2016 Official Draft Thread

[Formula 21]

QBs Carson Wentz and Jared Goff rising in McShay's Mock Draft 2.0
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2:43 PM ET

Todd McShayESPN Senior Writer

A lot has changed in the NFL since we published our first 2016 mock draft in December. The order for the first 29 picks is now locked in, and the final two slots will be determined by the result of Sunday's Super Bowl between the Broncos and Panthers. (Remember, there are only 31 first-round picks because the Patriots lost their selection as a result of Deflategate sanctions.)
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With NFL evaluators digging more into college tape -- and several players having breakout performances at last week's Senior Bowl -- our Mock Draft 2.0 looks a little different from version 1.0.

Which player will your team select in the first round? Here is our second projection of the 31 first-round picks in the 2016 NFL draft.
1. Tennessee Titans (3-13)

Joey Bosa, DE, Ohio State Buckeyes

If the Titans are looking to trade this pick, they might be able to find a team hoping to jump the Browns to select a quarterback. If no deal materializes, Ole Miss tackle Laremy Tunsil would fill the team's biggest need. But the move is to pull the trigger on Bosa, the best player in the class. You can never have too many pass-rushers. And remember: One of Bosa's best traits is that he's scheme versatile, so he'd be a fit even if the Titans decide to stick with a 3-4 alignment.
2. Cleveland Browns (3-13)

Jared Goff, QB, California Golden Bears

If Bosa is still on the board here for whatever reason, he would be a good option. But quarterback is undoubtedly Cleveland's top need, and the more tape I study, the more I believe it's a two-horse race between Goff and North Dakota State's Carson Wentz for the No. 1 passer. As it stands now -- after studying five of Goff's games this season and four of Wentz's -- the two have identical grades. From Cleveland's perspective, Goff has a bit more velocity on his fastball to cut through the wind, while Wentz has more experience playing in the cold. Tough call, but I'll go with Goff for now.
3. San Diego Chargers (4-12)

Laremy Tunsil, OT, Ole Miss Rebels

With Philip Rivers now 34, there's a school of thought that says San Diego should pick its long-term successor here (Goff or Wentz). But if the Chargers are going to make a run at the playoffs before Rivers retires, they must solidify their offensive line. Rivers can't function without better protection and more balance from the running game (ranked 31st in the NFL last season). Tunsil -- the top pass-blocking OT in the draft -- needs to improve his strength, but he's an outstanding athlete for his size (6-foot-5, 305 pounds).

[Fleet]

Would not be surprised to see us kick the tires on the QBs. More so to generate trade activity but its entirely possible that we grab a QB high and groom for a couple years. Afterall if im a GM im not expecting to draft this high again in the near future. Dallas may end up going QB like many are saying so a team may want to move up to 3 to guarantee Goff or Wentz. I think those 2 will be the 1a and 1b QBs in the draft. However im not extremely high on them.

Id prefer drop back a a few spots and pick up another 2nd or maybe even a 2nd & 3rd.

Or take the Rams to the woodshed for the 15, 42, 45, and 76th picks. lol

[Fleet]

McShays Insider Draft. 2.0

1 Tennessee Titans Joey Bosa, DE, Ohio State
2 Cleveland Browns Jared Goff, QB, California
3 San Diego Chargers Laremy Tunsil, OT, Ole Miss
4 Dallas Cowboys Carson Wentz, QB, North Dakota State
5 Jacksonville Jaguars Jalen Ramsey, CB, Florida State
6 Baltimore Ravens Ronnie Stanley, OT, Notre Dame
7 San Francisco 49ers Laquon Treadwell, WR, Ole Miss
8 Miami Dolphins Vernon Hargreaves III, CB, Florida
9 Tampa Bay Buccaneers DeForest Buckner, DE, Oregon
10 New York Giants Sheldon Rankins, DT, Louisville
11 Chicago Bears Myles Jack, LB, UCLA
12 New Orleans Saints A'Shawn Robinson, DT, Alabama
13 Philadelphia Eagles Jack Conklin, OT, Michigan State
14 Oakland Raiders Robert Nkemdiche, DT, Ole Miss
15 Los Angeles Rams Paxton Lynch, QB, Memphis
16 Detroit Lions Reggie Ragland, LB, Alabama
17 Atlanta Falcons Shaq Lawson, DE, Clemson
18 Indianapolis Colts Taylor Decker, OT, Ohio State
19 Buffalo Bills Jaylon Smith, LB, Notre Dame
20 New York Jets Ezekiel Elliott, RB, Ohio State
21 Washington Redskins Jarran Reed, DT, Alabama
22 Houston Texans Vernon Butler, DT, Louisiana Tech
23 Minnesota Vikings Darron Lee, LB, Ohio State
24 Cincinnati Bengals Braxton Miller, WR, Ohio State
25 Pittsburgh Steelers Eli Apple, CB, Ohio State
26 Seattle Seahawks Andrew Billings, DT, Baylor
27 Green Bay Packers Hunter Henry, TE, Arkansas
28 Kansas City Chiefs Vonn Bell, S, Ohio State
29 Arizona Cardinals Noah Spence, LB, Eastern Kentucky
30 Denver Broncos Jason Spriggs, OT, Indiana
31 Carolina Panthers Kevin Dodd, DE, Clemson

[Formula 21]

Oh yeah, we're getting Dallas's #3 at least. Goff and Wentz perform well at the combine, we're getting more.

