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Arizona Cardinals
Damian’s NFL Mock Draft 1.0
It is mock draft season for half of the teams in the NFL. Here is my unofficial first mock draft of the season. I will play General Manager for all 32 teams. What direction will your team go in round 1? Tune in. Draft order are courtesy of Tankathon, they have up to date standings.
1. San Fransico 49ers
Nick Bosa, DE, Ohio State. Although the Niners are ranked 21st in sacks but they do not have go to rusher. Bosa is the best edge defender in this draft class. Some believe he is a better prospect than his older brother Joey Bosa. Heading into 2019 this niners team is full of potential, Bosa is a game changing talent and must needed draft pick.
2. Arizona Cardinals
Ed Oliver, DT, Houston. The most athletically gifted defensive tackle since all-pro Aaron Donald. Oliver is arguably the best DT in this class. He is quick, explosive, and powerful. Pairing Oliver with elite pass rusher Chandler Jones will provide a huge boost for this Cards defense.
3. Oakland Raiders
Clelin Ferrell, EDGE, Clemson. Somehow after trading away the best edge defender in the NFL (Khalil Mack) John Gruden utters, “Great pass rushers are hard to find”. The Raiders are ranked dead last with 10 sacks on the season. Clelin Ferrell is one of the best edge defenders and rushers in this class. Gruden drafts HIS guy to build the defense his way.
4. New York Jets
Jonah Williams, LT, Alabama. The Jets hopefully drafted their franchise quarterback by selecting Sam Darnold in April. We’re aware they must surround him with more skilled weapons but protecting him is priority one. Williams is the best offensive lineman in this class. He is a quick-footed and powerful tackle. He will positively impact the pass and run game for whoever drafts him.
5. New York Giants
Justin Herbert, QB, Oregon. Eli Manning is a 2-time superbowl champion and mvp. His time in the big apple has come to an end, whether it’s via retirement or being released. The giants’ offense has an excessive amount of talent and explosion on offense, time for a change. Justin Herbert is currently atop of most college quarterback rankings. Inserting his athletic ability, lively arm, big frame, and accuracy to Shurmur’s offense will elevate this team’s potential next season.
6. Jacksonville Jaguars
Drew Lock, QB, Missouri. Although, Dwayne Haskins and Will Grier are on the board, Locke is a lock. Drew offers more athletic ability in addition to his powerful arm. The RPO is the new hot trend in the league and having a dual threat quarterback is key. Locke would help the new look Jags offense and lift some of the burden of third year running back Leonard Fournette.
7. Atlanta Falcons
Quinnen Williams, DL, Alabama. The falcons defense has been decimated with injuries to their defensive stars. Ranking 25th in the league in rushing yards allowed. Adding Quinnen to this defensive line will give them a disruptive and powerful prospect. Williams could have an immediate impact and become their best defensive lineman early in his career.
8. Detriot Lions
Greedy Williams, CB, LSU. The lions have a few needs on their defense including pass rusher. From a value standpoint, snagging a potential shut down corner to pair with an elite corner (Darius Slay) is good business. Williams is known as the corner that can shut down one side of the field. A tandem of him and slay would give their NFC north foes headaches to game plan for.
9. Buffalo Bills
DK Metcalf, WR, Ole Miss. Buffalo has been a surprising team because they won games this season. Josh Allen has shown flashes of productivity and talent. Brandon Beane must provide Allen with offensive help. DK injured his neck earlier in the season but declared for the draft insinuating he’s been cleared. DK is a big, physical, & athletic play maker. He could become Allen’s best friend down field early on.
10. Tampa Bay Buccaneers
Deandre Baker, CB, Georgia. Tampa Bay needs to improve their secondary and passing defense. Through 12 games, they’ve allowed 26 passing touchdowns with only 3 interceptions. That is atrocious defense. In terms of cornerback prospects, baker is as good as it gets. He has a combination of speed, hands, and coverage abilities needed to play immediately. In a division with 3 quality quarterbacks to face, an improved secondary is key.
11. Green Bay Packers
Montez Sweat, EDGE, Mississippi St. The Packers are ranked 3rd in sacks but with Clay Matthews getting older, it is time to add a go to rusher. They’ve selected three defensive backs early in the past two drafts, continue to build this defense. Sweat is a long athletic edge defender with quickness to add. Packers must fix their defensive woes and Sweat is a start.
