My 2017 1st Round Mock Draft 2.0

NFL Draft 1^st Round Mock Draft 2.0

I ended up looking at my draft late last night and I just questioned half of my picks. I thought I would make some changes but I'm about to shake things up a lot. Which is why I'm making a 2.0, this will go live a day or so before the draft so I cannot make many edits after that, but I will be working on it continuously until then.

Pick 1: Cleveland Browns – Myles Garrett, DE Texas A&M

Hey, this pick stayed the same! Woohoo! This is a slam dunk and I would be absolutely shocked if he is not a superstar for the Browns. If they will be great it is going to be on the offensive and defensive lines. And for anyone that doesn’t know the Cowboys are able to be great on offense because of their line… and anyone knows that defenses are only as good as their lines are. So the Browns are actually building the right way. It has taken them awhile, but Hue Jackson has started to turn things around slowly but surely. The only issue they need to stop doing is paying huge $$$ for free agents. It doesn’t work. Build through the draft.

Pick 2: San Francisco 49ers – Jamal Adams, S LSU

Lol can't even get the top two picks the same. I completely forgot about this guy for some reason which is nuts since a lot of people have him as the #2 as do I. This guy is crazy talented and deserves the top 3 pick but this pick is truly a toss up. Could be Trubisky, could be Soloman, could be Lattimore. This pick really is going to completely change the top 10 and therefore the rest of the 1st round.

Pick 3: Chicago Bears – Solomon Thomas, DL Stanford

I really want to be wrong here and have J Allen here... but if the 49ers go Adams, Thomas is the better prospect even though I think Allen will be the better pro. This pick also will completely change the draft. Thomas is a beast and should be a great pro and help Leonard Floyd on that defense.

Pick 4: Jacksonville Jaguars – Leonard Fournette, RB LSU

Jacksonville needs help on offense… Jaguars FINALLY(!!!!) and I do mean finally makes the right decision in an insanely important year for them. Fournette should completely change the offense. Chris Ivory is out of there and TJ Yeldon will be a perfect compliment. Fournette is a special talent. They just need a line and they are a really talented team. Then they need to replace Bortles but that’s a whole nother conversation.

Pick 5: Cleveland Browns (from Tennessee Titans) – Mitchell Trubisky, QB North Carolina

The Browns are going to have to trade up into the top 8 (probably need to get above the Jets) to get Trubisky. They definetly have the fire power to do so. They trade the 12^th and 33^rd picks to move up 7 spots and get their guys. They probably should keep on with Kessler so they won’t go QB and if they do then this pick will be Trubisky. Ding Ding Ding. Trubisky is worse than Watson in my eyes. Yes, he has more potential, but I hate how we are drafting only QBs based on pure potential without almost any results. One full season where it wasn’t even an Andrew Luck type Stanford season… and he goes in the top 10... To me, none of these QBs should be drafted in the 1^st.

Pick 6: New York Jets – Marshon Lattimore, CB Ohio St

The replacement for Revis is picked here. The Jets have historically gone defense at the top of drafts and they will love the tape they see on this kid. The only problem is he really has had only one year as a starter, but he shined while there. Could this pick be a Dee Milliner or a Darrelle Revis?

Pick 7: Los Angeles Chargers – Malik Hooker, S Ohio St

This pick is a safety. I’m so confident that it is a safety that I literally can’t even look at another player for the Chargers. Originally, I slated Adams here but he went at 4, therefore, the next best safety will be taken here. If Hooker and Adams are gone, I am sure the Chargers are going to forgo their pick. Here is to fixing the gap that Eric Weddle made when he left for Baltimore.

Pick 8: Carolina Panthers – Christian McCaffery, RB Stanford

Here is a very unique kid. A lot of people think of him as this small kid who will just be a Darren Sproles at the next level. People don't know that not only does he have that amazing quickness and speed but he is a bowling ball and goal-line back too. Panthers biggest position of need is cornerback, but McCaffery is absolutely shooting up big boards and for good reason. They pick him here because none of the corners stand out enough for this pick.

Pick 9: Cincinnati Bengals – Johnathan Allen, DL Alabama

Allen is a steal at 9. Could just be the very best player in this class in my opinion. He is an asbolute bull on interior lineman and can stop the RB or get to the QB. He is a pro bowler within the first 3 years of his career and gets to go to a great defense. He will give some more tenacity to this already ferocious defense.

Pick 10: Buffalo Bills – Deshaun Watson, QB Clemson

The Bills were hoping that Mike Williams would fall but unfortunately… oh wait he finally fell past the Titans. But the Bills are dumb and go with the guy that was throwing him the ball. Because of the Cleveland trade up to get Trubisky, the Bills feel like this needs to be the pick and they pass on Williams.

Pick 11: New Orleans Saints – Haason Reddick, DE/LB Temple

The highest riser of all the draft prospects this year. He is a multi-purpose player. He is likely going to be a DE but also could be used as a 3-4 linebacker. He is a freak athlete and will be interesting to watch this year.

Pick 12: Tennessee Titans (from Cleveland Browns) – Mike Williams, WR Clemson

Titans are more than happy to move back. They pick up that 1^st pick in the 2^nd round which is gonna be a player with 1^st round talent. They’re also able to get the guy they wanted all along in Mike Williams who falls out of the top 10 because of the trade. He has the potential to be a special player in this league. The need to get Mariota a toy is too tasty to pass up for them.

Pick 13: Arizona Cardinals – Corey Davis, WR Western Michigan

Wow is this guy going to shine in this system. They have found a replacement for Floyd and for Larry when he leaves. He will be a stud for a long time and take even more people out of the box for DJ and the run game.

Pick 14: Philadelphia Eagles – Adore’e Jackson, CB USC

Draft day nonsense is making his name go higher and higher because he has a lot of talent when he gets his hands on the ball. Not only will he be a CB but also could fill in as a KR if needed. Although Sproles will probably not give up his role easily. He is a fresh player with a ton of speed.

Pick 15: Indianapolis Colts – Reuben Foster, LB Alabama

Well, the diluted sample hurts Foster. The Colts and other teams believe that he is telling the truth, but some just don't like the fact that he will already be in the drug program to start his career. His tumble could last much longer than this. He might fall to 22 at Miami or even to the 2nd round. For the Colts, they finally get a defensive nucleus. A guy that might be a top 5 pick in other years is available at 15.

Pick 16: Baltimore Ravens – Derek Barnett, DE Tennessee

I hate to see him falling in the draft but every analyst is hearing that he is much lower than they originally thought. Ravens always go defense and always get studs. Barnett could just be a top 5 player in this draft, but is not prototype size.

Pick 17: Houston Texans (from Washington Redskins) – Patrick Mahomes, QB Texas Tech

The Texans were just hoping and hoping no one would notice that Mahomes just quietly went down the board. Texans trade up to get him because they want to make sure they get their guy. They give up their 25^th pick and their 2^nd rounder to move up 8 spots and also pick up a 4^th round pick from Washington. He gets snagged by an obviously QB needy team. Again I don’t like any of the QBs, but it is what it is. He has a strong arm but has never taken anything under snap before so I feel like he will struggle in some packages because of their strong use of the running game.

Pick 18: New York Giants (from Tennessee Titans) – OJ Howard, TE Alabama 

Why the hell not? Howard is the best guy on the board and he would fill an immediate need for the Giants. He is the best TE in the class and they haven’t had a good one since Martellus Bennett. This is a huge trade that sends ripples down the end of the 1^st round.

Pick 19: Tampa Bay Buccaneers – Dalvin Cook, RB Florida State

I have said this for months. Cook to the Bucs makes so much more sense with the recent fallout of Doug Martin being suspended and having a drug issue. His play is wishy-washy enough to cut him and his huge contract. Winston is going to be pushing really hard for his ex-teammate to become his current teammate. Winston won the National Championship with Dalvin behind him and he will hope (and fail) to win the Super Bowl with him.

