Please, would a ref move the old, locked Mock Drafts thread to this forum for future searching?

Here's one:

1. QB Jared Goff, Cal
2. WR Josh Doctson, TCU
3. ILB Scooby Wright, III Arizona
4. CB Zack Sanchez, Oklahoma
5. DE Anthony Zettel, Penn State
A. FS Trevon Stewart, Houston
B. OLB Tyrone Holmes, Montana
C. WR Nelson Spruce, Colorado
6. WR Devin Lucien, Arizona State
7. ILB Beniquez Brown, Miss St
D. C Mitch Smothers, Arkansas

Offense: 24
QB: Goff, McCown, Davis
RB: Crowell, Johnson, UDFA/UFA
FB: UDFA/UFA
WX: Doctson, Benjamin,
WZ: Hartline, Lucien
WY: Spruce, Hall
TE: Barnidge, Bibbs, Telfer
LT: Thomas, Miller
LG: Bitonio, Pasztor
C: Erving, Smothers
RG: Greco
RT: Schwartz

Offense: 24
NT: Shelton, Meder
3T: Hughes, Zettel
5T: D. Bryant, Cooper
SB: A. Bryant, Holmes
TB: Dansby, Kirksey
MB: Wright, Brown
WB: Orchard, Mingo
CB: Haden, T. Williams, Sanchez, Gilbert
NB: K. Williams, IEO
FS: Stewart, Poyer
SS: Whitner, Campbell

Special Teams: 5
K: UDFA/UFA
P: Lee
LS: Hughlett
RS: Mostert
ST: Moore



Here's another one.


1. Traded to DAL for #4, #34, 2017 3rd rounder. DAL selects Goff.
1. WR Laquon Treadwell, Ole Miss
2. WR Josh Doctson, TCU
2. OLB Carl Nassib, Penn St.
3. QB Dak Prescott, Miss St.
4. CB Zack Sanchez, Oklahoma
5. DE Anthony Zettel, Penn St.
A. ILB Cassanova McKinzy, Auburn
B. FS Trevon Stewart, Houston
C. OLB Tyrone Holmes, Montana
6. RB Aaron Green, TCU
7. ILB Beniquez Brown, Miss St
D. C Mitch Smothers, Arkansas


Offense: 24
QB: McCown, Prescott, Davis
RB: Crowell, Johnson, Green
FB: UDFA/UFA
WX: Treadwell, Benjamin
WZ: Doctson, Hall
WY: Hartline, Hawkins
TE: Barnidge, Bibbs, Telfer
LT: Thomas, Miller
LG: Bitonio, Pasztor
C: Erving, Smothers
RG: Greco
RT: Schwartz

Offense: 24
NT: Shelton, Meder
3T: Hughes, Zettel
5T: D. Bryant, Cooper
SB: A. Bryant, Holmes
TB: Dansby, McKinzy
MB: Kirksey, Brown
WB: Nassib, Orchard
CB: Haden, T. Williams, Sanchez, Gilbert
NB: K. Williams, IEO
FS: Stewart, Poyer
SS: Whitner, Campbell

Special Teams: 5
K: UDFA/UFA
P: Lee
LS: Hughlett
RS: Mostert
ST: Moore

I like the 2nd one better, although both are good. I have a bit of a man crush on Treadwell but don't see us taking him unless we trade down in the first. Prescott is growing on me too.

How about one where we take Bosa with the #2 pick?

The second one looks pretty awesome. Not sure how reasonable it is, but it looks a lot better than the first one.

steve, what are your thoughts on Ragland?

Not sure that Dak Prescott falls to the 3rd, but if he does, jump at the chance to take him there. Mocks are always a bit pie in the sky, but I like both of those so far.

Yeah I think a trade with Dallas (4) or San Fran (7) is reasonable/plausible if Goff separates himself from the chorus in traditional scouting circles but the numbers tell us not to take him. If we want Treadwell, though, we can't get behind Baltimore. Newsome is a chalk drafter and Treadwell would clearly be the best player on the board there. They took Perriman in the first last year but they have totally different skill sets. If we stick with a 3-4 I'm heavily leaning towards Treadwell right now as our pick.

Yeah it's hard to say but it's just a matter of how many teams would take QBs in the first two rounds: San Fran, Dallas, Philly, St. Louis, Houston are all possibilities. Don't know where Manning could end up next year, or Bradford for that matter. Griffin. Our third is pick 65, so that's still pretty high.

I think he's a good piece to a good defense, but I don't think he's a game changer type LB. I wouldn't use our first on him. JMO.

I need to watch more of him, but I really like what I've seen. I think he is the kind of guy you win with. I think he comes off blocks very well. I think he is very physical. I think he would add a toughness to this defense. I think he is surprisingly good in zone coverages, especially taking away the seams. That's kinda amazing given his size.

I agree with most of these things, but I also think he has benefitted tremendously from having those dominant three guys in front of him. I also have seen him blocked effectively. Like I said, I think he's a good player but I don't think he's an impact player where's he's going to go out and change a game by himself. Clemson was turning the corner on him too much for my liking. Tennessee especially... Jalen Hurd was running right around him this year. He is a good hitter, but is he a more impactful player than CJ Mosely was? I don't think so. Would I use our first rounder on CJ Mosely? Not a chance.

If you need someone to fill the role of an inside run stopper who is going to do a reliable job of tackling on an otherwise complete defense, you can draft him in the first round. One of the things I feel like our team really lacks is guys who will step up and make a play when it's needed. Not just guys who are good at their job and effective in their role... they need people who will make the plays that win the game. I don't think Ragland is one of those guys. At least, I haven't seen it. That's my thinking on it anyways.

Only saw bits and pieces of the game last night, but the guy that impressed me was Kevin Dodd DE Clemson. He's a redshirt junior. Probably a 2nd rounder if he comes out this year. He he performs next year, he'll go top half of the 1st.

Who here really has any faith the Browns can find real players with their picks rounds one through three?

I sure don't. With as many first rounders we've had, one would think our team would be the fort Knox of player personnel. However it couldn't be as much a polar opposite than that.

Don't make fun, and I'm trying not to be a negative Nancy, but I won't take part in mock drafts anymore. It's just not fun and when we actually do draft, it never works or pans out.

I feel like a deflated balloon.

1. DE Joey Bosa, Ohio State
2. WR Josh Doctson, TCU
3. ILB Scooby Wright, III Arizona
4. OLB Eric Striker, Oklahoma
5. CB Cyrus Jones, Alabama
A. FS Trevon Stewart, Houston
B. DE Tyrone Holmes, Montana
C. WR Nelson Spruce, Colorado
6. QB Nate Sudfeld, Indiana
7. WR Devin Lucien, Arizona State
D. C Mitch Smothers, Arkansas

Offense: 24
QB: McCown, Sudfeld, Davis
RB: Crowell, Johnson, UDFA/UFA
FB: UDFA/UFA
WX: Doctson, Benjamin,
WZ: Hartline, Lucien
WY: Spruce, Hall
TE: Barnidge, Bibbs, Telfer
LT: Thomas, Miller
LG: Bitonio, Pasztor
C: Erving, Smothers
RG: Greco
RT: Schwartz

Defense: 24
LE: A. Bryant, Holmes
NT: Hughes, Shelton
UT: D. Bryant, Cooper
RE: Bosa, ? {Orchard? Mingo? Maybe make Des Bryant a DE and keep Starks? Keep Kruger? A free agent?}
SB: Orchard, Mingo
MB: Dansby, Wright
WB: Striker, Kirksey
CB: Haden, T. Williams, Jones, Gilbert
NB: K. Williams, IEO
FS: Stewart, Poyer
SS: Whitner, Campbell

Special Teams: 5
K: UDFA/UFA
P: Lee
LS: Hughlett
RS: Mostert
ST: Moore


=========================================================

I'm not particularly satisfied how that came out. We're really going to have to draft heavy defense if we switch to a 4-3 and want to be competitive.

1. DE Joey Bosa, Ohio State
2. DE Carl Nassib, Penn State
3. ILB Scooby Wright, III Arizona
4. OLB Eric Striker, Oklahoma
5. WR Keyarris Garrett, Tulsa
A. FS Trevon Stewart, Houston
B. DE Tyrone Holmes, Montana
C. WR Nelson Spruce, Colorado
6. QB Nate Sudfeld, Indiana
7. WR Devin Lucien, Arizona State
D. C Mitch Smothers, Arkansas


Offense: 24
QB: McCown, Sudfeld, Davis
RB: Crowell, Johnson, UDFA/UFA
FB: UDFA/UFA
WX: Benjamin, Garrett
WZ: Hartline, Lucien
WY: Spruce, Hawkins
TE: Barnidge, Bibbs, Telfer
LT: Thomas, Miller
LG: Bitonio, Pasztor
C: Erving, Smothers
RG: Greco
RT: Schwartz

Defense: 24
LE: A. Bryant, Nassib
NT: Hughes, Shelton
UT: D. Bryant, Cooper
RE: Bosa, Holmes
SB: Orchard, Mingo
MB: Dansby, Wright
WB: Striker, Kirksey
CB: Haden, T. Williams, Gaines, Gilbert
NB: K. Williams, IEO
FS: Stewart, Poyer
SS: Whitner, Campbell

Special Teams: 5
K: UDFA/UFA
P: Lee
LS: Hughlett
RS: Mostert
ST: Moore


==============================================

In these drafts, Wright takes over for Dansby when Dansby is done. Maybe Karlos plays some SLB with Wright in the middle.

The second draft, I did nothing to address the corners. It's hard to cover everything when you have to completely retool the defense, but I think with those guys added (Bosa, Nassib, Holmes, Striker, and Wright) you are adding a TON of pressure on the QB. Not to mention, you're putting Armonty at his natural position. I think this draft and depth chart would get a much better pass rush.

Yeah Dodd has been a really nice looking pass rusher every time I've caught Clemson this year. The guys they have on defense are just so long... kinda reminds me of the LSU secondary year after year with those freakishly long arms.

I'm totally worried about Erving at Center.. Really worried about that.

Many said he was playing a lot better late in the season. I couldn't tell, but others said he was.

Highly unlikely, but barring any existing movement and if the Erving experiment fails...I see this:

LT Thomas
LG Bitonio
C Greco
RG Pasztor
RT Schwartz

Can that work? Obviously need some depth. Hopefully Erving gets in the weight room and develops his technique.

Good call. Totally forgot the Greco has experience at center.

I think we lose Schwartz to free agency.

At this point, I think I'd be wise to tag Schwartz. We can't afford to have our rookie QB get killed.

We'll have Math on our side...the UNIVERSAL Language!

1st Round
1 Tennessee Laremy Tunsil, OT Ole Miss Health Insurance for Mariota
2 Cleveland Jared Goff, QB Cal If Hue Jackson can make Andy Dalton work, he can certainly make Jared Goff work.
3 San Diego Ronnie Stanley, OT Notre Dame San Diego's OL has been running on fumes for years.
4 Dallas Joey Bosa, DE Ohio State With Greg Hardy hitting free agency, Demarcus Lawrence and Randy gregory are undersized.
5 Jacksonville Jalen Ramsey, CB Florida State Jacksonville's corners are bad, no OT worth taking at this point.
6 Baltimore Laquon Treadwell, WR Ole Miss Chalk pick. Great fit, too.
7 San Francisco Myles Jack, ILB UCLA San Fran sees the impact that Mack made in Oakland, has a giant hole at ILB after players retired.
8 Miami Shaq Lawson, DE Clemson Miami will need outside pass rush with contracts expiring and cap exploded.
9 Tampa Bay Vernon Hargreaves III, CB Florida Tampa also depsperately needs CBs.
10 NY Giants DeForest Buckner, DE Oregon JPP only has one hand. Seems to fit in with the Giants' large pass rushers.
11 Chicago A'Shawn Robinson, NT Alabama A real NT for their 3-4 defense.
12 New Orleans Mackensie Alexander, CB Clemson Worst passing defense in the league.
13 Philadelphia Paxton Lynch, QB Memphis Sam Bradford was a bust in Philly. Sanchize is not the long-term answer.
14 Oakland Emmanuel Ogbah, DE Oklahoma State Allows Mack to stay at linebacker, backfill old Justin Tuck.
15 St. Louis Robert Nkemdiche, DT Ole Miss Interior line has expiring contracts, pair Nkemdiche with Aaron Donald.
16 Detroit Ezekiel Elliot, RB Ohio State Detroit needs a real workhorse threat out of the backfield, not Joique Bell.
17 Atlanta Reggie Ragland, LB Alabama Atlanta limped by with Paul Worrilow at MLB, but I can't imagine he'll warrant a second contract with them.
18 Indianapolis Jon Allen, DE Alabama New DC stated he's emphasizing the pass rush and keeping base 3-4. Allen had 12 sacks this year as a DE.
19 Buffalo Jarran Reed, DE Alabama The third Tide defender in a row, Rex Ryan says he's going to take the Bills defense more into his system this upcoming year than last, when he tried to blend the previous system for continuity.
20 NY Jets Taylor Decker, OT Ohio State D'Brick's play is declining and they need a shirt-term RT answer as well.
21 Washington Darron Lee, LB Ohio State To add some speed to the linebacking corps.
22 Green Bay (f/ HOU) Jason Spriggs, OT Indiana One of the best pass protectors in the draft. Someone has to protect the franchise. (Not a real trade, a mocked trade)
23 Minnesota Jack Conklin, OT Michigan State Better pass protection for Bridgewater while maintaining a good push for the ground game.
24 Cincinnati Jaylon Smith, LB Notre Dame They already have Andre Smith's replacement drafted in Ogbueghi and/or Fisher, and Jones' replacement in Dennard. Cincy can stash a good player and an anti-Burfict for next season in Smith.
25 Pittsburgh Eli Apple, CB Ohio State Pittsburgh's secondary was torched this year.
26 Seattle Leonard Floyd, OLB Georgia It will be difficult to keep Bruce Irvin in Seattle's cap. Floyd would be a natural replacement if they decide to not go OL.
27 Houston (f/ GB) Derrick Henry, RB Alabama Houston needs a quarterback. They also need a running back. Only one of those is worth taking here at this point.
28 Kansas City Shon Coleman, OT Auburn KC has been having OL issues for years. They got a keeper last year with Morse, but RT is stil a big need.
30 Denver Jonathan Bullard, DE Florida Denver doesn't have a lot of cap room and if they want any shot at keeping Von Miller, they will have to let several defensive linemen walk. In my opinion, it's the right thing to do so they grab Bullard to start rebuilding.
29 Arizona Noah Spence, OLB Eastern Kentucky The Cardinals get the most explosive pass rusher in the draft at the end of the first round. They have a history of being able to shape guys with troubled histories.
31 Carolina Corey Coleman, WR Baylor With Kelvin Benjamin coming back, adding the talented and shifty Coleman would put more weapons in Newton's arsenal.

That's a pretty good mock. Matches up need and top available talent quite well.

I don't like the StL pick. I think they are pretty set at D-line unless they are going to be losing some free agents. I would prefer that they take one of the OT's that get taken later in the round. I can see them reaching on a Qb. And if one of those Cb's taken before their pick should happen to fall then that is another direction that they could go.

The Indy pick is certainly a possibility but if they are smart, they will beef up that offensive line and give Luck some protection.

Pitt - It seems like they have an affinity for drafting Buckeyes don't they?

I know you spend a ton of time on the draft, so I trust your judgement. Is Goff (or any QB in this class) worthy of #2 overall?

Also, on the last 2 mocks you posted a few posts above, no Pryor and no Gordon on the roster - intentional or oops? I presume Pryor was intentional, but not Gordon.

I'm worried about that and Crowell being our main RB too. Dude is down at first contact 95% of the time.

So many needs....

Thanks for the feedback, Jester.

St. Louis has a lot of important contracts expiring this season. Both their starting corners, Nick Fairley, and William Hayes are the biggest in my opinion. It is hard to say what they will look at in the draft until they are done re-signing guys, but I don't think they'll be able to keep everyone. If I were them, I would focus on getting Jenkins and Johnson re-signed. I do NOT think Fisher would overdraft one of the QBs. It goes against his hubris I think. OL makes sense as you've pointed out, but Nkemdiche is the best player and they can put him in rotation at DT and at DE.

I like Jenkins. I think he is very underrated.

I don't actually think Goff is a top 5 player, I'm just forcing myself to accept it. Seems inevitable. Personally I'd rather grab Treadwell and one or two other good guys at receiver and get Prescott or maybe Sudfeld at QB. But I don't think that's going to happen.

Don't forget an impact pass rusher.

We basically need everything besides guards and a left tackle. I can possibly be talked into us not needing a running back. The same goes for linebacker (depending on the defense). Dansby, Kirksey, and Robertson might be serviceable if we run a 4-3, although Dansby looked like he was running with cement blocks on his feet during some games. I guess Lee is pretty good too. So our list of things we don't need includes G, LT, RB (maybe), LB (maybe), and P.

We need a QB, FB, WR, TE, C, RT, pretty much an entire defensive line (depending on the defense we play), outside linebackers (if we are running a 3-4), corner, safety, and kicker.

I agree w/that. This is just my opinion, but given our needs, the players available, and the importance of each position.......I would go into this draft w/this mindset:

1. Impact WR who can use his body to shield off defenders and also score on sudden plays.

2. A pass rusher that makes team game plan for him.

3. A cornerback w/very good hips.

I think that the pass rusher might be an even bigger need than the WR. I'm not sure. I put it in that order because I think this isn't the greatest year for WRs and we might need to grab one very early and frankly, because I had to put them in some sort of order. LOL

I think we might be able to get a guy like Spence at 32. Maybe not, but I am hoping.

I think this is a good year for corners and we might be able to get one w/our 3rd pick.


