Detroit Lions Put Together Another Solid Draft:

The Detroit Lions were in a rare position this year. They made the playoffs for the first time since 1999… that’s 11 years of bad teams and bad seasons. The Lions started getting used to picking in the first ten picks year after year (Detroit had a pick in the first ten picks 8 times during that playoff drought- even having the 1^st pick once, the 2^nd pick twice, and the 3^rd pick once). This season the Lions were drafting from the unfamiliar position of the 23^rd selection, and they needed to wait a while to see who fell to them.

OT Riley Reiff brings the versatility to play either tackle position, but the Lions hope they found a franchise left tackle with their pick.With cornerback being the Lions’ top need, there were hopes that one of the top three cornerbacks in the draft (Morris Claiborne, Stephon Gilmore, and Dre Kirkpatrick) would drop to them with 23^rd pick. There were even rumors that the Lions would be interested in trading up to select CB Stephon Gilmore, a cornerback with great potential that was expected to be drafted anywhere in the first 20 picks. All three corners however were gone by the 17^th pick (Claiborne- 6^th, Gilmore- 10^th, and Kirkpatrick- 17^th). Instead, two Top-10 prospects surprisingly fell to Detroit at pick 23- OT Riley Reiff and OG David DeCastro. The Lions decided to select the elite left tackle Riley Reiff out of Iowa, who should be able to compete for a starting job. Reiff came to Iowa as a three-time all-state selection playing both tight end and defensive end and was a three-time state wrestling champion with a 121 – 1 record. He was moved to offensive tackle his freshman year at Iowa and brought great strength and athleticism to the position. He started 11 of 13 games in his redshirt freshman season (seven at left guard, three at left tackle, and one at right tackle) before becoming the starting left tackle his sophomore season. After two seasons as the starting left tackle for the Hawkeyes, Reiff decided to declare early for the draft after being a 1^st Team All-Big Ten selection. At 6’5”, 313-pounds, Reiff is very intelligent and uses great fundamentals and athleticism to keep defenders at bay in the passing game. He also uses his strength and experience as a defensive end and a wrestler to be a true mauler in the running game. The only reason Reiff fell in the draft was because his arms (33 ¼” long) are considered to be too short for a left tackle, although the Cleveland Browns All-Pro left tackle Joe Thomas has shorter arms than Reiff’s. With his abilities, Reiff comes to the Lions with the versatility to play either tackle position. At the very least, Reiff should be able to compete with LT Jeff Backus and RT Gosder Cherilus for a starting job at offensive tackle. While DeCastro would have been an instant starter for Detroit, the Lions made the right choice by selecting Reiff. The Lions need to get used to drafting after pick 20, and it is very rare to have an elite left tackle like Reiff fall that far. Reiff is easily the franchise left tackle the Lions need for their future. (Picture taken from footballnation.com)

The Lions expect WR Ryan Broyles to be just another receiving threat for QB Matthew Stafford and their explosive passing game.After not selecting a cornerback in the 1^st Round, it was expected that the Lions would grab one of the many talented corners still on the board with their 2^nd Round pick. Ex-Lion and Hall of Fame RB Barry Sanders stunned everyone as he announced the Lions pick to be the 5’10”, 190-pound wide receiver out of Oklahoma- Ryan Broyles. Broyles was a four-year starter at Oklahoma where he was a 1^st Team All-Big 12 selection his last three years and an All-American his last two years. After turning down the NFL as a potential 1^st Round pick and returning to the Sooners for his senior season, Broyles draft stock took a huge hit when he tore his ACL in the ninth game of the season. Broyles leaves Oklahoma as the NCAA all-time leader in receptions (349) and second all-time in receiving yards (4,586). Broyles had surgery on his knee in November and considers his recovery to be ahead of schedule. Even when 100% healthy, Broyles doesn’t have sprinter speed (4.5 40-time) or great size. He does however know how to get open, has the toughness to go across the middle, has great hands to make a catch in traffic, and has the quickness and shiftiness to make defenders miss after the catch. Broyles also brings the versatility of having some experience in the return game. While this pick seems more like a luxury than one of need especially with other players of need on the board (LB Lavonte David and C Peter Konz were both considered potential 1^st Round picks that play positions of need for Detroit), the Lions stuck to their game-plan of picking the top player available regardless of position or need. Honestly, you can’t argue with the results…the Lions have gone from a 0 – 16 team to a playoff team in three years using this philosophy in the draft. Broyles was a potential 1^st Round pick before the knee injury and fell to the Lions at the end of Round Two. Nate Burleson is approaching his mid-30s, and the Lions could really use a slot receiver that can go across the middle. I really like the value the Lions got with this pick especially since Detroit loves to pass the ball and doesn’t have to rush him onto the field with three quality receivers already on the roster. (Picture taken from footballsfuture.com)

CB Dwight "Bill" Bentley showed against WR Justin Blackmon, the 5th overall pick by Jacksonville, that he has the skills to play against very good wide receivers in the NFL.In the 3^rd Round, the Lions finally addressed their biggest need by drafting CB Dwight “Bill” Bentley (5’10”, 181-pounds) out of Louisiana-Lafayette. Bentley, a 1^st Team All-Sun Belt selection this season, really turned heads in the opener against Oklahoma St. In that game, Bentley was paired against the duo of 1^st Round pick WR Justin Blackmon and 1^st Round pick QB Brandon Weeden. While Blackmon did come away with eight catches for 144-yards, Bentley held him to no touchdowns while finishing with six tackles and two interceptions. Bentley also played very well in the Senior Bowl and performed well at the Combine running a 4.37 40-yard dash. He does a nice job in coverage, has the speed to catch up if he gets beat, and has good flexibility to turn and run with a receiver. The reasons Bentley was still on the board in the 3^rd Round were: his lack of size and strength, he played in an inferior conference (Sun Belt Conference), and he needs to improve his instincts. All in all, Bentley has a nice package of skills to eventually become a starter in the NFL. More than likely, he should start out as a nickel or dime corner. (Picture taken from newsok.com)

