Apr 26, 2012; New York, NY, USA; A general view of the 2012 NFL Draft at Radio City Music Hall. Mandatory Credit: James Lang-USA TODAY Sports

1. Kansas City Chiefs — Eric Fisher OT, Central Michigan
With the trade for Alex Smith and putting Branden Albert on the trade block, it’s looking more and more like an OT will be the pick. It comes down to whether they like Joeckel or Fisher more. I think Fisher ends up being the pick.

2. Jacksonville Jaguars — Dion Jordan OLB, Oregon
The Jaguars pass rush last year was really bad, finishing last in the NFL with 20 sacks. Jordan can come in and play the LEO position for Gus Bradleys defense and make a difference in a variety of ways.

3. Cleveland Browns — Barkevious Mingo OLB, LSU
The Browns could go a few different ways. Even though they signed Paul Kruger they still need additional pass rushers. Mingo might have the highest upside of any pass rusher in this draft.

4. Philadelphia Eagles — Geno Smith QB, WVU
They have Michael Vick back for one year, but isn’t the long term answer. The Eagles owner has been to see 2 players pro days, Donovan McNabb and Geno Smith. Smith fits into Chip Kellys new offensive system well.

5. Detroit Lions — Luke Joeckel OT, Texas A&M
Jeff Backus retired this offseason. They have Riley Reiff who they drafted in the first round but he is really more suited for the right side. They have to protect Stafford if they want to get back to the playoffs.

6. San Diego Chargers — Lane Johnson OT, Oklahoma
With the top 2 OTs off the board the Chargers have to pull the trigger and trade up and grab the last top flight LT. The Chargers have to protect Philip Rivers better this year if they want to improve.

7. Arizona Cardinals — Chance Warmack OG, Alabama
With the trade for Carson Palmer, the Cardinals have to sure up that offensive line. Palmer is a statue in the pocket and has had some injury issues. Warmack may be the best prospect in the class and can start day 1.

8. Buffalo Bills – Ezekiel Ansah DE, BYU
The Bills signed Mario Williams and Mark Anderson last year. Anderson however was a huge disappointment and may not be back next year. Ansah has the potential to be the best player in this draft.

9. New York Jets — Tavon Austin WR, West Virginia
The Jets need a lot of things on this team. However, if they want Mark Sanchez to have any shot at succeeding they have to give him some weapons. Austin is easily the most explosive weapon in this draft.

10. Tennessee Titans — Jonathan Cooper OG, North Carolina
The Titans signed Andy Levitre in the offseason, but Cooper is still in play. If you add him to the bookends they already have and Levitre, you get a dominant offensive line for Chris Johnson to run behind and to protect Jake Locker.

11. Oakland Raiders — Sheldon Richardson DT, Missouri
This offseason the Raiders lost Richard Seymour, Tommy Kelly and Desmond Bryant. Richardson is very good at getting pressure on the QB and versatile enough to drop back into zone coverage. They trade back twice and still get their guy.

12. Miami Dolphins — DJ Fluker OT/OG, Alabama
With the loss of Jake Long, the Dolphins need to sure up their O-Line. Fluker brings the versatility to play RT and RG. He is a huge guy who will be great in the run game and help protect Ryan Tannehill.

13. San Fransisco 49ers — Dee Milliner CB, Alabama
The 49ers signed Nnamdi Asomugha to a 1 year deal, but they still have to look to the future. Carlos Rogers is another year older and their secondary got burnt up in the playoffs last year.

14. Carolina Panthers — Star Lotulelei DT, Utah
The DT position has just been a disaster for the Panthers the past few years. Lotulelei is a top 5 talent in this draft who dropped because of teams other needs. This is the steal of the draft.

15. New Orleans Saints — Jarvis Jones OLB, Georgia
With the switch to the 3-4, the Saints are going to need pass rushers. Jones is one of the top talents in this draft, but with the medical concerns he has dropped. Was an absolute play maker last year at Georgia and is a steal here at 15.

16. St. Louis Rams — Kenny Vaccaro S, Texas
The Rams biggest need is at S and the number 1 safety in the draft dropped to them. Vaccaro is versatile enough to drop down and cover the slot or play a deep zone. Would be a great pickup for the Rams.

Oct 13, 2012; Dallas, TX, USA; Oklahoma Sooner tackle Lane Johnson (69) in action against the Texas Longhorns during the red river rivalry at the Cotton Bowl. Mandatory Credit: Matthew Emmons-USA TODAY Sports

1. Kansas City Chiefs – Luke Joeckel, OT, Texas A&M

2. Jacksonville Jaguars – Eric Fisher, OT, Central Michigan

3. Oakland Raiders – Sharrif Floyd, DT, Florida

4. Miami Dolphins – Lane Johnson, OT, Oklahoma
**Projected Trade** Dolphins trade pick #12, 2nd round pick, 3rd round pick, and late round pick for pick #4 and a 2014 late round pick.