12. Cleveland Browns
N’Keal Harry, WR, Arizona St. Baker Mayfield is consistently showing game to game improvements. They need to upgrade the offensive line, but the value is not here. Adding Harry with Jarvis Landry, Antonio Calloway, Nick Chubb, & David Njoku provides a young athletic core of skill players to work with. Harry offers a big catch radius and red-zone target with strong hands. Bake would love that arsenal of weapons if this pick comes to fruition.
13. Miami Dolphins
Dwayne Haskins, QB, Ohio State. The reign of Ryan Tannehill is over in Miami. Tannehill, Osweilier, & Cutler all have started games for the dolphins over the past few years. Haskins is a big strong-armed pocket passer. Haskins can make every throw with accuracy that Tannehill didn’t possess coming out of Texas A&M. A new era is needed in Miami to leave the realm of mediocrity.
14. Tennessee Titans
Josh Allen, EDGE, Kentucky. With Brian Orakpo & Derrick Morgan contracts coming to an end, adding another pass rusher is vital. Josh Allen has the production & athletic ability that you can’t pass up. He also offers the ability to drop into coverage on top of rushing the passer.
15. Denver Broncos
Amani Oruwariye, CB, Penn State. The Broncos have won 2 straight and seem to be in the hunt for a wildcard playoff spot. This is the reason they’ll be fooled into passing on a young quarterback. Amani is the perfect build for the Broncos defense. A tall physical press man cover corner that loves to play in the hip pocket of receivers. Continuing to build a dominate defense is a good way to go.
16. Philadelphia Eagles
Deionte Thompson, S, Alabama. Everyone desires to find an Ed Reed/Earl Thomas ball hawking safety. The Eagles secondary has been their achilles heel all season. Adding Thompson will boost this group when healthy. He has the speed and range to bait quarterbacks into turnovers. In order to get back to the superbowl winning defense, solidifying the backend is vital.
17. Cincinnati Bengals
Noah Fant, TE, Iowa. Tyler Eifert has played 14 out of 48 games over the last three years, meaning his tenure is over in Cincy. Dalton and this offense needs a play making tight end to roam the middle of the field. Fant is an athletic pass catcher with solid blocking ability. He can be a matchup nightmare at the next level and the Bengals should be the beneficiaries.
18. Indianapolis Colts
Jachai Polite, EDGE, Florida. I desperately wanted to draft a stud receiver for Andrew Luck and Frank Reich offense, but they have a formidable passing attack with their current weapons. Polite is an explosive bendy pass rusher that will terrorize quarterbacks. Stud rookie linebacker Darius Leonard is the leading sack artist with 6, but he plays middle linebacker. Time to put pressure on these qbs in this division.
19. Seattle Seahawks
Jeffery Simmons, DL, Mississippi St. The Seahawks attempted to add an explosive big man inside their defensive line when they drafted Malik McDowell. After a bad ATV accident, he was released with a non-football injury designation. Simmons is a nimble and powerful tackle. He understands the importance of leverage and length. A defensive line of Simmons, Clark, & Reed is tough to block.
20. Carolina Panthers
Yodny Cajuste, LT, West Virginia. The panthers offensive line is a shell of themselves due to injuries. Taylor Moton has played tackle this year but a healthy line up will place him inside at guard. Cajuste, is athletic, flexible, and long. He could be an upgrade over the average left tackle Matt Kalil. Upgrading the o-line can ensure Cam Newton & Christian McCaffery have the protection needed to make big things happen.
21. Washington Redskins
Hakeem Butler, WR, Iowa State. The redskins have one of the least appealing receiving corps in the league. Josh Docston is not a number one receiver and wildly inconsistent. Hakeem Butler has been compared to Randy Moss. His incredible long frame and elastic arms provides an amazing catch radius. He can effectively win the jump ball and eat up grass on downfield routes. The skins need a number one caliber receiver, this could be their guy.
22. Oakland Raiders
Devin White, ILB, LSU. Another defensive pick, Gruden desires an athletically gifted defensive unit. White has the range and speed to cover ground and attack sideline to sideline. An angry tackler white is, he has the tools to be a weapon in coverage. His ferocious attitude will work well with coach Gruden old school philosophy.
23. Baltimore Ravens
Brian Burns, EDGE, FSU. Terrell Suggs dances as if he’s still 22 years old but he is 36 years old. Father is undefeated as they say. Brian Burns can be a nice pupil to the elder statesmen. He has a good burst, footwork, and an array of pass rushing moves. The Ravens pass rush is tad inconsistent and needs a shot in the arm.
