2009 Mock Draft Ver 4.0 Round 3

Round 3:

65. Detroit Lions – Victor Harris, CB Virginia Tech

With the sixty-fifth selection, the Lions select Virginia Tech cornerback Victor "Macho" Harris. Macho is a bigger cornerback who would fit nicely into Jim Schwartz's new defense as I'm quite sure he'll be keen on upgrading the current stock where Leigh Bodden is really the only name worth mentioning. I think Harris is going to be a solid NFL player and I feel that his style of play is more like Brandon Flowers who came out last year as opposed to Jimmy Williams from years prior and will fit well with the Lions, he also adds value as a returner where the Lions don't posses anything either, not to mention Harris is a potential first rounder so getting him here is an absolute steal for the rebuilding Lions.

66. St. Louis Rams – Antoine Caldwell, C Alabama

With the sixty-sixth selection, the St. Louis Rams put tabs on the versatile center from Alabama. Caldwell is a very good prospect and still projects as a quality center in the NFL. He was a man of many talents for Nick Saban's Crimson Tide squad. He spent time out at tackle as well as center and that kind of versatility provides the Rams with some great options on game day as it can save a roster spot when their center can kick out to guard or tackle if need be. He's a solid run blocker and pass blocker, he has good feet and a great punch, he could stand to sink his hips more but I think at this point, his versatility and with the Rams needing a center, he should be the pick. However, this pick could very well be Nate Davis from Ball State or even a MLB like Scott McKillop or Jasper Brinkley to play downhill against the run.

67. Kansas City Chiefs – Trevor Canfield, OG Cincinnati

With the sixty-seventh selection, the Kansas City Chiefs select Guard from Cincy in Trevor Canfield. Canfield is a big framed guard who will likely be the kind of road grating bulldozer the Chiefs would be looking for from their linemen since Willie Roaf and Will Shields retired. Canfield will probably suit up next to last year's number one Branden Albert and give the Chiefs a solid left side to run behind and good pass protection for the emerging Tyler Thigpen's backside. This pick could also be an inside linebacker like Beckwith from LSU or McKillop from Pittsburgh, but neither is as valuable as Canfield at this point in the draft.

68. Seattle Seahawks – Jamon Meredith, OT South Carolina

With the sixty-eighth selection, the Seattle Seahawks select the big tackle from South Carolina in Jamon Meredith. The Seahawks offensive line suffered incredibly this past season with season ending injuries occurring to pretty much every single member of the offensive line. So, having some quality depth that can move into a starting role seems to be beneficial for the Seahawks. Meredith is the kind of tackle who could kick into play guard as well. I think he projects as a LT but he'll probably start his career as the book end to Walter Jones then when WJ is ready to move on Meredith will probably be ready to take over at LT. Either way, this selection helps out the Seahawk offense immensely.

69. Dallas Cowboys (from Cleveland) – Emmanuel Cook, S South Carolina

With the sixty-ninth selection, the Dallas Cowboys select safety Emmanuel Cook from the Gamecock U. Considering the atrocity that is Roy L. Williams at the strong safety spot, the Dallas Cowboys would do well to go out and find his replacement. Emmanuel Cook is a solid safety who could interchange between free and strong. I imagine he'll fit in as the strong safety and give the Cowboys some stability in the secondary as well as some quality athleticism and range over the top. He's a solid player and should be the kind of player that fits into Wade Phillips heavy blitzing defense. This pick could also be an ILB, but I think the Cowboys may have their pick of the top second tier backers with their next pick at the top of the fourth.

70. Cincinnati Bengals – Matt Shaughnessy, DE Wisconsin

With the seventieth selection, the Bengals select Badger defensive end Matt Shaughnessy. The Bengals could some added pizzazz on their defensive front where Antwan Odom and Robert Geathers just aren't producing like they should be. Shaughnessy is a high motor player who can get to the QB, albeit his last season was kind of limited but considering the weakness of this defensive end class he's worth more than he would be had he come out in years prior. He'll be a rotational player to start his career and eventually he could play the RDE spot and rush the passer but I think he needs some quality coaching to up his game and make him reach his full potential.

71. Oakland Raiders – Chris Baker, DT Hampton

With the seventy-first selection, the Oakland Raiders select defensive tackle Chris Baker from Hampton (formally Penn State). Baker was an absolute monster for the Hampton squad this year, notching 16.5 tackles for a loss to go along with 8.5 sacks. That kind of production even in the football subdivision still warrants serious consideration, especially considering the Raiders could use some youth inside to go along with the couple massive bodies already in place. Baker could play the UT in a 4-3 as he has a serious knack for disrupting opposing offenses in their own backfield. This pick could also be an OLB like Marcus Freeman to play with Kirk Morrison and Thomas Howard.

72. Jacksonville Jaguars – Jarron Gilbert, DT San Jose State

With the seventy-second pick, the Jaguars select the disruptive force from the Spartan army in Jarron Gilbert. John Henderson has looked lonely without his buddy Marcus Stroud next to him, not to mention the defense has managed to become a liability as opposed to strength, so they could definitely use a penetrating defensive tackle to put next to the gargantuan Henderson. Gilbert himself is a big fella at 6'5" and pushing 300 pounds and he knows how to get into the backfield as he had 21.5 tackles for a loss to go along with 9 sacks from his defensive tackle position. I think pairing him with Henderson will bring the Jags defensive line back to respectability especially if Groves and Harvey come on strong after not producing too much their rookie seasons.

