Apr 24, 2013; New York, NY, USA; NFL draft prospect Geno Smith interviews at the NFL Play 60 Youth Football Festival at Chelsea Waterside Park. Mandatory Credit: Debby Wong-USA TODAY Sports

With the first round complete, it’s only fitting that we do a 2nd and 3rd round mock draft.

33. Jacksonville Jaguars: Johnthan Banks, CB, Mississippi State

34. San Francisco 49ers: Johnathan Hankins, DT, Ohio State

35. Philadelphia Eagles: Geno Smith, QB, West Virginia

36. Detroit Lions: Menelik Watson, OT, Florida State

37. Cincinnati Bengals: Arthur Brown, LB, Kansas State

38. Arizona Cardinals: Damontre Moore, DE/OLB, Texas A&M

39. New York Jets: Ryan Nassib, QB, Syracuse

40. Tennessee Titans: Corey Lemonier, DE, Auburn

41. Buffalo Bills: Keenan Allen, WR, California

42. Oakland Raiders (from Dolphins): Zach Ertz, TE, Stanford

43. Tampa Bay Buccaneers:  Jamar Taylor, CB, Boise State

44. Carolina Panthers: Jonathan Cyprien, S, Florida International

45. San Diego Chargers: Justin Hunter, WR, Tennessee

46. Buffalo Bills (from Rams): Gavin Escobar, TE, San Diego State

47. Dallas Cowboys: Jonathan Franklin, RB, UCLA

48. Pittsburgh Steelers: Eddie Lacy, RB, Alabama

49. New York Giants: Kevin Minter, LB, LSU

50. Chicago Bears: Manti Te’o, LB, Notre Dame

51. Washington Redskins: David Amerson, CB, North Carolina State

52. New England Patriots (from Vikings): Robert Woods, WR, USC

53. Cincinnati Bengals: Tyrann Mathieu, CB, LSU

54. Miami Dolphins: Larry Warford, G, Kentucky

55. Green Bay Packers: Montee Ball, RB, Wisconsin

56. Seattle Seahawks: Quinton Patton, WR, Louisiana Tech

57. Houston Texans: John Jenkins, DT, Georgia

58. Denver Broncos: Tank Carradine, DE, Florida State

59. New England Patriots: Kawann Short, DT, Purdue

60. Atlanta Falcons: Alex Okafor, DE, Texas

61. San Francisco 49ers: Margus Hunt, DL, SMU

62. Baltimore Ravens: Sio Moore, LB, UConn

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.

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.

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.

Oct 13, 2012; Miami, FL, USA; North Carolina Tar Heels guard Jonathan Cooper (64) during a game against the Miami Hurricanes at Sun Life Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Steve Mitchell-USA TODAY Sports

1. First Round, 10th overall: Jonathan Cooper, OG, North Carolina

The Titans still have holes up front on their offensive line, but getting Cooper and Andy Levitre in the same offseason would go a LONG way to improving their chances of upsetting the Texans and snagging that AFC South title. If Jake Locker can make strides, it will be because of an improved offensive line and running game. The Titans have a lot of pieces in place to make a lot of people surprised this season, and adding Cooper would be a great move in the first round if he is still on the board. He is our #2 ranked overall player, and would be an immediate starter for the Titans at RG or even C if they wanted, but more likely RG.

2. Second Round, 40th overall: Corey Lemonier, DE, Auburn

Kamerion Wimbley isn’t a long-term solution for the Titans at the DE position, and I think they need to look to add a pass rusher early in this draft. Lemonier physically is one of the most impressive players in this draft, and he shows flashes of greatness in terms of rushing the quarterback. He needs to improve consistency like any young player, but I think at this juncture for the Titans, he would be a really solid selection.

3. Third Round, 70th overall: Jordan Poyer, CB, Oregon State

The Titans have some good, young players at the CB position, but I think they will look to add another playmaker through this draft class. They have been rumored to be in the mix for guys like Xavier Rhodes and Desmond Trufant in round one, so why not in round three? I think if they address a couple of other needs, they can take advantage of a falling player like Poyer, who has shown some first round talent. This would be an excellent value pick for the Titans and could provide them with a potential future stud at CB.

