17. Cincinnati (f/OAK) 
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David DeCastro – OG – Stanford
The Carson Palmer mess really turned into a win-win for the Bengals when they traded the disgruntled quarterback to Oakland. While Palmer and the Raiders were Tebow-ed out of the playoff picture, a young Cincinnati team was able to sneak a wild card spot despite an 0-7 record against winning teams. With this pick, value meets and area of need as they nab David DeCastro, a player largely considered the best guard prospect since Steve Hutchinson. The Bengals may look to address their need at safety here instead by taking the draft’s best in Alabama’s Mark Barron.
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18. San Diego Chargers 
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Melvin Ingram – OLB – South Carolina
While the Chargers could look to fill a number of holes on the defensive side with this selection, they are sure to be tempted by the opportunity to land a quality pass rusher here. While Melvin Ingram lacks the height and length of some, his versatility, athleticism, and array of pass-rush moves should make him a solid fit standing up in a 3-4. Some became enamored with Ingram during his 2011 campaign and subsequent Senior Bowl, but I still see this as a high risk/reward pick. Offensive line is sure to be a priority for the team and Wisconsin center Peter Konz along with Jonathan Martin provide value here.
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19. Chicago Bears 
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Kendall Wright – WR – Baylor
It seems as if the Bears are in desperate need of a primary receiver every year when I sit down to type up mock drafts. After addressing holes in the trenches early in the 2011 draft, Chicago may actually be able to focus on adding weapons to Jay Cutler’s arsenal. Kendall Wright may have missed the chance to impress scouts at the Senior Bowl, but his tape speaks for itself. He brings both speed and reliability outside. If the Bears instead were seeking size at the position, South Carolina’s Alshon Jeffery would be an ideal fit.
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20. Tennessee Titans 
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Peter Konz – C – Wisconsin
There may have not been an offensive line around the NFL whose performance was as disappointing as the Titans’ during the 2011 season. All-Pro running back Chris Johnson was unable to find much in terms of running room as Tennessee finished just 31st in the league in rushing yards. Much of the blame rests on the shoulders of the interior offensive line. Peter Konz is a blue-chip center prospect capable of entering the lineup immediately and providing a substantial upgrade over Eugene Amano. If the Titans pass on offensive line help, safety Mark Barron and linebacker Luke Kuechly also could fill holes.
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21. Cincinnati Bengals
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Dontari Poe – DT – Memphis
With all of the areas thought to be worth consideration here, few would consider defensive tackle to be among the Bengals’ most pressing needs. Run specialist Pat Sims may not be back in stripes next season and it will be up to Marvin Lewis & Co. to find a replacement capable of pushing Domata Peko at the position. Dontari Poe is a bit of a mystery. Though he did not absolutely dominate lower competition: Poe moves with incredibly light feet for his massive size. Were Cincinnati to look elsewhere here, South Carolina cornerback Stephon Gilmore and Miami running back Lamar Miller are two that would draw consideration.
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22. Cleveland Browns (f/ATL) 
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Cordy Glenn – OT/OG – Georgia
After having missed out on a true franchise quarterback prospect earlier, the Browns may have to turn their attention to helping out the one they have got. While wide receiver appears to be the position most in need of an instant upgrade, their draft history indicates that they are unwilling to reach for one in the opening round. Cordy Glenn is a huge, versatile lineman capable of filling holes at either right guard or tackle in Cleveland. It may not be the sexy pick, but Glenn improves both their running and passing game. The Browns may instead opt for a wide receiver such as LSU’s Rueben Randle or even spring for quarterback Brandon Weeden with this pick.
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23. Detroit Lions 
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Janoris Jenkins – CB – North Alabama
The Lions have the distinct look of a young team ready to compete for years to come, but they must continue to build through the draft to ensure improvement and growth. While the roster appears brimming with talent, Detroit is thin in the secondary and their cornerbacks were exposed down the stretch. Though Janoris Jenkins competed at the FCS level this season, he appears to have the ability in man coverage this team so desperately lacks. If they choose to go another direction with this pick, the Lions could be interested in offensive tackle Jonathan Martin or defensive end Andre Branch.
