Post-Free Agency 2014 NFL Mock Draft
Blake Bortles checks off all the boxes the NFL desires in a top draft pick (Image: USA Today Sports)
By: Matt Harmon
March 25th, 2014
Preamble: Now that free agency has died down, we can paint a more accurate picture of possible NFL draft outcomes. Some teams—the Broncos, Patriots and Buccaneers to name a few—have aggressively signed players to fill need areas. Those teams gained more flexibility in the first round of the draft.
Now that we know more about team’s possible directions, I decided to change this mock drafts style. My Pre-Free Agency Mock Draft was done in GM style, but this one is a predictive mock.
I don’t agree of every selection, but the NFL makes questionable calls in every year’s draft.
I added a Backyard Banter approval rating scale (thumbs up, side thumb, thumbs down) to each pick. This way you can see what I think will happen, and how I view the player selected.
Hopefully, it’s the best of both worlds…
March 25th, 2014
Preamble: Now that free agency has died down, we can paint a more accurate picture of possible NFL draft outcomes. Some teams—the Broncos, Patriots and Buccaneers to name a few—have aggressively signed players to fill need areas. Those teams gained more flexibility in the first round of the draft.
Now that we know more about team’s possible directions, I decided to change this mock drafts style. My Pre-Free Agency Mock Draft was done in GM style, but this one is a predictive mock.
I don’t agree of every selection, but the NFL makes questionable calls in every year’s draft.
I added a Backyard Banter approval rating scale (thumbs up, side thumb, thumbs down) to each pick. This way you can see what I think will happen, and how I view the player selected.
Hopefully, it’s the best of both worlds…
1. Houston Texans (2-14): QB Blake Bortles, Houston Texans
The NFL needs it’s quarterbacks to be aesthetically pleasing; that much has been made clear. The Texans will pass on the more refined Teddy Bridgewater for Blake Bortes, and his higher ceiling.
Bortles has the size, athleticism and makeup of a top prospect. He just looks like an NFL quarterback. That may sounds silly to those on the outside, but it seems to matter to the league.
The UCF quarterback’s mechanical flaws are apparent, and you’d have to watch his 2012 tape to find a great arm. However, the Texans and their new head coach might be willing to role the dice with him.
BYB Approval Rating: Side thumb. It’s the right position, but wrong player.
The NFL needs it’s quarterbacks to be aesthetically pleasing; that much has been made clear. The Texans will pass on the more refined Teddy Bridgewater for Blake Bortes, and his higher ceiling.
Bortles has the size, athleticism and makeup of a top prospect. He just looks like an NFL quarterback. That may sounds silly to those on the outside, but it seems to matter to the league.
The UCF quarterback’s mechanical flaws are apparent, and you’d have to watch his 2012 tape to find a great arm. However, the Texans and their new head coach might be willing to role the dice with him.
BYB Approval Rating: Side thumb. It’s the right position, but wrong player.
2. Tampa Bay Buccaneers via St. Louis Rams via Washington Redskins (3-13): EP Jadeveon Clowney, South Carolina
Someone is jumping up to the second pick, and taking Jadeveon Clowney. How about the Buccaneers? With all their new additions, they might believe themselves one dynamic piece away from contention, and sacrifice the requisite picks for this jump.
The newest Bucs’ regime went wild in free agency. Lovie Smith and company clearly saw a talented roster, and worked hard in filling some of the holes. Tamp Bay can sit back and be flexible, or they can be bold.
The Michael Johnson signing was a nice addition to a depleted defensive end group, but they aren’t done yet. Unlike Johnson, Clowney can be the true dominant edge player this defense needs. Smith brought Julius Peppers to Chicago to complete his defense several years ago. Now he gets a similar talent in Clowney.
BYB Approval Rating: Thumbs up. Clowney is good enough to justify a big move like this.
Someone is jumping up to the second pick, and taking Jadeveon Clowney. How about the Buccaneers? With all their new additions, they might believe themselves one dynamic piece away from contention, and sacrifice the requisite picks for this jump.
The newest Bucs’ regime went wild in free agency. Lovie Smith and company clearly saw a talented roster, and worked hard in filling some of the holes. Tamp Bay can sit back and be flexible, or they can be bold.
The Michael Johnson signing was a nice addition to a depleted defensive end group, but they aren’t done yet. Unlike Johnson, Clowney can be the true dominant edge player this defense needs. Smith brought Julius Peppers to Chicago to complete his defense several years ago. Now he gets a similar talent in Clowney.
BYB Approval Rating: Thumbs up. Clowney is good enough to justify a big move like this.
3. Jacksonville Jaguars (4-12): QB Teddy Bridgewater, Louisville
The Jaguars jump for joy when Teddy falls to them. Dave Caldwell and Gus Bradley have done wonders in rebuilding this roster. Now they add the biggest piece of the puzzle.
