NFL Mock Draft - 1/20/2014
[www.cbssports.com]
While the Denver Broncos and Seattle Seahawks eagerly await Super Bowl XLVIII, the majority of the NFL flocked to Mobile, Ala. for the annual Senior Bowl.
The build-up to May's draft should be a captivating ride. The talent is better than a year ago, in large part due to a record 102 underclassmen giving up collegiate eligibility to joining the 2014 draft class.
Round 1
1. Houston Texans
(2-14) Jadeveon Clowney, DE, South Carolina: Quarterback remains the logical starting point for new head coach Bill O'Brien but that doesn't mean it is a guarantee he will go that route with the No. 1 pick. Some believe that seniors Zach Mettenberger, AJ McCarron and Jimmy Garrapolo are just as likely to emerge as NFL starters as the high-profile underclassmen and they could potentially be found in the second round or later. A more immediate impact could be felt with pairing Clowney - unquestionably the most gifted prospect in the draft - with superstar J.J Watt
2. St. Louis Rams (from Washington)
(7-9) Greg Robinson, OT, Auburn: Owners of this lofty pick due to the Robert Griffin III trade, the Rams are in a terrific position to improve their team immediately or the future by trading yet again. Head coach Jeff Fisher has never selected an offensive lineman in the first round but Robinson isn't just another blocker. His ability to dominate at the point attack would give the Rams the pair of bookend tackles (with veteran Jake Long) to protect Sam Bradford and improve the consistency of their rushing attack.
3. Jacksonville Jaguars
(4-12) Blake Bortles, QB, UCF: The Jaguars may have the least talented roster in the NFL but the team played hard under head coach Gus Bradley and were a respectable 3-5 on the road. Improving at home could get a kick-start with the selection of Bortles, who may currently lack Teddy Bridgewater's polish or Johnny Manziel's improvisational skill but possesses a higher upside than either.
4. Cleveland Browns
(4-12) Johnny Manziel, QB, Texas A&M: While the Browns can't seem to make a decision on their head coach, head scouts Mike Lombardi and Joe Banner are reportedly enamored with Manziel. While I personally question how well an undersized quarterback who relies on his mobility is going to fare in the gusts and grass of FirstEnergy Field, there is no denying Johnny Football's appeal. A more logical move might be to package their two first round picks in an attempt to trade up for Bortles, whose prototypical size and instincts would seem like the perfect fit.
5. Oakland Raiders
(4-12) Teddy Bridgewater, QB, Louisville: Like the Jaguars and Browns before them, the Raiders are desperate for help at quarterback. Bridgewater's slight frame is a concern which could push him down significantly down the board. While scouts are concerned about his ability to hold up to an NFL pass rush, Bridgewater's accuracy in the short to intermediate zones could make him a quality fit in head coach Dennis Allen's scheme.
6. Atlanta Falcons
(4-12) Jake Matthews, OT, Texas A&M: The Falcons desperately need help on the defensive side of the ball but considering the millions invested in their skill position players, adding talent to the offensive line is a critical need, as well. Powerful and technically sound, Matthews is as pro-ready as it gets but because he is perceived as lacking upside, he could be overtake on draft day as 2014's top tackle.
7. Tampa Bay Buccaneers
(4-12) Sammy Watkins, WR, Clemson: Vincent Jackson has been every bit the playmaker the Bucs hoped for after luring him away from San Diego but for Mike Glennon to take the next step, reinforcements may be necessary. Watkins' fluidity and explosiveness makes him a potentially more effective receiver in the short to intermediate passing game new offensive coordinator Jeff Tedford used as head coach at California.
8. Minnesota Vikings
(5-10-1) Anthony Barr, OLB, UCLA: In signing longtime Bengals defensive coordinator Mike Zimmer as their head coach, the Vikings may have made a statement about the direction of their franchise. Should Minnesota fall in love with one of the rookie quarterbacks it is certainly possible they'll add one here but don't be surprised if building up the defense to compete against the explosive offenses of the NFC North is the plan. Barr's length and athleticism makes him a potential difference-maker on a defense starving for them.
9. Buffalo Bills
(6-10) Khalil Mack, OLB, Buffalo: With Mario Williams, Kyle Williams and impressive rookie Kiko Alonso leading the way, the Bills quietly emerged as one of the NFL's top defenses in 2013 - at least against the pass. While ranking second in sacks (57) and fourth overall against the pass, the Bills fell short against the run, allowing 128.9 yards per run, fifth-worst in the NFL. Mack, the all-time leader in FBS history with 16 forced fumbles and tied for the all-time lead with 75 career tackles for loss over his career, would make sense from a schematic and geographic perspective.