4. Third Round, 97th overall: Jelani Jenkins, LB, Florida

Tennessee needs some depth at the LB positions, and there have been some reports that they are going to use Akeem Ayers more in rushing situations as well. Jenkins is a very athletic linebacker who can contribute on special teams, in coverage, and can make plays sideline to sideline. Starting caliber player who could step up in case of situations like last season when Colin McCarthy went down for extended time.

5. Fourth Round, 107th overall: Mallichiah Goodman, DE, Clemson

The Titans go with another defensive end here, just trying to find as many guys as they can to build up front and rush the quarterback. Goodman is a guy who is more of a base end who sets the edge, but he can bull rush his way to the quarterback from the inside or the outside and would be a nice fit at this point in the draft.

Feb 23, 2013; Indianapolis, IN, USA; Central Michigan offensive lineman Eric Fisher runs the 40 yard dash during the 2013 NFL Combine at Lucas Oil Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Brian Spurlock-USA TODAY Sports

The Detroit Lions were looking like they could be one of the up-and-coming sleeper Super Bowl candidates in the NFC until the 2012 season happened. Detroit returned to its inconsistent ways, and through injuries and no true “finisher” mentality, the Lions have wound up picking in the top five yet again.

This is not to say the team is devoid of talent, though. The Lions have a ton of really good players at different positions, but they really re-tooled in free agency. Specifically, the Lions went out and got running back Reggie Bush, safety Glover Quin, and defensive end Jason Jones, all on really reasonable contracts. They were also able to re-sign safety Louis Delmas and cornerback Chris Houston. I thought the Lions were one of the winners of free agency, though losing Cliff Avril could hurt them a bit.

Here is a four-round mock draft that I think could really help the Lions get back in the playoff hunt.

1. First Round, 5th overall: Eric Fisher, OT, Central Michigan

Here, the Lions would be taking a kid who is a local product and a guy who is being given consideration for the number one overall pick. Fisher has displayed excellent feet, strength, and he looks like he could be a future left tackle in the NFL. The Lions have a former first round pick in Riley Reiff slated to start at either right tackle, left tackle, or even guard has been thrown around, so I think Fisher could fit in where Reiff does not. He would either be the Lions’ starting left or right tackle on opening day, and could help keep Matthew Stafford from getting grass in his facemask all season. The Lions do have options with this pick, like a pass rusher or cornerback, but Fisher would undoubtedly be the safest pick and probably the top player on the board at this point.

2. Second Round, 36th overall: Sam Montgomery, DE, LSU

The Lions have been no strangers to selecting players with character flaws, and Montgomery could be a really nice steal for then in the second round. He is a guy who could come off the edge with power and put pressure on the quarterback, as well as making plays behind the line of scrimmage with relative ease if he gives his maximum effort. That has been a question mark surrounding Montgomery of late, so I think teams will be wary, but the Lions have a big need at this position and this could be a great value in the second round. Montgomery would be made even more effective by the play of Nick Fairley and Ndamukong Suh on the inside.

3. Third Round, 65th overall: Robert Alford, CB, Southeastern Louisiana

Alford is a guy who has excellent athletic ability and has risen to the top five of Mel Kiper Jr’s quarterback rankings. The Lions went after some mid-round corners last year as well, but this is still a position of need. I think Alford is a guy who gives them an option in the slot or on the outside. He is athletic enough to cover any type of receiver, and quick enough to hang with some of the best slot receivers in the league. He will take some time adjusting to the speed of the NFL, but I think he could be a really solid value pick for them at the top end of the third round.

4. Fourth Round, 132nd overall: Cornelius Washington, DE, Georgia

With their compensatory pick in the fourth round, I think the Lions look to some upside. As I mentioned before, they have a need in the pass rush department. They were able to get Sam Montgomery early in this mock, and with this pick, they go straight upside. Washington had just half a sack last year but was playing out of position, and has phenomenal speed and strength. He is an athletic specimen who would be a good value in this round, because there is little risk and a lot of reward involved. I think this would be a nice selection for the Lions.