Bridgewater steps in and immediately becomes the best player on the Jags offense. He has several elite traits and solid athleticism. Teddy can start in Jacksonville for over a decade, and be a very good player.
The concerns over Teddy Bridgewater’s poor pro day and slight frame are silly. Who was the last quarterback prospect that failed specifically due to his frame? No one comes to mind.
BYB Approval Rating: Thumbs up. He’s the best player at his position, and gives the Jags a face to build around.
The Jaguars jump for joy when Teddy falls to them. Dave Caldwell and Gus Bradley have done wonders in rebuilding this roster. Now they add the biggest piece of the puzzle.
Bridgewater steps in and immediately becomes the best player on the Jags offense. He has several elite traits and solid athleticism. Teddy can start in Jacksonville for over a decade, and be a very good player.
The concerns over Teddy Bridgewater’s poor pro day and slight frame are silly. Who was the last quarterback prospect that failed specifically due to his frame? No one comes to mind.
BYB Approval Rating: Thumbs up. He’s the best player at his position, and gives the Jags a face to build around.
4. San Francisco 49ers via Cleveland Browns (4-12): WR Sammy Watkins, Clemson
The 49ers have a bevy of draft picks, and are ready and willing to jump up the board. Can they get all the way into the top five? With multiple picks in the second and third round, it is certainly possible. They can even sweeten the pot with a future draft choice if need be.
The Niners don’t have room on their roster for a bunch of middling rookies. They need more star power to get over the hump. Sammy Watkins brings that and more.
Watkins could be the best offensive player in San Francisco before too long. His presence gives the organization leverage in negotiations with Michael Crabtree, who is great but a tad unreliable. The Clemson star brings the speed this offense desperately needs.
BYB Approval Rating: Thumbs up. A tremendous prospect who fills a big need. For this team, the massive jump is worth it.
The 49ers have a bevy of draft picks, and are ready and willing to jump up the board. Can they get all the way into the top five? With multiple picks in the second and third round, it is certainly possible. They can even sweeten the pot with a future draft choice if need be.
The Niners don’t have room on their roster for a bunch of middling rookies. They need more star power to get over the hump. Sammy Watkins brings that and more.
Watkins could be the best offensive player in San Francisco before too long. His presence gives the organization leverage in negotiations with Michael Crabtree, who is great but a tad unreliable. The Clemson star brings the speed this offense desperately needs.
BYB Approval Rating: Thumbs up. A tremendous prospect who fills a big need. For this team, the massive jump is worth it.
5. Oakland Raiders (4-12) QB Derek Carr, Oakland Raiders
Reports are leaking out that Oakland has a “massive crush” on Derek Carr. It could be a smokescreen, but it could very well be true. It’s doubtful that adding Matt Schaub does anything to change that.
Carr is an atrocious value in the top five, but he very well may go here. Similar to Blake Bortles, he has the arm and look of a franchise quarterback. Some team will fall in love with Carr, and by all accounts Reggie McKenzie is drinking the Kool-Aid.
I had Carr as a mid-first rounder in my last mock draft (GM style). However, after further studying, I am losing faith. He has flashes of serious issues—including the dreaded Gabbert syndrome.
BYB Approval Rating: Thumbs down. The pick is a bad value, and the team passes up far superior players.
Reports are leaking out that Oakland has a “massive crush” on Derek Carr. It could be a smokescreen, but it could very well be true. It’s doubtful that adding Matt Schaub does anything to change that.
Carr is an atrocious value in the top five, but he very well may go here. Similar to Blake Bortles, he has the arm and look of a franchise quarterback. Some team will fall in love with Carr, and by all accounts Reggie McKenzie is drinking the Kool-Aid.
I had Carr as a mid-first rounder in my last mock draft (GM style). However, after further studying, I am losing faith. He has flashes of serious issues—including the dreaded Gabbert syndrome.
BYB Approval Rating: Thumbs down. The pick is a bad value, and the team passes up far superior players.
6. Atlanta Falcons (4-12): EP Khalil Mack, Buffalo
The Falcons offseason moves (such as signing Tyson Jackson) indicate that many more 3-4 looks are coming. The Falcons want a more multiple defense, and Khalil Mack helps them accomplish that.
Atlanta lacks a dynamic pass rushing threat. They miss out on Clowney, but Mack is an okay consolation prize. He can set the edge as a run defender, and pressure the quarterback.
Mack also provides versatility. He can succeed as a 4-3 outside linebacker, and a rush linebacker in a 3-4.
BYB Approval Rating: Side thumb. Atlanta should be the team that moves up for Clowney, but it seems that dream is dead.
The Falcons offseason moves (such as signing Tyson Jackson) indicate that many more 3-4 looks are coming. The Falcons want a more multiple defense, and Khalil Mack helps them accomplish that.
