| 1 | Chance Warmack | G | Alabama Crimson Tide | Titans pick Chance Warmack at No. 10 overall
Titans selected Alabama OG Chance Warmack with the No. 10 overall pick. Warmack (6-2, 317) made 40 starts for Alabama, all at left guard. He was a unanimous first-team All-American in 2012, blocking out especially well in the run game. Warmack had more trouble in pass pro, surrendering two sacks of quarterback A.J. McCarron as a senior. An average athlete, Warmack ran 5.49 at the Combine with a 1.83 ten-yard split. Best used in a power running scheme, Warmack figures to be an impact drive blocker but may struggle initially in the passing game. The Titans brought in Andy Levitre during free agency, but Warmack solidifies the right guard spot due to his mauling style. |
| 2 | Eric Fisher | T | Central Michigan Chippewas | Eric Fisher goes first overall to Kansas City
Chiefs selected Central Michigan LT Eric Fisher with the No. 1 overall pick. Fisher (6-7, 306) made 34 career starts at Central Michigan, including 28 at left tackle. With superior size, length (34 1/2" arms), and athleticism to Luke Joeckel, the Chiefs determined Fisher -- despite his smaller-school background -- was this year's premier left tackle prospect. At the Combine, Fisher ran 5.05 with a 1.70 ten-yard split and scored 23 on the Wonderlic. He'll protect Alex Smith's blindside as a rookie. |
| 3 | Star Lotulelei | DT | Utah Utes | Panthers grab Utah DT Star Lotulelei at 14
Panthers selected Utah DT Star Lotulelei with the No. 14 overall pick. Lotulelei (6-3, 311) played all over the Utah's offensive line, but was primarily a run defender. He's generated optimistic comparisons to Haloti Ngata for his strength and power at the point of attack. Lotulelei drew consistent double teams in the Pac 12 yet still managed 22.5 career tackles for loss, seven sacks, and four forced fumbles. A heart-efficiency scare at the Combine is no longer a concern. At his March 20 Pro Day, Lotulelei pumped 38 bench reps, ran 5.15 in the forty, and performed a 30-inch vertical leap. The concern among some NFL personnel men is Lotulelei will not be able to rush the quarterback in the pros. Defensive tackle has been a glaring hole in Carolina's defense for years now. The Panthers will pair him up with Dwan Edwards, who amassed six sacks last season, in the middle in an effort to shore up one of the league's weaker run defenses. |
| 4 | Arthur Brown | LB | Kansas State Wildcats | Ravens trade up for KSU LB Arthur Brown
Ravens selected Kansas State LB Arthur Brown with the No. 56 overall pick. The Ravens stop Brown's slide. He was viewed by many as a first-round prospect. Brown (6-0, 241) earned 2012 Big 12 Defensive Player of the Year honors, tallying a team-best 100 tackles -- seven for loss -- and two interceptions in the middle of Kansas State's 4-3 defense. Brown ran forty times of 4.67 and 4.68 at his Pro Day and performed 21 reps on the bench. Based strictly on tape study, Rotoworld prospects guru Josh Norris considered Brown a top-10 overall player in this draft for his stack-and-shed ability, consistent physicality, and range in coverage. He should step in immediately as a starting inside linebacker in Baltimore. |
| 5 | Dion Jordan | LB | Oregon Ducks | Dolphins move up to draft LB Dion Jordan
Dolphins selected Oregon DE/OLB Dion Jordan with the No. 3 overall pick. The Dolphins traded up nine slots to draft Jordan, sending the Nos. 12 and 42 overall picks to the Raiders. Jordan (6--6, 248) was a versatile "Joker" in Chip Kelly's Ducks defenses, playing end and linebacker and covering slot receivers on passing downs. He tallied 29 career tackles for loss, 14.5 sacks, and four forced fumbles. Jones ran like a receiver at the Combine, clearing forty yards in 4.6-flat with a 1.57 ten-yard split and 10-foot-2 broad jump. He's a highly explosive, fluid athlete whom Rotoworld draft guru Josh Norris likens to former five-time Pro Bowler Julian Peterson. Jordan has also drawn comparisons to another former Miami sack artist, Jason Taylor. Look for the Dolphins to complete the trade for Chiefs LT Branden Albert Friday. |
| 6 | Ezekiel Ansah | DE | Brigham Young Cougars | Lions take DE Ezekiel Ansah at No. 5 overall
Lions selected BYU DE Ezekiel Ansah with the No. 5 overall pick. Ansah (6-5, 271) exploded onto the national scene as a senior with 62 tackles -- 13 for a loss -- and 4.5 sacks at outside linebacker in BYU's 3-4 defense. His stock soared in the Senior Bowl game, which Ansah single-handedly took over with 3.5 TFLs, 1.5 sacks, and a forced fumble. Ansah has freak length (35 1/8-inch arms) and a 4.63 forty time. His 1.56 ten-yard split in Indy was second fastest among D-Linemen behind only Keke Mingo (1.55), who's 30 pounds lighter. With just three years of football experience, Ansah offers immense upside as a pass rusher and edge presence. With only Willie Young, Ronnell Lewis, and Jason Jones on the roster at defensive end, Ansah should see the field early. He is already a stout run defender, and once Ansah learns to create space on his own, watch out. His closing speed is excellent for the Lions' wide alignment. |
| 7 | Lane Johnson | T | Oklahoma Sooners | Eagles select Lane Johnson at No. 4 overall
Eagles selected Oregon LT Lane Johnson with the No. 4 overall pick. Johnson (6-6, 303) has longer arms (35 1/4") than Luke Joeckel and Eric Fisher, and beat both in the forty (4.72), ten-yard split (1.61), and vertical (34") at the Combine, in addition to bench reps (28). Also flashing a mean streak on the field, Johnson is short only on experience. He started 23 games for the Sooners, 12 as a junior right tackle and 11 as a senior on Landry Jones' blind side after playing tight end and defensive end as a sophomore. Johnson allowed two sacks and nine QB knockdowns last year. Johnson arguably possesses more upside than any lineman in this draft. He'll slide in on Michael Vick's blindside in Philly, leaving Jason Peters at left tackle and kicking Todd Herremans inside to guard. Johnson is an absolute perfect fit for Chip Kelly's uptempo offense. |
| 8 | Cornellius Carradine | DE | Florida State Seminoles | 49ers land Florida State DE Tank Carradine
49ers selected Florida State DE/OLB Tank Carradine with the No. 40 overall pick. Carradine would have been a certain first-round pick if not for a November ACL tear and medical concerns late in the draft process. The 6'4/276 fast-twitch rusher was outplaying more heralded teammate Bjoern Werner before the tear. Pre-injury, Carradine amassed 13 tackles for loss, 11 sacks, and a forced fumble in 11 games. Carradine closed out his FSU career with 16.5 sacks over his final 21 appearances. He ran 4.76 at his April 20 personal Pro Day. On tape, Carradine's non-stop quarterback pursuit jumps off the screen. He is a powerful rusher with a truly relentless motor. The ridiculously deep 49ers can afford to swing at upside here. |
| 9 | Kenny Vaccaro | S | Texas Longhorns | Saints draft Texas safety Kenny Vaccaro
Saints selected Texas S Kenny Vaccaro with the No. 15 overall pick. Vaccaro (6-0, 214) was a 32-game starter for Texas, leading the team in tackles (107) as a senior and finishing his career with five interceptions to go with four forced fumbles. Despite average long speed (4.63), Vaccaro displays outstanding range and man-coverage skills on tape, in addition to aggressiveness in run support. He jumped 38" vertically at the Combine and showed splendid short-area movement with a 6.78 three-cone drill. Vaccaro has an NFL-ready skill set because he can cover one-on-one and guard the deep half as a single-high safety. The Texas products' specialty is lining up against mismatch targets, whether it be quick slot receivers or larger tight ends. That will certainly help in a division which features Tony Gonzalez and Greg Olsen. |
| 10 | Tavon Austin | WR | West Virginia Mountaineers | Rams move to draft WR Tavon Ausin
Rams selected West Virginia WR Tavon Austin with the No. 8 overall pick. The Rams gave up a lot for Austin, sending the No. 16 and 46 overall picks and a seventh-rounder to the Bills. Austin (5-8, 174) caught 215 balls for 2,475 yards (11.5 YPR) and 20 touchdowns over his final two college seasons, also rushing 88 times for 825 yards (9.4 YPC) and four more scores. He scored five career return touchdowns, four on kickoffs and one on a punt. Austin ran 4.34 in Indy with a 10-foot broad jump and 4.01 short shuttle, the second fastest of all receivers. Although not quite as physical as Percy Harvin, Austin possesses similar versatility, elusiveness, and explosive burst. Pencil him as a four-down game-changer that should lead the Rams in targets as a rookie. |
| 11 | Larry Warford | G | Kentucky Wildcats | Lions draft OG Larry Warford with No. 65 pick
Lions selected Kentucky OG Larry Warford with the No. 65 overall pick. A favorite of both NFL Network's Mike Mayock and Rotoworld's Josh Norris, Warford is a true road grader. The 6-foot-3, 332-pounder was a 38-game starter for the Wildcats and earned third-team All-America honors as a senior after not surrendering a single sack and only drawing two penalties. Though powerful with solid arm length (33 3/8"), Warford is short on athleticism (5.58 forty, 1.92 ten-yard split) and struggles when asked to execute second-level blocks. He's a phone-booth mauler. A game that stuck out on tape was Warford's manhandling of 360-pound John Jenkins in Kentucky-Georgia. He has an excellent chance to start at right guard come Week 1. |
| 12 | Quinton Patton | WR | Louisiana Tech Bulldogs | 49ers select Quinton Patton at No. 128
49ers selected Louisiana Tech WR Quinton Patton with the No. 128 overall pick. Patton (6-foot, 204) blew up for 1,392 yards and 13 touchdowns on 104 receptions (13.4 YPR) as a senior. Not an outstanding athlete, Patton managed a 4.53 forty and 33-inch vertical at the Combine. With sure hands, toughness, and smooth routes, Patton drew pre-draft comparisons to Reggie Wayne but openly likens himself to Chad Johnson. Rotoworld draft columnist Dumonjic Alen's No. 1-rated receiver in the entire draft, Patton will open his career competing for playing time with A.J. Jenkins behind Michael Crabtree and Anquan Boldin. |
| 13 | Datone Jones | DE | UCLA Bruins | Packers draft Datone Jones in first-round
Packers selected UCLA DL Datone Jones with the No. 26 overall pick. Finally, the Packers have replaced Cullen Jenkins. Jones (6-4, 283) totaled 13.5 career sacks, 36.5 tackles for loss, and four forced fumbles as the lynchpin of UCLA's defense, playing both 3-4 end and three-technique tackle. Jones has short arms (32 3/4") not unlike 2012 first-rounder Melvin Ingram, but plays with aggression and active hands. Jones showed short-area explosion at the Combine with a 1.63 ten-yard split, also repping 225 pounds 29 times. Greg Cosell has compared Jones to a smaller Richard Seymour. He's going to be primarily an inside pass rusher for a Green Bay team looking to get bigger and more physical on defense. |
| 14 | Johnathan Cyprien | S | Florida Intl Golden Panthers | Jaguars select SS Cyprien at No. 33 overall