Nov 26, 2011; Eugene, OR, USA; Oregon Ducks defensive end Dion Jordan (96) against the Oregon State Beavers during the second half at Autzen Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Jim Z. Rider-USA TODAY Sports

The Oakland Raiders are not in an enviable position. Their roster has been gutted, and Dennis Allen/Reggie McKenzie have a lot of work to do out in the Bay Area. The Raiders cut a majority of their notable remaining players, including former first round picks Darrius Heyward-Bey and Michael Huff. The team has a void at nearly every position, and question marks all over the place. They lost a ton of key free agents and were so far over the cap, they didn’t have much money to spend on the better guys available.

I think to this point, they’ve done a great job of filling holes through free agency and setting themselves up well in the draft, but they are still missing a 2nd round pick (Carson Palmer trade) and have a long way to go. Here is a Raiders mock draft through the first four rounds that I think could really help out there squad.

RAIDERS TEAM NEEDS

1. First Round, 3rd overall: Dion Jordan, DE, Oregon

The Oakland Raiders were one of the worst teams in the NFL in terms of getting pressure on the quarterback last year, and their DE position is abysmal. Jason Hunter, who came over as a FA acquisition from Denver, is slated as the starter opposite LaMarr Houston at DE, and that’s unacceptable considering he’s coming off of injury. I think Dion Jordan has as much if not more pass rush potential than any prospect available this year. Dennis Allen was able to work with one of the best young pass rushers in Von Miller in his rookie season with the Denver Broncos, and he saw just how damaging Miller could be from the opposing sideline last year. Jordan paired with LaMarr Houston could give the Raiders a decent edge rush, and by the time they are picking in the third round, all of the top pass rushers will be long gone. This is a logical pick for Oakland, who could also be looking at Sharrif Floyd, Star Lotulelei, or Dee Milliner. Maybe Geno Smith should he fall to their pick.

2. Third Round, 66th overall: Robert Alford, CB, Southeastern Louisiana

The Raiders have a decimated secondary right now. In fact, the secondary is in such a shambles that they intend to move former running back Taiwan Jones over to cornerback. One of their best utility men in the defensive backfield–former first round pick Michael Huff–has been released. I think the next step is for the Raiders to make a move on a solid corner prospect with one of their top picks. Like I said before, it could be Dee Milliner in the 1st round, but the third round is more likely. Alford has pretty average size for a cornerback but is a guy who definitely has a ton of speed, and there are still people in the Raiders’ front office who have an affliction for speed. These first two picks are certainly ones that the late, great Al Davis would approve of in terms of athletic ability. Alford is a guy who comes from a small school and will need to learn the ropes, but he could be a valuable piece for Dennis Allen’s defense going forward.

3. Fourth Round, 100th overall: Jordan Reed, TE, Florida

The Raiders lost their leading pass catcher from last season, which just so happened to be their tight end (Brandon Myers). Reed is another ultra-athletic tight end prospect in the mold of former Gator Aaron Hernandez, now of the New England Patriots. He’s more an extension of the wide receiver position than anything, but the Raiders certainly aren’t going to overlook his ability to contribute in the passing game, which had become a focal point of their offense last season with Carson Palmer. If the team goes with Terrelle Pryor, Reed could be a very valuable outlet from the TE position, contributing also as an H-back.

Dec 29, 2012; Bronx, NY, USA; West Virginia Mountaineers quarterback Geno Smith (12) warms up prior the 2012 New Era Pinstripe Bowl against the Syracuse Orange at Yankee Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Rich Barnes-USA TODAY Sports

There’s no question the Oakland Raiders have been a train wreck since their Super Bowl blowout loss in 2002. The Raiders have seen a revolving door at the Head Coach position under the late Al Davis, and have had no stability as an NFL franchise. While Raider nation will forever stay true to the black and silver, many often question what direction the team is going in.

General Manager Reggie McKenzie was hired away from the Green Bay Packers to answer that very concern. McKenzie played a key role in building the Packers into the Super Bowl Champions they became under the leadership of Head Coach Mike McCarthy, and quarterback Aaron Rodgers, as well as a sound defense.