I still hurt from getting taken for a ride by ARIZ to move up one spot to get %$#@.

[Wheels]

McShays Insider Draft. 2.0

1 Tennessee Titans Joey Bosa, DE, Ohio State
2 Cleveland Browns Jared Goff, QB, California
3 San Diego Chargers Laremy Tunsil, OT, Ole Miss
4 Dallas Cowboys Carson Wentz, QB, North Dakota State
5 Jacksonville Jaguars Jalen Ramsey, CB, Florida State
6 Baltimore Ravens Ronnie Stanley, OT, Notre Dame
7 San Francisco 49ers Laquon Treadwell, WR, Ole Miss
8 Miami Dolphins Vernon Hargreaves III, CB, Florida
9 Tampa Bay Buccaneers DeForest Buckner, DE, Oregon
10 New York Giants Sheldon Rankins, DT, Louisville
11 Chicago Bears Myles Jack, LB, UCLA
12 New Orleans Saints A'Shawn Robinson, DT, Alabama
13 Philadelphia Eagles Jack Conklin, OT, Michigan State
14 Oakland Raiders Robert Nkemdiche, DT, Ole Miss
15 Los Angeles Rams Paxton Lynch, QB, Memphis
16 Detroit Lions Reggie Ragland, LB, Alabama
17 Atlanta Falcons Shaq Lawson, DE, Clemson
18 Indianapolis Colts Taylor Decker, OT, Ohio State
19 Buffalo Bills Jaylon Smith, LB, Notre Dame
20 New York Jets Ezekiel Elliott, RB, Ohio State
21 Washington Redskins Jarran Reed, DT, Alabama
22 Houston Texans Vernon Butler, DT, Louisiana Tech
23 Minnesota Vikings Darron Lee, LB, Ohio State
24 Cincinnati Bengals Braxton Miller, WR, Ohio State
25 Pittsburgh Steelers Eli Apple, CB, Ohio State
26 Seattle Seahawks Andrew Billings, DT, Baylor
27 Green Bay Packers Hunter Henry, TE, Arkansas
28 Kansas City Chiefs Vonn Bell, S, Ohio State
29 Arizona Cardinals Noah Spence, LB, Eastern Kentucky
30 Denver Broncos Jason Spriggs, OT, Indiana
31 Carolina Panthers Kevin Dodd, DE, Clemson

I love Rivers, but McShay's suggestion about taking a QB might be a decent suggestion. I know 3 years sitting behind an established starter is super long these days, but sometimes you don't get that opportunity when you need it. It's the opportunity to pass the franchise from one great QB to another potentially great QB. Of course it also depends on ones opinion of Goff and Wentz. I'm not really familiar with either.

[Fleet]

Heres the mock with comments.

1.) Tennessee Titans (3-13)

Joey Bosa, DE, Ohio State Buckeyes

If the Titans are looking to trade this pick, they might be able to find a team hoping to jump the Browns to select a quarterback. If no deal materializes, Ole Miss tackle Laremy Tunsil would fill the team's biggest need. But the move is to pull the trigger on Bosa, the best player in the class. You can never have too many pass-rushers. And remember: One of Bosa's best traits is that he's scheme versatile, so he'd be a fit even if the Titans decide to stick with a 3-4 alignment.

2). Cleveland Browns (3-13)

Jared Goff, QB, California Golden Bears

If Bosa is still on the board here for whatever reason, he would be a good option. But quarterback is undoubtedly Cleveland's top need, and the more tape I study, the more I believe it's a two-horse race between Goff and North Dakota State's Carson Wentz for the No. 1 passer. As it stands now -- after studying five of Goff's games this season and four of Wentz's -- the two have identical grades. From Cleveland's perspective, Goff has a bit more velocity on his fastball to cut through the wind, while Wentz has more experience playing in the cold. Tough call, but I'll go with Goff for now.

