Robert's 2011 Mock Draft (Updated 4/16/11)

[Robert]

FIRST ROUND

1. Carolina - Blaine Gabbert, QB, Missouri
It’s only been a year, but it appears that the Jimmy Clausen era in Charlotte has already come to a close. To put it bluntly, Clausen was completely ineffective and didn’t really show anything that would point to him improving in the future. Also, there is a new coaching staff in town and they will try to quickly stock this team with their “guys”. I guess Cam Newton could also be the pick here, but I can’t see the Panthers going with anyone that isn’t a quarterback. There has also been a lot of chatter about the team trading back, but there will be no trades in this mock.
previous pick: no change

2. Denver - Marcell Dareus, DT, Alabama
The Crimson Tide have finally found a way to come out ahead of their archrival Tigers. Dareus put on a show at the combine, putting himself in position to go ahead of Fairley. In fact, most scouts now list Dareus as their top player at any position. This is one of those rare times where the best player available also fits a need seeing as John Fox and the Broncos are looking high and low for interior defensive linemen.
previous pick: no change

3. Buffalo - Cam Newton, QB, Auburn
Top three teams all with new coaches... guess there is a reason they are all picking at the top of the draft. The Bills have desperately been searching for a franchise quarterback since Jim Kelly retired. And while Newton can’t compare with the Hall of Famer, he’s definitely better than anyone currently on the roster in Buffalo. If Newton ends up going first, then Gabbert should be the pick here.
previous pick: no change

4. Cincinnati - AJ Green, WR, Georgia
Carson Palmer seems to be on his way out. T.O. is gone. And Ochocinco (soon to be Chad Johnson again) has a better chance of suiting up for the Kansas City MLS squad than he does of being a Bengal again next year. With the top two QBs off the board, all signs point to AJ Green. It was quite obvious how much Green meant to the UGA offense when he missed the first four games because of that whole eBay-jersey-selling fiasco. He may not be a burner, but he will catch anything thrown in the same zip code as him.
previous pick: Robert Quinn, DE, UNC

5. Arizona - Von Miller, OLB, Texas A&M
The Cardinals are in the market for a QB, but Whisenhunt will probably look to fill that hole with a veteran as soon as the NFL opens for business again. So, why not try and fix their horrid pass rush? Miller shot up draft boards following an impressive Senior Bowl and Combine. He also has a ton of experience playing this exact position which should put him in first team contention early on.
previous pick: no change

6. Cleveland - Robert Quinn, DE, North Carolina
AJ Green would have been the perfect pick if he would have been available. Colt McCoy desperately needs a #1 target to throw to. However, the Browns also have a huge need on the defensive line. Rob Ryan is gone and he’s taken the 3-4 with him, so a premier pass rushing end would be excellent. Quinn fits that description perfectly, even if he is a full year removed from the playing field.
previous pick: AJ Green, WR, Georgia

7. San Francisco - Patrick Peterson, CB, LSU
And finally the top player on my board gets taken. Peterson isn’t just a shut-down corner, he’s also an elite return man. Anytime the ball is in his hands, there’s a chance he’ll be dancing in the endzone. He is quite possibly the best corner to come along since Champ Bailey. I can’t believe I have him falling this far, but each of the above teams have far bigger problems to fix, which is a good thing for the Niners. Ultimately I believe Peterson goes higher than seventh... after a team trades up to get him.
previous pick: Nick Fairley, DT, Auburn

8. Tennessee - Nick Fairley, DT, Auburn
The Titans have spent the past two years trying to replace Albert Haynesworth to no avail. While he doesn’t posses Haynesworth’s size, Fairley can be a dominant inside pass rusher and will hold his own against the run. If the Titans can teach him to play a bit smarter and with more consistency, then they could end up with a steal.
previous pick: Da’Quan Bowers, DE, Clemson

9. Dallas - Tyron Smith, OT, Southern California
Twenty-two years. That’s how long Jerry Jones has been involved with the Dallas Cowboys on Draft Day. And not once has an offensive lineman made a home in Big D during the first round. Sooner or later, all streaks end. Why not this year? Smith has the talent to step into the right tackle spot right away and could eventually take over on the left. While Prince Amukamara could be a possibility here, I have to believe priority number one will be finding guys to protect Tony Romo.
previous pick: Patrick Peterson, CB, LSU

