Free Agency changed the thought of many analysts draft predictions. The Giants made their presence known in Free Agency, by signing in excess of $200 million dollar through the signings of players such as Olivier Vernon and Janoris Jenkins. Other teams such as the Indianapolis Colts, have decided to resign their players and wait till the NFL Draft to pick the top prospects in the collegiate level. Taking into the fact that free agency changed the draft strategy of multiple teams, here is my perceived Mock Draft for the first round.
1. TENNESSEE TITANS THE PICK: LAREMY TUNSIL (OT) | OLE MISS
Although the Titans GM Jon Robinson announced that they are willing to listen to trade offers, it seems unlikely that they will trade the #1st overall pick, especially since they were saying the same thing last year (we all know how that went out). The Titans having locked up their Quarterback of the future in Marcus Mariota, show no need of interest for any QB prospects in this years draft. That being said, they still need areas to improve in, and the Offensive Line is one of them. Tunsil has the tools to become a solid starter in the NFL, having a strong build at 6'5, 305 lbs. He started for three years at Ole Miss, earning 2x All-SEC, and declared early entrance to the draft. Whether its the Titans or a different team, Tunsil is a lock a No. # 1.
2. CLEVELAND BROWNS THE PICK: JARED GOFF (QB) | CALIFORNIA
After the release of Johnny Manziel, the Browns are in dire need of a Quarterback, once again. After 22 tries, I expect the Browns to select Jared Goff of California, hoping he could be the long-term solution to the position. After impressing scouts on a solid pro day, he has solidifed himself as the Top Quarterback in his class. The Browns will use the pick on the smart, strong arm QB, who is the most NFL ready out of the Quarterback class. Whether he can perform and start - after the signing of 2012 #2 overall pick Robert Griffin III - under Hue Jackson's system is another story.
3. SAN DIEGO CHARGERS THE PICK: JOEY BOSA (DE) | OHIO STATE
Joey Bosa proved time and time to NFL Scouts that he is one of the best prospects in this Draft. Any concerns with the slow 40 yard dash in the NFL Combine (4.86) was eliminated in his Pro Day, as he ran a 4.78 in his Pro Day. He also improved his reps on the bench press from 24 to 28. The solid Combine and Pro Day only proved that he was not only the top edge rusher in the draft, but one of the Top players to come out of the draft. He certainly has the opportunity to make an immediate impact for the League, and could be a Pro Bowler in a couple of years. His frame and talent resembles to J.J Watt, and although its a bold comparison, Bosa is one of the best players to come out of the draft in recent years.
4. DALLAS COWBOYS THE PICK: JALEN RAMSEY (CB) | FLORIDA STATE
Jalen Ramsey was a dominating force within the Colegiate ranks, as he was a 2 time All-American during his tenure at Florida State. He showed the skills to solidify himself as a Top 5 Prospect, as seen throughout the NFL Combine. He ran a 40 of 4.41 seconds, showed a Broad Jump of over 11 ft, and had a vertical of 41 inches. The rare specimen of talent proves that he is a force to be reckoned with in the NFL, and teaming him up with Byron Jones would be a dynamic duo in what is a star studded Dallas Defense.
5. JACKSONVILLE JAGUARS THE PICK: MYLES JACK (OLB) | UCLA
For his Freshman and Sophomore years, Jack had been considered an All-Pac 12 Linebacker. In preparation for the game vs. BYU, Jack tore the meniscus in his knee and was declared out for the season. About one month later (October), UCLA Head Coach Jim Mora Jr. announced that he left UCLA to focus on the 2016 NFL Draft. From that time to today, Jack has seen his stock risen from a late first round product to a Top 5 pick. Jack is a rare playmaker who excels in coverage and can be effective in any situation. The pick should compliment to what is already a beefed up Jaguars Defense.
6. BALTIMORE RAVENS THE PICK: RONNIE STANLEY (OT) | NOTRE DAME
The Notre Dame talent has shown flashes of greatness in his three years starting for Notre Dame. He has great size and height, weighing in at 320 lbs. and measuring 6'6. Having a chance to leave his redshirt sophomore year in 2014, he decided to stay for another year and attempt to win a National Championship for Notre Dame. Staying another year didn't hurt his stock at all, only allowing 14 pressures and 8 sacks (2nd fewest in FBS) in 484 attempts. While Notre Dame didn't get a National Championiship, they had a good year (considering the amount of injuries the team had throughout the year), only losing to #2 Clemson and #3 Stanford (14-1 and 12-2, respectively). Throughout this year he was selected as a second team All-American, and declared for the draft. Stanley has the frame to block some of the best pass rushers the NFL has to offer. He is a durable, intellegent prospect with experience at both tackle spots, and should be taken high in Day 1 of the draft.