Jaguars selected Florida International SS Johnathan Cyprien with the No. 33 overall pick. Cyprien (6-0, 217) was a 45-game starter at FIU and is the school's record holder in both career tackles (365) and forced fumbles (six). Cyprien added seven interceptions. Used primarily as a box strong safety in the Sun Belt, Cyprien offers tremendous upside because he also has great range. NFL Films' Greg Cosell and Rotoworld's Josh Norris have both opined that Cyprien may develop into this year's top safety -- ahead of first-rounders Kenny Vaccaro and Eric Reid. Cyprien ran forty times of 4.64 and 4.65 at his March 16 Pro Day and did 18 reps on the bench. He has some Dashon Goldson to his game. |
| 15 | Jesse Williams | DT | Alabama Crimson Tide | Seahawks take falling DT Jesse Williams
Seahawks selected Alabama DT Jesse Williams with the No. 137 overall pick. Williams (6-foot-3, 323) grew up playing basketball and rugby in Australia and is a hard-nosed, immovable 3-4 lineman with experience at both five technique and nose. He was Nick Saban's starting nose tackle in 2012. Country strong with a relentless motor, Williams drew a Haloti Ngata comparison from Doug Farrar of Football Outsiders after film study. Nicknamed "The Monstar," Williams tallied 61 tackles -- 6.5 for loss -- and 1.5 sacks as a two-year college starter. He ran forty times of 4.92 and 4.94 and pumped 27 bench reps before the draft. Williams apparently fell on draft day due to poor medicals, specifically knee issues. He could play either interior spot or possibly Red Bryant's defensive end role. |
| 16 | Tyler Wilson | QB | Arkansas Razorbacks | Raiders select QB Tyler Wilson at No. 112
Raiders selected Arkansas QB Tyler Wilson with the No. 112 overall pick. Wilson (6-foot-2 1/8, 215) succeeded Ryan Mallett and started for two seasons, looking like the potential No. 1 overall pick in 2011 before regressing in 2012 as Arkansas' program fell apart. He finished with a career completion rate of 62.6 and a 52:26 TD-to-INT ratio. Wilson's accuracy can be scattershot and his arm strength isn't overwhelming, but he is the toughest pocket passer in this draft and loves to challenge defenses vertically. He's a gunslinger with good mobility. Current Raiders starter Matt Flynn could lose his spot to a rookie named Wilson for the second year in a row. |
| 17 | Geno Smith | QB | West Virginia Mountaineers | Geno Smith's fall ends at No. 39 overall
Jets selected West Virginia QB Geno Smith with the No. 39 overall pick. The most discussed prospect in this year's draft class is the second quarterback off the board, and vaults to the top of the Jets' quarterback situation. Smith (6-3, 218) was a three-year starter whose career took off under Dana Holgorsen last season. Smith set career bests in completion rate (71.2), TD-to-INT ratio (42:6), and passer rating (163.9), only taking 19 sacks in 13 games. His 42 TDs led the nation. Smith's performance declined as the year wore on, however, as his footwork got sloppy and his field vision regressed. Smith has starting-caliber arm strength and accuracy when set, but missed too many open throws late in 2012. His pocket presence is inconsistent. Regardless, there's little doubt he's being drafted as Mark Sanchez's replacement, and not "competition." It's a new era for the Jets, who have come away with three very good players with their first three picks. |
| 18 | Jamar Taylor | CB | Boise State Broncos | Boise State CB Jamar Taylor lands with Miami
Dolphins selected Boise State CB Jamar Taylor with the No. 54 overall pick. Two draft picks and many millions of free-agency dollars later, the Dolphins have their Sean Smith replacement. Taylor (5-10, 192) was a three-year starter for the Broncos, notching seven interceptions, 11 TFL and and four sacks. He ran 4.39 at the Combine with a 10-foot-7 broad jump and 35-inch vertical. Taylor was Rotoworld draft guru Josh Norris' top-rated senior corner in this class, excelling in both off-man and press-bail coverage with speed to run with vertical receivers. Taylor consistently stays in the wideout's hip pocket. The Dolphins will hope Taylor pans out better than fellow former Boise CB Kyle Wilson did. |
| 19 | Jonathan Cooper | G | North Carolina Tar Heels | Jonathan Cooper goes 7th overall to Arizona
Cardinals selected North Carolina OG Jonathan Cooper with the No. 7 overall pick. Cooper is the first guard to go in the top-ten since the Saints selected Colorado's Chris Naeole at No. 10 in 1997. RG Adam Snyder is likely now on the outs in Arizona. Cooper (6-2, 311) made 48 starts for the Heels, earning the Jacobs Trophy as the ACC's top lineman as a senior. He played the 2012 season in the 280-pound range per his coaches' request, but has since bulked up to his natural weight. The most athletically gifted interior lineman in this class, Cooper was charged with zero sacks allowed and a single hurry as senior. Also very smart (34 Wonderlic score), Cooper could play center in a pinch. |
| 20 | Johnthan Banks | CB | Mississippi State Bulldogs | Johnthan Banks goes No. 43 overall to Bucs
Buccaneers selected Mississippi State CB Johnthan Banks with the No. 43 overall pick. Banks (6-2, 185) is a lean, long-armed (33 7/8") corner who earned the 2012 Thorpe Award as the nation's top defensive back. (The last four Thorpe winners are Mo Claiborne, Patrick Peterson, Eric Berry, and Malcolm Jenkins.) Banks' stock took a hit when he ran 4.61 at the Combine and managed only 10 bench reps, and his game tape is only above average with a tendency to get beaten deap. It's possible Banks will eventually move to safety in the NFL; he played some safety in the Bulldogs' nickel and dime packages. Initially in Tampa, expect Banks to compete with Eric Wright at right cornerback. |
| 21 | Desmond Trufant | CB | Washington Huskies | Falcons select CB Trufant at No. 22 overall
Falcons selected Washington CB Desmond Trufant with the No. 22 overall pick. Falcons GM Thomas Dimitroff was able to work out a deal with his former employee Les Snead, sending the No. 30, 92 and 198 overall picks to the Rams. Trufant fills one of Atlanta's biggest needs, and should slide in as an immediate starter opposite LCB Asante Samuel. Trufant (6-0, 190) started 46 games for the Huskies, recording six interceptions, 8.5 tackles for loss and three forced fumbles. Longtime Seahawks CB Marcus' younger brother, Desmond ran 4.38 at the Combine with a 1.47 ten-yard split and 37.5-inch vertical. Trufant has exceptional feet, fluidity and the speed to stay in the receiver's hip pocket, but lacks physicality ala Dominique Rodgers-Cromartie. |
| 22 | Markus Wheaton | WR | Oregon State Beavers | Oregon State WR Wheaton goes 79th overall
Steelers selected Oregon State WR Markus Wheaton with the No. 79 overall pick. The Steelers — who have a remarkable recent record drafting receivers — begin the process of replacing Mike Wallace. It was Wallace whom Wheaton (5-11, 189) was compared to at the Senior Bowl. Wheaton is an absolute burner, playing faster than his 4.45 forty indicates. He caught 91 passes for 1,244 yards (13.7 YPR) and 11 touchdowns as a senior, taking the lid off Pac-12 defenses. He was regularly the most explosive player on the field. A dynamic downfield target, Wheaton also drew pre-draft comparison to Brandon Lloyd. His play speed is much closer to Wallace's. |
| 23 | D.J. Swearinger | S | South Carolina Gamecocks | Texans select D.J. Swearinger No. 57 overall
Texans selected South Carolina S D.J. Swearinger with the No. 57 overall pick. Swearinger (5-11, 208) recorded six interceptions as a 33-game starter, seeing extensive time at strong safety, free safety, slot corner, and even outside. He's a "splash" hitter who plays with aggression and a mean streak. Swearinger was available this late only because he ran 4.67 at the Combine, despite excelling in the ten-yard split (1.57), vertical (37"), and broad jump (10-foot-4). Rotoworld's Josh Norris ranked Swearinger as the No. 3 safety in this class, behind only Jonathan Cyprien and Kenny Vaccaro. With the South Carolina product likely playing closer to the line of scrimmage, Ed Reed will roam the deep half. Swearinger can also cover tight ends. |
| 24 | Sylvester Williams | DT | North Carolina Tar Heels | Broncos draft UNC DT Sylvester Williams
Broncos selected North Carolina DT Sylvester Williams with the No. 28 overall pick. Williams (6-3, 313) transferred from JUCO to play two years with the Tar Heels, starting all 25 games of his career. He logged 13.5 tackles for loss and six sacks as a senior. Described as a "hard hat, lunch-pail guy" by NFL.com's Bucky Brooks, Williams shows great burst off the line on tape. He ran a 5.03 forty at the Combine with a 1.72 ten-yard split and 30 reps on the bench. Williams will slide right in as a rotational tackle along with Kevin Vickerson and Terrance Knighton. It's a nice value pick at a position of need for the Broncos. |
| 25 | Alex Okafor | DE | Texas Longhorns | Cardinals draft Alex Okafor at No. 103
Cardinals drafted Texas DE/OLB Alex Okafor with the No. 103 overall pick. Okafor (6-foot-5, 264) played defensive tackle before converting to end for his junior and senior campaigns. He rallied for 22 career sacks, 40 tackles for loss, and eight forced fumbles. Okafor lacks flash -- he ran 4.89 at his Pro Day and offers little variety in his pass-rush moves -- but he was a finisher in the Big 12 and can win with strong hands and and length. Okafor isn't special in any area, but does everything pretty well. A value pick at the top of round four, Okafor will push for immediate snaps behind underwhelming Cardinals OLBs Sam Acho and O'Brien Schofield. |
| 26 | Manti Te'o | LB | Notre Dame Fighting Irish | Chargers move up to draft Manti Te'o
Chargers selected Notre Dame ILB Manti Te'o with the No. 38 overall pick. The Chargers moved up to draft Te'o, sending the Nos. 45 and 110 picks to the Cardinals. Te'o (6-1, 241) racked up triple-digit tackles in each of his final three seasons, playing inside linebacker in Notre Dame's 3-4. His playmaking in pass coverage reached new heights as a senior with seven interceptions, although six came on tipped balls. Te'o managed a 4.82 forty at the Combine and isn't an explosive athlete, relying on instincts and "feel" to make plays. He struggles to shed blocks when left unprotected by defensive tackles, which most notably showed up in the BCS title game. In San Diego, Te'o will slot in as an immediate starter adjacent to Donald Butler. |
| 27 | Robert Alford | CB | SE Louisiana Lions | Falcons select CB Alford with No. 60 pick
Falcons selected Southeastern Louisiana CB Robert Alford with the No. 60 overall pick. The Falcons continue to fortify their secondary after using the No. 21 overall pick on Washington CB Desmond Trufant. Alford (5-10, 188) intercepted ten career passes for the Lions, including four as a senior. He ran 4.39 at the Combine and showed stellar all-around athleticism with a 40-inch vertical and 11-foot broad jump. The small-schooler offers starting-caliber tools, but SE Louisiana defensive coordinator Pete Golding has called Alford "a long way away mentally" from an NFL impact. |
