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Sunday, April 22, 2012

2012 NFL Mock Draft


Seven rounds.  253 selections. 6,902 words.  100 percent accuracy.  This is the ultimate in mock drafts, and is a perfect representation of exactly what will go down next week.  I am pretty satisfied with what the Browns are going to do, but maybe you disagree.  Let me know.  For the first three rounds, my pinpoint-accurate analysis follows every pick, while for the last four rounds, I saved my analysis for only the Browns' picks.  Print this off, or load it up on the I-Pad, because this is Gospel, and it deserves to be read on the toilet.  Enjoy.

[EDIT: I accidentally have Oklahoma cornerback Jamell Fleming being selected twice in the third round, first by Washington at 69 and then by Kansas City at 74.  Fixing it would mean re-doing the entire draft after that point, which I simply cannot do.  I feel like I've let you down, but I guess this is what happens when I try to mock every round over the course of two all-night writing session.  Hopefully that's the only mistake, but if there are more, please let me know.]


ROUND 1



1. Indianapolis Colts-Andrew Luck, QB, Stanford
Robert Griffin III is one of the most hyped prospects coming out of the college ranks in recent memory.  He possesses every skill you want a quarterback to possess, is a poster boy for the "student-athlete" ideal, and has charmed and impressed every single person he's ever met.  The Washington Redskins gave up one of the richest hauls ever to move up to select him, and there is little doubt in my mind that he is going to be one of the league's marquee players and personalities from Day 1.  The fact that Luck is still the consensus #1 overall pick despite the RGIII hype train shows just how good the former Cardinal is supposed to be.

2. Washington Redskins (via St. Louis)-Robert Griffin III, QB, Baylor
See above.  Also, although I really do love Griffin, there is no way I would give up two first rounders for him (not three, as is often erroneously said; Washington merely swapped picks with the Rams this year).  Look at it this way: Is the potential next Steve Young worth a couple of above-average pass rushers (Ryan Kerrigan and Brian Orakpo) and a still-developing left tackle who can't seem to stay on the field (Trent Williams, who, along with Kerrigan and Orakpo, represents Washington's previous three #1 picks)?  Actually, yes he is.  Forget I brought it up.

3. Miami Dolphins (acquired from Minnesota for pick #8, pick # 42, and Miami's 2013 1st Round Pick)-Ryan Tannehill, QB, Texas A&M
For the first time since 1999, quarterbacks go 1-2-3 in the draft.  The uncertainty about what the Browns will do at #4 causes Miami to get nervous enough to give up the substantial haul Minnesota will demand to bypass Matt Kalil and draft the next successor to Dan Marino.  I don't think Tannehill is going to be very good, but the Dolphins need to make a splash in a town shared with the Heat and the new-look Marlins.  Plus, Mike Sherman will be pushing to be re-united with his former Aggie QB in the hopes of being the best first half team in the league (although someone else should probably handle the halftime speech, Mike).

4. St. Louis Rams (acquired from Cleveland for pick #6 and pick #65)-Matt Kalil, OT, USC
 With the Vikings moving down, the Rams move up to grab Kalil.  While wide receiver is a big need, I think Kalil is much closer to being a franchise cornerstone than Justin Blackmon.  Jason Smith is looking like a bust, and Roger Saffold is over-matched on the left side.  Sam Bradford has missed significant time in two of the past three years (including his lost last season at Oklahoma), so keeping him protected must take precedence over addressing the Rams' shortcomings on the outside.

5. Tampa Bay Buccaneers-Morris Claiborne, CB, LSU
Between Aqib Talib's off-field troubles and Ronde Barber's advanced age, the Bucs' secondary is a disaster-zone, despite (or perhaps exacerbated by) the signing of Eric Wright.  Claiborne is considered by some to be his former teammate Patrick Peterson's superior, and his subpar Wonderlic score is the product of a learning disability Claiborne (and probably dozens of tutors) overcame to remain eligible.  Trent Richardson is tempting, but Greg Schiano will begin his NFL career by fortifying a defense that gave up a league-worst 30.9 points per game.

6. Cleveland Browns (via St. Louis)-Trent Richardson, RB, Alabama
From Pro-Football-Reference's awesome Draft Finder tool, here is every running back selected in the top 10 since 1992:

1992-Tommy Vardell (9)
1993-Garrison Hearst (3), Jerome Bettis (10)
1994-Marshall Faulk (2)
1995-Ki-Jana Carter (1)
1996-Lawrence Phillips (6), Tim Biakabutuka (8)
1997-None
1998-Curtis Enis (5), Fred Taylor (9)
1999-Edgerrin James (4), Ricky Williams (5)
2000-Jamal Lewis (5), Thomas Jones (7)
2001-LaDainian Tomlinson (5)
2002-None
2003-None
2004-None
2005-Ronnie Brown (2), Cedric Benson (4), Cadillac Williams (5)
2006-Reggie Bush (2)
2007-Adrian Peterson (7)
2008-Darren McFadden (4)
2009-None
2010-C.J. Spiller (9)

Of these 21 running backs, four were absolute busts (Vardell, Carter, Phillips, Enis), seven were disappointments (Hearst, Biakabutuka, Brown, Benson, Cadillac Williams, Bush, and McFadden), four went on to success with teams that didn't draft them (Bettis, Faulk, Ricky Williams, and Jones, although you could arguably lump Benson in with them, and Hearst had one monster year and a few other solid seasons with San Francisco), three had very solid careers with the teams that drafted them (Taylor, James, and Lewis), two had Hall-of-Fame careers with the teams that drafted them (Tomlinson and Peterson), and the jury is still out on Spiller (although the early returns are not good).  Going off this admittedly small sample size, a team has a 71.4% of either being disappointed or making the right pick but giving up too early when selecting a back in the top 10.  Add in that none of the top 6 runners in the NFL last year were drafted in the first round, and you can understand why I am wary of the Browns taking a back this high.  That said, Richardson's bruising style would be a great fit in the rugged AFC North, and he would give an identity to an offense whose most memorable play last year was handing off to its third-string tight end. Blackmon or Michael Floyd would also look pretty good in the Orange and Brown.

