Mock Draft Central: How will the first round unfold?

Mock Draft Round 1

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Daniel Jeremiah

Full Analysis

April 28, 2016
1. Jared Goff
  
  QB
  
  California
  
  All signs point to Goff being the top pick.
2. Carson Wentz
  
  QB
  
  North Dakota St.
  
  The Eagles land their preferred choice at QB.
3. DeForest Buckner
  
  DE
  
  Oregon
  
  A lot of signs point to Stanley but Buckner is a perfect fit.
4. Jalen Ramsey
  
  CB
  
  Florida St.
  
  The Cowboys need a pass rusher but Ramsey is too clean to pass up.
5. Joey Bosa
  
  DE
  
  Ohio St.
  
  Myles Jack should be the pick if he passes the Jags' physical. That's a big "if".
6. Laremy Tunsil
  
  OT
  
  Mississippi
  
  Dream scenario for the Ravens. Tunsil is top player in the draft.
7. Ronnie Stanley
  
  OT
  
  Notre Dame
  
  Stanley is gifted in pass protection and will be ready to play Day 1.
8. Jack Conklin
  
  OT
  
  Michigan St.
  
  I think we could see a trade here. Miami could move up for Elliott.
9. Leonard Floyd
  
  OLB
  
  Georgia
  
  Tough call here. Floyd vs. Vernon Hargreaves. Tampa chooses the pass rusher.
10. Myles Jack
  
  OLB
  
  UCLA
  
  Jack could land in the top five or fall out of the first round. True wild card.
11. Vernon Hargreaves
  
  CB
  
  Florida
  
  Hargreaves can play outside or in the nickel for Chicago.
12. Sheldon Rankins
  
  DT
  
  Louisville
  
  Rankins is one of the most disruptive defenders in the class.
13. Ezekiel Elliott
  
  RB
  
  Ohio St.
  
  Miami might have to move up to secure Elliott.
14. Karl Joseph
  
  S
  
  West Virginia
  
  Joseph is the best safety in the draft and the buzz is building.
15. Shaq Lawson
  
  DE
  
  Clemson
  
  The Titans could go OT here but instead add a pass rusher.
16. Ryan Kelly
  
  C
  
  Alabama
  
  Kelly is the top interior offensive lineman in the draft.
17. Darron Lee
  
  OLB
  
  Ohio St.
  
  Lee would add speed and playmaking ability at the second level for the Falcons.
18. Taylor Decker
  
  OT
  
  Ohio St.
  
  The Colts need add pieces to the OL and Decker is rock solid.
19. Jarran Reed
  
  DT
  
  Alabama
  
  Could see the Bills take a linebacker here but Reed is too good to pass up.
20. Keanu Neal
  
  SS
  
  Florida
  
  There are always a couple wild cards in the draft. Here's one of them. Neal could play the Deone Bucannon role in Todd Bowles' defense.
21. Vernon Butler
  
  DT
  
  Louisiana Tech
  
  Butler is very gifted and he can move up and down the line of scrimmage.
22. Will Fuller
  
  WR
  
  Notre Dame
  
  Fuller's speed would be a perfect complement to DeAndre Hopkins.
23. Laquon Treadwell
  
  WR
  
  Mississippi
  
  Treadwell or Josh Doctson would each fit well in this system.
24. Corey Coleman
  
  WR
  
  Baylor
  
  Coleman would make defenses pay for doubling A.J. Green.
25. William Jackson III
  
  CB
  
  Houston
  
  The Steelers are desperate for some help at CB.
26. Germain Ifedi
  
  OG
  
  Texas A&M
  
  Seattle needs to invest in the OL and Ifedi has inside/outside versatility.
27. Reggie Ragland
  
  ILB
  
  Alabama
  
  Ragland is a dominant run defender and he is underrated in coverage.
28. Josh Doctson
  
  WR
  
  TCU
  
  Wouldn't be shocked if the Chiefs picked a QB here.
29. Robert Nkemdiche
  
  DT
  
  Mississippi
  
  The Cardinals have the culture in place to help Nkemdiche excel.
30. Artie Burns
  
  CB
  
  Miami
  
  The Panthers have a need at CB and Burns is a good scheme fit.
31. Cody Whitehair
  
  OG
  
  Kansas St.
  
  This is another spot where we could see a QB come off the board, but Whitehair would be a big upgrade up front.
Mike Mayock

Full Analysis

April 27, 2016
1. Jared Goff
  
  QB
  
  California
  
  Goff took Cal football to a different level, and the Rams hope he does the same in L.A. He's a little bit like Matt Ryan and Joe Flacco, who both started from Day 1. Goff can do the same with the run game and defense the Rams possess.
2. Carson Wentz
  
  QB
  
  North Dakota St.
  
  Wentz is a great athlete, but has a different game than Goff. Wentz is more like Andrew Luck, but he might not be ready to start on Day 1 for the Eagles.
3. Ronnie Stanley
  
  OT
  
  Notre Dame
  
  The Chargers get the opportunity to take the best position player in this draft. His pass protection skills are almost as good as Laremy Tunsil's, but right now Stanley is a better run blocker. This helps both Philip Rivers and Melvin Gordon.
4. Ezekiel Elliott
  
  RB
  
  Ohio St.
  
  DeMarco Murray led the league in rushing two seasons ago for Dallas. But Elliott is a better football player. Put him behind that Cowboys offensive line and that takes pressure off of Tony Romo.
5. Jalen Ramsey
  
  CB
  
  Florida St.
  