| 28 | Zac Dysert | QB | Miami (OH) RedHawks | Broncos pluck free-falling Dysert at No. 234
Broncos selected Miami (OH) QB Zac Dysert with the No. 234 overall pick. Dysert (6-3, 231) was Rotoworld draft guru Josh Norris' No. 3 quarterback in this class, behind only Geno Smith and Tyler Wilson. A four-year starter and 63.8-percent career passer, Dysert posted a 48:23 TD:INT ratio over his final two seasons. An aggressive downfield thrower who stands firm in the pocket, Dysert's development was stunted as a senior when the Redhawks installed a shotgun-spread offense to compensate for poor line play. He appeared far more comfortable as a junior, playing under center. Dysert has enough arm strength to make vertical throws but his short-to-intermediate placement can be puzzlingly scattershot. He could eventually push Brock Osweiler for No. 2 duties in Denver. |
| 29 | Mike Glennon | QB | North Carolina State Wolfpack | Bucs take Mike Glennon over Barkley, Nassib
Buccaneers selected North Carolina State QB Mike Glennon with the No. 73 overall pick. Glennon (6-7, 225) took over NC State's offense following Russell Wilson's transfer and started two seasons, completing 60.3 percent of his throws with a 62:29 TD-to-INT ratio. Glennon is Rotoworld draft analyst Josh Norris' No. 4 QB in this class. Built like a young Joe Flacco with a powerful downfield arm, Glennon is an accurate deep passer. "Built like an oak tree," ESPN's Ron Jaworski has described. Glennon isn't a quality athlete, tends to hold onto the ball too long, and too often retreats rather than stepping up amid collapsing pockets. Sheer arm talent still makes him a quality developmental project -- and a great fit for Bucs OC Mike Sullivan's vertical scheme. Josh Freeman should consider himself on notice. |
| 30 | Travis Kelce | TE | Cincinnati Bearcats | Chiefs take TE Travis Kelce No. 63 overall
Chiefs selected Cincinnati TE Travis Kelce with the No. 63 overall pick. Kelce (6-5, 255) is a sure-handed receiver and flashed dominant in-line blocking ability for Cincinnati, reminiscent of Heath Miller. He lasted this long due to character concerns; Kelce was suspended for the entire 2010 season for reasons thought to be drug-related. Kelce caught 45 balls for 722 yards (16.0 YPR) and eight touchdowns as a senior. At his April 4 Pro Day, Kelce ran 4.62 with a 37-inch vertical and 10-foot-4 broad jump -- better numbers than both Tyler Eifert and Zach Ertz. A pro-ready blocker, the athletic measurables suggest Kelce could become an elite all-around tight end if his head is on straight. He has an awful lot of long-term fantasy potential. |
| 31 | Jordan Poyer | CB | Oregon State Beavers | Eagles select CB Poyer at No. 218
Eagles selected Oregon State CB Jordan Poyer with the No. 218 overall pick. Poyer (5-foot-11 7/8, 191) tied for second nationally in interceptions (7) last season and picked off 13 in his career as a three-year starter. He added two forced fumbles and seven tackles for loss, also returning a punt for a touchdown as a junior. Poyer ran 4.54 in Indy with an underwhelming 30.5-inch vertical and isn't a great athlete, but he is a physical corner with ballhawking traits. Poyer looks like a steal in the seventh round; many draftniks considered him a day-two prospect at worst. |
| 32 | Kawann Short | DT | Purdue Boilermakers | Purdue DT Kawann Short drafted No. 44 overall
Panthers selected Purdue DT Kawann Short with the No. 44 overall pick. That's two picks, two defensive tackles for the Panthers. As ESPN's Todd McShay said on air, it's a boom-or-bust pick. Short (6-3, 299) is blessed with talent, but was maddeningly inconsistent as a Boilermaker. NFL Films' Greg Cosell has described him as a "frustrating player to watch" with a "glaring lack of consistent effort and execution." He didn't play hard enough. Short still racked up 15.5 tackles for loss and seven sacks as a senior, in addition to four kick blocks. He projects as a three-technique tackle. |
| 33 | Dallas Thomas | G | Tennessee Volunteers | Miami takes OL Dallas Thomas (No.77 overall)
Dolphins selected Tennessee OL Dallas Thomas with the No. 77 overall pick. Thomas (6-5, 306) made 37 starts for the Vols, 25 at left tackle as a sophomore and junior, and 12 at left guard as a senior. In 2012, Thomas did not allow a single sack of Tyler Bray although he was penalty prone, getting flagged six times. Thomas has short arms (33 1/8") and is coming off surgery to repair a torn labrum in his shoulder. When healthy, he projects as a left guard or finesse right tackle. However, there is a legitimate chance he earns the left tackle job for the Dolphins, but his versatility only helps. |
| 34 | Chase Thomas | LB | Stanford Cardinal | Saints sign undrafted OLB Chase Thomas
Saints signed Stanford OLB Chase Thomas. Thomas (6-foot-3, 244) was a four-year starter at Stanford, playing end as a freshman before moving to SAM linebacker for his final three seasons. He tallied a whopping 50 career tackles for loss, 27.5 sacks, and nine forced fumbles. Thomas ran a 4.91 forty at the Combine with a 1.64 ten-yard split. While he lacks edge speed and fluid cover skills, Thomas can win with sound pass-rushing technique. He also plays tough run defense. Thomas could stick in a wide open outside linebacker corps in New Orleans. |
| 35 | Brandon Williams | DT | Missouri Southern St Lions | Ravens draft NT Williams with No. 94 pick
Ravens selected Missouri Southern State NT Brandon Williams with the No. 94 overall pick. Williams (6-1, 335) finished his college career as Missouri Southern's all-time leader in sacks (27), earning the Mid-America Intercollegiate Athletics Association D-Lineman of the Year award as a senior. Williams ran 5.37 with a 1.79 ten-yard split at the Combine. Despite his D-II pass-rushing production, Williams is a powerful space-eating nose tackle prospect. He'll get to learn behind veterans Haloti Ngata and Chris Canty in Baltimore. |
| 36 | Andre Ellington | RB | Clemson Tigers | Cardinals select RB Ellington at No. 187
Cardinals selected Clemson RB Andre Ellington with the No. 187 overall pick. Ellington (5-foot-9 1/4, 199) rushed 621 times for 3,436 yards (5.53 YPC) and 33 touchdowns at Clemson. He made 59 career receptions. A dynamic perimeter runner with exciting acceleration, Ellington makes quick cuts and displays smooth, rapid-fire foot movement. He ran a 4.51 at the Tigers' Pro Day and projects as a dangerous in-space NFL back. The Cardinals have added Rashard Mendenhall in free agency and Stepfan Taylor early in the draft, but watch Ellington get touches this season. |
| 37 | Kyle Long | G | Oregon Ducks | Bears draft OL Kyle Long at No. 20 overall
Bears selected Oregon OL Kyle Long with the No. 20 overall pick. Long (6-6, 313) is the son of Howie and brother of Chris. Kyle only started 11 games for the Ducks after playing baseball at Florida State and spending the 2010 and 2011 seasons at Saddleback Community College as a defensive and offensive lineman. Ideally suited to left guard, Long has relatively short arms (33 3/8") but is arguably the second most athletic interior offensive lineman in this draft, behind Jonathan Cooper. Long ran 4.94 at the Combine with a 1.68 ten-yard split and 28-inch vertical. Many suggested Long would be a second-round pick due to his inexperience at the position, but offensive lineman are in high demand during the first-round. Due to his natural athleticism and aggression, Long fits a variety of spots along the line. |
| 38 | B.W. Webb | CB | William & Mary Tribe | Cowboys take small-school CB Webb
Cowboys selected William & Mary CB B.W. Webb with the No. 114 overall pick. Webb (5-10, 184) set a school record with 48 consecutive starts, intercepting 11 passes for the Tribe. He also earned 2012 Co-Special Teams Player of the Year in the Colonial Athletic Conference, averaging 11.2 yards per punt return. Webb ran 4.51 in Indy with a 40.5-inch vertical and 11-foot broad jump, demonstrating lower-body explosion. Webb has starting-caliber attributes, but is undersized and plays like it, often shying from contact. He'll fight for snaps on special teams as a rookie. |
| 39 | Johnathan Franklin | RB | UCLA Bruins | Packers steal RB Johnathan Franklin at 125
Packers traded up to select UCLA RB Johnathan Franklin with the No. 125 overall pick, sending Nos. 146 and 173 to the Broncos. The Packers rebuilt their beleaguered running back room in the span of two days. By scooping up Eddie Lacy at No. 61 and now Franklin, they've added the two backs many scouts felt were the top-two players available at their position. Franklin (5-foot-10, 205) broke out as a senior for Jim Mora's Bruins, setting career highs in carries (282), yards (1,734), YPC (6.15), touchdowns (15), and receptions (33). Pound for pound the best runner in this class, Franklin is a darting back with deceptive lower-body power who excels both inside and outside the tackle box. His acceleration through tight spaces jumps off the screen. With 4.49 speed and a legit three-down skill set, Franklin's game is similar to Ray Rice. He's an ideal complement to Lacy. |
| 40 | Keith Pough | LB | Howard Bison | Keith Pough measures 6-foot-2, 241
Howard LB Keith Pough measured 6-foot-1 3/4 and 241 pounds at this week's East-West Shrine all-star event. Pough was listed at a lankier 6-foot-3, 225 by Howard University. A favorite of Rotoworld's Josh Norris, Pough is built like an NFL middle linebacker and also has an impressive 79-inch wingspan, which will help for pass coverage purposes. Through two East-West Shrine practices, Pough has been a standout on the field. |
| 41 | Margus Hunt | DE | Southern Methodist Mustangs | Bengals take SMU DE Margus Hunt in 2nd round
Bengals selected SMU DE Margus Hunt with the No. 53 overall pick. Hunt (6-8, 277) blocked an NCAA record 17 kicks at SMU and notched eight sacks with 11.5 tackles for loss as a senior. Hunt's production and tape are not stellar -- and he turns 26 before the season -- but the Estonia native and 2006 Junior Olympics shotput and discus gold medalist is an athletic phenom. At the Combine, Hunt ran 4.6-flat with a running back-like 1.62 ten-yard split and repped 225 pounds 38 times. Concerns on Hunt are his inexperience, upright stiffness, and lack of edge-rushing tools. Hunt will have an opportunity to learn under Mike Zimmer as a reserve on an already loaded Bengals defensive front. |
| 42 | Will Davis | CB | Utah State Aggies | Dolphins draft CB Will Davis 93rd overall
Dolphins selected Utah State CB Will Davis with the No. 93 overall pick. Davis ranked second nationally in pass breakups (17) as a senior, picking off five and recording 4.5 tackles for loss. He ran 4.53 at the Combine with an explosive 10-foot-7 broad jump, also repping 226 pounds 16 times. Davis is small with short arms (31 1/2"), so he may be best suited to nickel back once he fully develops. The Fins are dangerously needy at cornerback, so they're doubling down with Davis after drafting Jamar Taylor. |
| 43 | Brian Winters | T | Kent State Golden Flashes | Jets draft Kent State OG Brian Winters
