2019 NFL Draft Thread

SDRay

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First-round 2019 mock draft: NFL Nation projects picks 1-32

http://www.espn.com/nfl/draft2019/i...019-mock-draft-nfl-nation-projects-picks-1-32

1. Arizona Cardinals
Kyler Murray, QB, Oklahoma | Watch the pick
The Cardinals hired Kliff Kingsbury as coach for a reason: To improve an offense that contributed heavily to a 3-13 season. While Josh Rosen is more than capable of being Arizona's quarterback of the future, Kingsbury's relationship and history with Murray have given the reports of Murray to Arizona significant credence. Murray could also help fill a stadium that was half-full for most of last season, something that irked team president Michael Bidwill. -- Josh Weinfuss

2. San Francisco 49ers
Nick Bosa, DE, Ohio State | Watch the pick
Barring a huge offer that nets multiple high picks, the 49ers are likely to stay put and go for the player they believe can be a difference-maker at a premium position from Day 1. Putting Bosa with Dee Ford, DeForest Buckner and the rest of San Francisco's pass-rushers should give the Niners a chance to turn some of the 11 one-possession losses they've suffered the past two seasons into victories. -- Nick Wagoner

3. New York Jets
Quinnen Williams, DT, Alabama | Watch the pick
GM Mike Maccagnan would be thrilled if Nick Bosa falls. Failing that, he goes with the best available player, ignoring a bigger need at outside linebacker (Josh Allen). Williams would form a nice tandem with Leonard Williams (no relation), but where's the outside pass rush? -- Rich Cimini

4. Oakland Raiders
Ed Oliver, DT, Houston | Watch the pick
With Quinnen Williams gone, the logical pick would seem to be Josh Allen, what with the Raiders having a league-low 13 sacks last season and Allen having 17 sacks himself as an edge rusher at Kentucky. But scheme fit could be an issue, and the Raiders absolutely fell in love with Oliver at the combine. Oliver's versatility allows him to play anywhere on the defensive line in Oakland's 4-3 alignment, even as his career-low three sacks last season at Houston belie his effect in the pass rush. -- Paul Gutierrez

5. Tampa Bay Buccaneers
Josh Allen, OLB, Kentucky | Watch the pick
They might be high on Devin White, but Allen falling to No. 5 is a dream for the Bucs, who had not had a player reach double-digit sacks for 12 seasons before Jason Pierre-Paul did it last year. While it was tempting to take White to replace Kwon Alexander, Allen, who had 17.5 sacks his final year at Kentucky, can offer more impact. Had the Raiders selected Allen, the Bucs would strongly consider Ed Oliver, who could replace Gerald McCoy. -- Jenna Laine
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0:42
Mel Kiper Jr. predicts that the Giants will select their quarterback of the future in this year's NFL draft, mentioning Daniel Jones as a possibility.

6. New York Giants
Devin White, ILB, LSU | Watch the pick
The Giants see a group of elite defenders in this draft. White is among them. They aren't going to let him fall any further. As for the quarterback position, they don't have anyone graded this high, especially not the preferred choice of many -- Dwayne Haskins. The Giants will try to address quarterback with their second first-round pick or higher, potentially with a trade up from No. 17. -- Jordan Raanan

7. Jacksonville Jaguars
Montez Sweat, DE, Mississippi State
The Jaguars need help at tight end and right tackle, but that shouldn't overshadow the fact they need to upgrade their pass rush. Dante Fowler Jr. is gone, Calais Campbell will turn 33 in September, and Lerentee McCray and Dawuane Smoot have a combined four sacks in seven seasons. The Jaguars need someone to pair with Yannick Ngakoue (29.5 sacks in three seasons) on the edge in their third-down packages (Campbell goes inside alongside NT Marcell Dareus) and to take over as the starter once Campbell is done. Sweat had 30 sacks over the past two seasons to go along with an impressive combine.-- Michael DiRocco

8. Detroit Lions
T.J. Hockenson, TE, Iowa
The way this particular draft fell would give a prime opportunity for GM Bob Quinn to trade down -- something he's very open to doing. The six picks going off the board before No. 8 would all be strong fits for the Lions, which leaves them with less of a chance to grab an impact defensive player. Quinn, coach Matt Patricia and offensive coordinator Darrell Bevell all have a high understanding for the value of a playmaking tight end, and Hockenson has the chance to be an immediate difference-maker at the position, which is a clear need. -- Michael Rothstein

9. Buffalo Bills
Jawaan Taylor, OT, Florida
The run of six defenders ahead of this pick makes the Bills lean toward the offensive line, which remains an area of long-term need. General manager Brandon Beane said signing six linemen in free agency does not make it less likely the Bills will draft one and that good options are available. Taylor could start at either tackle spot and eventually replace 2017 second-round pick Dion Dawkins, who had a down 2018 season. -- Mike Rodak

10. Denver Broncos
Dwayne Haskins, QB, Ohio State | Watch the pick
Broncos president of football operations/GM John Elway probably showed what he thought of this quarterback class when he traded for Joe Flacco. And there are plenty in the league who believe Haskins wouldn't even make it to this spot once the pre-draft sandbagging stops and the actual picks are made. This is a stacked board on defense, and the Broncos probably will have a chance at one of the best defenders if they stay at 10. But in this scenario they would have to think long and hard about Haskins, who was in their complex in recent weeks as part of their pre-draft visits. He's a high-value pick at a need position and fits their offense. -- Jeff Legwold
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In ESPN's NFL Nation Mock Draft, the Broncos select QB Dwayne Haskins with the No. 10 overall pick.

11. Cincinnati Bengals
Jonah Williams, OT, Alabama
The logical answer here would be linebacker Devin Bush considering the Bengals' need at that position, but tackle is just as important, with oft-criticized Bobby Hart currently manning the right side. The Bengals aren't going to reach for a player just to fill a need, and with Devin White off the board, they take one of the top tackles in the draft. The Bengals value versatility as well, and Williams gives them that with his ability to play multiple positions.-- Katherine Terrell

12. Green Bay Packers
Andre Dillard, OT, Washington State
The Packers love Mississippi State's Jeffery Simmons, and one longtime NFL position coach told me he's the best defensive tackle prospect he has seen in the last three drafts, but there's no way GM Brian Gutekunst can take him at 12 given that Simmons blew out his knee in February and might not play at all this season. The hope is he gets to them at No. 30, so they'll take their future right tackle here instead, and that's Washington State's Andre Dillard. -- Rob Demovsky

13. Miami Dolphins
Clelin Ferrell, DE, Clemson
With the draft's top two quarterbacks gone, the Dolphins choose not to settle for their No. 3 option in Drew Lock or Daniel Jones and instead prioritize the trenches. With five solid options (Ferrell, Christian Wilkins, Brian Burns, Rashan Gary, Cody Ford) available here, Miami could look to trade down, but in this scenario they get Ferrell -- a tough, productive, high-character edge rusher who can make an immediate impact for a team in desperate need. Ferrell immediately becomes the Dolphins' best pass-rusher and most complete edge player.-- Cameron Wolfe