10. Detroit Lions
(7-9) Darqueze Dennard, CB, Michigan State: Detroit boasts scary talent along the defense line but this remains a feast or famine unit needing leadership and consistency. Dennard's ability to shutdown half of the field played a critical role in While some question Dennard's true speed, his fluidity, physicality and instincts earned him the Thorpe Award as the nation's top defensive back and was critical to the success of Michigan State's top-ranked defense.
11. Tennessee Titans
(7-9) C.J. Mosley, ILB, Alabama: Instability at the quarterback position is clearly Tennessee's biggest concern but with Jake Locker returning next season, it remains to be seen how aggressive the Titans will be in adding competition to the position. General manager Ruston Webster, if retained, has proven to be a savvy talent evaluator and believer in the Best Player Available strategy. Mosley's instincts and reliable tackling make him a safe pick at a position of need for the Titans.
12. NY Giants
(7-9) Taylor Lewan, OT, Michigan: Protecting Eli Manning should be priority No. 1 in New York and given the way the Giants' offensive line has played this season it wouldn't be surprising if general manager Jerry Reese invested multiple picks in reinforcements. A four-year starter with good length, strength and nastiness in his play, Lewan would be a good start.
13. St. Louis Rams
(7-9) Marqise Lee, WR, Southern California: Given the lofty expectations brought with the trade up for Tavon Austin a year ago, the rookie receiver and return specialist was one of 2013's bigger disappointments. Austin remains a dynamic weapon but his size limitations make him a complementary weapon rather than a true No. 1. The Rams could go in a number of different directions with this pick but improving their production on offense must be the priority if the club is going to climb back into NFC West contention.
14. Chicago Bears
(8-8) Timmy Jernigan, DT, Florida State: Though he only emerged as a full-time starter at Florida State in 2013, Jernigan's combination of burst, agility and power makes him one of the draft's most intriguing talents. A standout performance against Auburn in the BCS Title game capped off an incredible junior campaign that could ultimately result in a top 10 selection. Given the Bears' need for help on defense and the talented quarterbacks of the NFC Central, adding a pocket-collapsing presence makes sense here.
15. Pittsburgh Steelers
(8-8) Louis Nix, DT, Notre Dame: Nix will have to prove his health before earning a first round selection as he underwent knee surgery in December. When healthy, however, he's proven himself to be one of nation's elite run-stuffers. He'd be an upgrade over incumbent starter Steve McClendon, whose play leveled off in the second half of his first season taking over for long-time standout Casey Hampton.
16. Baltimore Ravens
(8-8) Mike Evans, WR, Texas A&M: Earning comparisons to Vincent Jackson while dominating the SEC has pushed Evans, a redshirt sophomore, into the conversation as the top receiver in the country. Pairing Evans with speedster Torrey Smith would give the Ravens the pair of playmaking wideouts to take full advantage of Joe Flacco's big arm.
17. Dallas Cowboys
(8-8) Kony Ealy, DE, Missouri: Tony Romo's issues in the fourth quarter pale in comparison to the full game bludgeoning that occurs weekly to the Cowboys' defense. Expect there to be significant turnover in personnel over the offseason should Dallas elect to keep their 4-3 alignment. Adding a versatile and athletic edge rusher like Ealy would go a long way towards adding some danger to the Dallas defense.
18. NY Jets
(8-8) Eric Ebron, TE, North Carolina: Rookie Geno Smith certainly took his lumps as a rookie but considering the weapons surrounding him, his struggles aren't surprising and he appears likely to return as the Jets' starter in 2014. The Jets have invested heavily in receivers with less than inspiring results. Adding a legitimate mismatch in the incredibly athletic Ebron makes more sense given the conservative offense head coach Rex Ryan prefers.
19. Miami Dolphins
(8-8) Zack Martin, OT, Notre Dame: It remains to be seen how the Jonathan Martin-Richie Incognito mess works itself out but for now it appears likely that the Dolphins will have to replace at least one member of the left side of their offensive line, if not both positions. Zack Martin, unrelated to Jonathan Martin by genetics or style of play, is a coach's dream. While perhaps lacking the body type scouts prefer at tackle, Martin slides well laterally and controls opponents with fierce hand usage.
20. Arizona Cardinals
(10-6) Jace Amaro, TE, Texas Tech: Adding a speedy seam threat to complement Larry Fitzgerald and Michael Floyd and keeps defenses from crowing the line of scrimmage to stop big-play specialist Andre Ellington could be the next step in Bruce Arian's transformation of Arizona's offense. Amaro is a potential Jimmy Graham-like threat who caught 106 passes for 1,352 yards and seven touchdowns in 2013.