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24. Pittsburgh Steelers 
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Jonathan Martin – OT – Stanford
It has become clear over the past few seasons that the Steelers and Ben Roethlisberger could use all the help they can get on the offensive line. This season, they were unable to keep their quarterback upright despite new milestones in passing for the team. Jonathan Martin is an athletically gifted tackle that excels as a pass blocker. While Pittsburgh really is hurting more inside, this pick increases the talent level along their front and will find playing time early. If the Steelers don’t look offensive line, Nebraska cornerback Alfonzo Dennard looks to be an excellent fit.
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25. Denver Broncos 
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Devon Still – DT – Penn State
While many credit Tim Tebow for the Broncos quick turnaround, the defense also experienced an unexpected improvement. Though Denver switched from a 3-4 to 4-3 scheme during a condensed offseason, the pick of Von Miller was a slam-dunk. Devon Still, one of this class’ premier 3-tech prospects, is a steal at the bottom of the first round. While he lacks elite pass-rushing ability, Still helps solidify an improving defensive front. A running back such as Lamar Miller or David Wilson could also tempt the Broncos in the opening round.
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26. Houston Texans 
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Mohamed Sanu – WR – Rutgers
Coming off the franchise’s first trip to the NFL playoffs, Houston appears to be a perennial AFC South power capable of making a serious Super Bowl run at some point. With Andre Johnson missing serious time due to a hamstring injury the Texans got a taste of life without a primary receiver. Mohamed Sanu may not come with the publicity as some others at the position, but he is among this class’ most promising wide receiver prospects. While he may not be a burner, Sanu is tough, reliable, and underrated athletically. As Houston will be looking to go best player available, inside linebackers Luke Kuechly and Don’ta Hightwoer could be considered here.
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27. New England Patriots (f/NO) 
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Andre Branch – OLB – Clemson
The Patriots acquired this pick from the Saints in the 2011 draft as a part of a deal centered around Mark Ingram. With both Andre Carter and Mark Anderson unsigned heading into the offseason, it appears as if New England will look to the draft for pass rushers. Andre Branch is among this draft’s most promising prospects capable of making the switch from college end to NFL outside linebacker. He certainly fits the Patriots mold at the position and possesses the upside to be a terrific edge rusher. Other possibilities here include wide receiver Rueben Randle and inside linebacker Don’ta Hightower.
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28. Green Bay Packers 
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Orson Charles – TE – Georgia
With Jermichael Finley set to become a free agent, the Packers have a huge decision to make. The price tag is sure to be high for the promising young tight end and Green Bay may not be willing to match the offers Finley is sure to receive. Even if they choose not to re-sign him, many feel Andrew Quarless and D.J. Williams can pick up the slack. Orson Charles is an excellent fit however, running the field like a wide receiver. He could be a terror down the seam for Aaron Rodgers. An outside linebacker such as Nick Perry is another possibility with this pick.
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29. Baltimore Ravens 
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Luke Kuechly – ILB – Boston College
For years, the inside linebacker spot next to legend Ray Lewis has been nothing short of a revolving door in Baltimore. Since the team lost Bart Scott years ago, the Ravens have been hurting at the position. The ultra-productive Luke Kuechly may not be the thumper many fans had in mind, but he possesses the instincts and range to be a very effective starter at the next level. Don’ta Hightower is another the team is sure to consider at the position and Mark Barron could fill a hole in the secondary.
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30. San Francisco 49ers 
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Alshon Jeffery – WR – South Carolina
You simply cannot say enough about the job Jim Harbaugh has done with this defense and quarterback Alex Smith. The 49ers have gone from an after-thought in the mediocre NFC West to a Super Bowl contender. Moving forward, the team will be looking to add a big-bodied target at wide receiver to help out Alex Smith. A year ago it would have been ludicrous to think Alshon Jeffery could stay on the board to this point, but after a disappointing season the Gamecocks star could be in for a draft day slide. Jeffery projects as an immediate starter opposite Michael Crabtree and offers the team a vertical & red-zone option. Rueben Randle appears to be another option at the position.