Jets selected Kent State OG Brian Winters with the No. 72 overall pick. Winters (6-4, 320) made 50 starts at Kent State and has a decorated wrestling background, which comes in handy in the trenches. Primarily a left tackle in college, Winters' 32 3/4-inch arms will kick him inside to guard. He blocks with a brawler's aggression and should have little trouble with the position switch. The Kent State product could immediately challenge for a starting job and his nastiness in the trenches will not go unnoticed. |
| 44 | D.J. Hayden | CB | Houston Cougars | Raiders trade down to draft CB Hayden
Raiders selected Houston CB D.J. Hayden with the No. 12 overall pick. This is one of two picks the Raiders received from the Dolphins for trading down. They used it to get their man, who fills a massive need in the secondary. Of course, the Raiders have massive needs at basically every spot on the field. One of the draft's true "risers," Hayden (5-11, 191) earned first-team All-CUSA honors as a senior despite being limited to nine games by a torn heart cavity suffered in a fluke practice collision. He was medically cleared this offseason, and was buoyed by phenomenal tape. Rated the draft's No. 1 corner by Mike Mayock, Greg Cosell and Doug Farrar, Hayden is blessed with exceptionally quick and sudden feet, plays aggressively on the ball and has extensive experience as a "matchup" cover man, shadowing No. 1 receivers. Also a takeaway specialist, Hayden racked up six picks, six forced fumbles and 11 tackles for loss across 22 college starts. |
| 45 | Phillip Thomas | S | Fresno State Bulldogs | 'Skins take Freso State S Phillip Thomas
Redskins selected Fresno State S Phillip Thomas with the No. 119 overall pick. Thomas (6-0, 208) earned unanimous first-team All-America honors as a senior after leading the nation with eight picks, returning three for touchdowns. He added four forced fumbles, establishing himself as a true takeaway specialist. Thomas ran a poor 4.65 40-yard dash at the Combine, but did 28 reps on the bench and turned in a 40.5-inch vertical. While Thomas is a true center-field cover safety, he whiffs as a tackler far too often and can be exposed in run support. He'll have to contribute on special teams before carving out a role on defense. |
| 46 | Reid Fragel | T | Ohio State Buckeyes | Reid Fragel stays local with Bengals
Bengals selected Ohio State OT Reid Fragel with the No. 240 overall pick. Fragel (6-foot-7 5/8, 308) spent his first three seasons as a blocking tight end for the Buckeyes before converting to right tackle as a senior and starting all 12 games. Inexperienced on the line but a plus athlete, Fragel ran 5.14 at the Combine with a 30-inch vertical and 33 reps on the bench. Rotoworld draft guru Josh Norris is a big fan of Fragel's tape, but he's going to have to fill out a bit before becoming a competitive NFL run blocker. In Cincy, he'll try to earn a roster spot behind Andre Smith. |
| 47 | John Jenkins | DT | Georgia Bulldogs | Saints select Georgia NT Jenkins 82nd overall
Saints selected Georgia NT John Jenkins with the No. 82 overall pick. The Saints moved up to select Jenkins, sending the Nos. 106 and 109 picks to the Dolphins. Jenkins (6-4, 359) is a nimble mover despite mammoth size and flashed pocket-pushing ability for the Dawgs. He tallied eight tackles for loss and four sacks as a two-year starter in Georgia's 3-4, playing both nose and five technique. Jenkins drew pre-draft comparisons to Red Bryant and Shaun Rogers, though Rotoworld prospects guru Josh Norris has described Jenkins as a "teddy bear" who lacks consistent toughness. With the Saints moving to a three man front, Jenkins could rotate at the nose tackle spot. |
| 48 | Vance McDonald | TE | Rice Owls | 49ers draft Rice TE Vance McDonald
49ers selected Rice TE Vance McDonald with the No. 55 overall pick. A late-riser in the pre-draft process, McDonald drew some comparison's to a poor man's Jason Witten. At 6-foot-4 1/8 and 267 pounds, he caught 107 passes for 1,386 yards (12.9 YPR) and 15 touchdowns over his final three college seasons, playing slot receiver in Rice's spread offense. McDonald showed physical blocking prowess, but is inexperienced as an in-line tight end. He is a very good athlete with a 4.69 forty time and 33.5-inch vertical. McDonald's biggest issue at Rice was dropped passes; he doesn't appear to have smooth, natural hands. He'll try to fill the Delanie Walker shoes. |
| 49 | Sio Moore | LB | Connecticut Huskies | Raiders take UConn LB Sio Moore in 3rd round
Raiders selected UConn LB Sio Moore with the No. 66 overall pick. Moore (6-4, 245) racked up a team-high 15.5 tackles for loss, eight sacks, and 11 pass breakups at outside linebacker for the Huskies last season. An explosive athlete, he ran 4.65 at the Combine with a 38-inch vertical and 10-foot-7 broad jump. Moore is a dangerous pass rusher with plus versatility, capable of playing essentially any linebacker position. The Raiders' linebacker corps is a mess, but Moore should compete for playing time at one of the spots. |
| 50 | Zac Stacy | RB | Vanderbilt Commodores | Rams trade up to nab RB Zac Stacy
Rams traded up to select Vanderbilt RB Zac Stacy with the No. 160 overall pick. Stacy (5-foot-8 3/8, 216) spent two seasons as the Commodores' feature back, rushing 408 times for 2,334 yards (5.72 YPC) and 24 touchdowns. He caught 46 career passes. Stacy ran 4.55 at the Combine with a 1.59 ten-yard split. A poised, balanced, decisive runner, Stacy lacks explosive burst and top-end talent, but we loved how he frequently beat first contact in the SEC. He runs with forward lean and appears comfortable in blitz pickup. With only Isaiah Pead, Daryl Richardson and Terrance Ganaway in front of him, Stacy is a name to keep an eye on. |
| 51 | Marquise Goodwin | WR | Texas Longhorns | Bills draft speedy WR Goodwin in third round
Bills selected Texas WR Marquise Goodwin with the No. 78 overall pick. Goodwin (5-9, 183) was underutilized by increasingly out-of-touch Texas coach Mack Brown, never catching more than 33 passes in a college season despite wicked 4.27 wheels. Goodwin turned heads with 132 total yards and two touchdowns in the Longhorns' Alamo Bowl win over Oregon State, followed by highly impressive Senior Bowl practices. Goodwin is raw and undersized, but his Olympic speed cannot be coached. He'll compete for playing time with fellow burner T.J. Graham on the outside of Doug Marrone's offense. |
| 52 | Khaseem Greene | LB | Rutgers Scarlet Knights | Bears select OLB Khaseem Greene at No. 117
Bears selected Rutgers OLB Khaseem Greene with the No. 117 overall pick. Greene (6-foot 3/4, 241) earned Big East Defensive POY honors as both a junior and senior. A weak-side 'backer, Greene paced the Scarlet Knights in 2012 tackles (125) and forced fumbles (6) as the lynchpin of Rutgers' No. 4-ranked defense. Greene ran 4.71 at the Combine with a 1.62 ten-yard split and did 17 reps on the bench. He plays faster than the forty time indicates with sideline-to-sideline range both in coverage and run support. Greene fits quite well in the Bears defensive scheme and projects to the weakside. |
| 53 | Blidi Wreh-Wilson | CB | Connecticut Huskies | Wreh-Wilson drafted in third by Titans
Titans selected UConn CB Blidi Wreh-Wilson with the No. 70 overall pick. It's the third UConn player to go in the last seven picks. Wreh-Wilson (6-1, 195) made 39 starts, recording eight career interceptions and returning two for touchdowns. He ran 4.53 at the Combine with a 36-inch vertical and 10-foot-8 broad jump. A long, lanky corner with some stiffness, Wreh-Wilson is considered a high-character prospect who is willing in run support. He has the potential to grow into a solid No. 2 cornerback. |
| 54 | Terron Armstead | T | Arkansas-Pine Bluff Golden Lions | Saints draft OT Terron Armstead 75th overall
Saints selected Arkansas-Pine Bluff OT Terron Armstead with the No. 75 overall pick. It's an excellent fit in terms of both value and need for the Saints, who lost LT Jermon Bushrod in free agency. Armstead (6-5, 306) set an NFL Combine record for offensive linemen with a 4.71 forty-yard dash, and tied Oklahoma's Lane Johnson for this year's fastest ten-yard split (1.64). His vertical was 34 1/2 inches. Drawing pre-draft comparisons to Texans All-Pro Duane Brown, Armstead is a long-armed (34") left tackle with rare movement skills and sky-high upside. Concerns are his level of competition and a medical red flag on Armstead's back, discovered during pre-draft exams. Along with a shoulder issue from last season, it's why the athletic freak slipped this far. |
| 55 | Terrance Williams | WR | Baylor Bears | Dallas takes Terrance Williams in 3rd round
Cowboys selected Baylor WR Terrance Williams with the No. 74 overall pick. Williams (6-2, 208) succeeded Kendall Wright as Baylor's No. 1 receiver as a senior, catching 97 passes for 1,832 yards (18.9 YPR) and 12 scores. Despite a pedestrian 4.52 forty time, Williams is very much a vertical stretcher. The pre-draft concerns among NFL scouts were that Williams lacks quick-twitch explosiveness, and is a one-trick pony with stiff hips and little or no physical element to his game. He'll get a chance to prove them wrong in Dallas' vertically-minded attack. An aging and increasingly injury prone Miles Austin will be on the spot this season. |
| 56 | Quanterus Smith | DE | Western Kentucky Hilltoppers | Broncos add DE Quanterus Smith at No. 146
Broncos selected Western Kentucky DE Quanterus Smith with the No. 146 overall pick. Smith (6-foot-5, 250) was leading the NCAA in sacks (12.5) before tearing his left ACL on November 17. Three came in Week 2 against the bullies on Alabama's offensive line, as Smith made D.J. Fluker look silly a few times. Smith's pre-draft stock was still silent because he couldn't work out for teams. He figures to "redshirt" his first NFL season, but could pay off as pass-rush help in 2014. Smith could fill the old Elvis Dumervil role at right end in two seasons. |
| 57 | Leon McFadden | CB | San Diego State Aztecs | Browns reach on CB Leon McFadden in 3rd round
Browns selected San Diego State CB Leon McFadden with the No. 66 overall pick. McFadden (5-10, 193) was a 3 1/2-year starter at outside corner, logging 13 career tackles for loss and eight interceptions, including two pick-sixes as a senior. Smallish with short arms (32 3/8") and 4.54 speed, McFadden was viewed by most teams as a slot corner during the pre-draft process. He's quick in a short area with high football IQ, and has been called "an absolutely terrific player" by Greg Cosell. McFadden should compete for a starting job in Cleveland opposite Joe Haden. |
| 58 | Zaviar Gooden | LB | Missouri Tigers | Titans select OLB Gooden 97th overall
Titans selected Missouri OLB Zaviar Gooden with the No. 97 overall pick. Gooden (6-2, 234) manned the weak side in Mizzou's 4-3 defense, logging 61 tackles -- four for loss -- and an interception across ten games in 2012, missing the better part of three with a hamstring injury. His senior year was subpar, but Gooden rehabbed his stock with a 4.47 forty, 1.53 ten-yard split, and 27 bench reps at the Combine. Gooden doesn't always play as physically as he should, but is the premier pure run-and-chase linebacker in this class. The Titans now have some serious speed with Gooden and Zach Brown. |
