So far, there has been plenty of speculation for many teams in this draft. Many questions are swirling around teams in need of QB, such as the Broncos, Eagles, and even the Browns. With all of that said, Sidelineblitz is proud to present the first mock draft of 2016:
2016 NFL Mock Draft
Tennessee Titans
Bret’s Pick- Jalen Ramsey, DB, Florida State
The Titans get a playmaker at both CB and Safety. Ramsey gives the Titans a true leader in both the secondary and the defense, along with a playmaker.
Ryan’s Pick- Jalen Ramsey, DB, Florida State
Regardless of where he plays, Tennessee acquires Ramsey who is destined to be a multiple Pro Bowler. Ramsey will be the game changer Titans defensive coordinator Dick LeBeau is looking for. Tennessee can then upgrade the offensive line in round two.
Josh’s Pick- Jalen Ramsey, DB, Florida State
Titans are still trying to build a team and are looking to just get the best player available. If it was a few years back before the rookie salary, this pick would have easily been Tunsil, but things are changing.
Eric’s Pick- Laremy Tunsil OT Ole Miss
With a franchise QB and a veteran running back in the backfield, Titans grab Tunsil to solidify the O-line, so Mariota can work his magic and bring the team out of the AFC South cellar.
2. Cleveland Browns
Bret’s Pick- Laremy Tunsil, OT, Ole Miss
The Browns get a huge upgrade along the OL and Joe Thomas’ eventual replacement. Tunsil can kick over to play RT or even step in at LT if the Cleveland decides to trade Thomas.
Ryan’s Pick- Laremy Tunsil, OT, Ole Miss
If Tunsil is on the board then expect the Browns to trade back up into the first round to draft a quarterback. Should quarterbacks go where they are expected, Cleveland will draft a quarterback in day two. Tunsil comes in and starts day one at right tackle and eventually at left tackle.
Josh’s Pick- Laremy Tunsil, OT, Ole Miss
I am not positive this will happen, because this would be the smart nove for Cleveland. We will see what they do. If any team has learned from the David Carr experience is that you should build your offensive line then get your franchise QB.
Eric’s Pick- Carson Wentz, QB, North Dakota State
Even with RG3, I still think the front office has fallen in love with Wentz here. RG3 basically signs a one year “show me” deal, but Cleveland drafts Went for the future. They hope Wentz doesn’t have to be thrown to the wolves this first year, but we will see.
3. San Diego Chargers
Bret’s Pick- Ronnie Stanley, OT, Ronnie Stanley
The Chargers had a ton of problems along the OL. Stanley gives the Chargers an immediate bookend to King Dunlap. Stanley can play both RT and LT as well as Dunlap.
Ryan’s Pick- Myles Jack, LB, UCLA
Jack can play multiple positions on the field and that benefits both he and San Diego. The Chargers have holes in the front seven as well at safety. Jack could be used as chess piece, being moved in different areas of the field, while trying to take advantage of mismatches.
Josh’s Pick- DeForest Buckner, DE, Oregon
Corey Luiget needs help along that defensive line. Buckner might not be the best player on the board, but this will be where value meets need.
Eric’s Pick- DeForest Buckner DE Oregon
Defense has always been the problem for the Chargers, Buckner could help spearhead a change, a BIG change.
4. Dallas Cowboys
Bret’s Pick- Myles Jack, LB, UCLA
Myles Jack is the perfect LB for Marinelli’s Cover 2 defense. Jack can play all 3 LB spots with the ability to cover like a safety. Jack gives the Cowboys an immediate upgrade that takes some pressure off of the safeties.
Ryan’s Pick- Carson Wentz, QB, North Dakota State
Dallas needs to win now given their roster, but Tony Romo cannot stay healthy. Wentz could be a great value pick if Romo can stay healthy. During that time, Wentz can learn from Romo (who also came from the 1-AA level) until he is called upon.
