Musket Fire » Christopher Simoneau

NFL Mock Draft 2013: Fifth Round

Christopher Simoneau — Thu, 25 Apr 2013 20:34:42 +0000

Dec 31, 2012; Memphis, TN, USA; Iowa State Cyclones linebacker A.J. Klein (47) approaches the line during the game against the Tulsa Golden Hurricane in the Liberty Bowl at Liberty Bowl Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Spruce Derden–USA TODAY Sports

Round 5

Chiefs- A.J. Klein, ILB, Iowa State: Klein was extremely productive at Iowa State and shows great awareness, but he has work to do to learn how to shed blocks and be a regular NFL contributor.
Jaguars- T. J. McDonald, FS, Southern California: McDonald has holes in his game, but similar to Taylor Mays, he has very good athleticism and McDonald also has pro pedigree with his father being an ex-49er. McDonald needs time to get better.
Eagles- Shawn Williams, SS, Georgia: Williams may not be the best athlete on the field, but you don’t start for Nick Saban if you can’t play. Williams may be a steal due to his football IQ.
Lions- Ace Sanders, WR, South Carolina: Sanders is a water bug type receiver that will fit in nicely with the Lions. Sanders also will help in the return game, although he is strictly a slot receiver.
Seahawks (from Raiders) – Trevardo Williams, OLB, UConn: Williams has shown great ability in the traditional defensive end role, but has struggled when put in a linebacker spot. Williams may find a role as a situational pass rusher.
Browns- Montori Hughes, DT, Tennessee Martin: Hughes has the physical ability, but football isn’t all physical, and if Hughes can’t keep himself out of trouble, he will have a short career in the NFL. Hopefully it is just a case of a kid being a kid.
Cardinals – traded to Patriots in mock draft Rd 1- Patriots draft Ryan Schraeder, OT, Valdosta State: Schraeder was worked out personally by Dante Scarnecchia, and the Division 2 Lineman of the Year is a steal in the fifth round for the team that develops offensive lineman better than anyone else in the NFL.
Jets- Josh Evans, FS, Florida: Evans is a good fit in Rex Ryan’ defense, and if he can get a little stronger, he may be a real find for the Jets. Evans is an effective blitzer and although he is small, he is good against the run.
Titans- Vinston Painter, T, Virginia Tech: Painter is the definition of raw, not starting his football career until his freshman year in high school. Painter has the size and looks the part, but he needs to improve his footwork to have any chance to play regularly.
Bills- Tharold Simon, CB, LSU: Simon is the guy that is ignored when it comes to the LSU secondary, but he may have just as much of a chance to play. Questions about his ability to turn his hips make some wonder if he should move to safety.
Saints- Earl Watford, G, James Madison: Watford is one of the more athletic guards in the drafts and plays with great technique. His strength is a possible issue, but with his fundamentals, as long as he hits the weight room, he should be fine.
Chargers- Kenjon Barner, RB, Oregon: Barner is a small, quick burner than can be a third down back and more, something the Chargers have missed since Darren Sproles bolted to New Orleans. Rivers loves throwing to his backs; Barner could be huge for them right away.
Dolphins- Kyle Juszczyk, FB, Harvard: In Joe Philbin’ offense, the fullback has a role (think John Kuhn) and right now the Dolphins have a need. Juszczyk is a solid H-back, but he does need to get better at run blocking.
Buccaneers- Lavar Edwards, DE, LSU: Edwards didn’t have a lot of starting experience at LSU, but once he got his chance, he did well. He needs to improve his discipline, but Edwards succeeded in the SEC, which is a good sign for his NFL future.
Panthers- Dion Sims, TE, Michigan State: Sims is a beast of a man, and although the Panthers do have Greg Olsen, they could use a second tight end that is more of a traditional mix of blocker and receiver. Sims has surprising soft hands and is the best blocking tight end in this draft. Sims is one of my sleepers.
Rams- Nico Johnson, ILB, Alabama: Johnson is a great athlete who succeeded in the SEC while starting for the National Champs. The Rams may have a find here; Johnson doesn’t hammer people, he is more of a wrap and takedown guy. With the rule changes, Johnson may be the example of what the NFL is looking for.
Steelers- Zaviar Gooden. OLB, Missouri: Gooden is a great athlete that should be able to help the Steelers, but he needs to improve in pass coverage to have any chance to be an every down player. Gooden shined at the combine and he is another player that would be interesting to watch develop with Pittsburgh and their system.
