2019 Mock Draft 1.0

Mock Draft 1.0

Rules: I’m not going to do trades this year because they are so impossible to predict. I am trying to make the prediction of what I think the team will take based on personal research, 30 visits, and gut feeling.

1.      Arizona Cardinals - QB Kyler Murray, Oklahoma: 2 years in a row a Sooner QB is drafted first overall. Sam Bradford would be proud. Honestly though, I feel bad for Josh Rosen. As a Cardinals fan though, I’m excited. This pick should signal the high-flying offense that was the exact opposite as last year. The future looks bright for this team.

2.      San Francisco 49ers – Edge Nick Bosa, Ohio State: I don’t think he is the best player in the draft. Nor do I think that Kyler is. But regardless, the 49ers go with the best EDGE player available and the family name that has dominated the NFL for some time.

3.      New York Jets – Edge Josh Allen, Kentucky: Still not the best player in this draft class. However, the Jets don’t need that position. But you pair a young DL stud to go with their young QB for the next 12 years and I’m kinda not happy that the Jets are in my division anymore.

4.      Oakland Raiders – DT Quinnen Williams, Alabama – THE RAIDAAAAZ somehow get the best player in this draft at 4. This guy isn’t your Aaron Donald type but he is easily your Suh and is probably better than him. I have a really hard time finding someone that has any complaint about him. He can’t replace Mack but he will make an impact that is uncommon at the DT position.

5.      Tampa Bay Buccaneers – DE Rashan Gary, Michigan: Honestly… I have no idea what happens at this pick. There is a need now at LB so Devin White from LSU would fit here. They could pick from either Sweat or Gary here but I am going off the fact that they have done some serious looking at Gary per WalterFootball.com. It’s not like you can ever have enough pass rushers either and the potential here is off the charts. But a lot of people complain that while the potential is there and that Michigan didn’t play the scheme for him to be successful, it is somewhat noteworthy that there is virtually no good tape to be able to back this top 5 pick up.

6.      New York Giants – QB Daniel Jones, Duke: God I hope I’m wrong here and that the smoke screens are just fooling me because as a Dolphins fan I know how this one goes. This guy is Ryan Tannehill 2.0. Surprisngly mobile, not incredibly accurate, not a great deep ball. His teammates had a ton of drops so people will point to that but I just want to see more out of the 2^nd QB taken and am confused as to why it isn’t Haskins or Lock. Though Daniel Jones or Haskins does kinda remind me of Eli to an extent.

7.      Jacksonville Jaguars – OT Jawaan Taylor, Florida: This seems to be a unanimous pick here. Jacksonville is still on board with continuing to beef up this team so they can run down their throat and protect their new franchise QB. Jawaan will fill a void on the right side of that line and is definitely a tackle where some people guess about that with Jonah Williams.

8.      Detroit Lions – DE Montez Sweat, Mississippi St: This pick makes a ton of sense. First, probably the best guy on the board still. Second, “aww man we just lost Ansah, we gotta fill that void. Oh hi Montez!” Sweat looks like a workout warrior and a beast, my only worry is how much of that was a product of another beast on that DL Jeffery Simmons eating up multiple blockers. Solid, safe, smart pick here.

9.      Buffalo Bills – OT Jonah Williams, Alabama: This pick is a tough one too. This feels like a OL or DL pick. Buffalo also wants to be a ground and pound team. They traded their starting tackle last year to the Bengals (Cordy Glenn) and their two DEs are not likely to be on the team in 2020, but I have kinda leaned either Dillard or Williams over Oliver and Co. (see what I did there 😉) . At the end of the day though I don’t know if this pick messed up the next few picks because….

10.   Denver Broncos – QB Drew Lock, Missouri: John Elway has been picking up the wrong part of the QB trade for a little bit from Case Keenum to Trevor Siemian to Paxton Lynch and now he brings in Joe “Cool” Flacco. While Flacco while make some great plays this year up in mile high, I expect him to take the Chiefs model and go with what I feel is the 3^rd best QB in this draft over Haskins.

11.   Cincinnati Bengals – QB Dwayne Haskins, Ohio St: And it’s not like Haskins will wait very long to hear his name. Only reason I’m not completely sold on this pick is that Zac Taylors introductory press conference was half about raving on Andy Dalton. Not sure why you would sell your soul for Dalton but alas… they did. If Cincy doesn’t take him here, I am very confident that some other team (hint hint Washington) will trade up to get above Miami because they don’t want to take the chance and trading from 15 to 11 isn’t going to be worth the whole ranch.

12.   Green Bay Packers – DT Ed Oliver, Houston: I’m not gonna speculate on this one because to be honest I have no idea what the Packers will do. They have like no official visits that have been reported. They have plenty of defensive needs as always and I’d like to be able to pick an edge here but they didn’t visit with Brian Burns but they did with Ed Oliver who could play various positions for the Green & Gold.

13.   Miami Dolphins – DE Brian Burns, Florida St: Firstly before I say anything about this pick… PLEASE TRADE BACK! Especially if this is how the board falls. Second, the Dolphins I think really want Sweat or Gary and possibly Oliver. They’ve done a lot of work with Sweat and Gary but they won’t trade up to get them. They like the Clemson DL too between Wilkins, Lawrence and Ferrell, I think that Wilkins would be their guy if they go that route. The ONLY reason I am picking Burns here is because a reporter I trust, Armando Salguero, reported that Burns would be his pick based on his college tape and potential vs other kids like Gary that only have potential and no tape. He isn’t the Dolphins and this pick will likely be changed in 2.0 next week, but this is where I land for now.

14.   Atlanta Falcons – CB Jerome Baker, Georgia: One of the biggest needs here is at DB with them losing one of their boundary and slot corners this offseason. Jerome is a local product and if the Falcons let a guy that plays college ball in their backyard get away they may just be kicking themselves. The cornerback big board is different for every team and while I love Greedy Williams, Baker and Murphy might just be a little safer for teams in the middle of the 1^st round.

15.   Washington Redskins – WR DK Metcalf, Ole Miss: Let’s be clear here. I am not a fan of DK. He has bust written all over him to me. People will look at his great combine numbers but I keep getting stuck on his 3 cone drill. I really don’t want my 1^st round talent WR to be as stiff as a board and not be able to divert from a straight line. No he isn’t a lot and he is good at highpointing the ball, but if it isn’t in his area how is he gonna get there? This pick is honestly just a product of all of the QBs gone and I can see a trade back here if someone really wants Jonah Williams or Andre Dillard.

16.   Carolina Panthers – OL Jonah Williams, Alabama: And the reason they will need to trade up is because Carolina could really use a tackle. Some teams view him as a guard rather than a tackle so it will be interesting to see who takes him and where he plays because he much prefers to be a tackle. That said, when picking between Jonah and Andre, most will go with the sure Alabama prospect rather than a Washington State Cougar.

17.   New York Giants – LB Devin White, Louisiana St: If the Bengals and Broncos both go QB… honestly I’m not sure where the Devin’s fit. Sure White could go to the Bucs to fill a need or even to Detroit or Buffalo… but I just don’t have it here. There are so many great defensive players and LBs have been getting the butt of all the jokes because they don’t sack the quarterback or create interceptions. White is a sideline to sideline guy and will be a stud for the GMen.

