Last week we brought you some of the shockers in Rick Gosselin’s 2011 NFL Draft rankings. Like we promised in that article, we’re bringing you the first version of his mock draft. There are no true “shockers”, but there are some peculiar picks to say the least. Gosselin is the most informed guy out there, so take these picks as you like. Just remember, he might have sources that knows things that we aren’t privy to.
13. Detroit: Nate Solder, OT, Colorado
- I just think this is entirely too early for Nate Solder. He’s going to need a couple of years to further develop his talents, and learn how to counter his height. At this point in the draft, Aldon Smith and Da’Quan Bowers are still on the board. I cannot see the Detroit Lions skipping over both of those guys in favor for the third best Offensive Tackle.
14. St. Louis: Da’Quan Bowers, DE, Clemson
- The first thing that came to my mind was, “Why would the Rams take a Defensive End when their bookend Defensive Ends amazed 10 sacks each last year.” I still can’t answer that questions, therefore, this pick makes little sense to me. I like Bowers talents, but they would be wasted on the Rams, because he would be relegated to the bench.
23. Philadelphia: Muhammad Wilkerson, DE, Temple
I like the player and I like the team, but with bigger needs like offensive line and cornerback, I don’t foresee the Eagles going this way. The most notable name still on the board is Colorado CB, Jimmy Smith. If this were to happen in real life, I definitely think the Eagles would take Smith over Wilkerson.
25. Seattle: Danny Watkins, G, Baylor
- I understand the need, but this is a little early for Danny Watkins. There isn’t much value in the pick. Instead of Muhammad Wilkerson going to the Eagles, I could see him finding a home in Seattle. I can also see a guy like Jimmy Smith and Jake Locker being the guy here.
27. Atlanta: Phil Taylor, NT, Baylor
- Not only does Phil Taylor not fit the player profile that the Falcons look for, but he is a much better fit in a 4-3 defense. Also, with the reports about Taylor’s medial issues, I don’t see him going this high anymore. He may find himself still on the board in the second round. Instead pf Taylor, the Falcons should look to bolster their Defensive End position and Offensive Line.
28. New England: Ryan Williams, HB, Virginia Tech
- Much much too early for a guy like Ryan Williams. I love this upside, but he is more of a second round guy, especially with his injury concerns. I think when it’s all said and done, he’ll be the most productive guy out of Mark Ingram and Mikel Leshoure. The Patriots have 2 picks in the second round, and either could be spent on Williams.
29. Chicago: Jon Baldwin, WR, Pitt
- Again, much too early for Jon Baldwin here. The talent is there, but there are too many questions surrounding his character and passion for the game, to make him a first round guy. I would like to see the Bears pick up some offensive line talent. The priority should be protecting Jay Cutler. He takes far too many hits, and the pass rushers are doing nothing but improving in the NFC North.
Complete Mock Draft On the Next Page