I might take a flyer on a later round qb. Prescott? Hogan? Meh.........I won't be disappointed if we ignore the position this year.

Good point on accepting it. Unless of course we pull something else off.

I liked McCarron coming out of school, but I think the asking price may be a 2nd or 2nd plus conditional after the last 4 games he played, and the fact we're in the AFCN.

I liked Jimmy Garoppolo coming out of school too, but he hasn't hit much of the field in New England. And there's no FA QB I like that much. Bradford or Osweiler are likely best available, unless somehow Cousins hits the market. Of course RGIII and Cutler may also hit the market, but I'm not sure I want either of those guys, though all mentioned may be upgrades.

I like Treadwell, but would prefer him 5-10 if we could move down...and if we move to 4-3D, I like Bosa. Tunsil may be the best in the draft, and would be interesting to throw at RT for a few years, but I'm not sure I'd do that. Miles Jack is about the only other player that is top 10 projected I have much interest in so far. Not a huge fan of this draft early. I think 15 to probably 45 or so is where there's the best value.

Punter, don't forget we are set at punter!

Question...We have the 32nd pick. Will this pick be considered the final pick of the 1st round or the 1st pick of the 2nd round? It may seem an unimportant distinction, but actually it is very important. The first pick of Day 2 usually has a lot of attention on the previous night and is much sought after. A potential trade at #32...

it's a second round pick

it also matters for the contract length. there will be no 5th year option for that player.

Absolutely. Honestly the mocks I've put up that I've liked the most are the ones where we load up on stud WRs or stud pass rushers. I'm dreading using a 1st or 2nd on a QB.

I'll change several times over...

Bosa at #2 and Cook at #32.

jmho

Thanks, 'steve. As for dreading drafting a QB early, I imagine it will depend on the new coach and if we want Manziel back or not. If no, then absolutely we draft one...

Are there any leadership concerns with Cook? Just wondering.

I've come off the idea of Goff at #2. There are just too many high end, all pro type players to be had there, I think we're going to end up with the "Bengals" model where they took the best player (AJ Green) and then took Dalton in round two.


I think EO's idea of Cook and Bosa isn't far off. Maybe Bosa and a trade up for Goff? Or Jaylon Smith and a QB. I think the gap between the elite, high end players and the best QB is probably too vast to justify.

We'll see what Hue says.

lol, that's quite a departure from "Jared Goff no matter what."

I would be happy if they went with Treadwell or Bosa at 2, Doctson at 32, then got a QB later if they like one.

The Browns need TALENT. Please do NOT force a QB at #2 and whiff on a player who has MORE TALENT. Too many holes to fill at this point to force a pick. JMO

and now that I'm thinking about it again, I'm definitely waffling because Bosa is going #1 and I forgot Smith has a blown out knee.

I'm back on Jared Goff. I will conceded though it's possible it does't happen and I could be happy with it.


Edit: and you know what, with the write ups I've seen on Goff, he might be there in round 2 for us.

Note: I based this mock off of Walter Football's current mock. Using where he had players going as a guide, not an end all, be all..

1. WR Laquon Treadwell
A true #1. A true threat on offense. You take him regardless of any chance of Gordon coming back. Because Treadwell/Hartline/Benjimen/Barnidge is a solid pass catching core. The ability to add Gordon to it is a luxury that will be discussed at a later time.

2. QB Connor Cook/DE Shaq Lawson

I am torn here. Assuming Cook doesn't get over drafted, and Lawson doesn't slowly rise into the first round. I like the idea of both of them.

If we switch to a predominantly 4-3 defense, I would love to put Lawson on the left end and just let him loose. However that knee scares me a bit.

Cook may be a jerk, and didn't end his MSU Career nearly how he wanted to obviously. But in following the Cincinnati model (Green/Datlon) I wouldn'r mind getting a great pass catcher for my young QB to grow with..

3. DE Carl Nassib/QB Christian Hackenberg

Basically you have to choose between Cook/Nassib and Lawson/Hackenberg.

I'm not sure which way I'd go honestly..

I was ganna continue this, but I'm not too familiar with the rest of the draft class at this moment, and WalterFootballs need to allow comment sections too load completely on every single page is driving me crazy..

Nassib falls to round 3? Is that what you're saying?

I may have got my wires crossed on that one.

Take this with a grain of salt.

http://insider.espn.go.com/nfl/insider/s...-draft-2016-nfl

Mel Kiper's first mock draft.

I believe in 2014 he had Manziel going first to the Texans in his first mock.

The only purpose a Mock 1.0 serves is to set up future changes that I believe he's already going to make to his mock.

As if he sets up his Mock Draft, then jumbles it up, and fixes it as he release he versions.

All about those website clicks.

If Jaylon Smith falls to the top of round two do we pull the trigger based solely on his potential. Or have we too many needs to use a second round pick on a player that may wind up on IR next year?

In Kiper's introduction to his mock he speaks against picking based on need. Then, the first four of the five picks in that link he reasons them based on need.

Tough call, I might just have to depending on who is there.

It is a tough call, but at the #32 pick, that likely is a round or two too high. Particularly if we didn't get our QB at #2...

IIRC, Vers outlined that quandary last draft. You are balancing BPA versus need, so it is a trade-off...

Here is a fanspeak mock I just did.


I know, I know fanspeak. I think Jaylin MArshall is a guy to target in later rounds, had he stayed at OSU, he would have been drafted much higher next year. I think the kid has potential.








Found this gem in my archive. Proving I could draft better than Ray Farmer.

A lot depends on the medical. I heard that his knee injury was quite serious and could be career threatening. That was a week and a half ago and haven't heard any updates.

I wouldn't use a 2nd round pick on a guy who might never see the field.

I say stay put @ #2 and take Goff, our biggest need is to finally get our franchise QB, then take the best OLB/DE @ 32 and then start looking at WR ... JMHO

It's early in the process but your right, most guys who do come back from that type of injury are never the same, but modern medicine man, it's amazing.

Do you like the letter "J?"

The original mock draft that has us taking Goff and then Doctson is interesting, and definitely a possibility. The problem with that is, we're down our first two picks and we didn't address the defense. As bad as our team was last year, the WORST part was probably our defense. Blame it on scheme, personnel, or coaching, but it was awful for many stretches. I'm not sure we can start the draft by going offense-offense.

Now, if our new scouting department and front office digs into Goff and comes away feeling like he is worthy of the second pick, I'm ok with it. I feel like the people pulling the trigger will do their homework and then some, so if they truly feel like Goff has the stuff, I'll be happy with the selection. Conversely, if we come away feeling like Goff isn't the guy, we need to find the absolute best defender we can and snatch him.

J/C... Here's my second round:

2nd Round
32 Cleveland Josh Doctson, WR TCU Cleveland needs significant targets for their new QB. Doctson has some AJ Green-like qualities.
33 Tennessee Kenny Clark, NT UCLA All of Tennessee's nose tackles are free agents. Clark is a force in the middle and has 3-4 experience from UCLA.
34 Dallas Andrew Billings, DT Baylor Dallas continues rebuilding their defensive line with the selection of the powerful Billings.
35 San Diego Michael Thomas, WR Ohio State With Malcolm Floyd getting on in years he will likely not be made a priority in free agency. Thomas gives the Chargers another big, sure-handed receiver to pair with Keenan Allen.
36 Baltimore Hunter Henry, TE Arkansas Another weapon for Flacco, Henry is a complete tight end and can fill the role which Baltimore hoped Pitta would satisfy. Some might expect an offensive lineman here, but Henry is the chalk pick and Pitta has been too unreliable since getting his new contract.
37 San Francisco Germain Ifedi, OT Texas A&M San Francisco's line was atrocious last year. They have many needs, but no new QB is going to go in there and perform well with what they have in front of them.
38 Jacksonville Su'a Cravens, OLB USC Jacksonville would be bummed here if Ifedi went one pick in front of them. San Fran going OT over QB was a huge blow in their draft strategy. They'd like to trade down if they could find a partner, but there's just nobody clamoring to move up to this spot at this point. They take an impact linebacker who can help cover the tight ends in their division.
39 Tampa Bay Vadal Alexander, OG LSU Tampa adds a big mauler to their OL in Alexander. The Buccs quickly learned that there is a big transition from Hobart to the NFL, and Logan Mankins is not playing nearly at the level he was when they acquired him from New England.
40 NY Giants Vonn Bell, SS Ohio State The Giants add Vonn Bell to their defensive backfield to pair with last year's second rounder Landon Collins. Collins had his growing pains last year but they have absolutely nothing to pair with him.
41 Chicago Tyler Boyd, WR Pittsburgh With the likely departure of Alshon Jeffrey, Chicago needs to reload their receiving corps for Jay Cutler. Boyd was a highly productive featured wide receiver for the Panthers the past couple seasons.
42 Miami Kendall Fuller, CB Virginia Tech This is an easy selection for the Dolphins, who have nothing at corner behind Brent Grimes. Fuller has played like a first roudner at times and would be an immediate boost to Miami's pass defense.
43 Los Angeles Will Fuller, WR Notre Dame The Rams need some new wide receivers to spur their passing game. After spending high on niche-receiver Tavon Austin, Fisher drafts the more prototypical wideout in Fuller, who can make plays on both the intermediate and deep routes.
44 Oakland Cody Whitehair, OG Kansas State The Raiders pick up a guard to help solidify their line. Kendall Fuller would have been a good pick here if he were still available.
45 Los Angeles Carson Wentz, QB Nick Foles didn't work out in St. Louis and Case Keenum isn't the answer. I'm not sure Wentz is the answer, either, but they have to try something.
46 Detroit Austin Johnson, DT Penn St After losing Suh, Fairley, and now Ngata in the span of two seasons, Detroit is empty at the defensive tackle position. Johnson is a disruptive player inside and will help rebuild the interior of their defense.
47 New Orleans Kevin Dodd, DE Clemson One of the stars of the college football playoff, Dodd comes in to play opposite Cameron Jordan and help reconvert Dennis Allen's defense to the 4-3 scheme.
48 Indianapolis Shilique Calhoun, OLB Out of position again for an offensive lineman worth the selection, Indianapolis continues to rebuild its pass rush.
49 Buffalo Jayron Kearse, SS Clemson Kearse is the sort of big, intimidating player Ryan likes to have on his dense. Ron Brooks did not give Buffalo what they were looking for at safety, and he will be replaced this offseason with size and speed.
50 Atlanta Jeremy Cash, SS Duke Duke's reliable playmaker on defense is added to help boost Atlanta's shakey defense.
51 NY Jets O.J. Howard, TE Alabama Jace Amaro hasn't worked out, but that doesn't mean the Jets should stop trying at the TE position.
52 Houston Christian Hackenberg, QB Penn State This move reunites Hackenberg with O'Brien from their Penn state days when Hackenberg was a freshman and had his best season.
53 Washington Ryan Kelly, C Alabama The first center comes off the board with the selection of Kelly from Alabama's dominant OL.
54 Minnesota Pharaoh Cooper, WR South Carolina Pharoah Cooper excels at getting open, and Bridgewater excels at finding the open man. This is a good match for the Vikes.
55 Cincinnati Darian Thompson, FS Boise St Both of Cincinnati's starting safeties are hitting free agency this year. Thompson is the first piece in rebuilding their defensive backfield.
56 Seattle Chris Jones, DT Miss State With the aging Mebane and Rubin hitting free agency and Seattle having other spending priorities, the Seahawks nab one of the most powerful and disruptive tackles in the draft in Jones.
57 Green Bay Joshua Perry, LB Ohio State Perry allows Clay Matthews to go back outside to rush the passer, while adding a complete linebacker on the inside. Perry had more success with A-gap blitzing than outside rushing at Ohio State, and is a good fit with his size in a 3-4 alignment.
58 Pittsburgh Connor Cook, QB Michigan State No doubt, the Steelers and disappointed and maybe a little surprised they lost out on all the top-rated safety prospects, so they select Connor Cook to groom as Roethlisberger's successor. Chris Jones would have gotten consideration as well had he made it to this spot.
59 Kansas City Will Redmond, CB Miss State KC had a lot of success with a rookie corner last year in Peters and with Sean Smith leaving and Phillip Gaines mostly an unknown quantity, they will be looking to add to the position.
60 Denver Sheldon Rankins, DL Louisville Denver's offensive line will get a boost with Clady and Sambrailo coming back from injury next year, but they could be replacing two starting defensive linemen. Rankins has shown the ability to play in multiple alignments and is a very good value at this point in the draft, so Denver doubles up.
61 Arizona Scooby Wright III, LB Arizona Arizona adds another playmaker to the interior of their defense in the ultra-productive Wright.
62 Carolina Jerald Hawkins, OT LSU The Panthers get their protector for Newton, something that should have happened last year.
63 New England Zack Sanchez, CB Oklahoma The Patriots use their first pick on a smart, playmaking corner. Sanchez always seemed to make the key plays for the Sooners when they needed one.

While I occasionally am guilty of it myself.

I don't think you can look at the draft as a whole and say "we need to draft offense/defense" in this round..

You need to separate every pick and make a choice on them by themselves.

For example, Washington traded a crapload for RG3. then turned around and took Cousins in the same draft in the 4th.

ha, I didn't even notice.

VIEW EACH TEAM'S DRAFT
2: R1P2
QB JARED GOFF
CALIFORNIA

32: R2P1
WR JOSH DOCTSON
TCU

65: R3P2
OLB NOAH SPENCE
EASTERN KENTUCKY

96: R4P1
OT TYLER MARZ
WISCONSIN

129: R5P2
WR KENNY LAWLER
CALIFORNIA

158: R6P1
C RYAN KELLY
ALABAMA

191: R7P2
CB CYRUS JONES
ALABAMA

1. Laquon Treadwell WR
2. Noah Spence OLB
3. Cardale Jones QB
4. Maurice Canady CB

Through 3 Rounds:


1st Round
1 Tennessee Laremy Tunsil, OT Ole Miss
2 Cleveland Jared Goff, QB Cal
3 San Diego Ronnie Stanley, OT Notre Dame
4 Dallas Joey Bosa, DE Ohio State
5 Jacksonville Jalen Ramsey, CB Florida State
6 Baltimore Laquon Treadwell, WR Ole Miss
7 San Francisco Myles Jack, ILB UCLA
8 Miami Shaq Lawson, DE Clemson
9 Tampa Bay Vernon Hargreaves III, CB Florida
10 NY Giants DeForest Buckner, DE Oregon
11 Chicago A'Shawn Robinson, NT Alabama
12 New Orleans Mackensie Alexander, CB Clemson
13 Philadelphia Paxton Lynch, QB Memphis
14 Oakland Emmanuel Ogbah, DE Oklahoma State
15 St. Louis Robert Nkemdiche, DT Ole Miss
16 Detroit Ezekiel Elliot, RB Ohio State
17 Atlanta Reggie Ragland, LB Alabama
18 Indianapolis Jon Allen, DE Alabama
19 Buffalo Jarran Reed, DE Alabama
20 NY Jets Taylor Decker, OT Ohio State
21 Washington Darron Lee, LB Ohio State
22 Green Bay (f/ HOU) Jason Spriggs, OT Indiana
23 Minnesota Jack Conklin, OT Michigan State
24 Cincinnati Jaylon Smith, LB Notre Dame
25 Pittsburgh Eli Apple, CB Ohio State
26 Seattle Leonard Floyd, OLB Georgia
27 Houston (f/ GB) Derrick Henry, RB Alabama
28 Kansas City Shon Coleman, OT Auburn
30 Denver Jonathan Bullard, DE Florida
29 Arizona Noah Spence, OLB Eastern Kentucky
31 Carolina Corey Coleman, WR Baylor

2nd Round
32 Cleveland Josh Doctson, WR TCU
33 Tennessee Kenny Clark, NT UCLA
34 Dallas Andrew Billings, DT Baylor
35 San Diego Michael Thomas, WR Ohio State
36 Baltimore Hunter Henry, TE Arkansas
37 San Francisco Germain Ifedi, OT Texas A&M
38 Jacksonville Su'a Cravens, OLB USC
39 Tampa Bay Vadal Alexander, OG LSU
40 NY Giants Vonn Bell, SS Ohio State
41 Chicago Tyler Boyd, WR Pittsburgh
42 Miami Kendall Fuller, CB Virginia Tech
43 Los Angeles Will Fuller, WR Notre Dame
44 Oakland Cody Whitehair, OG Kansas State
45 Los Angeles Carson Wentz, QB
46 Detroit Austin Johnson, DT Penn St
47 New Orleans Kevin Dodd, DE Clemson
48 Indianapolis Shilique Calhoun, OLB
49 Buffalo Jayron Kearse, SS Clemson
50 Atlanta Jeremy Cash, SS Duke
51 NY Jets O.J. Howard, TE Alabama
52 Houston Christian Hackenberg, QB Penn State
53 Washington Ryan Kelly, C Alabama
54 Minnesota Pharaoh Cooper, WR South Carolina
55 Cincinnati Darian Thompson, FS Boise St
56 Seattle Chris Jones, DT Miss State
57 Green Bay Joshua Perry, LB Ohio State
58 Pittsburgh Connor Cook, QB Michigan State
59 Kansas City Will Redmond, CB Miss State
60 Denver Sheldon Rankins, DL Louisville
61 Arizona Scooby Wright III, LB Arizona
62 Carolina Jerald Hawkins, OT LSU
63 New England Zack Sanchez, CB Oklahoma

3rd Round
64 Tennessee Titans Rashard Robinson, CB LSU
65 Cleveland Browns Carl Nassib, DE Penn State
66 San Diego Chargers Nick Martin, C Notre Dame
67 Dallas Cowboys Dak Prescott, QB Miss St
68 San Francisco 49ers William Jackson, CB Houston
69 Jacksonville Jaguars Spencer Drango, OL Baylor
70 Baltimore Ravens Jordan Jenkins, OLB Georgia
71 New York Giants Alex Collins, RB Arkansas
72 Chicago Bears Adolphus Washington, DE Ohio State
73 Miami Dolphins Kentrell Brothers, LB Missouri
74 Tampa Bay Buccaneers Bronson Kaufusi, DE BYU
75 Oakland Raiders Jalen Mills, S LSU
76 Los Angeles Rams John Theus, OT Gerogia
77 Philadelphia Eagles Artie Burns, CB Miami
78 New Orleans Saints Eric Striker, LB LSU
79 Philadelphia Eagles Landon Turner, OG North Carolina
80 Buffalo Bills Sterling Shepard, WR Oklahoma
81 Atlanta Falcons Austin Hooper, TE Stanford
82 Indianapolis Colts Kyle Murphy, OT Stanford
83 New York Jets Kenneth Dixon, RB Louisiana Tech
84 Washington Redskins Leonte Carroo, WR Rutgers
85 Houston Texans Deion Jones, LB LSU
86 Minnesota Vikings Dominique Alexander, LB Oklahoma
87 Cincinnati Bengals Rashard Higgins, WR Colorado
88 Houston Texans (f/ GB) Vernon Butler, DL Louisiana Tech
89 Pittsburgh Steelers Roberto Aguayo, K Florida State
90 Seattle Seahawks De'Runnya Wilson, WR Miss St
91 Kansas City Tyler Matakevich, LB Temple
92 Denver Devontae Booker, RB Utah
93 Arizona Nick Vannett, TE Ohio State
94 Carolina Karl Joseph, SS West Virginia
95 New England Paul Perkins, RB UCLA
96 Detroit* Shawn Oakman, DE Baylor
97 New England* Roger Lewis, WR Bowling Green
98 Seattle* Xavien Howard, CB Baylor
99 Denver* DeAndre Houston-Carson, FS William & Mary

l would take Thomas over Doctson, I think he is more pro ready ... but I love Goff and Nassib JMHO

Based on your current overall Mock.