| 59 | J.J. Wilcox | S | Georgia Southern Eagles | Cowboys draft Georgia Southern's J.J Wilcox
Cowboys selected Georgia Southern S J.J Wilcox with the No. 80 overall pick. The Cowboys could have solidified their hole at safety in the first round, but reached for C Travis Frederick instead of Matt Elam. Now they settle for Wilcox, a 6-foot, 213-pounder that played tailback and slot receiver his first three seasons at Georgia Southern before converting to strong safety as a senior and intercepting two passes as a 13-game starter. He ran 4.57 at the Combine with a 35-inch vertical and 10-foot-4 broad jump. Described as a "215-pound safety with corner feet" by NFL Network's Mike Mayock, Wilcox figures to open his career on special teams but could grow into a starter. |
| 60 | Matt Barkley | QB | USC Trojans | Eagles trade up for Matt Barkley at 98th pick
Eagles traded up with the Jaguars to select USC QB Matt Barkley with the No. 98 overall pick, sending Jacksonville the Nos. 101 and 201 picks. Oddest fit of the draft so far. Barkley (6-foot-2 1/2, 227) wrapped his college career with a 64.1 completion rate and 116:48 TD-to-INT ratio as a four-year starter in USC's pro-style offense. Though decorated and productive, Barkley's inability to drive throws outside the numbers and lack of mobility put a lid on his long-range upside. Barkley draws high marks for intelligence and leadership, but has a skill set similar to Andy Dalton or Chad Pennington. Based on tape study, NFL Films' Greg Cosell has called Barkley a fourth-round talent -- he proved wrote -- and insists Mark Sanchez was a better prospect coming out of USC. New Eagles coach Chip Kelly has been open about changing his offense to suit his personnel, but we wouldn't be surprised if Barkley never played a down in Philadelphia and is simply being drafted as future trade bait. |
| 61 | Ryan Nassib | QB | Syracuse Orange | Giants take a flier on Ryan Nassib in Round 4
Giants traded up to select Syracuse QB Ryan Nassib with the No. 110 overall pick, sending Nos. 116 and 187 to the Cardinals. Projected by many to come off the board at No. 8 overall, Nassib settles for a competition with David Carr to be Eli Manning's backup. Nassib (6-foot-2 1/8, 227) was a three-year starter in Doug Marrone's shotgun-heavy, up-tempo Syracuse offense, completing 60.3 percent of his passes with a 70:28 TD-to-INT ratio. Rated the No. 1 quarterback in this class by draft gurus Russ Lande and Greg Cosell, Nassib flashes NFL-quality anticipation and can drive the ball at the intermediate level. He is the draft's most accurate passer, and has the quickest release. Nassib's big negatives are his tendency to become frenetic in the pocket and let his deep ball sail. |
| 62 | Gerald Hodges | LB | Penn State Nittany Lions | PSU leader Gerald Hodges goes to Vikings
Vikings selected Penn State OLB Gerald Hodges with the No. 120 overall pick. Hodges (6-foot-1, 243) played outside 'backer in the Nittany Lions' 4-3 and registered 109 tackles -- 8.5 for loss -- seven pass breakups, two interceptions, and one forced fumble as a senior. He ran 4.78 at the Combine with a 1.67 ten-yard split and did 22 bench-press reps. Hodges can play both WILL and SAM and is a sure enough tackler to develop into a passable NFL starter. He was among the team leaders that impressively guided Penn State through the Jerry Sandusky scandal fallout. |
| 63 | Dennis Johnson | RB | Arkansas Razorbacks | Dennis Johnson runs in the 4.4s at pro day
Arkansas RB Dennis Johnson ran forty times in the 4.40 to 4.45 range at the school's pro day on Friday. He also recorded a 6.96 three cone, 33-inch vertical, and 9' 11" broad jump. Johnson has been one of our favorite sleepers all season and it is amazing that he did not attend the Shrine Game, Senior Bowl, or NFL Combine. We think he can immediately contribute as a passing down back but needs to fix fumbling issues. |
| 64 | Stepfan Taylor | RB | Stanford Cardinal | Cardinals add Stepfan Taylor to backfield
Cardinals selected Stanford RB Stepfan Taylor with the No. 140 overall pick. Taylor (5-foot-9 1/8, 214) succeeded Toby Gerhart as Stanford's bellcow back, rushing for 3,997 yards and 38 touchdowns on 787 carries (5.08 YPC) over the past three seasons. He made 97 career receptions. Despite great stats, Taylor is a poor man's Vick Ballard with pass-blocking chops but below-average run talent. He runs with a frenetic, choppy style, left too many yards on the field in college, and generally only gets what's blocked. Taylor's fullbackish 4.76 forty at the Combine ranked 27th-of-33 backs. His 1.64 ten-yard split was 26th. Taylor has the tape of a late-round pick and measurables of an undrafted free agent. He's a poor bet to beat out Rashard Mendenhall or Ryan Williams for snaps. |
| 65 | Mike Gillislee | RB | Florida Gators | Dolphins take Gators runner Mike Gillislee
Dolphins selected Florida RB Mike Gillislee with the No. 164 overall pick. Gillislee (5-11, 208) carried the Gators' passing-inept offense on his back in 2012, rushing 244 times for 1,152 yards (4.72 YPC) and 10 touchdowns. He only made 23 career receptions, but flashed a mean streak in blitz pickup. Gillislee ran 4.55 at the Combine with a 1.59 ten-yard split. He is a decisive, fluid, athletic runner with some power and shake. Gillislee's vision and decision making behind blocks are works in progress, but he has starting potential down the line. He could eventually make Daniel Thomas expendable. |
| 66 | Ray Graham | RB | Pittsburgh Panthers | Lande: RB Graham could be starter, if healthy
National Football Post's Russ Lande writes Pittsburgh RB Ray Graham could be a starter in the NFL if healthy. "Returning from a knee injury suffered in 2011, Graham finished his college career on a high note by having the best statistical season in his final season with 1,042 yards, but after running a 4.80 40 at the Combine he is unlikely to be drafted," Lande writes. "Instinctive and deceptively quick footed, Graham finds the open hole/crease and gets through it faster than his 40 time would have you expect. His ability to change directions quickly helps him to easily make tacklers miss. While a running back who runs a 4.80 40 is going to have trouble shining in the NFL, if he gets all the way back to his pre-injury form in 2013 (Which will be nearly two years since the injury, which is usually the amount of time a running back needs to get back to 100%) then he could develop into a productive and versatile starting tailback in the NFL." |
| 67 | Montee Ball | RB | Wisconsin Badgers | Broncos add Montee Ball in second round
Broncos selected Wisconsin RB Montee Ball with the No. 58 overall pick. The pick is an acknowledgement that 2012 third-round Ronnie Hillman is no more than a change-of-pace back. Willis McGahee will likely be cut shortly. Ball (5-11, 214) rushed 924 career times for 5,140 yards (5.56 YPC) and 77 touchdowns as Wisconsin's bellcow back. His 83 all-purpose TDs set an NCAA record. With a downhill mentality and one-cut style, Ball is an efficient inside runner but lacks lateral shake and "special" qualities. He ran 4.66 at the Combine with a 1.59 ten-yard split. Ball was used sparingly in the Badgers' passing game but is a willing pass blocker, which will help him see the field early. If Ball wins the starting job and stays on the field on passing downs as a rookie, he will prove every bit worth a second- or third-round fantasy pick. |
| 68 | Darius Slay | CB | Mississippi State Bulldogs | Lions select Darius Slay No. 36 overall
Lions selected Mississippi State CB Darius Slay with the No. 36 overall pick. Slay (6-0, 192) projects as a superior pro player to Johnthan Banks. A reserve in 2011 after transferring from JUCO, Slay broke out as a 2012 starter, pacing Mississippi State in interceptions (5) and tying Banks for the team lead in breakups (11). Slay's 2012 tape was physical and fluid, and he ran a scintillating 4.36 forty at the Combine with a 10-foot-4 broad jump. Slay should immediately contend for the starting job opposite Chris Houston in Detroit. |
| 69 | Marc Anthony | CB | California Golden Bears | Ravens select Cal CB Anthony at No. 247
Ravens selected Cal CB Marc Anthony with the No. 247 overall pick. Anthony (5-foot-11 3/8, 196) made 32 starts at Cal, intercepting five passes and forcing two fumbles. He ran 4.63 at the Combine and did 12 reps on the bench. Anthony lacks great makeup speed and may have to establish himself on special teams before he gets a serious look on defense, but long term he offers press-man traits with a powerful jam and strong hands. He adds nice corner depth for the Ravens and could show well if placed into press coverage. |
| 70 | Barrett Jones | C | Alabama Crimson Tide | Rams draft Barrett Jones at No. 113
Rams selected Alabama OL Barrett Jones with the No. 113 overall pick. Jones (6-foot-4, 306) is coming off Lisfranc surgery, but he's expected to be ready by camp. He was only healthy enough to bench before the draft, repping 225 pounds 27 times. Despite a decorated SEC career that ended with Rimington Trophy honors as the nation's top center, Jones is a poor run blocker and lacks quickness. His calling cards are intelligence (35 Wonderlic score) and versatility, as Jones made starts at four positions on Alabama's line. His ideal pro projection is as a versatile backup. There's an outside chance Jones could compete for the Rams' starting left guard job with Rok Watkins. It's a weakness in St. Louis. |
| 71 | Sean Porter | LB | Texas A&M Aggies | Bengals draft Sean Porter at No. 118
Bengals selected Texas A&M OLB Sean Porter with the No. 118 overall pick. Porter (6-foot-1 1/4, 229) played both 3-4 rush linebacker and 4-3 weak-side 'backer as the Aggies underwent scheme change during his career. He's at his best as a nickel rusher with an ability to bend the edge. Porter ran 4.75 at the Combine with a 1.63 ten-yard split and pumped 225 pounds 22 times on the bench. He's likely to play special teams as a rookie, and could be James Harrison's eventual replacement at strong-side linebacker. |
| 72 | Cornelius Washington | DE | Georgia Bulldogs | Bears draft Cornelius Washington at 188
Bears selected Georgia DE Cornelius Washington with the No. 188 overall pick. Washington (6-foot-4, 265) played out of position as a five-technique end in Georgia's 3-4 as a senior, which helped limit him to just 22 tackles -- three for a loss -- and a paltry half-sack across 14 games. He played linebacker in 2011 and posted five sacks. Washington has 34-inch arms and shredded the Combine with a 4.55 forty, 1.60 ten-yard split, 36 bench-press reps and a 39-inch vertical. Washington is a bit of a project, but offers big upside if his talent is harnessed. The Bears are loving test freaks in this draft. |
| 73 | LaVar Edwards | DE | LSU Tigers | Titans select DL LaVar Edwards at No. 142