24. Pittsburgh Steelers
Byron Murphy, CB, Washington. The Steelers have Joe Hade, Mike Hilton, & Cam Sutton. Neither of those names are game changing talents. Murphy is extremely smooth. A tough hardnosed corner, he isn’t afraid to come up and tackle. He loves to bait quarterbacks into risky throws. Pittsburgh needs a corner that can compete no matter the play call, Byron Murphy can help this secondary.
25. Minnesota Vikings
David Edwards, LT, Wisconsin. The Vikings spent a lot of money on quarterback Kirk Cousins. Although he does fit this team, the offensive line performance has been subpar at best. Edwards is a mammoth of a man (6’7 319lbs). He is a road grader in the ground game and polished in pass protection. This move would give the vikes two young starting tackles going forward.
26. Houston Texans
Dalton Risner, T, Kansas State. The Texans are riding an 8 game winning streak, but their offensive line is arguable the worst in football. Kendall Lamm has been average all season. Risner is a powerful blocker that will drive through defenders. Deshaun Watson would be happy with this pick.
27. Oakland Raiders
Kelvin Harmon, WR, NC State. A strong & powerful framed receiver that can win on all three levels. He has the size to be a traditional possession receiver, with the ability to make play down field. Derek Carr or whoever is under center will need a number one target, Harmon is the guy.
28. Los Angeles Chargers
Raekwon Davis, DL, Alabama. Continue building towards a dominate defense Anthony Lynn. Davis is a powerful and physical interior lineman. The chargers have lost Corey Liuget for the season with a knee injury. Davis could be a nice long-term replacement and present-day partner manning the middle.
29. New England Patriots
Mack Wilson, ILB, Alabama. Over the past few years, the patriots’ defense has been slow and unathletic in the front seven. Hightower is better as a rush linebacker than in coverage. Bill must add speed and athleticism to his defense. Mack is a three-down linebacker and a perfect student to learn how to lead a Bill Belichick’s defense.
30. Los Angeles Rams
Chase Winovich, EDGE, Michigan. The biggest Achilles heel of the rams’ defense is lack of edge pressure. Their interior line has Aaron Donald and Suh but little to no impact off the edge. Chase Winovich has 17.5 sacks & 40.5 tackles for loss in 3 years of starting at Michigan. That’s the type of production and impact the rams need to help boost their defense.
31. Kansas City Chiefs
Bryce Hall, CB, Virginia. This defense ranks in the bottom half of nearly every major defensive statistical category. They’re reportedly receiving a huge boost with All Pro safety Eric Berry returning from injury. With an incredibly potent offense, improving this putrid defense is top priority. Bryce is a tall, long, & rangy corner. He is more of an off-ball corner but his abilities to play sticky man coverage would be welcome in KC.
32 Green Bay Packers (New Orleans Saints)
Marquise Brown, WR, Oklahoma. The Packers offense ranks 8th in passing yards per game, but only has one receiving option over 500 yards receiving (D. Adams). Hollywood Brown would bring all world speed to this offense. He runs clean routes and plays with a patience in/out of breaks. He is the perfect complement to Rodgers, Adams, & Jones in this offense.
Damian Parson is an Analyst for Couch Rider Report. Follow/Like us on Facebook or Twitter.
Here it is, my attempt to make a mock draft that doesn’t infuriate me (or you), based on what I’m expecting to happen on draft day, not what I would personally do. Some common sense and a few hours analyzing depth charts and team needs (added to all the tape I’ve been watching during this process), and I hope this is similar to what’s going to happen on April 26th in Dallas.
1: Cleveland Browns: Sam Darnold, USC, QB
I’m confident the Browns are taking Darnold with their first pick. To me, all the Allen talk is just a smokescreen so a team trades up with the Giants to take a QB and they can land the draft’s best player at 4.
2: New York Giants: Josh Rosen, UCLA, QB
The Giants don’t pass on the best passer to come out in nearly a decade and secure Eli Manning’s successor in Josh Rosen. This is the hardest pick to predict here, they could easily go Mayfield or Allen at QB or go for Saquon Barkley or even Quenton Nelson. I’m leaning towards Rosen for them.
3: New York Jets: Baker Mayfield, Oklahoma, QB
The New York Jets traded up for a QB, that much is obvious. The best passer on the board is easily Mayfield and there were reports the Jets loved him during the entire process. Josh Allen would be a terrible fit in their west coast offense and would bring a deja vu to the fan base of another big-armed QB with accuracy issues.
4: Cleveland Browns: Bradley Chubb, NC State, DE
Imagine a defensive front led by Garrett and Chubb. They would be no longer laughed at but feared. Saquon Barkley is amazing but he doesn’t bring that kind of value and there are plenty of very good running backs in round 2.