10. Washington - Julio Jones, WR, Alabama
A new quarterback is really what this team needs, but Joe Montana himself wouldn’t be able to make their receiving corps look better. Santana Moss appears to be headed out the door (again) and the only viable receiver is former undrafted free agent Anthony Armstrong. Julio Jones looked like an athletic freak at the combine and surely grabbed the attention of Dan Snyder (who is looking more and more like a younger Al Davis).
previous pick: no change

11. Houston - JJ Watt, DE, Wisconsin
With the arrival of Wade Phillips, the Texans will be moving to a base 3-4 defense, so the Texans will likely be looking for an edge rusher at the linebacker position and a couple new defensive linemen. The best value here is a five-technique defensive end. Watt can occupy offensive linemen and wreak havoc in the backfield, much like Richard Seymour did in his prime with New England.
previous pick: no change

12. Minnesota - Aldon Smith, DE, Missouri
I was tempted to go with the herd on this one and pencil in Jake Locker to the Vikings. But I just can’t do it. I may change my mind in the next week, but I really doubt it. So, I decided to go with the d-line. Ray Edwards is a free agent and there isn’t much depth behind him. Smith is to be quite blunt, an athletic freak of nature. The only reason he isn’t going higher than this is because he missed time this past year due to injury. If Smith is off the board at this point, the Vikings could look to strengthen their offensive line.
previous pick: Tyron Smith, OT, Southern California

13. Detroit - Prince Amukamara, CB, Nebraska
I don’t think there is any way that Amukamara falls farther than this selection. The Lions secondary is horrendous and could definitely use an upgrade or two. Amukamara has excellent size for a corner and uses that to his advantage in run support. He has tremendous hands and can find the ball in the air. If he isn’t available at this selection, the happiest person in the world could be Matthew Stafford, since the Lions would likely look to add an elite offensive lineman.
previous pick: no change

14. St Louis - Corey Liuget, DT, Illinois
What to get for a team that could use just about anything? Julio Jones is most likely at the top of the Rams wish list, but he is long gone, so they are left looking at the defensive line. Gary Gibson isn’t cutting it and Fred Robbins is 34, so Liuget makes the most sense. The other possibility here is that the Rams take an end like Ryan Kerrigan to play opposite Chris Long.
previous pick: Aldon Smith, DE, Missouri

15. Miami - Mark Ingram, RB, Alabama
I haven’t changed this pick since my first mock draft and I probably won’t change it in the next week. It just makes sense. The Dolphins are likely going to lose their top two running backs and Ingram seems to be the best fit for Miami’s system (he even has tons of experience playing in the Wildcat). I have heard about the injury concerns, but I’m going to look past it at this point. However, if the Dolphins do indeed have questions about Ingram’s knees, they could trade down and pick up an interior lineman or a linebacker.
previous pick: no change

16. Jacksonville - Ryan Kerrigan, DE, Purdue
Last year I had the Jaguars taking a defensive lineman. I was kinda right. The only problem was they took Tyson Alualu (which no one saw coming) while I had them selecting Jason Pierre-Paul. So... why not go back to that same position? The Jaguars need a pass rush in the worst way. Kerrigan is great off the edge. He also has the ability to step in and be a leader for this team.
previous pick: no change

17. New England (f/OAK) - Anthony Castonzo, OT, Boston College
Matt Light is a free agent, so left tackle should be a priority in the draft for the Patriots. Castonzo is a very athletic lineman with loads of experience. If he adds a little weight, he could be the total package. And, as has become mandatory with Belichick, he comes from a well coached team which should put him in the starting lineup fairly quickly.
previous pick: no change

18. San Diego - Cameron Jordan, DE, California
The Chargers probably have more of a need on the offensive line than defensive line, but AJ Smith hasn’t made a move to upgrade the right tackle spot in recent years, so why start now? Having said that, Charger fans across the country will be jumping for joy if Jordan falls to the 18th slot. He has the never stop motor that fans love from defensive players (he even got in trouble at the Senior Bowl for hitting QBs in practice). He will be an amazing replacement for Jacques Cesaire.
previous pick: no change

19. NY Giants - Akeem Ayers, OLB, UCLA
I’ve gone back and forth on this pick over the last few days. Not because I’m doubting Ayers’ ability, but because the Giants have needed an upgrade at linebacker for the better part of a decade and have seemingly gone out of their way not to address the position. Last year they took a defensive end in the first round even though they had two of the best in the starting lineup. Anyways, that trend better end this year or there very well could be rioting year round at the new Meadowlands.
previous pick: no change