Titans selected LSU DL LaVar Edwards with the No. 142 overall pick. Edwards (6-foot-4, 277) was the Tigers' nickel pass rusher behind Sam Montgomery and Keke Mingo, only making 15 career starts. He finished his career with 20 tackles for loss and 10.5 sacks. Edwards ran 4.8 at the Combine with a 1.64 ten-yard split and 33-inch vertical. At LSU, Edwards lined up inside and out, and could help as a nickel rusher for the Titans. |
| 74 | Aaron Dobson | WR | Marshall Thundering Herd | Patriots take WR Aaron Dobson at 59th overall
Patriots selected Marshall WR Aaron Dobson with the No. 59 overall pick. The Patriots have a terrible track record of drafting receivers under Bill Belichick, but will hope Dobson can be an immediate contributor on the outside. Dobson (6-3, 210) is a long-armed (33") and sure-handed sleeper to make an early impact in the pros. His stats don't jump off the page — his senior-year line was 57/679/11.9/3 — but Dobson did not drop a single pass amongst 92 targets and ran forty times of 4.42 and 4.44 at his Pro Day. Provided he can shake the voodoo of past Pats draft failures, he could make an immediate impact in Tom Brady's offense. |
| 75 | Oday Aboushi | T | Virginia Cavaliers | Jets select T Oday Aboushi at No. 141
Jets selected Virginia OT Oday Aboushi with the No. 141 overall pick. Aboushi (6-foot-5 3/8, 308) made 32 starts for the Cavs, including his final 32 at left tackle. While blessed with left-tackle height and arms (33 7/8"), Aboushi is a so-so athlete, struggled with edge speed in the ACC, and isn't a power blocker. He ran 5.45 at the Combine and managed just 17 reps on the bench. Rotoworld draft guru Josh Norris has suggested Aboushi may need to move to right tackle in the pros, while others believe he'll play guard. |
| 76 | Jamie Collins | LB | Southern Miss Golden Eagles | Patriots take OLB Jammie Collins 52nd overall
Patriots selected Southern Miss OLB Jammie Collins with the No. 52 overall pick. Collins (6-4, 250) played defensive end at Southern Miss and led C-USA in tackles for loss (20) as a senior while ranking third in sacks (10) and forcing four fumbles. A long-armed pass rusher (33 3/4"), Collins ran 4.64 at the Combine with a 1.56 ten-yard split and insane 11-foot-7 broad jump. (The broad jump is Megatron territory.) Collins' down-to-down consistency was an issue on college tape, but he is an explosive, highly athletic edge presence with big upside. His scheme versatility only helps the Patriots pass rusher, with Chandler Jones, Dont'a Hightower, and Rob Ninkovich all possessing the ability to rush from a two point stance. |
| 77 | Malliciah Goodman | DE | Clemson Tigers | Falcons selected DE Goodman at No. 127
Falcons selected Clemson DE Malliciah Goodman with the No. 127 overall pick. Goodman (6-foot-3 5/8, 276) registered 21.5 career tackles for loss, 12 sacks, and four forced fumbles as a 28-game starter for the Tigers. He ran 4.87 at the Combine with a 1.65 ten-yard split and 31.5-inch vertical. Though not explosive off the snap, Goodman is an incredibly long-armed (36 3/8") power player who drew pre-draft interest from 3-4 teams as a five-technique end and 4-3 teams as a base left end. |
| 78 | Xavier Nixon | T | Florida Gators | Kiper: Gators T Nixon a 3rd or 4th rounder
ESPN's Mel Kiper considers Florida T Xavier Nixon a third- or fourth-round talent. The reaction form the Gators' beat writers was quite amusing, since they saw Nixon struggle during his entire career in Gainesville. Sure, there were flashes of lower body athleticism and knee bend, but Nixon was one of the most inconsistent players on that team. His weight tended to fluctuate as well. |
| 79 | John Simon | DL | Ohio State Buckeyes | Ravens take Ohio State D-lineman Simon
Ravens selected Ohio State DE John Simon with the No. 129 overall pick. Simon (6-1, 257) — referred to as the "heart and soul" of Ohio State's defense by Urban Meyer — was a three-year starter for the Buckeyes, racking up 43 career tackles for loss and 20.5 sacks. He ran 4.62 at OSU's Pro Day. NFL teams don't love short, stubby pass rushers, but Simon is built like James Harrison, with a similar non-stop motor and offers plus athleticism. He'll struggle for snaps along the Ravens' loaded defensive line as a rookie, but is an intriguing developmental prospect. |
| 80 | David Quessenberry | T | San Jose State Spartans | Texans trade up to take OT David Quessenberry
Texans traded up to select San Jose State OT David Quessenberry with the No. 176 overall pick, sending the Nos. 184 and 233 overall picks to the Raiders. Quessenberry (6-foot-4 7/8, 302) made 37 starts for the Spartans, primarily at left tackle. A former walk-on at tight end, he demonstrates enough athleticism and length (34 3/8") to potentially start at left guard or protect the blindside in a pinch, although Quessenberry must fill out his frame. He ran 5.08 with a 29.5-inch vertical at the Combine and performed 25 reps on the bench. Confirming his impressive short-area movement skills, Quessenberry's 4.45 20-yard shuttle was third fastest among offensive linemen. He's a quintessential zone blocker who will never play with power. Quessenberry could sneak into the starting lineup at right guard or right tackle for the Texans. |
| 81 | DeVonte Holloman | LB | South Carolina Gamecocks | Cowboys take DeVonte Holloman in Round 6
Cowboys selected South Carolina LB DeVonte Holloman with the No. 185 overall pick. Holloman (6-foot-1 3/8, 243) played strong safety before moving to the "Spur" hybrid linebacker position as a senior. He registered seven tackles for loss, two sacks, and three interceptions in 2012, before running a 4.76 forty with a 1.62 ten-yard split in Indianapolis. Holloman's experience in coverage should serve him well as he projects to a reserve outside linebacker spot if he makes the Cowboys. |
| 82 | Dwayne Gratz | CB | Connecticut Huskies | Jaguars draft CB Gratz in third round
Jaguars selected UConn CB Dwayne Gratz with the No. 64 overall pick. Gratz surprisingly comes off the board before his more heralded secondary mate Blidi Wreh-Wilson. He should see heavy snaps as a rookie as the Jags remake their secondary. Gratz (5-11, 201) started 41 games for the Huskies, tallying eight picks. Overshadowed by Wreh-Wilson, Gratz made a name for himself with a standout Combine, running 4.47 with a 38-inch vertical, 10-foot-5 broad jump and 22 reps on the bench. He plays with enough physicality to excel as a press corner. |
| 83 | Chris Harper | WR | Kansas State Wildcats | Seahawks draft Chris Harper at No. 123
Seahawks selected Kansas State WR Chris Harper with the No. 123 overall pick. It's another great value pick by GM John Schneider. Harper (6-foot 3/4, 229) was Collin Klein's go-to guy in 2012, catching 58 balls for 857 yards (14.8 YPR) and three touchdowns. The stats weren't sensational in K-State's mind-numbing run-first offense, but Harper is a highly physical receiver with big (9 3/4") strong hands and impressive tape, winning at the catch point with strength. Drawing some Anquan Boldin comparisons, Harper ran 4.55 at the Combine with a 35.5-inch vertical and 20 bench-press reps. Harper lacks true separation skills, but projects as a classic Z receiver. He'll play special teams as a rookie and fight for wideout snaps in a year or three. |
| 84 | Jon Bostic | LB | Florida Gators | Florida ILB Jon Bostic goes at No. 50 overall
Bears selected Florida LB Jon Bostic with the No. 50 overall pick. It's the highest pick the Bears have used on a linebacker since they took Brian Urlacher ninth overall in 2000. And now that Urlacher is gone, Bostic will serve as the early-down replacement. Bostic (6-1, 245) started 32 games at MIKE linebacker for the Gators, amassing 19 tackles for loss, 7.5 sacks, five interceptions, and two forced fumbles. He ran 4.61 at the Combine with a 1.58 ten-yard split and 22 bench reps. Bostic is a physical thumper with short-area burst and NFL starter potential. |
| 85 | Jordan Hill | DT | Penn State Nittany Lions | Seattle adds DT Jordan Hill (No. 87 overall)
Seahawks selected Penn State DT Jordan Hill with the No. 87 overall pick. Hill was a consensus first-team All-Big Ten pick as a senior, registering 64 tackles -- 8.5 for a loss -- and 4.5 sacks despite playing through a knee injury. He had the knee scoped after the season. Hill recovered by the Combine and ran 5.23 with a 1.75 ten-yard split. Not blessed with star athleticism or size, Hill atones with a relentless style and all-around game. After the Seahawks lost Jason Jones to free agency, Hill could be counted on to contribute as a pass rushing threat from the inside. |
| 86 | Kevin Reddick | LB | North Carolina Tar Heels | Kevin Reddick receiving interest from 5 teams
UNC LB Kevin Reddick has received notable interest from five teams. Those five teams include the Chicago Bears, Jacksonville Jaguars, San Diego Chargers, New England Patriots and Philadelphia Eagles. Reddick projects best to the inside linebacker spot and is at his peak when working through trash with good vision against the run. |
| 87 | Christine Michael | RB | Texas A&M Aggies | Seahawks add Texas A&M RB Christine Michael
Seahawks selected Texas A&M RB Christine Michael with the No. 62 overall pick. Michael (5-10, 220) amassed 2,374 yards and 22 TDs on 441 carries (5.38 YPC) over his first three college seasons, flourishing in Mike Sherman's pro-style offense. Michael tore his left ACL in November of 2011 and returned to struggle in Kevin Sumlin's spread while landing in the new coach's doghouse. A healthy, focused Michael is the single most talented runner in this class with hammer-dropping power, 4.54 speed, and a blazing 1.51 ten-yard split. Muscle bound but elusive, he offers explosive lateral moves and looked like a rich man's Ben Tate on 2011 film. This appears to be a flier selection, since the Seahawks appear to be set at the position with Marshawn Lynch and Robert Turbin, but Michael's natural talent is outstanding. |
| 88 | Brian Schwenke | C | California Golden Bears | Titans select Cal C Brian Schwenke at No. 107
Titans drafted Cal C Brian Schwenke with the No. 107 overall pick. Schwenke (6-foot-3, 314) started 36 games at Cal, learning to zone block under coach Jeff Tedford. He's a zone-scheme fit. With 32-inch arms, Schwenke will have to stay on the interior in the pros but saw college starts at left guard, center, and right guard. Pac-12 coaches voted him first-team all conference as a senior center, as Schwenke allowed only three QB hurries and was called for just one penalty. He scored a 31 on the Wonderlic. Schwenke is very quick at snapping and pulling, and will be a part of the transformation for the Titans' interior offensive line. |
| 89 | Trevardo Williams | LB | Connecticut Huskies | Texans take UConn pass-rusher Williams
Texans selected UConn DE/OLB Trevardo Williams with the No. 124 overall pick. Williams (6-1, 241) led the Big East with 11.5 sacks as a senior, and graduated as the Huskies' all-time leader (30.5). He added 40.5 career tackles for loss and five forced fumbles. A pure speed rusher, Williams will get swallowed up by run-blocking NFL linemen, but should help on nickel downs and cover kicks on special teams. He ran 4.57 at the Combine with a 1.61 ten-yard split and 10-foot-4 broad jump. |