  The Jaguars can't believe Ramsey is still available at No. 5. Coach Gus Bradley loves long cornerbacks. All of a sudden the Jaguars possess a pass defense that could be outstanding.
6. Laremy Tunsil
  
  OT
  
  Mississippi
  
  Projected trade with Ravens. The Titans get the same guy they could have taken at No. 1. Tunsil helps enhance Marcus Mariota.
7. DeForest Buckner
  
  DE
  
  Oregon
  
  The 49ers go defense for the second year in a row with a player from Oregon. Think Calais Campbell with Buckner. I think he has All-Pro written all over him.
8. Joey Bosa
  
  DE
  
  Ohio St.
  
  Bosa will be an immediate impact player. The Browns would be ecstatic to get Bosa, who many think is the most impactful defensive end in this draft.
9. Leonard Floyd
  
  OLB
  
  Georgia
  
  Floyd is one of the most polarizing players in this draft. Is he going to turn into Barkevious Mingo or Dion Jordan? He bends like Gumby, and has a chance to be special.
10. Jack Conklin
  
  OT
  
  Michigan St.
  
  He can start on the right side, and that might be where he stays with last year's top pick, Ereck Flowers, at left tackle. Conklin looks a lot like Kyle Long of the Bears.
11. Vernon Hargreaves
  
  CB
  
  Florida
  
  Hargreaves is the perfect fit for what the Bears do on defense. The only downside with him is he lacks eye discipline.
12. Sheldon Rankins
  
  DT
  
  Louisville
  
  Rankins might not seem like a good fit. The Saints like big-bodied defensive tackles, but they do need an inside nickel rusher.
13. Shaq Lawson
  
  DE
  
  Clemson
  
  Remember, Cameron Wake is 34 years old and Mario Williams is 31. The thing I like about Lawson is he brings diversity. He can go up, down, inside or out.
14. Myles Jack
  
  OLB
  
  UCLA
  
  The knee is an important deal and he's going to slide. I don't know where to put Jack in this entire draft because of the medicals. The Raiders need an athletic linebacker. Jack's a great fit, but I don't know what they might have on him in regard to his knee.
15. Josh Doctson
  
  WR
  
  TCU
  
  Projected trade with Titans. The Ravens drafted Breshad Perriman in the first round last year but he never got on the field. Pair Doctson with Perriman and Flacco, and suddenly the Ravens have a different dimension on offense.
16. Taylor Decker
  
  OT
  
  Ohio St.
  
  GM Bob Quinn, in his first draft, stays in the Big Ten and takes the big offensive tackle from Ohio State. Riley Reiff is in the last year of his rookie contract, so the Lions can start Decker on the right side.
17. Darron Lee
  
  OLB
  
  Ohio St.
  
  The Falcons need a linebacker bad, and Lee fits the profile of what coach Dan Quinn wants. You have to be able to run, and Lee can run sideline to sideline.
18. Ryan Kelly
  
  C
  
  Alabama
  
  Kelly is big enough to play all three positions on the offensive line. Indy needs to protect the franchise, as Andrew Luck has been beat up.
19. Robert Nkemdiche
  
  DT
  
  Mississippi
  
  Nkemdiche had as dominant an effort as I've seen vs. Alabama, but he disappears in other games. He also has character concerns. So, how much does he fall? I've got him stopping at Rex Ryan. He'll get the most out of Nkemdiche.
20. Paxton Lynch
  
  QB
  
  Memphis
  
  Ryan Fitzpatrick did a heck of a job last season, but I don't think the Jets have the answer on that roster at quarterback. Lynch is a lot like Joe Flacco, but is more athletic. Lynch can be special, and I don't think Bryce Petty or Geno Smith are the answer.
21. Jarran Reed
  
  DT
  
  Alabama
  
  Reed is special, and the linebackers will love him. The Redskins were 26th against the run in 2015; that won't happen this year.
22. Corey Coleman
  
  WR
  
  Baylor
  
  Coleman is an explosive wide receiver. If you can manufacture touches, he'll manufacture points.
23. Laquon Treadwell
  
  WR
  
  Mississippi
  
  His lack of straight-line speed might turn off some, but he has a big body and a unique ability to catch the ball in traffic.
24. Will Fuller
  
  WR
  
  Notre Dame
  
  Fuller has legit speed. He's a bit raw and not a natural pass catcher. He'll be a polarizing player like the Panthers' Ted Ginn. In other words, he'll have a couple drops, but then be able to spring a big play.
25. Eli Apple
  
  CB
  
  Ohio St.
  
  Apple was a redshirt sophomore and three years removed from high school in 2015. Is he raw? Absolutely. Does he have a lot to learn? Yes. But, he'll be coached up in Pittsburgh.
26. A'Shawn Robinson
  
  DT
  
  Alabama
  
  The Seahawks lost Brandon Mebane in free agency.Robinson can step in and help the Seahawks stop the run, and he can also push the pocket in the pass game.
27. Reggie Ragland
  
  ILB
  
  Alabama
  
  Ragland is an old-school, downhill thumper. The Packers were ranked 21st against the run last year, but more importantly Ragland allows them to get Clay Matthews back outside.
28. William Jackson III
  
  CB
  
  Houston
  
  Jackson has very good ball skills, and he can press and play off-coverage. He would form a nice cornerback tandem with last year's NFL Defensive Rookie of the Year, Marcus Peters.
29. Artie Burns
  