18.   Minnesota Vikings – OG/C Garrett Bradbury, North Carolina St: This could be Jonah if he falls but I have a feeling that the Vikings will want to protect their 84 MILLION DOLLAR boy and get back to a ground and pound attack with Dalvin Cook. Bradbury is a mauler upfront and can play guard and allow Pat Elfelin to stay at Center.

19.   Tennessee Titans – DL Christian Wilkins, Clemson: A few years ago the Titans took a Clemson defensive lineman in Kevin Dodd and it was thought of as a steal. While this won’t be a steal, it also won’t end up the same as Dodd’s poor career. Wilkins is a beast in the middle and should be at least a solid starter for awhile.

20.   Pittsburgh Steelers – CB Byron Murphy, Washington: What an awful pick Artie Burns was a few years back. It was shocking and the awful reviews turned out to be correct. Byron is a solid safe player that will be playing for the Steelers for awhile. He won’t be as flashy as Greedy Williams will, but the Steelers just need something solid for now to shore up their awful secondary.

21.   Seattle Seahawks – CB Greedy Williams, Louisiana State: Seattle doesn’t have the biggest need at corner (although you can always use a shutdown defender), but this just feels like such a Carrol/Schneider pick. A young ballhawk to play on the outside and dominate these young NFC West QBs (Goff, Kyler, JimmyG is young in snaps).

22.   Baltimore Ravens – LB Devin Bush, Michigan: I don’t know if this is such an old Baltimore regime type pick but they love getting their defensive studs and with CJ Mosley going to Gang Green here is a great backer for the rangy Ravens.

23.   Houston Texans – OT Andre Dillard, Washington State: This makes all the sense. Texans need to do anything to help Deshaun Watson stay healthy and on his feet. They’ve met with Andre twice and he is the best OL on the board by a good margin.

24.   Oakland Raiders – TE TJ Hockenson, Iowa: Another player that I feel like fell way too far but that the QBs make drop. The Raiders somehow get a player that could be drafted in the top 10 by the Lions or Bills or Broncos. He won’t last this long but anything is possible on draft night.

25.   Philadelphia Eagles – CB Rock Ya-Sin, Temple: The later the draft goes, the harder it gets to slot picks in because these teams don’t have many obvious holes. The Eagles secondary however could be worked on. Another home ball player that even plays his home games at the Linc. I expect that Philly will have done their homework and this is about the beginning of Ya-Sin’s range.

26.   Indianapolis Colts – DT Jeffery Simmmons, Mississippi St: In my opinion, Jeffery is one of the biggest reasons for Montez Sweat’s success. Constantly in double teams but he falls so far because he tore his ACL in the draft process. I don’t know if he will fall as Sidney Jones did a few years ago because of his supreme talent. I really hope the Dolphins have a shot at him in the 2^nd but I doubt he lasts that long.

27.   Oakland Raiders – DL Clelin Ferrell, Clemson – Probably one of the best guys still on the board and at a position that the Raiders are lacking a bit (at least they got 2 1^st rounders from Chicago). Ferrell was on one of the best DLs college football has seen in awhile. This should be a solid pick and a little more comforting knowing they got two top 10 talent guys (Q Williams and Hockenson) as well as an additional edge rushers. Great first draft for Mayock and Gruden.

28.   Los Angeles Chargers - DL Dre’Mont Jones, Ohio State: I’m at the point of the mock where you aren’t reading anymore and I’m running out of people that I know to put here on teams that are to be honest pretty stacked. The Chargers have more or less zero holes but you can always use more big bodies.

29.   Kansas City Chiefs – S Johnathan Abraham, Mississippi State: Kansas City lost their emotional leader in Eric Berry. While Abraham didn’t beat cancer TWICE, this player is one of the most emotional trash talkers on the field. The Chiefs need a dog in their secondary because to be honest it looks like it is just puppys back there.

30.   Green Bay Packers – OG Cody Ford, Oklahoma – This guy can literally go anywhere. I’ve seen him as high as pick 11 to a 2^nd rounder. I fully expect the Packers to be pumped to get a replacement for Brian Bulaga after his retirement.

31.   Los Angeles Rams – TE Noah Fant, Iowa: Why not? The rich get richer right? I don’t see a lot of immediate needs. Maybe pass rusher but there aren’t a ton that are of a great value like Fant here. I’m sure the Patriots are pissed HAHA TOO BAD NEW ENGLAND.

32.   New England Patriots – DL Dexter Lawrence, Clemson: And it isn’t like the Patriots still don’t get a great player. Lawrence is a smaller DT but he is a bully. Belichick will figure it out with him I’m sure which is just plain annoying.

Sources: WalterFootball.com, Matt Miller Bleacher Report Big Board, my brain

TS vs KB Mock Draft 2.0

In this version, we allowed trades because a mock without trades is unrealistic. There is going to be nonsense happening all over. We hope you enjoy. Let us know who's picks you like better!

Pick 1. Cleveland Browns: QB Sam Darnold, USC (Thomas Stanhouse)

I’m not going to change this one. I think this is a QB all the way, it’s a matter of which one they want.

TS: I change what I think the Giants are doing though.

Pick 2. New York Giants: QB Josh Allen, Wyoming (Kyle Bazin)

Same same here too for me. Eli has a good season left in him and then a (forced) retirement? Bills could trade up but not all the way here.

TS: Alrighty… I’m hearing a bunch of rumors about how much they like Barkley. Also, something I didn’t realize until recently, they just drafted a QB in the 3^rd round last year, and they could like him, or just like Eli still.

KB: Oh, they love Barkley and he could be the guy but if they truly think they won’t be drafting in the top 5 again then you need to draft a generational QB here and now. And they don’t like Webb. He wasn’t put in when Eli was benched. Geno Smith was. I think they take Allen then trade Webb for a 5^th or something.

Pick 3. New York Jets (from IND): QB Josh Rosen, UCLA (TS)

Nothing different here either. If Rosen and Darnold are gone though, I think they would go Mayfield 3^rd on their board.

KB: Really? You don’t think they like Allen? I think they prefer Allen>Mayfield but Rosen is their preferred target. *UPDATE from the future* I now think that the Baker hype is real to the Jets but partly because I feel like teams are afraid of Rosen’s concussions. I have been hearing a lot of people saying that Rosen will fall to the Dolphins now.

TRADE! Pick 4. Buffalo Bills (from CLE via HOU): QB Baker Mayfield, Oklahoma (KB)

The first different pick from our last mock is something we have assumed would happen all along. And now that we are doing trades it can come true. Buffalo WILL trade up to get their QB, it just depends on when. Again, the #2 pick is in play for them, but I have now heard that the Giants have gotten offers from BUF and aren’t blown away enough because they really like a player at #2 (I think they believe Darnold will be available). Cleveland will demand less than the Jets because they already got their 1^st rounder in. CLE picks up the Bills 2 1^st rounders and is ready to turn their franchise around at 12 and 21.

