By ANDREW CHAMPAGNE

achampagne@saratogian.com

Twitter.com/AndrewChampagne

Thanks to Walter Cherepinsky for listing this draft on his database. If you want to take a look at a ton of different mocks, check out http://www.walterfootball.com . Also check out http://www.dcprosportsreport.com/MockDraft.htm and http://www.sbnation.com/nfl-mock-draft/2013/1/15/3869542/2013-nfl-mock-draft-database , as they were kind enough to link to us as well.

With that, on to the latest mock!

1) Kansas City Chiefs (2-14): Luke Joeckel, OT, Texas A&M

Geno Smith played well at the Combine, but with news that the Chiefs have pretty much finalized a deal for Alex Smith, Geno is out of the question. However, word is that Brandon Albert is asking for a ton of money this offseason. If he leaves, that creates a void up front, one that could easily be filled by the top offensive line prospect in the draft.

2) Jacksonville Jaguars (2-14): Dion Jordan, DE/OLB, Oregon

I had Jarvis Jones here, then replaced him with Damontre Moore. Jones’s medical condition raises a red flag, and Moore bombed at the Combine with a 4.9 40 time. Meanwhile, Jordan is a physical freak who can rush the passer or cover slot receivers. He may need to get a little thicker and more physical, but there’s no doubt he has the ability to wreak havoc coming off the edge.

3) Oakland Raiders (4-12): Sharrif Floyd, DT, Florida

Star Lotulelei’s heart condition couldn’t have popped up at a worse time. He was a consensus top-five pick, and his stock is falling. Floyd, meanwhile, has been flying up draft boards. Mike Mayock compared some aspects of his play to Warren Sapp, which is certainly a nice standard.

4) Philadelphia Eagles (4-12): DeMarcus Milliner, CB, Alabama

The Eagles desperately want to improve their offensive line, but Joeckel is off the board and both Eric Fisher and Lane Johnson are slight reaches. However, the defensive backfield could also use an upgrade, and the Eagles can address that need with the top defensive back prospect in the draft.

5) Detroit Lions (4-12): Eric Fisher, OT, Central Michigan

This is a wild-card pick. I could see the Lions addressing their edge rusher situation, which looks bleak with Kyle Vanden Bosch gone and Cliff Avril possibly leaving as well. However, right tackle Gosder Cherilus is a free agent, and it’s not like he was anything special anyway. Fisher’s stock is up after a great Combine, and he makes sense in the top five.

6) Cleveland Browns (5-11): Ezekiel Ansah, DE/OLB, BYU

People expected Ansah to turn heads at the Combine, but they may not have anticipated the full-on exorcisms induced by his numbers. Ansah is raw, but is an absolute freak in terms of athleticism who can bolster an ailing front seven if his technical skillset catches up to his physical one.

7) Arizona Cardinals (5-11): Geno Smith, QB, West Virginia

Smith looked very good at the Combine. He ran a good 40, and his throws were indicative of a good quarterback prospect. Arizona needs help under center in the worst way possible, and if Smith is still available at #7, new head coach Bruce Arians will be very happy. If not, I could easily see the Cardinals taking an offensive tackle, but in this mock, they get a possible franchise quarterback in the making.

8) Buffalo Bills (6-10): Jarvis Jones, DE/OLB, Georgia

Geno Smith shouldn’t make it past #8 if Arizona goes in another direction, but in this mock, he’s gone. Personally, though, I feel like the Bills are getting a steal here. Jones is a premier talent who may be falling due to something that isn’t even an issue. There’s no denying he can wreak havoc in the backfield, and this should give the Bills another playmaker in the front seven.

9) New York Jets (6-10): Bjoern Werner, DE/OLB, Florida State

The Jets are in a rough spot. They could very well trade down for help at wide receiver, a position that’s deep in late-first or early-second round talent but lacking a standout player. They could also trade up for DeMarcus Milliner if Darrelle Revis gets moved (or trade down for Johnthan Banks or Xavier Rhodes). For now, though, I’ll give them Werner. He’s a safe pick who addresses a position of need.

10) Tennessee Titans (6-10): Star Lotulelei, DT, Utah

We still don’t know just how severe Lotulelei’s heart problem is. For now, I’ll slot him here, simply because the Titans desperately need an impact player in the middle of their defensive line. There’s no denying Lotulelei has a ton of talent. He’s also generally thought to be a high-character guy, so if the heart condition turns out to be fairly minor, this could be a steal.

