Thomas had a fine career at Fresno State. Mandatory Credit: Cary Edmondson-USA TODAY Sports

When I read that free safety Phillip Thomas performed well during his workout session, I wondered whether or not the Steelers would show interest in the promising prospect.

Luckily for me, my question was answered earlier today by Ricardo Cano of “The Collegian” (Fresno State’s student newspaper).  

According to Cano, Thomas (6’1″ 208 lbs.) is scheduled to meet with members of  Pittsburgh’s brass at some point before “Draft Weekend.”

At least to me, it comes as no surprise that the Steelers scheduled an interview session with the former Bulldog.   As most know, the franchise is in need some sort of  viable “transition strategy” to install when the time comes for veterans Troy Polamalu and Ryan Clark to retire. 

Long-time backup Ryan Mundy signed with the Giants earlier this month, veteran Will Allen remains unsigned, and 2012 UDFA Robert Golden is the only player behind the starters with any experience.

Although Phillip is considered to be one of the 2013 draft class’ top safety prospects, the last two years were anything but a cake-walk for him.  In fact,  heading into the 2012 season, many wondered how well and how much he would be able to play.

After a productive 2010 campaign (64 tackles, 2 forced fumbles, 3 interceptions), Thomas unfortunately sustained a leg injury right before the 2011 season began.  The injury was a major blow to Fresno State and Thomas, and the safety was shelved for the entire year due to his broken fibula and high ankle sprain.

To his credit, Thomas not only fought back from his devastating injury, but he was named a Jim Thorpe Award finalist for his stellar play in 2012.  Overall, Thomas started all 13 of the Bulldogs’ games and led the team in tackles (84), tackles for loss (12.0), and interceptions (8) (led the entire FBS-level).  In addition to those numbers, Phillip tied for the team lead in forced fumbles (4), and finished second in passes defended (13), and tied for second in Sacks (4.0).

The aspect of Thomas’ game that I like the most is the fact that he is a ball-hawking safety who displayed the ability to make “splash plays.”  Over his career (3 years), Phillip snatched 13 interceptions, forced 6 fumbles, and even scored 3 touchdowns last year.  Although Thomas is a bit of a “risk-taker” on the back end, his ability to force turnovers is something that Pittsburgh’s Defense could desperately stand to use.

In addition to his ball-skills, Thomas is an accomplished blitzer and “in-the-box” player too.  During his career, Phillip racked up 17.0 tackles for loss to go along with the 4.0 sacks he made during the 2012 campaign.  If he is selected by Pittsburgh, I am sure that Defensive Backs Coach Carnell Lake, one of the League’s best at said craft during his career, will be pleased to utilize the youngster’s skill-set in that area.

One of the biggest questions that surrounds Thomas (outside of durability after his freak injury) deals with his straight-line speed.  While some scouts might be concerned with that part of his game, Phillip was able to at least improve upon his Combine time in the 40 yard dash (4.65 seconds) at his Pro Day when he recorded an impressive time of 4.53.

If Pittsburgh selects Thomas, I can actually envision the Coaching Staff playing him at strong safety instead of free safety.  Due to his toughness and ability to help out deep and “in-the-box,” Defensive Coordinator Dick LeBeau could use Phillip in a number of different facets like Polamalu has been during his Hall of Fame career.  Due to Thomas’ versatile skill-set, he has the potential to be an effective weapon for LeBeau and Lake to utilize all over the field.

In the event that Colbert & Co. do not draft a Safety in Round 1, I believe that Thomas would be a solid player for the Steelers to target in the late-2nd/early 3rd-Round.  A year of development on Special Teams and in sub-packages would benefit the young safety greatly.  This would provide Thomas time to adjust to the speed of the pro game, and give him adequate time to learn LeBeau’s “complex” defense.

Regardless of whether or not Pittsburgh’s brass believe that Thomas is “their guy,” Colbert & Co. are more than likely to select at least one safety prospect during “Draft Weekend” next month.

Statistics Courtesy of: Fresno State and ESPN

Players Heights/Weight Provided By: CBSSports.com

Wilcox transitioned well from Offense to Defense. Mandatory Credit: Derick E. Hingle-USA TODAY Sports

Wilcox’s Journey to the Safety Position

If you readers are not familiar with the Georgia Southern Safety, his journey to the Safety position throughout his college career is somewhat unique.  In fact, Wilcox did not even play in the Defensive Backfield until his Senior year of college!  From 2009-2011, Wilcox actually played Slotback and Wide Receiver on Offense as a key-cog in G.S.U.’s Triple-Option attack.

