2015 NFL Draft – Rounds 2 & 3

Day 2 is where the real scouting departments show off their stuff. It’s easy to identify great players, but from here on out each player has some type of flaw be it big or small. Here’s how it went down.

The Giants select: Landon Collins, Strong Safety, Alabama

This is one of the most sound defensive players in the draft. Collins was a mainstay for the Crimson Tide and while he is not the quickest player out there, his savvy and willingness to lay the wood on opposing ballcarriers is undeniable. Big Blue needed to get a defensive player early and Collins at worst can be a 1st and 2nd down safety and a 3rd down linebacker. At best, he could be a longtime starter and eventual captain.

Grade: B+

Tampa Bay selects: Donovan Smith, Offensive Tackle, Penn State

After grabbing Winston in round one, this pick makes sense. Even though there are knocks on his motivation and work ethic, I have to commend this young man for sticking with Penn State through the dark times post-scandal and bowl ban.

Grade: B

Oakland selects: Mario Edwards Junior, Defensive End/Tackle, Florida State

Oakland has been on point with their picks thusfar in the draft and Mario is the type of player who will find a spot even if he doesn’t have a defined spot coming out of school. He’s got a pedigree (father played DB for the Cowboys) and even though his numbers weren’t through the roof, he was a top prospect out of high school and a mainstay on a stingy Florida State defense.

Grade: A

Jacksonville selects: TJ Yeldon, Running Back, Alabama

Another great value pick to start off the second round. Yeldon would have been a workhorse starter on just about every other team in the nation but the crowded Bama backfield made it tough for him to shine as much as he could. Despite the shared time he still got his yards and always seemed to have an answer when the Tide needed a big play.

Grade: A

The Jets select: Devin Smith, Wideout, Ohio (State)

The Jets just solidified their first pick with a monster of a #2 pick. Smith is a big game, big play type of wide receiver. The deep ball is his specialty and that doesn’t just mean he runs faster than his defender. He tracks the ball better than anyone else, understands how to highpoint passes, and can make tough catches in traffic. Billed as a one trick pony, he is going to be a much needed addition to the Jets anemic offense

Grade: A

Washington selects: Preston Smith, Defensive End, Mississippi State

The skins need help all across the board and Smith is a solid, but not great addition to the defense that struggled to be consistent. He had a good senior year and benefited from the extra year. Kiper thinks he was a a first rounder, time will tell.

Grade: B+

Chicago selects: Eddie Goldman, Nosetackle, Florida State 

With a personal commendation from a Bears legend before the pick, Chicago and the fans appeared to love the pick. So do I, Goldman is the stubby type of nostetackle that has enough athletic ability to stick around for every down. The Bears needed defense, and they got another key piece to the Nole’s championship defense.

Grade: A-

Tennesee (from Giants) select: Dorial Green-Beckham, Wideout, Mizzou/Oklahoma

The former top prospect is long, strong, and talented. However, his small hands and off the field issues ranging from pot charges to domestic violence dropped him out of the first round and could have caused a further slip. He’s one of those players where if he behaves himself and learns to be a pro, he could be a probowler. If not, he’ll end up another statistic.

Grade: B

Carolina selects: Devin Funchess, Wideout, Michigan

With the addition of Funchess the Panthers and Cam Newton have two of the best vertical threats in the younger half of the league. Funchess is a tough player to evaluate as he spent the majority of his career on a Michigan team that was in a state of disarray with no true quarterback throwing him the ball. He does have a drop problem (almost 9% drop rate) but he’s got strength and agility rare for a player his size.

Grade: B+

Atlanta selects: Jalen Collins, Cornerback, LSU

Jalen is talented and has all the traits you want from a corner but with a limited amount of starts it is hard to judge how he’ll fare against NFL competition. Again, the Falcons need help on defense and if he pans out, he could be one of the bigger steals of this years draft.

Grade: B-

Houston (from Cleveland) selects: Benardrick McKinney, Inside Backer, Mississippi State

With each passing pick, Houston is getting stronger on defense. McKinney is fearless against the run and though he may not be as fast as some would like, he is the heady, classic style of inside backer that isn’t going to dissappear from the NFL.

Grade: A-

New Orleans selects: Hau’oli Kikaha, Outside Linebacker, Washington

With Kikaha, if you are a slave to the combine, you hate this pick. Personally, I am not and this kid’s tape is extraordinary. He was a sack machine in his final year on a staunch Washington defense. Don’t look at his workout numbers. Look at his tape and his stats. As long as the 4.9 40 yard dash isn’t his downfall, he could be another big steal in round 2.

Grade: A

Minnesota Selects: Eric Kendricks, Inside Backer, UCLA

Continuing the run on linebackers in round 2, the Vikings went for the hyper productive Kendricks who is a tackling machine. Minnesota’s linebacking core is aging and underperforming. Kendricks could be a ten year starter in the NFL if he plays to his potential.

Grade: A

San Fran selects: Jaquiski Tartt, Safety, Samford

Super talented, yet super raw. The small school standout only played one year of high school ball but shined in the FCS ranks. Risky pick for the 9ers but, he’s another guy who’s tape matches his 4.47 40 time.

Grade: B

Philly (from MIA) selects: Eric Rowe, Defensive Back, Utah

Rowe started 45 of 47 games at Utah. Playing multiple positions and doing them all well, Rowe is the nifty type of defensive back that is trending in the NFL as the offenses continue to spread out. Good in the open field and good in coverage. Projects as a corner, but has the skills to keep himself on the field for every down.

