Steelers Post Draft Analysis

The Steelers got the biggest steal of the draft in David DeCastro. He's one of these guys who's a day one starter and will be a perennial Pro Bowler for the next decade. He's a definite blue chipper and will remind Steeler fans of Alan Faneca. Their 2nd round pick may prove to be a steal as well, depending of course on whether or not Mike Adams gets his head straight. Adams is a guy with top 20 talent whose poor character and work ethic caused him to drop into the Steelers lap at 56th. From what I'm getting, he sounds sincere about getting his life together and if so, the Steelers may have gotten two Pro Bowlers for their (once) porous line with back-to-back pics. Hopefully he can be groomed to play the blindside because I have my doubts about Gilbert, who I think is better served on the right. The Steelers finally seem to have gotten serious about protecting Ben. In the last 3 years they've taken four linemen with their first and second round picks. Pouncey, Gilbert, and now DeCastro and Adams could make up one of the best young lines in football.

Sean Spence in the 3rd round wasn't a pick I had seen coming, but it makes sense in retrospect.  He's very athletic, plays with a high motor and possesses good game speed.  He is supposed to have great instincts so my only concern becomes his lack of size. He isn't big enough to play the BUCK next to Timmons, so either he was simply a depth pick or Butler is planning on moving Timmons over from the MACK.  Foote will still be the day one starter, but Spence has the potential to take that away once he learns the system.

4th round, the Steelers traded up for Alameda Ta'amu which was a fantastic move in the sense that the value and need matched up quite well. Most saw him as a 2nd to early 3rd round prospect, but he slipped to the 4th where the Steelers jumped up, having not expected him to still be available. He is massive, at 348 lbs. and should be able to learn behind Hampton for a year before becoming the long term starter.  I was a huge fan of Josh Chapman but if Ta'amu plays to his potential, he could prove to be a gem this late with the capability of becoming a red chip player..

Chris Rainey, as has been pointed out by most of Steeler Nation at this point, is similar to Dexter McCluster, whom Todd Haley loved while in Kansas City.  If he serves a similar role he'll be a useful receiving threat on 3rd down but his pass blocking will need to improve drastically. Look for him to relieve Antonio Brown of his return duties this season.

In the trade up for Ta'amu we forfeited our 6th round selection to the Redskins.  That pick would have been 193rd overall. Two of my favorite prospects in this class were receivers Marvin McNutt out of Iowa and Tommy Streeter out of Miami. They were drafted 194th (Eagles) and 198th (Ravens), respectively.  I suppose then that I'll always wonder whether we wouldn't have been able to land Ta'amu without the trade so we might have kept our 6th round pick and drafted one of them. Still, we got another receiver I like in the 7th, in Toney Clemons. He is a local product who went to Colorado but grew up in New Kensington and graduated from Valley High School. He has the size at 6'2" and speed (4.43 40) to be dangerous if he can develop. He went through 4 different coaches in college so hopefully with some stability, he can improve and become the 5th receiver on game day.

With their remaining three 7th round picks they got TE David Paulson out of Oregon, Texas A&M CB Terrence Frederick, and Kelvin Beachum, a guard from SMU. The Steelers had Paulson in for a visit, but given the fact that Heath Miller, David Johnson, Weslye Saunders (once his suspension is up) and the newly signed Leonard Pope are all currently ahead of him, he'd need one hell of a training camp to see much action on Sundays. Frederick will be fighting for the 5th corner spot at best, and even that might be hoping for too much.  He'll be a body for camp but I doubt he's more than practice squad this year.  Beachum played tackle in college but he's slightly undersized so expect him to transition inside. I liked this pick more than the other two. Beachum started every game for SMU the last 4 years and if he can bulk up and show that he can handle the physicality of the pro game, he might end up being a good value. Probably practice squad, but with all the injuries the Steelers seem to deal with every year on the offensive line, he might get some time at some point this season.

Ultimately this has the potential to be one of the best drafts in the Colbert era.  If Adams pans out, and something tells me he will, the Steelers could get 2-3 Pro Bowl caliber players out of this class. For now I'll give it an A-.

Round 3 Mock Draft

64. Indianapolis Colts: Alameda Ta'amu (DT Washington)


65. St. Louis Rams: Josh Robinson (CB UCF)


66. Minnesota Vikings: Trumaine Johnson (CB Montana)


67. Denver Broncos: Jamel Fleming (CB Oklahoma)


68. Houston Texans: Mohamed Sanu (WR Rutgers)


69. Washington Redskins: Jayron Hosley (CB Virginia Tech)


70. Jacksonville Jaguars: Brandon Thompson (DT Clemson)


71. Buffalo Bills: Bobbie Massie (OT Mississippi)


72. Miami Dolphins: Tommy Streeter (WR Miami)


73. Miami Dolphins: Dwayne Allen (TE Clemson)


74. Kansas City Chiefs: Tyrone Crawford (DE Boise State)


75. Seattle Seahawks: Zebrie Sanders (OT FSU)


76. Houston Texans: Ben Jones (C Georgia)


77. New York Jets: Lamar Miller (RB Miami)


78. San Diego Chargers: Bernard Pierce (RB Temple)


79. Chicago Bears: Brandon Brooks (G Miami OH)


80. Arizona Cardinals: Ronnell Lewis (LB Oklahoma)


81. Dallas Cowboys: Mike Martin (DT Michigan)


82. Tennessee Titans: George Iloka (S Notre Dame)


83. Cincinnati Bengals: Chris Polk (RB Washington)


84. Atlanta Falcons: Cam Johnson (DE Virginia)


85. Detroit Lions: Brandon Boykin (CB Georgia)


86. Pittsburgh Steelers: Josh Chapman (NT Alabama)


87. Cleveland Browns: Marvin McNutt (WR Iowa)


88. Philadelphia Eagles: Kirk Cousins (QB Michigan State)


89. New Orleans Saints: Audie Cole (LB NC State)


90. New England Patriots: Donald Stephenson (OT Oklahoma)


91. Baltimore Ravens: Marvin Jones (WR Cal)


92. San Francisco 49ers: Juron Criner (CB Arizona)


93. New England Patriots: Terrell Manning (LB NC State)


94. New York Giants: Jonathan Massoqoui (LB Troy)


95. Oakland Raiders: Damario Davis (OLB Arkansas State)

Round 2 Mock Draft

Here are my picks for the 2nd round.  I didn't include any trade projections because at this point you have to be really familiar with a team to know where they might realistically trade to.  I'm that familiar with the Steelers but to make up trades for other teams would be almost insulting. I will say that I've heard teams may try to trade up for CB Janoris Jenkins, TE Coby Fleener and look out for a move up for OLB Lavonte David.  I'll post my 3rd round projections probably some time during the 2nd half of the 2nd round.  Anyway here you go, and as always, I'd love to here any of your thoughts.


