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2014 NFL Draft In Review
- Thread in 'Sports & Training' Thread starter Started by 100027,
- Start date
I don't think they'll be "best O-Line in the league" as everyone is saying because I can see them mixing and matching way too much to start the season but I really like the Martin pick.
Here's all of em:
McShay - My favorite picks of 2014 draft.
I leave the handing out of draft grades every year to my colleague Mel Kiper (here is this year's version), so instead I've gone through and identified my favorite pick for every NFL team in the 2014 draft.
These aren't necessarily the players who will have the biggest impact early in their careers or the players with the highest grades or even the ones who provided the best value based on where they were selected -- but I took all of those factors into account when selecting the picks I liked the best. After looking through each team's draft board, these choices stood out as being the best based on what each player brings to the table, how he fits with his new team and where he was drafted in the order (and also who else was available at the time).
Here are my favorite picks of all 32 teams, plus plenty of thoughts on some of the other choices I did or didn't like for each.
AFC
Baltimore Ravens
Round 3 (79): Terrence Brooks, S, Florida State
I could have gone with C.J. Mosley, who was the best player on the board when the Ravens took him at No. 17 overall, and is an NFL-ready player who will be a playmaker behind the Ravens' big defensive front.
But I decided to go with Brooks here, as I think he was a steal in the third round and could develop into an every-down starter for Baltimore given his physicality near the line and range in coverage. He's always around the football.
Timmy Jernigan, drafted at No. 48 in the second round, is a good player, but I don't totally understand his fit as a 1-technique. He won't provide much as a pass rusher, and he comes with some character baggage.
Buffalo Bills
Rd. 1 (4): Sammy Watkins, WR, Clemson (from CLE)
It came at a high cost (a 2015 first-rounder in the trade with Cleveland to move up from No. 9 to No. 4), but the Bills got the most dynamic offensive playmaker in this draft -- and the best wide receiver prospect since A.J. Green -- in Watkins. They are going to need to surround second-year QB EJ Manuel with great players to give him a chance to succeed, and in Watkins he will have a true No. 1 target.
Second-rounder Cyrus Kouandjio has high upside at tackle given his youth (still just 20 years old) and physical tools, but has some technique and injury issues to overcome in order to reach his full potential.
Cincinnati Bengals
Rd. 1 (24): Darqueze Dennard, CB, Michigan State
Dennard was one of the top value picks of the first round. He dropped a bit because of durability concerns, but assuming he stays on the field he could wind up as one of the 10-15 best players in this class. He isn't a burner and didn't pick off a ton of passes, but he's Velcro in coverage, sticking to receivers with great instincts, quickness and body control in press-man coverage. I also liked the picks of RB Jeremy Hill (second round) and C Russell Bodine (fourth) -- both of those signaled to me the Bengals want to get more physical in the running game to solve some of their past offensive issues in December and January.
Cleveland Browns
Rd. 1 (22): Johnny Manziel, QB, Texas A&M (from PHI)
For starters, the Browns offer a great scheme fit for Manziel in Kyle Shanahan's offense, given Shanahan's experience at adapting his playbook for Robert Griffin III in Washington, playing to RG III's strengths as a mobile quarterback and allowing him to make a smooth transition from a spread college scheme to an NFL offense. But perhaps just as important, they did a great job of managing their first-round draft strategy. They kept the defensive coaching staff happy by getting the cornerback they wanted in Justin Gilbert, and picked up a 2015 first-round pick from the Bills in the process.
No matter where he went, Manziel was going to face a lot of attention, but there will be less pressure on him in Cleveland, given the way everything played out in the draft, than he would likely have faced in most other situations.
Denver Broncos
Rd. 2 (56): Cody Latimer, WR, Indiana (from KC via SF)
Peyton Manning is going to love this young guy. He uses his size to his advantage, winning with physicality and body control and by attacking the football with his hands. He didn't drop a pass in the five games I studied of him. While he isn't a burner, I think he can absolutely get enough separation at the pro level. Latimer can have an impact right away, and provides good depth to a unit that will see both Demaryius Thomas and Wes Welker become free agents next offseason.
Denver is taking a chance with first-round cornerback Bradley Roby, given his discipline issues both on and off the field, but he has all the physical tools to be a very good NFL corner if the staff can coach him up. The presence of the sheriff in the locker room (Manning) allows you to take the risk here.
Houston Texans
Rd. 1 (1): Jadeveon Clowney, DE, South Carolina
The Texans put together a good draft, and while there were a few different picks that merit consideration, I had to go with the No. 1 pick. Houston made the right decision in taking Clowney first overall. He is the best and most talented player in this class, and the Texans will make him fit in Romeo Crennel's scheme, taking advantage of his excellent pass-rushing ability and physical tools (including wide receiver-like straight-line speed). He's got a chance to be a superstar in the NFL.
Indianapolis Colts
Rd. 5 (166) Jonathan Newsome, DE, Ball State
The Colts only made five picks in this draft, and I wasn't all that excited about the five players they took, but I'll go with Newsome here because of his potential to develop into a good pass-rusher. In the fifth round, he provides very good upside. Jack Mewhort brings physicality and toughness to the offensive line and wide receiver Donte Moncrief has excellent athleticism, although neither represents a sure thing.
Jacksonville Jaguars
Rd. 1 (3): Blake Bortles, QB, UCF
I really liked the two receivers the Jaguars got in the second round in Marqise Lee and Allen Robinson -- two good values who will provide their rookie quarterback with some good weaponry. But Bortles has to be the pick here. He might not be ready to play at a high level right away (he doesn't have to, either), but he has the potential to develop into a very good NFL quarterback. If you think he can be your franchise QB, you have to take him at No. 3. They also deserve credit for keeping their intentions under wraps.
Kansas City Chiefs
Rd. 4 (124): De'Anthony Thomas, RB, Oregon
Hopefully for the Chiefs, Thomas will arrive at their program with a chip on his shoulder after dropping all the way to the fourth round. Because if he plays with more motivation than he showed at times for the Ducks last season, he has the potential to be their replacement for Dexter McCluster as an O.W. (offensive weapon, as coined by McCluster when he was going through the draft process) who can exploit matchups and make defenders miss in space. He didn't run a great 40-yard dash time, but showed very good explosiveness on tape. Third-rounder Phillip Gaines has intriguing potential as a cover corner with his straight-line speed, ball skills and length.
Miami Dolphins
Rd. 2 (63): Jarvis Landry, WR, LSU (from DEN)
He is one of my favorite players in this entire class, and he's pound-for-pound the toughest, most physical skill-position player in this draft, and he has the best ball skills of any receiver. He doesn't have great top-end speed which is why he wound up going in the late second round, but he does all the little things well and catches everything. He'll do well in Miami. The Dolphins took Ja'Wuan James much earlier than where I had him graded, but I don't think he's a bad pick because he's an efficient blocker who fits their system.
New England Patriots
Rd. 2 (62): Jimmy Garoppolo, QB, Eastern Illinois
I can understand why some Patriots fans may have been frustrated by this pick, because with a second-rounder you want to get a guy who can have an immediate impact as the Pats try to maximize their championship window with Tom Brady. But you have to have a long-term vision at the quarterback position, and Garoppolo is a good fit for the Patriots' program. He has the potential to develop into a good starting quarterback. He has a lot of learning to do, transitioning from the FCS to the pros, but he has the mental makeup to do so and possesses above-average accuracy.
New York Jets
Rd. 2 (49): Jace Amaro, TE, Texas Tech
Adding pass-catching weapons was a need for the Jets heading into the draft, and while someone from the trio of Jalen Saunders, Shaq Evans and Quincy Enunwa could emerge as a solid contributor, Amaro has the best chance to make an early impact. He doesn't have elite speed but at 6-foot-5, 265 pounds he is a huge target who will provide the Jets starting QB (whether it's Michael Vick or Geno Smith) a security blanket in the passing game.
Oakland Raiders
Rd. 1 (5): Khalil Mack, OLB, Buffalo
The Jaguars' decision to take Blake Bortles at No. 3 paved the way for Mack, one of the four elite prospects in this class, to drop to the Raiders at No. 5, and they made the right choice to snap him up. He gives them an instant-impact player whose versatility allows him to be an every-down contributor; he is good at defending the run, he can hold up in pass coverage, and most importantly, he is a very good pass-rusher.
Utah CB Keith McGill was an intriguing pick in the fourth round, given his size and athleticism.
Pittsburgh Steelers
Rd. 2 (46): Stephon Tuitt, DE, Notre Dame
Rd. 4 (11
: Martavis Bryant, WR, Clemson
I'm breaking the rules here by including two guys for the Steelers, but I really couldn't decide between these two, as they were tops among the many picks of Pittsburgh's that I really liked in this draft. Tuitt needs to keep his weight down and play with a consistent motor, but he is a top-15 talent in this class who is a great scheme fit for **** LeBeau's defense. He is strong and long and can get to the QB.
As for Bryant, he provides the Steelers' receiving corps with a size element that it doesn't currently have right now, and he has really good speed (4.42 40) to go with great body control and movement skills. He needs to stay out of trouble, but if he can he's a steal. Ben Roethlisberger is going to love this pick.
San Diego Chargers
Rd. 2 (50): Jeremiah Attaochu, OLB, Georgia Tech (from MIA)
Tom Telesco aced the test last year, with an outstanding draft class, and I feel as though he did another good job this year. TCU corner Jason Verrett has a chance to start and was a good pick at No. 25 overall, but I'm going with Attaochu here. I love his motor and versatility, and I think that the Nigerian is really starting to put it all together. Most importantly, he can convert speed to power -- a skill that is essential to being a successful pass-rusher in the NFL.
Tennessee Titans
Rd. 1 (11): Taylor Lewan, OT, Michigan
I think that they might have taken Blake Bortles had he dropped this far, but they did a good job of taking Lewan when he fell into their lap at No. 11. Not only is he a good value, but if you're the Titans and you want to give Jake Locker a legitimate last chance to prove himself as being the answer at QB, you need to provide him with the assets on offense to succeed. Lewan is a very efficient blocker and excellent athlete. And even if things don't work out with Locker, in Lewan the Titans have a good building-block player for the future. I like second-round RB Bishop Sankey a lot, but I would've preferred to see them take Carlos Hyde.
NFC
Arizona Cardinals
Round 3 (91): John Brown, WR, Pittsburg State (from NO)
I really like this pick. The Cardinals needed to add depth to their receiving corps both for this year and going forward, and Brown has a high upside at the position. He possesses an excellent combination of speed and quickness out of cuts, which allows him to create good separation from defensive backs, and he can be a nightmare for defenses to bring down in the open field. He also loves going over the middle.
Atlanta Falcons
Rd. 4 (103): Devonta Freeman, RB, Florida State
I thought the Falcons made a can't-miss pick with Jake Matthews at No. 6 overall, as he is a plug-and-play starter at either left or right tackle who can help keep Matt Ryan upright (career-high 44 sacks last season). But I'm going with Freeman for this one, as he was a great value choice near the top of the fourth round. He runs like his hair is on fire and possesses very good acceleration and lateral agility. Second-round D-lineman Ra'Shede Hageman brings good versatility to Atlanta's defensive front.
Carolina Panthers
Rd. 2 (60): Kony Ealy, DE, Missouri
I like this pick for the Panthers, as Ealy could have gone as early as the late first round and they took advantage of him falling this far. He plays with too much finesse and he has a lot of work to do in his game, but he's very athletic for his size. What he does best is get up field and be disruptive, and I think he'll provide that for the Panthers in rotation early in his career, and he could potentially be a long-term replacement for Greg Hardy and/or Charles Johnson.
Chicago Bears
Rd. 4 (131) Brock Vereen, S, Minnesota (from DEN)
The Bears want versatile, explosive defensive backs, and Vereen fits the bill here. He has excellent closing burst and versatility, and he's willing to come up and support the run. He should be able to contribute in sub packages for the Bears. I love the way Vereen plays the game. I also really like the Kyle Fuller pick at No. 14 in the first round, as he is just a really good football player who tackles well and shows really good recognition and ball skills. These are two nice additions to Chicago's secondary.
Dallas Cowboys
Rd. 1 (16): Zack Martin, OT, Notre Dame
I think taking Johnny Manziel at No. 16 overall would have been a mistake based on all the other needs they have on this roster and the risk they'd run in terms of potentially losing the locker room by not addressing those other needs and inviting a possible QB controversy. But that isn't the only reason I like this pick. Martin was the No. 9 player on our board and should be able to step in and start right away, either at right tackle or left guard. With this pick, the Cowboys have now taken an O-lineman in the first round in three of the last four years, showing good roster management by turning a weakness at a key position group into a strength.
Detroit Lions
Rd. 5 (15: Caraun Reid, DT, Princeton
I think Reid has a chance of sticking. He has really good first-step quickness, and should be able to contribute as part of a rotation early in his career. If he develops, he could be a potential long-term replacement for Nick Fairley. Fourth-round cornerback Nevin Lawson was another intriguing pick to me, as the Lions still need help at that position (they extended their NFL-leading streak by not selecting a defensive back in the first round of their 16th straight draft). We'll see if he can come in and contribute as a rookie. Tight end Eric Ebron could be a difference-maker at No. 10 overall.
Green Bay Packers
Rd. 2 (53): Davante Adams, WR, Fresno State
The Packers put together a really strong draft. I almost went with third-round D-tackle Khyri Thornton for this one, as he has a quick first step and explosive power as a one-gap disruptor, and he helps Green Bay achieve its goal of getting more athletic along the defensive front. But I'll instead take Adams, an outstanding route runner with exceptional hands who can be a very productive target for Aaron Rodgers in multi-receiver formations.
Minnesota Vikings
Rd. 1 (32): Teddy Bridgewater, QB, Louisville (from SEA)
I wasn't crazy about the Vikings using the No. 9 overall pick on Anthony Barr, but I do like the pick of Bridgewater with the 32nd pick. He doesn't have the big-time arm you'd like to see, but he is the most NFL-ready of the quarterbacks in this class with the fastest eyes and very good accuracy on tape. The Vikings have to keep taking swings in an attempt to land their franchise quarterback. Also, don't be surprised if one of the late-round cornerbacks they took -- Antone Exum, Kendall James and Jabari Price -- earns significant playing time. Exum is really talented and has just had issues staying healthy, James has very good speed and Price can be a solid performer so long as he's protected vertically.
New Orleans Saints
Rd. 1 (20): Brandin Cooks, WR, Oregon State (from ARI)
The Saints had to trade up to get Cooks, but he could prove to be worth it. He is explosively fast, has outstanding hands and may be the best route runner in this class. He's also an elite competitor, and I really like his fit alongside Marques Colston and Kenny Stills in the Saints' receiving corps. Cornerback Stan Jean-Baptiste was a good pick at the end of the second round as well. He'll give Rob Ryan a big, physical press corner whose measurables and background remind of Richard Sherman. He has a chance to be a steal.
New York Giants
Rd. 2 (43): Weston Richburg, C, Colorado State
Richburg should be the Giants' new starting center. He is a great fit for their offense as a zone blocker, due to his footwork, long arms (33 inches) and ability to move his feet after initial contact. He doesn't come from a powerhouse program, but his performance against the bigs of Alabama won me over. The Giants really need to keep Eli Manning upright, and this pick will help with that. But it was a tough call deciding between this pick and WR Odell Beckham Jr. at No. 12 overall, an explosive weapon in the passing game.
Philadelphia Eagles
Rd. 3 (86): Josh Huff, WR, Oregon
Huff came off the board a little earlier than I would have expected based on the grade we gave him, but I think it made sense for the Eagles to take him where they did. Obviously, Chip Kelly has a high level of familiarity with Huff from their time together at Oregon, and Huff knows the language of Kelly's program and what's expected of him coming in as a rookie. He is a very versatile athlete who should be able to produce big plays both running the ball and as a receiver.
San Francisco 49ers
Rd. 3 (70): Marcus Martin, C, USC (from JAC)
Rd. 4 (106): Bruce Ellington, WR, South Carolina (from CLE)
I really liked a lot of the Niners' picks in the 2014 draft, so I went with two here. Martin is a steal -- we had him ranked as the 37th-best player in the draft, and they got him in the third round. He is a physical interior lineman who is close to a finished project, and the Niners can play him at either center or guard and can get him on the field right away if they want. As for Ellington, he brings really good speed to the slot receiver position, and he's a good route runner with solid hands.
Seattle Seahawks
Rd. 4 (123): Kevin Norwood, WR, Alabama (from CIN)
I like the speed, route-running and overall upside of second-round WR Paul Richardson, but he is likely more of a long-term project given that he needs to add more bulk and strength. Norwood, on the other hand, could come in and contribute right away in a receiving corps that could use some more depth. He doesn't have great top-end speed, but his football intelligence is off the charts. Some of his best work came when AJ McCarron went off-script, as he would come back to the ball, find soft spots in zone coverage and just generally make plays for his QB, and that same kind of improvisational QB play is a big part of Russell Wilson's game.
St. Louis Rams
Rd. 1 (2): Greg Robinson, OT, Auburn (from WAS)
The Rams had a really good draft, and any of their top four picks would have been good choices here; Robinson, DT Aaron Donald (13th pick), CB Lamarcus Joyner (41st pick) and RB Tre Mason all ranked in the top 61 of our prospect rankings, and each was a great value choice based on where the Rams picked him. But Robinson is the best of the bunch. He is the most dominant offensive lineman at the point of attack that I've ever evaluated, and he is at his best when he's freed up to just steamroll guys in the running game. I think he can start right away at right tackle, or they could kick him inside to guard to start his career and adjust to the NFL level before transitioning him to tackle.
Tampa Bay Buccaneers
Rd. 1 (7): Mike Evans, WR, Texas A&M
The Bucs were fortunate Evans fell this far, and they didn't try to out-smart themselves and instead just took him as the best available player. He is a huge target with very good competitiveness and a high success rate on 50-50 balls, and by drafting him to play opposite Vincent Jackson the Bucs are giving new QB Josh McCown a big receiver duo similar to what he had in Chicago with Brandon Marshall and Alshon Jeffery. He could have an immediate impact.
Washington ********
Rd. 3 (66): Morgan Moses, OT, Virginia
I had a first-round grade on Moses, and while I realize I liked him as a prospect better than many others did, he still represents excellent value as a third-round pick. He struggled for the first part of his career but really started to excel after moving over to left tackle this past season. Defensive players need to take a cab ride to get around his long arms. I thought the ******** reached by taking OLB Trent Murphy in the second round, but that was off-set by landing a great value in the third in Moses -- at a need position.
These aren't necessarily the players who will have the biggest impact early in their careers or the players with the highest grades or even the ones who provided the best value based on where they were selected -- but I took all of those factors into account when selecting the picks I liked the best. After looking through each team's draft board, these choices stood out as being the best based on what each player brings to the table, how he fits with his new team and where he was drafted in the order (and also who else was available at the time).
Here are my favorite picks of all 32 teams, plus plenty of thoughts on some of the other choices I did or didn't like for each.
AFC
Baltimore Ravens
Round 3 (79): Terrence Brooks, S, Florida State
I could have gone with C.J. Mosley, who was the best player on the board when the Ravens took him at No. 17 overall, and is an NFL-ready player who will be a playmaker behind the Ravens' big defensive front.
But I decided to go with Brooks here, as I think he was a steal in the third round and could develop into an every-down starter for Baltimore given his physicality near the line and range in coverage. He's always around the football.
Timmy Jernigan, drafted at No. 48 in the second round, is a good player, but I don't totally understand his fit as a 1-technique. He won't provide much as a pass rusher, and he comes with some character baggage.
Buffalo Bills
Rd. 1 (4): Sammy Watkins, WR, Clemson (from CLE)
It came at a high cost (a 2015 first-rounder in the trade with Cleveland to move up from No. 9 to No. 4), but the Bills got the most dynamic offensive playmaker in this draft -- and the best wide receiver prospect since A.J. Green -- in Watkins. They are going to need to surround second-year QB EJ Manuel with great players to give him a chance to succeed, and in Watkins he will have a true No. 1 target.
Second-rounder Cyrus Kouandjio has high upside at tackle given his youth (still just 20 years old) and physical tools, but has some technique and injury issues to overcome in order to reach his full potential.
Cincinnati Bengals
Rd. 1 (24): Darqueze Dennard, CB, Michigan State
Dennard was one of the top value picks of the first round. He dropped a bit because of durability concerns, but assuming he stays on the field he could wind up as one of the 10-15 best players in this class. He isn't a burner and didn't pick off a ton of passes, but he's Velcro in coverage, sticking to receivers with great instincts, quickness and body control in press-man coverage. I also liked the picks of RB Jeremy Hill (second round) and C Russell Bodine (fourth) -- both of those signaled to me the Bengals want to get more physical in the running game to solve some of their past offensive issues in December and January.
Cleveland Browns
Rd. 1 (22): Johnny Manziel, QB, Texas A&M (from PHI)
For starters, the Browns offer a great scheme fit for Manziel in Kyle Shanahan's offense, given Shanahan's experience at adapting his playbook for Robert Griffin III in Washington, playing to RG III's strengths as a mobile quarterback and allowing him to make a smooth transition from a spread college scheme to an NFL offense. But perhaps just as important, they did a great job of managing their first-round draft strategy. They kept the defensive coaching staff happy by getting the cornerback they wanted in Justin Gilbert, and picked up a 2015 first-round pick from the Bills in the process.
No matter where he went, Manziel was going to face a lot of attention, but there will be less pressure on him in Cleveland, given the way everything played out in the draft, than he would likely have faced in most other situations.
Denver Broncos
Rd. 2 (56): Cody Latimer, WR, Indiana (from KC via SF)
Peyton Manning is going to love this young guy. He uses his size to his advantage, winning with physicality and body control and by attacking the football with his hands. He didn't drop a pass in the five games I studied of him. While he isn't a burner, I think he can absolutely get enough separation at the pro level. Latimer can have an impact right away, and provides good depth to a unit that will see both Demaryius Thomas and Wes Welker become free agents next offseason.
Denver is taking a chance with first-round cornerback Bradley Roby, given his discipline issues both on and off the field, but he has all the physical tools to be a very good NFL corner if the staff can coach him up. The presence of the sheriff in the locker room (Manning) allows you to take the risk here.