  CB
  
  Miami
  
  The Cardinals don't have a second-round pick, so they could trade back here with a team looking for a quarterback. I know teams with a third-round grade on Burns and others that believe he could end up the best corner in this draft.
30. Kevin Dodd
  
  DE
  
  Clemson
  
  The Panthers can get the best edge rusher available on the board right now. Dodd will team with Kony Ealy and two years from now be a special player.
31. Karl Joseph
  
  S
  
  West Virginia
  
  Joseph fits a need for the Broncos. He reminds me of a poor man's Earl Thomas. Joseph likens himself to Brian Dawkins. Those are some pretty good names.
Bucky Brooks

Full Analysis

April 26, 2016
1. Jared Goff
  
  QB
  
  California
  
  The Rams opt for the most pro-ready quarterback in the draft to serve as the face of the franchise for the next decade.
2. Carson Wentz
  
  QB
  
  North Dakota St.
  
  Despite the stable of quarterbacks already on the Eagles� roster, Doug Pederson targets the North Dakota State standout as the franchise quarterback of the future.
3. DeForest Buckner
  
  DE
  
  Oregon
  
  They bypass a need at safety to grab a versatile defender with the size, length and athleticism to upgrade the pass rush at the five-technique position.
4. Jalen Ramsey
  
  CB
  
  Florida St.
  
  The thought of pairing Byron Jones with another world-class athlete on the perimeter could entice Jerry Jones to target this ultra-competitive defender.
5. Joey Bosa
  
  DE
  
  Ohio St.
  
  The Jaguars would get a two-for-one defensive upgrade with Bosa teaming with 2015 first-rounder Dante Fowler to give the unit a scary 1-2 punch on the edges.
6. Laremy Tunsil
  
  OT
  
  Mississippi
  
  It would be tough for Ozzie Newsome to bypass the No. 1 player in the draft despite having a serviceable player at the position.
7. Ronnie Stanley
  
  OT
  
  Notre Dame
  
  Chip Kelly could push the front office for an athletic edge blocker to help his offensive line get back on track in 2016.
8. Jack Conklin
  
  OT
  
  Michigan St.
  
  The Browns need to fill a number of holes, but plugging a void at right tackle could be a priority with RGIII poised to jump-start his career in Cleveland.
9. Vernon Hargreaves
  
  CB
  
  Florida
  
  Despite adding Brent Grimes in the offseason, the Bucs could opt for the most polished cover corner in the class.
10. Myles Jack
  
  OLB
  
  UCLA
  
  It is uncommon for the Giants to draft a linebacker with a top pick, but the UCLA standout fills a need and adds some athleticism to a unit that desperately needs playmakers.
11. Leonard Floyd
  
  OLB
  
  Georgia
  
  John Fox and Vic Fangio could upgrade the Bears' pass rush by adding an ultra-athletic defender with speed and rush skills.
12. Sheldon Rankins
  
  DT
  
  Louisville
  
  The Saints must improve the pass rush to alleviate some of the pressure on the secondary. Rankins is a disruptive interior rusher with an array of moves that makes him a nightmare to block on passing downs.
13. Ezekiel Elliott
  
  RB
  
  Ohio St.
  
  Adam Gase needs a �bell cow� running back to feature in his offense. Elliott is a three-down back capable of making a big impact as a runner, receiver and blocker.
14. Robert Nkemdiche
  
  DT
  
  Mississippi
  
  The ultra-talented defensive tackle would give the Raiders the scariest defensive line in football.
15. Taylor Decker
  
  OT
  
  Ohio St.
  
  The Titans traded out of the top spot but still land a top offensive tackle in Round 1. Decker is a natural fit at right tackle, which allows the Titans to keep Taylor Lewan on the blindside.
16. Jarran Reed
  
  DT
  
  Alabama
  
  The Lions would love to find a disruptive interior defender to place alongside Haloti Ngata and eliminate running plays between the tackles.
17. Darron Lee
  
  OLB
  
  Ohio St.
  
  Dan Quinn needs a speedy linebacker with disruptive skills as a rusher/cover guy to help the Falcons� defense go to the next level.
18. Shaq Lawson
  
  DE
  
  Clemson
  
  The Colts need a young pass rusher to groom behind Robert Mathis and Trent Cole.
19. Kevin Dodd
  
  DE
  
  Clemson
  
  Rex Ryan finds his replacement for Mario Williams. The Clemson standout is a bit of a one-year wonder but flashes the potential to grow into a dominant edge rusher.
20. Paxton Lynch
  
  QB
  
  Memphis
  
  The raw gunslinger isn�t ready to play at this stage of his career, but he could eventually thrive in Chan Gailey�s system with the stellar supporting cast the Jets have assembled on the perimeter.
21. A'Shawn Robinson
  
  DT
  
  Alabama
  
  The Redskins pluck a big-bodied space eater to plug in at nose tackle.
22. Corey Coleman
  
  WR
  
  Baylor
  
  The Texans are looking for a speedy WR2 to take the pressure off DeAndre Hopkins on the perimeter. Coleman adds a big-play element to the offense as a catch-and-run specialist with deep-ball potential.
23. Laquon Treadwell
  
  WR
  
  Mississippi
  
  The Vikings can help Teddy Bridgewater by adding a big-bodied WR1 with sticky hands and superb ball skills.
24. Josh Doctson
  
  WR
  
  TCU
  
  The combination of Doctson and A.J. Green will create problems for opponents attempting to defend the Bengals� dynamic aerial attack.
25. Eli Apple
  
  CB
  
  Ohio St.
  