7. Jacksonville Jaguars-Michael Floyd, WR, Notre Dame
Wha-wha-whaaaaaattttt?!!! I think as we get closer to draft day, Justin Blackmon will slide.  Yes, Blackmon has speed, strength, and production, but Floyd has just as much in those areas with an added 2 inches and nearly 20 pounds.  There are off-field concerns with Floyd, but as long as someone gives him the number to a good car service, he should be able to stay out of trouble in sleepy Jacksonville.

8. Minnesota Vikings (via Miami)-Riley Reiff, OT, Iowa
Reiff does not project to be the monster Kalil does, but he should be solid, if not on the left, then on the right or even inside at guard.  The Vikings need help all over their offensive front, so Reiff may get the chance to prove exactly where he belongs.  Plus, the extra picks should help make up the difference between the Hawkeye and the Trojan.

9. Carolina Panthers-Fletcher Cox, DT, Mississippi State
I admittedly don't know much about Cox, but the Panthers need a defensive tackle, and Cox is rated the highest at the position.  His closest competition is Dontari Poe from Memphis, but when given a choice between a player from the SEC and one from the last place team in the Conference USA, I will pick the SEC guy 10 times out of 10.

10. Buffalo Bills-Justin Blackmon, WR, Oklahoma State
Ryan Fitzpatrick was awfully shaky last season after signing his relatively monster contract extension.  It could be that he was pressing, it could be that the league figured him out, or it could be that he had only Stevie Johnson to throw to.  The addition of Blackmon will solve that issue, and this pick coupled with the big Mario Williams signing may make the Bills the big winners of a wild off-season.


11. Kansas City Chiefs-Dontari Poe, DT, Memphis
The Chiefs need a nose tackle in the middle of their 3-4 attack, and the 6-3, 346 pound Poe should fit the bill.


12. Seattle Seahawks-Quinton Coples, DE, North Carolina
For the second straight season, an uber-talented Tar Heel defensive end slides down the draft board, only to be snatched up by an ecstatic NFC West team.  Last year it was Robert Quinn to the Rams, this year it's Coples to the 'Hawks.  Is there a bias against UNC ends, or just the letter Q?

13. Arizona Cardinals-Melvin Ingram, DE/OLB, South Carolina
Ingram is a dynamo on defense, somehow making everyone forget his teammate and fellow end super-frosh Jadaveon Clowney.  Ingram's ability to swing between linebacker and end should make him a great fit for the Cards' hybrid front.


14. Dallas Cowboys-Mark Barron, SS, Alabama
The Cowboys biggest need is for a 3-4 end, but pickings are slim at 14, so they take Barron to continue their quest to shore up their defensive backfield.  Barron will definitely provide more of a presence at the strong safety spot than Rob Ryan fave Abe Elam did.


15. Philadelphia Eagles-Cordy Glenn, OT, Georgia
Glenn can play inside and out, and will provide depth for an offensive line that had problems staying healthy last year.  The former Bulldog has the potential to grow into a cornerstone left tackle.


16. New York Jets-Courtney Upshaw, OLB/DE, Alabama
Despite Aaron Maybin's reclamation from bust status last season, Rex Ryan still could use another pass-rushing specialist, and Upshaw may be this draft's best.  Just don't expect much out of him in coverage.


17. Cincinnati Bengals (via Oakland)-Chandler Jones, DE, Syracuse
Jones may not be as dynamic in the pass rush as some of the other ends available here, but his ability to defend the run as well as get after the quarterback jives better with what Mike Zimmer expects out of his ends.


18. San Diego Chargers-David DeCastro, OG, Stanford
Kris Dielman's retirement leaves a huge hole in the interior of the Chargers' line; fortunately, perhaps the best offensive lineman in the draft falls to them at 18.  DeCastro should be a mainstay for San Diego, and will probably end up as one of the 10 best players from this draft.  If he weren't a guard, he would probably be drafted as such.


19. Chicago Bears-Jonathan Martin, OT, Stanford
Martin has been falling down some boards following subpar performances on the workout circuit, but he has to be an improvement over Lance Louis on the right side.


20. Tennessee Titans-Stephen Gilmore, CB, South Carolina
The Titans won't have to wait too long to fill the departed Cortland Finnegan's shoes.  Gilmore isn't afraid to play physically, but he lacks the size and strength to be as effective in that department as Finnegan.  Gilmore is a great leader, though, and will never be outworked.


21. Cincinnati Bengals-Kendall Wright, WR, Baylor
With Jerome Simpson likely suspended or in jail after getting caught with a donkey's weight in weed, the Bengals need another wideout to draw attention from rookie sensation A.J. Green.  Wright will force safeties to play back, and he has also proven adapt at settling into open spaces when plays break down, which will make Andy Dalton's life that much easier.


22. Cleveland Browns (via Atlanta)-Dre Kirkpatrick, CB, Alabama
While there are bigger needs to address (namely, a right tackle, a wide receiver, a defensive end, and an outside linebacker), Kirkpatrick is too good to pass up this late in the first round.  Adding him allows the Browns to move Sheldon Brown to free safety, hopefully filling a void that hasn't been adequately filled since Percy Ellsworth Eric Turner was in the Orange & Brown, while also giving the Browns two potential shutdown corners (along with Joe Haden).

23. Detroit Lions-Janoris Jenkins, CB, North Alabama
The Lions were burned far too often through the air last year, and Jenkins's talent and potential proves too vast to pass up.  The former Gator has had some weed problems (really, what college football player doesn't smoke weed?) and punched a guy in a game for North Alabama, but that kind of feistiness should fit in on what is fast becoming the NFL's dirtiest team.