During his first three years, the 6′ 215 lb. Wilcox played in 36 Games, started 26 of them, and helped the Eagles in a “Swiss-Army knife” manner as a pass-catcher and runner who could make big plays with the ball in his hands.  Overall, J.J. found success on the ground to the tune of 985 Yards on 137 Carries with 13 TD’s.  In addition to his prowess as a runner, Wilcox proved to be just as dangerous as a pass catcher as he hauled in 45 balls for 898 Yards and 4 TD’s during that time frame too.

Before last season began though, the Eagles were hurting for depth and leadership in the Secondary, and G.S.U. Head Coach Jeff Monken turned to his Senior Slotback for help.  In a completely “team-player” move, J.J. accepted his new role and switched from Slotback to Strong Safety to help the Eagles’ Defense in their time of need.  Well, it did not take J.J. long to find success in the Defensive Backfield, and the Senior burst out in a big way during the 2012 season.

Overall, Wilcox started 13 of G.S.U.’s 14 games, finished with 88 Tackles, 5 Passes Defended, and 2 Interceptions during his first season ever Defensive Back!  Of course the Eagles weren’t going to just take a play-maker out of situations in which he could handle the football.  So when the versatile Wilcox was asked to return Kickoffs, he shined in that capacity too (31 Returns, 780 Yards, 25.2 YPR).

After his successful season, scouts finally began to take notice of Wilcox, and he was given an invitation to The Senior Bowl.  It was in Mobile, AL where J.J. used his chance to his advantage as he showed off his versatile and athletic skill-set to pro scouts around the League.  Since late January, Wilcox has also performed at The Combine, and is currently drawing buzz from Safety-needy teams League-wide.

Wilcox’s Transition to the Professional Level

Although Wilcox’s move to the Defensive side of the ball came late during his college career, the former Eagle sees it as more of a blessing in disguise.  In a recent article by Mike Jones of The Washington Post, Wilcox was quoted as saying the following:

Having played offense is a plus,…Route-running, route-stemming and ball skills, playing receiver and running back, you have to have great ball skills.  Playing running back and receiver, you have to have that.  And so, I know how to read defenses, I know how to read offenses.  That definitely helps me.

 

Wilcox also appears to be quite the driven and knowledge-hungry player as well, and states his thoughts on staying at the Safety position below in a quote from the same article:

It would make my game better.  But at the same time, when you’re playing from behind like I am, it motivates you and challenges you more to work to show that you can play no matter what scheme you put up, no matter where you put me at, that gives me my drive.

 

J.J.’s thirst for knowledge to better himself at the Safety position and as a student of the game is also evident too:

 

You can never know too much about the game.  Every day I learn something new.  I just want to learn how to be the best safety there is in the NFL,…I study all the safeties in the NFL.  I was a big Sean Taylor fan, just always around the ball.  Ed Reed.  I love Ed Reed, just because he’s a ball hawk.  Ryan Clark, I could go on.  I love NFL,  I sleep NFL.  My TV stays on NFL Network.  I can talk your ear off all day about NFL.

 

It certainly seems that Wilcox is not only a smart player, but a dedicated and driven one to boot.  I am sure that he also understands full well that he is likely to fall down draft boards because he is a bit “behind the game” in terms of the competition he faced at the collegiate level.  Heck, he probably knows more than anybody that his skill-set as a Defensive Back is raw and he will need to fine-tune all aspects of his game from tackling to turning his hips.  I also would not doubt that he knows that the questions surrounding his lack of experience on the Defensive side of the ball are probably going to come up in future interviews with N.F.L. teams too.

Nevertheless, I am positive that Wilcox also knows he possesses the type of frame (6′, 215 lbs., 31″ arms), athletic ability, and speed (4.57 40 Yard Dash) to compete at football’s highest level at the Safety position with a year or two of development.  From what he said above, he understands the type of work and work-ethic that must go into making him a better player, and appears to welcome the challenge of professional football.  Overall, Wilcox appears to be mature and hungry Safety prospect who wants to contribute to a team’s success by helping them in any sort of capacity. You know, a player that a team like Pittsburgh could definitely stand to have on their roster.