  The Steelers� transition to a Tampa 2 system could prompt the team to take a long, rangy corner with outstanding instincts and awareness.
26. Germain Ifedi
  
  OG
  
  Texas A&M
  
  The Seahawks must address the offensive line to help Russell Wilson thrive.
27. Reggie Ragland
  
  ILB
  
  Alabama
  
  The addition of the Alabama standout would allow the Packers to move Clay Matthews back to outside linebacker.
28. Artie Burns
  
  CB
  
  Miami
  
  The Chiefs could elect to add an athletic CB2 to pair with Marcus Peters in the secondary.
29. William Jackson III
  
  CB
  
  Houston
  
  Finding Patrick Peterson a partner should be a top priority given the Cardinals� preference for man blitzes. Jackson is a talented ball hawk with a diverse set of skills.
30. Emmanuel Ogbah
  
  DE
  
  Oklahoma St.
  
  The Panthers need to find an edge rusher to create chaos opposite Kony Ealy.
31. Chris Jones
  
  DT
  
  Mississippi St.
  
  The Broncos need to fortify the defensive line after Malik Jackson�s departure. Jones is a rock-solid playmaker with the length to occupy the five-technique position for the defending champs.
Charles Davis

Full Analysis

April 26, 2016
1. Jared Goff
  
  QB
  
  California
  
  My top-rated QB (by an eyelash) in this year's draft, Goff represents the new "Face of the Franchise" for the Rams as they make a splashy return to the City of Angels. I believe that Carson Wentz fits their style of offense better, but all recent signs point toward Goff moving from Northern California to SoCal despite coach Jeff Fisher's past success with another I-AA QB named Steve McNair.
2. Carson Wentz
  
  QB
  
  North Dakota St.
  
  The Eagles have been very bold in the run up to the draft, making two separate deals to move from their original No. 13 position to No. 8 (Miami Dolphins), and now to No. 2 (Cleveland Browns) in order to take this year's "riser" (in the eyes of the public). From the moment Wentz's name is turned in to the commissioner, he will be on the clock toward being named the starter in Philadelphia. Wither Sam Bradford?
3. Laremy Tunsil
  
  OT
  
  Mississippi
  
  What a decision for the Chargers! The top-rated talent is still on the board for them -- both on offense (Tunsil) and defense (Jalen Ramsey) -- and the best defensive ends are all still available (Joey Bosa and DeForest Buckner). Ultimately, Tunsil is the pick due to trying to win right now with QB Philip Rivers ... but, it's hard to say that they went wrong if they pick any of the previously named players.
4. Joey Bosa
  
  DE
  
  Ohio St.
  
  I know that most teams are loath to pick strictly for need, but in Dallas, defensive ends that can rush the passer are now a critical need with Demarcus Lawrence and Randy Gregory suspended for the first four games of the 2016 season. And, are they a lock to return and play well? No. The Cowboys take the Ohio State All-American after agonizing about taking his college teammate, RB Ezekiel Elliott, or Florida State DB Jalen Ramsey.
5. Myles Jack
  
  OLB
  
  UCLA
  
  Yes, the speculation won't stop about the medical reports on his knee, but the Jaguars are a team that needs to win NOW. If they feel good about the final analysis from their team doctors, they select this multi-purpose playmaker and take aim at Houston and Indianapolis within their division.
6. Jalen Ramsey
  
  CB
  
  Florida St.
  
  Ramsey is the top-rated defender, and player, on many boards. The Ravens might have been targeting an OT or DE here, but with Ramsey on the board they are excited about taking him and using him all over their secondary.
7. DeForest Buckner
  
  DE
  
  Oregon
  
  The 49ers could easily go OT here (now that QB is no longer a possibility), but Buckner could be a force both in base defense and when he rushes the passer from inside in their nickel/sub packages. The 49ers could have an Oregon reunion with Buckner paired with last year's top pick, DE Arik Armstead.
8. Ronnie Stanley
  
  OT
  
  Notre Dame
  
  The Browns would not be averse to moving down here, but if they stay, Stanley can start at right tackle immediately.
9. Vernon Hargreaves
  
  CB
  
  Florida
  
  A pass rusher would be optimal for the Bucs, but Hargreaves is the top CB left on the board, and he can cover and tackle.
10. Jack Conklin
  
  OT
  
  Michigan St.
  
  The Giants want to continue to keep QB Eli Manning upright and safe, and Conklin is a fighter who can ably man the right tackle position.
11. Leonard Floyd
  
  OLB
  
  Georgia
  
  The makeover of the Bears' defense continues, and now Floyd will be able to settle into one job ... rushing the passer. Vic Fangio, the Bears' defensive coordinator, utilized Aldon Smith in that role as a rookie to great success in San Francisco.
12. Sheldon Rankins
  
  DT
  
  Louisville
  
  I'm not sure a highly regarded defender did more to help himself than Rankins did with his week in Mobile at the Senior Bowl. The Saints need help everywhere on defense.
13. Ezekiel Elliott
  
  RB
  
  Ohio St.
  
  I am very impressed by Elliott, and believe he could easily go in the top 10, but somehow he makes it down to this pick. The Dolphins grab him to continue to surround QB Ryan Tannehill with playmakers.
14. Eli Apple
  
  CB
  
  Ohio St.
  
  The Raiders are a team that in the past you could count on for a wild-card type selection (Robert Nkemdiche?). While that might still happen, even after acquiring CB Sean Smith in free agency, they grab another cornerback here.
15. Taylor Decker
  
  OT
  
  Ohio St.
  