Josh’s Pick- Joey Bosa, DE, Ohio State
Dallas has Demarcus Lawrence and a suspended (4 games) Randy Gregory to play the Defensive End position, they need help to build this position and while I might not be the biggest Bosa fan, he fills a need and will play at a higher level.
Eric’s Pick- Jalen Ramsey, S, Florida State
The secondary for years has been a problem in big D. Byron Jones came in last year and helped, but it looks like he will stay at corner. Ramsey can solidify the back end for years. If need be, Ramsey can also help on the outside.
5. Jacksonville Jaguars
Bret’s Pick- DeForest Buckner, DE, Oregon
Buckner gives the Jaguars a versatile playmaker along the DL. Buckner can play all over the DL, while offering pass rush from both inside and off the edge. Buckner can play all 3 downs while matching the athleticism of Mariota and Luck.
Ryan’s Pick- Vernon Hargreaves III, CB, UCLA
The Jaguars defense has continued to be the focused of the offseason. Although they need help in the front seven still, adding to the defensive backfield is critical. Prince Amukamara was signed to a one year deal and he is not a number one CB. Hargraves can be a star.
Josh’s Pick- Myles Jack, LB, UCLA
This is the easiest pick in my eyes, if Jack is sitting there for Jacksonville he will be the selection; the need to get better at LB and Jack can play all 3 spots and even play safety is they need him to.
Eric’s Pick- Myles Jack, LB , UCLA
With a developing offense already there, Jaguars continue to build their defense. Jack is a “Jack of all” linebacker. He can play all three spots well. Huge get here for Jax.
6. Baltimore Ravens
Bret’s Pick- Vernon Hargreaves, CB, Florida
The Ravens are in desperate need of secondary help. Hargreaves is exactly what the Ravens look for in CBs. Hargreaves ball skills immediately upgrade the Ravens lackluster secondary.
Ryan’s Pick- DeForest Buckner, DE, Oregon
The Ravens need younger pass rushers even though needs along the line should also be considered. Even Baltimore owner Steve Bisciotti is looking for more drafted pass rushers. Combining The Ravens defense should use Bucker in a number of different ways given his size and athleticism.
Josh’s Pick- Ronnie Stanley, OT, Notre Dame
Baltimore lost their best young offensive lineman and I am not sure how they feel about Monroe. This gives them a great prospect to take over the Left Tackle position and keep Flacco clean.
Eric’s Pick- Joey Bosa, DE Ohio State
With an ever aging defense, Baltimore needs some help on that end. Bosa slips a little, but right into Raven’s lap and they are happy to have him.
7. San Francisco 49ers
Bret’s Pick- Carson Wentz, QB, North Dakota State
San Fran gets an extremely athletic QB that can take Chip Kelly’s offense to a new level. Wentz has the drive to be successful in the NFL and the correct attitude to be the face of the team for a long time.
Ryan’s Pick- Jared Goff, QB, California
There is still plenty to be determined at the quarterback position. Should the 49ers decide to stick with Colin Kaepernick and Blaine Gabbert at quarterback, then going offensive line makes the most sense. Until then (if that happens at all), Goff stays home and leads a team in need of a spark at QB.
Josh’s Pick- Carson Wentz, QB, North Dakota State
When watching tape I couldn’t help but think how much Carson Wentz would fit into what Chip Kelly likes to do and at the time he was with Philadelphia. He is even higher in the draft now and will look to get his QB of the future.
Eric’s Pick- Jared Goff, QB, California
With Chip Kelly at HC, who knows what is going on in San Fran? Kaepernick? Gabbert? Well let’s throw this kid in the race as well. Playing at Cal, Niners fans know him well and know how much of an impact he can be. He has a precision arm that is needed for Kelly’s offense.
8. Philadelphia Eagles
Bret’s Pick- Jared Goff, QB, Cal
I don’t think this was the reason the Eagles moved up to 8, but now the Browns having RGIII changes the first round quite a bit. The Eagles get their franchise QB that will fit very well in Doug Pederson’s Andy Reid inspired offense.
