2015 NFL Mock Draft: Houston Sparks Trade Frenzy
By Erik Lambert
Sep 20, 2014; Baton Rouge, LA, USA; Mississippi State Bulldogs linebacker Benardrick McKinney (50) tackles LSU Tigers running back Kenny Hilliard (27) during the third quarter of a game at Tiger Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Derick E. Hingle-USA TODAY Sports
#21 – Carolina Panthers – Melvin Gordon – RB – Wisconsin
The backfield is a mess for the Carolina Panthers and doesn’t show signs of getting much better. They need more young blood to help keep Cam Newton clean. Wisconsin star Melvin Gordon has that workhorse look about him.
#22 – Green Bay Packers (f/ARI) – Benardrick McKinney – LB – Mississippi State
Linebacker is truly the position that haunts the Green Bay Packers year after year, especially on the inside. Benardrick McKinney is seen more as an outside linebacker with his athleticism and pass rush skill but he has the versatility to play almost anywhere.
#23 – Detroit Lions – Mario Edwards Jr. – DT – Florida State
Both Ndamukong Suh and Nick Fairley could be gone next year so the Detroit Lions have to prepare for that eventuality. Mario Edwards is the next in a long line of quality Florida State defensive linemen and would ease such a transition considerably.
#24 – Baltimore Ravens – Devin Funchess – TE – Michigan
The future of Dennis Pitta must be considered cloudy at best after re-injuring his hip for the second-straight season. The Baltimore Ravens may have to address the tight end position, and the speedy and athletic Devin Funchess may be their guy.