20. Tampa Bay - Justin Houston, DE, Georgia
It’s no secret that the Bucs need some help at defensive end. They will likely be looking for a pair of ends in this year’s draft. Out of the remaining DEs, I have heard that they like Houston’s pass rushing skills the best. Houston had an up and down season in 2010, but that can be attributed to UGA’s change in defensive scheme (moved to OLB in the 3-4). He needs a little work in the run game, but he has shown the willingness in the past to become a better player. Adrian Clayborn or Brooks Reed could also be possibilities here.
previous pick: Adrian Clayborn, DE, Iowa

21. Kansas City - Phil Taylor, NT, Baylor
This is another one of those picks that I’ve had in place for a while now and just can’t find a reason to change it. Scott Pioli is trying his best to replicate the New England Patriots in Kansas City and one of the things that he is lacking is a dominant nose tackle. But don’t be fooled by Taylor’s size... he’s got some athleticism to go along with it. If the Chiefs are scared away by character concerns, then they could look for an offensive tackle or interior lineman.
previous pick: no change

22. Indianapolis - Derek Sherrod, OT, Mississippi State
Peyton Manning wants offensive linemen. Peyton Manning needs offensive linemen. The Colts were pushed around up front all season long and Peyton Manning was put on the ground way too often. Sherrod has been one of my top offensive linemen throughout the process and he just might be the best option the Colts have of finding someone to guard the blind side for Manning. He’s an intelligent lineman and excels in the passing game. However, he does not have better than average run blocking skills.
previous pick: no change

23. Philadelphia - Jimmy Smith, CB, Colorado
The most glaring weakness on the Eagles defense is the corner spot opposite Asante Samuel. Smith has terrific size and better than average speed. He is best suited to playing in press man coverage, which fits right into what the Eagles like to do with their corners. It is also possible that Andy Reid looks to get a new right tackle with this selection.
previous pick: Gabe Carimi, OT, Wisconsin

24. New Orleans - Da’Quan Bowers, DE, Clemson
Not long ago Bowers was being thought about as a possible first overall selection. A knee problem, incredibly erratic production and horrible Pro Day has made being a top 10 pick unlikely. However, he still has loads of potential and Sean Payton may just be the man who can get him to achieve it.
previous pick: Muhammad Wilkerson, DT, Temple

25. Seattle - Mike Pouncey, C/G, Florida
What the Seahawks need most is some help in the secondary, but there is much better value at the offensive line which is also a need. While Pouncey has experience playing all three of the interior line positions, his best fit is going to be at Guard. Part of this is due to his erratic shotgun snap. Aaron Williams or Brandon Harris could also be possibilities.
previous pick: Jimmy Smith, CB, Colorado

26. Baltimore - Gabe Carimi, OT, Wisconsin
Last year Jared Gaither appeared to be on his way out the door. This year it might have to happen due to injury. Michael Oher has the talent to slide into that left tackle spot, but that would leave a massive hole on the right side of the line (literally and figuratively). Carimi is an absolute mauler who is best suited to playing right tackle. His size and experience in Wisconsin’s run happy scheme will make Ray Rice a very happy man.
previous pick: Brandon Harris, CB, Miami

27. Atlanta - Brooks Reed, DE, Arizona
Quick... name the defensive end playing opposite John Abraham... if your answer was “Kroy Biermann”, give yourself a pat on the back. And you don’t get credit if you are actually a Falcons fan. Former first round pick Jamaal Anderson has been completely ineffective and new blood is needed. Reed is a three year starter and looked very impressive in the Senior Bowl and Combine. Receiver could also be a consideration, but any WR picked at this point should be considered a reach.
previous pick: Torrey Smith, WR, Maryland

28. New England - Muhammad Wilkerson, DE, Temple
The Patriots need help with the pass rush at both the defensive end and rush linebacker spots. Even though he was lined up inside, Wilkerson racked up an impressive 16 and a half sacks this past season. Granted he was playing at Temple... but that number is impressive anywhere. He has the size to take over at end for the Patriots. In addition to his pass rush skill, Wilkerson is a smart player that defends the run well and gets his long arms up into passing lanes.
previous pick: Justin Houston, OLB, Georgia

29. Chicago - Nate Solder, OT, Colorado
Jay Cutler has taken a pounding the last couple years in Chicago, most notably when he was knocked out of a recent playoff game. Perhaps if the Bears had spent a couple draft picks on linemen that wouldn’t have been the case. And then we wouldn’t have had to endure weeks of commentary on athletes questioning their peers via Twitter. Solder is versatile enough to play on either side of the line and has the frame to get bigger and stronger.
previous pick: no change