14. Atlanta Falcons
Cody Ford, OL, Oklahoma
The Falcons don't necessarily have to target an offensive lineman here, but Ford is a tough, versatile guy they've liked from the start. Although some project him best at guard, Ford played plenty right tackle in college and could step right in there for the Falcons ahead of Ty Sambrailo. He might not be the quickest line prospect, but Ford is big, strong and tough. -- Vaughn McClure

15. Washington Redskins
Devin Bush, ILB, Michigan
The Redskins could have gone with quarterback Daniel Jones, but he's not a slam dunk, and with Bush they have a chance to build something they haven't had in a decade: a strong defense. Bush can provide an impact vs. the run as well as the pass thanks to his speed and blitzing ability. With Bush and newcomers Landon Collins (safety) and Reuben Foster (linebacker) the Redskins could have at least seven starters on defense age 25 or younger. -- John Keim

16. Carolina Panthers
Brian Burns, OLB, Florida State
The Panthers have two major needs: edge rusher and offensive tackle. The top tackles are gone, and general manager Marty Hurney noted in his pre-draft news conference that there would be options at that position in the second and third round who could compete for a starting spot. There wouldn't be an edge rusher as fast and dynamic as Burns, who fits the position flexibility coach Ron Rivera is seeking with his ability to play end in a 4-3 scheme and outside linebacker in a 3-4 as the defense transitions to multiple fronts. -- David Newton
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1:28
With the No. 6 pick in the NFL Nation Mock Draft, the Giants select Devin White.

17. New York Giants
Drew Lock, QB, Missouri
This would be the Giants' ideal scenario with their top two quarterbacks (Lock and Daniel Jones) still on the board. They pick Lock because of the higher upside and physical skills. This would give the Giants an elite defensive player and a future franchise quarterback from their two first-round picks. It would be considered an overwhelming success. Don't be surprised if they even move up a few spots from No. 17 to make it happen. -- Jordan Raanan

18. Minnesota VIkings
Garrett Bradbury, G/C, NC State
This year's group of interior linemen might be better than the offensive tackle group, which bodes well for a team needing to bolster that part of the O-line. Arguably, the Vikings' top priority is at guard. Bradbury's athletic traits make him an ideal fit for what Minnesota wants to do within its outside zone scheme. Bradbury played both center and left guard at NC State and could fit into either position. Unless one of the top tackles falls to the Vikings at 18, going with an interior lineman will allow Minnesota to address a major need.-- Courtney Cronin

19. Tennessee Titans
Christian Wilkins, DT, Clemson
Wilkins can line up anywhere along the defensive front. His disruptive play will pair well with Jurrell Casey and cause problems as they collapse the pocket in addition to blowing up running plays. Coach Mike Vrabel personally worked out Wilkins at Clemson's pro day and recruited him while he was an assistant at Ohio State. Wilkins' relentless motor and high character fit the Titans' mold, making him a perfect pick. -- Turron Davenport

20. Pittsburgh Steelers
Byron Murphy, CB, Washington
The Steelers say goodbye to Antonio Brown and hello to Odell Beckham Jr. twice a year. Beefing up the secondary in the first round is a real possibility for Pittsburgh, which needs inside linebacker help but might not have Michigan's Devin Bush available at No. 20 overall. And with the top pass-rushers off the board, the Steelers can select from the premier cornerbacks. LSU's Greedy Williams is appealing, but questions persist about his work ethic. Many NFL evaluators call Murphy the best corner in this field. Murphy is the surest bet for this spot, knowing the Steelers can get a receiver on Day 2. -- Jeremy Fowler

21. Seattle Seahawks
Rashan Gary, DE, Michigan
Edge rusher was one of the Seahawks' top needs before they traded Frank Clark. It's now the top need considering free-agent addition Cassius Marsh (5.5) is their only edge player who had more than five sacks last season. Gary's production at Michigan left a lot to be desired, and there's a concern about a shoulder injury. But his combination of explosiveness and versatility could be too tempting to pass up for a team that badly needs to restock its defensive line with blue-chip talent. -- Brady Henderson

22. Baltimore Ravens
Erik McCoy, G/C, Texas A&M
The Ravens will be tempted to take one of the top wide receivers in this draft to give a playmaking target for Lamar Jackson, but this offense will run the ball more than any other team in the NFL. The bigger priority is the interior of the offensive line, which proved to be a liability in the playoff loss to the Chargers. McCoy is the type of versatile blocker that Baltimore loves. This would be a historic pick for a Ravens franchise that has never drafted a center in the first round. -- Jamison Hensley

23. Houston Texans
Greedy Williams, CB, LSU
The Texans' top priority in the draft is protecting quarterback Deshaun Watson, but after the run on tackles, Houston won't reach for an offensive lineman here. If they don't trade down into the second round, the Texans will fill a hole on their defense with Williams. The LSU corner has the physical attributes and speed general manager Brian Gaine is looking for at the position and will bolster Houston's secondary, which allowed an average of 260 yards per game last season. -- Sarah Barshop

24. Oakland Raiders
Noah Fant, TE, Iowa
With Jared Cook allowed to walk in free agency, the most accomplished tight end on the roster is recent free agent signee Luke Willson. Scouts see Fant as an upgrade from Cook when it comes to athleticism as a pass-catching tight end in coach Jon Gruden's quick-strike offense. And while Cook went to the Pro Bowl with 68 receptions for a team-best 896 yards, Fant caught 18 touchdowns over his last two seasons at Iowa. Plus, he does not have to produce as much, not with a rebuilt wide receiver corps. -- Paul Gutierrez

25. Philadelphia Eagles
Marquise Brown, WR, Oklahoma
The Eagles set out each year to find a "home-run difference-maker" in the draft, as executive VP of football operations Howie Roseman described it, and Brown has the potential to be just that. A naturally gifted deep-ball tracker with blazing speed, he can learn from one of the best big-play receivers in the game in DeSean Jackson before taking over for the 32-year-old vet down the road. Brown is on the smaller side at 5-foot-9 and 166 pounds and is coming off a foot injury, but he has the deep-threat ability that the Eagles covet. -- Tim McManus

26. Indianapolis Colts
Johnathan Abram, S, Mississippi State
The Colts surprised many by going from one of the NFL's worst units in 2017 to finishing 11th overall in 2018 behind All-Pro rookie linebacker Darius Leonard. They need to continue adding foundation pieces with the goal of having that unit catch up to Andrew Luck and the offense. The Colts re-signed strong safety Clayton Geathers in the offseason, but they gave him a one-year deal because he has a history of injury problems (missed 23 games over the past four years). Abram's aggressive style of play will fit well with third-year free safety Malik Hooker. -- Mike Wells

27. Oakland Raiders
Rock Ya-Sin, CB, Temple
While pass rush needs to be addressed, so, too, does pass coverage, as the two work in concert. And sure, Gareon Conley, the team's first-round pick in 2017, started to come into his own last season when healthy. And Daryl Worley was given a new contract. But the Raiders need more than depth at cornerback; they need someone who will push for a starting spot. And with his blend of size, speed and ball awareness (two INTs and 12 PBUs last season at Temple), Ya-Sin fits that bill. -- Paul Gutierrez