5. Detroit Lions – Dion Jordan, DE, Oregon

6. Cleveland Browns – Dee Milliner, CB, Alabama

7. Arizona Cardinals – Jonathan Cooper, OG, North Carolina

8. Atlanta Falcons – Barkevious Mingo, DE, LSU
**Projected Trade** Atlanta Falcons trade picks #30, 2nd round pick, 4th round pick, and 2nd round pick in 2014 to Bills for pick #8

9. New York Jets – Ezekiel Ansah, DE, BYU

10. Tennessee Titans – Chance Warmack, OG, Alabama

11. San Diego Chargers – D.J. Fluker, OT, Alabama

12. Philadelphia Eagles – Tavon Austin, WR, West Virginia

13. New York Jets (from Bucs) — Tyler Eifert, TE, Notre Dame

14. San Francisco 49ers – Star Lotulelei, DT, Utah
**Projected Trade** San Francisco 49ers trade pick #31, 2nd round pick, 3rd round pick, 7th round pick to Panthers for pick #14

15. New Orleans Saints – Sheldon Richardson, DT, Missouri

16. St. Louis Rams – DeAndre Hopkins, WR, Clemson

Nov 17, 2012; College Park, MD, USA; Florida State Seminoles defensive end Cornellius Carradine (91) prior to the game against the Maryland Terrapins at Byrd Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Mitch Stringer-USA TODAY Sports

1. Kansas City Chiefs – Luke Joeckel, OT, Texas A&M
Jason La Canfora of CBS is reporting that the Chiefs are pretty much locked in to Joeckel. Anybody else would probably be a surprise to me at this point, though the Chiefs maintain they are still considering a total of four options for this pick.

2. Jacksonville Jaguars – Dion Jordan, OLB, Oregon
The Jaguars want to build their team on speed, and I think this pick will be either Jordan or WVU quarterback Geno Smith. Gus Bradley saw the impact Russell Wilson had for the Seahawks, so he is going to probably want to replicate that in Jacksonville. It all comes down to what they fell is the best long-term option, and that could be Jordan at this point.

3. Oakland Raiders – Sharrif Floyd, DT, Florida
The Raiders need a push up the middle, and right now it just feels like they are going to go with an interior lineman. That’s probably the most glaring hole on their roster other than a sure thing at QB. Floyd has the ability to collapse the pocket and his athletic ability should entice the Raiders.

4. Philadelphia Eagles – Geno Smith, QB, West Virginia
The Eagles don’t have a long term solution at the quarterback position. Mike Vick renegotiated his contract so he could provide them with one more year of what they hope to be quality play, but after this year, the Eagles could be in trouble. I think they are dead serious about picking Geno Smith, who would be a good fit for Chip Kelly’s offense.

5. Detroit Lions – Eric Fisher, OT, Central Michigan
Fisher will take over for Jeff Backus at left tackle, while Riley Reiff–the team’s first round pick from a year ago–will take over the right tackle spot vacated by Gosder Cherilus. Fisher has a ton of potential and is a great fit at this slot.

6. Atlanta Falcons – Dee Milliner, CB, Alabama
**Projected trade: Atlanta Falcons trade picks #30, #60, 4th round pick, and future 2nd round pick to Browns for pick #6 overall** The Falcons reportedly are interested in trading up, and one of the players on their radar is apparently Dee Milliner. CB is one of the weakest spots on this team, so it makes sense to grab a guy like Milliner who can replace Dunta Robinson on the outside.

7. Arizona Cardinals – Lane Johnson, OT, Oklahoma
The Cardinals have a terrible offensive line, but Lane Johnson could be a centerpiece of their future up front. He has the ability to be a franchise left tackle, and the Cardinals need to cash in if he’s still on the board at this point.

8. Minnesota Vikings – Tavon Austin, WR, West Virginia
**Projected trade: Minnesota Vikings trade pick #23, #52, and 4th round pick to Bills for pick #8** The Vikings are reportedly interested in trading up, and I think the Bills would love to trade down. Minnesota lost a big playmaker in Percy Harvin, but they gained some valuable picks. I think dealing up for Tavon Austin makes a lot of sense, even if it’s this early. I think Austin is going to be a great player in this league, and I think the Jets would take him if he were on the board.

9. New York Jets – Barkevious Mingo, OLB, LSU
The Jets need some pass rushers, and Mingo fits that description. He may not be the biggest guy, but he’s certainly one of the quickest and most explosive. I loved watching him at LSU as a sophomore, but there’s no question his play regressed a bit as a junior. I think Rex Ryan could figure out how to get the best out of him.

10. Tennessee Titans – Ezekiel Ansah, DE, BYU
The Titans need some edge rushers, and with Ansah still on the board, this is really an easy pick. Ansah is a big kid with a ton of athletic ability and upside, but not a lot of experience. He could flourish in Tennessee.

11. San Diego Chargers – D.J. Fluker, OT, Alabama
Mike Mayock opined that D.J. Fluker will not make it past the Chargers, and that makes sense since their offensive line has been in a shambles the last couple of years. Fluker is a big, powerful right tackle prospect who would be a significant upgrade for San Diego.

12. Miami Dolphins – Xavier Rhodes, CB, Florida State
There have been reports that Xavier Rhodes is not a good fit for the Dolphins’ defensive scheme, so I’ll be interested to find out what is. Rhodes is a potentially dominant cover man with excellent size, speed, and athletic ability. If the Dolphins pass on him with Sean Smith leaving for Kansas City, I’ll be surprised.

13. New York Jets – Star Lotulelei, DT, Utah
**Projected trade: Jets trade CB Darrelle Revis to Buccaneers for pick #13 and additional picks** I think a deal for Revis is going to get done, but I could still be wrong about that. I’m pretty confident it will get done, and I think the Jets would love to add Star Lotulelei, who is one of my favorite players in this draft. He is a big, strong player who can line up all around the defensive line, and play a ton of snaps.

14. Carolina Panthers – Sheldon Richardson, DT, Missouri
I’ve been putting Richardson to the Panthers for quite some time now, and it’s still a pick that I think makes a lot of sense. I think Carolina would like to move down here with the depth at DT in this draft, but if they stay put, this would be a great pick. A quick interior lineman who can put pressure on the quarterback.

15. New Orleans Saints – Tank Carradine, DE/OLB, Florida State
Carradine is one of the hottest names in the draft right now, and he could be an elite pass rusher in the NFL. The Saints need some edge rushers moving to a 3-4 defensive scheme, and this could be a great fit in the middle of the first round.