Cowboys- Devonte Holloman, OLB, South Carolina: Holloman has ability, but he may be limited in his flexibility, which will hurt his ability to start in the NFL. Holloman does have good awareness and is good defending the pass, so he may be an effective nickel linebacker.
Giants- Sanders Cummings, CB, Georgia: Cummings is a bit rare- he excels in man press coverage, which is not the easiest trait to find. The problem is, he struggles in zone and he also struggle playing off. Again, rare to find a guy who excels at the hardest skill while struggling in other areas.
Bears- Sean Porter, OLB, Texas A&M: Although only 229 pounds, Porter has shown an ability to be able to play with the big guys. The problem is, his consistency has not been there. Porter needs to get stronger and has to learn how to bend his legs or his career won’t last long.
Redskins- Lerentee McCray, OLB, Florida: McCray is another good athlete who played well in the SEC, but there are questions about what position he will play. McCray has shown as ability to excel in pass coverage, a huge in the NFL nowadays.
Vikings- Pick traded to Raiders; Raiders select Jeff Locke, P, UCLA: No, I am not crazy, the Raiders did trade up to get a punter. Locke is the real deal, and the Raiders need a punter. Locke will start from day one.
Bengals- Levine Toilolo, TE, Stanford: The Bengals love the PAC12, and passing on the 6’8 tight end is impossible at this point. Toilolo does need to improve his consistency, but he does have soft hands and is a natural red zone target.
49ers (from Colts)- Jordan Hill, DT, Penn State: Hill is most likely going to be more of a situational player in the NFL, but he plays with an attitude and does a good job getting after the quarterback. Harbaugh likes players with nasty demeanors.
Seahawks- Mike Gillislee, RB, Florida: The Seahawks may look set on the depth chart, but if there was an injury, they would be in trouble. Gillislee has good speed and explosiveness, but he needs to dance less and hit the hole more.
Packers- Ray Graham, RB, Pitt: The Packers select their second running back of the draft, and this time they find a toy for Aaron Rodgers. Graham lacked his explosiveness last season and if/when he regains his 2011 form, will be a great find for the Packers.
Texans- Jeff Baca, G, UCLA: Baca excelled at UCLA, which used the zone blocking scheme in 2012 to free up Johnathan Franklin to run wild. Now Baca will head to another team that uses the zone blocking scheme and may end up blocking for Arian Foster in 2013.
Broncos- Malliciah Goodman, DE, Clemson: Goodman looks the part more than he plays the part. He is an excellent athlete with long arms and a good build, but he over pursues and tends to get blocked easily at times. He needs NFL coaching badly.
Redskins (from Patriots) – Reid Fragel, T, Ohio State: Fragel is a towering offensive tackle, and the truth is, the Redskins should ALWAYS be looking to protect their top asset. Fragel is going to need a lot of work with his feet in order to have a chance in the NFL.
Falcons- Nickell Roby, CB, Southern California: Nickell to play the nickel: ok, dumb joke, but honestly, Roby is going to play right away as a nickel corner. Roby was the best defensive back for the Trojans in 2012, and he has great instincts which will help him excel in the NFL.
Browns (from 49ers) – Duke Williams, SS, Nevada: Williams is a defensive back, not necessarily a safety or a corner. His flexibility can be seen as a good and bad thing; sometimes players that are flexible simply aren’t great at either position.
Ravens- Brandon McGee, CB, Miami (FL): McGee is a solid pick here for the Ravens. He has good instincts, good footwork and he has been productive in college. There are questions about his speed, but footwork and awareness can make up for that.
Dolphins- Gerald Hodges, OLB, Penn State: Hodges is one of those players that flashes on film and is all over the field, which is a need for the Dolphins. There are questions about his physical upside, but if he plays his game, he should stick in the NFL.
Packers- Nicholas Williams, DT/DE, Samford: Williams is one of the more unknown players in this draft, but scouts got to know him. Williams was a basketball player also, so he wasn’t recruited as highly, but he is a good pass rusher and outstanding athlete for his size.
Ravens- Josh Boyd, DT, Mississippi State: Boyd has excellent hand strength and does a great job winning the “hands battle” with offensive lineman, but the problem is, that may be all he has. Boyd has issues getting blocked due to lower body strength issues.

