NFL Mock Draft 2012: Trent Richardson Falls To Kansas City Chiefs
By Matt Church
I love mock drafts. Everyone has their own opinion and it takes a lot of guts for some people to put theirs out for everyone to see.
You can look at my previous one I wrote in February here.
Obviously, things have changed since the Combine. If you completely disagree with anything, just say so in the comments. I’m always open to criticism, it is what helps me become a better writer.
And without further ado …
Andrew Luck is going to be a Colt next season. I think Derek Jeter going to Red Sox is even more likely to happen than the Colts picking anyone else.
2 . Robert Griffin III, QB, Baylor (projected trade w/ St. Louis)
Winner, winner, chicken dinner. The Browns win the RGIII sweepstakes. In a divison with Big Ben, Andy Dalton, and Joe Flacco, this opportunity is just too hard to resist. Hopefully it’s oath also giving up their other first-round pick.
Kalil’s performance at the Combine secured his spot as the best offensive tackle in the draft. Was there any debate to begin with?
4. Justin Blackmon, WR, Oklahoma St. (projected trade with Cleveland)
The Rams were able to trade their pick, and get the player they wanted at No 4. Sam Bradford now has a receiver who can make big plays all over the field.
This was a hard choice betweem Claiborne and Richardson. Defense is just a little more important right now for Greg Schiano and the fading Bucs.
6. Quinton Coples, DE, North Carolina
The Redskins get Peyton Manning, no need for a quarterback here. Mike Shanahan coached him at the Senior Bowl, and if he’s nearly 300 pounds, he can be a big threat.
7. Melvin Ingram, DE, South Carolina
The Jaguars finished last year with one of the better defenses in the league, and that was without any real pass-rush attack. Although a little short, his speed can help cause commotion. The Jaguars aren’t the only team in love with him, either
The Dolphins get Matt Flynn, no need for a quarterback here. Someone to protect him sounds like a good idea.
Poe was the all-star of the Combine. At 346 pounds, he ran a 4.98 40 and produced 44 bench reps. I’m sure he’s moved up on everyone’s mock draft.
10. Jonathan Martin, OT, Stanford
Although a pass rusher is needed maybe a little bit more, the opportunity might me more worthwhile than defensive ends Whitney Mercilus or Nick Perry.
11. Trent Richardson, RB, Alabama
Jamaal Charles is coming off a knee injury and if Richardson is available, I can’t see any reason why the Chiefs would pass this up. He shouldn’t have too much trouble succeeding right away in the AFC West.
12. Ryan Tannehill, QB, Texas A&M
Alas, my Seahawks pick Ryan Tannehill. Maybe this is more of a hope then an educated guess. Hopefully if Ryan Tannehill doesn’t start, the competition will at least get Tavaris Jackson to play more consistently.
13. Whitney Mercilus, DE, Illinois
His performance at the Combine helped reinforce his ability to battle on the outside. He did lead the nation in sacks, by the way. The rising Cardinals can really use him to create a more intimidating defense in the NFC West.
14. Dre Kirpatrick, CB, Alabama
Watching Terence Newman last year wasn’t anything special. Kirkpatrick has the skills to keep tight coverage on even the best receivers. The Cowboy’s secondary is a top priority this draft.
15. Luke Kuechly, ILB, Boston College
Kuechly showed great potential in covering drills at the Combine, and his toughness at linebacker will fill a huge void for the Eagles.
16. Courtney Upshaw, OLB, Alabama
He’s not too quick, but the Jets would be glad if he is available here. He is ferocious on defense and the Jets – who were 5th best in yards against last year – might start showing signs of being the all-around elite defense that coordinators dream about.