28. Los Angeles Chargers
Dexter Lawrence, DT, Clemson
The Chargers have not drafted a quarterback since 2013 and have done extensive work on this year's class. However, the Bolts signed backup QB Tyrod Taylor to decent money and probably will take a developmental prospect later in the draft. Currently, the Chargers have three defensive tackles on the roster in Brandon Mebane, Justin Jones and T.Y. McGill, so Lawrence gives the Bolts a big body who can defend the run and push the pocket. -- Eric Williams

29. Seattle Seahawks
Parris Campbell, WR, Ohio State
If the Seahawks don't trade back at No. 21, there's a good chance they'll do it here. Even after the Frank Clark trade, they have only five selections this year and no doubt will want to add more. Wherever they make their second pick, wide receiver will be in play. Doug Baldwin is 30 years old and is coming off his third surgery of this offseason, making that a position of need in the long, and potentially, short term. Campbell eventually could take over for Baldwin in the slot but also has the size to play outside. His 4.3-second speed would give Russell Wilson another deep threat to pair with Tyler Lockett. -- Brady Henderson

30. Green Bay Packers
Jeffery Simmons, DT, Mississippi State
If the Packers didn't take Andre Dillard at No. 12, they could have waited and taken a tackle here, and Kansas State's Dalton Risner would be a good fit. But now that they have Dillard, who could be Bryan Bulaga's eventual replacement on the right side, they can afford to go with another defensive player even though they loaded up there in free agency. And with this extra first-round pick, they can afford to take a player who might not contribute right away but whose upside could be off the charts. And that's Simmons, who might have been a top-10 pick had he not blown out his knee earlier this year. Simmons might not play in 2019, but the Packers have Mike Daniels for another year. After that, look for Simmons to step in. -- Rob Demovsky

31. Los Angeles Rams
Chris Lindstrom, G, Boston College
Coming off an appearance in Super Bowl LIII, the Rams' roster is loaded for a repeat run. But they're thin on the offensive and defensive lines. However, veteran defensive lineman Michael Brockers' versatility affords the Rams the ability to pick the best available player here among the two position groups. That means Lindstrom provides a much-needed backup presence at guard on a line that has new starters in center Brian Allen and left guard Joe Noteboom. Noteboom also is the most capable backup tackle, which makes Lindstrom's selection all the more important, as he could be thrust into a starting role if any injuries occur. -- Lindsey Thiry

32. New England Patriots
Daniel Jones, QB, Duke
This is an interesting scenario for the Patriots, who have greater needs at WR, TE and OT. But if they feel Jones has the potential to be Jimmy Garoppolo 2.0., this is the spot to pounce if Jones somehow falls this far. Tom Brady said he wants to play until he's 45, which means another four seasons. If Brady achieves that goal, Jones would have four years to learn behind the scenes, creating a similar dynamic to Aaron Rodgers in Green Bay from 2005 to 2007 before Rodgers took over from Brett Favre. A player at the 32nd pick would be under contract for five seasons if the team picks up the fifth-year option, which means this scenario covers Brady's desired timeline to keep playing. Then the Patriots can focus on the other positions with their five Day 2 picks. -- Mike Reiss
 

Gill Man

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who gives a rats azz about the NFL draft in SD? Didn't watch last year and not watching this year either. I used to be a HUGE draft fan going WAAAY back to the old days when it wasn't such a huge hyped up clusterfck. I remember going on vacations around draft time and stopping in Vegas on the way in our trailer at watching the Sat. first round at a sports bar. I could not wait to see who the Chargers were going to take and it was a huge deal for me personally. Now I don't give a flying fck about that NFL draft.....what a hyped up POS. Eff the NFL and FUDEAN.

I'll wait and see in the news who took who and hope the effing chuggers eff it up and hope all other 31 teams and especially the other 3 AFC West decent teams improve immensely. That's about it for me.
 

Lance19

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Nick "Beyonce & Black Panther Suck!!" Bosa in liberal San Francisco might be fun to watch.
 

Gill Man

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Nick "Beyonce & Black Panther Suck!!" Bosa in liberal San Francisco might be fun to watch.
lolz......yeah that would be interesting......count on 4 years and out. His brother is gonna be heading out and getting out of the spanos curse asap.
 

SDRay

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Haskins to Washington.

I’m good with the Raiders 1st pick. Fits a need nicely and can stop the run. Voted best DE in college football.

 

Faded Blues

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Raiders wasted all 3 picks.

Drafted on need, not BPA.

And of course, the satanist draft a nt who is inconsistent.
 

Faded Blues

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What?! That’s crazy. I liked their picks. One of the top run stopper sand end rushers, the best RB to replace mashawn and playmaking safety. They did great
Should have drafted Allen with the first pick.

RB’s are a dime a dozen.

Should have drafted BPA
 

Gill Man

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Should have drafted Allen with the first pick.

RB’s are a dime a dozen.

Should have drafted BPA
I wonder if they tried to trade down slightly to get their guy? They could have got him a bit lower . Depends how that RB pans out but has AL had any really great backs pan out recently? Last I remember was the guy at GB who wasn’t worthy of the pick and was traded. At least the S sounds like he’s good. My Biggest beef is what they did last year, not sure if McKenzie or Gruden are the most to blame.
 

SDRay

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NFL Draft 2019 Grades: Analysis of Every Team’s Round 1 Pick

https://www.si.com/nfl/2019/04/25/nfl-draft-2019-first-round-grades-analysis-news

1. Arizona Cardinals: QB Kyler Murray
After months of studying prospects’ tape and reading , the 2019 NFL draft is finally here. As many expected, the Cardinals took with the No. 1 overall pick, and the 49ers took with the second pick. But after that, things got a little crazy.
Below is our instant analysis and grades for every Round 1 pick.
This puts a lot of egg on GM Steve Keim’s face, as last year’s costly first-round pick, Josh Rosen (whom, it should be noted, would be rated higher than Murray on SOME teams’ boards) will likely be dealt for pennies on the dollar. And there was already egg on Keim’s face to begin with, as he fired last year’s new head coach, Steve Wilks, after just one season, replacing him with the offensive-minded ex-Texas Tech coach Kliff Kingsbury. Keim would diminish the Kingsbury hire by not drafting Murray, whom Kingsbury believes is a perfect fit for his new-age offense.
Murray’s ceiling is that of a Russell Wilson-Plus. Murray is quicker and faster than Wilson, plus Murray has the livelier arm. Also, like Wilson, Murray is a tremendous touch thrower and out-of-pocket player. The question is whether, at 5' 10", Murray can consistently play from within the pocket, which is mandatory for NFL success, no matter how electric a QB might be at scrambling. Like any mobile QB, Murray must fight the urge to flee the pocket too quickly or too often. His legs must be used as a resource, not a crutch.
GRADE: B

2. San Francisco 49ers: DE Nick Bosa

The Niners forced seven turnovers in 2018, four fewer than the league’s previous all-time low. That’s staggering, given that they primarily run a traditional Seahawks-style zone scheme, where players keep the action in front of them and rally to the ball. With this approach, a lack of turnovers stems especially from your pass rush failing to disrupt the quarterback. The Niners, who rely on a four-man rush and generated no pressure off the edges last year, took a huge step earlier this offseason by trading for Kansas City’s Dee Ford. Adding Bosa could make them the NFL’s fastest-rising defense in 2019. He’ll likely align outside, opposite Ford and with underrated long-armed monster DeForest Buckner between them. But like his brother Joey, Nick Bosa can also rush from inside in obvious passing situations. The Niners now have a lot of weapons and options up front.
GRADE: A

