For now though, let’s get on to my final 2013 NFL Mock Draft:

Round 1

1. Kansas City Chiefs: Eric Fisher OT (Central Michigan)

Kansas City’s brass could instantly upgrade their situation at offensive tackle with the former Central Michigan standout.  The large-framed (6’7″ 306 lbs.) blind-side protector was a 1st team All-MAC performer last season, and also possesses some versatility to his overall game.  Although he played most of his collegiate career at left tackle, Eric did start games at right tackle and right guard at the college level.  So even if Fisher doesn’t pan out on the blind-side, Kansas City’s coaching staff could find another place for him along their offensive line.

2. Jacksonville Jaguars: Dion Jordan DE/OLB (Oregon)

Although the Jason Babin signing helped towards the end of the 2012 season, Jacksonville’s brass would be wise to bolster their pass-rush at some point tomorrow.  The Jaguars ranked dead last in the league with a total of 20.0 sacks last fall, and their defense could not create consistent pressure off of the edges.  Last year, Jordan (6’6″ 248 lbs.) put up 44 tackles, 10.5 tackles for loss, 5.0 sacks, and forced 3 fumbles.  In addition to his ability to rush the passer, Jordan is extremely competent in pass-coverage and playing in space as well. As long as he recovers well from his recent shoulder surgery, the former Duck will be a top 5 pick.

3. Oakland Raiders: Sharrif Floyd DT (Florida)

Tommy Kelly and Desmond Bryant are no longer with the Raiders, so an enormous hole exists at defensive tackle.  Floyd (6’3″ 297 lbs.) has become of the draft’s hottest commodities as of late, and he played both defensive end and defensive tackle at Florida.  Last year, Floyd played his best football last season on the interior as he displayed a surprising combination of agility, power, and quickness for a man his size.  Overall, Sharrif notched 46 tackles, 3.0 sacks, and a team-leading 13.0 tackles for loss during his junior season, and should garner interest from teams who employ 3-4 and 4-3 defensive schemes in Round 1.

4. Philadelphia Eagles: Luke Joeckel OT (Texas A&M)

If the athletic Luke Joeckel falls all the way to #4 for Chip Kelly, I’ll bet he will be do cart-wheels in Philadelphia’s war room.  The Eagles are in desperate need of help at the offensive tackle position, and Joeckel would be a perfect fit in Philadelphia’s up-tempo offense.  The 6’6″ 306 lb. Joeckel was the 2012 Outland Award winner, a 2012 consensus All-American, and a three-year starter for the Aggies (39 Games, 39 Starts).  While the nimble Joeckel is not a “road-grading” type of tackle, his quick feet and sound blocking technique will help him develop into a fantastic blind-side pass-protector for years to come.

5. Detroit Lions: Ezekiel Ansah DE (Brigham Young)

Detroit will likely need some serious help at defensive end position if they want to create any pressure off of the edges in future seasons.  Cliff Avril left for a new deal in Seattle, and Kyle Vanden Bosch was just recently released too.  If Fisher and Joeckel are no longer available, I would have to believe that the Lions would take Ezekiel Ansah.  Despite the fact that Ansah is newer to the game of football, the 6’5″ 271 lb. defensive end had a fine 2012 season as he made 62 tackles, 13.0 tackles for loss, 4.5 sacks during his first year as a starter with the Cougars.

6. San Diego Chargers: Lane Johnson OT (Oklahoma)

(Trade w/Cleveland: Swap 1st Round picks (#6 overall) and (#11 overall), San Diego sends 2nd Round pick (#45) to Cleveland to complete deal)

San Diego’s offensive line surrendered 49.0 sacks last year (4th most in the entire league), and the Chargers need to upgrade their situation at offensive tackle.  If Lane Johnson is available at #6 overall, San Diego should definitely try to broker a trade with Cleveland.  The former Sooner (6’6″ 303 lbs.) is an intriguing prospect who played quarterback in high school and at junior college, and spent time at tight end and defensive end in Norman as well.  For the last two years though Johnson has manned both the right (12 starts) and left (11 starts) tackle spots, and has the potential to be a stable pass-protector down the road on the left or the right side.

7. Tennessee Titans: Dee Milliner CB (Alabama)

(Trade w/Arizona: Swap 1st Round picks (#7 overall) and (#10 overall), Tennessee sends 3rd Round pick (#70) to Arizona to complete deal)

The Titans might trade up a few spots just to make sure that San Francisco and Atlanta don’t swoop in ahead of them if they want to go after a cornerback.  Currently, the Titans have issues at in terms of depth at cornerback, and it would likely only cost them a 3rd round pick to ensure that can they acquire the best one of the 2013 draft class.  Milliner (6′ 200 lbs.) had a terrific 2012 season as he logged 22 passes defended over the team’s 14 games, and added 54 tackles and 2 interceptions to his statline during the Crimson Tide’s national championship season.  DeMarcus also is more than willing to mix it up in the run game, and has the size, speed, and man-coverage skills to be a solid starting cornerback.