3). San Diego Chargers (4-12)

Laremy Tunsil, T, Ole Miss Rebels

With Philip Rivers now 34, there's a school of thought that says San Diego should pick its long-term successor here (Goff or Wentz). But if the Chargers are going to make a run at the playoffs before Rivers retires, they must solidify their offensive line. Rivers can't function without better protection and more balance from the run game (ranked 31st in the NFL last season). Tunsil -- the top pass-blocking OT in the draft -- needs to improve his strength, but he's an outstanding athlete for his size (6-foot-5, 305 pounds).

4.) Dallas Cowboys (4-12)

Carson Wentz, QB, North Dakota State Bison

Now that I'm deep into Wentz's tape, I feel very comfortable saying he's a legit first-round talent. He has the height, sturdy frame, natural accuracy, pocket mobility and on-field leadership you look for in a QB. He was 20-3 as a starter at NDSU and won two FCS national titles. You could certainly make a case for the Cowboys taking the best available D-line prospect, such as Oregon's DeForest Buckner. But if Dallas is sold on Wentz (or Goff, if he's available), this could prove to be a very wise long-term investment at the game's most important position.

5.) Jacksonville Jaguars (5-11)

Jalen Ramsey, CB, Florida State Seminoles

For a team looking to improve on defense, this would be an ideal scenario. Ramsey is the No. 2 overall player on our board, thanks to his versatility in the secondary (he can play corner or safety at the next level), along with his incredible athleticism. He isn't the best pure man-to-man cover CB in this class (that distinction belongs to Vernon Hargreaves III), but Ramsey is the best all-around football player among the secondary crop.

6.) Baltimore Ravens (5-11)

Ronnie Stanley, T, Notre Dame Fighting Irish

When picking this high -- and the Ravens rarely do -- you'd ideally like to draft a priority position (QB, OT, pass-rusher, CB or WR, with the order depending on team needs). Stanley benefitted greatly from returning to school for his senior season, during which he showed improved strength and technique. He is a fine athlete for his long frame and would give the Ravens a long-term solution at left tackle.

7.) San Francisco 49ers (5-11)

Laquon Treadwell, WR, Ole Miss Rebels

Chip Kelly must eventually solve the 49ers' QB situation, but if Goff and Wentz are off the board, it's likely not going to happen with this pick. The next-best option: Treadwell, who is this draft's clear-cut top wide receiver. He might not blaze a 4.3 40 at the combine, but he's a legit difference-maker at every level of the field. Treadwell reminds me a lot of Dez Bryant physically when he was coming out of Oklahoma State. This is a big, strong receiver with a very good combination of athletic ability, body control and ball skills.

8.) Miami Dolphins (6-10)

Vernon Hargreaves III, CB, Florida Gators

At 5-foot-11, 195 pounds, Hargreaves has adequate size to go along with outstanding suddenness, body control and deep speed. He thrives in man-to-man coverage, and with CB Brent Grimes turning 33 this summer, Hargreaves would be a good fit in Miami. The other option would be Oregon DE DeForest Buckner if free-agent-to-be Olivier Vernon leaves town.

9.) Tampa Bay Buccaneers (6-10)

DeForest Buckner, DE, Oregon Ducks

At 6-foot-7, 285 pounds, Buckner isn't a traditional edge rusher -- and some teams may view him as a 5-technique -- but playing in a four-man front, he could be a stout run defender at left defensive end and move inside to rush the QB on obvious pass downs. Posting 12.0 tackles for loss in conference play this season, Buckner would give the Bucs a much-needed playmaker at DE.

10.) New York Giants (6-10)

Sheldon Rankins, DT, Louisville Cardinals

We've been on Rankins' bandwagon for quite some time, as his combination of quickness and power popped off the screen whenever we turned on the film. After having a terrific week of practices at the Senior Bowl, the versatile D-lineman is shooting up draft boards. At 6-foot-2, 303 pounds, Rankins would give the Giants a devastating DT combo with Johnathan Hankins.

11.) Chicago Bears (6-10)

Myles Jack, LB, UCLA Bruins

An outstanding natural athlete, Jack doesn't fill the Bears' biggest need (edge rusher), but he does given them a major playmaking upgrade at linebacker. While Alabama's Reggie Ragland would be a more traditional ILB fit, Jack -- who's coming off a torn ACL in September -- would provide more versatility in coverage.

12.) New Orleans Saints (7-9)

A'Shawn Robinson, DT, Alabama Crimson Tide

Yes, Robinson can play too high at times, but the tape shows a player who frequently took on two blockers, freeing up others along the front seven to make plays. Not many 315-pounders move like Robinson, who found himself in the backfield more often than not. He put up his best production in 2015 (46 tackles, 7.5 TFLs, 3.5 sacks), but he played even better than those numbers indicate. This offseason for New Orleans is all about finding defensive playmakers, and Robinson certainly fits that bill.