Pick 20: Denver Broncos – Ryan Ramcyzk, OT Wisconsin

OJ Howard is gone because the Giants move up for the guy who falls and their next best place to upgrade is on their OL. They go here instead of Lamp because they can get a guard later in the draft.

Pick 21: Detroit Lions – Taco Charlton, DE Michigan

People will only have him as a round 1 grade because of his upside, but when he tries he is incredible. People just question his ability to try consistently. He will likely fall to the 2^nd and this is the highest he will probably be taken. He is a very good scheme fit here and also Detroit has seen a lot of him playing locally.

Pick 22: Miami Dolphins – Charles Harris, DE Missouri

I don’t know. I really don’t this pick could be a million different people. They are said to LOVE LAMP. I have him going before here. They also would take a strong look at Foster if he is here which is possible and maybe even Peppers. Derek Barnett is another person they love who may not be there. I don’t expect Harris to be taken at this point though. The only team that is likely to grab him before would be the Lions. Harris has a Cameron Wake type first step and that is why they like him a lot.

Pick 23: Tennessee Titans (from New York Giants) – Marlon Humphrey, CB Alabama

Titans move back twice in the first round and get two guys that they would’ve loved to get at their 5^th and 12^th picks but they also recoop more picks. The Titans are having a great offseason. Humphrey is a prototype corner and is exactly the type of guy you are looking for with his intangibles. Hopefully his play at Bama translates to the NFL.

Pick 24: Oakland Raiders – Takkarist McKinley, UCLA

Sure why not. This fills a need left by Malcolm Smith who was released this offseason at LB. They also probably got a very good look at him this year since he is playing in their state. This pick is similar to Miami. They could go a lot of places depending on how the draft falls, but if Takk is here I don’t think they will pass.

Pick 25: Washington Redskins (from Houston Texans) – Jabril Peppers, S/LB Michigan

Because of the trade back it really opens up the options for Washington. It also allows them to go with the guy they originally wanted with an extra 2^nd round pick. Peppers is such an intriguing prospect and it will be very interesting to see who picks him. If he makes it out of the 1^st round, I’ll be shocked. Someone will trade up to the end of the 1^st to get him if no one takes him. He is just such a freakish athlete and dual threat. He is a KR/S/LB/RB/WR. I am really intrigued by him.

Pick 26: Seattle Seahawks - Forrest Lamp, OG Western Kentucky

Seahawks would love to go OL but they all sorta suck besides Lamp. So they get Lamp lol. He falls to the back of the 1st because of trade ups for players at impact positions. The best OL in this draft falls below Ramcyzk because the Broncos would prefer the best tackle on the board.

Pick 27: Kansas City Chiefs - Jarrad Davis, LB Florida

LB is a position of need just because they are all getting so old. Tamba Hali and Derrick Johnson are in their 30s and Davis will bring a lot of youth to the squad. He is more of an ILB but he isn’t the prototype build. It will be interesting to see where he plays in this defense but he is a player for sure.

Pick 28: Dallas Cowboys – David Njoku, TE Miami

Why the hell not?! The Cowboys are looking pretty good at most positions and with it being an insanely deep draft at CB and DE they can afford to pick the best guy available and completely change the Cowboys offense. This position also ends up sorta being a need for them. Witten isn’t getting any younger and he still blocks very well (so does Escobar) but he has gotten a lot slower, so a target like Njoku could really spread open the offense with his versatility (especially in the red zone).

Pick 29: Green Bay – Tre’Davious White, CB LSU

Everyone has always mocked him to about this area even though I think he is probably going to outplay his draft stock. He is coming from DBUniversity and the Packers DESPARATELY need help here. Everyone and their brother got hurt at this position for them last year and this guy should be able to come in and start on the edge week 1.

Pick 30: Pittsburgh Steelers – TJ Watt, LB Wisconsin

In January, I had the underrated and uber talented Haason Reddick going here. But because he completely shot up the draft because of his offseason program performances… Watt will fit nicely here. He isn’t as athletic as Reddick or as freakish as his brother which will be disappointing for Steelers fans but you can’t sleep on him either. He will get after the pass rusher and also can play the LB position. They will have to kick someone in to cover for the departed Lawrence Timmons but the versatility of Watt will be too juicy to pass up.

Pick 31: Atlanta Falcons: Jordan Willis, DE Kansas St

Willis is going to be something special. The Falcons have had a couple of really good years drafting since Quinn started with the team. He was the Big 12 player of the year last year and that is incredible as a defensive player in what is an offensive conference. He might go earlier than this (maybe Miami/Detroit) but this is also a very good spot for him.

Pick 32: Arizona Cardinals (from New Orleans Saints): Deshone Kizer, Notre Dame

Who the hell knows what this pick is going to be… could be almost any position on defense but I think QB makes the most sense at this pick because it means you can put the 5th year option on him and have him for awhile. The Saints trade this pick to the Cardinals so they can get their future behind Palmer (or this year because he is always hurt). If Trubisky and Watson are both gone it will be Mahomes or Kizer.

So that is my final mock draft. Last year I only did one… this year I realized how anyone could rise/fall in dramatic fashion (Tunsil) or undramatic fashion (Myles Jack). I really hate how QB centric the draft is in the 1st round, but it is what it is. Hopefully it ends up with only 2 in the 1^st. It helps teams that don't need QB the most. 3 RBs, 3 WRs are taken. Defensive end is the most active position (Garrett, Thomas, Allen, Reddick, Harris, Carlton and Barnett). All in all, I just want to get more than 4 right this year! Woohoo, go me! And Go Miami!

Again I referenced this chart for trades: http://profootballtalk.nbcsports.com/draft/draft-trade-chart/

And noted this for team visits for some teams (teams don't NEED to visit or workout someone to draft him): http://walterfootball.com/ProspectMeetings/ByTeam

My NFL Draft 1st Round Mock Draft 1.0

NFL Draft 1^st Round Mock Draft 1.0

Here it is… 

FOOTBALL! It is officially the 2017 season as the start of free agency started over a month ago now and things always heat up again at the draft where many teams use to find the future franchise players or complete monster trades or just do whatever the Browns do. This year they have 2 picks in the first round and truly cannot mess up the 1^st pick but the 12^th presents some interesting possibilities. I also think something interesting is going to happen at the end of the 1^st round… stay tuned. Anyway… sit back… relax… and pick apart my opinions. Enjoy!

Pick 1: Cleveland Browns – Myles Garrett, DE Texas A&M

This is a slam dunk and I would be absolutely shocked if he is not a superstar for the Browns. If they will be great it is going to be on the offensive and defensive lines. And for anyone that doesn’t know the Cowboys are able to be great on offense because of their line… and anyone knows that defenses are only as good as their lines are. So the Browns are actually building the right way. It has taken them awhile, but Hue Jackson has started to turn things around slowly but surely. The only issue they need to stop doing is paying huge $$$ for free agents. It doesn’t work. Build through the draft.

Pick 2: San Francisco 49ers – Solomon Thomas, DL Stanford

This pick is congruent with the 49ers drafting kids from the Pac-12 early but this guy is a goodie, while some of the others haven’t exactly translated. This guy is big enough to play DT and quick enough to spread out wide and play end. He is a great talent that John Lynch will get credit for locating and picking up with his 1^st ever draft pick. A lot of people think this pick could be in play for Garroppolo, but I don’t see him being traded or the 49ers thinking he is worth the #2 overall pick. The Browns at 12 maybe would fit straight up for him but I still don’t think Bill will get to that table.