  Protect Marcus Mariota. Protect Marcus Mariota. Decker's selection helps that mantra, but I would not be surprised to see the Titans take a defensive back or trade back up into the top 10.
16. Kevin Dodd
  
  DE
  
  Clemson
  
  The Lions are seeking help for star DE Ziggy Ansah, and Dodd's best production might still lie ahead. Disrupting quarterbacks is the goal of any defense, and the Lions could have bookend pass rushers after this selection.
17. Darron Lee
  
  OLB
  
  Ohio St.
  
  Lee is one of my favorite players in this year's draft, and I see coach Dan Quinn scheming to get this speedy, multi-dimensional player around the ball. He will be a three-down player for the Falcons.
18. William Jackson III
  
  CB
  
  Houston
  
  Protecting QB Andrew Luck is something that the Colts will continue to stress, but they could use some help on the defensive side, too.
19. Shaq Lawson
  
  DE
  
  Clemson
  
  This Clemson defensive end can rush the passer from the DE/OLB position, and he plays the game with passion. They wouldn't take a QB here ... would they?!
20. Paxton Lynch
  
  QB
  
  Memphis
  
  If the Jets feel that they won't reach a deal with Ryan Fitzpatrick, it might be irresistible to pass on this big-armed prospect who has surprisingly good mobility for his nearly 6-foot-7 frame.
21. Jarran Reed
  
  DT
  
  Alabama
  
  Reed is a tremendous run stopper, and I believe he will keep getting better as an inside pass rusher and help Washington deal with Dallas' great offensive line and heavy running attack.
22. Corey Coleman
  
  WR
  
  Baylor
  
  My top-rated wide receiver, Coleman will need work on the NFL route tree. Coleman's speed, suddenness and ball skills downfield will help new QB Brock Osweiler and star WR DeAndre Hopkins put points on the board.
23. Laquon Treadwell
  
  WR
  
  Mississippi
  
  Throw out the stop watches and evaluate his production. Treadwell loves the game and is a big-time worker who competes very well for the ball in the air, and will give young QB Teddy Bridgewater more confidence to throw the ball downfield.
24. Josh Doctson
  
  WR
  
  TCU
  
  QB Andy Dalton will be happy with this selection. It helps shore up a depleted receiving corps, and gives him another player who can play the ball in the air very well and "uncover" at the end of routes. I still say Alabama C Ryan Kelly is in play here.
25. Artie Burns
  
  CB
  
  Miami
  
  A confident player with some length, Burns can run and make plays on the ball downfield. He's needed to help the Steelers deal with the Bengals' A.J. Green and Ravens' Steve Smith.
26. Robert Nkemdiche
  
  DT
  
  Mississippi
  
  Nkemdiche is uber-talented with question marks about off-field issues, but the Seahawks have not been shy about taking this type of player. Their environment is one in which players seem to thrive. Nkemdiche would be used all along the defensive front, exactly as Pete Carroll wants to do with his defensive linemen (such as Michael Bennett and Cliff Avril).
27. Reggie Ragland
  
  ILB
  
  Alabama
  
  The Packers get their inside, downhill thumper, and Clay Matthews gets to move back to outside linebacker on a permanent basis. The Pack's overall defense gets better.
28. Will Fuller
  
  WR
  
  Notre Dame
  
  KC really struggled in the playoffs after losing WR Jeremy Maclin, and this blazer from Notre Dame will help by opening the field for Maclin, TE Travis Kelce and RB Jamaal Charles.
29. Noah Spence
  
  DE
  
  Eastern Kentucky
  
  What's better than adding a pass rusher in free agency like Chandler Jones? Doubling down with a pass rusher in the draft. Spence's off-field issues are well-documented, but this is another organization in which players with past troubles can excel if they put in the work.
30. A'Shawn Robinson
  
  DT
  
  Alabama
  
  With free agency looming for Kawann Short and Star Lotulelei, the Panthers get a great value pick here in the big bruiser from the Crimson Tide.
31. Andrew Billings
  
  NT
  
  Baylor
  
  Inside pressure is key to freeing up the great edge rushers of the Broncos, and Billings uses tremendous strength to hold the point of attack against the run and pushes the pocket rushing the passer. If the Broncos opt for offensive line here, Kansas State's Cody Whitehair might get his name called.
Charley Casserly

Full Analysis

April 28, 2016
1. Jared Goff
  
  QB
  
  California
  
  More ready to play than Carson Wentz. Quick release coupled with quick decision-making. They have been a QB away from being in the playoffs.
2. Carson Wentz
  
  QB
  
  North Dakota St.
  
  Reminds me of Joe Flacco, but more athletic.
3. Laremy Tunsil
  
  OT
  
  Mississippi
  
  Both starting tackles -- King Dunlap and Joe Barksdale -- are signed. But Tunsil is a future Pro Bowl player.
4. Ezekiel Elliott
  
  RB
  
  Ohio St.
  
  Will win more games for them this year than any other player.
5. Joey Bosa
  
  DE
  
  Ohio St.
  
  Gives Jaguars a bookend to Dante Fowler.
6. Jalen Ramsey
  
  CB
  
  Florida St.
  