13.) Philadelphia Eagles (7-9)

Jack Conklin, T, Michigan State Spartans

At 6-foot-6, 325 pounds, Conklin shows good mobility for his size, along with very consistent awareness, technique and effort. He plays with power and is a finisher in the run game. He's balanced enough to protect a quarterback's blind side. Even after signing Lane Johnson to an extension, the Eagles need to plan for the future at tackle with Jason Peters now 34.

14.) Oakland Raiders (7-9)

Robert Nkemdiche, DT, Ole Miss Rebels

Conklin would be a good pick here if available, but he's not in this scenario. If the Raiders are willing to take a risk, Nkemdiche is a top-10 talent who has fallen this far because of character concerns. When he's right, the 6-foot-4, 296-pound Nkemdiche is a highly disruptive 3-technique D-lineman with the versatility to play inside and outside.

15.) Los Angeles Rams (7-9)

Paxton Lynch, QB, Memphis Tigers

This is a tough call. The Rams have an obvious need at quarterback, but is Lynch their long-term answer? While I still have more work to do on him, Lynch does have a lot of the tools you look for in future NFL starters -- size, arm strength, mobility and the ability to create when the initial play breaks down. Two concerns I have early in the pre-draft process: his inconsistent decision-making and accuracy.

16.) Detroit Lions (7-9)

Reggie Ragland, ILB, Alabama Crimson Tide

This is a tone-setting player in the middle of the defense, which is exactly what the Lions need. Ragland could fall due to positional value and team needs, but I could make an argument that he's one of the 10 best pure football players in this year's draft. He showed excellent power at the point of attack and has very good straight-line speed for his size.

17.) Atlanta Falcons (8-8)

Shaq Lawson, DE, Clemson

The Falcons had a league-low 19 sacks last season, so it's clear they need to continue to bolster their pass rush. Lawson -- a former teammate of Atlanta's 2015 first-round DE Vic Beasley Jr. -- could be the answer because of his good combination of power, quickness and relentlessness. This would also be a great spot for Notre Dame OLB Jaylon Smith, who tore his ACL and MCL in the Irish's bowl game and would be a top-five player in this draft if healthy.

18.) Indianapolis Colts (8-8)

Taylor Decker, T, Ohio State Buckeyes

Andrew Luck would love this pick after getting beat up in 2015 before suffering season-ending injuries. The 6-foot-7 Decker has enough range, strength and toughness to hold up in pass protection on the perimeter in the NFL. He's not overpowering as a run-blocker, but he's highly efficient and consistent.

19.) Buffalo Bills (8-8)

Jaylon Smith, LB, Notre Dame Fighting Irish

This selection comes with some risk because of Smith's knee injury, but if the Bills' doctors clear him, Smith would be a great pick. He took his game to the next level this past season and is an elite athlete. Smith has experience playing inside and outside and would fit well as the weakside off-ball linebacker in Rex Ryan's defense. Other options here: Alabama DT Jarran Reed and Ohio State OLB Darron Lee.

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[–]Jetsrdogg1026[S] 84 points 11 hours ago

20.) New York Jets (10-6)

Ezekiel Elliott, RB, Ohio State Buckeyes

Elliott makes a lot of sense for the Jets, whose top three running backs are all free agents. Over the past two seasons, Elliott has shown plenty of examples of his game-breaking ability as a rusher (3,699 yards and 41 TDs). He's also an outstanding pass-blocker -- the best RB I've ever studied in that area -- and a reliable weapon as a pass-catcher. Depending on what the Jets decide to do with free-agent DTs Muhammad Wilkerson and Damon Harrison, Reed could also be in play at this spot.

21.) Washington Redskins (9-7)

Jarran Reed, DT, Alabama Crimson Tide

Reed is one of the best run-stuffing defensive linemen in this draft, which is saying something considering the talent pool up front. And while his sack numbers are underwhelming (2.0 total in two seasons), he still provides adequate inside push as a bull rusher. Even if free agent Terrance Knighton returns, it's time for Washington to add youth to its defensive front.

22.) Houston Texans (9-7)

Vernon Butler, DT, Louisiana Tech Bulldogs

Quarterback is clearly the top need for Houston. Michigan State's Connor Cook is the next-best available player there, but he's a reach at No. 22 overall. Christian Hackenberg could be in play for the Texans in Round 2, considering his connection with coach Bill O'Brien. Butler would fill another need along the interior of the D-line. He showed off outstanding agility for his size (325 pounds) at the Senior Bowl last week. He plays with explosive power and brings a unique skill set to the field.

23). Minnesota Vikings (11-5)

Darron Lee, OLB, Ohio State Buckeyes

A former high school quarterback, Lee is a terrific athlete and a natural playmaker, racking up 27.5 tackles for loss, 12 sacks, 3 INTs and 3 forced fumbles over his last two seasons. He's still developing as a run-stopping LB, but he has come a long way in that regard. Even if Minnesota signs free-agent LB Chad Greenway, it's time to add another young piece to the linebacker corps.