McKenzie’s first major move as the GM of the Raiders was hiring Head Coach Dennis Allen away from their divisional rivals, the Denver Broncos.

After a successful five year stint with the New Orleans Saints, Allen decided to take a promotion with the Denver Broncos, and become their defensive coordinator. Allen’s job in Denver was to develop top draft pick Von Miller into an elite player in the NFL. Allen did that, as Miller became the defensive Rookie of the Year in 2011, and both Allen and Miller helped lead Denver to a division title and a playoff appearance. Allen’s defense helped put a stop to a hot Pittsburgh Steelers team at home, en route to a show down in New England with the Patriots. The Broncos were blown out of New England, 45-10, yet Allen headed into the off season as one of the most highly regarded Head Coaching candidates in the entire league.

In his first season at the helm in Oakland, Allen struggled to make progress, as the Raiders finished 4-12, and earned themselves the third overall selection in April’s NFL Draft. The Raiders have suffered in the Draft in recent years, having given up top draft picks for quarterback Carson Palmer. Palmer hasn’t been the same top tier quarterback he was in Cincinnati, and seems to be well past his prime. Terrelle Pryor, a compensatory pick in 2011, has seen extremely limited action during his time with the Raiders, but could compete for a starting job due to his mobility that could lead to success with the red hot Read Option offense.

The Raiders have holes all of the offense and defensive side of the ball, and have aging players and bad contracts in all of the wrong places. Carson Palmer is on the downside of his career, and is owed a good chunk of money heading into the 2013 season. Richard Seymour and Tommy Kelly are both paid extremely high, and do not have the numbers on the field to match their numbers on their checks. The loss of Nnamdi Ashomuga in 2011, really set the Raiders’ secondary back a few years. Darren McFadden has a serious problem staying healthy, and could wind up being cut before the draft.

If the Raiders want to begin the process of crawling out of the NFL’s cellar, they need to bring a player through the draft that will provide a stable sense of direction for the franchsie moving forward. West Virginia quarterback Geno Smith very well could be that player. Smith could start in Oakland from day one, and provide a spark offensively that could lift the Raiders into competition in the AFC West within a year or two. Geno Smith will have a good, young core of receivers to throw to, and if McFadden can stay healthy, he will have a lethal threat out of the back field to pair with Pro Bowl fullback Marcel Reese.

Geno Smith is the top quarterback availabl in this year’s NFL Draft and could start immediately and bring a new flavor to the fan base that Carson Palmer or Terrelle Pryor simply couldn’t or wouldn’t bring. While the jury is still out on Pryor due to his lack of experience, Smith is easily an upgrade to him without even having taken a snap in the NFL. Smith has great pocket presence, he doesn’t turn the ball over and while he’s not a “threat” to run the ball, he is adequate enough to make plays outside of the pocket to drive the offense down the field.

If Oakland misses out on the opportunity to draft Smith, they can certainly look to fill holes all over their defense. They could start by drafting Richard Seymour’s eventual replacement in Utah defensive tackle Star Lotulelei. Star is the top rated defensive tackle in the draft, and under the right coaching, could end up being as much of  force inside as Ndamukong Suh is in Detroit. If they choose to pass on Star, look for Alabama defensive back Dee Milliner to be in serious consideration for the Raiders at third overall.

Sep 29, 2012; College Station, TX, USA; Texas A

Around this time of year, creating mock drafts becomes nearly as exciting as filling out your March Madness bracket. Everyone wants to have the perfect mock draft. Each team selects the player they slotted them to select, with zero mistakes. Perfecting a mock draft is nearly impossible, and almost a waste of time. That’s not a discredit to those of us who spend hours upon end creating them, it’s a credit to how wildly unpredictable the NFL Draft itself has become. We’ve seen the Atlanta Falcons trade up from the very back of the first round, to inside the top 10. The Dallas Cowboys also traded themselves into the top 10 in last year’s draft. These trades, unless predicted in your mock, completely erase any chance of your mock draft being successful.

