Jay Goldberg's Mock Draft

CLICK HERE TO SEE JAY's THREE ROUND MOCK DRAFT BROKEN DOWN BY NFL TEAM
JAY's LIST of UNDER-VALUED PLAYERS Offense Defense

RIGHT AFTER THE DRAFT GO TO THE MAIN DRAFT PAGE TO SEE MY PICK-BY PICK ANALYSIS FOR ROUND ONE AND ROUND TWO
(IS INITIAL RESPONSE; BEFORE FULL DRAFT IS COMPLETED)

ROUND 1 change prior pick in this mock draft changes due to Revis trade
PICK	TEAM	PLAYER	COMMENT
1	KC	Joeckel OT Texas A&M	Resigning Albert and cutting Winston loose keeps me leaving Joeckel at this spot. The Chiefs also signed DeVito, an underrated run defender, to replace Dorsey at end; and will be counting on growth from Poe on the nose, making a defensive tackle (to play the nose or defensive end) less likely. Throw in their trade for Alex Smith and the rumored availability of Albert in a trade, and I am more entrenched in this projection than I was before.
2	JAC	Milliner CB Alabama	This spot brings up an interesting debate regarding mock drafts. Is it better to get a player in terms of the order he comes off the board, regardless of team; or is it better to project the correct player to the team that drafts him? Here is my philosophy: First, I do not put trades in my mock drafts. Therefore, if I believe the player I project to a team at its current spot is not a major reach; I'll project that player there and consider it a win if that team trades down a few spots and selects the player I am projected. Otherwise, I ignore trade downs. I mention this here because despite what Rotoworld reported ("Since the AFL-NFL merger, no cornerback has ever been selected in the top-two picks of any draft"), I believe Milliner is worthy of the number two spot in the draft so I have no problem projecting him here. However, with the likely battle for the three top offensive tackles, I could see Jacksonville moving down to #4 or #5 and selecting Milliner there. Once a tackle goes number one overall, teams will target Jacksonville and Oakland to move up. Oakland will be more aggressive in terms of potentially moving further down the board (e.g. to #11 or #12). That may mean that Philly (if they have a major preference between the two tackles) or Detroit (to ensure they get one of the tackles since a team could move into Oakland's spot) could trade with Jacksonville, who would remain ahead of Cleveland to select Milliner.
3	OAK	Floyd DT Florida	Oakland has now gotten rid of Carson Palmer, and brought Matt Flynn on board. This is in line with what I wrote in my previous mock draft (I believe if they do that they will bring in Flynn or Kolb rather than drafting Geno Smith and then give Pryor one shot to seize their quarterback job). So I continue to stay away from quarterback for Oakland. In my heart and in my head I believe Oakland will trade down with a team that wants one of the three top offensive tackles. However, since I do not put trades in my mock draft I will stay with my projection of Floyd to the Raiders, a team currently projecting Pat Sims and Vance Walker as its starting defensive tackles.
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4	PHI	Johnson OT Oklahoma	A few days after I projected Johnson to the Eagles for the reasons that follow I saw a NFL Netwrok combined mock draft between Charles Davis and Daniel Jeremiah where , after not agreeing on the player to be drafted by Philadelphia, they compromised on Johnson for the same reasons I wrote. So, while some of you may think I'm way off here, vaulting Johnson up too high; at least I'm not alone on a island. Here's my reasoning: Johnson, may just be one the best fits around, experienced or rookie, at offensive tackle for new head coach Chip Kelly's fast-paced offense. Possessed with terrific speed, quickness, and agility for a kid his size, Johnson will be able to excel in the pace of the offense better than the majority of offensive lineman.
5	DET	Fisher OT C Michigan	As someone who has been writing about the NFL draft since 2000, I obviously also enjoy reading about the draft. During that time there are some analysts I have come to respect. However, it is very rare that one of those projects something that makes me come off something I feel strongly about. However, Walter Cherepinsky, of walterfootball.com has done just that. With Avril and Vanden Bosch gone, and with this being a draft deep in talented defensive ends, the position looked like a no-brainer to me; it was just who they liked. Ansah had a great Combine and was my projection at this spot in the draft. The Lions' system should fit his skills very well. However, after reading Walter's mock, and with Fisher now available in mine, I am off Ansah and am projecting Fisher. Backus has retired and if a player is considered a top left tackle, they are not referred to as a player who can play anywhere on the offensive line, even if that is true. A stud left tackle would never be a consideration to play right tackle or guard. Reiff is talked up as a versatile lineman. So I join Walter and project Fisher at this spot in the draft.
