Friday, February 27, 2015

Positional Breakdown- Post NFL Combine

Each year during the NFL Draft, mine as well as many people's idea on who the best players are at each position differentiates from the players actually taken at any specific time. This article is a breakdown of who I believe is the best player, likely bust, and first off the board at every position.

QUARTERBACK

Best Player- Brett Hundley (UCLA). People tend to forget that if Hundley had declared for the draft last year that he may indeed have been a top 10 pick. His decision to stay in school an extra year may have dropped him out of the first-round talk, but his skill set is still in tact. He will have to adapt to the pro-style (he only took 7 snaps under center last year), but he shows good pocket presence and his speed makes him a dual threat.

First Drafted- Jameis Winston (FSU). Winston is assumed to be the most pro-ready of the quarterback crop. His size and play style fit well in the NFL, but i question his decision making skills. He has obvious maturity issues that i think he can rise above top be successful in the NFL.

Bust Alert- Marcus Mariota (Oregon). Mariota could very well develop into a starter in there NFL. The problem I have with him is his style of play. The obvious ideal landing spot would be with Chip Kelly in Philly, but what if that doesn't happen? Mariota is more of a system player at this point, and could lead to be a potential bust if he doesn't walk into the right situation.

RUNNING BACK

Best Player- Melvin Gordon (Wisconsin). Gordon has the size and speed most teams are looking for in a running back. He runs well between the tackles and has big play ability. He has improved his pass-catching ability, and will keep improving, increasing his likeliness to be a three-down back. Has issues with fumbling, but shouldn't be a concern. He is reliable and can break out in space with quick feet and agility.

First Drafted- Melvin Gordon

Bust Alert- Ameer Abdullah (Nebraska) Abdullah does a lot of things right, but lacks the size that teams want in a primary back. Has comparable size to Andre Ellington, but isn't as fast, and has trouble with passing routes and catching the ball. Best case scenario in my opinion, is a career change of pace back.

WIDE RECEIVER


Best Player- Kevin White (West Virginia). White will be competing with Amari Cooper to be the first receiver taken in the draft this year. White has explosive speed and caught everything in sight last season at West Virginia. He already has a pretty impressive route tree coming into the NFL. He has some room for improvement in down-field blocking, but all in all has a slight edge as the best receiver as of now.

First Drafted- Amari Cooper (Alabama) Cooper is already drawing comparisons to former Tide receiver Julio Jones. He is already a polished route runner, and has no problem with going across the middle to get the ball. He's very good at getting corners out of position and making breaks. Little concern about him breaking his route, and adjusting on the fly which has led to some interceptions.

Bust Alert- Dorial Green-Beckham (Oklahoma). The speculation that DGB could be a bust is based solely on his off field issues. Theres even more risk of this if he's taken in the first round, because of the value to teams' first round picks. There are no questions that he is an athlete, but he also hasn't played since he took the field for Missouri. May take a little while to shake off the rust in there NFL.

TIGHT END

Best Player- Nick O'Leary (FSU). O'Leary is the best overall at the position. He can be used in multiple spots wether it be on the line, as an H-Back, or in the slot. His size will allow him to immediately take hit from pro defenses, and he isn't afraid to make catches in the middle of the field. He has great hands and coiuld be a threat in the red-zone.

First Drafted- Maxx Williams (Minnesota). Maxx Williams has decent speed and can beat most linebackers in coverage. Uses his body well in the redone and can win battles for the ball. Whichever teams drafts him will have to move Williams around the field to create space and mismatches but he should be a good starter.

Bust Alert- Tyler Kroft (Rutgers). Kroft has the body to be a potential star in the NFL. The problem with him at this point, is his catching ability. He has decent speed off the ball, but doesn't have a full grasp of how to use his arms or where to put them to get the ball in his hands, making him rely heavily on body-catching.

OFFENSIVE LINEMAN

Best Player- Andrus Peat (Stanford). Peat has the size to play tackle, and the versatility to play guard as well. His footwork is great for a guy his size, and he does a good job at using his arms to keep separation from defenders. Peat is the type of player that could be a Pro-Bowl caliber player for many years.