5: Buffalo Bills (trade w/Broncos): Josh Allen, Wyoming, QB
Neither AJ McCarron or Nathan Peterman bring the answer at QB for the Bills. So while Mccarron holds the fort, Josh Allen could develop into the franchise quarterback this team deserves which is worth trading up for.
6: Indianapolis Colts: Quenton Nelson, Notre Dame, OG
The Colts try to build an offensive line where Luck would last more than a game after coming back from his shoulder injury or at least not kill yet another QB. Quenton Nelson is the best offensive lineman prospect I have ever seen with my own eyes and the surest pick in the draft by quite a lot.
7: Tampa Bay Buccaneers: Saquon Barkley, Penn St, RB
The slide for Barkley ends here, joining an underachieving offensive unit that should bounce back and have a lot of success with a reliable back like him. Some call him a once in a generation back (a term we hear every year), I wouldn’t go THAT far, but he is an all-around back that will create havoc for years to come.
8: Chicago Bears: Tremaine Edmunds, Virginia Tech, LB
This athletic freak is only 19 years old and is a difference maker on defense. This is a team that needs to go young and build around Trubisky. This Hokie is how.
9: San Francisco 49ers: Denzel Ward, Ohio St, CB
The 49ers add the best cornerback in this year’s draft in Ward. He is fast and instinctive and will learn a lot under Richard Sherman who is one of the great corners of this generation.
10: Oakland Raiders: Roquan Smith, Georgia, LB
The raiders not only fill their biggest need but also grab the best player left on the board on Roquan Smith who was a one-man wrecking crew for Georgia.
11: Miami Dolphins: Da’ron Payne, Alabama, DT
The Dolphins need to fill the huge hole Ndamukong Suh left. Payne plays the same role at the DT position and offers huge upside.
12: Denver Broncos (trade w/Bills): Minkah Fitzpatrick, Alabama, DB
After trading back with the Bills the Broncos still land one of the draft’s top players in Minkah Fitzpatrick. A player who could have been an option at 5.
13: Washington Redskins: Vita Vea, Washington, DT
Vea comes in to fix this run stopping unit while also offering help in the pass rush.
14: Green Bay Packers: Derwin James, Florida St, S
The Packers land one of the draft’s most athletic players who was once considered a top 5 player prospect. James will help this defensive back group which has been the weak spot of this defense.
15: Arizona Cardinals: Lamar Jackson, Louisville, QB
The Cardinals land their next franchise quarterback in Jackson. For many reasons (that I don’t agree), he is widely left out the big 4 QBs in this draft. Teams will regret passing on him like they did with Watson last year. Ideally, he redshirts year 1, but that would rely on Bradford avoiding the IR this year.
16: Baltimore Ravens: Calvin Ridley, Alabama, WR
This is the year where you give Flacco weapons so there can’t be more excuses for his poor play. Ridley is the best WR in this draft and the most NFL ready, Flacco needs the help NOW.
17: Los Angeles Chargers: Connor Williams, Texas, OT
The Chargers need offensive line help and Williams can play guard or tackle where he is the top prospect this year.
18: Seattle Seahawks: Will Hernández, UTEP, OG
Repeat after me: Russell Wilson needs some help. Seattle needs to address the offensive line once and for all, Will Hernández is as solid as they come.
19: Dallas Cowboys: Maurice Hurst, Michigan, DT
This is a match made in draft heaven. This needs to happen, Hurst has an amazing first step.
20: Detroit Lions: Derrius Guice, LSU, RB
Matthew Stafford never had a solid running game in his career, this needs to stop. Derrius Guice is a complete back who will change that for the Lions.
21: Cincinnati Bengals: James Daniels, Iowa, C
The Bengals offensive line was a BIG issue for them last year, and with the addition of Cordy Glenn at LT, they still need help inside. Enter James Daniels a technical yet very athletic center that can also play guard. Versatility is a huge plus for him and he also benefitted from Billy Price’s injury.
22: Denver Broncos (via trade w/bills): Harold Landry, Boston College, LB
Shane Ray has been a disappointment so far and by trading down the Broncos are in position to draft an impact player to rush the passer opposite of Von Miller. Landry played hurt this year which made his stock drop, fear not he is a beast when healthy.
23: New England Patriots: Rashaan Evans, Alabama, LB
The Patriots need a LB with the versatility of Evans and the Alabama connection with Saban makes this a very likely pick for Belichick and Co.