Pick 5. Denver Broncos: RB Saquon Barkley, Penn State (TS)

Goodbye CJ Anderson. Hello, better prospect than Zeke. No way they settle for a guard after that move and the top QBs are gone. I don’t think Barkley will fall past here.

Pick 6. Indianapolis Colts (from NYJ): Edge Bradley Chubb (KB)

I literally forgot Chubb was here with all the QB action. You remember when they actually had a good DE? Robert Mathis or maybe you remember this guy named Freeney. Both are HOF/All-Pro types and people are already saying Chubb could be the next Mack. Dominant from Day 1. They’re also saying that he might be better than last year’s #1 Garrett.

Pick 7: Tampa Bay Buccaneers: OG Quenton Nelson, Notre Dame (TS)

Wooh! I’m still happy even though the Bucs don’t get Chubb. I’ve already said why I love Nelson before, but he’s going to make an impact on a team from the OG position. Bucs offense only needs a RB now, maybe two.

KB: Just make it 3.

Pick 8. Chicago Bears: LB Tremaine Edmunds, Virginia Tech (KB)

Can’t change this pick. Could be an All-Pro but could be a bust. Chicago has done some stuff to address the O this year (would’ve picked Nelson if available) but Edmunds would be a great addition to the D.

Pick 9. San Francisco 49ers: LB Roquan Smith, Georgia (TS)

I’m changing this one up too actually. The 49ers most glaring need was at LB, especially in the run game. With 2017’s Rueben Foster shenanigans, they still need one. From a fan base perspective, they want this pick too. Also, I think Fitzpatrick would be a better fit than James here. I was really close to picking him but LB is more of a must than a need for this team.

KB: Like this pick a lot. Foster may never play a down in the NFL again.

Pick 10. Oakland Raiders: DB Minkah Fitzpatrick, Alabama (KB)

Raiders did not get better in the secondary this offseason. They were already bad last year. They can put Minkah at safety, hybrid, slot, or even outside. Perfect player for a team with a lot of secondary issues.

TS: This is who I was hoping you would take here.

TRADE! Pick 11. Baltimore Ravens (from MIA): QB Lamar Jackson, Louisville (TS)

I saw a tweet with an interesting phone conversation with Bucky Brooks. Ravens just signed RG3 and are in a good position to create an offense that would be good for Lamar. Flacco has fallen off in recent years and certainly hasn’t lived up to his contract. They want a cheaper option, a reliable backup, and a good option to look forward to in the future. They might not move on from Flacco immediately, but this team makes the most sense to land him. They also want to trade here so that AZ doesn’t get a shot at him. The Dolphins and Ravens would swap 1sts while switching one of the Dolphins fourth rounder for the Ravens 2^nd.

KB: YES, THANK YOU! I’m hearing Dolphins will be giddy with Vita Vea, but I know that they feel LB is a bigger need. Get ready.

Pick 12. Cleveland Browns (from BUF via CIN): DT Vita Vea, Washington (KB)

What a trade, what a trade. Cleveland gets a haul this year with Darnold being their future and now Vea solidifying one of their last needs at DT. AND THEY HAVE ANOTHER FIRST! Vea will be perfect and coincidentally be replacing Danny Shelton who was drafted out of Washington…

Pick 13. Washington Redskins: DB Derwin James, Florida State (TS)

This is kind of a steal for the Redskins. They could still use help in the secondary, and James is a versatile enough to play a variety of roles. They could still use help in the secondary, and James is versatile enough to play a variety of roles. The team implemented a hybrid role that just opened up with the trade of Su’a Cravens, so James could fill that too. This is a little early for DT Payne, so I think they take BPA over need in this case. I’m not sure who will trade up but it’s possible that it happens too.

Pick 14. Green Bay Packers: CB Denzel Ward, Ohio St (KB)

Same pick as last time. Secondary NEEDS help so they just might jump up to 11 or higher to grab Ward/Fitzpatrick/James. If James fell one more spot they would have an immediate start across from Ha-Ha after losing Morgan Burnett.

TS: They need a DB, but I like Josh Jackson more, but Ward is a major athlete.

Pick 15. Arizona Cardinals: WR Calvin Ridley, Alabama (TS)

The Cardinals really want a QB and are also likely to trade up for one. The Giants pick might determine if they can or not, and it’s unknown how much each team really likes Lamar. So, the Cardinals could do several things. Ridley is a stud. I think he might the Sam Darnold of WRs in this draft. Has the instincts to get open, and a lot of teams like him. Fills an immediate and long-term need at the position.

Pick 16. Miami Dolphins (from BAL): LB Leighton Vander Esch, Boise State (KB)

I think this is an ideal situation for Miami. Move back, collect some picks for the MANY needs we have and then get in a good range for Evans or Vander Esch. I think they prefer Vander from what I’ve been hearing (visited him 3 times vs 2 for Evans) and he also is the perfect LB in that he can play at all three spots. Love this scenario.

KB: And the Chargers still get Payne.

Pick 17. Los Angeles Chargers: DT Da’ron Payne, Alabama (TS)

Chargers don’t get Vea, but they still want DL and I think this is a good spot for him to go. No OTs have been taken, but they really need DT.

Pick 18. Seattle Seahawks: Edge Marcus Davenport, UTSA (KB)

Same pick here as last time. Seattle’s rebuild(?) is underway and they need corner, edge, WR, and most of their OL still to be fixed. I expect they could go for one of the available corners, but I think Davenport makes more sense with his incredible upside.

KB: Cowboys still can go anywhere but with the Dez release it makes it more intriguing.

Pick 19. Dallas Cowboys: LB Rashaan Evans, Alabama (TS)

I’m going to keep this the same, but this pick is much harder than before. DJ Moore is the other guy they need. But the depth and quality LB they could get on the 2^nd day isn’t as good as the depth for WR, so I lean this way.

Pick 20. Detroit Lions: Edge Harold Landry, Boston College (KB)

RUNNING TO THE PODIUM. Not even going to ask you if someone wants to trade because Detroit won't either. Perfect hit here as I described in the last mock.

Pick 21. Cincinnati Bengals: OT Mike McGlinchy, Notre Dame (TS)

The Bengals will still lock in their starting tackle here, and even with Orlando Brown and Connor Williams on the board, I think they really like Mike.

KB: Orlando isn’t a 1^st anymore and Williams but not be either. NE might take the latter though.

Pick 22. Cleveland Browns (from BUF): CB Mike Hughes, UCF (KB)

Lots of red flags as to why he transferred to UCF but none on the field. He has FLOWN up draft boards since the combine. Originally, I was high on him at 24, but I think he will be the 2^nd/3^rd corner off the board.

TS: CB to Cleveland makes sense.

KB: I think so. Not necessarily a must, but you can never have enough good corners. They can address RB later if they want, but they really don’t need to.

Pick 23. New England Patriots (from LAR): OT Kolton Miller, UCLA (TS)

The difference in this mock is no edge or LBs fell to them, so they address a need that had plenty of talent left on the board and get their pick to protect the asset (Brady). CB and WR is also valued here, but they have another 1^st at 31 and can probably get someone they like.