DE Ronnell Lewis looks to make his presence felt for the Lions on their already strong defensive line.In the 4^th Round, the Lions traded down 8 picks with San Francisco (picking up a 6^th Round pick in the process) before drafting DE/LB Ronnell Lewis (6’2”, 254-pounds) out of Oklahoma. Lewis was a 1^st Team All-Big 12 selection this past season after making 59 tackles (13 for loss), 5 ½ sacks, an interception, 5 pass break-ups, a forced fumble, and a fumble recovery in 10 games at defensive end. Many looked at Lewis as more of a 3-4 outside linebacker than a 4-3 defensive end due to his lack of elite size for a defensive end. Lewis was also looked at as being a little inconsistent from week to week in his performances. Bottom line, Lewis knows how to get to the quarterback and lays a big hit on whoever has the football, which earned him the nickname “The Hammer” from Oklahoma head coach Bob Stoops. Considering the success the Lions have had so far developing DE Willie Young, who they drafted in the 7^th Round in 2010 and had good height, speed, and athleticism but lacked size and strength, Lewis definitely has the strength, speed, athleticism, and pass rush ability to develop into a very servicable, if not good defensive end. He also has the versatility to play outside linebacker in a pinch as well as play on special teams. And with Cliff Avril under the franchise tag with an uncertain future, Vanden Bosch turning 34 this year, and Lawrence Jackson in the last year of his contract, it doesn’t hurt having some good depth at the position. (Picture taken from sportsagentblog.com)

LB Tahir Whitehead is a promising, young player that the Lions will look to develop into potential starter down the road.In the 5^th Round, the Lions made an interesting move. They switched draft position in the 7^th Round and gave up their 4^th Round pick next year to get the 3^rd pick of the 5^th Round from Minnesota. With that pick, the Lions selected LB Tahir Whitehead (6’2”, 233-pounds) out of Temple. Whitehead was a 2^nd Team All-MAC selection last season after making 59 tackles (12 for loss), 5 sacks, and 4 forced fumbles as an outside linebacker in a 3-4 defense. While Whitehead is a little bit of a mystery to most, the Lions brass saw something in this kid that they coveted enough to give up a 4^th Round pick next year for. While not very big, Whitehead has very good speed and can be found all over the field making plays. He does a good job laying a hit on the ball carrier, can effectively defend the tight end in pass coverage, and can get after the quarterback on a blitz. He definitely is a project however that will need some work, but he should be able to contribute right away on special teams. And considering that DeAndre Levy and Justin Durant are in the last year of their contracts, depth at linebacker is an important area to address. (Picture taken from sidelionreport.com)

CB Chris Greenwood has the size, speed, and raw talent to succeed in the NFL if he can make the transition to a higher level of competition.The Lions again saw a player on the board in the 5^th Round that they coveted, so they traded one of their two 7^th Round picks to Oakland to move up 10 picks. With the 13^th pick of the 5^th Round, the Lions selected CB Chris Greenwood (6’1”, 193-pounds) out of Division III Albion College. Greenwood really impressed scouts at his pro day with his athleticism- he ran an official 4.41 40-yard dash, had a 43-inch vertical, and did 16 reps on the bench press (at 225-pounds). Greenwood will need some time to adjust to the jump in the level of competition he is playing against, but the Lions believe that he has the size, speed, skills, and athleticism to make the transition (they saw DT Sammie Lee Hill the same way when they drafted him out of Stillman College in 2009). “’For me, he has a big upside,’ said Tim Walton, the Detroit Lions defensive back coach. ‘He has the measurables and has the talent. Once we tap into that potential, the sky is the limit for this kid. We’re excited to work with him. He has the tools to work with.’” What has the Lion even more exciting than just the size, speed, and raw skills Greenwood brings is that Greenwood reminds defensive coordinator Gunther Cunningham of CB Brandon Carr, who was drafted by Kansas City out of Grand Valley St. in the 5^th Round in 2008 when Cunningham was the defensive coordinator there (Carr has since become one of the top cornerbacks in the NFL). The Lions hope those comparisons translate into big things for Greenwood and their defense. In the mean time, he should be able to contribute right away on special teams. (Picture taken from d3football.com)

CB Jonte Green is an aggresive corner that has the talent to make an impact for the Lions.In the 6^th Round, the Lions again addressed one of their biggest needs coming into the draft by selecting CB Jonte Green (6’0”, 183-pounds) out of New Mexico St. Green is an aggressive player with a nice combination of speed, range, and cover skills. He finished last season with 64 tackles, one interception, and 14 pass break-ups for the Aggies in the WAC Conference. The Lions liked Green very early in the drafting process and were ecstatic to see him still on the board as they selected in the 6^th Round. Green will need to improve his strength and contribute right away on special team just to potentially fight his way onto the roster- being the third cornerback drafted and having four already on the roster. The Lions wouldn’t have drafted him however if they didn’t think he was up to the challenge. (Picture taken from crucessports.blogspot.com)

The Lions got a steal and a potential starter when they drafted LB Travis Lewis in the 7th Round.In the 7^th Round, the Lions may have got a steal when they selected LB Travis Lewis (6’2”, 245-pounds) out of Oklahoma. Lewis burst onto the scene as a redshirt freshman starting 14 games for the Sooners while making 144 tackles (11 ½ for loss) with 3 ½ sacks, 4 interceptions, 3 pass break-ups, and one forced fumble. That outstanding production broke Brian Bosworth’s school record for tackles by a freshman and earned him Big 12 Freshman of the Year and 1^st Team All-Big 12 honors. Lewis finished his four-year career at Oklahoma with 451 total tackles (32 ½ for loss), 8 sacks, 9 interceptions, 4 forced fumbles, and 2 fumble recoveries. Lewis has a ton of talent and potential, shows tremendous instincts, and does a solid job in coverage. His stock fell after a dip in production his senior season while playing with a broken toe and after running a disappointing 4.81 40-yard dash at the NFL Combine. There is no ignoring the production he put up at a school like Oklahoma. Even more motivation for Lewis was watching 222 names be called before finally hearing his name selected by the Lions. The Lions couldn’t believe their luck to get a linebacker like Lewis in the 7^th Round that could easily become a starter for them. (Picture taken from flickr.com)

The Lions may have found a gem when they signed undrafted rookie free agent QB Kellen Moore to be their third quarterback.Within hours of the end of the draft, the Lions addressed another need by signing undrafted rookie free agent QB Kellen Moore (6’0”, 196-pounds) out of Boise St. Moore is your classic system quarterback who will go down as one of the elite college quarterbacks of all time passing for 14,667 yards, 143 passing touchdowns, and only 28 interceptions for 50 wins. Moore lacks ideal size, athleticism, and arm strength however, which resulted in his name not being called during the draft. What Moore lacks in those areas, he makes up for in accuracy, instincts, work ethic, and competitiveness. The Lions, who had a need for a third quarterback after QB Drew Stanton left as a free agent, couldn’t be happier to get Moore. With current back-up QB Shaun Hill under contract for two more seasons, Moore should have plenty of time to learn the system and improve his skills before potentially becoming the primary back-up. Moore should benefit from having Hill to learn from, since Hill also uses accuracy and anticipation to make up for the lack of a rocket arm. (Picture taken from ogdraft.com)