First Drafted- Brandon Sherff (Iowa). Some teams have Sherff highly coveted as the best lineman in this years draft because he is projected as a player that will start off as an interior lineman who can be moved outside after he becomes adjusted to the NFL game. Sherff is a tough player who has played through injuries, and made amazing comebacks to play at a high level. He will be a sure first rounder, but i don't believe he's the best in this class.

Bust Alert- TJ Clemmings (Pittsburgh). Clemmings is still very new to playing tackle, and that is going to show. He has trouble maintaing blocks and getting to the next level without missing assignments. Being such a raw talent and possibly being asked to play at a high level too early in his career may lead to him busting in the NFL.




Tuesday, February 24, 2015

Matt Geiger NFL Mock Draft 2.0 (Post NFL Combine)

1. Tampa Bay Buccaneers- Jameis Winston (QB, FSU)

I don't believe any quarterback hurt their stock during drills at the combine. Winston seemed to have all the right answers to questions, and his shoulder didn't look bad while throwing. Tampa head coach Lovie Smith has said he could see Winston being the face of the franchise and the quarterback of the future. I think Mariota will need to impress at his pro day and in private workouts to jump Winston at this point.

2. Tennessee Titans- Leonard Williams (DL, USC)

Leonard Williams is, in my opinion, the best prospect in this draft right now. He posted pretty good numbers at the combine and should have etched his spot as the top defensive, if not best player. You could argue Williams as the number one pick. The Titans should not hesitate to take Williams at #2, which would allow them to move the versatile Jurrell Casey between tackle and end, creating mismatches all across the front seven.

3. Jacksonville Jaguars- Dante Fowler (EDGE, Florida)

If any player truly helped their draft stock, Fowler is at the top of the list. He came to the combine looking leaner, having lost 25 pounds, and ran a 4.6 40-yard dash. He looked great in all drills, and should put some weight back on before doing private workouts and preforming at his pro day. The Jaguars are losing some key defensive players and should add Fowler to help with rushing the passer.

4. Oakland Raiders- Amari Cooper (WR, ALA)

Cooper may see his stock drop a little since Kevin White ran a blazing 4.35 forty. I do still think Oakland takes Cooper, who is a more polished route runner and has surer hands than White. Pairing a true number 1 receiver with Derek Carr and Latavius Murray should help the Raiders climb out of the NFL basement.

5. Washington Redskins- Randy Gregory (EDGE, NEB)

Washington needs to add pass rushers after a disappointing stint from Jason Hatcher, and with the potential departure of Brian Orakpo. Gregory is the prototype NFL pass-rusher with amazing size and impressive speed.

6. New York Jets- Marcus Mariota (QB, ORE)

This is the spot where i believe things will get interesting. The Eagles have been linked to all talks involving trades into the top 10. The Jets are in a hard spot because i feel as if the Jets won't want to take a quarterback in the first round, having too many holes elsewhere. This could be a potential target for Philly to trade with, especially since there's rumors of Philly including Nick Foles in a trade. If the Jets could add a player of Foles' caliber while keeping a first-round pick, they'll pull the trigger. If no deal is made, Mariota will be a Jet.

7. Chicago Bears- Danny Shelton (DT, WASH)

The Bears have a hole at defensive tackle that hasn't been filled since Henry Melton left for Dallas. Shelton is a mammoth human, and impressed with his speed at the combine. He does a great job plugging holes in the run game.The Bears should address the hole at tackle before addressing anything else in the draft.

8. Atlanta Falcons- Shane Ray (EDGE, MIZZ)

The fact that Ray didn't do some drills at the combine might hurt his stick, unless he preforms well at his pro day. I do however, believe he is better than the other available pass-rushers at this point in the draft. Atlanta hasn't had an elite pass rush in sometime and should look to address the issue early this year.