Houston Texans
Rd. 1 (1): Jadeveon Clowney, DE, South Carolina
The Texans put together a good draft, and while there were a few different picks that merit consideration, I had to go with the No. 1 pick. Houston made the right decision in taking Clowney first overall. He is the best and most talented player in this class, and the Texans will make him fit in Romeo Crennel's scheme, taking advantage of his excellent pass-rushing ability and physical tools (including wide receiver-like straight-line speed). He's got a chance to be a superstar in the NFL.
Indianapolis Colts
Rd. 5 (166) Jonathan Newsome, DE, Ball State
The Colts only made five picks in this draft, and I wasn't all that excited about the five players they took, but I'll go with Newsome here because of his potential to develop into a good pass-rusher. In the fifth round, he provides very good upside. Jack Mewhort brings physicality and toughness to the offensive line and wide receiver Donte Moncrief has excellent athleticism, although neither represents a sure thing.
Jacksonville Jaguars
Rd. 1 (3): Blake Bortles, QB, UCF
I really liked the two receivers the Jaguars got in the second round in Marqise Lee and Allen Robinson -- two good values who will provide their rookie quarterback with some good weaponry. But Bortles has to be the pick here. He might not be ready to play at a high level right away (he doesn't have to, either), but he has the potential to develop into a very good NFL quarterback. If you think he can be your franchise QB, you have to take him at No. 3. They also deserve credit for keeping their intentions under wraps.
Kansas City Chiefs
Rd. 4 (124): De'Anthony Thomas, RB, Oregon
Hopefully for the Chiefs, Thomas will arrive at their program with a chip on his shoulder after dropping all the way to the fourth round. Because if he plays with more motivation than he showed at times for the Ducks last season, he has the potential to be their replacement for Dexter McCluster as an O.W. (offensive weapon, as coined by McCluster when he was going through the draft process) who can exploit matchups and make defenders miss in space. He didn't run a great 40-yard dash time, but showed very good explosiveness on tape. Third-rounder Phillip Gaines has intriguing potential as a cover corner with his straight-line speed, ball skills and length.
Miami Dolphins
Rd. 2 (63): Jarvis Landry, WR, LSU (from DEN)
He is one of my favorite players in this entire class, and he's pound-for-pound the toughest, most physical skill-position player in this draft, and he has the best ball skills of any receiver. He doesn't have great top-end speed which is why he wound up going in the late second round, but he does all the little things well and catches everything. He'll do well in Miami. The Dolphins took Ja'Wuan James much earlier than where I had him graded, but I don't think he's a bad pick because he's an efficient blocker who fits their system.
New England Patriots
Rd. 2 (62): Jimmy Garoppolo, QB, Eastern Illinois
I can understand why some Patriots fans may have been frustrated by this pick, because with a second-rounder you want to get a guy who can have an immediate impact as the Pats try to maximize their championship window with Tom Brady. But you have to have a long-term vision at the quarterback position, and Garoppolo is a good fit for the Patriots' program. He has the potential to develop into a good starting quarterback. He has a lot of learning to do, transitioning from the FCS to the pros, but he has the mental makeup to do so and possesses above-average accuracy.
New York Jets
Rd. 2 (49): Jace Amaro, TE, Texas Tech
Adding pass-catching weapons was a need for the Jets heading into the draft, and while someone from the trio of Jalen Saunders, Shaq Evans and Quincy Enunwa could emerge as a solid contributor, Amaro has the best chance to make an early impact. He doesn't have elite speed but at 6-foot-5, 265 pounds he is a huge target who will provide the Jets starting QB (whether it's Michael Vick or Geno Smith) a security blanket in the passing game.
Oakland Raiders
Rd. 1 (5): Khalil Mack, OLB, Buffalo
The Jaguars' decision to take Blake Bortles at No. 3 paved the way for Mack, one of the four elite prospects in this class, to drop to the Raiders at No. 5, and they made the right choice to snap him up. He gives them an instant-impact player whose versatility allows him to be an every-down contributor; he is good at defending the run, he can hold up in pass coverage, and most importantly, he is a very good pass-rusher.
Utah CB Keith McGill was an intriguing pick in the fourth round, given his size and athleticism.
Pittsburgh Steelers
Rd. 2 (46): Stephon Tuitt, DE, Notre Dame
Rd. 4 (11
: Martavis Bryant, WR, ClemsonI'm breaking the rules here by including two guys for the Steelers, but I really couldn't decide between these two, as they were tops among the many picks of Pittsburgh's that I really liked in this draft. Tuitt needs to keep his weight down and play with a consistent motor, but he is a top-15 talent in this class who is a great scheme fit for **** LeBeau's defense. He is strong and long and can get to the QB.
As for Bryant, he provides the Steelers' receiving corps with a size element that it doesn't currently have right now, and he has really good speed (4.42 40) to go with great body control and movement skills. He needs to stay out of trouble, but if he can he's a steal. Ben Roethlisberger is going to love this pick.
San Diego Chargers
Rd. 2 (50): Jeremiah Attaochu, OLB, Georgia Tech (from MIA)
Tom Telesco aced the test last year, with an outstanding draft class, and I feel as though he did another good job this year. TCU corner Jason Verrett has a chance to start and was a good pick at No. 25 overall, but I'm going with Attaochu here. I love his motor and versatility, and I think that the Nigerian is really starting to put it all together. Most importantly, he can convert speed to power -- a skill that is essential to being a successful pass-rusher in the NFL.
Tennessee Titans
Rd. 1 (11): Taylor Lewan, OT, Michigan
I think that they might have taken Blake Bortles had he dropped this far, but they did a good job of taking Lewan when he fell into their lap at No. 11. Not only is he a good value, but if you're the Titans and you want to give Jake Locker a legitimate last chance to prove himself as being the answer at QB, you need to provide him with the assets on offense to succeed. Lewan is a very efficient blocker and excellent athlete. And even if things don't work out with Locker, in Lewan the Titans have a good building-block player for the future. I like second-round RB Bishop Sankey a lot, but I would've preferred to see them take Carlos Hyde.
NFC
Arizona Cardinals
Round 3 (91): John Brown, WR, Pittsburg State (from NO)
I really like this pick. The Cardinals needed to add depth to their receiving corps both for this year and going forward, and Brown has a high upside at the position. He possesses an excellent combination of speed and quickness out of cuts, which allows him to create good separation from defensive backs, and he can be a nightmare for defenses to bring down in the open field. He also loves going over the middle.
Atlanta Falcons
Rd. 4 (103): Devonta Freeman, RB, Florida State
I thought the Falcons made a can't-miss pick with Jake Matthews at No. 6 overall, as he is a plug-and-play starter at either left or right tackle who can help keep Matt Ryan upright (career-high 44 sacks last season). But I'm going with Freeman for this one, as he was a great value choice near the top of the fourth round. He runs like his hair is on fire and possesses very good acceleration and lateral agility. Second-round D-lineman Ra'Shede Hageman brings good versatility to Atlanta's defensive front.
Carolina Panthers
Rd. 2 (60): Kony Ealy, DE, Missouri
I like this pick for the Panthers, as Ealy could have gone as early as the late first round and they took advantage of him falling this far. He plays with too much finesse and he has a lot of work to do in his game, but he's very athletic for his size. What he does best is get up field and be disruptive, and I think he'll provide that for the Panthers in rotation early in his career, and he could potentially be a long-term replacement for Greg Hardy and/or Charles Johnson.
Chicago Bears
Rd. 4 (131) Brock Vereen, S, Minnesota (from DEN)
The Bears want versatile, explosive defensive backs, and Vereen fits the bill here. He has excellent closing burst and versatility, and he's willing to come up and support the run. He should be able to contribute in sub packages for the Bears. I love the way Vereen plays the game. I also really like the Kyle Fuller pick at No. 14 in the first round, as he is just a really good football player who tackles well and shows really good recognition and ball skills. These are two nice additions to Chicago's secondary.
Dallas Cowboys
Rd. 1 (16): Zack Martin, OT, Notre Dame
I think taking Johnny Manziel at No. 16 overall would have been a mistake based on all the other needs they have on this roster and the risk they'd run in terms of potentially losing the locker room by not addressing those other needs and inviting a possible QB controversy. But that isn't the only reason I like this pick. Martin was the No. 9 player on our board and should be able to step in and start right away, either at right tackle or left guard. With this pick, the Cowboys have now taken an O-lineman in the first round in three of the last four years, showing good roster management by turning a weakness at a key position group into a strength.
Detroit Lions
Rd. 5 (15
: Caraun Reid, DT, PrincetonI think Reid has a chance of sticking. He has really good first-step quickness, and should be able to contribute as part of a rotation early in his career. If he develops, he could be a potential long-term replacement for Nick Fairley. Fourth-round cornerback Nevin Lawson was another intriguing pick to me, as the Lions still need help at that position (they extended their NFL-leading streak by not selecting a defensive back in the first round of their 16th straight draft). We'll see if he can come in and contribute as a rookie. Tight end Eric Ebron could be a difference-maker at No. 10 overall.
Green Bay Packers
Rd. 2 (53): Davante Adams, WR, Fresno State
The Packers put together a really strong draft. I almost went with third-round D-tackle Khyri Thornton for this one, as he has a quick first step and explosive power as a one-gap disruptor, and he helps Green Bay achieve its goal of getting more athletic along the defensive front. But I'll instead take Adams, an outstanding route runner with exceptional hands who can be a very productive target for Aaron Rodgers in multi-receiver formations.
Minnesota Vikings
Rd. 1 (32): Teddy Bridgewater, QB, Louisville (from SEA)
I wasn't crazy about the Vikings using the No. 9 overall pick on Anthony Barr, but I do like the pick of Bridgewater with the 32nd pick. He doesn't have the big-time arm you'd like to see, but he is the most NFL-ready of the quarterbacks in this class with the fastest eyes and very good accuracy on tape. The Vikings have to keep taking swings in an attempt to land their franchise quarterback. Also, don't be surprised if one of the late-round cornerbacks they took -- Antone Exum, Kendall James and Jabari Price -- earns significant playing time. Exum is really talented and has just had issues staying healthy, James has very good speed and Price can be a solid performer so long as he's protected vertically.
New Orleans Saints
Rd. 1 (20): Brandin Cooks, WR, Oregon State (from ARI)
The Saints had to trade up to get Cooks, but he could prove to be worth it. He is explosively fast, has outstanding hands and may be the best route runner in this class. He's also an elite competitor, and I really like his fit alongside Marques Colston and Kenny Stills in the Saints' receiving corps. Cornerback Stan Jean-Baptiste was a good pick at the end of the second round as well. He'll give Rob Ryan a big, physical press corner whose measurables and background remind of Richard Sherman. He has a chance to be a steal.
New York Giants
Rd. 2 (43): Weston Richburg, C, Colorado State
Richburg should be the Giants' new starting center. He is a great fit for their offense as a zone blocker, due to his footwork, long arms (33 inches) and ability to move his feet after initial contact. He doesn't come from a powerhouse program, but his performance against the bigs of Alabama won me over. The Giants really need to keep Eli Manning upright, and this pick will help with that. But it was a tough call deciding between this pick and WR Odell Beckham Jr. at No. 12 overall, an explosive weapon in the passing game.
Philadelphia Eagles
Rd. 3 (86): Josh Huff, WR, Oregon
Huff came off the board a little earlier than I would have expected based on the grade we gave him, but I think it made sense for the Eagles to take him where they did. Obviously, Chip Kelly has a high level of familiarity with Huff from their time together at Oregon, and Huff knows the language of Kelly's program and what's expected of him coming in as a rookie. He is a very versatile athlete who should be able to produce big plays both running the ball and as a receiver.
San Francisco 49ers
Rd. 3 (70): Marcus Martin, C, USC (from JAC)
Rd. 4 (106): Bruce Ellington, WR, South Carolina (from CLE)
I really liked a lot of the Niners' picks in the 2014 draft, so I went with two here. Martin is a steal -- we had him ranked as the 37th-best player in the draft, and they got him in the third round. He is a physical interior lineman who is close to a finished project, and the Niners can play him at either center or guard and can get him on the field right away if they want. As for Ellington, he brings really good speed to the slot receiver position, and he's a good route runner with solid hands.
Seattle Seahawks
Rd. 4 (123): Kevin Norwood, WR, Alabama (from CIN)
I like the speed, route-running and overall upside of second-round WR Paul Richardson, but he is likely more of a long-term project given that he needs to add more bulk and strength. Norwood, on the other hand, could come in and contribute right away in a receiving corps that could use some more depth. He doesn't have great top-end speed, but his football intelligence is off the charts. Some of his best work came when AJ McCarron went off-script, as he would come back to the ball, find soft spots in zone coverage and just generally make plays for his QB, and that same kind of improvisational QB play is a big part of Russell Wilson's game.
St. Louis Rams
Rd. 1 (2): Greg Robinson, OT, Auburn (from WAS)
The Rams had a really good draft, and any of their top four picks would have been good choices here; Robinson, DT Aaron Donald (13th pick), CB Lamarcus Joyner (41st pick) and RB Tre Mason all ranked in the top 61 of our prospect rankings, and each was a great value choice based on where the Rams picked him. But Robinson is the best of the bunch. He is the most dominant offensive lineman at the point of attack that I've ever evaluated, and he is at his best when he's freed up to just steamroll guys in the running game. I think he can start right away at right tackle, or they could kick him inside to guard to start his career and adjust to the NFL level before transitioning him to tackle.
Tampa Bay Buccaneers
Rd. 1 (7): Mike Evans, WR, Texas A&M
The Bucs were fortunate Evans fell this far, and they didn't try to out-smart themselves and instead just took him as the best available player. He is a huge target with very good competitiveness and a high success rate on 50-50 balls, and by drafting him to play opposite Vincent Jackson the Bucs are giving new QB Josh McCown a big receiver duo similar to what he had in Chicago with Brandon Marshall and Alshon Jeffery. He could have an immediate impact.
Washington ********
Rd. 3 (66): Morgan Moses, OT, Virginia
I had a first-round grade on Moses, and while I realize I liked him as a prospect better than many others did, he still represents excellent value as a third-round pick. He struggled for the first part of his career but really started to excel after moving over to left tackle this past season. Defensive players need to take a cab ride to get around his long arms. I thought the ******** reached by taking OLB Trent Murphy in the second round, but that was off-set by landing a great value in the third in Moses -- at a need position.
McShay - Most improved teams from draft.
I've already run through my favorite pick of each team from this year's NFL draft, and below you'll find my take on the team in each division that improved the most for the upcoming season based on their 2014 draft haul.
This is not my assessment on which teams necessarily did the best jobs, found the best value or set themselves up for the future. (My colleague Mel Kiper handles those factors with his draft grades.) Instead, this is a look at the teams that will get the most impact from their rookie classes in the 2014 season.
AFC East: New York Jets
None of the AFC East teams really jumped out at me, but I'll go with the Jets because in first-round safety Calvin Pryor (a big-hitting tone-setter in the secondary) and second-round tight end Jace Amaro (a safety valve for the Jets' quarterbacks), they landed two likely starters, and, among their three wide receiver picks -- fourth-rounder Jalen Saunders, fourth-rounder Shaq Evans and sixth-rounder Quincy Enunwa -- they should have one emerge as a No. 3 or No. 4 wide receiver as a rookie. It wasn't a stellar, or even particularly exciting, class, but the Jets should come away with some key contributors for 2014.
AFC North: Pittsburgh Steelers
The Baltimore Ravens were a close second in the AFC North, but the Steelers deserve the nod. They put together a really good class. First-round linebacker Ryan Shazier instantly makes this defense younger and more athletic, and second-round defensive end Stephon Tuitt is a versatile scheme fit who is a potential steal if he can keep his weight down and effort level up. Third-rounder Dri Archer is listed as a running back but is essentially a slot receiver and return man who can fly (combine-best 4.26 40-yard dash) and has very good open-field vision. Fourth-round receiver Martavis Bryant has excellent physical tools (6-foot-4, 211 pounds, 4.42 40, great flexibility and body control) and is a great fit for the offense. He just needs to stay out of trouble. Fifth-rounder Wesley Johnson's versatility to play multiple spots along the offensive line adds value.
AFC South: Houston Texans
The Texans want to be a physical football team, and that was evident with several of the team's picks. Second-round guard Xavier Su'a-Filo is a tone-setter, third-round tight end C.J. Fiedorowicz should contribute early as a complement to Garrett Graham, and if third-round nose tackle Louis Nix III plays in the NFL like he did his 2012 season at Notre Dame, he's a steal, because he's a perfect fit in Romeo Crennel's system. If anyone can take fourth-round quarterback Tom Savage's raw talent and mold him into a successful NFL quarterback, it's coach Bill O'Brien. And, most important, the Texans also came away with the No. 1 player in this draft in Jadeveon Clowney, who should have an immediate impact as a pass-rusher his rookie season. When he gets one-on-one matchups, look out.
AFC West: Oakland Raiders
This was a close call between Oakland and Denver, but the Raiders got the nod in part because their rookies will have more opportunity to play early than those of the Broncos, who simply don't have many roster holes at the moment. But the Raiders still came away with some good players. No. 5 overall pick Khalil Mack is an instant-impact, every-down player on defense. Third-round guard Gabe Jackson is a road-grader in the running game who could contribute early, and fourth-round cornerback Keith McGill has excellent size for the position. He just dropped due to off-field and durability concerns.
NFC East: New York Giants
The Giants' inclusion here is primarily centered on two players: first-round receiver Odell Beckham Jr. and second-round center Weston Richburg. Beckham is a dynamic athlete with the ball in his hands who can also create separation as a route-runner and take the top off a defense in the vertical passing game. He'll provide Eli Manning with a big-play threat right away. Richburg's arrival will help Manning as well, as he should step in as the new starting center and help keep him upright. Lastly, fourth-rounder Andre Williams brings the toughness and inside power that the Giants like at the running back position.
NFC North: Green Bay Packers
The Packers came away with several potential early contributors. First-round safety Ha Ha Clinton-Dix should start right away, second-round receiver Davante Adams should see immediate action in multireceiver packages with his excellent route-running ability and ball skills, and third-round D-lineman Khyri Thornton should be able to add value in a rotation with his quickness, power and ability to disrupt opponents' backfields. Third-round tight end Richard Rodgers and fourth-round outside linebacker Carl Bradford could potentially see the field as well.
NFC South: Tampa Bay Buccaneers
All six of the Bucs' 2014 selections were offensive players -- with a heavy emphasis on skill-positions -- and several have a chance to make an immediate impact. First-round receiver Mike Evans should be their No. 1 or No. 2 receiver as a rookie, and second-round tight end Austin Seferian-Jenkins' experience with NFL-style routes and pro-ready body give him the chance to be an early-impact player. Third-round running back Charles Sims is a very good pass-catcher out of the backfield in addition to being an effective runner, and it wouldn't shock me if sixth-rounder Robert Herron catches on as a slot receiver. Having a veteran quarterback in Josh McCown who knows how to effectively distribute the ball could boost the learning curve of a few of these rookies.
NFC West: St. Louis Rams
The Rams' first four picks of tackle Greg Robinson (No. 2 overall pick), defensive tackle Aaron Donald (No. 13), cornerback Lamarcus Joyner (No. 41) and running back Tre Mason (No. 75) really stood out. All four ranked in the top 61 of our prospect rankings, and all four have the potential to contribute as rookies. Robinson should be a Day 1 starter at right tackle or left guard, Donald figures to make an impact as an interior pass-rusher (even if it's just in a rotation to start) and Joyner joins a secondary that could use some improvement. Mason will likely serve as the second back in a two-back rotation with Zac Stacy. The Rams put together a really good class and should begin reaping the benefits during the 2014 season.
This is not my assessment on which teams necessarily did the best jobs, found the best value or set themselves up for the future. (My colleague Mel Kiper handles those factors with his draft grades.) Instead, this is a look at the teams that will get the most impact from their rookie classes in the 2014 season.
AFC East: New York Jets
None of the AFC East teams really jumped out at me, but I'll go with the Jets because in first-round safety Calvin Pryor (a big-hitting tone-setter in the secondary) and second-round tight end Jace Amaro (a safety valve for the Jets' quarterbacks), they landed two likely starters, and, among their three wide receiver picks -- fourth-rounder Jalen Saunders, fourth-rounder Shaq Evans and sixth-rounder Quincy Enunwa -- they should have one emerge as a No. 3 or No. 4 wide receiver as a rookie. It wasn't a stellar, or even particularly exciting, class, but the Jets should come away with some key contributors for 2014.
AFC North: Pittsburgh Steelers
The Baltimore Ravens were a close second in the AFC North, but the Steelers deserve the nod. They put together a really good class. First-round linebacker Ryan Shazier instantly makes this defense younger and more athletic, and second-round defensive end Stephon Tuitt is a versatile scheme fit who is a potential steal if he can keep his weight down and effort level up. Third-rounder Dri Archer is listed as a running back but is essentially a slot receiver and return man who can fly (combine-best 4.26 40-yard dash) and has very good open-field vision. Fourth-round receiver Martavis Bryant has excellent physical tools (6-foot-4, 211 pounds, 4.42 40, great flexibility and body control) and is a great fit for the offense. He just needs to stay out of trouble. Fifth-rounder Wesley Johnson's versatility to play multiple spots along the offensive line adds value.
AFC South: Houston Texans
The Texans want to be a physical football team, and that was evident with several of the team's picks. Second-round guard Xavier Su'a-Filo is a tone-setter, third-round tight end C.J. Fiedorowicz should contribute early as a complement to Garrett Graham, and if third-round nose tackle Louis Nix III plays in the NFL like he did his 2012 season at Notre Dame, he's a steal, because he's a perfect fit in Romeo Crennel's system. If anyone can take fourth-round quarterback Tom Savage's raw talent and mold him into a successful NFL quarterback, it's coach Bill O'Brien. And, most important, the Texans also came away with the No. 1 player in this draft in Jadeveon Clowney, who should have an immediate impact as a pass-rusher his rookie season. When he gets one-on-one matchups, look out.