3. New York Jets: DT Quinnen Williams

Unable to trade this pick, the Jets “settled” for whom many believe is the best player in this draft. Williams played multiple positions in Alabama’s high-level scheme, which will serve him well under new Jets defensive coordinator Gregg Williams, who likes to diversify. Williams was a fast-riser in 2018, but he draws rave reviews for his mechanics, particularly his hand usage. He obviously checks the size and quickness boxes, but the question is whether he has enough burst and twitch to be a consistent gap penetrator. Stylistically, Williams is very similar to Jets incumbent defensive lineman Leonard Williams. Leonard—who, it should be noted, is a free agent after this season, though one worth re-signing—may now find himself operating at defensive end once in a while, considering the Jets are still weak at this spot.
GRADE: B

4. Oakland Raiders: DE Clelin Ferrell

The Raiders, desperately needing an edge rusher after last year’s trade of Khalil Mack, had their choice of defensive ends. Somewhat shockingly, they took Clelin Ferrell, who dominated Alabama’s first-round prospect, Jonah Williams, in the national championship, but was deemed by some scouts as a “good at everything, great at nothing” guy. He is expected to be solid as a tightly aligned defensive end in base downs, but today’s NFL is about nickel, which defenses play nearly 70% of the time. Can Ferrell bend the edge there? He’d better. Defensive coordinator Paul Guenther plays a lot of 2-deep coverages, especially in zone. That approach only works if your front four generates pressure. The Raiders already addressed defensive tackle last year, taking P.J. Hall (second round) and Maurice Hurst (fifth round). Some believed Ferrell translates more as a nickel defensive tackle. Clearly, the Raiders don’t.
GRADE: D-

5. Tampa Bay Buccaneers: LB Devin White

Talk about a team having speed at linebacker. White is a classic undersized run-and-chase guy…just like the newly signed free agent Deone Bucannon, who played for new defensive coordinator Todd Bowles in Arizona. The beauty of this pick is it plays off last year’s pick of Vita Vea, a bigger-bodied athlete who can occupy blockers, keeping White and Bucannon clean. White flashed both as a designed blitzer and improvised blitzer at LSU. That interior pass-rushing prowess will be critical in Tampa Bay, as Bowles loves to pressure the quarterback up the middle.
GRADE: B

6. New York Giants: QB Daniel Jones

Only two first-round quarterbacks since 2005 have sat and learned from the bench their entire rookie year before becoming a franchise QB: Aaron Rodgers and Patrick Mahomes. Daniel Jones has much less raw talent than either of those two. But, like the man—or ManNING—Jones will soon replace, he thrives with clean pocket mechanics and traditional execution. Also like Manning, Jones’s game must be predicated on shrewd pre-snap reads, as he didn’t make a lot of late-in-the-progression throws or second-reaction plays at Duke.
GRADE: C+

7. Jacksonville Jaguars: DE Josh Allen

This is a great illustration of how the 3-4 vs. 4-3 discussion gets overblown. Allen is viewed as a 3-4 outside linebacker, yet the Jags have as pure a 4-3 scheme as you’ll find. And that dichotomy does not matter because 3-4 and 4-3 in today’s NFL both have mostly the same gap-shooting rules, and the NFL is a nickel league, which usually means a 4-2 front. Bottom line: Allen is a raw edge bender, which he’ll do opposite lithe, unheralded star Yannick Ngakoue on third downs. (This also means superstar Calais Campbell will play inside on those downs.). Allen’s experience dropping into coverage at Kentucky could also put him in contention for a strongside linebacker role in base 4-3 scenarios, not unlike how the Broncos have used Von Miller over the years.
GRADE: B+

8. Detroit Lions: TE T.J. Hockenson

Head coach Matt Patricia fired offensive coordinator Jim Bob Cooter in part because Cooter was not overly familiar with the Patriots-style scheme that Patricia wants to run. (We’ll soon find out if new offensive coordinator Darrell Bevell is.) Obviously, a Patriots-style scheme has plenty of room for a five-tool tight end. Hockenson might not be the next Rob Gronkowski (those would be unfair expectations to place upon any player), but like Gronk, he is both a high-level receiver and blocker. That gives the Lions schematic flexibility and helps a running game that, incredibly, has remained mostly dormant since Barry Sanders’s sudden retirement. The fact that Detroit signed ex-Steeler Jesse James for $10.5 million guaranteed in free agency suggests they want to keep two tight ends on the field, which helps simplify the looks they’ll see from opposing defenses.
GRADE: A

9. Buffalo Bills: DT Ed Oliver

Most likely, the Bills saw this as a value pick. And after signing Star Lotulelei for big money in free agency last year, to pair with 2018 third-rounder Harrison Phillips and gifted (though mercurial) ex-Dolphin Jordan Phillips, they didn’t have a glaring need at defensive tackle. But outside, they badly need an edge rusher, as 2016 first-rounder Shaq Lawson is not that guy and Jerry Hughes could be in his last year with the club. That said, you can make room for a dynamic gap penetrator. Oliver relies on quickness and elusiveness within confined areas, which is a unique style of play. But considering his having had an up-and-down 2018 season and Buffalo not badly needing a defensive tackle, overall this is a high-risk, high-reward pick for a team looking to add talent in multiple places.
GRADE: C

10. Pittsburgh Steelers (Trade with Denver Broncos): LB Devin Bush

The Steelers almost never trade up, but in this case, trading up for Bush was an easy decision. The team has had a massive hole at linebacker since Ryan Shazier’s tragic injury, which is extra damaging considering their scheme puts a premium on speed in the middle of the field. With Terrell Edmunds joining as a first-round pick last year, the Steelers can be either a nickel or dime defense, giving them flexibility to adjust to opponents week in and week out. They haven’t had such flexibility since Shazier was last on the field.
GRADE: B

11. Cincinnati Bengals: G Jonah Williams

Many think that Williams can play guard or tackle in the NFL, which is good because the Bengals need help at both spots. Williams predominantly played left tackle at Alabama, but with Cordy Glenn that is one of just two stable positions along Cincy’s front five (the other is center, which is occupied by last year’s first-rounder Billy Price). So expect Williams to first get a crack at guard. Incumbent left guard Clint Boling and right guard John Miller are both fringe starters, if not merely quality backups. Which means its entirely possible Williams could play right tackle, which is currently manned by Bobby Hart, who is susceptible to the bull rush. Wherever Williams plays, this pick asserts that the Bengals remain committed to Andy Dalton. Not only did they leave Dwayne Haskins on the board, but they took a blocker, which Dalton, who is inconsistent in messy pockets, relies on more than most QBs.
GRADE: B+