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NFL Mock Draft 2013: Fourth Round

Christopher Simoneau — Tue, 23 Apr 2013 19:44:36 +0000

November 3, 2012; East Lansing, MI, USA; Michigan State Spartans running back Le

Round 4

Jaguars- Le’Veon Bell, RB, Michigan State: The Jags need help everywhere, and even with MJD back from injury, they still need another back to take some of the load. Bell is a bigger back but not exactly a mauler, but he does have quick feet and great balance. Alfred Morris is a good comparison. Lots of upside with Bell.
Chiefs- William Gholston, DE, Michigan State: Andy Reid has never been shy to take productive college players that others only see the flaws, and Gholston fits that mold. The tape is hard to argue, even though some scouts may say he is too stiff. Gholston is a steal in the fourth round for a Chiefs team that desperately needs a few breaks.
Raiders- Robert Alford, CB, Southeastern Louisiana: The Raiders find one of the gems of the draft with Alford. A bit of an unknown out of Southeastern Louisiana, Alford brings speed and decent size to a Raider team that needs infusion of talents at pretty much every spot on the depth chart.
Eagles- Oday Aboushi, T, Virginia: The Eagles add another tough offensive lineman that may start right away. Aboushi had a great college career and has the attitude to succeed in the NFL, assuming he can contain his emotions. Aboushi can play on both sides, which adds to his value.
Vikings (from Lions)- Jordan Reed, TE, Florida: Kyle Rudolph proved last season that he can contribute in the NFL, but the Patriots have also shown how much damage teams can do with two productive tight ends. Reed and Ponder played together in 2010, so they do have a history which should help ease Reed’ initiation into the NFL.
Cardinals- Kenny Stills, WR, Oklahoma: The Cardinals continue to add to their offense with the selection of the talented receiver out of Oklahoma in the fourth round. If Palmer has weapons and time to throw, he can still be effective. With Fitzgerald, Michael Floyd, Andre Roberts and Kenny Stills, the Cardinals will have enough offensive firepower to compete in a suddenly stacked NFC West.
Browns- Cobi Hamilton, WR, Arkansas: The Browns know what they have in Josh Gordon and Greg Little, but after that, it gets very thin. Hamilton is a smooth runner and was extremely productive in college. Although he only ran a 4.50 forty time, Hamilton possesses a crucial skill receivers need to succeed in the NFL- he doesn’t slow down in and out of his cuts and runs great routes. Receivers like that are hard to cover for 60 minutes.
Bills- Marcus Lattimore, RB, South Carolina: When Fred Jackson has been healthy; the Bills have been tough to deal with. The problem is, Jackson can’t stay on the field. I understand that this is replacing one issue with another, but Lattimore is too talented for the Bills to pass up in the fourth round, and his injury seemed more freak than the norm.
Jets- Joseph Randle., RB, Oklahoma State: Shonn Greene is a Titan, and the Jets are thin at the running back position, regardless of a possible Chris Ivory trade. Randle was very productive in 2012 in not only the running game, but also in the passing game, which has been missing from the Jets offense since Ladainian Tomlinson retired.
Titans- Landry Jones, QB, Oklahoma: Are the Titans convinced that Jake Locker is the guy? If they are, I sure don’t know what has shown them he is anything more than average in the NFL, at best. Maybe adding a player like Jones will push Locker, or maybe the Titans will find a legit starter in the fourth round. Jones was better as a junior than a senior, so I am looking forward to seeing him in camp and the preseason.
Panthers- Tavarres King, WR, Georgia: The Panthers need more playmakers for Cam Newton, and they find one with the speedy King. King has to get stronger to be able to contribute in the NFL on a consistent basis, and he also has to get over his bouts of inconsistency.
Saints- Michael Buchanon, DE, Illinois: With Rob Ryan taking over the defense, players like Buchanon will be valued due to their flexibility. Buchanon was reported to be working out as a more traditional 4-3 defensive end during combines and pro days, but that doesn’t mean a lot. Buchanon’ length will be an asset for him in his NFL career.
Chargers- Travis Kelce, TE, Cincinnati: Antonio Gates isn’t getting any younger, and Kelce isn’t a bad guy to eventually replace him. With his 6’5 frame and surprisingly good speed, Kelce appears to be one of those tight ends that are basically impossible to cover due to their athleticism. Kelce tends to have focus issues and had a few brain cramps in college that made many question his character which is the main reason he wasn’t selected higher.
