Oregon Ducks defensive end Dion Jordan (96) lines up against the Colorado Buffaloes at Autzen Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Scott Olmos-USA TODAY Sports

They recently took care of the biggest obstacle facing the front office. Sean Payton signed a five-year contract which will make him the highest paid coach in the NFL. While Joe Vitt has done a decent job keeping the team focused and motivated after the Saints were mathematically eliminated from postseason aspirations, Payton is one of the best coaches in the NFL. It was mandatory for him to return as head coach.

While Steve Spagnuolo’s defense has sorely missed Jonathan Vilma, it became apparent over the course of the 2012 season this defense needs more than the contributions of just one player to rebound from a unit currently ranked 31^st in pass defense and 29^th in rush defense.

General Manager and concurrent head of Basketball Operations for the New Orleans Hornets, Mickey Loomis, has filled the pipeline with promising defensive prospects the past few drafts. Many of them are starting to bloom and form a solid nucleus of talent. In fact, three of Saints most proven vets are 30 or older. Vilma and Safety Roman Harper are both 30, while Defensive End Will Smith is 31. But outside of the unproductive Sedrick Ellis, 27, who is likely to sign elsewhere once the free agency period begins, the future could be bright with the emergence of higher profile guys like DE Cameron Jordan, 23, and CB Patrick Robinson, 25, combined with the pleasant surprise development of less heralded players such as third-round selections Akiem Hicks, 23, and CB Johnny Patrick, 24. Even UFA Junior Galette, 24, has come on this season with five sacks.

Curtis Lofton, 26, is as tough and dependable as a team could wish for at the middle linebacker position. So what’s missing from this group? First and foremost, this group could use an infusion of explosive players capable of consistently making game-changing splash plays.

With New Orleans projected to select around No. 15 overall, the first two picks Loomis and his staff make could be along the defensive line.

1^st round – Dion Jordan, DE/LB, Oregon

Height – 6-7

Weight – 248

Jordan arrived in Eugene as lanky tight end. He moved over to defense as a sophomore and hasn’t looked back since.

With the emergence of team’s use of nimble, power-forward sized tight ends throughout the league, this Chandler, Arizona native could be the perfect antidote. He also has the speed to shadow receivers in the middle of the field. But Jordan’s biggest upside resides in his ability to rush the passer. Not weak by any means, but he would be well served to add about 10-15 pounds

If the draft order played out according to highest ceiling, there’s little doubt Jordan would be a top five selection.

2^nd round – Forfeited as part of Bounty-gate punishment

Technically, Roger Goodell has gone on record saying he could possibly restore the Saints 2013 second round selection in lieu of a later-round pick. Until he does, however, it’s assumed they will be without this pick.

3^rd round – Jordan Hill, DT, Penn State

Height – 6-1

Weight – 295

This 2012 All-Big Ten First Team selection and Senior Bowl invitee is one of many prospects whose performance in practices as well as in the game on January 26, 2013, could significantly boost or hinder his likely draft placement.

Regardless, Hill would be a welcome addition as part of a defensive line rotation on the Saints.

Other needs for 4^th round and beyond: CB, LB, OT

Taylor Lewan (77) against Alabama. Mandatory Credit: Matthew Emmons-USA TODAY Sports

Most glaring needs, besides filling the vacant GM position created when Marty Hurney was fired, are a weak defensive line and secondary along with how their best offensive lineman, Ryan Kalil, recovers from the dreaded lisfranc injury. It certainly hasn’t helped that two of their best defensive players are also on the IR, cornerback Chris Gamble and linebacker Jon Beason.

Luke Kuechly is on the cusp of being a Top Five player at his position. Cornerback Josh Norman seems legit and will only improve with experience.

Steve Smith is showing signs of slowing down and at 34; the Panthers are very thin outside of the emerging Brandon LaFell. Because of the numerous upgrades required before Owner Jerry Richardson can give the fans a reliable playoff contending team there is no use ranking their priority. Whoever takes over the General Manager role should try to come out of the draft with two, preferably three, at the following positions:

• WR
• DT
• FS
• OT
• G

Outside of Gamble and Norman, Ron Rivera’s defense could sure use an infusion of talent at cornerback to counter the pass-heavy arsenal they face in the NFC South.