7. SAN FRANSISCO 49ERS THE PICK: CARSON WENTZ (QB) | NORTH DAKOTA ST
Honestly, I have much concern for the 49ers organization. What happened? Within two years the 49ers went from one of the top teams in the NFC to the worst of what the NFL has to offer. Apparently the whole ship is gone. Jim Harbaugh left to coach for his alma mater at Michigan (for which he will stay until he can no longer work), most of the internal core of the team gone. Now that Colin Kapernick is released, the team no longer has a stable QB to rely on (Sorry Blaine Gabbert fans). Carlson Wentz has a big arm and is a proven winner, something not many college or pro QB's can say. He can be the next Franchise player, as the 49ers should capitalize and build the team around him.
8. PHILADELPHIA EAGLES THE PICK: LAQUON TREADWELL (WR) | OLE MISS
The Ole Miss product will show signs of effectiveness when drafted by the Eagles. A lack of productive receivers doesn't give Sam Bradford a lot of options. Drafting the Ole Miss stud can immediately boost this receiving corps. After having a somewhat solid performance throughout the NFL Combine (which included him performing exceptionally well in the Gauntlet drill), there is definitely room for his stock to rise with the upcoming Ole Miss Pro Day. As of now, I see Treadwell as a Top 10 player with a great set of skills that could be utilized on Gameday.
9. TAMPA BAY BUCCANEERS THE PICK: VERNON HARGRAVES III (CB)| FLORIDA
One of the major needs the Buccaneers are currently weak at is the cornerback spot, and addressing the need in the draft seems like the reasonable option. Vernon Hargraves has the athleticism and explosiveness that teams crave for, and since he happens to be one of the top dynamic players in college football last year, he has cemented himself a Top 10 prospect. His size and speed resembles to another former Florida DB, Joe Haden. For his size and blend of speed and agility, he can definitely help out the depleted Bucs' pass coverage.
10. NEW YORK GIANTS THE PICK: SHAQ LAWSON (DE)| CLEMSON
The Giants made themselves present all throughout free agency, spending an excess of $300 MILLION DOLLARS (yes, that is correct) on star players such as Olivier Vernon and Janoris Jenkins. Now that they reupped their defense, its time to focus on offense right? No. All the signings are great, but you can never stop adding defensive pieces, especially with the current status of Jason Pierre Paul. Adding another pass rusher isn't a bad idea for the Giants. Shaq Lawson is an explosive player who can get to the QB with his quick burst of speed. His 40 time at the combine (4.7) was solid. He has the tangibles to start right away for the Big Blue Wrecking Crew.
11. CHICAGO BEARS THE PICK: MACKENSIE ALEXANDER (CB) | CLEMSON
Let's get something straight, no interceptions in 27 career games isn't a bad quality. It isn't a reason why this CB should fall in the draft. This is one of the good qualities that Alexander has. It shows how good of a lockdown corner he is, and how QBs are smart enough not to throw at him. He is a great cornerback, exceling in man press coverage and zone as well. In the 15 games this year, he has only allowed 19 receptions for no TD's. About one reception per game. If he is locking up great players throughout the game, then QB's know not to throw his way. He has great movement in coverage, and his raw skill and good technique is something NFL Coaches will rave about until draft day.
12. NEW ORLEANS SAINTS THE PICK: A'SHAWN ROBINSON (DT) | ALABAMA
The New Orleans Saints have had a weak front seven throughout some time. Fixing the front seven is something this team needs to do immediately. Drafting a player like Robinson can make an effective impact right away. He did that with Alabama, starting right away as a true freshman. A former five star recruit, he was a major contributer all three years at Tuscaloosa. In 2015, he garnered All-American honors and was a finalist for the Outland Trophy. He amassed 46 tackles and 4 sacks in 15 games. He definitely can inject a boost into the Saints D-Line.