24. Pittsburgh Steelers-Mike Adams, OT, Ohio State
For what feels like the 10th year in a row, the Steelers need help on their offensive line, and Adams has the ability to provide a massive upgrade to the beleaguered unit.  The Steelers have also shown a recent affinity for former Buckeyes (three Bucks selected in the past two drafts), so that may help Adams find his way to Pittsburgh.


25. Denver Broncos-Luke Kuechly, MLB, Boston College
The Broncos pull their second shocking coup of the off-season, snagging the sliding Kuechly and getting perhaps the greatest value in this draft.  A linebacking corps of Kuechly, Von Miller, and D.J. Williams should be among the league's best for the next five years or so.


26. Houston Texans-Stephen Hill, WR, Georgia Tech
Hill will make teams pay for shading safeties towards Andre Johnson, as the Yellow Jacket may be this draft's premier deep threat.  His numbers were somewhat pedestrian (820 yards, 5 TDs), but when you consider that he put up those numbers on 28 catches (29.3 yards per catch[!]), and that Georgia Tech attempted only 12.8 passes per game, those stats look pretty damn amazing.


27. New England Patriots (via New Orleans)-Andre Branch, DE, Clemson
With Mark Anderson leaving for the Bills, the Pats need a new situational pass-rusher.  Branch had 10.5 sacks last season for the Tigers, and at this point excels only at getting after the quarterback.  He can also move to linebacker should Bill Belichick want to go back to a 3-4 alignment.


28. Green Bay Packers-Kendall Reyes, DT, Connecticut
Reyes will probably move to end in the Packers' 3-4 alignment, where he saw some time in college.  His lack of pass rush ability shouldn't be a problem in Green Bay as long as he remains stout against the run and effectively absorbs blockers intended for Clay Matthews.


29. Baltimore Ravens-Whitney Mercilius, OLB/DE, Illinois
Mercilius had a monster junior season (16 sacks, 22.5 tackles for loss), but unfortunately, it's the only time he's ever really looked like a pro (four total sacks before last season).  Baltimore will take a chance the Akron native is for real, and will unleash him opposite Terrell Suggs in the departed Jarrett Johnson's spot.


30. San Francisco 49ers-Kevin Zeitler, OG, Wisconsin
Zeitler is a mauler, which should fit in just fine in Jim Harbaugh's power attack.  Frank Gore, Kendall Hunter, and new addition Brandon Jacobs should find plenty of room in the interior with Zeitler plowing the way.


31. New England Patriots-Lavonte David, OLB, Nebraska
The Pats will take a chance that the undersized David (6-1, 233) will continue to do what he's always done: make plays.  An overachiever who plays hard every snap until the whistle, the former Cornhusker could become the spiritual successor to Mike Vrabel.


32. New York Giants-Dont'a Hightower, MLB, Alabama
Chase Blackburn is a great story and made an amazing play in the Super Bowl, but expecting a full season of even above-average play from a former substitute teacher is a stretch.  Hightower gives the Giants their best MLB since Antonio Pierce, and many feel he may be the next great inside 'backer.


ROUND 2



33. St. Louis Rams-Alshon Jeffrey, WR, South Carolina
In a bit of a surprise, the Rams get the receiver they need to go along with their new left tackle.  Jeffrey was projected as a top 20 pick as recently as last November, but a tumultuous quarterback situation combined with weight fluctuations hindered Jeffrey's production.  A solid 6-3, 216 pounds, Jeffrey answered some questions about his speed by running a 4.4-4.5 40 in pre-draft workouts.  If he can live up to what people thought he was going to be going in to last season, the Rams may have themselves the steal of the draft.

34. Indianapolis Colts-Josh Robinson, CB, UCF
With needs all over the defensive side of the ball following the massive switch-over from a Cover-2 scheme to a 3-4, the Colts first address the gaping holes in their secondary with Robinson.  He was a Combine All-Star (4.33 40), but also backed up his workout performance with actual on-field production (two-time All-CUSA).  It would be nice if he were taller (5-10), but then again, if he were taller, he would have been a top 20 pick.

35. Minnesota Vikings-Michael Brockers, DT, LSU
Only a red-shirt sophomore, Brockers is a project, but still an extremely talented project.  He could end up going anywhere from 7 until now, and if he's here, the Vikes will snatch him up.  Even if he takes a little while to develop, the fact that the nondescript Letroy Guion is starting at DT for Minnesota makes Brockers worth the wait.

36. Tampa Bay Buccaneers-Doug Martin, RB, Boise State
Needing a little zig to complement LeGarrette Blount's plodding, bruising zag, the Bucs tap Martin to handle that task.  Martin is a much better receiver than Blount, and has a superior ability to break runs on the outside.  Let's just hope Blount doesn't punch his new teammate.

37. Cleveland Browns-Bobby Massie, OT, Ole Miss
Physically, few players in this draft seem as born to play right tackle as Massie is.  Standing 6-6 and 316 pounds, Massie laid waste to SEC defenders, leading the conference in knockdowns with 102.  There are questions about his work ethic, but if the coaching staff can light a fire under him, Massie may form bookends with Joe Thomas that could rate as the best in the league.

38. Jacksonville Jaguars-Vinny Curry, DE, Marshall
Since 2006, the Jags have drafted seven defensive ends who have combined for a collective 18.5 sacks in their careers.  This number is "buoyed" by the 8 career sacks of Derrick Harvey, the only 1st round pick (8, 2008) of these seven gridiron luminaries.  Jacksonville took last year off in their pursuit of an impact end, but Curry has shown enough as a pass rusher and play-maker (11 sacks, seven forced fumbles, 22 tackles for loss in 2011) to entice the Jaguars back into...the deep end (good night everybody!).