8. Buffalo Bills: Tavon Austin WR (West Virginia)

I really hope that Buffalo does not consider Ryan Nassib at #8.  I mean, late in Round 1 he would be a good choice, but taking a player of his caliber at #8 overall would be an enormous reach, even if this draft class is not “top heavy.”  If Buffalo opts to pass on Nassib, they could try to upgrade their receiving corps with the shifty Tavon Austin of West Virginia.  Not only did Austin top the 100 catch mark during his junior season, he had an even more productive senior campaign last fall as he recorded 114 grabs for 1,289 yards and 12 touchdowns.  An accomplished ball-carrier as well, Tavon also was effective in the run-game as he rushed for an incredible 643 yards and 3 touchdowns in 2012.

9. New York Jets: Barkevious Mingo OLB (Louisiana State)

2012 1st Round pick Quinton Coples (5.5 sacks) and 2011 1st Round pick Muhammad Wilkerson (5.0 sacks) did a fine job last season as they supplied heat from their 5-technique defensive end spots.  Unfortunately, the Jets lack speed outside of Coples and Wilkerson, and desperately need a pass-rushing threat at outside linebacker.  Sporting a 6’4″ and 241 lb. frame, Mingo possesses a tremendous amount of speed (4.58 40 yard dash) and agility (6.84 3-cone drill) off of the edge which should help him translate well to the professional level.  The biggest issues with Mingo however deal with how raw his skill-set is, as well as his limited production (4.5 sacks and 8.5 tackles for loss) with the Bayou Bengals last season.  Questions aside, Mingo’s athletic ability and upside should make him a lock to go somewhere in the top 15.

10. Arizona Cardinals: D.J. Fluker OT (Alabama)

(Trade w/Arizona: Swap 1st Round picks (#7 overall) and (#10 overall), Tennessee sends 3rd Round pick (#70) to Arizona to complete deal)

Arizona’s offensive line surrendered a League high 58.0 sacks last year, and tackles Bobby Massie and D’Anthony Batiste looked lost at multiple points during the 2012 campaign.  If the Cardinals want to shore up the right tackle position, they could take D.J. Fluker in Round 1.  Fluker started 36 games during his three years with the Crimson Tide, and is one of the more experienced offensive tackles in this year’s draft class.  Keeping Carson Palmer healthy is a high priority, and the addition of a massive 6’5″ 339 lb. road-grader should help to do just that.

11. Cleveland Browns: Star Lotulelei DT/DE (Utah)

(Trade w/San Diego: Swap 1st Round picks (#6 overall) and (#11 overall), San Diego sends 2nd Round pick (#45) to Cleveland to complete deal)

Although the Browns signed Paul Kruger this offseason, their defense could stand to add another pass-rusher as well as a developmental 5-technique defensive end.  If Star Lotulelei is in play for the Browns, especially after a trade, I am sure that they will probably give him a long look. Despite being double-teamed and keyed on for much of the season,  Lotulelei (6’2″ 311 lbs.) was a 1st Team All-Pac-12 performer in 2012 as he amassed 42 tackles, 5.0 sacks, 11.0 tackles for loss, 3 forced fumbles, and 4 fumble recoveries.  If teams shy away from Lotulelei due his heart issue, Cleveland might snatch him up in a “Best Player Available” scenario.

12. Miami Dolphins: Xavier Rhodes CB (Florida State)

Although the Dolphins recently signed Brent Grimes, their defense could still stand to acquire a talented cornerback.  Xavier Rhodes (6’1″ 210 lbs.) was a 1st Team All-ACC cornerback as he racked up 39 tackles and 3 interceptions during the 2012 season as the most talented player in the Seminoles’ defensive backfield.  A team can never have too many effective cornerbacks in today’s N.F.L., and Rhodes is terrific in man-coverage situations because he can use his physical stature to his advantage.

13. New York Jets: Jonathan Cooper OG/C (North Carolina)

The Jets could go in a number of different ways at #13 overall, but it would not shock me in the least if they made Jonathan Cooper their pick.  Now that Brandon Moore is gone, the Jets could instantly upgrade their offensive line with the versatile Cooper (6’2″ 311 lbs.) who might even stand in for some reps as Nick Mangold’s backup at center.  The former Tar Heel was a 4-year starter at North Carolina (48 games), and possesses tremendous agility for an interior offensive lineman.

14. Carolina Panthers: Sheldon Richardson DT (Missouri)

Although the Panthers’ defense improved this past year, issues still exist along the interior of their defensive line.  Carolina’s run defense could be helped by an impact player like 3-technique prospect Sheldon Richardson from Missouri.  After two years at the junior college level, and one year in a non-starter role with the Tigers, the agile and powerful Richardson (6’3″ 295 lbs.) burst on the scene in 2012 when he racked up 75 tackles, 10.5 tackles for loss, and 4.0 sacks over Missouri’s 11 games.