9. New York Giants- Andrus Peat (OT, STAN)

The Giants should look to improve their young offensive line with their first round pick. Like most of the first-round offensive lineman in the draft this year, Andrus Peat could play multiple positions along the line before eventually coming into his own at Left Tackle in New York.

10. St. Louis Rams- Trae Waynes (CB, MSU)

After seeing a very impressive performance out of Waynes at the combine, its hard to believe the Rams will pass him up. They need the help in the secondary, and his size and speed could translate very well at the pro-level. The Rams could use some depth along the offensive line, although i believe that can be addressed later in the draft. Waynes' impressive outing at the combine should solidify his spot in the top 10.

11. Minnesota Vikings- Brandon Sherff (OT, IOWA)

Minnesota is in a position where addressing a number of positions could be a great move for the franchise. Depending on what their draft board looks like, they will be deciding between Kevin White and Brandon Sherff at this point. I believe that the idea of keeping Teddy Bridgewater protected will be the deciding factor. Sherff injured himself while running at the combine but it wasn't serious enough for him to drop. He is a big body with great feet, and showed toughness during his college career.

12. Cleveland Browns- Kevin White (WR, WVU)

Cleveland will love to have Kevin White fall into their lap at twelve. White showed speed at the combine, to pair with a great set of hands. He may need to work on his route running, but with Josh Gordon missing next season, Cleveland will be drooling thinking about having White jumping in the Dawg Pound on Sundays.

13. New Orleans Saints- Bud Dupree (EDGE, Kentucky)

Dupree solidified himself as a first-rounder with his combine performance. His 4.56 forty time, and 42 inch vertical prove he's as much an athlete as anyone thought. The Saints need to add pass rushers,  and taking Dupree could give them the option to use him where needed (either OLB or DE). If Dupree is passed up by the Saints, it will be because they have another pass-rusher higher on their board.

14. Maimi Dolphins- Eddie Goldman (DT, FSU)

If the Dolphins decide on adding Goldman, it will be a major upgrade at the defensive tackle position.  He is an asset when it comes to stopping the run, and is versatile enough to be valuable in the passing game as well. Coming into camp from day one, Goldman could very well be the best defensive tackle on Miami's roster.

15. San Fransisco 49ers- DaVante Parker (WR, LOUIS)

It's seeming less and less likely that Michael Crabtree will return next season, and other than Boldin and Vernon Davis, there aren't really any reliable receivers. Parker has top-10 talent, and could be a cornerstone in rebidding the receiving corps in the bay.

16. Houston Texans- Marcus Peters (CB, WASH)

Houston may be losing Kareem Jackson, so adding a corner becomes a must. Peters has some off the field issues he needs to iron out, but if he does, may come to be the best corner out of this class. His interviews will be an integral part on exactly where in the draft he comes off the board.

17. San Diego Chargers- PJ Williams (CB, FSU)

San Diego needs to add players in the secondary. Brandon Flowers returned to his usual high level of play last season, and Jason Verrett played well, but the Chargers should look to build on this. Take into account that Flowers is also a free agent. Williams adds NFL type speed and fits the bill for pro size and speed. He excels in man coverage and should be a useful option in the nickel.


18. Kansas City Chiefs- Vic Beasley (EDGE, Clemson)

Kansas City is probably going to use the franchise tag on sack monster Justin Houston. Even if this is so, they still need some help on defense. Beasley had a great combine showing, and was already perceived as a top talent. His high motor and speed should make up for the fact that he is undersized, although he'll most likely add some muscle to his frame before his pro day.


19. Cleveland Browns- Landon Collins (S, ALA)

The Browns would like to add a safety to compliment Tyshaun Gipson. Cleveland finished 25th in the league last season in passing yards per game, and Collins not only provides excellent pass coverage, but can come into the box and make plays in the run game as well. Collins is the top safety in this class and could be a perennial Pro-Bowler.