16. St. Louis Rams – Alec Ogletree, LB, Georgia
I could see the Rams also looking at a safety prospect with this pick, but Ogletree could be too enticing to pass up with a potential run on inside linebackers coming up. He would play outside linebacker for Jeff Fisher, and would fill a gaping hole on the Rams’ defense.

Apr 26, 2012; New York, NY, USA; A general view of the 2012 NFL Draft at Radio City Music Hall. Mandatory Credit: James Lang-USA TODAY Sports

1. Kansas City Chiefs — Eric Fisher OT, Central Michigan
With the trade for Alex Smith and putting Branden Albert on the trade block, it’s looking more and more like an OT will be the pick. It comes down to whether they like Joeckel or Fisher more. I think Fisher ends up being the pick.

2. Jacksonville Jaguars — Dion Jordan OLB, Oregon
The Jaguars pass rush last year was really bad, finishing last in the NFL with 20 sacks. Jordan can come in and play the LEO position for Gus Bradleys defense and make a difference in a variety of ways.

3. Oakland Raiders — Sheldon Richardson DT, Missouri
This offseason the Raiders lost Richard Seymour, Tommy Kelly and Desmond Bryant. Richardson is very good at getting pressure on the QB and versatile enough to drop back into zone coverage.

4. Philadelphia Eagles — Geno Smith QB, WVU
They have Michael Vick back for one year, but isn’t the long term answer. The Eagles owner has been to see 2 players pro days, Donovan McNabb and Geno Smith. Smith fits into Chip Kellys new offensive system well.

5. Detroit Lions — Luke Joeckel OT, Texas A&M
Jeff Backus retired this offseason. They have Riley Reiff who they drafted in the first round but he is really more suited for the right side. They have to protect Stafford if they want to get back to the playoffs.

6. San Diego Chargers — Lane Johnson OT, Oklahoma
With the top 2 OTs off the board the Chargers have to pull the trigger and trade up and grab the last top flight LT. The Chargers have to protect Philip Rivers better this year if they want to improve.

7. Arizona Cardinals — Chance Warmack OG, Alabama
With the trade for Carson Palmer, the Cardinals have to sure up that offensive line. Palmer is a statue in the pocket and has had some injury issues. Warmack may be the best prospect in the class and can start day 1.

8. Buffalo Bills – Ezekiel Ansah DE, BYU
The Bills signed Mario Williams and Mark Anderson last year. Anderson however was a huge disappointment and may not be back next year. Ansah has the potential to be the best player in this draft.

9. New York Jets — Tavon Austin WR, West Virginia
The Jets need a lot of things on this team. However, if they want Mark Sanchez to have any shot at succeeding they have to give him some weapons. Austin is easily the most explosive weapon in this draft.

10. Tennessee Titans — Jonathan Cooper OG, North Carolina
The Titans signed Andy Levitre in the offseason, but Cooper is still in play. If you add him to the bookends they already have and Levitre, you get a dominant offensive line for Chris Johnson to run behind and to protect Jake Locker.

11. Cleveland Browns — Dee Milliner CB, Alabama
The Browns could go a few different ways. With the signing of Paul Kruger, I don’t think they take an pass rusher in the 1st. Milliner can pair up with Joe Haden and give the Browns one of the best CB duos in the NFL. They trade down and still get their guy.

12. Miami Dolphins — Xavier Rhodes CB, FSU
The Dolphins have lost their #1 CB each of the last 2 years with Vontae Davis and Sean Smith. They have Richard Marshall still but he isn’t that good. Rhodes is a big, physical CB who can match up with any WR.

13. Tampa Bay Buccaneers — Star Lotutelei DT, Utah
With bot the top CBs off of the board, Lotulelei is a fantastic consolation prize. Pairing him up with Gerald McCoy would give the Buccs a fierce pair of DTs that would be extremely difficult for anyone to block. Buccs land a top 5 prospect in my opinion.

14. Carolina Panthers — Sylvester Williams DT, North Carolina
The DT position has just been a disaster for the Panthers the past few years. Williams is a disruptive DT who can get into the backfield and stop plays before they start. Would give the Panthers a stud to go with Charles Johnson.

15. New Orleans Saints — Jarvis Jones OLB, Georgia
With the switch to the 3-4, the Saints are going to need pass rushers. Jones is one of the top talents in this draft, but with the medical concerns he has dropped. Was an absolute play maker last year at Georgia and is a steal here at 15.

16. St. Louis Rams — Kenny Vaccaro S, Texas
The Rams biggest need is at S and the number 1 safety in the draft dropped to them. Vaccaro is versatile enough to drop down and cover the slot or play a deep zone. Would be a great pickup for the Rams.

Jan 24, 2013; Fairhope AL, USA; Senior Bowl north squad quarterback Ryan Nassib of Syracuse (12) passes during Senior Bowl practice at Fairhope municipal stadium. Mandatory Credit: John David Mercer-USA TODAY Sports

1. Kansas City Chiefs – Luke Joeckel, OT, Texas A&M
With fewer than two weeks to go, the Chiefs’ pick is still really up in the air. I think it’s down to Joeckel, Eric Fisher, and Dion Jordan, but you could maybe throw Sharrif Floyd or Star Lotulelei in the mix as well. I think I’m just going to stick with the pick I’ve been going with for a while now.

2. Jacksonville Jaguars – Dion Jordan, DE/OLB, Oregon
The Jaguars need to upgrade their pass rush. They are reportedly down to two prospects to take with this pick, which makes me think they could be planning on one being gone with the first. I think the other player is Geno Smith, so don’t be surprised if the Jaguars shock the world and take Geno with the #2 overall pick. They could also take an offensive tackle.