6	CLE	Austin WR West Virginia	The Browns have had a busy free agency period. Included in their activity was the signing of Paul Kruger and Quentin Groves. This means my previous projection of Dion Jordon no longer makes sense. While the Browns would love it if Milliner was available, he is not. Previously, I had the Browns selecting Warmack to fill their biggest hole on their offensive line. But, I am having second thoughts. This team badly needs playmakers on offense. And while this is very high for small, slot receiver, Austin is the most explosive offensive weapon in this draft. would the Browns like to move down a bit to select him? Sure. However, unless the Jets want to leapfrog Buffalo for Geno Smith, I cannot see a spot where Cleveland can trade down and still be sure to get Austin (and even trading with the Jets would be risky since a team like Saint Louis has the ammo to move up to Buffalo's spot to grab Austin). Was OG Warmack
7	ARZ	Jordan OLB Oregon	Wow, while I knew that the projections for one of the big three offensive tackles would not make it to San Diego at 11, despite many television talking heads continuing to project Johnson there, now they are off the board for Arizona. If this scenario becomes a reality to Arizona, I could see them trading up with Jacksonville or Oakland to ensure they get one of the top tackles, or trying to trade back to select a tackle later in round one. In addition, after adding Carson Palmer, I do not expect Arizona to select a quarterback here. With the tackles gone and the Cardinals outside linebackers showing more potential than sacks (Acho, O'Brien); I am projecting Dion Jordan to provide them with a feared pass rusher for their 3-4 defense.
8	BUF	Smith QB West Virginia	The Bills are a team that always seems to have its own draft board. I expect that to continue even with the coaching change. With (surprise, surprise, not), the top quarterback Smith on the rise, I have the Bills selecting him here. However, from day one of my mock draft I have had the Bills being the only team with a top ten pick that will draft a quarterback. With Fitzpatrick released, I am even more entrenched in this projection. As the Red Hot Chili Peppers would sing "By the Way" with Smith's value approaching (or in) the top ten, if he is off the board when the Bills are on the clock, I still expect the Bills to pick a quarterback. Oh, and their signing of Kolb as a free agent does not change this projection, or their need for a franchise quarterback. The rookie salary cap allows the Bills to economically carry both Smith and Kolb; and the pressure will be off Smith with Kolb available to start the season until Smith is ready.
9	NYJ	Warmack OG Alabama	After their trade with Tampa Bay the Jets could be looking for Austin, but he is off the board in my mock draft. However, after trading an All Pro in Revis; the Jets have to come away with a sure thing ay this spot. Warmack is as sure a thing as there is in this draft; especially at a position of need for the Jets. He is a road-grater who they can plug in from day one, and a player with Pro Bowls in his future. Was OLB Mingo
10	TEN	Ansah DE BYU	While Cooper or Warmack are still a possibilities here, with the Titans signing Andy Levitre and Robert Turner, it is becoming a less likely option. While Wimbley and Morgan look good on paper, they combined for 12.5 sacks last year. Ansah has the potential to reach that figure by himself. However, with Wimbley and Morgan on hand, Ansah can start as a nickel rusher and grow into a more full time role down the line. In fact his upside as a rusher and the presence of the two veterans gives him the edge over Werner at this spot in my opinion.
11	SD	Cooper OG North Carolina	The Chargers need offensive line help badly, especially at tackle. However the top three tackles are off the board. They can also use help at guard and, in this mock, Cooper is available. Signing Reinhart and Ohrnberger improves their guard situation, but neither is a top tier starter. Was OG Warmack
12	MIA	Trufant CB Washington	All the pundits who are criticizing the Dolphins for treading water with their linebacker signings confounds me. They talk about the big contracts but fail to recognize a simple fact; the Dolphins got younger and avoided cap problems in the near future and did so very economically. The real cost for Ellerbe was his money minus Dansby's money. The same thing goes for Wheeler, his real cost was his money minus Burnett's money (the cap impact is a little more complicated since it needs to be adjusted for money brought forward because of their early releases) . The Fins also avoided a situation where in a couple of years the older linebackers could be underperforming vis-a-vis their contracts at a time when the Dolphins could be in cap trouble instead of having cap room. Well, enough of that. Miami has a need at cornerback, and also could use a pass rusher opposite Wake. While Werner is still an option here, I'm off him for now and am projecting Trufant over Rhodes. Trufant is my second rated cornerback in the draft and as I see some draft analysts agreeing with me, I'll take the plunge and project him as the second cornerback off the board. He will team with newly signed Brent Grimes to provide the Dolphins with a solid pair of corners.