Pick 3: Chicago Bears – Jonathan Allen, DL Alabama

For some reason a lot of mock drafts have him falling to the end of the top 10 or even some out of the top 10 altogether. I don’t buy it. This guy reminds me of Ndamukong Suh. I know that is a huge step but his game just looks familiar and that’s who I see when I see him. He is an interior guy for sure can bully those guards and centers and is quick enough to get to the QB once he has beaten them.

Pick 4: Jacksonville Jaguars – Leonard Fournette, RB LSU

#TankForFournette. I tried to get this hashtag started in one of my fantasy league and it didn’t really work because he was still a sophomore. But that is how special this kid is. When he was a freshman he was running ALL OVER SEC defenses. Not the Big 12… not the Pac 12… not the ACC. The best defenses in college football were letting this kid run for 200 on him every other game. He is going to special. Chris Ivory can say bye bye and TJ Yeldon will perfectly compliment this workhorse back so he doesn’t burn out. I just hope this line can block enough for him to get some holes and do the same thing he did to those SEC defenses to the AFCS.

Pick 5: Tennessee Titans – Mike Williams, WR Clemson

I originally didn’t want Williams here. Rueben Foster is also a strong potential pick here. But I think the Titans decide to help out their franchise QB Mariota out and get him someone who could just be the next Megatron. He has the speed, the ups, the sideline-play ability, and the hands to potentially be a HOFer. I don’t see it in this system but he is a stud and will be a good, not great player if he lands in TEN.

Pick 6: New York Jets – Marshon Lattimore, CB Ohio St

The replacement for Revis is picked here. The Jets have historically gone defense at the top of drafts and they will love the tape they see on this kid. The only problem is he really has had only one year as a starter, but he shined while there. Could this pick be a Dee Milliner or a Darrelle Revis?

Pick 7: Los Angeles Chargers – Jamal Adams, S LSU

The debate between Hooker and Adams is really close but I think Hooker is judged more highly because of a number of interceptions that he got and touchdowns he created off of them. Some of those picks fell into him (which happens to the great ones because they are where they need to be but…) so I prefer Adams here. Regardless this pick will be one of those two safeties if either is available. They finally find their center fielder since Eric Weddle left for Baltimore.

Pick 8: Carolina Panthers – Derek Barnett, DE Tennessee

I really don’t know what the Panthers will do here though. There are a lot of options. Trade out is one of them. DT is possible if Allen is still here. A lot of people have Fournette here and I think that they would take him if he fell… but if he falls past the Jags I think someone will fly into 6 or 7 to take him ahead of CAR. Barnett will help a pass rush that just lost Short to the Patriots in a trade. It’s not like their pass rush is weak but this pick will allow a 3 headed monster between Peppers, Barnett and Charles Johnson to wreak havoc on QBs. If the Panthers don’t take a corner early I’d be shocked. I think they learned their lesson last year of just taking 4 6^th round corners and hoping they find a Sherman amongst them. But I don’t see it this pick with Barnett too good to pass up.

Pick 9: Cincinnati Bengals – Rueben Foster, LB Alabama

This just makes so much sense to me. The best LB in this class by a wide margin will be in the starting lineup by week 1 and will be a huge force for those hard-hitting AFCN rivalries. This pick is definitely to add some more toughness to that defense but hopefully without getting personal fouls against the team every other play against the Steelers.

Pick 10: Buffalo Bills – Corey Davis, WR Western Michigan

The Bills were hoping that Mike Williams would fall but unfortunately, they will just have to settle for this Dez Bryant look alike… darn. He will be a huge addition to taking some pressure off of the running game and Sammy Watkins so that offense can really open up. He has hands and he is a great route runner. He will eventually replace Watkins once Watkins is hurt so often that he is cut and he will be a force in the AFCE for a while to come.

Pick 11: New Orleans Saints – Malik Hooker, S Ohio St

This is one of the 4 teams that I got correct last year (I knew Wentz was better than Goff so I put Wentz to LAR. Leonard Floyd to the Bears, Ryan Kelly to the Colts, Laquon Treadwell to the Vikings). Saints are going to be looking at defense with this pick… or at least should be. Their secondary is especially not great besides Breaux. Hooker will fill a huge void since Jarius Byrd was just cut. I think this is the absolute latest Hooker will fall. The great rookie campaign of Landon Collins is pushing these safeties up much higher than they probably should be. I don’t think either of these guys is an Eric Berry (who absolutely was deserved of the top 5 pick from the Chiefs).

Pick 12: Cleveland Browns – Gareon Conley, CB Ohio St

They probably should keep on with Kessler so they won’t go QB and if they do then this pick will be Trubisky. This is an obvious trade up situation for someone who really wants John Ross or OJ Howard. When thinking about who to slot to CLE I thought about someone who will be taken out of place, too early, and will end up just not working out. But then I thought about how well Hue Jackson has done since at the helm. Conley is a boring pick because everyone pays attention to Lattimore but Conley had a surprisingly quiet season that was fantastic. Boring picks are sometimes the best picks.

Pick 13: Arizona Cardinals – Takkarist McKinley, OLB UCLA

The new generation of the Cardinals defense is born with this west coast kid. The Cardinals are known for weird defensive packages and putting a safety at LB. This kid will be able to rush the passer, cover a TE, and also play general on the field. I like him here a lot and it also works out because the Cardinals have been paying attention to those Pac-12 kids all year.

Pick 14: Philadelphia Eagles – Tre’Davious White – CB, LSU

Eagles get an underrated corner. For some reason, this guy went from the possible top corner to the 3^rd or even further in some mocks. The Eagles had a problem on the back end this year and this should be a good first step to fixing these problems. White had a tremendous career here at DBU. Tyrann and PP are pumped up for this guy.

Pick 15: Indianapolis Colts – Forrest Lamp – OG, Western Kentucky

My Hilltoppers are finally getting a first round pick. The highest a player has ever been chosen from Western Kentucky was the 3^rd round of the 2002 draft, Joseph Jefferson a DB to the Colts.  The Colts are the one to take one again, this time though they will be exclaiming that THEY LOVE LAMP. There will be so so many memes on draft night. The offensive line is an obvious need for the Colts because their franchise rests on the back of Mr. Luck. He has never had good protection but the Colts will take the Cowboys approach and just draft OL after OL in the first round to get an elite line. Last year was C Ryan Kelly from Bama.

Pick 16: Baltimore Ravens – Hassan Reddick – DE, Temple

Ravens generally address defense early in drafts. I don’t think they go Ross here or Howard because they have enough TEs and a speedy Wallace already. I could see Lamp here as well but the chance to get the guy with the most buzz coming into the draft, or at least the guy that has jumped the highest on the board. He should be a very efficient pass rusher in this historically great system.

Pick 17: Washington Redskins – Jabril Peppers, S/LB Michigan

I truly have no idea what this pick is going to be. Defense makes sense because their offense is for the most part set. As much as this team did lose a lot of pieces, they also got a decent couple of WRs back. They have a few decent RBs. So they could go get a Cook here but I don’t love that either. OL isn’t good enough to warrant a pick there outside of Lamp. Peppers is such an intriguing prospect and it will be very interesting to see who picks him. If he makes it out of the 1^st round, I’ll be shocked. Someone will trade up to the end of the 1^st to get him if no one takes him. He is just such a freakish athlete and dual threat. He is a KR/S/LB/RB/WR. I am really intrigued by him.

Pick 18: Houston Texans (from Tennessee Titans) – Mitchell Trubisky – QB, North Carolina

I had Mike Williams to the Titans at 5 so that “solves” their WR problem (I really don’t think they had one). This really just makes so much sense to trade out here if you are the Titans. You are obviously ok with it if you get compensation as you traded out last year of a top pick. The Texans are desperate for a QB and they are going to be taking a top QB this year with their 1^st rounder. I just think they’re shocked that they all lasted this long. They are huge fans of Trubisky because I said so. I just have a feeling Watson won’t be the top QB taken because it seems like franchises are willing to take risks with QBs that haven’t proven everything in hopes of them becoming the next Cam or whoever else. It costs the Texans their first and their third for Trubisky.