  Completes the remake of the Ravens' secondary.
7. Ronnie Stanley
  
  OT
  
  Notre Dame
  
  They won when their offensive line was good.
8. DeForest Buckner
  
  DE
  
  Oregon
  
  The Browns will probably trade out of this pick.
9. Vernon Hargreaves
  
  CB
  
  Florida
  
  Excellent corner who can play man cover, which will be a big part of the Bucs defense.
10. Leonard Floyd
  
  OLB
  
  Georgia
  
  They have been weak at linebacker for a while. Floyd also gives them another pass rusher, which is something the Giants love.
11. A'Shawn Robinson
  
  DT
  
  Alabama
  
  The Bears need a big run-stuffing end in their 34 defense.
12. Paxton Lynch
  
  QB
  
  Memphis
  
  It is time to think about the future at the QB position. Great spot for Lynch to go to.
13. Shaq Lawson
  
  DE
  
  Clemson
  
  They continue to build their defensive line in an effort to beat New England.
14. Reggie Ragland
  
  ILB
  
  Alabama
  
  Major need is at middle linebacker. Very instinctive player.
15. Jack Conklin
  
  OT
  
  Michigan St.
  
  They will fill their need at right tackle and keep all of those extra picks.
16. Taylor Decker
  
  OT
  
  Ohio St.
  
  Fills a need to help protect Matt Stafford. Do they move Riley Reiff to the right side?
17. Myles Jack
  
  OLB
  
  UCLA
  
  Falcons decide to take a gamble on the potential Pro Bowl player who drops because of longterm knee concerns.
18. Kevin Dodd
  
  DE
  
  Clemson
  
  They miss out on an OT but fill their other major need of a pass rusher.
19. Noah Spence
  
  DE
  
  Eastern Kentucky
  
  In their transition to a 34 defense they get a pass rusher at OLB.
20. Eli Apple
  
  CB
  
  Ohio St.
  
  The pass rushers are gone so they take a cornerback and just keep blitzing to get pressure.
21. Jarran Reed
  
  DT
  
  Alabama
  
  Helps improve the Redskins' rub defense.
22. Corey Coleman
  
  WR
  
  Baylor
  
  They need to add speed to their offense.
23. Laquon Treadwell
  
  WR
  
  Mississippi
  
  Teddy Bridgewater needs some weapons.
24. Will Fuller
  
  WR
  
  Notre Dame
  
  Fills a big need created by the free-agency losses of Marvin Jones and Mohamed Sanu.
25. Artie Burns
  
  CB
  
  Miami
  
  Some will say this is a reach but he is my next best cornerback.
26. Germain Ifedi
  
  OG
  
  Texas A&M
  
  Darron Lee has first-round talent and fits defensive style but the Seattle line needs to be rebuilt. Ifedi can play ROT or OG.
27. Robert Nkemdiche
  
  DT
  
  Mississippi
  
  Talented player who drops in draft because of issues.
28. William Jackson III
  
  CB
  
  Houston
  
  Fills void left by Sean Smith.
29. Ryan Kelly
  
  C
  
  Alabama
  
  CB is a need, too, but Kelly is rated higher.
30. Sheldon Rankins
  
  DT
  
  Louisville
  
  Both starting defensive tackles are free agents over the next two years.
31. Vernon Butler
  
  DT
  
  Louisiana Tech
  
  Butler has upfield ability.
Lance Zierlein

Full Analysis

April 26, 2016
1. Jared Goff
  
  QB
  
  California
  
  The most NFL-ready QB in the draft gets to stay close to home. He'll work behind a promising offensive line and with an excellent RB.
2. Carson Wentz
  
  QB
  
  North Dakota St.
  
  Doug Pederson gets his man as Wentz will step into the role of "face of the franchise" right away -- even if he has to sit a year.
3. Ronnie Stanley
  
  OT
  
  Notre Dame
  
  Beauty is in the eye of the beholder, and while I believe Laremy Tunsil is the best left tackle in this draft, the Chargers might not see it the same.
4. Jalen Ramsey
  
  CB
  
  Florida St.
  
  Dallas gets a playmaking corner/safety prospect who has rare athletic attributes and can be deployed around the field.
5. Joey Bosa
  
  DE
  
  Ohio St.
  
  While Dante Fowler is coming back and Malik Jackson has joined the fray, Bosa gives the Jags yet another pass rusher as the team tries to go Seahawks 2.0.
6. Laremy Tunsil
  
  OT
  
  Mississippi
  
  Ozzie Newsome knows what a good football player looks like, and I would have to believe the Ravens would race the card to the podium in this spot.
7. Myles Jack
  
  OLB
  
  UCLA
  
  This is an absolutely perfect fit -- unless the 49ers' medicals don't check out. For now, we will go plug-and-play with Jack.
8. DeForest Buckner
  
  DE
  
  Oregon
  
  Buckner is a perfect fit with what the Browns need. Buckner provides instant athleticism and high-end upside.
9. Ezekiel Elliott
  
  RB
  
  Ohio St.
  
  The best running back in the draft pairs with Jameis Winston and Mike Evans to form a new "Big Three".
10. Darron Lee
  
  OLB
  
  Ohio St.
  
  I'm expecting Tennessee to try to come up to this spot. The Giants could move down and take Lee at No. 15.
11. Leonard Floyd
  
  OLB
  
  Georgia
  
  Floyd has outstanding upside as a pass rusher, but might take a year to get his weight and strength up to a serviceable level.
12. Paxton Lynch
  
  QB
  
  Memphis
  
  Hearing the Saints have a strong interest in Lynch. This info could be smoke to sniff out a trade-up suitor, but it actually would make some sense with Drew Brees' cap spot as crippling as it is.
13. Eli Apple
  
  CB
  
  Ohio St.
  
