Chris James’ 4-Round NFL Mock Draft – April*
*Made Before Rams/Titans Trade
Here are the rules for my April 2016 mock draft | ||||||||
1. The picks are made as if I (Chris James) were the GM of each team | ||||||||
2. The selections are made based off team needs on the roster as of 4/15/2016 | ||||||||
3. The selections are based on my own player rankings NOT what you see anywhere else | ||||||||
4. There are NO TRADES, period! | ||||||||
5. And last but not least, relax it’s just a mock draft…enjoy! | ||||||||
ROUND |
PICK |
TEAM |
PLAYER | ||
1 |
1 |
Los Angeles Rams | *Jalen Ramsey | FS | Florida State |
I understand why they traded up to #1; I’m just diametrically opposed to selecting any QB in this draft with the first overall pick. This leaves me in a position to take a game changer in LA. While Tunsil is #1 on my big board, I don’t think he fits in Fisher’s scheme. I’m going to give him a versatile DB in Ramsey.
1 |
2 |
Cleveland Browns | *Laremy Tunsil | OT | Ole Miss |
(I’LL START BY SAYING THEY SHOULD TRADE THIS PICK). I was unable to draft Tunsil for Cleveland in previous mocks since he went #1 overall. The great Joe Thomas is still playing elite level LT but they lost Mitchell Schwartz at RT. Tunsil is definitely a better fit at LT but he can play on the right side in Jackson’s offense.
1 |
3 |
San Diego Chargers | *Joey Bosa | DE | Ohio State |
This sounds crazy but I like Bosa playing RDE in the 3-4 or LDE in the 4-3 as his skillset seems best for each fit. I would take this player if the coach understood this and didn’t use him as an OLB.
1 |
4 |
Dallas Cowboys | *A’Shawn Robinson | DT | Alabama |
The Cowboys need a lot of help but interior pressure is the biggest need. I liken Robinson’s combo of athleticism & fury to a former Cowboy DT in Russell Maryland.
1 |
5 |
Jacksonville Jaguars | *Myles Jack | OLB | UCLA |
The starting LBs were Smith, Skuta, & Posluzsny which isn’t bad. An upgrade can be made at LOLB in the form of Jack who is a better scheme fit than Skuta.
1 |
6 |
Baltimore Ravens | *Ezekiel Elliott | RB | Ohio State |
I know, I know, I know…you can’t take a RB this high. I agree in some respects and would trade down if I were the Ravens’ GM. The year’s that they had the best production and success (2 SB championships) were with legit RBs in Ray Rice & Jamaal Lewis. Elliott is a luxury pick to some for the Ravens; I’m not a fan of Allen or Taliaferro and Forsett is breaking down.
1 |
7 |
San Francisco 49ers | *Laquon Treadwell | WR | Ole Miss |
Chip Kelly loves speed but even more than that it requires quality WRs who can catch, run great routes, & block well. Treadwell does all of the things required well and they can use Torey Smith to stretch the field.
1 |
8 |
Philadelphia Eagles | *Vernon Hargreaves III | CB | Florida |
I think Hargreaves is a great cover CB with a skillset that is scheme diverse. Doug Pederson will likely employ a good mix of man & zone to take advantage of his talent. Hargreaves can also play in the slot with his ability to cover in space and make tackles.
1 |
9 |
Tampa Bay Buccaneers | *Ronnie Stanley | OT | Notre Dame |
I love the approach used by the Dallas Cowboys over the last few season. Improve the OL to improve your production. There are larger needs on the team but Stanley would be great at RT next to Marpet and across from Donovan Smith. This also alleviates the pressure of the JR Sweazy contract on OL cost.
1 |
10 |
New York Giants | *Shaq Lawson | DE | Clemson |
The Giants signed Olivier Vernon to a huge deal and JPP is on a short term deal. The Giants were at their best with waves of DL talent rushing the passer. This will also allow a Nascar package (4 DE) to be implemented quite often.
1 |
11 |
Chicago Bears | Reggie Ragland | ILB | Alabama |
The current scheme in Chicago is the 3-4 so they got Danny Trevathan & Jerrell Freeman in FA. There is still a need from an impactful leader at ILB as Trevathan & Freeman are more reactionary than instinctive. Ragland would allow other guys to do their thing as he diagnosis things extremely quickly.
1 |
12 |
New Orleans Saints | *Noah Spence | OLB | Eastern Kentucky |
I like what the Saints did in the 2015 draft defensively. They have also done a sneaky good job in FA. Spence just rushes the passer well and should fit well in the multiple scheme used in New Orleans.
1 |
13 |
Miami Dolphins | DeForest Buckner | DE | Oregon |
The DL in Miami had big expectations last year but was a disappointment. The loss of Vernon was counteracted by the addition of Mario Williams. The addition of Buckner could be a big one when you put him next to Suh. This could be the best DL in football in 2016.