24.) Cincinnati Bengals (12-4)

Braxton Miller, WR, Ohio State Buckeyes

This might be a bit of a reach, but the Bengals could certainly use a versatile offensive weapon like Miller. He was the best pure athlete on the field during Senior Bowl practices, dazzling in agility drills and one-on-ones. His precise route-running ability is not indicative of a player who has been playing the position full-time for less than a year. With three WRs set to be free agents, Cincinnati has lots of question marks after A.J. Green at that position.

25.) Pittsburgh Steelers (10-6)

Eli Apple, CB, Ohio State Buckeyes

With good length (6-foot-1, 200 pounds) and top-end speed, Apple showed he could turn and run with Notre Dame speedster Will Fuller during the Fiesta Bowl. He's also a strong tackler and run supporter, which are qualities the Steelers value highly in their defensive backs.

26.) Seattle Seahawks (10-6)

Andrew Billings, DT, Baylor Bears

Billings has freakish weight-room strength that he puts to good use as a run defender. A great athlete for the position, he displays an impressive combination of quickness and power. Billings improved his consistency as a third-year starter, and that led to him playing the best football of his career in 2015 (14.0 TFLs and 5.5 sacks).

27.) Green Bay Packers (10-6)

Hunter Henry, TE, Arkansas Razorbacks

This is not a deep TE class, so the top prospects could come off the board earlier than expected. Henry is an underrated talent, partly due to playing in Arkansas' run-heavy offense. At 6-foot-5 and 253 pounds, he has the body type to make plays down the seam, and he has shown the intelligence to find holes in zone coverage. Aaron Rodgers needs an upgrade at TE, and Henry would give him another weapon in the pass game.

28.) Kansas City Chiefs (11-5)

Vonn Bell, S, Ohio State Buckeyes

With nine career interceptions, Bell displays great instincts and range in coverage. He's an aggressive and tough run defender who had remarkable durability, playing in all 42 Ohio State games since 2013. This is an NFL-ready safety who could start for the Chiefs in Week 1.

29.) Arizona Cardinals (13-3)

Noah Spence, OLB, Eastern Kentucky Colonels

Spence tore it up at the Senior Bowl, displaying natural speed and athleticism off the edge. He might be the best pure pass-rusher in this draft. He's a top-15 talent -- until you factor in his off-field issues. A former top recruit, Spence was suspended twice at Ohio State for using Ecstasy, before transferring to Eastern Kentucky in 2015. Teams will really have to do their homework on Spence, because you can't teach his type of quickness.

30.) Denver Broncos (12-4)

Jason Spriggs, T, Indiana Hoosiers

Spriggs is getting a lot of first-round love after a strong Senior Bowl. I need to study more of his tape, but from what I've seen so far, this would be a reach. With that said, we see teams reaching for offensive tackles in the first round nearly every year. A team like Denver, which needs to upgrade its O-line, could get enamored with a LT prospect like Spriggs, who showed off ideal measurables and good athleticism in Mobile, Alabama.

31). Carolina Panthers (15-1)

Kevin Dodd, DE, Clemson Tigers

Dodd notched 23.5 tackles for loss this season, second in the FBS to his fellow Clemson DE Shaq Lawson. Dodd brings a great energy to the game, and I think he's a more fluid athlete and a better natural edge rusher than Lawson. But Dodd is not as stout vs. the run or as consistent. Notre Dame WR Will Fuller would also make sense here because of his ability to stretch the field vertically.

[Fleet]

I love Rivers, but McShay's suggestion about taking a QB might be a decent suggestion. I know 3 years sitting behind an established starter is super long these days, but sometimes you don't get that opportunity when you need it. It's the opportunity to pass the franchise from one great QB to another potentially great QB. Of course it also depends on ones opinion of Goff and Wentz. I'm not really familiar with either.

I think Wentz long term could be a better passer than Bortles. Maybe another Roethlisberger type. But his running ability is better than both Bortles and Roth. Hes a true pocket passer but i think he had over 1k yards rushing. And its not like he came from a read option. Thats just him making something out of nothing. His one game against an FBS opponent wasnt good though.

[Fleet]

Tennessee Titans: Joey Bosa, DE, Ohio State

Not much has changed in our evaluations at the top of the draft, so Bosa remains the pick for the Titans. He topped all edge rushers with a +56.6 pass rush grade in 2014, dwarfing that of a number of other first-rounders, and came back this season to rank second overall at +44.1. Throw in the top run defense mark each of the last two seasons, and you have a complete player capable of playing the edge in a 4-3 and likely doing damage at defensive end in a 3-4 if need be.