Ryan’s Pick- Ronnie Stanley, OT, Notre Dame
Philadelphia did not pay Chase Daniel what they did to be the third-string quarterback and Sam Bradford signed a deal worth starting money. Now, the Eagles need to improve their offensive line to protect them. Stanley is best suited as a right tackle, but if he needs to play guard he can do that too.
Josh’s Pick- Jared Goff, QB, California
Philly needs a QB bad because Kelly left them with little to nothing to work with for the future. Here they get one of the best pocket passers I have seen in quite some time. His foot work within the pocket is magical.
Eric’s Pick- Ezekiel Elliot, RB, Ohio State
As much as I hate to do it, Elliott makes sense here. The Murray dynasty in Philly lasted all of one season and they shipped him to Tennessee for pretty much nothing. Mathews is no longer a 16 game starter, so Philly turns to Elliott, who may be the most complete back coming out in years.
9. Tampa Bay Buccaneers
Bret’s Pick- Joey Bosa, DE, Ohio State
Bosa wasn’t supposed to be here when the Buccaneers are picking, but here he is. The Buccaneers get an immediate upgrade along their DL. Bosa immediately changes their defense and gives them an aggressive pass rusher and run stuffer.
Ryan’s Pick- Joey Bosa, DE, Ohio State
Bosa has a number of moves to make an impact. However, Bosa is not a difference maker on his own, but he can be an important piece to the puzzle. In Tampa’s defense, he should have more success as a run stopper rather than as pass rusher.
Josh’s Pick- Vernon Hargreaves, CB, Florida
The Buccaneers need help in the secondary and they get one of the best corners in this years draft.
Eric’s Pick- Vernon Hargreaves III, CB, Florida
Bucs need help stopping passing offenses in New Orleans, Carolina, and Atlanta. Keeping the Florida kid here is a great move.
10. New York Giants
Bret’s Pick- Jack Conklin, OT, Michigan State
With Ereck Flowers moving kicking over to RT, Jack Conklin can step in immediately at LT. Conklin is a well coached OT that is a quality pass blocker and run blocker.
Ryan’s Pick- Taylor Decker, OT, Ohio State
The need at wide receiver is there, but it is too rich to draft one here. Many were surprised New York selected Flowers in the top 10 and now we see a repeat of that this year. Decker is better suited than Flowers at left tackle. Decker now looks to continue in the long run of success of great OSU tackles to have a nice career, which should happen.
Josh’s Pick- Ezekiel Elliott, RB, Ohio State
The Giants need to establish a running game with Eli Manning to take the pressure off of him, they look to do that with this pick.
Eric’s Pick- Ronnie Stanley, OT Notre Dame
As we know NYG love Notre Dame lineman and Stanley is a great fit for their needs. Manning took a beating last year and keeping him upright is priority number one in NYC.
11. Chicago Bears
Bret’s Pick- Jarran Reed, DL, Alabama
The run on DL begins. Reed gives the Bears a very versatile DL that can play both the 5 tech and NT. With the MLB upgrades they made in free agency, the Bears now have a legit front 7 with Jarran Reed.
Ryan’s Pick- Ezekiel Elliott, RB, Ohio State
Earlier this offseason, Chicago dealt tight end Martellus Bennett and they did not re-sign running back Matt Forte. The Bears need offense and in today’s NFL, teams need two running backs. Elliott is the top back in the draft and would give the Bears a great option to make plays.
Josh’s Pick- Noah Spence, OLB, Eastern Kentucky
The Bears need to get to the Quarterback more and allow the offense to make the opposing team to play catch up and not the other way around.
Eric’s Pick- Jarran Reed, DT, Alabama
The Bears know a stout Defensive line is key to success and with their LB upgrades through free agency, Reed can help immensely here. Reed has flown up draft boards and the Bears snatch him up.
12. New Orleans Saints
Bret’s Pick- Sheldon Rankins. DL, Louisville
Sheldon Rankins is one of the best DL in the draft. Rankins immediately gives the Saints an upgrade along the DL. Rankins fits nicely into the Saints defense now that they are moving back to a 4 man front.