21. Green Bay Packers
(8-7-1) RaShede Hageman, DT, Minnesota: Few general managers rebuild along the lines with the consistency of Ted Thompson. Hageman's incredible combination of size and explosiveness is exciting, though he hasn't been the dominant force his talents would indicate. Surrounded by greater talent, however, and he could prove a steal.
22. Philadelphia Eagles
(10-6) Calvin Pryor, FS, Louisville: Based on the strength of Chip Kelly's offense, the Eagles won the NFC East. The Eagles finished 30th in pass defense over the regular season, however, making it easy to imagine which unit they'll be looking to improve for 2014. Physical, athletic and instinctive, Pryor could be a significant step in the right direction.
23. Kansas City Chiefs
(11-5) Hasean Clinton-Dix, FS, Alabama: Incumbent starter Kendrick Lewis is a pending free agent and while the Chiefs are high on second-year pro Sanders Commings, Clinton-Dix could force the team to re-think their depth chart. A steady open-field tackler with good fluidity and speed in coverage, Clinton-Dix could help the Chiefs' secondary grow less reliant on their fierce pass rush to make big plays on defense.
24. Cincinnati Bengals
(11-5) Ryan Shazier, OLB, Ohio State: Former undrafted free agent Vontaze Burfict continues to shine for Marvin Lewis but reinforcements could be needed on the outside, especially with James Harrison aging. While fellow undrafted free agent Vincent Ray has flashed in his Harrison's absence, the Bengals may be hard pressed to overlook Shazier's playmaking ability.
25. San Diego Chargers
(9-7) Justin Gilbert, CB, Oklahoma State: The Chargers run to the playoffs was all the more impressive when one considers that the team ranked last in the AFC (and 29th overall) in pass defense. Gilbert is a spectacular athlete with terrific hand-eye coordination and return skills, making him a threat on defense and as a kick returner.
26. Cleveland Browns (from Indianapolis)
(4-12) Cyrus Kouandjio, OT, Alabama: Finding their head coach and quarterback remain the obvious priorities in Cleveland but help along the offensive line may also be needed given the disappointing second season from right tackle Mitchell Schwartz, the club's second round pick in 2012. Moving the athletically-limited Schwartz inside to right guard and pairing him with the highly physical and aggressive Kouandjio could solve two problems.
27. New Orleans Saints
(11-5) Jason Verrett, CB, TCU: The Saints hit a home run with the selection of former Texas Longhorn safety Kenny Vaccaro in the first round a year ago and may find a similarly tenacious playmaker in the same state with Verrett. A slight frame might mean Verrett's role would be inside covering the slot but given the frequency of three-receiver sets in today's NFL, nickel cornerbacks (like pass rush specialists) are now generating first round conversations for clubs.
28. Carolina Panthers
(12-4) Marcus Roberson, CB, Florida: While the Panthers' front seven is fearsome but, as was demonstrated in the playoff loss to San Francisco, depth is a concern in Carolina's secondary. Scouts wish Roberson was a bit bigger and more physical against the run, but he's a fluid athlete with very good speed who could provide a much-needed boost to San Diego's secondary.
29. New England Patriots
(12-4) Stephon Tuitt, DT, Notre Dame: The season-ending injury to nose guard Vince Wilfork made the middle of the Patriots' defense a sieve, especially against the run. While Tuitt doesn't possess the size to take over for Wilfork in the middle, his great size and athleticism makes a fit at virtually every spot along the defensive line. Considering how Bill Belichick values versatility, Tuitt makes sense here.
30. San Francisco 49ers
(12-4) Brandin Cooks, WR, Oregon State: Teams as gifted as the 49ers have the luxury of filling small needs with their first-round pick. Michael Crabtree and Anquan Boldin provide San Francisco with two big, reliable targets on the outside but Cooks could provide a different weapon in the middle when the 49ers opt to use a third receiver. He also would provide the club with another option in the return game.
31. Denver Broncos
(13-3) Travis Swanson, C, Arkansas: Protecting Peyton Manning is priority No. 1 in Denver and this remains especially so up the middle. Stout enough to handle nose guards, the 6-4, 318 Swanson is being graded by some clubs as a guard because of his agility. His versatility would likely be welcomed by a Broncos' team looking for improved play up front.