Dolphins- Stepfan Taylor, RB, Stanford: The Dolphins let Reggie Bush walk away, and with Daniel Thomas and Lamar Miller as their top two backs, running back has to become an area of focus in the later rounds for the Dolphins. Taylor runs with attitude and also is very good at using his blockers and his low and powerful frame to churn out extra yards. He is not the fastest straight line runner, but running backs don’t run forty yard dashes during games; this isn’t the Olympics.
Buccaneers- Kevin Reddick, ILB, North Carolina- The Bucs have done a great job making over their defense, and the linebacking core has Mason Foster and Lavonte David locked in the middle and weak side spots, but is Jonathan Casillas the answer as the strong side linebacker? Reddick may be able to come in and fill that role right away for the Bucs, who have more than enough talent to carry a rookie in the starting lineup.
Rams- Brian Winters, G, Kent State: Sam Bradford is finally going to have some consistency in his coaching, and now they should try to make sure he has enough time to throw. Winters is a steal in the fourth. Winters has good hands, good feet and he explodes out of his stance, not to mention he is a gamer. Good find for the Rams.
Cowboys- Khaled Holmes, C, Southern California: The Cowboys have a need at center, and Holmes may be one of the more underrated players in this draft. Holmes got hurt early in 2012 and it affected his entire season. Jerry Jones has a history of liking USC offensive lineman, so this pick makes a lot of sense.
Steelers- Jamie Collins, OLB, Southern Mississippi: Collins has been projected as high as the second round, but there are too many questions about his motor for him to be a top pick. The Steelers are the perfect fit for Collins; they have a system that works and will ease Collins into their zone blitz scheme, although we may not see any dividends paid until next season. Collins looks the part, but many players that have looked the part haven’t worked out in the pros.
Giants- Cornelius Washington, OLB/DE, Georgia: The theme of the draft for the Giants has been defense, and that trend continues in the fourth round with the addition of the athletic Washington. Washington has shown flashes of being dominant, but his consistency has been an issue, hence the fourth round slotting. The Giants, like the Steelers, do a very good job of developing their young athletic defensive front seven players, so this is a good situation for Washington to go into.
Bears- D.J. Swearinger, SS, South Carolina: The Bears had a solid secondary in 2012 and also added Tom Zbikowski in free agency, but Swearinger is too hard to pass in the fourth round. There are good reasons for the slip though; Swearinger isn’t the fastest safety, he tends to struggle in pass coverage and uses his hands too much, and his size is also smaller than most teams want in a safety. Productivity in college does not guarantee success in the NFL.
Bengals- Brian Schwenke, C, California: The Bengals have done well in addressing needs while finding talent in this draft, and the trend continues with the selection of Schwenke. Some point to his inexperience because he only started for one year at center, but the truth is that shows his versatility in learning to play a new position. A solid find for the Bengals who may play right away.
Redskins- Bennie Logan, DT, LSU: The Redskins step to the podium for the third time, and this time they look to add to the trenches on defense. Enter Bennie Logan out of LSU; Logan was productive in 2011, but his lack of growth within his overall game in 2012 pushes him down the draft board. If the Redskins can work with Logan and teach him to have more variety in his pass rushing moves, he could be a starter, and if not, he might simply be a back up or rotational player.
Vikings- B.W. Webb, CB, William & Mary: The Vikings go the small school route to address their need at cornerback with the speedy Webb. Webb excels in man coverage and has good closing speed and instincts in the passing game. He needs to work on his tackling and run support to become a more all around player.
Colts- Terron Armstead, T, Arkansas Pine Bluff: The Colts may have had a surprisingly good season in 2012, but Andrew Luck got hammered, and even with the addition of Gosder Cherilus, the Colts don’t hesitate to snag the gifted athlete out of the tiny school in Arkansas. Armstead will need time to grow, but he is worth the pick in the fourth round for the young and rapidly growing Colts.
Packers- Dwayne Gratz, CB, UConn- Another player that is projected as high as the second round, the Packers find the corner out of UConn still on the board in the fourth round. In a class like this, Gratz really shouldn’t go before the third round. He has issues with footwork, his overall instincts are questionable, and he might not be fast enough to play outside. Ted Thompson is hoping that his coaching staff can develop Gratz to be a contributor in the NFL, but it will take a lot of work.
