Updated Team Needs: NFC South
By Editorial Staff
One of the most important factors when preparing for the NFL Draft is knowing each and every NFL team. NFL Mocks keeps a very close eye on each team and will bring you an updated needs assessment at the end of each month. These needs will help as we prepare to make predictions for the 2011 NFL Draft. Continue to check out our team needs page to find the most recent assessments. Also after looking at the team needs move on over to the Big Board and see what prospects might fit your teams need. This was written by NFL Mocks Writer Jeremy Heneghan.
Over the past couple of years, the Falcons have drafted a lot of defensive players trying to fix a defense that has not been able to improve as much as they’d like it to, especially against the pass. Currently, they’re 21st in total defense and 22nd against the pass. They need another cornerback across from Dunta Robinson and upgrades could be made at safety. John Abraham and Mike Peterson are getting older, so a defensive end or another linebacker could be on their wish list, too.
Carolina Panthers
The Panthers are deep in rebuilding right now. Losing Julius Peppers is the obvious player that needs to be replaced. A new defensive lineman that can be a true playmaker for the defense would do a lot of good. With the Panthers playing the way they are right now, it’s very obvious that they’ll be picking in the top 10, if not top 5. Junior Robert Quinn, Adrian Clayborn, and Cameron Heyward could be options for Carolina. However, their offense is really struggling so far, ranking dead last in points scored, 31st in yards, and 28th in the pass. Along the offensive line, except for Jeff Otah, needs improving. If they feel that Jimmy Clausen is their guy, then they need to consider a better offensive line and tight end.
The Saints have started to struggle the past two games, barely beating the 49ers and losing to the Falcons in overtime. The two rankings that have hurt them are rush offense and defense. Defensive tackle and linebacker would seem to be lacking in talent, obviously. Stephen Paea, Jerrelle Powe, and Drake Nevis are names that could be available if the Saints are picking late in the first round again. I also think they could use another running back. Bush is injured right now and Pierre Thomas is the only guy running for them now. They aren’t desperate for a star running back, but more depth would really help.
The Bucs undertook a huge rebuilding effort 2 years ago and they started off well. I really liked them taking Gerald McCoy and Brian Price with their first two picks this year. However, defensive end is still a premium position of need for them. Running back is also a need the Bucs should address. Cadillac Williams has a lot of injury concerns, so they need a quality backup or another guy who can split carries with him. Rhonde Barber is getting older as well, so another cornerback should be targeted to pair up with Aqib Talib.