1 |
14 |
Oakland Raiders | *Corey Coleman | WR | Baylor |
This is a “reach” when considering my big board but it makes sense for a few reasons. 1. The Raiders have done a great job acquiring talent in the offseason. 2. The positions of need don’t have a guy that fits the scheme & selection spot well enough. 3. The WR unit in Oakland has great size and length but no one is seen as a deep threat (Cooper ran a 4.42 but that’s not his style of play).
1 |
15 |
Tennessee Titans | Taylor Decker | OT | Ohio State |
It’s interesting to see the Tennessee Titans getting EXACTLY who they wanted in this draft in Decker. I think he works very well as the LT in Tennessee which will allow a road grader like Taylor Lewan to play RT.
1 |
16 |
Detroit Lions | Ryan Kelly | C | Alabama |
Detroit is one of the worst rushing teams in the NFL over the last few years and it didn’t have much to do with Megatron’s presence. Ryan Kelly’s an underrated athlete that has played in power sets and shotgun based sets. He can be the leader necessary for a line in flux.
1 |
17 |
Atlanta Falcons | *Hunter Henry | TE | Arkansas |
Matt Ryan and the Falcons offense should have been better last year. Julio Jones & Devonta Freeman are on the upside of their careers. The OL got healthy during the offseason and better with the addition of Alex Mack. One negative is the lack of ability at TE; Jacob Tamme did a serviceable job but Henry is a clear upgrade at the position.
1 |
18 |
Indianapolis Colts | *Jack Conklin | OT | Michigan State |
I was tempted to go DL here but Henry Anderson and those boys did very well last season. What I’m not happy about is how banged up my QB was in 2015. Part of it was Luck holding the ball to long but the other part was a lack of OL talent. Conklin is no Orlando Pace but he’s a consistent force that would thrive in a system with power run elements.
1 |
19 |
Buffalo Bills | Jarran Reed | DT | Alabama |
The age of Kyle Williams coupled with a lack of DL pressure in 2015 prompts this selection. The Bills DL was the NFL’s best in 2014 and could get back to it with addition by subtraction (Mario Williams release). Reed can play multiple spots on the DL.
1 |
20 |
New York Jets | *Mackensie Alexander | CB | Clemson |
Todd Bowles likes to bring pressure more often than most so he needs guys that can cover. Alexander doesn’t have a pick as a collegiate but WRs only had a few catches against him.
1 |
21 |
Washington Redskins | *Daryl Worley | CB | West Virginia |
I’m a big fan of what Worley has to offer as a man-to-man CB. I think he’s one of the best in the draft at being able to stay in the hip pocket of a WR. He likely won’t go in the 1st round up in Chicago but that’s no concern of this mock draft.
1 |
22 |
Houston Texans | Sheldon Rankins | NT | Louisville |
The Texans brought in Vince Wilfork to man the NT position for O’Brien’s D. He didn’t play poorly but he didn’t play well either. No matter what we know that he doesn’t have the same ability of a few seasons ago so bring in a young, active force that fits what we want to do in Houston.
1 |
23 |
Minnesota Vikings | Josh Doctson | WR | TCU |
I’m of the mindset that Teddy Bridgewater is an underutilized QB. There were a few reasons for this approach by Zimmer (Peterson is a beast, pass blocking was subpar, injuries to Rudolph, lack of dependable WR play outside of Diggs). They improved OL talent and Rudolph is should be at full strength. Let’s get another WR that can aid the growth of a young QB.
1 |
24 |
Cincinnati Bengals | *Darron Lee | OLB | Ohio State |
I will make this clear on the front end…I cannot keep a player like Burfict on my team when we have a lack of exhibited leadership as an organization! The release of Burfict opens up a spot for Lee.
1 |
25 |
Pittsburgh Steelers | Karl Joseph | SS | West Virginia |
CB seems like the go-to position for the Steelers but not with Worley & Alexander off the board. I’m taking a guy from right around the ‘corner’ that is a ball hawk in Joseph. Also, keep in mind that they lost Senquez Golson (CB) before the start of 2015.
1 |
26 |
Seattle Seahawks | Joshua Garnett | OG | Stanford |
I’m going to take an actual OL to protect Russell Wilson after losing Sweazy in FA. I think Garnett is a perfect fit at RG in this system.
1 |
27 |
Green Bay Packers | *Andrew Billings | NT | Baylor |
BJ Raji left the fray to take a break from football. The absence at NT requires an addition and Billings falls right in their laps. He played the NT in college so there isn’t a positional adjustment period.
1 |
28 |
Kansas City Chiefs | *Eli Apple | CB | Ohio State |
Sean Smith left for division rival Oakland this offseason. I’m of the mindset that you draft or sign players that match what you’re looking to do. Apple’s strength isn’t as a man-to-man guy but more as an instinctive off CB. He will work well opposite of Marcus Peters.