32. Seattle Seahawks
(13-3) Kelvin Benjamin, WR, Florida State: Despite winning the NFC Championship, Russell Wilson hasn't played well in last several games. To be fair, he hasn't been given a lot of help from a receiving corps missing its two most talented (and well-paid) pass-catchers in veterans Percy Harvin and Sidney Rice. The oft-injured Rice is expected to be a salary cap casualty and the Seahawks also may have to replace Golden Taint, who is a pending free agent and was the team's leading receiver in 2013. The Seahawks look for unique traits in the first round and Benjamin's monstrous frame makes him an intriguing fit.
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2014 Senior Bowl: UVA's Moses parts the red D at South practice
By Rob Rang
January 21, 2014 6:48 pm ET
[www.cbssports.com]
MOBILE, Ala. -- Given the rapid ascension enjoyed by Eric Fisher and Lane Johnson at the Senior Bowl a year ago, one can't blame scouts for spending a lot of their time evaluating offensive linemen this week.
Notre Dame's Zack Martin entered the week as NFLDraftScout.com's top-rated offensive lineman participating in the Senior Bowl but with a terrific performance Tuesday afternoon by Virginia's Morgan Moses could result in a significant jump up the board.
Alternately lining up at left and right tackle for the South team, the 6-foot-6, 325 pound behemoth showcased the length, quickness and balance to handle speed rushers like Auburn's Dee Ford (6-foot-2, 243 pounds) and Arkansas' Chris Smith (6-foot-1, 266 pounds), as well as powerful defenders like his former teammate, 6-foot-6, 298-pound defensive end Brent Urban.
Individual pass-rush drills favor the defensive players but other than one exception in which Ford beat Moses with a quick jab-step inside and explosive burst to his right, Moses handled left tackle duties well. When moved back to the right side, Moses also performed admirably, burying Urban with an emphatic pancake block that drew gasps from scouts in the stands.
Best of all, Moses' strong play continued into the scrimmages run by the Jacksonville Jaguars' coaching staff. One particular three-play sequence against the defenders in the South team's red jerseys showcased Morgan's pro-readiness:
On "first down" Moses handled a speed rush from Ford to give his quarterback enough time to complete a quick swing pass to the right.
The next play was a run to the right for solid gain. Moses did not supply a block at the point of attack on the play, instead releasing to run approximately 20 yards downfield to force adjustments from a linebacker and safety. The quickness off the ball, fluidity and straight-line speed Moses used to part the defense was every bit as impressive as the pancake block he'd delivered on Urban during the earlier one-on-one drill.
Appropriately enough, it was Urban who lined up opposite Moses on the next play. Attacking Moses with a strong bull rush that had beaten several other South team blockers throughout the day, Urban instead was stopped in his tracks due to a strong anchor and good core flexibility from the left tackle.
While Moses was the South's best blocker Tuesday, several other offensive and defensive linemen left impressions.
Cal's Deandre Coleman enjoyed a solid day on the interior, repeatedly pushing through Oklahoma's Gabe Ikard and Arkansas' Travis Swanson. Powerful and surprisingly athletic, the 6-foot-5, 315 pounder is position and scheme versatile, though scouts are left to question where this passionate play was throughout a disappointing senior season in the Pac-12. Ikard's quickness and tenacity will intrigue zone-blocking teams but he's struggled with the massive defenders in Mobile. Swanson has also been a bit inconsistent, though most of the struggles he's had over the first two days have come when he's lined up at guard, rather than center. Swanson starred for the Razorbacks at center, showing impressive agility and power in the pivot but at 6-foot-5, 310 pounds, he projects better to guard or even tackle in the opinion of some scouts.
Like Coleman, Tennessee defensive tackle Daniel McCullers bullied opponents with his power, slipping past Swanson with a good rip move early during the one-on-one drills. McCullers, 6-foot-7 and 348 pounds, struggles with leverage, playing much higher than the rest of the South defensive linemen. This allows technicians like Florida State's Bryan Stork (6-foot-4, 306 pounds) to turn and seal the massive Volunteer from the play despite a significant weight disadvantage.
Urban has generated some buzz in recent weeks and it is clear that his length and strength project very well as a traditional five-technique defensive end. He is very strong and uses the power in his upper body to stun and disengage from would-be blockers. He also lost track of the ball, at times, allowing runners to slip past him when he appeared to be in position to stop them.
A year ago Nick Saban made a surprise visit to the sidelines of the Senior Bowl. This year, it was players rather than coaches who were seen visiting at Ladd-Peebles Stadium, as South Carolina's Jadeveon Clowney and North Carolina tight end Eric Ebron were on hand for Tuesday's South practice. While two of the more athletic prospects in the entire country, as underclassmen, neither was eligible to participate in the Senior Bowl and instead likely attended strictly to watch practice and meet NFL decision-makers in town for the all-star game.