One of the deepest positions in the 2013 draft is defensive tackle. This should allow Carolina to wait until the second round to find first-round talent at a major position of need. On the other side of the trenches, it wasn’t long ago when other teams had to create game plans around stopping the two-headed rushing attack of Deangelo Williams and Jonathon Stewart. Injuries and a lack of talent have nearly erased that concern. The offensive line must also do a better job of keeping Cam Newton upright.

1^st round – Taylor Lewan, OT, Michigan

Height – 6-7

Weight – 310

It is hard to find many weaknesses to Lewan’s game. The AP All-American First Team and Big Ten Rimington-Pace Offensive Lineman of the Year is still filling out his huge frame so any concerns about a lack of bulk to withstand some of the behemoths at the next level are premature.

Lewan has prototypical size and outstanding athleticism to go with the intelligence required to master an NFL playbook early on. He also has an aggressive, at times downright nasty, temperament to help set the tone for the rest of his o-line teammates. The initial plan could be for Lewan to hold down the fort at right tackle while he adjusts to the NFL and eventually move over to protect Newton’s blindside when Jordan Gross’ contract expires after the 2014 season. The Arizona native will also help rejuvenate a stagnant running game.

2^nd round – Kawann Short, DT, Purdue

Height – 6-3

Weight – 310

Short has been one of the most disruptive defenders in the Big Ten since he arrived in West Lafayette as a freshman in 2009. Any other season combined with the importance NFL defensive coordinators place on the interior defensive line and Short would likely be a first-round pick.

Regardless if the Panthers switch from their current 4-3 base defense, Short will immediately improve not only the interior defensive line but also free up Kuechly, Beason, Thomas Davis and the rest of the linebackers to fly to the ball unscathed.

Defensive tackles are not often judged by statistical productivity. Instead their worth is often tied to the number of double-teams they demand. What’s appealing about this AP All-American Second Team selection is the amount of splash plays he makes, despite constant attention from two offensive linemen and the occasional fullback. Short has repeatedly led the Boilermakers in sacks, forced fumbles, and tackles for loss. His ability to rush the passer while clogging the middle would be a welcome addition to a team like Carolina.

3^rd round – Traded. Next pick is in the 4^th round

The Panthers traded their 2013 3^rd round pick to San Francisco in exchange for the 49ers 2012 4^th round pick in order to select Oklahoma DE Frank Alexander.

Other needs for 4^th round and beyond:  WR, G, FS

Credit: Rob Foldy-USA TODAY Sports

having one of the most explosive offenses and defenses in an NFL designed around the promotion of league-wide parity, there are still a couple major needs on both sides of the ball.

On offense, Andre Johnson has rounded into form the second half of the season. But at 31 he is entering an age where receivers typically regress in somewhat dramatic fashion year over year. Even if Johnson still has two or three dominant years left, offensive coordinator Rick Dennison desperately needs a quality No. 2 wide receiver to draw attention away from blanketing Johnson and to a lesser extent, discouraging opposing defenses from adding another defender in the box to stop Arian Foster. Kevin Walter is more suited as a No. 3 or 4 possession receiver. They could also look to bolster the offensive line.

Defensively, Wade Phillips has almost an embarrassment of riches at his disposal. Furthermore, they are extremely young and have been without the services of All-Pro linebacker, Brian Cushing for most of the season. Consider for a moment the ages of Houston’s key defensive players:

• LB Brian Cushing, 25
• DE J.J. Watt, 23
• ROLB Whitney Mercilus, 22
• CB, Johnathon Joseph, 28
• CB, Kareem Jackson, 24
• LOLB, Connor Barwin, 26
• LB, Brooks Reed, 25
• LB, Darryl Sharpton, 24
• S, Glover Quin, 26
• DE, Jared Crick, 23
• CB, Brandon Harris, 22

Admittedly, not every player on this list is currently contributing but its only a matter of time before they have an opportunity. These include talented depth guys who are likely starters on another roster in Jared Crick and Brandon Harris.