KB: Arden Key not included because BB knows better about his question marks. Patriots surprisingly have a lot of needs.

Pick 24. Carolina Panthers: CB Jaire Alexander, Louisville (KB)

Our first newcomer to the mock (based on our last mock). Jaire isn’t tall but he has incredible speed and cover skills. The reason you haven’t heard of him was that he played hurt and then was hurt for half of 2017. But he was an All-Star in 2016. His stock has risen tremendously since the combine because it looks like he is back to 100%.

KB: I hate Josh Jackson now if you can’t tell.

Pick 25. Tennessee Titans: Edge Arden Key, LSU (TS)

I want to lock this pick into the Titans. Other edge rushers shouldn’t fall here, and I don’t think Key goes higher unless BB sees Super Bowl written on him.

KB: I still like the Key pick, but I’ve heard more and more that he won’t be picked in the 1^st because of the red flags. Maybe even pushed down to the 3^rd.

Pick 26. Atlanta Falcons: DT Taven Bryan, Florida (KB)

I don’t think this guy appeared in the last mock either! I love Maurice Hurst (and he would be my pick if I was GM) but Bryan has shot up draft boards as well. Hurst has been consistently great while Bryan has only recently found a high level of play, however, some teams still haven’t cleared Hurst. Last year, Bryan was a lean, quick interior lineman who could get into the backfield in a hurry. Just shy of 300 pounds, he will have to rely on his speed, agility, and moves to get past fatter guards and centers.

TRADE! Pick 27. New England Patriots (from Saints): QB Mason Rudolph, Oklahoma State (TS)

Well, the Saints love this because they’ll still get a player they want, and the Patriots want to secure a QB that they want. They could even draft 2 QBs. This isn’t a big jump, but the Steelers, Jaguars and the Saints themselves all could go QB here. They probably wouldn’t, but the Patriots don’t want to risk that and have the picks to afford moving up. I also really like Rudolph, and New England is a pretty good place to have a career, even in Brady’s shadow.

KB: Good, I manufactured this trade even though they were both your picks but if the board falls like this, this is a strong possibility.

Pick 28. Pittsburgh Steelers: S Justin Reid, Stanford (KB)

Same pick here. The need on the defensive side is for starters (LB, S) and on the offensive side, it’s for backups (QB, RB, WR, OL). Why don’t you tell me what they do?

Pick 29. Jacksonville Jaguars: WR Cortland Sutton, SMU (TS)

I’m changing this because it seems to be more of a consensus that they really need a WR on the outside. With Rudolph gone, I think they’re going here. Sutton is a good fit because they already have young slot WRs, but they need a taller guy on the outside. I talked a lot about him last draft. I think this is a smooth landing spot for him.

KB: BOOOOOO!!!! SUTTON SUCKS! They need OL or TE. Bortles can’t throw for shit so he won’t be able to even make it to wherever Sutton’s horrible route running takes him.

Pick 30. Minnesota Vikings: OG Will Hernandez, UTEP (KB)

Same here for me again. They desperately need interior OL and this is just the first early pick they will use on one.

Pick 31. New Orleans Saints (from Patriots): TE Dallas Goedert, South Dakota St (TS)

It’s probably more likely that they go Goedert over Andrews, but Andrews is still a good fit here so it could be either TE. But either way, the team wants to finally address the need at the position. This team could also use a LB. I’m trying to fit Hurst into these teams, but it seems that he is going to be a steal in the second in this mock.

KB: Goedert is fine here but Hurst>Andrews all day long. The TE tiers are becoming clear and Andrews is in the 3^rd tier. They could get him in the 2^nd round easy. Gesicki (however you spell it) is right below the Goedert and Hurst tier.

TRADE! Pick 32: Indianapolis Colts (from Eagles): RB Derrius Guice, LSU

LOL! Why not? Indy has 2 of the top 5 picks tomorrow so they trade one of them and a 4^th/5^th to the Eagles that only have 1 pick in the first 3 rounds. Indy is also trying to jump CLE who has the next two picks because they’ll likely be looking at RB here as well. You could put Chubb (low on boards)/Michel (injuries on injuries)/Penny (low on boards) here instead, but Guice is the guy I’m hearing.

Thus, concluding our TS and KB Mock Draft 2.0.

2018 FINAL MOCK DRAFT 5.0

Here we go. My final mock. I know there is going to be an additional trade between 24-31 but I can't feel confident about who it is. DISCUSS ON TWITER! CALL ME ON MY SHIT!

2018 Thomas - Kyle Mock Draft

Afternoon everyone! Here is a fun little mock draft that Thomas and I are going to do together. Essentially Thomas gets all of the odd picks and I get all of the evens (spoiler alert the odds picks are easier). We didn't allow trades in THIS draft but you can see where we think trades might happen, especially early on, with our commentary below most picks. TS and KB just identify who is making the pick. Let us know if you have any feedback on this! Without further ado...

Pick 1. Cleveland Browns: QB Sam Darnold, USC (Thomas Stanhouse)

I’m going with the idea that they want their pick at their QB of the future instead of their pick of skill position. Darnold is raw but has all the intangibles teams look for, and the Browns are in the perfect situation to help him prosper (ideally, it is the Browns though). The addition of Tyrod makes this more likely in my eyes, as he’s a good serviceable bridge QB for their future star to ride in over.

Pick 2. New York Giants: QB Josh Allen, Wyoming (Kyle Bazin)

Uggghhhh I hate this. I really wanted Saquon to go at 1. Although I feel like CLE will go with Darnold there, it just makes this pick so much harder. NYG need to address the RB position but how often are you going to find a talent like this kid for cheap for 4+ years? My guess is that Eli plays a victory lap season in 2018, then retires. (If only he could beat the Pats one more time…) Allen will be the Cam Newton/Jamarcus Russell of this draft. Let’s see which one he turns out to be. Also, the reason I don’t go Rosen or Barkley here is tough. Rosen is ready now, but he has possible off-field issues and RBs can be found in round 5 if you pick well. Allen will have a year to learn under a 2-time Super Bowl Champ.

KB: Sorry about the long commentary.

TS: That’s OK. The Giants are the reactionary pick to whatever CLE’s plan is, so they need a bit of an explanation.

Pick 3. New York Jets (from IND): QB Josh Rosen, UCLA (TS)

Trading up early in the first round PRIOR to the draft usually results in a QB picked. This is all the more reason that the Browns would want to take their QB at 1, since he may not be there at 4. But back to the Jets, Teddy Bridgewater brings some value but isn’t a star by any means and McCown is so old I could date his daughter (I think…). Rosen might be the most NFL ready QB and the Browns may be eyeing him too. A lot of talent in these 3 QBs. I took awhile to try to justify picking another position, but I think QB makes too much sense.

TS: By the way, I forgot to say you’re welcome!

KB: Oh, trust me I will thank you in the commentary. I will say that if Darnold goes 1 this is how I see it happening.