[www.cbssports.com]
While the Denver Broncos and Seattle Seahawks eagerly await Super Bowl XLVIII, the majority of the NFL flocked to Mobile, Ala. for the annual Senior Bowl.
The build-up to May's draft should be a captivating ride. The talent is better than a year ago, in large part due to a record 102 underclassmen giving up collegiate eligibility to joining the 2014 draft class.
Round 1
1. Houston Texans
(2-14) Jadeveon Clowney, DE, South Carolina: Quarterback remains the logical starting point for new head coach Bill O'Brien but that doesn't mean it is a guarantee he will go that route with the No. 1 pick. Some believe that seniors Zach Mettenberger, AJ McCarron and Jimmy Garrapolo are just as likely to emerge as NFL starters as the high-profile underclassmen and they could potentially be found in the second round or later. A more immediate impact could be felt with pairing Clowney - unquestionably the most gifted prospect in the draft - with superstar J.J Watt
2. St. Louis Rams (from Washington)
(7-9) Greg Robinson, OT, Auburn: Owners of this lofty pick due to the Robert Griffin III trade, the Rams are in a terrific position to improve their team immediately or the future by trading yet again. Head coach Jeff Fisher has never selected an offensive lineman in the first round but Robinson isn't just another blocker. His ability to dominate at the point attack would give the Rams the pair of bookend tackles (with veteran Jake Long) to protect Sam Bradford and improve the consistency of their rushing attack.
3. Jacksonville Jaguars
(4-12) Blake Bortles, QB, UCF: The Jaguars may have the least talented roster in the NFL but the team played hard under head coach Gus Bradley and were a respectable 3-5 on the road. Improving at home could get a kick-start with the selection of Bortles, who may currently lack Teddy Bridgewater's polish or Johnny Manziel's improvisational skill but possesses a higher upside than either.
4. Cleveland Browns
(4-12) Johnny Manziel, QB, Texas A&M: While the Browns can't seem to make a decision on their head coach, head scouts Mike Lombardi and Joe Banner are reportedly enamored with Manziel. While I personally question how well an undersized quarterback who relies on his mobility is going to fare in the gusts and grass of FirstEnergy Field, there is no denying Johnny Football's appeal. A more logical move might be to package their two first round picks in an attempt to trade up for Bortles, whose prototypical size and instincts would seem like the perfect fit.
5. Oakland Raiders
(4-12) Teddy Bridgewater, QB, Louisville: Like the Jaguars and Browns before them, the Raiders are desperate for help at quarterback. Bridgewater's slight frame is a concern which could push him down significantly down the board. While scouts are concerned about his ability to hold up to an NFL pass rush, Bridgewater's accuracy in the short to intermediate zones could make him a quality fit in head coach Dennis Allen's scheme.
6. Atlanta Falcons
(4-12) Jake Matthews, OT, Texas A&M: The Falcons desperately need help on the defensive side of the ball but considering the millions invested in their skill position players, adding talent to the offensive line is a critical need, as well. Powerful and technically sound, Matthews is as pro-ready as it gets but because he is perceived as lacking upside, he could be overtake on draft day as 2014's top tackle.
7. Tampa Bay Buccaneers
(4-12) Sammy Watkins, WR, Clemson: Vincent Jackson has been every bit the playmaker the Bucs hoped for after luring him away from San Diego but for Mike Glennon to take the next step, reinforcements may be necessary. Watkins' fluidity and explosiveness makes him a potentially more effective receiver in the short to intermediate passing game new offensive coordinator Jeff Tedford used as head coach at California.
8. Minnesota Vikings
(5-10-1) Anthony Barr, OLB, UCLA: In signing longtime Bengals defensive coordinator Mike Zimmer as their head coach, the Vikings may have made a statement about the direction of their franchise. Should Minnesota fall in love with one of the rookie quarterbacks it is certainly possible they'll add one here but don't be surprised if building up the defense to compete against the explosive offenses of the NFC North is the plan. Barr's length and athleticism makes him a potential difference-maker on a defense starving for them.
9. Buffalo Bills
(6-10) Khalil Mack, OLB, Buffalo: With Mario Williams, Kyle Williams and impressive rookie Kiko Alonso leading the way, the Bills quietly emerged as one of the NFL's top defenses in 2013 - at least against the pass. While ranking second in sacks (57) and fourth overall against the pass, the Bills fell short against the run, allowing 128.9 yards per run, fifth-worst in the NFL. Mack, the all-time leader in FBS history with 16 forced fumbles and tied for the all-time lead with 75 career tackles for loss over his career, would make sense from a schematic and geographic perspective.