  The Dolphins might take a shot up the board to come after Elliott, but Apple is big, fast and fits a huge need.
14. Vernon Hargreaves
  
  CB
  
  Florida
  
  Hargreaves might not have the size and speed that some teams covet, but he's a top-notch cover corner.
15. Jack Conklin
  
  OT
  
  Michigan St.
  
  I believe the Titans will make a move up the draft board to secure the services of this burly blocker.
16. William Jackson III
  
  CB
  
  Houston
  
  The Lions have so many options in this spot, but the run on cornerbacks could cause them to push Jackson up their board.
17. A'Shawn Robinson
  
  DT
  
  Alabama
  
  The Falcons' defense has been in need of some serious toughness in the middle for a while, and Robinson is that instant upgrade.
18. Taylor Decker
  
  OT
  
  Ohio St.
  
  Putting an offensive lineman with the Colts might feel cliche, but it's a big need and Decker should help the running game immediately.
19. Sheldon Rankins
  
  DT
  
  Louisville
  
  Powerful for his size and extremely talented with his hands. Rex Ryan will appreciate the skill set and the rush ability.
20. Shaq Lawson
  
  DE
  
  Clemson
  
  If Lawson is still here, he makes a lot of sense. Lawson can play standing up or with a hand in the ground, and has the type of physicality that Todd Bowles covets.
21. Vernon Butler
  
  DT
  
  Louisiana Tech
  
  Butler has big-time talent, and the ability to play 3-4 NT or 3-4 DE. Butler's upside might be too much to pass up for the Redskins.
22. Karl Joseph
  
  S
  
  West Virginia
  
  Provided the medicals are OK on his recovering ACL, Joseph has an urgency and diversity in his play that sets him apart from the other safeties. The guy LIVES football.
23. Josh Doctson
  
  WR
  
  TCU
  
  This one will simply be a matter of taste. Treadwell is the bigger alpha player, while Doctson is faster. Can't go wrong either way.
24. Laquon Treadwell
  
  WR
  
  Mississippi
  
  In this scenario, A.J. Green provides plenty of deep-ball threat, so Treadwell becomes a possession receiver who is capable of handling plenty of targets.
25. Mackensie Alexander
  
  CB
  
  Clemson
  
  Alexander could fall out of the first round. Then again, the Steelers need a cornerback and Alexander has the swagger and cover skills that should appeal to Mike Tomlin.
26. Ryan Kelly
  
  C
  
  Alabama
  
  Kelly would be a big upgrade over the play of Patrick Lewis in 2015. Kelly has strength and surprising foot quickness. He's a good match for a team that faces so much interior power across from them.
27. Reggie Ragland
  
  ILB
  
  Alabama
  
  If the draft plays out like this and Ragland falls to the Packers, they would likely be hard-pressed to let him get away.
28. Robert Nkemdiche
  
  DT
  
  Mississippi
  
  The talent is undeniable, but the lack of production and maturity make this a boom-or-bust selection.
29. Noah Spence
  
  DE
  
  Eastern Kentucky
  
  The Cardinals need much better edge presence with their pass rush, and Spence could give them their potential solution.
30. Kevin Dodd
  
  DE
  
  Clemson
  
  Dodd had only one year of early round production at Clemson, but he's loaded with potential.
31. Connor Cook
  
  QB
  
  Michigan St.
  
  A shot in the dark here, but not without merit. Cook has played under center plenty, and has some of the physical makeup that Gary Kubiak can work with and mold.
Chad Reuter

Full Analysis

April 28, 2016
1. Jared Goff
  
  QB
  
  California
  
  Goff's the best quarterback. The Rams need a quarterback. The transitive property of NFL Draft holds.
2. Carson Wentz
  
  QB
  
  North Dakota St.
  
  Obviously, Sam Bradford thinks this is a quarterback pick. I'll go along with him.
3. DeForest Buckner
  
  DE
  
  Oregon
  
  San Diego needs a presence on the defensive line who will free up Melvin Ingram and others to attack the quarterback.
4. Joey Bosa
  
  DE
  
  Ohio St.
  
  Yes, the pick could be Ezekiel Elliott. Finding Bosa, a pass rusher with strength vs. the run, available here might be too much for Jerry Jones to pass up.
5. Leonard Floyd
  
  OLB
  
  Georgia
  
  If Jacksonville can get out of this spot, they'll snatch Floyd later in the round. The question is whether they can get what they want for this pick ... and will they still take him if they stay put?
6. Laremy Tunsil
  
  OT
  
  Mississippi
  
  The best player in the draft goes sixth for the second year in a row (Jets DL Leonard Williams) -- unless Tennessee moves ahead of Baltimore to get him.
7. Jalen Ramsey
  
  CB
  
  Florida St.
  
  Does any team need a cornerback more than the Niners?
8. Paxton Lynch
  
  QB
  
  Memphis
  
  Hue Jackson has to see a bit of Joe Flacco in Lynch. If the Browns move back into the teens, they'll want to ensure they can still pick him up.
9. Ronnie Stanley
  
  OT
  
  Notre Dame
  
  Stanley plays on the left side. Donovan Smith moves to the right side. Jameis Winston is a happy man.
10. Myles Jack
  
  OLB
  
  UCLA
  
  The Giants will take the value that Jack presents and run with it.
11. Ezekiel Elliott
  
  RB
  
  Ohio St.
  