73. Green Bay Packers – Mark Parson, CB Ohio

With the seventy-third selection, the Green Bay Packers select the productive corner from Ohio in Mark Parson. Parson is a great man to man cover corner who will fit nicely into the Green Bay defensive scheme that likes to play their corners man on man with opposing receivers and considering the age of Woodson and Harris and the inability of Blackmon, Williams and Lee to get onto the field, I think the Packers select Parson. He's an elite talent who doesn't have the career production numbers because he suffers from Nnamdi-itis as teams tried to throw to the corner opposite him as he has shown a knack for shutting down the receiver he's covering.

74. San Francisco 49ers – Alex Boone, OT Ohio State

With the seventy-fourth selection the San Francisco 49ers select the mammoth offensive tackle from the Buckeye state in Alex Boone. The 49ers have had a real problem keeping their quarterback upright this season and it is integral for the team to get some consistency from the big men up front. Alex Boone had a bit of a down season, along with the rest of the Buckeyes, but he has all the skills and potential to be a solid RT in the NFL. This pick could also be a RB to compliment Gore as Foster is not worth a roster spot and Robinson is only good if the 49ers install a wildcat formation.

75. Buffalo Bills – Jonathan Luigs, C Arkansas

With the seventy-fifth selection the Buffalo Bills select the stout center from Arkansas in Jonathan Luigs. The Bills had some seriously poor play from their offensive line this year, specifically from their "All Pro" Left Tackle Jason Peters who had the pass protection skills of a turnstile allowing Trent Edwards to take too many unnecessary hits. They need a force in the middle who can call out blocking assignments and make sure that the line knows who to block. Not to mention help open up lanes in the running game so that Marshawn Lynch can gain more than a handful of yards every carry as he was lucky to get over a thousand rush yards this season considering his rush average for nine games this season just barely topped 3 yards per carry.

76. New York Jets (from New Orleans) – Brandon LaFell, WR LSU

With the seventy-sixth pick, the New York Jets select wide receiver from LSU, Brandon LaFell. LaFell is another LSU wide receiver in the mould of Dwayne Bowe, Craig Davis and Early Doucet, he is a bigger framed wide receiver who can get down field but is exceptional when it comes to blocking. With the likelihood of Coles leaving to pursue another team looking for a quality wideout, the Jets have a spot to fill opposite Jerricho Cotchery and I believe LaFell is the answer, he's not the fastest guy but he runs crisp routes, he sells out in the run game and he'll be a quality target for whoever is the QB for the Jets, I personally hope for Ratliff and either way, the Jets need help at WR because Brad Smith and Chansi Stuckey are not starters in this league.

77. Houston Texans – Rashad Jennings, RB Liberty

With the seventy-seventh selection, the Houston Texans go best player available and select the productive running back from 1-AA Liberty. The Texans offense was an absolute blast to watch this past season, with Schaub throwing bombs to Andre Johnson and Kevin Walter over top, Owen Daniels covering the underneath and Steve Slaton running his heart out, it's hard to find any flaws. They have two good tackles and a solid interior, so the only thing that is missing is a comparable back up tail back to get those tough yards and spell Slaton after his mad dashes to the endzone. This pick could also be a cornerback like Darius Butler should Dunta Robinson hit free agency, but with the first two picks being defense, I think the offensive minded Gary Kubiak goes with a running back to help out his offense even more.

78. San Diego Chargers – Javon Ringer, RB Michigan State

With the seventy-eighth selection, the San Diego Chargers select a back who may become the heir apparent to LaDanian Tomlinson. Javon Ringer is a versatile and capable back from a solid Michigan State program, he's got some wear and tear on him from being the big time bell carrying back for the Spartans, but I think the Chargers will look to sign Sproles long term and potentially deal LaDanian for an early to mid second day pick. So, with that in mind, I think they use this pick on Ringer and give themselves a more youthful backfield and regrets over not keeping Michael Turner.

79. Denver Broncos – Derek Pegues, S Mississippi State

With the seventy-ninth selection, the Denver Broncos select Derek Pegues from Miss. State. The Broncos sure up their defense even more with the selecton of Pegues. He's a bit of an undersized safety but he's got great versatility as he can also play cornerback and he can be a decent return man alongside Eddie Royal. Now, considering Marlon McCree is likely to hit free agency again and with the Broncos having little else at safety, including bringing back Josh Barrett who was cut during training camp so they could definitely use the upgrade and I think Pegues will be a solid addition to McDaniels new 3-4 defense.

80. Washington Redskins – Andy Levitre, OG Oregon State

With the eightieth selection, the Washington Redskins select the big guard from Oregon State in Andy Levitre. The Redskins are getting incredibly "long in the tooth" as Jamie Dukes would say and they could use some youth in the interior offensive line as Casey Rabach, Pete Kendall and Randy Thomas could potentially be members of the AARP. Levitre is not as massive as former teammate Roy Schuening who came out last year and was drafted by the Rams, but Levitre should be a welcome addition to an offensive line that is in dire need of a young whipper snapper.