11) San Diego Chargers (7-9): Lane Johnson, OT, Oklahoma

Lane Johnson wowed scouts at the Combine with his athleticism. That doesn’t necessarily mean that he’s going to be a fantastic player (remember scouts fawning over Robert Gallery’s 40 time?), but there’s no doubt that he’s climbing up draft boards and that San Diego has needs on their offensive line.

12) Miami Dolphins (7-9): Cordarrelle Patterson, WR, Tennessee

Patterson may be a reach, but he’ll go before he should because of how athletic he is. He’s widely acknowledged to be the most physically-gifted receiver in the draft despite a lack of experience, and Miami doesn’t have that kind of wideout on their roster. It’s a risky pick, but the logic is at least plausible.

13) Tampa Bay Buccaneers (7-9): Desmond Trufant, CB, Washington

Trufant’s stock is at an all-time high after big performances at the Senior Bowl and the Combine. He’s performed well enough to emerge as the #2 cornerback option in the draft class, and there’s no doubt the Bucs need help in the defensive backfield. The Aqib Talib trade created a huge hole, and Ronde Barber has to retire at some point, right?

14) Carolina Panthers (7-9): Sheldon Richardson, DT, Missouri

There are people saying Richardson could go even earlier than this. He certainly has the athletic ability to, and this is probably as low as he’ll go. Carolina’s defensive line is porous, and the Panthers gave up several big games to opposing running backs in the 2012-13 season.

15) New Orleans Saints (7-9): Damontre Moore, DE/OLB, Texas A&M

I had Manti Te’o going here in my last mock, but not only did he have a subpar Combine, the Saints apparently want to keep Jonathan Vilma in their new 3-4 defense. They do, however, have definite holes on the edges, and that’s where Moore comes in. A consensus top five pick before a lackluster Combine, I think Moore’s game tape outweighs his Combine showing.

16) St. Louis Rams (7-8-1): Chance Warmack, OG, Alabama

St. Louis needs some help on the offensive line. Warmack isn't just the best guard available, he's probably the best offensive lineman left, period. He's assumed a leadership role with the Crimson Tide, and should be a very good pro.

17) Pittsburgh Steelers (8-8): Alex Okafor, DE/OLB, Texas

Okafor’s stock has definitely improved in the past few months. He turned heads in the Alamo Bowl, and his Senior Bowl performance was one of the best of any defensive player that attended. He’s a low-risk player that doesn’t take plays off, and his versatility should only help him come April.

18) Dallas Cowboys (8-8): Barkevious Mingo, DE/OLB, LSU

Both LSU edge-rushers have seen their stocks fall as of late. Mingo was once a top-10 pick, but now it looks like he’ll go in the middle of the first round. The Cowboys have a ton of holes on defense, and could certainly use someone to draw attention away from DeMarcus Ware. Mingo could easily be that kind of complementary player.

19) New York Giants (9-7): Alec Ogletree, LB, Georgia

The Giants may be searching for a defensive end, and could have jumped on Okafor or Mingo if they were available. In this mock, though, they’ll zero in on Ogletree, probably the top inside linebacker prospect in the draft. There are some character issues here, most notably his pre-Combine arrest, but the Giants released Michael Boley and have depth issues at that position.

20) Chicago Bears (10-6): Tavon Austin, WR, West Virginia

Marc Trestman got the Bears job. This means a quarterback guru will be calling the shots in the Windy City, and as such, Jay Cutler may get another young target to take some attention off of Brandon Marshall. Alshon Jeffery had his moments, but was hurt for part of the season. Austin had a great Combine that featured a scorching 40 time. He gives Cutler another downfield weapon, and with him, the passing game becomes very formidable.

21) Cincinnati Bengals (10-6): Kenny Vaccaro, S, Texas

Cincinnati has question marks at safety, and Vaccaro is a safe pick who makes sense at this point in the draft. With last year’s first-rounder, Dre Kirkpatrick, also in the mix, this gives Cincinnati a young nucleus in the defensive backfield, and with the NFL being so pass-heavy, you can never have too many quality defensive backs.