15. New Orleans Saints: Jarvis Jones OLB (Georgia)

The Saints could stand to acquire a 3-4 pass-rusher this offseason.  New Defensive Coordinator Rob Ryan could be intrigued to take former Georgia outside linebacker Jarvis Jones.  Although Jones’ “spinal stenosis” condition and poor Pro Day workout could scare scouts away, some teams in need of an athletic pass-rusher are sure to be willing to gamble on the former Bulldog.  Last season, Jones (6’2″ 245 lbs.) racked up 24.5 tackles for loss and 14.5 sacks.  At least to me, Jones would be a bargain for the Saints if he falls all the way down to #15 overall.

16. St. Louis Rams: Kenny Vaccaro FS/SS (Texas)

The Rams lost Craig Dahl in March, thus a replacement at the free safety position must be found, and found quickly.  Vaccaro (6’1″ 218 lbs.) was the Longhorns’ leading tackler last year (104) and added 4.0 tackles for loss, forced two fumbles, and made 2 interceptions as well.  A two-and-a-half year starter at Texas (31 Starts, 50 games), Vaccaro played both free and strong safety during his collegiate career, and is also adept at helping with coverage in the slot in “big nickel” packages too.

Jarvis Jones was falling in the draft due to questions about his health, but he claimed the problem wasn’t that serious and the doctors have apparently agreed.  After clearing up the issues about his health, Jones is back to being a top prospect and that’s good news for the Steelers.  Pittsburgh needs a lot of things and one of those things is an outside linebacker moving forward.  Jones can step right in and be a much needed breath of fresh air for a defense that is aging and needs injections of youth and talent all over the map.

 

I had Hankins going in the first round a few months back, but it’s looking like Hankins is a second round talent.  The Steelers need help to reset the aging process on defense, and Hankins is a guy that can help achieve that up front.

Jones would be a solid 1st Round pick by the Steelers. Mandatory Credit: Kevin Liles-USA TODAY Sports

While I believe that there are other better choices for Pittsburgh to make in Round 1, I would not be upset in the least if they made the former Georgia Bulldog their 1st round selection.

Jones (6’2″ 245 lbs.) would be a solid addition to Pittsburgh’s defense, and the outside linebacker possesses the pass-rushing tools to help the Steelers in sub-package situations early in his career.  While I do not agree with Sanchez that Jones will step in right away and basically start in Pittsburgh’s complex defensive scheme, his value as a pass-rusher should allow him to see the field on passing-downs to chip in and help collapse the pocket.

Working Jones in slowly would give him time to develop his game as an all-around outside linebacker in Pittsburgh’s 3-4 defense, as well as become a better run-defender in terms of using his leverage to set the edge in a more effective manner.

Of course, many have trashed Jones as of late because of his poor workout at Georgia’s Pro Day last month.   Although Jones’ performance was definitely underwhelming, the productivity and the pass-rushing skills he showed during his career at Georgia were terrific.  I certainly do not believe that Jones plays at 4.9/40 speed, and the former Bulldog was at his best against some of Georgia’s best competition during his two-year stay in Athens (2011-2012: 155 tackles, 28.0 sacks, 45.0 tackles for loss).

I will however say that Jarvis’ spinal stenosis condition does worry me.  But as long as he is medically cleared to play, then I would have no issue with the Steelers taking a long look at him.  Although I would rather see Colbert & Co. target other players than Jones in Round 1 (Kenny Vaccaro, Matt Elam, Keenan Allen, DeAndre Hopkins, and Arthur Brown), I would definitely be on board if Pittsburgh made him their 1st Round pick.

Hankins is likely to be a Day 2 selection. Mandatory Credit: Jeff Hanisch-USA TODAY Sports

While I would be pleased to see the Steelers select Jones, I cannot say that I would be happy at all to see them select the massive (6’3″ 320 lbs.) Johnathan Hankins.

I for one do not think that Pittsburgh’s brass need to add a nose tackle to their team’s roster at the moment.  Furthermore, I believe that spending a high-round pick on Hankins would be a mistake for the rebuilding franchise like the Steelers.

The Steelers already have Steve McLendon in line to replace veteran Casey Hampton, and Alameda Ta’amu and Hebron Fangupo are set to battle for the backup job.  Sure, Colbert & Co. could add a “human anchor” like Hankins to their roster.  But why would a team carry a total of four nose tackles on their roster, especially when there is a need for help almost everywhere else on the defensive side of the ball?

Although Hankins was a talented and productive player for the Buckeyes (2012: 55 tackles, 4.0 tackles for loss, 1.0 sack, All-Big 10 honors), his issues with his weight and his overall “motor” will likely be enormous causes for concern for any team that wants to select him on the first two days of “Draft Weekend.”

With so many other needs on their roster at the moment, the idea of adding a player with questions like Hankins to the roster at a position where depth is actually existent makes little to no sense.  Then again, no move will shock me during this upcoming draft process, and Colbert & Co. could go “Best Player Available” no matter what the position is at any time.