Atlanta lacks a dynamic pass rushing threat. They miss out on Clowney, but Mack is an okay consolation prize. He can set the edge as a run defender, and pressure the quarterback.
Mack also provides versatility. He can succeed as a 4-3 outside linebacker, and a rush linebacker in a 3-4.
BYB Approval Rating: Side thumb. Atlanta should be the team that moves up for Clowney, but it seems that dream is dead.
7. St. Louis Rams via Tampa Bay Buccaneers (4-12): OT Greg Robinson, Auburn
The Rams pull of a heist by dropping down the board and still netting an elite prospect. The Rams have two solid starting tackles in Joe Barksdale and Jake Long. But with Long’s injury status, it is a position of need.
In the second half of the season, St. Louis found it’s identify as a power run and ball control offense. Greg Robinson fits right in with that mindset. He is so dominant as a run blocker, the Rams will be glad to accept a learning curve in pass protection. The addition of Robinson would help Sam Bradford out tremendously.
BYB Approval Rating: Thumbs up. He has the potential of a dominant left tackle.
The Rams pull of a heist by dropping down the board and still netting an elite prospect. The Rams have two solid starting tackles in Joe Barksdale and Jake Long. But with Long’s injury status, it is a position of need.
In the second half of the season, St. Louis found it’s identify as a power run and ball control offense. Greg Robinson fits right in with that mindset. He is so dominant as a run blocker, the Rams will be glad to accept a learning curve in pass protection. The addition of Robinson would help Sam Bradford out tremendously.
BYB Approval Rating: Thumbs up. He has the potential of a dominant left tackle.
8. New York Giants via Minnesota Vikings (5-10-1): OT Jake Matthews, Texas A&M
The Giants have shown the urgency of an organization that knows it needs to win now. They find a willing trade partner in the Vikings, who attempt the same move the Bills pulled off last draft.
Eli Manning struggled amid some dreadful pass protection in 2013. Adding Jake Matthews give the Giants a rock on the offensive line. He can protect Manning’s blindside for the duration of his career.
BYB Approval Rating: Thumbs up. Jerry Reese knows he is on the hot seat, and makes an aggressive move for a good player.
The Giants have shown the urgency of an organization that knows it needs to win now. They find a willing trade partner in the Vikings, who attempt the same move the Bills pulled off last draft.
Eli Manning struggled amid some dreadful pass protection in 2013. Adding Jake Matthews give the Giants a rock on the offensive line. He can protect Manning’s blindside for the duration of his career.
BYB Approval Rating: Thumbs up. Jerry Reese knows he is on the hot seat, and makes an aggressive move for a good player.
9. Buffalo Bills (6-10): WR Mike Evans, Texas A&M
The Bills are all in with E.J. Manuel. So they better find someone who can make him look good. Mike Evans can be that player.
Evans displayed dynamic ability in college. Better yet, he showed a veteran-like presence of mind in working back to his quarterback. Manuel can be erratic, and Evans has the capability to bail him out.
By running a solid 40-yard dash, the massive wideout all but guaranteed his spot in the top ten. The Bills pass on bigger needs to help out their young quarterback.
BYB Approval Rating: Thumbs up. If the board falls this way, Evans is the best option.
The Bills are all in with E.J. Manuel. So they better find someone who can make him look good. Mike Evans can be that player.
Evans displayed dynamic ability in college. Better yet, he showed a veteran-like presence of mind in working back to his quarterback. Manuel can be erratic, and Evans has the capability to bail him out.
By running a solid 40-yard dash, the massive wideout all but guaranteed his spot in the top ten. The Bills pass on bigger needs to help out their young quarterback.
BYB Approval Rating: Thumbs up. If the board falls this way, Evans is the best option.
10. Detroit Lions (7-9): TE Eric Ebron, UNC
The Lions added Golden Tate, and brought back Brandon Pettigrew, but this offense needs more work. Eric Ebron has off the charts athletic ability, and fits in perfectly.
Ebron’s film does leave you wanting more, but he has all the tools of a top ten pick. He could be the dynamic target down the seams Matt Stafford has always lacked.
With Ebron and Tate in the fold, all-world receiver Calvin Johnson will see less attention. If teams still choose to triple team Megatron, Ebron can make them pay.
BYB Approval Rating: Thumbs up. I love Ebron’s potential, and he’s worth the small risk.
The Lions added Golden Tate, and brought back Brandon Pettigrew, but this offense needs more work. Eric Ebron has off the charts athletic ability, and fits in perfectly.
Ebron’s film does leave you wanting more, but he has all the tools of a top ten pick. He could be the dynamic target down the seams Matt Stafford has always lacked.
With Ebron and Tate in the fold, all-world receiver Calvin Johnson will see less attention. If teams still choose to triple team Megatron, Ebron can make them pay.
BYB Approval Rating: Thumbs up. I love Ebron’s potential, and he’s worth the small risk.