10. Detroit Lions
(7-9) Darqueze Dennard, CB, Michigan State: Detroit boasts scary talent along the defense line but this remains a feast or famine unit needing leadership and consistency. Dennard's ability to shutdown half of the field played a critical role in While some question Dennard's true speed, his fluidity, physicality and instincts earned him the Thorpe Award as the nation's top defensive back and was critical to the success of Michigan State's top-ranked defense.
11. Tennessee Titans
(7-9) C.J. Mosley, ILB, Alabama: Instability at the quarterback position is clearly Tennessee's biggest concern but with Jake Locker returning next season, it remains to be seen how aggressive the Titans will be in adding competition to the position. General manager Ruston Webster, if retained, has proven to be a savvy talent evaluator and believer in the Best Player Available strategy. Mosley's instincts and reliable tackling make him a safe pick at a position of need for the Titans.
12. NY Giants
(7-9) Taylor Lewan, OT, Michigan: Protecting Eli Manning should be priority No. 1 in New York and given the way the Giants' offensive line has played this season it wouldn't be surprising if general manager Jerry Reese invested multiple picks in reinforcements. A four-year starter with good length, strength and nastiness in his play, Lewan would be a good start.
13. St. Louis Rams
(7-9) Marqise Lee, WR, Southern California: Given the lofty expectations brought with the trade up for Tavon Austin a year ago, the rookie receiver and return specialist was one of 2013's bigger disappointments. Austin remains a dynamic weapon but his size limitations make him a complementary weapon rather than a true No. 1. The Rams could go in a number of different directions with this pick but improving their production on offense must be the priority if the club is going to climb back into NFC West contention.
14. Chicago Bears
(8-8) Timmy Jernigan, DT, Florida State: Though he only emerged as a full-time starter at Florida State in 2013, Jernigan's combination of burst, agility and power makes him one of the draft's most intriguing talents. A standout performance against Auburn in the BCS Title game capped off an incredible junior campaign that could ultimately result in a top 10 selection. Given the Bears' need for help on defense and the talented quarterbacks of the NFC Central, adding a pocket-collapsing presence makes sense here.
15. Pittsburgh Steelers
(8-8) Louis Nix, DT, Notre Dame: Nix will have to prove his health before earning a first round selection as he underwent knee surgery in December. When healthy, however, he's proven himself to be one of nation's elite run-stuffers. He'd be an upgrade over incumbent starter Steve McClendon, whose play leveled off in the second half of his first season taking over for long-time standout Casey Hampton.
16. Baltimore Ravens
(8-8) Mike Evans, WR, Texas A&M: Earning comparisons to Vincent Jackson while dominating the SEC has pushed Evans, a redshirt sophomore, into the conversation as the top receiver in the country. Pairing Evans with speedster Torrey Smith would give the Ravens the pair of playmaking wideouts to take full advantage of Joe Flacco's big arm.
17. Dallas Cowboys
(8-8) Kony Ealy, DE, Missouri: Tony Romo's issues in the fourth quarter pale in comparison to the full game bludgeoning that occurs weekly to the Cowboys' defense. Expect there to be significant turnover in personnel over the offseason should Dallas elect to keep their 4-3 alignment. Adding a versatile and athletic edge rusher like Ealy would go a long way towards adding some danger to the Dallas defense.
18. NY Jets
(8-8) Eric Ebron, TE, North Carolina: Rookie Geno Smith certainly took his lumps as a rookie but considering the weapons surrounding him, his struggles aren't surprising and he appears likely to return as the Jets' starter in 2014. The Jets have invested heavily in receivers with less than inspiring results. Adding a legitimate mismatch in the incredibly athletic Ebron makes more sense given the conservative offense head coach Rex Ryan prefers.
19. Miami Dolphins
(8-8) Zack Martin, OT, Notre Dame: It remains to be seen how the Jonathan Martin-Richie Incognito mess works itself out but for now it appears likely that the Dolphins will have to replace at least one member of the left side of their offensive line, if not both positions. Zack Martin, unrelated to Jonathan Martin by genetics or style of play, is a coach's dream. While perhaps lacking the body type scouts prefer at tackle, Martin slides well laterally and controls opponents with fierce hand usage.
20. Arizona Cardinals
(10-6) Jace Amaro, TE, Texas Tech: Adding a speedy seam threat to complement Larry Fitzgerald and Michael Floyd and keeps defenses from crowing the line of scrimmage to stop big-play specialist Andre Ellington could be the next step in Bruce Arian's transformation of Arizona's offense. Amaro is a potential Jimmy Graham-like threat who caught 106 passes for 1,352 yards and seven touchdowns in 2013.