13. MIAMI DOLPHINS THE PICK: EZEKIEL ELLIOT (RB) | OHIO STATE
Rumours have it that the Dolphins are going to trade for a veteran RB (with that in mind, trading with the Cowboys for Darren McFadden would be interesting). Although this could happen, this is only rumors, so we don't know until this actually happens. That being said, Ezekiel Elliot should be the logical pick here. After Lamar Miller signed with the Texans, the FIns' could use this pick to draft Elliot. Jay Ajayi, while he is a good third down back, isn't ready to be the starter. Elliot is undoubtingly the best Running Back to come out of the draft since Adrian Peterson, having back to back 1800 yard seasons with 41 TD's. He has no relative weakness, as he is the best complete back in the draft. Wherever he gets drafted, he could be used in many options, whether its receiving or rushing. No matter what team he goes to, he can definitely be a three down back.
14. OAKLAND RAIDERS THE PICK: JACK CONKLIN (OT) | MICHIGAN STATE
For the first time in what has been a while, the Oakland Raiders are good. Yes, they have improved from past years, and although 7-9 isn't good, its a promising start for a very young group of players. There are some key pieces that still need to be adressed, and Offensive Tackle is one of them. Jack Conklin can fill in right away and provide help for a struggling O'Line. Him and Jon Feliciano can restabilize the Raiders line and boost its offense.
15. LOS ANGELES RAMS THE PICK: JOSH DOCTSON (WR) | TEXAS CHRISTIAN
No, no, no. There will not be a QB selected by the Rams in Round 1. There is no need for the Rams to pick a QB, when they have a solid Quarterback in Nick Foles. However, the Rams offense is still stagnant, and has been for a while. Their defense happens to be one of the best in the league, beating quality teams over the years because of their defense stepping up. This pick should be focused on selecting a Wide Receiver, another weapon for Jeff Fisher's offense. Drafting Doctson, who is a great wide receiver with great playmaking ability, a good set of hands and is a strong athlete (bench pressing 14 reps at the combine). He can give the Rams an actual receiver, competing for playing time and a possible WR1 spot. Pairing up with Tavon Austin could benefit both players and Nick Foles, and when they aren't passing he could free lanes for Todd Gurley.
16. DETRIOT LIONS THE PICK: REGGIE RAGLAND (ILB) | ALABAMA
Reggie Ragland was a solid player throughout his tenure at Alabama. Now that he is heading to the NFL, its time for the Lions to jump on this player. They could definitely use a linebacker in the front seven to help out Ziggy Ansah. Ragland could definitely be the person to jolster the linebacker corps and help out the defense, which has been weak ever since the departure of Ndamukong Suh.
17. ATLANTA FALCONS THE PICK: LEONARD FLOYD (OLB) | GEORGIA
The Hometown Hero will likely get drafted if he slips to 17. After three successful years at Georgia, he declared for the NFL Draft after finding out Georgia would not retain Mark Richt. He is a great talent with a high potential, and if selected around this time, Dan Quinn could work with him and coach him to become a great defensive player. He is a fast pass rusher (running a 4.6 at the combine as a LINEBACKER), and a great tackler. Him teaming up with Vic Beasley could revitalize the Falcons Defense and make the dynamic duo the best pass rushers in the NFC.
18. INDIANAPOLIS COLTS THE PICK: RYAN KELLY (C) | ALABAMA
The Colts need to stop messing around and fix the offensive line. It was one of the major drawbacks over the years, and as the Colts ascended into mediocraty, it became more and more noticable. For one, the unit has a lack of experience. Adding what could be a long term center with a good frame to block some of the best could help out the unit, and give the last piece Andrew Luck needs to finally make a push to be Super Bowl Contenders.
19. BUFFALO BILLS THE PICK: DARRON LEE (LB) | OHIO STATE
Darron Lee impressed at the NFL Combine, showing on national display what a freakish athlete he is. He ran a 4.47 in the 40, the same exact time of his teammate Ezekiel Elliot. He also had a vertical of 35.5 inches, a broad jump of 11 ft, and had 17 reps on the bench press. While his combine wasn't at the performance of fellow Buckeye Linebacker Ryan Shazier (2014 NFL Combine), it was very good neverthless, and helped his draft stock. He has been tearing it up as of late, surging in the last parts of the year. He was the MVP (Defense) of the Fiesta Bowl after getting 7 tackles and 2 sacks. The redshirt Sophomore should be a mid-late first round pick.