11. Cleveland Browns via Tennessee Titans (7-9): QB Johnny Manziel, Texas A&M
The Browns pull off a shocker and move back up for their quarterback. Cleveland already had plenty of picks before their hypothetical trade with the 49ers. They didn’t accumulate all these resources to stand pat at quarterback.
Cleveland has kept their cards close to the vest, and seems to legitimately like Brian Hoyer. That’s fine. Johnny Manziel needs time to learn anyways.
Hoyer can be a very nice bridge starter until Manziel learns to reign in his reckless ways. Kyle Shanahan built a system for a unique talent in RG3, and he can do the same in Cleveland.
BYB Approval Rating: Thumbs up. Of all the prospects in the 2014 Draft, Manziel might be the one I am most afraid to bet on failing.
The Browns pull off a shocker and move back up for their quarterback. Cleveland already had plenty of picks before their hypothetical trade with the 49ers. They didn’t accumulate all these resources to stand pat at quarterback.
Cleveland has kept their cards close to the vest, and seems to legitimately like Brian Hoyer. That’s fine. Johnny Manziel needs time to learn anyways.
Hoyer can be a very nice bridge starter until Manziel learns to reign in his reckless ways. Kyle Shanahan built a system for a unique talent in RG3, and he can do the same in Cleveland.
BYB Approval Rating: Thumbs up. Of all the prospects in the 2014 Draft, Manziel might be the one I am most afraid to bet on failing.
Falling out of the top ten might be a likely, and very beneficial, scenario for Johnny Manziel (Image: Sports Illustrated)
12. Minnesota Vikings via New York Giants (7-9): CB Justin Gilbert, Oklahoma State
The Vikings saw what the Bills did last year, and try the same tactic. With no quarterback needy teams between the eighth and twelfth pick, it seemed safe. The unpredictable nature of the draft comes back to bite them.
With no first round quarterbacks left, the Vikings don’t want to repeat the same mistake they made with Christian Ponder. They’ll grab another quarterback later to groom behind Matt Cassel.
Nevertheless, Minnesota thought they were a shoo-in for Manziel. They panic and make a reach by taking Justin Gilbert. He is well regarded by many, but Gilbert has quite a few flaws.
BYB Approval Rating: Thumbs down. Just because he is a consensus top player and a great athlete, doesn’t mean he will succeed.
The Vikings saw what the Bills did last year, and try the same tactic. With no quarterback needy teams between the eighth and twelfth pick, it seemed safe. The unpredictable nature of the draft comes back to bite them.
With no first round quarterbacks left, the Vikings don’t want to repeat the same mistake they made with Christian Ponder. They’ll grab another quarterback later to groom behind Matt Cassel.
Nevertheless, Minnesota thought they were a shoo-in for Manziel. They panic and make a reach by taking Justin Gilbert. He is well regarded by many, but Gilbert has quite a few flaws.
BYB Approval Rating: Thumbs down. Just because he is a consensus top player and a great athlete, doesn’t mean he will succeed.
13. St. Louis Rams (7-9): S Ha Ha Clinton-Dix
With their second first round pick, the Rams get another potentially dynamic difference maker. NFL defenses covet the presence of a deep safety. In this class, Ha Ha Clinton-Dix has the best chance of becoming a true centerfielder at the position.
St. Louis has some interesting options at safety, but nothing like Clinton-Dix. He has the range to cover up a lot of mistakes in front of him. With Gregg Williams installing an aggressive defense, HHCD will fit in perfectly.
BYB Approval Rating: Thumbs up. You can make the argument Clinton-Dox is a top ten prospect, so this is great value.
With their second first round pick, the Rams get another potentially dynamic difference maker. NFL defenses covet the presence of a deep safety. In this class, Ha Ha Clinton-Dix has the best chance of becoming a true centerfielder at the position.
St. Louis has some interesting options at safety, but nothing like Clinton-Dix. He has the range to cover up a lot of mistakes in front of him. With Gregg Williams installing an aggressive defense, HHCD will fit in perfectly.
BYB Approval Rating: Thumbs up. You can make the argument Clinton-Dox is a top ten prospect, so this is great value.
14. Chicago Bears (8-8): EP Anthony Barr, UCLA
Adding Anthony Barr makes a lot of sense for the Bears, especially with the addition of Lamarr Houston. This is a nice step in rebuilding Chicago’s pass rush.
Barr is unrefined, and far from a complete player. However, he won’t need to be right away in Chicago. Houston can play defensive end on early downs, and slide inside in passing situations. Barr would take his place in the latter scenario.
While he continues to absorb the position, Barr can just focus on getting to the quarterback. He has so much ability; he’s worth the learning curve.
BYB Approval Rating: Thumbs up. Barr has a ton of promise, and wouldn’t be rushed into a full time role with Chicago.