13	NYJ	Mingo OLB LSU	The Jets need help in a number of areas. However, improving their pass rush has to be near the top of their list. So I project the Jets giving Ryan a piece he hasn't had for awhile, a potential double-digit sacker from the OLB position in his 3-4 defense. Was DT Lotulelei ( for TB)
14	CAR	Lotulelei DT Utah	At the top of the draft, it was often difficult matching draft slot with need and value. Starting here, there are too many choices that meet the value, need, draft slot equation. Vaccaro (FS), Richardson (DT), Patterson (WR) and even Jones (if you believe in him despite his poor workout) all make sense. With Lotulelei inside and Johnson and Hardy two good pass rushing ends outside; this could be a top unit. Was DT Lotulelei
15	NO	Jones OLB Georgia	As the Saints transition to a 3-4 defense, they will look for pieces that fit. One of those pieces is an outside linebacker who can rush the passer. That could make this an interesting choice. Production (Jones) versus good player but not his best position (Werner) versus better fit with excellent workout numbers and athleticism (Collins). For now I'll go with production. However, I reserve the right to rethink this since that is not the way I would go - I, personally, go with probability of success and Jones' number reduce the probability of success too much for my liking.
16	STL	Vaccaro FS Texas	One of the most laughable (to me) things I have heard during the draft coverage is that the Rams lack a big-play wide receiver. Are the talking heads (Yes, you Baldinger) forgetting what Chris Givens accomplished in his rookie year. So while the Rams could use a go-to receiver, the player they need is more need big target than speed merchant or a slot receiver to replace Amendola. While, I believe they need the explosive, big-target receiver, I'm not so sure that the Rams believe they do. They drafted Brain Quick last year to be that player; so I say they pass on Patterson here. This makes, the safety Vaccaro, the logical choice in my mind. There is no way he gets past Dallas, so it would be draft him here, or lose him by pick #22.
17	PIT	Patterson WR Tennessee	Perhaps the worst move of 2012 was Pittsburgh firing Bruce Arians and hiring Todd Haley. While the Steelers should go wide receiver here, especially if they lose Johnson; I no longer have Allen rated highly enough to come off the board here. With murmurings of the Haley-Big Ben relationship not the best; what better way to help mend that rift than drafting Roethlisberger a new toy. If the Steelers let Johnson walk for New England's third round pick; this selection becomes even more likely. Was WR Allen
18	DAL	Richardson DT Missouri	In this case the scuttlebutt I wrote about came true. Sensabaugh found himself cut to help with the salary cap. However, with Vaccaro now off the board, I look for Dallas to address their need at safety later in the draft. Since Dallas is switching to a 4-3 defensive, either a defensive tackle or defensive end makes sense. I'm not sold on Spencer as a defensive end and Ratliff seems to have taken a few steps back in terms of effectiveness. Richardson fills a need and is one of the best values currently on the board. Was OG Cooper
19	NYG	Werner DE Florida State	Oh well, so much for my curveball/hunch here. The Giants like pass rushers, especially ones who are athletic freaks. Hunt is big, fast, strong, quick and athletic. He is very raw but has a tremendous upside. However, with Werner now available; as tempting as it is to grab Hunt for the G-Men, I have to project (at least for now), Werner at this spot. He can play and learn behind JPP and Tuck in year one, and become a starter down the line. Was DE Hunt
20	CHI	Williams DT North Carolina	The Bears' signed Jermon Bushrod in free agency, in part, because they knew the top three left tackle prospects would be gone, and that it was possible #4 would be off the board as well. In addition, adding DJ Williams and Anderson at linebacker and Bennett at tight end allows the Bears to go in any direction here. With Austin now way off the board, I now have the Bears Was WR Austin
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21	CIN	Fluker OT Alabama	With Andre Smith an unrestricted free agent I am projecting them drafting Fluker and allowing Smith to leave. Fluker is a right tackle and should man that position competently for years for the Bengals.