39. St. Louis Rams (via Washington)-Jerel Worthy, DT, Michigan State
Worthy can team with new addition Kendall Langford to give the Rams interior production on their defensive line that has been lacking.  Worthy's ability to penetrate the backfield should draw attention away from ends Chris Long and Robert Quinn, making the pair all that more dangerous.  Jeff Fisher's Titans teams always relied on their line for pressure, so expect the unit to be addressed early.


40. Carolina Panthers-Reuben Randle, WR, LSU
Steve Smith enjoyed an absolute renaissance catching Cam Newton's rockets last year, but how much longer can Smith remain a one-man show?  Similar to how the Panthers' expansion counter-parts in Jacksonville are eternally searching for an end, it seems Carolina will always be in search of the elusive second receiver (not named Mushin Muhammad).  In the past two drafts alone, Carolina has taken four wide receivers, with only Brandon LaFell looking like he has any sort of NFL future.  Randle is one of the more physically imposing receivers in this year's draft class, and he certainly has the God-given tools to be a successful NFL wideout.  But how much of his relatively pedestrian production at LSU the result of a shaky quarterback situation, and how much can be blamed on Randle being more athlete than receiver?  The upside is high enough that it makes sense for the Panthers to pull the trigger here, but there is always the risk that he is the next Derrick Williams (of Penn State fame).


41. Buffalo Bills-Kelechi Osemele, OT, Iowa State
Osemele is very raw, but he has already shown enough potential as a dominant run-blocker that the tackle-hungry Bills will gladly gamble on the former Cyclone.  While a human wall to plug in at left tackle would be ideal for Buffalo, those aren't often available in the first round, let alone the second.  If Osemele can become even a fraction of the run-blocker he has the ability and size to be, then this pick will be worth it.


42. Minnesota Vikings (via Miami)-Amini Silatolu, OG, Midwestern State
Following Steve Hutchinson's departure to Tennessee, the Vikings need a guard.  While Silatolu comes from a smaller school, he has shown enough ability to be considered one of the top guards in the draft.


43. Seattle Seahawks-Shea McClellin, OLB, Boise State
While Leroy Hill was retained, KJ Wright is no answer at the other OLB spot.  McClellin has the versatility and attitude to fit in anywhere Pete Carroll needs him.  


44. Kansas City Chiefs-Peter Konz, C, Wisconsin
The plan was for Rodney Hudson to move from guard to center to replace the retired Casey Weigmann, but the drafting of Konz leaves Hudson at his original position and replaces the steady Weigmann with the premier center in this year's draft.


45. Dallas Cowboys-Devon Still, DT/DE, Penn State
Still can provide tremendous depth for the Cowboys' three-man front while developing into an impact starter himself.  Even better, Still can eventually allow the productive-but-undersized Jay Ratliff to end, while providing the space-eating nose tackle Dallas has lacked since switching to a 3-4.


46. Philadelphia Eagles-Harrison Smith, SS, Notre Dame
Smith is a converted linebacker who still struggles in coverage, but his athletic gifts and ability to be a difference-maker in run support make him an intriguing prospect for the Eagles.


47. New York Jets-Mohamed Sanu, WR, Rutgers
Santonio Holmes may not be around much longer, and Plaxico Burress isn't getting any younger.  Sanu will inject some much-needed youth into the Jets receiving corps, while also becoming a day-one, local boy fan favorite.


48. New England Patriots (via Oakland)-Jayron Hosley, CB, Virginia Tech
The Patriots continue to accumulate injury-prone corners, as Hosley is coming off a junior season marred by hamstring problems and a concussion.  When he is on the field, the former Hokie is a producer, leading the nation with 10 interceptions as a sophomore and making his presence known to opposing running backs.


49. San Diego Chargers-Alfonzo Dennard, CB, Nebraska
Dennard probably won't get much better than he already is, but he is ready to contribute immediately, with a well-rounded game with no eye-popping strengths, but with no glaring weaknesses either. [UPDATE: Dennard was just arrested for assaulting a police officer, so it is highly likely he will not be selected this highly.]


50. Chicago Bears-Nick Perry, DE, USC
The last big slider, Perry is finally snagged by the Bears.  He should thrive as a situational pass-rusher opposite Julius Peppers while he works on adding bulk and strength.


51. Philadelphia Eagles (via Arizona)-David Wilson, RB, Virginia Tech
Running back is certainly not a major position of need for a team that employs LeSean McCoy,  but there is zero depth behind him.  Wilson's speed will make him a home run threat every time he touches the ball, which will come in handy considering there will probably only be 5-10 touches available to him a game, so he will need to make the most of them.


52. Tennessee Titans-Coby Fleener, TE, Stanford
If the comparisons Fleener has been drawing to Rob Gronkowski and Jimmy Graham are legit and not just pre-draft hype, the Titans will have snagged the steal of the draft.  Jared Cook is solid, but Fleener has the ability to become the Titans go-to receiver from day one (assuming Kenny Britt will do something stupid to alienate his team/get hurt/both).


53. Cincinnati Bengals-Isaiah Pead, RB, Cincinnati
BenJarvis Green-Ellis and Bernard Scott have the power running game covered; Pead will provide a little flash to their bang.  He also will hopefully provide some local love.  While not an every-down back, a rotation of Green-Ellis, Scott, and Pead could be deadly, especially with A.J. Green and Kendall Wright forcing safeties to play outside the box.


54. Detroit Lions-Mitchell Schwartz, OT, California
A strong Senior Bowl had some scouts believing Schwartz can handle left tackle, and the Lions hope that he will one day prove those scouts right.  Jeff Backus will continue to man the position for now, but Schwartz may be asked to slide in sooner than later.


55. Atlanta Falcons-Zach Brown, OLB, North Carolina
With no first round pick, the Falcons swing for the fences in round 2.  Brown has perhaps the best physical gifts of any linebacker of the past ten years, but questions about his work ethic, off-field behavior, and desire to play football cause him to slide.  He could be the next Junior Seau, or he could be out of the league in two years.