20. Philadelphia Eagles- Ronald Darby (CB, FSU)

As I stated earlier, I believe the Eagles trade up. If that opportunity doesn't arise, Philly needs to add a corner. Bradley Fletcher is a free agent, whom the Eagles shouldn't bring back. Ronald Darby's combine performance shot him into the first round. His 4.31 forty shows his blazing speed, and he showed he can move well while changing directions.

21. Cincinnati Bengals- Shaq Thompson (OLB/FS, WASH)

Cincy has an aging secondary and needs to add young talent. Reggie Nelson and Taylor Mays aren't quality starters in the NFL and don't have much in the tank. I believe Thompson may be better off playing safety in the NFL, and has great instincts when playing the ball. He has obvious game changing ability, providing run and pass support, and can make big plays from anywhere on the field.

22. Pittsburgh Steelers- Ereck Flowers (OT, MIA)

Pittsburgh needs a corner, but there isn't any value left at this point. They'll turn and look to add the best available player, whom I believe is Flowers in this case. Flowers can be shuffled around the line to fit into the Steelers' scheme, and could potentially be a Pro-Bowl caliber left tackle if developed right.

23. Detroit Lions- Malcolm Brown (DT, TEX)

Detroit looks like they'll be losing Ndamkong Suh in the offseason, and could potentially lose Nick Fairley also. Adding Brown would lessen the blow that they'd have to deal with if they didn't take a tackle in the first round. He is by no means an All-Pro talent, but could develop into a valuable player.

24. Arizona Cardinals- Melvin Gordon (RB, WISC)

Arizona struggled running any type of offense after key injuries to Andre Ellington and Carson Palmer. Much like what the Bengals did last season, the Cardinals will look to add someone who is a true between-the-tackles back. Gordon is the best running back, and adds a pro-ready running style that will compliment Ellington.

25. Carolina Panthers- TJ Clemmings (OT, PITT)

Carolina had a nice push at the end of the season with little help from the offensive line. Keeping Cam Newton should be high priority, and Clemmings could be a nice piece to the line to help. He has shot up draft boards recently, and the hype should be enough for the Panthers to take a shot.

26. Baltimore Ravens- Jaelen Collins (CB, LSU)

Baltimore has issues in their secondary and should look to address them early. Aside from Ladarius Webb, the Ravens don't have a corner who can play the outside. Collins has a little more height than the average corner, and has quick feet and decision making skills which will help him make plays on the ball.

27. Dallas Cowboys- Jordan Phillips (DT, OKLA)

Dallas didn't get the type of productivity they were looking for when they signed Henry Melton, and will need to find someone to replace him. They could very well draft any position on the defensive line, but I feel this late in the first round, Phillips is a steal. Phillips eats up gaps while creating room for linebackers to make plays, something the Cowboys have been missing for a long time.

28. Denver Broncos- Benardrick McKinney (ILB, TAMU)

Denver doesn't have many gaps to fill, so they'll most likely look to bolster their defense. McKinney is exceptional in run stopping, and versatile enough to help in coverage as well.

29. Indianapolis Colts- Todd Gurley (RB, UGA)

The Colts don't have a true grinder at running back. Between Bradshaw, Herron, and Tipton, they've accumulated a group of 3rd down and scat backs. Bringing Gurley in would give them an identity when running the ball, and the ability to work him into the offense without rushing him after an ACL injury in his last year in college.

30. Green Bay Packers- Michael Bennett (DT, OSU)

Letroy Guiton is going to jail, and the Packers don't have many options replacing him. Bennett would be a good replacement, adding similar size and run stopping capabilities.

31. Seattle Seahawks- Dorial Beckham-Green (WR, OKLA)

Seattle is in dire need of weapons to surround Russell Wilson with. Chris Matthews could potentially be a nice addition to the offense, but wouldn't be enough to take the offense to the next level. DBG has freakish ability, and could've arguably been a top-10 pick if not for off the field issues. Pete Carroll will do a good job of keeping him in check, and would love to see a Wilson-to-DBG combo.

