After months of long drawn out conversation, the 2010 NFL draft is nearly upon one and all.

This is it.

As any draft prognosticator inherently knows (but most unwillingly confess), the draft itself is as maddening as it is tantalizing.   Despite untold amount of hours studying film, doing the homework, and imagining what is perceived as every imaginable scenario; the process undeniably fashions itself differently than anyone could ever expect.

Scout Brent Sobleski mocks one final time with  a streamlined effort in attempts to conquer the unconquerable, all  in hopes of being as thorough and accurate as one could possibly expect.

As always…enjoy.   And discussion is open in TFY’s forums.

Round 1

#	Team						Selection			Position/College
1	St. Louis						Sam Bradford			QB/Oklahoma
			Analysis: For a franchise which has not selected a quarterback prospect in the first round since 1963, eventually the Rams need to take a leap of faith at said position.  While it is certainly easy to slot the likes of Suh or Gerald McCoy at this selection based on their immense talents, St.Louis has finished with a top three choice in the draft three years running.  The dominance of a defensive tackle simply cannot affect the win column as much as landing a franchise quarterback. Sam Bradford performed exceptionally well in his pro day workout, quelling recent health concerns.  Everything on the board sets up for this to be the number overall selection in the 2010 NFL draft.
2	Detroit						Ndamukong Suh			DT/Nebraska
			Analysis: With the Rams likely going quarterback number one overall, the Lions have the luxury of selecting whichever of the top two prospects they prefer along the defensive line or even an offensive tackle.   Suh is the bigger and more physical of the two defensive tackles that can play more one technique to compliment the off season acquisitions of Corey Williams from Cleveland and Kyle Vanden Bosch at end.  Left tackle Russell Okung seems to have gained some steam for this pick, but the Lions should be happy with the draft’s number one overall prospect in Suh.
3	Tampa Bay						Gerald McCoy			DT/Oklahoma
			Analysis: At least one source within the Buccaneers organization has stated the team actually prefers this McCoy over the highly decorated Suh.  The preference would be based merely on style and system.   If Tampa is going to once again rely on a heavy attacking Cover 2 scheme, which they reverted to late last season, McCoy is the disruptive type of three technique they desperately need to build around.
4	Washington						Trent Williams			OT/Oklahoma
			Analysis: The acquisition of Donovan McNabb to lead Coach Shanahan’s offense squashes any previous thoughts of selecting a signal caller at this position.   Instead, the Redskins land arguably the draft’s most athletic left tackle to continue their overhaul of a porous offensive line.   Williams has seemingly leapfrogged the rest of his contemporaries among some team boards.   His overall movement skills translate very well into the Redskins new zone stretch blocking scheme.   With his potential upside and versatility, this drives him above the rest of his positional class in the ‘Skins’ eyes.
5	Kansas City						Russell Okung			OT/Oklahoma St.
			Analysis: Conversation around KC has centered on potentially drafting the best available prospect in safety Eric Berry or upgrading along the offensive line.   In this case, it is starting to appear most beneficial for the team to land their potential rock at left tackle; thus completely solidifying an offensive line which was horrible a year ago.    Instead of waiting for Branden Albert to continue improving; landing an athletic talent such as Okung, sliding Albert inside or to right tackle,  while also adding Ryan Lilja in free agency will only help an offense which has plenty invested in the likes of Matt Cassell and now their running attack.
6	Seattle						Bryan Bulaga			OT/Iowa
			Analysis: Adding a young promising veteran in Charlie Whitehurst into the equation takes a lot of pressure off this particular selection.  Now the ‘Hawks are not necessarily pigeonholed into looking for a quarterback very early in the process.  Instead the team could easily look to address their 30th ranked passing defense of a year ago.   Or they could hope to fill the gigantic void left by the titanic left tackle Walter Jones.   Bulaga is an ideal fit in Offensive Line Coach Alex Gibbs’ zone scheme and as steady a presence at the position as any other in the class.
7	Cleveland						Eric Berry			S/Tennessee
			Analysis: As one of the swing picks early in this process, the Cleveland Browns could land a multitude of differing prospects.  All of which have legitimate arguments as to why they could and/or should be the choice.  Jimmy Clausen, C.J. Spiller, Dan Williams, Jared Odrick, Joe Haden, etc. are all in the conversation.  Which way they decide to move could greatly affect the rest of the draft.   In the end, Eric Berry is the safest and most logical choice for this franchise.  He not only fills one of the Browns’ most glaring needs, but may be considered the last “elite” prospect still on the board.
8	Oakland						Jason Pierre-Paul			DE/South Florida
			Analysis: While looking at the current state of the Raiders’ roster, the league wide joke has become their penchant for selecting athletes over football players.   Pierre-Paul may, once again, fit in this trend. The edge rusher clearly has top ten overall talent, yet the small sample size of his play can be off putting.  In this case, Oakland could continue to build an improving defensive line and have their top prospect learn from the likes of a potential Hall of Famer in Richard Seymour…before the veteran finally finds a way to leave Oaktown.
9	Buffalo						Jimmy Clausen			QB/Notre Dame
			Analysis: Clearly, Jimmy Clausen is the most polarizing figure in this draft class (in regards to the top talents).    His skills would dictate a top ten selection.  Other concerns have continually crept into the conversation.   Buffalo has stated they likely would not choose this signal caller.   If they did not, they would be foolish going into the season with the collective at quarterback known as Edwards/Fitzpatrick/Brohm.   This team needs an overhaul at the position as badly as any other in the league.