3. Oakland Raiders – Sharrif Floyd, DT, Florida
The Raiders would probably love to trade out of this pick, but I don’t know that anyone wants Geno Smith bad enough. I think the Raiders could look to one of a couple of guys here, but Floyd may be the best 4-3 DT in this draft in terms of getting pressure on the QB. Oakland desperately needs that.

4. Philadelphia Eagles – Geno Smith, QB, West Virginia
With no long-term solution at the QB position, I think the Eagles will be very tempted here to take Geno Smith. So much so, in fact, that I’m mocking him here again. Smith is a very athletic QB who can fit what Chip Kelly likes to do, and while I know they’ve been high on E.J. Manuel, they have also shown significant interest in Smith.

5. Detroit Lions – Eric Fisher, OT, Central Michigan
The Lions could easily go with a guy like Ziggy Ansah here, but I think Fisher is not only more of a sure thing, but he probably has just as much potential. The Lions need to work on protecting Matthew Stafford, who was hit a ton last season. I think adding Fisher could go a long way for this team’s playoff chances.

6.  – Miami Dolphins – Lane Johnson, OT, Oklahoma
**Projected trade: Dolphins trade picks #12, #42 and 5th round pick to Browns for pick #6** The Dolphins have a ton of additional picks in the early rounds, and while they could use them all, they might as well go up and find a trade partner to get a player that could replace someone like Jake Long at LT. Johnson is a freakish athlete whom the Dolphins have to trade up in front of the Cardinals and Chargers to get.

7. Arizona Cardinals – Jonathan Cooper, OG, North Carolina
With the top three offensive tackles off the board, the Cardinals go the next best route and get a guy who could be this year’s top guard prospect. Chance Warmack is also a dominant prospect at his position, but some teams like Cooper better. One of those teams could be the Cardinals, who have gaping holes on the offensive line.

8. San Francisco 49ers – Star Lotulelei, DT, Utah
Projected Trade: 49ers trade picks #31, #34, and 4th round pick to Bills for picks #8 and 7th round pick. I don’t know the exact trade value for this pick, but I think if the Bills could get a sweet haul like this one, they would probably move way down the draft board and see what they can get with quantity in a deep draft such as this one. San Francisco on the other hand has too many picks, literally. They can’t use them all and keep all the players on their roster, more than likely. I think adding Lotulelei would give the Niners another enviable player on their defensive front, and give them a guy who can play multiple positions for them.

9. New York Jets – Ezekiel Ansah, DE/OLB, BYU
The Jets need pass rushers in a bad way, and while they could very well go for a QB here as well, I think Ansah is probably too good of value to pass up on. He is a boom or bust prospect, but he has a ton of upside as a pass rusher.

10. Tennessee Titans – Dee Milliner, CB, Alabama
The Titans let all the trades play out in front of them, and they end up with a decision between Chance Warmack and Dee Milliner. I think Warmack likely will grade out higher on their board when it comes down to it, but they probably won’t see a chance to get a player at CB like Milliner again with the state of their roster. This could be an opportunity they can’t resist.

11. San Diego Chargers – Chance Warmack, OG, Alabama
The Chargers will not complain about this one. They desperately need to upgrade their offensive line, and Warmack is our top rated overall player this year. He is a potentially dominant guard who can help protect Philip Rivers and give the Chargers a physical presence in the running game.

12. Cleveland Browns – Barkevious Mingo, DE/OLB, LSU
The Browns do not seem settled on their pass rusher situation. Even after adding Paul Kruger alongside Jabaal Sheard, I don’t think they are done looking at guys who can put pressure on opposing QBs. In the projected trade, they come away with additional picks and get a guy who can give them a ton of speed off the edge in Barkevious Mingo.

13. New York Jets – Xavier Rhodes, CB, Florida State
Projected trade: Jets trade CB Darrelle Revis to Bucs for picks #13 and additional mid-late round picks. I don’t know the exact parameters of a trade, but I think one will get done within the next week or so. The Jets get a corner to replace Revis, and one with great size and athleticism. I could also see them going with a QB here.

14. Carolina Panthers – Sheldon Richardson, DT, Missouri
Richardson is arguably the best overall player available here, and he fits a position of need for the Panthers. I think this is a great fit and is one of my most common mock draft picks. Maybe that means there’s no chance it will happen.

15. New Orleans Saints – Jarvis Jones, DE/OLB, Georgia
Jarvis Jones is an elite talent on the field, but he runs slow. I think the Saints will be able to see past his 40 time and get him as a key piece of their new defense under Rob Ryan.

16. St. Louis Rams – Tavon Austin, WR, West Virginia
Austin might be the most explosive playmaker in this year’s draft. He might wind up being the best playmaker from this entire group of players. I think he fits great with the Rams and can help this team compete for an NFC West title.

Apr 26, 2012; New York, NY, USA; A general view of the 2012 NFL Draft at Radio City Music Hall. Mandatory Credit: James Lang-USA TODAY Sports

1. Kansas City Chiefs — Eric Fisher OT, Central Michigan
With the trade for Alex Smith and putting Branden Albert on the trade block, it’s looking more and more like an OT will be the pick. It comes down to whether they like Joeckel or Fisher more. I think Fisher ends up being the pick.

2. Jacksonville Jaguars — Dion Jordan OLB, Oregon
The Jaguars pass rush last year was really bad, finishing last in the NFL with 20 sacks. Jordan can come in and play the LEO position for Gus Bradleys defense and make a difference in a variety of ways.

3. Oakland Raiders — Sheldon Richardson DT, Missouri
This offseason the Raiders lost Richard Seymour, Tommy Kelly and Desmond Bryant. Richardson is very good at getting pressure on the QB and versatile enough to drop back into zone coverage.