I would take Treadwell at 2, either Kendall Fuller or Calhoun at 32, and Dak Prescott in the 3rd.

And while I know he'd struggling. I would consider starting Dak from the start, assuming he can grasp the playbook.

I just really want Treadwell.

That is how the draft nicks do Mock Drafts...think even yourself as we play our little games and do a board mock draft. In most cases first thing we do is go to a site and check out their NEEDS for the team you end up representing. We make our picks for that team via need.

They should do a mock based solely on BPA off of a big board that they make.

jmho

That would be a draft I'd like. I'd definitely struggle on a decision at 100 in this current mock.

I absolutely love Treadwell and Calhoun

Making this up as I type. I am going of Clevesteve's mock only considering players available at each pick. I am not looking at players available at later picks to influence my earlier picks. This really easy to do to make a mock look better but in a real draft you don't know who is/isn't going to betaken between your picks.

Round 1 - Treadwell wr Mississippi

Big strong Wr. Has great hands and gets after the ball. Will really improve our running game because he is such a good downfield blocker. I would bet we sign either Jones or Sanu in free agency. Add these 2 receivers and get Gordon back, we go from bottom 3 wr corp to top 1/3 wr corp.


Round 2 - Dodd DE Clemson

This pick is affected by 2 things. 1st, it is predicated on a change to a 43 defense. If we stick with a 34 than this pick isn't going to work. The other is the assumption that we bring in a young Qb that is already in the NFL. McCarron, Hundley, I don't know who but someone Hue likes. Otherwise I give serious consideration to Connor Cook. He stunk it up against Alabama but I truly believe (without any evidence) that his shoulder injury was still affecting him. We need to make sure this has healed and we need to look into his personality issues.

Round 3 - Striker Olb Oklahoma

I really like the Nassib pick that steve made. I din't think he would be available with this pick and I took Dodd in the 2nd. Knowing he is here I might have gone with Cook and come back with Nassib. I was hoping to pick up Ryan Kelly the center from Alabama but unfortunately he went a 12 picks earlier. if used correctly, I think Striker can be a dynamic playmaker. I think this pick only works if we are playing a 43. I used that as the premise for the Dodd pick so I am staying consistent in this draft. Perhaps I will try another mock with the assumption that we stick with a 34. The other player I would consider here is Murphy OT Stanford. If Schwartz decides to leave in free agency then we need to replace him either in free agency or the draft.

I read previously that Jackson likes big,strong running backs, not sure if this even true but if so, I wonder how tempting Derrick Henry will be if he is still there at 32? Maybe trade down, pick up a few extra picks and go Treadwell and Henry 1-2, not saying I want us to draft Henry but this would be interesting.

Bernard is not a big back.

I went into this mock with my previous thought process in mind. A trade down with the Rams from number 2 to number 15 for an additional 2nd and 3rd. Although it doesn't seem that Treadwell would drop to 15.

Round 1 Pick 15 (L.A.): Laquon Treadwell, WR, Ole Miss (A)
Round 2 Pick 1: Derrick Henry, RB, Alabama (B+)
Round 2 Pick 12 (L.A.): Su'a Cravens, OLB/SS, Southern California (A-)
Round 3 Pick 2: Michael Thomas, WR, Ohio State (A+)
Round 3 Pick 13 (L.A.): Carl Nassib, DE, Penn State (A+)
Round 4 Pick 1: Eric Striker, OLB/ILB, Oklahoma (B)
Round 5 Pick 2: Christian Hackenberg, QB, Penn State (A)
Round 6 Pick 1: Cyrus Jones, CB, Alabama (B+)
Round 7 Pick 2: Jordan Walsh, OG, Iowa (B)

Jeremy Hill is. Not sure how the two fit in with when they were drafted compared to when Jackson became OC for the Bengals but they seemed to favor Hill.

I don't envision Treadwell making it past 6.

A what if ?

The Browns don't reach a deal with Schwartz .. Dallas moves up to number one and takes your QB ,would you consider taking Tunsil at number two ??

No. You take Bosa or Treadwell.

Not knowing what direction Cleveland is going. Way I see it they can do one of four options:

1. Continue building a dominate secondary similar to Seattle.

2. Continue building a dominate DL creating a multi-package hybrid front seven. Or, add a pass rusher DE creating your traditional 4-3.

3. Adding 1-2 receivers making the offensive a lot more multi dimensional.

4. Adding the traditional QB one builds a franchise around.

In this draft, one can make a strong argument for all four options. I'm not sure there is super talent in this draft that makes one of these choices obvious. One thing I do know Browns can choose from any one.

Tennessee is in a strong position. They can easily take a OT. Trade down still getting their OT. Take Bosa. I assume they take Bosa. Not sure there is any one individual in this draft worth trading up to get the first pick.

Who is the GM for the Browns? I wonder if the Browns know which direction they are going other than in circles?

Yea, good question. I am still wondering how this league of commanders will even handle draft day let alone drafting!!

All this sounds so good on paper....but!!!!

Mock offseason:

I used the Fanspeak Free Agency and Draft for this. So obviously some of it is unrealistic but some is reasonable. If half of this happened in real life I would be excited. I also drafted with the Browns doing a 4-3 in mind.

(4) Resign: OL Mitchell Schwartz, ILB Tank Carder, OLB Craig Robertson, S Johnson Bademosi
(14) Don’t Resign: RB Daryl Richardson, FB Malcolm Johnson, RB Raheem Mostert, WR Travis Benjamin, WR Terrelle Pryor, WR Rannell Hall, OL Darrian Miller, OL Austin Pasztor, DE Jamie Meder, LB Scott Solomon, S Tashaun Gipson, S Don Jones, K Travis Coons
(10) Cut: QB Jonny Manziel (trade if possible) QB Connor Shaw, WR Dwayne Bowe, WR Taylor Gabriel, WR Marlon Moore, TE Randall Tellfer, DT Randy Starks, LB Paul Kruger, S Jordan Poyer, CB Tramon Williams,
(6) Sign: RB LeGarrett Blount, WR Alshon Jeffery, DE Bruce Irvin, OLB Mychal Kendricks, CB Janoris Jenkins, S Will Hill, K Mason Crosby

Draft:
2: R1P2 DE JOEY BOSA OHIO STATE
32: R2P1 QB CONNOR COOK MICHIGAN STATE
65: R3P2 WR JOSH DOCTSON TCU
96: R4P1 OLB ERIC STRIKER OKLAHOMA
129: R5P2 WR BRAXTON MILLER OHIO STATE
158: R6P1 TE JAKE MCGEE FLORIDA
191: R7P2 FB DEREK WATT WISCONSIN

Depth Chart:

QB: Josh McCown, Austin Davis, Connor Cook (3)
RB: LeGarrett Blount, Duke Johnson, Isaiah Crowell (3)
FB: Derek Watt (1)
WR: Alshon Jeffery, Josh Gordon, Brian Hartline, Andrew Hawkins, Josh Docston, Braxton Miller (6)
TE: Gary Barnidge, E. J. Bibbs, Jim Dray, Jake McGee(4)
OL: Joe Thomas, Joel Bitonio, Alex Mack, John Greco , Mitchell Schwartz, Michael Bowie, Cameron Erving, (7)
DE: Joey Bosa, Bruce Irvin, Armonty Bryant, Nate Orchard (4)
DT: Desmond Bryant, Danny Shelton, John Hughes, Xavier Cooper (4)
MLB: Karlos Dansby¸ Christian Kirksey, Tank Carder (3)
OLB: Mychal Kendricks, Barkevious Mingo, Craig Robertson, Erik Striker (4)
CB: Joe Haden, Janoris Jenkins, K'Waun Williams, Pierre Desir, Charles Gaines, Ifo Ekpre-Olomu, Justin Gilbert (7)
S: Donte Whitner, Will Hill, Ibraheim Campbell, Johnson Bademosi (4)

Special teams (3)
Charley Hughlett LS
Andy Lee P
Mason Crosby K

Total-53

Good breakdown of the options. I like options 1 and 2 the most. I think if a good enough defense is made then Hue Jackson can get the offense to be competitive and add the playmakers on the offense bit by bit.

Sorry, but this is a pet peeve of mine.

Resign - voluntarily leave a job or other position.

Re-sign - engage (a sports player) to play for a team for a further period.

Why choose when you could do all of them?

Seattles "dominant" secondary is cornerstoned by a 4th and 5th round pick.. I have hope IFO can come back and be the steal of all draft picks.

You could possibly end up with Goff/Thomas/Nassib or Treadwell/Cook..

You get your DE, Your Prototype QB, and a solid WR..

I also believe drafting CBs high is no longer cost effective. With all the offensively favored rules, id rather work on the pass rush. And then your CBs will look alot better..

Free Agency:
Andre Smith OT
Marvin Jones WR


Re-sign:
Mitchell Schwartz OL
Tashaun Gipson FS
Travis Coons
Austin Pasztor
Craig Robertson


Draft:

1. Jared Goff, QB, Cal
2. Su'a Cravens, ILB, USC
3. Shawn Oakman, DE, Baylor
4. Scooby Wright, OLB, Arizona
5. Ron Thompson, OLB, Syracuse
6. Nelson Spruce, WR, Colorado
7. Cyrus Jones, CB, Alabama

Seems redundant to sign Smith and re-sign Schwartz.
Coons needs to be upgraded

I would poop my pants. Literally.

I worry about Grecos injury. Move Schwartz inside to guard for insurance purposes. Disagree on Coons.

Candyman. Sign me up with that scenario. Since we signed Hue I was looking at the Bengals roster and Jones and Smith are the 2 free agents that they have that could really impact our team.

Only other thing I would do is re-sign Travis Benjamin.

If Gordon can come back and stay clean. With him and Jones we would have 2 legit big receivers that would demand attention from defenses. Benji would be an absolute nightmare on the field with those 2.

LOL.................hope springs eternal.

I forgot to include re-signing Travis Benjamin, my apologies.

If you look at the cincinnatti picks from the past few years, you will notice that they very seldom reach for a player. They normally select players that fill a need and that are slotted in the area, or have dropped for one reason or another.

That could not be said in the first few years of Marvin's tenure, but their drafting has been solid of late.

They also take players from big schools.

Two things stood out for me in your FA/Draft post.

1. I might have missed it but what happened to Manziel oh never mind I see you cut him (maybe trade)

2. Pasztor I thought was an excellent back up/starter for the interior. We could get him cheap. He's a keeper.

jmho

Not trying to being condescending because I'm genuinely curious, do you mean big name school or power 5 school?

Sorry. Power 5.

Jeremiah has Wentz over Goff (they are #7 and #8).

http://www.nfl.com/news/story/0ap3000000624732/article/ranking-top-50-prospects-for-2016-nfl-draft

very interesting rankings. Braxton Miller ahead of Josh Doctson. Artie Burns in the top 50 (I don't think I'd even draft him.) Fackrell in the top 30.

Huh.

Braxton is a great sleeper. I'd love to have him here. He can't run routes for crap, gets off the line weird, still too much QB in him, but he catches with his hands all the time. Perfectly frames the ball, just like it's taught. That said, certainly not a better prospect than Josh Doctson as of today.

Artie Burns is a sad story. He played pretty well over the past two years, but his mother just died recently in a car crash. He now has to take care of his two young siblings, I believe they're both younger than 8. Very sad story. I'd certainly draft him.

Don't get me wrong. I really like Wentz. He's my #2 guy, but I don't have him ahead of Goff. Jeremiads rankings of certain Buckeyes are a little crazy.

I absolutely love the idea of drafting Braxton!! He isn't polished as a WR, but he's big, fast, has great hands, and is a major threat once he has the ball. I think he has a better chance to be what many envision Pryor becoming.

He said on Twitter that he hasn't watched all the film he needs to watch yet.

I rely on Jeremiah's opinion more than most others because he is an actual scout who has worked in the NFL (same goes for Bucky Brooks).

O.J. Howard staying in Bama... link

Yep. I think my pick 18 also said he's staying... so there goes that.

Alabama is going the force the ball to him soooooooooo much next season.

clevesteve, what are you thoughts on OTs Laremy Tunsil and Ronnie Stanley? Enough talent Cleveland trades the #2 pick for either? Either two I think can make a strong argument at #2. Tough sale Cleveland takes one!

I keep looking at two CBs Jalen Ramsey and Mackenzie Alexander. Browns finally lock up the DB position. I know receiver help is needed. Defense potential fixed with two strong corners.

Sorry if you already gave an opinion, I didn't see.

I'm not Steve but Tunsil is probably the first pick off the board. San Diego is right behind us and could pick Stanley so a team might make us an offer to jump them.

I think Tenn takes Tunsil, as well. Their defense isn't bad, but their offense is inept. MM took a lot of punishment this year. Even the Browns sacked him a lot.

Thank You both!

I'll bet Schwartz will come costly. If the plan is not Goff, I wonder if Browns take an OT play RT and be the future LT.

I know there are better needs, but you take best available. It certainly won't be the sexy pick.

It would be a smart pick so everyone on this board would break out the pitchforks.

I like the big ugly. String the best fronts on either side of the ball and you do no wrong.

I keep looking at Rams front four and DL depth. Absolutely scary! Browns can make an equally as great OL.

I don't think Browns defensive front-seven is that far off too. You elevate a few DL guys game, and you have a real multi-package group.

Add that second corner opposite Haden.

Offense heavy draft:

Round 1 Pick 10 (NYG): Laquon Treadwell, WR, Ole Miss
Round 2 Pick 1: Derrick Henry, RB, Alabama
Round 2 Pick 9 (NYG): Connor Cook, QB, Michigan State
Round 3 Pick 2: Hunter Henry, TE, Arkansas
Round 3 Pick 8 (NYG): Nick Martin, C, Notre Dame
Round 4 Pick 1: Kyler Fackrell, OLB/DE, Utah State
Round 5 Pick 2: Rashard Higgins, WR, Colorado State
Round 6 Pick 1: Devonte Fields, DE/OLB, Louisville
Round 7 Pick 2: D.J. Reader, DT, Clemson

Defensive focus draft:

Round 1 Pick 2: Joey Bosa, DE/OLB, Ohio State
Round 2 Pick 1: Noah Spence, OLB, Eastern Kentucky
Round 3 Pick 2: Shawn Oakman, DE, Baylor
Round 4 Pick 1: Pharoh Cooper, WR, South Carolina
Round 5 Pick 2: Paul Perkins, RB, UCLA
Round 6 Pick 1: Travis Feeney, OLB, Washington
Round 7 Pick 2: Kevin Hogan, QB, Stanford

I like the defensive heavy one.

If there is not a QB that we like at pick #2, then we should trade down.

I like that that's what you did in your first scenario.

I don't think Treadwell gets passed either Baltimore or SF.

Yeah Baltimore will probably take him. I'd rather that they reach for him than us though.

1 (4) Carson Wentz QB, NDSU
2 (32) Noah Spence OLB, EKU
2 (34) Eli Apple CB, OSU
3 (65) Jalen Mills S, LSU
4 (96) Braxton Miller WR, OSU
5 (###) Cassanova McKinzy ILB, Auburn
6/7 O/D-Line depth

DAL gets 1 (2) and QB Johnny Manziel
CLE gets 1 (4) and 2 (34)

Pipe Dream, probably, but I randomly woke up at 4 something with this on my mind apparently.

Marvin Jones in FA, Benjamin re-signed, and Gordon reinstated leaving our WRs going into the season: Gordon, Jones, Benjamin, Hartline, Miller, and keep Pryor as a developmental guy.

Gave it my shot.

1. QB Jared Goff
2. OLB Leonard Floyd
3. FS Darian Thompson
4. WR Kenny Lawler
5. OG Rees Odhiambo
6. DT Luther Maddy
7. FB Dan Vitale

Hey everybody, Ballpeen took a FB ... you okay, buddy?

He meant G.

Had to humor you. Actually, this guy has ball skills and isn't known as simply a blocker..