Ryan’s Pick- Noah Spence, DE, Eastern Kentucky
Spence may see just as much time with his hand on the ground as he does standing up playing as an EDGE rusher. If Spence can prove his off the field issues are past him for good, the Saints would have drafted a player with top six potential. Spence would be a great start to the draft, while improving a horrible 2015 Saints defense.
Josh’s Pick- Andrew Billings, DT Baylor
Many might see Rankins as the top DT and I would agree, but New Orleans is looking for a dancing bear type player and who else than a ex-Baylor Bear.
Eric’s Pick- Shaq Lawson, DE Clemson
Saints continue to overhaul their aging defensive line. Lawson has gone from a preseason top 5 pick to sliding down to a great fit in New Orleans.
13. Miami Dolphins
Bret’s Pick- Ezekiel Elliott, RB, Ohio State
Miami could use major help on defense but they could also use a playmaker on offense. Elliott gives the Dolphins a dynamic duo in the backfield with Jay Ajayi and Ezekiel Elliott.
Ryan’s Pick- Shaq Lawson, DE, Clemson
Defensive end Mario Williams was recently signed but he cannot expected to put up the impressive numbers like he did earlier in his career. Lawson had plenty of hype, but he has dealt with a shoulder injury. At the end of the day he does not slide too far.
Josh’s Pick- Eli Apple, CB, Ohio State
If Eli Apple can correct a few things he could be looked at as the top CB in this draft. Miami needs help after depleting their CB position.
Eric’s Pick- Noah Spence, DE, Eastern Kentucky
Losing Vernon in free agency hurts here, but in the long run it may help the team as a whole. Freeing up that money to hopefully resign players and bring in young talent such as Spence. Let’s just hope South Beach doesn’t lure Spence into trouble again.
14. Oakland Raiders
Bret’s Pick- William Jackson, CB, Houston
William Jackson could be the most polished CB in this draft. Jackson gives the Raiders a much needed upgrade in the secondary. Jackson adds to an already promising young defense.
Ryan’s Pick- Sheldon Rankins, DL, Louisville
The one piece that is missing that Oakland would love to upgrade is someone who can stop the run effectively, who is also pretty athletic. That is where Rankins enters the picture. He will close lanes regularly and quickly, forcing bad throws and running games should struggle.
Josh’s Pick- Darron Lee, LB, Ohio State
The Raiders look good everywhere on defense, but they need to fix their 2nd level and they do that with this selection.
Eric’s Pick- Eli Apple, CB, Ohio State
Losing a legend in the secondary in Charles Woodson is always scary, but even with him the secondary has been a weak spot for the Raiders defense. The front seven is very up and coming so lets help the backend a little with Apple.
15. Los Angeles Rams
Bret’s Pick- Corey Coleman, WR, Baylor
At this point in the draft, the Rams are not in position to grab a QB they value. They get much needed help at WR with Corey Coleman. Coleman gives the Rams a play maker along with Tavon Austin. Case Keenum can use all the help he can get.
Ryan’s Pick- Corey Coleman, WR, Baylor
Los Angeles already has Tavon Austin at wide receiver and they need a number one at the position. That means someone with some size is ideally preferred. Trading back and selecting Coleman may be the best way to get value, but either way Coleman helps the Rams a lot.
Josh’s Pick- Corey Coleman, WR, Baylor
This is a fit waiting to happen and also might be considered a shock since LaQuon Treadwell is still on the board.
Eric’s Pick- Paxton Lynch, QB, Memphis
The team now in the shadow of Hollywood, need a new star and believe me they don’t have a QB on the roster that fits this bill. Lynch can come in and help right away. Paired with Todd Gurley, they could have the formulation of a nice script ready for major production in a few seasons.
16. Detroit Lions
Bret’s Pick- Taylor Decker, OT, Ohio State
Lions get their LT of the future in Decker. Decker allows Reiff to slide over to RT giving them bookends and a young trio of Decker, Reiff, and Tomlinson.