33. St. Louis Rams: Reuben Randle (WR LSU)


34. Indianapolis Colts: Coby Fleener (TE Stanford)


35. Baltimore Ravens: Courtney Upshaw (OLB Alabama) (Trade with Vikings)


36. Denver Broncos: Kendall Reyes (DT Connecticut) (Trade with Buccaneers)


37. Cleveland Browns: Stephen Hill (WR Georgia Tech)


38. Jacksonville Jaguars: Andre Branch (DE Clemson)


39. St. Louis Rams: Lavonte David (OLB Nebraska) (Trade with Redskins)


40. Carolina Panthers: Brandon Thompson (DT Clemson)


41. Buffalo Bills: Bobbie Massie (OT Mississippi)


42. Miami Dolphins: Mohamed Sanu (WR Rutgers)


43. Seattle Seahawks: Peter Konz (C Wisconsin)


44. Kansas City Chiefs: Amini Silatolu (G Midwestern State)


45. St. Louis Rams: Trumaine Johnson (CB Montana) (Trade with Cowboys)


46. Philadelphia Eagles: Janoris Jenkins (CB North Alabama)


47. New York Jets: Lamar Miller (RB Miami)


48. New England Patriots: Devon Still (DT Penn State) (Trade with Raiders)


49. San Diego Chargers: Cordy Glenn (G Georgia)


50. Chicago Bears: Jonathan Martin (OT Stanford)


51. Philadelphia Eagles: Mike Adams (OT Ohio State) (Trade with Cardinals)


52. Tennessee Titans: Vinny Curry (DE Marshall)


53. Cincinnati Bengals: Zach Brown (OLB UNC)


54. Detroit Lions: Casey Hayward (CB Vanderbilt)


55. Atlanta Falcons: Kelechi Osemele (OT Iowa State)


56. Pittsburgh Steelers: Mychal Kendricks (ILB California)


57. Denver Broncos: Jerel Worthy (DT Michigan State)


58. Houston Texans: Brian Quick (WR Appalachian State)


59. Green Bay Packers: Derek Wolfe (DE Cincinnati)


60. Baltimore Ravens: Brandon Brooks (G Miami OH)


61. San Francisco 49ers: Josh Robinson (CB UCF)


62. New England Patriots: George Iloka (S Boise State)


63. New York Giants: Dwayne Allen (TE Clemson)

Thoughts On Tonight's Picks

After getting what was probably the steal of the draft in David DeCastro, the question now becomes: What the hell are the Steelers going to do tonight?

I'm not sure, but I look forward to it.

You see, I, along with many other crazies out there in Steeler Nation who follow the draft intently, had the Steelers taking a guard 2nd round in Brandon Brooks. However, with the DeCastro pick, I'm not so sure.  If you had asked me prior to the 1st round who I would have wanted above all others, I'd have said DeCastro. I never thought that would have been a possibility.  Which is why I had the Steelers pegged to take Brooks tonight, something I still wouldn't mind.

In recent years I'd have said it was possible the Steelers would go with back to back players of the same position, but this year we have more needs.  Which is why, though I still have to consider Brooks the favorite, here are some guys who are also options.

The first guy I'll list is the equivalent of what DeCastro was to me yesterday before the draft.  The guy I want most, who I don't expect to slide but there is a sliver of hope.  That guy is Lavonte David, who could be molded to play inside next to Timmons.  He is my favorite option, but remains someone I doubt lasts.

Last night we saw guard Cordy Glenn slip out of the first round but he'll be gone in the first 10 picks of the 2nd. He will not fall. Otherwise I'd love to get him, but it won't happen.  Courtney Upshaw, Coby Fleener and Stephen Hill are in the same boat. The Rams have been on the clock since last night, and my guess is they take Hill with the first of their three 2nd rounders.  Fleener won't make it past the Colts at 34, while one of the following, Upshaw, Glenn or Peter Konz, will likely go to the Ravens at 35.

So what we're left with is a handful of guys who could be available when the Steelers go on the clock with the 56th pick of the draft.

Obviously we've got Brandon Brooks as an option, and despite taking a guard first round, it would not shock me if the Steelers went there again having shown quite a bit of interest in Brooks since his pro day.  It depends just how closely the Steelers follow their board.  You could certainly make the argument that we need another guard to start opposite DeCastro anyway, though I think Ramon Foster has shown tremendous improvement.

There are a slew of possibilities on the offensive line, but just like with Brooks, the same question arises over whether the Steelers would go there with back-to-back picks.  In addition to Brooks, Amini Silatolu, Bobbie Massie, Jonathan Martin, Mike Adams, Kelechi Osemele, Mitchell Schwartz, Jeff Allen and Peter Konz could all still be available at 56.

If not another lineman, my next option would be Mychal Kendricks, an ILB out of California. He has blazing speed (4.47 40) and good upper body strength to go with it (24 reps on the bench). He is a smaller, faster version of Timmons, who together could make for the most athletic tandems of inside linebackers in the game.  Kendricks can hit, and with proper coaching will make for one hell of a backer in a 3-4 defense.  He has all the intangibles to become an excellent cover man and pass rusher which is the mark of true three down linebacker. If this is the pick, I'll be very happy.

Let me say this, I doubt the Steelers will take a RB this round.  If Doug Martin or David Wilson had slipped down to 56 I might have considered it, but they were taken with the last two picks of the 1st. Neither Lamar Miller nor LaMichael James would be worth it, so RB probably wouldn't be considered until the 3rd round.

CB will merit some consideration but it's unlikely. I'm not loving any of the guys who'll be available.  Not to mention I've seen no evidence to show that the Steelers are interested in any of the guys who'll probably go 2nd round.

I can't see the Steelers going TE unless Coby Fleener falls, which he won't.  Had Harrison Smith been available I'd have considered safety as a possibility but with that no longer the case, they won't be drafting one tonight.  Won't be a RB or WR until the 3rd round at the earliest. And obviously no QB.

We still need a NT somewhere in this class but I'd rather go there in the 3rd round than the 2nd.  Mike Martin and Josh Chapman, as I've stated before, are the most likely options when the Steelers pick 86th.  However one guy on the defensive line I could see as a possibility is Derek Wolfe, the DE out of Cincinnati who has absolutely flown up draft boards the last few months. He would play as a 5 technique, and reminds me of Aaron Smith.

As usual I doubt the Steelers would trade up.  Especially not this round because I'm just not sure who they would be high enough on to want to jump up.  There are plenty of options so they'll find a good value at 56. Unless someone they love is within maybe 5 picks and they're worried about missing out on him, I'd be dumbfounded to see them move up.  Moving down is unlikely, but more of a possibility as some consider Brooks and Kendricks to be late 2nd, early 3rd round prospects.  If we turned our 2nd rounder into a 3rd and 5th, it wouldn't shock me.  We've traded out of the 2nd before under Colbert so I won't call this scenario impossible.

In summation, Lavonte David is the guy I hope to get but don't expect to, so consider Brooks the favorite. I would be perfectly happy if we took Kendricks, Silatolu or Wolfe as well.

3rd round, I still think it comes down to Mike Martin and Josh Chapman, but should they both be gone I'll be hopng for Robert Turbin who is an absolute freak at RB.

Steelers 7 Round Mock

I almost forgot to do my final Steelers 7 Round Mock...That's embarrassing

Anyway,

24th- Whitney Mercilus (OLB Illinois): He'll probably be gone but he's the one I want and the one I think the Steelers want.  Depending on who falls this pick may also be traded back so we could get a guy like G Kevin Zeitler.

56th- Brandon Brooks (G Miami OH): Could be a steal and the Steelers love him.  If Silatolu is available this could go either way but I do think it will be a guard.

86th- Mike Martin (DT Michigan): I hope they go with the other 3rd round DT in Josh Chapman but if I get past emotion, I realize the pick is probably Martin who is extremely athletic and the Steelers have shown a ton of interest in.

119th- Robert Turbin (RB Utah State): One of my favorite players in the draft and he serves a need. IT may be wishful thinking to say he falls this far. James-Michael Johnson is proabably more likely.

159th- Keith Tandy (CB West Virginia): Good late round value who is a physical corner that will make the roster in camp.  Steelers had him in for visit and seemed to like him.

193rd- Derek Carrier (TE Beloit): Blew people away at the Wisconsin pro day which the Steelers attended. Great late round value.

231st- Ryan Van Bergen (DE Michigan): Steelers were very interested in him at Michigan pro day and reminds me of Brett Keisel.

240th- Jerell Harris (OLB Alabama): If the Steelers take an Alabama LB I think it will be Harris before it's Upshaw or Hightower.  Steelers had him in for a visit.

246th- Randy Bullock (K Texas A&M): Need some competition for Shaun Suisham in camp.

248th- Toney Clemons (WR Colorado):  Another guy who came in for a visit, which is really the only way to predict these later guys.  Big receiver with a 4.43 40. Probably a practice squad type player.