56. Pittsburgh Steelers-Brandon Boykin, CB, Georgia
Boykin's physicality (despite his small stature) will fit right into Pittsburgh's program, and his strengths make him well-suited for zone coverage, which should come in handy when Dick Labeau dials up a zone-blitz.


57. Denver Broncos-Brandon Thompson, DT, Clemson
Thompson is massive, and may be the best run-stuffing tackle in the draft.  He struggles mightily to get to the quarterback, though (4.5 career sacks), but that may not be an issue on a team that will have Elvis Dumervill and Von Miller racing to the pocket on most plays.


58. Houston Texans-Jeff Allen, OT, Illinois
After letting Eric Winston go as a cap casualty, the Texans need a right tackle.  Jeff Allen may not be that right tackle, yet, but he will provide depth at both tackle spots while hopefully tightening up his technique and conditioning.  Allen also needs to develop more of a mean streak to fit in with Houston's run-heavy attack, but his talent makes him a worthy snag here.


59. Green Bay Packers-Lamar Miller, RB, Miami (FL)
Ryan Grant's Green Bay career is done, and James Starks--while showing flashes--hasn't been consistently healthy enough to be counted on.  Miller will make the league's most explosive offense even more so, as evidenced by his performance against Ohio State.


60. Baltimore Ravens-Juron Criner, WR, Arizona
One of the bigger receivers in this year's class (6-3, 224), Criner can provide a big target for Joe Flacco to go along with the speed of Torrey Smith and the all-around excellence of Anquan Boldin.  Criner needs work on his route-running and his consistency, but as long as he can come down with one key jump ball every few games, he can contribute right away.


61. San Francisco 49ers-Jared Crick, DE, Nebraska
Crick was a projected top ten pick coming into the season, but injuries wrecked his year.  Once seen on the same level as his former teammate Ndamukong Suh, Crick is now viewed as an ideal 3-4 end, which should make him a great fit on the 49ers front line.


62. New England Patriots-Chris Givens, WR, Wake Forest
Givens is a stone-cold burner who should be able to at least provide the deep threat the Patriots offense has been lacking the past two seasons.  If Givens pans out better than Brandon Tate or Matthew Slater, look the hell out.

63. New York Giants-Chris Polk, RB, Washington
Brandon Jacobs finally made his exit from the Big Apple, leaving the injury-prone D.J. Ware as the main backup to the injury-prone Ahmad Bradshaw.  Polk may be better than both of them, but at the very least, he should continue the Giants' tradition of having a formidable one-two punch that dates back to the Ron Dayne and Tiki Barber Thunder & Lightning days.

ROUND 3



64. Indianapolis Colts-Dwayne Allen, TE, Clemson
Allen gives Andrew Luck an underneath weapon to complement Reggie Wayne on the outside.

65. Cleveland Browns (via St. Louis)-Bobby Wagner, OLB, Utah State
Who?  Wagner is (apparently; I honestly did not watch much WAC football) one of the hardest hitters in college football, while also providing tremendous production (147 tackles, 4 sacks, 2 interceptions in 2011) and leadership (two-year captain).  The Browns are thin at linebacker, and Wagner could threaten for a starting role immediately.

66. Minnesota Vikings-Trumaine Johnson, CB, Montana
The Vikings were hurting at cornerback before Cedric Griffin left; now they really need Johnson's help.

67. Cleveland Browns-Brandon Weeden, QB, Oklahoma State
I really don't want Weeden, because I don't think he's a long-term solution at quarterback, and I think his presence will disrupt whatever development time is left for Colt McCoy in Cleveland.  That said, it's hard to pass on him this late.  Even if he is just a steady backup for a few years, that is certainly worth a third round pick.

68. Tampa Bay Buccaneers-George Iloka, FS, Boise State
Considering the Bucs' current starting safeties are a former Browns practice squad player (Larry Asante) and a 7th round pick (Cody Grimm), Iloka should be Ed Reed by comparison.

69. Washington Redskins-Jamell Fleming, CB, Oklahoma
Fleming put up an impressive 23 reps on the bench press at the Combine.  Whether or not that translates into on-field success remains to be seen, but Fleming seems to have all of the physical tools to succeed.

70. Jacksonville Jaguars-Donald Stephenson, OT, Oklahoma
Stephenson provides depth, which he should be adept at considering he manned both tackle spots in Norman.

71. Buffalo Bills-Ronnell Lewis, OLB, Oklahoma
The Bills continue to overhaul their defense with Lewis, who will challenge incumbent Kirk Morrison for  an outside 'backer spot.


72. Miami Dolphins-Brian Quick, WR, Appalachian State
Quick has tremendous size (6-4, 220) and was extremely productive at Appalachian State (career leader in catches, receiving yards, and receiving TDs).

73. Miami Dolphins (via Carolina through Chicago)-Bruce Irvin, OLB/DE, West Virginia
Undersized for a full-time defensive end, Irvin is dangerous enough off the edge (22.5 sacks in two seasons in Morgantown) to be a great value for the Dolphins this late.

74. Kansas City Chiefs-Jamell Fleming, CB, Oklahoma
Fleming will attempt to help Stanford Routt fill the big hole left by Brandon Carr's departure.

75. Seattle Seahawks-Brandon Brooks, OG, Miami (OH)
Last year's number one pick, James Carpenter, is likely moving inside to guard, and Brooks may team with him as Pete Carroll tries to make Marshawn Lynch enter Beast Mode even more often in 2012.

76. Houston Texans (via Philadelphia)-Alameda Ta'amu, DT, Washington
A massive man (6-3, 348), Ta'amu should move into a nose tackle rotation with incumbent Shaun Cody.

77. New York Jets-Zebrie Sanders, OT, Florida State
Tremendous in pass protection, new offensive coordinator Tony Sparano will try to instill some run-blocking nastiness in the former Seminole.

78. San Diego Chargers-Josh Chapman, DT, Alabama
Chapman is a monster who will look very nice plugging the middle for the Chargers' 3-4 attack.