Final Thoughts

Wilcox could be a Day 2 “sleeper prospect,” and do not be surprised if the Steelers bring him in for an interview at some point over the next two months.  Although Wilcox will probably need a year or two of development before he can assume a starting role, he will not need to chip in heavily at either Safety spot if Ryan Clark and Troy Polamalu are able to stay healthy.  A big “if,” I know.  Yet both veterans should still have another season or two of productive football left in each of their tanks’, and this should allow for young prospects to be groomed behind them as the future at the Free and Strong Safety positions.

Health of the veterans aside, the former Eagle Safety could immediately contribute to the team’s success as a Kick Returner now that Chris Rainey is out of town.  Moreover, I am sure that he would be utilized to his fullest extent on Pittsburgh’s Kickoff and Punt Coverage units early in his career while he learns the Steelers’ Defensive scheme from some of the best in the business.

I should also mention that if Wilcox is as thirsty for knowledge about playing Defense and the Safety position as he appears to be, him coming to Pittsburgh would be a perfect fit.  As far as the players that J.J. would get to be around, I would say that working with a future Hall of Famer in Polamalu, and a soon to be 12 year veteran in Ryan Clark would be an amazing opportunity.  In addition, Wilcox would also receive the chance to learn from Defensive Backs Coach and successful N.F.L. Safety Carnell Lake, and Hall of Fame Cornerback/”Best Defensive Coordinator Ever” Dick LeBeau.

Although this year’s Safety Class has numerous talented players, I really hope that the Steelers are interested in Wilcox as a potential Day 2 selection if they do not make a move for Kenny Vaccaro or Matt Elam on Day 1.  Granted, the former G.S.U. star might not possess the type of experience at the Safety position, or at the FBS level, as some of the players I alluded to at the beginning of this post.  But Wilcox does possess the type athletic ability and work-ethic to be a fantastic developmental prospect for a team in need of one at both Free and Strong Safety.

Readers: Should the Steelers consider taking J.J. Wilcox on Day 2?  Do you believe that he would be a good fit in Pittsburgh?  Why or why not?

Stats Courtesy of: Georgia Southern

Measurements Courtesy of: NFL Combine Page

In addition, I must add that the teams currently not eliminated from Super Bowl contention will be slotted according to my own projections of how I believe the 2012-2013 postseason will all unfold.  Don’t worry everybody, I’ll add trades and move prospects up and down the draft board once The Scouting Combine, Pro Days, and Free Agency get underway.  But for now, let’s get started on this third installment:

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

If Kansas City does not elect to trade down or select a Quarterback, they could definitely use an upgrade along their Offensive Line next year.  Not only did the Chiefs’ O-Line surrender 40.0 Sacks during the 2012 campaign, their Left Tackle Branden Albert will be an Unrestricted Free Agent (UFA) this March.  Kansas City would be wise to address their QB-needs through Free Agency or in later Rounds of the Draft while they shore up their Left Tackle spot with the Aggies’ blind-side protector throughout his three-year stint in College Station (39 Games, 39 Starts).  The 6’6″ 310 lb. Joeckel was the 2012 Outland Award winner, a 2012 consensus All-American, and could be just the player the Chiefs need to begin their rebuilding process under Andy Reid and his pass-heavy Offense.

2. Jacksonville Jaguars: Bjoern Werner DE (Florida State)

Although the Jason Babin signing helped, Jacksonville would be wise to bolster their pass-rush early in this year’s Draft.  The Jaguars ranked last in the League with a total of 20.0 Sacks last year, and had their fair share of issues putting consistent pressure on opposing Quarterbacks.  Jacksonville’s pass-rush was so anemic that Defensive Tackle Tyson Alualu led the team with 3.5 Sacks.  Although the German-born Werner is relatively new to the game football, he continued to improve this past year as he logged 18.0 Tackles For Loss (TFL’s) and 13.0 Sacks with the Seminoles during his Junior campaign.

3. Oakland Raiders: Star Lotulelei DT (Utah)

Without Al Davis running things, General Manager Reggie McKenzie will be able to upgrade the interior of Oakland’s Defensive Line with the best Defensive Tackle in this year’s class.  Tommy Kelly has proved to be an absolute disaster since he signed his 7-year $50.125 million dollar contract, and the Raiders could also lose Desmond Bryant to Free Agency this offseason as well.  Despite being double-teamed and keyed on for much of the season,  Lotulelei was a 1st Team All-Pac-12 performer in 2012 as he amassed 42 Tackles, 5.0 Sacks, 11.0 TFL’s, Forced 3 Fumbles, and Recovered 4.