Grade: B+

San Diego selects: Denzel Perryman, Inside Backer, Da U

He wore number 52 for the Hurricanes and lived up to every ounce of that. Perryman is the best backer in this years draft and the Chargers just grabbed an instant starter and possible pro bowler in the future. There’s nothing he can’t do from a defensive standpoint. Love this kid.

Grade: A

Kansas City selects: Mitch Morse, Offensive Guard, Mizzou

He’s your standard tough and gritty interior lineman who can play stiff at times. The Chiefs needed to shore up the o-line and he was a solid, but not flashy pick that filled a need.

Grade: B-

Buffalo selects: Ronald Darby, Cornerback, Florida State

Ronald Darby was yet another key piece to the Noles defense. He’s fast and built well but has moments where he may miss a tackle. Good speed, great technique, but time will tell to see if he was a product of a good system or a product of his own ability.

Grade: A-

Cleveland (from Houston) selects: Nate Orchard, Defensive End, Utah

The former wideout is still developing his skills as an end. However, with double digit sack totals in his final year, he’s shown that he is only getting better from here on out. He’s not fast in drills, but he’s fast on the field.

Grade: B+

Miami selects: Jordan Phillips, Nosetackle, Oklahoma

Phillips was not super productive but his stature alone makes him look the part. Tough, and experienced, the 320+ pounder will continue to plug up running lanes in the NFL but I don’t know if he has pro bowl skills. This is round 2, so not a terrible pick.

Grade: B-

Cincy selects: Jake Fisher, Offensive Tackle, Oregon

Jake is a huge reason for the Ducks’ success over the past few years. When he wasn’t playing, the Ducks’ offense scored almost 10 less points per game. He’s better than you think, and if he can keep himself on the field, the Bengals will have a longtime starter at left tackle.

Grade: A

Detroit selects: Ameer Abdullah, Running Back, Nebraska

I wanted Duke Johnson, but, Ameer is more than a consolation prize. He was super productive and has all the character and little things that make a player great. His biggest issue is ball security but with the Lions’ multiple attack, he won’t have to be an every down back. Some compare him to Sproles, and that is not a bad person to be compared to.

Grade: A-

Baltimore (from Arizona) selects: Maxx Williams, Tight End, Minnesota

He could have stayed for another two years to develop, but when your whole family has made a living in the NFL, why not? Maxx is a stretch tight end that can offer you a lot of options in your gameplan week to week. The Ravens need to give Flacco more weapons and Williams should fit that bill.

Grade: B+

Pittsburgh selects: Senquez Golson, Cornerback, Ole Miss

Golson has a true knack for the ball. He is always around it, and he creates his own opportunities as well. Not afraid to hit, but could use some polishing in his all around game. Should start day 1 for the Steelers.

Grade: A-

St Louis selects: Robert Haventsein, Offensive Tackle, Wisconsin

Nasty, a little chubby, but uber talented and looks to be another Wisconson lineman who fits right in at the pro level. Great hand punch and surprising agility for a guy that frankly doesn’t look athletic at all. Arrived at Wisconsin weighing 380 and dropped down to the 330 range for his playing weight.

Grade: A

Arizona selects: Marcus Golden, Defensive End, Mizzou

Stubby arms are the biggest knock on Golden. Billed as the “other” pass rusher for Mizzou, he still tallied double digit sacks in his final year and battled his way back from dropping out of high school and a short JUCO career. Not a fan of short armed defensive ends, but his tape is solid.

Grade: B

Denver selects: Ty Sambrailo, Offensive Tackle, Colorado State

A world ranked skier and snowboarder, he is fearless. Can play left tackle or guard in the NFL. Nice hands and good feet. Not overly mean or nasty but he’s started everywhere on the line besides center.

Grade: A-

Dallas selects: Randy Gregory, Outside backer, Nebraska

Arguably the best edge rusher but stock crashed after he tested positive for weed at the draft. Lead the B1G in QB hurries his last two years and has the skills to do it at the next level. He’ll need to bulk up to play his game at the next level. Bottom line, he didn’t rape, beat, steal, or kill anyone and a weed problem can be overcome. Hopefully he uses his time in the Chicago green room to motivate him and keep him clean. If he does, watch out NFC East.

Grade: A

Tampa Bay selects: Ali Marpet, Offensive Lineman, Hobart

Dominant at his level of play. Sneaky athletic abilty, and had a great combine and senior bowl. Biggest question is the obvious one, does division 3 translate to the NFL? In a few games at his level he was picking players up off the ground and dropping them. Exciting value pick for the Bucs as they shore up their offensive line.

Grade: A

Green Bay selects: Quinten Rollins, Cornerback/Point Guard, Miami (OH)

Love this pick. Love this player. Rollins was a one year wonder for the Redhawks and can only get better from here. If he doesn’t start day 1, he will be a full time starter year 2.

Grade: A-

Seattle selects: Frank Clark, Defensive End, Michigan

Troubled past and not enough to tape to warrant a pick at this point in the draft. Size is good, character and tape are lackluster.

Grade: C-

Patriots select: Jordan Richards, Safety, Stanford

This kid might as well have been a Patriot before the draft even started. Super heady and aware of his position on the football field at all times. Captain and quarterback of the Cardinal defense. Great size, not the best timed speed but that isn’t a big deal with the safety spot at the next level. Once again, the Pats find the guy others may have overlooked.