Let’s not waste any more time, the best and most fun part about this all, is actually seeing the mock draft itself. Below is Draft Insider’s Mock Draft: 2.0. Enjoy, and be sure to engage in conversation via the comments section if you feel you have a better pick.

1) Kansas City Chiefs

Luke Joeckel OT Texas A&M

While many Chiefs fans will cringe at the sight of their team passing up West Virginia quarterback Geno Smith, new Head Coach Andy Reid may very well have to let go of his veteran left tackle Branden Albert. Albert reportedly wants top five type money for his position, all while having back injury concerns. Joeckel is my best available player in this year’s NFL Draft, and Kansas City would be wise to protect whichever quarterback they choose to move forward with, with a durable and athletic player who could start for them for over a decade.

2) Jacksonville Jaguars

  Bjoern Werner DE Florida State

The Jaguars have had a revolving door at defensive end for quite some time now, and claiming for Eagle’s star Jason Babin off waivers did not do them any good. Babin did not produce in the fashion they had hoped when they brought him in, and now Jacksonville finds themselves looking to fill the same need they had just a few months ago. While questions about quarterback Blaine Gabbert’s future continue to circulate around the league, new Head Coach Gus Bradley should look to fortify his defensive unit, and hope that one of the top quarterbacks are still available at the top of round two. Werner is the most versatile defensive end in this year’s Draft, and can either put his hand in the dirt and rush off the edge, or play in a role similar to what Bruce Irvin played for the Seahawks last season.

3) Oakland Raiders

Geno Smith QB West Virginia

Carson Palmer’s days as a starting quarterback in the NFL are over. If they aren’t, then someone needs to do us all a favor, and make sure that becomes a reality. Palmer began to decline far before he came to Oakland and was only doing himself an absolute disservice by sitting out and demanding a trade while with the Bengals. Terrelle Pryor is not a starting quarterback at the next level, and Geno Smith can come in immediately and turn around what has been an embarrassing franchise over the last decade.

4) Philadelphia Eagles

Dee Milliner CB Alabama

Nnamdi Ashomuga and Dominique Rogers-Cromartie turned the “Dream Team” into an absolute nightmare for Eagles fans last season. From their dramatic inconsistencies, and their inability to make any sort of impact on what on paper looked to be a stout defense, Nnamdi and ‘DRC’ have shown no signs that they should be handed a starting job under new Head Coach Chip Kelly in 2013. Dee Milliner could strap up and start in Philadelphia immediately, and would be an immediate upgrade from either Nnamdi or Rogers-Cromartie.

5) Detroit Lions

Dion Jordan DE/OLB Oregon

The Lions are only one season removed from their most recent playoff appearance. Why they managed to finish 4-12 this season is a mystery to most. Defense wins championships in the NFL, and the Lions did not have a very good one at all. Cliff Avril may be leaving via free agency, and Kyle Vanden Bosch is not the player he once was. Jordan has the ability to put his hand in the turf, or stand up and rush the edge in Detroit. While Jordan does come with injury concerns, his ceiling is extremely high, and would be a good value pick for Schwartz, and an ailing defensive unit.

6) Cleveland Browns

Barkevious Mingo DE/OLB LSU

Mingo is one of the nastiest defensive players in this year’s draft, and I am personally excited to see what he does on the field next season. Picture Mingo paired with Jabaal Sheard, now that is something teams will grow to fear over the next few seasons. Mingo’s versatility would bring a scary dynamic to a young and fiery defense. The Browns are on the up and coming, and Mingo only adds to the probability of their future success.

7) Arizona Cardinals

Eric Fisher OT Central Michigan

Before Bruce Arians even thinks about who his starting quarterback will be next season, he needs to make sure he has someone that is going to keep them from having their face in the ground every single play. The Cardinals desperately need a quarterback, which they will be able to find in the second or third round, but they cannot think for a minute that they can walk onto an NFL field in 2013 without upgrading at the offensive tackle position. Fisher is ranked by some as the best tackle in the draft, and would be able to start in Arizona immediately.