4. Philadelphia Eagles: Damontre Moore DE (Texas A&M)

The Eagles could use someone to replace the recently released Jason Babin, and will definitely be in the market to find someone to push the underachieving Brandon Graham.  Last year, Philadelphia’s once potent pass-rush only led to 30.0 combined Sacks over the entire season (T-25th overall).  If the Eagles want to get after the likes of Eli Manning, RGIII, and Tony Romo, they would be wise to add someone like Damontre Moore  At 6’4″ 250 lbs., Moore led the Aggies last year in Tackles (85), TFL’s 21.0, Sacks (12.5), and even blocked 2 Kicks while he emerged as one of the S.E.C.’s best pass-rushers.

5. Detroit Lions: DeMarcus Milliner CB (Alabama)

Detroit’s Defense is in need of some play-makers at the Cornerback position.  If the Lions, who had the 4th fewest Interceptions in 2012m are not interested in any of the pass-rushers who fall to them in Round 1, they could use a shutdown Corner like DeMarcus Milliner.  The 6’1 198 lb. Milliner had a terrific 2012 season with the Crimson Tide as he put up an incredible 22 Passes Defended over the team’s 14 games, and added 54 Tackles and 2 Interceptions to his statline as well.

6. Cleveland Browns: Barkevious Mingo DE/OLB (Louisiana State)

New Defensive Coordinator Ray Horton will want to improve the Browns’ pass-rush as the team transitions to a 3-4 scheme.  Luckily for Horton, he will likely get to choose from  Barkevious Mingo or Jarvis Jones once Cleveland is on the clock.  Jabaal Sheard (7.0 Sacks) and Juqua Parker (6.0) could use some help attacking the passer, and the Browns could definitely use a more formidable pass-rush when they face Ben Roethlisberger, Joe Flacco, and Ginger Spice six times per season.  The athletic Barkevious Mingo (6’4″240 lbs) could be just the player that Horton wants to bolster the pass-rush.  While Mingo’s stats last season were not “eye-popping,” 4.5 Sacks, 8.5 TFL’s, he has the potential to turn into a terror off of the edge.

7. Arizona Cardinals: Geno Smith QB (West Virginia)

If the Cardinals are not confident in taking Eric Fisher, then I can see the franchise going in the direction of a Quarterback with their 1st Round selection.  Because the Quarterback cupboard is basically bare for new Head Coach Bruce Arians, Arizona could take a chance on the accurate and athletic Smith (369 for 518 (71.2%), 4,205 Yards, 42 TD’s, and 6 INT’s).  The Kolb-Skelton-Lindley-Hoyer combo. was ineffective last season, and the franchise must fix the most important position on the field.

8. Buffalo Bills: Alec Ogletree ILB (Georgia)

I mocked Manti Te’o to the Bills in my 1st version because Buffalo could be moving to a 3-4 under the new Coaching Staff, and because of the fact that the franchise will need to find a replacement for Nick Barnett in the near future.  I know it is early, but I have a gut feeling that Alec Ogletree will skyrocket up teams’ draft boards once he flashes his athleticism at The Combine.  A former Safety, Ogletree possesses an incredible mix of size and speed (6’3″ 232 lbs.), and led the Bulldogs this past year in Tackles with 111, and registered 11.5 TFL’s and 3.0 Sacks to go along with 6 PD’s and 1 Interception.  I should also add that he did all of this in 10 games, as he spent the first four on the bench as he served a suspension.  Ogletree’s off-field issues might slide him down in Round 1, but his talent is undeniable.

9. New York Jets: Eric Fisher OT (Central Michigan)

If the Jets do not look for a pass-rusher in Round 1, it might behoove them to target a Right Tackle to replace Austin Howard.  Eric Fisher has had himself quite the Senior Bowl Week, and he could be an instant upgrade on the Right side for the Jets or wherever he lines up for them.  The 6’7″ 305 lbs. Fisher was a 1st Team All-MAC performer last year, and also possesses some versatility to his game.  Although he played most of his collegiate career at Left Tackle, he did start games earlier during his time with the Chippewas at Right Tackle and Right Guard.  So even if the Left or Right Tackle spots are not in Fisher’s future, he could fill in at either of those two other positions.