Grade: A

Indy selects: D’Joun Smith, Cornerback, FAU

D’Joun is another one of the big time small school prospects in this years draft. Sound technique but the big question is how will he stack up against big time wideouts in the NFL>

Grade: B

Tennessee selects: Jermiah Poutasi, Offensive Guard, Utah

This is a guy I really became a fan of after I did more research. Absolutely enormous and great in the run game. If they want to get the full potential out of Mariota, this was a great place to start. Given his size, he is mobile enough. In the run game though? Poutasi should make an instant impact.

Grade: A-

Jacksonville selects: AJ Cann, Offensive Guard, South Carolina

You can’t go through Cann. You can go around him though. Not a great athlete, but if he makes contact, the defender is removed for the play. Started 51 of 52 games.

Grade: B+

Oakland selects: Clive Walford, Tight End, Miami

Not in love with this pick, but some people love this guy. Set records at Miami for tight ends and has great size to translate to the next level. Great hands, only fumbled once in 3 years. 7 touchdowns in his senior year. Could be a big surprise, though.

Grade: B+

Seattle selects: Tyler Lockett, Wideout, Kansas State

Lockett is the best value pick of the 2nd and 3rd round. Should be an instant impact for the Seahawks. Wilson need someone to blow the top off the defense and the Hawks just got it in the former Wildcat Captain.

Grade: A

Houston (from the Jets) select: Jaelen Strong, Wideout, Arizona State

Looks the part of an NFL wideout. Good size, good speed, but his hands are the most impressive part of his game. He can make contact catches and had his way with the PAC-12. Houston needed someone to throw the ball to and he may not blow up right away but he looks to be the type of player that comes on in the second half of his rookie year.

Grade: B+

Chicago selects: Hroniss Grasu, Center, Oregon

Just big enough for size to not be an issue and something has to be said for a guy that started all 52 games at Oregon. Their offense, despite how spread out it may be, was prolific because of line play. Skill players come and go but Grasu was a stump in the middle of the line and is smart enough to work his way into a starting role.

Grade: B+

St Louis selects: Jamon Brown, Offensive Tackle, Louisville

Big fella both in the vertical and horizontal sense of the word. For the Rams to get the best return on their investment with Gurley they need to make sure they have the blockers up front. A member of a strong offense throughout 2 different coordinators, the big fella should fit in nicely in St Louis.

Grade: B

Atlanta selects: Tevin Coleman, Running Back, Indiana

Atlanta got a steal in Coleman at this point in the draft. Fantastic on the field production and good both as an inside and outside runner. Only knock on Coleman is that he runs too upright. They need the help in the run game as the Steven Jackson experiment didn’t pan out.

Grade: A

The Giants select: Owamagbe Odighizuwa, Defensive End, UCLA

Big Blue has a knack for finding great defensive lineman all throughout the draft but have not been as successful in recent years. Odighizuwa is not a pass rusher but is a classic run stuffer who can hold the edge against more physical teams. Motor is not the issue, athleticism and health are a concern after a few surgeries hampered his production.

Grade: C+

Nola selects: Garret Grayson, Quarterback, Colorado State

Billed as one of if not the strongest arm in the draft, Grayson looks to be the incumbent starter for the waning Drew Brees. Great value grab by the Saints who will probably be in a state of flux for the next few years.

Grade: A

Kansas City (from Minnesota) selects: Chris Conley, Wideout, Georgia

KC needs help at wide receiver after being in the bottom of the league for TD’s caught by wideouts. Conley, has good size and blazing speed to go with his his solid on field production. However, the NFL is not a track meet and for him to be effective he needs to polish his routes and learn the finer points of the position at the next level. Ran a 4.35 40 yard dash and had a 45 inch vertical jump.

Grade: B+

Cleveland selects: Duke Johnson, Running Back, Da U

One of my favorite backs in this years draft. Duke is a do it all back who broke records at Miami and considering the running back pedigree from there, something has to be said for that. Smooth runner who gained weight and didn’t lose any speed. Would have loved to see him on a more consistent team.

Grade: A

Nola (from Miami) selects: PJ Williams, Cornerback, Florida State

The other corner from the Noles championship defense, PJ is the more physical of the two that declared this year. Could be a free safety if he bulked up. Defends a lot of passes but his aggressive style leads to him getting beat as well. With some refining, he could be better than advertised as a corner if he clears up mistakes and stays out of trouble. Had a DUI dismissed earlier this year.

Grade: B

San Fran selects: Eli Harold, Outside Backer, Virginia

Can play in a 3-4 or a 4-3 style defense and has the stuff you want out of a guy on the edge of your defense. Prison style body with a much more developed top half but doesn’t let it hinder his game too much. Second Team All-ACC in his final year and lead the team in tackles for loss. Great fit for a defense that likes do-it-all types of players.

Grade: B+

Detroit (from Minnesota through Kansas City) selects: Alex Carter, Cornerback, Stanford

Detroit hit a home run by addressing big needs with their first three picks without overdrafting them. The Lions have to be fond of Carter who they traded up to get. Honorable mention for the PAC-12 every year he played so you know that he his consistent. I worry about him covering shiftier wideouts as he struggles with double moves and doesn’t have the change of direction or recovery to make mistakes at the next level. With that said, he is a smart player who has good size and can tackle well enough for a nickelback.

