Look into the crystal ball.

What would any self respecting draft site be without a future mock while the previous draft still looms merely hours, days, or even weeks behind?

Scout Brent Sobleski lobs his opening salvo for the 2011 NFL draft into the mix.

His interpretation sees another strong defensive line class, top wide receivers, and more than a few interesting skill position targets.

As for a couple particulars…

Draft order itself was determined by those smarter than most…Vegas odds.

Also an asterisk identifies an underclassman.

As always, visit TFY’s forums to strum up conversation on this and all stories!

Round 1

#	Team		Selection	Position/College
1	Buffalo		Jake Locker	QB/Washington
		Analysis: Eventually, preferably soon, the Bills will have to commit to a quarterback of the future. Unfortunately, it looks like this team will throw away another season before they come to this realization. Locker has the athleticism and potential to fit nicely into Coach Gailey’s offensive posturings (at least from what he has shown previously as a head coach).
2	Tampa Bay		Patrick Peterson*	CB/LSU
		Analysis: 6-feet-1-inch, 210 plus pounds of cornerback who can move fluidly are very hard to come by, and Tampa Bay will continue to build a better than average young defensive unit.    Peterson’s size and physicality would lend quite well in this team’s predominant Cover 2 scheme.
3	St. Louis		Julio Jones*	WR/Alabama
		Analysis: Step one…acquire franchise signal caller.  Check.   Step two…provide said investment with weapons to succeed.   Check.   Julio Jones is as polished and talented a receiver as one will find in a stacked positional class.
4	Kansas City		Robert Quinn*	DE/North Carolina
		Analysis: The Chiefs could once again look to add a defensive playmaker three straight seasons among the draft’s top five selections.   Quinn may be the most dynamic edge rusher since Mario Williams went number one overall in 2006.
5	Detroit		Prince Amukamara	CB/Nebraska
		Analysis: Remember what was just said three picks ago?  Ditto.  The Lions will still be searching for their left tackle, but in Amukamara they address one of the team’s biggest issues while adding a potential elite talent at a premium position.
6	New England (from Oakland)		Marcel Dareus*	DE/Alabama
		Analysis: The Patriots use the pick acquired in the Richard Seymour deal to land a similar cornerstone piece along their defensive line.
7	Cleveland		Cameron Heyward	DE/Ohio St.
		Analysis: Although a franchise quarterback seems the most likely destination for this selection, the team will have to decide if they like Colt McCoy enough to pass.  Instead, an ideal 5 technique such as Heyward could add a playmaker along this team’s defensive front.
8	Jacksonville		Andrew Luck**	QB/Stanford
		Analysis: Ruminations are already swirling about the Jaguars looking to add a young quarterback later in this off season.   With all the previous discussions of potentially drafting Tim Tebow, then some Brady Quinn thrown into the mix recently, the most logical decision for this franchise is to select their signal caller now.
9	Denver		Jerrell Powe	DT/Mississippi
		Analysis: Very few commodities in the NFL are as valuable as a legitimate two gap nose tackle.   Jamal Williams was a solid signing this off season, but his best days are far behind the ample run stuffer.   The Broncos could look toward Powe to become the rock in the middle of their defense.
10	Arizona		Ryan Mallett*	QB/Arkansas
		Analysis: Big, strong armed, and possessing rare throwing ability; if Ryan Mallett improves his overall touch then he could go even higher in this particular draft.   Now, one has to wonder if the Cards legitimately have anything behind center in Matt Leinart or Derek Anderson.
11	Seattle		A.J. Green*	WR/Georgia
		Analysis: If draft numero uno under new General Manager John Schneider and Coach Carroll is any indication; this team will continually select the best talent available in hopes of keeping this roster on the upswing.  Green would add a legitimate presence as the team’s top receiving target.
12	Carolina		Da’Quan Bowers*	DE/Clemson
		Analysis: Finally, the Panthers acquire the type of talent they have been searching along their defensive line the past few seasons.   Bowers has the potential to be an elite edge rusher at the next level if he finally puts everything together on the field.
13	Chicago		Jonathan Baldwin*	WR/Pittsburgh
		Analysis: Huge, physical target prepared for the professional ranks by none other than former Bears *beloved* head coach Dave Wannstedt.  Hopefully, and mercifully, this will put an end to the thought of Devin Hester as the team’s top receiving target.
14	Cincinnati		Mark Ingram*	RB/Alabama
		Analysis: Cedric Benson’s re-emergence in Cincinnati is a fantastic story, but he lacks the explosive qualities of a prospect such as Ingram.  Factor in Benson’s 500 plus carries over the past two years entering the 2010 season, plus being nearly 30 years old; and the Bengals would be wise to add another power back into their system.
15	Miami		DeAndre McDaniel	S/Clemson
		Analysis: One of the issues the Dolphins hoped to address in their most recent draft class was upgrading the safety position.  Fifth round selection, Reshad Jones, likely is not the answer.  Enter McDaniel who is the arguably the most well rounded safety prospect in the class.
16	Tennessee		Bruce Carter	LB/North Carolina
		Analysis: Offensively, the Titans already have Chris Johnson and Vince Young to build their identity.   Defensively, they will be searching to re-establish themselves.   The acquisitions of Derrick Morgan in ’10 and potentially Carter in ’11 could form a dynamic defensive duo.