Ryan’s Pick- Jack Conklin, OT, Michigan State
Inconsistent play along the offensive line stresses the need to add talent early. Yes, Laken Tomlinson and Riley Reiff are there, but both were seen as players with versatility. Drafting Conklin lets those two players stay at one position, gains experience there, and improves.
Josh’s Pick- Sheldon Rankins, DT, Louisville
This team needs to find their interior defensive line because it is affecting their defensive ends, imagine what Ansah could do with interior help.
Eric’s Pick- Laquon Treadwell, WR, Mississippi
Not saying Treadwell is going to be able to replace the retiring Megatron, but the Lions need that help. For a team heavily dependent on passing offense, losing their top weapon is huge. They need to do something to fill that void and help Stafford.
17. Atlanta Falcons
Bret’s Pick- Shaq Lawson, DE, Clemson
With his shoulder injury, Lawson slide further than he would have liked too. Luckily for him, he lands where he fits the best. Lawson fits very well in Dan Quinn’s defense. Quinn gets his version of Michael Bennett in Shaq Lawson.
Ryan’s Pick- Darron Lee, LB, Ohio State
Outside of Jack, Lee is likely the most athletic linebacker in the 2016 NFL Draft. Lee can cover any tight end and running back. His 4.47 40-yard dash at the 2016 NFL Combine combined with his film will make Falcons fans very excited quickly.
Josh’s Pick- Shaq Lawson, DE, Clemson
My favorite player in the draft will fall a bit due to injury concerns, but will make a great connection with Atlanta where he can play multiple positions and really have his talents utilized.
Eric’s Pick- Darron Lee, LB Ohio State
To win the NFC South, you have got to stop Carolina. Lee is uber athletic and can help in the run and pass game.
18. Indianapolis Colts
Bret’s Pick- Andrew Billings, DL, Baylor
One of the best DL in this draft. Billings can immediately start at NT for the Colts and give them a much needed upgrade on defense. Billings offers a toughness and playmaking ability that the Colts lack on defense.
Ryan’s Pick- Andrew Billings, DL, Baylor
Billings will be clogging the lanes early and often. Just like Danny Shelton in last year’s draft, Billings is a tough player who will be hard to block. The one difference between the two is that Billings is a bit more athletic than Shelton.
Josh’s Pick- Taylor Decker, OT, Ohio State
They need to protect Andrew Luck plain and simple. We saw what happened last year.
Eric’s Pick- Jack Conklin, OT, Michigan State
Colts need to protect their franchise QB Andrew Luck. Conklin can play ANYWHERE on the offensive line and can help this line right away.
19. Buffalo Bills
Bret’s Pick- A’Shawn Robinson, DT, Alabama
Rex Ryan gets his versatile DL that he covets so much. Robinson can come in and play the NT role, allowing Dareus and Kyle Williams to play more of the 3 tech/5 tech.
Ryan’s Pick- A’Shawn Robinson, DT, Alabama
Another route Buffalo could go is Robinson’s teammate linebacker Reggie Ragland. Buffalo’s front seven continues to be one of the best and adding Robinson makes them much younger simultaneously.
Josh’s Pick- A’Shawn Robinson, DT, Alabama
A’Shawn just seems like a Rex Ryan pick and this is who I give him, but I wouldn’t be shocked to see Paxton Lynch here either.
Eric’s Pick- A’Shawn Robinson, DT Alabama
Rex and now Rob Ryan are all about defense and Robinson can man the middle right away. This will allow the Williams bros to kick out and make this defensive line very stout.
20. New York Jets
Bret’s Pick- Reggie Ragland, LB, Alabama
Ragland fits perfectly in the Jets defensive system. Ragland offers a compliment to David Harris and Harris’ eventual replacement. Ragland immediately upgrades their run defense and adds versatility to their defense.
Ryan’s Pick- Reggie Ragland, LB, Alabama
Ragland is a thumper who can rush the passer and stop the run. He is always around the ball and more often than not he is making an impact on the respective play in some way. Ragland should not struggle too much transiting to the NFL.