22	STL	Ogletree LB Georgia	After taking a chance, and coming out fine (at least for now) with Jenkins last year; I have the Rams taking another highly-talented player with some off-the-field questions again this year. The Rams have an opening at SAM and Ogletree has the size and athletic ability to play there or could he lay WILL replacing Dunbar who could then battle in camp to start at SAM. PRIOR PICKS: FS Vaccaro
23	MIN	Rhodes CB Florida State	While many will project Patterson if he is available (he is not in this mock draft), or a middle linebacker such as T'eo, or one of the talented defensive tackles available in this draft; I think I found a great pick at, good value for the Vikings at this spot. First, they lost Winfield in free agency. Next in a division with big receivers like Calvin Johnson and Brandon Marshall; a corner who is almost 6'2" and has a 40.5" vertical makes a lot of sense. I know they have Chris Cook, a good-sized, athletic corner, but he has only played 22 games in his first three seasons. He has missed time with injuries and an arrest on domestic battery charges (he was acquitted). Besides, Cook and Rhodes can form a Seattle-like duo, with the speedy Robinson, a player I like, moving inside to man the slot. Was WR Patterson
24	IND	Jenkins DT Georgia	While the Colts could go defensive end, outside linebacker or corner at this spot; their poor rush defense is what is in need of immediate improvement for this team to take the step. With good run and chase linebackers, a big-bodied, absorb the blockers, run-stuffing, nose tackle would go a long way to solve that problem. Jenkins is just such a player. And with free agent signee Franklin on hand, Jenkins has a solid player he can alternate with. And while Franklin is a sold player; he is not the traffic jam that Jenkins is. Was OLB Collins
25	MIN	T'eo ILB Notre Dame	This is a deep draft for wide receivers so I expect the Vikings to address that position later in the draft. Therefore, all signs point to this being the spot where T'eo comes off the board. With Brinkley gone, Minnesota needs a middle linebacker. Was DT Richardson PRIOR PICKS: CB Rhodes
26	GB	Eifert TE Notre Dame	I am off Lacy for this spot, not because he isn't still a possibility; but because he didn't differentiate himself enough from the other running backs in this draft class based on his workout. So now, I'm projecting Eifert. Finley has been hot and cold, and depending on how he performs this year, he could be jettisoned next offseason. If not, Finley and Eifert allow the Packers to run some two tight end offenses. So the Packers draft another weapon for Rodgers in Eifert, the best tight end in this draft class. Was RB Lacy
27	HOU	Allen WR California	If I were the Texans I would draft a receiver here. However, even if they did, it probably wouldn't be one of the next few on my board. I haven't been on the same page in regards to the Texans priority in drafting a receiver nor with who they draft when they pull the trigger the last few years. So I'll give it a try, sit back, and watch as Houston either passes on a receiver or picks a player I have pegged lower in the draft than others such as Terrance Williams. Was WR Hopkins
28	DEN	Moore DE Texas A&M	After losing Dumervil, I look for Denver to bring is a pass-rushing defensive end. Moore had a disappointing workout, but unlike Jarvis Jones, it may be more a reflection on his immaturity than his skills. With Ayers and Wolfe on hand to carry the early down burden, and this being a veteran team, this could be an excellent spot for Moore who can concentrate on rushing the passer and be kept on the straight and narrow by the veterans.
29	NE	Hunter WR Tennessee	With Lloyd just released, newly signed Michael Jenkins and Bills castoff Donald Jones are the current starting outside receivers. With Amendola, Gronkowski and Hernandez running routes in the middle of the field, an outside receiver with speed is needed and while I like, Markus Wheaton in this spot (he is fast, has excellent hands and runs precision routes), and that is the player I would draft; he isn't getting the recognition he deserves in this process. So, I'll go more conventional and project Hunter, a player with size and speed for the Patriots. A Was WR Wheaton
30	ATL	Taylor CB Boise State	After signing Umenyiora the Falcons could still use another pass rusher, however, they could also use a corner and there are some very good ones available. The Falcons have not been a team that goes for the taller corners, so I am projecting the speedy, athletic Jamar Taylor over Blidi Wreh-Wilson, a corner with size.
31	SF	Reid FS LSU	Dashon Goldson has left the building so selecting a safety here continues to make sense. I have changed my mind and with Reid (a player I have liked throughout the process, I had him going in round one way back in my first mock draft) starting to gain traction, I have him the selection over Elam since he is a true free safety and the 49ers still have Whitner on their roster.