4. Philadelphia Eagles — Geno Smith QB, WVU
They have Michael Vick back for one year, but isn’t the long term answer. The Eagles owner has been to see 2 players pro days, Donovan McNabb and Geno Smith. Smith fits into Chip Kellys new offensive system well.

5. Detroit Lions — Ezekiel Ansah DE, BYU
The Lions lost Cliff Avril to free agency and released Kyle Vanden Bosch. They need a pass rusher to put beside Ndamukong Suh and Nick Fairley. Ansah is extremely raw, but has the potential to be the best pass rusher in this draft.

6. San Diego Chargers — Luke Joeckel OT, Texas A&M
With one of the top 2 OTs left on the board the Chargers have to pull the trigger and trade up and grab one of them. The Chargers have to protect Philip Rivers better this year if they want to improve.

7. Arizona Cardinals — Lane Johnson OT, Oklahoma
With the trade for Carson Palmer, the Cardinals have to sure up that offensive line. Palmer is a statue in the pocket and has had some injury issues. Johnson would come in day 1 and he the Cardinals starting LT.

8. Buffalo Bills – Cordarrelle Patterson WR, Tennessee
I think the Bills wait until round 2 to take a QB. Patterson can come in and pair up with Steve Johnson to give the Bills and whoever their new QB is a very good duo of play makers on offense. He is a little raw, but undeniably talented.

9. New York Jets — Tavon Austin WR, West Virginia
The Jets need a lot of things on this team. However, if they want Mark Sanchez to have any shot at succeeding they have to give him some weapons. Austin is easily the most explosive weapon in this draft.

10. Tennessee Titans — Chance Warmack OG, Alabama
The Titans signed Andy Levitre in the offseason, but Warmack is still in play. If you add him to the bookends they already have and Levitre, you get a dominant offensive line for Chris Johnson to run behind and to protect Jake Locker.

11. Cleveland Browns — Dee Milliner CB, Alabama
The Browns could go a few different ways. With the signing of Paul Kruger, I don’t think they take an pass rusher in the 1st. Milliner can pair up with Joe Haden and give the Browns one of the best CB duos in the NFL. They trade down and still get their guy.

12. Miami Dolphins — Xavier Rhodes CB, FSU
The Dolphins have lost their #1 CB each of the last 2 years with Vontae Davis and Sean Smith. They have Richard Marshall still but he isn’t that good. Rhodes is a big, physical CB who can match up with any WR.

13. Tampa Bay Buccaneers — Star Lotutelei DT, Utah
With bot the top CBs off of the board, Lotulelei is a fantastic consolation prize. Pairing him up with Gerald McCoy would give the Buccs a fierce pair of DTs that would be extremely difficult for anyone to block. Buccs land a top 5 prospect in my opinion.

14. Carolina Panthers — Sylvester Williams DT, North Carolina
The DT position has just been a disaster for the Panthers the past few years. Williams is a disruptive DT who can get into the backfield and stop plays before they start. Would give the Panthers a stud to go with Charles Johnson.

15. New Orleans Saints — Jarvis Jones OLB, Georgia
With the switch to the 3-4, the Saints are going to need pass rushers. Jones is one of the top talents in this draft, but with the medical concerns he has dropped. Was an absolute play maker last year at Georgia and is a steal here at 15.

16. St. Louis Rams — Kenny Vaccaro S, Texas
The Rams biggest need is at S and the number 1 safety in the draft dropped to them. Vaccaro is versatile enough to drop down and cover the slot or play a deep zone. Would be a great pickup for the Rams.

Apr 26, 2012; New York, NY, USA; A general view of the 2012 NFL Draft at Radio City Music Hall. Mandatory Credit: James Lang-USA TODAY Sports

1. Kansas City Chiefs – Luke Joeckel, OT, Texas A&M
The Chiefs are likely taking an offensive tackle, and by most accounts it’s going to be Joeckel. There is still a chance this pick could be Eric Fisher or maybe even a defensive lineman, but I think right now it’s a safe bet that the Chiefs take the former Aggie with the top pick.

2. Jacksonville Jaguars – Dion Jordan, DE/OLB, Oregon
The Jaguars have an atrocious pass rush that could be significantly upgraded with this pick. I think their are going with a front four player here defensively, and Jordan could be the top player on their board. He’s certainly a good fit for Gus Bradley’s defense.

3. Oakland Raiders – Sharrif Floyd, DT, Florida
The Raiders saw a mass exodus of defensive linemen this offseason as they continue to clean house in the Bay Area. That would be putting it lightly. The only returning starter from last year’s squad will be LaMarr Houston. Sharrif Floyd is arguably the top defensive player on the board, and the Raiders need a complete overhaul on that side of the ball.

4. Philadelphia Eagles – Eric Fisher, OT, Central Michigan
The Eagles’ offensive rebuild continues with a guy who could be in contention for the number one pick. They have holes all over their roster, but I think they can be a contender in the NFC East if Mike Vick can stay healthy. He was sacked way too many times last season, and Fisher can play right or left as a rookie but eventually will wind up as a left tackle in this league.

5. Detroit Lions – Ezekiel Ansah, DE, BYU
The Lions are going through some major changes on the edges of their defensive lines. They are losing both starters from last year, and Ansah has as many upside as any player in this draft but he also has serious bust potential. The Lions are not afraid to take risks, especially on defensive linemen. This could wind up being a very good pick for them.