Adding Anthony Barr makes a lot of sense for the Bears, especially with the addition of Lamarr Houston. This is a nice step in rebuilding Chicago’s pass rush.
Barr is unrefined, and far from a complete player. However, he won’t need to be right away in Chicago. Houston can play defensive end on early downs, and slide inside in passing situations. Barr would take his place in the latter scenario.
While he continues to absorb the position, Barr can just focus on getting to the quarterback. He has so much ability; he’s worth the learning curve.
BYB Approval Rating: Thumbs up. Barr has a ton of promise, and wouldn’t be rushed into a full time role with Chicago.
15. Pittsburgh Steelers (8-8): OT Taylor Lewan, Michagan
After a few legal issues, Taylor Lewan might slide a bit on draft day. However, he is a nasty player and a gifted athlete, so teams will remain intrigued. This is the appropriate range for him anyhow.
Lewan will make the Steelers offensive line better right away. He can be their long-term left tackle, and a tone setter. Pittsburgh wants to get back to playing physical football. Lewan can certainly help there.
BYB Approval Rating: Side thumb. I don’t love Lewan as a player, but the value is okay and he fills a need.
After a few legal issues, Taylor Lewan might slide a bit on draft day. However, he is a nasty player and a gifted athlete, so teams will remain intrigued. This is the appropriate range for him anyhow.
Lewan will make the Steelers offensive line better right away. He can be their long-term left tackle, and a tone setter. Pittsburgh wants to get back to playing physical football. Lewan can certainly help there.
BYB Approval Rating: Side thumb. I don’t love Lewan as a player, but the value is okay and he fills a need.
16. Dallas Cowboys (8-8): DT Aaron Donald, Pittsburgh
The Cowboys signed Henry Melton, but his contract shows they aren’t truly counting on him. Aaron Donald is cut from the same stylistic cloth, but that’s fine. The Cowboys have nothing on the defensive tackle depth chart outside of Melton.
If Dallas can get Melton and Donald on the field together, they’ll cause nightmares for offenses. Both players can penetrate, and win with quickness.
BYB Approval Rating: Thumbs up. Donald can be the cornerstone of a defense that badly needs one.
The Cowboys signed Henry Melton, but his contract shows they aren’t truly counting on him. Aaron Donald is cut from the same stylistic cloth, but that’s fine. The Cowboys have nothing on the defensive tackle depth chart outside of Melton.
If Dallas can get Melton and Donald on the field together, they’ll cause nightmares for offenses. Both players can penetrate, and win with quickness.
BYB Approval Rating: Thumbs up. Donald can be the cornerstone of a defense that badly needs one.
17. Baltimore Ravens (8-8): WR Odell Beckham, LSU
The Ravens added Steve Smith, but they need more at wide receiver. Odell Beckham Jr. is perfect for this offense.
Beckham can get deep, and win at the catch point. Both skills are required for playing with Joe Flacco. ODB actually has a lot of similarities to the Steve Smith of old. He’d make a nice student for the veteran receiver.
BYB Approval Rating: Thumbs up. I’d give any team praise for taking my favorite player in this draft.
The Ravens added Steve Smith, but they need more at wide receiver. Odell Beckham Jr. is perfect for this offense.
Beckham can get deep, and win at the catch point. Both skills are required for playing with Joe Flacco. ODB actually has a lot of similarities to the Steve Smith of old. He’d make a nice student for the veteran receiver.
BYB Approval Rating: Thumbs up. I’d give any team praise for taking my favorite player in this draft.
18. New York Jets (8-8): TE Jace Amaro, Texas Tech
The Jets tried to woo Brandon Pettigrew to New York, but failed. That’s fine, they can draft a much better player in Jace Amaro.
Amaro fits the profile of the reliable intermediate target that Geno Smith needs. He can play inline or line up as an oversized slot receiver. Amaro would look great in green.
BYB Approval Rating: Thumbs up. The Jets need playmakers, and Amaro will be one.
The Jets tried to woo Brandon Pettigrew to New York, but failed. That’s fine, they can draft a much better player in Jace Amaro.
Amaro fits the profile of the reliable intermediate target that Geno Smith needs. He can play inline or line up as an oversized slot receiver. Amaro would look great in green.
BYB Approval Rating: Thumbs up. The Jets need playmakers, and Amaro will be one.
19. Miami Dolphins (8-8): OL Zack Martin, Notre Dame
The Dolphins added Brandon Albert, but still don’t have a good option at right tackle. Zack Martin can start there in his rookie season.
Martin’s long-term position might be guard, but the Dolphins can get away with him at tackle. They can always move him inside later on down the road. Albert and Martin would be the best tackle tandem Ryan Tannehill has had in the pros.
BYB Approval Rating: Thumbs up. The offensive line is still a huge need, and Martin will start somewhere for Miami.
The Dolphins added Brandon Albert, but still don’t have a good option at right tackle. Zack Martin can start there in his rookie season.