#1
1. Goff QB California
1A.Josh Gordon Cleveland Browns
2. Carl Nassib DE Penn.State
3. Michael Thomas Ohio State

#2
1. Laquan Treadwell (Trade Down With Cowboys Pick Up Their #4 and 2 Rd. Pick) WR Ole Miss
1A. Josh Gordon Cleveland Browns
2. Conner Cook QB Michigan State
2A. Vonn Bell Saftey Ohio State
3. Carl Nassib DE Penn State

1A.Josh Gordon Cleveland Browns

I'm not sure what you mean with that. Could you explain?

Looks like he's saying "getting Gordon back is like having an extra first round pick." I don't particularly agree with that just because I don't think we can rely on him (and don't think it's likely he's here past this season) but that's what it would appear he meant.

conversely, it's not like we know that we can rely on ANY of our first round picks, ever... so it's kind of a push

Exactly, but what 1st rd. Picks are a sure thing?

I would like to see the selection of Bosa with the 2nd pick and not trade out of this pick. With the 32nd pick if N Spence is still on the board then I hope that he is the next selection. Having two you bookends that can come off of the ball like the duo does in Denver would cause a lot of problems for teams. You still have a young Shelton in the middle and you would have a young core for some time. I do not think that we are selecting a quarterback with the 2nd pick and all of this talk is to get the Cowboys to possibly bite if they don't like the deal that the office will put together for Manziel. For those that think that RG3 will move to Dallas I just don't see Washington trading within their own division whether they like RG or not. Personally, I can see management taking a chance at RG if they are able to get a pick or some picks for Manziel from the cowboys and sending gilbert along with the picks to Washington to offset giving up too much for RG.

Welcome to the board.

If the evaluators decide that Bosa can stand up and maintain his top pick play, then Bosa on the strong side and Spence on the weak side is very appealing. I would hope in this situation we would have our RT situation solved in free agency, either by retaining Schwartz (ideal) or picking up 1) Cordy Glenn or 2) Andre Smith. There are enough Day 3 wideouts that I like that I would take two elite edge rushers to most improve our team. I'm just not sure that Bosa is as effective at OLB as he is at DE. At 6'6", maybe we make him a 5-technique like Watt and have Spence outside? I get the feeling Bosa would have no issue adding 20 pounds, medically enhanced or otherwise. I could see it working.

RGIII is going to be cut by Washington, as he is due $12 million if he is not cut. Even a team signing him in free agency probably would not want to give him $12 million for a season.

I am open to the idea of signing RGIII if it's top end backup money to low end starter money. And if his injuries check out OK.

thanks for the welcome CleveSteve:yeah if RG is released then, I cannot see any team offering up that King's ransom that he was getting. I do like the loaded contract that you can put out there. I just want the Browns to select a player that can come in there and make a difference and not select someone because they play a certain position. Too many times previous front office people have went there and it never materialized to what we actually needed. For my eyes, there isn't one quarterback in this draft that is heads above the other quartebacks which leaves me wanting to grab someone that can come in and make an impact. Just because he is a quarterback doesn't mean that i want him with the 2nd pick. Talent wise, if a player is the 17th best player then, I don't want to just draft him when we have other obvious needs. I would hope that the front office would make a selection based off of what we need moreso than the sexy pick.

It will probably never happen, but the thought process is good.

Look at Denver w/Ware and Miller. They dominate games. They made Brady--who is perhaps the best qb of all-time and who gets rid of quick---look really bad last week.

Here is something that a lot of people don't think about. QB play is the most important thing, but when you get past the Wildcard Weekend and look at the remaining playoff teams, they almost always have good quarterbacks. Then, it comes down to who can protect the passer and who can pressure the passer.

Having a good OL is huge and having outstanding pass rushers is also huge.

Nice contribution, Maywood.

I traded down twice. First trade was pick 2 to San Diego for pick 3 and their 2nd and 3rd. The 2nd trade was pick 3 to Atlanta for pick 17, their 2nd and next years first. I don't love the top of the draft in this class and the Browns have lots of holes so I felt trading down would be a good move if a team will over pay, like in these two trades.

Round 1 Pick 17 (ATL): Ezekiel Elliott, RB, Ohio State
Round 2 Pick 1: Jaylon Smith, OLB/ILB, Notre Dame
Round 2 Pick 4 (S.D.): Josh Doctson, WR, TCU
Round 2 Pick 19 (ATL): Connor Cook, QB, Michigan State
Round 3 Pick 2: Jordan Jenkins, OLB, Georgia
Round 3 Pick 3 (S.D.): Shawn Oakman, DE, Baylor
Round 4 Pick 1: Jack Allen, C, Michigan State
Round 5 Pick 2: Braxton Miller, WR, Ohio State
Round 6 Pick 1: Travis Feeney, OLB, Washington
Round 7 Pick 2: Daryl Worley, CB, West Virginia

Your Future Picks:
2017 Round 1 Pick (ATL)
2017 Round 1 Pick
2018 Round 1 Pick

thanks for the compliment Vers, and i just would like to see us draft some impactful, elite players and not just a bunch of good players. I do believe that your quarteback has to be elite in order to compete, but i we need to include elite players in other positions that can make a difference. As for trading spots, I don't want to really do such a thing becaue we did that before and the likes of elite players or playmakers like AJ Green and Julio Jones are on other teams and making plays. We opted for more draft picks and it only got us more draft picks. Let's stick to the spot that we earned by losing (if I can say that) and select an elite talent which I think is Bosa in this draft. Also, I do believe that dominant pass rush makes cornerbacks more than a cornerback making pass rushers. So, what I am saying is that if Bosa is available at 2 then I think that we should stay there and stay focus on getting elite players and not just good players.

Just a couple of problems here, and I realize it's your fantasy draft and no one else's, but...

First issue:
Who would the Chargers covet that they believe the Browns would a) draft or b) trade away the pick to someone that will pick ahead of the Chargers and steal c) be worth taking that risk of b) at the cost of 2nd and 3rd round draft picks?

Again I know this is fantasy land, but...

Second Issue is with your draft picks and them falling to these spots...

1)I don't see any way that Jaylon Smith will drop to the second round, despite his injury.
2) Braxton Miller won't make it out of the 3rd..I expect him to go in the late 2nd...no way he will be available in the 5th.
3) not as much a deal as the previous two, because I see him as a 2nd rounder...and possibly a mid-late 2nd rounder, but I don't think Oakman will be available in the 3rd

Sorry to pick it apart...again, I realize this is mock season, I just see some flaws.

All that said, I would be ecstatic if it turned out that way...Except that we would still be in need of a QB. I am assuming they sign one in the off season, or are you expecting Josh McCown to stay healthy for a full season? Connor Cook, imho, will never amount to anything but a back up in the NFL. No drive, no leadership, very average skills.

I dont see SD giving up a high 2nd and 3rd to move up one spot.. unless they hired Butch Davis and I wasn't aware..

The only way I see us able to trade down, is if Tenn trades down (so someone can get a QB) or passes on Tunsil (to take Bosa)

Or if we deem we dont like a QB and someone wants to trade up for that guy.

Oakman looks like Tarzan, plays like Jane. He can never sustain his leverage and looks like he doesn't try. I'd rather not play him.

wow have not been on here in over a year but my two cents are thus.

first pick Bosa if available
second pick QB...meh Card. Jones? lol love my Buckeyes
third pick. OG or OT best available
fourth pick big WR
then address the defense
NT, OLB, CB,
something like that maybe. Just my first knee jerk picks have not put too much thought into yet. I see no reason to draft a RB as the Crow and Johnson should be fine in my opinion...well glad to be back...as always go Browns

You can probably get Cardale in the 4th or 5th round.

Cardale in the 4th or 5th rounds? yea most likely lol I see no QB in this draft that makes me say..."wow" could be wrong tho...Hue I hear likes to stretch the field and Cardale can do that right?

We have three 5th round picks. I think it would be a perfectly okay idea to take Cardale Jones in the 5th round even if we take Goff or Wentz in the 1st. We could hand him a clipboard and let him take it all in. He might pay BIG dividends someday, either in a backup situation or if your 1st rounder tanks. It would be a "hedge" pick, a "just-in-case".

Plus, I work with his Uncle Bob, and I like the guy (Cardale and Uncle Bob).

Thanx for the insight Dave.

I have been thinking the same.

Not that it has anything to do with ability, but Cardale seems to be an OK guy.

He sometimes hangs out in the neighborhood where one of my son's friends live, one of his friends lives a couple of houses down. My son and his friend and some other kids were playing football one time and Cardale wandered over and talked to them for a bit. My son's friend is a UM fan (just to piss his dad off) and was wearing a UM jersey at the time. Cardale gave him some good-natured, age appropriate ribbing and then took pictures with everyone. Kids said he was funny.

He might pay BIG dividends someday,

hmmmm...at WR? I thought Pryor was a better QB than Cardale.

jmho

Does not say much for this QB class. as I believe Walterfootball has him ranked as the 5th best QB in this class...

IMO, TP wishes he could throw a ball like Cardale does. Not to mention how much fun it would be to watch Cardale pancake James Harrison on a scramble.

ha! that would be funny thing to see...I'm surprised Harrison is still playing at all

Mock Draft (CBS Ranking)

2. WR Laquon Treadwell, Ole Miss (6) -- Larry Fitzgerald mold.. big, physical, unstoppable in red zone, incredible blocker. Basically the prototype for Z receiver.

32. WR Josh Doctson, TCU (37) -- AJ Green lite. Rangy, leaping skills top-notch. Elite-X potential.

65. QB Dak Prescott, Miss St (113) -- Strong arm, strong body, excellent athlete. Pretty good accuracy and should excel with large targets. Plays much bigger than 6'2" size. Reminds me of Blake Bortles without the brain diarrhea.

110. CB Maurice Canady, Virginia (117) -- Great size and pretty good man cover skills. Not afraid to play tight coverage.

137. OLB Victor Ochi, Stony Brook (171) -- Completely dominated the E/W Shrine Game. Typically, if a player dominated the Shrine Game he goes in the third, so this might be dreaming a little. I'd happily take him and miss out on Canady if it looks like it would be needed. Terrific edge rusher.

139. FS Trevon Stewart, Houston (241) -- One of the most instinctual defenders of the last three years in college football. This guy always has a knack for making huge plays and is a little man who can hit.

172. DE Matt Ionnidis, Temple (176) -- IIRC, Horton runs a more straight forward 3-4, and though I like Zettel's ability to get into the backfield a lot, Ionnidis is bigger and won't lose gap integrity in the run game.

174. OLB Alex McCalister, Florida (304) -- Why isn't anyone talking about this guy? Man, his shoulder dip is pretty incredible. Doesn't show a great array of moves but if you want a guy who can get around the edge, this is the guy!

180. NT Antwaun Woods, USC (269) -- Not sure how he ended up underrated, but he is a really nice NT, definitely an upgrade over Meder as depth.

221. QB Mike Bercovici, Arizona State (371) -- One of the best passers in the draft, has a pretty good arm. He significantly lacks size and has barely over a season's worth of experience, but the guy can play. Threw for 30 TDs in 2015 despite having just one OL, TE, or WR expected to be drafted this year (LG Westerman). His first two starts ever (USC, UCLA 2014) he threw for a combined 998 yards -- an NCAA record.


Potential UDFA Priority Targets:

WR Nelson Spruce, Colorado (282) -- One man show in Colorado, was clearly the focal point of Washington's pass game, but still consistently produced. 8th all-time in conference now known as Pac 12 in receiving yards.
WR Devin Lucien, Arizona State (694) -- Transfer from UCLA, was underutilized until the end of the year. Gained 534 yards receiving and 5 TDs on 26 catches in the last 3 GAMES of his senior season.
ILB Cassanova McKinzy, Auburn (402) -- Big thumper who has been a standout on D for the Tigers for multiple seasons.
ILB Beniquez Brown, Miss St (376) -- Very athletic linebacker who would play the more coverage side in our D
C Alex Huettel, Bowling Green (UR) -- Really held his own against Tennessee this year and showed very well in the E/W shrine game
RB Travis Greene, Bowling Green (322) -- Average 8 yards per carry in his career and shows great strength and quickness, but lacks vision.
C Mitch Smothers, Arkansas (607) -- Powerful cog in Arkansas' dominant running game.
OT Caleb Benenoch, UCLA (382) -- Highly touted recruit who didn't live up to potential but is still a skilled and strong player (RT candidate)
K Jaden Oberkrom, TCU (493) -- Strong legged kicker, has made some clutch ones for TCU
WR Jared Dangerfield, Western Kentucky (494) -- Good size and speed and understands how to gain YAC
QB Matt Johnson, Bowling Green (499) -- Very accurate, loves the deep ball, but doesn't have a very strong arm
DE Terrell Lathan, TCU (528) -- Great size for 5T and made plays in the backfield in the run game for the Horned Frogs
FB Kody Walker, Arkansas (714) -- Finds someone to block and delivers big hits. Can also catch the ball, 'Peen.
OLB Vontarrius Dora, Louisiana Tech (980) -- I haven't seen a ton of this guy, but he played (DE) pretty well in the NFLPA collegiate bowl and definitely has NFL body & athleticism
CB Prince Charles Iworah, Western Kentucky (463) -- good athlete with long arms

I would not be opposed to that.. as long as the fans can handle it.

Goff, Wendz, whoever it is, is going to struggle.. and there are obviously a LOT of Buckeye HOMERS that are Browns fans.. and my big concern is that they will try very hard to start a controversy at the first sign of struggling..

ha! that would be funny thing to see...I'm surprised Harrison is still playing at all

Steroids do amazing things.

I'm totally going to hate our actual draft if you keep doing things like this..

well, don't we end up hating our drafts anyways?

Usually not until about week 10 of the following season.

You referred to Docston as an AJ Green like player..

And it made me look him up.. I didn't realize he was over 6'2..

For some reason I assumed all TCU skill position players were like 5'11 or shorter..

steve..............not dissing you, but don't you think we need a pass rusher?

I know you might be getting sick of me saying this, but I like Spence. Do you think he could last until 32?

Or, could we trade down a bit, grab Treadwell around 5-8 and nab Spence in the 20s?

I don't know if that is even plausible. I have very limited knowledge of draft trades and where a lot of these guys will go in the draft, so be nice. I am just looking to be educated on such things.

Any chance Nassib lasts till the 3rd?

We could double up.

Bosa
Doctson
Nassib

Then grab a guy like Hackenberg in the 4th. Let him develop.

There appears to be many different ways we could go with all of the positions that we need or could use an upgrade on.

I absolutely think we need at least one pass rusher. I do not think Spence will last past 20 (NYJ). I would not be surprised if he goes before that spot. You and I think he's the best pass rusher in the draft, so it's hard for me to envision him lasting to 32.

If we could get Spence at 32, that would be the pick for sure for me. I don't think it will happen.

For Treadwell, I'd love to move to 4 or 5 to take him. I think there is no way Ozzie passes on him. He is the easiest GM to predict because he drafts chalk and Treadwell is easily the best player at that spot... and they have a huge need at wideout. Problem is getting Dallas or Jacksonville to move up to 2... hard to see it happening. Maybe Dallas for Bosa? Or for Wentz if San Fran moves ahead of them for Goff? Maybe Jacksonville for Tunsil if Tenn doesn't take him? But they need corners, too, and 5 is a great spot to need a corner in this draft.

I don't think Spence is realistic for us unless there is some reason someone wants to move up to 2 and we take him with wherever we go down to... but then with Gordon being reinstated and Manziel's issues going on right now and Armonty potentially going to jail all for substance issues, do you think our team will be the one to take the guy who got kicked out of the B1G for drugs with our 1st pick?

I knew about Ochi's productivity, but had never seen him play before the Shrine Game. He showed very good, translatable pass rush skills in that game. In past years, the Shrine Game has been available on youtube and it might be there again this year. I'd look for it. He was awesome.

McCalister has got the goods, too. He got injured early this season but check out his three games from the season on Draft Breakdown. The guy gets to the QB.

Ochi and McCalister are probably my 3rd and 4th choices at OLB right now, behind Spence and Nassib. I think it's very important that we address the position and I'm adding players I like here, using a 4th and a 5th round pick. I don't think I would take Nassib over Doctson and that's the only other conflict that would come into play for me.

JMO.

For some reason, I am not hearing a ton of Nassib hype. I agree with you that he's gotta be the 2nd best OLB choice right now.

It's not really hype... he's got great size and great production at the highest level of competition. He's a relentless type of guy, too, which means a lot for a pass rusher.

Agreed, I just mean that the media types don't seem to be on the Nassib train yet and I'm not sure why. He seems like he's highly above everyone but Spence.

That might be a good thing though and he might fall a bit if he stays under the radar.

Great stuff. I appreciate the knowledge. I just came from a thread---and this has been on my mind for awhile now---but it seems that we have too many posters who think this is a **** swinging contest and don't want to be educated. I find that sad. I love learning from some of you guys in areas where you have more knowledge than I do. It would be so great if this board could become more educational rather than who has the biggest...

You and I keep going back and forth on Spence. I hear you about his past crimes and the Browns having had so many recent character guys, but I read where Spence has been tested multiple times this past year and has been clean every time. Do you think that can help diminish some of the negative connotations?

I will check out the other pass rushers you pointed out and let you know what I think

Thanks again for the knowledge, my man.............good stuff.

I think your point about Nassib is a good one. I only remember him from watching a 3 games this year, so my opinion should be taken w/a grain of salt, but I liked the kid, too. I'm going to research him and let you guys know what I think.

Keep feeding me names..........pass rushers, WRs, corners, and ILBers. I'll research them and do what I do best.

Can't find where I read it so no link but I saw somewhere that Spence did quite poorly at the Senior bowl interviews and that teams were quite disappointed. FWIW

I trust you.