Pick 4. Cleveland Browns (from HOU): RB Saquon Barkley, Penn State (KB)

RUN CLEVELAND!!! THE WHOLE CITY NEEDS TO RUN TO DALLAS TO PUT THIS PICK IN!! If Barkley falls to 4 after they get Darnold, the city will throw another parade. He is the best non-QB in the draft and everyone says he is better than Zeke or Fournette. That is saying something, but I’ll tell you the OL he will be running behind will make him look like the second coming of AP. Thank you Thomas, from Cleveland and myself, for letting him fall to here. As much as this pick makes soooo much sense… watch out for the Bills here. If one of the top QBs falls here, they may be looking to move up if he is “their guy”. Cleveland would be fine passing on Barkley and picking up a great player at 12 and maybe also 21.

Pick 5. Denver Broncos: G Quenton Nelson, Notre Dame (TS)

From what I understand, the Broncos plan to keep Paxton Lynch as their back up to Keenum, so I don’t think they want to draft a 3^rd QB, even if one of the top 3 fell here. The OL has struggled and Nelson would be welcomed with a red carpet as a day one starter. He can eliminate any defender in the box in the rung game. He’s strong, fluid, and nasty enough to open a hole in the middle and is athletic enough to pull and block on the outside and in open space. You don’t wanna be in his way. He’s a natural day one pass blocker as well and is disciplined in his role. I love this guy.

Pick 6. Indianapolis Colts (from NYJ): Edge Bradley Chubb (KB)

Can I just say what a move by GM Chris Ballard? Chubb is their guy. One could argue they should be looking at Barkley, but I think this was the only consensus pick in the top 10. He is ready for the next level and will compete close to a pro bowl level immediately. He isn’t quite the athletic freak that Clowney or Myles Garrett are, but this guy blew up tackles all year long. Only one guy I saw that handled him well was another 1^st rounder Mitch McKinley out of Notre Dame. Thomas I’m sure this pick makes you want to cower in a corner and cry, right?

TS: Last year we saw perhaps a more intimidating DE go #1 overall, but if Chubb falls short, I’m not sure where. He is a complete package and ready to go. Although, I will say that I saw this pick like a train… I was just tied to the tracks.

Pick 7: Tampa Bay Buccaneers: DB Minkah Fitzpatrick, Alabama (TS)

BPA by a good margin that also fills a need. This is a top 4 draft talent that falls right in the lap of the Bucs. Honestly, if 3 QBs go early, the Bucs will be happy with any of the top 4 non-QBs. I think he plays safety, a position the Bucs have been mediocre at best at for way too long. Hargreaves is underrated from the slot, so primarily I think it’s optimal to keep him there. But if the Bucs feel the need, they can push him outside and Fitzpatrick can play slot. I know they like James (I do too) but Fitzpatrick is the better talent, versatile, and I think (and pray) the Bucs go with it.

TS: Speaking on trades, if one of the top 4 QBs is available, I’m not sure if you can convince the Bills or Dolphins to trade up to ensure the other doesn’t trade in front of them. This would be a spot that I think the Bucs may want to move back.

KB: I really don’t see Miami moving up into the top 10. They explored that early but quickly realized how much it would take. I think they would be happy with any of the LBs, Nelson, or Baker falling to them at 11.

Pick 8. Chicago Bears: LB Tremaine Edmunds, Virginia Tech (KB)

I feel like I’m getting the early tough decisions here while you get the easy pick of Minkah. Bears could go in so many directions and the only person taken above that I feel like they’re banging the table for is Nelson. They could easily go WR-Ridley (even with the ARob signing because of Meredith likely gone) but I think it’s deep enough there that they go BPA and get the player with the best potential. Oh, and the guy won’t even be 20 years old until after the draft. He can rush the passer, go sideline-to-sideline. Plug and play with this guy.

KB: That pick was tough for me. I really don’t know if I’m happy with it.

TS: I thought you were going to go with Denzel Ward here, but I would’ve picked Edmunds too. I’m upset because Edmunds was the 49ers pick.

KB: I wasn’t thinking of Ward because of the Amukumara and Fuller extensions.

Pick 9. San Francisco 49ers: Derwin James DB, Florida State (TS)

The Bears could go a lot of different directions I agree with you, but why’d you have to pick Edmunds? Ughh… Most people are going with Ward here, and while he’d fit in AND START AS A NICKEL, (yes, the NFL is there), yet I agree with Bazin on his pick. The 49ers could pick any defender here and upgrade their eyesore of a defense. James is the guy I think. DBs were particularly hard to watch for SF, and James is not only arguably BPA, but adds a needed presence in the locker room. Great football spirit.

KB: Like this pick a lot. Especially because they’re likely losing Eric Reid and the signing of 

Sherman means they got their top CB.

TS: Roquan Smith was the other guy I was thinking about for the 49ers, I think James has a bit more value though.

Pick 10. Oakland Raiders: LB Roquan Smith, Georgia (KB)

Derwin James is a perfect pick, mainly because that means Smith is available to pick here. Roquan Smith fills the void left by Navarro Bowman, which is funny because he plays exactly like a younger Bowman. He is a tackling machine and can play sideline to sideline. While he is older than Edmunds, he has the pedigree that comes with dominating SEC offenses for a couple seasons.

KB: Again, I will add that this is another trade-up spot for the Bills. I think the Bills will either go top 5 (#2,4, or 5) to get their top choice at QB (unless it is Baker), or trade to just before Miami at 10 to snag Baker. I promise you they will be picking in the top 10. The Cardinals could also move up to 10, if Baker was available, just ahead of Miami. But since we don’t do trades in this mock draft… I have faith in you Thomas.

TS: I got you.

Pick 11. Miami Dolphins: QB Baker Mayfield, Oklahoma (TS)

To comment on your pick quick, Smith is a guy that I think the Bears and 49ers will look at, and the Raiders get value with that pick. But I think that Vea would fill a bigger need for the Raiders, so look out for that. But for your Dolphins, say no more fam. You get your team’s QB if no trading happens. But more likely than not, you’re right. Bills want to trade up in front of MIA for this reason. Mayfield might’ve had the best college production coming out of this class, but height is an issue and doesn’t fit the exact mold teams are looking for in an NFL QB. It’s a mistake to sleep on him though. PFF has him #1 on their board for a reason. If the Bills trade ahead, the Dolphins may look for Vea for similar reasons as the Raiders, or maybe get a WR

.

KB: Losing Jarvis was tough, but I don’t know about a WR here now because of the Amendola and Wilson signings.

TS: I forgot you guys overpaid for Albert Wilson.

KB: I wouldn’t say we overpaid because of the structure of the contract. We can cut ties next year with both with nothing lost.

Pick 12. Buffalo Bills (from CIN): QB Lamar Jackson, Louisville (KB)

Well I hate this. They’re not taking Lamar… but they’re also not picking from the 12^th spot… BUT they are taking a QB here and he is the BQBA. I loved what you said about MIA by the way. The only way they get Baker though is if the Giants take their pick at 1 and it isn’t a QB. Buffalo has the bridge QB in place with McCarron and is in full stockpile of picks to move into the top 5 or 10 to grab who I think will be Josh Allen. But since they’re taking a QB its Lamar in this mock. I’m not too sure about how he will translate to the pros. Count me a doubter in that regard but not in his raw ability. This guy is flat out fun to watch, but this isn’t college anymore.

