Unlike the previous mock drafts that I’ve posted for ya’ll edification, this mock draft is a major departure from what I’ve done. In this, I’m playing the role of the General Manager, Decision Maker or mad scientist Chip Kelly. So, these picks(without any trades) are what I would do as the decision maker for each team. After the 31 picks, I explain why I left out certain big name prospects. Enjoy!
1. Tennessee Titans: Joey Bosa, DL Ohio State.
To me, Bosa is the premier talent in this draft. It’s fashionable among pundits to rip Bosa and compare him unfavorably to JJ Watt, but what kind of standard is that? If a top prospect isn’t going to be one of the most dominating players at his position quickly, he’s overrated?
Bosa is best used as a 4-3 strongside End. He should become a very good 5 or 4 tech defensive end in a 3-4 defense as well. He thrived in a pro style defense in college and lifted up the play of the rest of the defenders around him. Not only that, but even after his fellow End Noah Spence was booted from the team, Bosa’s play only improved. He’s probably never going to be JJ Watt, but it’s reasonable to expect him to be on the same level of player as Mario Williams or Carlos Dunlap.
2. Cleveland Browns: Jalen Ramsey, DB FSU.
The Browns are in a bit of a pickle here. They have a starting level quarterback in RG3. They also need to convince Joe Thomas that they’re making improvements enough to stop him from even thinking of asking for a trade out of town. They also have a defense that needs a lot of work.
So, in this situation what’s the best play? Take the most talented player and hopes he helps make everyone else better. On talent, it’s hard to find any defenders that they currently have who are better. And none of the “top” quarterback prospects are worth passing on.
Make no mistake, the Browns aren’t going to be upset if they tank 2016 but if RG3 thrives, then they’re in a good position to build for 2018.
3. San Diego Chargers: Laremy Tunsil, OL Ole Miss
The Bolts have a lot of right tackles on an offense that needs to pick their production better. Rivers needs to be clean in the pocket and if Melvin Gordon is going to do anything positive for them with consistency, then they need a reliable left tackle. Right now, Joe Barksdale and King Dunlap look in line for that spot. That needs to change.
I’m no fan of Tunsil. He strikes me as more Russell Okung than Trent Williams and consistency will be an issue for him. He is a marked improvement on Barksdale or Dunlap at left tackle however.
4. Dallas Cowboys: Myles Jack, LB UCLA.
It’s tempting to go Billings, Hargreaves or Buckner here. But Jack gets the nod on sheer need over talent for them. The Cowboys have built themselves a pretty good defense under Rod Marinelli(who seems to be content being the defensive boss there for the foreseeable future). And as long as Sean Lee is at Will backer, the defense can shut teams down.
The problem is that Lee is averaging about 10 starts a year for the last 3 years. Jack is an attempt to fight this dependence. Having Jack at the Sam spot means that if and when Lee misses time, the LBs corps won’t fall apart. And when Lee is healthy, then him and Jack can cause havoc for opposing offenses.
5. Jacksonville Jaguars: Taylor Decker, OL OSU
Most mocks have the Jags picking from any number of top defensive prospects to fix a still talent poor defense. Despite the better offensive play under Blake Bortles, the offensive line is still a work in progress. Luke Joeckel just isn’t living up to his draft slot and the Jags seem to be uncertain whether or not they’ll pick up his 5th year option.
They signed Kelvin Beachum, who before he tore his ACL, was a pretty solid left tackle for the Pittsburgh Steelers. But he seems like a best fit for them at right tackle or inside at guard. Taking Decker here is about expanding the options and talent for them on the offensive line. Decker plays on the right, then Beachum replaces Joeckel(who can be dealt) or moves inside to guard.
Any scenario which sees them changing two starters on the line would be a major net positive for the entire team and would be better than overdrafting a defender here since an offense that scores more or can hold onto the ball longer improves the defense in general.
Next: Picks #6-10