| 90 | Ryan Swope | WR | Texas A&M Aggies | Cardinals nab Aggies wideout Ryan Swope
Cardinals selected Texas A&M WR Ryan Swope with the No. 174 overall pick. Swope (6-0, 205) secured 89 balls for 1,207 yards (13.6 YPR) and 11 touchdowns as a junior with Ryan Tannehill before his production took a slight step back with freshman Johnny Manziel at the controls. Although he doesn't play quite as fast, Swope's 4.34 forty and 1.47 ten-yard split earned him a ton of Combine buzz. Swope's negatives are mostly of the medical variety, as he suffered multiple concussions at A&M. But he's drawn some Eric Decker comparisons as a slot/Z receiver with versatility and terrific all-around athleticism. He could contribute down the line for a Cardinals offense that's rebuilding itself from the ground up. |
| 91 | Michael Buchanan | DE | Illinois Fighting Illini | Patriots grab DE Michael Buchanan at No. 226
Patriots selected Illinois DE Michael Buchanan with the No. 226 overall pick. Buchanan (6-foot-5 3/8, 255) was highly touted entering his senior season, but finished 2012 with pedestrian sack (4.5) and tackle-for-loss (7.0) stats. He did demonstrate burst with a 1.59 ten-yard split at the front end of his 4.78 Combine forty time. Buchanan played "space" linebacker in the Illini's 3-3-5 scheme and has long arms (34"). Buchanan will likely compete for a special teams role initially. |
| 92 | Vince Williams | LB | Florida State Seminoles | Steelers grab LB Vince Williams at No. 206
Steelers selected Florida State LB Vince Williams with the No. 206 overall pick. Williams (6-foot 3/4, 233) was a two-year starter at MIKE 'backer for the 'Noles, registering 13.5 career tackles for loss, an interception, and three sacks. He ran 4.76 with a 1.71 ten-yard split and 22 reps on the bench. Williams was not invited to the Combine, but played physically on college tape. "As soon as he steps on the field he just starts coming downhill and hitting people," Mike Mayock observed. The Steelers have a cast of unknowns behind ILBs Lawrence Timmons and Larry Foote. |
| 93 | Earl Wolff | S | North Carolina State Wolfpack | Eagles take S Earl Wolff at No. 136
Eagles selected North Carolina State S Earl Wolff with the No. 136 overall pick. Wolff (5-foot-11 1/4, 209) started 43 games at boundary safety for the Wolfpack, notching 9.5 tackles for loss and six interceptions. Dubbed the "heart of the defense" by NC State coach Tom O'Brien, Wolff earned first-team All-ACC honors as a senior and is a skilled ball stripper (eight career forced fumbles). He also impressed at the Combine, running 4.44 with a 39-inch vertical and 11-foot-2 broad jump. Wolff will join the competition for the Eagles' two starting safety spots. |
| 94 | Shawn Williams | S | Georgia Bulldogs | Georgia SS Shawn Williams goes to Bengals
Bengals selected Georgia SS Shawn Williams with the No. 84 overall pick. Williams made 30 starts for Georgia, playing strong safety across from FS Bacarri Rambo. Williams logged 10.5 tackles for loss, and four career picks. He is a run-support maven lacking fluidity and ball skills, but helped himself with a 4.46 forty at the Combine. Williams should have little trouble making an early impact on kickoff and punt coverage. |
| 95 | Josh Boyd | DT | Mississippi State Bulldogs | Packers select DL Josh Boyd at pick No 167
Packers selected Mississippi State DL Josh Boyd with the No. 167 overall pick. Boyd (6-foot-3, 310) was a 3 1/2-year starter for the Bulldogs, recording 33 tackles -- 2.5 for a loss -- and 1.5 sacks as a senior, also blocking one kick. He ran 5.14 at the Combine before pumping 32 reps on the bench. Boyd flashed penetrating, three-technique type ability in the SEC, but was an inconsistent performer and lacks explosive measurables. |
| 96 | Sanders Commings | CB | Georgia Bulldogs | Chiefs take Georgia DB Sanders Commings
Chiefs selected Georgia CB Sanders Commings with the No. 134 overall pick. Commings (6-foot 1/8, 216) started 35 games at UGA, recording eight career picks. He ran 4.41 at the Combine with a 34.5-inch vertical. Commings is a classic press-man corner with a thick build, but has a tendency to shy away from contact. He's also had some off-the-field issues, getting suspended for the first two games of 2012 after an offseason domestic violence charge. He won't contribute on defense as a rookie. |
| 97 | Tavarres King | WR | Georgia Bulldogs | Broncos select WR Tavarres King at No. 161
Broncos selected Georgia WR Tavarres King with the No. 161 overall pick. King (6-foot 1/4, 189) hauled in 42 Aaron Murray passes as a senior for 950 yards (22.6 YPR) and nine touchdowns. He lit up Alabama for 128 yards on five catches in the SEC title game. With legit speed (4.47 forty) to separate from defensive backs and long arms (33") to create a wide catching radius, King looks every bit the part of an NFL No. 2 or low-end No. 1 receiver. King will slide in as the Broncos' No. 4 receiver. |
| 98 | Everett Dawkins | DT | Florida State Seminoles | Vikes take DT Everett Dawkins at No. 229
Vikings selected Florida State DT Everett Dawkins with the No. 229 overall pick. Dawkins (6-2, 292) made 41 starts for the 'Noles, recording 26 tackles as a senior. He ran a 5.06 40-yard dash to go along with a 1.73 ten-yard split and 23 bench reps at the Combine. Dawkins projects as a rotational three-technique tackle with some pocket-pushing ability. |
| 99 | Bacarri Rambo | S | Georgia Bulldogs | Redskins take S Bacarri Rambo at No. 191
Redskins selected Georgia S Bacarri Rambo with the No. 191 overall pick. Rambo (6-foot-1, 211) is a center-field safety with elite ballhawking ability, intercepting 16 career passes as a 36-game starter for the Dawgs. He also forced six fumbles. Rambo ran forty times of 4.64 and 4.66 with a 34-inch vertical at the UGA Pro Day. Rambo isn't a great tackler and was suspended four games in 2012 for a positive marijuana test, but safeties with cover skills have rising value in the increasingly pass-happy NFL. He could be the Redskins' Week 1 starter at free safety. |
| 100 | Cobi Hamilton | WR | Arkansas Razorbacks | Bengals select WR Cobi Hamilton at No. 197
Bengals selected Arkansas WR Cobi Hamilton with the No. 197 overall pick. Hamilton (6-foot-1 3/4, 212) emerged as Tyler Wilson's go-to target as a senior, catching 90 balls for 1,335 yards (14.8 YPR) and five touchdowns. Hamilton lacks top-end speed (4.56 forty) and has small hands (8 3/4") with a tendency to let passes get into his body rather than secure them naturally. His biggest plus is physicality, as Hamilton is a post-catch tackle breaker and fierce blocker with some Anquan Boldin to his game. The team drafted a possession receiver in Sanu last year, and Hamilton wins underneath on slants and crosses. |
| 101 | Kenjon Barner | RB | Oregon Ducks | Panthers select RB Kenjon Barner at No. 182
Panthers selected Oregon RB Kenjon Barner with the No. 182 overall pick. Barner (5-foot-9 1/4, 196) was the workhorse in Chip Kelly's 2012 offense, rushing 278 times for 1,767 yards (6.36 YPC) and 21 touchdowns. He added 20 catches for 256 yards (12.8 YPR) and two more scores. Despite his smallish stature, Barner falls forward and isn't a step-waster, also flashing an ability to run through arm tackles. He's more straight-linish than elusive and isn't going to make NFL defenders miss. Barner ran 4.52 at the Combine with a 1.60 ten-yard split. Perhaps he is being brought in as a kick returner, but Carolina adding another running back is somewhat comical. |
| 102 | E.J. Manuel | QB | Florida State Seminoles | Bills draft E.J. Manuel with No. 16 pick
Bills selected Florida State QB E.J. Manuel with the No. 16 overall pick. Manuel (6-5, 237) inherited Florida State's quarterback job from Christian Ponder for his final two seasons and completed 66.8 percent of his passes with a 41:18 TD-to-INT ratio, while rushing for eight touchdowns. Manuel is a great athlete with 4.62 speed and a 34-inch vertical, and could be a read-option weapon once he irons out his many kinks as a passer. Despite the lofty college completion rate, Manuel's accuracy is maddeningly scattershot beyond five yards and he seems virtually untrained in terms of pocket feel and footwork. He's a big project. The Bills can't expect a major contribution in year one, but Manuel will compete in training camp for a starting job with veterans Kevin Kolb and Tarvaris Jackson. |
| 103 | Jordan Mills | T | Louisiana Tech Bulldogs | Bears select Jordan Mills at 163
Bears selected Louisiana Tech T/G Jordan Mills with the No. 163 overall pick. Mills (6-foot-5, 316) has prototypical tackle build with 34-inch arms, and drew raves for his Senior Bowl performance. A right tackle at Louisiana Tech, Mills may have to kick to guard in the pros due to limited athleticism. He also managed only 20 bench-press reps. Mills does have a high enough long-term ceiling to develop into a starting guard or perhaps right tackle. The Bears will view him as a versatile reserve in year one. |
| 104 | J.C. Tretter | T | Cornell Big Red | Packers select OL Tretter with pick No. 122
Packers selected Cornell OL J.C. Tretter with the No. 122 overall pick. Tretter (6-foot-3 5/8, 307) lettered at tight end his first two seasons before taking over as the Big Red's left tackle and earning unanimous All-Ivy League first-team honors as a senior. Heady and athletic but somewhat short armed (33 3/8"), Tretter is likely destined for the interior line. Despite breaking his nose just prior to the Senior Bowl, Tretter participated in the event. The Packers do have a history of success with mid to late round offensive linemen. |
| 105 | Nico Johnson | LB | Alabama Crimson Tide | Chiefs take 'Bama LB Nico Johnson
Chiefs selected Alabama LB Nico Johnson with the No. 99 overall pick. Johnson (6-2, 248) was a two-down inside 'backer in Nick Saban's 3-4, exiting the field in all passing situations because he lacks cover skills. As a senior, he registered 55 tackles — two for a loss — and two forced fumbles. Johnson ran forty times of 4.73 and 4.77 at the 'Bama Pro Day, with a 30-inch vertical and 9-foot-2 broad jump. He was a special teams regular at Alabama, and should start out there in Kansas City. |
| 106 | John Boyett | S | Oregon Ducks | Colts select Oregon S John Boyett at No. 192
Colts selected Oregon S John Boyett with the No. 192 overall pick. Boyett (5-foot-10, 204) recorded 10 interceptions and seven tackles for loss as a three-year starter for Chip Kelly's Ducks before missing all but one game in 2012 following surgery to repair partial tears in both of his patellar tendons. Boyett was highly regarded pre-injury as a rugged tackler with some cover skills. He held a personal Pro Day on April 10. If Boyett's health cooperates, he could be a low-risk steal. |
| 107 | Cory Grissom | DT | South Florida Bulls | USF DT Grissom invited to the NFL Combine
USF senior DT Cory Grissom has been invited to the NFL Combine. Grissom, a Senior Bowl invite, does not produce much upfield, but he can hold his anchor against one on one blockers in the running game. The week of practice in Mobile will be more important to Grissom's evaluation than the Combine. |