Martin’s long-term position might be guard, but the Dolphins can get away with him at tackle. They can always move him inside later on down the road. Albert and Martin would be the best tackle tandem Ryan Tannehill has had in the pros.
BYB Approval Rating: Thumbs up. The offensive line is still a huge need, and Martin will start somewhere for Miami.
20. Arizona Cardinals (10-6): DT Louis Nix, Notre Dame
The Cardinals haven’t been able to count on Dan Williams so far. Louis Nix can offer stability, and better play at the position.
Nix is sliding after a down season, but don’t forget what a dominant force he was in 2012. If the Cardinals get that guy, their already great defense will be even better.
BYB Approval Rating: Thumbs up. I am a big fan of Nix, and he is the best player available here that makes sense.
The Cardinals haven’t been able to count on Dan Williams so far. Louis Nix can offer stability, and better play at the position.
Nix is sliding after a down season, but don’t forget what a dominant force he was in 2012. If the Cardinals get that guy, their already great defense will be even better.
BYB Approval Rating: Thumbs up. I am a big fan of Nix, and he is the best player available here that makes sense.
21. Green Bay Packers (8-7-1): LB C.J. Mosley, Alabama
The Packers don’t have a sideline-to-sideline defender at linebacker. Mosley can become that player for them.
Like all Alabama prospects, Mosley comes with injury concerns. Nick Saban really grinds his players into the ground. Hopefully the issues are unfounded. Mosley has the potential to join Luke Kuechly and Navarro Bowman in the top tier of inside linebackers.
BYB Approval Rating: Side thumb. I am nervous about a Bama prospect with medical red flags, but Mosley is too good to pass up.
The Packers don’t have a sideline-to-sideline defender at linebacker. Mosley can become that player for them.
Like all Alabama prospects, Mosley comes with injury concerns. Nick Saban really grinds his players into the ground. Hopefully the issues are unfounded. Mosley has the potential to join Luke Kuechly and Navarro Bowman in the top tier of inside linebackers.
BYB Approval Rating: Side thumb. I am nervous about a Bama prospect with medical red flags, but Mosley is too good to pass up.
22. Philadelphia Eagles (10-6): CB Bradley Roby, Ohio State
Another player who took a step back in 2013, Bradley Roby is lucky to go this high. Whether it was hesitation, or poor scheme fit, Roby had some ugly 2013 games. He still has tremendous potential.
Roby might be the only corner in this class who can excel in man coverage. He has the fluidity to mirror upper echelon wideouts. Roby would fit in well with an Eagles’ front seven that is rapidly ascending.
BYB Approval Rating: Thumbs up. Roby has a very high ceiling, and will prove worthy of this draft slot.
Another player who took a step back in 2013, Bradley Roby is lucky to go this high. Whether it was hesitation, or poor scheme fit, Roby had some ugly 2013 games. He still has tremendous potential.
Roby might be the only corner in this class who can excel in man coverage. He has the fluidity to mirror upper echelon wideouts. Roby would fit in well with an Eagles’ front seven that is rapidly ascending.
BYB Approval Rating: Thumbs up. Roby has a very high ceiling, and will prove worthy of this draft slot.
23. Kansas City Chiefs (11-5): OG Xavier Su’a-Filo, UCLA
This pick just makes too much sense. The Chiefs lost two guards in free agency, a nice player in Geoff Schwartz and a former starter in Jon Asamoah.
Xavier Su’a Filo is a tremendous athlete and will be a great guard in the NFL. He has very advanced pass-blocking skills for a college player. Andy Reid loves selecting linemen in the first round, and he will be enticed by XSF.
BYB Approval Rating: Thumbs up. The Chiefs fill a need and get a very good player.
This pick just makes too much sense. The Chiefs lost two guards in free agency, a nice player in Geoff Schwartz and a former starter in Jon Asamoah.
Xavier Su’a Filo is a tremendous athlete and will be a great guard in the NFL. He has very advanced pass-blocking skills for a college player. Andy Reid loves selecting linemen in the first round, and he will be enticed by XSF.
BYB Approval Rating: Thumbs up. The Chiefs fill a need and get a very good player.
24. Cincinnati Bengals (11-5): EP Dee Ford, Auburn
The Bengals are a tough team to predict. The only dire need might be the one position they won’t take—quarterback. The team did lose Michael Johnson in free agency, and can’t just rely on Margus Hunt to fill the void.
Dee Ford might actually be an upgrade over Johnson in the pass rush department. He would fit in very nicely at right end across from Carlos Dunlap.
BYB Approval Rating: Thumbs up. Ford can bend the edge, and help keep this defense on its upward trajectory.
The Bengals are a tough team to predict. The only dire need might be the one position they won’t take—quarterback. The team did lose Michael Johnson in free agency, and can’t just rely on Margus Hunt to fill the void.