81. Tampa Bay Buccaneers – Mohamed Massaquoi, WR Georgia

With the eighty-first selection, the Tampa Bay Bucs select the cagey Georgia receiver in Mohamed Massaquoi. The Buccaneers are under new management and it's likely they'll part with some of the older and less productive wide receivers like Ike Hilliard, Michael Clayton and Joey Galloway, so, if they sign Antonio Bryant to a contract they will need a target for him and I think Double M from Georgia fits that bill, he's a big body at about 6'2" and tipping the scales at over 200 pounds, he runs decent routes and has fairly consistent hands. He'll be a nice compliment to Bryant down the road.

82. Detroit Lions (from Dallas) – Devin Moore, RB Wyoming

With the eighty-second selection, the Detroit Lions select the speedy Wyoming back in Devin Moore. This pick is purely BPA as Moore has slipped from a potential late 2nd rounder to a mid 3rd rounder but I don't think the Lions can pass on him. The Lions got great production out of Kevin Smith who probably would have had a higher stat total if Millen didn't decide to pull Rudi Johnson off the street and somehow get the starting nod. I think Detroit needs a versatile return man and a compliment back and considering Moore's value and being a threat to go yard every time the ball touches his hand, he needs to be the pick here.

83. Philadelphia Eagles – Ramses Barden, WR Cal Poly SLO

With the eighty-third selection, the Philadelphia Eagles select the massive receiver from Cal Poly SLO. The Eagles really have lacked a big red zone threat that can go out and high point the ball and come down with it in a jump ball situation. The Eagles saw first hand what a dangerous and tall receiver is capable of when Larry Fitzgerald and Kurt Warner shredded their defence to the tune of 3 touchdowns. Ramses Barden is absolutely massive at 6'6" and 226 pounds; he is super productive as his numbers this past season were huge including 1250+ yards and 18 touchdowns. I think with the Eagles not being able to get Britt in the first round they grab Barden here and if he runs well at the combine, I think this pick is definitely not a reach and would be a great help to Andy Reid and Donovan McNabb, should they be kept of course.

84. Green Bay Packers (from New York) – Augustus Parrish, OT Kent State

With the eighty-fourth selection, the Green Bay Packers use the selection they got for Brett Favre on the athletic Kent State tackle Augustus Parrish. The Packers are probably going to let Mark Tauscher test the waters in free agency, he's an older tackle with some serious years on him and the Packers and Ted Thompson seem to be all about getting younger. Parrish is a solid tackle that can open holes in the run game and is athletic enough to protect Aaron Rodgers blind side. He'll probably start as a RT and then move over to LT when Clifton heads off.

85. Chicago Bears – Rich Ohrnberger, OG Penn State

With the eighty-fifth selection, the Chicago Bears select the talented guard from Penn State. Now, I'm a lot higher on Ohrnberger than most people and I think he has the potential, know how and production to be a late third to early fourth round selection. He's a solid blocker who dominates the line of scrimmage, he's a stout pass blocker who anchors well and doesn't get beat inside by swim or rip moves and he stays low in his stance and drives defenders into the ground. He's a blue chipper and I think he could be an upgrade over Beekman or Garza who are currently starting for the Bears. This pick could also be a tackle as well, but considering the Bears would have to reach on one, they pick the nasty guard from Happy Valley.

86. Minnesota Vikings – Darius Butler, CB Connecticut

With the eighty-sixth pick, the Minnesota Vikings select UConn cornerback Darius Butler. Butler has all the potential to be middle to late first day selection but because of a knee injury he falls all the way to the Vikings here. Butler is a bit of an undersized cornerback at 5'11" and 186 pounds but he plays bigger than he is. The Vikings have had some inconsistencies from cornerback Cedric Griffin who sometimes shines in coverage and other times is a liability. Bringing in Butler gives the Vikings an immediate upgrade at the nickel corner and a potential starter as well.

87. Miami Dolphins – Sherrod Martin, S Troy State

With the eighty-seventh selection, the Miami Dolphins select Troy State safety Sherrod Martin. When Bill Parcells came back to the Cowboys his first selection was Troy defensive end DeMarcus Ware. It only seems fitting that he go back to Troy to solidify the secondary for the Dolphins. Yeremiah Bell proved to be more than just a stop-gap solution as he was a tackling machine and a defensive playmaker causing quite a few turnovers so I believe the Dolphins need to find a free safety to play opposite him and Sherrod Martin is currently the best on the board despite being a bit of a reach. This pick could also be an inside linebacker should the Dolphins let Crowder test free agency, like McKillop or Brinkley.

88. Baltimore Ravens – Domonique Johnson. CB Jackson State

With the eighty-eighth selection, the Baltimore Ravens select CB from 1-AA Jackson State, Domonique Johnson. The Ravens have some serious age at the cornerback position in Samari Rolle, Chris McAllister and Frank Walker so they could use some added youth in the secondary as Fabian Washington is proving to be a valuable pick up and he needs a solid corner across from him. Johnson has great triangle numbers, he's tall at 6'2" and has a good frame to play the run at 192 pound, but most importantly, he may run the fastest time at the combine for a cornerback. Putting him across from Washington with the veterans mentoring them would give them an incredibly quick and ball hawking secondary.

89. New England Patriots – Nic Harris, S/LB Oklahoma

With the eighty-ninth selection, the New England Patriots select the strong safety linebacker hybrid from Oklahoma in Nic Harris. The Patriots need to find a replacement for Rodney Harrison who I believe has played his last downs in the NFL, Nic Harris is a bigger safety who would probably play WLB in a 4-3 and the Patriots would covet his versatility. He's a big hitter and will be that dominating presence in the secondary that the Patriots lacked this season. This pick could also be an OT but considering the talent available at this pick they would have to reach on one, so they select Nic Harris to pair with the current safeties and give them a youthful and dynamic safety unit.