Josh’s Pick- Reggie Ragland, LB, Alabama
Again, this guy just seems like he belongs to the jets. He will be the signal caller for years to come.
Eric’s Pick- Reggie Ragland, LB, Alabama
Ragland could be the new face of this defense. He fits what they do so well. Very stout against the run and plays the pass well too.
21. Washington Redskins
Bret’s Pick- Eli Apple, CB, Ohio State
Apple adds a long CB that can play man to man very well. Apple’s stock was on the rise after he ran his 4.4 40. Apple will be a quality CB for years to come.
Ryan’s Pick- Ryan Kelly, C, Alabama
Even though he is not locked in long-term yet, Kirk Cousins is Washington’s starting quarterback for the foreseeable future and blocking for his is a key need. Adding Kelly to a line that already features Trent Williams and Brandon Scherff fills that hole and improves the center position immediately.
Josh’s Pick- Ryan Kelly, C, Alabama
The most important position on the offensive line to Bill Callahan is the center position, I believe they will sure that up with the top center in the class, but I would expect a trade back here as well.
Eric’s Pick- Mackensie Alexander, CB, Clemson
In the NFC East, stopping guys like Dez Bryant and Odell Beckham Jr is a huge priority. Washington needs that guy. Alexander can step in and and help right away.
22. Houston Texans
Bret’s Pick- Will Fuller, WR, ND
The Texans get perhaps the most explosive WR in this draft. Fuller gives the Texans a deep threat that can take the pressure off of Deandre Hopkins and gives Osweiler another weapon to throw to.
Ryan’s Pick- Laquon Treadwell, WR, Ole Miss
Starting opposite star wide receiver De’Andre Hopkins will do wonders to a new revamped Texans offense. Treadwell is a very physical receiver, who as long as he keeps that trait is in for a long career. Treadwell has a shot to be the best wide receiver during their rookie year.
Josh’s Pick- Laquon Treadwell, WR, Ole Miss
This is scary! Hopkins and Treadwell together a deep threat and a possession receiver, this would make any QB happy let alone the giraffe they have at QB.
Eric’s Pick- Corey Coleman, WR Baylor
Texans get a great compliment for Nuk Hopkins in Coleman, who gets to stay close to home and will have a huge fan base already in Houston.
23. Minnesota Vikings
Bret’s Pick- Michael Thomas, WR, Ohio State
Teddy Bridgewater gains a true red zone threat and a big body WR that knows how to shield defenders from the football. Michael Thomas gives Bridgewater a WR that can make the tough catches on 3rd downs.
Ryan’s Pick- Michael Thomas, WR, Ohio State
Minnesota will have an impressive trio at wide receiver with Cordarrelle Patterson, Stefon Diggs, and Thomas, especially if Patterson can improve. Minnesota will not have to solely rely on Adrian Peterson when they actually want to pass now. This offense is getting better and now with Thomas could leave the Vikings with no flaws on offense.
Josh’s Pick- Josh Doctson, WR, TCU
Bridgewater needs weapons and that is what they will give them with Doctson, some consider him the best WR in the class, but time will tell.
Eric’s Pick- Josh Doctson, WR, TCU
Getting Bridgewater weapons should be a priority this offseason. Doctson is a great possession receiver that can help Teddy advance as a QB.
24. Cincinnati Bengals
Bret’s Pick- Josh Doctson, WR, TCU
The Bengals get themselves a replacement at WR opposite of AJ Green. Doctson gives the Bengals a possession WR that compliments AJ Green well. Doctson gives Andy Dalton another tall, lean WR to the the ball up to.
Ryan’s Pick- Robert Nkemdiche, DL, Ole Miss
Nkemdiche was thought as a potential top five player during the regular season. However, due to off the field concerns as well as tape that was not always dominating, he ends up sliding. The Bengals have taken chances on such players in the past, but it could be a home run. Nkemdiche has all of the talent in the world — it is just a matter of him using that a high level consistently.