With Cushing’s return in 2013 and assuming Watt can maintain at his current level of play, the Texans could still use some help in the secondary, especially at Safety.

1^st round – Matt Elam, S, Florida

Height – 5-10

Weight – 205

What’s most exciting about this redshirt senior is any perceived shortcomings in his game are coachable or will such as taking better angles or learning when to wrap up instead of exploding into ball carriers or would-be receivers.

Blessed with rare athleticism which combined with his aggressive style, will make Elam a fan favorite. He is versatile enough to play either safety position and will instantly upgrade his future employer’s secondary while providing a bit of swagger. He is reminiscent of a mix between Bob Sanders, the pre chronically-injured version, and Ed Reed.

2^nd round – Aaron Dobson, WR, Marshall

Height – 6-2

Weight – 205

Dobson has improved each year despite a lack of an upper echelon quarterback throwing him the ball. Above all else, wide receivers that earn the title of a dependable do so first and foremost with outstanding hands. Throughout his career Dobson has continuously shown a knack for making acrobatic catches look easy and routine catches looking, well, routine. With excellent size and good, not great, speed Dobson will make a living in the NFL as a chain-moving receiver on short to intermediate routes.

He has been described as a humble and hard-working leader. Coaches have raved about the little things he takes pride in such as the effort he gives in blocking downfield for teammates.

3^rd round – Daniel McCullers, DT, Tennessee

Height – 6-7

Weight – 375

One of the bigger prospects in years, McCullers could be a fantastic fit at nose tackle for a 3-4 defense on a team that can afford to groom him for a year or two until he can drop about 20 pounds and acclimate himself to the rigors of an NFL conditioning regimen.

Based on sheer size alone, he should repeatedly accomplish the number one priority on a defense like the Texans use:  clog up the middle of the line demanding constant double-teams .

Other needs for 4^th round and beyond: OT, CB

Many critics have already labeled the acquisition of cornerback Vontae Davis for the Colts 2013 second-round pick and conditional later round selection. However, it is way too early to cast judgments less than one year in on an athletic, physical  24-year old still acclimating himself to his new surroundings.

The offense has certainly driven Indianapolis’ surprising season and it could be argued Grigson’s focus should focus on improving the defense

Credit: Brian Spurlock-USA TODAY Sports

with the Colts 2013 draft, albeit limited, picks. Luck is far beyond his years in terms of commanding a huddle and quickly dissecting the bevy of defensive fronts he sees each week.

Regardless, the Colts need to provide him with more weapons. It would be foolish to assume Reggie Wayne, at 34, will repeat the startling resurgence he’s shown this season. T.Y. Hilton should build on his breakout campaign but the cupboard is pretty bare beyond this.

More pressing than adding a wide receiver should be an influx of talent on the offensive line and perhaps an fleet-footed, intelligent and dependable outside linebacker for their 3-4 defense. As tough as Luck is and as poised as he looks staying in the pocket, it must make Irsay and Colts fans cringe every time another defensive end or linebacker tees off on their prized signal caller.

1^st round – Jonathon Cooper, G, North Carolina

Height – 6-3

Weight – 310

Similar to last year when both David DeCastro and Kevin Zeitler heard their name called within the first 32 picks, the 2013 NFL draft should also see two Guards selected in the first round. Many fans will likely yearn for Warmack but it’s unlikely he will be around when the Colts are on the clock sometime in the 20s. But don’t get it twisted, by no means is Cooper some type of consolation prize.

In fact, Cooper could end up as the better pass protecting interior lineman. The 2012 AP First Team All-American is a very well-rounded prospect with four years of starting experience after redshirting his freshman year.

Exceptionally nimble on his feet, Cooper demonstrates outstanding lateral quickness to help wall off a speed rusher taking an inside angle in his pursuit or create ample running lanes when pulling.  Generously listed at 310 pounds, Cooper could stand to add another 10-15 pounds.