10	Jacksonville						Joe Haden			CB/Florida
			Analysis: At points last season, the Jaguars had their starting safety moved over to cover the hole they had at cornerback.  Reggie Nelson is not a full time cover man.  The emergence of rookie Derek Cox was a pleasant surprise.   But if this team ever plans on winning an AFC South division title, they need to find ways to cover the likes of Indianapolis’ and Houston’s wide receivers. After running well at his pro day, Haden is back in the top ten overall conversation. His addition would add athleticism and physicality to the Jaguars backline in hopes of stopping their rivals.
11	Denver (from Chicago)						Dez Bryant			WR/Oklahoma St.
			Analysis: Some difficulties arose slotting Bryant at this juncture based off the previous issues this team recently struggled through with another wide receiver perceived as immature.   By most accounts, Bryant’s off the field issues have been overblown.  Often described as a good kid without much guidance.  Coach McDaniels will look to mold his immense talent in a system which direly requires the services of a receiver in his ilk.  If Bryant can play immediately at a high level, this offense and this team would not skip a beat.
12	Miami						Dan Williams			NT/Tennessee
			Analysis: Nose tackle will continue to be a concern for the Dolphins until someone is selected to replace the soon to be 36 year old Jason Ferguson at the point of attack.   He is an aging zero technique that is also coming off a season ending injury and will now be suspended for the first half of the 2010 NFL season. Dan Williams is a squat and strong defender coming of a fantastic senior campaign while also being the best pure two gap nose tackle among his contemporaries.  A perfect marriage of value plus need.
13	San Francisco						Earl Thomas			S/Texas
			Analysis: Defensively, the 49ers have some solid playmakers in the likes of Patrick Willis, even Justin Smith, and Nate Clements has always been steady at cornerback.   When Clements did finally succumb to injury in his ninth season as a professional, the lack of talent along San Francisco’s secondary became even more apparent.   Thomas has the ability to be a top flight centerfielder or even provide depth at corner.   His natural ballhawking ability would be a welcome addition among a unit which has had its struggles in recent years.
14	Seattle (from Denver)						C.J. Spiller			RB/Clemson
			Analysis: Could this dynamic weapon be too tempting to pass on a second time?  Obviously, the answer is this particular case is…yes.   Coach Pete Carroll, at heart, is a run first coach.   He loves to have great athletes in his backfield who can affect multiple areas of the game.   One only has to look at his recent run with USC to realize Reggie Bush and Joe McKnight were two of his most prized recruits.  Spiller should be able to walk in immediately and help multiple different phases of the game, whether it be running or catching the football or even on special teams.
15	NY Giants						Derrick Morgan			DE/Georgia Tech
			Analysis: The G-Men need help along all three lines of their defensive unit.   Safety was the team’s first concern and was addressed with the signing of Antrel Rolle in free agency.   Attention will now turn to a pass rush which has not been the same since Coach Spagnuolo departed, Michael Strahan retired, and Osi Umenyiora decided to go AWOL.  Morgan is the most polished edge rusher in this class.
16	Tennessee						Rolando McClain			LB/Alabama
			Analysis: A team in transition, the Titans have had major turnover among their stars in recent years.   No longer will the likes of Keith Bulluck, Kevin Mawae, Kyle Vanden Bosch, Albert Haynesworth, or Jevon Kearse be prowling sideline to sideline.  This is now Chris Johnson’s and Vince Young’s team.   But they still lack a defensive identity.    Rolando McClain is the type of cerebral leader who could step in as a rookie and make an instant impact among his contemporaries.  This type of presence will be sorely needed as this team enters a new phase of prosperity under Coach Fisher.
17	San Francisco (from Carolina)						Mike Iupati			OG/Idaho
			Analysis: Outside of the consistent play of Joe Staley at left tackle, the Forty-Niners are looking to overhaul their offensive line.   Teaming their athletic left tackle with the powerful, mauling, and nimble former Vandal could arguably land San Francisco the most talented left side of an offensive line in all of football.   Iupati is one of the most physically gifted guards to enter the NFL in recent memory and could only enhance the power running attack the Niners looks to continually establish.
18	Pittsburgh						Maurkice Pouncey			C/Florida
			Analysis: A great, albeit under the radar, NFL tradition is the lineage of Steeler centers.   Since Jeff Hartings left via free agency (and subsequently retired), the same standard at the pivot has not been seen in the Steel City.  Not only is Maurkice Pouncey clearly rated as the number one overall center prospect, but he could also potentially upgrade their right guard position if needed in his inaugural years at the professional level.   An acquisition of this caliber could help solidify a struggling unit.  While Pittsburgh has more than just issues along the offensive line, this has been its most glaring deficiency in recent years.
19	Atlanta						Brandon Graham			DE/Michigan
			Analysis: A season ago, Atlanta finished in the bottom third of the league in total quarterback sacks.    Hoping to land one of the draft’s top pass rush talents, the Falcons would be quite pleased to see Mr. Graham still on the board.   While the former Wolverine is not an ideal 43 end; he is arguably the most dynamic edge rusher in this class and a load to handle for opposing offensive tackles.
20	Houston						Kyle Wilson			CB/Boise St.
			Analysis: Offensively the Texans have very few issues.  Their defense could definitely use a major overhaul in their secondary.  Their best cover man, Dunta Robinson, left for a large free agent contract in Atlanta.  The rest of their secondary depth chart reads like a chex mix recipe.  With all the talent this team possesses along their front seven, a legitimate playmaker needs added to their backline.   Plus this former Boise Bronco has the added bonus of contributing as a return specialist as well.