Cleveland Browns: Jared Goff, QB, Cal

The quarterback class lacks the heavy hitters at the top, but Goff has put together two strong years, grading as the No. 5 Power-5 quarterback a year ago and the top-graded quarterback this past season. He handled pressure extremely well behind a subpar offensive line while grading well when throwing to all areas of the field.

San Diego Chargers: DeForest Buckner, DE, Oregon

Buckner remains the choice at number three for the Chargers as he’s a great fit for their 3-4 scheme. He rarely came off the field for Oregon, leading all interior defensive linemen with 951 snaps and playing over 100 snaps in two different games. Even with the heavy workload, he used his length to lead the nation with a +42.8 pass rush grade while ranking eighth against the run at +29.1.

Dallas Cowboys: Jalen Ramsey, CB, Florida State

The first switch in draft strategy from the last iteration, the Cowboys go with Ramsey here to add even more versatility to their secondary. Last year’s first rounder, Byron Jones, played a number of roles, and Ramsey can do the same at the various cornerback positions or even safety. Most impressive about his game is that he grading second overall this season as an outside corner while ranking seventh overall last year as a slot/safety hybrid.

Jacksonville Jaguars: Shilique Calhoun, DE, Michigan State

With Ramsey off the board, the Jaguars go with the best pass rusher available in Calhoun. He led the nation with a +45.9 pass rush grade last season after ranking fifth in 2014 at +38.5. While playing the run isn’t his strong suit, he’s not useless in that department and slotting into Jacksonville’s LEO role that emphasizes getting after the quarterback should ease some of those concerns. Last year’s first-round pick, Dante Fowler, can play more of a base defensive end role with Calhoun at LEO and Jacksonville should see a big improvement in their pass rush.

Baltimore Ravens: Laquon Treadwell, WR, Ole Miss

Baltimore was depleted in the secondary the last two seasons, but Treadwell’s playmaking ability is too much to pass up. He has the size to win the downfield battle against cornerbacks, and QB Joe Flacco is known for giving his receivers plenty of those opportunities. Treadwell can also make guys miss after the catch, as indicated by his 17 forced missed tackles that tied for 13th in the country.

San Francisco 49ers: Josh Doctson, WR, TCU

We’re not yet comfortable with the rest of the quarterback class to pair one with the 49ers at this point, but Doctson adds a strong piece for any future signal caller. He can make plays outside his frame, something he did quite a bit at TCU, but he’s also proficient at creating separation and making plays down the field (ranked sixth in nation in deep passing yards with 553 despite playing in only 10 games). He was the nation’s top-graded WR at +26.9 before going down to injury in Week 11.

Miami Dolphins: Vernon Hargreaves III, CB, Florida

Hargreaves was outstanding in 2014, our best cornerback in the nation, but he took a step back in 2015. Still, he’s sound fundamentally and can play a variety of coverages while staying with even the shiftiest of receivers. Not that division rivals should dictate draft picks, but he’s a good fit to match with the Patriots’ receiving corps. He’s sure to run into concerns about his size, and perhaps his speed, during the process, but few other cornerbacks can match his two-year body of work on the field in our system.

Tampa Bay Buccaneers: Noah Spence, DE, Eastern Kentucky

Senior Bowl alert! During his time in Mobile, Spence established himself as the most explosive pass rusher, giving offensive tackles headaches all week. We have limited data on Spence, but he showed well in his two FBS games last season (+6.2) and he added six pressures in the Senior Bowl as well as a number of wins in one-on-ones and team drills throughout the week. The big questions for Spence are off the field as he started his career at Ohio State and landed at Eastern Kentucky after numerous issues. If a team is comfortable with the off-field questions, Spence is a first-round talent and an immediate boost to the Bucs’ pass rush.

New York Giants: Emmanuel Ogbah, DE, Oklahoma State

Ogbah graded right behind Bosa and Calhoun as a pass rusher (+35.1) after picking up 11 sacks, 16 hits, and 42 hurries on 428 rushes. He’s not as strong against the run but he has the length to get better in that area. He’ll add some much-needed youth to the Giants’ pass rush.

Chicago Bears: Laremy Tunsil, OT, Ole Miss

While most mock drafts have Tunsil as a lock top-10 pick, a limited sample size in our grading, as well as my own personal de-valuing of the left tackle position have him dropping to No. 11. The Bears were one of the worst pass-blocking units in the league last year and Tunsil allowed only five pressures on 225 attempts while showing good athleticism in the run game (+12.1).

New Orleans Saints: Chris Jones, DT, Mississippi State

Jones is getting little hype with such a deep crop of interior defensive linemen, but he brings incredible upside after a strong quietly strong 2015 that saw him finish with the fourth-best grade among interior defensive linemen at +54.7 and second as a pass rusher at +35.0. Ignore the two sacks, he was a disruptor inside and he’ll immediately help one of the worst interior pass rushes in the league.