| 108 | Nick Kasa | TE | Colorado Buffaloes | Raiders select Buffs TE Nick Kasa at No. 172
Raiders selected Colorado TE Nick Kasa with the No. 172 overall pick. Kasa (6-foot-5 7/8, 269) was a defensive end until halfway through his junior year. As a senior, he caught 25 passes for 391 yards (15.6 YPR) and three touchdowns before showing good speed (4.71 forty) at the Combine. Kasa is a work in progress, but his size-speed combination gives him long-term upside. The Raiders have little talent at the position, so despite his lack of comfort as a receiver, Kasa has a chance to touch the field as a rookie due to his willingness to block. |
| 109 | Denard Robinson | QB | Michigan Wolverines | Michigan's Denard Robinson lands with Jaguars
Jaguars selected Michigan RB/WR/QB Denard Robinson with the No. 135 overall pick. A spectacularly versatile athlete, Robinson (5-foot-10 1/2, 199) was introduced as a running back on draft day. He could also play receiver and return kicks in the pros after starting for three seasons as the Wolverines' quarterback. A game-breaking runner with lateral jukes and 4.43 long speed, Robinson rushed 723 times for 4,495 yards (6.22 YPC) and 42 touchdowns at Michigan. He only caught three passes. Robinson is best suited to play running back -- his skills are not all that dissimilar from Chris Johnson's -- but his final NFL position figures to be determined during OTAs. |
| 110 | David Bass | DE | Missouri Western Griffons | Raiders draft David Bass at No. 233
Raiders selected Missouri Western State DE David Bass with the No. 233 overall pick. Bass (6-foot-3 7/8, 262) started a record 50 games for the Griffons and left MWSU as the school's all-time leader in both sacks (40.5) and tackles for loss (56). A squatty, long-armed (33 1/2") pass rusher, Bass was an East-West Shrine standout before running a 4.84 at the Combine with a 1.67 ten-yard split. Bass faces a large jump in competition and lacks truly explosive edge-rusher tools, but he's good value here for a Raiders team in desperate need of sack production. He'll have a solid chance to make the 53. |
| 111 | Ricky Wagner | T | Wisconsin Badgers | Ravens select Ricky Wagner at 168
Ravens selected Wisconsin OT Ricky Wagner with the No. 168 overall pick. Wagner (6-foot-5 7/8, 308) was a three-year college starter, playing right tackle in 2010 before succeeding Gabe Carimi as the Badgers' starting left tackle in 2011 and 2012. Wagner has plus athleticism and 34-inch arms, but he's going to have to add strength. Also displaying inconsistent feet, Wagner is a bit of a 'tweener left/right tackle. His NFL ceiling may be a swing-tackle reserve. The Ravens still need a starting left tackle. |
| 112 | Duke Williams | S | Nevada Wolf Pack | Bills take a chance on S Duke Williams at 105
Bills selected Nevada S Duke Williams with the No. 105 overall pick. Williams (5-foot-11, 203) made 37 starts for the Wolf Pack, tallying 15.5 career tackles for loss, five fumbles forced, and four picks. NFL Network's Daniel Jeremiah has described Willliams as "an excellent force player" with strong run-support skills. He also offers experience covering slot receivers and sideline-to-sideline jets (4.43 forty). Williams will likely contribute immediately on special teams and could develop into a starting free safety. He slid to the fourth round due to some character concerns. |
| 113 | Aaron Mellette | WR | Elon Phoenix | Ravens draft Aaron Mellette at No. 238
Ravens selected Elon WR Aaron Mellette with the No. 238 overall pick. Mellette (6-foot-2 3/8, 217) was extremely productive at D-IAA, finishing his career with 304 catches, 4,254 yards (14.0 YPR), and 44 touchdowns. Although not overly explosive, Mellette is a smooth operator with plus athleticism and route-running chops. He ran 4.54 at the Combine with a 1.56 ten-yard split and a 10-foot-3 broad jump. Mellette only did nine reps on the bench and will have to add strength to defeat NFL press coverage. The Ravens have an opening at receiver opposite Torrey Smith, so we wouldn't rule out Mellette challenging for rookie-year snaps if he has a big camp. |
| 114 | Robbie Rouse | RB | Fresno State Bulldogs | Pats reportedly showing interest in RB Rouse
The New England Patriots are showing interest in Fresno State RB Robbie Rouse, according to draft insider Tony Pauline. We can absolutely see the fit in the sixth- or seventh-round. Rouse is a very short and compact back who thrives on cuts in short spaces to avoid tacklers. We don't think he is as quick or fast as some will say, but Rouse is animated with his movements with good anticipation. He might be similar to Kevin Faulk in that respect. |
| 115 | Josh Evans | S | Florida Gators | Jags take Gators S Evans with No. 169 pick
Jaguars selected Florida S Josh Evans with the No. 169 overall pick. Evans (6-1, 207) was Matt Elam's bookend for the Gators, making 24 career starts and picking off five passes. A member of the UF track team early in his college career, Evans has fluid hips and the range to cover center field. He ran 4.58 at the Combine with a 10-foot-3 broad jump. Evans also has extensive special teams experience. That's where he'll contribute as a rookie. |
| 116 | Shamarko Thomas | S | Syracuse Orange | Steelers snag S Shamarko Thomas at No. 111
Steelers selected Syracuse S Shamarko Thomas with the No. 111 overall pick. Thomas (5-foot-8 7/8, 213) is a bullet to the ball. He ran 4.42 at the Combine with an explosive 11-foot-1 broad jump. Thomas logged 16.5 tackles for loss, four sacks, two interceptions, and four forced fumbles in his college career. Mike Mayock has compared Thomas' to former Colts great Bob Sanders. Described as a "vicious striker" by ESPN Scouts Inc.'s Kevin Weidl, Thomas is a highlight-reel hitter but plays in a straight line and won't be able to cover NFL pass catchers one-on-one, lacking both fluidity and height. He'll step in as Pittsburgh's third safety. |
| 117 | Kiko Alonso | LB | Oregon Ducks | Kiko Alonso drafted with No. 46 pick by Bills
Bills selected Oregon LB Kiko Alonso with the No. 46 overall pick. Alonso (6-3, 238) was arrested for DUI in February of 2010 and breaking into a home while drunk in May of 2011. He's since quit drinking, giving Alonso a chance at an NFL career. Alonso racked up 81 tackles -- 14 for a loss -- and four interceptions as a senior, also popping loose two fumbles. Highly physical with cover skills and adequate 4.74 speed, Alonso is a three-down inside linebacker prospect. He and Nigel Bradham should man the inside linebacker spots in DC Mike Pettine's 3-4 defense. |
| 118 | Zach Rogers | WR | Tennessee Volunteers | Mayock: Vols' Rogers is the top 'sleeper WR'
NFL Network's Mike Mayock calls Tennessee WR Zach Rogers the top sleeper at his position. He goes on to project the third receiver as a fourth- or fifth-round prospect. "Zach is a slot guy who ran a 4.45," Mayock said. "He catches everything. He runs good routes. Prior to his Pro Day, I would’ve thought he’d be a sixth- or seventh-rounder. But he may have moved up into that fourth- or fifth-round range simply because he’s faster than people thought." |
| 119 | Philip Lutzenkirchen | TE | Auburn Tigers | Phil Lutzenkirchen fails to improve 4.9 forty
Auburn H-back/TE Phil Lutzenkirchen failed to improve on his 4.94 forty from the Combine, running a 4.98 at the school's Pro Day. Per Gil Brandt, Lutzenkirchen "had a 32-inch vertical jump and 9-foot-4 broad jump. His time in the short shuttle time was 4.32 seconds and 7.05 seconds in the three-cone drill." We wonder if Lutzenkirchen's hip surgery has slowed him down, because the Tiger was one of the better H-back's in college football in 2010 and 2011. |
| 120 | Michael Williams | TE | Alabama Crimson Tide | Lions grab TE Michael Williams at No. 211
Lions selected Alabama TE Michael Williams with the No. 211 overall pick. Williams (6-foot-5 3/4, 278) made 41 starts for the Crimson Tide, primarily working as an in-line blocker. He caught 24 passes for 183 yards (7.6 YPR) and four touchdowns as a senior. Williams ran a 5.19 forty at Alabama's Pro Day with a 25 1/2-inch vertical and 8-foot broad jump. All but bereft of athleticism, Williams will have to be a sixth offensive lineman to make it in the pros. Williams will try and earn a spot behind Brandon Pettigrew and Tony Scheffler. |
| 121 | Mychal Rivera | TE | Tennessee Volunteers | Raiders take Vols TE Mychal Rivera
Raiders selected Tennessee TE Mychal Rivera with the No. 184 overall pick. Rivera (6-3, 242) caught 36 balls for 562 yards (15.6 YPR) and five TDs in 2012, sharing Tyler Bray's targets with Justin Hunter and Cordarrelle Patterson. He ran a 4.81 40-yard dash at the Combine, which is startlingly slow considering his size. He also managed only 17 bench-press reps. He's a project for a Raiders team that's barren at tight end. |
| 122 | Ryan Otten | TE | San Jose State Spartans | SJSU TE Otten chatted with Jim Harbaugh
San Jose State TE Ryan Otten chatted with San Francisco 49ers' head coach Jim Harbaugh at his pro day. Harbaugh was in attendance at the pro day as one of 26 NFL teams, which also included the Oakland Raiders. Otten ran a 4.68 40-yard dash and caught 20 passes. He didn't drop any passes thrown in his direction. He has two private workouts set up with unspecific teams and could add another five pounds when he comes to the NFL. |
| 123 | Kerwynn Williams | RB | Utah State Aggies | Kerwynn Williams lands with Colts in 7th
Colts selected Utah State RB Kerwynn Williams with the No. 230 overall pick. Williams (5-foot-8 1/8, 195) emerged from 2012 draft picks Robert Turbin and Michael Smith's shadow to rip off 1,512 yards and 15 touchdowns on 218 carries (6.94 YPC) in 2012. He added 45 catches for 697 yards (15.5 YPR) and five more scores. Williams' versatility is attractive, but he's more of an undersized straight-line speedster, albeit with absolutely blazing wheels. He ranked fourth among running backs at the Combine in both forty time (4.48) and the ten-yard split (1.52). In a best-case scenario, Williams would be groomed to take a larger role in 2014 when Donald Brown is a free agent. |
| 124 | D.C. Jefferson | TE | Rutgers Scarlet Knights | Cards take Rutgers TE D.C. Jefferson
Cardinals selected Rutgers TE D.C. Jefferson with the No. 219 overall pick. Jefferson (6-foot-6, 255) never exceeded 20 receptions in a college season, and scored just two career touchdowns. A long-armed (34 1/4") blocking tight end, Jefferson ran forty times of 4.97 and 5.00 at his March 28 Pro Day. He's not a short- or long-term threat to Rob Housler. |
| 125 | Marcus Davis | WR | Virginia Tech Hokies | Marcus Davis times an official 4.56 forty
Virginia Tech WR Marcus Davis ran an official 4.56 forty at the NFL Combine. Davis' 10 yard split checked in at 1.63 seconds. The Hokie receiver's game is built on athleticism, so make sure not to count that "upside" twice. Davis struggles to track the ball downfield and tends to give limited blocking effort, but he could be taken in the sixth- or seventh-round. |