90. Atlanta Falcons – Jared Cook, TE South Carolina

With the ninetieth selection, the Atlanta Falcons select the pass catching TE from Steve Spurrier's Gamecocks in Jared Cook. Cook is a solid TE prospect who could stand to put on some weight as he can still be considered a "rocked-up" wide receiver at 6'5", 240+, he has the frame to add some weight to better produce in the run game as a blocker, but as a pass catcher, he is definitely qualified to become a new weapon for Matt Ryan. Giving the Falcons something underneath as a safety blanket would go towards helping the Falcons even more as it'll give Roddy White more opportunities over top as someone will have to keep an eye on Cook. This pick could also be a strong safety like Michael Hamlin to be groomed as a replacement for Lawyer Milloy.

91. New York Giants – Michael Hamlin, S Clemson

With the ninety-first selection, the New York Giants select the productive Clemson safety Michael Hamlin. The Giants caught lightning in a bottle last year with being able to land Kenny Phillips at the end of the first and they need someone to play across from him who compliment his style of play, Michael Johnson and James Butler are both good safeties but I think they are more rotation and special teams players than anything and bringing in Hamlin to play alongside Phillips will give the Giants an even younger and talented secondary as Hamlin is a defensive playmaker with 14 career picks. This pick could also be a defensive end but considering the players available, grabbing Hamlin is definitely the best route to go.

92. Indianapolis Colts – Nate Davis, QB Ball State

With the ninety-second selection, the Indianapolis Colts select the talented QB from Ball State in Nate Davis. Nate Davis could have been second round pick but based on his performance in the MAC championship and in his bowl game he slips all the way down here. Now, considering what the Patriots did last year and the fact that Peyton looked off the first few games this season having a capable back up on the roster is definitely a plus for the Colts considering Jim Sorgi is not capable of leading a team to victory while Nate Davis was part of the turn around that put Ball State into the top 25 this past season. This pick could also be a WR like Robiskie considering the Colts president Bill Polian is a fan of Big 10 players and the pick would reunite Robiskie with college teammate Anthony Gonzalez.

93. Carolina Panthers – Robert Ayers, DE Tennessee

With the ninety-third selection the Carolina Panthers select Tennessee defender Robert Ayers. With the potential release of Julius Peppers on the horizon, the Panthers will need a defensive end to fill the void and Ayers is the best available. He's not in the same league in terms of pass rush but he knows how to get into the backfield and is good against the run as well. He may have only had 3 sacks this season but he caused havoc in the backfield to the tune of 15.5 tackles for a loss, if he has a good combine workout and runs a decent forty then I think the Panthers will be glad to nab him. This pick could also be Cody Brown from UConn but considering he's only a situational pass rusher I think they go with Ayers instead.

94. Tennessee Titans – Brian Robiskie, WR Ohio State

With the ninety-fourth selection the Tennessee Titans select the polished Ohio State receiver in Brian Robiskie. The Titans found a playmaker in the passing game in Justin Gage who became Kerry Collins go to guy down the stretch but they need someone opposite him to take off some of the pressure and make the clutch catches as he runs fantastic routes and is deceptively fast for someone at 6'3". The Titans are usually not a fan of drafting wide receivers early but they have too much of a need not to grab someone as talented as Robiskie. However, this selection could also be a tight end since Scaife is an unrestricted free agent and Alge Crumpler is slow, out of shape and past his prime.

95. Arizona Cardinals – Zack Follett, LB California

With the ninety-fifth selection and second to last pick in the third round, the Arizona Cardinals select a linebacker who knows how to get to QB in California's Zack Follett. Arizona has been a real story this year and I expect big things in the future, however, there needs to be some upgrades made at the linebacker spot. Karlos Dansby may leave via free agency and that leaves LaBoy, Okeafor and Haggens. They need to bring in some young talent to compete and bring the heat and Zack Follett can do that better than maybe any other collegiate linebacker. This past season he tallied 10.5 sacks to go along with a ridiculous 23 tackles for a loss and more importantly 5 forced fumbles. He is a defensive playmaker that will help the Cardinals immensely. This pick could also be a corner as well considering Roderick Hood might as well change his name to toast.

96. Pittsburgh Steelers – Jairus Byrd, CB Oregon

With the ninety-sixth selection in the draft, the Pittsburgh Steelers select the big cornerback from Oregon in Jairus Byrd. The Steelers could definitely add some youth to the cornerback position, Ike Taylor is a solid player but with Deshea Townsend on the other side and Bryant McFadden potentially moving on, the Steelers could use a cornerback who could come in right away and play the nickel package and eventually move into a starting role when the Steelers let Townsend go. Jairus Byrd has all the talent to play for the Steelers, he had an amazing 14 pass break ups and 4 interceptions in his junior campaign and he has the size to play the run, he however may need to work on his speed and should he knock a couple tenths of a second off his forty time then he is an amazing pick up here and he could potentially go earlier but as it currently stands. The Steelers grab him and improve their already top ranked defense even more.

Matty's Rookie of the Week

Hello everyone and welcome to the special conference championship edition of Matty's Rookie of the Week. The conference championship saw some of the hotter rookies like Joe Flacco and Domonique Rodgers-Cromartie fizzle a tad, but others came on strong and helped lead their teams when all seemed to be lost and a trip home was in the future. So, without further delay, lets get into the trenches and find out who I have as my rookie of the week!