After the draft was over, I gave the Lions a solid “B” grade…with the addition of Moore however, I confidently move that grade up to a B+. The Lions did address their biggest weakness by adding three cornerbacks. And while some might not like the fact that the Lions waited until the 3^rd Round to take their first cornerback of the draft, I thought that Bentley was a 2^nd Round talent that fell to the 3^rd Round making it a nice value. The Lions addressed their aging offensive line by stealing the 2^nd best offensive tackle in the draft late in the 1^st Round. The Lions also addressed depth questions at the linebacker position by drafting two. It will be interesting to see what happens with Whitehead, who seemed to be the only real stretch of the Lions draft, and to see if all three cornerbacks drafted can supplant current roster members. Getting Moore as an undrafted rookie free agent was just icing on the cake. Congratulations Lions organization for yet another solid draft.

2012 NFL Draft 1st Round Results and Reactions:

1. Indianapolis- QB Andrew Luck, Stanford

• After releasing Pro Bowl QB Peyton Manning, no surprise here that the Colts took the top quarterback in the draft to build their franchise around. Luck is considered to be the best quarterback prospect since John Elway, and I fully expect to see him as a future Pro Bowler.

2. Washington- QB Robert Griffin III, Baylor

• The Redskins want a franchise quarterback and think Griffin is the answer, so they traded up four spots with St. Louis to secure this pick. Griffin has a strong arm and great accuracy, and he is an excellent athlete…he should finally give the Redskins some consistency at quarterback.

3. Cleveland- RB Trent Richardson, Alabama

• The Browns were worried that someone else was going to move up to this spot to take Richardson, so they traded up one spot with Minnesota to guarantee they got their man. Richardson is a strong runner with good speed, nice hands out of the backfield, and excellent ball security.

4. Minnesota- OT Matt Kalil, USC

• The Vikings traded down one pick, gained three extra picks, and still got their man. Kalil should give last season’s 1^st Round pick, QB Christian Ponder, some much needed protection while also giving Pro Bowl RB Adrian Peterson some room to run.

5. Jacksonville- WR Justin Blackmon- Oklahoma St.

• The Jaguars traded up two spots with Tampa Bay to jump ahead of St. Louis to grab the top wide receiver in the draft. While not a speed burner, Blackmon has the work ethic and the all-round game to give the Jaguars a quality wideout for the first time in a while.

6. Dallas- CB Morris Claiborne, LSU

• After missing out on Blackmon, St. Louis was more than happy to trade this pick to Dallas. The Cowboys knew they need to jump ahead of Tampa Bay to grab the top cornerback in the draft. Claiborne has excellent ball skills, anticipation, and cover skills and should give the Cowboys a quality corner for many years.

7. Tampa Bay- S Mark Barron, Alabama

• The Bucs were hoping that Claiborne would drop to them with this pick. They still addressed their defensive secondary by taking the top safety. Barron does a fantastic job in coverage, but he can also come up a lay a big hit.

8. Miami- QB Ryan Tannehill, Texas A&M

• With a need at quarterback, the Dolphins selected Tannehill as many expected. Tannehill has a lot of talent with a strong arm and nice intelligence, but he is a little inexperienced having only started 19 games at quarterback in college…it wouldn’t hurt for him to sit and learn for a year.

9. Carolina- LB Luke Kuechly, Boston College

• The Panthers had other needs at defensive tackle and cornerback that they could have addressed here, but Kuechly is the top linebacker in the draft and also fits a need. Kuechly is talented enough to play inside or outside linebacker and brings a great work ethic, great awareness, and excellent form to a defense that needs help.

10. Buffalo- CB Stephon Gilmore, South Carolina

• I expected the Bills to address offensive tackle or possibly wide receiver with this pick, but they can’t go wrong taking Gilmore. Gilmore’s draft stock was rising as much or more than any other player in the draft. Gilmore has nice technique, good speed, nice cover skills, and is a solid tackler…he should be a nice addition to the Bills defense.

11. Kansas City- DT Dontari Poe, Memphis

• The Chiefs would have liked Kuechly to still be on the board, but they needed a nose tackle just as much. Poe at 345-pounds will do a nice job clogging the middle of that defense and occasionally getting some pressure on the quarterback for the Chiefs.

12. Philadelphia- DT Fletcher Cox, Mississippi St.

• The Eagles traded up three picks with Seattle to ensure they got one of the more explosive defensive tackles in the draft. Cox is a real disruptive force on the defensive line getting nice penetration against the run and the pass. The Eagles had trouble stopping the run last season, and Cox could help fix that problem.

13. Arizona- WR Michael Floyd, Notre Dame

• The Cardinals maybe would have taken Cox here if he was still on the board, but they can’t go wrong with Floyd. Floyd has the size, speed, and ability to be a quality secondary option opposite Pro Bowl WR Larry Fitzgerald. Fitzgerald’s work ethic should rub off on Floyd, which will only make the duo that much more dangerous.

14. St. Louis- DT Michael Brockers, LSU

• For the second time in this draft, the Rams have moved down in the draft only to have the wide receiver they were hoping for taken the pick before them. The Rams could have still addressed wide receiver or looked at needs on the offensive line or at cornerback, but they decided to draft an explosive defensive tackle in Brockers. Brockers uses his quickness and athleticism to get excellent penetration against both the run and pass, which the Rams desperately can use.

15. Seattle- DE/LB Bruce Irvin, West Virginia

• The Seahawks made a surprise pick here going with Irvin. There were plenty of pass rushers that seemed to make more sense as Irvin was considered more of a 3^rd Round prospect. Irvin does have great pass rush skills, but he saw his production decrease this season as teams paid more attention to him.

16. NY Jets- DE Quinton Coples, North Carolina

• The Jets defense wasn’t as effective last season…one of the big reasons was the lack of pressure they got on the opposing quarterback. Coples makes a lot of sense with this pick. Coples has the size, athleticism, and pass rush ability to make plays and get pressure on the quarterback as a defensive end in the 3-4 defense.

17. Cincinnati- CB Dre Kirkpatrick, Alabama

• The Bengals needed help at the cornerback position with Leon Hall recovering from a torn Achilles tendon, and Kirkpatrick was the best one on the board. Kirkpatrick can be a little inconsistent at times, but he has the size, speed, and ball skills to be an excellent addition and should be able to start from Day One.