79. Chicago Bears-Trevin Wade, CB, Arizona
The Bears lost a lot of secondary depth in free agency, so Wade will support starters Charles Tillman and Tim Jennings.


80. Arizona Cardinals-Nick Toon, WR, Wisconsin
While not exactly a burner, Toon is a large, physical wideout who will find it easy to work underneath with Larry Fitzgerald drawing so much attention opposite him.


81. Dallas Cowboys-Greg Childs, WR, Alabama
Childs has terrific size (6-3, 219), and showed a lot of grit in coming back from a patella tendon tear earlier than expected last year.


82. Tennessee Titans-Billy Winn, DT, Boise State
A load of a man with a non-stop motor who did nothing but produce in Boise, Winn should fit in nicely with what is consistently one of the better front fours in the league.


83. Cincinnati Bengals-James Brown, OG, Troy
Bobbie Williams is old and may not even return to Cincinnati, so the Bengals need a new guard to continue to play the physical brand of football they've been playing for the past few years.


84. Atlanta Falcons-Orson Charles, TE, Georgia
Tony Gonzalez's last year could be approaching, so the Falcons need to start grooming his successor.


85. Detroit Lions-Mychal Kendricks, MLB, California
Stephen Tulloch is fine as the starter in the middle for the Lions; Kendricks is a value pick for the Lions, and will protect against a potential Tulloch injury.


86. Pittsburgh Steelers-Kheeston Randall, DT, Texas
Casey Hampton is in the twilight of his career, so the Steelers will snag another Longhorn man-mountain to groom as his replacement.


87. Denver Broncos-A.J. Jenkins, WR, Illinois
Jenkins projects best in the slot, which is an area of need for the Broncos following the departure of Eddie Royal.


88. Philadelphia Eagles (via Houston)-Brock Osweiler, QB, Arizona State
Vince Young is gone, and while Mike Kafka showed flashes, Andy Reid would prefer a back-up with more play-making potential behind the fragile Mike Vick.


89. New Orleans Saints-Chase Minnifield, CB, Virginia
The Saints find the departed Tracy Porter's replacement with their first pick of the 2012 draft.


90. Green Bay Packers-Tyrone Crawford, DE, Boise State
Crawford can provide a pass rush from the end spot, something the Packers have been lacking in recent years.


91. Baltimore Ravens-Ben Jones, C, Georgia
Jones projects as a solid pro, something the Ravens will need soon as Matt Birk gets older and older.


92. San Francisco 49ers-Omar Bolden, CB, Arizona State
Bolden is a physical corner who should fit in to the 49ers culture.


93. New England Patriots-Sean Spence, OLB, Miami (FL)
Spence is similar to Lavonte David in that he is undersized but always seems to find himself making plays.


94. New York Giants-T.Y. Hilton, WR, Florida International
Hilton provides yet another blazing fast receiver to go along with Victor Cruz who should also energize the Giants' return game.


95. Oakland Raiders (compensatory)-Olivier Vernon, DE/OLB, Miami (FL)
Vernon will step into the pass-rushing role opposite Aaron Curry vacated by Kamerion Wimbley.


ROUND 4



96. St. Louis Rams-Casey Hayward, CB, Vanderbilt
97. Indianapolis Colts-Bernard Pierce, RB, Temple
98. Minnesota Vikings-Ryan Broyles, WR, Oklahoma
99. Houston Texans (via Tampa Bay through Chicago)-Josh Norman, CB, Coastal Carolina


100. Cleveland Browns-Mike Martin, DT, Michigan
While defensive tackle is obviously not a huge need, Ahtyba Rubin and Phil Taylor played nearly every snap last year, and Martin will provide nice depth behind them.

101. Jacksonville Jaguars-LaMichael James, RB, Oregon
102. Washington Redskins-Nigel Bradham, LB, Florida State
103. Miami Dolphins-Brandon Taylor, SS, LSU
104. Carolina Panthers-Ladarius Green, TE, Louisiana-Lafayette
105. Buffalo Bills-Ron Brooks, CB, LSU
106. Seattle Seahawks-Keshawn Martin, WR, Michigan State
107. Kansas City Chiefs-Kirk Cousins, QB, Michigan State
108. Denver Broncos (via NY Jets)-Luke Nix, OG, Pittsburgh
109. Washington Redskins (via Oakland)-Joe Adams, WR, Arkansas
110. San Diego Chargers-Chris Rainey, RB, Florida
111. Chicago Bears-Terrell Manning, OLB, NC State
112. Arizona Cardinals-Brandon Washington, OG, Miami (FL)
113. Dallas Cowboys-De'Quan Menzie, CB, Alabama
114. Philadelphia Eagles-Cam Johnson, DE, Virginia
115. Tennessee Titans-Marvin Jones, WR, California
116. Cincinnati Bengals-Josh Kaddu, OLB, Oregon
117. Detroit Lions-Rishard Matthews, WR, Nevada


118. Cleveland Browns (via Atlanta)-Devier Posey, WR, Ohio State
Posey probably would have been a late first round, early second round selection if he hadn't been suspended for most of the season.  His ability to get down the field should provide a nice compliment to Greg Little.