21	Cincinnati							Jermaine Gresham			TE/Oklahoma
		Analysis: Talent has never been in question with Gresham as a prospect, but the damage sustained to his knees certainly have.  As the tight end has worked out already this off season, he looks to be getting stronger quickly and should live up to his billing as a first round target.  Landing Gresham in Cincinnati instantly upgrade a below average group which saw the tandem of J.P. Foschi and Daniel Coats shoulder the starting duties. Underwhelming may be an understatement.
22	New England						Jared Odrick			DT/Penn St.
			Analysis: Odrick is a bit of an enigma.  On talent alone, the defensive lineman would dictate going much higher.  But unfortunately for this prospect; his greatest potential lies in being a possible five technique in a 34 base front.  And the bulk of the teams which predominantly employ said defense can be found late in the first round.    Odrick is tailor made for a Bill Belilchick defense.  The interior defender is quick off the snap, technically sound, a hard worker, with good character.   His presence should help lessen the blow of no longer having Richard Seymour to rely.
23	Green Bay						Anthony Davis			OT/Rutgers
			Analysis: Physically, Anthony Davis may be the most gifted offensive lineman in this draft class.  Unfortunately with underwhelming off season workout and questions being raised about his overall work ethic; he could just as easily slide.    The Packers would count their blessings based in their dire need to improve their offensive tackle position.  Although the team was able to re-sign both their veteran tackles this off season, Davis could easily be groomed inside for a year prior to moving out on the island.   The blocker made the same transition in college.
24	Philadelphia						Sergio Kindle			LB/Texas
			Analysis: Ravaged a year ago by injuries along their linebacking corps, the Eagles could benefit greatly by bringing in a talent like Sergio Kindle.   The hybrid has the ability to play end and provide a bookend to Trent Cole with his quickness off the edge, if needed.  He has linebacker experience to slide into the strongside position vacated in the trade of Chris Gocong.  Kindle is also bigger and more athletic than Gocong’s eventual replacement, Moise Fokou.
25	Baltimore						DeMaryius Thomas			WR/Georgia Tech
			Analysis: As the season came to a close, the Ravens may have possessed one of the least intimidating wide receiving corps in all of professional football.   Derrick Mason and Mark Clayton are solid professionals and very reliable, but simply do not strike fear in the heart of opponents.   So, the Ravens went out and acquired one of the best receivers in the game, Anquan Boldin.   Now, they supplement said acquisition with a raw but very talented prospect in Thomas who can learn and grow among their great veteran leadership.  Meanwhile, this receiver’s strengths play right in line with his quarterback’s.  A once bland roster of receivers now is frightening to opposition.
26	Arizona						Charles Brown			OT/USC
			Analysis: Left tackle Mike Gandy had been a solid veteran presence having started 44 straight games for the Cards before being injured and then departing this off season.   While Jeremy Bridges played adequately in his place, the position can certainly use a talent and athleticism upgrade.  As a former tight end, Charles Brown is still growing into the position but is very athletic and well coached coming out of the collegiate ranks.    Depending on a potential early run of offensive tackles, this prospect could hear his name called even sooner.
27	Dallas						Taylor Mays			S/USC
			Analysis: Since Ken Hamlin’s great comeback season in 2007, Dallas has lacked the quality play along their backline which is required to become a legitimate contender.   As a result, Hamlin was released.   One can only imagine Owner Jerry Jones simply slobbering over the potential talent of a prospect such as Taylor Mays.  His size/speed ration is off the charts and would provide much more of a presence than anything seen in Dallas in recent years.
28	San Diego						Ryan Mathews			RB/Fresno St.
				Analysis: With only the diminutive Darren Sproles currently filling the running back position for the Chargers, this is an indication of how desperate their situation is currently.   Mathews has the size, ability, and skill to step in immediately and take over the load for one of the better offenses in the NFL.
29	NY Jets						Devin McCourty			CB/Rutgers
					Analysis: Even with the addition of Antonio Cromartie opposite Darrelle Revis, the Jets’ cornerback position is still very thin.   McCourty would help form one of the most dynamic secondaries in the league.   This will help facilitate Coach Rex Ryan’s penchant to blitz every down.   As well as being a potential nickel corner, McCourty will also have a tremendous effect on New York’s special teams.
30	Minnesota						Kareem Jackson			CB/Alabama
					Analysis: After a fantastic 2009 campaign, the Minnesota Vikings are one of the more talented teams in the National Football League and lack any glaring weakness (as long as Favre returns).   Their depth in their secondary is suspect.   A talent such as Kareem Jackson, who would be afforded the opportunity to learn under a fantastic professional such as Antoine Winfield for a year or two,  has the potential to develop into an outstanding cover man in his own right.
31	Indianapolis						Jerry Hughes			DE/TCU
						Analysis: It will have been four years since both starting defensive ends, Dwight Freeney and Robert Mathis, have played in a full sixteen game schedule.   They have been injury prone while their defensive scheme is predicated on their ability to rush the passer.   Hughes is an absolutely perfect fit in their scheme as another speed demon rushing frantically off the edge.
32	New Orleans								Everson Griffen	DE/USC
					Analysis: With the release of veteran end Charles Grant, the Saints are in a position to upgrade an area already of need prior to said departure.  Griffen physically is very talented.   He is quick and strong off the edge.   He can also play in space if asked when the mad defensive scientist Gregg Williams brings zone blitzes.   The problem with Griffen has always been consistency.