1 |
29 |
Arizona Cardinals | *Leonard Floyd | OLB | Georgia |
Chandler Jones was acquired in a trade with the Patriots. I don’t believe that he fits exactly into the scheme but he provides them with a pass rushers. In addition, I have no clue what he mental status is since the Pats were itching to get rid of him. Floyd is an insurance policy with huge upside. All other pass rushers on the squad lack superior explosiveness.
1 |
30 |
Carolina Panthers | *Derrick Henry | RB | Alabama |
The protection of Cam Newton is paramount to the success of the Carolina Panthers. I was tempted to take an OL player to do so but I’m going a non-traditional route. Henry is a force in the screen game and he’s a great blocker on blitz pick-ups. This is the ONLY team that could fit Henry as a 1st rounder.
1 |
31 |
Denver Broncos | *Jared Goff | QB | California |
There has been a lot of discussion about Goff’s hand size as it relates to poor conditions. I think he’ll be fine ‘handling’ the conditions in Denver. What people fail to mention is Carson Wentz’s issues throwing a wet ball at his pro day. Either way you slice it, I think Goff is the best & most NFL ready QB in an average crop of passers.
2 |
32 |
Cleveland Browns | *Pharoh Cooper | WR | South Carolina |
Cooper isn’t the biggest, fastest, or strongest WR but he may be the best. He was a do-it-all player at S. Carolina during its run of best seasons. Cooper reminds me of Antonio Brown which would be a welcomed sight in a place like Cleveland.
2 |
33 |
Tennessee Titans | *Su’a Cravens | OLB | Southern California |
I’m always a fan of giving a brilliant mind a player that has a brilliant skillset. Cravens has been assessed as a LB by some and a S by most; one thing is certain about Cravens and it’s that he’s a playmaker.
2 |
34 |
Dallas Cowboys | Dak Prescott | QB | Mississippi State |
I’m becoming more and more concerned over the health of Tony Romo. He seems to be Mr. Glass of late and the Cowboys brass has made inquiries into an heir apparent. This is a great time to take a player that while not quite ready to be a starter, has everything necessary to be a franchise QB.
2 |
35 |
San Diego Chargers | Kyle Friend | C | Temple |
When a team has a franchise QB with pieces around him signed or returning from injuries, you look to protect him. I like what Kyle Friend has to offer for an OL that didn’t seem to work as a unit. Friend can be a cog on the line for years to come.
2 |
36 |
Baltimore Ravens | *Emmanuel Ogbah | DE | Oklahoma State |
The scheme isn’t perfect for this guy, right? I can’t agree since the Ravens don’t require their listed OLBs to drop into pass coverage virtually ever. Both Dumervil & Suggs rush the passer nearly 90% of the time in this system. Ogbah is a force with ability but lacks polish; this is the perfect place for him to grow into the next great Ravens pass rusher.
2 |
37 |
San Francisco 49ers | Carson Wentz | QB | North Dakota State |
I’m not as high on Wentz as some but he clearly has talent. I also believe that Kelly’s offense would work well for his skill set. He has the athleticism to pull on read plays, arm strength to whip it over on pop screens, and the posed threat of both to a defense. He needs this style of system to play in year one.
2 |
38 |
Jacksonville Jaguars | William Jackson III | CB | Houston |
Gus Bradley has made his defense in Jacksonville mirror the D seen in Seattle. Jackson isn’t a man-to-man CB in my opinion as he doesn’t stay in a WRs hip pocket consistently. He does have the skills necessary to play in this system since he has elite speed to recover in their cover 3 scheme.
2 |
39 |
Tampa Bay Buccaneers | *Robert Nkemdiche | DT | Ole Miss |
I’ve let Nkemdiche fall to the 2nd round due to the level of concern by the concensus. He has the ultimate boom or bust value but it has nothing to do with his on the field play. He should be a pro bowl caliber player if he keeps his head on straight.
2 |
40 |
New York Giants | Le’Raven Clark | OT | Texas Tech |
The Giants spent quite a bit of money in the offseason. I’m of the mindset that you alleviate pressure on a move like that by taking talent at highly expensive FA positions. Clark should function well on a Giants OL that needs talent & depth.
2 |
41 |
Chicago Bears | *Cardale Jones | QB | Ohio State |
As the GM of the Bears I have to put actual pressure on Jay Cutler without threatening him in 2016. I think Cardale Jones has the highest ceiling of any QB in this class; I also believe that Jones isn’t in the top 5 QBs if asked to start day 1. Jones has all the tools necessary to be the guy moving forward as the Bears offense gets a youth face lift in 2017.
2 |
42 |
Miami Dolphins | Landon Turner | OG | North Carolina |
The addition of an early round interior OL for the Dolphins seems to be the situation every draft. I like the fit of Turner in this system and he should be a starter on day one camp.