Philadelphia Eagles: Myles Jack, LB, UCLA

With so many coverage issues at linebacker last season, Jack is an immediate upgrade as he brings a versatile presence to the back-7. His +15.0 coverage grade led the nation in 2014 and he’s been solid against the run at +11.9 over the last two years.

Oakland Raiders: Robert Nkemdiche, DT/DE, Ole Miss

After struggling against the run last season Nkemdiche improved in that area last season while still grading as one of the nation’s best pass rushers at +23.4 (No. 8 among interior defensive linemen). He is not a great fit as an every-down player on the interior, but he’s capable of playing early downs on the edge while kicking inside to rush in nickel and dime situations, very similar to recently-retired Justin Tuck.

Los Angeles Rams: Leontee Carroo, WR, Rutgers

Before going down to injury, Carroo was outstanding at Senior Bowl practice, standing out above the rest of the wide receivers. His on-field production was just as impressive last season as he graded at +15.0 as a receiver on only 363 snaps. His 4.11 yards per route led all FBS receivers, just above Doctson’s mark of 4.03.

Detroit Lions: Ronnie Stanley, OT, Notre Dame

Offensive line help is on the way in Stanley, who graded at +9.6 as a pass rusher and +9.3 in the run game. He can struggle with power in the run game at times, but he moves well and surrendered only 13 pressures on 458 attempts this season. He can step right into Detroit’s revolving door at right tackle while potentially pushing LT Riley Reiff out the door in the coming years.

Atlanta Falcons: Shaq Lawson, DE, Clemson

The last two mock drafts saw the Falcons take a much-needed offensive weapon to ease the burden on WR Julio Jones, but Lawson wasn’t on the board in either case and his ability to play defensive end in Atlanta’s scheme is too much to pass up. He’ll pair with last year’s Clemson first round edge defender, Vic Beasley, as the Falcons continues to search for pass-rush consistency. Lawson was a breakout candidate coming into the season after an excellent 329 snaps in 2014 (+16.0) and he lived up to the hype at +42.5 overall while ranking second among edge defenders against the run and 19th as a pass rusher.

Indianapolis Colts: Andrew Billings, DT, Baylor

Any help along the defensive front is needed and Billings has posted a two-year grade of +80.2 on 1,511 snaps. He can move around along the defensive line, though his best fit may be at nose tackle where his +47.1 run defense can shine.

Buffalo Bills: Jack Conklin, OT, Michigan State

Another pick that remains the same, Conklin fits the mauling, run blocking profile that head coach Rex Ryan his looking for. He’s ranked fourth as a run blocker each of the last two years and he finished 2015 with only 11 pressures surrendered on 416 attempts.

New York Jets: Carson Wentz, QB, North Dakota State

Okay, this is where it gets interesting. Wentz is projected to go much higher, and the hype for him is quite real at either No. 2 to the Browns or four to the Cowboys, but I’m less inclined to hand the keys to the franchise just yet. A couple years of sitting will do Wentz well, and yes he’d have that luxury in Dallas, but there are too many good players to pass up for them at the top. Wentz was as advertised at the Senior Bowl – good size, arm strength, athleticism – and all of his positives and negatives were evident in person just as they are in the film room. He has the big arm to play in a vertical passing system, driving the ball down the field, but that will be paired with some questionable decision-making, perhaps expected for a QB with so little experience. For that reason, I’m much more likely to take a chance on his talent at this part of the draft, and the Jets are a great fit for him to sit and develop.

Washington Redskins: Reggie Ragland, LB, Alabama

Ragland was one of a number of standouts in Alabama’s front-7, strong against both the run (+13.2) and in coverage (+9.8) while successfully blitzing and rushing off the edge at times (+7.7). With one of the worst inside linebacker situations in the NFL, Washington will be watching all of the linebacker prospects very closely. Taking a chance on Jaylon Smith would not be out of the question here.

Houston Texans: Ezekiel Elliott, RB, Ohio State

The nation’s best all-around running back, Elliott brings the total package. He exhibits the sharp cutting necessary for a zone blocking running system, but he’s equally adept at getting downhill and running through contact as he was often asked to do at Ohio State. He’s a good fit for Houston’s diverse running attack and when you add in his +13.0 blocking grade that led the nation as well as a +3.1 grade in the pass game, Elliott brings many dimensions to an NFL offense.

Minnesota Vikings: Corey Coleman, WR, Baylor

The last two mocks saw the Vikings taking Carroo, but with him off the board, they take Coleman who adds a similar intermediate and deep dimension to the offense. Coleman was incredibly productive in Baylor’s offense before quarterback attrition slowed him down, finishing with 3.98 yards per route (fourth in nation) and a +20.6 receiving grade.