6. Miami Dolphins – Lane Johnson, OT, Oklahoma
**Projected trade — Dolphins trade their first and second round picks to the Browns for pick #6 and late round considerations** The Dolphins make this trade to move up and get the athletic offensive tackle out of Oklahoma, one of the most impressive athletes in recent memory. Johnson can play left or right tackle while Jonathan Martin holds down the other side. With Jake Long bolting for St. Louis, this is a necessity.

7. Arizona Cardinals – Chance Warmack, OG, Alabama
The Cardinals missed out on all the top tackles and both of the top ranked pass rushers as well. I think at that point, they will either look to trade down, take a QB, or solidify the interior of their offensive line. Their guard position and OL in general is bad, so Warmack would be a huge upgrade over anyone they currently have. He is our top rated overall player.

8. Buffalo Bills – Jonathan Cooper, OG, North Carolina
Cooper is the #2 player on our final big board, and he has the potential to be an elite offensive lineman in this league. It’s rare for a guard to be taken this high, but the Bills lost Andy Levitre and have a need on the interior. They can trade up for a QB in the later portion of the first round.

9. New York Jets – Barkevious Mingo, DE/OLB, LSU
The Jets are hurting for pass rushers, and Mingo has the skills to be the best pass rush specialist in this draft. I think he can continue to develop into an even bigger asset defensively as he adds weight, but initially, he can rush the tough quarterbacks the Jets will face on a weekly basis.

10. Tennessee Titans – Dee Milliner, CB, Alabama
The Titans simply cannot pass on Milliner at this point. CB is not their biggest need, but it’s a need nonetheless and Milliner is a fine player at his position. He could give them a lockdown player on the outside for years to come.

11. San Diego Chargers – Bjoern Werner, DE/OLB, Florida State
After missing out on the top five offensive linemen in this draft, the Chargers look to another of their top needs here at the DE/OLB position. Werner is a guy who has top five potential, and is a fantastic athlete. This is a position of need for the Chargers after Jarret Johnson proved he is no threat off the edge, and Shaun Phillips left in free agency.

12. Cleveland Browns – Xavier Rhodes, CB, Florida State
In the projected trade from earlier, the Browns pick up a big, athletic cornerback to play on the opposite side of the field of Joe Haden. Rhodes is a special talent who has more than ideal size, and can make plays on the ball. He could help take the Browns’ defense to the next level.

13. New York Jets – Geno Smith, QB, West Virginia
**Projected trade — The Jets trade CB Darrelle Revis to the Buccaneers for pick #13 and additional pick considerations** The Jets get rid of Darrelle Revis and use the pick they acquired on a QB for the future. The Jets clearly aren’t satisfied with their QB position after last season, and Smith is the type of guy that can develop into something special. He would sit for a bit behind Mark Sanchez, but 2013 could be Sanchez’s final year as a Jet.

14. Carolina Panthers – Sheldon Richardson, DT, Missouri
The Panthers need some help on the defensive interior, and with Richardson on the board, I think they’d be ecstatic. Ron Rivera loves this type of player in his defense, and with the emergence of Carolina’s edge rushers in Greg Hardy and Charles Johnson, Richardson could be wildly effective in this defense.

15. New Orleans Saints – Menelik Watson, OT, Florida State
Watson is an incredible athlete with huge upside and would likely start at left tackle for the Saints. He is still pretty raw, but the Saints need to address this position after Jermon Bushrod bolted for the Chicago Bears.

16. St. Louis Rams – Tavon Austin, WR, West Virginia
The Rams score big here with what I believe to be the draft’s best pure playmaker. I think Tavon Austin is going to transition really easily to the NFL, and I think he will be a guy to watch as arguably the most impactful fantasy player in his rookie season. I am very high on this guy.

Apr 26, 2012; New York, NY, USA; A general view of the 2012 NFL Draft at Radio City Music Hall. Mandatory Credit: James Lang-USA TODAY Sports

1. Kansas City Chiefs — Luke Joeckel OT, Texas A&M
With the trade for Alex Smith and putting Branden Albert on the trade block, it’s looking more and more like an OT will be the pick. It comes down to whether they like Joeckel or Fisher more. I think Joeckel ends up being the pick.

2. Jacksonville Jaguars — Ezekiel Ansah DE, BYU
The Jaguars pass rush last year was really bad, finishing last in the NFL with 20 sacks. Ansah is very raw, but is an freak athlete and has the ability to become a premier pass rusher in this league.

3. Oakland Raiders — Sheldon Richardson DT, Missouri
This offseason the Raiders lost Richard Seymour, Tommy Kelly and Desmond Bryant. Richardson is very good at getting pressure on the QB and versatile enough to drop back into zone coverage.

4. Philadelphia Eagles — Geno Smith QB, WVU
They have Michael Vick back for one year, but isn’t the long term answer. The Eagles owner has been to see 2 players pro days, Donovan McNabb and Geno Smith. Smith fits into Chip Kellys new offensive system well.

5. Detroit Lions — Eric Fisher OT, Central Michigan
The Lions offensive line has been bad for a while. Now with LT Jeff Backus retiring it has gotten even worse. They have to keep Matthew Stafford healthy if they have a chance in that division. Fisher can come in and start at LT from day 1.

6. Cleveland Browns — Dee Milliner CB, Alabama
The Browns could go a few different ways. With the signing of Paul Kruger, I don’t think they take an pass rusher in the 1st. Milliner can pair up with Joe Haden and give the Browns one of the best CB duos in the NFL.

7. Arizona Cardinals — Lane Johnson OT, Oklahoma
With the trade for Carson Palmer, the Cardinals have to sure up that offensive line. Palmer is a statue in the pocket and has had some injury issues. Johnson would come in day 1 and he the Cardinals starting LT.