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31. New England Patriots
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Mark Barron – S – Alabama
A popular pick right now in mock drafts, but for good reason. While the Patriots remain a Super Bowl quality team, the secondary has enormous holes in need of long-term solutions. Mark Barron is not the ball-hawking free safety that New England would ideally like here, but he is a leader on the back end this team has lacked since Rodney Harrison retired. He would immediately upgrade what is a very thin secondary. A defensive end such as Nebraska’s Jared Crick would also fit here.
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32. New York Giants 
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Lamar Miller – RB – Miami
The Super Bowl champs appear to be a well-oiled machine with few areas that must be upgraded this offseason. Many forget, however, that this was a team that barely made the playoffs and finished the regular season with the 32nd ranked rushing offense in the NFL. While they would ideally add an offensive lineman with this pick, the next best option may be to add talent at running back. The explosive Lamar Miller could help energize a running game that averaged a league-worst 3.5 yards per carry a year ago. Other options with this pick include Iowa State offensive lineman Kelechi Osemele and outside linebacker Zach Brown.
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That’s stupid, the Vikings aren’t going to trade back and take Reiff. He’s a RT not a LT. If they trade back they’re going CB or WR.
Thank you for your in depth analysis on why Riley Reiff cannot be viewed as a lady tackle prospect.
Left*, sorry for the typo there.
Hate the first two picks for the Jags. And Poz wasn’t the answer? He played damn fine, and LB is the one position on the team that they have no need at.
This is garbage. Browns must address QB AND WR within first two rounds. I’ll pass on Cordy glenn over Jonathan Martin and Sanu. The browns need explosiveness on offense. Not defense. Zach brown is nice but again, we need offense. Can’t wait until round 3 to hit receiver.
@Vanguard I have to extend an apology to Browns fans. This will be one of the more unsettling drafts you’ve seen out there on the internet. More than likely, Cleveland would shop that 4th pick and move down the board; however, I only decided to include trades for Quarterbacks in this mock. Peyton Manning and Matt Flynn were not factored into these picks at all.
@Dale I received some bad info on Pos that keeps coming up in conversations with Jags’ fans. If I were to change things: cornerback would be a position I’d expect Gene Smith to address there.
Yes, I’d have the Jags go with Coples and one of the 2nd round cbs. Would be very happy with Quick in the third.
Reiff was a TE converted to a OT. His skillset is better suited at RT, Reiff would be good value outside the top 10 as a RT. No way Blackmon makes it out of the top 10
If Zach Brown Stephon Gilmore Burficit and Hightower available when the vikings pick id say pull the trigger on any of them over Randle. Ta’Amu would be great with that second 2nd pick
Brian Quick, Nick Toon, Stephen Hill, Harrison Smith, Markelle Martin, Vontaze Burficit(again)and Boyken are all guys id take over Trumaine Johnson. His arrests make me think of Chris Cook…
@Justin You want to be careful not to think in terms of absolutes in February. Remember four QBs wound up drafted in the top 12 last year, Dez Bryant fell into the 20s in 2010, and LSU DE Tyson Jackson rose into the top three picks in 2009. There are no absolutes before the NFL Combine and it is important to understand that it only takes one team to throw things off. I’m not sure how TE –> OT indicates RT, left tackles Joe Staley and Jason Peters are among many that would suggest otherwise. Protecting the QB has to be the Vikings’ first priority IMO.
I agree that protecting the QB is top priority, but i dont think any OT besides Kalil deserves to be picked top 10.
