MOCK DRAFT!!!

Ok boys and girls, first and foremost, Big Snack would like to thank his lil brother Pizzy for sending this to me. He actually spent an entire Monday afternoon making this, and I'm not gonna lie - it's pretty good, at least I think.

So without further ado, here goes...

This mock draft has lineman slipping farther than they probably will, but I went with the idea of finding the teams' biggest need and trying to address it. I also do not believe we will see anything like last year where linemen went off the board in record time. 1. Lions- Matthew Stafford (QB Georgia) – He has the arm strength needed to be a franchise QB with above average accuracy. Durability is not a question with him; he never missed a college start due to injury. His problems are that he hasn’t won the big game, he’s inconsistent at times, and never got a chance to call any plays based on his opponents' defense. All in all he’s a tough kid that will take a year or two to develop, but well worth the first overall pick for a team in need of EVERYTHING.

2. Rams- Eugene Monroe (OT Virginia) – He is the most polished tackle in this years draft with exceptional feet for a man-child his size (6’5 ½”). He’s a master pass blocker due to his quick feet and finesse nature. Needs to add bulk to become a better run blocker. Had some injury problems early in his career, but it seems to be a thing of the past. Rams need help on their offensive line more so than any other position and with this pick they should have a solid LT for a while.

3. Chiefs- Aaron Curry (LB Wake Forest) – Has all the physical tools needed to be a star in the NFL and with a new GM in charge, it would be wise to invest in a defensive player since they seem to have a quality tackle in Brandon Albert. Curry is the best defensive player in this draft and they Chiefs need all the help they can get. He's the most NFL ready LB at either position and has produced at a consistently high level in his 3 years as a starter. Never missed a game due to injury. Matthew Stafford would be their ideal pick, but in this mock draft he is gone.

4. Seahawks- Jason Smith (OT Baylor) – He has great speed for a tackle in the NFL since he used to be a TE. He's very aggressive and needs to continue to improve his technique to become a Pro-Bowl type player. Teams love his upside and long arms, but he doesn’t dominate in any one characteristic. He missed a handful of games last year due to injury. Crabtree is an option here, but I don’t see them using a pick this high to get anything but the offensive lineman of their choice.

5. Browns- Malcolm Jenkins (CB Ohio State) – Jenkins is a hard-nosed CB that has exceptional intangibles. He has good speed and size for an NFL CB and has shown throughout his career that he is up to any challenge. He had a few injuries in 05, but since then has been on the field constantly. He's very talented at any secondary position and may actually be better suited to be a safety. The Browns secondary is terrible and this pick would solidify the opposite CB of McDonald.

6. Bengals- B.J. Raji (DT Boston College) – After last season's near miss with Sedrick Ellis going to the Saints, I don’t see them passing up the one legit DT in this draft. They have Peko and need help on their offensive line, but their biggest concern is to keep improving their defense, which continually got better as the year went on. Raji has character issues so he should fit in perfectly in Cincinnati. Seriously though, he is a strong run stopper who would anchor a line in need of some stability.

7. Raiders- Michael Crabtree (WR Texas Tech) – The best talent at any position in the 09 draft, he has the size, strength, and speed needed to be a dominant force in the NFL (think Larry Fitzgerald). With Al Davis in charge in Oakland I would never expect him to pass up the most physically talented player. The Raiders need help on offense even with two top 5 draft picks at QB and RB. WR is a need and Crabtree is the most accomplished receiver to enter the draft in a while, seeing as he only played two years at Texas Tech and had 40 career receiving touchdowns. You don’t have to be a genius to tell he has talent and could change the Raiders offense from being OK to an actual threat.

8. Jaguars- Chris Wells (RB Ohio State) – With the release of Fred Taylor comes the new era of Maurice Jones Drew and “Beanie” Wells. He has the size, power, speed, and vision to be an elite player in the NFL. He has suspect receiving skills at best, but Jones Drew would be their 3rd down back. They need help on the offensive line, but with a draft that is deep at O-Linemen, it's not a must have in round 1. Instead, they can pick a player that could hopefully do what Jonathan Stewart did last year for the Panthers. He has injury problems, but his skills are too great to pass up. Don’t be surprised if they trade back in to the first round later to get a lineman that they targeted.

9. Packers- Vontae Davis (CB Illinois) – He is the younger brother of Vernon Davis, TE for 49ers, and has the prototypical body and speed of a CB in the NFL. He can tackle as well as change direction very fluidly. Character is a problem, but with two aging CB’s in Green Bay they know it’s time to get a future starter and with his potential, it’s a simple pick. Durability has never been an issue with him.