10. Tennessee Titans: Chance Warmack OG (Alabama)

The Titans must bolster the interior of their Offensive Line, and they could decide to fill that need early in Round 1 with the best Guard in the Draft Class.  Left Guard Steve Hutchinson will be in his 13th year when the season begins, while Right Guard Leroy Harris will be a UFA this offseason, and both players ended last year on Injured Reserve.  Tennessee would upgrade their O-Line’s interior if they selected Chance Warmack (6’2″ 322 lbs.) out of Alabama.  Warmack started 40 games during his collegiate career with the Crimson Tide and is a fantastic road-grading mauler with some nice pass-protection skills to boot.

11. San Diego Chargers: Jarvis Jones OLB (Georgia)

Spinal-stenosis or not, if Jarvis Jones falls to the Chargers at #11, and San Diego’s brass is not sold on Lane Johnson, they should seriously consider selecting the talented Georgia pass-rusher.  While the Chargers added Melvin Ingram in Round 1 last year, their leading Sack-man from 2012, Shaun Phillips (9.5), will be 31 this offseason and an Unrestricted Free Agent.  In addition to Phillips’ UFA status and age is the fact that 2009 1st Round pick Larry English has been nothing short of a bust.  Thus, San Diego might benefit from a player like Jones who racked up 24.5 TFL’s and 14.5 Sacks during his Senior season.  At 6’4″ 242 lbs., Jones reminds me a bit of Von Miller in terms of his ability to pass-rush, and pass-rush well, from different spots on the field.

12. Miami Dolphins: Keenan Allen WR (California)

Do not get me wrong, Davonne Bess is a fine slot Wide Receiver, and Brian Hartline is a solid #2 target.  But if the Dolphins are serous about taking Ryan Tannehill’s game to the next level, they could stand to draft their franchise Quarterback a legitimate play-making #1 pass-catcher like Keenan Allen (6’3″ 215 lbs.) from California.  The Dolphins ranked 22nd in the League last year with a 6.8 Yards per Pass Attempt Average and only 30th in Total Pass TD’s with 13, thus they could use an upgrade at the Wide Receiver position.   Allen had a terrific career with the Golden Bears (totaled 1,343 Yards Receiving during 2011 and 737 during 9 games last year) and possesses a size-speed skill-set which would make him a solid fit in the League.

13. Tampa Bay Buccaneers: Johnathan Hankins DT (Ohio State)

Tampa Bay must fill needs at multiple spots on Defense, and if they elect not to take a Cornerback in Round 1, I could definitely see them taking the best Defensive Tackle available with the 13th overall pick.  A wide-bodied, yet athletic gap-clogger, Hankins (6’3″ 320 lbs.) shined during his Junior season with the Buckeyes as he logged 55 Tackles, 4.0 TFL’s, 1.0 Sack, and earned All-Big-10 honors.  The addition of Hankins could allow him and Pro Bowler Gerald McCoy to develop into a pair of formidable Defensive Tackles for the Buccaneers.

14. Carolina Panthers: Sheldon Richardson DT (Missouri)

Although the Panther’s Defense improved this past year, they could still use some upgrades along the interior of their Defensive Line.  Carolina’s Run Defense could be helped by an impact player like the athletic and potential 3-Technique prospect Sheldon Richardson from Missouri.  After two years at the Junior College level and a year in a non-starter role with the Tigers, Richardson (6’3″ 295 lbs.) burst on the scene in 2012 when he racked up 75 Tackles, 10.5 TFL’s, and 4.0 Sacks over Missouri’s 11 Games.   Drafting a player like Richardson would be a solid move for Carolina as Dwan Edwards will be a UFA after the 2013 season, while Sione Fua and Frank Kearse could be pushed for playing time as well.

15. New Orleans Saints: Alex Okafor DE/OLB (Texas)

The Saints will be employing a 3-4 Defense this year, and the biggest task for them to accomplish this offseason will be acquiring players who can fit the system.  New Orleans’ Defense tied for 25th in the League in Sacks last year with 30.0, and they might target a pass-rusher with their 1st Round pick.  Okafor had a fantastic career with the Longhorns which was capped off by an extremely productive Senior campaign.  Overall, Alex racked up 68 Tackles, 18.0 TFL’s, and 12.5 Sacks over 13 Games, and did so with his talented pass-rushing mate Jackson Jeffcoat sidelined for most of the year with a pectoral injury.  Equipped with a nice burst upfield for a bigger guy (6’5″ 265 lbs.), Okafor could shine with the Saints.

