Roaming the Sidelines: The First NFL Mock Draft
Posted by The Skyliner on January 27th, 2010Cory Guinn
Sports Editor
1. St. Louis Rams-Jimmy Clausen, QB, Notre Dame
-The Rams need help on both offense and defense, but right now quarterback is a pressing need. With the uncertainty of Marc Bulger’s injury problems and no true backup, St. Louis should take a chance with Clausen, a strong quarterback with good vision and a high football IQ.
2. Detroit Lions-Ndamukong Suh, DT, Nebraska
-Detroit’s offense was able to put up decent numbers as quarterback Matthew Stafford became more comfortable in the offense. The main problem for the Lions was that the defense was unable to get stops, ranking near the bottom in pass and rush defense. The addition of a dominant interior lineman could improve this defense in both areas and help them continue to rebuild in the right direction.
3. Tampa Bay Buccaneers-Eric Berry, S, Tennessee
-There was no better safety in college football for the past few seasons than Eric Berry, a hard-hitting, ball-hawking defensive back who seems to always make the big play when the game is on the line. The Buccaneers were once known for their tough defense and this pick is a step in the right direction to gaining respect once again.
4. Washington Redskins-Sam Bradford, QB, Oklahoma
-Most experts predict Bradford will be back to full strength come April, which means the Redskins will most definitely be looking in his direction. With quarterback Jason Campell’s ending, the team wants to revamp its dismal offense and a new face behind center may just be the answer.
5. Kansas City Chiefs-Russell Okung, OT, Oklahoma State
-A bit undersized, Okung makes up for that with deceptive strength and athleticism. Okung’s strength is in the passing game where the Chiefs could use a great deal of help. This team needs to protect their highest paid player in Matt Cassell, so he can have a chance to show the critics that he can be a long-term option at quarterback and not just a one-hit wonder.
6. Seattle Seahawks-Trent Williams, OT, Oklahoma
-Williams moved from right tackle to left tackle in his senior season, so he has the ability to play both spots along the line. Seattle needs help on offense in many areas, but with two first-round draft choices they can afford to address the offensive line first. Williams is more a pass blocker than run blocker, but his athletic ability and lateral quickness are among the best in the draft.
7. Cleveland Browns-Derrick Morgan, DE, Georgia Tech
-The defensive side of the ball is where this team needs the most help. The defense ranked 28th in rush defense allowing 145.6 yards per game and 29th in passing defense allowing 247.9 yards per game. The Browns need to put pressure on their opponents and Derrick Morgan is the player to improve this defense. He is a great athlete with above-average quickness and a non-stop motor who plays with energy on every down.
8. Oakland Raiders-Gerald McCoy, DT, Oklahoma
-The Raiders offense needs help but with all of the top level defensive talent in this draft they cannot pass up on McCoy. While Al Davis has the tendency to surprise us all with his choices, McCoy is such a talented athlete, this should be an easy pick. He is explosive on the snap and is equally good at stopping the run and rushing the passer.
9. Buffalo Bills-Rolando McClain, ILB, Alabama
-Is there a better linebacker in the country than McClain? His combination of strength, speed and skill make him a player every team must have. Mostly known for his pass rushing ability, McClain is also comfortable in coverage and does a good job of covering the field from sideline to sideline.
10. Denver Broncos (f/CHI)-Joe Haden, CB, Florida
-Haden is the top cornerback in all of college football. He has top level speed and plays well against both the pass and run. Haden would benefit from learning from talented veterans and he could even start over Ty Law if he plays up to his potential.
Tags: Spring 2010, Vol. 110 - Issue 1