Seahawks- Vance McDonald, TE, Rice: McDonald is never going to be lauded for his blocking skills, and that will never change, but the one thing he can do- stretch the seam and give Russell Wilson another option in the middle of the field. McDonald was also lined up wide at times with Rice, and that flexibility will be a welcome addition to the Seattle offense.
Texans- JJ Wilcox, FS, Georgia Southern: The Texans addressed the corner position earlier in the draft, and now they look to add a safety. Wilcox is an intriguing prospect, showing incredible athleticism and great instincts. Some have questioned his acceleration, which can be a problem as a defensive back, but safeties with good instincts can usually make up for lack of make up speed with smarts.
Broncos- Leon McFadden, CB, San Diego State: The Broncos pass defense in 2012 may have appeared to be sufficient, but their schedule was a joke, and once they faced a team in the playoffs that could give them a fight, the Broncos major flaws in the secondary were exposed. McFadden was very productive in college and has a pro-pedigree due to his uncle being a former MLB player. McFadden also has good feet, instincts, and is reported to have a “pro demeanor.”
Buccaneers (from Patriots) – Chris Harper, WR, Kansas State: The Bucs need more depth at the receiver position, and Chris Harper is a good guy to help with that problem. Harper will never be known for his speed, but he has excellent hands, good enough quickness, and he looks the part of the prototypical possession receiver in the NFL.
Falcons- Brandon Williams, DT, Missouri Southern State: The Falcons continue to address thin areas of the roster with the choice of the pass rushing defensive tackle out of Missouri Southern State. Williams may be a liability against the run in the NFL due to his smaller lower frame, but as a situational pass rusher, Williams may be a terror; he had 27 career sacks in college.
49ers- Brennan Williams, T, North Carolina: The 49ers have a plethora of picks in this draft, and they finally address the offensive line in the fourth round. Williams is another player in the draft with pro pedigree; Williams’s father, Brent, was a defensive end in the NFL for over a decade. This doesn’t guarantee success, but the sons of former players have an advantage of knowing the pitfalls to avoid. Brennan is a big kid and has a lot of talent, but it will take time to develop him.
Ravens- Marquise Goodwin, WR, Washington State: I honestly believe this pick will be traded because the Ravens have the next two compensatory picks, but I’m not going to predict trades this late. Goodwin was a higher prospect going into 2012, but he had a tough year and eventually talked his way right off the team. Goodwin has the size, speed and hands to be a good receiver in the NFL, but he does have some serious growing up to do.
Ravens- Matt Scott, QB, Arizona: The Ravens grab a quarterback to develop behind Joe Flacco with the selection of the dual threat quarterback out of Arizona. The one trait that is most important for NFL quarterbacks is accuracy, and Scott may be the most accurate quarterback in this draft. The other trait that quarterbacks need is durability; the jury is out on whether Scott can last an entire season or not. He might be better served staying in the pocket and not running as much to avoid head shots.
Ravens- Hugh Thornton, G, Illinois: Pick number three in a row for the Ravens, and this time they address the offensive line again. Thornton is a big, mean, mauler, just the type of guy Ozzie Newsome is looking for. The Ravens recognize how important it is to give Flacco time, and Thornton looks like a prospect that may improve with NFL coaching. Thornton also displayed flexibility in college, playing both guard and tackle.
Lions- Johnathan Franklin, RB, UCLA: The Lions did go out and sign Reggie Bush in the offseason, and they do still have Mikel Leshoure, but I get the feeling they are still not done at running back. Enter Johnathan Franklin out of UCLA; Franklin is just too good to pass up at this point. Projected in the second round by many, Franklin is pushed down the board due to depth at other positions, and the Lions find a fast, talented, hard runner that may steal carries in 2013.
Falcons- Ryan Swope, WR, Texas A&M: With the final pick in the fourth round, the Falcons find the third receiver that they need. Ryan Swope is a tough, fast receiver with good hands that can play the slot and outside. Swope is a similar receiver to Danny Amendola, and with the two big wideouts on the outside and Tony Gonzalez inside, Swope could do damage in the Falcons offense.