Ryan I’m a big fan but I’d hate to see the Eagles draft play out like your mock. I understand the Worthy pick in the first, it’s a luxury pick but Andy does love taking lineman and this draft is full of 1st round DT talent. However, your 2nd round picks don’t fill any needs for us, assuming Evan Mathis is resigned. We took Watkins in the first last year and Mathis was the top LG in the NFL last season, why draft a back-up with your 2nd pick? Lavonte David is talented, but doesn’t have the size to play SAM and be a run-stuffer which is what the Eagles need. Broyles in the 3rd could definitely be a steal but the Eagles need a red zone threat more than another slot receiver. I do think you have a very good handle where players will be going come April though, from that perspective this is one of the best mocks I’ve seen yet. Thanks.
No way V.Burfict lasts until round three. Maybe first inside linebacker taken.
@Justin You have to be careful about thinking in terms of absolutes in February. Dez Bryant, who was a more talented prospect than Blackmon, fell into the 20s in the 2010 draft. It’s unlikely that Tyson Alualu was ever mocked close to the top 10 that year also. What I shoot for is a realistic mock draft, not an idealistic one. Not every team will make what fans consider the “best” pick.
@Wayne Unless he absolutely blows the doors off the Combine, there is no way Burfict is drafted before Kuechly and Hightower. The tape never matched the hype in his case.
I see the vikings taking rg.III then trading him to the highest for their picks and their starting left tackle. what do you think of that? that way they fill a need at lt and multiply their picks this year and the next.
I love the Redskins moving to 3 instead of 2.Fisher won’t pass on Kalil and the Vikings would move down.I think they go cb or s in the third.They will address wr in fa.
If Martin and Barron aren’t still on the board, than the Jenkins pick is a good one. But if Martin falls that far, the Lions will absolutely jump at the chance to draft a future LT over a questionable corner.
@Rob The idea of drafting a player than trading his rights is much more NBA than NFL. It’s a nice thought, but probably not a very realistic one.
@Mike That makes sense if they are to in fact believe Martin is a left tackle in the NFL. A lot of different ideas out there on him; many see him more likely to fit on the right side.
Kirkpatrick & Trumaine Johnson in Dallas BABY!!!!!!!
The Lions love drafting the best player available over need. In the second round, do you feel Schwartz is truly the best player available in this scenario? Based on this criteria, who else would they consider.
@Tony I think the Senior Bowl did wonders for Mitchell Schwartz’s stock. Many teams will view him in the mid 2nd-early 3rd range.
@KeepSwinging – Sorry it took me a while to get to your comment. The concept of a luxury pick is fairly subjective. Reid has shown in the past that he prefers to look LB later & while this year could have served as a wake-up call, 15 is still very high for Luke Kuechly. K. Osemele is among the most versatile linemen in this draft, most likely fitting at RT for the Eagles. Lavonte David, despite his size, is a good run stuffing LB and could project to a variety of roles in that Philadelphia defense. I did wonder if Audie Cole would be the better fit there as he shares some similarities. As a native of the Philadelphia area, I’ve been hoping the team would add a big WR for years; however, it seems like they are having much more success with smaller guys. I think you should be careful in assuming Broyles is purely a slot receiver. In my opinion, you can play him anywhere but he gives the Birds a combination of quickness, reliability, & toughness in the slot that they currently lack.
Steelers 1st pick I would love martin to fall to the steelers. As for the next 2, if we do go CB rather go for Fleming at that point much better zone corner and tackler, but both are pretty good. We have a lot of youth and depth and question marks there so no need to add more ?. Rather go back to back Oline picks and make sure the offensive line is ready for more run oriented offense. As for the third pick same thing, lots of ? and guys there. Here I would think there is plenty of value left for us to pick up either a LB, inside or out James Harrison can’t be young forever. Or NT, which we know is a major need.
I’d prefer the Texans take Rueben Randle with their first pick. He’s faster than Sanu and is able to routinely get separation from DB’s, whereas Sanu is not. Just sayin’….
Jamel Fleming’s ok, I guess. I think I’d rather go with Josh Norman, the CB from Coastal Carolina, believe it or not. He tore it up at both the East-West Shrine and the Senior Bowl practices/workouts.
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