will be the man the Jaguars will count on to do the job that Derrick Harvey (bust) and Aaron Kampmann (injury) have failed to do. If the Jags continue with an occasional hybrid defense, Kerrigan has the ability to play as both a 4-3 DE and as a 3-4 OLB, so he’s also a better fit from that standpoint than the other DEs still on the board.
17. New England Patriots: J.J. Watt, DE, Wisconsin
The Patriots’ top priority this off-season should be to improve the pass rush. While the outside linebacker position is a greater need for the Pats than defensive end, J.J. Watt provides the type of three-down value that Bill Belichick looks for in a first round pick. Watt is arguably the best 5-technique DE in the draft and should be able to start next to Vince Wilfork in the 3-4. Getting back to the pass rush, Watt is no slouch in that department, recording 21 tackles for loss and seven sacks this past season.
18. San Diego Chargers: Cameron Jordan, DE, California
By Ross Warner of Justice Is Coming
It is no secret that the Chargers’ #1 ranking was an aberration. They couldn’t stop teams when they had to. Antonio Garay was a godsend, but even he couldn’t keep the Bolts from getting stomped by Oakland and Cincinnati in December. Cameron Jordan seems like a good fit. He can anchor the line and also rush the passer. These are both needs of the Chargers. With only Shaun Phillips as a legitimate pass rusher among the linebackers, the days of Jamal Williams clogging up the middle and sackers meeting at the quarterback are long gone. The Bolts need some thumpers up front.
19. New York Giants: Mike Pouncey, C/G, Florida
By Andy Furman of Ultimate NYG
With the 19th pick in the 2011 NFL Draft, the NY Giants pick C/G Mike Pouncey out of Florida. Pouncey is a very good lineman. Draft analyst Pete Furman: “Not great, not his brother, but he will be a critical addition to a Giants OL that has weakened due to age. The Giants have too many needs, and this pick gives them certainty.” Seubert, O’Hara and McKenzie are one play away from being out of football, so this pick is not that difficult. Draft analyst Wonder: “Pouncey can pull and move, the only Center worth a R1 or R2 pick in the draft. Athletic, nasty, tough, won’t be awed by the NFL, can put on weight and be more dominant.” I personally crave a LBer, but no one is available that makes sense at 19. In the real world our first choice is to trade down to the end of the first round, take LB Martez Wilson and get another Late R2 pick in the deal (which can address more needs).
20. Tampa Bay Buccaneers: Mark Ingram, RB, Alabama
By Nick Houllis of BucStop
The Tampa Bay Buccaneers badly need help on the defensive line in the form of a defensive end, the likes of which the Bucs havn’t seen since Simeon Rice left in 2006. Rice was supposed to have a successor in the name of Gaines Adams, but the Bucs have been burned before at this position, and with only Iowa’s Adrian Clayborn the only game changer available, the Bucs are going to shock the draft world and pass on their biggest need.
Instead of DE, the Bucs are going to put the icing on the cake and beef up the offense even more with the addition of a fast running back to spell last years rookie DB Leaper LeGarrett Blount. That back will be Alabama’s Mark Ingram – whom the Bucs have coming in to town so they can check out his knees, legs, etc.
The Bucs plan will be to join the elite class of power running teams that employ two similar style running backs. Cadillac Williams will be retained on the cheap for the 3rd down back option although the Raymond James occupants will probably feel Ingram’s hands are as well developed as Cadillac’s: the question mark will be the former Tide’s pass protecting skills.
21. Kansas City Chiefs: Phil Taylor, DT, Baylor
By Levi Damien of Thoughts From the Dark Side
The Chiefs made a considerable effort to sign Shaun Rogers after he was cut by the Browns this offseason but Rogers opted to sign with the Saints. They need an upgrade in ther middle from Ron Edwards as well as a youth infusion. This may be a bit high for Taylor to go but with the lack of nose tackles in this draft and the Chiefs in desperate need of a big run stuffer in the middle, they take him here. The Chiefs also need another pass rusher across from Tamba Hali but all the top tier DE/OLB in this draft are taken already. They take the best NT talent in this draft as he will not be on the board next time they pick.
The big 6-4, 337 lb nose tackle was suspended by Penn State after being charged with felony aggravated assault. The charges were dropped but the suspension caused him to transfer to Baylor. That incident is the one thing that keeps him from being a solid mid first round prospect. He certainly has the talent to be taken here. He is a black hole for runningbacks who try the middle of the line. He has tremendous upper body strength and surprising mobility for his size. He had 62 tackles last season on his way to second team All-Big 12 honors.