18. San Diego- DE/LB Melvin Ingram, South Carolina

• The area the Chargers need to address most was their pass rush. Ingram should have no problem providing that for his new team. Ingram is an undersized defensive end with fantastic pass rush skills, great speed, and impressive strength, and he should have no problem making the transition to outside linebacker in the 3-4 defense.

19. Chicago- LB Shea McClellin, Boise St.

• The Bears were looking for help at defensive end. While McClellin (6’4”, 260-pounds) will be a little undersized as a defensive end, he is an outstanding pass rusher and should be a nightmare for opposing tackles due to his speed and relentless attitude.

20. Tennessee- WR Kendall Wright, Baylor

• Cornerback was the Titan’s biggest need, but the top three corners are already off the board. They could’ve looked to defensive end at this point like I expected them to do, but Wright could be a nice receiving option for last season’s 1^st Round pick, QB Jake Locker. Wright is an explosive vertical threat with good hands that should turn into a nice secondary option behind WR Kenny Britt.

21. New England- DE/LB Chandler Jones, Syracuse

• The Patriots were delighted to still see Jones on the board and traded up six picks with Cincinnati to address their biggest need of a pass rushing outside linebacker. Jones has the talent to make the switch to outside linebacker in the 3-4 defense and has the size, athleticism, and pass rush ability to make a big impact for the Patriots.

22. Cleveland- QB Brandon Weeden, Oklahoma St.

• Quarterback is an area the Browns were looking to address in the draft. They have not been satisfied with QB Colt McCoy as the starter, and they possibly didn’t want to chance losing out on Weeden by waiting till the 2^nd Round. Weeden has outstanding arm strength being an ex-pitcher and brings good leadership skills and maturity to the Browns.

23. Detroit- OT Riley Reiff, Iowa

• Like Tennessee, the Lions would have liked one of the top three cornerbacks to drop to them here. They cannot believe their luck that Reiff, a Top-10 talent, was still on the board for them to address their aging offensive line. Reiff has the ability to step in right away as a right tackle or to be groomed to take over at left tackle. He uses excellent athleticism and fundamentals in pass protection and is a strong and aggressive mauler in the run game. The Lions got great value with this pick.

24. Pittsburgh- OG David DeCastro, Stanford

• The Steelers addressed one of their biggest needs with this pick. DeCastro is smart, tough, strong, aggressive, athletic, and has great fundamentals, and he fits the Pittsburgh offensive line perfectly. He will form a nice interior anchor with C Maurkice Pouncey.

25. New England- LB Donta Hightower, Alabama

• For the second time in this draft, the Patriots moved up six picks to select the player they desired- this time with Denver. Hightower is the perfect fit as an inside linebacker in the 3-4 defense. He does a nice job getting after the quarterback on a blitz but is still solid enough to drop back in pass coverage. Hightower really does a nice job finding the ball and stuffing the run, and he moves quite well from sideline to sideline for a player at 265-pounds.

26. Houston- DE Whitney Mercilus, Illinois

• The Texans lost two starting linebackers- one in free agency and one in a trade. Mercilus burst onto the scene last season and led all of college football in sacks (16) and forced fumbles (9). Mercilus certainly has the size, strength, ability, and athleticism to make the move to outside linebacker in the 3-4 defense and still have an impact as a pass rusher.

27. Cincinnati- OG Kevin Zeitler, Wisconsin

• The Bengals had a need along the interior of their offensive and were even able to move down in the draft and still get a quality guard in Zeitler. Zeitler is tough, well coached, has good fundamentals, and does a nice job in both run blocking and pass protection.

28. Green Bay- DE/LB Nick Perry, USC

• The Packers needed a pass rushing outside linebacker to play opposite Pro Bowl LB Clay Matthews, so they decided to take his former college teammate. Perry could be used as an undersized defensive end for the Packers, but they will most likely use him as a big outside linebacker in their 3-4 defense. He certainly has the size, speed, strength, and athleticism to be an outstanding pass rush threat from the linebacker position.

29. Minnesota- S Harrison Smith, Notre Dame

• The Vikings moved up six picks with Baltimore to get back into the 1^st Round to address a need in their defensive secondary. Minnesota did not want to miss out on Smith, who was the second best safety in a weak safety class and provides great value with this pick. Smith is a great leader from the safety position and has nice size, range, and savvy to be a quality starter.

30. San Francisco- WR A.J. Jenkins, Illinois

• The 49ers could have looked at the offensive guard position with this pick, but they decided to grab a vertical threat in Jenkins. Jenkins has very good hands and is very explosive when he has the ball in them. And on a team that had trouble moving the ball in the passing game, a vertical threat like Jenkins could be a valuable piece.

31. Tampa Bay- RB Doug Martin, Boise St.

• While the Bucs do already have LaGarrette Blount on the roster, he had some fumbling problems and was relatively ineffectively as a receiver out of the backfield. Martin is tough to bring to the ground, runs with a determined style, has good hands out of the backfield, can pick up the blitz in pass coverage, and rarely fumbles the ball. He’s a nice addition for Tampa whether as a starter or as a backup.

32. NY Giants- RB David Wilson, Virginia Tech

• The Giants lost RB Brandon Jacobs in free agency, and starting RB Ahmad Bradshaw has only played an entire 16-game season once in his four years as a pro due to injuries. While ball security is an issue Wilson will have to shore up, he has excellent speed, vision, receiving ability, athleticism, and moves to avoid tacklers to be a great combination with Bradshaw.