8. Buffalo Bills – Cordarrelle Patterson WR, Tennessee
I think the Bills wait until round 2 to take a QB. Patterson can come in and pair up with Steve Johnson to give the Bills and whoever their new QB is a very good duo of play makers on offense. He is a little raw, but undeniably talented.

9. New York Jets — Dion Jordan OLB, Oregon
The Jets pass rush last year was really bad. Jordan can come in and lock down one of the OLB positions. He is great at getting to the QB, but just as good at dropping back into coverage.

10. Tennessee Titans — Chance Warmack OG, Alabama
The Titans signed Andy Levitre in the offseason, but Warmack is still in play. If you add him to the bookends they already have and Levitre, you get a dominant offensive line for Chris Johnson to run behind and to protect Jake Locker.

11. San Diego Chargers — Barkevious Mingo OLB, LSU
With the top offensive lineman all off the board, the Chargers go for their next biggest need. They drafted Melvin Ingram last year, but he didn’t create the impact they hoped. Mingo has an explosive first step and is a great athlete.

12. Miami Dolphins — Xavier Rhodes CB, FSU
The Dolphins have lost their #1 CB each of the last 2 years with Vontae Davis and Sean Smith. They have Richard Marshall still but he isn’t that good. Rhodes is a big, physical CB who can match up with any WR.

13. Tampa Bay Buccaneers — Star Lotutelei DT, Utah
With the top CB off of the board, Lotulelei is a fantastic consolation prize. Pairing him up with Gerald McCoy would give the Buccs a fierce pair of DTs that would be extremely difficult for anyone to block.

14. Carolina Panthers — Sharrif Floyd DT, Florida
The DT position has just been a disaster for the Panthers the past few years. Floyd can come in and give you a run stuffing presence straight away. He needs to work on his pass rush moves, but the potential is there.

15. New Orleans Saints — Jarvis Jones OLB, Georgia

With the switch to the 3-4, the Saints are going to need pass rushers. Jones is one of the top talents in this draft, but with the medical concerns he has dropped. Was an absolute play maker last year at Georgia and is a steal here at 15.

16. St. Louis Rams — Kenny Vaccaro S, Texas
The Rams biggest need is at S and the number 1 safety in the draft dropped to them. Vaccaro is versatile enough to drop down and cover the slot or play a deep zone. Would be a great pickup for the Rams.

Apr 26, 2012; New York, NY, USA; A general view of the 2012 NFL Draft at Radio City Music Hall. Mandatory Credit: James Lang-USA TODAY Sports

1. Kansas City Chiefs – Luke Joeckel, OT, Texas A&M
According to reports, the Chiefs are down to four players for the number one pick, and you have to figure it’s four big men. Joeckel is certainly among the finalists, and he’s been a favorite for this pick for a while now, especially given Branden Albert’s situation.

2. Jacksonville Jaguars – Dion Jordan, DE, Oregon
The Jaguars had one of the worst pass rushes in recent memory last season. Jordan is the kind of guy that can come in and immediately demand attention up front and give them what they’ve been looking for.

3. Oakland Raiders – Sharrif Floyd, DT, Florida
The Raiders traded for Matt Flynn, so I don’t think this will be a QB here. Floyd is a perfect fit for Dennis Allen’s defense and will be an instant impact player for one of the worst defensive fronts in the league.

4. Philadelphia Eagles – Eric Fisher, OT, Central Michigan
Fisher may be the most talented pass protector in this year’s draft, and the Eagles certainly can’t have enough of that. They could easily go QB with this pick, but they may let the board play out.

5. Detroit Lions – Ezekiel Ansah, DE, BYU
Losing Cliff Avril and Kyle Vanden Bosch will hurt the Lions’ DL, so they need to start developing a young guy. Ansah is extremely raw but he can flourish with Ndamukong Suh and Nick Fairley commanding a ton of attention up front.

6. Cleveland Browns – Dee Milliner, CB, Alabama
Milliner paired with Joe Haden for the future is looking more and more realistic, and that has to excite the Browns. They made some great moves to upgrade their pass rush this offseason, and getting Milliner would help this defense reach the next level.

7. Arizona Cardinals – Lane Johnson, OT, Oklahoma
The addition of Carson Palmer doesn’t eliminate the Cardinals from the QB pool in round one, but I don’t think they’d take one at seven. Maybe they would, who knows. I think the bigger need is on the OL. Carson Palmer can still be really solid if given time, and he has some good WRs in Arizona to play with.

8. Buffalo Bills – Jonathan Cooper, OG, North Carolina
The Bills signed Kevin Kolb to a two year deal, proving they are more comfortable with the second tier of QBs in this year’s draft, in my opinion. I think the next best option is to replace Andy Levitre up front with a guard who can do it all. Cooper is more athletic than Chance Warmack, so he gets the nod here.

9. New York Jets – Barkevious Mingo, DE/OLB, LSU
The Jets are a sleeper to take a QB here, especially with a new GM, but I think pass rush needs to be addressed and maybe they can try to trade back into round one for a quarterback. Mingo is a speedy pass rusher who fills a huge hole on their roster.

10. Tennessee Titans – Chance Warmack, OG, Alabama
The Titans pair Warmack on the inside with Andy Levitre, and I think they would be back in business as one of the best OL in the NFL. Warmack is an elite guard prospect and it’s rare to see one guard go in the top 10, much less two, but this is that kind of a draft class.

11. San Diego Chargers – Menelik Watson, OT, Florida State
This could be one of the first shockers of the first round. The Chargers do not hesitate to reach on a guy they like, and Watson is receiving a ton of hype. I think protecting Philip Rivers is priority number one, and this guy could be the LT they’ve been looking for.

12. Miami Dolphins – Xavier Rhodes, CB, Florida State
The Dolphins need to replace Sean Smith on the outside, and Rhodes is a good fit to do so. He’s a big, athletic corner prospect who fills the Dolphins’ top need after an exciting free agent spending spree.