22. Indianapolis Colts: Gabe Carimi, OT, Wisconsin
By Joe Baker of 18to88
While no one would be surprised by the Colts choosing not to use their 1st rounder to address their biggest needs at OT and DT, Carimi fits the outline of an early Colts pick extremely well. The history of Colts early round picks shows a clear preference for experienced prospects who demonstrated intelligence and work ethic through academic success. Indy also seems to have a soft spot for the Big Ten making it a trifecta for Gabe Carimi.
While some doubt his ability to play LT at the pro level, that only amounts to a risk that the Colts will be greatly upgrading a slightly less important position as RT Ryan Diem needs to be replaced. Adding Carimi to either end of the line will greatly improve a Colts offense that struggled to give Peyton time to throw and clear lanes for their backs.
23. Philadelphia Eagles: Derek Sherrod, OT, Mississippi State
By Thomas Jackson of Eagles Eye
Sherrod is one of the more experienced tackles in the SEC, if not in the entire nation. He played in 10 games as a freshman in 2007, started 10 games as a sophomore, and started 12 games as a junior. He paved the way for a Mississippi State rushing attack that averaged 227.6 yards per game in 2009, ninth best in the nation. For his efforts, Sherrod was named to the All-SEC Second Team by the conference’s coaches. More of the same continued as a senior in 2010; the Bulldogs rushed for 214.8 yards per contest and compiled a 9-4 record that included a bowl blowout of Michigan.
Sherrod will be viewed by the Eagles as the final piece on the right side of an improving offensive line that hasn’t seen dominance there since the glory days of Jon Runyan.
Sherrod may not become an immediate starter, but eventually he will be expected to be groomed as lefty Michael Vick’s “Blind Side” protector…
Sherrod has great agility for a man of his size and has been clocked as fast as 5.08 in the 40-yard dash. He is fundamentally sound, but struggled slightly against elite pass-rushers–whom he will see plenty of in the NFL. But the Eagles will have the benefit of the old veteran genius Howard Mudd as their new offensive line coach to teach him the tricks of the trade.
24. New Orleans Saints: Corey Liuget, DT, Illinois
By Andrew Juge of Saints Nation
Not only is Corey Liuget the best player left on the board, he fills a need, significantly improving depth at the defensive tackle position. On top of that, he’s a high character player that’s very intelligent, and that’s exactly the prototype of player that Sean Payton looks for. Liuget is a perfect fit for the team both in the locker room and on the field. He also has a good explosive first step to help improve the Saints’ front four pass rush which is currently a liability. While the team would love to draft an impact runner, linebacker or pure pass rusher over a defensive tackle in the 1st round – the Saints have proven every time in the Sean Payton era that they will sacrifice need and instead remain committed to staying true to their board.
25. Seattle Seahawks: Jake Locker, QB, Washington
If Jake Locker had declared his eligibility for the draft last year, he should have been a very high pick. As it is, his stock plummeted after a disappointing senior season. Still, the tools that had scouts drooling a year ago remain in place and he has the skills to be a franchise quarterback.
Quarterback is a position of need for the Hawks as Matt Hasselbeck will be 36 years old and a free agent. His backup, Charlie Whitehurst, hasn’t proven he’s starting material. While cornerback, o-line and d-line are also needs, the Seahawks can’t pass on a quarterback with Locker’s ability and upside.
26. Baltimore Ravens: Jimmy Smith, CB, Colorado
By Thomas Jackson of Ravens Football Machine
A tall, athletic, rangy corner, a very good athlete and a great competitor on film, Smith is hoped to be the answer to the Ravens’ long-term need for a lock-down cornerback to back the Ravens’ 3-4 pass-rushing defense..
He can cover well and has the height and the speed to compete in the NFL. The kid is a monster. Only thing he’s missing in the highlight film is a Ravens’ uniform. I think he’s a steal— and with the added run support he offers via reckless abandon, he’s a great deal for the Ravens’ aging defense. Also, it doen’t hurt to mention, it def looks as though he has natural leadership in him. His body language both inside and outside the huddle (on the field) seems to proclaim that he is a live wire who will bring the Ravens even more youth/intensity late in those games when other people start to fade. Jimmy Smith is the real deal, and a terrific fit for the Ravens.
And so the Bloguin Mock Draft will continue all the way down to 1st Round Pick #32…. but at least Ravens fans have a pretty good template for where their first round potential lies…assuming no trade-ups for a higher position by Ravens GM Ozzie Newsome, which is always a card in play…
Here’s a little more info on Jimmy Smith:
Smith isn’t lacking for much, especially in the confidence department.
A self-proclaimed shutdown corner, Smith said he likes comparisons to Raiders All-Pro cornerback Nnamdi Asomugha, except for one thing: “I think I have better ball skills than he does.”
