2-Round Mock 3.11.10

And they're off... Free Agency is underway and already some big moves have been made.  Some of these moves are effecting what some of our teams will be doing in the draft.  In addition, I provide our first look at the second round of this years draft.  And with the first pick of the 2010 NFL draft, the St. Louis Rams select....

1. St Louis Rams – Sam Bradford, QB, Oklahoma

Most of the season I have argued that the Rams will need to choose a QB in April's draft for a multitude of reasons, including the economics involved.  A few weeks ago, I restated this justification in another post on this site.  With the news out of Indy indicating that Bradford should be fully recovered prior to camp, I think the Rams will pull the trigger and select their future signal caller first overall.

2. Detroit Lions – Ndamukong Suh, DT, Nebraska

Suh had an excellent combine, and solidified himself as a top prospect in the 2010 class.  He is the type of DT that makes it impossible for opponents to run, and Detroit sure could use a guy to plug up the middle of the defense.  He is a rare talent and I think he could be the defensive cornerstone for this team to build around.

3. Tampa Bay Buccaneers – Gerald McCoy, DT, Oklahoma

Tampa is a team with some needs, and Gerald McCoy will fill one of the immediately.  This Sooner DT is excellent at penetrating the middle of the line, causing havoc for opposing QBs.  The fact that his play reminds me a lot of Warren Sapp will not be lost on the Tampa Bay faithful either.  If the Bucs can get from McCoy what they got from Sapp, they will be very happy pirates indeed.

4. Washington Redskins – Russell Okung, OT, Oklahoma State

Shannahan and the Skins still have a need at QB and Jimmy Clausen will get serious discussion.  In the end however, logic will rule, and Washington will make the correct choice and address their highly depleted offensive line.  Okung is still holding onto the top grade amongst the o-linemen, although barely, and with Chris Samuels officially retired now, he can fill an immediate need at tackle for Washington.

5. Kansas City Chiefs – Eric Berry, S, Tennessee

KC is a young team, and they still have needs on both sides of the ball.  Because of this, the team can go with the best overall player on the board, and that is clearly Eric Berry.  Berry will bring a presence to the secondary, and if his constant comparisons to future Hall-of-Famer, Ed Reed are any indication, he will be a game changer.

6. Seattle Seahawks – Bryan Bulaga, OT, Iowa

New head honcho Pete Carroll knows that games are won and lost in the trenches, so he will be looking to upgrade both lines.  At this point in the draft he can take the best lineman on either side remaining, and Bulaga is the guy.  His mean streak and consistency through out this season have made him a valuable commodity, and the hawks will be happy to add him to the roster.

7. Cleveland Browns – Jason Pierre Paul, DE, South Florida

New Cleveland Czar, Mike Holmgren is already starting to reshape this roster.  To continue the transformation, he will want high upside athletes.  When you look up high upside athlete on You Tube, you get Jason Pierre Paul's handspring video.  This raw talent has one of the highest upsides in recent memory.  Knowing that all can't be fixed in one season, Holmgren will show the patients to allow JPP to develop into a star.

8. Oakland Raiders – Bruce Campbell, OT, Maryland

Each year Al Davis falls in love with a workout warrior who has the right size, speed, strength ratios, and then usually reaches in round one to draft him.  This year that combine all-star is Campbell.  Tackle is the right position to address as the Raiders need to protect some of their other recent investments (Russell & McFadden), but Campbell will be a complete reach here in round 1.

9. Buffalo Bills – Jimmy Clausen, QB, Notre Dame

The Bills have needs on their offensive front, but with all of the top prospects off the board, and the though of entering another season with Trent Edwards under center facing new coach Chan Gailey, the Bills will pull the trigger and reach for Jimmy Clausen here.  Despite his upside, I still have some real apprehension about Clausen blossoming into a great pro QB.  I do however think he will be better than anyone currently on the Buffalo roster, so I don't think this is a bad selection either.

10. Jacksonville Jaguars – Sergio Kindle, LB, Texas

Only two picks after the big reach by Oakland, Jacksonville will make the same mistake.  Signing Aaron Kampman was a great move for the Jags, but I am afraid it will lead them to reaching for Kindle to fill their new biggest need at linebacker.  Although Kindle is talented, picking him a 10 is simply too high.

11. Denver Broncos via Chicago Bears – Dez Bryant, WR, Oklahoma State

Denver receiver Brandon Marshall is looking to get out of town, and even if the Broncos don't grant him his wish, they still need another target for Orton to throw to.  Dez Bryant is the best receiver in this class, and if he reaches his potential he can easily make this team forget all about Marshall.

12. Miami Dolphins – Dan Williams, DT, Tennessee

With the signing of Karlos Dansby, and the suspension of Jason Furgeson, combined with Bryant having just been selected makes this an easy choice for Miami.  Dan Williams is a legit prospect to fill the center of a defensive line, and Miami will be very happy to have this guy in the center of their defense. 

13. San Francisco 49ers – Joe Haden, CB, Florida

The Niners are developing into a good football team.  With two choices in the first round they really have the chance to take a leap forward, and selecting Haden here will help them do just that.  Haden is the top CB available in the 2010 class, but he is still on the board here because of a rough performance in Indy.  Despite this however, Haden knows how to play football as evidenced by his outstanding play at Florida against the awesome competion that comes with playing in the SEC.  Bottom line is Haden makes this defense better, and better defense make the Niners favorites to take over the NFC West.