Josh’s Pick- Jarran Reed, DT, Alabama
Peko isn’t going to last forever, they need to find someone to take over at the 1-tech and Jarran could be the guy and be very good at it.
Eric’s Pick- Will Fuller, WR, Notre Dame
The run on Wide Receivers continue with Cincinnati getting a compliment to AJ Green. Fuller’s explosiveness and ability to take the top off a defense can help AJ Green and the Bengal run game.
25. Pittsburgh Steelers
Bret’s Pick- Darron Lee, LB, OSU
For the 3rd year straight, Pittsburgh drafts an athletic LB to help revamp their once aging LB corp. Derron Lee and Ryan Shazier give the Steelers an extremely athletic duo in the middle and 2 LBs that blitz very well.
Ryan’s Pick- Eli Apple, CB, Ohio State
The Steelers have needed to draft quality cornerbacks in the draft for some time now. He is not a top of the depth chart type of cornerback yet, but he has the potential to be. Working with a very talented front seven could lead Apple to having plenty of success, while potentially becoming the a better Ike Taylor for the black and yellow.
Josh’s Pick- William Jackson III, CB, Houston
If a single team needed corner help which all teams do, Pittsburgh would be at the top of the list. I believe they just throw a dart blindfolded and the first corner that it hits they select.
Eric’s Pick- William Jackson III, CB, Houston
Pittsburgh definitely needs help at the corner position and Jackson is a playmaker at the position. Corner has been one of the positions of weakness for Pittsburgh and with AJ Green in Cincy they may want to fix that.
26. Seattle Seahawks
Bret’s Pick- Robert Nkemdiche, DL, Ole Miss
Seattle isn’t afraid of character concerns for NFL players. Robert Nkemdiche could have been a much high draft pick, if not for his off the field questions. Nkemdiche fits very well in Seattle’s aggressive style of defense
Ryan’s Pick- Jarran Reed, DL Alabama
Reed fell in a defensive-heavy first round, but he lands in an ideal spot. Seattle’s defensive scheme will allow Reed to play similarly to how he played in college. He would be the replacement in defensive tackle Brandon Mebane’s role.
Josh’s Pick- Jack Conklin, OT, Michigan State
Seattle needs to help Wilson out as much as possible if they are going to contend in the west still. That division is getting stronger outside of the 49ers.
Eric’s Pick- Robert Nkemdiche, DT, Mississippi
Aggressive DT meet aggressive Seattle defense. Pete Carroll and the Seattle front office never shy away from off field concerns when they see talent. At one time Nkemdiche was a top five-10 pick, Seattle is ecstatic to get him here.
27. Green Bay Packers
Bret’s Pick- Kevin Dodd, DE/OLB Clemson
Dodd gives the Packers another edge rusher that can be the eventual replacement to Julius Peppers. Dodd has the size and ability that the Packers covet. Dodd will have time to develop and won’t be rushed to play right away.
Ryan’s Pick- Kevin Dodd, DE/OLB Clemson
Green Bay needs to make sure Dodd is not just a one year wonder. If they are comfortable with his potential, then Green Bay has someone they could help build around along the defensive line.
Josh’s Pick- Leonard Floyd, OLB, Georgia
Floyd will help get pressure on the QB which we all know Green Bay loves to do and will allow Clay Matthews to rome the field.
Eric’s Pick- Leonard Floyd, OLB, Georgia
Floyd can help the pass rush in Green Bay and continue to improve this defense. This pick could have been a TE, but Jared Cook just signed to help Rodgers there.
28. Kansas City Chiefs
Bret’s Pick- Jason Spriggs, OT, Indiana
Jason Spriggs is an ultra athletic LT that is opening eyes going back to his combine workout. Spriggs fits into Andy Reid’s style of offense. Andy Reid isn’t shy about drafting OL in the first round. Spriggs replaces 2013 bust, Eric Fisher
Ryan’s Pick- Leonard Floyd, OLB, Georgia
Kansas City needs pass rush help and at this point of the draft, Floyd is the best. The need is even greater now that Justin Houston’s 2016 season is in doubt, as well as uncertainty as to when gets back into the lineup. Once he comes back, Floyd is talented enough to stay in the starting lineup.