2 |
43 |
Tennessee Titans | *Tyler Boyd | WR | Pittsburgh |
The roster ‘seems’ to be stocked with talent with DGB, Kendall Wright, Justin Hunter & Harry Douglas. Moving forward I don’t see two of those guys being there after 2016 (Hunter & Wright) so this is a good move for the future. In the present it’s a great move as he will be able to consistently catch the ball, which was a problem for every WR on the Titans roster in 2015.
2 |
44 |
Oakland Raiders | *Jaylon Smith | OLB | Notre Dame |
There aren’t many teams that can take a chance on a player that may need to ‘redshirt’ in 2016. The Oakland Raiders are one of the few that can take this chance. The need for an ILB is real in Oakland so this pick makes too much sense not to make.
2 |
45 |
Tennessee Titans | *Kevin Dodd | DE | Clemson |
The acquisition of talent is the ultimate goal of the draft. This sounds simple enough to say but it’s hard to do in practice. Does Kevin Dodd ‘fit’ the 3-4 scheme being used in Tennessee? I think he does considering what’s in front of him in Orakpo & Morgan. The request of Dodd will be to rush the passer, period.
2 |
46 |
Detroit Lions | Adolphus Washington | DT | Ohio State |
When a team has struggles closing out games it’s likely tied to strength/depth on both lines. I addressed the issue on the interior OL now let’s do the same on the interior DL. Haloti Ngata is getting a little older and is more successful on the 1st & 2nd down. The DT position has depth but an upgrade is welcomed in the form of Washington.
2 |
47 |
New Orleans Saints | Justin Simmons | FS | Boston College |
This selection may be a head scratcher to some but it makes total sense for the Saints for a few reasons. 1. Jarius Byrd has basically stolen $20 mil and is on pace to take $9 mil more in 2016…this needs to stop, immediately. 2. Simmons is the best pure single high FS in this draft. 3. The other levels of the defense have been addressed in FA or the 1st round. 4. The WRs & OL players available aren’t a good fit at this point in the draft for the Saints.
2 |
48 |
Indianapolis Colts | *Alex Collins | RB | Arkansas |
Initial mocks had Kenneth Dixon going here but they signed Jordan Todman recently who mirrors Dixon in some respects. The Colts haven’t had a RB like Collins (they tried with Richardson but he lacked the vision of Collins) in the fray since Pagano arrived. He will allow pressure to be taken off the passing game and works well in an initial time share.
2 |
49 |
Buffalo Bills | Kentrell Brothers | ILB | Missouri |
Brothers is an interior LB with the ability to run sideline to sideline in the 4-3 and the bulk to hold up in the 3-4. He sifts through the traffic well and could even be utilized on a blitz or two. I think Rex Ryan missed the presence of David Harris (early career Harris) last season in Buffalo but Brothers will fill that void.
2 |
50 |
Atlanta Falcons | *Chris Jones | DT | Mississippi State |
An active DL who lives in the backfield is never a negative. I know that there are a number of DTs in Atlanta already but there was a reason this team broke down on the interior in 2015. Jones may not be a star initially but he can be eventually.
2 |
51 |
New York Jets | Connor Cook | QB | Michigan State |
I don’t see the Jets giving Ryan Fitzpatrick the deal he wants and Geno Smith is done. Bryce Petty is on the roster but I think he’s a backup/spot starter as a QB. I think Connor Cook is the 2nd most NFL ready QB (behind Goff) as he moves through a game with consistent play and ball placement. He has a lower ceiling than some of his contemporaries which knocked him down into the 2nd round. Cook could be the starter on a team that needs “game managing” QB to be successful.
2 |
52 |
Houston Texans | Nick Martin | C | Notre Dame |
You can’t let your starting C walk when you already had issues blocking. Now a young QB has come in with a big contract that needs to be protected. I’m going to give Osweiler the chance as the Texans QB that David Carr never had by blocking for him.
2 |
53 |
Washington Redskins | Tyler Matakevich | ILB | Temple |
London Fletcher is sorely missed in DC as a player and a leader. Matakevich is a tackling machine built to play in this style of defense. He can help galvanize a unit that played solid football last season.
2 |
54 |
Minnesota Vikings | Deion Jones | OLB | LSU |
Mike Zimmer will be a fan of a player like Jones. Much like Anthony Barr, Deion Jones isn’t a “traditional” fit as a 4-3 LB but much like Barr he should be successful. Jones can function as an in-the-box S in some packages too.
2 |
55 |
Cincinnati Bengals | Sterling Shepard | WR | Oklahoma |
The signing of Brandon LaFell fills a void but not completely. Shepard will be a better #2 to AJ Green than LaFell. Shepard also functions well in the return game.
2 |
56 |
Seattle Seahawks | Vernon Butler | DT | Louisiana Tech |
The OL was addressed in the 1st round now let’s take care of the interior DL. Butler should fit in nicely for a unit that has experienced attrition over the last few seasons.