14. Seattle Seahawks via Denver – CJ Spiller, RB, Clemson

Carroll had some of his best years at USC on the shoulders of a do-it-all running back named Reggie Bush.  The temptation of having a Bush like player on his roster again will prove to be too much to pass on for the new Seahawks boss.  Spiller can be a guy who you have to account for on each and every set as he can line up in the backfield, at receiver, and on special teams.  This type of versatility is valuable and will be why the hawks make him their second choice of the first round.

15. New York Giants –Rolando McClain, LB, Alabama

Oh how they'd be licking their lips in New York.  The most pressing need for the Giants is to get younger on defense, and they have a major hole in the middle of the defense, especially considering that Antoino Pierce is done in Big Blue.  The only reason that McClain is still available here is because he turned off some teams at the combine by failing to work out.  Anyone who saw this kid play at Bama knows what he is capable of, and boy do the Giants needs a player like him.

16. Tennessee Titans – Derrick Morgan, DE, Georgia Tech

Whenever a team takes a risk, another has the potential for a reward.  This is the case for the Titans as Derrick Morgan falls to them here.  Losing Kyle Vanden Bosch could hurt this team, but nabbing Morgan to replace him could ease the pain very quickly.  This guy is the more polished of the top two DEs in this class, and should be able to step in to contribute from day one.  He can get after the QB  and is stout against the run.  Great pick for the Titans here in the middle of the first.

17. San Francisco 49ers –Trent Williams, OT, Oklahoma

For the Niners to be able to grab two top ten talents while picking in the teens is a certain coup for Mike Singletary.  After stealing Haden with their previous choice, the now can grab the third best tackle on the board in Williams.  Although there are sometimes lapses in his game, I think Williams can be a good pro.  Getting him here at 17 is good value too.

18. Pittsburgh Steelers – Mike Iuptai, G, Idaho

As I stated in my previous mock, I know the Steelers would want the best interior o-lineman in this draft, to the point that I predicted them trading up to try and grab Iuptai.  In this scenario they don't have to, and instead they can stay put and secure their replacement for Alan Faneca.  Big Mike is a rock, and he will sure look good in the black and gold.

19. Atlanta Falcons – Everson Griffen, DE, USC

The Falcons defense was certainly an area of weakness for them last season.  They have already addressed a need in their secondary with the signing of Dunta Robinson.  Now they are free to add Everson Griffen to help them get some pressure on opposing pass rushers.  Griffen showed at the combine he has the skills needed to translate if they need him to play standing up in a 3-4 as well. 

20. Houston Texans – Kyle Wilson, CB, Boise State

The Falcons gain is the Texans loss.  Dunta Robinson was the cornerstone of that defensive secondary, but with him patrolling the ATL, Houston has a new top need.  Kyle Wilson has been steadily rising since the Senior Bowl.  He has the skills to get the job done, and Gary Kubiak will need him to do just that in a division that features Peyton Manning.

21. Cincinnati Bengals – Jermaine Gresham, TE, Oklahoma

Another pick, another Sooner.  Gresham is such a mega talent, I had him graded out as the top TE last year if he had come out.  This year is no different.  He can do everything you want a tight end to do, and Cincinnati needs another difference maker to help Carson Palmer out.  The Bengals made great strides this season, despite have an emotionally difficult season.  Imagine the strides next season with Gresham on board.

22. New England Patriots – Brandon Graham, DE/LB, Michigan

Graham is another guy who continues to see his stock rise this offseason.  After his performance at the combine, he is garnering comparisons to former Patriot standout Willie McGinnest, and this will make him very appealing to a Patriots team who lost Richard Seymore this past season. 

23. Green Bay Packers – Anthony Davis, OT, Rutgers

6 weeks ago, Davis was flying up draft boards.  He flew almost effortlessly into the top 10.  Since the combine however, Davis has been free falling.  He showed up sloppy, and his attitude is turning people off.  Green Bay will take advantage of this free fall to add this guy with a great upside to their line.  He has the potential to be an excellent tackle at the next level and I think Green Bay could be getting a steal here.

24. Philadelphia Eagles – Taylor Mays, S, USC

For years, the Philadelphia secondary was feared around the league.  When Brian Dawkins was allowed to head west last season, the secondary became soft.  Taylor Mays has unbelievable athleticism and if his senior year struggles are behind him, he will be a force to be reckoned with in the NFL.

25. Baltimore Ravens – Earl Thomas, S, Texas

Me, along with everyone else in the world, has been saying the Ravens have to get some targets for Joe Flaco if they want him to continue to develop.  Well consider the objective reached.  Donte Stallworth and Anquan Boldin are added and with Derrick Mason coming back, the Ravens are in good shape.  Now for the defense, their secondary is aging.  Combine this with some players bolting along with former DC Rex Ryan, and you have some holes to fill.  Earl Thomas is a talented player, who can play up at the line, or drop into coverage effectively.  Baltimore will be better with him in purple.

26. Arizona Cardinals – Jerry Hughes, LB, TCU

It has been a tough off-season so far for the Cards.  Kurt Warner and Bert Berry retired.  Karlos Dansby, Antrell Rolle, and Anquan Boldin have all settled in elsewhere, and the only significant addition to date is Kerry Rhodes.  This team needs players who can make an impact, and Hughes has been moving up boards because of the impact he has been making.  This kid is simply a football player, and the Cards need some players to replace those they lost on their defense.

27. Dallas Cowboys – Brian Price, DT, UCLA

Price, Odrick... Odrick, Price.  Each mock I seem to switch between the Boys selecting one of these two D-tackles.  I like them both, but I am starting to think that Price will be the better fit in Big D.  This is a big dude and he can plug some serious space on the defensive front.  This should make this team better at the point of attack, and maybe help them reach the next level of the NFL post season.