Matty's Rookie of the Week:

Tim Hightower, RB
6'0" 224 lbs
Richmond
5th round pick, 149th overall
11 rushes, 33 yards and 1 reception, 8 yards and 1 TD

I must say, it was incredibly hard to decide who was going to be my rookie of the week. Up until about the 3rd quarter I had been dead set on using DRC again, but then he got beat by DeSean Jackson for that long TD and it seemed like a new ROTW had emerged but then on a game winning drive, Tim Hightower had two absolutely huge plays that I believe were the difference in sending the Cardinals to the Super Bowl. On fourth and a long one at about mid-field, the Cardinals decided to hand off to their running back and after last weeks stuff fest against the Giants, it didn't look good for this poor running team but Hightower managed to get that important first down. Then, on third down the Cardinals ran a screen that the Eagles defensed perfectly and with pure grit and moxy, Hightower got the ball into the endzone to give the Cardinals enough to make it past the Eagles.

So, congratulations are in order for Mr. Hightower, way to go bud. Despite your pathetic 2.8 yards per carry average during the season you turned it on when it counted. Be sure to come back in two weeks for the Matty's Rookie of the Week SUPER BOWL EDITION!

2009 Mock Draft Ver 3.0 Round 1

Round 1:

1. Detroit Lions – Mark Sanchez, QB USC

With the first selection, the Detroit Lions select their QB to resurrect this dismal franchise in USC signal caller Mark Sanchez. Mark Sanchez leaning towards declaring easily makes this QB class that much better, Matt Stafford is hardly worth the #1 overall pick, however, were Sam Bradford to come out here, he might be the pick. Mark Sanchez has all the intangibles one looks for from a starting signal caller, he can throw the long bomb with the best of them, and he has good accuracy and very good mobility and he comes from a winning program known for turning their prospects into great NFL QBs. The Lions have a wealth of needs, a couple young QBs on roster but Mark Sanchez is an instant upgrade and franchise QBs are much harder to come by so he must be the pick here.

Previous selection: Brian Orakpo, DE Texas

2. St. Louis Rams – Andre Smith, OT Alabama

With the second selection, the Rams select the massive tackle from Saban's resurgent Alabama squad. Andre Smith is a massive and imposing human being and considering the Rams were likely to pounce on Jake Long had he slipped to number 2 last year there is no way they don't go out and grab one of the two OTs left on the board at this point. I think Smith is the better fit of the two for the Rams since they would like to feature Jackson heavily and take some of the pressure of Bulger who has been an absolute catastrophe this year. Bringing in Smith would immediately help out the Rams ailing offense, especially in the red zone.

3. Kansas City Chiefs – Aaron Curry, LB Wake Forest

With the third selection, the Chiefs grab Aaron Curry from Wake Forest. The Chiefs don't really have much at linebacker besides Derrick Johnson and since Curry may be one of if not the best player in the draft the Chiefs would be ecstatic to have him. I'm not entirely sure where he would end up, my guess would be that he would player either strongside backer and maybe DJ would move to weakside or vice versa then they would just have to find an ILB later in the draft or in free agency. This pick could also be an OT if the Chiefs aren't entirely set on drafting Curry, it could also be a on a pass rusher like Brian Orakpo or Everette Brown.

4. Seattle Seahawks – Michael Crabtree, WR Texas Tech

With the fourth selection, the Seahawks select the super productive wide receiver from Texas Tech in Michael Crabtree. With Jim Mora now the head coach, he'll probably be looking to infuse some youth and talent into an aging receiving corps that has not held their weight and probably lead to the downfall of the Seahawks this past season. Mora has a history of using first rounders on WRs as two of his previous first round selections were Michael Jenkins and Roddy White in Atlanta. Now, considering Crabtree's talent, the need at WR and Mora, I can't imagine Crabtree is not the selection. This pick could also be Malcolm Jenkins from Ohio State or Michael Oher or Eugene Monroe to take over for Walter Jones when he eventually retires.

Previous selection: Malcolm Jenkins, CB Ohio State

5. Cleveland Browns – Everette Brown, DE/LB Florida State

With the fifth selection, the Browns select the hybrid pass rusher from Florida State, the dangerous Everette Brown. The Browns have a wealth of different needs and could go a couple of other routes, they could select Chris Wells to be the dominant and punishing RB as is custom in the AFC North. They could also select an impact player like Malcolm Jenkins, but considering their depth at CB I think they go with the speedy DE/OLB from Florida State, Everette Brown. He has shown a real knack for getting to the QB and it wouldn't be the first time that the Browns have gone to Florida State to spice up their pass rush, though Kamerion Wimbley has been marginal in his last two seasons, adding some added pressure opposite him with guidance from the sagely Willie McGinnest will go a long way to helping out the Browns defense, both in stuffing the run and shutting down opposing QBs.

Previous selection: Chris Wells, RB Ohio State

6. Cincinnati Bengals – Michael Oher, OT Ole Miss

With the sixth selection, the Bengals take the big tackle from Mississippi, Michael may be slipping in people's eyes but I still think he's one of the best of the bunch and fits the style of offense that Cincinnati uses, he's an athletic tackle that can protect Palmer's backside while they move incumbent veteran Levi Jones over to RT and hopefully let Stacy Andrews go or move him to guard as he has been a disappointment this season after getting the franchise tag. Oher will go a long way in helping out the struggling Cincy offense.