32. New England Patriots- Devin Funchess (WR/TE, MICH)

Funchess is the type of player the Pats love. He is versatile and has great size. He could play tight end in the Patriots' scheme, much like Aaron Hernandez did.


Wednesday, February 18, 2015

2/16 Matt Geiger Mock Draft

For any new readers, this is my first mock draft on my new blog. I do not make any guesses on any trades, so every team will pick in the spot they are currently in. ENJOY!

1. Tampa Bay Buccaneers- Jameis Winston


I keep changing my mind as to which of the top quarterbacks will be heading to Tampa. Mariota seems to be a systematic player, and Winston seems to be the one more pro-ready. Winston can make more pro throws, and has pretty good pocket presence. Winston needs to wow scouts in his pro day, and front offices in his meetings to come off the board, but i do believe this is an accurate pick.

2. Tennessee Titans- Leonard Williams (DL, USC)


Rumors coming out of Tennessee are that they will not take a quarterback here, and like Zach Mettenberger enough to give him a shot to start out of the gate in the season opener. Leonard Williams, in my opinion, is the best prospect in this years draft. Taking a versatile lineman like Williams will give the Titans the option of moving Jurrell Casey to defensive end, and start to solidify a top tier defensive line.

3. Jacksonville Jaguars- Randy Gregory (DL, NEB)


Jacksonville was sixth in the league in sacks last season, but adding a player of Gregory's talent should be too hard to pass up. The Jags could potentially lose two defensive starters in Tyson Alualu and Geno Hayes, and adding Gregory would be an upgrade to either player. Gregory might be asked to play outside linebacker in the NFL, but certainly has the athleticism to do so, and should preform well from either position.

4. Oakland Raiders- Amari Cooper (WR, Alabama)


The Raiders are on the rise, being led by quarterback Derek Carr. Adding another weapon to the offense would be smart. Copper is regarded as the best receiver in this class, and is a more polished route runner than any other player in the draft. Pairing Cooper with Carr could be a match made in heaven for Oakland, and could give them a serious boost on offense.

5. Washington Redskins- Dante Fowler Jr. (EDGE, Florida)


Washington was tied for 21st in the league in sacks last year, and could potentially lose LB Brian Orakpo in free agency. The defense needs play makers, and Fowler is just that. Fowler could be the prototypical pass-rushing outside linebacker in the NFL. He has unique size and speed while using great technique to get to the quarterback. Washington needs to address their defense in the draft, and Fowler should be a cornerstone in their rebuilding process.

6. New York Jets- Marcus Mariota (QB, Oregon)


The Jets will be in a tight spot when they get on the clock picking here. They need help in too many spots, and may be forced to take Mariota. I don't think Mariota is a good fit for the Jets due to the offense they'll be running. Ideally, the Jets should field offers and look to trade back, but if they can't do that, then picking him might be the only option. Mariota has potential to be a good starter in the NFL, but it may take longer then the Jets can wait. They are ready to give up on Geno Smith after two years, and I believe it'll take even longer to develop Mariota.

7. Chicago Bears- Danny Shelton (DT, WASH)


The Bears have a number of holes on the defensive front, and need to fix the gap the was left after Henry Melton signed with Dallas. Shelton is a huge interior lineman, and is deceptively quick for his size. He has gotten comparisons to Haloti Ngata, but i don't think he's as athletic. He does however do an amazing job at plugging holes in the run game. Chicago needs to fix their run defense before addressing any other holes in their roster.

8. Atlanta Falcons- Shane Ray (EDGE- MIZZ)


Atlanta has not had a pass rush in a number of years. Bringing in free-agents and rookies have not worked well in recent years, and they ranked 30th in the NFL in sacks last year. Shane Ray may need to get bigger, but there is no questioning his ability to rush the passer. Going against some elite talent in the SEC will help his stock, as he competed against some of the best offensive lineman in college. This could be a perfect match if Atlanta can get the most out of Shane Ray.