Five Best Value Picks:

1. DE/LB Melvin Ingram- Ingram was a Top-10 talent that dropped to the Chargers with the 18^th pick. Ingram will provide a much needed pass rush to the Charger defense.
2. OT Riley Reiff- Reiff is another Top-10 talent that dropped to the Lions with the 23^rd pick. The Lions offensive line are aging, and Detroit couldn’t be happier to have the 2^nd best offensive tackle in the draft drop all the way down to them here to a the very least be groomed to take over at left tackle or start now at right tackle.
3. OG David DeCastro- DeCastro dropped to the Steelers with the 24^th pick. The Steelers needed some help along their offensive line, and DeCastro will form a solid anchor with C Maurkice Pouncey.
4. DE/LB Chandler Jones- The Patriots traded up six picks to get Jones with the 21^st pick, but Jones will help provide a much needed pass rush from the outside linebacker position.
5. S Harrison Smith- The Vikings traded up six picks to get back into the 1^st Round to select Smith with the 29^th pick. Smith was the 2^nd best safety in a weak safety class and gives Minnesota some much needed help in their defensive secondary

Five Biggest Surprises/Reaches:

1. DE/LB Bruce Irvin- Irvin was picked by the Seattle Seahawks with the 15^th pick. Irvin has plenty of talent, but off-the-field issues and a decrease in production last season had him rated as more of a 3^rd Rounder rather than a mid-1^st Rounder. I thought DE/LB Melvin Ingram or DE/LB Chandler Jones would have been a better selection with this pick.
2. WR A.J. Jenkins- Jenkins was selected by the San Francisco 49ers with the 30^th pick. Jenkins is a great vertical threat, but I thought that WR Stephen Hill, who has just as much speed but also has the size at 6’4”, 215-pounds to go with it, would have been a better choice.
3. LB Shea McClellin- McClellin was drafted by the Chicago Bears with the 19^th pick. I like McClellin as a player and don’t have a problem with him being drafted in the 1^st Round or even in this area of the 1^st Round. I view McClellin more as an outside linebacker in a 3-4 defense than as a defensive end in a 4-3 defense. I thought that DE Whitney Mercilus or maybe even LB/DE Courtney Upshaw would have made more sense.
4. QB Brandon Weeden- Weeden was picked by the Cleveland Browns with the 22^nd pick. Weeden has great arm strength and is a born leader, and Cleveland is obviously not satisfied with QB Colt McCoy as the starter. I can understand the thinking that Weeden potentially wouldn’t be on the board when the Browns pick early in the 2^nd Round, so they grabbed him early. I think he would’ve still been on the board with the 5^th pick of the 2^nd Round, and I would’ve to wide receiver with Stephen Hill or offensive tackle with Riley Reiff.
5. RB David Wilson- Wilson was selected by the New York Giants with the 32^nd pick. I may be picking at straws here because a run on running backs could have been starting, but I thought the running back position could’ve been addressed in the 2^nd Round- potentially still getting Wilson then. Wilson is a great athlete, but he has some ball security issues. Offensive tackle would have been the position I addressed with this pick- Bobby Massie, Cordy Glenn, Jonathan Martin, or Mike Adams.

Top Ten Players Available in Round Two:

1. LB/DE Courtney Upshaw
2. LB Lavonte David
3. OG/OT Cordy Glenn
4. TE Coby Fleener
5. OT Bobby Massie
6. WR Stephen Hill
7. DT Jerel Worthy
8. OT Jonathan Martin
9. CB Janoris Jenkins
10. C Peter Konz

*Underlined denotes a top five value pick.

*Italicized denotes a top five reach or surprise pick.

The Detroit Lions' Draft Needs:

Last year was a little odd heading into the draft. Normally free agency is winding down, and an NFL team knows what areas he still needs to fill with their draft picks. Due to the lockout, the draft came first and the NFL needed free agency to fill in the holes. This year, with the holdout over, we are back to the way things were. This offseason, the Lions did more in terms of retaining their free agents than bringing in new players. In fact, the only starter that was lost from last season was CB Eric Wright. So now, with the 2012 NFL Draft about a week away, I want to touch on the areas the Detroit Lions still need to address.