24: Carolina Panthers: Cameron Sutton, SMU, WR
The Panthers LOVE big-bodied receivers, and they will try to fill the void Kelvin Benjamin left as a bug bodied WR1. Sutton has the potential to be just that for the Carolina squad.
25: Tennessee Titans: Leighton Vander Esch, Boise St, LB
Tennessee gets Vander Esch who is just a force to be reckoned with and flies sideline to sideline. He is going to be the identity of this young defense.
26: Atlanta Falcons: Taven Bryan, Florida, DT
When Taven Bryan is at his highest, there isn’t a better DT in this draft, but he is inconsistent and doesn’t pop on tape as often as you would love. Either way, I think he is going to be a big problem for offensive coordinators for years to come.
27: New Orleans Saints: Mike Gesicki, Penn St, TE
Gesicki might not be a former basketball player, but he reminds me of a faster Jimmy Graham, who had his best years in NOLA. Much like Graham, Gesicki is a great pass catcher and will be a key weapon for Brees to use.
28: Pittsburgh Steelers: Ronnie Harrison, Alabama, S
There isn’t a linebacker here worth taking, so the Steelers go towards the other top need they have on their roster, strong safety. Ronnie Harrison has the pedigree and toughness you want in your safety and the aggressiveness necessary to succeed. Granted he has played in a stacked defense full of NFL talent along with fellow first-rounders Minkah Fitzpatrick and Rashaan Evans that have made work easier for him.
29: Jacksonville Jaguars: DJ Moore, Maryland, WR
Jacksonville let two of their top 3 receivers walk in free agency, in Allen Robinson and Allen Hurns. They need someone to play opposite of Marqise Lee and DJ Moore fits the mold of players they have drafted in the past. It doesn’t hurt that he is the top-ranked WR for some analysts.
30: Minnesota Vikings: Isaiah Wynn, Georgia, OG
Isaiah Wynn DOMINATED at LT, yet his size suggests that he will have to switch to guard in the NFL. Minnesota needs help with their offensive line and Wynn is exactly what the doctor ordered.
31: New England Patriots: Jaire Alexander, Louisville, CB
Corner is a big need with Butler gone, and we saw in the Superbowl that they NEED depth beyond Gilmore. This cornerback class is so even at the top that some consider Alexander the best in the class. Even if he isn’t, it’s damn close.
32: Philadelphia Eagles: Dallas Goedert, South Dakota St, TE
There aren’t many holes in the defending champs’ roster yet with Burton gone the Eagles can choose a TE that makes incredible catches on a game basis and can see the field day 1.
Eric Kirschenbaum is a Writer for Couch Rider Report. Follow us on Instagram, Facebook or Twitter.
NFL Week 1 Predictions
Football is FINALL HERE!!! The Crr Team has graciously brought you their weekly predictions. This competitive contest shall bring forth a winner for bragging rights when the season is over. Question is who will reign victorious? Well let’s see these game picks!!! The Tampa Bay/Miami game has been moved to week 11, due to the threat of incoming Hurricane Irma.
* represents the upset picks of the week.
Games | Damian | Deremy | Marvin | Jermaine | Ryan |
KC @ NE | Pats | Pats | Pats | Chiefs | Pats |
NYJ @ BUF | Bill | Bill | Jets | Bills | Bills |
PHI @ WAS | Eagles | Eagles | Redskins | Eagles | Redskins |
OAK @ TEN | Raiders | Titans | Raiders | Raiders | Raiders |
JAC @ HOU | Texans | Texans | Texans | Texans | Texans |
ARI @ DET | Lions | Lions | Cardinals | Cardinals | Lions |
PIT @ CLE | *Browns | Steelers | Steelers | Steelers | Steelers |
ATL @ CHI | Falcons | Falcons | Falcons | Falcons | Falcons |
BAL @ CIN | Bengals | Ravens | Bengals | Ravens | Bengals |
IND @ LAR | Rams | Rams | Rams | Rams | Rams |
CAR @ SF | Panthers | Panthers | *Niners | Panther | Panther |
SEA @ GB | Packers | Packers | Seahawks | Seahawks | Packers |
NYG @ DAL | Giants | Cowboys | Giants | Giants | Cowboys |
NO @ MIN | Vikings | Vikings | Saints | Vikings | Saints |
LAC @ DEN | Chargers | Broncos | Chargers | Chargers | Chargers |
CRR Video Podcast: Wild AZ Cards
CRR Video Podcast: Wild AZ Cards
When it comes to Original Sports Perspective, from our couch to yours looks no further than the Couch Rider Report. Today Jermaine Lockett chimes in the Arizona Cardinals QB of the future, or is he? Tune in and find out who I’m referring to.