Pick 19: Tampa Bay Buccaneers – Dalvin Cook – RB, Florida State

I have said this for months. Cook to the Bucs makes so much more sense with the recent fallout of Doug Martin being suspended and having a drug issue. His play is wishy-washy enough to cut him and his huge contract. Winston is going to be pushing really hard for his ex-teammate to become his current teammate. Winston won the National Championship with Dalvin behind him and he will hope (and fail) to win the Super Bowl with him.

Pick 20: Denver Broncos – OJ Howard – TE, Alabama

A lot of people may be surprised at how late this stud player is going BUT tight ends are almost never taken high in drafts simply because why get a tight end who will maybe get 15% of your team's receptions when you can get a pass rusher that will play 75% of plays. Alright, that isn’t the best comparison but I hope you get my point. Tight ends (while important in fantasy) are not valued incredibly high by most teams (WAS, NE, SEA, NO, etc. don’t count). He will be a great player but some think Njoku will be better because of limited production at Bama.

Pick 21: Detroit Lions – Taco Charlton – DE, Michigan

Here is the pick that makes me scream as a Dolphins fan… 1 pick before they go and they would love Charlton… Seems like the Lions will as well. They play a 4-3 and will get a strong kid who has a good height and weight for the position. He is a question mark to some but he fits here. He could definitely be a playmaker and a pro bowl in a year or two.

Pick 22: Miami Dolphins – Jarrad Davis – LB, Florida

Just upsetting… as a Dolphins fan why would I slate my team to be disappointed by previous picks? Well because it always happens so there ya go. Davis won’t be a bad pick here. He is a little smaller than the prototype but he has great awareness and awareness. The hope is that he can overplay his smaller frame to tackle bigger RBs and take on lineman on the blitz occasionally. Davis will no doubt compete with Misi for the last LB starting spot. This is also a good trade out spot. Anyone who really wants John Ross or Watson could slip in here.

Pick 23: New York Giants – Ryan Ramczyk – OT, Wisconsin

Solid blocker and pick here. Nothing too special about these offensive linemen this year but they go need here instead of BPA. I don’t have much to say…

Pick 24: Oakland Raiders – Christian McCaffery, RB Stanford

Here is a very unique kid. A lot of people think of him as this small kid who will just be a Darren Sproles at the next level. People don't know that not only does he have that amazing quickness and speed but he is a bowling ball and goal-line back too. The Raiders didn't really address RB after they lost Latavius but they do have a few good RBs still. McCaffery will join a very talented RBBC and might just take over goal-line duties.

Pick 25: Tennessee Titans (from Houston Texans) – Marlon Humphrey – CB, Alabama

Speaking of Bama players… Humphrey is a big time guy. 6 feet tall and is quick. He is going to be a solid, not fantastic pick for anyone who gets him but the CB corps of the Titans is one of the few positions in which they could actually improve. This is a very young, but uber talented team and they get better with an impressive haul of Mike Williams and Humphrey.

Pick 26: Cleveland Browns (from Seattle Seahawks) – Deshaun Watson – QB, Clemson

If I get this trade right I’d be shocked because it’ll cost the Browns. The Seahawks move back to the 1^st pick in the 2^nd round and also pick up 2 4^th round picks. A huge haul for moving just a few picks back for Seattle. And yes this does mean 3!!! First rounder’s going home to Cleveland. I’m sorry to them but it is Draft Day (the movie) all over again. This pick makes too much sense for the Browns though. There is no reason Watson should still be there in their eyes and they see the Chiefs sitting right there just waiting for him to fall to them. They will need to swoop in ahead of the Chiefs here to get him.

Pick 27: Kansas City Chiefs - Zach Cunningham, LB Vanderbilt

This is probably one of the highest places he will go (Oakland and the Giants could take him). Some people have him falling to the mid-2nd round. I just think he is so talented. He was the leading tackler in the SEC full of defensive studs. I just don't think that was a fluke. The Chiefs defense is getting a lot older with Derrick Johnson and Tamba Hali well into their 30s. Cunningham will be the youth to keep this defense on top for awhile.

Pick 28: Dallas Cowboys – John Ross – WR, Washington

Why the hell not?! The Cowboys are looking pretty good at most positions and with it being an insanely deep draft at CB and DE they can afford to pick the best guy available and completely change the Cowboys offense. They are obviously going to be a run first team but Ross will stretch the field so they will be able to run more effectively. Ross falling this far will be a shock but there are so many better players in my eyes.

Pick 29: Green Bay – Chidobe Awuzie, CB Colorado

"Oh, thank goodness," says Packers fans after watching the end of the season last year. The Pack were fielding grocery store clerks and just about anyone that could run fast at the DB position last year. The only one that stayed healthy back there was a guy with Ha-Ha and Dix in his name... Regardless of my bad joke, this is a serious need. I can also see this pick being McCaffery if he is hanging around because of the departed Lacy, but the RB class is so deep they can get talent later at that position. Any DB available that falls will be scooped up immediately, although this may be considered a reach by many the Packers have always figured out ways to find diamonds in the rough... I think they just did it again.

Pick 30: Pittsburgh Steelers – TJ Watt – LB, Wisconsin

In January, I had the underrated and uber talented Haason Reddick going here. But because he completely shot up the draft because of his offseason program performances… Watt will fit nicely here. He isn’t as athletic as Reddick or as freakish as his brother which will be disappointing for Steelers fans but you can’t sleep on him either. He will get after the pass rusher and also can play the LB position. They will have to kick someone in to cover for the departed Lawrence Timmons but the versatility of Watt will be too juicy to pass up.

Pick 31: Atlanta Falcons: David Njoku – TE, Miami

He will not be here at 31 I can promise you this. Again same thing with Ross I just feel like there are better picks out there for the above teams. Njoku is classified by some as better than Howard. I wouldn’t go that far but he is going to be good. Very good pass catcher and runs routes well. This is a fit and a BPA choice which makes for a very very happy front office and fan base.

Pick 32: New Orleans Saints: Patrick Mahomes, QB Texas Tech

Who the hell knows what this pick is going to be… could be almost any position on defense (besides defense because Hooker was picked at 11). Could be a corner like Awuzie. Could be a LB but a lot of them have just been picked recently. Could be a DE but I think the DB class is stronger at this point of the draft. Saints defense is not really good at all. They have a good young DT and DE in Cameron Jordan and they have another good safety and decent corner in Breaux. But outside of that, it is a crap shoot. YET, the Saints go for the future and take Mahomes to learn and be groomed under a HOFer. Drew Brees told the media this year that they think the Saints should address his backup soon and look to the future for when he retires. Is this saying he is going to be retiring soon? Probably not, but a QB at this pick is smart because it means you can put the 5th year option on him and have him for awhile. This is going to be a QB if Mahomes and Kizer are both available... whether the Saints take the pick or not is a different story...

So that is my mock draft. Last year I only did one… this year I may change a few things around, but I don’t think I will do another entire draft. It takes a good amount of time. In recap, the Browns are big winners getting their QB of the future, the best player in the draft, and a solid corner. Quarterbacks, Ross and Njoku all fell down in the draft because of the crazy talent on the defensive side of the field. Titans and Seahawks trade back and collect some more picks. 3 RBs, 3 WRs are taken. Defensive end is the most active position (Garrett, Thomas, Allen, Charlton, Reddick, and Barnett). All in all, I just want to get more than 4 right this year! Woohoo, go me! And Go Miami!