1. Cornerback- This is a position that seems to be brought up as a draft need every year for the Lions. As mentioned above, the Lions lost starter Eric Wright in free agency to Tampa Bay. The Lions other starting cornerback, Chris Houston, is in the last year of his contract. The Lions did bring in free agent CB Jacob Lacey from Indianapolis, and they still have players on the roster that can contribute- Aaron Berry, Don Carey, Alphonso Smith, and Ross Weaver. Fast forward to the draft, and there are some very good prospects this year: Dwight “Bill Bentley (Louisuana-Lafayette), Morris Claiborne (LSU), Stephon Gilmore (South Carolina), Dre Kirkpatrick (Alabama), Janoris Jenkins (North Alabama), Trumaine Johnson (Montana), and Josh Robinson (Central Florida). Claiborne is the top prospect and should be long gone by the time the Lions pick at #23. Gilmore and Kirkpatrick are both very good prospects and could also off the board, but either one could just as easily slip done to the Lions. Jenkins is a top-15 talent but has had many off-field problems including drug use, and the Lions have stated that they will not take a chance on him. Bentley, Johnson, and Robinson might all be reaches at pick 23 but could be an option for the Lions in the 2^nd Round should that they still be on the board. A few more players that I think could deserve a look in the later rounds are: Omar Bolden (Arizona St.), Brandon Boykin (Georgia), Cliff Harris (Oregon), Casey Hayward (Vanderbilt), Coryell Judie (Texas A&M), Josh Norman (Costal Carolina), and Keith Tandy (West Virginia).
2. Offensive Tackle- Yet another position that seems to be brought up every year. Jeff Backus has been an ironman at left tackle since being drafted in the 1^st Round in 2001. During that span, Backus has never missed a game. At the same time, Backus has never been an elite left tackle in the NFL and could be near the end of his career. Gosder Cherilus was drafted in the 1^st Round in 2008 to play right tackle. When healthy, Cherilus has done a pretty good job at the position. Cherlius has not always been healthy however. Jason Fox was drafted in the 4^th Round in 2010 as a developmental player that could eventually take over for Backus at left tackle. Fox, like Cherilus, has also had trouble fighting off the injury bug. Last year the Lions drafted Johnny Culbreath in the 7^th Round as a developmental player. Culbreath will need some time to develop before he will be ready, but he also could have to serve a suspension this year after being arrested this some for possession of marijuana. The Lions also have Corey Hilliard, who has split time with Cherilus at right tackle and done a nice job. Looking at the draft, there are some very good prospects at this position as well: Mike Adams (Ohio St.), Jeff Allen (Illinois), Matt Kalil (USC), Bobby Massie (Ole Miss), Jonathan Martin (Stanford), Kelechi Osemele (Iowa St.), Riley Reiff (Iowa), and Zerbie Sanders (Florida St.). Kalil and Reiff are the top two offensive tackles in the draft and both should be off the board by the 23^rd pick. With the Lions probably looking more for a left tackle, Massie is probably not going to be the pick as he is considered more of a right tackle. Martin and Adams could still be on the board with the Lions 1^st pick if they wanted to address this position in the 1^st Round. Allen, Osemele, and Sanders would all receive consideration more in the 2^nd Round or later. A few more players that I think could deserve a look in the later rounds are: Tony Bergstrom (Utah), Andrew Datko (Florida St.), Matt McCants (Alabama-Birmingham), Brandon Mosley (Auburn), Nate Potter (Boise St.), and Bradley Sowell (Mississippi).
3. Running Back- After drafting Mikel Leshoure in the 2^nd Round last season to pair with 2010 1^st Round pick Jahvid Best, The Lions assumed this would be a position that wouldn’t need to be addressed for a little while. Unfortunately, Leshoure ruptured his Achilles tendon during preseason workouts and was lost for the season. This summer, he was arrested twice for possession of marijuana and could have to serve a suspension to start the season. Best was lost for the last six games of the season due to concussions. That leaves a lot of uncertainty at the position. Kevin Smith was re-signed halfway through the season and did a fantastic job as the starter until he suffered an injury…he was re-signed again for this season. The Lions also have Joique Bell, James Bryant, and Keiland Williams at the position. In the draft, there is only one prospect guaranteed to be picked in the 1^st Round- Trent Richardson (Alabama). Richardson will be one of the first five players off the board. There are good prospects that could potentially be drafted at the end of the 1^st Round and into the 3^rd or 4^th Round: Dan Herron (Ohio St.), LaMichael James (Oregon), Doug Martin (Boise St.), Lamar Miller (Miami FL), Isaiah Pead (Cincinnati), Chris Polk (Washington), and David Wilson (Virginia Tech). A few more players that I think could deserve a look in the later rounds are: Jonas Gray (Notre Dame), Jonathan Grimes (William & Mary), Alfred Morris (Florida Atlantic), and Tauren Poole (Tennessee).
4. Linebacker- The Lions have a nice starting unit in Justin Durant, DeAndre Levy, and Stephen Tulloch. Durant and Levy both have had durability issues, and there lies the problem. The only other two linebackers on the team are special team standout Ashlee Palmer and 2011 5^th Round pick Doug Hogue. Bobby Carpenter signed with the New England Patriots as a free agent this offseason. The Lions need depth and youth at the position. Looking at the plenty of good prospects at both inside linebacker and outside linebacker. The top prospects at inside linebacker are: Vontaze Burfict (Arizona St.), Donta’ Hightower (Alabama), Mychal Kendricks (California), and Luke Kuechly (Boston College). Kuechly is the top inside linebacker and will most likely be gone by the Lions first pick. Burfict has the talent to be the top inside linebacker, but he is too reckless on the field and hurts his team with unnecessary penalties (unsportsmanlike penalties and such). Hightower really fits more as an inside linebacker in a 3-4 defense. Kendricks is an interesting prospect due to his speed and his versatility of experience at both inside or outside. A few more prospects to take a look at in the later rounds are: Tank Carder (TCU), Audie Cole (N.C. St.), Jerry Franklin (Arkansas), and Chris Marve (Vanderbilt). The top prospects at outside linebacker are: Zach Brown (North Carolina), Lavonte David (Nebraska), Demario Davis (Arkansas St.), Ronnell Lewis (Oklahoma), Terrell Manning (N.C. St.), and Shea McClellin (Boise St.). Courtney Upshaw could also be included in this group as he could play outside linebacker in a 3-4 defense, and he should be a 1^st Round pick. David is probably the best true outside linebacker. Look for David and McClellin to possibly slip into the end of the 1^st Round.
5. Safety- The Lions drafted Louis Delmas in 2009, and he has done a nice job when healthy. Amari Spievey was drafted in 2010 as a cornerback and eventually moved to safety. Spievey has had his moments but has been inconsistent as he is still trying to learn the position. Erik Coleman was brought in last year to solidify the safety position, but he broke his leg 4 games into the season. The Lions also have Ricardo Silva and John Wendling, but both players are more backups and special team contributors than starters. There are a few nice players in the draft that could be looked at in the first two rounds: Antonio Allen (South Carolina), Mark Barron (Alabama), and Harrison Smith (Notre Dame). Barron could very well be gone by the 23^rd pick, and Allen and Smith are both considered to be 2^nd Round picks. A few more players that I think could deserve a look in the later rounds are: Winston Guy (Kentucky), Delano Howell (Stanford), Jerron McMillian (Maine), Phillip Thomas (Syracuse), and Eddie Whitley (Virginia Tech).

Michigan Sports Chat's 2012 Mock Draft:

1. Indianapolis- QB Andrew Luck, Stanford

Once the Colts secured the 1^st pick of the draft, they released their franchise QB Peyton Manning this offseason knowing full-well that they would be selecting Luck with this pick. As draft guru Mel Kiper has put it, Luck is the best quarterback prospect he has graded since John Elway in 1983. So the Colts released a Pro Bowl quarterback to make way for an eventual Pro Bowl quarterback.

• Secondary Option: QB Robert Griffin III, Baylor
• Third Option: None

2. Washington- QB Robert Griffin III, Baylor

The Redskins traded their 1^st and 2^nd Round picks this year, 1^st Round pick in 2013, and 1^st Round pick in 2014 to move up 4 spots in the draft to select the quarterback that the Colts do not. With the Colts taking Luck, the Redskins will happily select Griffin. Griffin is very athletic with a great arm and nice touch.

• Secondary Option: QB Andrew Luck, Stanford
• Third Option: None

3. Minnesota- OT Matt Kalil, USC

The Vikings no longer have OT Bryant McKinnie to protect the quarterback and open running holes for Pro Bowler Adrian Peterson. Kalil has been the best left tackle in the country the past two years and fills a big area of need for the Vikings

• Secondary Option: CB Morris Claiborne, LSU
• Third Option: WR Justin Blackmon, Oklahoma St.

4. Cleveland- RB Trent Richardson, Alabama

The Browns are a little unsure of QB Colt McCoy as their franchise quarterback. With the two premier quarterbacks already off the board however, look for the Browns to add a tremendous offensive weapon to their attack in the form of Richardson. Richardson is a prototypical workhorse running back with speed, good hands out of the backfield, and great ball security.

• Secondary Option: WR Justin Blackmon, Oklahoma St.
• Third Option: QB Ryan Tannehill, Texas A&M

5. Tampa Bay- CB Morris Claiborne, LSU

The Bucs want either Richardson or Claiborne with this pick, and they will be more than happy to get Claiborne with Richardson off the board already. There is a lot of uncertainty at the corner position with Aqib Talib facing a felony gun charge and Ronde Barber returning for another season at age 37. The Bucs signed CB Eric Wright from the Detroit Lions to a 5-year deal, but knowing for sure that they have a player like Claiborne to man the other side is priceless.