Also, make sure you subscribe to the youtube channel and the podcast. You can find the link to the podcast, that pops out something new twice a week HERE. As always, thanks for staying tuned for that “Original Sports Perspective, from our Couch to Yours”.
Jermaine Lockett is a Writer and CEO for Couch Rider Report. Follow us on Instagram, Facebook or Twitter.
CRR: Damian’s Full First Round Mock Draft
After an exciting and crazy 2016 College football season, it is now time for the NFL draft process to commence. Players are gauging their stock, training, and declaring for this year’s draft. The order for the top ten picks has been set. Wondering who your team will or should take? No worries that is why you have ME!!! I will break down the top ten draft picks for you!!
1. Cleveland (1-15)—Myles Garrett, DE/OLB, Texas A&M, Jr.
2. San Francisco (2-14)—Mike Williams, WR, Clemson, rJr.
3. Chicago (3-13)—Deshone Kizer, QB, Notre Dame, rSo.
4. Jacksonville (3-13) — Jamal Adams, SS, LSU, Jr.
5. Tennessee from L.A. Rams (4-12)—Jalen “Teez” Tabor, CB, Florida, Jr.
6. N.Y. Jets (5-11) —Malik Hooker, FS, Ohio St., rSo.
7. L.A. Chargers (5-11)—Derek Barnett, DE, Tennessee, Jr.
8. Carolina (6-10)—Dalvin Cook, RB, Florida St., Jr.
9. Cincinnati (6-9-1)—Rueben Foster, ILB, Alabama, Sr.
10. Buffalo (7-9)—Mitch Trubisky, QB, North Carolina, rJr.
11. New Orleans (7-9)—Marshon Lattimore, CB, Ohio State., rSo.
There is an issue in New Orleans, and that is DEFENSE!!! This pick must be on the defensive side of the ball. This defense ranked 31st in scoring defense per game (28.4), 32nd in passing yards allowed per game (274), and 27th in sacks in the league. Lattimore is the pick here; he will boost and solidify the three-man corner rotation. He also has the upside and skill-set of a number 1 corner, that would help due to Delvin Breaux having an injury history. Coverage can help the pass rush, and this is a needed pick for the Saints.
12. Cleveland from Philadelphia (7-9)—Marlon Humphrey, CB, rSo.
The Browns went Myles number one overall to fix this defense, and now they go Mr. Humphrey now. The 6’1 200 lb. Corner has experience playing man and zone coverages. He is the physical corner that does not mind tackling in the run game. Marlon is best suited in zone coverage because his route recognition is top notch. He is versatile enough with his size to cover bigger receivers and speed to stick with faster receivers. Joe Haden has not been the same player for a few years now. Build for the future Cleveland and create a stingy defense.
13. Arizona (7-8-1)—OJ Howard, TE, Alabama, Sr.
The Cardinals were assured their quarterback position w/Carson Palmer returning for the 2017 season. This team lost their second big bodied receiver Michael Floyd after releasing him for a DUI incident in 2016. The age-less wonder Larry Fitzgerald lead the team in reception and yards, while second was star running back David Johnson. That is not the ideal situation you would like to be in for an offense, insert OJ Howard. The 6’6 250 lb. would give Palmer a big, fast, and strong target in the middle of the field. He can take advantage of safeties, linebackers, and some corners. Jermaine Gresham and Darren Fells are definitely not the answers!!!
14. Indianapolis (8-8)—Leonard Fournette, RB, LSU, Jr.
Andrew Luck has been internally praying for some form of help, and here it comes. Last year the leading rushers for the Colts were a 33-year-old Frank Gore and Andrew Luck. The selection of Fournette would give them a young stud running back to learn the pro game from a potential hall of famer. The former LSU back would provide a powerful runner that wears down defenses and forces an extra defender in the box and opens up the passing game. You’re welcome LUCK!!
15. Philadelphia (Minnesota)—Corey Davis, Wr, Cent Michigan, Sr.
The Eagles drafted Carson Wentz to become their Franchise quarterback, but you must find him a number one receiver. Philly ranked 7th in the league in drops this season, and your leading receiver was your tight end. Corey gives Wentz that boundary receiver everyone thought Jordan Matthews would become. Davis is a smooth route runner, can play in the slot, and outside the number. With these two young players in the fold, the Eagles should be in good hands.