10. 49ers- Mark Sanchez (QB USC) – He came out a year early, but he has potential through the roof. He only started one year at USC and only has adequate height for the position, but he does, however, have a very quick release that is very important in the NFL, especially if you play for the 49ers. They could go with an offensive lineman here, but the chance to grab a franchise QB to forget about Alex Smith is just too tempting to pass up.

11. Bills- Rey Maualuga (MLB USC) – He is a scary man with the best natural instincts at any position in the draft. He takes great angles to tackle the ball carrier and uses his hips well. He has great size, strength, and speed to play MLB and Posluszny has the skills to move outside. The Bills have a strong secondary and an offense with potential so all they need is a front seven to fear and Maualuga definitely accomplishes that right away.

12. Broncos- Knowshon Moreno (RB Georgia) – He is a reckless runner who has average size and speed for the position. He has durability issues as well , but he is the second best RB for a reason. He has produced in his two years at Georgia and is a great competitor. He is willing to do whatever is asked of him and he leads by example. With a new coach running Denver, the GM may realize that the running game that Shanahan has produced in the past was due to the system and not the players. After realizing that, the pick seems obvious because last year they got a lineman and receiver to help the offense with a good, young QB. Their defense is terrible, but their mindset doesn’t have to be defense first. Josh McDaniels will improve their already potent pass offense with his scheme and with a back like Moreno in the back their defense may never see the field again.

13. Redskins- Michael Oher (OT Ole Miss) – He is a well-proportioned tackle with great durability. He is a beast at run blocking and is very good at pass blocking. The Redskins are very old at the tackle position and having a tackle of this caliber slip to them at the 13th pick may be a very lucky sign for the Skins. Zorn is a pass first type of coach and Oher is much better then Andre Smith at pass protection. He also has a mean steak in him that could fully come out as he becomes more comfortable and dominant at the NFL level.

14. Saints- Aaron Maybin (DE/LB Penn State) - They need secondary help and the top two prospects are off the board so they are forced to either trade down or select a defensive front seven guy to help them. With this being the case, I see them actually trading, but for the sake of a mock draft I will say they choose Maybin just because he is versatile and has a nack for making big plays.

15. Texans- Andre Smith (OT Alabama) – He is the top run blocker coming out of college in years, but he doesn’t have the speed needed to stop faster DE/OLB from getting the corner. He is massive and has produced against strong competition in college, but he makes too many physical mistakes to be a top five pick like many other mockers are saying. The Texans have the luxury of having Duane Brown, their first rounder from last year, already playing LT and protecting Schaub’s blindside. With this addition their tackles are set for years and they can let the undersized Eric Winston move inside to guard where his small frame is better suited. rR they could move Smith inside and have the most dominating guard to come out of college in years.

16. Chargers- Jeremy Maclin (WR Missouri) – He has nice size with exceptional speed and the Chargers have shown us that they no longer want to run the ball, with L.T. possibly leaving along with Sproles. Rivers last year had the highest QB rating in the NFL and if he is given another receiver to spread the field this offense will be as dangerous as any other. Maclin can change a team immediately and since this is a mid round selection it could be a steal for the Chargers to take a chance and put the offense on Rivers' back.

17. Jets- Josh Freeman (QB Kansas State) – He has all the physical tools needed to be an NFL QB and with the Jets seeing Favre walk away they should look to their QB of the future. Freeman has the arm strength needed to throw in the winds of New Jersey and with Joe Flacco coming out of Delaware State and having a tremendous rookie year they see a chance of a repeat. He will need work to become NFL ready, but the Jets have few glaring holes for a team selecting in the mid round.

18. Bears- Hakeem Nicks (WR North Carolina) – He may not be a speedster, but he is a true NFL receiver. He can make catches that seem impossible and since there isn’t a QB prospect worthy of this pick, they have to look at other skilled positions on the offense since it is so very bad. With Hester being a speed receiver this pick would make sense since most teams chose to employ a possession receiver and speed receiver to spread the defense and then attack the underneath routes.

19. Buccaneers- James Laurinaitis (ILB Ohio State) – With their linebackers aging and the need for youth at linebacker, James seems like a nice fit. He is a leader that is very productive and instinctive who can rush the passer as well as cover in both man and zone. The new defensive coordinator in Tampa will be asking the GM for immediate help on defense and James is the guy to do it.