32	BAL	Hopkins WR Clemson	With the Ravens transitioning from Ray Lewis' team to Joe Flacco's team, and with the questions I posed about about the team's ability to keep wide receiver Boldin because of salary cap implications, now answered in the negative; a move the chains, reliable wideout, to play opposite Smith, is needed. With Hunter now off the board, I am back to Hopkins with this pick. Was WR Hunter

ROUND 2 change prior pick in this mock draft changes due to Revis trade
PICK	TEAM	PLAYER	COMMENT
33	JAC	Watson OT Florida State	No, not a quarterback.; not when there is a solid right tackle on the board and the top of Jacksonville's depth chart at right tackle is Cameron Bradfield (who does, by the way, possess good physical gifts). While I like Armstead a little more than most; and have him rated slightly higher than Watson, with Watson available, I'll go conventional here and project Watson who will come in and start at right tackle right away. PRIOR PICKS: CB Milliner
34	SF	Hankins DT Ohio State	In the 49ers front, they prefer the strong, more athletic nose tackles than the big-bodied run cloggers. Part of that is because of the ability of their inside linebackers to play off blocks and make tackles. For that reason, I am projecting Hankins her to challenge Ian Williams to start at nose tackle in the 49ers 3-4 defense. PRIOR PICKS: FS Reid Was DE/DT J Williams
35	PHI	Jones DE UCLA	The Eagles are switching to a 3-4 defense and Jones has the size and skills needed to play end in a 3-4 defense. Interestingly, with Jones and Cox, the Eagles will be able to play both inside and move their outside linebackers (Barwin and Cole or Graham) and have one of the better 4 man rushing units in the nickel if this pick comes to fruition. PRIOR PICKS: OT Johnson
36	DET	Hayden CB Houston	While I have the Lions going corner here, I could also make a case for a defensive end. However, I like the potential of Willie Young; Ronnell Lewis has pass rush potential; and they signed Jason Jones. So corner it is. Hayden is a player making a late charge up draft boards after checking out medically. Was CB Wreh-Wilson PRIOR PICKS: OT Fisher
37	CIN	Elam SS Florida	After resigning Scott, and no running backs off the board to this point; I now have the Bengals changing up and drafting Elam to provide them with an athletic thumper at strong safety. He would be a starter and immediate upgrade for their defense. Was RB Bernard PRIOR PICKS: OT Fluker
38	ARZ	Armstead OT Ark-Pine Bluff	With Armstead available and Arizona losing out on a tackle in round one of my mock draft, I have them jumping on the chance to select Armstead, one of the most athletic offensive lineman to come into the league in years. I know, again, no quarterback. I believe the run will be more in round three than round two, with some teams looking to trade back into the bottom of round two. PRIOR PICKS: LB Jordan
39	NYJ	Manuel QB Florida State	A tight end makes a lot of sense here, but I believe the Jets will pull the trigger on a quarterback in this spot; and I belive it will be Manuel. Manuel is my second-rated quarterback, and he has a very nice upside. PRIOR PICKS: OG Warmack, OLB Mingo
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40	TEN	Pugh OG/OT Syracuse	The Titan's line was beset with injuries last year. Pugh is a tackle in a guard's body. However, he could be the rare short-armed offensive lineman who could succeed at tackle. Pugh will challenge to start at right tackle and right guard; and worst case will be a quality backup all along the line. Was TE Eifert PRIOR PICKS: DE Ansah
41	BUF	Woods WR USC	I'm not sold on T.J. Graham as a starter opposite Stevie Johnson. The fact is the Bills receiver corps needs an upgrade. Therefore, bringing in a young receiver to grow with Smith would be a good strategic move. Woods is a player many have a first round grade on. So getting him here in round two makes sense for the Bills. Was WR Patten PRIOR PICKS: QB Smith
42	MIA	Lacy RB Alabama	Thomas is miscast as a power back. He is a big back who runs like a smaller back. With Lacy dropping out of round one, I have Miami selecting the bruising back to pair with Lamar Miller. Was RB Michael PRIOR PICKS: CB Trufant
43	TB	Short DT Purdue	After adding Revis I have the Bucs changing up and grabbing Short at this spot. Corner isn't out of the question here, and I expect them to grab one later in the draft. Was Wreh-Wilson
44	CAR	Cyprien SS FL International	After grabbing a defensive tackle in round one, this pick comes down to Cyprien or a receiver. For some reason, even though the need for a receiver opposite Smith; they always seem to go in other directions in the draft. So, I am projecting the safety here. PRIOR PICKS: DT Lotulelei
45	SD	Minter ILB LSU	Takeo Spikes was cut. The Chargers depth chart currently has Jonas Mouton starting inside with Donald Butler. Minter would start alongside Butler. Was SS Elam PRIOR PICKS: OG Cooper
46	STL	Michael RB Texas A&M	In my mock draft, the Rams continue to draft talent over character. Michael could be the most talented runner in the entire draft; a runner who could carry the load better than the players currently on their roster. However, Richardson and Pead could be a good one-two punch if Michael doesn't keep with the program. Was WR Woods PRIOR PICKS: FS Vaccaro, LB Ogletree
47	DAL	Long OT/OG Oregon	Short is off the board. Besides I now have the Cowboys grabbing a defensive tackle in round one. Long is a versatile offensive lineman who can start off inside at guard and can get a look at tackle down the line. The Cowboys have to upgrade their offensive line. Was DT Short PRIOR PICKS: DT Richardson
48	PIT	Ball RB Wisconsin	It's nice when need meets value. None of the runners on the Steelers' roster are as talented as Ball. PRIOR PICKS: WR Patterson
49	NYG	Moore LB Connecticut	The Giants need a middle linebacker and while Moore is projected as an outside linebacker, he has the size and the measureables to play middle linebacker. Worst case, he starts on the outside. Moore would immediately be the best (only) playmaker at linebacker on the Giants. Was LB T'eo PRIOR PICKS: DE Werner
50	CHI	Wheaton WR Oregon State	The Bears have the big physical receivers in Marshall and Lelie; after drafting Wheaton, they will now have their gamebreaker. And with teams having to double Marshall, Wheaton should tear it up from the onset. By the way, Wheaton is a complete receiver, not just a deep threat. He has excellent hands and runs precison routes. Was ILB Minter PRIOR PICKS: S Williams
51	WAS	Thomas SS Syracuse	The Redskins cut Hall and need a cornerback. They also need help at safety. Luckily both are very deep positions in the draft and there are a number of very good players available at this spot. Shamarko Thomas is the second coming of Bob Sanders. That means big hitter, great speed and athleticism, and, yes, potential injuries (the only negative keeping from from being my top rated safety in the draft). With the constantly disappointing but serviceable Meriweather on hand, the Redskins have a player who can fill in if Thomas misses a game or two. Redskin fans, if this happens, be very very happy.