Maybe that will translate into him dropping.

We are probably the worst team to take on a player with substance issues, but if he falls to 32, I'd turn that card in as fast as possible.

Still it only takes 1 team and after his latest showing, I don't think he'll be there @ 32.



My top 3 WR's are probably the same as clevesteve's , but I think he is a little higher on them than I am. I just think that Treadwell and Thomas lack big time speed.

1) Treadwell
2) Thomas
3) Doctson

At ILB I think it's

1) Myles Jack
2) Jaylon Smith
(both prob gone before 32 probably before 15)
3) Reggie Ragland
4) Scoobie Wright

At Corner
1) Vernon Hargreaves
2) Jaylon Ramsey (who might be best at free safety)
(those guys are probably top 10)
3) Kendall Fuller - a sneaky pick because of the knee injury, but he is the best true cover corner in my opinion. He should be there at #32 but maybe not.

Another Sneaky pick is James Bradberry out of Samford. He's probably a 3rd or 4th rounder. But has good height and speed, very good coverage skills and works hard in run support.

*Shocker alert"

If we determine that there is not a QB that we want at #2, then I would take Myles Jack.

He's Luke Kuechly, but can cover wide receivers.

We'd be laughed at because he's an ILB and coming off a knee injury, but I'm right there with you. He's a special talent. If we took him at 2 I wouldn't complain. That being said, I wouldn't be unhappy with any of the 4 that I listed. You usually do not find this much talent at ILB in the draft.

It was just a meniscus that he tore in the beginning of October. He is supposedly going to participate fully at the combine.

Yeah I'm not worried about it either, but drafting an ILB at #2 isn't very common and we'd be taking a gimpy one.

If you believe he is Kuechly, then you take him and don't look back.

Also, he is no longer gimpy. This is not Smith's injury situation.

Yeah, I get ya and agree.

We'll still get laughed at though.

And that's okay.

Many of the mocks have Jack going in the top ten, so it wouldn't be that controversial of a pick.

Trying to stay away from commenting but I just can't hold back any longer...lol

Taking WR at 2 and 32 will not get us close to championship caliber football. When has it ever?

Thomas isn't even in my top 5 Wr.

Thought this was a fun read



2016 NFL Draft: Bold Opinions and Initial Prospect Rankings for Each Position

By: Jonah Tuls

2016 NFL Draft season has begun with the All Star games now over and with the NFL Combine coming up later this month. Throughout the draft community, there are several different opinions and views on prospects in this year’s draft class, just like any other, and I too have some intriguing thoughts as well. In this article, I’m going to go through one “bold opinion” for each position in the 2016 NFL Draft. Enjoy.

Quarterbacks
Dak Prescott

Bold Opinion: I would draft Dak Prescott over Connor Cook and Christian Hackenberg.

Analysis: What an intense way to start off this piece, but this is not because I am completely enamored with Dak Prescott as much as it is that I just do not want to touch the other two quarterbacks. I think both Cook and Hackenberg have some incredible tools to work with including their size and arm strength, but I’m just not convinced that either of them will have success in this league. Sure, Dak Prescott may not be as gifted as Hackenberg or Cook, but his eye discipline and footwork in the pocket is light years better than what I have seen from the latter. People may dismiss Prescott because of his 2014 tape, but he totally redefined himself as a prospect this past year showing huge improvement in the pocket with his footwork, pocket presence, eye discipline, and overall ball placement. As for Cook and Hackenberg, they have found themselves getting worse as the years have gone on. I still do think that Prescott has a lot to do to be considered a future starting quarterback, but I would much rather have him as my developmental quarterback than Connor Cook and Christian Hackenberg. As of right now, I have a fourth round grade on both Dak Prescott and Connor Cook, while having a fifth round grade on Christian Hackenberg.

Initial Quarterback Rankings
1. Jared Goff, California Golden Bears

2. Carson Wentz, North Dakota State Bison

3. Paxton Lynch, Memphis Tigers

4. Cardale Jones, Ohio State Buckeyes

5. Dak Prescott, Mississippi State Bulldogs



Running Backs

Bold Opinion: Devontae Booker is the second best running back in the 2016 NFL Draft.

Analysis: Many draft analysts out there believe that the Heisman Trophy winner Derrick Henry is the clear cut number two running back behind Ohio State’s Ezekiel Elliott, but after watching comprehensive game film on the running backs in this draft class, I have come to the conclusion that Devontae Booker is the second best running back in the 2016 NFL Draft. I will say that Louisiana Tech’s Kenneth Dixon is only a hair behind Booker, but it is the complete package that got me sold on Booker. It seems as if he never goes down on first contact, and if he does get an ounce of daylight, he has the explosiveness to take it to the house. Booker’s most impressive trait to me was his balance and vision as a runner as he found ways to get skinny in the hole and make plays out of nothing. He will be 24 to enter his rookie season, but I don’t see that as much of an issue as others do and I am of the mindset that he can be a workhorse running back for a team in the near future.

Initial Running Back Rankings
1. Ezekiel Elliott, Ohio State Buckeyes

2. Devontae Booker, Utah Utes

3. Kenneth Dixon, Louisiana Tech Bulldogs

4. Derrick Henry, Alabama Crimson Tide

5. Paul Perkins, UCLA Bruins


Wide Receivers

Bold Opinion: Tyler Boyd is not only the second best wide receiver in this draft, but also a Top 15 talent.

Analysis: I’ve been beating the drum for Tyler Boyd for a long time now, but there are some draft analysts who I highly respect that believe he is nothing more than a second/third round prospect. Much of the talk is that he does not have many weaknesses, but not a dominant trait either. While I believe that the first part of that statement is true, I do think he has the strongest hands in this draft, especially in contested situations. In addition, he is one of the most advanced route runners in this class in that he sets up and deceives cornerbacks to perfection. Does he have blow-by speed? No, but he does have a certain bit of burst and quickness in his release that can beat any type of coverage, whether that be Press or Off. I think his skills translate to being an extremely reliable WR2 for an offense with the upside to become a strong WR1.

Initial Wide Receiver Rankings
1. Laquon Treadwell, Ole Miss Rebels

2. Tyler Boyd, Pittsburgh Panthers

3. Sterling Shepard, Oklahoma Sooners

4. Michael Thomas, Ohio State Buckeyes

5. Josh Doctson, TCU Horned Frogs


Tight Ends

Bold Opinion: Jerell Adams is close to overtaking Hunter Henry as the top tight end on my board.

Analysis: Some may not know who Jerell Adams is quite yet, but after a good week at the Senior Bowl, he is shouting to the world that he should be in consideration when talking about the best tight ends in this class. While Hunter Henry may be the overall better route runner and receiver, Jerell Adams is a better athlete with strong hands and is a much better blocker. If you are looking for a tight end who can stretch the field vertically as well as being able to block on early downs, Jerell Adams is your guy. For me, it is neck and neck between the two, but I am on the fence with who my top tight end is at the moment between Hunter Henry and Jerell Adams.

Initial Tight End Rankings
1. Hunter Henry, Arkansas Razorbacks

2. Jerell Adams, South Carolina Gamecocks

3. Tyler Higbee, Western Kentucky Hilltoppers

4. Nick Vannett, Ohio State Buckeyes

5. Darion Griswold, Arkansas State Red Wolves


Offensive Tackles

Bold Opinion: I would not touch Germain Ifedi, Le’Raven Clark, and Shon Coleman before the fourth round.

Analysis: Too many times, draft analysts and scouts fall in love with offensive tackle prospects who are extremely raw, but have insane upside because of their physical tools and measurables. It is the same case for the 2016 NFL Draft as players like Germain Ifedi of Texas A&M, Le’Raven Clark of Texas Tech, and Shon Coleman of Auburn all have promise, but they are all projects, especially in pass protection. We all saw Ereck Flowers go ninth overall in the first round to the New York Giants last year, so I do believe teams will repeat themselves and reach for these players, but I will let these three prospects be someone else’s hero.

Initial Offensive Tackle Rankings
1. Laremy Tunsil, Ole Miss Rebels

2. Taylor Decker, Ohio State Buckeyes

3. Ronnie Stanley, Notre Dame Fighting Irish

4. Jack Conklin, Michigan State Spartans

5. Jason Spriggs, Indiana Hoosiers


Interior Offensive Linemen

Bold Opinion: Not just one, but two offensive guard prospects are worthy of first round consideration, Joshua Garnett and Cody Whitehair.

Analysis: Two of the “safest” picks in this draft come at the offensive guard spot in my opinion in both Cody Whitehair and Joshua Garnett. Both players are extremely well rounded and the clear-cut top two prospects at their position, and will both provide immediate production at the next level as reliable starters. Whitehair could develop more of a mean streak in the run game, while Garnett could work on his feet in pass protection. Nonetheless, they will both be impact starters right away in my opinion.

Initial Interior Offensive Linemen Rankings
1. Joshua Garnett, Stanford Cardinal

2. Cody Whitehair, Kansas State Wildcats

3. Ryan Kelly, Alabama Crimson Tide

4. Nick Martin, Notre Dame Fighting Irish

5. Christian Westerman, Arizona State Sun Devils


Interior Defensive Linemen

Bold Opinion: The earliest I would take Robert Nkemdiche would be in the 3rd round.

Analysis: Based on natural talent, I would have Nkemdiche in the first round most likely, but I have more questions than answers with him as a prospect at the moment. His interviews will be more important than his actual physical testing at the NFL Combine later this month. It is not just his off field issues that concern me though, as I saw an inconsistent player on tape who needs to play up to his natural gifts. I think Nkemdiche has the HIGHEST upside of any prospect in this draft, but with the combination of his off field issues and constant underachieving on the field, he is a player that could cost people their jobs.

Initial Interior Defensive Linemen Rankings
1. DeForest Buckner, Oregon Ducks

2. Sheldon Rankins, Louisville Cardinals

3. Andrew Billings, Baylor Bears

4. Kenny Clark, UCLA Bruins

5. Jarran Reed, Alabama Crimson Tide


EDGE Rushers

Bold Opinion: Noah Spence is the best EDGE rusher on my board, higher than both Joey Bosa and Shaq Lawson.

Analysis: Many people will have Joey Bosa and Shaq Lawson as the unchallenged top EDGE defender in this draft, but I strongly believe that Noah Spence is far and away the best pass rusher here. He may not have the length the other two have, but his bend, athleticism, and hand usage outweigh the opposition that he faces consistently. He is the only player in this draft class that I think could be a consistent double digit sack guy in his career.

Initial EDGE Rusher Rankings
1. Noah Spence, Eastern Kentucky Colonels

2. Joey Bosa, Ohio State Buckeyes

3. Shaq Lawson, Clemson Tigers

4. Kamalei Correa, Boise State Broncos

5. Kevin Dodd, Clemson Tigers


Linebackers

Bold Opinion: I have four linebackers with Top 20 grades, but the drop off to the next linebacker will be to the third round.

Analysis: While I do believe that Myles Jack, Jaylon Smith, Darron Lee, and Reggie Ragland are worthy of Top 20 selections, I do not see another off ball linebacker worthy of selection until the third round. I am not as high on players like Su’a Cravens or Joshua Perry, but I do believe that players like Kentrell Brothers and Jatavis Brown provide excellent value on the late part of Day 2.

Initial Linebacker Rankings
1. Myles Jack, UCLA Bruins

2. Jaylon Smith, Notre Dame Fighting Irish

3. Darron Lee, Ohio State Buckeyes

4. Reggie Ragland, Alabama Crimson Tide

5. Kentrell Brothers, Missouri Tigers


Cornerbacks

Bold Opinion: William Jackson III is the best cornerback in the 2016 NFL Draft.

Analysis: This opinion is probably the boldest one I have, but after watching William Jackson III comprehensively as of late, I’m pretty convinced that he is the top cornerback prospect in this draft class. It took me too long to realize this considering I am a big time advocate for Vernon Hargreaves III as a Top 15 player, but I honestly do believe that William Jackson III is exactly what Hargreaves would be if he was three inches taller. Jackson has the size, length, and fluid athleticism that NFL teams are looking for in cornerbacks, as well as having some of the best pure closing speed in this draft. In terms of underneath routes, Jackson breaks on the ball quicker than any cornerback I have seen in the past two draft classes. I don’t worry about his deep speed to turn vertical with the receiver, but it is more if he can recover if initially beat on a double move. Other than that, he is a physical, instinctive cornerback who can play either Off or Press in man coverage with fluidity and can only get better with his high ceiling.

Initial Cornerback Rankings
1. William Jackson III, Houston Cougars

2. Vernon Hargreaves III, Florida Gators

3. Mackensie Alexander, Clemson Tigers

4. Xavien Howard, Baylor Bears

5. Jalen Mills, LSU Tigers


Safeties

Bold Opinion: Karl Joseph is a Top 20 player in this class despite ACL tear early in the 2015 season.

Analysis: I wrote a piece on Karl Joseph a couple days ago describing how he is the only roadblock to his own success in the NFL with his undisciplined and aggressive mentality. With that being said, he can do everything you ask for in a safety at the next level. His supreme athletic ability to close and stick in man coverage is outstanding, and his ball skills at both the catch point and in terms of location is also excellent. In addition, he is one scary player in run support in that he hits so hard that I could see unwarranted penalties thrown his way. I’m a big fan, and I believe that he will be one of the most impactful players to come out of this draft class.

Initial Safety Rankings
1. Jalen Ramsey, Florida State Seminoles

2. Karl Joseph, West Virginia Mountaineers

3. Darian Thompson, Boise State Broncos

4. Vonn Bell, Ohio State Buckeyes

5. Justin Simmons, Boston College Eagles


http://thedraftwire.usatoday.com/2016/02...-each-position/

When the Cardinals took Fitzgerald at 3 then Boldin in the second round the same draft. That was a year after taking a WR in the 2nd round. They were core players that got them to the super bowl.

and taking "a WR" at 2 and 32 isn't the point. It's about how do you most improve the roster with the resources you have. I think those two guys are both first round talents that happen to have complementary skill sets at the position we are arguably the weakest. If I thought the best two players for our 3-4 were pass rushers (or run stoppers for that matter) and that we wouldn't be able to approach the same level of production later with other players then I could see drafting two pass rushers at those spots. If we were drafting at 15 and 45 or whatever, I might have gone Spence / Nassib 1/2, especially if I didn't believe in some other pass rushers expected to be available later like Ochi, McCalister, and Holmes. I think Dora has a shot, too. Where we are drafting, what prospects are likely to be available where we are drafting at all rounds I think this gives us a great talent boost and would transform our offense in a good way.

What do you all think of Kamalei Correa at OLB? I was looking for rushers who might be there if we do go QB in the first. He looks intriguing from the one cut up I've seen. I'm going to try to track down more.

we need a left guard in the worst way. Cam Erving was a ghost on the field last year. so many times the Def. blew by him like he was not even there. I'm for getting rid of him and drafting a real LG. I almost broke my tv watching him play this season good god almighty.

Bitonio.

wow i must be working too much, I forgot all about him... he did well

Bitonio is our LG, he got hurt. Cam Erving was a backup playing out of position. He was replaced by Paszor....Remember!

so we just need depth then?

I side with Tab on this debate, but clevesteve nicely done bringing an intelligent reason for drafting two receivers. Kudos!

Fitz Bolden was a one year thing with Warner a SB QB at the helm...when Warner went so did their SB prospects although I do think that Boldin left soon after.

Look a great season for a WR is 100 receptions...so you are talking about a good to great season for a WR as around 7 receptions a game (112 receptions) Ovrall #2 and 32 for possibly a guy to touch the ball 7 times a game and odds are both would not. AND MOST not all WRs are none existant when they are not touching that ball.

Not talking about Fitz...he is amazing If he was available to us I would not have mind that pick up one bit.

I see no Fitz in this draft. I see no Calvin in this draft (#2 overall)

You can give me all the stats you wish...WRs do not win franchises SB...you will get an exception some where in the history of football but time in and time out...the SB Champions don't come close to having the top WRs in the NFL.

WR...the most over rated position in the NFL...doesnt mean you don't need them just still happens to be over rated.

jmho

We should just cut all of our WRs so we can carry 15 O Lineman on the active roster.

Fitz and Boldin were not in the same draft, Boldin was 2003 and Fitz was 2004. In 2003 the Cards took WR Bryant Johnson with 1 of their 2 first rnd picks and then Boldin in the 2nd rnd. They took Fitz in the 2004 draft because they literally had nothing at WR after Boldin because Johnson turned out to be a bust.

Obviously they would of still made the SB if Kurt Warner had UDFA WRs to throw to there..

Yes, I remembered incorrectly. The Cardinals didn't use a first and two seconds in two years on WRs, they spent two firsts and a second (including a top three pick) in two years on WRs. They almost won the super Bowl on the strength of those two guys as they combined for over 200 yards and two TDs in the game.

tab, is signing a QB in free agency the way to build a championship caliber team?

And by the way, as I've said multiple times, Fitzgerald is exactly the WR that Treadwell reminds me most of.

He kinda reminds me of Dez Bryant or maybe Crabtree.

Reminding and being are two different things. BTW Wentz reminds me of Big Ben...does it make him so?

jmho

I think that we need to just keep it simple and don't overthink the process. If there isn't a quarterback with the first pick that you like and a defensive/edge rusher is there, then take the edge rusher. As we saw in Denver's 3 playoffs games against the Steelers, Patriots, and Panthers, the edge rushers dominated the games. Other than the quarterback, no one else seems to impact the game like and edge rusher. All 3 quarterbacks against the Broncos in the playoffs looked average at best when they faced a formidable and dominating pass rush like the Broncos imposed during this playoff run. All 9 other players on the Broncos defense benefitted greatly from these two edge rushers. So for me, and I hope the front office has a grasp on last nights game, if there is no quarterback out there that you have as a top five talent then, go for one of those top five talent players that just so happen to be an edge rusher.