AFC West: Oakland Raiders
This was a close call between Oakland and Denver, but the Raiders got the nod in part because their rookies will have more opportunity to play early than those of the Broncos, who simply don't have many roster holes at the moment. But the Raiders still came away with some good players. No. 5 overall pick Khalil Mack is an instant-impact, every-down player on defense. Third-round guard Gabe Jackson is a road-grader in the running game who could contribute early, and fourth-round cornerback Keith McGill has excellent size for the position. He just dropped due to off-field and durability concerns.
NFC East: New York Giants
The Giants' inclusion here is primarily centered on two players: first-round receiver Odell Beckham Jr. and second-round center Weston Richburg. Beckham is a dynamic athlete with the ball in his hands who can also create separation as a route-runner and take the top off a defense in the vertical passing game. He'll provide Eli Manning with a big-play threat right away. Richburg's arrival will help Manning as well, as he should step in as the new starting center and help keep him upright. Lastly, fourth-rounder Andre Williams brings the toughness and inside power that the Giants like at the running back position.
NFC North: Green Bay Packers
The Packers came away with several potential early contributors. First-round safety Ha Ha Clinton-Dix should start right away, second-round receiver Davante Adams should see immediate action in multireceiver packages with his excellent route-running ability and ball skills, and third-round D-lineman Khyri Thornton should be able to add value in a rotation with his quickness, power and ability to disrupt opponents' backfields. Third-round tight end Richard Rodgers and fourth-round outside linebacker Carl Bradford could potentially see the field as well.
NFC South: Tampa Bay Buccaneers
All six of the Bucs' 2014 selections were offensive players -- with a heavy emphasis on skill-positions -- and several have a chance to make an immediate impact. First-round receiver Mike Evans should be their No. 1 or No. 2 receiver as a rookie, and second-round tight end Austin Seferian-Jenkins' experience with NFL-style routes and pro-ready body give him the chance to be an early-impact player. Third-round running back Charles Sims is a very good pass-catcher out of the backfield in addition to being an effective runner, and it wouldn't shock me if sixth-rounder Robert Herron catches on as a slot receiver. Having a veteran quarterback in Josh McCown who knows how to effectively distribute the ball could boost the learning curve of a few of these rookies.
NFC West: St. Louis Rams
The Rams' first four picks of tackle Greg Robinson (No. 2 overall pick), defensive tackle Aaron Donald (No. 13), cornerback Lamarcus Joyner (No. 41) and running back Tre Mason (No. 75) really stood out. All four ranked in the top 61 of our prospect rankings, and all four have the potential to contribute as rookies. Robinson should be a Day 1 starter at right tackle or left guard, Donald figures to make an impact as an interior pass-rusher (even if it's just in a rotation to start) and Joyner joins a secondary that could use some improvement. Mason will likely serve as the second back in a two-back rotation with Zac Stacy. The Rams put together a really good class and should begin reaping the benefits during the 2014 season.
Kiper - Mel Kiper's 2014 NFL Draft Grades.
The story of the draft is the acquisition of talent, but the story of NFL success is talent development. I know I can't grade a draft class regarding performance for at least a few years, which is a reason why I audit old drafts. But what I do here is assess three main things:
• How much overall talent did a team add based on board position?
• How effectively did they address key personnel needs?
• How efficient were they in maneuvering on the draft board?
And remember: I have to use my player grades as the prism. I'm well aware all NFL teams see players differently -- I have many debates with GMs throughout the year about players. I might have a high grade on a linebacker many teams see as a late-round pick. That's the reality of player evaluations.
Grading Scale: In my mind an A means it's exceptional; a B is pretty good; a C means average, with hits and misses; a D means below average with some big questions. An F ... well, I don't see any.
AFC
BAL | BUF | CIN | CLE | DEN | HOU | IND | JAC | KC | MIA | NE | NYJ | OAK | PIT | SD | TEN
NFC
ARI | ATL | CAR | CHI | DAL | DET | GB | MIN | NO | NYG | PHI | SEA | SF | STL | TB | WAS
San Francisco 49ers: A
Top needs: CB, WR, LB, DL
Needs: A-
Value: A
Summary: The most depressing thing about San Francisco's draft is I don't even think Todd McShay and I have a single argument to be found here. The Niners just got so many good players. Jimmie Ward will cover, attack the line of scrimmage, and will play fast and fearless. If you call that a reach, remember that Arizona had taken Deone Bucannon at No. 27, so there were already three safeties off the board (not that Bucannon and Ward are that similar) and the 49ers knew if they didn't land Ward at that spot, they had no chance later. They got the No. 1 RB in the draft at No. 57. Frank Gore has a lot of miles on the odometer, LaMichael James may not be there long, and if Marcus Lattimore is your No. 1, you better have a 1-A. Carlos Hyde made sense and, again, he's the top RB in the draft. Marcus Martin is a future starter at center, Chris Borland is immediate depth at linebacker and has the experience to play now. Brandon Thomas is another 49ers redshirt, but could be a star guard when he comes back (he hurt his knee this spring, but would have gone in Round 2 otherwise). Bruce Ellington isn't a far cry from Brandin Cooks, but he went 86 picks later. It goes on and on. Dontae Johnson is solid and Aaron Lynch has developmental promise. I even like the pick at No. 245 -- Trey Millard is the top fullback in the draft and was another guy who dropped on some boards after a knee injury. What I like about this draft is the 49ers are in a championship window, and they still managed to balance both the need for immediate help and also got a lot of talent for the future. The window can remain open.
2014 draft picks
Rd Pk Pos Player College
(1) 30 S Jimmie Ward Northern Illinois
(2) 57 RB Carlos Hyde Ohio State
(3) 70 C Marcus Martin USC
(3) 77 ILB Chris Borland Wisconsin
(3) 100 G Brandon Thomas Clemson
(4) 106 WR Bruce Ellington South Carolina
(4) 129 DB Dontae Johnson NC State
(5) 150 LB Aaron Lynch South Florida
(5) 170 DB Keith Reaser Florida Atlantic
(6) 180 DB Kenneth Acker Southern Methodist
(7) 243 DE Kaleb Ramsey Boston College
(7) 245 FB Trey Millard Oklahoma
Jacksonville Jaguars: A
Top needs: QB, DE, WR, OL
Needs: A-
Value: A
Summary: I thought the Jags did a tremendous job, which is something I mentioned more than once during our broadcast. Even if I'm not in love with the value of Blake Bortles at No. 3, consider: It really only looks shakier given where some of the other QBs landed. If the Jags truly believe they have their franchise QB, can they sit and hope the Browns don't take him at No. 4? Given how mum they were on their interest in Bortles, they couldn't assume the Browns weren't playing the same game. You see your future, you take the shot. The real win here is how they targeted weapons that could help them win with Chad Henne or Bortles in the near term. Would you rather give up a first-round pick for Sammy Watkins, or wait and get Marqise Lee and Allen Robinson in the second round? There are questions about how well Bortles can pick apart defenses down the field, but Lee and Robinson can turn short catches into yardage. They needed receivers regardless of who is playing QB, and they added a pair of good ones. Brandon Linder fills a quietly big need at guard (and the coaching staff knows him) and Telvin Smith is Lavonte David Lite, an undersized linebacker with instincts and range. Aaron Colvin is a possible redshirt pick, a versatile CB who could have gone in Round 2 if he hadn't torn an ACL at the Senior Bowl. That said, I wouldn't be shocked if he plays in 2014. Chris Smith was productive at Arkansas as a pass-rusher and provides depth. If there's a question it's whether the Jags are better on defense, particularly the pass rush. But they have some young guys coming up on that side of the ball, too. And if you think you have your QB, you need to help him. They did.
2014 draft picks
Rd Pk Pos Player College
(1) 3 QB Blake Bortles Central Florida
(2) 39 WR Marqise Lee USC
(2) 61 WR Allen Robinson Penn State
(3) 93 G Brandon Linder Miami (FL)
(4) 114 CB Aaron Colvin Oklahoma
(5) 144 LB Telvin Smith Florida State
(5) 159 DE Chris Smith Arkansas
(6) 205 C Luke Bowanko Virginia
(7) 222 RB Storm Johnson Central Florida
Pittsburgh Steelers: A-
Top needs: CB, WR, DL, OL
Needs: B+
Value: A-
Summary: Even though the Steelers could have done more at cornerback, it was hard to pass on players they took where they did, and it adds up to one of the best 2014 draft classes. Ryan Shazier may not have looked like an obvious fit, but this is very good linebacker with special athleticism coming into **** LeBeau's system. When you get a player who can play right away for LeBeau where he will, I like the pick. Stephon Tuitt, if he's at his 2012 level, he can be a stud. I really thought he could end up late in Round 1. The Steelers needed to add D-line help, and Tuitt is a great addition. He fits what they do in terms of his physical profile, and has the ability to disrupt. Dri Archer is just pure explosiveness -- limit the reps, but expect some highlights. We're talking 4.26 speed. Martavis Bryant is an exceptional athlete, with 4.4 speed and great length. They've nailed the mid-round WR picks before. Shaq Richardson helps at CB, and Wesley Johnson gives them a versatile offensive line option. Daniel McCullers is one to watch, because he's simply massive, but doesn't do enough with his size. Did they do enough at cornerback? Maybe not. But they got everything else right.
2014 draft picks
Rd Pk Pos Player College
(1) 15 OLB Ryan Shazier Ohio State
(2) 46 DE Stephon Tuitt Notre Dame
(3) 97 RB Dri Archer Kent State
(4) 118 WR Martavis Bryant Clemson
(5) 157 DB Shaq Richardson Arizona
(5) 173 T Wesley Johnson Vanderbilt
(6) 192 ILB Jordan Zumwalt UCLA
(6) 215 DE Daniel McCullers Tennessee
(7) 230 TE Rob Blanchflower UMass
Houston Texans: A-
Top needs: QB, OLB, RT, DE
Needs: A-
Value: A-
Summary: The Texans drafted a generational talent in Jadeveon Clowney, safely the top prospect in the entire draft, and somehow the focus was on what they would do at quarterback. Swing a trade? Draft another Carr? Well, they did end up getting a potential starter in Tom Savage, and I liked the value -- they grabbed Savage in Round 4 when I wouldn't have been surprised to see him go a round earlier. Make no mistake: Savage is no short-term savior. But the potential is there. The Texans got stronger in the trenches. Xavier Su'a-Filo is the best guard in the draft, and not only is C.J. Fiedorowicz an underrated athlete at tight end, he can actually block somebody, which isn't common in this tight end class. On defense, Louis Nix III is a steal at No. 83 if he's in decent shape, and with him, J.J. Watt and Clowney around, the Texans look awfully versatile up front. Jay Prosch is a bruiser at fullback, and I think Andre Hal could be a decent depth addition at CB soon. The Texans really could have gone a few different directions with that No. 1 pick and justified it. But they put aside questions of scheme, need, and everything else and simply took a potentially great player. I did think they could add a tackle, but Su'a-Filo makes them better up front, and will help the run game. if Nix and Savage pan out, this could be a great class.
2014 draft picks
Rd Pk Pos Player College
(1) 1 DE Jadeveon Clowney South Carolina
(2) 33 G Xavier Su'a-Filo UCLA
(3) 65 TE C.J. Fiedorowicz Iowa
(3) 83 DT Louis Nix III Notre Dame
(4) 135 QB Tom Savage Pittsburgh
(6) 177 DE Jeoffrey Pagan Alabama
(6) 181 RB Alfred Blue LSU
(6) 211 FB Jay Prosch Auburn
(7) 216 CB Andre Hal Vanderbilt
(7) 256 S Lonnie Ballentine Memphis
St. Louis Rams: A-
Top needs: OT, S, WR, CB
Needs: B+
Value: A
Summary: I've been saying this roster was going to be loaded, and it's really there. Les Snead and Co. just keep piling up talent. The draft only dips for two small reasons, but I'll get to those later. Starting at the top, Greg Robinson brings that rare potential to be a star offensive tackle. Yeah, it's projection. But Walter Jones, Jonathan Ogden -- these are the names that get mentioned by really smart football people. Robinson doesn't have to start at tackle, more likely left guard, which will aid his development. Aaron Donald isn't the same type of player as Sheldon Richardson, but could be the Richardson of 2013. By that I mean the breakout rookie, taken in the same range, and plugged into a situation that was already considered a strength. Richardson blew up on a solid Jets D-line; Donald can do the same here. The kid is a stud, and the this line is terrifying. Yes, the Rams needed a corner, and not only does the certainty of pressure make the secondary better, they got a versatile talent in Lamarcus Joyner. He's undersized, but he's that hybrid in the secondary, a slot safety type who is on the field all the time. Tre Mason is solid depth at RB, and Maurice Alexander has starting potential. Garrett Gilbert isn't a player I'd consider a challenger at QB, but there's upside, and they needed the depth. E.J. Gaines adds depth at corner. While there isn't much of an immediate need for Michael Sam along the defense line, he gives them depth in the pass rush and is a high-effort player with a chance to contribute despite average athleticism. I agree with Jeff Fisher that he's a good value late in Round 7. The Rams get dinged a little because I think they should have taken at least one WR in a draft loaded with them, and the fact that they still have a question at QB -- after all, this draft haul is tied to the fact that they opted not to draft Robert Griffin III. They have a ton of talent, but the QB question lingers.
2014 draft picks
Rd Pk Pos Player College
(1) 2 T Greg Robinson Auburn
(1) 13 DT Aaron Donald Pittsburgh
(2) 41 DB Lamarcus Joyner Florida State
(3) 75 RB Tre Mason Auburn
(4) 110 S Maurice Alexander Utah State
(6) 188 DB E.J. Gaines Missouri
(6) 214 QB Garrett Gilbert SMU
(7) 226 T Mitchell Van Dyk Portland State
(7) 241 S C.B. Bryant Ohio State
(7) 249 DE Michael Sam Missouri
(7) 250 C Demetrius Rhaney Tennessee State
Philadelphia Eagles: B+
Top needs: OLB, S, CB, WR
Needs: B+
Value: B
Summary: The Eagles did a solid job of adding talent and hitting needs, making up for one questionable decision early with a number of solid ones down the board. Philadelphia moved down and then selected Marcus Smith, the No. 85-ranked player on my board. But while I didn't love the value, again, it came after the Eagles had moved down and accrued a little value. And he hits a need, because they're too reliant on Trent Cole as a pass-rusher and Smith can turn the corner and provide some pressure. The only receivers Philly has under contract past next season are Riley Cooper, Jeff Maehl and Jeremy Maclin (who is coming back from an ACL injury). The Eagles don't just need receivers, they need projectable players that can help soon. I thought Jordan Matthews would have made sense at No. 22, much less 42. I love that pick. Josh Huff offers underrated after-the-catch explosiveness -- he had 24 catches of 20-plus yards in 2013 -- has obvious familiarity with Kelly's methods and he's a guy who really competes and makes contested catches. Jaylen Watkins is a good value in Round 3, and was the first Florida CB off the board in a year where they have a few decent ones. Ed Reynolds is a player I thought could have been a second-round type had he stayed at Stanford another year, but he can give the Eagles a future potential starter and really anticipates well. Taylor Hart is another guy Kelly knows well, and could help the pass rush at some point. The Smith value was iffy, but I understand it, and they did a solid job thereafter.
2014 draft picks
Rd Pk Pos Player College
(1) 26 OLB Marcus Smith Louisville
(2) 42 WR Jordan Matthews Vanderbilt
(3) 86 WR Josh Huff Oregon
(4) 101 CB Jaylen Watkins Florida
(5) 141 DE Taylor Hart Oregon
(5) 162 DB Ed Reynolds Stanford
(7) 224 DT Beau Allen Wisconsin
Oakland Raiders: B+
Top needs: WR, OLB, OT, CB
Needs: B
Value: B+
Summary: Just another smart, sensible draft for the Raiders where they consistently maximized value and hit some clear needs ... wait, did I just write that? In all seriousness, I've certainly taken my shots at some past Raiders' drafts, but I think they've been pretty reasonable, and the franchise really has suffered in recent years due to a lack of top-end talent. But Oakland got better this weekend. They stayed put at No. 5 and got Khalil Mack, who not only offers them an added pass-rusher, but a great deal of versatility. He doesn't have to be a great pass-rusher to be a very good NFL player right away. The Derek Carr pick represents good value, and also a proper situation for a QB to make a big leap in competition from a developmental standpoint. Carr shouldn't start, and doesn't have to with Matt Schaub there. Gabe Jackson is the No. 2 guard in the draft on my board, so he's a value at No. 81. They got a nice D-tackle prospect in Justin Ellis, a block-eater who can help the linebackers move more freely, and Keith McGill is a solid developmental bet given his frame -- he's 6-foot-3 and over 210 pounds. The Raiders added some intrigue late, but this draft should be defined by the balance of talent, planning and immediate help.
2014 draft picks
Rd Pk Pos Player College
(1) 5 OLB Khalil Mack Buffalo
(2) 36 QB Derek Carr Fresno State
(3) 81 G Gabe Jackson Mississippi State
(4) 107 DT Justin Ellis Louisiana Tech
(4) 116 CB Keith McGill Utah
(7) 219 CB Travis Carrie Ohio
(7) 235 DE Shelby Harris Illinois State
(7) 247 S Jonathan Dowling Western Kentucky
Tampa Bay Buccaneers: B+
Top needs: WR, OG, OLB, DE
Needs: B+
Value: B+
Summary: How we feel about this draft in a year or two has a lot to do with a pair of players who weren't in the draft, and yet were the focus of it. Josh McCown is the presumed starter at QB, and Mike Glennon may still have a future in Tampa. And now with Mike Evans and Austin Seferian-Jenkins in town to go with Vincent Jackson, the Bucs have a bunch of small forwards at wide receiver. But if McCown doesn't cut it, and Glennon isn't the answer, does Johnny Manziel succeed in Cleveland and leave this front office wondering? I don't dislike the Evans pick at all, and ASJ's slot at No. 38 is pretty much in line with where I have him ranked. It's just now on the starting QB to make sure this works. Charles Sims is a solid depth addition in the backfield, and Kadeem Edwards could be a needed guard solution. Robert Herron offers really good speed late in the draft. Lovie Smith and the Bucs clearly feel good about the defense. They effectively targeted the offense, and didn't make mistakes on value. Now it's up to a QB to live up.
2014 draft picks
Rd Pk Pos Player College
(1) 7 WR Mike Evans Texas A&M
(2) 38 TE Austin Seferian-Jenkins Washington
(3) 69 RB Charles Sims West Virginia
(5) 143 G Kadeem Edwards Tennessee State
(5) 149 T Kevin Pamphile Purdue
(6) 185 WR Robert Herron Wyoming
Cincinnati Bengals: B
Top needs: CB, OL, DE, QB
Needs: B
Value: B
Summary: I had cornerback as the top need given Leon Hall's recent healthy history and the age of Terence Newman and Adam Jones, and the Bengals added a solid, projectable player in Darqueze Dennard -- plus, the value was good at No. 24. Dennard is versatile and he doesn't back down from contact. He's an early starter. I don't see why you take Jeremy Hill in front of Carlos Hyde, but I certainly don't mind them adding that style of runner to balance what Giovani Bernard brings. The Law Firm could be closing in Cincinnati. William Clarke can help after the departure of Michael Johnson, and Russell Bodine adds needed interior strength and depth -- I say strength because he really is freakishly strong. AJ McCarron had a really poor draft process, starting with opting out of the Senior Bowl, but you can't deny that getting him in Round 5 is good value. Lavelle Westbrooks is one to watch as more depth at corner. Pretty good draft for the Bengals, who seem to do this every year.
2014 draft picks
Rd Pk Pos Player College
(1) 24 CB Darqueze Dennard Michigan State
(2) 55 RB Jeremy Hill LSU
(3) 88 DE William Clarke West Virginia
(4) 111 C Russell Bodine UNC
(5) 164 QB AJ McCarron Alabama
(6) 212 OLB Marquis Flowers Arizona
(7) 239 WR James Wright LSU
(7) 252 DB Lavelle Westbrooks Georgia Southern
Baltimore Ravens: B
Top needs: FS, TE, RT, WR
Needs: B
Value: B+
Summary: The Ravens put together another solid draft, with one notable question. They got some really good players who will contribute immediately, and peppered in some high-upside picks that could make this draft look outstanding down the road. I didn't have linebacker as a big need, but the front office probably found it hard to pass on the best inside linebacker in the draft, and they pulled the trigger on C.J. Mosley. The Ravens also got another potential immediate starter in the third round when they drafted Terrence Brooks. When you consider the run on safeties we saw early (Jimmie Ward is something of a hybrid) getting Brooks where they did looks like a coup. The Ravens added a Gator last year at one safety position and now have a Seminole to play the other. The upside is along the defensive line. Timmy Jernigan could be a really good player if he plays to the best of his tape -- he was an impact player for the Noles. Brent Urban is a really intriguing 3-4 defensive end prospect, with great length and good quickness at nearly 6-foot-7. My question would be whether they got enough in the passing game. Crockett Gillmore is the hope there, a big target with a wide catch-radius who can stretch the seam. The addition of Steve Smith calms some worries about the weapons Joe Flacco has at his disposal, but Smith is 35 and they could be looking at wide receiver next year. Keith Wenning could be a solid backup relatively soon and is worth a late grab.
2014 draft picks
Rd Pk Pos Player College
(1) 17 ILB C.J. Mosley Alabama
(2) 48 DT Timmy Jernigan Florida State
(3) 79 S Terrence Brooks Florida State
(3) 99 TE Crockett Gillmore Colorado State
(4) 134 DE Brent Urban Virginia
(4) 138 RB Lorenzo Taliaferro Coastal Carolina
(5) 175 C John Urschel Penn State
(6) 194 QB Keith Wenning Ball State
(7) 218 WR Mike Campanaro Wake Forest
New York Jets: B
Top needs: WR, CB, TE, S
Needs: B+
Value: B-
Summary: The Jets came into this draft committed to add playmakers to an offense that was hopelessly bereft of them in 2014. They did that, but also remembered who the head coach was and nailed a pretty good safety, a position that I considered a need coming in. Calvin Pryor should start at strong safety, and will quickly make his mark as a playmaker. They are different kinds of safeties, but I had Pryor rated ahead of Ha Ha Clinton-Dix. Jace Amaro is an obvious fit, and adds a reliable, big target to the passing game. Jalen Saunders offers some shiftiness and slot depth, and Shaq Evans is solid if not a burner. Dakota Dozier can become a starter, and if Dexter McDougle plays up to his potential he could be a steal at No. 80. He was down on some boards after getting hurt, but I've seen him a lot and can see why Rex likes him. Tajh Boyd is a nice little stowaway that far down on the board when you consider his arm. If you're going to take a shot at QB late, go for the ceiling. I thought the Jets did a nice job with my one question being whether they really added a player in the passing game that will scare defenses. Hopefully Amaro becomes that guy.