Again I referenced this chart for trades: http://profootballtalk.nbcsports.com/draft/draft-trade-chart/
And noted this for team visits for some teams (teams don't NEED to visit or workout someone to draft him): http://walterfootball.com/ProspectMeetings/ByTeam

This is an Article about Football in March

So basically the point of this blog… I’m in love with football. I know basically everything that someone not on the inside of the organization or the media knows about the Miami Dolphins specifically. Which most definitely does not give me the authority to write an article, but alas here we are. This article will go over each team’s most likely FA addition based on need, coaching, and my idiocy. So without any further rambling let’s get into this…

Oh and if I get any one of these correct anyone who has clicked on this article owes me $5 for each correct pick. I’m pulling IPs so hope I suck at this.

We will go in alphabetical order by city…

Buffalo Bills:

JK we are going in whatever order I feel like… suck it reader whom I love for actually taking the time out of your day to read this.

The Bills are fresh off of Rex Ryan and I assume trying to reverse most things he did. That must be the thinking with the Tyrod Taylor release rumors. Listen, Tyrod isn’t a top 10 QB… BUT he is very formidable for a starter and a difference-maker. He can throw the deep ball very well, escapes well and makes good throws in the pocket as well. So many teams would scoop him up. I don’t expect the Bills to keep Stephon Gilmore their 1^st round CB. He could be tagged but isn’t worth that dollar figure. There are plenty of good CBs in the draft too that could be #1s. I do expect to them to get a backup corner but he is not the one I will be highlighting here. The Bills are good on offense at OL and RB, but their receivers are iffy. With Watkins always hurt and can leave next summer, I expect them to try to make a splash at receiver somehow.

Team Needs: WR, CB, DL

FA they are likely to sign: WR Kenny Britt

Miami Dolphins:

Alright, I know a lot about us. We are going to be looking hard at the defense. LBs and DL specifically. We have been linked to DT Brandon Williams from the Ravens but he would be a 2^nd/3^rd behind Suh. Rumors also are that the Dolphins are going to make a trade for a big time corner. Therefore, my guess won’t be a corner for FA purposes. I assume a pass rusher will be drafted early in the draft because of the great commodity this year. Therefore, I expect a decent LB, DE, and OG to be picked up in FA. We will likely lose Stills as well so that is in play. We won’t be able to afford someone like Donta Hightower which would’ve been nice because stealing from the Pats is a double win. But I see no reason we can’t steal from the Bills.

Team Needs: DL, LB, OG

Free Agent they are likely to sign: LB Zach Brown

New England Patriots:

I hate this team. I’m going to be able to find so many holes in this team (especially because they can’t afford their own players), and they can also be Super Bowl contenders every year. It just pisses me off. Linebacker is one of their biggest needs. They could also possibly use a pass rusher. Corner could be an issue if Butler walks. Their WR position is just ok but could be better (too many slots). TE is a problem because Gronk can’t stay healthy and Martellus is walking. Backup QB is also something to address, although they will probably get someone in the draft. Honestly, though the Patriots don’t make splashes and they always build through the draft so this guess will be awful.

Team Needs: TE, LB, QB

Free Agent they are likely to sign: DE Charles Johnson

New York Jets:

My how the mighty Jets have fallen. There is a lot of question marks for this team and could go a lot of ways. They need a QB, some OL, DBs, and LBs. So… most of their team is in need of help. Bowles is a defensive minded coach and somehow still has a job. I expect a splash at DB. OL is too ugly for them to go big on. There really isn’t any good QBs ever in FA (Garroppolo could be available by trade but wouldn’t go to the Jets where he could hurt the Pats). Linebacker is a possibility. Donta Hightower is a huge name that will be a free agent but he is likely going to have a lot of suitors and let’s face it. If you could choose to go have the same amount of money in FL or NY where would you go?

Team Needs: Most everything

Free Agent they are likely to sign: CB AJ Bouye

If you haven’t figured it out yet… We are organizing this by division then alphabetically… Jeeez wake up…

AFC North:

Baltimore Ravens:

The Ravens have a multitude of free agents this year and thus needs. They are one of the few teams that use a FB and I don’t expect the Ravens to sign him for what he truly is worth simply because the money could be used elsewhere. They also have an interesting situation at RB. I believe they like their rook Kenneth Dixon but that clearly could be an upgraded position. They also just had their safety arrested and released from the team. Their WR corps is also very meh so an upgrade for a deep threat (Flacco can bomb it) makes sense. They always love upgrading their defense as well so I wouldn’t be shocked at a splash there.

Team Needs: WR, DB, RB

Free Agent they are likely to sign: S John Cyprien

Cincinnati Bengals:

They have been wishing and wishing that one of their WRs opposite AJ Green could take some eyes off of him, but they only seem to produce when they leave. They also are going to have GLARING holes at their OL with their two best OL leaving to FA. They may be able to sign one of them back (Zeitler/Whitworth) but not both. Also creating a pass rush is a necessity in the NFL and Dunlap can’t do it all by himself while also being a DT. It just doesn’t work like that.

Team Needs: OL, WR, DL

Free Agent they are likely to sign: OT Ricky Wagner

Cleveland Browns:

God bless the Cleveland Browns. This would be my longest entry if I actually listed everything, probably a full page long. So I’m just going to list everything with 3 words after each position explaining. Let’s see how this goes:

Team Needs: QB (26 since 99), WR (bye Terrell Pryor), OL (JOE THOMAS HOF!!!! *looks at rest of OL* *RIP*), DL (cause why not), LB (*browns ownership* what’s this position?), DB (better than QBs)

Free Agent they are likely to sign: Factory of Sadness Guy https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=tRBDMMVctu8

In Memorium

All Future Cleveland Browns. May you suck so you get cut and go to another team. RIP

Pittsburgh Steelers

The Steelers just paid their RB (Bell) and WR (Brown) a lot of money. With this offensive firepower plus Bryant coming back into the fold. The team should be very strong on offense once again. Their defense seems to only show up in games that it matters the most so the playoffs and December. They’ll need to address that in March this year. They have good pass rushers but should re-sign James Harrison. They need to look to their secondary to get to that next level D that we are used to from this team. Safeties and corners would both be useful here. If I had to find another position of need it is backup QB. Ben gets hurt every year and the team just collapses. Get someone who won't crush the team and you’d compete with the Pats every year for the #1 seed.

Team Needs: CB, S, QB

Free Agent they are likely to sign: S Tony Jefferson

AFC South:

Houston Texans:

The Texans last year should’ve been playing the Pats in the AFC Champ game. Because that’s how good their team as a whole was. The defense was #2 in the NFL and offense had great playmakers. But god damn freaking Brock Osweiler happened… I cannot still believe he is able to even play in the NFL let alone make that kind of money. He is worse than me and I would only punt it. So if that isn’t a god damn help wanted sign for the team I don’t know what is. They have a great OL, RB, and WR. TE seemed to work by just spreading the ball around but I can't imagine Cj Fedorwicz is a permanent solution. AJ Bouye will leave a hole at CB upon his FA exit so that is also a place to address. DE is finally formidable as Clowney is healthy. BRING BACK HOYER!!!

Team Needs: QB!!!!!!!!!!, TE, CB

Free Agent they are likely to sign: QB Brian Hoyer

Indianapolis Colts:

The Colts have mightily struggled up front on the OL and more or less everywhere on defense. They drafted an OL last year but that didn’t help Luck too much as he was still consistently hit. Once he has time to throw, he will be the next Peyton just more mobile. CB is one decently bright spot for this defensive unit. Vontae Davis is old but still playing well when healthy. With Robert Mathis retired, a pass rusher is also necessary.