Dee Ford might actually be an upgrade over Johnson in the pass rush department. He would fit in very nicely at right end across from Carlos Dunlap.
BYB Approval Rating: Thumbs up. Ford can bend the edge, and help keep this defense on its upward trajectory.
25. San Diego Chargers (9-7): CB Kyle Fuller, Virginia Tech
The Chargers had massive cornerback issues last season. Drafting Kyle Fuller is a nice way to ease the pain.
Fuller gets overlooked amongst his peers in this draft. However, he has the potential to be a solid starter for many years. The Chargers secondary is a mess, but Fuller gives them a building block.
BYB Approval Rating: Thumbs up. Fuller might be the best cornerback in the draft, so this is great value.
The Chargers had massive cornerback issues last season. Drafting Kyle Fuller is a nice way to ease the pain.
Fuller gets overlooked amongst his peers in this draft. However, he has the potential to be a solid starter for many years. The Chargers secondary is a mess, but Fuller gives them a building block.
BYB Approval Rating: Thumbs up. Fuller might be the best cornerback in the draft, so this is great value.
26. Tennessee Titans via Cleveland Browns via Indianapolis Colts (11-5): EP Jeremiah Attaochu, Georgia Tech
Hiring Ray Horton seems to indicate a move to a 3-4 defense. With that being the case, the Titans must add more players that fit. Jeremiah Attaochu is of such ilk.
Attaochu is versatile and an explosive player. His best fit is as a stand up rush linebacker. Supplementing Kamerion Wimbley and Derrick Morgan isn’t a bad idea for Tennessee.
BYB Approval Rating: Thumbs up. Attaochu gets overlooked in this draft class, but he will be a keeper.
Hiring Ray Horton seems to indicate a move to a 3-4 defense. With that being the case, the Titans must add more players that fit. Jeremiah Attaochu is of such ilk.
Attaochu is versatile and an explosive player. His best fit is as a stand up rush linebacker. Supplementing Kamerion Wimbley and Derrick Morgan isn’t a bad idea for Tennessee.
BYB Approval Rating: Thumbs up. Attaochu gets overlooked in this draft class, but he will be a keeper.
27. New Orleans Saints (11-5): WR Kelvin Benjamin, Florida State
The Saints are hurting for pass catching options. After adding Jarius Byrd to an already tenuous cap situation, things could get worse. Jimmy Graham might not be around long term.
Even though they play different positions, Kelvin Benjamin would be a natural replacement for Graham. Benjamin plays more like an athletic tight end than a dynamic wideout. He fits a lot of what the Saints like to do on offense.
Benjamin has some serious holes in his game, but can learn a lot from Graham. If the superstar tight end moves on, Benjamin would look nice in his spot as an oversized slot receiver.
BYB Approval Rating: Side thumb. I’d slam any other team for taking Benjamin in the first round, but I love the fit in New Orleans.
The Saints are hurting for pass catching options. After adding Jarius Byrd to an already tenuous cap situation, things could get worse. Jimmy Graham might not be around long term.
Even though they play different positions, Kelvin Benjamin would be a natural replacement for Graham. Benjamin plays more like an athletic tight end than a dynamic wideout. He fits a lot of what the Saints like to do on offense.
Benjamin has some serious holes in his game, but can learn a lot from Graham. If the superstar tight end moves on, Benjamin would look nice in his spot as an oversized slot receiver.
BYB Approval Rating: Side thumb. I’d slam any other team for taking Benjamin in the first round, but I love the fit in New Orleans.
28. Carolina Panthers (11-5): OT Morgan Moses, UVA
Nope, it’s not a wide receiver. Get ready, Panthers’ fans; this will be the pick. The Panthers cannot open the season with Byron Bell as the starting left tackle. When I accepted this fact, I really looked into Morgan Moses’ film much deeper. I liked what I saw.
Moses is far from a physical specimen, and at times looks a bit awkward on the field. Still, he tends to get the job done more often that not. He wins with frequency in pass protection, and is sound in executing his assignments.
Even by offensive tackle standards, Morgan Moses won’t wow you. He will get the job done, and locks down an important position for the Panthers.
BYB Approval Rating: Thumbs up. The Panthers would be smart to take a starting left tackle, and find receivers later in this deep class.
Check out my five first round scenarios for the Panthers at Draft Mecca.
Nope, it’s not a wide receiver. Get ready, Panthers’ fans; this will be the pick. The Panthers cannot open the season with Byron Bell as the starting left tackle. When I accepted this fact, I really looked into Morgan Moses’ film much deeper. I liked what I saw.
Moses is far from a physical specimen, and at times looks a bit awkward on the field. Still, he tends to get the job done more often that not. He wins with frequency in pass protection, and is sound in executing his assignments.
Even by offensive tackle standards, Morgan Moses won’t wow you. He will get the job done, and locks down an important position for the Panthers.