8) Buffalo Bills

Jarvis Jones DE/OLB Georgia

Jarvis Jones is regarded by some around the league as the best defensive player in this year’s draft. My biggest concern with Jones is his neck injury history, that makes me very concerned if i’m an NFL team that’s about to offer him a multi-year contract. Jones is a freakish athlete, with a knack for finding himself around the football. Pair him with Mario Williams, Marcel Dareus, and Jaryius Byrd, and the Bills could begin to compete in the AFC East.

9) New York Jets

Ezekiel Ansah DE/OLB BYU

Ansah is a scary pick here for me at nine. He is more potential than production, and that is something I rarely ever favor. However, if any team is going to reach this far on a player, it’s going to be Rex Ryan and the New York Jets. The Jets are desperate to turn around a team that once made two consecutive AFC Championships. While drafting a quarterback is certainly an option, Rex will look to excite the fan base with a player that can be a star. Ansah is that player, but always remember, potential over production is a very, very high risk. One that not always comes with a high reward.

10) Tennessee Titans

Chance Warmack OG Alabama

The Buffalo Bills have an absolute need along their offensive line, and it’s at the guard position. Chance Warmack is a bulldozer, and will be able to easily handle himself with the big hog mollies he will face six times a year inside the AFC East. Warmack is a player you can plug into play immediately, and you will see Pro-Bowl caliber production from as soon as he straps on his helmet.

11) San Diego Chargers

Johnthan Banks CB Mississippi State

Quentin Jammer is not getting any younger, and the Chargers need to find a viable option to replace him with. Banks is a player that could be a top flight corner in the league, in the right system and under the right coaching and mentoring. Jammer would be a great asset to keep around until the bolts think that Banks is ready to lead the secondary on his own.

12) Miami Dolphins

Cordarrelle Patterson WR Tennessee

Ryan Tannehill has shown fans in Miami that is he capable of being their stater for the next decade. Now all Miami has to do is surround their franchise quarterback with play makers. Patterson is a play maker in every sense of the word. He will become Tannehill’s favorite, and most reliable target well before week one.

13) Tampa Bay Buccaneers

 Star Lotulelei DT Utah

Head Coach Greg Schiano wants to have a tough, physical defense to compete in the NFC South. Drafting Star Lotulelei to pair with Gerald McCoy, who is highly regarded by many people within the organization, would set the bucs up for a huge upswing season in 2013. Star is the best available defensive tackle in this year’s draft, and my second best overall player. His slip is due to positional need, and value. He will be a great fit in Tampa.

14) Carolina Panthers

 Johnathan Hankins DT Ohio State

Defensive Tackle is the biggest position of need for the Panthers, and Johnathan Hankins is now the best available player at his position after seeing the division rival Buccaneers take Star Lotulelei just one pick prior. Hankins is a thumper with great upfield vision who can be slotted in the starting line up immediately, and wreak havoc at the line of scrimmage.

15) New Orleans Saints

Alec Ogletree LB Georgia

Without a leader in the middle of your defense, you’re not going to go anywhere. The Saints had no voice in the heart of their defense, vocally or by example. Ogletree is a passionate player who can be the leader of this defense for years to come. At this point, any one in the middle would be an upgrade on what was an absolutely putrid defense in 2012. Saints fans should rejoice at the thought of seeing a linebacker here.

16) St. Louis Rams

 Kenny Vaccaro S Texas 

The Rams are heart broken to see Warmack and Eric Fisher off the board when they select at 16th overall, but they do have other needs that they can address here. Kenny Vaccaro is hands down the most versatile safety in the draft, and has the ability to start at either strong or free safety in St. Louis. Coming off of a stellar Senior campaign, the well rounded Vaccaro will look to carry that momentum into his rookie season, and become an impact player on a young defense looking for talent.

17) Pittsburgh Steelers

John Jenkins DT Georgia

The Steelers are not expected to sign veteran nose tackle Casey Hampton, and could look to fill that need here in the first round. While the Steelers could look for help at cornerback, or possibly wide receiver if they lose Mike Wallace, Jenkins is a player that can contribute early and often in Pittsburgh.