16. St. Louis Rams: Lane Johnson OT (Oklahoma)

Lane Johnson of Oklahoma could be the Left Tackle prospect the Rams are looking for to protect Bradford’s blind-side.  Plus, Johnson’s selection would allow the Rams’ current Left Tackle, Roger Saffold, to take the place of soon-to-be UFA Right Tackle Barry Richardson, or kick in to Left Guard to replace the soon-to-be UFA Robert Turner.  Johnson (6’6″ 303 lbs.) is an athletic prospect who played Quarterback in High School and at Junior College, and spent time at Tight End and Defensive End during his first year with the Sooners.  For the last two years though Johnson has manned both the Right (12 Starts) and Left (11 Starts) for Oklahoma and could be a fantastic player and pass-protector down the road.

In addition, I must add that the teams currently not eliminated from Super Bowl contention will be slotted according to my own projections of how I believe the 2012-2013 postseason will all unfold.  Don’t worry everybody, I’ll add trades and move prospects up and down the draft board once The Scouting Combine, Pro Days, and Free Agency get underway.  But for now, let’s get started on this second installment:

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

Could the Chiefs use a Quarterback right now?  Of course they could, but sadly for them, the 2013 Draft Class does not seem to be as full of top-tier “franchise Quarterbacks” as last year’s.  If Kansas City does not elect to trade down or select a Quarterback, they could definitely use an upgrade along their Offensive Line next year.  Not only did the Chiefs’ O-Line surrender 40.0 Sacks during the 2012 campaign, their Left Tackle Branden Albert will be an Unrestricted Free Agent (UFA) this March.  Kansas City would be wise to address their QB-needs through Free Agency or later Rounds in the Draft while they shore up their Left Tackle spot with the Aggies’ blind-side protector throughout his three-year stint in College Station (39 Games, 39 Starts).  The 6’6″ 310 lb. Joeckel was the 2012 Outland Award winner, a 2012 consensus All-American, and could be just the player the Chiefs need to begin their rebuilding process under Andy Reid and his pass-heavy Offense.

2. Jacksonville Jaguars: Geno Smith QB (West Virginia)

The Jaguars have a new G.M. and a new Head Coach in town, and both have zero allegiance to the top two signal-callers already on the roster: Blaine Gabbert and Chad Henne.  If Dave Caldwell and Gus Bradley believe that Gabbert and Henne are not the long-term answers at the Quarterback position, I could definitely see Jacksonville selecting West Virginia’s Geno Smith with the 2^nd overall pick.  The accurate and athletic Smith (369 for 518 (71.2%), 4,205 Yards, 42 TD’s, and 6 INT’s) would give the Jaguars an immediate upgrade at a position of need, and hope for the future of their Offense.

3. Oakland Raiders: Jarvis Jones OLB (Georgia)

The Raiders’ Defense is in need of some serious reconstruction, and this year’s Draft will be key.  Oakland needs depth and future starters at almost every position, but they could really use an upgrade at Strongside Linebacker and along their Defensive Line.  Their pass rush was anemic last year (T-31st last year with only 25.0 Sacks), and they should look to add some players to help in that department on Days 1, 2, and 3.  Oakland might benefit from a player like Jones who racked up 24.5 TFL’s and 14.5 Sacks during his Senior season.  At 6’4″ 242 lbs., Jones reminds me a bit of Von Miller in terms of his ability to pass-rush, and pass-rush well, from different spots on the field.

4. Philadelphia Eagles: Star Lotulelei DT (Utah)

With Michael Vick likely to stay in Philadelphia and zero Offensive Linemen left on the board in this Mock, I can see the Eagles addressing the Defensive Tackle position yet again in Round 1 of this Draft.  If Philadelphia can line up Fletcher Cox and Lotulelei on the interior of their Defensive Line, they have the potential to absolutely dominate future opponents in the trenches.  Despite being double-teamed and keyed on for much of the season,  Lotulelei was a 1st Team All-Pac-12 performer in 2012 when he amassed 42 Tackles, 5.0 Sacks, 11.0 TFL’s, Forced 3 Fumbles, and Recovered 4.

5. Detroit Lions: Bjoern Werner DE (Florida State)

Detroit will likely need some serious help at Defensive End if they fail to do anything in Free Agency.  Kyle Vanden Bosch will be 35 next season, while Cliff Avril will likely be a high-priced UFA and playing elsewhere in 2013.  I can see either Damontre Moore or Bjoern Werner as the Lions’ 1st Round selection, and the team would be wise to select Werner if he fell to #5.  Although the German-born Werner is relatively new to football, he continued to improve this past year as he put up 18.0 TFL’s and 13.0 Sacks with the Seminoles.  Werner’s speed and strength could force teams to single Ndamukong Suh and Nick Fairley on the interior and create matchups-galore for the Lions as they try to come back after a disappointing 2012 season.