• Secondary Option: RB Trent Richardson, Alabama
• Third Option: WR Justin Blackmon, Oklahoma St.

6. St. Louis- WR Justin Blackmon, Oklahoma St.

The Rams traded away the 2^nd pick in the draft to the Redskins because they already have a franchise quarterback in Sam Bradford. While they do miss out on Kalil or Claiborne by moving down 4 spots, they will be very satisfied to still give Bradford a receiving target like Blackmon. Blackmon used his good body size, great hands, good speed, and tremendous work ethic to win the Biletnikoff Award for the top wide receiver the past two seasons, and he should have no problem transitioning to the NFL.

• Secondary Option: OT Riley Reiff, Iowa
• Third Option: DT Fletcher Cox, Mississippi St.

7. Jacksonville- DE Melvin Ingram, South Carolina

The Jaguars could use a good receiving option like Blackmon, but they also need help at defensive end. The Jags have not gotten the production they were hoping for when they signed DE Aaron Kampman as a free agent two years ago. They need someone to tandem with DE Jeremy Mincey, who led the team with 8 sacks last year.

• Secondary Option: DE Quinton Coples, North Carolina
• Third Option: WR Michael Floyd, Notre Dame

8. Miami- QB Ryan Tannehill, Texas A&M

The Dolphins were unable to entice QB Peyton Manning, QB Matt Flynn, or QB Alex Smith to join the fold, and they have been unable to find a franchise quarterback since Dan Marino. Tannehill does not have a ton of experience at quarterback having started his college career at wide receiver, but he shows a strong arm and good decision-making skills.

• Secondary Option: WR Michael Floyd, Notre Dame
• Third Option: OT Riley Reiff, Iowa

9. Carolina- DT Michael Brockers, LSU

The Carolina offense was able to put points on the board and get leads last season, but the defense was often unable to hold onto the lead. The Panthers have a lot of options with this pick on the defensive side of the ball. One glaring need is at defensive tackle. Brockers does a good job against the run and can get to the quarterback. With some coaching, Brockers has the potential to be a Pro Bowler.

• Secondary Option: DT Fletcher Cox, Mississippi St.
• Third Option: DT Dontari Poe, Memphis

10. Buffalo- OT Riley Reiff, Iowa

The Bills addressed their need at defensive end during free agency and can now focus on protecting the quarterback with this pick. Reiff is easily the 2^nd-best offensive tackle in this draft class. He can play either tackle position as he is the best tackle in this draft when it comes to both the pass- and run-blocking.

• Secondary Option: WR Michael Floyd, Notre Dame
• Third Option: LB Luke Kuechly, Boston College

11. Kansas City- DT Dontari Poe, Memphis

The Chiefs switched to a 3-4 defense last year and used Kelly Gregg at nose tackle. With Gregg now retired, the Chiefs shouldn’t pass on Poe, who is a space-eater with a lot of potential.

• Secondary Option: LB Luke Kuechly, Boston College
• Third Option: OG David DeCastro, Stanford

12. Seattle- LB Luke Kuechly, Boston College

The linebacker position, which used to be a position of strength and depth for the Seahawks, is now their biggest need, and the Seahawks will not believe their luck that a player of Kuechly caliber fell to them at this spot. Kuechly was a tackling-machine in college and brings great instincts with him to the NFL.

• Secondary Option: DE Quinton Coples, North Carolina
• Third Option: OG David DeCastro, Stanford

13. Arizona- WR Michael Floyd, Notre Dame

The offensive tackle position is one of need, but the Cardinals will be happy to grab Floyd a compliment to Pro Bowl WR Larry Fitzgerald with no tackles on the board really warranting this pick. Floyd has good speed, great hands, great size, and runs good routes. He should give Kolb another option when Fitzgerald is double-covered.

• Secondary Option: DE Quinton Coples, North Carolina
• Third Option: OG/OT Cordy Glenn, Georgia

14. Dallas- OG David DeCastro, Stanford

The Cowboys need to keep QB Tony Romo protected if they are going to succeed, and DeCastro fills an area of need at offensive guard. DeCastro is an excellent blocker in both the running- and passing-game and could easily be a future Pro Bowler.

• Secondary Option: S Mark Barron, Alabama
• Third Option: DT Fletcher Cox, Mississippi St.

15. Philadelphia- S Mark Barron, Alabama

There are no OLB for the 4-3 defense or offensive tackles worthy of this pick, so the Eagles will choose to improve their pass defense. Barron is good in pass-coverage but can also come up into the box and lay a big hit on an opponent.

• Secondary Option: DT Fletcher Cox, Mississippi St.
• Third Option: OT Jonathan Martin, Stanford

16. NY Jets- DE/LB Courtney Upshaw, Alabama

The Jets need to get more pressure on opposing quarterbacks and need to get more production from their outside linebackers. Upshaw has the size to be a defensive end in a 4-3 scheme, but he has the talent and athleticism to play linebacker. With his power and pass-rush ability, Upshaw should help the Jets get to the quarterback more often as a pass-rushing OLB in their 3-4 defense.

• Secondary Option: DE/LB Chandler Jones, Syracuse
• Third Option: DT Fletcher Cox, Mississippi St.

17. Cincinnati- DE Quinton Coples, North Carolina

The Bengals have other areas of need, but I think Coples may be too good to turn down with this pick. Coples has the size, athleticism, and talent to become a good defensive end in the NFL.

• Secondary Option: OG/OT Cordy Glenn, Georgia
• Third Option: CB Stephon Gilmore, South Carolina

18. San Diego- DT/DE Fletcher Cox, Mississippi St.

The Chargers have question marks on defense, and they should be ecstatic to have Cox fall to them at this pick. While little under-rated, Cox is a disruptor on the defensive line and should help the Chargers get pressure on the quarterback from the defensive end position.

• Secondary Option: DE/LB Chandler Jones, Syracuse
• Third Option: CB Stephon Gilmore, South Carolina

19. Chicago- CB Stephon Gilmore, South Carolina

The Bears could use an upgrade at defensive end and at offensive tackle, but Gilmore is the top rated player of some need on the board. Gilmore, probably the most complete cornerback in the draft, has been moving up draft boards lately and will add much needed cover skills and excellent tackling from the position to the Bears defense.