30. NY Jets - Adrian Clayborn, DE, Iowa
Shaun Ellis is likely headed out the door via free agency and Trevor Pryce is past his prime. Clayborn has top 10 talent, but character issues will push him into the latter part of the first round and possibly even the second round. However, he has tremendous size and knows how to get in the backfield. He is stout against the run as well. If he can stay on the field and out of trouble, he could end up being an excellent player. Definitely worth the risk at this point.
previous pick: Brooks Reed, OLB, Arizona

31. Pittsburgh - Aaron Williams, CB, Texas
William Gay. William Gay. William Gay. I shouldn’t have to say anymore to convince anyone that the Steelers should be all over a corner like Williams or Brandon Harris. But I will because I am getting paid by the word. Williams is a well rounded and instinctive corner who may end up playing safety (which isn’t an altogether bad thing for the Steelers). And the thing that will endure him to the Pittsburgh faithful is his willingness to do anything for the team (he was a special teams standout at Texas).
previous pick: Mike Pouncey, G, Florida

32. Green Bay - Cameron Heyward, DE, Ohio State
The brass in Green Bay has practically announced to the world that their first round pick will be a defensive end. Cullen Jenkins is a free agent. Johnny Jolly had a run-in with some Houston police officers (again). This basically leaves Ryan Pickett as the only option for the Packers. Heyward would just be a perfect fit. He’s got the size and strength to hold up against the run. And Ryan Mallett can vouch for his pass rushing ability.
previous pick: Sam Acho, OLB, Texas

SECOND ROUND

33. New England (f/CAR) - Danny Watkins, G, Baylor
34. Buffalo - Jabaal Sheard, OLB, Pittsburgh
35. Cincinnati - Andy Dalton, QB, TCU
36. Denver - Marvin Austin, DT, UNC
37. Cleveland - Stephen Paea, DT, Oregon State
38. Arizona - Kyle Rudolph, TE, Notre Dame
39. Tennessee - Ryan Mallett, QB, Arkansas
40. Dallas - Benjamin Ijalana, OT/G, Villanova
41. Washington - Christian Ponder, QB, Florida State
42. Houston - Brandon Harris, CB, Miami
43. Minnesota - Jake Locker, QB, Washington
44. Detroit - Bruce Carter, LB, Detroit
45. San Francisco - Sam Acho, OLB, Texas
46. Denver (f/MIA) - Rahim Moore, S, UCLA
47. St Louis - Leonard Hankerson, WR, Miami
48. Oakland - Colin Kaepernick, QB, Nevada
49. Jacksonville - Martez Wilson, LB, Illinois
50. San Diego - Randall Cobb, WR, Kentucky
51. Tampa Bay - Brandon Burton, CB, Utah
52. NY Giants - Mikel Leshoure, RB, Illinois
53. Indianapolis - Marcus Cannon, OT/G, Baylor
54. Philadelphia - James Brewer, OT, Indiana
55. Kansas City - Marcus Gilbert, OT/G, Florida
56. New Orleans - Jurrell Casey, DT, Southern Cal
57. Seattle - Ras-I Dowling, CB, Virginia
58. Baltimore - Titus Young, WR, Boise State
59. Atlanta - Jon Baldwin, WR, Pittsburgh
60. New England - Dontay Moch, OLB, Nevada
61. San Diego (f/NYJ) - Chris Carter, OLB, Fresno State
62. Chicago - Torrey Smith, WR, Maryland
63. Pittsburgh - Kenrick Ellis, NT, Hampton
64. Green Bay - Orlando Franklin, G, Miami


*updated 4/16/11

[TrojanHorse]

Oh hell yeah. I'd love to have Cameron Jordan fall to San Diego

[Milla4Prez66]

I'd rather have Justin Houston than Clayborn at this point.

[Reg]

Locked n loaded in the MDD, DOOD!

[Phenomenal TJ]

We're going to draft Maurkice Pouncey again?

Ah man...I really wanted a new player.

[Robert]

Originally Posted by Phenomenal TJ

We're going to draft Maurkice Pouncey again?

Ah man...I really wanted a new player.

Well... they look just alike and I think "Maurkice" is a more interesting sounding name than "Mike" (no offense, Mike)... but I fixed it since TJ was so upset about it.

Really sad thing is that I made a note to myself to make sure that I didn't do that... oops.

[Phenomenal TJ]

Maybe they switch names when they kiss?

[djames71]

Are you a Dallas fan? Trying to figure out how Patrick Peterson, widely considered the best athlete in the draft, falls to ninth.

And as a 49ers fan, if they pass on Peterson at 7th then I'm done...