22) St. Louis Rams (7-8-1, from Washington (10-6)): Xavier Rhodes, CB/S, Florida State

Rhodes shined at the Combine and cemented himself as a first-round prospect. He’s a solid, physical defensive back who can spend time at both corner and safety, and his athleticism showed with an excellent 40.5-inch vertical jump. St. Louis’s pass defense isn’t bad, but it’s also not great, and as I said when mocking Vaccaro to the Bengals, you can never have too many defensive backs.

23) Minnesota Vikings (10-6): Terrance Williams, WR, Baylor

Many thought Terrance Williams would have a down year without RG3 under center at Baylor. All Williams did was catch 97 passes for 1,832 yards and 12 touchdowns. He has a ton of tools to like, and here, he gives a Vikings offense that desperately needs a playmaker opposite Percy Harvin a guy who can score any time he touches the football.

24) Indianapolis Colts (11-5): Johnathan Hankins, DT, Ohio State

Hankins fell with a horrid performance at the Combine. He looked heavy, and he ran like someone who was out of shape. However, Indianapolis has a big need in the middle of their defensive line, and if Hankins gets back in shape and plays like he did this past season at Ohio State, he’s a steal at #24 overall.

25) Seattle Seahawks (11-5): Keenan Allen, WR, Cal

If Tavon Austin is available, I don’t see him lasting past this pick, as Pete Carroll is huge on pure speed and Austin is lightning-fast. However, Allen isn’t a bad consolation prize. He skipped the Combine, but will work out at Cal’s pro day and should sneak into the first round.

26) Green Bay Packers (11-5): Johnthan Banks, CB, Mississippi State

Banks didn’t do himself any favors at the Combine, but his game tape is solid and there’s no doubt Green Bay has voids to fill in the secondary. Charles Woodson is moving on, and the unit wasn’t anything special this past year anyway.

27) Houston Texans (12-4): Kawann Short, DT, Purdue

The Texans need to fill their need at defensive tackle with this pick. J.J. Watt is a beast, and Antonio Smith also had eight sacks, but they’ve got nothing up the middle. Short changes that, and also brings a unique ability to rush the passer from the nose tackle spot.

28) Denver Broncos (13-3): Jonathan Cooper, OG/C, North Carolina

I could also see the Broncos taking a running back like Eddie Lacy or Giovani Bernard, but Knowshon Moreno’s finished the year well and probably deserves a shot at the starting spot next year. Cooper was strong at the Combine. He showed very strong agility for a man his size, and his versatility means he can play all three interior line positions.

29) New England Patriots (12-4): Johnathan Jenkins, DT, Georgia

Vince Wilfork isn’t getting younger, and the Patriots have holes to fill on the inside of their defensive line. Jenkins cut some weight for the Combine in going from 370 pounds to just under 350, but he still takes up a ton of space while possessing surprising athletic ability.

30) Atlanta Falcons (13-3): Tyler Eifert, TE, Notre Dame

Tony Gonzalez appears to be hanging it up following Atlanta’s loss in the NFC title game. Regardless of whether he does or not, Eifert is easily the top tight end in this year’s draft class. If Gonzalez retires, Eifert can start right away, and if he doesn’t, the Notre Dame product can learn from one of the best to ever play the position.

31) San Francisco 49ers (11-4-1): Justin Hunter, WR, Tennessee

Michael Crabtree quietly put together a very solid year, but no other wide receiver had more than 449 receiving yards. Randy Moss may retire, and Mario Manningham is coming off a knee injury, meaning that finding a high-quality wide receiver should be at the top of San Francisco’s off-season to-do list. Hunter’s stock fell a bit with news of injuries and speed concerns, but he put some of the negative news to bed with a 4.41 40 at the Combine.

32) Baltimore Ravens (10-6): Kevin Minter, LB, LSU

Minter is an old-school, run-stopping inside linebacker that may have trouble fitting into some new-age defensive schemes. However, an old-school, run-stopping inside linebacker just retired from Baltimore’s Super Bowl-winning team, so Minter would be a pretty nice fit for the Ravens.

SECOND ROUND

33) Jacksonville Jaguars: Matt Barkley, QB, USC

Anyone who still thinks Blaine Gabbert can be an effective starting quarterback needs to have their head examined. The Jags need to address that position in the draft, and if Matt Barkley is still on the board in the second round, this is a no-brainer.