9. New York Giants- Ereck Flowers (OT, Miami)


The Giants need to continue to build on a young talented offensive line through the draft this year. Flowers, like many of the other offensive tackles in this draft, can play multiple positions along the line, so letting him adapt to the pro game while playing guard or right tackle would be ideal.

10. St. Louis Rams- Andrus Peat (OT, Stanford)


The Rams could address a few positions with this pick. Adding a versatile lineman like Peat gives more flexibility to an already stable line. Taking Peat will more than likely mean putting him inside at right guard and switching Greg Robinson to right tackle. Putting more talented players on the line would be huge for Sam Bradford's safety, and help solidify an improving rushing attack.

11. Minnesota Vikings- Kevin White (WR, WVU)

Minnesota can save some cap space but cutting under-achieving receiver Greg Jennings this off-season. Bringing in Kevion White to pair with the likes of Charles Johnson and Kyle Rudolph could potentially make a monster of an offense ran by Teddy Bridgewater. White has size and speed, and exception hands, making him a potential superstar.

12. Cleveland Browns- Landon Collins (S, Alabama)

Even With Joe Haden and an improving secondary, the Browns still finished 25th in the league in passing yards allowed per game. I Believe pairing Collins with Tyshaun Gipson could drastically improve the defense next season. Collins is, in my opinion the best defensive back in this years class. He moves well both laterally and vertically, and has exceptional ball skills. He can also come up and provide run support and hits with surprising power for a defensive back.

13. New Orleans Saints- Trae Waynes (CB, MSU)

New Orleans was pretty good against the pass last season, but should look to add depth at corner. Waynes is tall and athletic, can make plays on the ball, and is probably the best corner in the draft at helping in run support.

14. Miami Dolphins- Eddie Goldman (DT, FSU)

Adding a defensive tackle would fill a huge gap for the Dolphins. Goldman would be an upgrade from a majority of the players already on their defense. He is an asset in stopping the run, and is capable of being on the field on passing downs as well.

15. San Fransisco 49ers- DaVante Parker (WR, LOUIS)

Word out of the Niners office is that Michael Crabtree won't return next season, or at least test the market. Other than an aging Anquan Boldin and an upsettingly underperforming Vernon Davis, there are virtually no pass catchers on the roster. If not for another great class of receivers Parker could've been the first receiver off the board this year. Parker may need to polish his route running a little more to be compared to Cooper and White, though.

16. Houston Texans- Marcus Peters (CB, WASH)

Houston ranked in the top half of the league in passing last season, but will be losing Kareem Jackson in free-agency. Peters brings a lot of luggage to the table, but his on field presence is undeniable. He is by far the most talented corner in the draft, but will have to convince NFL execs he won't be a burden to any team drafting him.

17. San Diego Chargers- La'el Collins (OT, LSU)

San Diego is aging on offense and should look to add young depth during the draft. Collins has a huge frame with long arms, and quick feet for someone his size. Bringing in someone with his talent should be very welcoming for Phillip Rivers.

18. Kansas City Chiefs- Vic Beasley (OLB, CLEMSON)

Kansas City is more than likely using the franchise tag on sack-master Justin Houston, but should look to bolster their pass-rush with the 18th pick. Beasley is relentless when rushing the quarterback. His high motor and speed should make up for the fact that he's slightly undersized, although he will more than likely add some weight before the draft.

19. Cleveland Browns- Jaelen Strong (WR, ASU)

Josh Gordon may never play for the Browns, or even in the NFL again. Cleveland needs to add a receiver otherwise they'll be fielding Miles Austin, Andrew Hawkins and Taylor Gabriel week one. Jaelen Strong has a massive frame and doesn't hesitate when going to get the ball. He could be an immediate impact in the red-zone, which will be needed since the Browns will be without Gordon for the year, and may be without Jordan Cameron also.

20. Philadelphia Eagles- Jaelen Collins (CB, LSU)

The Eagles ranked 2nd in the NFL in passing yards per game, but gave up 30 touchdowns. Bradley Fletcher is a free-agent and more than likely won't return. Carey Williams could be a valuable piece, but they should look to upgrade. Adding Collins means letting him play in nickel packages until he gets used to playing against NFL talent, but it shouldn't be long before he's starting on the outside.