This is not a knock on Treadwell, but he reminds me a lot of Dwayne Bowe in his prime.

Huge Catch radius, Physical WR that will win the 50/50 battles, but doesn't have that elite speed.

What I really love about Treadwell is how much he likes to block when he's not featured in the play. It's pretty rare to find a WR like that any more in a league full of divas.

Also, he wasn't asked to run a full route tree so that will have to be taught to him by whoever drafts him. He strikes me as a hard working type, so the effort to learn should be there.

If we take him at #2, I'd be okay with it, but we would be reaching for need. I really think that since we don't really need a first round o-lineman at this point, if we don't draft a defensive player we are reaching for need. That is where all the top 10 talent is in this draft.

Super Bowl Overreaction Mock:

#2 to SF (Goff) for #7 & #37

7) OLB Noah Spence, Western Kentucky
32) NT Sheldon Rankins, Louisville
37) OLB Carl Nassib, Penn State
65) DE Chris Jones, Miss St
110) CB Cyrus Jones, Alabama
137) FS Trevon Stewart, Houston
139) OT Denver Kirkland, Arkansas
172) WR Devin Lucien, Arizona St
174) WR Nelson Spruce, Colorado
180) ILB Casanova McKinzy, Auburn
221) QB Mike Bercovici, Arizona St

Assumes unable to keep Mack, Schwartz. A. Bryant, Bowe, Starks, Kruger, Gipson, Benjamin gone

Offense: 24
QB: McCown, Bercovici, Davis
RB: Crowell, Johnson, FA/UDFA
FB: FA/UDFA
TE: Barnidge, Telfer, Bibbs
LT: Thomas, Miller
LG: Bitonio, FA/UDFA
C: Erving
RG: Greco
RT: Pasztor, Kirkland
WZ: Gordon, Lucien
WX: Hartline, Hall
WY: Hawkins, Spruce

Defense: 24
DE: D. Bryant, X. Cooper
NT: Shelton, Rankins
DE: Hughes, Jones
LOLB: Nassib, Orchard
SILB: Dansby, McKinzy
WILB: Robertson (Horton loved Robertson last time he was here), Kirksey
WOLB: Spence, Mingo
OC: Haden, T. Williams, Jones, Gilbert
IC: K. Williams, IEO
FS: Stewart, Poyer
SS: Whitner, Campbell

Special Teams: 5
K: FA/UDFA
P: Lee
LS: Hughlett
ST: Moore, Bademosi

Meh. I think I like the last one better.

Defense still wins Championships

http://www.walterfootball.com/ProspectMeetings/ByTeam

2016 NFL Draft Prospect Visits Tracker:

This is a compilation of draft prospect visits sorted by prospect. The data was acquired via Charlie Campbell (@draftcampbell) and other media sources.

SR - Senior Bowl meeting.
EW - East-West Shrine meeting.
COM - Combine meeting.
INT - Interested.
VINT - Very Interested.
PRO - Pro Day or campus meeting/workout.
LOC - Local visit.
PRI - Private visit.
WOR - Private Workout.
% - indicates more than one meeting at an event.
^ - has met with team at more than one event.
# - indicates meeting set up outside of the 2016 Senior Bowl or the 2016 East-West Shrine Game


Cleveland Browns

Germain Ifedi, OT, Texas A&M (SR)
Matt Ioannidis, DT, Temple (SR)
Antonio Morrison, ILB/OLB, Florida (SR)

Hey steve......I have been thinking about your various mocks, the available talent in the draft, and the Brown's needs.

Do you think you can do a combination of your last couple of mocks?

I'm thinking.......can you find a legitimate way to get Treadwell and Spence? Or Bosa and Doctson?

Doesn't have to be those exact guys, but I'm thinking two dynamic players at both edge rusher and wide receiver. Whaddya think?

Treadwell @ #2 and Spence @ #32 is doable and Bosa @ #2 and Doctson @ #32 is doable.

Thanks.

Either would be awesome.

My bet is that Spence ends up in the top ten.

Similar to what cfrs said, I don't think we could get Treadwell and Spence without making a significant trade back up into the first round. There have been some recent mocks (including Matt Miller's 7 rounder) that have Treadwell going later (he had him going 18... after Michael Thomas). He also had Doctson going to Tenn with the first pick of the third round.


http://bleacherreport.com/articles/26136...owl-predictions

These were the Browns' picks in Matt Miller's draft (he did not project comps):
2) Carson Wentz, QB NDSU
32) Will Fuller, WR Notre Dame
65) Beniquez Brown, ILB Miss St
96) Jordan Howard, RB Indiana
129) Carl Nassib, OLB PSU (has him listed as DE, but I think he just means college position)
157) Kevon Seymour, CB Southern Cal
189) Tyler Johnstone, T, Oregon* (He's showing the West pick conveying, which I doubt)
190) Austin Blythe, C, Iowa

The more I think about it, the more I think we're ganna trade down..

Assuming we are not all in on a QB at 2, I could see someone wanting Tunsil, Bosa, or one of the QBs enough to move up, and us moving down only a few spots..

Drop to 4, or 7, pick up an additional 2nd or more? Its enticing I think..

Teams don't usually trade up that high in the draft unless they are getting a QB. And if there is a QB worth taking that high, we will probably be taking him.

Here is a list of the top five picks since 1999:

http://www.pro-football-reference.com/pl...l&order_by=

The only non-QB trade ups I see are Trent Richardson and Sammy Watkins.

But, to answer your question, the only realistic scenario I see in getting two of those guys would be to take Spence first and Doctson in the second.

So, here's a scenario:

#2 to SF (Goff) for #7 & #37

7) OLB Noah Spence, Western Kentucky
32) WR Josh Doctson, TCU
37) WR Tyler Boyd, Pitt
65) QB Dak Prescott, Miss St
110) OLB Victor Ochi, Stony Brook
137) CB Cyrus Jones, Alabama
139) FS Trevon Stewart, Houston
172) ILB Casanova McKinzy, Auburn
174) ILB Beniquez Brown, Miss St (I really have no idea where he will go, have seen projections all over)
180) C/OG Alex Huettel, Bowling Green
221) NT Antwaun Woods, USC

I would still keep Doctson as the X and make Boyd the Z. In this case I would have Gordon at Z and Boyd behind him rather than the previous scenario where Gordon was at X with Doctson behind him as a rookie and Treadwell starting at Z. I definitely think we're losing something going from Treadwell to Boyd, but Spence is the best pass rusher and it's tough to pass up.

Assumes unable to keep Mack, Schwartz. A. Bryant, Bowe, Starks, Kruger, Gipson, Benjamin gone

Offense: 24
QB: McCown, Prescott, Davis
RB: Crowell, Johnson, FA/UDFA
FB: FA/UDFA
TE: Barnidge, Telfer, Bibbs
LT: Thomas, Miller
LG: Bitonio
C: Erving, Huettel
RG: Greco
RT: Pasztor, FA/UDFA
WZ: Gordon, Boyd
WX: Doctson, Hartline
WY: Hawkins, Hall

Defense: 24
DE: D. Bryant, X. Cooper
NT: Shelton, Woods
DE: Hughes, Wynn
LOLB: Orchard, Mingo
SILB: Dansby, McKinzy
WILB: Kirksey, Brown
WOLB: Spence, Ochi
OC: Haden, T. Williams, Jones, Gilbert
IC: K. Williams, IEO
FS: Stewart, Poyer
SS: Whitner, Campbell

Special Teams: 5
K: FA/UDFA
P: Lee
LS: Hughlett
ST: Moore, Bademosi/Robertson

My dream scenario.(Yes I know it would never happen)

Baltimore falls in love with Jalen Ramsey and sees the next Ed Reed. They are afraid the Chargers want to replace Weddle.

We trade # 2 to Balt for #6, #36 and and 2nd rounder next year. A bargain for them on the trade chart.

Once we are on the clock, we get a call from the Rams. They are afraid they will be left out at one of the top QB's, and they offer #15, #43, and #76 for our # 6 pick. They get first choice at QB moving just ahead of San Fran.

Our draft picks
#15 Andrew Billings, DT, Baylor
#32 Josh Doctson, WR, TCU
#36 Braxton Miller, WR, Ohio State
#43 Shaq Lawson, DE, Clemson
#65 Scooby Wright, LB, Arizona
#76 Vonn Bell, S, Ohio State
4A Anthony Zettel, DE/DT, Penn State
4B Dak Prescott, QB, Mississippi State
5A Jordan Jenkins, DE/OLB, Georgia
5B Glenn Gronkowski, FB, Kansas State
5C Roberto Aguayo, K, Florida State
6 Austin Blythe, C, Iowa
7 Vernon Adams Jr, QB, Oregon

And we've have an extra 2nd round pick in 2017

Flame away.

Braxton Miller at #36 is a terrible reach pick.

After the Senior Bowl, I think he goes in the top of the second somewhere. I might be wrong, but I don't think it's a huge reach.

Thanks for the effort, steve.



Not sure how reasonable it is.........but, I sure as hell like it.

I like the draft, but I might go DB instead of Boyd and try to get Sharpe or Higgins later if we're losing Gipson.

As far as the depth chart, I think I'd be more likely to put Greco at C, Pasztor at RG and Erving at RT. Pasztor looked good pulling and I like him at Guard if we're going to be running more power. Hopefully Schwartz comes back and we can keep Erving as the swing guy.

....Who's Hall at WY? I'm drawing a blank.

They signed Rannell Hall towards the end of last season. I had a 3rd or 4th round (can't remember which) estimate for him last draft. I think he's a real good player. Had him in the same round as his teammate Perriman who went in the first to Baltimore. Hall made some insane catches at UCF and you can probably see them in YouTube if you're interested.

I also really hope they can re-sign Schwartz. Definitely my #1 free agency priority. Pasztor has starting experience at RT, which is why I put him there in the likely scenario we can't retain Mitchell.

I considered making the Boyd pick Vonn Bell when I was doing it. I'd be happy with that outcome, too, and come back and get Lucien later in the draft. But I just can't make a mock and leave Stewart on the board. I've wanted us to draft him since 2013.

Bored...and I haven't played with the Fanspeak mock drafter for awhile. They have included the compensatory picks. I intended to make no trades, but when I got to the 4-40 pick I was looking at who I wanted to draft. Aaron Green was right there, but Baby Gronk was coming up as was ILB Antonio Morrison, so I traded my 5-2 and 6-1 for Oakland's 5-4 & 5-15, but the Saints drafted Morrison at 5-13, so I took McKinzy.

I've been thinking one of the top 3 QB's will slid to #32 and Paxton did. Then when I got to the 2 5th rd comp picks, Prescott was still there so I grabbed him as a plan B. I was surprised Fuller was there at 4-1 too.

TRADE PARTNER: OAKLAND RAIDERS
SENT:
ROUND: 5 PICK: 2
ROUND: 6 PICK: 1
RECEIVED:
ROUND: 5 PICK: 4
ROUND: 5 PICK: 15

2: R1P2 DE JOEY BOSA OHIO STATE
32: R2P1 QB PAXTON LYNCH MEMPHIS
65: R3P2 OLB SU'A CRAVENS USC
100: R4P1 WR WILLIAM FULLER NOTRE DAME
139: R4P40 RB AARON GREEN TCU
143: R5P4 TE GLENN GRONKOWSKI KANSAS ST
154: R5P15 ILB CASSANOVA MCKINZY AUBURN
171: R5P32 QB DAK PRESCOTT MISSISSIPPI ST
173: R5P34 OT COLE TONER HARVARD
221: R7P2 WR NELSON SPRUCE COLORADO

Hands down a phenomenal draft...I would be elated if the draft went in our favor that way.

And...I figured those Harvard men running the show would love to draft fellow Harvard man Cole Toner for OL depth.

The No trade BPA mock

I'm going to lean a little bit on needs but I'm trying to pick BPA with every pick. I'm only going 4 rounds on this one because even that is a stretch saying who is BPA even in the 4th before the combine.

1) DeForest Buckner - It was a toss-up between Buckner and Jack, but I decided on Buckner here.

2) Josh Doctson- Lots to choose from here, but I thought Doctson would make a bigger impact.

3) Carl Nassib - I chose a bookend DE Buckner and Nassib will help both the run and pass defense.

4A) Dak Prescott - Gotta get a QB somewhere and I think he can turn into another Steve McNair

4B) Jordan Jenkins - A much needed Pass rusher at OLB

Maybe so, but at #2, I could see a number of teams willing to trade up for Tunsil or Bosa. One of the two will be there no matter what the Titans do with their pick.

That said, if we really like one of the QB's and Jackson feels like he can mold the guy, then just take him at #2...I don't care if the rankings place him at #8 or #12. I wouldn't want to trade down, then lose him. The ideal is we like 3 of the QB's and are good no matter which one we get, then sure, trade down a few slots and claim the guy we wanted is the guy we got.

Most teams are not willing to give up the assets it takes to move to #1 or #2 to pick a non-QB, maybe this year will be the exception.

I don't believe that you use a strategy on "insert name from any of the top 3 QB's here". That would be selecting the leftover at #32. To me that's most certainly the wrong way to approach it.

I believe when you draft a QB high in the draft, you have to believe he's that special talent that you need at the position.

I believe we've all seen the results of taking the best QB left at the position far too often. I'm with you. If you see that guy at #2, take him there and don't risk losing him.

If you don't see that guy, don't take a high risk of drafting someone you're not 100% sold on.

2: R1P2
QB JARED GOFF
CALIFORNIA
32: R2P1
OLB JAYLON SMITH
NOTRE DAME
65: R3P2
WR JOSH DOCTSON
TCU
100: R4P1
OLB DADI LHOMME NICOLAS
VIRGINIA TECH
139: R4P40
S KEANU NEAL
FLORIDA
141: R5P2
TE JAKE MCGEE
FLORIDA
171: R5P32
DT JAVON HARGRAVE
SOUTH CAROLINA STATE
173: R5P34
WR JALIN MARSHALL
OHIO STATE
179: R6P1
CB JAMES BRADBERRY
SAMFORD
221: R7P2
C GRAHAM GLASGOW
MICHIGAN


I wish this could happen in real life. Fanspeak has no idea what it's doing.

Or it knows exactly what it's doing because people keep going back even though they know it's crap.

QB, WR, Pass Rusher...

1. Wentz/Treadwell/Bosa
2. Cook/Doctson/Spence
3. Hackenberg/Boyd/Nassib

Did this draft on Fanspeak. It got a little wonky.

2: R1P2
QB JARED GOFF
CALIFORNIA
32: R2P1
WR JERRY RICE
MISSISSIPPI VALLEY STATE
65: R3P2
RB JIM BROWN
SYRACUSE
100: R4P1
RB BARRY SANDERS
OKLAHOMA STATE
139: R4P40
S KEANU NEAL
FLORIDA
141: R5P2
TE JAKE MCGEE
FLORIDA
171: R5P32
DT JAVON HARGRAVE
SOUTH CAROLINA STATE
173: R5P34
WR JALIN MARSHALL
OHIO STATE
179: R6P1
CB JAMES BRADBERRY
SAMFORD
221: R7P2
C GRAHAM GLASGOW
MICHIGAN

I didn't want to take two running backs, but I couldn't pass on Barry Sanders in the fourth round.

Don't the Lions still own his rights?

Sign Osweiler
Re-sign Schwartz and Gipson

1. Jalen Ramsey, CB
2. Vernon Butler, 3-4 DE
3. Kamalei Correa, 3-4 OLB
4a. Rashard Higgins, WR
4b. Leonte Carroo, WR
5a. Josh Forrest, ILB
5b. Tyler Higbee, TE
5c. Ted Karras, OG
6. AJ Stamps, S
7a. Ross Martin, K
7b. Quayvon Hicks, FB

If you are going to take a shot at a TE in the latter rounds I like JAKE MCGEE out of Florida .. Og course I have been saying that all year ! lol

McGee is a good player. I just don't know if we need to spend a pick on a TE. I think we are pretty solid there, but if he is the BPA, sure.

Thomas Duarte would be a nice target too.

BABY GRONK!!!

j/c:

Daniel Jeremiah's Mock Draft 2.0

1. Tunsil
2. Wentz
3. Ramsey
4. Jack
5. Bosa

More here:

j/c

Is Ramsey or Hargreaves worthy of someone trading up to #2 to get?

Teams don't usually trade into the top five for non-QBs.

Unless the team with the #3 pick can trick the team with the #4 pick to trade up for a running back.

That was one of two moves I counted (the Sammy Watkins trade was the other one).

Had some fun with this one.




TRADE PARTNER:
KANSAS CITY CHIEFS
SENT:
ROUND: 2 PICK: 11
RECEIVED:
ROUND: 2 PICK: 28
ROUND: 3 PICK: 28
ROUND: 4 PICK: 28
TRADE PARTNER:
MIAMI DOLPHINS
SENT:
ROUND: 1 PICK: 2
RECEIVED:
ROUND: 1 PICK: 8
ROUND: 2 PICK: 11
ROUND: 3 PICK: 10
ROUND: 4 PICK: 9

Or you can convince a stupid team to give up a 2nd round choice to trade up exactly one spot for a soldier TE that you weren't going to draft in that spot anyway.

Not in the top five.

I forgot, 6 is many miles away from 5.

Botch is still the only person in the history of time to be outsmarted by Millen the GM

Didn't the Browns also trade away the sixth pick to Atlanta when the latter drafted Julio Jones?

Yep we got a first, second, and fourth round picks that year and a first and fourth the next year.

I still think the trade was the right thing to do, but the guys that we drafted with those picks didn't pan out. Phil Taylor looked like he was everything that we thought till injuries caught up with him. Trent Richardson wound up getting us a first round pick, so I shouldn't complain there. Greg Little and Owen Marecic were wasted picks.