12. Green Bay Packers: EDGE Rashan Gary

Everyone agrees: Gary has ton of talent, but he did not produce much at Michigan. Some coaches wouldn’t know what to make of that, but Packers defensive coordinator Mike Pettine will take it. Pettine believes in aggressive, destructive defensive play. Instead of worrying about gaps, assignments and reads, his front seven players—particularly along the D-line—are instructed to kick the snot out of the man in front of them and let the action take care of itself. It’s also worth noting that Green Bay’s other young defensive linemen have developed well in recent years. The Packers presumably trust that young D-line coach Jerry Montgomery can help Gary hone his considerable raw talent.
GRADE: B

13. Miami Dolphins: DT Christian Wilkins

This is a fascinating selection: Presumably, new Dolphins head coach Brian Flores will run the Patriots-style scheme that he has spent his entire career teaching. Wilkins has the size that the scheme demands, but stylistically, his game is built more on quickness and movement than raw power. Perhaps Flores envisions Wilkins filling the Trey Flowers role. The two have different body types, but Flowers always thrived on the stunts and twists that Wilkins seems tailor-made to execute.
GRADE: B-

14. Atlanta Falcons: G Chris Lindstrom

When the Falcons paid meaningful money to guards James Carpenter and Jamon Brown in free agency, analysts like yours truly scratched their heads and wondered if this meant the team was moving to more of a north-south inside zone running game, rather than the east-west outside zone game around which they’ve built their offense. Carpenter and Brown, after all, are downhill maulers with limited lateral agility. Lindstrom, on the other hand, is dripping with athleticism. He’s expected to be an excellent outside zone blocker, which suggests the Falcons will indeed remain an outside zone running team. Carpenter, though not suited for that system, at least survived in it for many years as a Seahawk. Brown also played in it as a Ram and could be moved to right tackle, a position he played effectively during the 2017 offseason in L.A. The Falcons, who entered this draft with few needs and a ready-to-win-now roster, upgraded at a critical position.
GRADE: A-

15. Washington Redskins: QB Dwayne Haskins

The rumors were true: Washington wanted Dwayne Haskins. Just how badly, we might never know, because after the many swirling rumors, the team ultimately did not need to trade up to draft him. There’s no way the Redskins could be confident that Haskins would still be on the board at 15. So they were willing to take him, but not splurge on him. After Alex Smith’s possibly career-ending leg injury last season, Washington needed a quarterback. The question now becomes, How soon will Haskins play? Having such a small sample size from college, he’s expected to be a work-in-progress. Can he be consistently accurate and poised from the pocket?
GRADE: C+

16. Carolina Panthers: DE Brian Burns

Pliability and burst are vital for edge rushing, and edge rushing is vital in Carolina’s true 4-3 zone-based scheme. Burns, lanky and explosive, fits the profile. The Panthers are set—for now—at right end, with underappreciated star Mario Addison (though he’ll be 32 and is a free agent in 2020). In the meantime, Burns can split time with the recently acquired Bruce Irvin at the left edge spot that opened up when Julius Peppers retired. Size and playing strengths are a concern with Burns; don’t be surprised if he plays only in obvious passing situations as a rookie.
GRADE: B+

17. New York Giants (via Browns): DT Dexter Lawrence

This one is surprising because the Giants did not NEED a defensive tackle. Last year’s third-round pick, B.J. Hill, is a star in the making, and 2017 second-rounder Dalvin Tomlinson is quietly on a similar plane. Those two can play 3-technique (between the guard and tackle) or 5-technique (over the tackle) on base downs, with Lawrence occupying the middle as a nose. But that package will only be usable about 20 snaps a game. A few top edge rushers were still on the board, as were all of the defensive backs. Giants GM Dave Gettleman believes in stocking up on D-linemen, but defensive coordinator James Bettcher, who runs a pressure-heavy scheme, can only play with so many at once. And that pressure-heavy scheme can’t work if New York doesn’t have corners and safeties who can cover one-on-one.
GRADE: D+

18. Minnesota Vikings: C Garrett Bradbury

Mike Zimmer wants to run the ball and last year’s fired offensive coordinator, John DeFilippo, felt they couldn’t because of shoddy guards. Those guards, Mike Remmers and Tom Compton, are gone. But their replacements, Danny Isidora and Josh Kline, are not much better. Bradbury can take over one of their spots or play his college position at center, moving Pat Elflein to guard. However it shakes out, this is case of player and need meeting together perfectly. New offensive coordinator Kevin Stefanski wants to employ an outside-zone scheme to fit Kirk Cousins, who is at his best throwing play-action off those outside zone looks. Bradbury is viewed unequivocally as the best outside zone blocking interior lineman in this draft.
GRADE: A+

19. Tennessee Titans: DT Jeffery Simmons

The Titans must like the talent and upside because Simmons could miss most of his rookie season rehabbing an ACL injury. Plus, they did not have any immediate need at interior D-line; Jurrell Casey is still a stud, and Austin Johnson and DaQuan Jones are solid. The Titans could have used some reinforcement at tight end and safety, but if they feel those positions can be addressed in the next few rounds, it’s hard to fault a team for investing in talent. And by the time Simmons can play, they might decide that Johnson—a free agent in 2020—is not worth re-signing. Plus, no team has ever been hurt from having too much depth along the defensive line. This is a player who the MMQB’s Albert Breer noted is widely seen as having top five talent, but in addition to his torn ACL, teams are also aware of a video of him striking a woman in high school.
GRADE: C+

20. Denver Broncos (from Pittsburgh Steelers): TE Noah Fant

Fant is a revered receiving talent, but he was not asked to block much at Iowa in a system that puts a premium on tight end blocking. What do we make of that? Denver’s incumbent tight end, Jeff Heuerman, is a serviceable starter at best, and you don’t take a player in the first-round with ideas of making him a backup. Fant is here to contribute, but it’s hard to imagine he CAN without becoming a respectable blocker. Heuerman doesn’t inspire a team to employ more two-tight end sets, and with Emmanuel Sanders, Courtland Sutton and presumably last year’s fourth-rounder DaeSean Hamilton, the Broncos can feel good about their three-receiver package. As a receiver, Fant is gifted, but some feel his route running needs to be polished. Given that and the questions about his blocking, we could be looking at a No. 2 tight end for 2019, but one with upside.
GRADE: B-

21. Green Bay Packers (via Seattle Seahawks): S Darnell Savage Jr.

In addition to destructive, almost reckless, defensive line play (which the Packers addressed by drafting Rashan Gary), the other defining characteristic of defensive coordinator Mike Pettine’s scheme is versatility at defensive back. Pettine’s approach of putting six DBs on the field, many of whom are liable to play a different position from one week to the next, requires depth and talent in the secondary. Savage, a playmaker at Maryland, adds to that. His arrival could also stabilize some positions for guys, pushing rising 2017 second-rounder Josh Jones to the box as a dime linebacker and Josh Jackson to slot as a stout corner.
GRADE: B+

22. Philadelphia Eagles (via Baltimore Ravens): T Andre Dillard

The book on Dillard is he’s a raw talent whom offensive line coaches would love to get their hands on. Philadelphia’s Jeff Stoutland won the draw. And Stoutland will have time; aging future Hall of Famer Jason Peters is expected back on the left side for 2019 and Lane Johnson remains a Pro Bowl—if not All-Pro-caliber—specimen on the right side. Dillard, who should be the future left tackle, can learn from the bench as a rookie. The focus will be on his run-blocking, as Dillard’s Washington State Cougars did not employ many NFL-style run concepts, while the Eagles have one of football’s most expansive rushing schemes.
GRADE: B