17	Atlanta		Greg Romeus	DE/Pittsburgh
		Analysis: Shut out of the defense end derby in this past year’s draft, the Falcons quickly snatch up a pass rusher with the upside of a Romeus.   The big defensive lineman will disappear in games for extended periods but has shown a knack for the big play when called upon.
18	NY Giants		Allen Bailey	DT/Miami
		Analysis: The interior duo of Fred Robbins and Barry Cofield quickly fell out of a favor among this roster, further thinning out a once fearsome front four.   The Giants already started to address the unit by adding Jason Pierre-Paul at end and continue improving the athleticism and disruptiveness tremendously with an addition such as Allen Bailey.
19	Washington		Michael Floyd*	WR/Notre Dame
		Analysis: Both Devin Thomas and Malcolm Floyd made strides in year two wearing a Redskins’ uniform.  How they will adjust to Coach Shanahan’s offense is still in question.   This team still lacks marquee playmakers to surround their addition of Donovan McNabb.   Floyd’s overall status should improve once his health is less of a concern.
20	Houston		Chykie Brown	CB/Texas
		Analysis: Adding Kareem Jackson at one cornerback position is only fighting half the battle.   This team still severely lacks talent in the secondary.   By adding Brown in this scenario, the team now has two viable and talented starting corners to hopefully counteract divisional powerhouse Indianapolis’ fearsome passing attack.
21	San Francisco		Christian Ponder	QB/Florida St.
		Analysis: The NFC West is up for the taking this season, and the 49ers could be this year’s leading contender despite their situation behind center.   Alex Smith enters a potential make or break season as San Fran’s signal caller.  If he slips up, they could be looking elsewhere with Ponder as an intelligent and athletic option.
22	Pittsburgh		Anthony Castonzo	OT/Boston College
		Analysis: Without the natural playmaking ability of Ben Roethlisberger on the roster for a chunk of the upcoming season, the glaring deficiency in regards to the team’s overall pass blocking shortcomings will become even more apparent.  Simply put, Max Starks is not a NFL left tackle.
23	Philadelphia		Marvin Austin	DT/North Carolina
		Analysis: Always looking to improve in the trenches, Philadelphia bets on the high upside of a Marvin Austin.  A talent level which screams top ten overall, yet has not seen the type of production expected since his freshman campaign.
24	Baltimore		Chimdi Chekwa	CB/Ohio St.
		Analysis: Overall quality depth can be improved along the Ravens’ backline.  If Chekwa put together his tremendous physical tools and harnesses them into a complete game as a senior; his overall stock could potentially skyrocket.
25	Green Bay		Ryan Williams**	RB/Virginia Tech
		Analysis: As a redshirt sophomore, one should not necessarily expect Ryan Williams to return to school for another season.   His play on the field has been spectacular for one season, and this dynamic back will look to string together back to back dominant efforts.  All in hopes of entering the professional ranks adding to an incredible offense with some slight struggles running the ball consistently.
26	Minnesota		Michael Pouncey	OG/Florida
		Analysis: Minnesota’s offensive interior becomes even more a concern with the departure of swing man Artis Hicks.  With a potential shift inside to center to replace his twin brother, Michael Pouncey is one of the most powerful and versatile interior blockers in the nation.
27	New England		Von Miller	LB/Texas A&M
		Analysis: As Miller continues to develop physically, he is still the premier pass rusher in the collegiate ranks (at least statistically).   Playing the elephant role for the Aggies of Texas A&M, he is tailor made to become a 34 outside linebacker especially for a team which lacks athleticism at the position currently.
28	Dallas		Rahim Moore*	S/UCLA
		Analysis: The Cowboys have been searching long and hard to find any type of playmaking safety to add to their secondary.  Moore just happens to have led the NCAA in interceptions a year ago and will look to add to his total as a junior.    Moore is more in mold of today’s NFL prototype safety as a ballhawking centerfielder.
29	NY Jets		Jarvis Jenkins	DT/Clemson
		Analysis: Overshadowed to some degree along a defensive line which included Ricky Sapp and Da’Quan Bowers a year ago; Jenkins is a powerful interior presence with the size and athleticism to potentially play the nose tackle or end position in the Jets’ 34 base defense.
30	San Diego		Jared Crick*	DT/Nebraska
		Analysis: Ndamuking Suh may have taken away most of the pressure along the defensive front allowing Crick to make plays, but this particular Nebraska defender presents a nice combination of size, strength, and tenacity which could make him an ideal 5 technique.
31	New Orleans		Adrian Clayborn	DE/Iowa
		Analysis: At points last season, Iowa’s Clayborn was unblockable.   Many expected the returning Super Bowl Champions to add a highly regarded prospect along their defensive line early in the 2010 draft.  They did not add a defensive end in their most recent class.   Defensive coordinator Gregg Williams can blitz all day long, but sometimes a team needs to get pressure purely from their front four.
32	Indianapolis		Stephen Paea	DT/Oregon St.
		Analysis: Very few prospects are as good pure football players in this upcoming class.  Paea does not possess ideal computer numbers, but this has never stopped the Colts in their selections previous.   Not many interior defenders have shown the power and hand strength to control the middle of the line like this Beaver.