Grade: B+

Buffalo selects: John Miller, Offensive Guard, Louisville

Offensive lineman is one of those spots where you can have enough depth. With the addition of Shady in the offseason it is in the Bills best interest to make sure they can protect their investment. Miller played well in a multiple offense and had 47 career starts. Questionable pass pro overshadowed by overall talent.

Grade: B

The Jets (from Houston) select: Lorenzo Mauldin, Outside Linebacker, Louisville

Huge for an outside backer. Mauldin is one of those great players who couldn’t have had a more difficult time growing up. Lived in a group home in highschool and was spurned by the Gamecocks the day before signing day. Lead team in sacks in 2012 and was 1st team All-ACC in his final year. Great character makeup and one of those players that it hard to root against.

Grade: B+

San Diego selects: Craig Magor, Cornerback, Texas State

Small school prospect who played above his competition. Started 46 of 48 career games and is another guy who’s character transcends his upbringing. Lost his Mother to an incident of Malpractice and took on a parental role for his younger siblings, so you know that he is fighting for more than just himself. Ran a 4.44 40 yard dash and had a 38 inch vertical so it will be interesting to see his story pan out.

Grade: B

Philly selects: Jordan Hicks, Outside Linebacker, Texas

10 inch hands and a 147 tackles in his final year at UT. The Longhorn linebacker has a great upside and got markedly better under the guidance of Charlie Strong. Does all of the little things that great players in the league do off the field. He will stick in the league, it’s just a matter of how hard.

Grade: A-

Cincy selects: Tyler Kroft, Tight End, Rutgers

A former wideout, Kroft has just enough speed to make him a vertical threat. Good size, but isn’t a natural pass catcher and according to scouts, lets too many balls hit his chest rather than extending and high pointing the ball.

Grade: B

Arizona selects: David Johnson, Running Back, Northern Iowa

Still no QB for the Cards, but they are putting pieces in place to make their offense more effective. Fast, but not quick. Good size for RB at 220lbs and a natural pass catcher who runs good routes and can be a mistmatch for linebackers.

Grade: B-

Pittsburgh selects: Sammie Coates, Wideout, Auburn

Big play wideout on a championship caliber team. Averaged 20 yards a catch but has some serious focus problems that lead to drops that shouldn’t happen. Good wideouts in the league have a box of tools to use and he doesn’t have that many outside of his turn and burn skills. Went off against Alabama for over 200 yards. Doesn’t need to be the man in the Steelers offense so his value as a slot guy is better than a right away style of contributor. Boom or bust type of player who could be scary if he figures out the game.

Grade: A-

Minnesota (from Detroit) selects: Danielle Hunter, Defensive End, LSU

In a continued effort to shore up the defense the Vikes opted for the Tigers defensive end. Prototype size and speed along with 23 consecutive starts. Lead the Tigers in tackles for loss but not a natural pass rusher by any extent as reflected by low sack totals. Sub 4.6 40 makes him an attractive draw despite low sack totals in the pass happy NFC North.

Grade: B+

St Louis (from Carolina) selects: Sean Mannion, Oregon State

All-PAC 12 selection over Brett Hundley. Mannion is obviously an insurance policy for newly acquired Nick Foles. Not super flashy but another player who does the little things well. 4 year starter who is calculated in everything he does. Speed is not the name of his game. Classic pocket QB at 6’6 who shouldn’t have passes batted away at the line.

Grade: B-

Baltimore selects: Carl Davis, Defensive Tackle, Iowa

They make em big and they make em strong out there in Iowa. Toughness is a prerequisite for any lineman on either side of the ball for the Hawkeyes. Big, long, and strong at 6’5 320 but doesn’t hustle and has little to no pass rush value. Needs to improve on quick-twitch areas of defensive line play or he won’t last.

Grade: C+

Dallas selects: Chaz Green, Offensive Tackle, Florida

Despite drafting OL in the first round year after year, it doesn’t hurt to shore up the strongest part of the fort. Dallas needs to protect Romo and whoever is running the ball so from a value point, I can see why they grabbed the former Gator. Green, is much better in pass protection than the run and given the recent roster moves, he fits their scheme better than he would have last year.

Grade: C+

Denver selects: Jeff Heuerman, Tight End, Ohio (State)

Great all around player that can turn it upfield when he does get the ball. Started every game of his last two seasons for the Championship Buckeyes. Production dipped after quarterback change, though. Looks the part, could surprise some people in Denver.Needs to improve blocking.

Grade: B-

Indy selects: Henry Anderson, Defensive End, Stanford

If you saw him in person you would think defensive tackle. Somewhat of a tweener who gets hustle plays but doesn’t have the handfighting skills or counter moves to be a productive pass rusher. Upside, he doesn’t take plays off and has a team first attitude. Best fit would be a 3-4 end spot where he can take up space and free up true edge rushers.

Grade: C+

Green Bay selects: Ty Montgomery, Wideout, Stanford

Looks the part at first glance and does have big play capability. Inconsistent as a route runner and relies on his natural athleticism and strength to make his mark on the field. Suspect hands and better suited as a returner. Great character guy who is willing to block and not afraid to throw a crack block if the window is there. Packers got a guy here that could surprise people.

Grade: A-

Washington (from Seattle) selects: Matt Jones, Running Back, Florida

Great size and should be a solid compliment in the Skins backfield. He can catch so not only limited to between the tackles type of runs. Vision is not there, but he doesn’t dance around the hole either. Does the dirty work at 6’2 230 and is the type of player every team should have, but not every team relies on.