7. Oakland Raiders – Eugene Monroe, OT Virginia

With the seventh selection, the Crypt Keeper selects someone that didn't run a blazing 40 and that's the third OT in Eugene Monroe, the Raiders have big money invested in their QB and RB but the guys protecting them are hardly anything to write home about. Kwame Harris? Really? Eugene Monroe is drafted and starts from day one on the left side of the line where Robert Gallery is actually playing decent and gives JaMarcus Russell some time to throw the ball so he can complete his 15-20 passes a game while the running game takes over. However, we all know Al Davis and how he gets all hot and bothered when he sees a fast 40, so this pick could also be Michael Crabtree, Taylor Mays or Darrius Heyward-Bey.

8. Jacksonville Jaguars – Malcolm Jenkins, CB Ohio State

With the eighth selection, the once stout Jacksonville Jaguars select cornerback Malcolm Jenkins to boost the credibility of their secondary that became quite a liability this season. Next to defensive tackle, cornerback is their most pressing need and considering how anemic their pass defense was the Jaguars would do well to select the best pure cover corner in this draft class in Malcolm Jenkins, he has a big body and is good in press, he has great cover and ball skills to track and make plays on the long ball and he'll play the run. Putting Jenkins on one side and Mathis on the other will give the Jaguars and incredibly intimidating pass defense that faces the Colts and Texans twice a year.

Previous selection: Michael Crabtree, WR Texas Tech

9. Green Bay Packers – Brian Orakpo, DE Texas

With the ninth selection, the Packers go out and pick the Longhorn pass rush machine, Brian Orakpo. A poor bowl performance has dropped Orakpo from the number one overall pick but his skills are just too great to leave the top 10 and considering besides Aaron Kampman, the Packers could not get much of a pass rush this season, it really put a damper on their defense. With losing Cullen Jenkins to injury and cutting Kabeer Gbaja-Biamilia the Packers would be well served to make sure they get the best DE available, luckily for GM Ted Thompson, a guy who likes to take BPA, Brian Orakpo fits both categories and should be able to be a nice addition to the Green Bay defense.

Previous selection: Michael Johnson, DE Georgia Tech

10. San Francisco 49ers – Aaron Maybin, DE/LB Penn State

With the tenth selection, the 49ers select the dangerous and talented defensive end from Penn State in Aaron Maybin. Maybin would play as a down lineman in a cover 2 scheme like Dwight Freeney, I also think he has enough spatial awareness and ability to be the pass rushing OLB that San Francisco has been looking for from Manny Lawson. Maybin is a tad undersized and may need to put on some weight to be stout against the run, but considering his upside and limitless potential, I think he has to be the pick here, he gets to the QB, he wreaks havoc in the backfield and Mike Singletary will love his intensity. This pick could also be Taylor Mays from USC.

Previous selection: Taylor Mays, S USC

11. Buffalo Bills – Michael Johnson, DE Georgia Tech

With the eleventh selection, the frigid Bills select the absolutely massive Yellow Jacket DE, Michael Johnson. For years, the Bills have had nothing opposite DE Aaron Schobel and they were able to get by because he was a relentless machine but as soon as he went down, the Bills lost all pass rush which leads me to believe they'll make the ridiculously gigantic and versatile DE from Georgia Tech, Michael Johnson who has all the potential in the world to become a star and would give the Bills a very dangerous defensive line with Schobel back from injury, and tackles Stroud and Williams clogging the middle.

Previous selection: Everette Brown, DE/LB Florida State

12. Denver Broncos – Taylor Mays, S USC

With the twelfth selection, the Broncos select the best defensive playmaker on the board and physical specimen; Taylor Mays from Southern Cal. Considering that Brandon Spikes is all but officially going back to Florida for his senior season, the Broncos get the next most productive defensive playmaker on the board in Taylor Mays. He has the ability to play the run and the pass; he could play either FS or SS for the Broncos. Now, considering new head coach Josh McDaniel and his experience with the Patriots, it makes me wonder if they'll switch up to a 3-4, perhaps moving Elvis Dumervil to a rush LB and so forth, so, a pick could be made to ease the transition. But I think regardless, Denver needs to go BDPA, best defensive player available, and Mays fits that bill. However, they could potentially select Chris Wells as well who has fallen a tad.

Previous selection: Brandon Spikes, LB Florida

13. Washington Redskins – Jason Smith, OT Baylor

With the thirteenth selection and Coach Jim Zorn still on board it's likely he continues to upgrade the offense because it really slowed the Skins down to the point where they played themselves out of the playoffs. Clinton Portis has had no running room and the pass protection was breaking down. Considering the age of the offensive line currently in place and the value of Jason Smith rising, I can't imagine the Redskins passing him up. This pick could also be Tyson Jackson from LSU as a DE who can run stop and potentially move in on certain situations to play DT like division rival Justin Tuck.

14. New Orleans Saints – James Laurinaitis, LB Ohio State

With the fourteenth selection, the New Orleans Saints do not select a cornerback. I think with Mike Mackenzie and Tracy Porter on IR, the Saints got a bit of a raw deal in the secondary and I don't think they were as terrible as they were in years prior, but the Saints still need to go defense regardless. Enter Animal Jr. from the Buckeye State, he's a big, mean and fast linebacker and would do well to play SLB with Vilma or replace him at ILB in order to help the Saints stop the run, and not to mention baby Animal is pretty decent in coverage too.