First Round Mock Draft #2

Happy Drafting Everyone,

Here is my final 1st round mock prior to the draft.  If I change the pick, I'll explain why, otherwise I'm running out of time to write, so please revert to my previous mock for pick analysis.  I've included trades in this one to make it more fun.

Here we go,

1. Indianapolis Colts: Andrew Luck (QB Stanford)

Obviously no change here.

2. Washington Redskins: Robert Griffin III (QB Baylor)

The Redskins actually made this official earlier today, so the Vikings are unofficially on the clock.

3.  New York Jets: Trent Richardson (RB Alabama) (Projected trade with Vikings)

This is where it gets fun ladies and gentlemen.  I doubt this is actually how this pick goes down, but I couldn't resist.  If the Vikings stay where they are, I'm switching my pick to Morris Claiborne over Matt Kalil.  But Minnesota is reportedly looking for trades and will field offers once they're on the clock.  I think the only teams looking to move up would be the Dolphins for Tannehill (though I really doubt it), or any team high enough on Richardson who wants to jump in front the Browns at 4.  The Jets make sense to me, given the fact that they've traded up before in the Rex Ryan era (see Mark Sanchez).  The cost though could be reminiscent of the Falcons trade for Julio Jones... meaning it would cost them a lot. 

4.  Cleveland Browns: Justin Blackmon (WR Oklahoma State)

With Richardson gone, I could see them trading back if they don't like Blackmon. But I think they realize they need a playmaker on offense, as trading out of the top 10 each year will never improve a bad team.

5. Tampa Bay Buccaneers: Morris Claiborne (CB LSU)

They'll consider Kalil but their need at CB is far more critical than the offensive line.

6. St. Louis Rams: Matt Kalil (OT USC)
s the better player.  They'd still be very happy to bring in a guy to take over the blind side that can keep Sam Bradford off his ass.

7. Philadelphia Eagles: Fletcher Cox (DT Mississippi St.) (Projected trade with Jaguars)

He's the best DT in this class and the Eagles certainly have the fire power to move up.  They've shown interest and I think the two guys they want most are he and Luke Kuechly.  From the Jaguars point of view, I could see them staying where they are taking Stephon Gilmore.  What makes the move great for both sides is that they can probably still get Gilmore at 15 while stockpiling picks.

8. Arizona Cardinals: Michael Floyd (WR Notre Dame) (Projected trade with Dolphins)

If the Browns pass on Tannehill, I don't see anyone else picking him in the top half of the draft. So if your the Dolphins, why not drop a couple spots for an extra pick and still get your man.  From the Cardinals perspective, they get the guy who would make a huge difference for them, but it would cost them a 3rd rounder at least and Arizona already traded their 2nd rounder to the Eagles in that Kolb trade.  

9. Carolina Panthers: Luke Kuechly (ILB Boston College)

With Floyd gone, the Panthers take one of the most productive players in college football history.  He'll start from day one and anchor their 4-3 defense the way Urlacher does in Chicago.

10. Buffalo Bills: Riley Reiff (OT Iowa)

They're a candidate who might trade up for Floyd as well but they still get a good pick in Reiff.

11. Kansas City Chiefs: David DeCastro (G Stanford)

I've seen Mark Barron's name here recently but I doubt he's their man.

12. Seattle Seahawks: Melvin Ingram (OLB/DE South Carolina)

I acknowledge Chandler Jones is an option as well but Ingram is the better player in my opinion.  He'll play as a DE in their 4-3 defense opposite Clemons to help improve the pass rush.

13. Miami Dolphins: Ryan Tannehill (QB Texas A&M) (Projected trade with Cardinals)

Same thing as Buffalo, if they want to jump up a few picks for Floyd or Reiff I could see that.  Ingram would be a great pick too.  Add Chandler Jones to the list of options as a pass rusher.

14. Dallas Cowboys: Mark Barron (S Alabama)

I'm switching this pick to Mark Barron.  I just can't imagine a team picking a guy with Poe's level of bust potential, this high.

15. Jacksonville Jaguars: Stephon Gilmore (CB South Carolina) (Projected trade with Eagles)

The Jaguars still get a guy they might have taken at 7 anyway.

16. Minnesota Vikings: Quinton Coples (DE UNC) (Projected trade with Jets)

I think they'd be hoping to get Gilmore here but the Jaguars snatch him up a pick before.  The Vikings would get a lot for the 3rd pick but it wont help them much this season.  All the best prospects are going to be off the board. When Coples is trying, he might be the best defensive linemen in this class.  But that's the question isn't it?  If they believe in his work ethic than this would be a great value pick.  Putting him opposite Jared Allen would terrify the opposition.

17. Cincinnati Bengals: Cordy Glenn (G Georgia)

With Gilmore gone, the next CB to take would be Kirkpatrick but that would be a reach.  Glenn would replace Bobbie Williams on that line and should be a relatively safe pick here.

18. San Diego Chargers: Whitney Mercilus (OLB/DE Illinois)

Might be the best pure rusher in this class.  If he had more than just one year of playing time, teams would be higher on him.

19. Chicago Bears: Dont'a Hightower (ILB Alabama)

I had them taking Michael Brockers but that was with Hightower off the board who the Bears are supposed be absolutely smitten with.  He can play next to Urlacher and Briggs for a few years while he learns the system.

20. Tennessee Titans: Chandler Jones (DE Syracuse)

With Mercilus off the board they'll take the next best pass rusher in Jones who has flown up boards in the last month or so.  Dontari Poe could be an option but Jones is safer.

21. Cincinnati Bengals: Kendall Wright (WR Baylor)

Unchanged.

22. Cleveland Browns: Stephen Hill (WR Georgia Tech)

Unchanged.

23. Detroit Lions: Dre Kirkpatrick (CB Alabama)

Unchanged.

24. Pittsburgh Steelers: Michael Brockers (DT LSU)

I think if Mercilus is here, he's the pick.  But if not then the Steelers may be picking Nick Perry, or the best player available.  In my opinion that's Brockers. Given that he only played one year could be a concern for the Steelers but he has tremendous upside, a solid work ethic and could still play NT if needed.  I realize Poe is available but he's too much of a risk for the Steelers.

25. New England Patriots: Dontari Poe (DT Memphis) (Projected trade with Broncos)

This seems like a Belichick trade to me.  If Poe does fall this far, I think with New England's coaching staff Poe could be molded into a special player.  With him and Wilfork up front, that could really help improve their run defense.  Besides, if any team can afford a bust, it's the Patriots.

26. Houston Texans: Coby Fleener (TE Stanford)

I changed my mind.  I don't like Martin and neither should Houston.  I've had a 2nd round grade on Martin so it wouldn't be right to peg him as the 26th pick based on need.  They'll take a guy who can help an already excellent offense.

27. Denver Broncos: Kendall Reyes (DT Connecticut) (Projected trade with Patriots)

Same pick from last mock but two spots further back.

28. Green Bay Packers: Shea McClelin (OLB Boise State)

Unchanged. I think they take McClelin over Upshaw as I prefer the former of the two.

29. Baltimore Ravens: Courtney Upshaw (OLB Alabama)

With no Hightower within trading distance, they take his teammate who can play opposite Suggs and take over  after the departure of Jarret Johnson. Lavonte David and McClelin may merit consideration if available.

30. San Francisco 49ers: Kevin Zeitler (G Wisconsin)

Unchanged.

31. New England Patriots: Casey Hayward (DB Vanderbilt)

Unchanged.

32. New York Giants: Lavonte David (OLB Nebraska)

Some think David is the best 4-3 OLB in this draft.  They could use help behind their incredible front line and David is an underrated prospect.