2 |
57 |
Green Bay Packers | *Kendall Fuller | CB | Virginia Tech |
I need to bolster the defensive side of the ball while adding talent. The LB level needs additional talent but Fuller being here was too good to pass up.
2 |
58 |
Pittsburgh Steelers | *Will Fuller | WR | Notre Dame |
Martavis Bryant decided off the field things were more important than playing in 2016. The WR unit is a good one but can use more depth with the loss of Bryant. Fuller isn’t a polished route runner but he has electric speed. He would function as a good substitute for the absent Bryant.
2 |
59 |
Kansas City Chiefs | *Michael Thomas | WR | Ohio State |
I think Michael Thomas an above average WR prospect after watching more game footage. He should be a good #2 in KC and be the redzone threat missing from the WR position.
2 |
60 |
New England Patriots | *Vonn Bell | SS | Ohio State |
I’m a fan of selecting talent to the team even if you’re secure at the position. Yes, Devin McCourty is a beast but he can’t man both S spots. Bell can fill in at either spot but would be a great fit at SS for the Pats.
2 |
61 |
New England Patriots | *Kenny Clark | DT | UCLA |
The release of Easley was interesting and likely due to durability issues. The addition of Clark doesn’t seem necessary on the surface but depth on both lines plagued this team.
2 |
62 |
Carolina Panthers | Jeremy Cash | SS | Duke |
In all honesty, I’ve suggested replacing Roman Harper for years now. Jeremy Cash is a SS that could play high or down in the box. This is the start of a shuffle for the Panthers secondary that will happen between now and 2017.
2 |
63 |
Denver Broncos | Devontae Booker | RB | Utah |
The Broncos matched CJ Anderson’s offer sheet but lost Ronnie Hillman. Anderson was a good runner in 2014 but suffered through an injured foot in 2015. He should rebound this year but Booker should be a quality insurance policy. He is an Arian Foster clone.
3 |
64 |
Tennessee Titans | Shilique Calhoun | DE | Michigan State |
The ultimate luxury pick in taking yet another edge rusher for the Titans. I’m a believer in a few things about the draft. 1. You acquire talent in as large a manner as possible (trade down, trade up, etc.). 2. The only positions that can’t have multiple picks of the same position are QB, K, P. 3. Stay true to your board. All 3 things say to draft Calhoun.
3 |
65 |
Cleveland Browns | Cody Whitehair | OG | Kansas State |
The OL is in shambles since the Browns let go of Mitchell Schwartz & Alex Mack. Joe Thomas is a HOF player and both Joe Bitonio & Cameron Erving are promising young players. I think Whitehair is the best OL on the board and should be the starting RG to start the season.
3 |
66 |
San Diego Chargers | *Paxton Lynch | QB | Memphis |
I’m a fan of putting people where they can be most successful. I think Paxton Lynch has the ability to be a starting NFL QB, eventually. For now he is with a coach, in Mike McCoy, that can refine his skills; he’s also behind a QB that has a couple of high level years left. The QB in waiting model is what’s best for Lynch IMO.
3 |
67 |
Dallas Cowboys | *Paul Perkins | RB | UCLA |
I know the Cowboys have Darren McFadden on the roster. I know the Cowboys signed Alfred Morris in the offseason. I know the team needs help on D. Here’s what I think of all those things…I’m taking Paul Perkins to be a homerun hitter for a team that doesn’t have one.
3 |
68 |
San Francisco 49ers | Harlan Miller | CB | Southeastern Louisiana |
I believe Chip Kelly will continue to utilize man-to-man way too often to make any CB look good. That being said, at least Miller has high caliber ball skills and won’t miss out on causing a TO.
3 |
69 |
Jacksonville Jaguars | *Nick Vigil | ILB | Utah State |
Paul Posluzsny has done the job in Jacksonville but ILBs from Utah State have played well in this system. As arbitrary as that comment is, the truth is that Vigil tackles everything that comes his way.
3 |
70 |
Baltimore Ravens | Vadal Alexander | OG | LSU |
The loss of Kelechi Osemele is a big one when considering the offensive struggles of the 2015 Ravens. The additions have been on the fringe (Mike Wallace, Ben Watson, & Zeke Elliott in this draft) so it’s time to address the OL. Flacco suffered an injury last year so he could be a little gun shy in 2016. He needs a good base in front of him.
3 |
71 |
New York Giants | Kenyan Drake | ATH | Alabama |
The Giants had one of the most explosive NFL players in WR/Odell Beckham Jr. The problem area was the backfield where there was no threat of a home run for the Giants. Drake is pure explosion as a player with the ability to eat up yards. He would be a great piece as a RB, slot, & returner.
3 |
72 |
Chicago Bears | *Keanu Neal | FS | Florida |
The personality of the Bears seems to have been lost with the retirement of Brian Urlacher. This is a squad built on a tradition of fear caused by the defense. We took Ragland in the 1st to provide leadership and a threat on the 2nd level. The pick of Neal will provide a back end player that’s a big time hitter.