15. Houston Texans – William Moore, S Missouri

With the fifteenth selection, the Texans select William Moore from Mizzou, this versatile safety has had somewhat of a down year with injuries causing some problems with his play, but he is still an elite talent and I don't see him falling past Denver and Houston. He can do it all in a secondary that really has never had an elite safety to hang their hat on, they've gotten by on vagrants and journeymen but now the Texans will have a monster and if Dominique Barber pans out as well, the Texans could have a very talented and young safety duo.

16. San Diego Chargers – Duke Robinson, OG Oklahoma

With the sixteenth selection, the San Diego Chargers select the Duke! Chargers could benefit from a number of other positions, like a DE like Tyson Jackson or maybe an ILB like Rey Maualuga or even an offensive weapon for Norv Turner, but I think they need to take a look at Duke Robinson. Mike Goff is still a great NFL guard, but he probably doesn't have a whole lot left in the tank and I think that the Chargers need to keep the offensive line strong in order to make some serious noise during the season, so, I think they grab the big guard who will fit the San Diego system well.

17. New York Jets – Chris Wells, RB Ohio State

With the seventeenth selection, the New York Jets select the bruising back from Ohio State in Chris "Beanie" Wells. The Jets got an All Pro season from Thomas Jones this year, but he has some serious wear and tear on his treads and it's not likely he'll be re-signed and considering the wealth of talent that Wells possesses, I can't imagine the Jets passing him up so they could have their future smash and dash backfield with Wells and Washington. This pick could also be a defensive playmaker like Rey Maualuga, but I think he's slipping a bit and Wells is too valuable to pass at this junction.

Previous selection: Rey Maualuga, LB USC

18. Chicago Bears – George Selvie, DE South Florida

With the eighteenth selection, Da Bears select pass rusher George Selvie. The Bears have really suffered from injuries and poor play in the secondary this season and is one of the main causes as to why they didn't win the division as they couldn't contain Andre Johnson in the final game of the season in order to make the playoffs, but it is not because they don't have the talent but because they couldn't pressure the QB and opposing teams could shred them. This pick could also be a WR like Percy Harvin or Hakeem Nicks, but I think Lovie Smith goes with what he knows and that's a strong running game and suffocating defense and in order to do that, he needs a guy who can get to the QB and Selvie fits that bill.

19. Tampa Bay Buccaneers – LeSean McCoy, RB Pittsburgh

With the nineteenth selection, the Bucs make the shifty Pittsburgh back LeSean "Shady" McCoy a new fixture in the offense in Tampa. The Bucs had a heaping big mess in their backfield this year. With Graham going down to injury, Cadillac injuring his good leg and Warrick Dunn reaching the end of his career, the Bucs are going to need to introduce some more youth and especially some more health into their backfield. I think Shady is the kind of back that will be able to help the offense even more, he's a solid back who can break the long run and his talents will go a long way to setting up the west coast passing game where Gruden likes to involve play action boots and what have you, this pick could also be Matt Stafford.

Previous selection: Knowshon Moreno, RB Georgia

20. Detroit Lions (from Dallas) – Clint Sintim, LB Virginia

With the twentieth, the Detroit Lions take the best defensive player available in my opinion, Detroit needs players everywhere so they may as well go BPA and grab a great LB like Sintim who will start immediately at SLB for the Lions, he has great ability to get to the QB, he's decent in pass coverage and he should be stout against the run behind undersized defensive end Cliff Avril and should go the extra mile in strengthening that Lions defense that gave up too many points way too quickly. This pick could also be an OT like Eben Britton or potentially a DT like B.J. Raji.

Previous selection: Ciron Black, OT LSU

21. Arizona Cardinals – Alex Mack, C California

With the twenty-first selection, the Cardinals select one of my personal favourite players in this year's draft, the man beast with a mean streak a mile long, Alex Mack. The Cardinals are proving to have very few weaknesses on offense, but establishing the running game is definitely one, if the Cardinals can balance their offense, dominate the clock and keep their defense off the field it will do wonders for them and I think Alex Mack may be the key component in doing that and he'll start from day one as well.

22. Minnesota Vikings – Matt Stafford, QB Georgia

With the twenty-second selection the Vikings take the second QB off the board in the Georgia gunslinger Stafford. Tavaris Jackson will be a perennial back up with playing expertise because he proved he can't get it done in the clutch. Gus Ferotte throws too many picks and is far too brittle to be anyone's starting QB and a solid QB is the only thing keeping the Vikings from a deep playoff run. Queue the QB from Georgia who should fit nicely into Childress' system, he can move in the pocket, he can make all the throws and has a knack for winning, he'll be the face of the franchise along with AP for a long time.

23. New England Patriots – Vontae Davis, CB Illinois

With the twenty-third selection, the Patriots select cornerback Vontae Davis from Illinois, the Patriots have had a really tough time covering the pass this year, this could also be because they haven't had the same kind of pass rush they usually get so this pick could also be Rey Maualuga or Brian Cushing from USC. But with the makeshift secondary the Patriots currently have, getting Davis from Zook's resurgent Illini team, the pick will go a long way to bringing the Patriots secondary back up to snuff as Ellis Hobbs is a great corner and Wilhite is an emerging talent, but someone with Davis' talent falling this far is too much to pass up.