Final Thoughts

Sanchez was definitely right when he said that the Steelers need help on the defensive side of the ball.  Not only does Pittsburgh’s defense lack depth at inside linebacker, outside linebacker, free safety, and strong safety, they could be dangerously thin at cornerback and defensive end by the time next spring rolls around too!

My hope is that defensive coordinator Dick LeBeau will actually try to work the young talent acquired through the draft into the lineup on occasion.  I mean, unless Pittsburgh’s defensive guru wants to sit them for two years, play them for two, and then see them leave for greener pastures in free agency a la Keenan Lewis.

I am just crossing my fingers that the Steelers can find some impact defensive players on “Draft Weekend,” because that entire unit will need to be rebuilt over the coming years.

Players Stats Provided By Specific Team Pages: Georgia, Ohio State, and ESPN.com

Players Heights/Weights:  CBSSports.com and NFL Combine Page

For now though, let’s get on to the Mock:

Round 1

1. Kansas City Chiefs: Luke Joeckel OT (Texas A&M)

Kansas City’s brass could instantly upgrade their “tackle situation” with Texas A&M’s former blind-side protector.  The 6’6″ 306 lb. Joeckel was the 2012 Outland Award winner, a 2012 consensus All-American, and a three-year starter for the Aggies (39 Games, 39 Starts).  While the nimble Joeckel is not a “road-grading” type of tackle, his quick feet and sound blocking technique will help him to be a fantastic blind-side pass-protector for years to come.

2. Jacksonville Jaguars: Dion Jordan DE/OLB (Oregon)

Although the Jason Babin signing helped towards the end of last year, Jacksonville’s brass would be wise to bolster their pass-rush at some point in this month’s draft.  The Jaguars ranked dead last in the league with a total of 20.0 sacks last fall, and they could not create consistent pressure off of the edges.  Last year, Jordan put up 44 tackles, 10.5 tackles for loss, 5.0 sacks, and forced 3 fumbles, and has a unique frame (6’6″ 248 lbs.), and an athletic skill-set (surprisingly in pass-coverage) which could make him an attractive option for the Jaguars to target at #2 if he recovers well from his recent shoulder surgery.

3. Oakland Raiders: Shariff Floyd DT (Florida)

Tommy Kelly and Desmond Bryant are gone, and the Raiders need help at defensive tackle.  Floyd (6’3″ 297 lbs.) has become of the draft’s hottest commodities as of late, and he played both defensive end and defensive tackle at Florida.  Last year, Floyd played his best football last season on the interior as he displayed a surprising combination of agility, power, and quickness for a man his size.  Overall, Sharrif notched 46 tackles, 3.0 sacks, and a team-leading 13.0 tackles for loss during his junior season, and will garner interest from teams who employ 3-4 and 4-3 defensive schemes in Round 1.

4. Philadelphia Eagles: Star Lotulelei DT (Utah)

Now that the Eagles are switching to a 3-4 defensive scheme, they would best served to acquire an athletic 5-technique who can also chip in for some gap-clogging in the trenches.  Despite being double-teamed and keyed on for much of the season,  Lotulelei (6’2″ 311 lbs.) was a 1st Team All-Pac-12 performer in 2012 as he amassed 42 tackles, 5.0 sacks, 11.0 tackles for loss, 3 forced fumbles, and 4 fumble recoveries.  If teams shy away from Lotulelei due his heart issue, the Eagles might still snatch him up in a “Best Player Available” scenario.

5. Detroit Lions: Ezekiel Ansah DE (Brigham Young)

Detroit will likely need some serious help at defensive end position if they wish to create any pressure off of the edge in future seasons.  Cliff Avril left for a new deal in Seattle, and Kyle Vanden Bosch was just recently released too.  Ezekiel Ansah has turned heads throughout the offseason, and could inevitably find himself in the top 5 when “Draft Weekend” rolls around this month.  Despite the fact that Ansah is newer to the game of football, the 6’5″ 271 lb. defensive end had a fine 2012 season as he made 62 tackles, 13.0 tackles for loss, 4.5 sacks during his first year as a starter with the Cougars.

6. Miami Dolphins: Dee Milliner CB (Alabama)

(Trade w/ Cleveland: Swap 1st Round picks (#6 overall) and (#12 overall), Miami sends 2nd Round pick (#42 overall pick) to complete deal)

While the Dolphins need an offensive tackle to add to the mix, I for one could see them trading up to select Dee Milliner if he falls past the Lions at #5.  I would not be sold on Brett Grimes after his Achilles injury, plus the team has lost Sean Smith and Vontae Davis over the last two years.  If the Dolphins wish to challenge New England and Tom Brady, then they must upgrade their situation at cornerback pronto.  Milliner (6′ 200 lbs.) had a terrific 2012 season as he logged 22 passes defended over the team’s 14 games, and added 54 Tackles and 2 Interceptions to his statline as the Crimson Tide won the national championship.  The cornerback prospect is also willing to mix it up in the run game, and has the size, speed, and man-coverage skills to be an effective starter at the professional level.