20. NEW YORK JETS THE PICK: HUNTER HENRY (TE) | ARKANSAS
Recently, an NFL Scout held praise for Henry, claiming he "is the most complete tight end to come out in years. He's a legitimate first round pick. He very much is a complete tight end, as he can catch, run, and block. He is not one dimensional, not being a sort of receiving TE like Jimmy Graham, he resembles to Travis Kelce. He should be an immediate starter for a Jets team who couldnt solidify the position ever since the Drug Charges and release of Kellen Winslow. While Jace Amaro is good, Hunter Henry has the ability to start day 1 and strengthen the Jets passing attack.
21. WASHINGTON REDSKINS THE PICK: MAX TUERK (C) | SOUTHERN CALIFORNIA
Not many mock draft drafts have this USC center to go to the first round. Some mock drafts dont have a center picked in the first round. But let it be known that this prospect is one of the best snappers in the country. He can block some of the best in the country, and has the strength and speed to move around and block elite Defensive Tackles. He injured his knee in October, which means he needs to prove he still has the same talent from his All-Pac 12 2014 season. His pro day helped, lifting 24 reps of 225 lbs. at the USC Pro-Day. He needs to bulk up more weight at the NFL level, and he wont be effective immediately, but can be a solid starter in a few years.
22. HOUSTON TEXANS THE PICK: COREY COLEMAN (WR) | BAYLOR
The Houston Texans need a Quarterback. Everyone knows this by now. As seen throughout the regular season and the push for the playoffs, the Texans had a serious QB problem. Four QB's started this year. J.j Watt cannot carry the Texans single handed. That is why during free agency, the Texans signed a promising young Brock Osweiler from the Broncos. Now that they have taken care of the QB issue (for now), this first round pick should be focused on drafting a weapon for the Texans offense. The great tandem of Brock Osweiler, Lamar Miller and DeAndre Hopkins is great. Corey Coleman can come in and immediately play a supporting role to the offense, becoming a WR2 for the team. He has the blazing speed, agility, and quickness to play the slot position.
23. MINNESOTA VIKINGS THE PICK: WILL FULLER (WR) | NOTRE DAME
Undoubtingly, the Vikings need a receiver. With Adrian Peterson, the Vikings look like a playoff team. They have found a stable QB with Teddy Bridgewater, who is the best they have had in a while. Now they need one more weapon to contend for the Super Bowl in a tough NFC Conference. Fuller is a deep threat target who is elite and can be elite at the next level. He has drawn serious 1st round consideration and its a good chance for the Vikings to pull the trigger.
24. CINCINNATI BENGALS THE PICK: MICHAEL THOMAS (WR) | OHIO STATE
This player is one of many, in fact nine Ohio State underclassmen to declare for the draft. To say the task for rebuilding the Buckeyes is tough would be an understatement. But Michael Thomas rising his stock doesnt seem so hard, especially with questions raising current WR's. He was one of the weapons on a great OSU team, since Thomas, Jalin Marshall and Braxton Miller are all predicted to go in the first two rounds. Thomas himself is a great wide receive with the frame and build of a current Kelvin Benjamin. With the departure of Marvin Jones, he can be a great WR2 to A.J Green and give the Bengals another weapon.
25. PITTSBURGH STEELERS THE PICK: WILLIAM JACKSON III (CB) | HOUSTON
The Pittsburgh Steelers have not picked a cornerback in a very long time. Does that mean that they wont pick a Cornerback. Nope. They should definitely pick a cornerback with this pick, and William Jackson is a great fit. A Junior College Transfer, he shined on the Cougars team, being the key integral part of success for Tom Herman. Over the year he solidifyed himself as a lockdown corner, breaking up 23 passes and having 5 interceptions, two that were pick sixes. After dominating at the combine, highlighted by a 4.37 40, he should be a good pick for the Steelers. He can be a great Cornerback alongside William Gay, and help the Steelers contend for the Super Bowl.