28. San Diego Chargers – Jahvid Best, RB, California

Darren Sproles and LT are both free agents this off season, and this leaves the cupboard bare when it comes to RBs.  Baring an Antonio Cromartie for Marshawn Lynch trade with the Bills, the Chargers will look to the draft to address their need, and it is here they will find Best.  He may not be the next LT, but if he stays healthy he can definitely be a solid starting back in the NFL.  He shows good hand, excellent speed, and can stop and change direction on a dime. 

29. New York Jets – Arrelious Benn, WR, Illinois

The Jets need both a pass rusher and a wide out from this draft.  Of those still available Arellious Benn is clearly the best on the board.  This guy has great hand, quick feet, good hops, and if he had a QB who could reach him at Illinois, he could have challenged Bryant for the number one spot in this class.

30. Minnesota Vikings – Devin McCourty, CB, Rutgers

Near the end of last season the Vikes went on a losing streak, and it appeared to me that their Achilles Heel was their secondary.  Antoine Winfield is getting old, and Cedric Griffith has not yet blossomed into a stud.  McCourty is a good athlete and a better football player, and that is what Minnesota needs to take the next step.

31. Indianapolis Colts – Jared Odrick, DT, Penn State

As long as Peyton Manning lines up under center in Indy, this offense will continue to find ways to score.  The defense is under rated, but still lacks presence in the middle of the line.  Jared Odrick can develop into a force up front under the right tutelage.  Jim Caldwell could be the right tutor.

32. New Orleans Saints – Sean Weatherspoon, LB, Missouri

To close out round one, we have the Super Bowl champion, New Orleans Saints.  Gosh, that still feel strange to type.  Greg Williams has solidified himself in my mind as the pre-eminent defensive football mind currently in the NFL.  He turned this defense into the games most under rated (just ask Peyton Manning).  Despite this achievement, the defense could still use the addition of some talent in their linebacking corps.  Weatherspoon is a playmaker , and with Scott Fujita now in Cleveland, Weathspoon will be counted on to fill the gap.



Round 2
33. St. Louis Rams - Demaryius Thomas, WR, Georgia Tech
34. Detroit Lions - Maurkice Pouncey, C, Florida
35. Tampa Bay Buccaneers -  Golden Tate, WR, Notre Dame
36. Kansas City Cheifs - Charles Brown, OT, USC
37. Washington Redskins - Colt McCoy, QB, Texas
38. Cleveland Browns - Daryl Washington, LB, TCU
39. Oakland Raiders - Carlos Dunlap, DE, Florida
40. Seattle Seattle - Terrance Cody, DT, Alabama
41. Buffalo Bills - Rodger Saffold, OT, Indiana
42. Tampa Bay Buccaneers via Chicago - Navorro Bowman, LB, Penn State
43. Miami Dolphins - Mike Williams, WR, Syracuse
44. New England Patriots via Jacksonville - Ryan Matthews, RB, Fresno State
45. Denver Broncos - Ricky Sapp, DE, Clemson
46. New York Giants - Nate Allen, S, South Florida
47. Carolina Panthers - Tim Tebow, QB, Florida
48. New England Patriots via Tennessee - Patrick Robinson, CB, Florida State
49. San Francisco 49ers - Thaddeus Gibson, LB, Ohio State
50. Houston Texans - Toby Gerhart, RB, Stanford
51. Kansas City Chiefs via Atlanta -  Damian Williams, WR, USC
52. Pittsburgh Steelers - Kareem Jackson, CB, Alabama
53. New England Patriots - Brandon Spikes, LB, Florida
54. Cincinnati Bengals -  Alex Carrington, DE, Arkansas State
55. Philadelphia Eagles - Patrick Angerer, LB, Iowa
56. Green Bay Packers - Chad Jones, S, LSU
57. Baltimore Ravens - Lamarr Houston, DT, Texas
58. Arizona Cardinals - Dan LeFevour, QB, Central Michigan
59. Dallas Cowboys - Dezmon Briscoe, WR, Kansas
60. San Diego Chargers - Arthur Jones, DT, Syracuse
61. New York Jets - Brandon Lang, DE, Troy
62. Minnesota Vikings - Sean Lee, LB, Penn State
63. Indianapolis Colts - Donovan Warren, CB, Michigan
64. New Orleans Saints - Corey Wooton, DE, Northwestern
 

Hot Stocks - March 2010

The annual NFL Scouting Combine is now history, and as usual we have plenty of movement as a result of performances, both good and bad in this month's chart.  Despite the volatility the top of our board looks awfully similar to last month however. 

We do however find ourselves saying goodbye to a few guys who have been on the board for some time.  Earl Thomas has fallen off with a tough showing in Indy and he falls to just off the chart.  Jermaine Greshem, Brian Price, and Navarro Bowman have also slid outside of the top 25 this month.


Lets take a look at how things shake out now...

1. Ndamukong Suh, DT, Nebraska (Even)
Suh dominated during his workouts in Indy.  He is still the top player on my board because of his combination of physical talent, and his potential to become a game changing linemen at the next level.

2. Eric Berry, S, Tennessee (Even)
Berry showed great speed and athleticism at the combine.  His natural instincts will serve him well as he patrols the secondary of some very lucky team next fall.

3. Gerald McCoy, DT, USC (Even)
McCoy continues to show teams in need of a line penetrating tackle why he is the tops in this class.  His workout was strong and he continues to challenge Suh for rights to be the first tackle off the board in April.