3 |
73 |
Miami Dolphins | *Germain Ifedi | OT | Texas A&M |
The Dolphins have had a few misses picking OL players in the 1st & 2nd round of late. Lucky for them, a player that fits the bill falls to them in the 3rd round in Ifedi. The schemed requirements for Ifedi will allow him to flourish as an OT in Miami.
3 |
74 |
Tampa Bay Buccaneers | Darian Thompson | FS | Boise State |
The Bucs resigned Chris Conte to a one year deal so it tells you how they feel about the position. Thompson is a door-closer at S who makes up space quickly. He’s not the traditional FS but can play in multiple sets. The one issue I have with his game is that he doesn’t pick off enough passes considering the chances.
3 |
75 |
Oakland Raiders | Marshaun Coprich | RB | Illinois State |
The Raiders get a homerun threat at RB which was the biggest area of need in 2015. Latavius Murray is a high quality complementary RB that was required to start last year. Coprich has bigtime running ability that would make him the starter by midseason.
3 |
76 |
Tennessee Titans | Max Tuerk | C | Southern California |
This is the 4th line player taken so far for the Titans. I think you see what my plan of action is to make this the premier team in the division.
3 |
77 |
Philadelphia Eagles | Kyle Murphy | OT | Stanford |
Doug Peterson comes into a situation where they have talent in places and a gross absence in others. The need for OL help was addressed in FA with the Brandon Brooks signing. Brooks was a great addition but there are still holes. Kyle Murphy should be a great addition at RT.
3 |
78 |
New Orleans Saints | *Roberto Aguayo | K | Florida State |
The Saints were a defensive nightmare in 2015 that was addressed in FA and in the first 2 selections of this mock. There was also an area of need that was a huge disappointment all year long…place kicker. The narrative is that you can’t take a K early in the draft. I’m of the opinion that this narrative has changed especially with the 33 yd extra point. Morten Andersen is the all-time leading scorer in Saints history and Aguayo has the ability to challenge that record.
3 |
79 |
Philadelphia Eagles | Aaron Green | RB | TCU |
The Eagles have moved players that were big cap hits off the roster in Byron Maxwell & DeMarco Murray. The loss of Murray coupled with the injury history of Ryan Mathews prompts this selection. Aaron Green will be a great piece for a Pederson run offense.
3 |
80 |
Buffalo Bills | Tavon Young | CB | Temple |
Rex Ryan’s defense requires CBs that can mirror and stay in the pocket of the competition. On film Tavon Young was one of the best man CBs in this draft class. The Bills need some offensive help but I’m going to give a defensive coach plenty of defensive talent.
3 |
81 |
Atlanta Falcons | Braxton Miller | ATH | Ohio State |
The signing of Mohamed Sanu gives the Falcons a solid #2 option to Julio Jones. This mock also gave the Falcons a top flight TE in Hunter Henry. Now, I’ll give Dan Quinn a versatile piece to use at WR, slot, RB, and wildcat QB (which is a part of Quinn’s offensive package).
3 |
82 |
Indianapolis Colts | Joshua Perry | OLB | Ohio State |
Age and attrition took its toll on the 2015 Colts pass rushers. The Colts let go of former 1st rounder Bjorn Werner this offseason. Perry can do things well and come off the edge. He will fit nicely as the LOLB.
3 |
83 |
New York Jets | Nick Vannett | TE | Ohio State |
The Jets took a pass catching TE in Jace Amaro a few seasons ago and it hasn’t exactly panned out yet. The move to get a TE with inline ability is a helpful one with Nick Vannett coming into the fray. A young QB needs protection (traded for Clady), consistent running game (Forte, Powell, Robinson), WR threats, and a dependable TE.
3 |
84 |
Washington Redskins | Jonathan Bullard | DE | Florida |
I wanted a C for the Skins but there isn’t a prospect that I can take in this position. I will go to the other side of the ball and take the best player available in Bullard.
3 |
85 |
Houston Texans | *Austin Hooper | TE | Stanford |
The Nick Vannett selection two picks earlier made this an easy choice for the Texans. Owen Daniels is the last threat they had at TE which is helpful for any QB but especially young ones. Hooper is a subpar blocker but a great pass catcher to play in O’Brien’s offense as a flex TE or H-Back. Hooper reminds me of Travis Kelce and could be a big time player.
3 |
86 |
Minnesota Vikings | Kenneth Dixon | RB | Louisiana Tech |
We all know Adrian Peterson has been the best RB in the league for a decade. We also know that the backup in McKinnon is a solid option with homerun ability. This selection is both value based and for the future. Peterson is over 30 and that’s the cutoff at which production drops for a RB. McKinnon becomes a restricted FA at year’s end. I’m going to bring in a guy with above average vision that can learn to run through the trash from the toughest back in the league.