Round 2

Round 3

Finding a home.

Due to a slight delay in regular programming, your UNCANNY MOCK triumphantly returns! Okay…maybe that is a bit of an overstatement. But time is certainly drawing near. A few extra bells and whistles have been included this week. Meanwhile, predicting this class is as challenging as ever with particular talents one expects to land in certain areas sliding due to the overall quality of depth. We will check back one more time next week with a finalized edition just a day prior to the actual event!

Round 1

#	Team						Selection			Position/College
1	St. Louis						Sam Bradford			QB/Oklahoma
			Analysis: For a franchise which has not selected a quarterback prospect in the first round since 1963, eventually the Rams need to take a leap of faith at said position.  While it is certainly easy to slot the likes of Suh or Gerald McCoy at this selection based on their immense talents, St.Louis has finished with a top three choice in the draft three years running.  The dominance of a defensive tackle simply cannot affect the win column as much as landing a franchise quarterback. Sam Bradford looked exceptionally well in his recent workout, which should only solidify his standing at the potential number one overall selection.
2	Detroit						Ndamukong Suh			DT/Nebraska
			Analysis: With the Rams likely going quarterback number one overall, the Lions have the luxury of selecting whichever of the top two prospects they prefer along the defensive line or even an offensive tackle.   Suh is the bigger and more physical of the two defensive tackles that can play more one technique to compliment the recently acquired Corey Williams from Cleveland and Kyle Vanden Bosch at end.  Left tackle Russell Okung seems to be gaining steam for this pick, but the Lions should be happy with the draft’s number one overall prospect in Suh.
3	Tampa Bay						Gerald McCoy			DT/Oklahoma
			Analysis: At least one source within the Buccaneers organization has stated the team actually prefers this McCoy over the highly decorated Suh.  The preference would be based merely on style and system.   If Tampa is going to once again rely on a heavy attacking Cover 2 scheme, which they reverted to late last season, McCoy is the disruptive type of three technique they desperately need to build around.
4	Washington						Russell Okung			OT/Oklahoma St.
			Analysis: The acquisition of Donovan McNabb to lead Coach Shanahan’s offense squashes any previous thoughts of selecting a signal caller at this position.   Instead, the Redskins land arguably the draft’s top left tackle to continue their overhaul of a porous offensive line.   Okung’s flexibility and athleticism on the blindside make him an ideal blocker for McNabb’s backside, and a tone setter for his coach’s vaunted running attack.
5	Kansas City						Bryan Bulaga			OT/Iowa
			Analysis: Conversation around KC has centered on potentially drafting the best available prospect in safety Eric Berry or upgrading along the offensive line.   In this case, it is starting to appear most beneficial for the team to land their potential rock at left tackle; thus completely solidifying an offensive line which was horrible a year ago.    Instead of waiting for Branden Albert to continue improving; landing a steady talent like Bulaga, sliding Albert inside or to right tackle,  while also adding Ryan Lilja in free agency will only help an offense which has plenty invested in the likes of Matt Cassell and now their running attack.
6	Seattle						Eric Berry			S/Tennessee
			Analysis: Adding a young promising veteran in Charlie Whitehurst into the equation takes a lot of pressure off this particular selection.  Now the ‘Hawks are not necessarily pigeonholed into looking for a quarterback very early in the process.  Instead the team could easily look to address their 30th ranked passing defense of a year ago.   Berry may just be the “safest” pick in this draft and a likely instant playmaker in the secondary which this particular team desperately needs.
7	Cleveland						Jimmy Clausen			QB/Notre Dame
			Analysis: Rule number one as the draft nears…NEVER listen to what NFL decision makers are saying the last weeks leading to their actual selection.  Case in point, President Holmgren stated earlier in the process, “I wish I liked him more” in regards to Clausen.  A few days later, that same prospect is flying to Cleveland for a personal visit. He also increased interest with a tantalizing pro day performance.  This team in particular desperately needs a franchise type signal caller on which to hang their hat.   Potentially replacing his predecessor at both Notre Dame and Cleveland; Jimmy Clausen has all the tools to be that franchise quarterback.
8	Oakland						Trent Williams			OT/Oklahoma
			Analysis: The automatic choices for Raiders’ owner Al Davis would seem to be Bruce Campbell, Jason Pierre-Paul, or Taylor Mays after their spectacular performances at the Combine and undeniable physical gifts.   While Campbell in particular was lighting up the field in Indianapolis, another offensive lineman was having a great workout of his own…Trent Williams.   Williams is certainly the more polished of the two aforementioned prospects and can immediately help Oakland’s woeful offensive tackle situation.
9	Buffalo						Dan Williams			DT/Tennessee
			Analysis: In an odd coincidence, last year’s top zero technique prospect, B.J. Raji, went ninth overall.  Buffalo could make the same decision in the same slot in this year’s draft.   Bills’ fans would have to come away somewhat disappointed to not land either a quarterback or one of the top three offensive tackles in this class.   Williams is far from a consolation prize, especially considering the importance of a good zero technique in their newly fashioned 34 base defense.   A scheme which currently lacks any true two gapping nose tackles on the roster currently.
10	Jacksonville						Joe Haden			CB/Florida