21. Green Bay Packers
(8-7-1) RaShede Hageman, DT, Minnesota: Few general managers rebuild along the lines with the consistency of Ted Thompson. Hageman's incredible combination of size and explosiveness is exciting, though he hasn't been the dominant force his talents would indicate. Surrounded by greater talent, however, and he could prove a steal.
22. Philadelphia Eagles
(10-6) Calvin Pryor, FS, Louisville: Based on the strength of Chip Kelly's offense, the Eagles won the NFC East. The Eagles finished 30th in pass defense over the regular season, however, making it easy to imagine which unit they'll be looking to improve for 2014. Physical, athletic and instinctive, Pryor could be a significant step in the right direction.
23. Kansas City Chiefs
(11-5) Hasean Clinton-Dix, FS, Alabama: Incumbent starter Kendrick Lewis is a pending free agent and while the Chiefs are high on second-year pro Sanders Commings, Clinton-Dix could force the team to re-think their depth chart. A steady open-field tackler with good fluidity and speed in coverage, Clinton-Dix could help the Chiefs' secondary grow less reliant on their fierce pass rush to make big plays on defense.
24. Cincinnati Bengals
(11-5) Ryan Shazier, OLB, Ohio State: Former undrafted free agent Vontaze Burfict continues to shine for Marvin Lewis but reinforcements could be needed on the outside, especially with James Harrison aging. While fellow undrafted free agent Vincent Ray has flashed in his Harrison's absence, the Bengals may be hard pressed to overlook Shazier's playmaking ability.
25. San Diego Chargers
(9-7) Justin Gilbert, CB, Oklahoma State: The Chargers run to the playoffs was all the more impressive when one considers that the team ranked last in the AFC (and 29th overall) in pass defense. Gilbert is a spectacular athlete with terrific hand-eye coordination and return skills, making him a threat on defense and as a kick returner.
26. Cleveland Browns (from Indianapolis)
(4-12) Cyrus Kouandjio, OT, Alabama: Finding their head coach and quarterback remain the obvious priorities in Cleveland but help along the offensive line may also be needed given the disappointing second season from right tackle Mitchell Schwartz, the club's second round pick in 2012. Moving the athletically-limited Schwartz inside to right guard and pairing him with the highly physical and aggressive Kouandjio could solve two problems.
27. New Orleans Saints
(11-5) Jason Verrett, CB, TCU: The Saints hit a home run with the selection of former Texas Longhorn safety Kenny Vaccaro in the first round a year ago and may find a similarly tenacious playmaker in the same state with Verrett. A slight frame might mean Verrett's role would be inside covering the slot but given the frequency of three-receiver sets in today's NFL, nickel cornerbacks (like pass rush specialists) are now generating first round conversations for clubs.
28. Carolina Panthers
(12-4) Marcus Roberson, CB, Florida: While the Panthers' front seven is fearsome but, as was demonstrated in the playoff loss to San Francisco, depth is a concern in Carolina's secondary. Scouts wish Roberson was a bit bigger and more physical against the run, but he's a fluid athlete with very good speed who could provide a much-needed boost to San Diego's secondary.
29. New England Patriots
(12-4) Stephon Tuitt, DT, Notre Dame: The season-ending injury to nose guard Vince Wilfork made the middle of the Patriots' defense a sieve, especially against the run. While Tuitt doesn't possess the size to take over for Wilfork in the middle, his great size and athleticism makes a fit at virtually every spot along the defensive line. Considering how Bill Belichick values versatility, Tuitt makes sense here.
30. San Francisco 49ers
(12-4) Brandin Cooks, WR, Oregon State: Teams as gifted as the 49ers have the luxury of filling small needs with their first-round pick. Michael Crabtree and Anquan Boldin provide San Francisco with two big, reliable targets on the outside but Cooks could provide a different weapon in the middle when the 49ers opt to use a third receiver. He also would provide the club with another option in the return game.
31. Denver Broncos
(13-3) Travis Swanson, C, Arkansas: Protecting Peyton Manning is priority No. 1 in Denver and this remains especially so up the middle. Stout enough to handle nose guards, the 6-4, 318 Swanson is being graded by some clubs as a guard because of his agility. His versatility would likely be welcomed by a Broncos' team looking for improved play up front.