16. Baltimore (8-8)—Budda Baker, FS, Washington, Jr.
The Ravens had one of the league’s best defenses this year, after bringing in veteran safety Eric Weddle to help a struggling secondary. Weddle is 32 years old and is losing speed as time passes. The selection of Baker gives this defense a burst of youth to pair with rookie corner Tavon Young. The former Washington bulldog has the range to cover deep, man coverage, and the intelligence to diagnose plays. He is an active participant in the run game. Budda Baker looks like a Baltimore Raven!!!
17. Washington (8-7-1)—Malik McDowell, DT, Michigan St., Jr.
Washington has one of the league’s worst defenses, ranking 28th in total yards allowed per game. With defensive end Chris Baker and impending free agent, adding Malik as a young replacement. Mcdowell reminds me of last year’s 7th overall pick DefForest Buckner, as a 3-4 end. Inserting the former Spartan would give them an athletic and strong defender that can hold his own vs. the run while providing an edge pass rush.
18. Tennessee (9-7)—John Ross, WR, Washington, rJr.
The speedy receiver from UW is the best pick for the Titans. They are losing Kendall Wright to free agency and Ross can be an upgrade. Ross brings quick feet, precise route running, and long speed to an offense dedicated on running the ball. This team will have a young receiving core of Rishard Matthews, Tajae Sharpe, and John Ross. The play action pass will be crucial for this team’s success in 2017!!
19. Tampa Bay (9-7)—Forrest Lamp, OG, West Kentucky, Sr.
With no receiver on the board of value here, the Bucs grab the most versatile linemen in the draft. Forrest started four years at left tackle but is transitioning inside due to lack of length. He will provide a needed boost to the interior of this offensive line. Tampa has one of the best young signal callers in the league in Jameis Winston, and the best way to help him develop further is to protect him. Upgrading and strengthening their offensive line will help boost the 24th ranked run game. You can also move Lamp to center, and he will flourish also, this is a chess piece of an offensive lineman. Win the trenches Tampa!!!
20. Denver (9-7)—Ryan Ramczyk, OT, Wisconsin, rJr.
A year ago today, the Denver Broncos were the newly crowned SB champions. The 2016 season was not as kind to the former champs. They missed the playoffs entirely and was not the same team from a year ago. Their biggest problem resided in the trenches on both sides of the ball. The offensive line ranked 24th in the league at season’s end. Insert Ramczyk at tackle to improve that ranking. This team offensively was a wreck this season, couldn’t run the ball or pass it consistently. Upgrading the offensive line is key to finding offensive consistency.
21. Detroit—Solomon Thomas, DE, Standford, rSo.
This team showed they can contend in their division and win without Megatron. After a quick playoff exit, this team needs to attack a defense. Solomon Thomas is their guy!! The Lions ranked 31st in the league in sacks this season w/26. That is unacceptable when you are facing Aaron Rodgers twice a year!! Ezekiel Ansah saw a lot of protection slid his direction because they didn’t have another capable rusher. Thomas would instantly give them a versatile defender to pair with Ansah. The former Stanford Cardinal can play the run and rush the passer inside and out. Ezekiel, Help Is On the Way!!!
22. Miami—David Njoku, TE, Miami, rSo.
This team did not have a tight end to catch 30+ passes, and that is uncommon. A quarterback’s best friend tends to be a capable tight end who effectively controls the middle of the field. They brought in Jordan Cameron, and that was a BROWN like fail!!! Njoku has the potential to be a young Vernon Davis; he is fast and athletic. The former Miami Hurricane will see a lot of single coverage early on because teams must respect the receiving trio of Landry, Stills, and Parker. Somewhere Ryan Tannehill is smiling!!!
23. N.Y. Giants (11-5)—Taco Charlton, DE, Michigan, Sr.
The Giants spent over 200 million dollars attempting to retool their defense, and it worked!! Now their best pass rusher Jason Pierre-Paul is a free agent, and you need a young, explosive pass rusher to replace him. Taco has the frame (6’6 273) to set the edge in the run game. This defense does not miss a beat with this pick.
24. Oakland (12-4)—Sidney Jones, CB, Washington, Jr.
The Raiders were one of the best overall teams this season. Besides the injury that ended star QB Derek Carr’s season, their defense was ultimately their biggest problem. This defense ranked 24th in passing yards allowed; the Sean Smith project did not go as planned. Drafting stud corner Sidney Jones gives them a younger and faster corner for the future. He can be their chess piece allowing him to cover the better athletic receivers alongside David Amerson, and possibly use Smith to cover tight ends or bigger receivers.