34) Kansas City Chiefs: Sam Montgomery, DE, LSU

That crash you just heard was Montgomery’s draft stock, which plummeted this past weekend. Once a first-round lock, Montgomery admitted he took plays off at LSU against lesser opponents, and word’s since come out that his coaches have bashed him privately. Still, the Chiefs have needs at defensive end that they should probably use this pick to address.

35) Philadelphia Eagles: Barrett Jones, OG/C/OT, Alabama

There’s no arguing Philadelphia’s offensive line needs improvement. Jones isn’t a tried and true tackle, which is what the Eagles probably need, but he can play anywhere he’s asked and is a proven leader.

36) Detroit Lions: Margus Hunt, DE, SMU

Hunt is very raw, but has a ton of speed and could develop into a solid pass-rusher off the edge at the NFL level. The Lions have a big need there, as mentioned in the first round, and Hunt provides both insurance and a high upside.

37) Cincinnati Bengals: Eddie Lacy, RB, Alabama

I still like Giovani Bernard a lot, but Lacy has become the consensus top back in the draft. He’s a powerful runner that could compete for time immediately in Cincinnati. BenJarvus Green-Ellis isn’t anything special, and if Cincy’s line continues to be one of the top run-blocking units, Lacy has a chance to be an impact player.

38) Arizona Cardinals: D.J. Fluker, OT, Alabama

Arizona’s offensive line was probably the worst in the NFL last year, so the Cardinals should certainly use a high pick to improve it. Fluker is a decent value here, and was part of a fantastic line at Alabama that spurred the Tide to a national championship.

39) New York Jets: Bennie Logan, DT, LSU

The Jets were horrid against the run last season because they didn’t have much talent in the middle of their defense. Some mocks have Logan sneaking into the first round, so this is a very good pick from both a value and need perspectives.

40) Tennessee Titans: Matt Elam, S, Florida

Tennessee needs help all over the defense, and I think they’ll take advantage of a deep defensive draft with their first couple of picks. Elam is a physical player who has openly said he wants to be the next Ed Reid, and while his ceiling may not be THAT high, he can certainly step right in and contribute in Tennessee.

41) Buffalo Bills: DeAndre Hopkins, WR, Clemson

Buffalo could desperately use a second option in the passing game opposite Stevie Johnson. Hopkins had a solid Combine and is a steal at #41, as some feel he’s possibly a first-round talent (I considered him at #31 to the 49ers).

42) Miami Dolphins: Tank Carradine, DE, Florida State

Miami could use an edge rusher opposite sack machine Cameron Wake. Carradine has some injury questions after his senior season at FSU, but some at the Combine thought he was a first-round talent. I don’t know about THAT, but he’s a very good value at #42 if he’s healthy.

43) Tampa Bay Buccaneers: Jamar Taylor, CB, Boise State

I have the Bucs doubling up on corners because their secondary is very, VERY thin. Taylor may be a slight reach, but assuming Tampa Bay doesn’t make a splash in free agency, they need new blood in their pass defense. Plus, this isn’t as much of a reach as it was before the Combine, where the Boise State product clocked in at 4.37 in the 40.

44) Carolina Panthers: Larry Warford, OG, Kentucky

While some of Carolina’s non-Cam Newton rushing woes were injury-related, it’s also true that the team’s offensive line has struggled at times. Warford is the best lineman available, especially after a very solid performance at the Senior Bowl.

45) San Diego Chargers: Tyler Bray, QB, Tennessee

New coaches sometimes mean new quarterbacks, and Philip Rivers was a turnover machine at times in 2012-13. Bray had a very strong Combine where he showed off an excellent arm. I could also see the Chargers grabbing a wide receiver if Danario Alexander doesn’t re-sign with the team, but Bray would be a good insurance policy for new coach Mike McCoy.

46) St. Louis Rams: Giovani Bernard, RB, North Carolina

Daryl Richardson was very good in spell duty as a rookie, and if Steven Jackson doesn’t return, he could see a much bigger role. However, Isaiah Pead is an unknown quantity, and Bernard is a playmaker who can also impact a game as a kick and punt returner.