Tops the list.

With 32 selections of the 2010 NFL Draft complete, several well known prospects are still on the board.  Here our the top remaining players available tomorrow when round two starts. 

Here is an early look at upcoming appearances by founder Tony Pauline and Head Scout Brent Sobleski.

As the itinerary undoubtedly will change and gets reworked this will be updated throughout the process.

So check back daily and find all things  as discussed by the web’s top growing NFL draft website!

Tuesday

- WNSP Sports Radio 105.5FM in Mobile, Alabama.  Tony Pauline will be featured 8:05AM.

- Fox Sports Ohio, 12pm video chat including Brent Sobleski (VIDEO).

- 2:15pm EST,  Tony Pauline on ABC affiliate WHSV, Harrisonburg, Va.

- 3:15PM EST, Tony Pauline on SportRadio 1250AM, Milwaukee to discuss the Green Bay Packers draft.

- 8 pm; Brent Sobleski joins Greg DePalma of PrimeSportsNetwork for a podcast covering all things draft (PODCAST).

Wednesday

- Tony Pauline on the Joe Rose Show, Sports Radio WQAM, Miami @8:05 AM

- Brent Sobleski joins the fray on the Football Nation Radio podcast via DraftPrestige.com at approx. 9 PM.

Thursday

- Tony Pauline on WFTL 640 Florida SportsTalk  @8:05AM

-  Tony Pauline on 680, The Fan in Atlanta @12:15PM

- Orange and Brown Report (www.theobr.com), post draft day chat with Brent Sobleski.

- Tony Pauline on SNY’s “The Wheel House” between 5:30-6PM (channel 639 DirectTV).

- * From Thursday through Saturday Tony Pauline will be making appearances across the nation on radio stations (The Z Report on KGOW 1560 AM in Houston), webcasts (Eagles.com) throughout the day.

Friday

- Orange and Brown Report (www.theobr.com), post draft day chat with Brent Sobleski.

- Tony Pauline on SNY’s “The Wheel House” between 5:30-6PM (channel 639 DirectTV).

Saturday

-

Sunday

-

Monday

- OBR TV on the Ohio News Network featuring post draft coverage with Brent Sobleski (tentative).

Both personalities are available to the media throughout the week and can be contacted through this website or at TFYDraft@gmail.com to further the draft experience.

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