2014 draft picks
Rd Pk Pos Player College
(1) 18 S Calvin Pryor Louisville
(2) 49 TE Jace Amaro Texas Tech
(3) 80 CB Dexter McDougle Maryland
(4) 104 WR Jalen Saunders Oklahoma
(4) 115 WR Shaq Evans UCLA
(4) 137 G Dakota Dozier Furman
(5) 154 LB Jeremiah George Iowa State
(6) 195 CB Brandon Dixon NW Missouri State
(6) 209 WR Quincy Enunwa Nebraska
(6) 210 DE I.K. Enemkpali Louisiana Tech
(6) 213 QB Tajh Boyd Clemson
(7) 233 OLB Trevor Reilly Utah
Green Bay Packers: B
Top needs: S, TE, WR, ILB
Needs: B-
Value: B+
Summary: Another solid draft. Ha Ha Clinton-Dix was an easy call at No. 21. I thought he'd be off the board by then, potentially to Dallas or Baltimore, so Green Bay got a good value there, and he addresses a need at free safety, where the Packers didn't have much. Davante Adams isn't explosive, but he catches everything and will flourish with Aaron Rodgers (This tends to happen with good receivers catching passes in Green Bay lately.) I really thought they needed a WR or two in this draft, and I loved the additions of Jeff Janis and Jared Abbrederis. If you saw Abbrederis simply steal Bradley Roby's lunch money in Columbus, you know he can battle NFL-level athletes, and Janis is a major physical talent for a seventh-rounder. He dropped on hand size and competition level coming out of D-II. Carl Bradford is a player I really like, and I'll be interested to see if they move him around a little bit. I thought inside linebacker was a big need even though that's typically something you can address later, but they didn't touch it. (Does Bradford fit?) There's not a point where you feel like the Packers flat out got a steal, but aside from the question at ILB, there's not much not to like.
2014 draft picks
Rd Pk Pos Player College
(1) 21 S Ha Ha Clinton-Dix Alabama
(2) 53 WR Davante Adams Fresno State
(3) 85 DT Khyri Thornton Southern Miss
(3) 98 TE Richard Rodgers Cal
(4) 121 LB Carl Bradford Arizona State
(5) 161 C Corey Linsley Ohio State
(5) 176 WR Jared Abbrederis Wisconsin
(6) 197 CB Demetri Goodson Baylor
(7) 236 WR Jeff Janis Saginaw Valley (MI)
San Diego Chargers: B
Top needs: CB, NT, WR, OLB
Needs: B
Value: B-
Summary: They didn't have many picks, but I think the Chargers came out pretty well. I really like Jason Verrett, a competitive cover man who won't shy away from contact. San Diego gets the added bonus of grabbing a CB that would have been the ideal fit for division rival Denver a handful of picks later. I had OLB down as a need, and the fact that Jeremiah Attaochu was there had to be a pleasant surprise. Chris Watt is a good interior blocker and could be used soon, and Ryan Carrethers gives them the depth they needed up the middle on defense. Marion Grice has really good hands out of the backfield and Tevin Reese, while undersized, is an absolute burner who could find a role given the lack of a similar player. The Chargers didn't have a special draft in terms of value, but they added pretty solid pieces and crossed needs off the list. Because they had only six picks they lose a little value, but they worked the board well.
2014 draft picks
Rd Pk Pos Player College
(1) 25 CB Jason Verrett TCU
(2) 50 OLB Jeremiah Attaochu Georgia Tech
(3) 89 G Chris Watt Notre Dame
(5) 165 DT Ryan Carrethers Arkansas State
(6) 201 RB Marion Grice Arizona State
(7) 240 WR Tevin Reese Baylor
Miami Dolphins: B
Top needs: RT, G, DE, DB
Needs: B+
Value: B-
Summary: This was a really quiet draft class in terms of star appeal, but the Dolphins did a pretty solid job of hitting their biggest needs. Ja'Wuan James isn't a player many people know, but I thought he'd land here, and he did in a move that makes a lot of sense. The Dolphins need an immediate starter at right tackle, and that's James. Just plug him in and check it off. Jarvis Landry doesn't fill a major need at WR, but he's a really reliable target who catches absolutely everything. Billy Turner was a tackle at North Dakota State, but could fill another pretty big need they have at guard. Walt Aikens will need some time as he makes a big leap in competition, but is a needed addition at cornerback. Jordie Tripp could offer help at linebacker as a guy who is explosive out of his drop and will play with passion. Matt Hazel is a sleeper at WR, and like Landry, has good hands. This draft was about Ryan Tannehill. Stop the constant sacks, give him a chance to take another step. I think Miami succeeded.
2014 draft picks
Rd Pk Pos Player College
(1) 19 T Ja'Wuan James Tennessee
(2) 63 WR Jarvis Landry LSU
(3) 67 T Billy Turner ND State
(4) 125 CB Walt Aikens Liberty
(5) 155 TE Arthur Lynch Georgia
(5) 171 OLB Jordan Tripp Montana
(6) 190 WR Matt Hazel Coastal Carolina
(7) 234 DE Terrence Fede Marist
Arizona Cardinals: B
Top needs: OLB, S, WR, QB
Needs: B
Value: B-
Summary: The Cardinals did pretty well, and hit some needs. If you look across the NFC West, you see safety combinations that balance a big hitter with a guy that can really run, move around, cover the slot and make plays. Last year the Cardinals added Tyrann Mathieu, who was fantastic as a rookie before the ACL injury, and this year they added a hitter in Deone Bucannon. The Cardinals moved down, and that made what you could call a slight reach on Bucannon perfectly reasonable. I list OLB as a need here, but that could also be DE because the Cardinals will mix their base fronts, and an athlete like Kareem Martin is a good fit. He's a better athlete than he is a performer, but he could be good. Bruce Arians absolutely adored Heath Miller in Pittsburgh, and might see some of what he loved about Miller in Troy Niklas. John Brown was a guy I really liked because of the explosiveness -- witness the 4.34 40 time -- and he could become a solid third WR and also take return reps, preserving Mathieu and Patrick Peterson. Logan Thomas is a great developmental shot to take. Bruce Arians worked out Thomas in March, and loves the tools Thomas has. Will Thomas improve his accuracy? That's the question, and it's not at all easy to say he will, because accuracy and ball placement aren't things that often improve a great deal. At worst, he's Colin Kaepernick and Russell Wilson in practice because he can simulate that kind of athleticism.
2014 draft picks
Rd Pk Pos Player College
(1) 27 S Deone Bucannon Washington State
(2) 52 TE Troy Niklas Notre Dame
(3) 84 DE Kareem Martin UNC
(3) 91 WR John Brown Pittsburg State
(4) 120 QB Logan Thomas Virginia Tech
(5) 160 DE Ed Stinson Alabama
(6) 196 WR Walt Powell Murray State
New York Giants: B
Top needs: TE, WR, OL, DL
Needs: B
Value: B+
Summary: Odell Beckham Jr. has a chance to be a really dynamic NFL player, a reliable pass-catcher with both the quick-twitch explosiveness to make plays after the catch, and the straight-line speed to run away from defenders. I thought Eric Ebron could be in play at No. 12, but Detroit took him at No. 10. Eli Manning gets a needed weapon in the passing game. The Giants then got more physical. Weston Richburg was a solid Round 2 value, a very good blocker with the chance to be a solid center for the next 10 years. I think it should be his job to lose. Jay Bromley was a reach for me -- I had a number of defensive tackles rated higher -- but "DT" doesn't do justice to the different kinds of fits you're looking for in a system, and I can see how Bromley makes sense there. Andre Brown led the Giants with 492 rushing yards last season and he's no longer around. Andre Williams gives the Giants a bruising runner to strengthen the depth chart. Devon Kennard and Bennett Jackson both have ability and provide needed depth. I had tight end as a need, but adding a weapon in the passing game was the real impetus there, and Beckham does that. Richburg will be a good one. I think the D-line needs more help, so Bromley will be a key.
2014 draft picks
Rd Pk Pos Player College
(1) 12 WR Odell Beckham Jr. LSU
(2) 43 C Weston Richburg Colorado State
(3) 74 DT Jay Bromley Syracuse
(4) 113 RB Andre Williams Boston College
(5) 152 S Nat Berhe San Diego State
(5) 174 OLB Devon Kennard USC
(6) 187 CB Bennett Jackson Notre Dame
Dallas Cowboys: B
Top needs: DL, S, G, WR
Needs: B-
Value: B
Summary: Give Jerry Jones credit: I don't think it's unfair to at least be tempted by the prospect of Johnny Football with that blue star on his helmet, playing in that football theatre. But Manziel isn't making Dallas a better team in 2014, and Tony Romo -- for all the derision -- is a really good QB when he gets protection. The Dallas offensive line with Zack Martin isn't just the strength of the team, it's arguably among the top few units in the NFL. They are going to be able to run the ball. I had Martin as high as the top 10, so that's not a bad pick. I can see why Dallas added Demarcus Lawrence where it did, but a third is pricey in this draft. Devin Street addresses the depth the Cowboys really do need at WR, and they used the run of seventh-round picks to pile up some lottery tickets at need spots like safety, defensive tackle and cornerback, where Terrance Mitchell at times looked a lot better than your typical late-rounder. His 40 time didn't help, but he could stick. The Cowboys mixed in that typical moment of aggression, but in some ways they were as disciplined as any team in the draft, and they took some good shots to hit needs.
2014 draft picks
Rd Pk Pos Player College
(1) 16 T Zack Martin Notre Dame
(2) 34 DE Demarcus Lawrence Boise State
(4) 119 OLB Anthony Hitchens Iowa
(5) 146 WR Devin Street Pittsburgh
(7) 231 DE Ben Gardner Stanford
(7) 238 OLB Will Smith Texas Tech
(7) 248 S Ahmad Dixon Baylor
(7) 251 DT Ken Bishop Northern Illinois
(7) 254 DB Terrance Mitchell Oregon
Cleveland Browns: B-
Top needs: QB, CB, WR, OG
Needs: C
Value: B
Summary: Some day, somebody will probably write a book about this Cleveland draft. Maybe it'll become "Draft Day II." Unfortunately, I'm on a tighter deadline. Where do you start? The huge trade with Buffalo to swipe a 2015 first-rounder? Johnny Football? Josh Gordon? The best pass-catcher drafted is ... Pierre Desir, who plays corner? It was wild. Adding a 2015 first-round pick (and a fourth) to move down five slots is like stealing. But you do pass on the chance to take Sammy Watkins. Justin Gilbert was a minor reach at No. 8, but he's a good fit and hit a big need. And again on this theme: you move down and add major pick value, what's a minor reach, really? You can't always get to the perfect slot in terms of value. Johnny Manziel's celebrity transcends the reality of what he adds to the Browns as a football player, but let's talk football. He's a good value at No. 22 (I had him at No. 10 overall on my Big Board); he is a very good pocket passer, not just a scrambler -- he led all the draft QBs in this class in pocket accuracy -- and the Browns can block for him if he starts. Lastly, that's a big need. I really like Joel Bitonio, a player who could have gone in Round 1. Terrance West could become a good starter, combining size with good lateral agility and vision. Desir is great value, but you can temper the "steal" talk with the reality of a potentially longer developmental process given the jump in competition. The big void here is at wide receiver. Remember: I had WR as a need even with the assumption Josh Gordon was going to be around. Now that he's probably not? The Browns have potentially changed the face of their franchise, but Manziel could use somebody to throw the football to.
2014 draft picks
Rd Pk Pos Player College
(1) 8 CB Justin Gilbert Oklahoma State
(1) 22 QB Johnny Manziel Texas A&M
(2) 35 G Joel Bitonio Nevada
(3) 71 LB Chris Kirksey Iowa
(3) 94 RB Terrance West Towson
(4) 127 CB Pierre Desir Lindenwood
Minnesota Vikings: B-
Top needs: QB, LB, DB, WR
Needs: B-
Value: B-
Summary: The first round of this draft has me pretty split. I thought Anthony Barr was a pretty big reach based on my evaluations; he's a talented but raw player who lacks instincts on defense. On the other hand, moving decisively to get Teddy Bridgewater made sense, and they have the pieces around him to help him succeed. Plus, as Trent Dilfer noted, the culture in that locker room could be good for Teddy as well. While I really liked the David Yankey pick and also am a fan of Jerick McKinnon based on his tape and his exceptional workout numbers, not taking an inside linebacker anywhere is questionable given what they currently have on the roster, and I'm surprised they didn't add another wide receiver given the talent available. They took some shots at cornerback, and I think Kendall James could be a pretty good late value. The Vikings did a pretty good job overall, and if Barr develops more and Bridgewater really becomes the answer, this draft will look really good.
2014 draft picks
Rd Pk Pos Player College
(1) 9 OLB Anthony Barr UCLA
(2) 32 QB Teddy Bridgewater Louisville
(3) 72 DE Scott Crichton Oregon State
(3) 96 RB Jerick McKinnon Georgia Southern
(5) 145 G David Yankey Stanford
(6) 182 CB Antone Exum Virginia Tech
(6) 184 CB Kendall James Maine
(7) 220 DT Shamar Stephen UConn
(7) 223 OLB Brandon Watts Georgia Tech
(7) 225 CB Jabari Price UNC
Chicago Bears: B-
Top needs: S, CB, DT, WR
Needs: B
Value: C+
Summary: The Bears have some questions on value, but I think they did a solid job of targeting needs. Kyle Fuller may not be a star at CB, but the floor is probably a really good player for a long time. I didn't mind that pick at all, especially after Cleveland moved up to get Justin Gilbert, who isn't superior to Fuller. Ha Ha Clinton-Dix would've been a solid pick here as well. The Bears did a great job of rebuilding what was a defensive line in tatters at the end of 2013, and Ego Ferguson and Will Sutton round out the depth chart there. Ferguson was a reach, but the talent is enticing. Sutton is interesting, because his 2012 tape is fantastic. If he can get his weight down and play lighter and with more explosiveness, he's a nice addition in Round 3. Ka'Deem Carey has great tape, but the 4.7 40 time puts him in a category of RBs that rarely offer much. Hopefully the Bears get the tape version, but the fourth round is pretty rich. Brock Vereen can help at safety, a pretty massive need area. David Fales has talent but questions on the arm -- we'll see if he's a case of improved arm strength. Charles Leno can make this roster. Good work on needs, outside of depth at wide receiver, but I think they missed on value more than one. That said, the Bears had a really good offseason. They're better than the team that finished 2013.
2014 draft picks
Rd Pk Pos Player College
(1) 14 CB Kyle Fuller Virginia Tech
(2) 51 DT Ego Ferguson LSU
(3) 82 DT Will Sutton Arizona State
(4) 117 RB Ka'Deem Carey Arizona
(4) 131 S Brock Vereen Minnesota
(6) 183 QB David Fales San Diego State
(6) 191 P Pat O'Donnell Miami (FL)
(7) 246 T Charles Leno Jr. Boise State
Detroit Lions: B-
Top needs: CB, S, WR, OLB
Needs: C
Value: B
Summary: The Lions are absolutely terrifying to defend in the passing game after this draft, and hopefully practicing against the likes of Calvin Johnson, Golden Tate, Brandon Pettigrew, Joseph Fauria and now Eric Ebron will be good for their secondary, because that unit didn't get much help in the draft. The Lions can be forgiven for passing on a CB or a safety at No. 10, because Justin Gilbert was already off the board, and the value at those positions made Ebron a solid option. Tight end wasn't technically a need, but Ebron isn't technically your father's tight end. He's tall, fast, has a huge catch radius and will be split out off the line. He can block a little bit, but that's not his job here. Again: This is a scary group of pass-catchers. Kyle Van Noy is one of my favorite players in the whole draft, an instinctive, versatile defender who can move around and rush the passer. (He also roomed with Ezekiel Ansah at BYU.) Travis Swanson is useful depth behind 35-year old Dominic Raiola. And then finally -- in Round 4 -- Detroit adds Nevin Lawson, a good but undersized CB. Larry Webster is fascinating because he could be a pass-rusher or a tight end, and Caraun Reid is a depth addition at DT. Overall, you have to love the talent addition in rounds one and two, but the need in the secondary -- well, it's still a need.
2014 draft picks
Rd Pk Pos Player College
(1) 10 TE Eric Ebron UNC
(2) 40 OLB Kyle Van Noy BYU
(3) 76 C Travis Swanson Arkansas
(4) 133 DB Nevin Lawson Utah State
(4) 136 DE Larry Webster Bloomsburg (PA)
(5) 158 DT Caraun Reid Princeton
(6) 189 WR T.J. Jones Notre Dame
(7) 229 K Nate Freese Boston College
Kansas City Chiefs: B-
Top needs: WR, S, G, DL
Needs: C+
Value: B
Summary: When the Chiefs lost production in their pass rush last year, with health part of the reason why, they looked completely exposed on defense. Dee Ford is not a versatile player, but he's explosive off the edge and knows the way to the QB. If there's a question here, it's whether the Chiefs could have traded down to add picks and still gotten a pass-rusher. The Chiefs didn't have a second-round pick, so even additional late-round scratch-off tickets are nice. What Ford also represents, however, is insurance against Tamba Hali's age and the possibility of being forced to pay Justin Houston a lot of cash after 2014. As well, it's hard to knock not having a second-round pick when that pick is really Alex Smith. That's a win. Phillip Gaines is a really good athlete they can develop, and De'Anthony Thomas is a player defenses always have to account for and offers potential free points on special teams. Laurent Duvernay-Tardif is a sleeper who could turn into something. My question is at wide receiver. While I know GM John Dorsey believes recent first-rounder A.J. Jenkins could take a big step forward and really help the offense, that's an area I might have targeted in a deep draft. Safety was also a need that wasn't addressed.
2014 draft picks
Rd Pk Pos Player College
(1) 23 DE Dee Ford Auburn
(3) 87 CB Phillip Gaines Rice
(4) 124 RB De'Anthony Thomas Oregon
(5) 163 QB Aaron Murray Georgia
(6) 193 G Zach Fulton Tennessee
(6) 200 T Laurent Duvernay-Tardif McGill (Canada)
Atlanta Falcons: B-
Top needs: OT, DE/OLB, TE, S
Needs: C
Value: B
Summary: I was a big fan of the Jake Matthews pick when it happened, and I'm not changing my tune now. Big need, good player and you add the bonus of his versatility. The Falcons also got a pretty good safety prospect in Dez Southward, hitting another need. But there were also a couple areas I think they missed, and maybe it had to do with the way the board was breaking. For instance, they really need pass-rush help, and Demarcus Lawrence could have been an option at No. 37, but Dallas moved up and grabbed him. Atlanta ends up with a high-upside talent in Ra'Shede Hageman, but he ran really hot and cold at Minnesota. Devonta Freeman gives them an underrated running back, which is something they need, and maybe Prince Shembo can provide some value as a pass-rusher. Ricardo Allen is a solid player and gives them added depth at CB. Tyler Starr is also a sleeper as a pass-rushing addition. The question for me is whether they did enough to really help the pass rush, which was a big need, and I also think a tight end made sense given the departure at that position. Not bad, overall. Matthews will be good.
2014 draft picks
Rd Pk Pos Player College
(1) 6 T Jake Matthews Texas A&M
(2) 37 DT Ra'Shede Hageman Minnesota
(3) 68 DB Dez Southward Wisconsin
(4) 103 RB Devonta Freeman Florida State
(4) 139 OLB Prince Shembo Notre Dame
(5) 147 DB Ricardo Allen Purdue
(5) 168 LB Marquis Spruill Syracuse
(7) 253 OLB Yawin Smallwood UConn
(7) 255 LB Tyler Starr South Dakota
Tennessee Titans: C+
Top needs: OLB, QB, CB, RB
Needs: C
Value: B-
Summary: Tackle wasn't the top need for Tennessee, but Taylor Lewan was my No. 5 prospect in the entire draft, and not only offers an immediate upgrade at right tackle, but could ultimately take over the left side from Michael Roos, who becomes an unrestricted free agent after the 2014 season. Can't knock the pick, especially when you consider Lewan is a really good run-blocker and moving the ball on the ground consistently could really help Jake Locker. I like the pick of Bishop Sankey, and he gives the Titans a versatile, durable back who compares to Giovani Bernard, though I would have preferred Carlos Hyde in that spot. But again, fit matters and they like Sankey. Daquan Jones is a wide body who can be useful for a team that wants to be able to show some different fronts but still covets a block-eater. Calling Marqueston Huff versatile is probably more fair than calling him a tweener -- he could play either safety or corner but is probably better at CB. The value on Zach Mettenberger is really good in terms of talent, but he comes in with character baggage, and it's reflected in his draft position. There are teams who wouldn't draft him, period. But Ken Whisenhunt could have a steal there if his staff can get the best out of Mettenberger. Does this draft change the Titans much in 2014? A little. Perhaps Mettenberger makes it a great one.
2014 draft picks
Rd Pk Pos Player College
(1) 11 T Taylor Lewan Michigan
(2) 54 RB Bishop Sankey Washington
(4) 112 DT Daquan Jones Penn State
(4) 122 DB Marqueston Huff Wyoming
(5) 151 LB Avery Williamson Kentucky
(6) 178 QB Zach Mettenberger LSU
Denver Broncos: C+
Top needs: CB, ILB, WR, G
Needs: B-
Value: C+
Summary: Broncos fans who believe the addition of Aqib Talib solidified the depth chart at cornerback were being a little too optimistic. Denver needed to add another potential starter there, and the Broncos may have one in Bradley Roby, but I'm not sure he helps much now. What Roby lacks in refinement and consistency, he has in athleticism and potential. He's a superb athlete -- quick, agile and strong. What he's not is a technically sound CB, so what you have to hope for is a long season that gets him seasoning so he's hitting his stride during a playoff push. But for players this raw at position that demands a transition period, that's just a hope. Even with Emmanuel Sanders around I considered WR depth a need, and Cody Latimer is a pretty good get late in Round 2. Mr. McShay had him rated higher than I did, but I thought he could go early in Round 2. Michael Schofield was a sound player at Michigan but was overshadowed by Taylor Lewan. If Schofield ends up starting at right tackle pretty quickly it wouldn't surprise me. I think Lamin Barrow is a pretty good player going into a situation where the depth chart at interior linebacker isn't great. Given where they were drafting, the Broncos did pretty well, the question is whether Roby is a help in 2014 or a liability because he requires the development.