BYB Approval Rating: Thumbs up. The Panthers would be smart to take a starting left tackle, and find receivers later in this deep class.
Check out my five first round scenarios for the Panthers at Draft Mecca.
29. New England Patriots (12-4): DT Ra’Shede Hageman, Minnesota
The Patriots are building a monster defense, headlined by Darrelle Revis. New England has great players at most every spot on this unit, except at defensive tackle. Ra’Shede Hageman might not be a great player right away, but he fits in perfectly.
With Devin McCourty and man cover corners, New England desperately needs some interior pressure. Hageman is an unrefined prospect, but he can push the pocket. The Patriots can keep him on a pitch count early in his career, and he’d still complete their defense.
BYB Approval Rating: Thumbs up. Getting a player who has Hageman’s potential this late is a great move.
The Patriots are building a monster defense, headlined by Darrelle Revis. New England has great players at most every spot on this unit, except at defensive tackle. Ra’Shede Hageman might not be a great player right away, but he fits in perfectly.
With Devin McCourty and man cover corners, New England desperately needs some interior pressure. Hageman is an unrefined prospect, but he can push the pocket. The Patriots can keep him on a pitch count early in his career, and he’d still complete their defense.
BYB Approval Rating: Thumbs up. Getting a player who has Hageman’s potential this late is a great move.
30. Cleveland Browns via San Francisco 49ers (12-4): S Calvin Pryor, Louisville
Someone is going to make this mistake. The Browns lost T.J. Ward, so how about them? With what’s available, it makes sense for the team to look at adding a safety.
Cleveland brought in Donte Whitner, but still have a need at safety. Mike Pettine might see a potential playmaker in Calvin Pryor and lobby for him in the late first.
BYB Approval Rating: Thumbs down. I really don’t like Pyror as a first rounder, but I think the NFL will disagree. They should take Jimmie Ward here.
Someone is going to make this mistake. The Browns lost T.J. Ward, so how about them? With what’s available, it makes sense for the team to look at adding a safety.
Cleveland brought in Donte Whitner, but still have a need at safety. Mike Pettine might see a potential playmaker in Calvin Pryor and lobby for him in the late first.
BYB Approval Rating: Thumbs down. I really don’t like Pyror as a first rounder, but I think the NFL will disagree. They should take Jimmie Ward here.
If he goes in the first round, Calvin Pryor will be one of the biggest reaches in 2014 (Image: NFL.com)
31. Denver Broncos (13-3): EP DeMarcus Lawrence, Boise State
Denver added DeMarcus Ware, but they aren’t done adding to their defensive line. DeMarcus Lawrence has a lot of fans out there, and could sneak into the first round.
Lawrence would add more flexibility to the Broncos’ pass rush. He can also help a lot early on as Von Miller recovers from a torn ACL.
By season end, the Denver could have a rotation of Ware, Miller, Lawrence, and Quanterus Smith on the edge. That would be a scary proposition for opposing defenses, and propel the Broncos back to the Super Bowl.
BYB Approval Rating: Thumbs up. The more I watch of Lawrence, the more I think he goes early.
Denver added DeMarcus Ware, but they aren’t done adding to their defensive line. DeMarcus Lawrence has a lot of fans out there, and could sneak into the first round.
Lawrence would add more flexibility to the Broncos’ pass rush. He can also help a lot early on as Von Miller recovers from a torn ACL.
By season end, the Denver could have a rotation of Ware, Miller, Lawrence, and Quanterus Smith on the edge. That would be a scary proposition for opposing defenses, and propel the Broncos back to the Super Bowl.
BYB Approval Rating: Thumbs up. The more I watch of Lawrence, the more I think he goes early.
32. Seattle Seahawks (13-3): WR Jordan Matthews, Vanderbilt
The Seahawks need a receiver to replace Golden Tate and Sidney Rice. At the end of the first, they get a player who can be better than either. Jordan Matthews has the size, speed, and catch radius to be a number one option, but will at least be a great number two.
The Seahawks just don’t have someone of his size right now. This is the perfect situation for Matthews too. His struggles to separate against man coverage would be alleviated, and his strengths accentuated, with Russell Wilson at quarterback.
BYB Approval Rating: Thumbs up. I love what Jordan Matthews brings to the table.
All team logos taken from sportslogos.net
The Seahawks need a receiver to replace Golden Tate and Sidney Rice. At the end of the first, they get a player who can be better than either. Jordan Matthews has the size, speed, and catch radius to be a number one option, but will at least be a great number two.
The Seahawks just don’t have someone of his size right now. This is the perfect situation for Matthews too. His struggles to separate against man coverage would be alleviated, and his strengths accentuated, with Russell Wilson at quarterback.
BYB Approval Rating: Thumbs up. I love what Jordan Matthews brings to the table.
All team logos taken from sportslogos.net
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