20. Lions- D.J. Moore (CB Vanderbilt) – Moore has below average size but makes up for it with speed and nice hands for a CB. He is very fluid with great instincts, but lacks the strength and size to come off of bigger WR's blocks. He is durable and is very tough for a man his size. The Lions need help everywhere, but their secondary is so atrocious that this reach is worth it.

21. Eagles- Brandon Pettigrew (TE Oklahoma State) – He has the size needed to be a quality TE in the NFL and he has the receiving skills needed to become a favorite target for whoever is throwing the ball to him, and his blocking skills are exceptional. His biggest problem is straight-line speed because he is quick for his size, but he is just missing that extra something needed to be a Pro Bowl TE for years to come. Character is terrible, but it’s worth the risk this late in the first round.

22. Vikings- Brian Orakpo (DE/OLB Texas) – The Vikings do not need immediate help on their defensive line, but Orakpo is far too talented to let slip past them. Imagine a line with both Williams’, Orakpo, and Jared Allen. This line would single handedly win them their division. Orakpo has problems with motivation, but having Allen to look up to could change that. Allen and him could realistically have 25 combined sacks between them. Scary if he really slips this far.

23. Patriots- Brian Cushing (OLB USC) – Has great height, size, and speed for a linebacker and the Patriots need to get younger at that position. He has durability concerns, but he is too talented in all phases of the game to pass up. They will take the best available approach like they always do and Cushing is the highest left on my board and he fills a need. This is a win-win for a team that doesn’t need it.

24. Falcons- Everette Brown (DE/OLB Florida State) – He is thickly built and seems to have reached his max on his frame build, but he is such a great pass rusher that it doesn’t even matter. Very durable with high character and he possess a fast first step. The Falcons surprised everyone by making a playoff run last year and by adding Brown to their defense it’s very realistic to see it happen again.

25. Dolphins- Percy Harvin (WR Florida) – This pick doesn’t make sense for a Bill Parcells run football team, but with his explosive nature he is too big of an offensive threat to pass up. The Dolphins went far above their expectations last year and that was due to hard work and winning in the trenches so I figured a weapon for Pennington to throw to only makes sense. He has durability issues, but that is the only reason that he slipped this late. He is more athletic than any offensive weapon in the draft, but since he is undersized and prone to injury he slipped to the Big Tuna.

26. Ravens- Larry English (OLB Northern Illinois) – He has great size, decent rush speed, and can cover exceptionally. The Ravens are at the cross roads with three of their four starters at LB so this pick is more for need than talent. He produced very well in college, but he had some serious injuries that might scare off a few teams. Nice first step and seems like he could be a quick fix for the Ravens no matter who they lose in free agency.

27. Colts- Darrius Heyward-Bey (WR Maryland) – Has good size with very nice, if not exceptional speed for a man his size. He has never had a quality QB throwing him the ball so his college stats aren’t accurate to his talent. If he had Peyton Manning throwing him the ball his stats could finally show his talent. With Marvin Harrison probably gone and Gonzo being a better slot receiver, this pick would solidify a pass offense that still has a lot of pop left in it.

28. Eagles- Duke Robinson (OG Oklahoma) – He is the elite guard in this draft class and is a physical mauler in the running game. The Eagles have few holes that need to be addressed and with Robinson they get a monstrous guard that could be a fixture in the line for years to come. In great shape for a man his size.

29. Giants – Max Unger (OL Oregon) – Unger is so versatile that he gives the Giants numerous options on their offensive line. Their line is strong, but this late in the draft it is a steal to get a lineman that is as talented and versatile as Unger. He is very smart and could emerge as the most versatile and underrated lineman in this draft.

30. Titans- Juaquin Iglesias (WR Oklahoma) – This pick is a stretch, but their need is at receiver and Iglesias is the best one left. He has OK size and speed with nice hands and a nack for making big plays. He can make people forget all about the receivers they passed up on last year.

31. Cardinals- LeSean McCoy (RB PITT) – He has the speed and elusiveness to be special in the NFL. The Cardinals need to upgrade their backfield and McCoy is a gem this late in the first round. If he is here and the Cards pass him up I will understand why the Steelers let their coaching staff leave and gather in Arizona. This is a need pick that is perfect for both parties.

32. Steelers- Tyson Jackson (DE LSU) – The best DE for a 3-4 defense and the Steelers need to get younger on both lines. He has exceptional strength and is unstoppable against the run. If he is gone the Steelers could go either with Alex Mack, the best center to come out in years, or Herman Johnson, 6’7” 382 pounds guard who would scar any player who opposes him on the playing field.