• Secondary Option: OT Jonathan Martin, Stanford
• Third Option: DE Whitney Mercilus, Illinois

20. Tennessee- CB Dre Kirkpatrick, Alabama

The Titans will be happy to get either Gilmore or Kirkpatrick with this pick after losing CB Cortland Finnegan in free agency. Kirkpatrick has the skills to step in immediately as a starter and fills a glaring hole in the Titans defense.

• Secondary Option: CB Janoris Jenkins, North Alabama
• Third Option: DE Whitney Mercilus, Illinois

21. Cincinnati- OG/OT Cordy Glenn, Georgia

The Bengals took a chance at pick #17 by taking the talent DE and hoping Glenn would still be on the board at this spot. The gamble paid off, and the Bengals gain some much needed help on the offensive line. Glenn is a big man with athleticism and the versatility to play both guard positions and right tackle.

• Secondary Option: CB Janoris Jenkins, North Alabama
• Third Option: WR Kendall Wright, Baylor

22. Cleveland- WR Kendall Wright, Baylor

The Browns could reach a little by drafting a quarterback here, but they will most likely decide to gamble that the QB they want will still be there in the early stages of Round 2. Wright is an explosive vertical threat with good hands and should give the Browns a quality receiving option.

• Secondary Option: WR Stephen Hill, Georgia Tech
• Third Option: QB Brandon Weeden, Oklahoma St.

23. Detroit- OT Jonathan Martin, Stanford

A bigger need for Detroit is at cornerback, but the Lions will not take a chance on the talented, but troubled CB Janoris Jenkins. Instead the Lions will be happy to select Martin to eventually take over for the aging LT Jeff Backus. Martin is an athletic tackle that protected the blind-side of Andrew Luck for the past three seasons. Martin is however a much better finesse pass blocker than a physical run blocker.

• Secondary Option: OT Mike Adams, Ohio St.
• Third Option: DE Whitney Mercilus, Illinois

24. Pittsburgh- LB Donta’ Hightower, Alabama

The Steelers could look to shore up their offensive line, but I don’t think they’ll be able to turn down drafting Hightower with this pick. There are not too many players that are the perfect fit for a team, but Hightower is the perfect 3-4 inside linebacker for the Steelers. He should be a good addition to this tremendous defense.

• Secondary Option: OT Mike Adams, Ohio St.
• Third Option: CB Janoris Jenkins, North Alabama

25. Denver- DT Jerel Worthy, Michigan St.

The Broncos attention is on the defensive side of the ball with defensive tackle being the most glaring need. With the top three defensive tackles already off the board, Denver may look to trade down. While Worthy may be a bit of a reach with this pick, he is very strong and quick in the gap and should occupy the center and guard to allow the linebackers to flow to the ball.

• Secondary Option: CB Janoris Jenkins, North Alabama
• Third Option: WR Stephen Hill, Georgia Tech

26. Houston- WR Stephen Hill, Georgia Tech

The Texans have had Pro Bowl WR Andre Johnson has missed 12 games the past two seasons due to injury, and they need to find a wide receiver that can be the top option. Hill is a big receiver with good hands and good speed. He is still a little raw and needs some work on his route-running, but he could form a nice tandem with Johnson while he continues to learn.

• Secondary Option: DE/LB Chandler Jones, Syracuse
• Third Option: OT Mike Adams, Ohio St.

27. New England- OLB Shea McClellan, Boise St.

The Patriots have one of the better offenses in the NFL. Their defense, however, needs some work. Look for New England to address the defense early and often in this draft. McClellan showed tremendous intelligence on the field and is relentless in his efforts to get to the football. He shows the ability to rush the passer or drop into coverage. He should be a welcome addition to the Patriots defense.

• Secondary Option: DE/LB Chandler Jones, Syracuse
• Third Option: S Harrison Smith, Notre Dame

28. Green Bay- DE/LB Whitney Mercilus, Illinois

The Packers defense had trouble getting to the quarterback last season. Look for them to look for a linebacker opposite Pro Bowl LB Clay Matthews. Mercilus led the nation with 16 sacks and 9 forced fumbles last season. While Green Bay probably would have preferred to have McClellan drop one more spot as to not have to draft a defensive end and transition him to outside linebacker, Mercilus is definitely athletic enough to make the switch and still produce.

• Secondary Option: DE/LB Chandler Jones, Syracuse
• Third Option: S Harrison Smith, Notre Dame

29. Baltimore- S Harrison Smith, Notre Dame

The Ravens will not reach for an offensive guard with this pick, which is their most glaring need. Look for them to address the guard position in Round Two. Instead, the Ravens will look to draft for depth and youth for their defense. S Ed Reed is 33-years-old and has had a few durability issues, and S Bernard Pollard is in the last year of his contract. Smith has good size, range, and intelligence to provide the Ravens a good backup or even a potential starter in the event of an injury.

• Secondary Option: DE/LB Chandler Jones, Syracuse
• Third Option: C Peter Konz, Wisconsin

30. San Francisco- DE/LB Chandler Jones, Syracuse

Like the Ravens, San Francisco has a hole at offensive guard that they will need to address later in the draft. And while the wide receiver position was addressed a couple times in free agency, the Niners probably wouldn’t have minded WR Stephen Hill to drop to them here or could look at WR Brian Quick. Jones, like the Niners 1^st Round pick last year- OLB Aldon Smith, is a college defensive end that knows how to get to the quarterback and has the ability to make the switch to a 3-4 outside linebacker. San Francisco will hope that they have as much success converting Jones as they did Smith.

• Secondary Option: WR Brian Quick, Appalachian St.
• Third Option: CB Janoris Jenkins, North Alabama

31. New England- DT/DE Derek Wolfe, Cincinnati

I could have seen the Patriots maybe taking a chance on CB Janoris Jenkins with this pick until it was reported that he continued to have drug issues at North Alabama. I still think the Patriots will draft on the defensive side of the ball with this pick, and Wolfe seems like a nice option for them here. Wolfe is a defensive tackle that has enough pass rush ability to slide over to defensive end in a 3-4 defense. Wolfe has great strength and brings a relentless and rugged approach to the game.

• Secondary Option: WR Brian Quick, Appalachian St.
• Third Option: CB Janoris Jenkins, North Alabama

32. NY Giants- TE Coby Fleener, Stanford

The Giants have lost both starting tight ends (and Beckum) to injury. Fleener is the top tight end in the draft. Fleener is big, sure-handed, and has the speed to stretch the field. While blocking is not a real strength of his, Fleener can hold his own in that department.

• Secondary Option: OT Bobby Massie, Mississippi
• Third Option: OT Mike Adams, Ohio St.