Round 1: http://musketfire.com/2013/04/05/nfl-mock-draft-2013-first-round/

Round 2: http://musketfire.com/2013/04/12/nfl-mock-draft-2013-second-round/

Round 3: http://musketfire.com/2013/04/17/nfl-mock-draft-2013-third-round/

Follow me @ https://twitter.com/chris_simoneau

NFL Mock Draft 2013: Third Round

Christopher Simoneau — Wed, 17 Apr 2013 20:55:03 +0000

Jan 26, 2013; Mobile, AL, USA; Senior Bowl south squad offensive lineman Larry Warford of Kentucky (67) against the Senior Bowl north squad during the first half of the Senior Bowl at Ladd-Peebles Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Derick E. Hingle-USA TODAY Sports

Round 3
1. Chiefs- Larry Warford, G, Kentucky: The Chiefs strike gold to open the third round when they find the big guard from Kentucky still on the board. KC saw what Alex Smith could do when he had protection in San Francisco. With the additions of Joeckel and Warford, KC adds two starting offensive lineman for potentially the next decade.
2. Jaguars-Pick Traded to NY Jets; Jets select Tyler Wilson, QB, Arkansas: The Jets need a quarterback, as do other teams picking around them, so they make the jump up to grab the talented quarterback out of Arkansas. Wilson has a lot of ability, but he will need to be coached to make better decisions because he has a tendency of forcing too many throws.
3. Lions- Dallas Thomas, T, Tennessee: “Chris, didn’t you say the Lions are taking Fisher in the first round?” I’ve heard that question more than ten times after talking about this pick. The Lions throw the ball; they need help up front. Thomas is too good to pass, and no team ever complained about finding bookend tackles in one draft.
4. Raiders- Aaron Dobson, WR, Marshall: No, the ghost of Al Davis isn’t making this pick, although with Dobson’ forty time, it would appear that way. 4.3 speed is impossible to ignore, not to mention the fact that he is 6’3. Dobson’ YPC average went up every year in college, which shows he is improving. He may have the highest ceiling of any wide receiver in this draft.
5. Eagles- Stedman Bailey, WR, West Virginia: The Eagles add a new receiver to their crew, teaming the speedy and productive Mountaineer with Desean Jackson and Jeremy Maclin. Bailey has the chance to be special in Chip Kelly’ offense.
6. Browns- Tyler Bray, QB, Tennessee: Mike Lombardi is the new sheriff in town, and typically the first thing a new GM will do, unless there is a franchise type guy in place, is find a quarterback. Rumors of Ryan Mallet are flying, but I just don’t see it. Bray is a strong armed kid that can come in and compete with Brandon Weeden.
7. Cardinals- Andre Ellington, RB, Clemson: Yes, the Cardinals signed Rashard Mendenhall, but he is far from the long term answer at running back. Ellington brings burst and has also shown the ability to catch the ball. He does need to add some bulk to his frame, but his talents project well in the NFL.
8. Titans- Da’Rick Rogers, WR, Tennessee Tech: The Titans stay in there own back yard to add a playmaker on the outside, an area of inconsistency due to Kenny Britt and his injuries/suspension issues since being drafted. Rogers had his own problems, but seems to have grown since having to transfer to Tennessee Tech. His talent is too hard to pass up for the Titans.
9. Bills- Quinton Patton, WR, Louisiana Tech: The Bills have talked lately of being hot for Tavon Austin, but as we know, he went to the Rams in the first round. Patton isn’t as fast, but he still has 4.48 speed, he is 6’0 and is a strong find in the third round. Patience pays off for the Bills.
10. NY Jets- Pick Traded to Jacksonville: Jaguars select Budi Wreh-Wilson, CB, UConn: The Jaguars netted this pick (& a 2014 fourth) in the Wilson trade and they make the move to help the back end of the 29th ranked defense in points allowed. Wreh Wilson could (should) start from day one.
11. Buccaneers- Zac Dysert, QB, Mia (Oh): In the aftermath of the Buddy Nix/Mark Domenik phone call issue, there is one huge subject that was discussed that nobody wants to face- the Bucs aren’t sold on Josh Freeman. Dysert has been climbing the boards, and the Bucs scoop him up in the third round to push the inconsistent Freeman.
12. 49ers (from Car) – Markus Wheaton, WR, Oregon State: Seems like the Niners make every other pick, and again they make this one count. Harbaugh is familiar with Wheaton from his days in the Pac12, and the Niners add a receiver that can flourish either in the slot or outside due to his game breaking speed and courage to go over the middle, something they don’t currently have on the roster.