Well guys, that's it - it's a little different from the other mocks you may see, but I think my bro did a pretty damn good job. Hope yinz enjoy reading it as much as I did, and thanks again bro.

Until lata...

Updated Mock Draft

Once again, thanks to our boy JG for his updated mock draft...hopefully we get another one or two before draft day, but if not, Diego and Snack will handle all of your draft needs...

1 Dolphins - Chris Long DE Virginia

The best they have at QB right now is Josh McCown, so Matt Ryan has to be running through Parcells’ mind. But unless he believes Ryan will be mentioned in the same sentence as at least Brees or Palmer, then he should shy away from choosing the Boston College standout.

2 Rams - Jake Long OT Michigan

If Miami does take Matt Ryan, then Chris Long should go to St. Louis, but they need an offensive lineman and Jake Long is the ideal candidate for the job.

3 Falcons - Matt Ryan QB Boston Coll.

If he doesn’t go to the Dolphins, the Falcons should take Ryan. They’ll probably look to Glenn Dorsey the quarterback has already been selected.

4 Raiders - Darren McFadden RB Arkansas

Oakland needs to improve in many areas, and though running back is one of them, they should probably focus on the defensive and offensive lines. Glenn Dorsey could make a major impact for the Raiders, but after they signed DT Tommy Kelly to a huge deal, it‘s hard to believe they would invest this much more money in another defensive tackle.

5 Chiefs - Glenn Dorsey DT LSU

Kansas City may have a tough decision to make. Will they overpay for Boise State’s Ryan Clady? Will they trade down? Or will they take the best player available?

6 Jets - Vernon Gholston DE Ohio State

If I had to guess, the Jets are probably hoping the Raiders fill a pressing need, rather than taking McFadden. Who better to lead they way for the rookie than newly acquired FB Tony Richardson. Ask Vikings’ RB Adrian Peterson. A line that includes Alan Faneca, D’Brickashaw Ferguson, Nick Mangold, and Damien Woody would help get McFadden to the second level quite often.

7 Patriots - Leodis McKelvin CB Troy

The Patriots have Vernon Gholston in their sights, but Leodis McKelvin would be a nice fill-in for Asante Samuel.

8 Ravens - Aqib Talib CB Kansas

With their top two cornerbacks on last year’s injured reserve list, Baltimore will look to add a little depth in their secondary. But if they don’t like their available options, they are in a perfect position to take Sedrick Ellis away from Cincy.

9 Bengals - Sedrick Ellis DT USC

The Bengals are filling many of their needs in free agency, but are having a little bit of trouble finding a defensive tackle. They would like to see Ellis on the board, but there is a chance he could already be gone. OT Ryan Clady is a possibility if the top defensive lineman have already been chosen.

10 Saints - Dominique Rodgers-Cromartie CB Tenn. St.

They could use an OLB like Keith Rivers, but Rodgers-Cromartie is the hottest name in the draft right now, and where better for him to play than New Orleans. With the addition of Jonathan Vilma and Dan Morgan, the defense is slowly catching up to their explosive offense. Just think what Rodgers-Cromartie could bring to the table.

11 Bills - Malcolm Kelly WR Oklahoma

It’s no secret that Buffalo wants a tall receiver and Texas WR Limas Sweed caught their attention, but Kelly is considered the top receiver in the draft and has the size they are looking for. He is probably a safer choice at pick 11.

12 Broncos - Ryan Clady OT Boise St

Clady may not drop this far, but Denver will even settle with Vanderbilt OT Chris Williams or Pitt OT Jeff Otah.

13 Panthers - Chris Williams OT Vanderbilt

If Clady, Williams, and Otah are already taken, they would most likely make a decision between one of the remaining first-round defensive ends (Harvey, Merling, Campbell).

14 Bears - Limas Sweed WR Texas

Even though they recently signed WR Brandon Lloyd, Chicago can’t pass up the chance to get a solid deep threat. This is a little high in the draft for Sweed, but with his height, the Bears should take a chance on him. Lovie Smith Looks to be satisfied with Cedric Benson, but if not, Illinois RB Rashard Mendenhall could take his place.

15 Lions - Jeff Otah OT Pittsburgh

They Lions are looking for an offensive tackle or a cornerback. They can’t go wrong with the Otah as he’s sure to be a premier lineman in the NFL. Kansas CB Aqib Talib could wind up in Detroit if he’s not chosen in the top ten.