TS: If the Bills don’t take Lamar, I think the Cardinals would.

Pick 13. Washington Redskins: WR Calvin Ridley, Alabama (TS)

You never know, and in this scenario, I think the Bills do still take a QB. Although, Lamar is unorthodox, much like Tyrod was, and they repeatedly showed their disdain for him. It’s tough. The Redskins pick is a gut feeling for me. They didn’t use Pryor properly and he’s gone. Doctson hasn’t emerged still. Ryan Grant? I don’t think they have a number 1. They need this guy. I’ll say Vea’s name yet again because he could go here too with other defenders going early, but he falls even further I think.

KB: I think Vita goes here for sure, if he isn’t picked earlier. It’s a guy feeling but even with Johnathan Allen returning for his redshirt sophomore year, they could still beef up that DL. It could also serve them well to go after Ward or Mike Hughes at CB. 😉

Pick 14. Green Bay Packers: CB Denzel Ward, Ohio St (KB)

That was foreshadowing if you didn’t get that… The Packers were more than happy for you to go WR. They may look for one to replace Nelson later in the draft, but more pressing is the lack of secondary. For some he is thought to be a top 10 pick and he still might be, but his height pushes him here to the needy Packers. They need A LOT of help here as they seem to always. This pick is BPA and best need. Perfect scenario!

Pick 15. Arizona Cardinals: OT Orlando Brown, Oklahoma (TS)

I like Ward, but not as a outside CB. I think he’ll excel against slot receivers, and that’s a good thing in today’s NFL, with many teams playing over half of their snaps with 3 WR. The Cardinals are very likely to go with a QB, but they have other important needs to address and I don’t think they can afford to trade up. If Lamar Jackson falls to here, I think they take him. If they could trade back they might, to try to go for Mason Rudolph, who’s underrated. If they stay here, OLine, particularly tackle, is a big need. Orlando Brown is the best tackle in this class, and it’s likely they pick him, regardless of QB draft situation. They have Bradford, who is solid enough to build a team around.

KB: I like the tackle pick here and Brown might be the pick, but I really think Mitch McKinley is the best tackle. I’ll tell you that I think the Bengals are happy you passed on them. If he fell to 22, they’d be over the moon. Also, I hate Bradford (especially that horrid deal) so I think they need a QB here if there is one as well.

TS: Yea he is good to. Brown had a bad combine, but I thought he was still considered the best prospect? From what I understand, his footwork, hips and hands are terrific. It’ll be interesting to see if his feet will be good enough to handle NFL game speed.

KB: Orlando has the talent to be the best and he certainly has the tape, but his athletic inability will be a question for GMs to answer. Tackles are becoming extremely athletic these days and if he is slow to set the edge and get out against these quick AND STRONG pass rushers then he will be toast.

Pick 16. Baltimore Ravens: OT Connor Williams, Texas (KB)

You made this pick harder than it needed to be Thomas. I had Ridley here all the way. With your pick of him (and the Crabtree signing), I’m not 100% sure what to do. Therefore, their next best needs are OLine and DLine with depth needed elsewhere. One of the BPA right now is Marcus Davenport who is an extremely raw edge rusher. But I’ll tell you if the Ravens pick him here, I wouldn’t be surprised if they got everything out of him. They’ve always been great with maximizing potential (besides Perriman *shot at Thomas*). Instead of the UTSA man, I’m going to go with the best RT in the class and who was thought to be the overall tackle last year. His stock actually went down this year as people started to realize he probably wouldn’t play LT at the next level. People are even saying he may go inside to OG. Regardless, he has played extremely well in his time as a Longhorn. This is a good, safe pick.

Pick 17. Los Angeles Chargers: DT Vita Vea, Washington (TS)

This pick is pretty easy. Vea is a dominant DT and could work in either a 3-4 or a 4-3, so he’ll go to any team that needs a DT that doesn’t have another guy they want. Two Round 1 offensive tackles and 2 Linebackers are gone. Vea could make this DLine arguably the scariest in the NFL, with Joey Bosa and Melvin Ingram on the edges. Chargers were 2^nd worst in the NFL against the run and have been relatively quiet in free agency. Also, the Ravens picking him makes plenty of sense last pick. At this point in the draft, there are plenty of skilled players that overlap where they can go. But this is probably the lowest Vea will go.

KB: I think this would be the perfect pick for the Chargers. He might be top 5 on their board to be honest.

TS: Even if Vea is gone, Da’ron Payne is another DT they’re looking into.

KB: To me, the next best DT available is Maurice Hurst from Michigan. His health is the question, but if he checks out, he will hear his name called on Day 1.

Pick 18. Seattle Seahawks: Edge Marcus Davenport, UTSA (KB)

Here we are. Could this kid get a more perfect situation? He will be the guy to replace Michael Bennett as one of the most feared past rushers in this division. He is extremely raw but, like BAL, the Seahawks have a great ability to maximize potential out of somebody (i.e. Sherman, Chancellor, Maxwell, etc.).

KB: Good luck on the Cowboys pick… they could go pretty much anyway.

TS: Yea… LB, OG, DL, WR… RIP

Pick 19. Dallas Cowboys: LB Rashaan Evans, Alabama (TS)

Davenport is a boom or bust pick. He could be a guy that embarrasses OTs with overwhelming athleticism, or crash and burn transitioning to the NFL. Some have him going top 10, but I think going later makes sense because he is what mock drafters call “raw”. As far as the Cowboys go, they addressed several needs in free agency, particularly WR and OL. They lost a starter at LB in free agency, and the rest of the LBs have questionable futures. Evans is shadowed by the two LBs ahead of him, but is also a complete package, with speed and three-down skills. But really, the Cowboys will either go with who they think is BPA, or trade back. I think they SHOULD go with Maurice Hurst (DT, Michigan) as a BPA, but I think it’s more likely they go LB as a bigger need.

KB: Yea, I think Maurice was the pick here too. They picked Taco from Michigan last year and he will likely hype up the face that he is a beast.

Pick 20. Detroit Lions: Edge Harold Landry, Boston College (KB)

Detroit really needs some help on the edge. Badly. They retained Ansah (for one year on the tag), but he is only one guy. Landry, early in his career, was heavily feared in the ACC. I think that he will be the same at the next level. He is more a prototype guy than others and his production has also been strong. Lastly, he will be reunited with one of his former coaches who is on the Lions staff. Coincidence? I think not.

TS: Landry is a great pick. I like him more than Davenport TBH. I wanted him for the bucs in a trade back scenario before we signed Curry and JPP.

KB: I can’t believe the Bengals are going to get the guy they probably wanted at pick 12…

TS: I assume you mean an OL… but I don’t know who you mean… The pressure is on… This is tough for me. They just traded for Cordy Glenn at LT and the best available OL is McGlinchy who is an LT. They could use some help on the inside at Guard and a Center too…

Pick 21. Cincinnati Bengals: OT Mike McGlinchy, Notre Dame (TS)

Notre Dame possibly has the two best OL coming out of the draft. The top tackles of the class are much closer and comparable/contrastable in skill than Mike’s teammate Quenton Nelson. Even with the addition of Cordy Glenn in the trade that dropped them back to pick 21. They have so many needs on the OL, including right guard, center and right tackle. Between Glenn and McGlinchy, one of the two will probably move to the other side of the line. Another option is Isaiah Wynn. His flexibility to play multiple positions on the OL is very sexy to NFL coaches.