26. SEATTLE SEAHAWKS THE PICK: CODY WHITEHAIR (OG) | KANSAS STATE
The Seattle Seahawks need the bulk up their Offensive Line. Its why they arent at the Super Bowl level like they were in 2014, and its also why Marshawn Lynch got injured with Sports Hernia and didnt return until the Divisional Round vs Carolina. In order for the Seahawks to get better they need to fix their weaknesses. Apparently, they didnt address this during Free Agency, so picking a potential starting guard is a must, especially at the position they are in.
27. GREEN BAY PACKERS THE PICK: BRAXTON MILLER (WR/QB) | OHIO STATE
I am probably the only one to pick Braxton Miller in the first round, let alone for the Packers. But this is a pick the Packers need to make. And I will tell you why: The Packers need to be prepared in case of a situation occuring. Jordy Nelson being out for the year limited the Packers offensive efficency. In 2014, they ranked #2 in Offensive Efficiency, and in 2015, they ranked #8. While it isnt bad, it affected the team in ways unheard of. While it wasn't evident in the first part of the year, it was seen in the second, losing to teams such as the Lions and Bears. Jordy Nelson is aging, and his decline is already in order. Meanwhile, Randall Cobb declined from 1300 yards to 800 yards (estimated) because of the lack of weapons around him. It affected the running game as well, as Eddie Lacy struggled, rushing for less than 1000 yards for the first time in his career. It is only fitting that one of the greatest college players (and one of my favorite), gets drafted in the 1st round. It is an absolute steal, getting someone with amazing speed and elusiveness.
28. KANSAS CITY CHIEFS THE PICK: DERRICK HENRY (RB) | ALABAMA
Yes, some of you are shocked with this selection, it proves its logic. Jamaal Charles is 30. While he has proved before that he can be an elite RB, he hasn't been able to put up any consistancy recently. Evidently shown this year, he's showing his signs of waring down after putting up 364 yards in 5 games before a season ending injury. Finding his replacement is evident and must be taken care of. While some may argue that Derrick Henry is a polarizing prospect who may not even be selected as the Top running back in this years draft, let alone the first round, I see him in a different point. The bulldozer from Alabama ran for over 2200 yards and 28 TD's in a season, put up an amazing Combine performance, and a solid Pro Day. What else does this man have to prove? Forgetting all of his weaknesses, this man is a can't miss prospect, who should and will be taken in Day 1 of the draft.
29. ARIZONA CARDINALS THE PICK: PAXTON LYNCH (QB) | MEMPHIS
Yes, now he is selected. It seems like a steep fall for the QB, but deservingly so. He has many questions and concerns right now. For one, he plays for a lower tier program, and besides Ole Miss, has faced (and won) against weaker programs. He is 9-4 as a starter, which is not ideal for a QB coming out of a non-power five conference. His poorly performed last game vs Auburn and his declaration afterwards raised some eyebrows as well. However he has one thing that the next QB's coming off the board (Dak Prescott, Connor Cook) don't have. He has the tangibles to pay QB at the next level, with a great arm and is a great pocket passer. At 6'7, he definitely has the size for a QB, and has the vision to find the open man. He will be picked as the apparent heir to Carson Palmer.
30. CAROLINA PANTHERS THE PICK: NOAH SPENCE (DE) | EASTERN KENTUCKY
With Jared Allen "riding off into the sunset," or riding off, the position at Defensive End must be addressed. Noah Spence will fall in the draft, and when the Panthers have the opportunity, they will select this player. He was a absolute beast, as a former OSU player and Eastern Kentucky. There will be questions occuring about his drug use, but when in the draft, and because of this his talent will be in question. But the benefits outweigh the risks, and he has great talent, good strength and agility to play at the next level. So because of that, the ends justify the means, and he will be selected in the first round.
31. DENVER BRONCOS THE PICK: ROBERT NKEMDICHE (DL) | OLE MISS
Malik Jackson left for Jacksonville at monstrous 5 year contract for 90 million dollars. They have a hole at the defensive line that Robert Nkemdiche can fill. Two months ago he was viewed as a cinch Top 10 pick. After some off the field concerns before the Sugar Bowl, in addition to less than stellar workouts, his stock has plummeted all the way to the 3rd round in some Mock Drafts. However, this Ole Miss prospect has the talent to make an immediate impact right away. If he has the talent, there should be no reason why he isn't picked by the Broncos.
That will be it for the Mock Draft. Let me know what you think in the comment section below, or comment what you think on twitter.
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