16 Cardinals - Rashard Mendenhall RB Illinois

Mendenhall and Edge together could tire defenses out, but they will have to consider taking a corner with their first pick. Mike Jenkins and Rodgers- Cromartie are possible options. If they happen to lose Fitzgerald, they’ll have to look at receivers as well.

17 Vikings - Phillip Merling DE Clemson

Minnesota needs to find a solid defensive end and should have plenty of options still available, including Florida‘s Derrick Harvey and Miami‘s Calais Campbell.

18 Texans - Jonathan Stewart RB Oregon

The Texans could use a guy like this to carry the load, but he may already be taken. Alternate possibilities include S Kenny Phillips, or any of the top cornerbacks still available.

19 Eagles - Derrick Harvey DE Florida

McNabb needs more production out of his receivers, but the Eagles may try to find one in free-agency, or in a later round of the draft. They have more pressing needs on the defensive side of the ball anyways. Phillip Merling and Calais Campbell are other options that may still be available for the Eagles.

20 Buccaneers - Mike Jenkins CB South Florida

Tampa needs to add some youth to their receiving corps, but there may already be a handful taken. If this is the case, they should look to build on their defense, whether it is cornerback, defensive-end, or even a d-tackle.

21 Redskins - DeSean Jackson WR Cal

As much as they have invested in wide-receivers over the past few years, Washington will most likely end up using their first pick on another one. If this isn’t the case, look for them to choose a defensive-end instead, such as Calais Campbell or Derrick Harvey.

22 Cowboys - Brandon Flowers CB Virginia Tech

The Cowboys are in need of a corner and it very well could be Flowers. Reggie Smith should be another option still available at this point, but anyone of the previously mentioned corners could wind up falling into the Cowboys‘ hands. If Stewart and/or Mendenhall are still not chosen, Dallas may take a corner with their next choice.

23 Steelers - Branden Albert OG Virginia

If the Steelers do decide to go with the best available player, as Tomlin has said, then they might stumble upon some serious talent. To keep it within a realm of possibility, I am eliminating their chances of drafting Jonathan Stewart or Rashard Mendenhall. Willie Parker is more than capable of being the starter, and newly acquired Mewelde Moore should be a solid 3rd down back, so it is highly improbable that they would use their first pick on a running-back.

If Pitt OT Jeff Otah is still available they will probably draft him, but his stock is rising into a top-two, or three, lineman status. The Steelers have shown interest in Otah, and he could definitely help their offensive-line problems.

WR Limas Sweed has a great chance of falling this far in the first-round, and could complete a great corps of receivers. He is 6’4” and has the build to be a #1 receiver in the NFL. A 6’5” James Hardy would be a nice choice as well. Pittsburgh is in need of a WR, and if they are really excited about someone still available, they won’t hesitate to give him a Steelers uniform.

CB Dominique Rodgers-Cromartie is the most talked about player in this years draft, and it‘s well deserving. If he is still on the board, the Steelers will take him. They have to--it’s as simple as that. They could still get a solid lineman in a later round, such as Kansas OT Anthony Collins. Rodgers-Cromartie is going to be a great corner in the NFL, and Deshea Townsend is past his prime. The only problem is that other teams are noticing his superior talent as well. CB Brandon Flowers and CB Mike Jenkins are other strong possibilities for Pittsburgh.

The Steelers will also have their sights set on this class of defensive-ends. It will most likely be a later pick, but if someone catches their eye, you never know. Phillip Merling, Calais Campbell, Derrick Harvey, and/or Quentin Groves may be available.

24 Titans - Mario Manningham WR Michigan

Even though Manningham had a bad workout at the combine, scouts know he is a playmaker, and that’s what Vince Young needs. Indiana WR James Hardy, LSU WR Early Doucet, or WR Devin Thomas are all late first-round possibilities, and Limas Sweed may still be around as well. If he is, he will surely be the choice. Once upon a time, Young and Sweed were teammates.

25 Seahawks - Kentwan Balmer DT N. Carolina

Balmer could go higher in the draft, and the Seahawks would like to take an OT, but with all the top names off the list, Balmer would be the best choice for Seattle.

26 Jaguars - Calais Campbell DE Miami

It looks as though Jacksonville‘s offense is in place, and now it‘s time to focus on adding depth to the defensive line. They could choose a DT instead, but either way, they should find a player they can immediately plug in their defense.

27 Chargers - Sam Baker OT USC

The Chargers will look to take the best available player, but would like to take a right tackle to clear holes for L.T. They also need to replace Drayton Florence in the secondary, but all the top cornerbacks may already be taken. There only option at that position may be Oklahoma’s Reggie Smith.