7. Arizona Cardinals: Eric Fisher OT (Central Michigan)

Arizona’s offensive line surrendered a League high 58.0 sacks last year, and Bobby Massie and D’Anthony Batiste looked lost at the tackle positions numerous times in 2012.  If the Cardinals want to have insurance in case their starting left tackle leaves, they could elect to go the “safe route” and take Eric Fisher at #7 overall.  The 6’7″ 306 lb. Fisher was a 1st Team All-MAC performer last season, and also possesses some versatility to his game.  Although he played most of his collegiate career at left tackle, he did start games at right tackle and right guard earlier in his career with the Chippewas.  So even if Fisher doesn’t pan out on the blind-side, Arizona’s coaching staff could find another place for him along their porous offensive line.

8. Buffalo Bills: Geno Smith QB (West Virginia)

Even though the franchise signed Kevin Kolb, I cannot see how Buffalo’s brass would view him as any sort of long-term answer.  In the event that Geno Smith (6’2″ 218 lbs.) falls to Buffalo at #8 overall, I believe that the Bills’ new head coach Doug Marrone will be interested in acquiring him.  The strong-armed, accurate, and athletic former Mountaineer (2012: 369 for 518 (71.2%), 4,205 Yards, 42 TD’s, and 6 INT’s) would be a nice fit in Marrone’s offense as the Bills begin the long process of rebuilding, and also give the franchise a young and talented signal-caller to build around over the coming seasons.

9. New York Jets: Cordarrelle Patterson WR (Tennessee)

2013 could be the “Last Stand” for both Rex Ryan and Mark Sanchez in New York.  If the Jets wish to make their anemic passing offense better, they could roll the dice on Cordarrelle Patterson of Tennessee.  The 6’2″ 216 lb. junior was a phenomenal kick returner and wide receiver at the junior college level before he came to Knoxville this past year, and boy did he make a splash in 2012.  Over 11 games, Patterson caught 42 passes for 690 yards and 4 touchdowns, he rushed for 270 Yards and 3 touchdowns, and returned 1 kickoff and 1 punt for touchdowns.  Although his skill-set is still very raw, Patterson just makes plays when he has the football in his hands, and teams must respect his speed.

10. Tennessee Titans: Bjoern Werner DE (Florida State)

If Tennessee elects to fill their cornerback needs later in the draft, they could opt to bolster their pass-rush and select “The Germinator” if he is still on the board at #10.  Although the Werner (6’3″ 266 lbs.) is relatively new to the game football, he continued to improve his pass-rushing skills as he logged 18.0 tackles for loss and 13.0 sacks from his defensive end position last season.  It would be wise for the Titans to invest in a defensive end to pair with Derrick Morgan and spell Kamerion Wimbley over the coming years.  Plus, Werner’s ability to stop the run would make linebackers like Zach Brown and Akeem Ayers even more effective players.

11. San Diego Chargers: Lane Johnson OT (Oklahoma)

The Chargers need to improve their pass-protection, and their pass-rush.  If Lane Johnson somehow falls to #11 overall, I cannot see San Diego passing on the talented offensive tackle.  The former Sooner (6’6″ 303 lbs.) is an intriguing prospect who played quarterback in high school and at junior college, and spent time at Tight End and defensive end in Norman as well.  For the last two years though Johnson has manned both the right (12 Starts) and left (11 Starts) tackle spots, and has the potential to be a stable pass-protector down the road at either the left or right tackle positions.

12. Cleveland Browns: Tavon Austin WR/SB (West Virginia)

(Trade w/ Miami: Swap 1st Round picks (#6 overall) and (#12 overall), Miami sends 2nd Round pick (#42 overall) to complete deal)

The Browns need a speedy pass-catcher to team with Greg Little and Josh Gordon, and they might be wise to take a long look at Tavon Austin.  Not only did Austin top the 100 catch mark during his junior season, he had an even more productive senior campaign as he recorded 114 grabs for 1,289 yards and 12 touchdowns.  But Austin not only shined in the passing game for the Mountaineers, he also was effective in the run-game as he rushed for an incredible 643 yards and 3 touchdowns.

13. Tampa Bay Buccaneers: Xavier Rhodes CB (Florida State)

Even though the Buccaneers are bringing back Eric Wright at a discounted price, their secondary is still a bit of a mess.  If Tampa Bay is unable to acquire Darrelle Revis, they will probably look for a cornerback early in this year’s draft.  Xavier Rhodes (6’1″ 210 lbs.) was a 1st Team All-ACC cornerback as he racked up 39 tackles and 3 interceptions during the 2012 season as the most talented player in the Seminoles’ defensive backfield.  A team can never have too many corners in today’s N.F.L., and Rhodes is terrific in man-coverage situations because he can use his physical stature to his advantage.