32. Seattle Seahawks
(13-3) Kelvin Benjamin, WR, Florida State: Despite winning the NFC Championship, Russell Wilson hasn't played well in last several games. To be fair, he hasn't been given a lot of help from a receiving corps missing its two most talented (and well-paid) pass-catchers in veterans Percy Harvin and Sidney Rice. The oft-injured Rice is expected to be a salary cap casualty and the Seahawks also may have to replace Golden Taint, who is a pending free agent and was the team's leading receiver in 2013. The Seahawks look for unique traits in the first round and Benjamin's monstrous frame makes him an intriguing fit.
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2014 Senior Bowl: UVA's Moses parts the red D at South practice
By Rob Rang
January 21, 2014 6:48 pm ET
[www.cbssports.com]
MOBILE, Ala. -- Given the rapid ascension enjoyed by Eric Fisher and Lane Johnson at the Senior Bowl a year ago, one can't blame scouts for spending a lot of their time evaluating offensive linemen this week.
Notre Dame's Zack Martin entered the week as NFLDraftScout.com's top-rated offensive lineman participating in the Senior Bowl but with a terrific performance Tuesday afternoon by Virginia's Morgan Moses could result in a significant jump up the board.
Alternately lining up at left and right tackle for the South team, the 6-foot-6, 325 pound behemoth showcased the length, quickness and balance to handle speed rushers like Auburn's Dee Ford (6-foot-2, 243 pounds) and Arkansas' Chris Smith (6-foot-1, 266 pounds), as well as powerful defenders like his former teammate, 6-foot-6, 298-pound defensive end Brent Urban.
Individual pass-rush drills favor the defensive players but other than one exception in which Ford beat Moses with a quick jab-step inside and explosive burst to his right, Moses handled left tackle duties well. When moved back to the right side, Moses also performed admirably, burying Urban with an emphatic pancake block that drew gasps from scouts in the stands.
Best of all, Moses' strong play continued into the scrimmages run by the Jacksonville Jaguars' coaching staff. One particular three-play sequence against the defenders in the South team's red jerseys showcased Morgan's pro-readiness:
On "first down" Moses handled a speed rush from Ford to give his quarterback enough time to complete a quick swing pass to the right.
The next play was a run to the right for solid gain. Moses did not supply a block at the point of attack on the play, instead releasing to run approximately 20 yards downfield to force adjustments from a linebacker and safety. The quickness off the ball, fluidity and straight-line speed Moses used to part the defense was every bit as impressive as the pancake block he'd delivered on Urban during the earlier one-on-one drill.
Appropriately enough, it was Urban who lined up opposite Moses on the next play. Attacking Moses with a strong bull rush that had beaten several other South team blockers throughout the day, Urban instead was stopped in his tracks due to a strong anchor and good core flexibility from the left tackle.
While Moses was the South's best blocker Tuesday, several other offensive and defensive linemen left impressions.
Cal's Deandre Coleman enjoyed a solid day on the interior, repeatedly pushing through Oklahoma's Gabe Ikard and Arkansas' Travis Swanson. Powerful and surprisingly athletic, the 6-foot-5, 315 pounder is position and scheme versatile, though scouts are left to question where this passionate play was throughout a disappointing senior season in the Pac-12. Ikard's quickness and tenacity will intrigue zone-blocking teams but he's struggled with the massive defenders in Mobile. Swanson has also been a bit inconsistent, though most of the struggles he's had over the first two days have come when he's lined up at guard, rather than center. Swanson starred for the Razorbacks at center, showing impressive agility and power in the pivot but at 6-foot-5, 310 pounds, he projects better to guard or even tackle in the opinion of some scouts.
Like Coleman, Tennessee defensive tackle Daniel McCullers bullied opponents with his power, slipping past Swanson with a good rip move early during the one-on-one drills. McCullers, 6-foot-7 and 348 pounds, struggles with leverage, playing much higher than the rest of the South defensive linemen. This allows technicians like Florida State's Bryan Stork (6-foot-4, 306 pounds) to turn and seal the massive Volunteer from the play despite a significant weight disadvantage.
Urban has generated some buzz in recent weeks and it is clear that his length and strength project very well as a traditional five-technique defensive end. He is very strong and uses the power in his upper body to stun and disengage from would-be blockers. He also lost track of the ball, at times, allowing runners to slip past him when he appeared to be in position to stop them.
A year ago Nick Saban made a surprise visit to the sidelines of the Senior Bowl. This year, it was players rather than coaches who were seen visiting at Ladd-Peebles Stadium, as South Carolina's Jadeveon Clowney and North Carolina tight end Eric Ebron were on hand for Tuesday's South practice. While two of the more athletic prospects in the entire country, as underclassmen, neither was eligible to participate in the Senior Bowl and instead likely attended strictly to watch practice and meet NFL decision-makers in town for the all-star game.