4. Sam Bradford, QB, Oklahoma (+7)
The big boost that Bradford experienced this month was a result of good medical reports.  Considering he did not even work out in Indy, it was the report from Dr James Andrews, that Bradford should be ready for the start of mini camp that has allowed him to separate from Jimmy Clausen.

5. Russell Okung, OT, Oklahoma State (-1)
Okung is maintaining his status as the best o-linemen on my board, primarily thanks to his consistency. In a risky, volatile marketplace, having an asset in the portfolio like Okung lends security and stability. 

6. Jason Pierre Paul, DE, South Florida (+3)
JPP is using his freakish athletic ability to continue to climb up boards.  This raw talent continued to impress with great workouts in Indy, and of course a you tube video of him "flipping out".

7. Bryan Bulaga, OT, Iowa (+7)
Bulaga took a page out of Okung's book to continue to climb up boards this month.  He showed great consistency in Indy, working out hard, meeting expectations physically, mentally, and emotionally, and thus has captured the number two spot amongst o-linemen.

8. Dez Bryant, WR, Oklahoma State (-2)
Bryant continues to reinforce why he is the top receiver of this year's crop.  His showing in Indy was strong, and his slide this month is more a result of other players rise, than anything he has done.

9. Derrick Morgan, DE, Georgia Tech (-1)
Despit a slight dip in his ranking, Morgan actually utilized the combine to really help himself.  He was able to showcase himself as the more polished, NFL ready of the two top DE's in this year's class, and even though he rates out a tad lower on this board, I am actually expecting him to be drafted slightly higher come April.

10. Trent Williams, OT, Oklahoma (+3)
Thanks to a solid combine effort, Williams has re-entered the top ten on this list.  His reverse of fortune comes on the heels of a real good physical performance, showcasing the skills needed to be sucessful playing on Sundays.

11. Anthony Davis, OT, Rutgers (-4)
After catapulting up the board in previous months, Davis starts to fall as a result of a real sloppy turn out at the combine.  Where as other o-line prospects showed up looking strong and ready to impress, Davis simply didn't, bring up questions about his desire, and long term ROI.

12. Joe Haden, CB, Florida (-7)
His very slow 40 times was just one of the reasons that this one time top 5 rated player has fallen out of the top ten.  On top of slow speed, Haden looked stiff in the hips, and showed limited change of direction ability, all of which lead to this big fall.

13. Dan Williams, DT, Tennessee (+4)
Dan Williams continues to rise up board as he has established himself as the top D-Tackle not named Suh or McCoy.  His workouts in Indy confired he is a legit first round talent and should not be viewed as a consolation prize at all.

14. Mike Iupati, OG, Idaho (+5)
it is rare to see interior linemen rated this high on the big board, but Iupati is deserving.  He has the skills to play all three interior positions, and he is the kind of guy who will cornerstone a line for a team for years.

15. CJ Spiller, RB, Clemson (+6)
Spiller was exceptionally impressive working out at the combine.  This with the success he had on the field at Clemson has propelled Spiller up this board.  Teams love talent skill position players and Spiller is one of them.

16. Rolando McClain, LB, Alabama (-6)
Choosing not to work out really hurt McClain in the eyes of some folks.  The mysterious, previously unreported, hamstring injury has some thinking McClain may not be as fearless as previously thought.  In fact some were thinking this "injury" was more a ploy to avoid running poor times that anything else.

17. Sergio Kindle, LB, Texas (-1)
Kindle has awesome athleticism but questions about his mental makeup have created some doubt.  His physical tools have some teams with him in their top ten.  His lack of mental acuity has others with him as a fringe round 1 selection in the draft.

18. Brandon Graham, DE, Michigan (Even)
Graham holds his position this month after a good performance at the combine.  This college end will likely transition to linebacker in the pros, and he showed he has the skills to facilitate the switch as needed.

19. Jimmy Clausen, QB, Notre Dame (-7)
Clause is the classic example of a guy who will be over-drafted based on position and hype.  Although he is a low round one talent in my book, Clause will benefit from playing QB, and someone will take a flier early in round 1.

20. Carlos Dunlap, DE, Florida (+2)
Dunlap used Indy to remind folks why he was once a top five talent on this board.  His strong workout reminded team he has all the tools to hold up on the end of a line in either a 4-3 or 3-4 at the next level.

21. Taylor Mays, S, USC (+3)
His workout was what legends are made of, and this alone has halted his fall down the board.  If only he had played better during this past year however, he would still be a top 3 on this board.

22. Arrelious Benn, WR, Illinois (+3)
Benn's excellent performance at the combine wondering what type of production he could have had if only he had a QB that could have gotten him the ball.  He was fast, fluid, and showed great hands at the combine.  These skills should translate to success on Sundays.

23. Bruce Campbell, OT, Maryland (+4)
It can be argued that no player helped their draft stock more than Campbell in Indy.  He showed up cut and ready to play.  His measurables were awesome, and this has him moving up this board, and the mock drafts too.

24. Javhid Best, RB, California (+5)
Although there were, and still are questions concerning his durability, Best showed excellent skill and determination when he had the spotlight on him.  Obviously investors will have to consider his long term viability before making a decision on draft day though.

25. Kyle Wilson, CB, Boise State (+5)
After a strong Senior Bowl, Wilson grabbed some attention.  After a strong combine, he has emerged as the clear number two at the cornerback position.  Good speed, excellent change of direction ability, and a nose for the ball have made teams take notice of the Boise State product.

Mock Draft 3.4.10

And so the combine has been written.  As usual there were winners and losers, and as a result some of our teams are making different decision than projected last month.  In fact the changes start right at the top....