			Analysis: At points last season, the Jaguars had their starting safety moved over to cover the hole they had at cornerback.  Reggie Nelson is not a full time cover man.  The emergence of rookie Derek Cox was a pleasant surprise.   But if this team ever plans on winning an AFC South division title, they need to find ways to cover the likes of Indianapolis’ and Houston’s wide receivers. After running well at his pro day, Haden is back in the top ten overall conversation. His addition would add athleticism and physicality to the Jaguars backline in hopes of stopping those divisional opponents.
11	Denver (from Chicago)						Rolando McClain			LB/Alabama
			Analysis: McClain’s revelation about his suffering through Crohn’s disease should not have too much of an impact on his draft status…if everything checks out properly.  The Butkus Award winner never missed a game in his collegiate career despite the aforementioned malady.  Denver continues to revamp their front seven by replacing their entire starting defensive line, and then releasing an average Andra Davis at Buck linebacker with an oversized and intelligent field general.
12	Miami						Earl Thomas			S/Texas
			Analysis: Safety play for the Dolphins was erratic a year ago.  While suffering through the growing pains of having two rookie cornerbacks starting, the backline must be steady.   As both Sean Smith and Vontae Davis continue to grow in their respective roles, Earl Thomas can be the playmaker along the backline to wipe away a ton of sins.   Overall as Miami becomes more athletic in the secondary, they can hope to stop New England’s passing attack which has been a thorn in all AFC East opponents.
13	San Francisco						Brandon Graham			DE/Michigan
			Analysis: Over the past four years, the 49ers current starting outside linebackers have averaged ten sacks per season COMBINED.  In a 34 front, where a team’s primary pass rush comes from said linebackers, this is absolutely inexcusable.  Manny Lawson and Parys Haralson simply have not lived up to expectations.   Whereas Brandon Graham has been a consistent threat off the edge his entire college career and absolutely unblockable at times.   He is exactly the hardworking downhill football player Coach Singletary will come to love.
14	Seattle (from Denver)						C.J. Spiller			RB/Clemson
			Analysis: Could this dynamic weapon be too tempting to pass on a second time?  Obviously, the answer is this particular case is…yes.   Coach Pete Carroll, at heart, is a run first coach.   He loves to have great athletes in his backfield who can affect multiple areas of the game.   One only has to look at his recent run with USC to realize Reggie Bush and Joe McKnight were two of his most prized recruits.  Spiller should be able to walk in immediately and help multiple different phases of the game, whether it be running or catching the football or even on special teams.
15	NY Giants						Derrick Morgan			DE/Georgia Tech
			Analysis: The G-Men need help along all three lines of their defensive unit.   Safety was the team’s first concern and was addressed with the signing of Antrel Rolle in free agency.   Attention will now turn to a pass rush which has not been the same since Coach Spagnuolo departed, Michael Strahan retired, and Osi Umenyiora decided to go AWOL.  Morgan is the most polished edge rusher in this class.
16	Tennessee						Jason Pierre-Paul			DE/South Florida
a			Analysis: A physical marvel, Jason Pierre-Paul is an ideal edge rusher.  His downfall is simply a lack of experience.  And for NFL talent evaluators, a lack of quality tape on his play.  The Titans will hope he can transition easily to the professional ranks and continue to create the type of havoc they have grew accustomed with names like Jevon Kearse, Albert Hayensworth, and Kyle Vanden Bosch over the years.
17	San Francisco (from Carolina)						Mike Iupati			OG/Idaho
			Analysis: Outside of the consistent play of Joe Staley at left tackle, the Forty-Niners are looking to overhaul their offensive line.   Teaming their athletic left tackle with the powerful, mauling, and nimble former Vandal could arguably land San Francisco the most talented left side of an offensive line in all of football.   Iupati is one of the most physically gifted guards to enter the NFL in recent memory and could only enhance the power running attack the Niners looks to continually establish.
18	Pittsburgh						Maurkice Pouncey			C/Florida
			Analysis: A great, albeit under the radar, NFL tradition is the lineage of Steeler centers.   Since Jeff Hartings left via free agency (and subsequently retired), the same standard at the pivot has not been seen in the Steel City.  Not only is Maurkice Pouncey clearly rated is the number one overall center prospect, but he could also potentially upgrade their right guard position as well in his inaugural years at the professional level.   An acquisition of this caliber could help solidify a struggling unit.  Going wide receiver would be intriguing here, but replacing one headache with possibly another simply would not be in the best interest of this team, especially considering their deficiencies up front.
19	Atlanta						Dez Bryant			WR/Oklahoma St.
			Analysis: Round and round he goes.  Where he stops…no one quite knows.  Maybe this hullabaloo currently surrounding a very talented prospect has been overblown.   Bryant has never faced any legitimate off the field issues.   According to his coaches, he was never a problem in the locker room.   Yet, it is hard to overlook the little things which seem to be holding this consensus top ten talent down.  In any case, the Falcons need a complimentary receiver opposite the talented Roddy White.   Michael Jenkins has been a disappointment in his career, and Harry Douglas is coming off major surgery.   Dez Bryant would simply be too tempting to pass.
20	Houston						Kyle Wilson			CB/Boise St.
			Analysis: Offensively the Texans have a few slight issues, but it is their defensive secondary which needs a major overhaul.  Their best cover man, Dunta Robinson, left for a large free agent contract in Atlanta.  The rest of their secondary depth chart reads like a chex mix recipe.  With all the talent this team possesses along their front seven, a legitimate playmaker needs added to their backline.   Plus this former Boise Bronco has the added bonus of contributing as a return specialist as well.
21	Cincinnati							Jermaine Gresham			TE/Oklahoma