We got Weeden with Atlanta's 1st.

We used ours on Trent..

You know.. after trading up one spot.. again..

The trade was smart. The overall assets that resulted from it were not.

Yeah, we used one of Atlanta's picks to trade up.

I think we've made a lot of really good trades.

We just havent got crap with the return.

We had eight first round picks in five years, the players we drafted:

Phil Taylor (didn't play football last year)
Trent Richardson (didn't play football last year)
Brandon Weeden (released by a team starting Matt Cassel at QB)
Barkevious Mingo (seven sacks in three years)
Justin Gilbert (the worst pick of the bunch)
Johnny Manziel (...)
Danny Shelton (incomplete)
Cameron Erving (drafted a backup center in the first round, when he played he was bad, looks like Wimpy from Popeye)

That is a whole bunch of stink.

Man, that's amazing.

This team needs to make big to solid hits for years to catch up. Can't have any more huge mistakes. Probably can't even afford minor mistakes.

That would be great, but we all know that won't happen. We must hit paydirt on our first 3 picks though, as after that, it is pretty much a crapshoot...

http://datascopeanalytics.com/blog/the-chance-of-a-bust-in-the-nfl-draft/

whoa... what is that devil blue dot outlier pick?

Thanks, cfrs. Outstanding...

That was arch'. He is awesome...

http://datascopeanalytics.com/blog/the-chance-of-a-bust-in-the-nfl-draft/

Thanks. That's a very entertaining tidbit.

Anyone who is wondering... Tampa has 148.

More and more people are finally getting it.

I'm not certain what I want to do this year. Should I take over the Browns, or should I be President.

Why not both?

Well, you get to the White House every year...

I like having Fridays off.

But, now that I think about it, I could turn the Browns around in 2 days a week, AND turn the country around in 2 more days per week, which would give me 3 complete days off.

I'll ponder it a bit further.

But I guarantee, if I decide to do both, first, the Browns win the Superbowl, and putin would be ridden by a horse, kim jong un would take care of his people, China would forgive our loans and illegals would report to detention, immediately.

Can you Deport Steph Curry while your at it?

While I could, I wouldn't. I would simply mandate that he become the person in charge of covering for hillary's lies. He would deport himself shortly there after.

Problem solved, Cav's win the title.

Are you really Donald Trump?

No. He e-mails me for advice. He doesn't call because I won't give him my number. He doesn't listen to my advice. He's awful. I'm awesome.

Somebody compiled many of the mock drafts on the internet into one handy chart:

62.2% have us taking Goff
24.4% Wentz
8.9% Lynch
4.4% Bosa

http://www.sbnation.com/nfl-mock-draft/2...0982.1425778109

Interesting graph and read. I didn't have anything to back up my opinion but have long felt that is you can find 2 solid starters per draft, you are doing about as good as possible. The rest pretty much falls in to the luck category.

Good news. That means the Browns will probably trade down and get Spence.

I remember clevesteve and eotab having a dispute on whether or not we should take a tackle with one of our early picks. This article should help clear things up:



http://mmqb.si.com/mmqb/2016/02/24/nfl-draft-combine-offensive-tackles-history

Interesting read. Thanks

Thanks for the article. A little clarification, though... We were disputing whether or not offensive line / tackle (depending on the post) was "a safe pick" with a low bust rate probability. I also argued that we may have hit diminishing returns with our OL investments, regardless of how good the players are.

Either way, I don't want to use our first on an OT this year.

Oddly enough... here's another one.

http://www.cbssports.com/nfl/writer/pete...ts-safest-picks

PETE PRISCO
Senior NFL Columnist
Follow Pete
NFL Combine Musings: Why linemen are no longer the draft's safest picks
February 24, 2016 7:58 pm ET

INDIANAPOLIS -- Plug and play.

That's what they used to say about top offensive line talent entering the NFL Draft.

It certainly isn't that way anymore.

Even with the strong possibility that Mississippi offensive tackle Laremy Tunsil might be the top overall pick in this year's draft by the Tennessee Titans, the days of just picking a solid lineman and plugging him in on the NFL level are long a thing of the past.

NFL COMBINE
How to watch online, TV schedule, list of players
Forget plug and play. It's now pick and pray.

"All the way throughout the National Football League I think everybody is concerned about offensive line play," Seahawks general manager John Schneider said. "I think you could talk to college coaches recruiting high school kids they are concerned as well."

"Blame the college game," another AFC general manager said.

That's part of the problem. Lack of practice time and on-field work with limits by the new CBA are another reason.

But since this is NFL Scouting Combine week here in Indianapolis, let's focus on the first part of it: The dreaded spread.

Colleges love it, and a lot of teams use it, but it makes evaluating offensive linemen tough to do. For starters, some teams don't have their linemen put their hands on the ground, which makes transitioning to the NFL run-blocking ways tough to do.

Tunsil excels as a pass protector, but he admitted the run game is what he needs to improve on for the next level.

"I've got to get a little bit heavier in the lower body, man," he said Wednesday.

Notre Dame's Ronnie Stanley, considered by many as the second-best lineman in this class, isn't a great run blocker either.

"He's a little soft," one scout said.

It used to be players came out of the college game strong in the run game, but lacking in pass protection. Now it has flipped some, but even talented pass blockers have struggled in the NFL.

Look at some of the recent top draft picks, players like Jacksonville's Luke Joeckel, Kansas City's Eric Fisher and a handful of others. There are no future Hall of Fame players in the group.

Can Tunsil change that?

He talks a big game.


Laremy Tunsil admits he needs to improve his run blocking. (USATSI)
"I think I have the great feet, the great frame," he said. "I just think I'm the best. You've got to have that swagger about yourself. You've got to be confident. Everywhere you go you've got to have that confidence."

Put in the Super Bowl 50 tape and you will see the four offensive tackles in the game being overwhelmed by the opposition. It's the reason Denver beat Carolina. The Panthers tackles simply couldn't hold up.

Around the league, that's a constant issue. The offensive line play in 2015 was, well, offensive.

Cody Whitehair is a player some scouts are projecting could be a first-round pick as a guard. But he played tackle as well in college at Kansas State. When he was a tackle, he didn't put his hand down in the ground. At guard, he did.

"I feel like I can make the transition [to the NFL]" Whitehair said.

I asked him if was easier to run block with his hand on the ground.

"Coming out of a three-point you stay lower," he said. "It's easier to get underneath the guy."

Players coming out of pro-style offenses have an advantage. Iowa center Austin Blythe played for coach Kirk Ferentz, who is a former NFL line coach. He teaches the NFL way.


One NFL GM called Ronnie Stanley 'a little soft.' (USATSI)
"They want to run the ball first and foremost," Blythe said.

The same is true at Alabama, where Nick Saban runs a pro-style offense.

"Coming from a pro-style offense ultimately helps in going to the next level," Alabama center Ryan Kelly said.

It helps, and it makes the evaluation process a lot easier for scouts and coaches. But it's no definite, that's for sure.

Unless something changes drastically, expect to see the turnstile line play again next season in the NFL.

Quarterbacks might want to get some added down time this offseason.

The college spread has probably made a lot of positional evaluations tougher.
I see Run Blocking being the problem...very teachable but then comes in the CBA and for OL the true teach is with HITTING. They lose out more than any other position. OL Coach is going to become one of the most important hires in Football.

But the SKILL set for OT that separates them is in their Pass Blocking skills. Run blocking is so much a state of mind. Technique is not difficult, movement with a consistent Base.

If I'm looking for interior I'd take a look at a lot of the NFL Base Offenses or the rare Run O's like Georgia Tech. If there is a stud there. It might be easier to teach Pass blocking now a days without pads.

Interesting view - thanks for sharing. Don't know if its takes that much evaluation - I think the need has had teams reaching for those who have the specs to be solid at OT but not the football. But QB, TE, WR & OL lots of increased transition into NFL pretty much RB and vision w/pass catching skills has changed the least. Next for me might be WRs cause lets face it - They don't hit much - touch football stuff, run routes and catch passes.

jmho

I am not trying to be argumentative, but I disagree w/that statement. My teams ran a ZBS and technique was huge in the running game.

Just since you mentioned it, last year they had a guy, Shaq Mason, who ended up getting drafted in like the 6th by NE. He played in several games for them I think this year and started in three. The odd thing about Georgia Tech's line I saw is they cut ALL THE TIME. It was actually making me mad. He's a good player, but that crap just ticks me off. I'm sure many will disagree, and are certainly within their rights, but I think cut blocking should be illegal, not just chop blocking.

I doubt you remember but I might have pimped 3 players in last years draft. Shaq Mason was one of them. I wanted us to you one of our MANY 4th-5th round picks we had amassed. Rather than Erving, I wanted actually J'lel Collins for RT/OG and thought we could have Groomed Shaq Mason for Center in anticipation of losing Mack (not Erving) But I really got high on him during the Senior Bowl practices as DTs were a strength and he was winning all the battles. Even pass blocking Oh he didn't have the ideal height and/or arm length and came from a run college team. Liked what I saw.

The news on Jaylon Smith's medicals are coming out and they are not good.



https://twitter.com/RapSheet/status/703346089454411777

That has got to knock him out of the first two rounds, right?

That could knock him to the 7th.

Just look at whatshisname that we picked up last year who would have been an upper first round talent, if healthy.

"Nerve issues" heh. I wonder if he'll last to our first comp pick...

I am always for taking these guys in the mid to late rounds and hoping they rebound.

Good thought. It's a comp pick, so why not?

Nerve damage in knee and ankle? Someone asked about him dropping out of the 1st two rounds. I would think so. I would think he drops quite a bit. Not as far as IFO, someone will take a mid-round flyer on him.

Came across this pretty cool site:

http://www.mockdraftable.com/players/2016/

It uses the measurements and workout times of players to show who they compare to historically at their positions.

For example, here is Ezekiel Elliott (http://www.mockdraftable.com/player/5632/). His closest physical match is Todd Gurley.

Jags didn't get their other DE in FA and signed Tashaun Gipson to play FS:

2) traded to JAX for #5 and #38
5) Laquon Treadwell, WR Ole Miss
32) Josh Doctson, WR TCU
38) Vonn Bell, FS Ohio State
59) Dak Prescott, QB Miss St (get ahead of Denver)
65) traded to KC for #59 with #139 -- KC lost round 3 pick today due to tampering
99) Victor Ochi, OLB Stony Brook
137) Cyrus Jones, CB Alabama (4th round comp pick for Buster)
176) Caleb Benenoch, OT UCLA (5th round comp pick for Sheard)
178) Alex McCalister, OLB Florida
182) Trevon Stewart, FS Houston (5th round comp pick for Hoyer)
220) Mitch Smothers, C Arkansas

QB: McCown, Prescott, Bercovici
RB: Crowell, Johnson, UDFA/FA
FB: UDFA/FA
LT: Thomas, Miller
LG: Bitonio
C: Erving, Smothers
RG: Greco
RT: Pasztor, Benenoch
TE: Barnidge, Telfer, Bibbs
WR-X: Gordon, Doctson
WR-Z: Treadwell, Hartline
WR-Y: Hawkins

LE: D. Bryant, D. Wynn
NT: Shelton, Meder
RE: Hughes, Cooper
LOLB: Orchard, McCalister
SILB: Dansby, Carder
WILB: Kirksey, ??
ROLB: Ochi, Mingo
CB: Haden, Jones
CB: T. Williams, Gilbert
NB: K. Williams, IEO
FS: Bell, Stewart
SS: Whitner, Campbell

So, who's coming out in 2017? We should be able to start negotiating with our favorite guy now.

So you think Kruger gets cut?

I don't know if he does... there's still room for him on the roster but a mock is a mix of what you would do and what you think will happen...

Personally, I would. For all the bitching and moaning he did last year about dropping into coverage, he was still primarily rushing the passer on the money down and didn't get the job done. I was watching him specifically the first half the season on 3rd down because he was who I hoped would get to the QB but he was worthless. I'd rather develop the young guys at this point.

JMO.

Couldn't agree more. Yes, he dropped back in coverage more but still was rushing the passer all the time. The interesting thing about his contract is, if cut, cost us $2.4M in dead money but saves us $5.3M. I guess this would be more relevant if we were looking to re-sign more of our own guys or play a more substantive role in FA, but yeah, if you draft a young guy to play alongside Orchard, what's the point in keeping him?

I could live with that draft clevesteve.

Roster looks OK, something to build off of and we could grab a QB the following year I guess.

Steve,

What if we were able to pull that same trade and pulled:

Miles Jack at #5
Doctson at #32
Bell at #38

Or out of necessity we might have to take Spriggs at #32

I wouldn't be opposed to it. I like Spriggs, but I think he goes top 20. Last 3-round mock I did I had him going early 20s.

I'm actually not as high on Jack as most people. I wouldn't hate it, but I kinda feel like if we take Doctson to be our lead guy it's putting him in not the best position... I think he could be a top-end complementary wide receiver, like on the level of Emmanuel Sanders, but you need to have that top guy to let him play one-on-one I think.

*I am not saying his skillset is similar to Sanders, but I think he could have similar productivity when he is able to play off a big guy that demands a double team. And that is worth a 2nd I think. It would help out whatever QB we bring in, too.*

Our line depth took a hit, but I'm not sure we need to draft a starter. I think we'd be okay with Thomas, Pasztor, Erving, Greco, and Bitonio from left to right. Erving could be a weak spot, but that's where we drafted him to play. Could alternatively try Thomas, Bitonio, Greco, Pasztor, Erving, and I might actually be leaning toward this one.

I'm not sure how much interest we'll get at #2 overall, but I think that top of the 2nd round pick could draw some interest.

I'm still thinking Wentz, Pass Rusher (Depends on who is there, Correa/Fackrell/Dodd/Spence), Receivers (Boyd/Higgins/Sharpe), ILB (How far does Smith fall/Perry/Forrest), Safety (Davis, Kindred, I'd have to look at safeties more), Maybe Haeg as a swing lineman and to make sure Wentz is "comfortable", then BPA with an eye on a bigger back and the trenches.

I think Doctson might (will probably) go in the 1st now.

I'm glad you said it first. You know I'm not an evaluator but I did watch one game that focused on him and I saw a guy who was always around the ball but actually made few plays. I'm not so sure he's an impact guy. He seem really good in coverage but otherwise I don't see a dominant player. Of course, that was only one game.

Yeah, probably.. I had been surprised he was ever not considered a first rounder.

A late round flyer for the Browns? He's a bit undersized, and he needs to add strength to play C in the NFL, but he's a Matthews. It almost seems like there's a Matthews in the draft every year, and this year's Matthews is 6-2, 290 lb Center from Texas A&M. He's HOF OL Bruce Matthews' son and of course, Clay is his uncle. Seems to me we need a C, or else a good understudy to whoever starts at C this year.


Mike Matthews, C, Texas A&M

Height: 6-2. Weight: 290.
Projected 40 Time: 5.02.
Projected Round (2016): 7-FA.
3/5/16: Matthews was solid overall in 2015, but he needs to get stronger and be more physical in order to pan out in the NFL. He didn't participate in an all-star game or the combine.

8/15/15: Matthews had an excellent start to the 2014 season against South Carolina. He was a good run-blocker and effective in pass protection. The only games that Matthews underwhelmed in were against Mississippi State and Alabama. The junior was generally very steady for the Aggies.

Matthews took over at center in 2013 and had a quality season. He needs to add more strength for the NFL, which would help improve his effectiveness in the ground game. Matthews could become a solid starter and looks like a nice fit for a zone-blocking scheme.

Matthews is the son of NFL Hall of Fame offensive lineman Bruce Matthews. Older brother Jake Matthews was Texas A&M's top lineman for a few years and the seventh-overall pick to the Atlanta Falcons in the 2014 NFL Draft. Another older brother, Kevin Matthews, was a 2-year starter at center for the Aggies (2008-2009).


Read more at http://walterfootball.com/draft2016C.php#rk2EPdTOAgVu1V0I.99


More from NFL.com ...

Mike Matthews, C, Texas A&M

At 6-foot-2, 285 pounds, Matthews does not have the height and length of his father, Pro Football Hall of Famer Bruce Matthews, or his brothers Jake (the sixth overall pick in the 2014 draft) and Kevin (former Aggies center). Nor is he an elite athlete like his Pro Bowl linebacker cousin, Clay. But he has the family gene for football toughness and intelligence, a strong anchor, and nimbleness in tight spaces, which is most crucial for the center position. Some NFL teams won't have interest in him because of his lack of size, but another squad will find a reliable starter.


http://www.nfl.com/news/story/0ap3000000496307/article/top-senior-prospects-for-2016-draft-top-80

Check out some clips of Alex Collins and Brandon Allen and watch their center, Mitch Smothers. Would much rather have him on the squad if we're talking late round SEC C. JMO.

Round 1 Pick 12 (N.O.): Laquon Treadwell, WR, Ole Miss
Round 2 Pick 1: Derrick Henry, RB, Alabama
Round 2 Pick 16 (N.O.): Noah Spence, DE, Eastern Kentucky
Round 3 Pick 2: Christian Hackenberg, QB, Penn State
Round 4 Pick 1: Bronson Kaufusi, DE/OLB, Brigham Young
Round 4 Pick 40 (COMP): Scooby Wright III, ILB, Arizona
Round 5 Pick 2: Jihad Ward, DE, Illinois
Round 5 Pick 33 (COMP): Ben Braunecker, TE, Harvard
Round 5 Pick 34 (COMP): Denver Kirkland, OG/OT, Arkansas
Round 6 Pick 1: Tyvis Powell, FS, Ohio State
Round 7 Pick 2: Demarcus Robinson, WR, Florida

Your Future Picks:
2017 Round 1 Pick
2017 Round 1 Pick (N.O.)
2018 Round 1 Pick

We need to invest early in defense. Love the Kaufusi pick. He is a beast, and I think would do well as a 3-4 DE. Hate the Hackenberg pick. If we don't get a QB in the first, only other QB worth taking is Cardale. and maybe Prescott.