6. Cleveland Browns: Damontre Moore DE (Texas A&M)

Jabaal Sheard (7.0 Sacks) and Juqua Parker (6.0) could use some help attacking the passer, and the Browns could definitely use a more formidable pass-rush when they face Ben Roethlisberger, Joe Flacco, and Ginger Spice 6 times per season.  With Ray Horton in town, the Browns will look to improve their blitz, and a player like Damontre Moore could be just what Cleveland’s Defense needs to ramp up the pressure.  At 6’4″ 250 lbs., Moore led the Aggies last year in Tackles (85), Tackles for Loss (TFL’s) 21.0, Sacks (12.5), and even blocked 2 Kicks, and I believe that he possesses enough athleticism to become a larger stand-up Outside Linebacker like LaMarr Woodley used to be before he got fat.

7. Arizona Cardinals: Mike Glennon QB (North Carolina State)

If a player like Joeckel slides to Arizona at #7, or they are confident in reaching for an Eric Fisher, then I can see the franchise going in said direction.  But because Bruce Arians is in town, I can see Arizona selecting a Quarterback in Round 1 like Mike Glennon from North Carolina State.  I liken Glennon’s skill-set to a combination between Joe Flacco and Nick Foles.  And with his bigger yet athletic frame, Arians could see a bit of “Big Ben” in the North Carolina State prospect (4,031 Yards Passing and 31 TD’s in 2012) as well.  Although Glennon’s Completion Percentage from last season (58.4%) might be a cause for concern, his rifle arm, and surprising athleticism could drive him up draft boards around the League.

8. Buffalo Bills: Matt Barkley QB (Southern California)

With Manti Te’o’s recent “99 Problems and the Girl being Non-Existent,” I am not sure who to project to the Bills right now in Round 1.  What I do know is that Ryan Fitzpatrick has been inconsistent at best since he signed that $50 million dollar deal in the middle of the 2011 campaign.  Doug Marrone could elect to wait until Round 2 to fill his need for a Quarterback with his own collegiate signal-caller Ryan Nassib, or he could fill the need in Round 1 with a player like Matt Barkley from U.S.C..  I believe that Matt Barkley’s stock will rise once he comes back from his shoulder surgery and teams begin to look at more film of him and his successful collegiate career as a whole (246 for 387, 3,273 Yards, 63.6%, 36 TD’s & 15 INT’s was a “down year” in 2012).  Although Barkley might not be considered the most athletic Quarterback, he ran a Pro-Style system at Southern Cal, he possesses a strong arm and can make every throw on the field, and can do so in an accurate fashion.

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

First of all, let me say that 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, positions I might add which are not supposed to generate many Sacks.  Unfortunately, the Jets lack speed outside of Coples and Wilkerson, and could use an upgrade over veteran Calvin Pace at Outside Linebacker.  The athletic Barkevious Mingo (6’4″240 lbs) could be just the player the Jets enlist to provide some extra speed and heat off of the edge.  Although he was slowed a bit last season (4.5 Sacks, 8.5 TFL’s), Mingo could instantly upgrade one of New York’s Outside Linebacker spots.

10. Tennessee Titans: DeMarcus Milliner CB (Alabama)

Cortland Finnegan left for St. Louis last season, Ryan Mouton will be a UFA this offseason, and Alterraun Verner is set to reach UFA status in the Spring of 2014.  While it might be a bit early, the Titans could decide to bolster their Secondary by selecting the most talented “Shut-Down” Corner in this year’s draft class.  The 6’1 198 lb. Milliner had a terrific 2012 season with the Crimson Tide as he put up an incredible 22 Passes Defended over the team’s 14 games, and added 54 Tackles and 2 INT’s to his statline as well.  The addition of Milliner would give the Titans’ beleaguered Secondary (31 Pass TD’s allowed tied for 2nd last in 2012) a tremendous insurance policy at Cornerback.  Plus it can never hurt a Defense to have too many Cornerbacks on their roster, especially those who can excel in Man-Coverage.