1. St Louis Rams – Sam Bradford, QB, Oklahoma

Most of the season I have argued that the Rams will need to choose a QB in April's draft for a multitude of reasons, including the economics involved.  A few weeks ago, I restated this justification in another post on this site.  With the news out of Indy indicating that Bradford should be fully recovered prior to camp, I think the Rams will pull the trigger and select their future signal caller first overall.

2. Detroit Lions – Ndamukong Suh, DT, Nebraska

Suh had an excellent combine, and solidified himself as a top prospect in the 2010 class.  He is the type of DT that makes it impossible for opponents to run, and Detroit sure could use a guy to plug up the middle of the defense.  He is a rare talent and I think he could be the defensive cornerstone for this team to build around.

3. Tampa Bay Buccaneers – Gerald McCoy, DT, Oklahoma

Tampa is a team with some needs, and Gerald McCoy will fill one of the immediately.  This Sooner DT is excellent at penetrating the middle of the line, causing havoc for opposing QBs.  The fact that his play reminds me a lot of Warren Sapp will not be lost on the Tampa Bay faithful either.  If the Bucs can get from McCoy what they got from Sapp, they will be very happy pirates indeed.

4. Washington Redskins – Russell Okung, OT, Oklahoma State

Shannahan and the Skins still have a need at QB and Jimmy Clausen will get serious discussion.  In the end however, logic will rule, and Washington will make the correct choice and address their highly depleted offensive line.  Okung is still holding onto the top grade amongst the o-linemen, although barely, and with Chris Samuels officially retired now, he can fill an immediate need at tackle for Washington.

5. Kansas City Chiefs – Bryan Bulaga, DT, Iowa

Thanks to his meeting expectation in Indy, and posting a strong performance, along with Anthony Davis' struggles, Bulaga moves into the number two spot amongst OTs on my board.  Kansas City is a young team, and they struggled last year in quite a few phases in the game.  The new brass is looking to move Braden Albert to the right side of the line, but to do that they need a force on the left.  Bulaga has just the right amount of talent mixed with attitude to fill that position in Kansas City for years to come.

6. Seattle Seahawks – Trent Williams, OT, Oklahoma

With his first selection as head honcho of the Hawks, I expect Pete Carroll to make Trent Williams the third Sooner off the board.  The competition at OT in this class is fierce, and I think the Hawks will serve themselves well choosing a more polished product like Williams over the potential scouts see in Anthony Davis.  The Hawks have to re-tool both lines this offseason, and they need to be safe about their choices early on.

7. Cleveland Browns – Eric Berry, S, Tennessee

In this scenario, Eric berry is the player most negatively impacted by the Rams choosing a QB first overall instead of a DT.  Berry met expectations at the combine and it continues to look like he can be an Ed Reed type safety in the pros.  New Brown's czar Mike Holmgren will be so excited about the chance to add a talent like Berry to his defense, he may just run the card up himself.

8. Oakland Raiders – Anthony Davis, OT, Rutgers

I know it is the Raiders, but I still have hope that Al Davis will overshoot his alarm on draft day, allowing the team to uncharacteristically utilize logic and draft the right players for this franchise to begin to rebound.  In this case, it would allow them to choose Anthony Davis with this pick.  Over the last few seasons, Oakland has used top ten picks to address their skill positions.  Now they need to find someone to keep these expensive, yet spectacularly unproductive assets upright.  Davis could be the guy this team needs.  Of course with so many other holes, the Raiders could get this right, and still be looking at another top ten selection next season.

9. Buffalo Bills – Jimmy Clausen, QB, Notre Dame

The Bills have needs on their offensive front, but with all of the top prospects off the board, and the though of entering another season with Trent Edwards under center facing new coach Chan Gailey, the Bills will pull the trigger and reach for Jimmy Clausen here.  Despite his upside, I still have some real apprehension about Clausen blossoming into a great pro QB.  I do however think he will be better than anyone currently on the Buffalo roster, so I don't think this is a bad selection either.

10. Jacksonville Jaguars – Derrick Morgan, DE, Jacksonville

The Jags have to get more out of their defense if Jack Del Rio plans on being in Jacksonville beyond this season.  This means they need an NFL ready player who makes this team better now.  Derrick Morgan used the combine to establish himself as the more polished of the DE options available.  He is well rounded and can start to contribute to his team today, and this will be the factor that leads the team to Morgan over South Florida's Jason Pierre Paul.

11. Denver Broncos via Chicago Bears – Jason Pierre Paul, DE, South Florida

Thanks to dealing Cutler, the Broncos are in a great position in this draft.  Last season the team struggled off the edge with McBean and Peterson as their starters.  Pierre Paul is raw, but has huge upside.  It could take this kid a few seasons to really mature, but when he does he can become the best pass rushing end in the game.  This is a gamble worth taking, and the Broncos will be happy to be the ones rolling the dice.

12. Miami Dolphins – Dez Bryant, WR, Oklahoma State

If this scenario does in fact take shape, Bill Parcels and company will have a very difficult decision to make.  They have holes at LB and WR, so both Dez Bryant and Roloando McClain will be discussed.  The reason I still expect the Phins to choose Bryant here is because his presence will allow new QB Chad Henne to really develop, and the Tuna knows that for Miami to re-claim the division, they need to be able to rely on their youngster.  Bryant's ability to help in the return game will be valued too.

13. San Francisco 49ers – Joe Haden, CB, Florida

The Niners are developing into a good football team.  With two choices in the first round they really have the chance to take a leap forward, and selecting Haden here will help them do just that.  Haden is the top CB available in the 2010 class, but he is still on the board here because of a rough performance in Indy.  Despite this however, Haden knows how to play football as evidenced by his outstanding play at Florida against the awesome competion that comes with playing in the SEC.  Bottom line is Haden makes this defense better, and better defense make the Niners favorites to take over the NFC West.