25. Houston (9-7)—Tre’Davious White, CB, LSU, Jr.
This defense was one of the best in the league last season; it takes a step closer to becoming dominate. Pending the resigning of stud corner AJ Bouye, adding White gives them a 4-man unit. The former LSU Tiger was left out on an island in college because of his elite man to man coverage skills. He has reps from playing in the slot as well, and that is a plus. He can come in and play primarily from the slot or on the outside. Especially with quarterbacks like Andrews Luck and Marcus Mariota in their division, this pick will pay dividends. The best offense is defense nine times out of ten!!!
26. Seattle (10-5-1) —Garett Bolles, OT, Utah, Jr.
Russell Wilson is one of the league’s better quarterbacks; he can beat you with his arms and legs. The problem last year was he played behind the league’s 32nd ranked offensive line (https://www.profootballfocus.com/pro-ranking-all-32-nfl-offensive-lines-this-season). When your center is receiving the top overall, pass, and run blocking grade that is a red flag. This group ranked bottom 10 in sacks allowed per game with 42, and that is a horrible stat for a team trying to protect their star QB. Bolles is one of the more athletic offensive lineman that I’ve seen, he has great footwork for a tackle. He moves very well and smooth vs. rushers. Russell needs to protection, and with Bolles mean streak it should help the running backs as well.
27. Kansas City (12-4)—Deshaun Watson, QB, Clemson, Jr.
GOODBYE Alex Smith!!! This pick is one of the more needed picks in the draft because Smith is holding back this team. He is a game manager at best and has weapons to be successful. He missed two big throws to Tyreek Hill that would’ve changed the outcome vs. the Steelers. Watson has the arm talent, athleticism, and potential to be a legit weapon at quarterback. He is a winner and leader that you want at the quarterback position. Time for a change Andy!!!
28. Dallas (13-3)—Charles Harris, DE, Missouri, Jr.
The Cowboys were close to the NFC championship game; they are one of the favorites to win it all this year. In order for that to take place, this team needs to upgrade an average defense. While they ranked 13th in the league in sacks, they did not have a true pass rush. Against Aaron Rodgers, they dialed up the blitz a bit that game. Randy Gregory has not reliable just yet, grabbing Harris is the right choice. The Missouri defender brings a pass rusher that can beat you with quickness and has a counter spin to add. He will bring an upgrade to their pass rush.
29. Green Bay (10-6)—Christian Mccaffery, RB, Stanford, Jr.
The Packers offense was inconsistent this past season, both running backs Eddie Lacy and James Stark went down. That forced receiver converted back Ty Montgomery to carry the “load”. Ty had some success, but he is not a conventional back. Mccaffery is a better runner, and he gives the same receiving ability out of the backfield. He also is a good return man as well, and he is a mismatch problem. The former Stanford Cardinal can be a big weapon for the beast we call Arod!!!
30. Pittsburgh (11-5)—Takkarist Mckinley, OLB, UCLA, Sr.
The Steelers won their division and reached the AFC championship with a young, fast, up and coming defense. This pick brings more speed, youth, and athleticism to their defense. Having the wise old man in James Harrison is alright, but adding McKinley will provide a young pass rushing presence. He is a freakish athlete that has great speed coming off the edge. The Steelers run a 3-4 defense, and that is the best fit for Takkarist.
31. Atlanta (11-5)—Carl Lawson, DE, Auburn, Jr.
The Super Bowl runner-up Atlanta Falcons had a great season until they became the Golden State Falcons and blew a 28-3 lead. Their young inexperienced defense showcased their potential in the first 3 ½ quarter’s vs. Tom Brady in the SB. They were shallow in defensive line depth, and a lack of rotation eventually doomed them. Carl is an explosive pass rusher. Adding Carl to this already fast athletic defense helps create more of a rotation and single blocking assignments. With him across from stud rusher Vic Beasley and Grady Jarrett inside, look out quarterbacks.
32. New England (14-2)—Hasson Reddick, OLB, Temple, Sr.
The Super Bowl champions New England Patriots are all in for the “Blitz For Six”. They have to retool their team in order to complete that mission. After trading two of their better defenders in Chandler Jones and Jamie Collins, selecting Reddick is the best option here. Teaming the former Temple Owl with stud linebacker Dont’a Hightower would give him an aggressive,athletic combo. Reddick is a quick-twitch athlete that is a dynamic playmaker in space. He can rush the passer, blitz, and drop into zone. Another stud LB for Bill? I say YES!!
Damian Parson is an Analyst for Couch Rider Report. Follow him on Facebook and Follow/Like us on Facebook or twitter.