This Just In: “Cordy Glenn has a potential out after this year. He would be owed $19M over the 2019,2020 seasons, but if cut he would have nothing against the cap.” Source: Kyle Bazin via Spotrac. I feel better about my pick and I’m locking in McGlinchy.

KB: That is 100% their guy. He is exactly what they had in Andrew Whitworth and missed last season. Cordy will start on the left side and they’ll move the rook to the right (normally what happens) and depending on Cordy’s play will tell if he will be on the team and when Mike will move over to the left.

KB: I’m really not liking this pick at all… Bills got their QB in the trade up… they could use LB help but Evans is now gone… their OLine is pretty solid… weak at WR but the WR class sucks… UGHHH

Pick 22. Buffalo Bills: CB Joshua Jackson, Iowa (KB)

This is the pick the Bills got from the Mahomes trade last year. And as a forward, they will not be taking this pick. The Colts, Browns, or Giants will be trading with the Bills, so they can get their QB in the top 6. Put that in stone right now. This pick will be in the deal and if it isn’t I’ll be shocked. But since there are no trades in this mock… I’m picking the BPA at what could be considered a position they could use some more depth. Truly you can never have enough corners… especially ones that are 6 feet or taller. Jackson had a solid, but not spectacular year at Iowa. Many were expecting better things, but he has shown enough flashes of greatness to be a round 1 guy.

TS: Isn’t there another LB that could go in the 1^st round? 😉 Sutton could go in the 1^st but I agree that he shouldn’t. Wynn is still there, but ultimately, you’re right that this pick doesn’t matter. And I’m glad you used it on a corner because I don’t like the corners in this year’s draft, but Jackson is my favorite of them.

Pick 23. New England Patriots (from LAR): LB Leighton Vander Esch, Boise State (TS)

The Patriots already won this Cooks trade in my opinion, but I won’t go into that. The Patriots can go sooo many directions here. If Landry/Davenport/any LBs or OTs that are taken above fall here, they could be taken… I really like Leighton as a solid, 3-down starter that is good in coverage, is a consistent tackler, and decent in pass rush. However, he’s not an impact player that’s going to control the game. Yet, he could quietly lead the team in tackles and lead team LBs in passes defensed. There is a good chance he wont last until the 31^st pick for NE. They would go OT here, but I noticed there is a very good chance all the remaining tackles will be on the board at their next pick. I don’t think they take a chance on risky Arden Key, but DE, LB, DB, TE are all possible… They could also go QB IF they love Rudolph. They could also use both of their first-round picks to trade up for a QB (I don’t think that’s necessary for this team) or for Chubb (Belichick talked with Chubb at his pro day before the trade, acknowledging there was no chance with pick 31 but really likes his game).

KB: Vander Esch is a Steeler to me through and through. But I love that Chubb tidbit, I remember that. Wouldn’t it be so Belichick to say something like that then trade up for the guy, although I think the top 6 is reserved for the top 4 QBs, Chubb, and Barkley.

Pick 24. Carolina Panthers: CB Mike Hughes, Central Florida (KB)

Carolina’s biggest needs lie in the secondary and the wide receivers. They just signed Ross Cockrell, but they have been missing a big-time corner since Norman moved on. Mike Hughes could be that although he is only 5’10”. He transferred from UNC to UCF last year and his game dramatically improved. His stock has risen significantly since the offseason has started. If they don’t go with Hughes they could go Oliver from Colorado or Sutton at WR from SMU. Carolina is a weird time that seems to have a decent amount of needs but consistently play above their talent level. UPDATE: The Panthers failed to sign another starting corner in Free Agency, so they are looking to upgrade at the position likely early in the draft.

KB: I really don’t feel great about my pick, but I don’t know who I would change it to. I really think Sutton is a 2^nd rounder. They could go guard, but you know where I stand with them.

TS: I was thinking Sutton or best WR available and I don’t really like your pick either. Maybe they go DLine or Guard.

KB: They lost Charles Johnson and Star Loutelilea (????). Maybe I should’ve gone there with DT, but it doesn’t seem like they weren’t ready for that departure. I saw that a lot of people had Hughes going in the teens, so I tried to pair the need and BPA together.

Pick 25. Tennessee Titans: Edge Arden Key, LSU (TS)

Key is probably a high first round talent, but his off-field issues make most teams why away from taking him in the 1^st. Most have him going early 2^nd, which would eliminate the 1^st round bust potential. But at this point in the draft, the Titans’ other option is Hubbard, who is athletic but had consistency and long-term production issues that will probably push him to the 2^nd round. Key had both impressive athleticism and production. They don’t have major needs elsewhere, unless they release some WRs that can’t stay healthy. Sutton would be great in this offense, but I don’t think they need him

KB: I 100% think this is the right pick. Edge is one of their only weak spots. We keep bringing up Sutton though haha.

TS: I know I can’t believe he is still on the board.

KB: Corey Davis was hurting/learning all last year. He blew up in the Wild Card game that no one watched against the Chiefs. Between him, Rishard Matthews, Delanie Walker, Dion Lewis and the other small contributors they will be fine. They are a run first team anyway and they have a guy that you may have heard of… his name is Derrick Henry and he runs like a freight train. They still could use a backup QB, depth on the OL and at LB, but Edge is their biggest concern.

Pick 26. Atlanta Falcons: DT Maurice Hurst, Michigan (KB)

This man waited way too long to hear his name called but what a team for him to play for. The Falcons have very few needs and just need depth in places. DLine is their greatest empty piece because of the big man Poe leaving. They could also use some more depth on the Edge with Adrian Clayborn leaving for NE. This kid would’ve been a top 15 pick if not for his untimely questionable heart condition news. I’ve heard that he has been checked out and is good to go. Everyone will do their due diligence on him and their respective trainers will decide if he is good. PFF has him as the best defensive player in this draft and its not close. This is a steal for the Falcons and a perfect fit for Hurst. Even if they were questionable about Hurst’s condition they also got Payne and Bryan to fall to them that would both fit the bill. What an awesome, yet tough, choice for them to make.

TS: I think the Falcons are going DT all the way, and there is so many options that I think that at least one which they want will be there for them.

Pick 27. New Orleans Saints: TE Mark Andrews, Oklahoma (TS)

The Saints could go defense, or best WR available, but the defenders they’ve been looking for are all take I believe, and I also think they don’t want to address WR this early. An impact TE in the passing game is still a need for the Saints, and Benjamin Watson is not the answer. Mark Andrews could be the most dangerous receiving tight end in this draft. He can work every level of the field, does well from the slot, and has quickness and size that will create sweet mismatches that Sean Payton misses from Graham a few years back. He isn’t the most complete tight end, as he needs to improve his consistency in run blocking, but the Saints are looking for something more of a receiver from the position. I also want to say their selection of tight end is really sweet for the Saints too. If they don’t pick Andrews, there’s Goedert, Hurst, and Gesicki, and they will get their pickings of what they really want.