28 Cowboys - Felix Jones RB Arkansas

If they choose a running-back with the 22nd pick, the Cowboys would definitely use their 2nd first-round choice on a CB, but they’ll probably focus on that need first. There will be many good running-backs for the Cowboys to choose from. McFadden’s college backup will work well in the Dallas offense.

29 49ers - James Hardy WR Indiana

Even though they signed I. Bruce, they are still in need of a receiver. There are many with exceptional talent and San Francisco should be able to find Alex Smith’s go-to-guy.

30 Packers - Fred Davis TE USC

The Packers would like to see Rodgers-Cromartie fall this far, but may settle for the best remaining CB, and it could be any one of them. If most are taken, TE Fred Davis or TE Dustin Keller could really help Aaron Rodgers in his first year as the starter. They may even choose an OT to protect him.

31 Giants - Keith Rivers OLB USC

He may go as high as tenth, but not many teams are focusing on linebackers as their top priority this year. ILB Dan Conner could be another choice for the Giants.

Other First-Round Possibilities - Brian Brohm QB Louisville, Early Doucet WR LSU, Devin Thomas WR Mich. St, Dustin Keller TE Purdue, Chilo Rachal OG USC, Gosder Cherilus OT Boston Coll., Jerod Mayo OLB Tennessee. Reggie Smith CB Oklahoma, Kenny Phillips S Miami, Quentin Groves DE Auburn, Trevor Laws DT ND, Dan Connor ILB Penn State.

Other Notable Players - Colt Brennan QB Hawaii, Ray Rice RB Rutgers, Jamaal Charles RB Texas, Chris Johnson RB East Carolina, Owen Schmitt FB WVU, Peyton Hillis FB Arkansas, Jacob Hester FB LSU, Andre Caldwell WR Florida, Eddie Royal WR Virginia Tech, Lavelle Hawkins WR California, Donnie Avery WR/KR Houston, Dexter Jackson WR/KR Appalachian State, John Carlson TE ND, Carl Nicks OT Nebraska, Anthony Collins OT Kansas, Roy Schuening OG Oregon St., Mike Pollak OC Arizona St., Steven Justice OC Wake Forest, Cody Wallace OC Texas A&M, Curtis Lofton ILB Oklahoma, Ali Highsmith OLB LSU, Xavier Adibi OLB Virginia Tech, Erin Henderson OLB Maryland, Wesley Woodyard Jr OLB Kentucky, Tracy Porter CB Indiana, Antoine Cason CB Arizona, Dejuan Morgan S NC St., Lawrence Jackson DE USC, Pat Sims DT Auburn.

PS - This is our 200th post...thanks to everyone for reading, and we'll catch ya'll tomorrow...

NFL Mock Draft

OK boys and girls, here's our first mock draft for 2008 - it was compiled by our boy JG, who surprisingly enough knows his stuff, and Diego and I think it's a great preview.

Look for Snack and Diego to post their own version sometime before the draft, although it probably won't be all that different from this one (unless we go the toolbox way and wait for John "Salsbury makes me cry" Clayton and Mel "creepiest guy on TV" Kiper to ruin draft day for us by telling everyone who the Dolphins will pick)...

So enjoy...

1 Dolphins Chris Long DE Virginia

Parcells may decide that Matt Ryan is their future QB, but if he is satisfied with Jordan Beck, Chris Long is too good to pass up.

2 Rams Jake Long OT Michigan

If Chris Long isn’t the number one pick, he should go to St. Louis, but they would also like to beef up their O-line and Jake Long is the best man for the job.

3 Falcons Matt Ryan QB Boston College

If he doesn’t go to the Dolphins, the Falcons should take Ryan, though he may not be worth Top-3 money.

4 Raiders Darren McFadden RB Arkansas

The Raiders need help on their O-line and D-line, but are known for trying to bring in playmakers. They should probably take Glenn Dorsey but after signing DT Tommy Kelly to a huge deal, I don’t see it.

5 Chiefs Glenn Dorsey DT LSU

This is a tough spot for Kansas City because they really need an offensive-tackle and may overpay for Boise State’s Ryan Clady, but there will be much better prospects still on the board. Their best bet is to trade down.

6 Jets Vernon Gholston DE Ohio State

The way the Jets are bringing in big free-agents makes me believe they are praying for McFadden to fall in their hands, which could happen. If he’s not still around, they would probably like to trade down and pay less money for a WR, or an ILB to fill in for Vilma. USC DT Sedrick Ellis would have been the pick if they hadn’t traded for Kris Jenkins.