Team Needs: OL, DL, LB

Free Agent they are likely to sign: DE/LB Nick Perry

Jacksonville Jaguars:

This team seems to be in the right place. They have a good group of backs, receivers, and a good talented young defense. Where are the issues? Well, they don’t have an OL or a DL. They lose all their battles in the trenches. They also do have good players, but when they do any good they bolt in FA which is happening again this year with John Cyprien their star safety. That is a position of need as well as the aforementioned lines. I would start with protecting Borltes. Clearly, Bortles is not the answer, but he is the problem. Wait that doesn’t sound right… once his rookie deal is up there is no doubt he is out of town, and a new gunslinger will be on his way in. But until then an OL to help get a running game going should take the pressure of Bortles to see if he has ANYTHING to offer. Also, something to note, with Julius Thomas out, they could make a big splash at TE with Martellus Bennett.

Team Needs: OL, DL, S

Free Agent they are likely to sign: OT Andrew Whitworth

Tennessee Titans:

The Titans have the best OL in football next to the Cowboys. They have a great pair of RBs and a good, young QB. Not to mention a pro-bowl TE. Their offense is honestly one of the strongest in the NFL. Their WR corps is young, hungry, and underrated. They may get another guy here but in the draft probably. Their defense is where they must address. They probably could use a playmaker guy at every core position (DL, LB, DB), and they have a ton of cap. Expect a bunch of Titans linked to “blah blah blah the top blah of this year’s class”. Donta Hightower, Bouye are names to keep an eye on.

Team Needs: DL, LB, DB

Free Agent they are likely to sign: LB Dont’a Hightower

AFC West:

Denver Broncos:

The Broncos have one of the best defenses in the NFL, even though they were massively overhauled last offseason. They have one of the best duos of WRs in the NFL. They have a great RB. How did this team not even make the playoffs you might think? Well, they don’t have a great QB but even more importantly their OL is a disaster. Once Anderson went down, they couldn’t run for anything. They need to address the guard and tackle positions early and often.

Team Needs: OG, OT, QB

Free Agent they are likely to sign: OG T.J. Lang

Kansas City Chiefs:

The Chiefs already made their big splash in free agency. Signing Eric Berry to a long-term deal was the best thing they could’ve done this year. Now, what else do they need? They have a solid back and TE. They might be able to use another QB or a big tall WR that has great hands. DT is also going to be a position of need with Poe out of town. Also, Derrick Houston and Tamba Hali are getting up there in age so some rushers wouldn’t be a bad idea either.

Team Needs: WR, DT, QB

Free Agent they are likely to sign: QB Mike Glennon

Los Angeles Chargers:

The Chargers have the worst OL problems in the NFL. Oddly enough, those problems aren’t talent. It’s that they're always hurt. And last year that spread to everyone on the offense except Phillip Rivers. They could probably use another OL for depth purposes but they really should address getting an elite talent at Safety especially with the depth of the FA class at that position.

Team Needs: OG, OT, S

Free Agent they are likely to sign: S D.J. Swearinger

Oakland Raiders:

The Raiders are very close to being great and making it to the Super Bowl. They just gotta go through Tom Brady. Their offense (when healthy) is good enough to do that. They just released Latavius Murray who was truly overrated, so that leaves a small void there because they still have good backup talent there. They aren’t looking for a workhorse. Just someone who is able to take most all 1^st and 2^nd down duties. Their defense is filled with studs. They could maybe use another LB to play with Malcolm Smith.

Team Needs: RB, LB, OG

Free Agent likely to sign: RB Jacquizz Rodgers

Well, that’s all I’m going to write for now. I hope that you all enjoyed. If you want me to do the NFC or a particular team in the NFC please leave a comment or tweet at me. Thanks.

Sources I referred to:

https://www.profootballfocus.com/pro-2017-free-agency-tracker/

http://www.sportingnews.com/nfl/news/nfl-free-agency-2017-team-news-rumors-top-nfl-free-agent-best-fits-targets-alshon-jeffery-desean-jackson/1s1qwx6urfa7h16l54obclzzwn

http://www.cbssports.com/nfl/news/agents-take-lets-connect-the-dots-for-26-teams-in-nfl-free-agency/

Week 1 Thoughts

Rundown of every week 1 game for fantasy purposes:

DEN v CAR: Cam Newton is bigger than the average LB. That’s a very big man that can throw the ball very well. Benjamin came back very nicely and I expect him to have a really good season now that he showed me his 100%. But the big thing in this game is Denver’s O. Sieman didn’t look awful in his first game and he loved handing the ball off the CJ. CJ will be a top 10 RB this season because as long as they get a lead they will feed him the ball. Sanders and Demaryius are interesting but I don’t want to make any judgments on them till I see more from Sieman. Lastly, Denvers D is very good.

TB v ATL: Julio jones is good at football. Don’t doubt him. Sanu, however, had a great game because of Brent Grimes and a poor Bucs secondary. Don’t trust long term. As I have been preaching, Tevin Coleman is the back they really like in ATL. Freeman is overrated and Coleman can do it all. Not saying to start Coleman because this game was also a product of bad coverage on short routes on the bucs. Winston looked pretty good. He listened to coaches and checked down and it worked. Mike Evans will be worth his draft spot because of the amount of targets. Doug will not lose his job to Sims but I wasn’t impressed completely on Sunday. Also Sims’ TD was awful tackling. Don’t trust. Lastly, Aguayo will be fine.

MIN v TEN: This game was awful. AP did awful for some reason. Demarco did well (which is awful) and the Vikes D did well (not awful). Diggs did well which was surprising because of the QB situation but besides that no one cared about this game.

NYJ v CIN: Revis island is over and has been over. You can play people going against the Jets secondary. AJ Green is also a beast though. I love Jeremy Hill. Not sure why but I fell he will be huge this year. They love him in the red zone and when they get up in the 4^th quarter they will feed him like his rookie year. Decker and BMarsh both were top 12 in red zone targets this week. Only Decker scored a TD. Expect BMarsh to have a much better week this week 2. Forte looked very surprisingly good. I think they will feed the hot hand between him and Powell. Lastly, Eifert will be a beast when he gets back.

NO v OAK: I love Jack del Rio and you should too. Latavius murray is not going to be good long term. 3 different backs got TDs on Sunday. That doesn’t bode well for him unless he gets a few huge runs (not what he is known for). Crabtree will be fine but not great. Cooper will be great. Drew Brees is REALLY good at football. Brandin Cooks is very fast, but don’t expect more 30 point weeks. Snead is good but don’t expect more 27 point weeks. Mark Ingram didn’t get enough touches to do well this week but I expect him to turn it around if their team is ever winning. Expect the OAK defense to do a lot better over the course of the year.

CLE v PHI: Eww. Boring boring game. Ryan Mathews +Jordan Matthews are bright spots but it was also the browns. RG3 is hurt… again. Pryor looked good as a sleeper but I dunno with McCown. Barnidge will do a lot better with McCown in. Caleb Sturgis is awful at football.

CHI v HOU: Don’t trust Langford. Got a lot of touches and was bailed out by a TD. Trust Alshon. Don’t sleep on Kevin White still. They will have to throw in Chicago and it cant all go to alshon. Lamar miller had the most rushing attempts (28) on Sunday. Trust Lamar to find the end zone a lot this year and to have a top 10 year. Deandre Hopkins is always a safe option and I don’t expect fuller to take so much away from him. But he also could be a really good rook.

SD v KC: Crazy football game. Keenan going down really sucks for football. Was a great player. T Benjamin and Woodheads values go through the roof. Gates also will get more targets. Rivers has no value in fantasy without Keenan. Maclin got bailed out by a late TD but I think that he will do well over the course of the year. I think Kelce could regress but not sure why. With Ware doing so well, Charles will come back and split carries with him. No reason to rush him back either. Expect Ware to play until he is 100%.