1st Round Possibilities

The only people out there who are confident in who they have going to the Steelers in a mock, are probably those who have no idea what they're talking about.  I'm referring to the geniuses at ESPN who have had Dont'a Hightower pegged as a lock to go at 24 for the last month or so.  I'm willing to bet my house that the Steelers don't take him. You can hold me to that.  Those of us who have actually spent considerable time on the matter, realize this pick is a total mystery.  Sure we have hunches, and there are guys we might like more than others as possibilities, but in reality, not even those have done their homework would be confident if they had to take a test on who the Steelers will take.  That is why I'm here to consider all the reasonable possibilities of players the Steelers might take 1st round, if they had their say and the player were available.  Then, I'm going to list who I would want to see them take in the 2nd and 3rd rounds based on the 1st rounder. With me? Doesn't matter, you'll get the idea.

Now I've split this list of 14 possible players into 3 groups. Those who will probably already be taken, those who I hope we don't take and those who I think are actually fairly reasonable options.

I'll then add a player from a position which makes sense for the next 2 rounds.  

The 2nd round options include:

Brandon Brooks (G Miami OH)/Amini Silatolu (G Midwestern State)

Kelechi Osemele (T Iowa State)/Bobbie Massie (T Mississippi)/Mitchell Schwartz (T California)

Mychal Kendricks (ILB California)

Derek Wolfe (DL Cincinnati)

Lavonte David (OLB Nebraska) Though he probably won't fall this far.

The 3rd round options include:

Josh Chapman (NT Alabama)/Mike Martin (DT Michigan)

Robert Turbin (RB Utah State)/Isaiah Pead (RB Cincinnati)

Marvin McNutt (WR Iowa)/T.Y. Hilton (WR Florida International)

Zebrie Sanders (T FSU)/Brandon Washington (G/T Miami)

Bobby Wagner (ILB Utah State)/James-Michael Johnson (ILB Nevada)

Keep in mind, when I put a guy down for the 2nd or 3rd, I'm implying I think it will be him, or another player from that position.  So if I put Josh Chapman down as a 3rd round option for someone, I mean that I think the Steelers will target NT with that pick. Implying that it could be Chapman or Mike Martin, who he is listed with.

You'll notice that I think the Steelers will be taking a NT and an OL somewhere in two of our top three picks.  My favorites are Brooks and Chapman (which you'll notice below) but I could see other guys at their position being taken instead, depending on the Steelers draft board.  The third player in the top 3 will be a the wild card, depending on what player is taken in the 1st.

So let's start with the ones I'm hoping fall:

Dontari Poe (DT Memphis)

   2nd) Brandon Brooks (G Miami OH)

   3rd) Robert Turbin (RB Utah State)

Michael Brockers (DT LSU)

   2nd) Brandon Brooks (G Miami OH)

   3rd) Robert Turbin (RB Utah State)

Mark Barron

   2nd) Brandon Brooks (G Miami OH)

   3rd) Josh Chapman (NT Alabama)

David DeCastro

   2nd) Mychal Kendricks (ILB California)

   3rd) Josh Chapman (NT Alabama)

Of these, I think Poe is the most reasonable option given his recent slip down the boards as result of poor film.  I'd have a tough time passing on a guy with his upside if he's available but I doubt he will be.

These are the guys who I hope are not the pick:

Mike Adams

   2nd) Mychal Kendricks (ILB California)

   3rd) Josh Chapman (NT Alabama)

Nick Perry

   2nd) Brandon Brooks (G Miami OH)

   3rd) Josh Chapman (NT Alabama)

Jonathan Martin

   2nd) Brandon Brooks (G Miami OH)

   3rd) Josh Chapman (NT Alabama)

Courtney Upshaw

   2nd) Brandon Brooks (G Miami OH)

   3rd) Josh Chapman (NT Alabama)

Andre Branch

   2nd) Brandon Brooks (G Miami OH)

   3rd) Josh Chapman (NT Alabama)

The first three are vastly overrated in my opinion, Upshaw simply does not fit the mold and Branch doesn't match the value of the 24th pick.

These guys are the most reasonable options, and the ones most often found in mocks:

Dont'a Hightower

   2nd) Brandon Brooks (G Miami OH)

   3rd) Josh Chapman (NT Alabama)

Kevin Zeitler

   2nd) Derek Wolfe (DL Cincinnati) or Mychal Kendricks (ILB California)

   3rd) Josh Chapman (NT Alabama)

Cordy Glenn

   2nd) Derek Wolfe (DL Cincinnati)  or Mychal Kendricks (ILB California)

   3rd) Josh Chapman (NT Alabama)

Coby Fleener

   2nd) Brandon Brooks (G Miami OH)

   3rd) Josh Chapman (NT Alabama)

Whitney Mercilus

   2nd) Brandon Brooks (G Miami OH)

   3rd) Josh Chapman (NT Alabama)

I could see the Steelers taking anyone of them if they're available.  Fleener is the least likely, I still think Zeitler would be a reach at 24, and I'm not as enamored with Glenn as I wish I were.  Hightower may go 16th to the Jets but I doubt that even if he is available that the Steelers would take him.  He doesn't fit the scheme and would take a lot of work to be effective at the MACK or BUCK backer positions.  This leaves Mercilus which right now is the guy I think the Steelers want most.  He's extremely athletic but was just a one year producer in college.  He has great upside and compares to Dwight Freeney, Richard Dent and Jason Pierre-Paul, all of whom are phenomenal company to be in. If he's available for the Steelers, he'd be my guess.  But that's still all it is.  So what's yours?

OLB First Round?

While somewhat less likely, I could see the Steelers going OLB in the first round.  Here me out on this.  We brought in Nick Perry for a visit, and reportedly worked out Whitney Mercilus.  Given the fact that few were aware of Mercilus’ private workout, the Steelers may have been trying to keep that quiet while laying false trails in the ways of Dont’a Hightower, Stephen Hill, Dontari Poe and Mike Adams.  Though OLB is a lesser need, there are concerns with depth, with James Harrison turning 34 soon and questions regarding Jason Worilds and Chris Carter. 

This could be a similar situation to the one in the first round last year.  Not many had Cameron Heyward as the target in the first, most had Aaron Williams a CB from Texas.  The Steelers had reportedly told Heyward prior to the draft that if he were available at 31, they’d take him, and they did.  Whitney Mercilus is an underrated prospect who I could see going as high as 16.  My bet right now is the Jets go with a pass rusher of some sort first round, so depending on where Mercilus is on their board he could be an option for them.  Next we have San Diego at 18 who haven’t had a legitimate pass rusher since the departure of Shawne Merriman.  They, along with New York, run 3-4 defenses which would be ideal to suit Mercilus playing as a MIKE backer.  Other options to consider are Chicago at 19 and Tennessee at 20.  Both could use him as an end in a 4-3, and both teams are rumored to be high on him.  If he slips past 20, it would not surprise me at all to see the Steelers pick him at 24, as I can’t imagine Cincinnati, Cleveland or Detroit targeting him, given their more critical needs at other positions.  

The outside threat would be New England, who has a plethora of picks this year, attempting to trade up as they are another team who has been pegged as a possible suitor for Mercilus.  I doubt the Steelers would attempt to trade up for him, which means if they do miss out him, taking Nick Perry is another possibility.  Though I see him as more of a rush end in a 4-3, he could be molded into a contributor a few years down the road.  I admit this is a somewhat unlikely scenario but it does have all the characteristics of the kind of thing the Steelers would do.  I would still rather see Pittsburgh trade down and take Kevin Zeitler, or just stockpile mid round picks, but this may in fact end up being the route they go on draft day.

The 24th Pick

In case you hadn't made the connection, we're called The 'Burgh Report for a reason...we follow Pittsburgh sports intently.  Now I don't consider myself an expert on this draft by any stretch of the imagination, but I admit I have spent a great portion of my time these last few months thinking about what direction my Steelers might go on draft day. And you know what? I have no idea. No freaking clue.  Now, I can tell you what I want to have happen: The Steelers trade down to the bottom of the 1st round or out completely, in order to stockpile middle round picks to target the guys whose value matches up better than the sporadic list of options I have here.