		Analysis: Talent has never been in question with Gresham as a prospect, but the damage sustained to his knees certainly have.  As the tight end has worked out already this off season, he looks to be getting stronger quickly and should live up to his billing as a first round target.  Landing Gresham in Cincinnati instantly upgrade a below average group which saw the tandem of J.P. Foschi and Daniel Coats shoulder the starting duties. Underwhelming may be an understatement.
22	New England						Jared Odrick			DT/Penn St.
			Analysis: Odrick is a bit of an enigma.  On talent alone, the defensive lineman would dictate going much higher.  But unfortunately for this prospect; his greatest potential lies in being a possible five technique in a 34 base front.  And the bulk of the teams which predominantly employ said defense can be found late in the first round.    Odrick is tailor made for a Bill Belilchick defense.  The interior defender is quick off the snap, technically sound, a hard worker, with good character.   His presence should help lessen the blow of no longer having Richard Seymour to rely.
23	Green Bay						Anthony Davis			OT/Rutgers
			Analysis: Physically, Anthony Davis may be the most gifted offensive lineman in this draft class.  Unfortunately with a recent bad workout and questions being raised about his overall work ethic; he could just as easily slide.    The Packers would count their blessings based in their dire need to improve their offensive tackle position.  Although the team was able to re-sign both their veteran tackles this off season, Davis could easily be groomed inside for a year prior to moving out on the island.   He made the same transition in college.
24	Philadelphia						Sergio Kindle			LB/Texas
			Analysis: Ravaged a year ago by injuries along their linebacking corps, the Eagles could benefit greatly by bringing in a talent like Sergio Kindle.   The hybrid has the ability to play end and provide a bookend to Trent Cole with his quickness off the edge, if needed.  He has linebacker experience to slide into the strongside position recently vacated in the trade of Chris Gocong.  Kindle is also bigger and more athletic than Gocong’s eventual replacement, Moise Fokou.
25	Baltimore						DeMaryius Thomas			WR/Georgia Tech
			Analysis: As the season came to a close, the Ravens may have possessed one of the least intimidating wide receiving corps in all of professional football.   Derrick Mason and Mark Clayton are solid professionals and very reliable, but simply do not strike fear in the heart of opponents.   So, the Ravens go out and acquire one of the best receivers in the game, Anquan Boldin.   Now, they supplement said acquisition with a raw but very talented prospect in Thomas who can learn and grow among their great veteran leadership.  Meanwhile, this receiver’s strengths play right in line with his quarterback’s.  A once bland roster of receivers now is frightening to opposition.
26	Arizona						Charles Brown			OT/USC
			Analysis: Left tackle Mike Gandy had been a solid veteran presence having started 44 straight games for the Cards before being injured and then departing this off season.   While Jeremy Bridges played adequately in his place, the position can certainly use a talent and athleticism upgrade.  As a former tight end, Charles Brown is still growing into the position but is very athletic and well coaching coming out of the college ranks.    Depending on the early run off offensive tackles, this prospect could hear his name called even sooner.
27	Dallas						Taylor Mays			S/USC
			Analysis: Since Ken Hamlin’s great comeback season in 2007, Dallas has lacked the quality play along their backline which is required to become a legitimate contender.   As a result, Hamlin was released.   One can only imagine Owner Jerry Jones simply slobbering over the potential talent of a prospect such as Taylor Mays.  His size/speed ration is off the charts and would provide much more of a presence than anything seen in Dallas in recent years.
28	San Diego						Ryan Mathews			RB/Fresno St.
				Analysis: With only the diminutive Darren Sproles currently filling the running back position for the Chargers, this is an indication of how desperate their situation is currently.   Mathews has the size, ability, and skill to step in immediately and take over the load for one of the better offenses in the NFL.
29	NY Jets						Devin McCourty			CB/Rutgers
					Analysis: Even with the addition of Antonio Cromartie opposite Darrelle Revis, the Jets’ cornerback position is still very thin.   McCourty would help form one of the most dynamic secondaries in the league.   This will help facilitate Coach Rex Ryan’s penchant to blitz every down.   As well as being a potential nickel corner, McCourty will also have a tremendous effect on New York’s special teams.
30	Minnesota						Patrick Robinson			CB/Florida St.
					Analysis: After a fantastic 2009 campaign, the Minnesota Vikings are one of the more talented teams in the National Football League and lack any glaring weakness (as long as Favre returns).   Their depth in their secondary is suspect.   A talent such as Patrick Robinson, who would be afforded the opportunity to learn under a fantastic professional such as Antoine Winfield for a year or two, and has the potential to develop into an outstanding cover man in his own right.
31	Indianapolis						Jerry Hughes			DE/TCU
						Analysis: It will have been four years since both starting defensive ends, Dwight Freeney and Robert Mathis, have played in a full sixteen game schedule.   They have been injury prone while their defensive scheme is predicated on their ability to rush the passer.   Hughes is an absolutely perfect fit in their scheme as another speed demon rushing frantically off the edge.
32	New Orleans								Everson Griffen	DE/USC
					Analysis: With the release of veteran end Charles Grant, the Saints are in a position to upgrade an area already of need prior to said departure.  Griffen physically is very talented.   He is quick and strong off the edge.   He can also play in space if asked when the mad defensive scientist Gregg Williams brings zone blitzes.   The problem with Griffen has always been consistency.