47) Dallas Cowboys: Manti Te’o, LB, Notre Dame

What a fall from grace for Manti Te’o. At one point, I had him as the #3 pick. Now, he’s in the middle of the second round after two months he probably wishes he’d never gone through. Still, he’s a good fit for Monte Kiffin’s defense. Te’o may not be the biggest or fastest player, but he’s very good in coverage for a linebacker.

48) Pittsburgh Steelers: Jesse Williams, DT, Alabama

Pittsburgh will likely use this draft to fill a ton of needs in the front seven. Plenty of their core players are getting up there in age, including Brett Keisel, who turns 35 this year. Williams could have gone much earlier and has good potential.

49) New York Giants: Datone Jones, DE, UCLA

The Giants will likely have a need at defensive end since Osi Umenyiora is a free agent. Jones had a great Combine and is the kind of player the Giants love drafting.

50) Chicago Bears: Dallas Thomas, OT/OG, Tennessee

It sounds like a broken record at this point since we say it every year, but Chicago needs to improve its pass protection. Offensive linemen have gone like crazy in this mock, but Thomas is a good value pick here that fills a need.

51) Washington Redskins: Jon Cyprien, S, Florida International

Washington’s secondary could use an upgrade. While there aren’t any cornerback prospects that make sense, Cyprien is probably one of the best players left on the board. He’s been flying up draft boards as of late and could go much earlier than this.

52) Minnesota Vikings: E.J. Manuel, QB, Florida State

In all honesty, I could see the Vikings trading down. They have a need in their back seven, but very few adequate corners are left to fill it. Instead, though, I’ll give them Manuel. If Terrance Williams doesn’t help and Ponder is still a mediocre QB with Percy Harvin and Kyle Rudolph around him, maybe it’s time to groom a replacement.

53) Cincinnati Bengals: Arthur Brown, LB, Kansas State

As many as four Bengal linebackers could be on their way out of town during free agency. If that’s the case, Cincy should use this pick to help fill that void. Brown doesn’t have great size, but he’s a versatile player who defends both the run and the pass very well.

54) Miami Dolphins: Robert Alford, CB, Southeastern Louisiana

Alford comes from a small school, but he hinted at big talent during the Combine, where he posted a sub-4.4 40 time. The Dolphins are in need of help in their back seven, and they’ll likely use an early pick to address that need.

55) Green Bay Packers: Kyle Long, OG/OT, Oregon

Green Bay’s offensive line is aging, and they need to protect Aaron Rodgers. Like many other top offensive line prospects, Long can play a number of different positions up front, and it doesn’t hurt that he’s got fantastic NFL genes.

56) Seattle Seahawks: Sylvester Williams, DT, North Carolina

Williams isn’t considered an elite prospect, but Seattle has a need in the middle of their defensive line. Some consider Williams a fringe first-round prospect, so this is an excellent value Pete Carroll shouldn’t pass up.

57) Houston Texans: Quinton Patton, WR, Louisiana Tech

Houston has long been searching for a #2 receiver behind Andre Johnson. Patton didn’t play against great competition at Louisiana Tech, but made the most of his opportunities at both the Senior Bowl and the Combine.

58) Denver Broncos: Eric Reid, S, LSU

Reid slipped in this mock through no fault of his own, and he may be a welcome addition in Denver. Their secondary was awful against Joe Flacco, and 37-year-old Champ Bailey may finally be showing his age.

59) New England Patriots: Ryan Swope, WR, Texas A&M

Swope came out of nowhere at the Combine, and the Patriots may have a huge need at wide receiver. Wes Welker may not return, and Deion Branch is over the hill.

60) Atlanta Falcons: Corey Lemonier, DE/OLB, Auburn

Defensive end is a big problem for the Falcons, and it was an issue even during a stellar season. Lemonier had an impressive showing at the Combine with a 4.6 40, and he’s bulked up a little as well. It wouldn’t be a surprise to see him go in the second round.

61) San Francisco 49ers: D.J. Swearinger, S, South Carolina

San Francisco’s front seven is fantastic, but their group of safeties is just so-so. Swearinger, a captain for the Gamecocks and a physical presence, hits hard and covers well, so he should be an instant upgrade.

62) Baltimore Ravens: Menelik Watson, OT, Florida State

Bryant McKinnie’s comeback is a great story, but he’ll turn 34 in September and may be running out of quality years. Watson is raw, but is a former Division I basketball player with a ton of athleticism.