2014 draft picks
Rd Pk Pos Player College
(1) 31 CB Bradley Roby Ohio State
(2) 56 WR Cody Latimer Indiana
(3) 95 T Michael Schofield Michigan
(5) 156 LB Lamin Barrow LSU
(6) 207 C Matt Paradis Boise State
(7) 242 OLB Corey Nelson Oklahoma
Seattle Seahawks: C+
Top needs: WR, DL, OL, TE
Needs: B
Value: D+
Summary: There simply isn't a better player development program in the NFL right now than Seattle's. The players the Seahawks draft -- the players I've spent many hours evaluating and making calls on -- are often players that evolve, improve and become something new after Seattle drafts them. While they've had some notable misses in Round 1, both in value and development, they've been awesome thereafter. So when Seattle moved down to No. 45 overall and still had the chance to take either Stephon Tuitt or Marqise Lee, both players that would have been nice fits at pick No. 32, you almost had to laugh because you knew the Seahawks would go in another direction. Paul Richardson was the pick, and he hits a big need, though his lean frame is a concern. The key will be that he maintains his explosiveness as he adds some needed strength. The presence of him and a healthy Percy Harvin, will keep safeties on high alert. I also thought O-line was a necessity, and Justin Britt adds depth, but he was my 21st-ranked offensive tackle, and struggles to create any movement in the run game. I saw him as a likelier fit in the third or fourth round. Again: They trust their development, and they showed it again when they took what I'd kindly refer to as a deep sleeper in Jimmy Staten, a D-tackle I had at No. 44 at the position in my rankings. The Seahawks know what they are doing, but it's fair to say they had a couple value questions again today. I look forward to seeing what becomes of these players.
2014 draft picks
Rd Pk Pos Player College
(2) 45 WR Paul Richardson Colorado
(2) 64 T Justin Britt Missouri
(4) 108 DE Cassius Marsh UCLA
(4) 123 WR Kevin Norwood Alabama
(4) 132 OLB Kevin Pierre-Louis Boston College
(5) 172 DT Jimmy Staten Middle Tenn. State
(6) 199 T Garrett Scott Marshall
(6) 208 S Eric Pinkins San Diego State
(7) 227 RB Kiero Small Arkansas
Washington ********: C+
Top needs: RT, CB, ILB, S
Needs: C+
Value: C
Summary: This was a mixed draft, with some really good value in a couple spots, questionable value in others, a big need hit, but another couple that weren't. First of all, I like the fact that Washington moved down. I consider this a deep draft, and the ******** have struggled with roster depth in recent years due to the Robert Griffin III deal. Give yourself more chances to get good players. In Trent Murphy the ******** got a productive pass-rusher, they just didn't get the best one available at that spot based on my board. I don't agree completely with Todd that Murphy could have been available in Round 4, but I did think he could be around a little later. Morgan Moses represented good value in Round 3, but he needs work because the measurables are better than the player. He could be a solution at right tackle however, and boy do they need one. The Spencer Long pick was a bit of a puzzler. I saw him going later, as he's coming off a season-ending knee injury. Bashaud Breeland could be a good value at CB, and Lache Seastrunk is extremely explosive for a player taken that late in the draft -- he can be better if he stays more north and south. I wish the Skins would have added a safety, and maybe targeted CB earlier. This draft also represents the end of the RG III deal. We'll welcome Washington back to Round 1 next year.
2014 draft picks
Rd Pk Pos Player College
(2) 47 OLB Trent Murphy Stanford
(3) 66 T Morgan Moses Virginia
(3) 78 G Spencer Long Nebraska
(4) 102 CB Bashaud Breeland Clemson
(5) 142 WR Ryan Grant Tulane
(6) 186 RB Lache Seastrunk Baylor
(7) 217 TE Ted Bolser Indiana
(7) 228 K Zach Hocker Arkansas
New Orleans Saints: C+
Top needs: CB, WR, OLB, T
Needs: B-
Value: C
Summary: I had wide receiver as a big need for the Saints, with Marques Colston soon to be 31, and Kenny Stills now asked to play a much bigger role after the departure of favorite Drew Brees targets like Lance Moore and Darren Sproles. They moved up to get Brandin Cooks -- Philly could have snapped him up at No. 22 -- and get an immediate threat. Cooks is an athletic dynamo, a sure-handed target who can create space, make short catches and turn them into longer gains, and will also take the top off a defense vertically on occasion. The Saints got a promising CB in Round 2 with Stan Jean-Baptiste, but he needs a lot of work, particularly in learning how to tackle more effectively. Still, he's a worthy project. Khairi Fortt fits as the OLB I'd suggested, and Vinnie Sunseri has a chance to stick because he's a sharp player who can translate the Rob Ryan defense, which demands a safety with smarts. Ronald Powell is worth a flyer based on the hope that he stays healthy. The question for me is depth at tackle. They like Terron Armstead, but it's a position I would have looked at earlier. Cooks is a win, and it's a lot of "We'll see" after that.
2014 draft picks
Rd Pk Pos Player College
(1) 20 WR Brandin Cooks Oregon State
(2) 58 CB Stan Jean-Baptiste Nebraska
(4) 126 LB Khairi Fortt Cal
(5) 167 DB Vinnie Sunseri Alabama
(5) 169 OLB Ronald Powell Florida
(6) 202 T Tavon Rooks Kansas State
New England Patriots: C
Top needs: TE, DL, S, RB
Needs: C+
Value: C-
Summary: The Patriots should be better in 2014 than they were in 2013. They get significant pieces back on defense, and the unrest they experienced on offense (not to mention the youth at WR) is a year removed. Because of that, they took a player in Round 1 who needs to play a limited role this season due to health concerns, and a player in Round 2 who hopefully doesn't see a snap. Dominique Easley can be special when healthy -- watch him in the Sept. 7, 2013, game against Miami -- but two ACL tears dot his profile, including a season-ender in 2013, so you're looking for impact on a rotational basis -- say, 400 or so snaps. For me, that doesn't make him a bad pick, but certainly a reach. It's about maximizing the pick slot. I really like Bryan Stork, and adding him, Cameron Fleming and Jon Halapio really strengthens the depth chart. James White hits a need at RB, and he holds on to the ball. Jeremy Gallon is dangerous after the catch, and offers depth in the slot. I can see him becoming a factor. In Jimmy Garoppolo, you have a nice developmental talent, and potentially a commodity. If Easley stays healthy, this draft looks a lot better. New England just placed a pricey bet that he will.
2014 draft picks
Rd Pk Pos Player College
(1) 29 DL Dominique Easley Florida
(2) 62 QB Jimmy Garoppolo Eastern Illinois
(4) 105 C Bryan Stork Florida State
(4) 130 RB James White Wisconsin
(4) 140 OL Cameron Fleming Stanford
(6) 179 G Jon Halapio Florida
(6) 198 DE Zach Moore Concordia (MN)
(7) 206 CB Jemea Thomas Georgia Tech
(7) 244 WR Jeremy Gallon Michigan
Carolina Panthers: C
Top needs: WR, T, CB, S
Needs: C-
Value: C
Summary: For a team that had a huge season in 2013, the Panthers entered the 2014 draft with some major needs. The biggest needs for me were on offense, where Cam Newton is facing the bad combination of a lack of guys to catch passes and a lack of protection when he drops back. Kelvin Benjamin is a tantalizing physical talent at 6-foot-5 and 240 pounds, with the ability to make contested catches. But sometimes those catches are contested because he's not able to separate consistently. Benjamin ran 4.61 in Indy which, while great for his size, reflects the fact that he's not a burner. I think Jordan Matthews could have been a good fit there, but Carolina placed a bet on Benjamin's upside. Kony Ealy was a decent value in Round 2, but he'll need time to learn how to be a three-down defensive end. Trai Turner is a favorite of mine as a guard prospect, but questions at tackle linger. The Panthers went after help in the secondary later on, but I saw a handful of safeties I might have considered ahead of Tre Boston. I think the Panthers got some good football players, but some of the concerns I had regarding roster holes remain. How quickly Benjamin can make the leap and produce for Newton will be key.
2014 draft picks
Rd Pk Pos Player College
(1) 28 WR Kelvin Benjamin Florida State
(2) 60 DE Kony Ealy Missouri
(3) 92 G Trai Turner LSU
(4) 128 DB Tre Boston UNC
(5) 148 CB Bene Benwikere San Jose State
(6) 204 RB Tyler Gaffney Stanford
Buffalo Bills: C-
Top needs: OT, S, TE, WR
Needs: D+
Value: C
Summary: Sammy Watkins isn't just going to be a really good player, he already is one. He was my No. 2 prospect in the entire draft. EJ Manuel has a weapon, a player who can turn simple throws into big gains, and that matters because I still don't know how effective a downfield thrower Manuel is. My issue is that this draft is loaded with wide receivers -- there are good ones already signing as undrafted free agents as I type this, in fact -- and the Bills paid a significant price to get Watkins. A future first-round pick is always a heavy price, but they threw in a fourth as well, and they could have gotten a very good wide receiver in Odell Beckham Jr. without moving. Or think about this: the Jags took a QB one slot ahead of Watkins, but still managed to get Marqise Lee and Allen Robinson in Round 2. Would you rather have Watkins, or those two plus next-year's first? Watkins could be a star; the problem is he has to be, and soon, and you've already hacked away at your 2015 draft class significantly. After Watkins, the draft is really mixed here. Cyrus Kouandjio is an enticing talent but carries knocks on consistency and questions on durability. The hope is he can settle in at right tackle, but he really struggles with speed rushers, which is a problem, and a steady medical question at knee before age 21 is a worry. Preston Brown is a solid inside linebacker, and Cyril Richardson can be good but had a poor draft process. Seantrel Henderson is a hedge on the Kouandjio bet, but he's a pretty significant character concern. The misses here for me are tight end, no safety and what I consider a massive price to pay for Watkins. I love the player, but losing a future first-rounder stings.
2014 draft picks
Rd Pk Pos Player College
(1) 4 WR Sammy Watkins Clemson
(2) 44 T Cyrus Kouandjio Alabama
(3) 73 LB Preston Brown Louisville
(4) 109 CB Ross Cockrell Duke
(5) 153 G Cyril Richardson Baylor
(7) 221 OLB Randell Johnson Florida Atlantic
(7) 237 T Seantrel Henderson Miami (FL)
Indianapolis Colts: D+
Top needs: S, G, OLB, WR
Needs: C-
Value: D
Summary: Unfortunately, the Trent Richardson trade factors hugely into this draft, and that pretty much kills the grade. Think about this: we just went through the second year in a row where a RB wasn't drafted in Round 1, and this year it wasn't even close. Bishop Sankey came off the board at No. 54, and Sankey is a good player and filled a clear need. And don't say I just made up my mind on this after Richardson struggled. I was pretty clear on it then. So the Colts have little to show for Round 1. In Round 2, they get Jack Mewhort, but they need him to change positions, and a very good center, Marcus Martin, was available. Donte Moncrief is a fabulous athlete, but the tape is merely OK, and he wasn't even the best receiver on his own college team. Hopefully Mewhort works out, but safety is still an issue, and the pass rush didn't get any help, so hopefully Bjoern Werner takes a big step this season while Robert Mathis continues his greatness. The big hope is Richardson discovers some magic and makes this draft look better.
2014 draft picks
Rd Pk Pos Player College
(2) 59 T Jack Mewhort Ohio State
(3) 90 WR Donte Moncrief Mississippi
(5) 166 DE Jonathan Newsome Ball State
(6) 203 ILB Andrew Jackson Western Kentucky
(7) 232 G Ulrick John Georgia State
• How much overall talent did a team add based on board position?
• How effectively did they address key personnel needs?
• How efficient were they in maneuvering on the draft board?
And remember: I have to use my player grades as the prism. I'm well aware all NFL teams see players differently -- I have many debates with GMs throughout the year about players. I might have a high grade on a linebacker many teams see as a late-round pick. That's the reality of player evaluations.
Grading Scale: In my mind an A means it's exceptional; a B is pretty good; a C means average, with hits and misses; a D means below average with some big questions. An F ... well, I don't see any.
AFC
BAL | BUF | CIN | CLE | DEN | HOU | IND | JAC | KC | MIA | NE | NYJ | OAK | PIT | SD | TEN
NFC
ARI | ATL | CAR | CHI | DAL | DET | GB | MIN | NO | NYG | PHI | SEA | SF | STL | TB | WAS
San Francisco 49ers: A
Top needs: CB, WR, LB, DL
Needs: A-
Value: A
Summary: The most depressing thing about San Francisco's draft is I don't even think Todd McShay and I have a single argument to be found here. The Niners just got so many good players. Jimmie Ward will cover, attack the line of scrimmage, and will play fast and fearless. If you call that a reach, remember that Arizona had taken Deone Bucannon at No. 27, so there were already three safeties off the board (not that Bucannon and Ward are that similar) and the 49ers knew if they didn't land Ward at that spot, they had no chance later. They got the No. 1 RB in the draft at No. 57. Frank Gore has a lot of miles on the odometer, LaMichael James may not be there long, and if Marcus Lattimore is your No. 1, you better have a 1-A. Carlos Hyde made sense and, again, he's the top RB in the draft. Marcus Martin is a future starter at center, Chris Borland is immediate depth at linebacker and has the experience to play now. Brandon Thomas is another 49ers redshirt, but could be a star guard when he comes back (he hurt his knee this spring, but would have gone in Round 2 otherwise). Bruce Ellington isn't a far cry from Brandin Cooks, but he went 86 picks later. It goes on and on. Dontae Johnson is solid and Aaron Lynch has developmental promise. I even like the pick at No. 245 -- Trey Millard is the top fullback in the draft and was another guy who dropped on some boards after a knee injury. What I like about this draft is the 49ers are in a championship window, and they still managed to balance both the need for immediate help and also got a lot of talent for the future. The window can remain open.
2014 draft picks
Rd Pk Pos Player College
(1) 30 S Jimmie Ward Northern Illinois
(2) 57 RB Carlos Hyde Ohio State
(3) 70 C Marcus Martin USC
(3) 77 ILB Chris Borland Wisconsin
(3) 100 G Brandon Thomas Clemson
(4) 106 WR Bruce Ellington South Carolina
(4) 129 DB Dontae Johnson NC State
(5) 150 LB Aaron Lynch South Florida
(5) 170 DB Keith Reaser Florida Atlantic
(6) 180 DB Kenneth Acker Southern Methodist
(7) 243 DE Kaleb Ramsey Boston College
(7) 245 FB Trey Millard Oklahoma
Jacksonville Jaguars: A
Top needs: QB, DE, WR, OL
Needs: A-
Value: A
Summary: I thought the Jags did a tremendous job, which is something I mentioned more than once during our broadcast. Even if I'm not in love with the value of Blake Bortles at No. 3, consider: It really only looks shakier given where some of the other QBs landed. If the Jags truly believe they have their franchise QB, can they sit and hope the Browns don't take him at No. 4? Given how mum they were on their interest in Bortles, they couldn't assume the Browns weren't playing the same game. You see your future, you take the shot. The real win here is how they targeted weapons that could help them win with Chad Henne or Bortles in the near term. Would you rather give up a first-round pick for Sammy Watkins, or wait and get Marqise Lee and Allen Robinson in the second round? There are questions about how well Bortles can pick apart defenses down the field, but Lee and Robinson can turn short catches into yardage. They needed receivers regardless of who is playing QB, and they added a pair of good ones. Brandon Linder fills a quietly big need at guard (and the coaching staff knows him) and Telvin Smith is Lavonte David Lite, an undersized linebacker with instincts and range. Aaron Colvin is a possible redshirt pick, a versatile CB who could have gone in Round 2 if he hadn't torn an ACL at the Senior Bowl. That said, I wouldn't be shocked if he plays in 2014. Chris Smith was productive at Arkansas as a pass-rusher and provides depth. If there's a question it's whether the Jags are better on defense, particularly the pass rush. But they have some young guys coming up on that side of the ball, too. And if you think you have your QB, you need to help him. They did.
2014 draft picks
Rd Pk Pos Player College
(1) 3 QB Blake Bortles Central Florida
(2) 39 WR Marqise Lee USC
(2) 61 WR Allen Robinson Penn State
(3) 93 G Brandon Linder Miami (FL)
(4) 114 CB Aaron Colvin Oklahoma
(5) 144 LB Telvin Smith Florida State
(5) 159 DE Chris Smith Arkansas
(6) 205 C Luke Bowanko Virginia
(7) 222 RB Storm Johnson Central Florida
Pittsburgh Steelers: A-
Top needs: CB, WR, DL, OL
Needs: B+
Value: A-
Summary: Even though the Steelers could have done more at cornerback, it was hard to pass on players they took where they did, and it adds up to one of the best 2014 draft classes. Ryan Shazier may not have looked like an obvious fit, but this is very good linebacker with special athleticism coming into **** LeBeau's system. When you get a player who can play right away for LeBeau where he will, I like the pick. Stephon Tuitt, if he's at his 2012 level, he can be a stud. I really thought he could end up late in Round 1. The Steelers needed to add D-line help, and Tuitt is a great addition. He fits what they do in terms of his physical profile, and has the ability to disrupt. Dri Archer is just pure explosiveness -- limit the reps, but expect some highlights. We're talking 4.26 speed. Martavis Bryant is an exceptional athlete, with 4.4 speed and great length. They've nailed the mid-round WR picks before. Shaq Richardson helps at CB, and Wesley Johnson gives them a versatile offensive line option. Daniel McCullers is one to watch, because he's simply massive, but doesn't do enough with his size. Did they do enough at cornerback? Maybe not. But they got everything else right.
2014 draft picks
Rd Pk Pos Player College
(1) 15 OLB Ryan Shazier Ohio State
(2) 46 DE Stephon Tuitt Notre Dame
(3) 97 RB Dri Archer Kent State
(4) 118 WR Martavis Bryant Clemson
(5) 157 DB Shaq Richardson Arizona
(5) 173 T Wesley Johnson Vanderbilt
(6) 192 ILB Jordan Zumwalt UCLA
(6) 215 DE Daniel McCullers Tennessee
(7) 230 TE Rob Blanchflower UMass
Houston Texans: A-
Top needs: QB, OLB, RT, DE
Needs: A-
Value: A-
Summary: The Texans drafted a generational talent in Jadeveon Clowney, safely the top prospect in the entire draft, and somehow the focus was on what they would do at quarterback. Swing a trade? Draft another Carr? Well, they did end up getting a potential starter in Tom Savage, and I liked the value -- they grabbed Savage in Round 4 when I wouldn't have been surprised to see him go a round earlier. Make no mistake: Savage is no short-term savior. But the potential is there. The Texans got stronger in the trenches. Xavier Su'a-Filo is the best guard in the draft, and not only is C.J. Fiedorowicz an underrated athlete at tight end, he can actually block somebody, which isn't common in this tight end class. On defense, Louis Nix III is a steal at No. 83 if he's in decent shape, and with him, J.J. Watt and Clowney around, the Texans look awfully versatile up front. Jay Prosch is a bruiser at fullback, and I think Andre Hal could be a decent depth addition at CB soon. The Texans really could have gone a few different directions with that No. 1 pick and justified it. But they put aside questions of scheme, need, and everything else and simply took a potentially great player. I did think they could add a tackle, but Su'a-Filo makes them better up front, and will help the run game. if Nix and Savage pan out, this could be a great class.
2014 draft picks
Rd Pk Pos Player College
(1) 1 DE Jadeveon Clowney South Carolina
(2) 33 G Xavier Su'a-Filo UCLA
(3) 65 TE C.J. Fiedorowicz Iowa
(3) 83 DT Louis Nix III Notre Dame
(4) 135 QB Tom Savage Pittsburgh
(6) 177 DE Jeoffrey Pagan Alabama
(6) 181 RB Alfred Blue LSU
(6) 211 FB Jay Prosch Auburn
(7) 216 CB Andre Hal Vanderbilt
(7) 256 S Lonnie Ballentine Memphis
St. Louis Rams: A-
Top needs: OT, S, WR, CB
Needs: B+
Value: A
Summary: I've been saying this roster was going to be loaded, and it's really there. Les Snead and Co. just keep piling up talent. The draft only dips for two small reasons, but I'll get to those later. Starting at the top, Greg Robinson brings that rare potential to be a star offensive tackle. Yeah, it's projection. But Walter Jones, Jonathan Ogden -- these are the names that get mentioned by really smart football people. Robinson doesn't have to start at tackle, more likely left guard, which will aid his development. Aaron Donald isn't the same type of player as Sheldon Richardson, but could be the Richardson of 2013. By that I mean the breakout rookie, taken in the same range, and plugged into a situation that was already considered a strength. Richardson blew up on a solid Jets D-line; Donald can do the same here. The kid is a stud, and the this line is terrifying. Yes, the Rams needed a corner, and not only does the certainty of pressure make the secondary better, they got a versatile talent in Lamarcus Joyner. He's undersized, but he's that hybrid in the secondary, a slot safety type who is on the field all the time. Tre Mason is solid depth at RB, and Maurice Alexander has starting potential. Garrett Gilbert isn't a player I'd consider a challenger at QB, but there's upside, and they needed the depth. E.J. Gaines adds depth at corner. While there isn't much of an immediate need for Michael Sam along the defense line, he gives them depth in the pass rush and is a high-effort player with a chance to contribute despite average athleticism. I agree with Jeff Fisher that he's a good value late in Round 7. The Rams get dinged a little because I think they should have taken at least one WR in a draft loaded with them, and the fact that they still have a question at QB -- after all, this draft haul is tied to the fact that they opted not to draft Robert Griffin III. They have a ton of talent, but the QB question lingers.