Let me attempt to summarize this little conundrum of mine.  First we have the guy that 80% of mocks have listed as a lock for the Steelers to take, in Dont'a Hightower.  Most of that propaganda is the result of ESPN writers who aren't paid to be scouts, but feel obligated to throw their two sense anyway.  While Hightower is a good player, and an even better leader, to me he is better suited for the Mike backer in a 3-4, or a DE in a 4-3.  I don't trust his coverage skills and that makes him a two down linebacker.  Dick Lebeau doesn't have 2 down linebackers. Especially not ones who are 22 years old. The moral being, I don't like this notion, nor do I like his Alabama teammate Courtney Upshaw, who raises similar concerns.  

Next, lets talk offensive line.  Matt Kalil, Riley Reiff and David DeCastro will be well gone by the 24th pick and I'd be shocked if the Steelers attempted to trade up.  That leaves the following options as possibilities: Cordy Glenn, Jonathan Martin, Kevin Zeitler, Bobbie Massie, Amini Silatolu, Peter Konz, Mike Adams or Kelechi Osemele.  Let me say this, of those guys, the only one worthy of a first round grade is Glenn (which, if the Steelers stay where they are, would be my best guess as to who they might take) but his weight worries me and I have concerns over his ability to pick up the blitz and handle top tier pass rushers.  The rest of those guys are 2nd and 3rd rounders at best.  Mike Adams is a lazy bum, with a poor work ethic, who has great potential but his off field issues should knock him off the Steelers' draft board.  Jonathan Martin is a finesse blocker who has been overvalued as a result of great talent around him at Stanford.  Neither of those tackles should be taken earlier than the mid to late second round, but some team will grab them early anyway.  The only other even remote possibility, is the Steelers reaching for Kevin Zeitler.  I like the guy-he reminds me of Steve Hutchinson and Logan Mankins-but I think the only way that pick happens is if the Steelers trade down to a pick in the 30s.

One less likely thought is going OLB.  The Steelers brought Nick Perry in for a visit, and are rumored to have worked out Illinios OLB Whitney Mercilus.  This seems to be similar to what the Steelers did last year when they took Cameron Heyward at 31.  Prior to the draft, they told Heyward that if he was available when they were picking, they'd take him.  They did, and it wouldn't be too shocking if they did something similar with one of these two.  I still don't love this idea, but I could see it happening it Mercilus makes it to 24.

Some other options include taking a safety in Mark Barron who'll likely be gone. They could consider the idea of how TE Coby Fleener could diversify the offense and pick him at 24. They could take weird picks that would piss me off, like WR Stephen Hill or RBs Lamar Miller or Doug Martin.  Hell, they might even look at a guy like Dre Kirkpatrick (But the Steelers haven't drafted a corner first round in 15 years, I doubt that changes on Thursday). 

Anyway, my point is, there is no lock here.  There is no guy I love. My favorite of the group would be a total reach, which is why unless a guy like DeCastro falls far enough for the Steelers to trade up, I'd rather they be trading back to add some middle rounders.  The Steelers have to address their depth concerns and it would serve them better to have six total picks in the 2nd-4th round range than the four they have now. Right now, I think Mercilus would be their favorite option of the bunch, but I have Tennessee taking him at 20, so what we're left with is a very blurry group of options.

So, I suppose the next question to be addressed is assuming the Steelers do want to trade down, who could be their partner?  Well, there in lies the problem. You see, most years there would be a team that might be looking to trade into the late first round to grab a QB. But this year, I don't know who that team would be.  The teams most in need of a QB will likely have already taken care of that in the top 10.  The Browns might want a QB, but they have another pick at 22, so if they really wanted one, they wouldn't need to trade back into that late 1st round range as they're already there. So this partner would need to be someone who is looking for a specific guy and is worried that by their next pick, that guy may be gone.  

Enter the 49ers, Ravens, Eagles, Patriots and Rams as potential buyers.  The 49ers or Rams could be targeting Fleener before someone else takes him, and the Steelers could then drop 6 or 8 spots, add a 3rd round pick, maybe even a 4th and still get Kevin Zeitler.  The Ravens might be high enough on Dont'a Hightower that they want to move up to draft the heir apparent to Ray Lewis.  It's also possible they could trade with the Lions at 23, but for the purpose of discussion lets say we ignore the whole rivalry thing and swap picks.  Again the Steelers get their man in Zeitler for a better value and add a pick or two.  The Patriots are more of a wild card because they pick at 27 and I don't know who they might target.  I include them based on the fact that they simply have a ton of picks and if there were a guy they wanted that they thought might not make it past picks 25 or 26 then its possible, and again, we add picks.  The Eagles are a team that has two picks in the second round (maybe three depending on what they get in a possible trade of Asante Samuel) which makes them similar to the Patriots, in that they have plethora of picks that they may be willing to dole out if they want to target a guy in specific.  Maybe Hightower, Glenn, Barron, Fleener, Martin etc.

Now for fun, lets say the Steelers listen to me.  Lets say they land an extra 2nd, 3rd and 4th round pick for their 1st rounder.  Who do they take?  Well you'll be pleasantly surprised to know that I've got quite a few thoughts on that front:

2nd round: Mychal Kendricks (ILB California) and Brandon Brooks (G Miami OH).

3rd round: Josh Chapman (NT Alabama) and Robert Turbin (RB Utah St.)

4th round: Marvin McNutt (WR Iowa) and Zebrie Sanders (OT Florida St.)

Here's what you need to know about each:

Mychal Kendricks ran a 4.44 40 with 24 reps on the bench. He compares favorably to Timmons, though a little smaller, weighing only 240 lbs.  He can cover so there aren't any questions about him as a three down linebacker.  With some time to learn the system behind Foote and Sylvester, he could step in as a starter by the end of the season and give us one of, if not the most athletic inside pairing in the NFL.  He's also a hard hitter who could play the blitz the same way LeBeau has utilized Timmons the last few years. I don't know if he could be expected to play the Buck spot where Farrior was for the last decade so Timmons might move over until Kendricks settles in.

Brandon Brooks could be the steal of this draft, and has been compared to Larry Allen and Leonard Davis given his massive size (about 350 lbs.).  He has great power and will step in day one for Doug Legursky.  The Steelers were all over him at his Pro Day after he was snubbed from the combine.  They actually ran his drills at Miami OH, where they were well represented by a number of coaches and team personnel.  If I had to bet on the Steelers taking one guy in particular at any point in this draft, my money would be on Brooks in the 2nd round.  They have been enamored with his potential for a while, and rightfully so.

Josh Chapman is my favorite prospect in this class.  He played the exact same role that Casey Hampton has for us for the last decade.  And he played it on the best college defense I've ever seen.  He was a leader on defense who anchored their line beautifully from the nose guard position.  He's tough as shit and a true team player.  To give you an example, he tore his ACL in October, the doctors said he'd be out for the season, and needed surgery.  Instead he bypassed the surgery, finished the year and led his team to a victory in the national championship where the defense shut out LSU en route to a 21-0 win.  If not for the injury he'd be a 1st or 2nd round prospect. Oh, and if he wasn't amazing already, he did 48 reps on the bench (4 more than fellow NT and possible Steelers prospect, Dontari Poe) and ran a 5.02 in the 40 which shows good athleticism.  So those of you who are enamored with Poe's combine workout need only look up this man to realize there are other options.

Robert Turbin is another guy I love that would be a steal in the 3rd round.  As far as I'm concerned he has the potential to be the 2nd best RB in this class behind Richardson.  He's strong, a good pass blocker, has a great work ethic, powerful in a way Steelers fans haven't seen since the departure of Jerome Bettis and has been completely undervalued because he played at Utah State.