DAL v NYG: Shocked how bad OBJ and Dez did when they normally each ball in NFCE matchups. I expect OBJ to crush it this year, but Dez has some ??? if Prescott likes him that much I think. Witten however will be a great option all year because of the amount of targets. Bailey also is a very good kicker. Cruz looked amazing and he is a good add in my opinion. But Eli is actually a good and relevant fantasy QB this year. A lot of good options to throw too and if Rashad Jennings stays healthy they will be an overall good team.

MIA v SEA: Foster looked really good in his debut especially against a tough SEA D. Landry was covered tight this game and I think that Stills will rebound from his awful performance. Baldwin is and always will be Russ’ favorite target. Jimmy graham is interesting. I don’t think he will be relevant this year anymore after loving him all offseason. Russell if healthy is a top 5 qb.

IND v DET: Luck is still a good QB. Jim Bob Cooter. That is all.

ARI v NE: I hate Julian Edelman but he will be insane with Garrapolo at QB. I don’t trust Gronk w/o brady because Bennett wasn’t even looked at this game. Blount didn’t look great, but the vote is not out yet on him. ARI got frustrated because they didn’t get any ball that went 20+ yard in the air completed. I think that will change next week against TB. Larry Fitz is a HOF. John Brown will get better. Floyd will be inconsistent all year. David Johnson is the next AP.

PIT v WSH: Reed is good, AB is better. DWill will be great until Leveon gets back. AB will get 20+ TDs this year and 2,000 yards. Ben isn’t trustworthy in fantasy though. I love the guy as a competitor but I just feel like he is going to get hurt already. Hope and pray that he doesn’t. Cousins isn’t bad and Djax is decent too but I lost by .4 partly because of him so I don’t like him rn. Reed will be great if healthy.

LA v SF: Who the hell cares?

Kyle Bazin Mock Draft 1.0

Kyle Bazin Mock Draft 1.0: This mock will include a trade or two that I see likely to happen but later in the first round trade are hard to predict back into the first round so I will keep those picks generally the same. The trades are all completed using the Draft Trade Chart that NFL teams use. Here is the link http://profootballtalk.nbcsports.com/draft/draft-trade-chart/ .

#1 - LA: Carson Wentz, QB North Dakota State

Carson is the best QB in this draft. He is just a plain winner and he has great mobility which is going to be necessary in the NFC West. Many people question Carson because of his conference and the teams he played but this team has done nothing but win championships in Division 1A and part of it is because of this guy. This team is very close to finally getting over the hump and the last piece is a QB. Hopefully Wentz is that guy to get them to the promise land.

#2 - PHI: Jared Goff, QB Cal

Therefore, Goff goes second. I feel like the Eagles expect to get Wentz but in my opinion Wentz is better thus goes #1. Goff has huge numbers at Cal and is a good fit for Doug Pederson's offense. Either Carson or Wentz could go one or two and many reports have said that Goff is actually the likely #1 overall pick, but I think based on fit per team and the better player it should be Goff to the city of brotherly love.

#3 - SD: Laremy Tunsil, OT Ole Miss

The best (arguably) player in this draft goes 3rd because of the way the league values QBs. Last year there was 20+ OL combos for the Chargers. Tunsil will hold down Rivers' blindside and also open up running lanes for last years 1st round pick, Melvin Gordon. The offense couldn't get anything going because of the line and Tunsil will help.

#4 - DAL: Jalen Ramsey, CB FSU

If you told the Cowboys they were getting the best player in the draft, they would assume you were talking about this guy. Maybe the best corner to come out since Patrick Peterson and should be a huge addition for this poor defensive group.

#5 - JAX: Myles Jack, LB UCLA

It's been the consensus pick for a while to the Jags at #5. I have no worries about his injury and think that the injury talk about him not being ready is just a smokescreen. I fully expect him to be a "Jack-of-all-trades" for this team where he can truly play any LB position.

#6 - BAL: Deforest Buckener, DT Oregon

This team needs help on the defensive line. Buckener should be a guy that you can plug and play at LE in a 3-4 or as a small, quick DT in a 4-3. Ozzie Newsome will take advantage of this freak athlete in his 3-4 defense and wreak havoc on the likes of Big Ben, Andy Dalton and *insert futures Browns QB here*.

#7 - SF: Ronnie Stanley OT, Notre Dame

His draft stock has risen immensely in the coming weeks and just in time for the 49ers to not feel like he is a reach at #7 anymore. San Fran was ranked dead last in OL production this past year (SD was 31st) and he will fill a huge need for the team.

#8 TRADE ALERT – MIA (from CLE): Ezekiel Elliot, RB Ohio St

Mike T is known for his splashy Draft day moves and this year will be no different going up 5 spots and giving up a 3rd rounder and 4th rounder (and the Dolphins get a 5th rounder back) for what could be the best back in the draft since AP. Elliot fills a huge need and is also the BPA for the Dolphins at 8. Cleveland trades back again to stock pile more picks and gets in good range for a QB (spoiler alert).

#9 - TB: Joey Bosa, DE Ohio St

Bucs war room: "THANK YOU MIAMI! WE OWE YOU A ROUND OF BEERS ON US!" The Bucs are in serious need of a DE and a corner and Hargreaves has fallen too far to justify taking him at 9. Bosa should be a nice fit with the Bucs and is also the top guy on the Bucs board at this spot. They got their guy and didn't need to trade out. (This was also a good spot for either a Miami trade or someone looking to get Elliot or Lynch.)

#10 - NYG: Jack Conklin, OT Michigan St

"Ohh that's a sexy Offensive Lineman you just picked. What number is he going to wear? I can't wait to buy his jersey." These are not the comments you will get after this pick is made but it's a glaring need and the Giants made a ton of splish splash in Free Agency that they calmed down a little for the Draft.

#11 - CHI: Leonard Floyd, LB Georgia

The guy the Bears wanted all along. Floyd's stock started to rise when Jack's fell but for good reason. This guy is a stud rushing the passer and should be able to provide a new element for a team ranked 30th in sacks last year.

#12 - NO: Sheldon Rankins, DT Louisville

The Saints ranked 30th in the league for their DL last year. Cameron Jordan can't do it all by himself and his secondary didn't do him any favors. They lost some pieces back there but if you have a good DL to rush the passer and stuff the run, then why worry about the secondary? Big Rankins will be a great asset in the Big Easy.

#13 TRADE ALERT- NYJ (from CLE and MIA): Paxton Lynch, QB Memphis  

Paxton shouldn't probably be drafted in the 1st round but because of the need to have a QB in the league today people scramble in the draft and take them too early. Good for the teams that have franchise QBs. Bad for teams like the Jets who haven't had much success in this position as of late (minus Fitzpatrick last year). Not the best thrower in this class, but he may be able to create some opportunities with his legs. The Browns get a 3rd this year and a 5th next year.

#14 - OAK: Vernon Hargeaves, CB Florida

Hargreaves is simply the best player available at this point in the draft and the team that is most interested to move up (the Steelers would have to give up a 2^nd and a 3^rd rounder according to the Draft Trade Chart that NFL teams use) simply doesn’t have the fire power to take him. The Raiders also struggled with wanting to pick Robert Nkemdiche, but they just lost an all-time great DB and hope to be drafting another one here.

#15 – TEN: Taylor Decker, OT Ohio St

Titans are interesting because they have a lot of needs and at this pick and where the board has fallen (they would prefer Conklin here) they are forced to take Decker here. Unfortunate for teams like the Colts and Lions after them, but nonetheless they need someone to play RT across from Taylor Lewan. For Mariota to have success they are going to need to be able to run the ball with new workhorse back Demarco Murray and from there the passing game will open up. The Titans made a lot of the right moves this offseason.

#16 – DET: Shaq Lawson, DE Clemson

The less famous Shaq may not be as talented, but he is a workhorse and (barring further injury) will give 110% on every snap. This is a guy that is going to give a huge spark to this defense for years to come. Hopefully, he can stay healthy though. He is coming off an injury-riddled year at Clemson, but if not for this injury he should probably be top 10.