2014 draft picks
Rd Pk Pos Player College
(1) 2 T Greg Robinson Auburn
(1) 13 DT Aaron Donald Pittsburgh
(2) 41 DB Lamarcus Joyner Florida State
(3) 75 RB Tre Mason Auburn
(4) 110 S Maurice Alexander Utah State
(6) 188 DB E.J. Gaines Missouri
(6) 214 QB Garrett Gilbert SMU
(7) 226 T Mitchell Van Dyk Portland State
(7) 241 S C.B. Bryant Ohio State
(7) 249 DE Michael Sam Missouri
(7) 250 C Demetrius Rhaney Tennessee State
Philadelphia Eagles: B+
Top needs: OLB, S, CB, WR
Needs: B+
Value: B
Summary: The Eagles did a solid job of adding talent and hitting needs, making up for one questionable decision early with a number of solid ones down the board. Philadelphia moved down and then selected Marcus Smith, the No. 85-ranked player on my board. But while I didn't love the value, again, it came after the Eagles had moved down and accrued a little value. And he hits a need, because they're too reliant on Trent Cole as a pass-rusher and Smith can turn the corner and provide some pressure. The only receivers Philly has under contract past next season are Riley Cooper, Jeff Maehl and Jeremy Maclin (who is coming back from an ACL injury). The Eagles don't just need receivers, they need projectable players that can help soon. I thought Jordan Matthews would have made sense at No. 22, much less 42. I love that pick. Josh Huff offers underrated after-the-catch explosiveness -- he had 24 catches of 20-plus yards in 2013 -- has obvious familiarity with Kelly's methods and he's a guy who really competes and makes contested catches. Jaylen Watkins is a good value in Round 3, and was the first Florida CB off the board in a year where they have a few decent ones. Ed Reynolds is a player I thought could have been a second-round type had he stayed at Stanford another year, but he can give the Eagles a future potential starter and really anticipates well. Taylor Hart is another guy Kelly knows well, and could help the pass rush at some point. The Smith value was iffy, but I understand it, and they did a solid job thereafter.
2014 draft picks
Rd Pk Pos Player College
(1) 26 OLB Marcus Smith Louisville
(2) 42 WR Jordan Matthews Vanderbilt
(3) 86 WR Josh Huff Oregon
(4) 101 CB Jaylen Watkins Florida
(5) 141 DE Taylor Hart Oregon
(5) 162 DB Ed Reynolds Stanford
(7) 224 DT Beau Allen Wisconsin
Oakland Raiders: B+
Top needs: WR, OLB, OT, CB
Needs: B
Value: B+
Summary: Just another smart, sensible draft for the Raiders where they consistently maximized value and hit some clear needs ... wait, did I just write that? In all seriousness, I've certainly taken my shots at some past Raiders' drafts, but I think they've been pretty reasonable, and the franchise really has suffered in recent years due to a lack of top-end talent. But Oakland got better this weekend. They stayed put at No. 5 and got Khalil Mack, who not only offers them an added pass-rusher, but a great deal of versatility. He doesn't have to be a great pass-rusher to be a very good NFL player right away. The Derek Carr pick represents good value, and also a proper situation for a QB to make a big leap in competition from a developmental standpoint. Carr shouldn't start, and doesn't have to with Matt Schaub there. Gabe Jackson is the No. 2 guard in the draft on my board, so he's a value at No. 81. They got a nice D-tackle prospect in Justin Ellis, a block-eater who can help the linebackers move more freely, and Keith McGill is a solid developmental bet given his frame -- he's 6-foot-3 and over 210 pounds. The Raiders added some intrigue late, but this draft should be defined by the balance of talent, planning and immediate help.
2014 draft picks
Rd Pk Pos Player College
(1) 5 OLB Khalil Mack Buffalo
(2) 36 QB Derek Carr Fresno State
(3) 81 G Gabe Jackson Mississippi State
(4) 107 DT Justin Ellis Louisiana Tech
(4) 116 CB Keith McGill Utah
(7) 219 CB Travis Carrie Ohio
(7) 235 DE Shelby Harris Illinois State
(7) 247 S Jonathan Dowling Western Kentucky
Tampa Bay Buccaneers: B+
Top needs: WR, OG, OLB, DE
Needs: B+
Value: B+
Summary: How we feel about this draft in a year or two has a lot to do with a pair of players who weren't in the draft, and yet were the focus of it. Josh McCown is the presumed starter at QB, and Mike Glennon may still have a future in Tampa. And now with Mike Evans and Austin Seferian-Jenkins in town to go with Vincent Jackson, the Bucs have a bunch of small forwards at wide receiver. But if McCown doesn't cut it, and Glennon isn't the answer, does Johnny Manziel succeed in Cleveland and leave this front office wondering? I don't dislike the Evans pick at all, and ASJ's slot at No. 38 is pretty much in line with where I have him ranked. It's just now on the starting QB to make sure this works. Charles Sims is a solid depth addition in the backfield, and Kadeem Edwards could be a needed guard solution. Robert Herron offers really good speed late in the draft. Lovie Smith and the Bucs clearly feel good about the defense. They effectively targeted the offense, and didn't make mistakes on value. Now it's up to a QB to live up.
2014 draft picks
Rd Pk Pos Player College
(1) 7 WR Mike Evans Texas A&M
(2) 38 TE Austin Seferian-Jenkins Washington
(3) 69 RB Charles Sims West Virginia
(5) 143 G Kadeem Edwards Tennessee State
(5) 149 T Kevin Pamphile Purdue
(6) 185 WR Robert Herron Wyoming
Cincinnati Bengals: B
Top needs: CB, OL, DE, QB
Needs: B
Value: B
Summary: I had cornerback as the top need given Leon Hall's recent healthy history and the age of Terence Newman and Adam Jones, and the Bengals added a solid, projectable player in Darqueze Dennard -- plus, the value was good at No. 24. Dennard is versatile and he doesn't back down from contact. He's an early starter. I don't see why you take Jeremy Hill in front of Carlos Hyde, but I certainly don't mind them adding that style of runner to balance what Giovani Bernard brings. The Law Firm could be closing in Cincinnati. William Clarke can help after the departure of Michael Johnson, and Russell Bodine adds needed interior strength and depth -- I say strength because he really is freakishly strong. AJ McCarron had a really poor draft process, starting with opting out of the Senior Bowl, but you can't deny that getting him in Round 5 is good value. Lavelle Westbrooks is one to watch as more depth at corner. Pretty good draft for the Bengals, who seem to do this every year.
2014 draft picks
Rd Pk Pos Player College
(1) 24 CB Darqueze Dennard Michigan State
(2) 55 RB Jeremy Hill LSU
(3) 88 DE William Clarke West Virginia
(4) 111 C Russell Bodine UNC
(5) 164 QB AJ McCarron Alabama
(6) 212 OLB Marquis Flowers Arizona
(7) 239 WR James Wright LSU
(7) 252 DB Lavelle Westbrooks Georgia Southern
Baltimore Ravens: B
Top needs: FS, TE, RT, WR
Needs: B
Value: B+
Summary: The Ravens put together another solid draft, with one notable question. They got some really good players who will contribute immediately, and peppered in some high-upside picks that could make this draft look outstanding down the road. I didn't have linebacker as a big need, but the front office probably found it hard to pass on the best inside linebacker in the draft, and they pulled the trigger on C.J. Mosley. The Ravens also got another potential immediate starter in the third round when they drafted Terrence Brooks. When you consider the run on safeties we saw early (Jimmie Ward is something of a hybrid) getting Brooks where they did looks like a coup. The Ravens added a Gator last year at one safety position and now have a Seminole to play the other. The upside is along the defensive line. Timmy Jernigan could be a really good player if he plays to the best of his tape -- he was an impact player for the Noles. Brent Urban is a really intriguing 3-4 defensive end prospect, with great length and good quickness at nearly 6-foot-7. My question would be whether they got enough in the passing game. Crockett Gillmore is the hope there, a big target with a wide catch-radius who can stretch the seam. The addition of Steve Smith calms some worries about the weapons Joe Flacco has at his disposal, but Smith is 35 and they could be looking at wide receiver next year. Keith Wenning could be a solid backup relatively soon and is worth a late grab.
2014 draft picks
Rd Pk Pos Player College
(1) 17 ILB C.J. Mosley Alabama
(2) 48 DT Timmy Jernigan Florida State
(3) 79 S Terrence Brooks Florida State
(3) 99 TE Crockett Gillmore Colorado State
(4) 134 DE Brent Urban Virginia
(4) 138 RB Lorenzo Taliaferro Coastal Carolina
(5) 175 C John Urschel Penn State
(6) 194 QB Keith Wenning Ball State
(7) 218 WR Mike Campanaro Wake Forest
New York Jets: B
Top needs: WR, CB, TE, S
Needs: B+
Value: B-
Summary: The Jets came into this draft committed to add playmakers to an offense that was hopelessly bereft of them in 2014. They did that, but also remembered who the head coach was and nailed a pretty good safety, a position that I considered a need coming in. Calvin Pryor should start at strong safety, and will quickly make his mark as a playmaker. They are different kinds of safeties, but I had Pryor rated ahead of Ha Ha Clinton-Dix. Jace Amaro is an obvious fit, and adds a reliable, big target to the passing game. Jalen Saunders offers some shiftiness and slot depth, and Shaq Evans is solid if not a burner. Dakota Dozier can become a starter, and if Dexter McDougle plays up to his potential he could be a steal at No. 80. He was down on some boards after getting hurt, but I've seen him a lot and can see why Rex likes him. Tajh Boyd is a nice little stowaway that far down on the board when you consider his arm. If you're going to take a shot at QB late, go for the ceiling. I thought the Jets did a nice job with my one question being whether they really added a player in the passing game that will scare defenses. Hopefully Amaro becomes that guy.
2014 draft picks
Rd Pk Pos Player College
(1) 18 S Calvin Pryor Louisville
(2) 49 TE Jace Amaro Texas Tech
(3) 80 CB Dexter McDougle Maryland
(4) 104 WR Jalen Saunders Oklahoma
(4) 115 WR Shaq Evans UCLA
(4) 137 G Dakota Dozier Furman
(5) 154 LB Jeremiah George Iowa State
(6) 195 CB Brandon Dixon NW Missouri State
(6) 209 WR Quincy Enunwa Nebraska
(6) 210 DE I.K. Enemkpali Louisiana Tech
(6) 213 QB Tajh Boyd Clemson
(7) 233 OLB Trevor Reilly Utah
Green Bay Packers: B
Top needs: S, TE, WR, ILB
Needs: B-
Value: B+
Summary: Another solid draft. Ha Ha Clinton-Dix was an easy call at No. 21. I thought he'd be off the board by then, potentially to Dallas or Baltimore, so Green Bay got a good value there, and he addresses a need at free safety, where the Packers didn't have much. Davante Adams isn't explosive, but he catches everything and will flourish with Aaron Rodgers (This tends to happen with good receivers catching passes in Green Bay lately.) I really thought they needed a WR or two in this draft, and I loved the additions of Jeff Janis and Jared Abbrederis. If you saw Abbrederis simply steal Bradley Roby's lunch money in Columbus, you know he can battle NFL-level athletes, and Janis is a major physical talent for a seventh-rounder. He dropped on hand size and competition level coming out of D-II. Carl Bradford is a player I really like, and I'll be interested to see if they move him around a little bit. I thought inside linebacker was a big need even though that's typically something you can address later, but they didn't touch it. (Does Bradford fit?) There's not a point where you feel like the Packers flat out got a steal, but aside from the question at ILB, there's not much not to like.
2014 draft picks
Rd Pk Pos Player College
(1) 21 S Ha Ha Clinton-Dix Alabama
(2) 53 WR Davante Adams Fresno State
(3) 85 DT Khyri Thornton Southern Miss
(3) 98 TE Richard Rodgers Cal
(4) 121 LB Carl Bradford Arizona State
(5) 161 C Corey Linsley Ohio State
(5) 176 WR Jared Abbrederis Wisconsin
(6) 197 CB Demetri Goodson Baylor
(7) 236 WR Jeff Janis Saginaw Valley (MI)
San Diego Chargers: B
Top needs: CB, NT, WR, OLB
Needs: B
Value: B-
Summary: They didn't have many picks, but I think the Chargers came out pretty well. I really like Jason Verrett, a competitive cover man who won't shy away from contact. San Diego gets the added bonus of grabbing a CB that would have been the ideal fit for division rival Denver a handful of picks later. I had OLB down as a need, and the fact that Jeremiah Attaochu was there had to be a pleasant surprise. Chris Watt is a good interior blocker and could be used soon, and Ryan Carrethers gives them the depth they needed up the middle on defense. Marion Grice has really good hands out of the backfield and Tevin Reese, while undersized, is an absolute burner who could find a role given the lack of a similar player. The Chargers didn't have a special draft in terms of value, but they added pretty solid pieces and crossed needs off the list. Because they had only six picks they lose a little value, but they worked the board well.
2014 draft picks
Rd Pk Pos Player College
(1) 25 CB Jason Verrett TCU
(2) 50 OLB Jeremiah Attaochu Georgia Tech
(3) 89 G Chris Watt Notre Dame
(5) 165 DT Ryan Carrethers Arkansas State
(6) 201 RB Marion Grice Arizona State
(7) 240 WR Tevin Reese Baylor
Miami Dolphins: B
Top needs: RT, G, DE, DB
Needs: B+
Value: B-
Summary: This was a really quiet draft class in terms of star appeal, but the Dolphins did a pretty solid job of hitting their biggest needs. Ja'Wuan James isn't a player many people know, but I thought he'd land here, and he did in a move that makes a lot of sense. The Dolphins need an immediate starter at right tackle, and that's James. Just plug him in and check it off. Jarvis Landry doesn't fill a major need at WR, but he's a really reliable target who catches absolutely everything. Billy Turner was a tackle at North Dakota State, but could fill another pretty big need they have at guard. Walt Aikens will need some time as he makes a big leap in competition, but is a needed addition at cornerback. Jordie Tripp could offer help at linebacker as a guy who is explosive out of his drop and will play with passion. Matt Hazel is a sleeper at WR, and like Landry, has good hands. This draft was about Ryan Tannehill. Stop the constant sacks, give him a chance to take another step. I think Miami succeeded.
2014 draft picks
Rd Pk Pos Player College
(1) 19 T Ja'Wuan James Tennessee
(2) 63 WR Jarvis Landry LSU
(3) 67 T Billy Turner ND State
(4) 125 CB Walt Aikens Liberty
(5) 155 TE Arthur Lynch Georgia
(5) 171 OLB Jordan Tripp Montana
(6) 190 WR Matt Hazel Coastal Carolina
(7) 234 DE Terrence Fede Marist
Arizona Cardinals: B
Top needs: OLB, S, WR, QB
Needs: B
Value: B-
Summary: The Cardinals did pretty well, and hit some needs. If you look across the NFC West, you see safety combinations that balance a big hitter with a guy that can really run, move around, cover the slot and make plays. Last year the Cardinals added Tyrann Mathieu, who was fantastic as a rookie before the ACL injury, and this year they added a hitter in Deone Bucannon. The Cardinals moved down, and that made what you could call a slight reach on Bucannon perfectly reasonable. I list OLB as a need here, but that could also be DE because the Cardinals will mix their base fronts, and an athlete like Kareem Martin is a good fit. He's a better athlete than he is a performer, but he could be good. Bruce Arians absolutely adored Heath Miller in Pittsburgh, and might see some of what he loved about Miller in Troy Niklas. John Brown was a guy I really liked because of the explosiveness -- witness the 4.34 40 time -- and he could become a solid third WR and also take return reps, preserving Mathieu and Patrick Peterson. Logan Thomas is a great developmental shot to take. Bruce Arians worked out Thomas in March, and loves the tools Thomas has. Will Thomas improve his accuracy? That's the question, and it's not at all easy to say he will, because accuracy and ball placement aren't things that often improve a great deal. At worst, he's Colin Kaepernick and Russell Wilson in practice because he can simulate that kind of athleticism.
2014 draft picks
Rd Pk Pos Player College
(1) 27 S Deone Bucannon Washington State
(2) 52 TE Troy Niklas Notre Dame
(3) 84 DE Kareem Martin UNC
(3) 91 WR John Brown Pittsburg State
(4) 120 QB Logan Thomas Virginia Tech
(5) 160 DE Ed Stinson Alabama
(6) 196 WR Walt Powell Murray State
New York Giants: B
Top needs: TE, WR, OL, DL
Needs: B
Value: B+
Summary: Odell Beckham Jr. has a chance to be a really dynamic NFL player, a reliable pass-catcher with both the quick-twitch explosiveness to make plays after the catch, and the straight-line speed to run away from defenders. I thought Eric Ebron could be in play at No. 12, but Detroit took him at No. 10. Eli Manning gets a needed weapon in the passing game. The Giants then got more physical. Weston Richburg was a solid Round 2 value, a very good blocker with the chance to be a solid center for the next 10 years. I think it should be his job to lose. Jay Bromley was a reach for me -- I had a number of defensive tackles rated higher -- but "DT" doesn't do justice to the different kinds of fits you're looking for in a system, and I can see how Bromley makes sense there. Andre Brown led the Giants with 492 rushing yards last season and he's no longer around. Andre Williams gives the Giants a bruising runner to strengthen the depth chart. Devon Kennard and Bennett Jackson both have ability and provide needed depth. I had tight end as a need, but adding a weapon in the passing game was the real impetus there, and Beckham does that. Richburg will be a good one. I think the D-line needs more help, so Bromley will be a key.
2014 draft picks
Rd Pk Pos Player College
(1) 12 WR Odell Beckham Jr. LSU
(2) 43 C Weston Richburg Colorado State
(3) 74 DT Jay Bromley Syracuse
(4) 113 RB Andre Williams Boston College
(5) 152 S Nat Berhe San Diego State
(5) 174 OLB Devon Kennard USC
(6) 187 CB Bennett Jackson Notre Dame
Dallas Cowboys: B
Top needs: DL, S, G, WR
Needs: B-
Value: B
Summary: Give Jerry Jones credit: I don't think it's unfair to at least be tempted by the prospect of Johnny Football with that blue star on his helmet, playing in that football theatre. But Manziel isn't making Dallas a better team in 2014, and Tony Romo -- for all the derision -- is a really good QB when he gets protection. The Dallas offensive line with Zack Martin isn't just the strength of the team, it's arguably among the top few units in the NFL. They are going to be able to run the ball. I had Martin as high as the top 10, so that's not a bad pick. I can see why Dallas added Demarcus Lawrence where it did, but a third is pricey in this draft. Devin Street addresses the depth the Cowboys really do need at WR, and they used the run of seventh-round picks to pile up some lottery tickets at need spots like safety, defensive tackle and cornerback, where Terrance Mitchell at times looked a lot better than your typical late-rounder. His 40 time didn't help, but he could stick. The Cowboys mixed in that typical moment of aggression, but in some ways they were as disciplined as any team in the draft, and they took some good shots to hit needs.
2014 draft picks
Rd Pk Pos Player College
(1) 16 T Zack Martin Notre Dame
(2) 34 DE Demarcus Lawrence Boise State
(4) 119 OLB Anthony Hitchens Iowa
(5) 146 WR Devin Street Pittsburgh
(7) 231 DE Ben Gardner Stanford
(7) 238 OLB Will Smith Texas Tech
(7) 248 S Ahmad Dixon Baylor
(7) 251 DT Ken Bishop Northern Illinois
(7) 254 DB Terrance Mitchell Oregon
Cleveland Browns: B-
Top needs: QB, CB, WR, OG
Needs: C
Value: B
Summary: Some day, somebody will probably write a book about this Cleveland draft. Maybe it'll become "Draft Day II." Unfortunately, I'm on a tighter deadline. Where do you start? The huge trade with Buffalo to swipe a 2015 first-rounder? Johnny Football? Josh Gordon? The best pass-catcher drafted is ... Pierre Desir, who plays corner? It was wild. Adding a 2015 first-round pick (and a fourth) to move down five slots is like stealing. But you do pass on the chance to take Sammy Watkins. Justin Gilbert was a minor reach at No. 8, but he's a good fit and hit a big need. And again on this theme: you move down and add major pick value, what's a minor reach, really? You can't always get to the perfect slot in terms of value. Johnny Manziel's celebrity transcends the reality of what he adds to the Browns as a football player, but let's talk football. He's a good value at No. 22 (I had him at No. 10 overall on my Big Board); he is a very good pocket passer, not just a scrambler -- he led all the draft QBs in this class in pocket accuracy -- and the Browns can block for him if he starts. Lastly, that's a big need. I really like Joel Bitonio, a player who could have gone in Round 1. Terrance West could become a good starter, combining size with good lateral agility and vision. Desir is great value, but you can temper the "steal" talk with the reality of a potentially longer developmental process given the jump in competition. The big void here is at wide receiver. Remember: I had WR as a need even with the assumption Josh Gordon was going to be around. Now that he's probably not? The Browns have potentially changed the face of their franchise, but Manziel could use somebody to throw the football to.
2014 draft picks
Rd Pk Pos Player College
(1) 8 CB Justin Gilbert Oklahoma State
(1) 22 QB Johnny Manziel Texas A&M
(2) 35 G Joel Bitonio Nevada
(3) 71 LB Chris Kirksey Iowa
(3) 94 RB Terrance West Towson
(4) 127 CB Pierre Desir Lindenwood
Minnesota Vikings: B-
Top needs: QB, LB, DB, WR
Needs: B-
Value: B-
Summary: The first round of this draft has me pretty split. I thought Anthony Barr was a pretty big reach based on my evaluations; he's a talented but raw player who lacks instincts on defense. On the other hand, moving decisively to get Teddy Bridgewater made sense, and they have the pieces around him to help him succeed. Plus, as Trent Dilfer noted, the culture in that locker room could be good for Teddy as well. While I really liked the David Yankey pick and also am a fan of Jerick McKinnon based on his tape and his exceptional workout numbers, not taking an inside linebacker anywhere is questionable given what they currently have on the roster, and I'm surprised they didn't add another wide receiver given the talent available. They took some shots at cornerback, and I think Kendall James could be a pretty good late value. The Vikings did a pretty good job overall, and if Barr develops more and Bridgewater really becomes the answer, this draft will look really good.