Marvin McNutt is a big target with good leaping ability and could make for a great red zone target for Ben. He reminds of Limas Sweed, though I do hope he handles the mental aspects better.  Big, soft hands, and could learn the system for a year because there is a good chance the Steelers won't be able to retain Wallace, Brown and Sanders next year.  We'll likely lose at least one, and this way we've got a replacement with great upside.

Zebrie Sanders is undervalued and makes for a good value pick in the 4th.  He could provide depth behind Gilbert, Colon and Scott until he learns the system. He strikes me as a guy who has the potential to be a quality starter two years down the line (Though given the Steelers constant injury woes, I'm sure he'd see plenty of time his rookie year).

A couple other guys I could see the Steelers taking in this range are DT Mike Martin out of Michigan, RB Isaiah Pead out of Cincinnati and Derek Wolfe who reminds me of Aaron Smith as a 5 technique DE, also out of Cincinnati.  James-Michael Johnson, an ILB from Nevada, could be the target if the Steelers don't grab a guy like Kendricks earlier on.

Other late round options I'm keeping an eye on include:

T.Y. Hilton (WR Florida International)

Devon Wylie (WR Fresno State)

Ketih Tandy (CB West Virginia)

Tommy Streeter (WR Miami)

Akiem Hicks (DE Regina)

Michael Egnew (TE Missouri)

Ryan Van Bergen (DE Michigan)

Blair Walsh (K Georgia)

Bryan Anger (P Califronia)

Cam Johnson (DE/OLB Virginia)

Jerrell Harris (OLB Alabama)

Case Keenum (QB Houston)

Kellen Moore (QB Boise State)

Lucas Nix (G Pittsburgh)

Russell Wilson (QB Wisconsin)

Marcus Forston (DT Miami)

Hebron Fangupo (DT Brigham Young)

Nicolas Jean-Baptiste (DT Baylor)

Nick Toon (WR Wisconsin)

Junior Hemingway (WR Michigan)

Joe Adams (WR Arkansas)

Greg Childs (WR Arkansas)

....Do you understand why 140 characters frustrates me?

First Round Mock Draft #1

Unfortunately we didn't get around to starting this blog until the Penguins had already lost in the playoffs and there were only two days left until the NFL draft.  Regardless, we're here now, and are going to work on getting information out there with some actual analysis rather than the little that we can fit in one, 140 character tweet.  Without further ado, I present The 'Burgh Report's first post on the new blog, as well as our first 2012 NFL mock draft.

One last thing: In this mock I'm not going to include trades.  I'm keeping everyone where they are for this first mock.  I'll throw out some trade ideas in another mock at some point before the draft.

Now, let's begin:

1. Indianapolis Colts: Andrew Luck (QB Stanford)
Today the Colts announced that Luck was their man and that they would go ahead and draft him.  He is by no means going to fix all the problems they have following their purge of veterans.  They have questions at RB, WR, TE, LB, NT, S and CB, meaning it could be another long year for Colts' fans.  It wouldn't shock me to see them back near the top in 2013.
Other Options: None.

2. Washington Redskins: Robert Griffin III (QB Baylor)
The Redskins didn't trade up here for the hell of it.  They'll take the guy who they hope can help turn this once proud franchise back towards glory by picking RG3.  He has all the intangibles of the kind of player you want to lead an offense, but it's going to be an uphill battle.  Mike Shanahan will need to come up with a new offensive scheme if he plans to properly utilize Griffin. Plus they have other holes to fill and need to get their new franchise QB better weapons on the outside if they expect to compete in the already difficult NFC East.
Other Options: None.

3.  Minnesota Vikings: Matt Kalil (OT USC)
This is the first pick where we could potentially see a trade or a surprise pick.  If a team wants Tannehill, they'll look at the Vikings at 3 and the Browns at 4 as possible partners.  But this mock isn't about trades, this is who I think they will/should pick, and that player is Matt Kalil.  He's the best offensive line prospect we've seen since Jake Long or Joe Thomas and looks to be one of these guys who starts from day one and becomes a perennial Pro Bowler.  He's one of the safest picks in the draft, but Morris Claiborne remains a possibility if they consider their need at CB to outweigh one at OT. Other Options: Claiborne or Justin Blackmon but the value doesn't match up as well.

4.  Cleveland Browns: Trent Richardson (RB Alabama)
Another team that may decide to trade down. But eventually the Browns need to stay where they are and take a player that will actually win them some games.  Trent Richardson is that guy.  He's the most complete back since Adrian Peterson and would help take enough pressure off of Colt McCoy for Holmgren to fairly evaluate him and decide if he can be the franchise QB in Cleveland for the next decade.
Other Options: Justin Blackmon, Morris Claiborne and Ryan Tannehill.  All of whom pale in comparison as prospects. They'd be foolish to give up on McCoy without ever seeing how he does when he has weapons.  Justin Blackmon isn't worth the 4th pick, and it's time Cleveland used one of these high picks to add firepower and put a little fear into a defense, rather than always taking the safe pick.

5. Tampa Bay Buccaneers: Morris Claiborne (CB LSU)
Tampa is moving Ronde Barber to safety and have been actively trying to find a trade partner for Aqib Talib who has serious off field issues.  They can take the guy most consider to be the best CB in this class and who should be a starter from day one.  His 4 on the Wonderlic test sends me a bad message about his work ethic, not just that he can't do logic problems.  I admit playing DB is more about instinct than intelligence, but I do worry about taking a guy so high when he clearly didn't put the work in in the classroom.
Other Options: They'd love to get Richardson if he fell, but I doubt that happens.  Justin Blackmon is an option that not many have really considered.


6. St. Louis Rams: Justin Blackmon (WR Oklahoma St.)
Let me say this, Justin Blackmon is not as good as AJ Green was last year and maybe not even Julio Jones.  He's has been pushed up the board this year simply because he's the best of this class, not necessarily because the value matches up.  A good number of scouts, GMs and NFL Executives actually consider Michael Floyd the better prospect, so it remains possible that the Rams could surprise us and go with the other man out of Notre Dame.  Either way, WR is a glaring need for them, and Bradford desperately needs someone to get the ball to on the outside.
Other Options: Still possible they could trade up to 3 or 4 for Richardson or even for Blackmon if they're worried about someone else swooping in. Of course Michael Floyd remains an option as well and possibly even Fletcher Cox.

7. Jacksonville Jaguars: Fletcher Cox (DT Mississippi St.)
I actually really doubt this pick happens as I have it laid out right now.  The Eagles are really high on Cox who is the best defensive lineman in this class, so they could easily trade up given the extra picks they have to use in trades.  But this mock assumes no one will move (which of course is not how the draft will actually go down, but bare with me).  For now, the Jaguars get a great pass rusher who can shore up that front line and help improve upon a defense that finished in the top 11 in the four major defensive categories last year.
Other Options:  They deperately need playmakers and Michael Floyd fits the bill. I've seen Fletcher Cox's name thrown in here as well but the most intriguing idea I've heard is that Jaguars might take Stephon Gilmore with the seventh pick.  Jacksonville has reached for guys in years past, so this does make some sense, but I will say the value doesn't match up for a pick that high.  They'd be better served to trade down if they're high on him and take him in the 13-16 range.

8. Miami Dolphins: Ryan Tannehill (QB Texas A&M)
Of all the prospects in this years draft, Tannehill has this highest bust potential.  However, the Dolphins need a QB, and if that means reaching, they'll do it.  I doubt they'll need to trade up but it's always possible depending on how high the Eagles actually are on him.
Other Options: None. I'd be absolutely shocked if they didn't take Tannehill.

9. Carolina Panthers: Michael Floyd (WR Notre Dame)
Steve Smith isn't getting any younger and if Cam Newton is to continue his success he has to be able to develop as pockey passer.  Bring in the 6'4" playmaker in Floyd who can play opposite Smith, and not we relied on heavily given their great running game.
Other Options: Luke Kuechly, Fletcher Cox if available, David DeCastro, Melvin Ingram or Quinton Coples.