14. San Francisco 49ers: Barkevious Mingo OLB (Louisiana State)

(Trade w/ Carolina: Swap 1st Round picks (#31 overall and #15 overall), San Francisco sends 2nd Round pick (#61 overall) and 3rd Round pick (#74 overall) to Carolina to complete deal)

The 49ers have 13 draft picks, and are primed to make a move up into Round 1 this month.  San Francisco could use another athletic pass-rusher to compliment Aldon Smith, and their front office might be interested in Barkevious Mingo if he falls this far down the draft board. Sporting a 6’4″ and 241 lb. frame, Mingo possesses a tremendous amount of speed (4.58 40 Yard Dash) and agility (6.84 3-Cone Drill) off of the edge which should help him translate well to the professional level.  The biggest issues with Mingo however deal with how raw his skill-set is and his limited production (4.5 sacks and 8.5 tackles for loss) at Louisiana State last season.

15. New Orleans Saints: Jarvis Jones OLB (Georgia)

The Saints could stand to acquire a 3-4 pass-rusher this offseason.  New Defensive Coordinator Rex Ryan could be intrigued to take Georgia’s Outside Linebacker Jarvis Jones.  Although Jones’ “spinal stenosis” condition and poor Pro Day workout could scare scouts away, some teams in need of an athletic pass-rusher are sure to be willing to gamble on the former Bulldog.  Last season, Jones (6’2″ 245 lbs.) racked up 24.5 tackles for loss and 14.5 sacks, and would be a bargain for the Saints if he falls all the way down to #15 overall.

16. St. Louis Rams: Kenny Vaccaro FS/SS (Texas)

The Rams lost Craig Dahl in March, thus a replacement at the free safety position must be found.  Vaccaro (6’1″ 218 lbs.) was the Longhorns’ leading tackler last year (104) and added 4.0 tackles for loss, forced two fumbles, and made 2 interceptions as well.  A two-and-a-half year starter at Texas (31 Starts, 50 games), Vaccaro played both free and strong safety during his collegiate career, and is adept at helping with coverage in the slot in “Big Nickel” packages too.

Due to the fact that the current draft class is not what most consider to be “top heavy,” I believe that Pittsburgh’s front office would be wise to trade back in Round 1 to secure an extra selection or two to address more positional holes and depth issues on their roster.  If the Steelers’ brass do in fact feel the need to trade down from #17 overall in the 1st Round, I believe that Colbert & Co. might be able to swing a deal with one of the following five franchises:

(Note: I based potential trades and values for each on CBS.Sportsline’s Draft Value Chart)

5. Chicago Bears

If the Steelers traded with Chicago in Round 1, it would remind me of back in 2001 when Pittsburgh traded back three spots (#16 to #19) with the New York Jets.  The Jets wanted Santana Moss, and they gave Pittsburgh a 4th Round pick and a 6th Round pick in exchange for the move.  I guess that Colbert & Co. brass knew that they could acquire Casey Hampton later in Round 1, so they made the smart move to pick up some extra picks in the process.

Why would the Bears make a viable trading partner for the Steelers?  Well, in no particular order, the Bears currently have issues at slot receiver, offensive guard, center, offensive tackle and tight end.  Because the Cowboys at #18 and the New York Giants at #19 have similar issues in the offensive line and tight end departments, the Bears would be wise to move up to #17 overall to select a player like Chance Warmack, Jonathan Cooper, or Tyler Eifert if one or more of those guys are still on the board.

Unfortunately for a team like Pittsburgh, Chicago is not exactly in a position to trade up at the moment.  In fact, a move from #20 to #17 overall would likely cost the Bears 4th and 5th Round draft choices.  Even a small trade like that would hurt Chicago as they only have 5 total draft picks at the moment (1st, 2nd, 4th, 5th, 6th).  Then again, the Bears could really be desperate for help at offensive guard if Warmack or Cooper fall into the mid-late teens, so it should be an interesting turn of events if both guards make it to #17 overall.

4. Denver Broncos

With Peyton Manning at the helm, players like Champ Bailey set to retire soon, and tough Free Agent decisions on the horizon (Eric Decker vs. Demaryius Thomas), the Broncos are in a “win now” mode.  Due to the fact that the “clock could be ticking” on the Broncos, it would not shock me if they wanted to make a splash if a player who their front office particularly likes falls into the middle of the 1st Round.

As it stands, the Broncos could stand to use help at defensive tackle, defensive end, running back, and in their secondary.  As far as the defensive tackle position is concerned, the Broncos might be able to stick and stay at #28 overall due to the depth at the position in the 2013 draft class.  Nevertheless, Denver’s brass could be intrigued to trade up if defensive linemen like Sheldon Richardson, Sylvester Williams, or Bjoern Werner are available at #17 overall.  In addition, the Broncos could make a move up the draft board for Desmond Trufant or Xavier Rhodes if they want to secure a top cornerback prospect to hedge their bets in case Champ Bailey’s play continues to decline.

