2014 NFL Mock Draft: Top 10
By Andrew Long
Nov 12, 2013; Toledo, OH, USA; Buffalo Bulls linebacker Khalil Mack (46) gets his jersey pulled by Toledo Rockets wide receiver Bernard Reedy (1) during the fourth quarter at Glass Bowl. The Rockets beat the Bulls 51-41. Mandatory Credit: Raj Mehta-USA TODAY Sports
Tampa Bay Buccaneers | Pick 7 | Khalil Mack | OLB | Buffalo
Adding a player like Khalil Mack would inject a jolt of energy into the Tampa Bay defense. Lovie Smith, who is a defensive minded coach, would have to cook up some creative ways to use Mack on defense, but if he figures it out, Tampa Bay could have a disruptive player for years to come.
More and more teams are experimenting with what they like to call LEO linebackers. A LEO is a player that has the ability to play 3-4 outside linebacker and 4-3 defensive end. Khalil Mack and Anthony Barr both figure to fall under that category.
Minnesota Vikings | Pick 8 | Derek Carr | QB | Fresno State
It might be a bit of a reach, but at this point the Vikings need to reach. The team tried and failed to find a starting quarterback in 2013. Christian Ponder and Matt Cassel both disappointed last season. The desperation trade for Josh Freeman proved to be an utter failure, too. Can Derek Carr be the guy to save the Vikings? Maybe.
Throughout the draft process, Derek will be tied to the success of his older brother, David Carr. David, who was drafted number 1 overall by the upstart Texans, had a very sack and interception filled career. I know it’s not fair to compare the two just because they’re brothers, but you know that it’s going to happen.
Regardless of who his brother is, one thing is evident; the Fresno State quarterback can throw a football. Picking Carr may not be the most popular choice, but he is someone that the Vikings have to take a chance on.