14. Seattle Seahawks via Denver – Dan Williams, DT, Tennessee

After addressing the o-line with their first selection, the Hawks will use this pick to help with the other side of the trench.  Williams has solidified himself as the best DT in the class not named Suh or McCoy.  He is a legitimate first round talent and will fill an immediate need for Seattle on their defensive front.  He is strong at the point of attack, and will help the defense plug holes.  He can also help keep opposing linemen off last years top selection Aaron Curry, allowing him to roam and make plays.

15. New York Giants –Rolando McClain, LB, Alabama

Oh how they'd be licking their lips in New York.  The most pressing need for the Giants is to get younger on defense, and they have a major hole in the middle of the defense, especially considering that Antoino Pierce is done in Big Blue.  The only reason that McClain is still available here is because he turned off some teams at the combine by failing to work out.  Anyone who saw this kid play at Bama knows what he is capable of, and boy do the Giants needs a player like him.

16. Tennessee Titans – Carlos Dunlap, DE, Florida

There is little question about the talent that Carlos Dunlap is.  He has all of the technical tools you want in a DE, and he has so much athleticism it is scary.  Unfortunately, there are character questions surrounding this guy.  At the end of the day however, the Titans will make this selection because they need a presence like Dunlap in their front seven. 

17. San Francisco 49ers –Mike Iuptai, G, Idaho

After adding Joe Haden with their previous pick, the Niners will now have they opportunity to add a stud to the interior of their o-line.  Mike Iuptai has the skills needed to play all three interior line positions, and this flexibility gives San Fran options.  This guy has the potential to impact a game in a similar way to an Alan Faneca or Larry Allen, and Mike Singletary will not pass on an opportunity like that.

18. Pittsburgh Steelers – Bruce Campbell, OT, Maryland

I am expecting the Steelers to try and trade up from this pick to secure Iuptai.  Since the mocks don't project trades, and Iuptai, is off the board, this leaves the Steelers to choose Campbell who despite a tremendous combine, still may be a reach this early.  Campbell has all of the physical tools in the world, and the right coaching could make the difference and turn him into a stud.

19. Atlanta Falcons – Taylor Mays, S, USC

Had he come out last year, Taylor Mays would have been a top 5 selection.  Had you told Atlanta that they would be in position to nab him this year at 19 overall, they'd have never believed you.  Mays confirmed at the combine what I have been saying all year, this kid is a freakish athlete.  Atlanta needs secondary help in the worst way.  Considering the defending Super Bowl champs play in this division, Mays will be a very attractive option for Atlanta.

20. Houston Texans – CJ Spiller, RB, Clemson

The Texans played musical running backs all season long, and it hurt this team badly.  Slaton has talent, but he needs to spend some time with Tiki Barber learning to hold on to the football.  Moats and the rest of the platoon are not starting RB material long term.  Spiller on the other hand can be a superstar.  He is big enough to hold up in the pros, and he is fast enough to fit the teams offense.  He will be the kind of back this team needs, and could push the Texans to the next level.

21. Cincinnati Bengals – Jermaine Gresham, TE, Oklahoma

Another pick, another Sooner.  Gresham is such a mega talent, I had him graded out as the top TE last year if he had come out.  This year is no different.  He can do everything you want a tight end to do, and Cincinnati needs another difference maker to help Carson Palmer out.  The Bengals made great strides this season, despite have an emotionally difficult season.  Imagine the strides next season with Gresham on board.

22. New England Patriots – Brandon Graham, DE/LB, Michigan

Graham is another guy who continues to see his stock rise this offseason.  After his performance at the combine, he is garnering comparisons to former Patriot standout Willie McGinnest, and this will make him very appealing to a Patriots team who lost Richard Seymore this past season. 

23. Green Bay Packers – Earl Thomas, S, Texas

Thomas was one of the guys who did not meet the lofty expectations set for them in Indy last month.  As a result the Packers are in a great position to choose a guy who really could have gone much higher.  With their secondary aging, the Packers know they need some fresh talent back there, and Thomas will have a tremendous mentor with Charles Woodson still running around.  Thomas flashes the potential to be used in various packages at the next level and he could be utilized as a safety or even a corner should the need arise.

24. Philadelphia Eagles – Sergio Kindle, LB, Texas

Every year, some players slip on draft day more as a result of other players rise then anything they have done.  Sergio Kindle is one of those guys in this mock.  He showed in the National Title game how impactful he can be, both with his hand in the dirt, and from a stand position.  He is a high energy player with great speed, and acceleration.  A team like the Eagles could use this type of playmaker in their defense again, and therefore I see this as their selection.

25. Baltimore Ravens – Arrelious Benn, WR, Illinois

There is little doubt in anyone’s mind that Baltimore needs a primary target to throw to.  The signing of Donte Stallworth was nice, but he is not a number one type guy.  Arrelious Benn has that kind of potential.  I think if he had a QB who could get him the ball at Illinois, he could have pushed Bryant for the top WR in this class.  Bottom line, Benn will quickly become Flaco's favorite target, and this tandem could push Baltimore back into the AFC elite.

26. Arizona Cardinals – Sean Weatherspoon, LB, Missouri

Despite the retirement of Kurt Warner, the Cards primary need will be on the defensive side of the ball.  Bert Berry has also called it a career, and Karlos Dansby and Antrel Rolle look poised to take their games elsewhere next season.  Weatherspoon has been tremendous for the Tigers during his time there, and he showed at the combine he has the skills necessary for his game to translate to the next level.  He is a fantastic tackler, and this defense will need his help.