Grade: B-

Cleveland (from New England) selects: Xavier Cooper, Defensive Tackle, Washington State

Not sure if Cooper is an insurance policy for #Feastmode or if they just needed the depth. Cooper is the type of player that needs to be in an aggressive style of defense as he is a disruptive force when he can pin his ears back. Sub 4.9 40 yard dash indicative of athletic ability that had him playing tight end back in high school. Started 25 games at Washington State and in a 4 man front, could be a great pairing with Shelton. In a 3-4 scheme, projects as a strongside defensive end.

Grade: C+

New England (Compensatory pick) selects: Geneo Grissom, Defensive End, Oklahoma

The Pats love their defensive ends and linebackers as their scheme calls for well rounded players that can rotate spots and handle every aspect of defensive football. Grissom is raw, but has played OLB and DE in college so it’s no surprise the Pats took a chance on the 6’3 260 pounder.

Grade: C+

Kansas City (Compensatory pick) selects: Steven Nelson,Cornerback,Oregon State

Ideal fit for a cover 2 style of defense where he doesn’t have to cover large amounts of the field. Scrappy, in your face, hustle type of player who’s will supercedes any natural ability. Solid in the Senior Bowl as he broke up two passes. Second team All-PAC12 in his final season.

Grade: C+

Cincy (Compensatory pick) selects: Paul Dawson, Inside Backer, TCU

Dawson comes from a long line of tough linebackers that man the middle of TCU’s 4-2-5 scheme. Dominant in his final season for the Frogs. Big 12 player of the year with 136 tackles, 20 for loss, and 4 interceptions. Despite on the field production, scouts knock his film study and his willingness to freelance and play outside the scheme. Some say he’s suited for a weakside backer in 4-3. Big fan of this kid and how he plays as the 4-2-5 allows your middle backer to freelance a little bit anyways. Best suited behind a 4 man front where he can use his eyes and speed to make plays.

Grade: A

Rnd 2
33 AZ from Tenn Landon Collins SS Alabama
34 Tampa Bay Donovan Smith OT Penn State
35 Raiders Mario Edwards Jr DL Florida State
36 Jacksonville TJ Yeldon RB Alabama
37 Jets Devin Smith WR Ohio State
38 Washington Preston Smith DE Mississippi State
39 Chicago Eddie Goldman NT Florida State
40 Tenn from Giants Dorial Green-Beckham WR Mizzou/Oklahoma
41 Carolina Devin Funchess WR/TE Michigan
42 Atlanta Jalen Collins CB LSU
43 Hou from Cle Benardrick McKinney ILB Mississippi State
44 New Orleans Hau’oli Kikaha OLB Washington
45 Minnesota Eric Kendricks ILB UCLA
46 San Fransisco Jaquiski Tartt SS Samford
47 Philly from Mia Eric Rowe DB Utah
48 San Diego Denzel Perryman ILB Miami
49 Kansas City Mitch Morse OG Mizzou
50 Buffalo Ronald Darby CB Florida State
51 Cleveland from Hou Nate Orchard DE Utah
52 Miami Jordan Phillips DT Oklahoma
53 Cincy Jake Fisher OT Oregon
54 Detroit Ameer Abdullah RB Nebraska
55 Bal from Az Maxx Williams TE Minnesota
56 Pittsburgh Senquez Golson CB Ole Miss
57 St Louis Rob Havenstein OT Wisconsin
58 Arizona Marcus Golden DE Mizzou
59 Denver Ty Sambrailo OT Colorado State
60 Dallas Randy Gregory OLB Nebraska
61 Tampa Bay Ali Marpet OL Hobart
62 Packers Quinten Rollins CB Miami (OH)
63 Seattle Frank Clark DE Michigan
64 Patriots Jordan Richards SS Stanford
Rnd 3
65 Indy from TB D’Joun Smith CB Florida Atlantic
66 Tennessee Jeremiah Poutasi OG Utah
67 Jacksonville AJ Cann OG South Carolina
68 Oakland Clive Walford TE Miami
69 Seattle Tyler Lockett WR Kansas State
70 Hou from Jets Jaelen Strong WR Arizona State
71 Chicago Hroniss Grasu OC Oregon
72 St Louis Jamon Brown OT Louisville
73 Atlanta Tevin Coleman RB Indiana
74 Giants Owamagbe Odighizuwa DE UCLA
75 Saints Garret Grayson QB Colorado State
76 KC from Minn Chris Conley WR Georgia
77 Cleveland Duke Johnson RB Miami
78 Nola from Mia PJ Williams CB Florida State
79 San Fransisco Eli Harold OLB Virginia
80 Det from Minn/KC Alex Carter CB Stanford
81 Buffalo John Miller OG Louisville
82 Jets from Hou Lorenzo, Mauldin OLB Louisville
83 San Diego Craig Magor CB Texas State
84 Philly Jordan Hicks OLB Texas
85 Bengals Tyler Kroft TE Rutgers
86 Arizona David Johnson RB Northern Iowa
87 Pittsburgh Sammie Coates WR Auburn
88 Minn from Det Danielle Hunter DE LSU
89 St Louis from Car  Sean Mannion QB Oregon State
90 Baltimore Carl Davis DT Iowa
91 Dallas Chaz Green OT Florida
92 Denver Jeff Heuerman TE Ohio (State)
93 Indy Henry Anderson DE Stanford
94 Green Bay Ty Montgomery WR Stanford
95 Was from Sea Matt Jones RB Florida
96 Cle from Ne Xavier Cooper DT Washington State
97 Ne Comp. Pick Geneo Grissom DE Oklahoma
98 KC Comp. Pick Steven Nelson CB Oregon State
99 Cincy Comp. Pick Paul Dawson ILB TCU

NFL Draft 2015 – Round 1

As legendary as the Radio City Music Hall is, something about Chi-town just feels right. After months of splitting hairs and watching film, the day of reckoning has finally arrived. This was no smooth ride for many of the top prospects but from here on out, their college accolades mean nothing now, and it doesn’t matter what they did, the important thing is what they do. Tampa Bay held the first pick, and here’s how it shook out.