23. Houston Texans: T Tytus Howard

The Eagles leapfrogged the tackle-needy Texans to take developmental blocker Andre Dillard, so Houston took the next most enticing development project in Howard. Scouts believe Howard, who will make the transition from Alabama State to the NFL, will need help with his technique. It’s a little surprising the Texans would invest in a project given that bigger-school players like Jawaan Taylor and Cody Ford were still on the board. After all, the Texans are a playoff-caliber club and Deshaun Watson, who took far more hits than an NFL QB should, needs protection NOW. But obviously the Texans looked closely at all the tackles in this year’s draft. Howard, who could play on the right side (across from where most of the league’s best defensive ends reside), was the man they chose.
GRADE: B-

24. Oakland Raiders (via Bears): RB Josh Jacobs

Jacobs has all the tools required of a star running back in today’s NFL: the lateral agility to create his own space, the contact balance to break tackles and the hands and route-running quickness to create and exploit favorable mismatches in the passing game. Jon Gruden gets a chance to showcase his offensive creativity, as he can build his spread-empty formations and quick-strike passes around the multidimensional running back.
GRADE: A-

25. Baltimore Ravens (via Philadelphia Eagles): WR Marquise Brown

Nothing scares a defense more than speed and quickness, which Brown has in spades. The Ravens might need to scheme ways to get Antonio Brown’s undersized cousin clean access off the line of scrimmage, which would mean putting him in motion and having him come out of the slot. That can be managed (the Colts do it well with T.Y. Hilton). Once you get Brown into the secondary, he’ll attract deep safety help almost every time, simplifying the coverage looks for young Lamar Jackson and creating space for others. The only notable “yeah but” here is that the Ravens passed on the bigger-bodied guys who define this year’s receiving class, and given the inconsistent accuracy Jackson showed last year, plus-sized targets could be valuable. But perhaps the Ravens are confident in Jackson’s chances to improve as a passer. Or, perhaps they believe a quality big receiver will be available in one of the following rounds. Either way, they got a bona fide weapon in Brown.
GRADE: A-

26. Washington Redskins (via Indianapolis Colts): DE Montez Sweat

The Redskins traded up to address a position that was not of significant need, and in doing so, tacitly declared that they missed on 2017 second-round pick Ryan Anderson, who has been mostly nondescript in his first two seasons. Sweat is a “great on paper” guy who has also flashed on film. The hope is he will provide a raw edge-bending presence opposite Ryan Kerrigan, who remains solid, if not spectacular, off the left side. Worth noting is that Sweat will be taught by Jim Tomsula, who is one of the industry’s highest regarded position coaches.
GRADE: B+

27. Oakland Raiders (via Cowboys): S Johnathan Abram

Abram is considered a Landon Collins, Keanu Neal type, which means he’s a box thumper who will also be expected to match up to tight ends. Multidimensional safeties are key in today’s NFL, though it’s worth noting that Oakland’s system—which is built around traditional zone coverage—does not quite put as fierce of demands on safety versatility as other schemes. Given the recent signing of LaMarcus Joyner, who can play the slot but is better at safety, Abram’s arrival suggests a looming end of days for 2016 first-rounder Karl Joseph. That’s not surprising given that the Gruden regime barely put Joseph on the field early last season.
GRADE: B

28. Los Angeles Chargers: DT Jerry Tillery

This is a simple case of a team drafting for need (which is not an unwise approach). Nose-shade tackle Brandon Mebane is still viable, but next year he’ll be 35 and on a contract that could be nullified for $4.25 million in cap savings. Last year’s third-round pick, Justin Jones, can be a solid starter alongside Mebane, but depth behind him was needed after the loss of free agents Damion Square, Corey Liuget and Darius Philon this spring. The question is whether Tillery will rotate into that 3-tech role with Jones or fill Mebane’s nose tackle role, which carries different duties. Given Tillery’s combination of size and athleticism, the Chargers probably hope the answer is both. Which explains why they invested a first-round pick.
GRADE: B

29. Seattle Seahawks (via Chiefs): DE L.J. Collier

After dealing Frank Clark earlier this week, this pick comes as a surprise to no one. Collier might not have Clark’s cat-like quickness or terrifying closing speed (few, if any players, do), but he’s twitchy, versatile and—compared to Clark—cheap. The Seahawks like defensive linemen who can play inside or outside, and they believe Collier can fit that bill.
GRADE: C+

30. New York Giants (via Seahawks via Packers via Saints): CB Deandre Baker

Finally, a player who fills an immediate need for the Giants. The candidates at the left corner spot opposite Janoris Jenkins (who might be a cap casualty in 2020 if he doesn’t play with more consistency) were fringe backup Tony Lippett, who has played in only three games since tearing his Achiilles in training camp of 2017, or Sam Beal, a third-round pick in last year’s supplemental draft who missed his entire rookie year with a shoulder injury. Defensive coordinator James Bettcher believes in blitzing, either through the A gaps or off the slot (depending on his personnel). You can’t readily do that without playing one-on-one coverage outside. Bettcher’s pressure-heavy approach puts him in that quarter of NFL defensive schemers for whom a corner is a necessity while an edge rusher is almost just a luxury.

31. Atlanta Falcons (via Los Angeles Rams): T Kalen McGary

The Falcons took two first-round offensive linemen in one draft … and that’s after signing a pair of what looked like would-be starting guards in free agency. Assuming this is it for O-line investments, we now know where the Falcons stand (if not going into camp, then likely coming out of it): Chris Lindstrom will be the left guard and Kaleb McGary will be the right tackle, leaving Jamon Brown at right guard and James Carpenter in a somewhat expensive backup role. OK, it all makes sense now, though if you wanted to nitpick, you could say this is a lot put into one part of the roster, given that Atlanta’s four-man pass rush could use a bit of a boost.
GRADE: B-

32. New England Patriots: WR N’Keal Harry

Harry often played inside at Arizona State, but he does not at all fit the profile of a Patriots slot receiver and will almost certainly take most of his snaps outside. He’s a big target who can win on 50/50 balls, be it downfield or especially on in-breaking routes. His most likely role will be that of an X-receiver, which, it’s worth noting, is where the suspended Josh Gordon plays. By picking Harry, the Patriots not only avoid having to depend on Gordon (anything the ex-Brown provides moving forward would just be bonus), they also fill a notable area of need.
GRADE: A-
 

Gill Man

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Wow Raiders got slammed for the 4th pick bad .....a D minus. I think that likely is undeserved .......the player will likely produce. Maybe they felt they should have taken BPA and maybe so....but how many times has BPA been proven wrong????? As usual draft grades are one guy's opinion and that is so often way off base. Teams hit and teams miss........I always go back to how guys like Clay Matthews or Drew Brees or Joe Montana or Tom Brady and on and on and on......dropped and so many team just passed. What happened to the BPA System then???? It failed bigtime and still does on many occasions. It's all hype at this point. As a non engaged fan now I hope the Raiders kill it and those guys they picked all turn out to be monsters. GO RAIDERS!!!!!!
 
