2013 NFL Mock Draft: Picks 1-5
By Blake Meek
September 22, 2012; Columbia, SC, USA; Missouri Tigers defensive lineman Sheldon Richardson (34) before the game against the South Carolina Gamecocks at Williams-Brice Stadium. Mandatory Credit:
Jeff Blake-USA TODAY Sports
3. Oakland Raiders — Sheldon Richardson, DT, Missouri
The Raiders were a bad team last year. They have Carson Palmer under contract right now and he wasn’t terrible last year. They also have Terrell Pryor who they spent a 3rd round pick on under contract. I could easily see them taking Geno Smith here, but I think since they have lost Desmond Bryant and are loosing Richard Seymour that they are going to try and sure up their D-Line. Richardson is a very versatile player who is very good at getting pressure on the QB but can also drop into zone coverage.
Feb 21, 2013; Indianapolis, IN, USA; Central Michigan offensive lineman Eric Fisher speaks at a press conference during the 2013 NFL Combine at Lucas Oil Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Brian Spurlock-USA TODAY Sports
4. Philadelphia Eagles — Eric Fisher, OT, Central Michigan
The Eagles offensive line was really bad last year. They will get Jason Peters back this year, but who knows if he will be anything close to what he was pre-injury. Eric Fisher is a guy who can come in right away and step into the left tackle role if Peters isn’t back up to his normal self. Even if Peters does come back strong, Fisher can play on the right side. Protecting Vick and keeping him upright and healthy has to be the Eagles #1 priority if they want to compete in the NFC East.
Oct. 5, 2012; Provo, UT, USA; Brigham Young Cougars linebacker Ezekiel Ansah (47) grabs hold of Utah State Aggies running back Kerwynn Williams (25) during the first quarter at LaVell Edwards Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Douglas C. Pizac-USA TODAY Sports
5. Detroit Lions — Ezekiel Ansah, DE, BYU
The Lions defensive line has been the strength of their team the last couple of years. However they released Kyle Vanden Bosch and Cliff Avril signed with the Seahawks. Ezekiel Ansah is an athletic freak. However he is quite raw. He has only been playing football for a few years, but his athletic ability and upside can’t be ignored. The Lions could go with an OT here if either Fisher or Joeckel drops. They could also take Dee Milliner if they want a CB.
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