  Need a new Matt Forte? Mr. Zeke comes to the rescue!
12. Sheldon Rankins
  
  DT
  
  Louisville
  
  The Saints are looking for explosion in the middle of the line. Rankins excels in that area.
13. Vernon Hargreaves
  
  CB
  
  Florida
  
  Even with Byron Maxwell in the mix, Miami's secondary needs more help.
14. William Jackson III
  
  CB
  
  Houston
  
  In November I said Jackson would be this year's Kevin Johnson. Jackson actually beats Johnson's draft position by two spots.
15. Jack Conklin
  
  OT
  
  Michigan St.
  
  If the Titans can't get back into the top 10 to grab Laremy Tunsil or Ronnie Stanley, they'll take a very good player in Conklin.
16. Josh Doctson
  
  WR
  
  TCU
  
  Marvin Jones is a good receiver, but the Lions could use more at the position as they try to replace Calvin Johnson.
17. Darron Lee
  
  OLB
  
  Ohio St.
  
  The Falcons get the coverage linebacker that they desperately needed.
18. Taylor Decker
  
  OT
  
  Ohio St.
  
  Must. Protect. Luck.
19. Shaq Lawson
  
  DE
  
  Clemson
  
  Rex Ryan needs someone who can get to the quarterback. Lawson's relentless nature and strong hands will allow him to get into the backfield often.
20. Reggie Ragland
  
  ILB
  
  Alabama
  
  Shoring up the team's linebacking corps should be at the top of the Jets' "to-do" list.
21. Jarran Reed
  
  DT
  
  Alabama
  
  Reed is strong at the point of attack and will offers more on passing downs than former Redskins starting nose tackle Terrance Knighton.
22. Will Fuller
  
  WR
  
  Notre Dame
  
  DeAndre Hopkins and Fuller create a devastating combination.
23. Michael Thomas
  
  WR
  
  Ohio St.
  
  I'll go with Thomas over Laquon Treadwell here; either way, Teddy Bridgewater says "thank you very much!"
24. Corey Coleman
  
  WR
  
  Baylor
  
  Coleman, A.J. Green and Tyler Eifert? Now that's a trio that will help a team get over the hump.
25. Karl Joseph
  
  S
  
  West Virginia
  
  The Steelers aren't afraid to pick shorter defensive backs if they can make plays. That's what Joseph does.
26. Germain Ifedi
  
  OG
  
  Texas A&M
  
  Ifedi could play guard or tackle for the Seahawks, who need help all over the line.
27. Andrew Billings
  
  NT
  
  Baylor
  
  How a huge, athletic, strong player like Billings is available here is beyond me. But that's the sort of player the Packers tend to pick at the bottom of the first and second rounds.
28. Laquon Treadwell
  
  WR
  
  Mississippi
  
  The Chiefs still need help on the outside.
29. Ryan Kelly
  
  C
  
  Alabama
  
  Finding a strong interior lineman in the first round would make sense for the Cardinals, who must protect Carson Palmer.
30. Eli Apple
  
  CB
  
  Ohio St.
  
  Dave Gettleman decided enough was enough with Josh Norman. I figure he knew he'd have a chance at a corner like Apple or T.J. Green in this spot.
31. Bronson Kaufusi
  
  DE
  
  BYU
  
  John Elway won a Super Bowl with only adequate quarterback play due to his strong defense. Putting Kaufusi on the edge frees up Von Miller and Co. to do their thing.
Curtis Conway

Full Analysis

April 21, 2016
1. Jared Goff
  
  QB
  
  California
2. Carson Wentz
  
  QB
  
  North Dakota St.
3. Jalen Ramsey
  
  CB
  
  Florida St.
4. Shaq Lawson
  
  DE
  
  Clemson
5. Myles Jack
  
  OLB
  
  UCLA
6. Joey Bosa
  
  DE
  
  Ohio St.
7. Laremy Tunsil
  
  OT
  
  Mississippi
8. DeForest Buckner
  
  DE
  
  Oregon
9. Vernon Hargreaves
  
  CB
  
  Florida
10. Ronnie Stanley
  
  OT
  
  Notre Dame
11. Leonard Floyd
  
  OLB
  
  Georgia
12. Kevin Dodd
  
  DE
  
  Clemson
13. Ezekiel Elliott
  
  RB
  
  Ohio St.
14. Sheldon Rankins
  
  DT
  
  Louisville
15. Jack Conklin
  
  OT
  
  Michigan St.
16. Jarran Reed
  
  DT
  
  Alabama
17. Darron Lee
  
  OLB
  
  Ohio St.
18. Taylor Decker
  
  OT
  
  Ohio St.
19. Robert Nkemdiche
  
  DT
  
  Mississippi
20. Paxton Lynch
  
  QB
  
  Memphis
21. A'Shawn Robinson
  
  DT
  
  Alabama
22. Corey Coleman
  
  WR
  
  Baylor
23. Laquon Treadwell
  
  WR
  
  Mississippi
24. Josh Doctson
  
  WR
  
  TCU
25. Mackensie Alexander
  
  CB
  
  Clemson
26. Chris Jones
  
  DT
  
  Mississippi St.
27. Reggie Ragland
  
  ILB
  
  Alabama
28. William Jackson III
  
  CB
  
  Houston
29. Eli Apple
  
  CB
  
  Ohio St.
30. Emmanuel Ogbah
  
  DE
  
  Oklahoma St.
31. Joshua Garnett
  
  OG
  
  Stanford

Mock Draft Central: How will the first round unfold?

Mock Draft Round 1

Daniel Jeremiah

Mike Mayock

Bucky Brooks

Charles Davis

Charley Casserly