3 |
87 |
Cincinnati Bengals | Sean Davis | FS | Maryland |
The Bengals have drafted well for the last 4 seasons acquiring talent left and right. I like Davis in this secondary has a moveable piece; he can play press CB or single high due to his ball skills. Davis will likely go late on day 3 at the draft but he’s worth me taking in round 3 of this mock.
3 |
88 |
Green Bay Packers | Antonio Morrison | ILB | Florida |
Antonio Morrison fills a void the Packers have looked to fill for years. The selection also allows Clay Matthews to return to his natural position of pass rushing OLB. Morrison, if kept clean, is a great tackler from a technical standpoint.
3 |
89 |
Pittsburgh Steelers | *Artie Burns | CB | Miami (Fla.) |
The Steelers secondary gets another talent injection with Artie Burns. A secondary with ball hawks like Karl Joseph & Senquez Joseph combined with the speed of Burns would be a high quality unit.
3 |
90 |
Seattle Seahawks | Eric Striker | OLB | Oklahoma |
The loss of Bruce Irvin could prove to be impactful as he blossomed into a quality OLB. Striker has some of the same abilities at a smaller stature. He can come off the edge as a situational pass rusher and has good enough footwork to drop in coverage.
3 |
91 |
New England Patriots | *Scooby Wright III | ILB | Arizona |
I think there is a theme with my selection process for the roster at hand. The line was a mess last season but it was injury fueled more than an absence of talent. The D has suffered serious attrition including a retirement on the LB level. Wright should be a welcomed piece in New England.
3 |
92 |
Arizona Cardinals | Jacoby Brissett | QB | NC State |
I think Carson Palmer is a good QB but he’s not the future of the Cardinals. Brissett is a very talented young QB that just needs some further grooming. He can learn from Arians’ staff while not being forced to hit the field too early.
3 |
93 |
Carolina Panthers | Cyrus Jones | CB | Alabama |
Josh Norman had an excellent season and was rewarded with a franchise tag. I’m not sure if the Panthers will be able to pay him prior to 2017. This sets in motion the need for the addition of a CB. I think Cyrus Jones has gotten noticeably better every season at Alabama. He may even be able to play slot CB as a rookie.
3 |
94 |
Denver Broncos | Christian Westerman | OG | Arizona State |
An OG that has the athleticism to pull and get to the second level is welcomed in Denver. The Broncos spent a good amount in FA for Russell Okung & Donald Stevenson but they also traded Ryan Clady. The OL instantly gets better due to depth if nothing else.
3 |
95 |
Detroit Lions | Willie Beavers | OT | Western Michigan |
The Lions took a great OG in Laken Tomlinson in the 2015 draft then C Ryan Kelly in the first round of this mock. Now they grab a LT for the future with in-state product Will Beavers.
3 |
96 |
New England Patriots | Jason Spriggs | OT | Indiana |
Patriot fans (and Tom Brady) can finally stand up and rejoice as I’m taking the best OT on the board. I like Spriggs as a RT prospect in this style of offense. I think the OG position will be really good next season but OT did have an issue brewing. Now Brady can take deeper drops to take advantage of two 6’6″ TEs.
3 |
97 |
Seattle Seahawks | *Shon Coleman | OT | Auburn |
The FA signing of J’Marcus Webb helps with depth at RT. LT is still in flux as Russell Okung took a pay raise to head to Denver. Shon Coleman is likely suited to play RT for most squads but he’d be a good LT option for Seattle’s style of play.
3 |
98 |
Denver Broncos | Tyler Higbee | TE | Western Kentucky |
Denver selected Jeff Heuerman in the 2015 draft but he suffered a season ending injury. The Broncos tried to make things better by trading for Vernon Davis with little results. The TE position suffered early in 2015 until Owen Daniels showed out in the playoffs. Heuerman is more of a blocking TE so a passing option is needed. Insert former WR converted to TE Tyler Higbee.