Tampa Bay selects: Jameis Winston, Quarterback, Florida State University.

This is a pick everyone saw coming and the biggest question, is simply “can this kid behave himself?”. I believe he will, but what worries me are his mistakes. Once he finds a receiver he is fond of, he will throw to him relentlessly. In the NFL, that’s one of the easiest type of QBs to prepare for. Under pressure, he’s great, but he hasn’t faced an NFL defense and an NFL culture that is unforgiving. He will make the Bucs better, but if they can’t protect him, his career will be a short one. Bottom line, they need the help. Jameis elevates the players around him and he is worthy of the 1st overall pick.

Grade: A

Tennessee selects: Marcus Mariota, Quarterback, Oregon

No trade here, the Titans need an answer at quarterback and they may have just found it. I don’t buy into the system quarterback myth when the QB is as efficient as this kid can be. He doesn’t throw picks, he doesn’t make bad decisions. Had he played for a more traditional offense I believe he would have won a championship both pre and post BCS. Mariota has more tools at his disposal than Winston and he doesn’t have the off the field baggage. His arm may not be as big, but his ability to buy time and his patience are something the new age of NFL QB has to have.

Grade: A

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Jacksonville selects: Dante Fowler Jr, Defensive End, Florida

Defense wins championships and if the Jags want to claw their way out of the bottom tier of the league, this guy is a great place to start. There are a number of pass rushers in this draft but Fowler is too strong and a fantastic athlete. The new Leo for the Jags defense is going to be disruptive from jump, but he will face a learning curve as he won’t be able to outmuscle and outrun blockers like he did in college. Love the pick from a location standpoint for the DE born and bred in Florida.

Grade: B+

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Oakland selects: Amari Cooper, Wideout, Alabama

Oakland needs to feed their offense some fresh legs and talent and what better place to start than the most consistent wide receiver in the draft. Kevin White may pan out better, but right now, Cooper is the mountaintop for wideouts in this years draft. Cooper has hands, moxy, route running, and experience playing in the SEC during it’s recent streak of dominance. I worry about Bama players translating to the NFL, but Cooper may be the exception.

Grade: A-

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Washington selects: Brandon Scherff, Offensive Tackle, Iowa

Multi-talented mauler from what has been one of the best places for offensive lineman in recent memory. Relentless is what you hear when you ask about Scherff, and the tape holds true to that. The Skins have to protect their assets and bolster a run game that is needed for success given their style of play. This was their first 1st round pick in a couple years and it was the best way to spend it.

Grade: A

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The Jets select: Leonard Williams, Defensive End, USC

The Jets love their defensive players and when you add Williams to an already strong defensive front, you made the strongest part of their fort that much better. The tape on Williams is stellar and he is ready to play day 1. I love the player, but I am not in love with the pick specifically for the Jets. They need offensive help or they will continue to look up at the Patriots.

Grade: A-

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Da Bears select: Kevin White, Wideout, West Virginia

When you play in the NFC north, you need to score points. Kevin White is a man unafraid. Yes, he is a one year wonder, and yes he only lines up on the right side, but you can’t deny what you saw on tape. In his games against the SEC he caught the ball at will and I don’t see the defensive backs for the Vikings, Packers, or Lions locking him down. Marshall is gone, and Alshon can’t do it all by himself. Jay Cutler needed someone, and the Bears just got that someone.

Grade: A

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Atlanta selects: Vic Beasley, Defensive End, Clemson

Beasley will be the combine wonder who doesn’t shine right away from this years draft. He’s too raw and inconsistent to be drafted #8 overall. He doesn’t cover the run well, but he can be great against the pass. The Falcons need help all over, and he may pan out but I’d be surprised if he lit up the NFC South in his first year. They needed a pass rusher, they got a pass rusher, but that is about it.

Grade: C+

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The Giants select: Ereck Flowers, Offensive Lineman, Da U

The Giants have to protect Eli or he will throw the ball to the other team every game. He’s raw, but I like the upside for the big fella out of The U. He’s got the height/weight for the Giants style of play and I like the fit, I do worry about how fast he’ll adjust to the speed of the NFL.

Grade: B

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St. Louis selects: Todd Gurley, Running Back, Georgia

The Rams are quietly building one of the best defenses in the league and have spent a number of their high rounds picks on players who are great all around when it comes to defense. With Nick Foles, I feel they have a higher ceiling than with Bradford, but their division is brutal. Now, with the best running back in the draft on their team, they need to give him some blockers and this kid could easily be a 1,000 yard rusher his rookie year. The talent is real, lets hope the health isn’t a long term issue.