Round 2

Round 3

Round 4

The love me. They love me not.

After being bumped for more informative pro day coverage, the Uncanny Mock rides once again!   In this instance with a lack of overall league wide movement due to the owner’s meetings; only slight adjustments have been made to this weekend’s installment.  A few compensatory picks were added.   With the NFL draft less than a month away, overall draft boards should be rounding into shape for the home stretch.

Round 1

#	Team						Selection			Position/College
1	St. Louis						Sam Bradford			QB/Oklahoma
			Analysis: For a franchise which has not selected a quarterback prospect in the first round since 1963, eventually the Rams need to take a leap of faith at said position.  While it is certainly easy to slot the likes of Suh or Gerald McCoy at this selection based on their immense talents, St.Louis has finished with a top three choice in the draft three years running.  The dominance of a defensive tackle simply cannot affect the win column as much as landing a franchise quarterback. Sam Bradford will throw for scouts for the first time this week which should be a heavily attended event.  His efforts could solidify his standing at the frontrunner for the first overall selection.
2	Detroit						Ndamukong Suh			DT/Nebraska
			Analysis: With the Rams predicament, the Lions have the luxury of selecting whichever of the top two prospects they prefer along the defensive line.   Suh is the bigger and more physical of the two that can play more 1 technique to compliment the recently acquired Corey Williams from Cleveland and Kyle Vanden Bosch at end.  Left tackle Russell Okung seems to be gaining steam for this pick, but the Lions should be happy with the draft’s number one overall prospect in Suh.
3	Tampa Bay						Gerald McCoy			DT/Oklahoma
			Analysis: At least one source within the Buccaneers organization has stated the team actually prefers this McCoy over the highly decorated Suh.  The preference would be based merely on style and system.   If Tampa is going to once again rely on a heavy attacking Cover 2 scheme, which they reverted to late last season, McCoy is the disruptive type of 3 technique they desperately need to build around.
4	Washington						Russell Okung			OT/Oklahoma St.
			Analysis: Uncertainty around the quarterback position makes this selection very intriguing.   The recent signing of Rex Grossman means less than nothing.  With the retirement of veteran stalwart Chris Samuels, and the dearth of talent along the ‘Skins offensive line, taking arguably the draft’s top left tackle prospect appears the most prudent decision. Especially considering Okung’s overall athleticism and how well it would translate to new Head Coach Mike Shanahan’s offensive system.
5	Kansas City						Bryan Bulaga			OT/Iowa
			Analysis: Conversation around KC has centered on potentially drafting the best available prospect in safety Eric Berry or upgrading along the offensive line.   In this case, it is starting to appear most beneficial for the team to land their potential rock at left tackle; thus completely solidifying an offensive line which was horrible a year ago.    Instead of waiting for Branden Albert to continue improving; landing a steady talent like Bulaga, sliding Albert inside or to RT,  while also adding Ryan Lilja in free agency will only help an offense which has plenty invested in the likes of Matt Cassell and now their running attack.
6	Seattle						Eric Berry			S/Tennessee
			Analysis: Recently adding Charlie Whitehurst into the equation takes a lot of pressure off this particular selection.  Now the ‘Hawks are not necessarily pigeonholed into looking for a quarterback very early in the process.  Instead the team could easily look to address their 30th ranked passing defense of a year ago.   Berry may just be the “safest” pick in this draft and a likely instant playmaker in the secondary which this particular team desperately needs.
7	Cleveland						Jimmy Clausen			QB/Notre Dame
			Analysis: Rule number one as the draft nears…NEVER listen to what NFL decision makers are saying the last weeks leading to their actual selection.  Case in point, President Holmgren recently stated, “I wish I liked him more” in regards to Clausen.  A few days later, the prospect is flying to Cleveland for a personal visit.   This team in particular desperately needs a franchise type signal caller on which to hang their hat.   Potentially replacing his predecessor at both Notre Dame and Cleveland; Jimmy Clausen has all the tools of a franchise quarterback.
8	Oakland						Trent Williams			OT/Oklahoma
			Analysis: The automatic choices for Raiders’ owner Al Davis would seem to be Bruce Campbell, Jason Pierre-Paul, or Taylor Mays after their spectacular performances at the Combine and undeniable physical gifts.   While Campbell in particular was lighting up the field in Indianapolis, another offensive lineman was having a great workout of his own…Trent Williams.   Williams is certainly the more polished of the two aforementioned prospects and can immediately help Oakland’s woeful offensive tackle situation.
9	Buffalo						Dez Bryant			WR/Oklahoma St.
			Analysis: With the departure of the incomparable Terrell Owens via free agency, two of Buffalo’s top three returning receivers were their running backs.  There were reasons why this team took the gamble on Owens, and many of those same principles still apply if the selection is Bryant.  The team needs to become more exciting.  They need dynamic talents.   Their offense has trouble stretching the field vertically.   All in hopes of selling more tickets and staying a viable franchise.
10	Jacksonville						Joe Haden			CB/Florida
			Analysis: At points last season, the Jaguars had their starting safety moved over to cover the hole they had at cornerback.  Reggie Nelson is not a full time cover man.  The emergence of rookie Derek Cox was a pleasant surprise.   But if this team ever plans on winning an AFC South division title, they need to find ways to cover the likes of Indianapolis’ and Houston’s wide receivers. After running well at his pro day, Haden is back in the top ten overall conversation. His addition would add athleticism and physicality to the Jaguars backline in hopes of stopping those divisional opponents.
11	Denver (from Chicago)						Rolando McClain			LB/Alabama
			Analysis: McClain’s recent revelation about his suffering through Crohn’s disease should not have too much of an impact on his draft status…if everything checks out properly.  The Butkus Award winner never missed a game in his collegiate career despite the aforementioned malady.  Denver continues to revamp their front seven by replacing an average Andra Davis at Mac linebacker with an oversized and intelligent field general.
12	Miami						Dan Williams			DT/Tennessee
			Analysis: Nose tackle will continue to be a concern for the Dolphins until someone is selected to replace the soon to be 36 year old Jason Ferguson at the point of attack.   He is an aging 0 technique that is also coming off a season ending injury and will now be suspended for the first half of the 2010 NFL season. Dan Williams is a squat and strong defender coming of a fantastic senior campaign while also being the best pure two gap nose tackle among his contemporaries.  A perfect marriage of value plus need.
13	San Francisco						Earl Thomas			S/Texas
			Analysis: San Francisco could go in numerous directions with needs at their right tackle position, more wide receiver help, etc.  Any help along the secondary is a dire need for a defensive based team who is very thin along the back line.   Earl Thomas is the type of playmaker over the top that has a natural feel against the passing game and makes up for a multitude of mistakes by inferior cornerback play.
14	Seattle (from Denver)						C.J. Spiller			RB/Clemson
			Analysis: Could this dynamic weapon be too tempting to pass on a second time?  Obviously, the answer is this particular case is…yes.   Coach Pete Carroll, at heart, is a run first coach.   He loves to have great athletes in his backfield who can affect multiple areas of the game.   One only has to look at his recent run with USC to realize Reggie Bush and Joe McKnight were two of his most prized recruits.  Spiller should be able to walk in immediately and help multiple different phases of the game, whether it be running or catching the football or even on special teams.
15	NY Giants						Derrick Morgan			DE/Georgia Tech