119. Pittsburgh Steelers-Markelle Martin, FS, Oklahoma State
120. Denver Broncos-Dwight Bentley, CB, Louisiana-Lafayette
121. Houston Texans-Brandon Mosley, OT, Auburn
122. New Orleans Saints-Josh LeRibeus, OG, SMU
123. Green Bay Packers-Michael Brewster, C, Ohio State
124. Buffalo Bills (via Baltimore)-Senio Kelemete, OT, Washington
125. San Francisco 49ers-B.J. Cunningham, WR, Michigan State
126. New England Patriots-Jonathan Massaquoi, DE, Troy
127. New York Giants-Leonard Johnson, CB, Iowa State
128. Minnesota Vikings (compensatory)-Robert Turbin, RB, Utah State
129. Oakland Raiders (compensatory)-Michael Egnew, TE, Missouri
130. Baltimore Ravens (compensatory)-Trenton Robinson, FS, Michigan State
131. New York Giants (compensatory)-Taylor Thompson, TE/DE, SMU
132. Green Bay Packers (compensatory)-Brandon Hardin, FS, Oregon State
133. Green Bay Packers (compensatory)-Russell Wilson, QB, NC State
134. Minnesota Vikings (compensatory)-Kyle Wilber, OLB, Wake Forest
135. Dallas Cowboys (compensatory)-Garth Gerhart, C, Arizona State

ROUND 5



136. Indianapolis Colts-Marcus Forston, DT, Miami (FL)
137. Denver Broncos (via St. Louis)-Nick Foles, QB, Arizona
138. Minnesota Vikings-Asa Jackson, CB, Cal Poly

139. Cleveland Browns-DeMario Davis, OLB, Arkansas State
Surpassed only by Zach Brown in terms of speed at the linebacker position, Davis adds much-needed athleticism to the Browns' linebacking corps, and should be a special teams stud from day one.

140. Tampa Bay Buccaneers-Keenan Robinson, LB, Texas
141. Washington Redskins-Cyrus Gray, RB, Texas A&M
142. Jacksonville Jaguars-Joe Looney, OG, Wake Forest
143. Carolina Panthers-Devon Wiley, WR, Fresno State
144. Buffalo Bills-Malik Jackson, DE, Tennessee
145. Miami Dolphins-Dwight Jones, WR, North Carolina
146. Kansas City Chiefs-Antonio Allen, SS, South Carolina
147. Buffalo Bills (via Seattle)-James-Michael Johnson, ILB, Nevada
148. Oakland Raiders-Ronnie Hillman, RB, San Diego State
149. San Diego Chargers-Tommy Streeter, WR, Miami (FL)
150. Chicago Bears-Tony Bergstrom, OT, Utah
151. Arizona Cardinals-Tom Compton, OT, South Dakota
152. Dallas Cowboys-Travis Lewis, OLB, Oklahoma
153. Philadelphia Eagles-Emmanuel Acho, OLB, Texas
154. New York Jets-Trevor Guyton, DE, California
155. Tennessee Titans-Phillip Blake, C, Baylor
156. Cincinnati Bengals-Jack Crawford, DE, Penn State
157. Atlanta Falcons-T.J. Graham, WR, NC State
158. Detroit Lions-Dan Herron, RB, Ohio State
159. Pittsburgh Steelers-Jarius Wright, WR, Arkansas

160. Cleveland Browns (via Denver)-Janzen Jackson, FS, McNeese State
A former prized recruit at Tennessee, Jackson transferred due to off-field issues, which probably means he won't be taken by the Browns.  Which is too bad, since Jackson has tremendous coverage ability and a willingness to throw his slight frame around with reckless abandon.  He can play corner, too, which would make him an ideal replacement for the departed Mike Adams.

161. Houston Texans-Jacquies Smith, DE/OLB, Missouri
162. New Orleans Saints-Danny Travathan, OLB, Kentucky
163. Green Bay Packers-Derek Wolfe, DT, Cincinnati
164. Baltimore Ravens-Jarrett Boykin, WR, Virginia Tech
165. San Francisco 49ers-Audie Cole, ILB, NC State
166. Cincinnati Bengals (via New England)-Duke Ihenacho, SS, San Jose State
167. Cincinnati Bengals (via NY Giants)-Patrick Edwards, WR, Houston
168. Oakland Raiders (compensatory)-Jaye Howard, DT, Florida
169. Baltimore Ravens (compensatory)-Chris Greenwood, CB, Albion
170. Indianapolis Colts (compensatory)-Tank Carder, ILB, TCU

ROUND 6


171. St. Louis Rams-Mike Daniels, DT, Iowa
172. Philadelphia Eagles (via Indianapolis)-Deangelo Peterson, TE, LSU
173. Washington Redskins (via Minnesota)-Aaron Henry, FS, Wisconsin
174. Tampa Bay Buccaneers-B.J. Coleman, QB, Tennessee-Chattanooga
175. Minnesota Vikings (via Cleveland)-Christian Thompson, FS, South Carolina State
176. Jacksonville Jaguars-Dustin Waldron, OT, Portland State
177. Arizona Cardinals (via Washington)-Ryan Steed, CB, Furman
178. Buffalo Bills-Shaun Prater, CB, Iowa
179. New Olreans Saints (via Miami)-Dajohn Harris, DT, USC
180. Carolina Panthers-Jake Bequette, DE, Arkansas
181. Seattle Seahawks-Brett Roy, DT, Nevada
182. Kansas City Chiefs-Ryan Houston, FB, North Carolina
183. San Diego Chargers-Ryan Miller, OG, Colorado
184. Chicago Bears-James Hanna, TE, Oklahoma
185. Arizona Cardinals-Tauren Poole, RB, Tennessee
186. Dallas Cowboys-Rishaw Johnson, OG, California (PA)
187. New York Jets (via Philadelphia through Indianapolis)-Ryan Lindley, QB, San Diego State
188. Denver Broncos (via NY Jets)-Keith Tandy, CB, West Virginia
189. Oakland Raiders-Marquis Maze, WR, Alabama
190. Tennessee Titans-Edwin Baker, RB, Michigan State
191. Cincinnati Bengals-Rhett Ellison, TE, USC
192. Atlanta Falcons-Alex Hoffman-Ellis, OLB, Washington State
193. Pittsburgh Steelers-Andrew Datko, OT, Florida State
194. Philadelphia Eagles (via Denver)-Travis Benjamin, WR, Miami (FL)
195. Houston Texans-Evan Rodriguez, FB/TE, Temple
196. Miami Dolphins (via New Orleans)-Terrence Frederick, CB, Texas A&M
197. Green Bay Packers-Jordan White, WR, Western Michigan
198. Baltimore Ravens-Matt Reynolds, OT, BYU
199. San Francisco 49ers-Chris Owusu, WR, Stanford
200. Philadelphia Eagles (via New England)-Mike Harris, CB, Florida State
201. New York Giants-David Molk, C, Michigan
202. New York Jets (compensatory)-Henron Fangupo, DT, BYU
203. New York Jets (compensatory)-Justin Bethel, FS, Presbyterian

204. Cleveland Browns (compensatory)-Junior Hemingway, WR, Michigan
Hemingway statistics are nearly non-existent, but you must remember that he had Denard Robinson lofting wounded ducks to him.  With an actual quarterback feeding him the ball, Hemingway may turn out to be a steal.