Does it really matter what we invest in? Do you really think Haslam and Sashi are going to re-sign anyone that is good enough to ask for decent money?

They are con men and taking folks for a ride.

If somebody actually believed this, then why would they continue to root for a that team?

(This is a serious question.)

I am not rooting for them. Serious answer.

So why talk about them all the time?

It seems like a waste of time to discuss a team you don't root for at the length you do.

Are you trying to convince other people not to root for the team? If so, aren't there other, more worthy, causes that you should be trying to convince people of?

Like not finishing sentences with a preposition?

What worthy causes are you pursuing w/this line of questioning?

The Browns will always be my team. I simply am not going to support this organization as it is currently structured.

I was a Brown's fan long before Jimmy and Sashi got here and God willing, I will be a Brown's fan after they are gone.

The Browns need to change their direction. I am not going to support:

--changing regimes every couple of years

--more interest in marketing ideas than winning

--grandiose talk of new plans that rapidly disintegrate into the cold throes of reality

--talking about building through the draft and then not retaining your draft choices

--constantly having to many "cooks in the kitchen" that limits productivity

--losing season after losing season while appeasing the fan base by firing people and selling the next great plan

Some things will always be a part of one's life, but they aren't going to get accolades and approval by exhibiting undesirable characteristics.

It's like having a relative who is behaving badly. Drinking, drug use, trouble w/the law, unemployed, etc. They will always be a part of your family and you will help them if they are willing to help themselves, but you certainly don't approve or condone their actions.

Enabling such actions only helps them to continue.

So you don't root for the team, you just follow it around a poke it with a stick?

It really sounds like you still root for the team, you just don't support the decisions being made.

Sometimes refusing to support stupidity makes you more loyal to the success of your team than just accepting every foolish thing they do. When people continue to make excuses and just say, "Oh well", they are part of the problem, not part of a solution.

J/C
I debated where to put this post. Either here or the "It's not the Titans its the Browns" thread.

I completely reject the idea that as things stand now taking a QB #2 overall is in the best interest of the team.

Instead I offer a possible scenario that attempts to be realistic about draft position. This scenario has the team staying at #2 but making a calculated trade at #32.

The First Pick Draft Simulator produced bigger returns for the #32 pick than I show here but I wanted to be somewhat conservative. I also concede that with the #32 trade down Dodd would be a unexpected gem. Feel free to place Johnathan Bullard, DE, Florida in that spot. I would be very happy with that substitution.

Round 1 Pick 2: Myles Jack, OLB/ILB, UCLA (A+)
Round 2 Pick 12 (L.A.): Kevin Dodd, DE, Clemson (A)
Round 3 Pick 2: Cardale Jones, QB, Ohio State (D+)
Round 3 Pick 13 (L.A.): Cyrus Jones, CB, Alabama (B+)
Round 4 Pick 1: Scooby Wright III, ILB, Arizona (C+)
Round 4 Pick 40 (COMP): DeAndre Houston-Carson, FS, William & Mary (B)
Round 5 Pick 2: Malcolm Mitchell, WR, Georgia (A)
Round 5 Pick 33 (COMP): Charone Peake, WR, Clemson (A+)
Round 5 Pick 34 (COMP): Willie Henry, DT, Michigan (A-)
Round 6 Pick 1: David Morgan II, TE, Texas-San Antonio (C+)
Round 7 Pick 2: Antwione Williams, OLB, Georgia Southern (C+)

In this hypothetical we only get one additional pick, that being the third round, #13. It's possible we could get more in return for the #32.

2016 Browns Mock:

(1-2), QB Carson Wentz
(2-32), WR Cory Coleman
(3-65), OLB Jaylon Smith(IR)
(4-99), ILB Scooby Wright
(4-138), OT Willie Beavers
(5-141), TE Ben Braunecker
(5-172), DL Willie Henry
(5-173), FS Tyvis Powell
(6-176), CB Daryl Worley
(7-233), K Ka'imi Fairbairn

FL is back, everybody!

Never left Steve, just cant log on my phone (java)

You guys ever been to this site: http://first-pick.com/ ?

Some of their ranking are off base, but its fun

Not sure about that site, but definitely similar ones.

Got this one using the Composite Rankings on Fanspeak's on the clock. http://fanspeak.com/ontheclock

2: R1P2
QB CARSON WENTZ
NORTH DAKOTA STATE

32: R2P1
DE EMMANUEL OGBAH
OKLAHOMA STATE

65: R3P2
ILB JOSHUA PERRY
OHIO STATE

100: R4P1
S SEAN DAVIS
MARYLAND

139: R4P40
TE TYLER HIGBEE
WESTERN KENTUCKY

142: R5P2
WR MALCOLM MITCHELL
GEORGIA

173: R5P33
WR KEYARRIS GARRETT
TULSA

174: R5P34
C ISAAC SEUMALO
OREGON STATE

177: R6P1
DT ANTHONY ZETTEL
PENN STATE

224: R7P2
S DERRICK KINDRED
TCU

I'd try to pick up Curt Maggitt, OLB, Tennessee and Kalan Reed, CB, Southern Mississippi as UFAs. Maybe Chase Farris, OL, Ohio State, too.

Myles Jack isn't going to run a forty. I don't think it will affect his draft stock.

If we don't draft a QB we should take Jack and fill five different holes.

We would finally fix our draft problem.

Every draft, we don't get Jack!

j/c:

I'm beginning to think that Jalen Ramsey might be the guy the Browns draft.

Barring a trade, the choices seem to be Ramsey, Tunsil, or a QB of your choice. Any one would be OK by me (if that matters...lol) as our needs coincide with BPA.

Tunsil?

So, people would be okay w/letting Schwartz walk and then spending the number 2 overall pick on an OT?

I liked your draft, but like mine it lacks a premium selection on the OL. Loved these picks: Manny Ogbah, Perry (remind me of Carlos Dansby), Sean Davis and Michael Thomas

2: R1P2
DE DEFOREST BUCKNER
OREGON

32: R2P1
QB PAXTON LYNCH
MEMPHIS

65: R3P2
WR WILL FULLER
NOTRE DAME

99: R4P1
WR RASHARD HIGGINS
COLORADO STATE

138: R4P40
RB CJ PROSISE
NOTRE DAME

141: R5P2
S K.J. DILLON
WEST VIRGINIA

172: R5P33
OT SPENCER DRANGO
BAYLOR

173: R5P34
C COLE TONER
HARVARD

176: R6P1
TE THOMAS DUARTE
UCLA

223: R7P2
WR MICHAEL THOMAS
SOUTHERN MISS

I managed to get Durango in the 5th (even though I think he'll be selected higher).

I did get my highest rated QB in the draft in round 2. I would put money on Paxton going in the 1st.

Got a bunch of WRs, because they kept popping up at value positions in their draft. I really like the Michael Thomas pick, underrated prospect that I doubt last til the 7th round. I think Rashard Higgins is a plug and play WR in this offense because of the prostyle-wco system he played in at Colorado State. Not the biggest fan of Fuller, but in the 3rd round its value even if he's not a complete WR he's a legit deep threat.

KJ Dillon is one of my favorite S prospects, I think he's steal in the 5th.

I truthfully don't know much about the C and TE I drafted but they were in the BPA range at the time.

I'm just going to ignore the "letting him walk" part, because its not true, you know its not true, and just continue to say it anyways..

Schwartz is gone. It sucks, but if Tunsil grades out better than everyone else, and they don't believe enough in the guys we have, or a guy we could get later.. then take him..

Denver "let" a bunch of players "walk" and will most likely fill their spot with a rookie.. Baltimore does it every year..

I don't understand this need to continually harp on the same thing over and over, it cant be changed.. we have to move on from it and try to get better.

Wouldn't be my 1st choice, but if Ramsey is gone and Hue isn't sold on a QB, He's probably BPA.

JT is not going to play forever, and after the recent exodus most likely won't re-sign or extend here unless things have changed a lot for the better.

I'd prefer a trade down at that point, but if we can't, I might go Tunsil.

I don't think there is any logic going around like that. Schwartz is gone. letting or him going on his own really is irrelevant.

Getting Tunsil cause he is the BPA possibly at #2 is a wise move. He is a "MAJOR" upgrade on Schwartz. He would be a possible seamless transition to LT when Joe T hangs up the cleats. Be content and agree it is a good move if we make it. Has nothing to do with wanting Schwartz gone. It coming close to draft time and Schwartz for whatever reason is gone.

For whoever is slamming Vers regarding his loyalty to the Browns. Right now he is on my crap list and probably vice versa...But that is not right describing him as a traitor or something. Vers has said that probably every Regime change we have...as he is disgusted like all of us regarding another Reboot. He gets frustrated and disgusted and says at some time in emotional moment he's leaving the team.

And yet he is here...every year. He goes to the games Every year. He roots his heart out every game. While others are giving up. So he's a lot of things possibly to different people...but Not a Browns' fan cannot be one of them.

Argue debate him on something else...that route is a Dead End and you all will not look good.

jmho

You say you are going to ignore it and then talk about it.

How do you know what is true and what is not? Were you part of the negotiating team?

Stop telling me what to think. You have zero credibility w/me.

Mock draft (without trades).

Round #1 - Carson Wentz QB -- North Dakota State
Round #2 - Will Fuller WR -- Notre Dame
Round #3 - Kamalel Correa OLB/DE -- Boise State
Round #4 - Kyle Murphy RT -- Stanford
Round #4 - Keith Marshall RB -- Georgia
Round #5 - Max Tuerek C/G -- USC
Round #5 - Justin Simmons FS -- Boston College
Round #5 - Blake Martinez ILB -- Stanford
Round #6 - Jalen Marshall WR/KR -- Ohio State
Round #7 - Jordan Walsh OG -- Iowa

We spent a #3 on Joe in 2007. Why not draft his successor who can play RT before transitioning to LT? Tunsil deserves mentioning in the top three picks, IMO. He may go #1 to the Titans...

I get that. However, I think the Browns should have just kept Schwartz.

This team is full of needs. They created more needs when they allowed good, young players to walk. Now, you wanna use the number 2 overall pick on a position that was a strength?

That can't be what analytics is about, can it?

J/C

I think a lot of the reasoning used in this article is sound. At the end when it narrows the selection down to two players I would choose the other player. As we all know there are a ton of wholes to address. I think Jack playing closer to the LOS and Horton's past statements that pressure is more critical in his D than coverage would tip the scale toward Jack.

Link

Thanks for the article.

I prefer Ramsey over Jack.

I think Jack is a 3-4 ILBer or a 4-3 WLBer. I don't think he will be a big sack guy. I think he will be used more in coverage. He's a good player, but I think Ramsey is much more dynamic.

I get that you don't want a QB at #2, nor Tunsil as a RT. I don't recall seeing you state who you want at #2 - do you have a favorite candidate for that spot?

It's an ongoing process. I am still not sure.

I think I would prefer to trade down and acquire more picks. If not, I think the smart pick is Ramsey.

I want to keep an open mind and not get tied into one player. That's dangerous.......

Would Jack play closer to the line of scrimmage? I've seen several projections of him as a SS recently.

I think coverage is Jack's best asset. His pass rushing is somewhat of a question mark.

The playing both ways ability is somewhat intriguing. Hue does like bigger backs.

I wish there was more tape of Jack pass rushing.

j/c

Anybody got a medical update on Jaylon Smith, LB?

More fluff than news, but this is from today anyway.

http://www.mlive.com/irish/2016/03/notre_dame_defensive_coordinat.html

Jack is a huge sack guy. He just doesn't get to the QB. Huge sack though.

Ah, repartee that you can't find anywhere but Dawgtalkers.

I think Ramsey is a fine player. I also think the safety crop is pretty deep.

I think Jack can impact the front seven and the secondary. His run fits provide the defense with a dimension we don't have. He neutralizes TE mismatches. I think he can rush the passer from unexpected positions. I think his range and versatility will help reduce third down conversions.

Jack is my second favorite player in the draft. His versatility is huge in today's NFL.

Join the Ramsey bandwagon!

Thought I would put together some highlights of some of the pass rushers in an article that I saw...so minus the article here is the top five pass rushers in that article...sorry it's late and I'm bored have more fun watching than typing about these guys...I like Lawson and Bosa the best so far. But Ogbah I find interesting.

article I got this from is here

http://www.neosportsinsiders.com/nfl-draft-pass-rushing-prospects-plenty-browns-need-take-one/6/

Sure. Allows us to have Joes replacement in house.

Not saying that is what I want....I do like Ramsey. I'd take him

Wouldn't Tunsil be an upgrade? I do prefer Ramsey as well or Bosa

Love Ogbah, can't understand why most draft media have Spence ahead of him. Bigger, Faster, better production.

Jack..played in the Pac 12 where they all were in these spread offenses with many WRs...UCLA had to play NICKEL defense most of the time. Jack was so athletic that he was like an extra DB in coverage.

He is one of the most athletic LBs in several drafts. Usually they come as one trick ponies with great Sack stats in college but they have to be relied on several things including coverage. He has explosion he can keep the shoulder close to the ground. I know many rely on "STATS" alone but if you watch the games you will see they drop him in the middles as they are in Nickel D.

What nobody - nobody has mentioned is how well he controls OL when they come at him he actually bullies them and throws them aside when the time comes. One of the best I've seen from a college LB coming into the pros.
Myles Jack will be a star.
jmho

My top 5:

Tunsil, Buckner, Ramsey, Jack, Elliott (although I don't think he goes top 5)

I do remember you being the first guy pimping Ramsey. Good call.

I didn't mention it because I don't think it's accurate. In fact, that is one of his weaknesses. I can post a few online scouting reports that support my opinions, but they will probably just be ridiculed because they agree more w/my line of thinking and less w/the way you guys see him.

But, if you would like to see them to help the educational process, I will be glad to post them. I just don't want to waste my time finding them when they will be automatically dismissed because opinions are more important than knowledge.

Oh, and I am not saying that Jack isn't a good player. I think he is a fine player and should have a long career in the NFL, provided he is healthy. Not running the 40 is a bit of a concern......He is a very versatile player that will help the defense. I don't think he'll be a big-time sack guy or a huge impact player.

Let me know if you want to at least look at the reports.

He looked stiff on film. He tested better in the agility stuff than I expected. I don't know where he trained for the combine, but they did a good job. If it translates back onto the field, he could be a good one.

I don't read on line scouting reports I just look at film when I can.

I saw what Vers saw with Jack. I'm not interested in using our first rounder on him. It's not just positional value. If Jaylon Smith hadn't been injured I would definitely consider him for our selection.

Maybe he does look stiff in comparison to Spence; but is that enough to offset being more productive, bigger and faster (and cleaner off the field). Hand to fire I think Ogbah is a first round edge rusher.

I would not draft any defender from the Big 12 Conference just sayin' ... JMO

I was going to post a rebuttal to this, but since A&M and Missou left the conference the only one that's been worth a damn so far is Verrett.

They just don't put much stock in Defense, I'm not saying there aren't individuals that have some talent but with all there emphasis on the Offense I just don't see how they are ready to play in the NFL at least not right away ... JMHO

What if Jack is the next Luke Kuechly?

If I thought he was I'd be all for it. I don't think he is. I might be wrong but I don't think he's that level of player.

I was mainly commenting on the part about positional value. If a guy is a stud, then it doesn't matter where you draft him.

well yeah, that's why I said I would have considered a healthy Jaylon Smith.

Educating oneself is not a bad thing.

I all for educating myself on football...but thanks for another dig

I just trust my eyes over articles or Amateur scouting reports from guys who have to make 300 of them.

I use to read a lot of reports...but found that too many of them were just regurgitated from another report...too many wee just way off once they hit the NFL.

So as stated if I can actually watch some film and not highlight but the game. I form my opinion. If I could not see anything then its a lot of reports to read as a 2nd best.

Just what I prefer to do over the years.

I would take you looking at 6 game films of a player over a report from these so called experts.

Jmho on the draft.

It's a tool.

For example:

--if I see a player during a game that I like, I will then research what others have to say about him.

or....

--I check the reviews on the top rated players across several sites, than I watch as much as I can of those players.

Name calling.

ok
In draft past...I had a lot of time to do those things.

Actually you were the one who didn't have the time...lol

I just watch some film and trust my eyes. Not much time to corroborate just too many drafts where we didn't come close to my wants...and our NON-SUCCESS has me less interested in the draft as before. Don't know if its the age? The fact my sons no longer live with me Or tired of us picking guys I really don't wish and having to support them after we do.

I maybe rather not know they suck...lol

jmho - I have a good eye.

Not directed specifically at you EO, we happen to have a similar assessment of Jack.

Although most posters have their preferred prospects I think it's important to have an open mind. So I thought about Ramsey, and I did a First Pick mock taking Ramsey #2 overall.

Ramsey is a legitimate first round candidate for the Browns. If you consider Haden will be out indefinitely you have to ask yourself how the team can adjust.As a rookei Ramsey's talent is such that I would be comfortable starting him in place of Haden. It's difficult to identify anyone currently on the team I'm willing to say the same thing about. The team is already suspect on the other side at the #2 CB. So the need at CB is dire. If and when Joe comes back you can pair Ramsey with him for a nice CB tandem or move Ramsey to Free where he's likely to play long term and the Browns need a solution as well.

There are other OLB/DE/pass rush options that could be available in this draft if the team decides to pursue them. I'm not saying they offer the defense the same skills as Jack who I continue to view as a special player.

Along with everything else Jack does he can defeat blocks.

Vers if you have evidence to the contrary, I want to see it.