21. Cincinnati Bengals- Bud Dupree (EDGE, Kentucky)

The Bengals ranked dead last in sacks last season. There isn't much on their roster, and adding a pass-rusher should be a MUST. Dupree excels in getting to the quarterback, and shows flashes of skill in run support.

22. Pittsburgh Steelers- Shaq Thompson (LB/S, WASH)

Pittsburgh needs to upgrade the talent on the defensive side. Thompson is a unique talent, who played both outside linebacker and safety in college. Whichever position he translates to at the pro level, he should be an added asset to the Steelers defense. Thompson will add versatility to the defense, being able to provide run support and pass coverage at a high level.

23. Detroit Lions- Malcolm Brown (DT, Texas)

Detroit is on the brink of losing both Ndamkong Suh and Nick Fairley. It is almost certain one or both will not return. The Lions defense will need to add a defensive tackle in order to compete, and Malcolm Brown is the best available in this spot.

24. Arizona Cardinals- Eric Kendricks (LB, UCLA)

Arizona has been terrible in the last few years at covering tight ends. Both Karlos Dansby and Daryl Washington have missed time, and neither are particularly great in coverage. Kendricks is a versatile linebacker with better speed and athleticism than most inside backers.

25. Carolina Panthers- TJ Clemmings (OT, COLO)

Carolina needs to put people around Cam Newton that will protect him. Carolina was 13th worst at protecting the quarterback, so drafting a tackle is a necessity. Clemmings has been shooting up draft boards, and although i feel there are tackles that are better than him, i think the hype around him is enough for Carolina to take a shot.

26. Baltimore Ravens- PJ Williams (CB, FSU)

Baltimore should be looking to tighten up their secondary come May. Ladarius Webb needs help in the secondary, and there isn't anyone else on the roster capable of playing on the outside. Williams has prototypical NFL size and speed and should be able to handle his own against most receivers.

27. Dallas Cowboys- Michael Bennett (DT, OSU)

Dallas had problems on the defensive line last season, and just cut ties with Henry Melton. Bennett plays well for his size, and is good at controlling gaps in the run game. Most of the Cowboys draft should revolve around adding to their rebuilding defense, and Bennett would be a great start.

28. Denver Broncos- Benardrick McKinney (ILB, A&M)

Denver does not have many gaps to fill. Bolstering their run defense should be something Denver looks to address. McKinney adds speed and versatility to any defense, and the Broncos could use a player of his caliber.

29. Indianapolis Colts- Melvin Gordon (RB, WISC)

The Colts should address the running game this offseason. Trent Richardson isn't returning, and Zurlon Tipton, Ahmad Bradshaw and Dan Herron aren't every down backs. Gordon is the best back in the draft, and adds a pro-ready run style to the Colts backfield.

30. Green Bay Packers- Jordan Phillips (DT, Oklahoma)

Letroy Guion is going to jail for a long time, so the Packers are without a starting defensive tackle. Phillips is a big frame player, who can eat gaps while making space for linebackers to make plays. He will likely be a two-down player early in his career until he can develop his stamina to adapt to the pro game.

31. Seattle Seahawks- Sammie Coates (WR, AUB)

The NFC Champion Seahawks need to give Russell Wilson more weapons. Luke Willson and Chris Matthews could potentially turn into valuable assets, but adding another receiver would help a depleted receiving corps. Coates is a big-bodied burner, and will beat corners due to his deceptive speed.

32. New England Patriots- Devin Funchess (WR/TE, MICH)

The Super Bowl Champs love trading picks away, but i won't mock a trade. Brady proved he can still play, but the Pats should build more on putting weapons around him. Funchess has size and speed, and is a prototypical Bill Bellicheck type player. Funchess is versatile and has great hands, and can also be used as a receiver or tight end, like the Patriots used Aaron Hernandez.