10. Buffalo Bills: Riley Reiff (OT Iowa)
With the loss of Demetress Bell, the Bills will look to shore up their offensive line, especially if Michael Floyd is off the board.  Reiff is the 2nd best tackle in this draft and should be able to start from day one.  He has shown good athleticism and burst off the line, with great mirroring ability in space.  He'd help keep Fitzpatrick up right and create lanes for Fred Jackson, which will be paramount if the Bills want to build on their promising 2011 campaign that came to a screeching halt mid season amidst a slew of injuries.
Other Options: Again, they'd love for Floyd to fall to them, but Luke Kuechly and David DeCastro could also warrant considerations, though admittedly play positions of lesser need.  Melvin Ingram could be great opposite Mario Williams, so I'm sure they'll look at that as an option as well.

11. Kansas City Chiefs: David DeCastro (G Stanford)
DeCastro is one of these guys who can be expected to start day one and become a pernnial Pro Bowler.  The Chiefs haven't had a guy on the line like this since the days of Will Shields.  He's a guy who compares to Alan Faneca and Steve Hutchincon which is about as good a company as you can get playing Guard.  DeCastro one of the few sure fire guys in this class, which makes a very attractive option for Scott Pioli and Co.
Other Options: Romeo Crennel could also target the defense and look at Melvin Ingram to play opposite Tamba Hali, or look for a NT and take Dontari Poe.  Luke Kuechly is more of a 4-3 linebacker but if the Chiefs like him enough don't be surprised if he's the pick either.

12. Seattle Seahawks: Luke Kuechly (ILB Boston College)
Kuechly was a tackling machine at Boston College and one of the most effective middle linebackers in college football history.  With the loss of David Hawthorne in free agency, Seattle would be well served to take the top linebacker in this class who seems to resemble Brian Urlacher in the middle of a 4-3 defense.  One of the safest picks in the draft.
Other Options: If DeCastro falls, he's certainly an option, as is the guy I have the Cardinals taking with the next pick in Melvin Ingram, who could line up opposite the aging Chris Clemons and help shore up the pass rush from his DE position.


13. Arizona Cardinals: Melvin Ingram (OLB South Carolina)
The Cardinals top targets in this draft were taken consecutively with the last four picks.  However, with the losses of Clark Haggans and Joey Porter on the outside, Arizona needs help and Ingram would help revitalize their pass rush.
Other Options: Obviously they'd have loved to get Michael Floyd, Riley Reiff, David DeCastro or Luke Kuechly but landing Ingram is a great pickup.  Assuming the Cardinals don't trade, I'd bet my house they take one of those five guys.


14. Dallas Cowboys: Dontari Poe (DT Memphis)
The Dallas front office and coaches are apparently enamored with Poe's athleticism and potential.  Rightfully so, I might add, as he blew the combine out of the water and showed he deserved to be a pick in the top half of the draft.  However, he did little to back up his potential on tape, where he was rather pedestrian while playing at Memphis.  It's not as if he had much competition there, some of their opponents included Middle Tennessee, Southern Mississippi and Austin Peay.  For his opponents to be so bad and he to still have looked like an average player is concerning.
Other Options:  If the Cowboys have the same worries that many other teams and draft analysts have, they may decide to instead target S Mark Barron, who would help solidify their secondary.


15. Philadelphia Eagles: Mark Barron (S Alabama)
The Eagles have taken a safety in the second round each of the last two years, however neither appears to be the long term answer.  Andy Reid hasn't anyone back there since Brian Dawkins left, so getting Barron would be a smart move.  I still think Philadelphia is a prime target to trade up for a guy like Fletcher Cox, but there is talent to be had even if they stay at 15.
Other Options: If Kuechly doesn't fall to 15, which I doubt he will, the Eagles could take a linebacker who can play outside of Demeco Ryans and help in the run game.  The front seven was atrocious last year in stopping opposing backs, so reaching for a guy like Dont'a Hightower or Courtney Upshaw is possible.


16. New York Jets: Dont'a Hightower (ILB Alabama)
From what I'm getting, Rex Ryan loves Hightower.  And if Rex thinks, like I do, that Hightower is better served as an OLB this pick makes a lot of sense.  They need guys how can play outside of Bart Scott and David Harris and are desperate need of a pure pass rusher.  Hightower could be molded as he shows great on field awareness and instincts.
Other Options: They'll hope Kuechly falls first, but when that doesnt happen they can pick Hghtower or could always take Hightower's teammate Courtney Upshaw who actually played OLB in college.  They'll consider Barron if he's there, and if Stephon Gilmore as a possibility to move to safety.


17. Cincinnati Bengals: Stephon Gilmore (CB South Carolina)
Gilmore flown up draft boards over the last two months and is now considered to be the second best CB prospect behind Claiborne.  Enter Cincinnati who lost Leon Hall to injury last year and it really hurt then later in the year.  Nate Clements and Pacman Jones aren't the answer long term.  Getting Gilmore would take care of the side opposite Hall and give the Bengals one the better tandems in the NFL, one they missed after they lost Jonathan Joseph last offseason.
Other Options: Some have Dre Kirkpatrick rated higher, we'll see, the Bengals might too.  They lost Bobbie Williams so getting a G like Cordy Glenn could be possible with their next pick.  If they value Kendall Wright enough, he could be the pick though it's more likely they'd take him with their second first rounder.


18. San Diego Chargers: Quinton Coples (DE UNC)
If not for character concerns, he'd probably already be gone.  He has great potential when he's trying and is dominant pass rusher in a 4-3.  The Chargers need help outside as Larry English was a total bust they haven't been getting sacks consistently since Shawne Merriman left.  If San Diego feels he can be converted to an OLB then this would be a great pickup for them.
Other Options: If they don't think Coples can linebacker, they could go with Michael Brockers at DT, Cordy Glenn to help with the offensive line issues, or even just take Whitney Mercilus if they value him enough as he is already projected to play OLB in a 3-4.


19. Chicago Bears: Michael Brockers (DT LSU)
Brockers only started one year at LSU but it was an LSU defense that got to the National Championship as one of college football's best.  He reminds me of Albert Haynesworth but hopefully without the mental problems.  IF he shows he was more than a one year wonder than he could end up being one of the best players in this class.  He has plenty of room for improvement and with a good coaching staff he could be a special player.  And in Chicago, he'd be playing with the likes of Julius Peppers, Briand Urlacher and Lance Briggs.
Other Options: They have needs at CB, OL and TE.  Kirkpatrick's value doesn't match up as far as I'm concerned but it could be different to them.  Cordy Glenn and Jonathan MArtin will likely warrant consideration though I don't consider Martin a 1st round prospect at all.  Coby Fleener has become overrated, the same way the aforementioned Martin has. Must be a Stanford thing...


20. Tennessee Titans: Whitney Mercilus (DE/OLB Illinois)
I fully expect the Titans to go defense with this pick and Mercilus in my mind is the best one available.  He fills a need and has big upside as DE in a 4-3.  Tennessee needs an outside rush threat so getting Mercilus would be be a great find.
Other Options: Michael Brockers if he's available, Dre Kirkpatrick, though I still consider it a reach, Courtney Upshaw or even Mark Barron if he should slip.


21. Cincinnati Bengals: Kendall Wright (WR Baylor)
Wright is a speedster with great potential after playing RG3 at Baylor.  The Bengals need a WR opposite Green, especially with the losses of Andre Caldwell and Jerome Simpson.  Jordan Shipley is a slot guy coming off an injury so Cincinnati will need to address WR somewhere in this draft and Wright seems about as good an option as any.  He'd be a great change of pace, as his style differs from Green who is more a dominant possesion reciever rather than a deep threat like Wright.  Getting Andy Dalton more weapons will help his progression and keep the Bengals competitive in the AFC North.
Other Options: CB or OL.  Kirkpatrick and Glenn remain options but Wright has a higher ceiling than those two and serves a bigger need.  Expect them to look at a RB in the second or third round to complement Green-Ellis.