Cincinnati Bengals: Jonathan Bullard, DE/DT, Florida

Alabama DT Jarran Reed was the pick in the last two mock drafts, and I’d love to give the Bengals a nose tackle here, but with Bullard still on the board there’s too much production and versatility to pass up. He can play base defensive end while sprinkling inside at times, bringing excellent play against the run as he led all interior defensive linemen at +50.5 in 2015. He’s not as productive as you’d like as a pass rusher, but he did improve to +7.7 last season.

Pittsburgh Steelers: Su’a Cravens, S/LB, USC

Just as was the case in the first mock, Cravens goes to Pittsburgh where the inevitable Troy Polamalu comparisons will start. Cravens played mostly linebacker at USC, often lining up over the slot or setting the edge in the running game. He’s not afraid to take on blocks, as evidenced by his +23.6 grade against the run the last two years, but he’s also shown well in coverage (+20.7) and as a pass rusher (+8.8).

Seattle Seahawks: Sheldon Day, DT, Notre Dame

Seattle adds in interior penetrator in Day who ranked fourth among interior defensive linemen as a pass rusher and sixth in the run game in 2015. He also showed the ability to line up and beat offensive tackles off the edge during Senior Bowl week, only adding to his value as a disruptor.

Green Bay Packers: Sheldon Rankins, DT/DE, Louisville

After two productive weeks and an excellent showing during Senior Bowl week, Rankins earns the nod for Green Bay. He may seem redundant to current DE/DT, Mike Daniels, but Rankins is good enough to play all along the line, either head up on offensive linemen (where he may quietly perform better) or shooting a gap. He graded at +55.4 last season to rank second in the nation and was similarly-productive at +42.3 in 2015.

Kansas City Chiefs: Jaylon Smith, LB, Notre Dame

Smith’s recovery from a bowl game injury is still a concern and until more information checks out, he’s more of a back-end first round or early second round player in my mock. The talent is there as he’s extremely athletic and adept at playing in coverage (+11.0 last two seasons) while showing great improvement against the run (-0.8 in 2014 to +19.0 in 2015). He’s can also shoot gaps and take on running backs as a pass rusher, something he didn’t get to do as often in 2015, but graded at +8.2 to rank 10th in the nation in 2014.

Arizona Cardinals: Austin Johnson, DT, Penn State

Arizona gets help in the trenches where Johnson has shown well against the run, finishing third in the nation at +36.4 last year. He’s capable of winning quickly off the snap with quick hands and he added seven sacks, two hits, and 14 hurries as a pass rusher, good for a +8.8 grade. Jarran Reed is another possibility here as a similarly productive, yet different style of player.

Denver Broncos: Adolphus Washington, DT, Ohio State

The defensive tackles continue to come off the board as Washington debuts in our mock draft after a strong showing at the Senior Bowl. Denver reached the Super Bowl off the strength of a strong defense and loaded defensive line, and with DT Malik Jackson potentially hitting free agency, Washington provides an interior pass rush presence after finishing third among interior defensive linemen at +32.5.

Carolina Panthers: Sterling Shepard, WR, Oklahoma

This pick stays the same. Carolina has invested in the wide receiver position in each of the last two drafts in Kelvin Benjamin and Devin Funchess, but Shepard brings a different dynamic compared to the big guys on the outside. Shepard’s route running makes Carolina’s offense even more dangerous as he picked up 974 yards from the slot while ranking second in the nation with a +27.8 receiving grade.

[Boltjolt]

I love Rivers, but McShay's suggestion about taking a QB might be a decent suggestion. I know 3 years sitting behind an established starter is super long these days, but sometimes you don't get that opportunity when you need it. It's the opportunity to pass the franchise from one great QB to another potentially great QB. Of course it also depends on ones opinion of Goff and Wentz. I'm not really familiar with either.

There will be QBs in every draft and this group dont excite me much. Two years then we draft a QB high. No need to draft one now and have him sit 4 years.

[Mister Hoarse]

It's not like we wont be drafting in the top 5 next year since McCoy was extended.

[CTrout]

Let's hope these QB's get hyped up. That 3rd pick could become very very valuable to a team that wants to get in front of Dallas.
Will this FO be smart enough to take full advantage of that......?

[Bearded14YourPleasure]

We may play at looking towards QBs but I would be more than a little surprised if we actually took one at #3. We just extended Rivers last year to a spendy contract, he had a pretty damn good year with no blocking, run game, or WR, and I just don't think there are any QB worth taking that early. We may not, hopefully won't, be picking this high again any time soon but in a different draft class you could grab guys like Goff or Wentz in the second half of the 1st, maybe even the second round. The need and the value just isn't high enough to justify it, IMO. Bosa/Tunsil/Ramsey/Buckner/Treadwell is my preferred cluster at #3, not necessarily in that order.