52	MIN	Patten WR La Tech	The Vikings need a receiver who can push Simpson to start opposite Greg Jennings. Patton is a receiver with reliable hands who knows how to get open. Was CB Webb PRIOR PICKS: CB Rhodes, ILB T'eo
53	CIN	Bernard RB North Carolina	With Bernard still available, I project the Bengals drafting him to share time (and eventually replace) Green-Ellis. I know they resigned Scott, but he hasn't developed as Cincinnati, and I, expected. Was OLB Moore PRIOR PICKS: OT Fluker, SS Elam
54	MIA	Hunt DE SMU	I almost drafted Hunt for Miami with their earlier pick in round two. With him still available this is a no-brainer for me. Hunt will become part of a rotation with Odrick and Vernon playing opposite Wake. Eventually he could develop into a major force; he is a unique athlete for a kid his size. Was DE Montgomery PRIOR PICKS: CB Trufant, RB Lacy
55	GB	Bell RB Michigan State	Bell is a big, bruising back who will work in tandem with Harris, who played well down the stretch for Green Bay. Was OLB T Williams PRIOR PICKS: TE Eifert
56	SEA	Brown OLB Kansas State	The Seahawks have already had a great offseason. Brown is a player others have ranked and mocked more highly than me. He is a good player, but does not appear to0 have the special athleticism of the players he has been compared to. That said, if he falls to this spot, the Seahawks are getting a very good player who could step in and start at WILL. Was DT Hankins
57	HOU	Barkley QB USC	The Texans have no glaring needs, and while Yates appears to be a good fit as a long term backup; there is no successor or challenger to Schaub, who is solid, but nothing more in my opinion. Worst case, Barkley has the work ethic and skills to look very good in the preseason, and become a trade option down the line. In fact, he is perfect for that since he was once looked at as a high first round pick, so showing signs of that talent could have personnel executives looking at him as a potential franchise quarterback. This makes sense to me, but I wouldn't be surprised if I'm the only one. PRIOR PICKS: WR Allen
58	DEN	Reddick ILB North Carolina	Reddick will take the spot of Williams on the Bronco's roster and will compete with Mays to start at middle linebacker. Was DT S Williams PRIOR PICKS: DE Moore
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59	NE	Carradine DE Florida State	One area the Patriots are not entirely happy with is their pass rush. Carradine is a physical specimen whose best football could be in front of him. PRIOR PICKS: WR Hunter
60	ATL	Ertz TE Stanford	While Gonzalez came back this year, it will be hard to count on him for two years (even though he signed a two year contract). It's time for Atlanta to start grooming his replacement before it is too late. PRIOR PICKS: CB Taylor
61	SF	Collins OLB Southern Miss	In order to be at his most effective, Aldon Smith needs another player on the field that teams need to rely on as a pas rusher. when Justin Smith was injured, Smith's sacks dropped off the map. While Collins will not be a defensive lineman in the 49ers 3-4 defense; he is a much better pass rusher than Brooks as on outside linebacker. I can see Collins playing the role originally held by Aldon Smith; pass rush specialist. He could effectively, spilt time with Brooks opposite Smith; giving teams another pass rusher to account for on passing downs. Was CB Poyer PRIOR PICKS: FS Reid, DT Hankins
62	BAL	Swearinger SS South Carolina	The Ravens signing Rolando McClain, has me off Bostic here and projecting the hard hitting safety Swearinger, who becomes their replacement for Pollard. Was ILB Bostic PRIOR PICKS: WR Hopkins

ROUND 3 change prior pick in this mock draft changes due to Revis trade
PICK	TEAM	PLAYER	COMMENT
63	KC	Bostic ILB Florida	The death of Belcher leaves a hole at inside linebacker for the Chiefs. Bostic is a very athletic linebacker who could grow into a difference-maker down the line; which will be needed in a couple of years with Johnson turning 31 this season. PRIOR PICKS: OT Joeckel
64	JAC	Scott QB Arizona	New Head Coach Gus Bradley saw what an athletic, undersized quarterback with a good arm can do at Seattle last year. So he tries to duplicate that with the selection of the undersized, very athletic, strong-armed Matt Scott. PRIOR PICKS: CB Milliner, OT Watson