7 Patriots Leodis McKelvin CB Troy

The Patriots have their eye on Gholston, but if he is off the board, Leodis McKelvin would be a nice fill-in for Asante Samuel.

8 Ravens Sedrick Ellis DT USC

Though this is not a major need for Baltimore, he is the last of a handful of elite prospects, and they would be pretty much forced to take him in this spot. Expect them to take Ryan, Gholston, or McKelvin, respectively, if they should drop.

9 Bengals Ryan Clady OT Boise St.

The Bengals are filling most of their needs in free agency, so may decide to address the O-line with their first pick. After signing DE Antwan Odom, choosing a DE seems highly unlikely.

10 Saints Keith Rivers OLB USC

With the top DT’s off the board, New Orleans may choose the first LB in the draft. The Saints like Rivers, who would probably enjoy being paired with Vilma. They also want a tight-end, but this is too early of a pick to address this need. They may even trade down if they don’t like their options, and don’t think Rivers is worth Top-10 money.

11 Bills Malcolm Kelly WR Oklahoma

The Bills are surely looking for a tall receiver and have been keeping their eye on Texas WR Limas Sweed, but Kelly is considered the top receiver in the draft and has the height the Bills are looking for. Don’t be surprised if it’s Sweed instead.

12 Broncos Chris Williams OT Vanderbilt

Clady may drop to the 12th pick, but if K.C. or Cincy decides to reach for their tackle, Denver will settle with Williams. Pitt OT Jeff Otah is next in line.

13 Panthers Jeff Otah OT Pittsburgh

If he is already off the board, they would most likely make a decision between one of the remaining first-round defensive ends (Harvey, Merling, Campbell).

14 Bears Limas Sweed WR Texas

What don’t they need on offense? The only thing they had was solid receivers, and they’re gone. I believe Lovie Smith is sticking with Cedric Benson, but if not, Illinois’ RB Rashard Mendenhall could be the answer.

15 Lions Aqib Talib CB Kansas

They would also like to get a solid offensive lineman, but with all the top names off the board, they are likely to go with a corner instead.

16 Cardinals Rashard Mendenhall RB Illinois

They would love to have Mendenhall and E. James as a one-two punch, but they will have to decide if they rather use this pick on a top corner. Mike Jenkins is a possible option.

17 Vikings Phillip Merling DE Clemson

They may choose a wide receiver, but would like to find a solid defensive end to build on their already incredible run defense, not to mention help their pass rush.

18 Texans Jonathan Stewart RB Oregon

This is likely if he is still available, but there is a good chance he won’t be. Alternate options include S Kenny Phillips, and any of the previously mentioned corners, as well as Tenn. St. CB Dominique Rodgers-Cromartie.

19 Eagles DeSean Jackson WR Cal

Phillip Merling and Miami DE Calais Campbell are other options for the Eagles after releasing Jevon Kearse, but McNabb needs more options.

20 Buccaneers Mike Jenkins CB South Florida

Tampa is slim on receivers, but there may already be four or five taken. If this is the case, they will most likely look to build on their defense, whether it is cornerback, or defensive-end.

21 Redskins Derrick Harvey DE Florida

They may opt to choose a WR if they like the remaining options at this point, but they are also looking for a DE and a fill-in for the late Sean Taylor. DE Calais Campbell may be their choice instead.

22 Cowboys Dominique Rodgers-Cromartie CB Tenn. St.

The Cowboys are in need of a corner and this could be his time in the draft. Brandon Flowers and Reggie Smith should be other options still available at this position. If Jonathan Stewart and/or Rashard Mendenhall are still not chosen, Dallas may take a corner with their next choice.

23 Steelers Branden Albert OG Virginia

Tomlin believes they are in a position to take the best player available in the upcoming draft. If this is true, they could possibly land a superstar. If RB Jonathan Stewart falls to the 23rd pick, he could be our short-yardage back, but that’s not all. This guy is a machine, weighing in at close to 235 lbs. and running a 4.4 40-yard dash. Yes, I know we all like Fast Willie, and with a better O-line (Mahan) he probably would have found the end-zone more often, but doesn’t it seem like they’ve been missing something since the departure of Bettis? The answer could be Jonathan Stewart. But, after signing Mewelde Moore, this seems highly improbable. It would be nice if Pitt tackle Jeff Otah were available as well. Word is the Steelers are interested in the lineman, and there is a slight possibility he could fall as far as the 23rd choice. He could definitely help their offensive-line issues.