11. San Diego Chargers: Eric Fisher OT (Central Michigan)

Philip Rivers was bludgeoned last season with Jared Gaither manning the Left Tackle spot and an assortment of backups doing their best to stop opposing pass-rushers.  San Diego gave up 49.0 Sacks last year (4th most in the League), and could definitely use as many talented Offensive Linemen as they can get as Rivers enters his 10th season in the N.F.L..  The 6’7″ 305 lbs. Fisher was a 1st Team All-MAC performer last year, and also possesses some versatility to his game.  Although he played most of his collegiate career at Left Tackle, he did start games earlier during his time with the Chippewas at Right Tackle and Right Guard.  So even if the Left Tackle spot is not in Fisher’s future, he could fill in at either of those two other positions.  And for an O-Line desperate team like the Chargers, his presence at Right Tackle or Right Guard would be an upgrade nonetheless.

12. Miami Dolphins: Keenan Allen WR (California)

Do not get me wrong, Davonne Bess is a fine slot Wide Receiver, and Brian Hartline is a solid #2 target.  But if the Dolphins are serous about taking Ryan Tannehill’s game to the next level, they could stand to draft their franchise Quarterback a legitimate play-making #1 pass-catcher like Keenan Allen (6’3″ 215 lbs.) from California.  The Dolphins ranked 22nd in the League last year with a 6.8 Yards per Pass Attempt Average and only 30th in Total Pass Touchdowns with 13, thus they could use an upgrade at the Wide Receiver position.   Allen had a terrific career with the Golden Bears (totaled 1,343 Yards Receiving during 2011 and 737 during 9 games last year) and possesses a size-speed skill-set which would make him a solid fit in the League.

13. Tampa Bay Buccaneers: Johnathan Hankins DT (Ohio State)

Tampa Bay must fill needs at multiple spots on Defense, and if they elect not to take a Cornerback in Round 1, I could definitely see them taking the best Defensive Tackle available with the 13th overall pick.  A wide-bodied, yet athletic gap-clogger, Hankins (6’3″ 320 lbs.) shined during his Junior season with the Buckeyes as he logged 55 Tackles, 4.0 TFL’s, 1.0 Sack, and earned All-Big-10 honors.  The addition of Hankins could allow him and Pro Bowler Gerald McCoy to develop into a pair of formidable Defensive Tackles for the Buccaneers.

14. Carolina Panthers: Sheldon Richardson DT (Missouri)

Although the Panther’s Defense improved this past year, they could still use some upgrades along the interior of their Defensive Line.  Carolina’s Run Defense could be helped by an impact player like the athletic and potential 3-Technique prospect Sheldon Richardson from Missouri.  After two years at the Junior College level and a year in a non-starter role with the Tigers, Richardson (6’3″ 295 lbs.) burst on the scene in 2012 when he racked up 75 Tackles, 10.5 TFL’s, and 4.0 Sacks over Missouri’s 11 Games.   Drafting a player like Richardson would be a solid move for Carolina as Dwan Edwards will be a UFA after the 2013 season, while Sione Fua and Frank Kearse could be pushed for playing time as well.

15. New Orleans Saints: Ezekiel Ansah DE (Brigham Young)

Overall, the Saints’ Run Defense was downright terrible last season.  New Orleans ranked last in Yards Per Carry Allowed (5.2), Total Rushing Yards Allowed (2,361), and Total Rushing Yards Per Gamed (147.6).  The Saints will also need help rushing the passer (T-25th last season 30.0 Sacks) and an athletic player to help rotate in with Cameron Jordan and Will Smith.  The raw yet talented Defensive End/Outside Linebacker prospect Ezekiel Ansah out of Brigham Young could be an option for the Saints at #15.  Although he is newer to the game of football, Ansah had a fine 2012 season as he made 62 Tackles, 13.0 TFL’s, 4.5 Sacks during his first year as a starter, and is projected by some to be a “Jason Pierre-Paul” type of “high-risk, high-reward” prospect.

16. St. Louis Rams: Cordarrelle Patterson WR (Tennessee)

The Rams have the luxury of possessing two 1st Round picks, and could be willing to go B.P.A. with one, and fill an enormous need with the other.  With the 16th overall selection, St. Louis could look to add a weapon for Sam Bradford to help in the passing game, especially if Eric Fisher is off of the board when they go on the clock first.  Patterson 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 TD’s, he rushed for 270 Yards and 3 TD’s, and returned 1 Kickoff and 1 Punt for Touchdowns.  The Junior possesses not only incredible speed but a large frame (6’3″ 205 lbs.) to boot, and could be just the #1 option Sam Bradford is in need of at this point in his career.