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SDRay

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Wow Raiders got slammed for the 4th pick bad .....a D minus. I think that likely is undeserved .......the player will likely produce. Maybe they felt they should have taken BPA and maybe so....but how many times has BPA been proven wrong????? As usual draft grades are one guy's opinion and that is so often way off base. Teams hit and teams miss........I always go back to how guys like Clay Matthews or Drew Brees or Joe Montana or Tom Brady and on and on and on......dropped and so many team just passed. What happened to the BPA System then???? It failed bigtime and still does on many occasions. It's all hype at this point. As a non engaged fan now I hope the Raiders kill it and those guys they picked all turn out to be monsters. GO RAIDERS!!!!!!
D- is just stupid.
 

Gill Man

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D- is just stupid.
yup, not sure how a guy projected top 10 would get that grade just because he's taken at #4. When you get top 10 guys, nitpicking one to the next does not warrant grading that far apart. JMHO. And besides, who knows, maybe the Raiders DID try to trade down but there were no takers that would have left them insured they'd get their guy.
 

Concudan

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We grade on the Spanos Curve :D
It is possibly the only thing they have with a curve to it, as they have no twigs and berries to speak of....
 

SDRay

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2019 NFL Draft: Daniel Jeremiah's pick-by-pick analysis for Rounds 2-3

http://www.nfl.com/news/story/0ap30...l-jeremiahs-pickbypick-analysis-for-rounds-23

33. Byron Murphy, CB, Arizona Cardinals


I thought he was the best cornerback in this draft class. He has great quickness, awareness and ball skills. He's got outstanding hands. His finish is outstanding. He's outstanding, he can play inside, he can play outside. More than anything else, he makes plays on the ball.
34. Rock Ya-Sin, CB, Indianapolis Colts


I thought he'd be gone in the first round. He's competitive, he's aggressive. He's more quick than fast, but he can make plays on the field.
35. Jawaan Taylor, OT, Jacksonville Jaguars


I thought there was a chance they would draft him in the first round until Josh Allen fell in their lap. This was fortunate for the Jags to still be able to get a guy they legitimately thought about in the first round. This is a gift. He is a people mover and he's nasty.
36. Deebo Samuel, WR, San Francisco 49ers


He catches the ball naturally and he is exceptional after the catch. Overall, his durability is a concern, but he's dynamic with the ball in his hands and also offers value in the return game (per pre-draft prospect list).
37. Greg Little, OT, Carolina Panthers


They hit it on a tackle. They did their homework on the position. Quick hands, quick feet, likes to I think he's going to be at his best on the right side.
38. Cody Ford, OT, Buffalo Bills


Question was tackle or guard. They said tackle, I think he can hold up there. I think he has a shot to stick at tackle. His hands are a little bit wide; I'd like to see him clean that up. I like his physicality and his ability to pull. This to me is someone who can play right away. I had him as a first-rounder.
39. Sean Bunting, DB, Tampa Bay Buccaneers


Big corner. He can play inside-outside. Very twitched up. He's a little grabby downfield, which is something he needs to work on. Very aggressive.
40. Trayvon Mullen, DB, Oakland Raiders


He was somebody I had a hard time evaluating. He was hard to figure out. He made a good impression in the national title game.
41. Dalton Risner, OG, Denver Broncos


He has experience at center, I think that could be his spot. He has strength and power. He's outstanding with his hands.
42. Drew Lock, QB, Denver Broncos


Huge arm, he can make every throw on the field. He's a little bit raw. He can throw a nice firm ball. He trusts his arm; he trusts it a little too much. He's going to have time to sit behind Joe Flacco.
43. Jahlani Tavai, LB, Detroit Lions


He can set the edge on the run, he's very versatile, which they love. This is a player you can do a lot of different things with.
44. Elgton Jenkins, OG, Green Bay Packers


Strength and anchor, that's what you see in pass protection. He started at four positions and they need help on the offensive line.
45. Joejuan Williams, CB, New England Patriots


They fill a need here. They've got their versatile defensive back right now in Williams.
46. Greedy Williams, DB, Cleveland Browns


Greedy Williams was my fourth corner. Great value here. Tall, long and athletic and he can find the ball. He just needs to get better against the run. He does a great job of cutting off routes. He's got legit 4.3 speed.
47. Marquise Blair, DB, Seattle Seahawks


What I love about him is he's so aggressive at the line of scrimmage; you're talking about a guy who wants to play downhill.
48. Erik McCoy, C, New Orleans Saints


He'll start right away.
49. Ben Banogu, LB, Indianapolis Colts


Banogu is ultra-athletic and explosive. He can play in space, he can drop in coverage or he can rush the passer. He can do a lot of different things, but I thought he'd go a little later.
50. Irv Smith, TE, Minnesota Vikings


He's a real clean route runner, he's got strong hands and his best attribute is what he does after the catch. I don't know what this means for Kyle Rudolph. He might have played his last down for Minnesota.
51. A.J. Brown, WR, Tennessee Titans


A great pick. They got a strong, physical receiver from Ole Miss and it wasn't D.K. Metcalf.
52. Drew Sample, TE, Cincinnati Bengals


One of the best blocking tight ends in the draft. Strong and physical. Teams are more excited about him than the production because they love the physicality.
53. Miles Sanders, RB, Philadelphia Eagles


That's going to be a popular pick there. Patient player and person. Had to wait his time behind Saquon Barkley and now he'll play in the same division. He's someone you can use inside or outside.
54. Lonnie Johnson Jr., DB, Houston Texans


Has a rare height-weight-speed combination. Showed up at the Senior Bowland was outstanding and that's why his stock began to rise. You love how hard he plays.
55. Max Scharping, OT, Houston Texans


They had a need on the offensive line and they doubled up on it. Position, wall-off blocker. He's a little raw, but he's got some upside.
56. Mecole Hardman, WR, Kansas City Chiefs


They just selected one of the fastest receivers in the draft and the best return man in the draft. The thing I love about him in the return game, he's got the speed and toughness. Once he gets into the open field, forget about it.
57. J.J. Arcega-Whiteside, WR, Philadelphia Eagles


He's got a basketball background and plays like a post-up player. I think he's a better version of Devin Funchess. His hands are so strong. Even when he's being held and grabbed, it does not matter. You look at the way the Eagles used Alshon Jeffery and they got a younger version of Alshon.
58. Trysten Hill, DT, Dallas Cowboys


Has outstanding first-step quickness. He is the first one off the ball when he's on the field. He went to the right place to have Rod Marinelli get everything out of him.
59. Parris Campbell, WR, Indianapolis Colts


This is a race car after the catch. He flies. He has another gear once he gets out into the open field. The question was can he run routes, the good news was in the combine he really gave teams hope.
60. Nasir Adderley, DB, Los Angeles Chargers


The range of Nasir Adderley and the mad cover skills and he's a playmaker. The Chargers, Derwin James has a running mate.
61. Taylor Rapp, DB, Los Angeles Rams