NFL scouts don’t dispute Smith’s physical attributes. He’s long, lean, runs well and can tackle. What personnel men do have questions about is a track record of off-field issues.
Smith was twice arrested while at Boulder for minor in possession charges, and failed a drug test in 2007, according to The Denver Post. He points out those issues all came during his first two years, and by all accounts Smith assumed a leadership role on the field for Colorado last season.
“I went to college and I made some mistakes,” he admits. “I’ve told (NFL team) I’m a great person. I was a young player who made young mistakes. But I grew as a person.”
He has had no known off-field issues since 2007, although he did skip the Senior Bowl and switched agents from Peter Schafer to Drew Rosenhaus.
“It’s not that Peter Schafer is not a good agent, I just didn’t want him to represent me because he didn’t do what need to be done,” said Smith, who declined to elaborate.
He was certainly asked to elaborate by NFL teams at the combine, and his answers to that question and others regarding his past will go a long way toward determining how much it detracts from his obvious physical skills.
Smith’s size enables him to line up against an opponent’s biggest receiver, and he allowed just 11 completions in man-to-man coverage over the past two years. He didn’t intercept any passes in 2010, but that was mostly because teams virtually stopped throwing his direction.
“I feel like the sky is the limit for me as long as I do what I know I can do out there,” said Smith.
Former NFL cornerback Ashley Ambrose was Smith’s defensive backs coach at CU, and he believes the young California native has what it takes to make it at the next level. Scouts believe he has the physical tools, noting that his size and length are exactly what teams look for in top-50 picks to neutralize large playmaking receivers on the outside, as he did against Georgia’s talented A.J. Green when they matched up in 2010 …
TECHNIQUE ANALYSIS:
Read & React: Jimmy Smith reads the body language of receivers and keeps his eyes in the backfield to detect what’s coming… Reacts quickly to throws in his area to his assignment or another receiver… Likes to attack the run but gets overaggressive, biting hard on play-action fakes…. Some of his quick reactions are negated by his inability to get off blocks.
Man Coverage: Physical press corner… Not afraid to extend his hand (usually his left) at the line of scrimmage to keep receivers from getting into his route… Maintains contact throughout the five-yard area…usually lined up against opponents’ biggest receiver, playing outside and in the slot… Flashes good feet in his pedal, but could be lower and more balanced… Must keep his feet moving as receivers approach when playing off; they eat up his cushion quickly… Flips open to trail even if he plays outside leverage and the receiver runs inside… Uses long arms to reach in front of receivers to knock away passes without interfering… Uses strength and good timing to dislodge the ball from his man while he tries to secure the catch… Fast enough to stop quick screens behind the line when playing off… His hands for the interception are improving, but work needs to be done….Needs to tighten up his footwork when transitioning from pedal to plant-and-drive.
Zone Coverage: Good awareness in zone coverage… Comes off receivers leaving his area to pick up underneath routes… Stays between two receivers on the outside if he sees his safety help has been taken away by seam routes, but will end up in no man’s land occasionally, not trusting over-the-top help… Attacks receivers in front of him… Size makes him difficult to for receivers to avoid after the catch… His height and vertical leap make throwing over him and in front of safeties perilous.
Closing/Recovery: Combines speed with length to close on the ball… Good recovery speed for his size, can flip his hips and wrap up receivers in trail coverage… His height and ability to find the ball in the air prevent quarterbacks from challenging over the top… Undercuts crossing routes by closing hard and extending; also takes chances NFL quarterbacks can exploit.
Run Support: Owns prototypical size to be a run stopper on the edge… Effective as a wrap-up or cut tackler… Knows to chase at a deep angle to prevent touchdowns on runs to the opposite side of the field… Usually gets outside position to force plays to linebackers, showing quickness to move around his man, but needs to be more violent with his hands to disengage from the blocks of larger receivers to make tackles.
Tackling: Physical tackler with NFL size and excellent length to wrap, but must get more consistent in the open field… Able to knock away passes and force fumbles while he wraps up receivers… Must drop his hips and break down more quickly attacking ballcarriers on the run, as they can elude him with a quick move or slip off when he tries to tackle shoulder pads.
Intangibles: Maturing player taking over as a leader on the field, directing teammates… Began studying film before his junior season….Missed first two games in 2008 due to injury… Suffered concussion against Baylor in 2010.
Compares to: Antonio Cromartie, Jets – Smith possesses similar size and length to help neutralize bigger playmaking wide receivers on the outside.
That’s Jimmy Smith, and if the Ravens get him in Round 1 of the 2011 Draft, you now know all you need to know about him to dominate the water cooler sports talk at work next Friday!
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