			Analysis: The G-Men need help along all three lines of their defensive unit.   Safety was the team’s first concern and was addressed with the signing of Antrel Rolle in free agency.   Attention will now turn to a pass rush which has not been the same since Coach Spagnuolo departed, Michael Strahan retired, and Osi Umenyiora decided to go AWOL.  Morgan is the most polished edge rusher in this class.
16	Tennessee						Brandon Graham			DE/Michigan
			Analysis: Although slightly undersized as a traditional 43 defensive end, it never prevented Brandon Graham from being productive at the collegiate level.   The Titans will hope he can transition easily to the professional ranks and continue to create the type of havoc they have grew accustomed with names like Jevon Kearse, Albert Hayensworth, and Kyle Vanden Bosch over the years.
17	San Francisco (from Carolina)						Jason Pierre-Paul			DE/South Florida
			Analysis: It is hard to slot exactly where this tremendous physical talent shall eventually land.  Pierre-Paul possesses legitimate top ten overall ability.   Yet it was only seen for one season as a part time starter in South Florida.  Deciding when and where this talent finally gets selected will be an interesting dilemma as the actual draft commences.   In this scenario Coach Singletary gets a potential premiere pass rushing talent to add to his underachieving group already at the position.
18	Pittsburgh						Bruce Campbell			OT/Maryland
			Analysis: Despite a Super Bowl victory two seasons ago and then falling just short of the playoffs this past season, the Steelers offensive line has continued to be one of the weaker units in the league.   Quarterback Ben Roethlisberger has been one of the top sacked signal callers in the league.  Yet this team has yet to seriously address the situation.   Campbell is the type of athlete the team has sorely lacked up front for years.  And under the vision of Mike Tomlin as head coach, Pittsburgh has looked toward becoming more athletic overall.
19	Atlanta						Taylor Mays			S/USC
			Analysis: A great workout by Mays at the Combine has once again landed this prospect squarely into the first round range.   His freakish athleticism has never been questioned, but his play on the field has.   On a team like the Falcons, they need playmakers in the secondary and can be afforded the chance on a high ceiling prospect with plenty of bust potential.
20	Houston						Kyle Wilson			CB/Boise St.
			Analysis: Offensively the Texans have a few slight issues, but it is their defensive secondary which needs a major overhaul.  Their best cover man, Dunta Robinson, left for a large free agent contract in Atlanta.  The rest of their secondary depth chart reads like a chex mix recipe.  With all the talent this team possesses along their front seven, a legitimate playmaker needs added to their backline.   Plus this former Boise Bronco has the added bonus of contributing as a return specialist as well.
21	Cincinnati							Jared Odrick			DT/Penn St.
		Analysis: Previous reasoning behind the Bengals potentially selecting an interior defensive prospect still applies.  Even with the re-signing of Tank Johnson, a presence is needed to be a constant disruptive force pushing the middle of the pocket to compliment their athletic ends and shut down cornerbacks.   In this case, Odrick is a more versatile and talented prospect than the previous allotted prospect.
22	New England						DeMaryius Thomas			WR/Georgia Tech
			Analysis: When Randy Moss says his time in New England is coming to a close, well everyone should….listen….?    Whatever the case, Thomas will need time to develop as a receiver coming out of Georgia Tech’s triple option attack.  His physical presence opposite Moss can form a dynamic duo while learning under one of the all time best, plus picking up some of the slack left by the West Welker injury.  Apparently, those around the league still believe this receiver is a first round selection.   Injuries be…
23	Green Bay						Anthony Davis			OT/Rutgers
			Analysis: Physically, Anthony Davis may be the most gifted offensive lineman in this draft class.  Unfortunately with some bad off season workouts and questions being raised about his overall work ethic; he could just as easily slide.    The Packers would count their blessings based in their dire need to improve their offensive tackle position.  The team was able to re-sign both their veteran tackles, so Davis could easily be groomed inside for a year prior to moving out on the island.
24	Philadelphia						Sean Weatherspoon			LB/Missouri
			Analysis: Ravaged a year ago by injuries along their linebacking corps, the Eagles could benefit greatly by bringing in a talent and personality like Sean Weatherspoon.   ‘Spoon can play inside or outside and is just as comfortable dropping back in coverage as he is running sideline to sideline defending the run.
25	Baltimore						Carlos Dunlap			DE/Florida
			Analysis: Receiving good reviews from scouts early in the off season process, Dunlap had been discussed previously as having a penchant for not playing to his fullest while at Florida.   He has the potential to be a dominant 5 technique opposite Haloti Ngata.   With a locker room as strong as the one found in Baltimore, along with the veteran presence on the field, the Ravens could expect to get the best out of this tremendous talent.
26	Arizona						Jermaine Gresham			TE/Oklahoma
			Analysis: Talent has never been in question with Gresham as a prospect, but the damage sustained to his knees certainly have.  As the tight end has worked out already this off season, he looks to be getting stronger quickly and should live up to his billing as a first round target.  Landing Gresham in Arizona should help as a potential security blanket for two inconsistent signal callers, whichever wins the job.   Plus Gresham is a viable blocker if need be.
27	Dallas						Mike Iupati			OG/Idaho
			Analysis: The average age for the Cowboys’ starting offensive line next season is over 32 years.  Owner/General Manager Jerry Jones loves big, physical, and nasty offensive linemen.   Enter Mike Iupati who fits the bill to a tee.   The former Vandal needs refinement in technique, but his natural ability is off the charts for a guard prospect.
28	San Diego						Ryan Mathews			RB/Fresno St.
				Analysis: In a surprise move, the Chargers finally tendered running back Darren Sproles just prior to the flood of free agency.  This is merely an indication of how desperate their situation is currently at running back.   Matthews has the size, ability, and skill to step in immediately and take over the load for one of the better offenses in the NFL.
29	NY Jets						Devin McCourty			CB/Rutgers
					Analysis: Even with the addition of Antonio Cromartie opposite Darrelle Revis, the Jets’ cornerback position is still very thin.   McCourty would help form one of the most dynamic secondaries in the league.   This will help facilitate Coach Rex Ryan’s penchant to blitz every down.   As well as being a potential nickel corner, McCourty will also have a tremendous effect on New York’s special teams.
30	Minnesota						Maurkice Pouncey			C/Florida
					Analysis: John Sullivan took over at center last off season when veteran rock Matt Birk departed for more purple pastures.   While the Notre Dame graduate did an adequate job on the pivot, he does not set the point of attack as consistently as his predecessor once did.   The difference was noticeable in their ample running attack. Now right guard Artis Hicks has departed in free agency as well.  On a team without too many holes, they select the top center and one of the best interior blockers in this class to off set said problems.
31	Indianapolis						Charles Brown			OT/USC
						Analysis: Priority number one for the Colts…protect Peyton Manning.  Former second round pick, Tony Ugoh has been a disappointment after a stellar rookie campaign.   Charlie Johnson is solid but is not the long term answer at the position.  Charles Brown has the athleticism and upside to be a perfect fit as the blindside protector in the Colt’s high octane offense.
32	New Orleans								Everson Griffen	DE/USC
					Analysis: With the release of veteran end Charles Grant, the Saints are in a position to upgrade an area already of need prior to said departure.  Griffen physically is very talented.   He is quick and strong off the edge.   He can also play in space if asked when the mad defensive scientist Gregg Williams brings zone blitzes.   The problem with Griffen has always been consistency.

Round 2

Round 3