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2016 NFL Mock Draft: Complete Two Round Predictions

By Dan Schmelzer

Jan 1, 2016; New Orleans, LA, USA; Mississippi Rebels wide receiver Laquon Treadwell (1) celebrates his ten-yard touchdown catch against the Oklahoma State Cowboys in the second quarter of the 2016 Sugar Bowl at the Mercedes-Benz Superdome. Mandatory Credit: Chuck Cook-USA TODAY Sports
Jan 1, 2016; New Orleans, LA, USA; Mississippi Rebels wide receiver Laquon Treadwell (1) celebrates his ten-yard touchdown catch against the Oklahoma State Cowboys in the second quarter of the 2016 Sugar Bowl at the Mercedes-Benz Superdome. Mandatory Credit: Chuck Cook-USA TODAY Sports /
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Jaylon Smith
Nov 7, 2015; Pittsburgh, PA, USA; Notre Dame Fighting Irish linebacker Jaylon Smith (9) puts on the hat of the Fighting Irish leprechaun mascot after defeating the Pittsburgh Panthers at Heinz Field. Notre Dame won 42-30. Mandatory Credit: Charles LeClaire-USA TODAY Sports /

player. 15. In the past year or so, the New Orleans Saints have seemed to be trying to become a more traditional team built on a strong running game and defense. With Drew Brees approaching the end of his career, this may not be a bad strategy, but they still have a lot of work to do, especially on the defensive side of the ball. <p> </p> <p>The Saints’ defense was awful last season. Against the run and the pass, it didn’t matter, the Saints could not stop anyone from doing anything. Adding impact talent on the defensive side of the ball is an absolute must for the Saints going forward, and with the 12th pick of this mock draft, they have an opportunity to land arguably the most talented defensive prospect in the class.</p> <p>Armed with ridiculous athleticism, great speed and incredible explosive ability, Jaylon Smith has an opportunity to be an elite defensive player at the next level. Smith is a fantastic pass defender, is strong against the run, explosive in the pass rush and hits with the power of a Mack truck. The complete total package, Smith would give the Saints’ defense a strong player to build around.</p> <p>However, a serious knee injury suffered in the Fiesta Bowl on New Year’s Day will certainly cause teams concern when considering Smith in the first round. Smith has already had the reconstructive surgery to repair his torn ACL and LCL. He is expected to make a full recovery from the injury, but he has a lengthy rehab process ahead of him.</p> <p>It is certainly possible that Smith misses his entire rookie season. That being said, Rams running back Todd Gurley went through a similar procedure last season, but his injury was suffered in November. Gurley made a full recovery, and was ready to go early in the season. If the team that drafts Smith needs him halfway through his rookie season, I bet he will be ready to make a return.</p> <p>Knee injuries are not as devastating as they were in the past. Recovery times are improving and the players almost always get back to full strength again. The Saints need an impact player to lead their defense. While they will have to be patient in bringing him along, Smith’s natural talent would greatly reward them eventually.</p>. LB. Notre Dame. Jaylon Smith. 1.12

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