2^nd round – Traded pick to Miami Dolphins to acquire Vontae Davis

3^rd round – Jamie Collins, OLB, Southern Mississippi

Height – 6-3

Weight – 240

Playing on a 0-8 team certainly didn’t help raise his profile any but the former defensive back-turned-linebacker was a dominant force in the Conference USA. Collins was highly productive this season racking up 92 tackles, 20 tackles for loss, and 10 sacks while causing four fumbles. Very athletic with enough speed to shadow a tight end or cover a running back out of the flat.

Other needs for 4^th round and free agency: WR, NT

There are so many holes on both sides of the ball, the Jaguars will at least enjoy the luxury of not having to debate too much to find consensus on who to select since the best player available outside of maybe a few positions will be the drafting strategy.

While many are predicting the Jags quickly cut bait with Blaine Gabbert, the level of talent with the group of incoming quarterbacks is pretty average. On the plus side, they could wait until the second or third round to pick a quarterback and at least groom him for a year or two before handing over the reins. Since Chad Henne appears to have suddenly learned how to play quarterback while spending the past couple years as an signal-calling observant backup, Jacksonville can afford to take a higher-risk, higher-reward quarterback in one of the next two rounds—assuming they don’t trade down from one of the top two spots to acquire more picks.

1^st round – Star Lotulelei, DT, Utah

Height – 6-4

Weight – 330

Jacksonville actually has some pieces in place on defense. The addition of an overpowering and extremely agile run-stuffing defensive tackle that would demand constant double-teams will do two things for his teammates:

1. Allow linebackers to flow undeterred to the football, and….
2. Provide more opportunities for defensive backs to jump routes by collapsing the pocket and hurrying ill-advised throws by opposing quarterbacks

2^nd round – Tyler Wilson, QB, Arkansas

Height – 6-3

 

November 3, 2012; Salt Lake City, UT, USA; Utah Utes defensive tackle Star Lotulelei (92) chases Washington State Cougars quarterback Jeff Tuel (10) during the first half at Rice-Eccles Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Russ Isabella-USA TODAY Sports

Weight – 220

The Arkansas Razorbacks boondoggle of a 2012 season may have a silver lining for a team looking to find a starting NFL caliber quarterback

outside of the first round. Heading into the season, Arkansas was projected to be playing in a New Year’s Day bowl and Wilson was widely regarded as a potential top 10 pick. That was before the circus otherwise known as John L. Smith was tabbed as Bobby Petrino’s replacement.

It’s no secret Wilson’s statistical regression between 2011 and 2012 has opened the door for more critical scouting reports on the redshirt senior.

Fine. That comes with the territory when your team finishes a highly anticipated season with a 4-8 record.

What doesn’t change are the three qualities Wilson has which many NFL teams rank as, or have pretty darn close, to their most sought after

traits at quarterback:

1. Arm strength – I actually believe some reports embellish this aspect of his game labeling his arm in “cannon” territory. However, there is no question he can make the short, intermediate, and vertical throws with relative ease. Without question, he has one of the stronger arms in this draft but he is not quite at Brett Favre or Matthew Stafford’s level.
2. Intelligence – Numerous reports cite the countless hours he devotes to film sessions. He comes across as a very articulate and humbled young man and he was given the freedom to audible early on in his career—a testament to knowing the ins and outs of the playbook and applying that to what formation defenses show.
3. Toughness – Time and again Wilson has been battered and bruised, especially in 2012 with a porous offensive line. With his toughness comes a certain level of durability and ability to quickly endear himself to teammates and command a huddle. Consider the following comment Wilson made as a Junior about his view on toughness:

“As a quarterback, you don’t go out there and practice every day and bang and hit and go through what some of the other positions go through on a daily basis. So in order for us to gain our respect and that toughness value, we’ve got to display it in the game and show courage standing in the pocket and delivering the ball down the field while taking a shot and getting right back up. That’s the way I’ve always believed it should be.”