22. Cleveland Browns: Stephen Hill (WR Georgia Tech)
My guess is the Browns would be pretty pissed right about now, given the fact that they just lost their target in Wright to a hated divional foe.  Regardless, they'll stay at WR and take Stephen Hill who is an athletic freak with a sub 4.3 40 and stands at 6'4".  Hill has tremendous upside, and he'll be the first real receiving threat McCoy has ever had.
Other Options:  My guess is that Cleveland takes Brandon at 37 in the second round rather than reach at 22.  They could also target Cordy Glenn, Jonathan Martin or Mike Adams if they want a tackle.


23. Detroit Lions: Dre Kirkpatrick (CB Alabama)
The Lions missed out on Cortland Finnegan so I think this finally the year they address the secondary and take a CB first round.  Their offense is one of the best in the game, it's their defense, more specifically the back end of it, that are costing them games.  Playoff teams dont need to score 50 points just to win, if you try to outscore your opponent to get the W, your doing something wrong.  Getting Kirkpatrick would help, but I think it would be smart to go DB second round as well, as the Alabama product is no Darrelle Revis-he's not going to take guys out of the game.  He's a a serviceable starter but he's not enough to fix the problems on Detroit's defense.
Other Options: They'd love to get Gilmore or Barron but they'll both likely be gone, so barring a trade Kirkpatrick is the smartest move they can make.  Offensive line is still a need so Glenn, Martin and Adams will be considered but ultimately I expect them to go DB first round.


24. Pittsburgh Steelers: Cordy Glenn (T/G Georgia)
Read this article, it will explain this pick if your interested. What you need to know, is that I don't like this pick, but it's my best guess at this point.
http://theburghreport.blogspot.com/2012/04/24th-pick-in-case-you-hadnt-made.html
Other Options: They're in the article


25. Denver Broncos: Kendall Reyes (DT Connecticut)
Everyone seems to think the Broncos will DT, so I'll assume they know what they're talking about.  Kendall Reyes is the best available DT and would help continue to improve a defense that carried Denver to the playoffs last year. (Who do you think was keeping those games close enough for Tebow to even attempt to pull off those comebacks, God?.....ok maybe.  But the Broncos can't draft God, so they'll settle for Reyes here)
Other Options: Michael Brockers if he falls, Jonathan Martin if they can get past his weakness as a finesse blocker or Coby Fleener if Peyton wants him.


26. Houston Texans: Jonathan Martin (OT Stanford)
The Texans lost OT Eric Winston to free agency so Martin could make sense here from a need standpoint.  I think they'd rather get a WR here, but with Wright and Hill of the board, it would be a reach for Reuben Randle or Alshon Jeffery so OT makes more sense.  I think Martin has glaring weaknesses and has been overvalued simply because he protected Andrew Luck's blind side at Stanford.  In reality he is a finesse blocker who will go first round when he is probably more deserving of a mid to late second round grade.
Other Options: Trade up for a WR or hope one falls.  Mike Adams could be a possibility as well at OT or they could grab an OLB as the replacement for Mario Williams who left town for Buffalo.  Courtney Upshaw and Shea McClelin could both be options for Houston's 3-4 scheme.


27. New England Patriots: Courtney Upshaw (OLB Alabama)
The Patriots defense was shit last year, agreed? Good.  So it's safe to assume that if they don't trade these picks away or up or down or wherever the hell Bill Belichick wants to move to, they will go defense.  Glad we're in agreement.  I think Courtney Upshaw is the best player available and can play DE in a 4-3 or OLB in 3-4, depending on The Hoodie's mood.  They need help at seven or eight positions on defense so look for DB as well with one of their higher picks.
Other Options: Obviously DB is a never ending need in New England so they could target guys like Casey Hayward, Harrison Smith (though it would be a complete reach), or consider the possibility of trading into the low teens to grab Mark Barron.  They certainly have the picks to spare if they really wanted a guy in particular.


28. Green Bay Packers: Shea McClelin (OLB Boise State)
He reminds me of Clay Matthews so it seems fitting for the Packers to take him.  They need a guy to a play at the other OLB spot and McClelin has a great motor and work ethic.  Green Bay would like to bring another pass rusher as their only consistent source of pressure seems to come from Matthews and corner blitzes out of Dom Capers' scheme.
Other Options: If Courtney Upshaw is available, he could be the pick as well.  RB is not out of the question so keep an eye on Doug Martin.  They brought in Jeff Saturday but he's not a long term fix at center so Peter Konz may warrant consideration as well.


29. Baltimore Ravens: Peter Konz (C Wisconsin)
My guess is center is not what Baltimore is hoping to come away with in the first round so they could be a team that tries to trade up for a guy like Hightower or out of the first round all together to stockpile picks.  Konz is a good player and the best center in this class but his value is probably more mid second round.  He could also play guard and take over for Ben Grubbs if the Ravens liked the idea of him transitioning over.
Other Options: Certainly they'd like to find Ray Lewis' replacement in this draft, so Hightower could be a target of theirs.  They also have needs at S, OLB and G.  Kevin Zeitler could also be the pick here if they like him more than Konz, and Harrison Smith is just not worth a first round pick in my opinion.  Courtney Upshaw, Shea McClelin of Nick Perry could be possibilities as well after the loss of Jarret Johnson to San Diego.


30. San Francisco 49ers: Kevin Zeitler (G Wisconsin)
The amazing thing about the 49ers is that they have no glaring needs.  Sure they are areas they could improve like WR, but they've already got Crabtree and just brought in Randy Moss and Mario Manningham.  If Stephen Hill were here, I could see them taking him, and they might still consider trading up to grab him or Kendall Wright.  With the way Jim Harbaugh uses TEs I could see him liking his former player Coby Fleener and grabbing him too.  However nabbing Zeitler is a safe pick and he seems like a guy whose going to be a good player for a long time.  Their offensive line was by no means perfect last season, but they've still got a ton of guys to rotate in.  I oculd see Zeitler winning a starting job in training camp, without the risk of taking a guy with bust potential like Fleener or Hill.
Other Options: Trade up for Stephen Hill or Coby Fleener if they like them enough, or just hope that they fall and if not just take the best player available.


31. New England Patriots: Casey Hayward (CB Vanderbilt)
Hayward is considered by some to be better than Kirkpatrick and could also be moved to safety if that's where the Patriots see him fitting best.  They reached a little last year for Ras-I Dowling at the top of round 2 who was hurt in 2011, so they don't know if he's a starter yet.  Getting Hayward in a similar spot makes sense given their seemingly constant injured secondary.  It will be interesting if Julian Edelman remains a nickel corner or if they let him back on offense.
Other Options: Lavonte David could be an option if they don't take Upshaw with the 27th pick. With the loss of Green-Ellis they may also consider Doug Martin at the back end of round one. And as always the Patriots are a candidate to trade so I doubt that they come out of the first round on Thursday with these same picks.


32. New York Giants: Coby Fleener (TE Stanford)
If Coby Fleener is as good as advertised (though I have my doubts) then this could make the Super Bowl Champions the best passing offense in the game, in terms of receiving talent.  They have a need at TE and he's the best in this class.  Still possible they could address needs at LB, RB or G but Fleener is luxury pick and when your the champions you can take a luxury pick, while addressing positions of need later in the draft.
Other Options: Bradshaw showed weakness last year and they lost Brandon Jacobs to San Francisco so Doug Martin or David Wilson could be options here at the end of the first. Kevin Zeitler could be an option too as they could use a guard to pair with Chris Snee. An OLB like Lavonte David could be a possibility as well to shore up the middle of their defense behind their incredible pass rush.