205. Cleveland Browns (compensatory)-Donte Paige-Moss, DE, North Carolina
Moss is a project, as he didn't start any games as a junior before declaring for the draft.  His physical tools are impressive, though, and he is worth a late-round flier.

206. Indianapolis Colts (compensatory)-Terrance Ganaway, RB, Baylor
207. Carolina Panthers (compensatory)-Micah Pellrin, CB, Hampton

ROUND 7



208. Indianapolis Colts-Nate Potter, OT, Boise State
209. St. Louis Rams-Eric Page, WR, Toledo
210. Minnesota Vikings-Ronald Leary, OG, Memphis

211. Cleveland Browns-Quentin Saulsberry, OG, Mississippi State
Saulsberry will provide depth behind Jason Pinkston and Shaun Lauvao.

212. Tampa Bay Buccaneers-Jeff Fuller, WR, Texas A&M
213. Washington Redskins-DeAngelo Tyson, DT, Georgia
214. Indianapolis (via Jacksonville through NY Jets)-Frank Alexander, DE/OLB, Oklahoma
215. Miami Dolphins-Matt McCants, OT, UAB
216. Carolina Panthers-Miles Burris, OLB, San Diego State
217. Buffalo Bills-Austin Davis, QB, Southern Miss
218. Kansas City Chiefs-Darius Fleming, OLB, Notre Dame
219. Detroit Loins (via Seattle)-Braylon Broughton, OLB, TCU
220. Chicago Bears-D.J. Campbell, FS, California
221. Arizona Cardinals-Chase Ford, TE, Miami (FL)
222. Dallas Cowboys-Bryan Anger, P, California
223. Minnesota Vikings (via Philadelphia through New England)-Coryell Judie, CB, Texas A&M
224. Green Bay Packers (via NY Jets)-Brad Smelley, FB, Alabama
225. Seattle Seahawks (via Oakland)-Davin Meggett, RB, Maryland
226. San Diego Chargers-Sean Cattouse, SS, California
227. Tennessee Titans-Robert Blanton, CB, Notre Dame
228. Jacksonville Jaguars (via Cincinnati)-Markus Kuhn, DT, NC State
229. Atlanta Falcons-Vaughn Meatoga, DT, Hawaii
230. Detroit Lions-Eddie Pleasant, SS, Oregon
231. Pittsburgh Steelers-Najee Goode, ILB, West Virginia
232. New York Jets (via Denver)-Coty Sensabaugh, CB, Clemson
233. Houston Texans-Danny Coale, WR, Virginia Tech
234. New Orleans Saints-Tydreke Powell, DT, North Carolina
235. Green Bay Packers-Jeff Adams, OT, Columbia
236. Baltimore Ravens-Mark Asper, OG, Oregon
237. San Francisco 49ers-Jeron McMillian, SS, Maine
238. Kansas City Chiefs (via New England)-Vontaze Burfict, ILB, Arizona State
239. New York Giants-Tavon Wilson, FS, Illinois
240. Pittsburgh Steelers (compensatory)-Garrett Celek, TE, Michigan State
241. Green Bay Packers (compensatory)-Antoine McClain, OG, Clemson
242. New York Jets (compensatory)-Tim Fugger, DE/OLB, Vanderbilt
243. Green Bay Packers (compensatory)-Gerell Robinson, WR, Arizona State
244. New York Jets (compensatory)-Michael Smith, RB, Utah State

245. Cleveland Browns (compensatory)-D'Anton Lynn, CB, Penn State
Lynn will be counted on initially for special teams contributions.

246. Pittsburgh Steelers (compensatory)-Daryl Richardson, RB, Abilene Christian

247. Cleveland Browns (compensatory)-Chas Alecxih, DT, Pittsburgh
Alecxih will re-join his Pitt teammate Jabaal Sheard on the Browns d-line, providing further depth.

248. Pittsburgh Steelers (compensatory)-Darron Thomas, QB, Oregon
249. Atlanta Falcons (compensatory)-Kellen Moore, QB, Boise State
250. San Diego Chargers (compensatory)-Matt Veldman, TE, North Dakota State
251. Buffalo Bills (compensatory)-Brandon Bolden, RB, Mississippi State
252. St. Louis Rams (compensatory)-Desmond Wynn, OG, Rutgers
253. Indianapolis Colts (compensatory)-Rokevious Watkins, OT, South Carolina

BROWNS HAUL

6. Trent Richardson, RB, Alabama
22. 'Dre Kirkpatrick, CB, Alabama
37. Bobby Massie, OT, Ole Miss
65. Bobby Wagner, OLB, Utah State
67. Brandon Weeden, QB, Oklahoma State
100. Mike Martin, DT, Michigan
118. Devier Posey, WR, Ohio State
139. DeMario Davis, OLB, Arkansas State
160. Janzen Jackson, FS, McNeese State
204. Junior Hemingway, WR, Michigan
205. Donte Paige-Moss, DE, North Carolina
211. Quentin Saulsberry, OG, Mississippi State
245. D'Anton Lynn, CB, Penn State
247. Chas Alecxih, DT, Pittsburgh  



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