Grade: A-

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Minnesota selects: Trae Waynes, Corner, Michigan State

The Vikings need to be able to stop the pass every week in the NFC North and Waynes can contribute right away. The big knock on Waynes is that he isn’t the most surefire tackler in the draft but his speed and experience on a top-ranked defense has to speak volumes. In the Cotton Bowl, he didn’t look great, but there is something special about this kid and it will be interesting to see him play out of the confines of Spartan Stadium.

Grade: A-

Photo published for Vikings draft MSU's Trae Waynes in first round

Cleveland selects: another quarterback. Just kidding. They went with Danny Shelton, Defensive Tackle, Washington AKA “Feast Mode”

The Browns looks like they are putting themselves in a position to compete in their very tough division. Shelton is a monster and my favorite defensive lineman in the draft. Great character, great tape. He struggled early in his career but was going through the death of his brother and a number of other issues. Once he was able to focus on football, he looked like the next great nosetackle in the NFL. Cleveland needed someone to plug the middle and plug might as well be this kid’s middle name.

Grade: A

Nola selects: Andrus Peat, Offensive Tackle, Stanford

New Orleans needs to protect Drew Brees and while tackle was a position of need, I don’t know if Peat is going to be a day 1 beast. He’s still raw and can be physical, but he is not physical by nature even though he started 27 games at LT for the Cardinal. The Saints went with need here and with two first rounder they may be able to salvage something still. He could be good, but he would have been better off waiting another year.

Grade: C

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Miami selects: Davonte Parker, Wideout, Louisville

Parker is a solid, consistent performer on good teams throughout his career. He did have an injury early this year but he came back without missing a beat. He’s a prototype wideout and should be a great addition to the Dolphins as they continue to try and develop their offense. He’ s not flashy, but he’s done well under different OC’s in college.

Grade: B

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San Diego (from San Fran) selects: Melvin Gordon, Running Back, Wisconsin

The Chargers did the right thing trading up for Gordon. He’s a do it all back who looked like he was a step above the defenses he played every week. So many yards, so many plays. He does it all. He does run upright but he’s got breakaway speed despite what his 40 time dictates. Great move by the Chargers.

Grade: A

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Houston selects: Kevin Johnson, Corner, Wake Forest

Johnson is a do it all corner who can tear your head off if he gets a clean look. He can cover, tackle, and just be a disruptive force overall. He does miss some tackles but he does have the ability and will to strike wide receivers. The defense just got better and the Texans are setting themselves up to compete with the Colts.

Grade: A-

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San Fran (from San Diego) selects: Arik Armstead, Defensive End/Power Forward, Oregon

Armstead certainly looks the part, but his production says otherwise. The former hooper needs to be able to play every down and at the moment he is still a work in progress. With the defensive culture created in San Fran he won’t be able to take plays off and he will have players around him that will be able to cultivate his skills further. Not great as a value pick, but with a defense that is in flux with injuries and retirements the 9er’s have to get new bodies.

Grade: B-

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Kansas City selects: Marcus Peters, Cornerback, Washington

The Chiefs hit the nail on the head as far as need goes, but Peters is hurt, and has a history of attitude problems. Andy Reid can handle this kid and if he doesn’t get with the program he will be gone as quick as he arrived. If he does, he will prove why he was considered the best cornerback in the draft.

Grade: B+

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Cleveland selects: Cam Erving, Offensive Lineman, Florida State

Cleveland appears to have a plan with this years draft and with the addition of Erving they are having arguably the best 1st round out of all the teams. Erving can play every spot but is a natural center.

Grade: A

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Philly selects: Nelson Agholor, Wideout, USC

The Mad scientist got a replacement player for the loss of Jackson/Maclin. The junior got busy in the PAC-12 and played multiple positions in high school. He’s not a burner, but he catches everything and is good with the ball once he does get it in his hands. Fits the system and addressed a need.

Grade: B+

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Cincy selects: Cedric Ogbuehi, Offensive Tackle, Texas A&M

Coming from a spread offense, one has to wonder how well he will fit in with a more power-style offense. He’s coming off an injury and doesn’t grind anyone down, but he has all the footspeed and agility to start for the Bengals.

Grade: B

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Pittsburgh selects:Bud Dupree, Edge Backer, Kentucky

Team captain at Kentucky and he has all the traits that the Steelers love in the fire pressure defense. Wears #2 because he “wants to be number 1”. This is one of my favorite edge rushers in the draft and he should contribute day one. He may not lead the lead in sacks, but he’ll do all the other things they need him to do.

Grade: A-

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Denver selects: Shane Ray, Defensive End, Mizzou

Despite his citation, this kid is a monster. He’s too fast for most tackles and he plays hard every down. He did get injured which slowed him down, but he has a great story and will be a great compliment to Von Miller. I do worry about the legality of Marijuana in Colorado and that could be a distraction in the future even though he has vowed to stay on the right path.

Grade: B+

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Arizona selects: DJ Humphries, Offensive Tackle, Florida

The Cardinals somehow keep fielding teams that are competitive despite very visible roster flaws. Even though they have not 100% settled on a QB, any other QB would have been a big overreach at this point in the draft. Humphries is a great place to start if they want to protect any future investments. He’s not a giant tackle in the NFL at 6’5 305 but he is certainly not undersized either. When an offense is in flux, a tackle is a great place to start to help solidify a line that can protect whoever is running the show.

