2016 NFL Mock Draft Version 3.0: Picks #16-1
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.
16. New York Jets: Jordan Jenkins, OLB UGA.
Jenkins gets the nod over Leonard Floyd here because of his versatility. For all of Floyd’s strengths, he’s a very raw player who looks like a project.
Jenkins is a guy who can play up at an OLB or down as a DE and the Bowles defense loves guys like this. He’s has pretty good pass rush skills for a guy who’s been ruined by the UGA defensive staff.
15. New Orleans Saints: Robert Nkemdiche, DL Ole Miss
The fans and pundits are big on Nkemdiche. The scouts aren’t. They see no NFL level pass rush skills and a propensity for looking for the limelight instead of following his assignments.
He’s perfect for a desperate team looking for big names to fix a bad defense. Like the Saints. Despite his flaws, they should base a 4-3 defense around him at DT. Use his quickness with a big, heavy body next to him and grind up opposing guards.
14. Philadelphia Eagles: Shaq Lawson, DL Clemson.
The Eagles just don’t have the same sting on defense. Their sack production is down nearly 23% from 2014 to 2015. And they need this defense to stop the pass so that they can use play action. Lawson is no Vic Beasley.
At 290 he’s big enough to play the run and has good pass rush skills. With Vinny Curry set to hit free agency, Lawson could replace him immediately.
13. Chicago Bears: Scooby Wright, LB Arizona
The Bears might have found some offensive rhythm with Cutler, Jeffrey and Langford. Their defense is still a talentless wreck. McPhee has been a good signing, but the LB corps has to be upgraded to run Fangio’s defense right.
Wright is undersized, but if they can keep the offensive line off of him should be a force on the weakside or inside. His speed and instincts make up for his lack of size.
Picks #12-9