Like Chicago, Denver might refrain from moving too high up the draft board for a trade though.  The Broncos only have 6 total draft selections and could be more willing to hold onto them instead of using them as trading pieces.  Then again, Denver was a Joe Flacco “heave ‘n pray” from competing in the A.F.C. Title Game this past January.  Thus, if Elway & Co. see an impact player at #17 overall, they could be willing to give up their 2nd Round pick and swap their 1st Round pick with Pittsburgh, then pick up a 5th Round selection in exchange for the move from the Steelers.

3. Atlanta Falcons

Atlanta G.M. Thomas Dmitroff is no stranger to climbing up the draft board if he sees a player that him and his front office like.  Back in 2011, Dmitroff was behind Atlanta’s move from #27 to #6 to take Alabama wide receiver Julio Jones in what was arguably the most surprsing move of that year’s draft.

With Dallas and New York in need of help at defensive tackle, and teams like Denver, Indianapolis, and even Minnesota looking for cornerbacks, the Falcons could leap-frog ahead of them to take a player that they really want like a Sylvester Williams, Sheldon Richardson, Bjoern Werner, or a Desmond Trufant.  Atlanta also has a need for a tight end to take Tony Gonzalez’s place.  Thus, if they are sold on Tyler Eifert, they could leap-frog teams like New York and Chicago for his services.  Heck, now that Tyson Clabo is out of town, the Falcons could make a play for an offensive tackle like D.J. Fluker or Menelik Watson at #17 too.

The Falcons could be a prime candidate to trade up because of the fact that they have so few needs, and are probably only one player or two away from winning a Super Bowl.  Moving up from #31 to #17 would not be a cheap endeavor, and would likely require a swapping of 1st Round picks with Pittsburgh, and then giving the Steelers picks in the 2nd, 5th, and 7th Rounds.  Atlanta however has a decent number of picks (11), and I would not put it past Dmitroff to make a bold move in Round 1.

2. San Francisco 49ers

Due to the fact that the 49ers are an ascending team with a large amount of young talent, there is almost zero chance that G.M. Trent Baalke uses all 13 of his team’s draft picks at his disposal.  San Francisco does not have enough roster space to carry 14 draft picks, let alone 10.  Thus, we should all look for the 49ers to make a big move or two on “Draft Weekend.”

Although San Francisco does not necessarily have “pressing needs” at the moment, they could stand to upgrade their depth and find some talented yet raw players at the outside linebacker, tight end, cornerback, and safety positions.

The 49ers would also be wise to replace Delanie Walker and find a talented tight end to pair with Vernon Davis.  Thus, if Tyler Eifert is “their guy,” and they are afraid that the Giants or Bears could take him, they could trade up to #17 overall to take the former Notre Dame star to fill the aforementioned void.

Like most of the other teams on this list, San Francisco could stand to use some help in their secondary too.  Although the team signed Craig Dahl and Nnamdi Asomugha, the 49ers need some youth at safety and cornerback.  If the Steelers are not interested in Kenny Vaccaro, the former Longhorn would make sense as a fit for San Francisco’s complex defense, especially because of his ability to play in “big nickel” packages.  If the 49ers want to upgrade the cornerback position, they could take Xavier Rhodes or Desmond Trufant if they fall to #17 overall as well.

If some pass-rushers like Barkevious Mingo and Jarvis Jones slip to #17, and the Steelers are not interested in them of course, San Francisco could make a play for them so a team like Indianapolis or Baltimore does not beat them to the punch.  Adding Mingo or Jones to a pass-rush already consisting of Aldon Smith, Ahmad Brooks, and Parys Haralson would make the 49ers defense even more lethal.  Plus, the 49ers might also want to add a versatile 5-technique to their roster like Datone Jones to develop behind Justin Smith, and use as a sub-package pass-rusher as well.

Even though the 49ers might make a solid trade partner for the Steelers to turn to at #17 overall, San Francisco could have their sights set further up the draft board for a trade.  As I stated before, the 49ers have few needs and 13 draft picks total, and might be willing to give the Steelers picks in the 2nd, 4th, and 5th Rounds to make a trade from #31 to #17 happen.  Then again, San Francisco has plenty of “ammunition” to make a move as high as high as the top 10 overall if they see a player they like, and Baalke would probably want to parlay his bevy of picks into a 1st Round pick higher than #17 if he wanted to exercise a trade.

1. Minnesota Vikings

Sitting with the 23rd and 25th overall picks, and in need of depth and play-makers at defensive tackle, wide receiver, and cornerback, the Vikings definitely have enough ammunition to move up the draft board in Round 1.  To keep pace with Green Bay in their division, Minnesota must upgrade the talent at those positions.