Grade: B+

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Carolina selects: Shaq Thompson, Outside Linebacker, Washington

Shaq is arguably the most versatile player in this years draft. He’s been productive where ever and whenever the Huskies have put him in. He’s got a nose for the ball and has the ability to not only create turnovers, but capitalize on them. The speed is real and for a guy that tips the scales at over 220 pounds and with his defensive back background he is the prototype outside backer (will/weakside) for today’s NFL which is now driven by the pass. Oh yea, he also dabbled at running back while at Washington and ripped off some long touchdown runs. Great football player in the true sense of the word.

Grade:A

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Baltimore selects: Breshad Perriman, Wideout, UCF

Fast in his workouts, and fast on the field. Bottom line, this kid is Florida fast. He pulls away from just about everyone he faced in college and with the cannon-armed Flacco heaving it up for him to chase he could be a very exciting year one player. He does have to ability to go up and get the ball and can make the tough catches in traffic/contested situations. Biggest thing to keep in mind, UCF to the NFL is going to be a big jump and NFL DB’s don’t fear his speed yet.

Grade: B+

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Dallas selects: Byron Jones, Corner, UCONN

The boys struggled to stop the pass and the cornerback spot has been a point of contention despite the drafting of Morris Claiborne. Byron Jones is freakishly athletic and does have a background playing safety. He’s very polished and blew teams away with his combine and pro day numbers and measurements. Jones was a good grab at this point in the draft and can help shore up the defense as the Cowboys got a taste of the playoffs last year and look to return.

Grade: B+

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Detroit (from Denver) selects: Laken Tomlinson, Guard, Duke

Mayhew made the trade with Denver and to almost everyone, we assumed that they would go with Malcolm Brown at 28. The Lions look like they have a plan this year and they got a very solid player while acquiring a Center/Guard in the move back with Denver. Tomlinson is a sound football player who one day wants to be a neurosurgeon and was a vocal team leader for the Blue Devils. Many were upset with this pick, I was not one of them. Detroit got two players (one vet and one rookie) at spots of dire need and they didn’t have to sell the farm to do so.

Grade: A

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Indy selects: Phillip Dorsett, Wideout, Miami

Indy just needs to give Luck some weapons and he could guide this team to a Superbowl sooner than some may think. Dorsett is tough, too fast wideout for the Hurricanes and had good performances against top tier teams (see: the Florida State game). While not as fast or tall as Perriman from UCF, he makes up for it with grit and going up against better competition on a weekly basis. I think down the road he will have a more productive career than Perriman and should contribute right away for the Colts.

Grade: A

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Green Bay selects: Damarious Randall, Free Safety, Arizona State

The pack addressed a need after the departure of several DB’s from the team in the offseason. He’s much more rangy than top-rated Landon Collins and in the pass happy NFC North, he is ready to be the rover that the Packers aggressive defense needs to make sure the top doesn’t get blown off by players like Calvin Johnson and Kevin White. Randall is 4th all time in tackles at ASU.

Grade: B+

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New Orleans (from Seattle) selects: Anthony Stephone, Inside Backer, Clemson

In a year where it was sort of a pick your poison at the middle/inside backer spot, the Saints might have picked the right one. He’s not super quick laterally but he takes great angles and has a good sense of spatial awareness while in man/zone pass protection. He flashed some hands on a few interceptions and managed to knock balls down at the line as well. New Orleans has to play defense to rise up in the NFC South and Stephone may be the best middle backer in the draft.

Grade: A-

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Patriots select: Malcolm Brown, Defensive Tackle, Texas

True to form, the Patriots did not miss a beat and got a great value pick in Brown to replace the newly departed Vince Wilfork who has been the big nasty plug in the Pats multiple front defense for years. He certainly left his mark at Texas even though they are in a rebuilding phase. He’s got a great first step and looks to have a solid grasp on his responsibilities and should fit like a glove in the Pats defensive scheme.

Grade: A

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Pick # Team Name Position School
1 Tampa Bay Jameis Winston QB FSU
2 Tennessee Marcus Mariota QB Oregon
3 Jacksonville Dante Fowler Jr DE Florida
4 Oakland Amari Cooper WR Bama
5 Washington Brandon Scherff OT Iowa
6 Jets Leonard Williams DE USC
7 Chicago Kevin White WR West Virginia
8 Atlanta Vic Beasley DE Clemson
9 Giants Ereck Flowers OG Miami
10 St. Louis Todd Gurley RB Georgia
11 Minnesota Trae Waynes CB Michigan State
12 Cleveland Danny Shelton DT Washington
13 New Orleans Andrus Peat OT Stanford
14 Miami Davonte Parker WR Louisville
15 SD from SF Melvin Gordon RB Wisconsin
16 Houston Kevin Johnson CB Wake Forest
17 San Fransisco Arik Armstead DE Oregon
18 Kansas City Marcus Peters CB Washington
19 Cleveland Cam Erving OL Florida State
20 Philadelphia Nelson Agholor WR USC
21 Cincy Cedric Ogbuehi OL Texas A&M
22 Pittsburgh Bud Dupree OLB Kentucky
23 Den from Det Shane Ray DE Mizzou
24 Arizona DJ Humphries OT Florida
25 Carolina Shaq Thompson OLB Washington
26 Baltimore Breshad Perriman WR UCF
27 Dallas Byron Jones CB Uconn
28 Detroit from Den Laken Tomlinlinson OG Duke
29 Indy Phillip Dorsett WR Miami
30 Green Bay Damarious Randall FS Arizona State
31 Saints from Seattle Anthony Stephone ILB Clemson
32 Patriots Malcolm Brown DT Texas