Josh’s Pick- Paxton Lynch, QB, Memphis
Could be considered a surprise pick, but Alex Smith isn’t getting younger and is just a level above a bus driver if that. They need to groom someone to take this team further.
Eric’s Pick- Emmanuel Ogbah, DE, Oklahoma State
Ogbah is undoubtedly a great pass rusher, but does he have the skill set to do everything else? The Chiefs can use him right away especially with Justin Houston already hurt.
29. Arizona Cardinals
Bret’s Pick- Leonard Floyd, OLB, Georgia
Floyd is a long athletic OLB that plays very well in space and uses his athleticism to be an effective pass rusher. Floyd fits Arizona’s style of attacking 3-4. They have also shown they are not afraid to play undersized LBs.
Ryan’s Pick- Emmanuel Ogbah, DE, Oklahoma State
Drafting Ogbah replaces at least one of their unsigned veteran defensive ends (Justin Babin and Dwight Freeney). Ogbah needs to do more than just having power moves. That said, Arizona Cardinals Head Coach Bruce Arians’ coaching staff is the right group of coaches to maximize his ability.
Josh’s Pick- Vernon Butler, DE, Louisiana Tech
Butler will give this defensive line some energy and stoutness. This kid is the real deal and could be considered the top DT in this class when we look back 5 years from now.
Eric’s Pick- Ryan Kelly, C, Alabama
Trading for Chandler Jones allows this pick to help the interior offensive line. Kelly can play guard or center for this team immediately.
30. Carolina Panthers
Bret’s Pick- Noah Spence, DE, Eastern Kentucky
Spence gives Carolina a good young pass rusher that has the ability to move around. Spence to fill in well In a rotation at DE for the Panthers.
Ryan’s Pick- William Jackson III, CB, Houston
Outside of Josh Norman Carolina has average talent in the backfield with aging starters. The addition of Jackson would give the Panthers an immediate starting cornerback, as well as a very reliable one-two punch at the position. The recent signing of Brandin Boykin does not alter the need to add more cornerbacks.
Josh’s Pick- Jason Spriggs, OT, Indiana
It was evident in the Superbowl that they need to protect Cam Newton and with this pick they look to do what they can to do so.
Eric’s Pick- Kevin Dodd, DE, Clemson
Carolina saw it first hand in the Super Bowl, pass rushers are key for a defense. Carolina’s defense is already good, but to make it elite they need to get after the QB. Just down the road in Clemson, Kevin Dodd can help with that.
31. Denver Broncos
Bret’s Pick- Paxton Lynch, QB, Memphis
The Broncos get their QB that is very much like Brock Osweiler. With some quality coaching and some refining, Lynch can be a good QB in Kubiak’s system. Paxton has plenty to work with and should catch on quick.
Ryan’s Pick- Paxton Lynch, QB, Memphis
Broncos quarterback Mark Sanchez is not the guy in Denver for the future. He is a bridge quarterback who would do well mentoring Lynch, as he gets adjusted to the NFL. Lynch is at least a top three quarterback, if not the best, in arm strength. With a good majority of their offense changed in terms of personnel, drafting Lynch with the athleticism he has is very 1.
Josh’s Pick- Connor Cook, QB, Michigan State
This is going to surprise a lot of people, but I see this team looking to get the most NFL ready QB and seeing what they can do. They are returning most of their talent so why not try to contend again.
Eric’s Pick- Connor Cook, QB, Michigan State
Never seen before, a Super Bowl Champion lost not only their winning QB in Peyton Manning retiring, but also their young stud backup, Brock Osweiler in free agency. They did sign Mark Sanchez in free agency, but he is not a long term answer. Connor Cook has slipped a little but he is the type of guy this team can use. Makes the throws and no mistakes, much like he did in East Lansing, Michigan.
Mock Draft 2.0 will be released April 14, two weeks before the draft.