To keep the pressure and the hits off of Adrian Peterson, the Vikings must find a way to upgrade their passing-game.  Minnesota lost Percy Harvin and must find a way to scare teams through the air if they want to help the noodle-armed Christian Ponder.  If they are scared that a player like DeAndre Hopkins or Keenan Allen will not fall to them at #23, then they could decide to make a trade if the Steelers are not interested in either pass-catcher.

Kevin Williams is also getting older, and his replacement must be found at defensive tackle.  Like Atlanta and Denver, the Vikings could be targeting both Sylvester Williams and Sheldon Richardson if they fall to #17.  And like the Falcons and Broncos, Minnesota might want to trade up for Xavier Rhodes or Desmond Trufant to shore up their secondary if one or both are available at #17 overall to boot.

Overall Minnesota has a total of 10 draft picks at their disposal.  Like San Francisco, the Vikings have the draft-pick flexibility to climb up and snatch a player if they need to make a move.  In fact, a move from #23 or #25 to #17 overall would likely only cost Minnesota one pick in the 3rd Round and one more in the 4th Round.  Thus, a trade with Pittsburgh would not be a particularly pricey one for the Vikings to make to acquire a “must have/impact” player for their franchise.

It might behoove the Steelers to trade back in Round 1. Mandatory Credit: Brian Spurlock-USA TODAY Sports

Final Thoughts

Kevin Colbert has been no stranger to making moves up and down the draft board in the 1st Round over his career, and Pittsburgh’s G.M. has executed trades three times during his tenure at the helm with the Steelers (’01, ’03, ’06).

Count me in as somebody who hopes that Pittsburgh is able to trade down in Round 1 in this year’s draft, because a rebuilding franchise like Pittsburgh can stand to get as young and talented as possible over the next few arduous years.

After some years of sub-par drafting, the more selections Pittsburgh has to work with, the better their odds should be of making the correct choices. Most importantly though, a bevy of extra draft selections can help with depth in the short-term, and potential starters in the long-term.

Regardless of what Pittsburgh elects to do in Round 1, I for one cannot wait to see what unfolds on that first evening and during “Draft Weekend” as a whole.

Readers: Should the Steelers try to trade back in Round 1?  Why?  Why not?

Follow me on Twitter: @DominicDiTolla

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Pittsburgh is looking to get younger at linebacker, but Patterson could be too good to pass up.  After losing Mike Wallace and potentially losing Emmanuel Sanders next offseason, the Steelers need to add weapons for Ben Roethlisberger if they hope to return to the top of the AFC North.

Patterson could be on the Steelers’ radars. Mandatory Credit: Randy Sartin-USA TODAY Sports

Just like he did two weeks ago, Sanchez maintains that Patterson will a) fall to Pittsburgh at #17, and b) Colbert & Co. will make him their selection.

I certainly would not blame the Steelers’ front office if they decide to target an electrifying play-maker like Cordarrelle if he was available for them to acquire in Round 1.  In fact, the wide receiver corps could stand to produce more “splash plays,” and Pittsburgh’s special teams units could use an explosive return man to field kickoffs and punts.

Although Patterson enjoyed a fine debut season at Tennessee in 2012, I do not believe that the former JUCO transfer projects to be as solid of a fit with the Steelers as other wide receivers in this draft class would.  In fact, I have some doubts as to how well the former Volunteer pass-catcher will transfer to the pro level at the wide receiver position.

Despite the fact that Patterson made highlight reel plays on offense and special teams, he was not as highly productive as some would think during his first and only season at the FBS-level.  Overall, Patterson (6’2″ 216 lbs.) recorded only 46 catches for 778 yards and 5 touchdowns as the Volunteers’ #2 target to Justin Hunter.

I also completely agree with the sentiments expressed by Armando Salguero of the Miami Herald who said that the pass-catcher “disappeared” for long periods of time as a wide receiver during games, especially against strong foes like Alabama, Mississippi State, and South Carolina (combined 6 catches, 76 yards, 1 touchdown).

In addition to Patterson’s up-and-down production at Tennessee, he is a far less “polished” receiver than others in this draft class.  By this I mean that the former Volunteer possesses nowhere near the hands and the route-running ability of other projected Round 1 prospects like Tavon Austin, Keenan Allen, DeAndre Hopkins, and Hunter.

Granted, I project Patterson’s “ceiling” to be much higher than Austin’s, Allen’s, Hunter’s, and Hopkins’.  In fact, Patterson already has the cut-back ability and speed to be considered one of the better kickoff return men at the pro level right now.  But if Cordarrelle cannot develop into a more fundamentally sound receiver, then he has the word “bust” written all over him.

If the Steelers were not in the middle of a rebuilding process, then I would love to see them take a chance on a player with Patterson’s potential at #17 overall.  Unfortunately, I believe that the “risk” with Patterson far outweighs the “reward,” and Colbert & Co. might be wise to look at other pass-catchers to help at the wide receiver position on Day 1 or Day 2.

Players Heights/Weight Provided By: CBSSports.com and NFL Combine Page

Players Stats Courtesy of: Tennessee and ESPN.com