27. Dallas Cowboys – Jared Odrick, DT, Penn State

Jared Odrick was one of the guys whose performance since the season has ended has continued to help his cause.  Jerry Jones knows that the Cowboys have too much talent to continue to struggle in the post season.  Part of the reason is because his defense is getting tired as the season progresses.  Odrick can be the kind of guy who keeps linemen off linebackers, keeping them fresher longer, and possibly translating into some playoff success.

28. San Diego Chargers – Jahvid Best, RB, California

Darren Sproles and LT are both free agents this off season, and this leaves the cupboard bare when it comes to RBs.  Baring an Antonio Cromartie for Marshawn Lynch trade with the Bills, the Chargers will look to the draft to address their need, and it is here they will find Best.  He may not be the next LT, but if he stays healthy he can definitely be a solid starting back in the NFL.  He shows good hand, excellent speed, and can stop and change direction on a dime. 

29. New York Jets – Golden Tate, WR, Notre Dame

Every year some guys make a lot of money by performing well at the combine, and this year's big winner is Golden Tate.  Although Tate has a high second round grade in my book, I think the Jets will reach for him here based primarily on his outstanding outing in Indy during February.  Tate showed he has the top end speed a team like the Jets values, and with their desire to get Mark Sanchez some targets to throw to, the Jets will reach and choose Tate late in round one.

30. Minnesota Vikings – Kyle Wilson, CB, Boise State

Near the end of last season the Vikes went on a losing streak, and it appeared to me that their Achilles Heel was their secondary.  Because of his performance during the Senior Bowl, Kyle Wilson emerged as the number two corner in this class, and this will be too attractive for Minnesota to pass on here.  Wilson can come in and learn, eventually replacing Antoine Winfield in the starting lineup, and also help in the return game should the team decide to give last year's top selection Percy Harvin some help.

31. Indianapolis Colts – Brian Price, DT, UCLA

As long as Peyton Manning lines up under center in Indy, this offense will continue to find ways to score.  The defense is under rated, but still lacks presence in the middle of the line.  Brian Price is a big body and I believe that he could really help Indy return to the Super Bowl next season.  Price will occupy space, and offensive linemen on the opposing unit.  This should allow Freeny and Mathis to do what they do best, and when they are free to get after it, the defense is down right scary.

32. New Orleans Saints – Everson Griffen, DE/LB, USC

To close out round one, we have the Super Bowl champion, New Orleans Saints.  Gosh, that still feel strange to type.  Greg Williams has solidified himself in my mind as the pre-eminent defensive football mind currently in the NFL.  He turned this defense into the games most under rated (just ask Peyton Manning).  Despite this achievement, the defense could still use the addition of some talent in their linebacking corps.  Everson Griffen worked his way back into the first round at the combine by easing concerns about his ability to transition to a LB in the pros.  He showed great strength and excellent speed, leading me to believe that he has the necessary skills to hold up in space.  Williams will love what this kid brings to the table.

Volatility

With the recent state of the world economy, investors are becoming more used to the massive amounts of volatility in the market place.  In the world that is the NFL, March always marks a month of volatility.  March brings with it the start of the NFL calendar year, and this means that teams begin making veteran cuts with the hopes the money saved can be used during free gency which opens up in March too.  Already this month we have been informed of the release of Tomlinson, Westbrook, and now Thomas Jones.

But also with March comes "stock" volatility, as typically the annual NFL combine closes up, and teams begin to shift players all over their draft boards based on their physical, mental, and emotional performances in Indy.  2010 is no different in this regard, and below is a look at some of these stocks who made an impact (both positive and negative) over the last few days.

On the Rise
Every season some players use the showcase that is the NFL Combine to propel themselves up draft boards, sometimes breaking into the first round thanks to some spectacular performances.  Below is a list of players who really helped themselves in Indy this week.

Golden Tate, WR, Notre Dame

Arguably, no player helped themselves more with their combine performance than Tate.  As many of you will remember I ripped Tate in a mock draft a few months back, but he sure showed up to play in Indy.  Top end speed was a big concern for teams when looking at the Notre Dame Wideout prior to the combine.  He ran well in Indy though, and quelled concerns for a lot of teams.  Many present said tate looked fluid in and out of his break, and used his hands well too. Coming into Indy, Tate held a late second / early third round grade in my book.  Now, he is an early two, maybe even a late first rounder.

Bruce Campbell, OT, Maryland

When a guy is 316 pounds, you don't expect chiseled, but when Campbell showed up in Indy, that is exactly what they saw.  This guy then went on to run a 4.85 in the 40, leap a 32" vertical, and pound out 34 reps  on the bench.  By the end of his time at the combine Campbell had so impressed with his physical tools, that teams will no doubt overlook some of his game tape on draft day.  Campbell was a fringe first round talent coming into the combine.  Now he holds a solid round 1 grade from me.

Taylor Mays, S, USC

I have been saying this in my mocks for sometime now, but Mays was primed to use Indy as a springboard to stop his fall, and start moving back up boards again.  He has all the physical tools to put on a show, and he certainly did not disappoint.  Mays did everything that he was asked to do, and did it well.  Then he went on to bolt down the track during his 40, halting stopwatches after only 4.28 seconds in some cases.  Although his "official" time was in the 4.4's, it is now widely accepted that the "official" clock was wrong considering the number of scouts who personally clocked him in the 4.3 range.  This performance should lock Mays in as a first round selection despite the increasing number of questions surrounding his game play this past year.