24. Atlanta Falcons – B.J. Raji, DT Boston College

With the twenty-fourth selection the resurgent Falcons select Raji from BC. The Falcons have been an incredible surprise this season and I give credit to Mike Smith and Thomas Dimitroff for turning the franchise around so quickly. The team has very few needs at this point but they could definitely stand to upgrade their defensive line, especially the nose tackle. Babineaux has been a standout this season but he needs a big body next to him to occupy blockers and I think Raji is the best fit for what they need. They could also select Peria Jerry from Ole Miss as well, but I prefer Raji.

25. Miami Dolphins – Alphonso Smith, CB Wake Forest

With the twenty-fifth selection, the Dolphins grab my favourite cornerback in the draft in Alphonso Smith from Wake Forest. The Dolphins have been one of the better stories this year and with this selection they get a player to help out their ailing secondary which has undoubtedly been their Achilles heel all season. The only thing that might limit him is his ability to play the run but I think Coach Sporano will make sure he sticks his nose in there and makes some noise and after that, he has all the tools to be an elite cover corner in a division where he has to face Randy Moss and Lee Evans twice a year.

26. Baltimore Ravens – Hakeem Nicks, WR North Carolina

With the twenty-sixth selection the Ravens go out and select the talented WR from UNC. The Ravens have had a great season, their run game is amazingly successful, and the offensive line has put up great protection for Joe Flacco, not to mention the Flaccinator has been an absolute stud at QB. Now, he just needs a new target to throw to as Derrick Mason, though talented is aging and they need a youthful and spry WR who can make all the tough catches and then some. Enter Nicks from UNC who is rocketing up draft boards and will give Flacco another talented receiver to get the ball to and Cam Cameron another weapon on offense.

27. Indianapolis Colts – Peria Jerry, DT Ole Miss

With the twenty-seventh selection the Colts select the Ole Miss Monster, Mr. Jerry. The Colts have absolutely nothing at DT and if this pick isn't the top defensive tackle on their board than they might have a screw loose. Jerry is a big bodied DT who can also harass the QB and collapse the pocket along with play stout against the run and give Indy some size upfront where they are severely lacking any kind of presence. However, knowing the Colts front office as we do, they could also make the decision to select a WR to take over for Marvin Harrison or a RB like Knowshon Moreno to help spell their current backfield.

28. Philadelphia Eagles (from Carolina) – Eben Britton, OT Arizona

With the twenty-eighth selection, the Eagles select Eben Britton from Arizona. Britton is rising up draft boards quickly and it looks as if he'll find a home in Philly. I think he'll play RT for the Eagles, and since the Eagles are supposedly moving Herremans out to LT, they can have Shawn Andrews and Max Jean-Gilles inside, Britton will be a nice addition to the right side of the line. He's not as mean as Jon Runyan but he's far more athletic and since Andy Reid loves to take offensive linemen in the 1st round, Britton seems to be the right choice.

29. New York Giants – Kenny Britt, WR Rutgers

With the twenty-ninth selection, the once defending Super Bowl champions select the tall and athletic wide receiver out of Rutgers in Kenny Britt. The selection of Britt seems incredibly likely based on his body type and Eli Manning sorely missing a big target to get the ball to down field. He plays just up the turnpike at Rutgers and will be a pick adored by the Giant faithful. He has a big frame at 6'4" but still requires some coaching to help him with route running and high pointing the ball. Luckily, he has two great route runners to learn from in Steve Smith and Amani Toomer and I think he'll be the big play threat the Giants missed down the stretch this past season. This selection could also be a DE or LB, depending on what they decide to do with Kiwanuka.

Previous selection: Brian Cushing, LB USC

30. Tennessee Titans – D.J. Moore, CB Vanderbilt

With the thirtieth selection, the once top seeded Titans select CB D.J. Moore from in-state Vanderbilt. Tennessee's front office knows what to draft to win and with their secondary aging and #2 corner looking to be the only weak spot I think they go out and draft Moore. Moore is a solid all around corner back that will be a nickel back at first and then eventually move into a starting role when Tennessee lets Nick Harper go. However, this pick could also be Brian Cushing from USC to infuse some youth into the linebacking core where Bulluck and Thornton are both aging veterans.

31. Philadelphia Eagles – Brandon Pettigrew, TE Oklahoma State

With the thirty-first the Eagles select what some have dubbed as the best TE in the Draft in Oklahoma State's Brandon Pettigrew and they get him all the way at the end of the 1st round. As far as Eagles TE's go right now, L.J. Smith is a toss up on whether or not he'll be back, Brent Celek is a solid player but hardly a starter, so the Eagles grab Pettigrew and give themselves a great target for the middle of the field. Now, the Eagles just need to find themselves a big WR in round two to pair up with Pettigrew and current receiving corps and that'll help get McNabb psyched for he'll have all these new weapons to throw to alongside classic favourites.

Previous selection: Kenny Britt, WR Rutgers

32. Pittsburgh Steelers – Tyson Jackson, DE LSU

With the thirty-second selection, the Super Bowl champion Steelers select LSU DE Tyson Jackson to play 3-4 end alongside Aaron Smith who is aging and the big bodied Casey Hampton in the middle. This pick will make the Steelers defense even stingier than it already is. The Steelers could reach on an offensive lineman like Herman Johnson from LSU or Russell Okung from Oklahoma State, but with Jackson's skill set, I think he needs to be the pick.