#17 TRADE ALERT – WAS (from ATL): A’Shawn Robinson, DT Alabama

Washington traded their 1^st and 3^rd rounder’s and received this pick and a 6^th rounder of this draft so they could move up to take the best player available on their board. This guy was projected to go earlier, which is why the Redskins needed to trade up to secure their guy. I’d say it has been a pretty good week for the WAS defense getting a shutdown zone corner in Josh Norman and now filling a big hole in the defensive line with this 307 pound run stuffer.

#18 – IND: Ryan Kelly, C Alabama

Two straight Alabama products for Nick Saban’s resume and a much needed improvement at the OL for the Colts who have always struggled to protect their All-Pro QB Andrew Luck. He helped lead the way for Derrick Henry to get his Heisman Trophy last Fall and the Colts plan to continue this trend to get Frank “old guy” Gore back to his well… non-aging workhorse style.

#19 – BUF: Robert Nkemdiche, DT Ole Miss

The player with the most potential left on the board is going to the Buffalo Bills. Rex Ryan loves his defense, but this past year he ended up blaming it. His defense did not produce to his liking and uses his 1^st round pick on a player that is multi-dimensional and one of the most athletic defensive players in this draft. If not for his drug and effort issues, he would have been a top 10 pick.

#20 – CLE (from NYJ and MIA): William Jackson III, CB Houston

The Browns finally take their selection and they choose a guy they were targeting all along. WJ3 has risen up draft boards since a fantastic combine performance as well as the CB position rising because of the great talent and need at the position. Hargreaves was available at 13, but Cleveland wanted a long, rangy corner. Jackson is 6 ft and ran an impressive 4.37. Putting him across from the impressive Joe Haden should be able to let this young corner flourish and learn from an All-Pro.

#21 TRADE ALERT – MIN (from ATL and WAS): Laquon Treadwell, WR Ole Miss

The 3^rd and final Ole Miss Player of the 1^st round starts the run on receivers. Quon is recognized as the best WR available in this draft by many, including me, but it is close. Treadwell is long, tall and did not hurt himself at the combine, but he also did not help himself. The Vikings made sure they got in front of Houston to take him to become their new #1 receiver after Mike Wallace left for Baltimore. Teddy Bridgewater is very happy with his new friend and knows that this receiver is going to get that ball with the length he has. They had to give up their 4^th round pick to get him, but the Vikings feel that Quon was worth it.

#22 – HOU: Josh Doctson, WR TCU

As I said, here come the WRs. Houston is upset that Minnesota traded up to get Quon, but are still very happy with the quicker Doctson and he is the same height as Quon. New QB Brock Osweiler is excited to be paired with Deandre Hopkins already, but is very thankful that the Texans GM is helping him with a 2^nd receiver.

#23 – ATL (from MIN): Darron Lee, LB Ohio St

Atlanta was able to move back, acquire more picks, and still get their guy. Darron Lee is a quick LB that will provide a boost in the Falcons’ pass rush. The Falcons weak point last year was their defense couldn’t stop teams when they needed to. This pick should be able to provide a break to their secondary and should increase more opportunities for turnovers for Pro-Bowler Desmond Trufant.

#24 – CIN: Corey Coleman, WR Baylor

The Bengals have one of the most complete teams in the NFL, but they could use a friend for Andy Dalton and to help give AJ Green some breathing room. They go with the very fast (4.37 seconds in the 40) Coleman to help stretch the field and test the (rather poor) secondary’s of the AFC North. This pick made too much sense for the Bengals and they aren’t upset at all with Doctson and Treadwell going before them.

#25 – PIT: Eli Apple, CB Ohio St

The Steelers have been gifted something special. Earlier in the draft, they tried to trade up to get Vernon Hargreaves. Little did they know that Apple (many people see him as a top 15 pick) would fall all the way to them at #25. This was the Steelers most glaring need and are ecstatic with this tall, rangy corner which will help them contain AJ Green, Breshard Perriman, and whoever the Browns want to put at WR.

#26 – SEA: Jarran Reed, DT Alabama

The 2^nd of the Alabama DTs is taken to the immaculate Pete Carrol defense up in the Pacific Northwest. The best player available looks to improve the weakest link of the Seattle defense throughout the year. With the team losing key player Bruce Irvin, they will hope that Jarran can pull a couple of players onto him so that pass rushers can get to the QB as Bruce was.

#27 – GB: Reggie Ragland, LB Alabama

Another set of back-to-back Alabama players brings a studly underrated linebacker to a poor Packer defense. Clay Matthews needs an inside LB to help him control the defense and this guy should be great for years to come controlling the exceptional defense at one of the top college football programs. Look for Ragland to follow the Packers mold of drafting great players.

#28 – KC: Will Fuller, WR Notre Dame

Fuller is the best wideout available this late in the 1^st round and should help Alex Smith and alleviate double coverages from Jeremy Maclin. This kid ran the 40 yard dash (4.32 seconds) the fastest of the other 3 WRs taken before him and is standing at 6 feet exactly. Look for Will to be able to stretch the field at the WR2 position, so Maclin will still shine in short/intermediate/deep routes.

#29 TRADE ALERT – CLE (from ARI): Kevin Dodd, DE Clemson

Dodd has been put very closely to his former teammate Shaq Lawson in many mock drafts, but Shaq just has the drive to push him higher then Kevin. Kevin has a better potential because he is less of an injury risk but the Browns are happy to trade up for him after trading down 3 times already in this draft. One of the best players available on their board, Dodd will provide a lot of pressure to opposing QBs and has the talent to pair with fellow rookie corner William Jackson III to form a decent Browns defense. The trade was difficult to figure out because of the picks acquired in this draft and where they were located. The Browns gave up the 100^th pick (4^th round) in the draft and the 32^nd pick (2^nd round) for the 29^th pick and a 5^th round pick next year.

#30 – CAR: Artie Burns, CB Miami (FL)

Carolina just lost their star corner due to them not wanting to pay for Norman’s contract next year. They saved a ton of money, but they lost one of their best defensive players and especially have left a gaping hole in their secondary. Artie Burns is a quick, raw corner that can hopefully fill that spot for the Panthers. He also is at 6 foot so they don’t lose out on Norman’s height. Burns has a ton of potential and opportunity to grow in this spunky Panthers D that pressures the QB like no other. Look for Artie to have a good, yet unexpected season.

#31 – DEN: Christen Hackenburg, QB Penn St

The next QB taken in the draft is argued by many. Some would say that Connor Cook has to be the next guy because of the way he just wins games. Some go with Hackenburg because he has looks like he will fit the NFL mold better than Cook. Regardless of your camp, the Broncos need to draft a QB. Mark Sanchez is not the answer. Every team he has been on, he has not been the answer. He is there to not make mistakes and he still makes them. The Broncos still need to try to sign a veteran QB like Fitzpatrick, but getting a rookie QB that can learn under John Elway and a team that just won the Super Bowl isn’t a bad gig at all.

I referenced Mike Mayock’s newest and last top 100 prospects (http://www.nfl.com/news/story/0ap3000000655903/article/mike-mayocks-2016-nfl-draft-top-100-prospect-rankings?campaign=tw-nf-sf25029325-sf25029325), NFL.com’s Mock Draft Centra; (http://www.nfl.com/draft/2016/mock-drafts) and also my own knowledge of the teams and players. To find out about additional needs for teams I referenced CBSSports’ article on each teams needs (http://www.cbssports.com/nfl/eye-on-football/25563508/2016-nfl-draft-team-needs-ranking-position-units-of-all-32-teams). 

The Final Fantasy Rundown... in 2015

Hey guys here is my last rundown for the 2015 fantasy football season in my college fantasy league. I hope you enjoy!

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