2014 draft picks
Rd Pk Pos Player College
(1) 9 OLB Anthony Barr UCLA
(2) 32 QB Teddy Bridgewater Louisville
(3) 72 DE Scott Crichton Oregon State
(3) 96 RB Jerick McKinnon Georgia Southern
(5) 145 G David Yankey Stanford
(6) 182 CB Antone Exum Virginia Tech
(6) 184 CB Kendall James Maine
(7) 220 DT Shamar Stephen UConn
(7) 223 OLB Brandon Watts Georgia Tech
(7) 225 CB Jabari Price UNC
Chicago Bears: B-
Top needs: S, CB, DT, WR
Needs: B
Value: C+
Summary: The Bears have some questions on value, but I think they did a solid job of targeting needs. Kyle Fuller may not be a star at CB, but the floor is probably a really good player for a long time. I didn't mind that pick at all, especially after Cleveland moved up to get Justin Gilbert, who isn't superior to Fuller. Ha Ha Clinton-Dix would've been a solid pick here as well. The Bears did a great job of rebuilding what was a defensive line in tatters at the end of 2013, and Ego Ferguson and Will Sutton round out the depth chart there. Ferguson was a reach, but the talent is enticing. Sutton is interesting, because his 2012 tape is fantastic. If he can get his weight down and play lighter and with more explosiveness, he's a nice addition in Round 3. Ka'Deem Carey has great tape, but the 4.7 40 time puts him in a category of RBs that rarely offer much. Hopefully the Bears get the tape version, but the fourth round is pretty rich. Brock Vereen can help at safety, a pretty massive need area. David Fales has talent but questions on the arm -- we'll see if he's a case of improved arm strength. Charles Leno can make this roster. Good work on needs, outside of depth at wide receiver, but I think they missed on value more than one. That said, the Bears had a really good offseason. They're better than the team that finished 2013.
2014 draft picks
Rd Pk Pos Player College
(1) 14 CB Kyle Fuller Virginia Tech
(2) 51 DT Ego Ferguson LSU
(3) 82 DT Will Sutton Arizona State
(4) 117 RB Ka'Deem Carey Arizona
(4) 131 S Brock Vereen Minnesota
(6) 183 QB David Fales San Diego State
(6) 191 P Pat O'Donnell Miami (FL)
(7) 246 T Charles Leno Jr. Boise State
Detroit Lions: B-
Top needs: CB, S, WR, OLB
Needs: C
Value: B
Summary: The Lions are absolutely terrifying to defend in the passing game after this draft, and hopefully practicing against the likes of Calvin Johnson, Golden Tate, Brandon Pettigrew, Joseph Fauria and now Eric Ebron will be good for their secondary, because that unit didn't get much help in the draft. The Lions can be forgiven for passing on a CB or a safety at No. 10, because Justin Gilbert was already off the board, and the value at those positions made Ebron a solid option. Tight end wasn't technically a need, but Ebron isn't technically your father's tight end. He's tall, fast, has a huge catch radius and will be split out off the line. He can block a little bit, but that's not his job here. Again: This is a scary group of pass-catchers. Kyle Van Noy is one of my favorite players in the whole draft, an instinctive, versatile defender who can move around and rush the passer. (He also roomed with Ezekiel Ansah at BYU.) Travis Swanson is useful depth behind 35-year old Dominic Raiola. And then finally -- in Round 4 -- Detroit adds Nevin Lawson, a good but undersized CB. Larry Webster is fascinating because he could be a pass-rusher or a tight end, and Caraun Reid is a depth addition at DT. Overall, you have to love the talent addition in rounds one and two, but the need in the secondary -- well, it's still a need.
2014 draft picks
Rd Pk Pos Player College
(1) 10 TE Eric Ebron UNC
(2) 40 OLB Kyle Van Noy BYU
(3) 76 C Travis Swanson Arkansas
(4) 133 DB Nevin Lawson Utah State
(4) 136 DE Larry Webster Bloomsburg (PA)
(5) 158 DT Caraun Reid Princeton
(6) 189 WR T.J. Jones Notre Dame
(7) 229 K Nate Freese Boston College
Kansas City Chiefs: B-
Top needs: WR, S, G, DL
Needs: C+
Value: B
Summary: When the Chiefs lost production in their pass rush last year, with health part of the reason why, they looked completely exposed on defense. Dee Ford is not a versatile player, but he's explosive off the edge and knows the way to the QB. If there's a question here, it's whether the Chiefs could have traded down to add picks and still gotten a pass-rusher. The Chiefs didn't have a second-round pick, so even additional late-round scratch-off tickets are nice. What Ford also represents, however, is insurance against Tamba Hali's age and the possibility of being forced to pay Justin Houston a lot of cash after 2014. As well, it's hard to knock not having a second-round pick when that pick is really Alex Smith. That's a win. Phillip Gaines is a really good athlete they can develop, and De'Anthony Thomas is a player defenses always have to account for and offers potential free points on special teams. Laurent Duvernay-Tardif is a sleeper who could turn into something. My question is at wide receiver. While I know GM John Dorsey believes recent first-rounder A.J. Jenkins could take a big step forward and really help the offense, that's an area I might have targeted in a deep draft. Safety was also a need that wasn't addressed.
2014 draft picks
Rd Pk Pos Player College
(1) 23 DE Dee Ford Auburn
(3) 87 CB Phillip Gaines Rice
(4) 124 RB De'Anthony Thomas Oregon
(5) 163 QB Aaron Murray Georgia
(6) 193 G Zach Fulton Tennessee
(6) 200 T Laurent Duvernay-Tardif McGill (Canada)
Atlanta Falcons: B-
Top needs: OT, DE/OLB, TE, S
Needs: C
Value: B
Summary: I was a big fan of the Jake Matthews pick when it happened, and I'm not changing my tune now. Big need, good player and you add the bonus of his versatility. The Falcons also got a pretty good safety prospect in Dez Southward, hitting another need. But there were also a couple areas I think they missed, and maybe it had to do with the way the board was breaking. For instance, they really need pass-rush help, and Demarcus Lawrence could have been an option at No. 37, but Dallas moved up and grabbed him. Atlanta ends up with a high-upside talent in Ra'Shede Hageman, but he ran really hot and cold at Minnesota. Devonta Freeman gives them an underrated running back, which is something they need, and maybe Prince Shembo can provide some value as a pass-rusher. Ricardo Allen is a solid player and gives them added depth at CB. Tyler Starr is also a sleeper as a pass-rushing addition. The question for me is whether they did enough to really help the pass rush, which was a big need, and I also think a tight end made sense given the departure at that position. Not bad, overall. Matthews will be good.
2014 draft picks
Rd Pk Pos Player College
(1) 6 T Jake Matthews Texas A&M
(2) 37 DT Ra'Shede Hageman Minnesota
(3) 68 DB Dez Southward Wisconsin
(4) 103 RB Devonta Freeman Florida State
(4) 139 OLB Prince Shembo Notre Dame
(5) 147 DB Ricardo Allen Purdue
(5) 168 LB Marquis Spruill Syracuse
(7) 253 OLB Yawin Smallwood UConn
(7) 255 LB Tyler Starr South Dakota
Tennessee Titans: C+
Top needs: OLB, QB, CB, RB
Needs: C
Value: B-
Summary: Tackle wasn't the top need for Tennessee, but Taylor Lewan was my No. 5 prospect in the entire draft, and not only offers an immediate upgrade at right tackle, but could ultimately take over the left side from Michael Roos, who becomes an unrestricted free agent after the 2014 season. Can't knock the pick, especially when you consider Lewan is a really good run-blocker and moving the ball on the ground consistently could really help Jake Locker. I like the pick of Bishop Sankey, and he gives the Titans a versatile, durable back who compares to Giovani Bernard, though I would have preferred Carlos Hyde in that spot. But again, fit matters and they like Sankey. Daquan Jones is a wide body who can be useful for a team that wants to be able to show some different fronts but still covets a block-eater. Calling Marqueston Huff versatile is probably more fair than calling him a tweener -- he could play either safety or corner but is probably better at CB. The value on Zach Mettenberger is really good in terms of talent, but he comes in with character baggage, and it's reflected in his draft position. There are teams who wouldn't draft him, period. But Ken Whisenhunt could have a steal there if his staff can get the best out of Mettenberger. Does this draft change the Titans much in 2014? A little. Perhaps Mettenberger makes it a great one.
2014 draft picks
Rd Pk Pos Player College
(1) 11 T Taylor Lewan Michigan
(2) 54 RB Bishop Sankey Washington
(4) 112 DT Daquan Jones Penn State
(4) 122 DB Marqueston Huff Wyoming
(5) 151 LB Avery Williamson Kentucky
(6) 178 QB Zach Mettenberger LSU
Denver Broncos: C+
Top needs: CB, ILB, WR, G
Needs: B-
Value: C+
Summary: Broncos fans who believe the addition of Aqib Talib solidified the depth chart at cornerback were being a little too optimistic. Denver needed to add another potential starter there, and the Broncos may have one in Bradley Roby, but I'm not sure he helps much now. What Roby lacks in refinement and consistency, he has in athleticism and potential. He's a superb athlete -- quick, agile and strong. What he's not is a technically sound CB, so what you have to hope for is a long season that gets him seasoning so he's hitting his stride during a playoff push. But for players this raw at position that demands a transition period, that's just a hope. Even with Emmanuel Sanders around I considered WR depth a need, and Cody Latimer is a pretty good get late in Round 2. Mr. McShay had him rated higher than I did, but I thought he could go early in Round 2. Michael Schofield was a sound player at Michigan but was overshadowed by Taylor Lewan. If Schofield ends up starting at right tackle pretty quickly it wouldn't surprise me. I think Lamin Barrow is a pretty good player going into a situation where the depth chart at interior linebacker isn't great. Given where they were drafting, the Broncos did pretty well, the question is whether Roby is a help in 2014 or a liability because he requires the development.
2014 draft picks
Rd Pk Pos Player College
(1) 31 CB Bradley Roby Ohio State
(2) 56 WR Cody Latimer Indiana
(3) 95 T Michael Schofield Michigan
(5) 156 LB Lamin Barrow LSU
(6) 207 C Matt Paradis Boise State
(7) 242 OLB Corey Nelson Oklahoma
Seattle Seahawks: C+
Top needs: WR, DL, OL, TE
Needs: B
Value: D+
Summary: There simply isn't a better player development program in the NFL right now than Seattle's. The players the Seahawks draft -- the players I've spent many hours evaluating and making calls on -- are often players that evolve, improve and become something new after Seattle drafts them. While they've had some notable misses in Round 1, both in value and development, they've been awesome thereafter. So when Seattle moved down to No. 45 overall and still had the chance to take either Stephon Tuitt or Marqise Lee, both players that would have been nice fits at pick No. 32, you almost had to laugh because you knew the Seahawks would go in another direction. Paul Richardson was the pick, and he hits a big need, though his lean frame is a concern. The key will be that he maintains his explosiveness as he adds some needed strength. The presence of him and a healthy Percy Harvin, will keep safeties on high alert. I also thought O-line was a necessity, and Justin Britt adds depth, but he was my 21st-ranked offensive tackle, and struggles to create any movement in the run game. I saw him as a likelier fit in the third or fourth round. Again: They trust their development, and they showed it again when they took what I'd kindly refer to as a deep sleeper in Jimmy Staten, a D-tackle I had at No. 44 at the position in my rankings. The Seahawks know what they are doing, but it's fair to say they had a couple value questions again today. I look forward to seeing what becomes of these players.
2014 draft picks
Rd Pk Pos Player College
(2) 45 WR Paul Richardson Colorado
(2) 64 T Justin Britt Missouri
(4) 108 DE Cassius Marsh UCLA
(4) 123 WR Kevin Norwood Alabama
(4) 132 OLB Kevin Pierre-Louis Boston College
(5) 172 DT Jimmy Staten Middle Tenn. State
(6) 199 T Garrett Scott Marshall
(6) 208 S Eric Pinkins San Diego State
(7) 227 RB Kiero Small Arkansas
Washington ********: C+
Top needs: RT, CB, ILB, S
Needs: C+
Value: C
Summary: This was a mixed draft, with some really good value in a couple spots, questionable value in others, a big need hit, but another couple that weren't. First of all, I like the fact that Washington moved down. I consider this a deep draft, and the ******** have struggled with roster depth in recent years due to the Robert Griffin III deal. Give yourself more chances to get good players. In Trent Murphy the ******** got a productive pass-rusher, they just didn't get the best one available at that spot based on my board. I don't agree completely with Todd that Murphy could have been available in Round 4, but I did think he could be around a little later. Morgan Moses represented good value in Round 3, but he needs work because the measurables are better than the player. He could be a solution at right tackle however, and boy do they need one. The Spencer Long pick was a bit of a puzzler. I saw him going later, as he's coming off a season-ending knee injury. Bashaud Breeland could be a good value at CB, and Lache Seastrunk is extremely explosive for a player taken that late in the draft -- he can be better if he stays more north and south. I wish the Skins would have added a safety, and maybe targeted CB earlier. This draft also represents the end of the RG III deal. We'll welcome Washington back to Round 1 next year.
2014 draft picks
Rd Pk Pos Player College
(2) 47 OLB Trent Murphy Stanford
(3) 66 T Morgan Moses Virginia
(3) 78 G Spencer Long Nebraska
(4) 102 CB Bashaud Breeland Clemson
(5) 142 WR Ryan Grant Tulane
(6) 186 RB Lache Seastrunk Baylor
(7) 217 TE Ted Bolser Indiana
(7) 228 K Zach Hocker Arkansas
New Orleans Saints: C+
Top needs: CB, WR, OLB, T
Needs: B-
Value: C
Summary: I had wide receiver as a big need for the Saints, with Marques Colston soon to be 31, and Kenny Stills now asked to play a much bigger role after the departure of favorite Drew Brees targets like Lance Moore and Darren Sproles. They moved up to get Brandin Cooks -- Philly could have snapped him up at No. 22 -- and get an immediate threat. Cooks is an athletic dynamo, a sure-handed target who can create space, make short catches and turn them into longer gains, and will also take the top off a defense vertically on occasion. The Saints got a promising CB in Round 2 with Stan Jean-Baptiste, but he needs a lot of work, particularly in learning how to tackle more effectively. Still, he's a worthy project. Khairi Fortt fits as the OLB I'd suggested, and Vinnie Sunseri has a chance to stick because he's a sharp player who can translate the Rob Ryan defense, which demands a safety with smarts. Ronald Powell is worth a flyer based on the hope that he stays healthy. The question for me is depth at tackle. They like Terron Armstead, but it's a position I would have looked at earlier. Cooks is a win, and it's a lot of "We'll see" after that.
2014 draft picks
Rd Pk Pos Player College
(1) 20 WR Brandin Cooks Oregon State
(2) 58 CB Stan Jean-Baptiste Nebraska
(4) 126 LB Khairi Fortt Cal
(5) 167 DB Vinnie Sunseri Alabama
(5) 169 OLB Ronald Powell Florida
(6) 202 T Tavon Rooks Kansas State
New England Patriots: C
Top needs: TE, DL, S, RB
Needs: C+
Value: C-
Summary: The Patriots should be better in 2014 than they were in 2013. They get significant pieces back on defense, and the unrest they experienced on offense (not to mention the youth at WR) is a year removed. Because of that, they took a player in Round 1 who needs to play a limited role this season due to health concerns, and a player in Round 2 who hopefully doesn't see a snap. Dominique Easley can be special when healthy -- watch him in the Sept. 7, 2013, game against Miami -- but two ACL tears dot his profile, including a season-ender in 2013, so you're looking for impact on a rotational basis -- say, 400 or so snaps. For me, that doesn't make him a bad pick, but certainly a reach. It's about maximizing the pick slot. I really like Bryan Stork, and adding him, Cameron Fleming and Jon Halapio really strengthens the depth chart. James White hits a need at RB, and he holds on to the ball. Jeremy Gallon is dangerous after the catch, and offers depth in the slot. I can see him becoming a factor. In Jimmy Garoppolo, you have a nice developmental talent, and potentially a commodity. If Easley stays healthy, this draft looks a lot better. New England just placed a pricey bet that he will.
2014 draft picks
Rd Pk Pos Player College
(1) 29 DL Dominique Easley Florida
(2) 62 QB Jimmy Garoppolo Eastern Illinois
(4) 105 C Bryan Stork Florida State
(4) 130 RB James White Wisconsin
(4) 140 OL Cameron Fleming Stanford
(6) 179 G Jon Halapio Florida
(6) 198 DE Zach Moore Concordia (MN)
(7) 206 CB Jemea Thomas Georgia Tech
(7) 244 WR Jeremy Gallon Michigan
Carolina Panthers: C
Top needs: WR, T, CB, S
Needs: C-
Value: C
Summary: For a team that had a huge season in 2013, the Panthers entered the 2014 draft with some major needs. The biggest needs for me were on offense, where Cam Newton is facing the bad combination of a lack of guys to catch passes and a lack of protection when he drops back. Kelvin Benjamin is a tantalizing physical talent at 6-foot-5 and 240 pounds, with the ability to make contested catches. But sometimes those catches are contested because he's not able to separate consistently. Benjamin ran 4.61 in Indy which, while great for his size, reflects the fact that he's not a burner. I think Jordan Matthews could have been a good fit there, but Carolina placed a bet on Benjamin's upside. Kony Ealy was a decent value in Round 2, but he'll need time to learn how to be a three-down defensive end. Trai Turner is a favorite of mine as a guard prospect, but questions at tackle linger. The Panthers went after help in the secondary later on, but I saw a handful of safeties I might have considered ahead of Tre Boston. I think the Panthers got some good football players, but some of the concerns I had regarding roster holes remain. How quickly Benjamin can make the leap and produce for Newton will be key.
2014 draft picks
Rd Pk Pos Player College
(1) 28 WR Kelvin Benjamin Florida State
(2) 60 DE Kony Ealy Missouri
(3) 92 G Trai Turner LSU
(4) 128 DB Tre Boston UNC
(5) 148 CB Bene Benwikere San Jose State
(6) 204 RB Tyler Gaffney Stanford
Buffalo Bills: C-
Top needs: OT, S, TE, WR
Needs: D+
Value: C
Summary: Sammy Watkins isn't just going to be a really good player, he already is one. He was my No. 2 prospect in the entire draft. EJ Manuel has a weapon, a player who can turn simple throws into big gains, and that matters because I still don't know how effective a downfield thrower Manuel is. My issue is that this draft is loaded with wide receivers -- there are good ones already signing as undrafted free agents as I type this, in fact -- and the Bills paid a significant price to get Watkins. A future first-round pick is always a heavy price, but they threw in a fourth as well, and they could have gotten a very good wide receiver in Odell Beckham Jr. without moving. Or think about this: the Jags took a QB one slot ahead of Watkins, but still managed to get Marqise Lee and Allen Robinson in Round 2. Would you rather have Watkins, or those two plus next-year's first? Watkins could be a star; the problem is he has to be, and soon, and you've already hacked away at your 2015 draft class significantly. After Watkins, the draft is really mixed here. Cyrus Kouandjio is an enticing talent but carries knocks on consistency and questions on durability. The hope is he can settle in at right tackle, but he really struggles with speed rushers, which is a problem, and a steady medical question at knee before age 21 is a worry. Preston Brown is a solid inside linebacker, and Cyril Richardson can be good but had a poor draft process. Seantrel Henderson is a hedge on the Kouandjio bet, but he's a pretty significant character concern. The misses here for me are tight end, no safety and what I consider a massive price to pay for Watkins. I love the player, but losing a future first-rounder stings.
2014 draft picks
Rd Pk Pos Player College
(1) 4 WR Sammy Watkins Clemson
(2) 44 T Cyrus Kouandjio Alabama
(3) 73 LB Preston Brown Louisville
(4) 109 CB Ross Cockrell Duke
(5) 153 G Cyril Richardson Baylor
(7) 221 OLB Randell Johnson Florida Atlantic
(7) 237 T Seantrel Henderson Miami (FL)
Indianapolis Colts: D+
Top needs: S, G, OLB, WR
Needs: C-
Value: D
Summary: Unfortunately, the Trent Richardson trade factors hugely into this draft, and that pretty much kills the grade. Think about this: we just went through the second year in a row where a RB wasn't drafted in Round 1, and this year it wasn't even close. Bishop Sankey came off the board at No. 54, and Sankey is a good player and filled a clear need. And don't say I just made up my mind on this after Richardson struggled. I was pretty clear on it then. So the Colts have little to show for Round 1. In Round 2, they get Jack Mewhort, but they need him to change positions, and a very good center, Marcus Martin, was available. Donte Moncrief is a fabulous athlete, but the tape is merely OK, and he wasn't even the best receiver on his own college team. Hopefully Mewhort works out, but safety is still an issue, and the pass rush didn't get any help, so hopefully Bjoern Werner takes a big step this season while Robert Mathis continues his greatness. The big hope is Richardson discovers some magic and makes this draft look better.
2014 draft picks
Rd Pk Pos Player College
(2) 59 T Jack Mewhort Ohio State
(3) 90 WR Donte Moncrief Mississippi
(5) 166 DE Jonathan Newsome Ball State
(6) 203 ILB Andrew Jackson Western Kentucky
(7) 232 G Ulrick John Georgia State
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Cowboys need to stay with what they have and plug Martin in at guard. Can't move Free again.
Just go Smith/Bernadeau/Frederick/Martin/Free
And go pound the football until DeMarco's legs fall off.
Just go Smith/Bernadeau/Frederick/Martin/Free
And go pound the football until DeMarco's legs fall off.
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CBS Early 2015 Mock draft
It will interesting to see who falls out, I think Melvin Gordon & Jalen Strong definitely fall out the first.
DeVante Parker should of came this year.
[+]
1. Houston Texans -- Marcus Mariota, QB, Oregon: The Texans didn't draft a quarterback until the fourth round this year, but if Mariota had declared, I think he would have been their No. 1 selection over Jadeveon Clowney.
2. Washington ******** -- Leonard Williams, DT, Southern Cal: From an athleticism standpoint, Williams is close to elite for a defensive lineman and his football ability seems to get better with each game – sky is the limit.
