2016 NFL Mock Draft Version 3.0: Picks #31-17
By jonfox
Welcome to version 3.0 of my 2016 NFL mock draft.
This one will be more brief in the discussion about the picks, so instead of three articles this one comes in at two. Each player will have a link to a website where you can see their film so it’s easier for the readers to do their own video scouting. As always, this is not a mock draft of what this author would do. It’s a mock draft based on what the team is likely to do based on the current perceptions of the prospects in college football.
32. New England Patriots: Forfeited.
31. Carolina Panthers: S’ua Cravens, SS/OLB Southern Cal.
The Panthers love undersized LBs or oversized SS who can attack downfield. They have two in the starting lineup currently in Thomas Davis and the rookie Shaq Thompson. Davis is getting old so it may be time to think about replacement.
Cravens is a quick attacker if nothing else. He sometimes put himself out of position, but the Panthers’ coaching staff should be able to work with him on this.
30. Denver Broncos: Ezekiel Elliot, RB Ohio State
Who knows who will be the QB for the Broncos in 2016. Even if it’s a healthy Peyton Manning, they need an offensive weapon in the backfield for him.
Elliot might be a malcontent who threw his coaches under the bus, but he’s an amazing prospect. He should go higher than this, but his mouthing off will hurt his draft stock(fair or not).
29. Arizona Cardinals: A’Shawn Robinson, DL Alabama
The Cards’ defense has done well to survive the departure of Todd Bowles. Part of this is a better offense, but they’ve also adjusted well.
They do need some reinforcement. Robinson might not be the best line prospect in the draft, but he’s good enough as a physical project to merit consideration this high.
28. Cincinnati Bengals: DeForest Buckner, DL Oregon
The Bengals believe in depth on both lines. Thanks to several years of smart drafting, they have that on the offensive line. They don’t on the defensive line.
Buckner is a tweener who can play either End spot, either tackle spot and in 3-4 and 4-3 looks. A big prospect with developing skills, he should go this high.
27. Minnesota Vikings: Tyler Johnstone, OL Oregon
The Vikings have an amazing defense that they’ve put together. And with Diggs-Bridgewater-Peterson as the core of their offense, they are a playoff contender. What’s keeping them from becoming a title contender is a Godawful offensive line.
It’s time to cut bait on Matt Kalil. HIs first two seasons appear to be an aberration. Johnston is a real athlete and can handle speed rusher in the NFL.
Picks #26-20