13. Tampa Bay Buccaneers – Star Lotulelei, DT, Utah
Lotulelei’s heart health has checked out, so I could see him going anywhere from first overall to the middle of the first round. I think the Bucs are a good fit especially with the top two CBs off the board, and Tampa in hot pursuit of Darrelle Revis. If this pick is traded to the Jets, expect them to take Geno Smith.

14. Carolina Panthers – Sheldon Richardson, DT, Missouri
The Panthers need some pass rush from the interior of their defensive line after the great season by their bookend DEs. Richardson is a guy who has great athletic ability, and could be a great fit for Ron Rivera’s defense.

15. New Orleans Saints – D.J. Fluker, OT, Alabama
The Saints missed out on some of the best pass rushers in this class, and so they turn their attention to protecting their passer. Jermon Bushrod bolted for the Bears, and Fluker is coming from a fantastic OL at Alabama and can play the RT spot with Charles Brown taking over at LT.

16. St. Louis Rams – Tavon Austin, WR, West Virginia
The Rams want to get dynamic offensively, and they now need to replace Danny Amendola. I think Austin is the type of guy who could really shock the league as a rookie. This would be a great pickup for St. Louis.

Apr 26, 2012; New York, NY, USA; A general view of the 2012 NFL Draft at Radio City Music Hall. Mandatory Credit: James Lang-USA TODAY Sports

1. Kansas City Chiefs — Luke Joeckel OT, Texas A&M
With the trade for Alex Smith and putting Branden Albert on the trade block, it’s looking more and more like an OT will be the pick. It comes down to whether they like Joeckel or Fisher more. I think Joeckel ends up being the pick.

2. Jacksonville Jaguars — Ezekiel Ansah DE, BYU
The Jaguars pass rush last year was really bad, finishing last in the NFL with 20 sacks. Ansah is very raw, but is an freak athlete and has the ability to become a premier pass rusher in this league.

3. Oakland Raiders — Sheldon Richardson DT, Missouri
This offseason the Raiders lost Richard Seymour, Tommy Kelly and Desmond Bryant. Richardson is very good at getting pressure on the QB and versatile enough to drop back into zone coverage.

4. Philadelphia Eagles — Geno Smith QB, WVU
They have Michael Vick back for one year, but isn’t the long term answer. The Eagles owner has been to see 2 players pro days, Donovan McNabb and Geno Smith. Smith fits into Chip Kellys new offensive system well.

5. Detroit Lions — Eric Fisher OT, Central Michigan
The Lions offensive line has been bad for a while. Now with LT Jeff Backus retiring it has gotten even worse. They have to keep Matthew Stafford healthy if they have a chance in that division. Fisher can come in and start at LT from day 1.

6. Cleveland Browns — Dee Milliner CB, Alabama
The Browns could go a few different ways. With the signing of Paul Kruger, I don’t think they take an pass rusher in the 1st. Milliner can pair up with Joe Haden and give the Browns one of the best CB duos in the NFL.

7. Arizona Cardinals — Dion Jordan OLB, Oregon
Arizona could go offensive line here, but I think it’s a little early to go with Lane Johnson. The one part of the Cardinals D that is missing is a pass rush from the outside. Jordan can come in and give them an instant boost there.

8. Buffalo Bills – Cordarrelle Patterson WR, Tennessee
I think the Bills wait until round 2 to take a QB. Patterson can come in and pair up with Steve Johnson to give the Bills and whoever their new QB is a very good duo of play makers on offense. He is a little raw, but undeniably talented.

9. New York Jets — Star Lotulelei DT, Utah
Lotulelei is a steal at 9. He can come in from day 1 and give the Jets a dominating presence on that defensive line. They could go pass rusher here, but I think Lotulelei is too good a value for them to pass up.

10. Tennessee Titans — Chance Warmack OG, Alabama
The Titans signed Andy Levitre in the offseason, but Warmack is still in play. If you add him to the bookends they already have and Levitre, you get a dominant offensive line for Chris Johnson to run behind and to protect Jake Locker.

11. San Diego Chargers — Lane Johnson OT, Oklahoma
The Chargers have to keep Philip Rivers upright if they want him to return to the elite status he used to be. Johnson is an elite athlete at the LT position and can make a huge difference for SD.

12. Miami Dolphins — Xavier Rhodes CB, FSU
The Dolphins have lost their #1 CB each of the last 2 years with Vontae Davis and Sean Smith. They have Richard Marshall still but he isn’t that good. Rhodes is a big, physical CB who can match up with any WR.

13. Tampa Bay Buccaneers — Barkevious Mingo DE, LSU
The Buccs lost Michael Bennett this offseason. Mingo can come in and give them an immediate pass rush much like Bruce Irvin did for the Seahawks. They would rather have a CB, but with Rhodes gone there are none worth the 13th pick.

14. Carolina Panthers — Sharrif Floyd DT, Florida
The DT position has just been a disaster for the Panthers the past few years. Floyd can come in and give you a run stuffing presence straight away. He needs to work on his pass rush moves, but the potential is there.

15. New Orleans Saints — Jarvis Jones OLB, Georgia

With the switch to the 3-4, the Saints are going to need pass rushers. Jones is one of the top talents in this draft, but with the medical concerns he has dropped. Was an absolute play maker last year at Georgia and is a steal here at 15.

16. St. Louis Rams — Kenny Vaccaro S, Texas
The Rams biggest need is at S and the number 1 safety in the draft dropped to them. Vaccaro is versatile enough to drop down and cover the slot or play a deep zone. Would be a great pickup for the Rams.