18) Dallas Cowboys

 Sheldon Richardson DT Missouri

With the hiring of former USC Defensive Coordinator Monte Kiffin, the Cowboys will now be running a base 4-3 defense. Sheldon Richardson is the perfect fit in any 4-3 defense, and the Cowboys are lucky to see him fall right into their lap to be the player they can build around for years to come. Richardson is an absolute monster who will cause problems in the NFC East for over a decade.

19) New York Giants

       Lane Johnson OT Oklahoma

There is no question that the Giants need a new left tackle. Lane Johnson has gained a tremendous amount of momentum after having a solid week in Mobile during the Senior Bowl. Johnson is a player that is still raw in comparison to players like Joeckel or Fisher, and may need some coaching up before being able to become a start at the next level. However, with that being said, his potential is what has boosted his stock into the first round, and he is worth the 19th overall pick for the Giants to protect Eli Manning.

20) Chicago Bears

   Jonathan Cooper OG North Carolina

The Chicago Bears need a savior, and they find theirs in Cooper with the 20th pick. The Bears can’t possibly tell their fan base that they have searched far and wide to find players to protect Jay Cutler. They drafted Gabe Carimi, who turned out to be a complete bust, and also signed a few journeymen veterans who didn’t make even a menial impact. Cooper is regarded by some as the best guard in the draft, and will be able to start immediately in Chicago.

21) Cincinnati Bengals

 Damontre Moore DE Texas A&M

Moore is projected by some to go in the top five. I agree that he very well could, but out of all of the good pass rushers in this year’s draft, I think Moore could be the one to slide the furthest. Moore would be a great fit with the Bengals on a defensive line that already has an anchor in Geno Atkins.

22) St. Louis Rams (Via Trade w/ Redskins)

 Keenan Allen WR California

It’s no secret the Rams need to give quarterback Sam Bradford play makers. Allen is a deep threat that can be what Percy Harvin never was for the Minnesota Vikings. Allen would most likely become Bradford’s main target next season, and for years to come down the road.

23) Minnesota Vikings

Xavier Rhodes CB Florida State

Antoine Winfield is still a viable starting corner in the NFL, but he isn’t getting any younger. The Vikings are in a similar situation to the Chargers, who need to find a player that can be coached up to replace their long time veteran corners. Rhodes is a player that needs mechanical coaching, as well as the right scheme to succeed. Winfield could be the player to coach and mold him to be his successor a few years down the road.

24) Indianapolis Colts

   DeAndre Hopkins WR Clemson

Andrew Luck had a stellar season in 2012, leading the Colts to the playoffs. Reggie Wayne was his most used play maker, and while the tandem had success, Luck may have very well just burnt whatever tread was left on Wayne’s tires. Hopkins would be in a great situation learning and playing along side one of the most productive wide receivers of the past decade.

25) Seattle Seahawks

   Sam Montgomery DE LSU

Pete Carroll loves his pass rushers. His best pass rusher, Chris Clemons will be recovering from an ACL injury he suffered in the latter part of the season. Montgomery fits Carroll’s rush attack system perfectly, and could start in place of Clemons until is healthy enough to return, and then find himself in a similar role to Bruce Irvin’s once Clemons regains his starting job.

26) Green Bay Packers

 Tyler Eifert TE Notre Dame

The Packers saw Aaron Rodgers not use Jermichael Finley as often as he’s used his reliable tight end in the past. Finley does have a durability concern, and Eifert is the better overall athlete of the two. Eifert is a tremendous receiving threat and is an asset more than he’s a liability in the run game. He can be a dangerous weapon for a quarterback like Aaron Rodgers.

27) Houston Texans

Tavon Austin WR West Virginia

Andre Johnson is aging, and the Texans need to insert some young talent in the line up at key skill positions if they want to continue to compete with the high octane offenses that are being birthed around the league. The Texans could go offensive line here, but Austin a good value pick here, and could end up being a threat for them in year one.