He's versatile, he's the most reliable tackler among the defensive backs in this year's draft class. He's an outstanding blitzer, he's extremely intelligent. If he ran in the 4.5s, he'd be a first-round draft pick.
62. Andy Isabella, WR, Arizona Cardinals


They got some speed there, a track star. Ran a 4.31 at the combine. I love what he does after the catch. When you think at Kliff Kingsbury's offense, a lot of quick hitters, that's what this kid did in college and I think that's what they'll ask of him now.
63. Juan Thornhill, DB, Arizona Cardinals


I like him in the deep middle because of the range he has. He's a ball hawk. He'll miss some tackles but you'll take that for his ball skills.
64. D.K. Metcalf, WR, Seattle Seahawks


This is what we talked about, the perfect fit. This is a team that likes to go over the top and he goes and gets it. He has the ability to track the football, he finds another gear when the ball is up in the air. Once he does get the ball in his hands, he can make you move. And he just went to, in my opinion, the best deep-ball-throwing quarterback in the league in Russell Wilson.
Third Round


65. Zach Allen, DE, Arizona Cardinals


Zach Allen has the versatility. He plays with strength and effort. The effort is phenomenal and I think this is a pretty good pick for them.
66. Diontae Johnson, WR, Pittsburgh Steelers


They go get a wide receiver and Diontae Johnson, who's an outstanding returner, you can see that burst. He plays much faster than his 4.5 40.
67. Jalen Hurd, WR, San Francisco 49ers


We need a creative offensive coordinator for Jalen Hurd, because he can do everything. He is so fluid and loose.
68. Jachai Polite, LB, New York Jets


He's got a big-time get off and a nasty move. His tape as an edge rusher is just outstanding.
69. Josh Oliver, TE, Jacksonville Jaguars


Outstanding play speed, lots of quick-hitters and screens. He'll need to improve in the running game.
70. Darrell Henderson, RB, Los Angeles


He's a home run hitter, just one long run after another. The comparison is Phillip Lindsay.
71. Dre'Mont Jones, DT, Denver Broncos


He's versatile, he has quick hands; the only frustrating thing is I didn't see the power.
72. Germaine Pratt, LB, Cincinati Bengals


He's an outstanding blitzer, he needs some work in coverage, but inside tackle-to-tackle; he's outstanding.
73. David Montgomery, RB, Chicago Bears


Out goes Jordan Howard, in comes David Montgomery. The vision is outstanding and he's so elusive inside the tackles.
74. Devin Singletary, RB, Buffalo Bills


He is a fun runner to watch with his jump-cuts and quickness. It's fun to watch him on tape.
75. Jace Sternberger, TE, Green Bay Packers


He's very fluid and instinctive. He can really stretch the field, you can flex him out. They're going to use him the same way the Eagles use Zach Ertz.
76. Terry McLaurin, WR, Washington Redskins


He's got some outstanding speed and has outstanding character. He's also the best kick-coverage guy in the draft.
77. Chase Winovich, DE, New England Patriots


He's the last member of my top 50 hanging out there. He's got outstanding hands and sheds blockers and shows quickness.
78. Michael Deiter, OG, Miami Dolphins


He's a mauler. He's played a lot of football at an offensive line factory in Wisconsin.
79. David Long, DB, Los Angeles Rams


He can play outside, they lost LaMarcus Joyner in the offseason, I think that's where he's going.
80. Sione Takitaki, LB, Cleveland Browns


He's ultra-productive. They can move him around, he can come off the edge, they can even drop him back into coverage. The effort is outstanding with this guy.
81. Will Harris, DB, Detroit Lions


A great combination of play speed, leadership and character. He just doesn't have a lot of ball production, but when he hits you, you'll feel it.
82. Nate Davis, OG, Tennessee Titans


He has a unique frog stance. He's a people mover and he's dominant in the run game. He held his own in the run game.
83. Justin Layne, DB, Pittsburgh Steelers


Some people thought he might go even earlier. He's a former wide receiver who plays with excellent patience and poise.
84. Khalen Saunders, DB, Kansas City Chiefs


The suddenness and the range are phenomenal for a guy his size. He has extremely quick hands. Was one of our favorites at the Senior Bowl.
85. Jaylon Ferguson, DE, Baltimore Ravens


You don't get more productive than him. Size, length and power. He's outstanding with his hands, quick swipe, get home and finish.
86. Kahale Warring, TE, Houston Texans


He's got ridiculous height-weight-speed combination. He has a water polo background with a lot of promise.
87. Damien Harris, RB, New England Patriots


He's outstanding in pass protection which you know is going to be great for the New England Patriots. He's a north-south runner who runs through arm tackles and has very reliable hands.
88. Cody Barton, LB, Seattle Seahawks


Plays outside linebacker, they can use him to cover the tight end. He's the communicator, he's got a short-area burst.
89. Bobby Okereke, LB, Indianapolis Colts


They want speed on defense and linebackers who fly and Okereke can do that.
90. Connor McGovern, OG, Dallas Cowboys


My highest available guard left on the board. He will uproot you, drive you and finish you in the running game and has pass protection awareness.
91. Trey Pipkins, OT, Los Angeles Chargers


The Chargers are showing you can find players anywhere. When you see someone play inferior competition, you want to see someone dominate and that's what he did. Very athletic. This will be a fun project.
92. Chuma Edoga, OT, New York Jets


He's got rare foot quickness and he's undersized at tackle, but I think he's got a chance to stay there.
93. Miles Boykin, WR, Baltimore Ravens


He's big and fast, they play him inside/outside. As the season ended, his stock went through the roof.
94. Jamel Dean, DB, Tampa Bay Buccaneers


Teams all over the league were split on him. When you watch him on tape, you don't see the speed he showed at the combine. He's also had some knee issues that concerned teams.
95. Oshane Ximines, DE, New York Giants


He destroys tight ends, he loves a slap-swim move. The Giants got their pass rusher, just a little later than people expected.
96. Dawson Knox, TE, Buffalo Bills


In line, flexed out, he's versatile and and an easy mover. Did not have a lot of production, as he didn't have a single touchdown. This kid is a great combo tight end.
97. Bobby Evans, OT, Los Angeles Rams


He's somebody that the more I watched him, he grew on me. He struggles a little bit to adjust, but if he stays on his original path, he's good.
98. Quincy Williams, LB, Jacksonville


There's not a lot on him, but he's the brother of Quinnen Williams.
99. Mike Edwards, S, Tampa Bay Buccaneers


I love watching him play. He'll play in the deep half and get his hands on a lot of balls.
100. Will Grier, QB, Carolina Panthers


He's a rhythm thrower with excellent touch. He does not have a great arm, but he's on-time and accurate. Some teams had him way up there. This team with Cam Newton coming off an injury, this is an interesting pick.
101. Yodny Cajuste, OT, New England Patriots


There's no 40 on him because he's coming off an injury. I think he's going to be a right tackle. He's got ideal frame and size, but he needs to get healthy and continue to improve.
102. Alexander Mattison, RB, Minnesota Vikings


He's a north-south runner, everything's downhill. He's a slithery runner and he catches out of the ball pretty well. He needs to get better in pass protection.