3. Jacksonville Jaguars -- Randy Gregory, DE, Nebraska: One of my favorites, Gregory is still learning and needs to get stronger, but he shows flashes of Jason Pierre Paul when he was a young rusher at South Florida.
4. Cleveland Browns -- Andrus Peat, OT, Stanford: Joel Bitonio and Mitchell Schwartz are both guards in my opinion, making right tackle a need area. Peat can fill that spot as a rookie and eventually be the Browns’ left tackle.
5. Oakland Raiders -- Brandon Scherff, OT, Iowa: A mean, nasty player, Scherff would have been a first rounder this year and if he continues to develop in pass protection, he could end up in the top-10 next year.
6. Atlanta Falcons -- Shilique Calhoun, DE, Michigan State: A player who emerged last season as an impact pass rusher, Calhoun will go this high if he takes the next step in his development, building off last year’s stats (14.5 TFL, 7.5 sacks, 18 QB Hurries).
7. Tampa Bay Buccaneers -- Jameis Winston, QB, Florida State: Winston has the skills to be the No. 1 overall pick, but he has room to grow on the field and needs to keep his nose clean off the field.
8. Minnesota Vikings -- Landon Collins, S, Alabama: After starting nine games last year, look for Collins to command more of a leadership role in 2014 and have a bigger impact than 2014 first rounder, Ha Ha Clinton-Dix.
9. Cleveland Browns (from BUF) -- Amari Cooper, WR, Alabama: Cleveland’s wide receiver situation is somewhat of a concern right now and while there isn't an A.J. Green type of prospect next year, Cooper is an exciting pass catcher.
10. Detroit Lions -- Michael Bennett, DT, Ohio State: With Nick Fairley expected to test the free agent waters, Bennett could be a possible long-term replacement.
11. Tennessee Titans -- Brett Hundley, QB, UCLA: While still very raw, Hundley has a full tool box and if he takes the next step in his development in 2014, look for him to be a top-12 pick next year.
12. New York Giants -- Cedric Ogbuehi, OT, Texas A&M: Another draft, another first round Texas A&M first round offensive tackle, making it three straight years with the Aggies producing a blocker in the top-32 picks.
13. St. Louis Rams -- Ifo Ekpre-Olomu, CB, Oregon: The Rams have spent several high round draft picks on defense and I don’t expect that to stop, especially if a player as good as Ekpre-Olomu is here.
14. Chicago Bears -- Devonte Fields, DE, TCU: There is no such thing as too much pass rush and although Fields has some immature qualities, this would be a great fit for him to learn under Jared Allen.
15. Pittsburgh Steelers -- Vic Beasley, OLB, Clemson: Pittsburgh has rebuilt their linebacker group the past two years in the first round (Jarvis Jones, Ryan Shazier) and Beasley could continue those efforts.
16. Dallas Cowboys -- P.J. Williams, CB, Florida State: An emerging superstar last season, Williams was the Defensive Player of the Game in the BCS Title Game and has a big future ahead of him as a versatile defensive back.
17. Baltimore Ravens -- Cameron Erving, OT, Florida State: The Ravens right tackle job is somewhat of a question mark right now and if Kelechi Osemele or Ricky Wagner don't secure the position, it could be a need here.
18. New York Jets -- Todd Gurley, RB, Georgia: After two years without a first round running back, we could see a few come off the board next year, led by Gurley who has everything you want at the position, just needs to stay healthy.
19. Miami Dolphins -- Melvin Gordon, RB, Wisconsin: A player that probably would have been the top running back this year had he declared, Gordon has excellent balance and acceleration and will be in the Heisman discussion.
20. Arizona Cardinals -- Bryce Petty, QB, Baylor: Yes, the Cardinals drafted Logan Thomas as Bruce Arians' project quarterback, but I don’t buy him as the long-term starter. Petty could be that player.
21. Green Bay Packers -- Dante Fowler, DE, Florida: The Packers addressed the front-seven in free agency and the draft, but will have room to add more impact rushers up front, especially in that division.
22. Philadelphia Eagles -- Noah Spence, DE, Ohio State: The Eagles admittedly reached a tad to get the next best rusher this year in the first round (Marcus Smith), but Philadelphia's pass rush woes are far from solved.
23. Kansas City Chiefs -- Nelson Agholor, WR, Southern Cal: Right now, Donnie Avery is a projected starter for the Chiefs and regardless who is at quarterback, Kanas City needs to find another weapon opposite Dwayne Bowe.
24. Cincinnati Bengals -- Jaelen Strong, WR, Arizona State: Time will tell if Marvin Jones or Mohamed Sanu can lock down the No. 2 wide receiver gig, but if they don’t, Strong would be an excellent option here.
25. San Diego Chargers -- La'el Collins, OG, LSU: This San Diego regime has stressed the importance of the offensive line and with several of their starters aging, young depth could be the target here.
26. Indianapolis Colts -- Mario Edwards, DE, Florida State: A player with all the requisite skills to be an impact lineman, Edwards is still figuring out how to use his talent and could take a big step in 2014.
27. New Orleans Saints -- Trae Waynes, CB, Michigan State: That "other" cornerback at Michigan State, Waynes will be expected to fill the shoes of Dennard in 2014 and if he does, look for the Spartans to possibly have another first round corner.
28. Carolina Panthers -- Devin Funchess, TE, Michigan: With Greg Olsen not getting any younger, a young replacement could be targeted and Funchess has the athletic skills to develop into something special.
29. New England Patriots -- Nick O'Leary, TE, Florida State: From an athletic standpoint, O'Leary isn't overly special, but he has reliable hands, knows how to get open and has the toughness NFL teams will covet.
30. San Francisco 49ers -- Shawn Oakman, DE, Baylor: Still very much a work-in-progress, Oakman is a name to keep an eye on because of his raw size and athletic traits, just needs to figure out what he's doing.
31. Denver Broncos -- Denzel Perryman, LB, Miami: Perryman received a third round grade from the advisory committee this past year and could creep into the later stages of round one with another impact season at the U.
32. Seattle Seahawks -- DeVante Parker, WR, Louisville: Teddy Bridgewater's top target last year, Parker could blossom even more in Bobby Petrinos offense and cement himself among the draft's top-40 picks
1. Houston Texans -- Marcus Mariota, QB, Oregon: The Texans didn't draft a quarterback until the fourth round this year, but if Mariota had declared, I think he would have been their No. 1 selection over Jadeveon Clowney.
2. Washington ******** -- Leonard Williams, DT, Southern Cal: From an athleticism standpoint, Williams is close to elite for a defensive lineman and his football ability seems to get better with each game – sky is the limit.
3. Jacksonville Jaguars -- Randy Gregory, DE, Nebraska: One of my favorites, Gregory is still learning and needs to get stronger, but he shows flashes of Jason Pierre Paul when he was a young rusher at South Florida.
4. Cleveland Browns -- Andrus Peat, OT, Stanford: Joel Bitonio and Mitchell Schwartz are both guards in my opinion, making right tackle a need area. Peat can fill that spot as a rookie and eventually be the Browns’ left tackle.
5. Oakland Raiders -- Brandon Scherff, OT, Iowa: A mean, nasty player, Scherff would have been a first rounder this year and if he continues to develop in pass protection, he could end up in the top-10 next year.
6. Atlanta Falcons -- Shilique Calhoun, DE, Michigan State: A player who emerged last season as an impact pass rusher, Calhoun will go this high if he takes the next step in his development, building off last year’s stats (14.5 TFL, 7.5 sacks, 18 QB Hurries).
7. Tampa Bay Buccaneers -- Jameis Winston, QB, Florida State: Winston has the skills to be the No. 1 overall pick, but he has room to grow on the field and needs to keep his nose clean off the field.
8. Minnesota Vikings -- Landon Collins, S, Alabama: After starting nine games last year, look for Collins to command more of a leadership role in 2014 and have a bigger impact than 2014 first rounder, Ha Ha Clinton-Dix.
9. Cleveland Browns (from BUF) -- Amari Cooper, WR, Alabama: Cleveland’s wide receiver situation is somewhat of a concern right now and while there isn't an A.J. Green type of prospect next year, Cooper is an exciting pass catcher.
10. Detroit Lions -- Michael Bennett, DT, Ohio State: With Nick Fairley expected to test the free agent waters, Bennett could be a possible long-term replacement.
11. Tennessee Titans -- Brett Hundley, QB, UCLA: While still very raw, Hundley has a full tool box and if he takes the next step in his development in 2014, look for him to be a top-12 pick next year.
12. New York Giants -- Cedric Ogbuehi, OT, Texas A&M: Another draft, another first round Texas A&M first round offensive tackle, making it three straight years with the Aggies producing a blocker in the top-32 picks.
13. St. Louis Rams -- Ifo Ekpre-Olomu, CB, Oregon: The Rams have spent several high round draft picks on defense and I don’t expect that to stop, especially if a player as good as Ekpre-Olomu is here.
14. Chicago Bears -- Devonte Fields, DE, TCU: There is no such thing as too much pass rush and although Fields has some immature qualities, this would be a great fit for him to learn under Jared Allen.
15. Pittsburgh Steelers -- Vic Beasley, OLB, Clemson: Pittsburgh has rebuilt their linebacker group the past two years in the first round (Jarvis Jones, Ryan Shazier) and Beasley could continue those efforts.
16. Dallas Cowboys -- P.J. Williams, CB, Florida State: An emerging superstar last season, Williams was the Defensive Player of the Game in the BCS Title Game and has a big future ahead of him as a versatile defensive back.
17. Baltimore Ravens -- Cameron Erving, OT, Florida State: The Ravens right tackle job is somewhat of a question mark right now and if Kelechi Osemele or Ricky Wagner don't secure the position, it could be a need here.
18. New York Jets -- Todd Gurley, RB, Georgia: After two years without a first round running back, we could see a few come off the board next year, led by Gurley who has everything you want at the position, just needs to stay healthy.
19. Miami Dolphins -- Melvin Gordon, RB, Wisconsin: A player that probably would have been the top running back this year had he declared, Gordon has excellent balance and acceleration and will be in the Heisman discussion.
20. Arizona Cardinals -- Bryce Petty, QB, Baylor: Yes, the Cardinals drafted Logan Thomas as Bruce Arians' project quarterback, but I don’t buy him as the long-term starter. Petty could be that player.
21. Green Bay Packers -- Dante Fowler, DE, Florida: The Packers addressed the front-seven in free agency and the draft, but will have room to add more impact rushers up front, especially in that division.
22. Philadelphia Eagles -- Noah Spence, DE, Ohio State: The Eagles admittedly reached a tad to get the next best rusher this year in the first round (Marcus Smith), but Philadelphia's pass rush woes are far from solved.
23. Kansas City Chiefs -- Nelson Agholor, WR, Southern Cal: Right now, Donnie Avery is a projected starter for the Chiefs and regardless who is at quarterback, Kanas City needs to find another weapon opposite Dwayne Bowe.
24. Cincinnati Bengals -- Jaelen Strong, WR, Arizona State: Time will tell if Marvin Jones or Mohamed Sanu can lock down the No. 2 wide receiver gig, but if they don’t, Strong would be an excellent option here.
25. San Diego Chargers -- La'el Collins, OG, LSU: This San Diego regime has stressed the importance of the offensive line and with several of their starters aging, young depth could be the target here.
26. Indianapolis Colts -- Mario Edwards, DE, Florida State: A player with all the requisite skills to be an impact lineman, Edwards is still figuring out how to use his talent and could take a big step in 2014.
27. New Orleans Saints -- Trae Waynes, CB, Michigan State: That "other" cornerback at Michigan State, Waynes will be expected to fill the shoes of Dennard in 2014 and if he does, look for the Spartans to possibly have another first round corner.
28. Carolina Panthers -- Devin Funchess, TE, Michigan: With Greg Olsen not getting any younger, a young replacement could be targeted and Funchess has the athletic skills to develop into something special.
29. New England Patriots -- Nick O'Leary, TE, Florida State: From an athletic standpoint, O'Leary isn't overly special, but he has reliable hands, knows how to get open and has the toughness NFL teams will covet.
30. San Francisco 49ers -- Shawn Oakman, DE, Baylor: Still very much a work-in-progress, Oakman is a name to keep an eye on because of his raw size and athletic traits, just needs to figure out what he's doing.
31. Denver Broncos -- Denzel Perryman, LB, Miami: Perryman received a third round grade from the advisory committee this past year and could creep into the later stages of round one with another impact season at the U.
32. Seattle Seahawks -- DeVante Parker, WR, Louisville: Teddy Bridgewater's top target last year, Parker could blossom even more in Bobby Petrinos offense and cement himself among the draft's top-40 picks
It will interesting to see who falls out, I think Melvin Gordon & Jalen Strong definitely fall out the first.
DeVante Parker should of came this year.
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Herron is my favorite pick the Bucs made, Underwood did descent last year and that man couldn't run routes for nothing. From what I've been reading and watching Herron is a great route runner with speed and hands. The Hill selection had me scratching my head since we now have 5 rbs, would've loved Gabe Jackson with that pick. Them Tan Boys gonna flourish though
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Goff at Cal, if their line actually protects him this year.
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Ehhhh take out Nick O'Leary and add Ronald Darby to the first round of that mock draft, and I doubt Jameis falls out of the top 5 regardless of any "character issues"
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Colts picked up Purifoy.
do work son
Banned
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Why did his stock absolutely plummet?
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Edit
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dacomeup
Supporter
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Got caught with bath salts pre-draft. Failed multiple drug tests at UF.
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Pissing hot, caught with weed and meth, got obliterated by Kelvin and OBJ
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Terrible corner technique, he's an athlete with no real position, plus he tested horribly at the combine
do work son
Banned
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Oh damn 
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I need to find that video of KB ruining his day.
Found a gif
Found a gif
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SAS on Gordon :x
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That's a fine way to judge the class now, I'm just saying that going back to the RG3 trade the jury is still out on many of the "blue chip" picks the team has made. They may not be quite as talented as some expect.
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Idk son, that RGIII traded yielded the Rams Janoris Jenkins, Greg Robinson, Michael Brockers, Alec Ogletree, Stedman Bailey, Isaiah Pead, Rok Watkins, and Zac Stacy
do work son
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The rams won that deal :x
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He has the Bradley Roby/David Amerson syndrome w/o having the elite measureables to fall back on
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Just took a peek at other names potentially for next year:
Taylor Kelly, ASU
Chuckie Keeton, Utah State
Braxton Miller, OSU
Rakeem Cato, Marshall
Bo Wallace, Ole Miss
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Black Drew Brees.
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Ricky D
formerly centex hogg
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I was satisfied with Falcons' draft for the most part. I'm just glad that we didn't trade away our entire draft for Clowney. Jake will be good and hopefully keep Matt Ryan on his feet. I didn't like the fact we reached for a S in the 3rd but I also didn't expect for Deone to be gone in the first, I think we would've targeted him in the 2nd. I also think think we should've took Ealy as opposed to Hageman, we didn't draft any DEs. My favorite pick aside from Matthews was Freeman. Lord knows we needed a RB. I only watched him a few times but he seemed like he could be a good player for us. Looking forward to the start of the season
My own views, just typed out. Pay them no mind.
I don't know or care if grades matter, and I doubt none of you care either, but since this thread is here for a reason, I'll type.
Buffalo did some good, and some head scratching. LOVE Sammy, and their offensive core is solid right now, adding Bryce Brown is a good move, but they have given up like 3 future draft picks. A 1 in 15, a 4 in 15, and a possible 3 in 16. That's crazy to me.
But Sammy, and the 3 Olineman they pulled could be great. Cyrus, Cyril, and Seantrel, if they get anything out of those 3, they could be a lot of fun on offense. Like the core, hate the moves on future picks.
Arizona, love them getting even deeper on defense, they are going to be brutal like everyone else in the NFC West, and loved the TE they pulled, but they did little else imo. Logan Thomas still might be better than Carson Palmer tho, so I guess there's hope.
Atl did alright with Mathews and Hageman plus Freeman. But their draft was a lot of "meh" to me.
Baltimore and their God damn lucky value drafting.Defense has been tough for a decade and a half, starts to show some cracks, and they pull Mosely, Jernigan, and Brooks just like that.
Panthers could be real smart, or real bust. Benji, Ealy, Turner, Boston and Gaffney are all guys I like. If they coach them well, they will do fine, if not, this class won't help and they will suffer. Not a wow draft, but certainly that boom or bust type draft.
Bears went all defense, even took a punter to help with field position. Can't be mad at that. Their offense will be ok, they needed to start rebuilding that defense, Fuller, Ego, and Sutton is a good start.
Bengals were quiet to me this year. Loved the Dennard pick, and even like AJ McCarron, but outside that, they didn't do anything to excite me for the first time in 3-4 years. However, if Gio and Eifert take big steps in year 2, it won't matter I suppose.
Clevland........started out well trading down, love getting extra picks next year, but for just Gilbert and Manziel? :\ Bitonio could be nice, but I don't like them not taking a WR, especially with Gordon in doubt. What looked like a great draft, has all the makings of yet another Cleveland let down. They needed to keep that mid round pick they gave away to move up 1 damn spot for a 2nd corner.
Dallas, I almost always dismiss cuz Jerry. But, Martin is good, another DeMarcus, love Devin Street, and Gardener and Mitchell could be nice finds for their defense, so it's a fairly decent draft by Cowboy standards. They'll screw it up somehow tho.
Denver did ok with Roby, not sure on Latimer, but with Peyton, he'll probably be amazing for as long as Peyton is there, then he'll turn into Cinderella.
Detroit.....not sure. Love Ebron, I love that guy, and he will be great in Detroit with those tools, and then Van Noy is a nice pick, but....why didn't they keep building on the secondary after that? They took a kicker (?) another WR, MORE Dline help (?) but only 1 corner, and no safety? Huh? Ebron may be great, but they could have spread the wealth a little I would think.
Typical God damn Packers. Sit tight, and just collect solid talent. Ha Ha, Adams, Bradford, Abbrederis, Janis, and even another guy or two that fill needs they can develop in time.
Loved the first 3 rounds for Houston, but they were 1 pick from pulling Clowney AND Teddy.
Not many picks for the Colts, so they couldn't really do much for me. They have to hope Mewhort and Moncrief work out or they're in some trouble.
Man, I LOVED the Jags draft. Serious, can't think of any year I ever said that. I don't love Bortles, but Lee, Robinson, Linder, Colvin, Telvin, and Storm is a nice haul. If they do get something out of Bortles, this was a great class.
Chiefs were ok, but nothing mind blowing. D'Anthony and Murray are guys they can develop, and Dee Ford is nice, but that's a small class to work with, and some of them are already limited. So I don't expect much of a boost for them.
Miami did like Carolina. They either did very well, or they will tank like hell. LOVE the Landry pick, I can not express that enough. And the rest, just fine. A 4 year starter at RT who is 6-6 311. And a Guard that is 6-5 315 and can move to tackle in an emergency. That's what was needed. Add to that Lynch who is an inline blocker with some skills to grab a pass or two, and it's clear they built around Tannehill getting help. After that, like 4-5 small school guys I have no idea if they will help or not. Either we did great, or we bust like hell.
Loved the Vikes, Barr and Teddy completes an INSANE 3 year first round run. God I hate them for that. Crichton, Yankey, Exum is just icing, and that's a solid class.
Pats didn't scare me like usual after Easley. Hate that they got him, so not fair, but I could care less about that QB they took and Stork is solid, but doesn't scare me, and the rest, meh. I do like Gallon tho, Tom could use him for a year or two before he dies. They worked on the trenches tho, so that's telling I think.
Not real high on the Saints. I don't really see why they need MORE at WR. Yes, Cooks will flourish, so? They been great on O, getting yet another one, eh.....the rest of their picks on D will help with depth, but I don't love this class for them. They could have done more imo. And hell, they traded up to take the WR, giving away picks they needed. I don't agree with the approach.
Giants had a solid draft to me. Love OBJ, like Williams, like the value they got late in Kennard and Jackson, got some line help, solid, not great class.
Jets got their QB of the future, and a good TE, and a solid Safety. Outside that, jack ****. Jalen and Shaq better be real good, or they were a complete waste in one of the deepest WR classes ever, if the Jets manage to screw this up, I don't know what to tell people. I mean, did the Pats in round 7 do better with Gallon, than the Jets did in round 4 with TWO picks? How?
Raiders did ok, but I don't think highly of Carr, or their ability to develop talent. I like Mack, and I like Gabe, Ellis and McGill even do somethin for me, but I don't trust them, or Carr. If Carr pans out, they might have had a solid draft.
Weird, but I really like what the Eagles did, outside their first round pick. (like Jax) I don't agree with the Smith pick, but I love Mathews, Huff, Watkins and Hart. Hell, even Ed Reynolds. I just don't get Smith. But maybe he'll beast and I look stupid. Won't be the first time.
The Steelers are like the Packers and Baltimore. Just steady. Love Shazier, Archer, Bryant, Tuitt, you just know they will find a way to work those guys into good players.
SD was quiet, but after stealing Allen last year, they don't need to big splash. Like Verrett, and Attaochu, and even Tevin Reece late could be nice with Philip.
Screw the damn 9ers. This crap was just brutal. Ward, Hyde, Martin, Borland, Thomas, Ellington, Lynch, and 3 CB's for them to dissect and develop. Man, ****.
Seattle, I don't see much I like outside the 2 WR's But, I trust them enough to know they can and will develop the young D guys and make them useful, but compared to the 9ers, and Rams, they were 3rd best in the division for my taste.
LOVED the Rams, again. They added bulk to both lines, Tre Mason and Joyner (who should fight alot over the title game
TB went all offense. I can respect that. If I agree or not don't matter, they tried to put players around Glennon to see what can happen. Evans, ASJ, Sims, and some OL depth, that's how you help your young QB.
For the Titans only having 6 picks, they made the most of them. Lewan, Sankey, Jones, and Mettenberger is a nice haul imo. They don't get a great draft based on short picks, but they could get these guys right and grow from them. Depends on Metter and Sankey imo.
Skins did ok for not having a 1. Trading down helped. Moses, Lache, Murphy and Long are all good gets, Grant and Breeland might help as well.
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