13. Saints- Christine Michael, RB, Texas A&M: The Mark Ingram story seems to be reaching the point where people know the conclusion, and it looks pretty average. Ingram simply doesn’t look fast enough to be an effective every down back in the NFL. Chris Ivory is rumored to be headed elsewhere, so the Saints take the best available back on the board. Michael is very explosive and has a chance to be an excellent NFL back.
14. Chargers- Kiki Alonso, LB, Oregon: The makeover in San Diego continues as the Chargers add more youth to their defense. Alonso was projected as a fourth or fifth round pick after the season, but with the lack of linebacker depth and strong workouts leading up to the draft, Alonso has vaulted himself into the third round.
15. Dolphins- Menelik Watson, T, Florida State: The Dolphins are the NFL version of “Extreme Makeover”. After adding Jonathan Cooper, the Dolphins continue the trend of protecting their top asset by adding Watson to the offensive line. Jake Long left for greener pastures in St.Louis, and adding Watson helps relieve that loss.
16. Rams- Darius Slay, CB, Mississippi State: Although the Rams are solid with their two starters in Finnegan and Jenkins, there is a quick drop off on the depth chart. Slay has been rumored as high as the late first, and the Rams are happy to take him off the board in the mid third. Slay has shown great speed, posting a 4.31 forty time, but this is a deep corner class and that pushes him down the board more than he would in other years.
17. Steelers- Bacarri Rambo, FS, Georgia: The Steelers were recently reported as having the best history in the draft since its inception. The Steelers have the most titles of all time. This is not a coincidence. Rambo is another one of those good players that falls in the Steelers lap and they coach up to eventually become a starter. The aging defense needs an infusion of youth at every level, and with the additions of Werner and Rambo, the Steelers are two-thirds of the way there.
18. Cowboys- Jordan Poyer, CB, Washington State: The Cowboys are another team that has two solid corners and then a drop off that could equal major trouble if an injury occurs. Jordan Poyer isn’t only talented, he is also known as a leader, something that is sorely needed in Dallas. Poyer also is a bigger corner and has historically matched up well with big receivers.
19. NY Giants- Montee Ball, RB, Wisconsin: The Giants have a way of replacing running backs without missing a beat, and it looks like they are in mid-transition. David Wilson is not a full time guy, and the Giants have always had multiple backs. Ball fits the Tom Coughlin mold and will be a strong pick for the G-Men.
20. Dolphins (from Chi) – Gavin Escobar, TE, San Diego State: Dustin Keller signed, but just like 80% of the other free agents in the NFL, he only signed a one year deal. Escobar isn’t the most talked about guy, but his production was fantastic for a tight end (42 catches, 543 yards, six touchdowns). Escobar is a better receiver than blocker, but that won’t deter the Dolphins.
21. Vikings- David Bakhtiari, T-G, Colorado: Although his name has been mentioned with Nate Solder, Bakhtiari is not the same level talent and many were surprised when he announced he was entering the draft. Nevertheless, Bakhtiari has the ability to start at the NFL level, although he may have to move to right tackle due to a lack of quickness with edge rushers. The Vikings continue to add talent to a team that many seem to forget made the playoffs last season.
22. Bengals- Chris Faulk, T, LSU: Faulk and the Bengals make a lot of sense. Andre Smith hasn’t signed, so clearly there is a need on the line. Faulk, minus the injuries, is a first/second round talent. He also has weight concerns, but that didn’t stop the Bengals from selecting Smith. Faulk will start week one.
23. Redskins- Shamarko Thomas, SS, Syracuse: The Redskins second pick helps them in another area of need, safety. Brandon Meriweather, to put it lightly, isn’t good. Thomas, although undersized at 5’9, may be the fastest safety in the draft, checking in with a 4.37 in the 40. Recording 88 tackles his senior season showed that Thomas has a nose for the ball and covers a lot of field. The Skins will welcome him with open arms; just make sure he doesn’t warm up with Meriweather before games.
24. Colts- John Simon, DE, Ohio State: It is impossible to argue Simon’ production: 44 tackles, 14 for losses and nine sacks is legit. Simon was also injured in 2012, appearing in 11 games but dealing with a knee injury all year. Simon might be a little too stiff, and that causes him to struggle in coverage. He may be used as a situational player in the NFL, but he will help the Colts pass rush.