If the Bills do not choose WR Limas Sweed and decide take Malcom Kelly instead, there is a chance he could fall in Pittsburgh’s hands. He is 6’4” and has the build to be a #1 receiver in the NFL. There’s no doubt he’ll be smarter than Plaxicco was during his stint in the Burgh. A 6’5” James Hardy wouldn’t be too bad either. CB Dominique Rodgers-Cromartie had an outstanding combine and has the best chance to be available out of all these guys, besides Hardy. Steelers fans know we could use another corner, but teams are worried because of his lack of competition. He played at a small college in Tennessee St., but I happened to believe this is the #1 or #2 corner in the draft. Teams let his cousin, Antonio, slip in the draft, and I don’t think they should make the same mistake twice.

In the end, I’m going to call Tomlin’s bluff and say he chooses Virginia OG Branden Albert. But don’t be discouraged by the choice because this guy could fill in for Faneca for years to come. He is by far the best guard in the draft and has all the tools to become a consistent pro-bowler. This would be the smart choice, but we all may be surprised. RB Rashard Mendenhall and CB Mike Jenkins may still be on the board as well.

24 Titans Mario Manningham WR Michigan

Vince Young needs some help from his receiving corps, but Manningham had such a bad workout at the combine that the Titans may turn to Indiana WR James Hardy, or LSU WR Early Doucet.

25 Seahawks Kentwan Balmer DT N. Carolina

Balmer could go higher in the draft, and the Seahawks would like to at an OT, but with all the top names off the list, Balmer would be the best choice for Seattle.

26 Jaguars Calais Campbell DE Miami

Now that the WR situation has been resolved, Jacksonville’s main concern will be defensive end, and Campbell would be a great addition to an already dominant defense, who already added ex-Charger CB Drayton Florence.

27 Chargers Sam Baker OT USC

The Chargers are in position to take the best available, but would like to at a right tackle to help Tomlinson. Boston College OT Gosder Cherilus is another option for San Diego.

28 Cowboys Felix Jones RB Arkansas

If they already have their corner in place with the 22nd pick, expect the Cowboys to use their 2nd first-round choice on a RB. Chances are they are not going to make a trade to get McFadden, but his college backup will work just fine.

29 49ers James Hardy WR Indiana

If Hardy lasts this long, he would be a huge help to Alex Smith. The addition of Issacc Bruce is not the long-term answer.

30 Packers Gosder Cherilus OT Boston College

The Packers would like to see Rodgers-Cromartie still available, which is a strong possibility, but may need choose the best player available this deep in the first- round, while still addressing their needs. CB Reggie Smith, CB Brandon Flowers, and TE Fred Davis have are viable choices as well.

31 Giants Dan Connor ILB Penn State

He may be gone by this point, but not many teams are focusing on linebackers as their top priority this year. OLB Keith Rivers could even drop as far as the Giants, or even into the second round.

Other First-Round Possibilities

Fred Davis TE USC, Kenny Phillips S Miami, Brian Brohm QB Louisville, Early Doucet WR LSU, Quentin Groves DE Auburn, Chilo Rachal OG USC, Reggie Smith CB Oklahoma, Brandon Flowers CB Virginia Tech, Devin Thomas WR Mich. St, Other Notable Players, Dustin Keller TE Purdue, Ray Rice RB Rutgers, Jamaal Charles RB Texas, John Carlson TE ND, Chris Johnson RB East Carolina, Carl Nicks OT Nebraska, Mike Pollak OC Arizona St., Steven Justice OC Wake Forest, Anthony Collins OT Kansas, Roy Schuening OG Oregon St., Pat Sims DT Auburn, Curtis Lofton ILB Oklahoma, Ali Highsmith OLB LSU, Andre Caldwell WR Florida, Eddie Royal WR Virginia Tech, Colt Brennan QB Hawaii, Owen Schmitt FB WVU, Peyton Hillis FB Arkansas, Jacob Hester FB LSU, Lawrence Jackson DE USC, Jerod Mayo OLB Tennessee, Xavier Adibi OLB Virginia Tech, Erin Henderson OLB Maryland, Tracy Porter CB Indiana, Antoine Cason CB Arizona, Dejuan Morgan S NC St., Trevor Laws DT ND, Wesley Woodyard Jr OLB Kentucky, Lavelle Hawkins WR California, Cody Wallace C Texas A&M, Donnie Avery WR/KR Houston, Dexter Jackson WR/KR Appalachian State.