This will be the first of several mock drafts involving a few of the writers here at withthefirstpick.com. For the first draft Ty Mac, Bryant McNames, and myself took turns assuming the roles of GM’s in the war room for the first round. This mock will be broken up into 3 parts being published over the next two weeks, with analysis accompanying each pick. Keep your eyes out for larger mocks as we get closer to that magic day in April.
22. Cleveland Browns: Lamar Miller, Running Back, Miami
TY: The Browns could lose Peyton Hillis in free agency this year and so will be looking to find his replacement in this year’s draft. The Browns hold two first round picks so they could chose to use the fourth overall pick to select running back Trent Richardson from Alabama. However, if they decide to pass on Richardson like they did in this scenario the Browns will be forced to find a running back with one of their later picks. Lamar Miller in my opinion is the second best running back in the draft and would help the Browns fill the void in their backfield if Hillis bolts through free agency.
23. Lions – Luke Kuechly MLB, Boston College
Bryant: May not be the Lions biggest need, but last year’s starting MLB Stephen Tulloch is free agent and may not be back with the team. Not only is the value too good to pass up here, but Kuechly can be a 10 year starter and one of the better MLB in the league. Already with an explosive offense, Detroit adds another young playmaker to the defense.
24. Steelers – Dontari Poe DT, Memphis
Brian: Dontari Poe just displayed one of the most impressive combine performances ever by a defensive tackle. At just under 350 pounds, Poe was able to run a sub 5 second 40 yard dash and perform 44 reps on the bench press. Comparisons are already being drawn between Poe and Baltimore’s Haloti Ngata. While I don’t believe Poe is the caliber of player Ngata is, the potential is certainly there and the Steelers are actively searching for Casey Hampton’s replacement.
25. Denver Broncos: Dwayne Allen, Tight End, Clemson
TY: Tim Tebow will be the Broncos starting quarterback under center in 2012. Therefore Denver will need to add some playmakers for their young quarterback. Former first round pick Demaryius Thomas emerged last year to become the number one receiver that the Broncos has hoped he would when they selected him in 2010. However, this team still needs help attacking the middle of the field. Dwayne Allen would be an exceptional weapon to add to Tebows artillery. He is extremely athletic and proved last year that he can be nightmare for opposing defenses.
26. Texans – Alshon Jeffrey, WR, South Carolina
Bryant: With the exception of Andre Johnson, Houston desperately needs to upgrade the wide receiver position. When they were without Andre for a few games last season, they did not have a consistent threat at the position. Pairing Jeffrey with a healthy Johnson could give the Texans one of the more dynamic starting tandems in the league.
27. Patriots – Mark Barron, Safety, Alabama
Brian: Everyone is acutely aware of how terrible the Patriots’ secondary is, including Bill Belichick. The Patriots are in need of a cover safety to compliment Patrick Chung and Barron is the clear top corner in this draft. The Patriots have used prime draft resources on their secondary in the past and have whiffed. However, I do not expect the history of misses to prevent the Patriots from addressing the glaring weakness.
28. Green Bay Packers: Nick Perry, Defensive End, USC
TY: Perry is coming off a very solid campaign for the Trojans. He is quick off the line and even demonstrated his pass coverage skills- something the Packers need help with. He is a very versatile player who would add an element to an already solid front in Green Bay.
29. Ravens – Peter Konz, C, Wisonsin
Bryant: Konz could play center, but also has the versatility to possibly play guard in the NFL. Aging veteran center Matt Birk is a free agent and may retire. Guard Ben Grubbs is also a free agent. If Baltimore is unable to bring Birk or Grubbs back, Konz would be able to replace either immediately.
30. 49ers – Mohammad Sanu, WR, Rutgers
Brian: Adam Schefter has reported, to no one’s surprise, that the 49ers intend to address the wide receiver position early in the NFL draft. Sanu posted monster numbers this past year and this will stand out to Jim Harbaugh. Many draft analysts are predicting the 49ers to draft a burner, which Sanu is not, but I disagree. Alex Smith is a possession type, west coast system quarterback who does not take the top of defenses. Sanu is a good possession receiver who fits the west coast system and could sneak into the latter part of the first round.
31. New England Patriots: Whitney, Defensive End, Illinois
TY: The Patriots have to address their pass rush this offseason after a dismal season at trying to get to opposing quarterbacks. Mercilus is one of the best pure pass rushers in this draft class. He might have the quickest first step and he was extremely productive in 2011 as he led the nation in both sacks and forced fumbles. Some are wondering if Mercilus is a one year wonder, however, at this point in the draft the rewards might outweigh the risks if the Patriots feel that Mercilus’ pass rushing skills can translate to the NFL.
32. Giants – Alfonzo Dennard
Bryant: Despite winning the Super Bowl this past season, the Giants dealt with multiple injuries and inconsistency in the secondary. At the cornerback position they have a few decisions to make. Aaron Ross and Terrell Thomas are free agents; as a result they could be looking to add more depth to the position. Dennard has starting potential, but at the very least would see time at the nickel as a rookie while he develops.