25. Seahawks- Akeem Spence, DT, Illinois: The Seahawks have done some impressive things this offseason, but they still have depth issues up front on defense, especially after losing veteran Alan Branch in free agency. Spence isn’t the best pass rusher yet, but he has shown strong ability in stopping the run and he has upside as an overall player, assuming he can improve his leverage.
26. Packers- David Quessenberry, G-T, San Jose State: Ted Thompson is a smart general manager. A smart general manager realizes that the best chance he has to win another Super Bowl is keeping Aaron Rodgers upright. Drafting a running back and two offensive linemen immediately takes pressure off of Aaron Rodgers and strengthens the Packers in their weakest offensive areas.
27. Texans- Jon Bostic, ILB, Florida: Raise your hand if you think the Texans have a good linebacking core? OK, put your hands down, because all of you are wrong. Brian Cushing is coming off an injury, again, so that is no guarantee, and Daryl Sharpton and Tim Dobbins won’t be getting fit for any mustard colored sport coats anytime soon. Bostic isn’t the fastest linebacker, but he does provide a boost in defending the run. Bostic will need to improve his block shedding ability to become a consistent starter in the NFL.
28. Broncos- Jelani Jenkins, OLB, Florida: Notice a theme here? Yes, the Broncos could use a running back, but they just can’t afford to pass on defense if there is a player they like. Jenkins is one of those players, and with the departure of Elvis Dumervil, Jenkins will get the first shot to replace him in the Denver defense. One thing to watch- Broncos run a 4-3 and Jenkins played in the 3-4 in college. Growing pains are going to happen, but he’ll adjust.
29. Patriots- Tony Jefferson, FS, Oklahoma: The Patriots have had a bad secondary since 2005. They never replaced Ty Law or Rodney Harrison, and the proof is in the stats. Last season was a bit different though, with the steal of Alfonzo Dennard in the seventh round and the trade for Aqib Talib. Adrian Wilson was added in the offseason, and the Patriots still have Devin McCourty at free safety. Jefferson can come in and learn from Wilson and McCourty, and with Tavon Wilson still on the roster, Jefferson could make Steven Gregory expendable.
30. Falcons- Corey Lemonier, DE, Auburn: After addressing the tight end and cornerback position, the Falcons look to fill another hole left with the release of defensive end Jon Abraham. Enter Corey Lemonier, defensive end for the Auburn Tigers. There have been reports of the Falcons moving to the 3-4, but that won’t stop them from going after Lemonier, who many forgot about last year as the Tigers sunk into losing oblivion. Lemonier has started for three seasons and was productive for all but five of those games, the final five of 2012.
31. 49ers- Chase Thomas, OLB, Stanford: Thomas isn’t the guy that is going to win a footrace or have the best 40 time, but the truth is, that isn’t important if you have the instincts that Thomas possesses. Players like him should go earlier in the draft, but the addiction to athleticism moves him down to the third round, much to the 49ers delight. Thomas is a natural leader and will be a great fit with the Niners.
32. Ravens- Sio Moore, OLB, UConn: Placing the outside linebacker title on Moore may be selling him short considering he played four different positions (LB, S, CB, DT) during his time at UConn. The Ravens were patient in addressing linebacker due to their coups in free agency, focusing on safety and tackle in the first two rounds, and it pays off with the acquisition of Moore in the third round.
33. Chiefs- EJ Manuel, QB, Florida State: I’ve seen Manuel projected as high as top ten and as low as fifth round. Beauty is in the eye of the beholder, and in my eyes, Manuel is a project third round pick. He forces way too many throws and he needs to learn how to improve on his pre-snap reads, which is tough for every rookie signal caller. Manuel has all the talent to become great if he takes the coaching, and Andy Reid is the perfect coach to get the best out of him. I don’t call Reid the “Quarterback Whisperer” for no reason.
34. Titans- DJ Hayden, CB, Houston: The Titans have Jason McCourty and Alterraun Verner manning the top two cornerback spots, but after that, there isn’t much to speak of. There are only four cornerbacks on the roster, so expect the Titans to address that. Finding the second round projected DJ Hayden with the final pick of the third round is a steal for the Titans, who up to now have had the best draft, netting Star Lotulelei, Manti Te’o, Da’Rick Rogers in the first three rounds and taking big steps towards competing with the Texans and the Colts in the AFC South.

Round 1

http://musketfire.com/2013/04/05/nfl-mock-draft-2013-first-round/

Round 2

http://musketfire.com/2013/04/12/nfl-mock-draft-2013-second-round/

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