3^rd round – Brennan Williams, OT, North Carolina

Height – 6-7

Weight – 315

Outside of Eugene Monroe, Jacksonville has several holes along their offensive line whether it be aging veterans such as Brad Meester or how starters such as Will Rackley or Jason Spitz recover from season ending injuries.

Speaking of injuries, Williams will need to show scouts how well he can bounce back from a torn labrum. Regarded as a punishing run blocker, Williams shows excellent lateral quickness and his film clearly demonstrates an ability to quickly kick out and engage speed rushers. Another positive Williams has which will appeal to NFL general managers and scouting personnel is the NFL bloodlines he has. His father, Brent, played eight seasons at defensive end for the Patriots, Jets, and Seahawks.

Other needs for 4^th round and beyond: OLB, DE, WR

Alabama Crimson Tide offensive linesman Chance Warmack (65) blocks during the game against the Michigan Wolverines at Cowboys Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Kevin Jairaj-USA TODAY Sports

The Tennessee Titans have several young key skill position players in place thanks in part to solid scouting, evidenced by their last two drafts. However, most of them were added at the expense of fortifying the trenches on both sides of the ball. As any perennial playoff franchise can attest, such as New England and Pittsburgh, sustainable success is positively correlated with the right mix of talent and continuity.

One of the first priorities General Manager Ruston Webster must address this offseason is an assessment of how to upgrade the interior offensive line. Michael Roos and David Stewart solidify the tackle positions but upgrading at least two of the other three spots should be atop Webster’s to-do list.

With only a few games remaining in the 2012 regular season the Titans currently own the sixth overall pick. Here are some potential prospects that could end up hearing their name called by Tennessee in late April.

1st round – Chance Warmack, G, Alabama

Height – 6-3

Weight – 315

It’s not often a guard hears their name called in the first round but Chance Warmack will likely buck the trend. The Titans have young playmakers on offense with recent first round picks at Quarterback, Jake Locker, and wide receiver, Kendall Wright. Locker’s other legitimate weapons in running back Chris Johnson, and wide receiver Kenny Britt are both still on the right side of 30, at 27 and 24 years, respectively.

Warmack is one of the safest picks in the entire draft class and will do wonders for Tennessee’s ground game while helping stifle opposing teams’ interior pass rush. What stands out on film is the incredible strength and aggression the Atlanta, Georgia native displays. He also has all the traits coaches look for in terms of toughness, durability, and dependability both on and off the field.

2^nd round – Kenny Vaccaro, S, Texas

Height – 6-1

Weight – 220

The Titans defense needs to improve on several fronts. Most pressing would be adding talent to a defensive backfield with a pass defense mostly responsible for 26th ranked team in the league. Additionally, their ability to stop the run and generate pressure on the quarterback leaves much to be desired.

Vaccaro has the size to blanket tight ends and the cover skills to hang on receiver’s hips trying to vertically stretch the field. But the biggest asset to his game will come via run-support. He is a sound tackler with a knack for separating the football from would-be receivers through jarring hits. While he does not have blazing speed, it is certainly functional (4.5 range) to not be a liability but his initial role would likely be at the strong safety position, where he would eventually supplant Jordan Babineaux.

3^rd round – Quanterus Smith, DE, Western Kentucky

Height – 6-5

Weight – 250

One of the more intriguing mid-round prospects is the Hilltoppers towering defensive end. A season-ending torn ACL against Louisiana-Lafayette will require scouting departments to perform their due diligence but prior to that Smith was atop the nation’s leaders in sacks with 12.5, directly ahead of future Top 10 picks in 2013 and 2014, Jarvis Jones and Jadeveon Clowney, respectively.

Naysayers may try and discredit Smith’s production by the lack of high level competition in the Sun Belt conference. However, one needs to only look at the three sacks Smith tallied against Alabama while often going up against fellow draft prospect, highly regarded offensive lineman, D.J. Fluker.

Smith obviously needs to add another 15-20 pounds to stay at defensive end or he may find himself at outside linebacker in a 3-4 scheme. But his frame should be able to accommodate that mass without a sacrifice in quickness.

Other needs for 4^th round and beyond – C, WR, G