65	DET	Montgomery DE LSU	I have Montgomery falling to the top of round three because of his "taking games off comment" during the Combine interview process. However, he has good skills and Detroit, who needs a pass ruher to replace Avril and Vanden Bosch; are happy to see him on the board. PRIOR PICKS: OT Fisher, CB Hayden
66	OAK	Okafor DE Texas	I have the Raiders continuing to rebuild its defensive line by selecting Okafor, a player who fell to the top of round three because of the depth at defensive end in this draft. PRIOR PICKS: DT Floyd
67	PHI	Webb CB William & Mary	The Eagles have made over their entire secondary and now project four new starters. Well, I say they continue that trend and grab Webb; an extremely quick and athletic corner who is perfect for the slot. PRIOR PICKS: OT Johnson, DE Jones
68	CLE	Wreh-Wilson CB Connecticut	Why no quarterback? I predict that the Browns backup plan for Weeden is Ryan Mallett of the Patriots. Therefore, they will give him this year (they may add a quarterback later in the draft); and if he fails, the Browns will make a run at Mallett next year. So while Cleveland lost out on Milliner in round one, there are number of very talented cornerbacks still available here. I have them grabbing Wreh-Wilson, although it could be Slay, Alford, Amerson, Banks, Poyer or even some others. Was CB Slay PRIOR PICKS: WR Austin
69	ARZ	Glennon QB North Carolina St	Arians gets his big-armed quarterback in round three. He can sit behind new starter Carson Palmer for a year or two before taking the reins. PRIOR PICKS: OLB Jordan, OT Armstead
70	TEN	Kelce TE Cincinnati	The Titans lost Cook and signed Walker; but Walker is not nearly as dangerous a the weapon. Kelce, however, is a weapon in the passing game; although he doesn't have Cook's speed. PRIOR PICKS: DE Ansah, OT/OG Pugh
71	BUF	Gooden OLB Missouri	Gooden may be the best all around athlete in this draft class. He has strength, speed, quickness and is an explosive athlete. The Bills linebackers are steady, not spectacular. Gooden could change that. He could be for the Bills, what David was for Tampa Bay last year; a WILL tackling machine who can make plays sideline to sideline. PRIOR PICKS: QB Smith, WR Woods
72	NYJ	Slay CB Mississippi St	After moving Revis, the Jets will need a corner to pair with Cromartie and Wilson. Slay is an underrated player heading into the draft and has the skills to get on the field early in his career. Was CB Alford PRIOR PICKS: OLB Mingo, QB Manuel
73	TB	Nassib QB Syracuse	I noise coming from Tampa Bay is that everyone in the building, except the head coach, has bought into Freeman. Unfortunately, I'm buying the noise and that's a big exception. so the Bucs grab Nassib in round three to push Freeman. If he wins, Freeman can be moved next offseason. If not, Nassib can be developed, serve as a backup for a couple of years; and then traded. PRIOR PICKS: DT Short
74	SF	McDonald TE Rice	The 49ers lost Walker to the Tennessee Titans. McDonald becomes his replacement. He is an athletic tight end who can block. PRIOR PICKS: FS Reid, DT Hankins, OLB Collins
75	NO	Williams DT Alabama	Jesse Williams has the size and strength to play the nose in the Saint's new 3-4 defense; and also has the speed to play outside at end. The Saints need to collect 3-4 defenders. PRIOR PICKS: OLB Jones
76	SD	Williams DT Missouri Southern	Franklin and Garay eft in free agency; leaving the Chargers with only Cam Thomas at nose. Brandon williams will challenge Thomas and, worst case, back him up. PRIOR PICKS: OG Cooper, ILB Minter
77	MIA	Quessenberry OT/OG San Jose State	Long is now off the board. Quessenberry is very nice fall back option. He impressed me very much during the one-on-one drills at Senior Bowl practices. Was OT/OG Long PRIOR PICKS: CB Trufant, RB Lacy, DE Hunt
78	STL	Goodwin WR Texas	With Givens and Quick, a couple of second year platyers on the outside; Goodwin is drafted to play the slot. He is a bit raw; but is one of the fasted and most athletic players in the draft. PRIOR PICKS: FS Vaccaro, LB Ogletree, RB Michael