KB: I’m shocked… he is the 3^rd best TE in my opinion. Hurst is the most complete blocking and pass catching (not best in both categories, but good in both) but he is already 25 after a small stint in Minor League Baseball. Goedert comes from South Dakota St but man did that guy impress at his pro day. It’s a shame he got an injury at the Senior Bowl because he would’ve lit it up. If the Saints go TE, I think they go Goedert because they do have guys like Watson that can live in the trenches. I agree they do miss Jimmy’s ability to be a constant mismatch. This is definitely the draft to find their true replacement for him after all these years. And we know there is interest in a TE after they missed out on Jimmy the 2^nd time around.

TS: On most boards and rankings, I see Andrews as the #2 with Hurst and Goedert switching depending on where you see it. Hayden needs to improve run blocking consistency but has the surest hands of the draft (was a pitcher ironically) and is coachable. Goedert might be closer to a true tight end than Andrews, but I think Andrews is the threat/weapon the Saints want. Most mocks I’m seeing are splitting between Goedert and Andrews if they go TE.

KB: I agree here. I don’t think they will go Hurst. I’m also kind of shocked you didn’t go Sutton with how much we have been talking about him. The Saints desperately need someone opposite Michael Thomas and Snead is not that.

TS: Truthfully, I think that this should be Sutton, but I didn’t see anyone that had them going WR in the 1^st. Although, Sutton may not have fallen as far as he is in our mock.

Pick 28. Pittsburgh Steelers: S Justin Reid, Stanford (KB)

Still pretty upset you took Vander Esch… Steelers are generally pretty easy to figure out who they’re targeting, and he literally bleeds black and gold already. Since both him and Raashan are gone… (you picked both… RIP Steelers) they are in desperate need of inside linebacker help and that was before the horrific Shazier injury. Since any round 1 backers are taken… they will go with the best available safety. No Ronnie Harrison is not the pick here. The Steelers have a propensity to draft a certain type of player especially on defense. Super athletic, smart and intelligent, strong head on his shoulders and is a leader. The last 3 first round picks have been about this mold and Reid is a smart guy (I mean he went to Stanford for crying out loud) on and off the field. Even though they signed Morgan Burnett from the Packers, they cut 3 safeties this offseason and so this is still a strong need, Burnett is also getting older and they really haven’t had a strong presence in the secondary since Polamalu has retired.

Pick 29. Jacksonville Jaguars: TE Dallas Goedert, South Dakota St (TS)

Yes, they just signed ASJ, but they also let Marcedes Lewis go, and could use offensive weapons, especially a second, or first (ASJ would be second) TE. He can also protect Bortles better than ASJ. The real deal comes in the passing game, as Goedert will add a big target that they’ve been searching for in a TE for a while. They want to help Bortles as much as they can (for whatever reason, they won’t move on), so they’ll either go TE, WR, or OLine. It’s kind of a toss up between these positions the way I see it. It’s a question of who they like best.

KB: I like this pick. TE is definitely on the radar and while I think they would take Hayden Hurst (everyone says he is the better blocker and has sure hands), it is possible.

Pick 30. Minnesota Vikings: OG Will Hernandez, UTEP (KB)

And the second weird Texas school to have a first round pick in this draft! Isn’t it weird that UT never has any top picks anymore but UTSA and UTEP each have 1^st rounders? Minnesota needs a whole lot of OL pieces. Guard, center (Joe Berger just retired) and a tackle… so they need help. And if they want to keep their FULLY GUARANTEED quarterback upright and have some holes for their flashy RB to dash through, then they need to address it in the draft. Hernandez is a straight mauler. Thomas would probably have their pick as Isaiah Wynn, but I prefer Hernandez because his coach was the former OL coach for the Steelers years ago. He knows how to play a pro game already and will be a plug and play kid right away.

TS: You’re right that I would’ve like Wynn but only for his flexibility, which the Vikings could also use. Wynn could play tackle and may even start there with his experience. Hernandez is my second choice though, maybe the best guard after Nelson, and I love the pick still.

KB: James Daniels will also get a lot of consideration here. The center from Iowa is the undisputed best center this year.

Pick 31. New England Patriots: OT Colton Miller, UCLA (TS)

The Patriots know what it takes to win games, and they know they need to protect their QB. Miller is a true right tackle. He’s similar in size, speed, and play to Demar Dotson of the Bucs. At 6’9”, the speed the he adds on top of his length makes him a freak. Left Des will have a hard time going around or through. The Patriots will make the most out of him. Same as I said in pick 23 applies here, they could go a lot of ways.

KB: Colton instead of O’Neill? Colton has been a steady riser since his Combine. This would be perfect for the Pats too because not only did they lose their LT Solder, but also their RT Fleming so they need a lot of bodies.

TS: I actually wrote this pick for the 23^rd spot but decided he would be here at 31. I have Colton higher on my board, but O’Neill and he are in similar tiers.

KB: A few teams like the Jags/Vikes could snatch him up before but I agree he likely will be here. You know the last time the Pats selected a 1^st round OT from a current Pac12 team? Nate Solder… Coincidence?

TS: I read a lot of interesting facts about the Pats. The only top 10 pick they’ve had since 2001 was in 2008, Jerrod Mayo. Belichick has traded 60 times in the draft over 18 years. That’s more than 3 per year…

KB: I’ll say it now and I’ll say it again later. I hate the Patriots.

Pick 32: Philadelphia Eagles: CB Isaiah Oliver, Colorado (KB)

Super Bowl Champion Eagles. Many thought we would never say that. Most Super Bowl winning teams get picked apart by other teams from players to coaches to ball boys… everyone leaves and gets paid (unless you’re from Boston). But these Eagles not only barely lost anyone… they actually got better. They added Michael Bennett (for now), Ngata, resigned Bradham, traded away a bad Torrey Smith and replaced him with Cap space and Mike Wallace. They lost Celek and Burton but besides that they only lost one coach Mike Reich. Oh, and they’re going to get this guy named Wentz back this year. BUT they do have one GAPING HOLE in their lineup… THE PUNTER! Sadly, I’m not even crazy enough to have them take one here or at all even though if anyone would it would be me… or the Bucs. Instead I go boring BPA since no one is needed. This pick could go anywhere… Guice, Michel, best corner (Alexander/Oliver), O’Neill at OT, it’s hard to pick but because corners are always good to have a stockpile and Oliver was one of the best in the country last year, this is the pick.

KB: This could easily be RB, but they have some young kids back there like Barner, Smallwood, Pumphrey, and oh just a guy that got like 150+ yards in the Super Bowl in Clement. And they’re going to get Ajayi the ball plenty. Even with Blount gone, I feel like this isn’t as big of a need as everyone thinks it is. But regardless the rich will get richer in this draft.

Thus, concluding our TS and KB Mock Draft… 1.0 😉

Let us know which picks we are way off on so we can disrespectfully disagree with you until you shutup about your opinion! Thanks guys <3

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