28) Denver Broncos

   Kawaan Short DT Purdue

The Broncos need to address the interior of their defensive line. Short is a player that fits a need here, on a team that doesn’t have many holes. Short can be plugged in to play immediately and any production he offers would be an upgrade from what Denver has had over recent years. Short is a thick body that can bull rush his way into the pocket, and will become a problem for opposing offensive units early in his career.

29) New England Patriots

Sharrif Floyd DT Florida

Vince Wilfork is getting up in age, and needs a player to spell him when his lack of conditioning kicks in. While Floyd does come with unwanted baggage, his versatility to play either nose tackle or defensive end in a 3-4 scheme is why I believe Belichick would reach for him in the first round. Floyd possesses top ten talent. His off the field concerns and questions about his laziness is what attributed to his fallen stock.

30) Atlanta Falcons

Zach Ertz TE Stanford

Tony Gonzalez announced this past summer that 2012 would be his final season, and he stuck to his word after the Falcons lost in the NFC Championship game. Ertz would be a viable option here at 30 for the falcons, although there is talk that they want to upgrade their defensive line.

31) Baltimore Ravens

Kevin Minter LB LSU    

Ray Lewis will retire after the Super Bowl, regardless of whether or not he holds up the Lombardi Trophy one more time. The Ravens will be smart to fill that need as fast as they can. Minter is the second best available linebacker in this year’s draft, and would be around a ton of veteran talent that will help him be an asset from day one.

32) San Francisco 49ers

  David Amerson CB North Carolina State

On a stout defense, one of the weakest areas is the corner back position for the 49ers. Amerson would be an immediate upgrade and would fill a need as well. As the possible defensing Super Bowl Champions, the 49ers won’t find themselves with very many needs heading into the 2012 NFL Draft, but instead will have the luxury of taking the best player available. They get both by drafting Amerson.

Many people were surprised to see Manti Te’o did not make it in the first round when we live tweeted our mock draft. Te’o to me is nearly untouchable. I know some team will overlook his hoax scandal because of the talent he possesses. However, I personally feel Te’o is a cancer to a locker room and is not worth a first round selection. There was also backlash about only having one quarterback projected to go in the first round. There are a plethora of viable veteran quarterbacks who will be hitting the market for Free Agency, and with a weak quarterback class, teams may look to use those veterans as “band aids” until a stronger quarterback class is available.

As we mentioned before, no mock draft is perfect, and no one that creates them is trying to be perfect. This is one of the best parts of the NFL Draft, and it’s exciting to see so many different ideas on one topic. We hoped you enjoyed reading Draft Insider’s Mock Draft: 2.0 and we hope you will continue to check back often here at NFL Mocks as we look to consistently provide you with the best NFL Draft news there is to offer.

Feb 26, 2012; Indianapolis, IN, USA; Stanfrord Cardinal quarterback Andrew Luck does the shuttle run during the NFL Combine at Lucas Oil Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Brian Spurlock-US PRESSWIRE

I’m going to do a full 2012 NFL Mock draft. That’s right a 7 round mock draft with full explanations. This is the first round, which will be very similar to my final mock draft to be submitted to the Huddle report.

For scouting reports on every one of these players check out our scouting report page and be sure to follow us on twitter @NFLmocks

1. Indianapolis Colts-Andrew Luck, QB, Stanford Cardinal

This pick might not be original, but it’s likely to happen. I’m not in the camp that the Redskins should draft RGIII over Luck. luck makes the most sense to me. The Colts will be lucky to have him (sorry haven’t made a lame Luck joke in a long time).

2. Washington Redskins-Robert Griffin III, QB, Baylor

The Redskins fans get the man they have already fallen in love with and hope that he is everything that has been promised to them and more. He’ll need to be to consistently compete in the dangerous NFC East, which should be much stronger than they were in 2011–a year in which one of the teams won a Superbowl.

3. Minnesota Vikings-Matt Kalil, T, USC

I’m still not buying the talk that the Vikings might decide to bypass Matt Kalil in favor of Morris Claiborne or Justin Blackmon. It just doesn’t make sense to me. Kalil is the best tackle prospect in the draft by a long shot and LT is the Vikings biggest need.

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