79	PIT	Williams OLB Connecticut	With Harrison gone and Woodley coming off a down year; Williams comes in to help with the pass rush. Between Woodley, Worilds, Carter and Williams, the Steelers should find a pass rush. PRIOR PICKS: WR Patterson, RB Ball
80	DAL	Thomas FS Fresno State	Dallas signed Allen in free agency, and cut Sensabaugh. While Allen is steady, he is not a difference-maker. Phillip Thomas is a safety with a nose for the ball. He would beat out Allen and start. PRIOR PICKS: DT Richardson, OT/OG Long
81	NYG	Bakhtiari OT Colorado	With Quessenberry off the board, I have the Giants drafting Bakhtiari to provide a challenge to David Diehl at right tackle. Was OT/OG Quessenberry PRIOR PICKS: DE Werner, LB Moore
82	MIA	Gratz CB Connecticut	Gratz is drafted to play the nickel, allowing Nolan Carroll and Richard Marshall to battle it out to be the fourth cornerback. Gratz has excellent speed, quickness and athleticism. PRIOR PICKS: CB Trufant, RB Lacy, DE Hunt, OT/OG Quessenberry
83	MIN	Spence DT Illinois	With the deep class of defensive tackles, Spence is getting overlooked. He is a very good player and can challenge Guion as the starter alongside Kevin Williams. PRIOR PICKS: CB Rhodes, ILB T'eo, WR Patten
84	CIN	Greene OLB Rutgers	Outside of Burfict, none of the other Bengals linebackers are must starts. Greene will battle in camp to start in this scenario. PRIOR PICKS: OT Fluker, SS Elam, RB Bernard
85	WAS	Poyer CB Oregon State	Poyer is excellent value at this spot in the draft and is at a position of need for the Redskins. PRIOR PICKS: SS Thomas
86	IND	Lemonier OLB Auburn	Freeney is gone (and was miscast an an OLB), Hughes has disappointed, and Walden, signed as a feee agent, wasn't the answer in Green Bay. Lemonier has the best pass rush skills of the bunch. PRIOR PICKS: DT Jenkins
87	SEA	Barner RB Oregon	The Seahawks top twi running backs are big, bruising backs. Barner offers variety. A smaller, fast, quick back, who catches the ball very well; Barner could offer a nice change of pace to the usual hammer offered by the Seattles' top two running backs. PRIOR PICKS: OLB Brown
88	GB	Bailey WR West Virginia	I know, I know, where's the defense? My guess would be from this point forward. But for now, Bailey has some Greg Jennings in him and the Packers always like having lots of receivers for Rodgers to choose from. PRIOR PICKS: TE Eifert, RB Bell
89	HOU	Alford CB SE La	If not for Chromes disease Alford could have gone much earlier in the draft. At this spot he is excellent value for the Texans. Was CB Amberson PRIOR PICKS: WR Allen, QB Barkley
90	DEN	Franklin RB UCLA	McGahee is getting up in years and is coming off an injury. Moreno has been up and down, and injured. In this scenario, Franklin could end up stealing the starting job before the year was over. PRIOR PICKS: DE Moore, ILB Reddick
91	NE	Warford OG Kentucky	New England needs depth at guard and Warford is a good player who had a terrific week at the Senior Bowl. PRIOR PICKS: WR Hunter, DE Carradine
92	ATL	Taylor DE South Carolina	Taylor is a terrific athlete with good pass rushing skills. Umenyiora was added, but Atlant needs more pass rushers. PRIOR PICKS: CB Taylor, TE Ertz
93	SF	Wilcox SS Georgia Southern	Wilcox is a safety who can play the run and has plus cover skills. He'll start as a backup but could eventually push Whitner. PRIOR PICKS: FS Reid, DT Hankins, OLB Collins, McDonald TE
94	BAL	Frederick OC Wisconsin	Frederick would immediately come in and push to start. PRIOR PICKS: WR Hopkins, SS Swearinger
95	HOU	Thomas OT Tennessee	Thomas, who was invited to the Senior Bowl, has seen his stock slip because of a torn labrum he suffered during practice at the Senior Bowl. He hasn't been able to work out, but should be ready for the start of camp. When healthy he would challenge Newton for the right tackle job. Was OT Bakhtiari PRIOR PICKS: WR Allen, QB Barkley, CB Alford
96	KC	Ellington RB Clemson	Ellington would battle Droughn and Gray to become the top backup to Charles PRIOR PICKS: OT Joeckel, ILB Bostic
97	TEN	Matheiu CB LSU	If he stays clean, he could become one of the better nickel corners in the NFL. PRIOR PICKS: DE Ansah, OT/OG Pugh, TE Kelce