99 | 4 | Cleveland Browns | QB/WR/DL | Sheldon Day | DT | Notre Dame | 6’1″ | 285 |
100 | 4 | Philadelphia Eagles | OG/CB/RB | Vernon Adams Jr. | QB | Oregon | 5’11” | 205 |
101 | 4 | Dallas Cowboys | DT/RB/OLB | Will Redmond | CB | Mississippi State | 5’11” | 186 |
102 | 4 | San Diego Chargers | OT/DL/C | Jalen Mills | FS | LSU | 6’0″ | 196 |
103 | 4 | Jacksonville Jaguars | CB/OT/FS | Jack Allen | C | Michigan State | 6’2″ | 298 |
104 | 4 | Baltimore Ravens | OT/DB/WR | *KeiVarae Russell | CB | Notre Dame | 5’11” | 189 |
105 | 4 | San Francisco 49ers | C/QB/CB | *Kamalei Correa | OLB | Boise State | 6’3″ | 245 |
106 | 4 | Chicago Bears | ILB/DL/C | Jordan Jenkins | OLB | Georgia | 6’2″ | 253 |
107 | 4 | Miami Dolphins | OG/RB/DE | Jonathan Williams | RB | Arkansas | 5’11” | 223 |
108 | 4 | Tampa Bay Buccaneers | CB/DE/S | *Rashard Higgins | WR | Colorado State | 6’2″ | 188 |
109 | 4 | New York Giants | RB/OT/FS | Paul McRoberts | WR | Southeast Missouri State | 6’2″ | 197 |
110 | 4 | Los Angeles Rams | C/OT/WR | Cody Kessler | QB | Southern California | 6’1″ | 215 |
111 | 4 | Detroit Lions | C/OT/DT | *Tyvis Powell | FS | Ohio State | 6’2″ | 210 |
112 | 4 | New Orleans Saints | CB/OLB/DT | Sebastian Tretola | OG | Arkansas | 6’5″ | 334 |
113 | 4 | Los Angeles Rams | C/OT/WR | *Dominique Alexander | ILB | Oklahoma | 6’0″ | 224 |
114 | 4 | Oakland Raiders | FS/ILB/SS | *Austin Johnson | DT | Penn State | 6’3″ | 290 |
115 | 4 | Atlanta Falcons | OLB/TE/DT | Miles Killebrew | SS | Southern Utah | 6’2″ | 223 |
116 | 4 | Indianapolis Colts | OT/DT/RB | Carl Nassib | DE | Penn State | 6’6″ | 270 |
117 | 4 | Buffalo Bills | OLB/DE/TE | *Bralon Addison | WR | Oregon | 5’10” | 190 |
118 | 4 | New York Jets | OLB/OT/TE | Bronson Kaufusi | DE | Brigham Young | 6’6″ | 265 |
119 | 4 | Houston Texans | TE/QB/DT | KJ Dillon | SS | West Virginia | 6’0″ | 203 |
120 | 4 | Washington Redskins | CB/C/ILB | Evan Boehm | C | Missouri | 6’3″ | 320 |
121 | 4 | Minnesota Vikings | WR/OL/SS | *Xavien Howard | CB | Baylor | 6’1″ | 185 |
122 | 4 | Cincinnati Bengals | OG/DL/OLB | *Kenny Lawler | WR | California | 6’2″ | 195 |
123 | 4 | Pittsburgh Steelers | CB/SS/OT | Matt Ioannidis | DT | Temple | 6’3″ | 305 |
124 | 4 | Seattle Seahawks | OG/C/RB | *Jayron Kearse | SS | Clemson | 6’4″ | 220 |
125 | 4 | Green Bay Packers | DT/OT/OLB | *C.J. Prosise | RB | Notre Dame | 6’1″ | 220 |
126 | 4 | Kansas City Chiefs | WR/OT/ILB | Kyler Fackrell | OLB | Utah State | 6’5″ | 250 |
127 | 4 | Chicago Bears | ILB/DL/C | Deiondre’ Hall | CB | Northern Iowa | 6’1″ | 185 |
128 | 4 | Arizona Cardinals | TE/OLB/C | Joe Haeg | OT | North Dakota State | 6’5″ | 300 |
129 | 4 | Carolina Panthers | SS/OT/RB | John Theus | OT | Georgia | 6’6″ | 305 |
130 | 4 | Baltimore Ravens | OT/DB/WR | Adam Gotsis | DT | Georgia Tech | 6’5″ | 293 |
131 | 4* | Green Bay Packers | DT/OT/OLB | *De’Runnya Wilson | WR | Mississippi State | 6’4″ | 215 |
132 | 4* | Baltimore Ravens | OT/DB/WR | Leonte Carroo | WR | Rutgers | 6’0″ | 205 |
133 | 4* | San Francisco 49ers | C/QB/CB | Connor McGovern | OG | Missouri | 6’4″ | 304 |
134 | 4* | Baltimore Ravens | OT/DB/WR | Cre’von LeBlanc | CB | Florida Atlantic | 5’10” | 190 |
135 | 4* | Dallas Cowboys | DT/RB/OLB | Terrance Smith | OLB | Florida State | 6’3″ | 230 |
136 | 4* | Denver Broncos | C/QB/OT | D.J. Reader | DT | Clemson | 6’2″ | 295 |
137 | 4* | Green Bay Packers | DT/OT/OLB | Victor Ochi | OLB | Stony Brook | 6’2″ | 250 |
138 | 4* | Cleveland Browns | QB/WR/DL | Brandon Allen | QB | Arkansas | 6’2″ | 210 |
139 | 4* | Buffalo Bills | OLB/DE/TE | DeAndre Houston-Carson | FS | William & Mary | 6’1″ | 198 |
Questions? Comments?
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Email: cjames@footballgameplan.com