Jahvid Best, RB, California

Those of you who follow Football Futures know that I think highly of Jahvid Best.  I believe he has all of the tools necessary to become a "factor back" in the NFL.  Many "experts" however disagree with me, grading him out as a second round selection.  Best worked out very well in Indy, and impressed with his speed, footwork, breaks, and hands this week.  He was only confirming what I already knew.  This kid belongs in the first round in April.  If he stays healthy at the next level he will be a gem.

Derrick Morgan, DE, Georgia Tech

As the combine approached, the hype surrounding Morgan's top competitor, South Florida's Jason Pierre Paul, was reaching a fever pitch.  With immense upside, JPP had leaped Morgan as the top DE on most draft boards.  Then came Indy.  Morgan looked great at the combine, but more importantly, showcased the attribute that has him back in the top slot on my board, his polish.  The Morgan/Pierre Paul debate is starting to remind me of the Manning/Leaf saga from years ago.  On one hand we have a guy with immense physical skills and raw talent.  He bubbles over with upside.  On the other hand, you have an NFL ready option, who may not have quite the same ceiling.  Now, I am not trying to say JPP will flame out ala Ryan Leaf, but I do think the polish showed by Morgan makes him a safer bet next month.

Tim Tebow, QB, Florida

After Mobile, Tim Tebow had his stock plummet.  He needed a great combine to reclaim some spotlight, and that is exactly what he did, and he did it without throwing a single pass.  The former Gator is currently undergoing a rework of his maligned throwing motion, and thus he wasn't ready to toss the ball in Indy, but he did very well in his measurables, including a QB best performance in the vertical jump.  He also did an outstanding job of selling himself, his knowledge, and his dedication to the game during his interviews.  Tim is still pushing to be a QB at the next level, but his performance this weekend eased concerns about his ability to transition to another position should the need arise down the road.  Tebow jumped from a fourth rounder in my book, to a fringe second rounder now.

Everson Griffen, DE, USC

As many of you will recall, Griffen fell out of my first round mock this past month.  Mostly this was because I felt like Griffen was a tweener at the next level, and I was not convinced that he could hold up as a linebacker in space.  Well I now color myself corrected.  Griffen was dynamite in Indy erasing any concerns that I had about his ability to play the outside in a 3 man front scheme.  His speed and strength were just what I would like to see from a 3-4 backer, and with the right coaching, I see him succeeding on Sundays.

Jerry Hughes, DE, TCU

Like Griffen, my concerns about Hughes surrounded his ability to step outside at the next level.  As my most loyal followers will recall, at the start of the college football season, I had a lot of good things to say about Hughes.  Also just like Griffen, Hughes performance in Indy erased any concerns I have about his ability to play the OLB in a 3-4 at the next level.  He showed excellent speed and lateral quickness during his drills, and I now have Hughes carrying a solid second round grade heading into Pro-Days.






Solidification
Each year in Indy some player verify what we already knew about them, cementing their positioning in the process.  From this years crop, guys like Ndamukong Suh, CJ Spiller, Trent Williams, Bryan Bulaga, Mike Iuptai, Eric Berry, Gerald McCoy, Dez Bryant, Arellious Benn, Sean Witherspoon, and Dan Williams all delivered strong performances as expected.


Falling
Each year some players struggle a bit in Indy and these struggles result in them losing draft position, and the attached money, come draft day.  Below is a list of players who may have cost themselves some dollars this week.

Joe Haden, CB, Florida

Haden entered the combine as the clear number one at corner.  In fact, many folks had him as the only corner with a round one grade.  Unfortunately for Joe, his performance left scouts with more questions than answers.  His 40 time was slower than expected.  Now typically that is not an issue, as many guys "play" faster than they "run", but with a corner in a pass happy league, this is concerning.  Haden also did not look smooth coming in and out of his cuts, as it appeared he had some trouble opening up his hips to change direction.  Although he struggled, I still think Haden goes in round one, but he does need a great showing in Gainesville during Florida's Pro-Day later this month.

Jonathan Dwyer, RB, Georgia Tech

As many of you recall, Dwyer was a late first round selection in some of my previous mocks, but after this performance, Dwyer will be lucky to be picked in the top 60 now.  Not only were his measurables lower than expected, but he simply looked overwhelmed while running drills.  This does not bode well for the former Yellow Jacket.  Combine this with the good performances put in by the RB class as a whole, and now Dwyer has fallen from battling for the #2 RB position with Best to a tenuous #6 ranking behind Fresno State's Ryan Mathews, Heisman runner-up Toby Gerhart, and Tennessee's fast riser Montario Hardesty.

Rolando McClain, LB, Alabama

It is so hard to believe that an impact player like McClain could be falling, but he is.  Rolando chose not to work out in Indy, siting a previously undisclosed hamstring injury.  Because of the cloak-and-dagger games surrounding this injury, many scouts left Indy wondering if McClain was simply scared of underperforming and opted to sit instead. When guys leave you with questions after the combine, their Pro-Day becomes even more vital, and McClain has landed himself in this grouping now.  I still see him as a great addition to any squad, and on my board he has only taken a slight hit.

Anthony Davis, OT, Rutgers

The thing about Davis that was disappointing was that coming into the combine, he was on a meteoric rise up draft boards.  Then he shows up out of shape and sloppy.  This is a quick way to end a rise and start to fall.  Especially when you take into consideration the depth of the rest of the linemen available in this draft.  With guys like Okung, Bulaga, and Williams all looking good, Davis could have really impacted his potential first year earnings with this underwhelming showing this week.