Schuylerville point guard Tyler Hayes

With the all the play-in games out of the way, the Section II Round of 16 boys basketball tournament begins in earnest Tuesday. According to the weekly NYSSWA rankings, Schuylerville (17-1) is now the No. 6 ranked team in the state, trailing only: No. 1 Olean (17-1), No. 2 Newcomers High (14-2), No. 3 Watervliet (10-8), No. 4 Eleanor Roosevelt (19-3) and No. 5 Ogdensburg Free (18-1).

Coach Matt Sgambati's Black Horses had a case to be the No. 1 seed in the Class B bracket because they are in the midst of a 16-game win streak and have not lost a game with leading scorers Shane Lyon and Dan Waldron in the lineup (the two were injured in Schuylerville's only loss to Broadalbin-Perth). Instead, the Section II boys basketball committee gave Watervliet the top seed and put Schuylerville No. 2. The Cannoneers have also had a great season, its only losses coming from forfeits due to an ineligible player, to Class A Albany Academy, and out-of-section opponents Bishop Ludden and Nazareth (Brooklyn). A Schuylerville-Watervliet Class B final would make for a great game but both teams need to take care of business in the early rounds of the tournament first.

Here's a list of Tuesday's match-ups and game times (click here for full brackets):

Class AA

Saratoga Springs at Troy, 7 p.m.: The Blue Streaks will have their hands full with the Flying Horses’ Javion Ogunyemi and Jerrell Reid. A Saratoga Springs win would be an upset to remember for a long time.
Bishop Maginn at Shenendehowa, 7:30 p.m.: Shenendehowa earned a home game thanks to its finish as the second-best Suburban Council squad. Bishop Maginn had a tough Big 10 campaign, losing four of its final six games.
Ballston Spa at Christian Brothers Academy, 7 p.m.: Ballston Spa comes into Tuesday’s game riding a season-high three-game win streak. However, CBA earned the top seed in Section II and is currently the ninth ranked team in the state.

Class B

No. 18 Granville at No. 2 Schuylerville, 7 p.m.: Schuylerville begins its playoff run with a game against Granville, a team the No. 6 state-ranked Black Horses beat 74-40 and 72-50 already this season. Coach Matt  Sgambati’s squad takes a 16-game win streak into the contest.

Class C

No. 15 Saratoga Catholic at No. 2 Lake George, 7 p.m.: Saratoga Catholic won its home play-in game against Cambridge to earn a shot against the No. 2 seed in Class C. Lake George is coming off only its second loss of the season, both coming at the hands of No. 1 state-ranked Class D squad Argyle.
No. 19 Hadley-Luzerne at No. 3 Greenwich 7 p.m.: No. 19 seed Hadley-Luzerne won at No. 14 Mayfield in a play-in game to earn a shot at No. 3 Greenwich. The Witches had a strong finish to the season and to earn third in the Wasaren League and in the Section II brackets.
No. 11 Hoosick Falls at No. 6 Mechanicville 7 p.m.: Mechanicville takes on Hoosick Falls in a rematch of last season’s Class C Championship won by coach Rian Richardson’s squad. The No. 6-seeded Red Raiders have a difficult league schedule to blame for their place in the bracket, but are 3-1 against Class C squads this season. Hoosick Falls earned a No. 11 seed.

By ANDREW CHAMPAGNE

achampagne@saratogian.com

Twitter.com/AndrewChampagne

Thanks to Walter Cherepinsky for listing this draft on his database. If you want to take a look at a ton of different mocks, check out http://www.walterfootball.com . Also check out http://www.dcprosportsreport.com/MockDraft.htm and http://www.sbnation.com/nfl-mock-draft/2013/1/15/3869542/2013-nfl-mock-draft-database , as they were kind enough to link to us as well.

With that, on to the latest mock!

1) Kansas City Chiefs (2-14): Luke Joeckel, OT, Texas A&M

I actually got some complaints for putting Joeckel at #1. First of all, we monitor comments on this blog, so if you’re ripping something and name-calling with the nametag ‘anonymous,’ chances are it won’t make the final cut.

Anyway, Geno Smith hasn’t done enough to be in play here yet. If he has a great Combine, maybe I’ll reconsider, but the offensive line is a question mark. Brandon Albert may not be back, as he’s repeatedly said he has no desire to play guard. Joeckel would step right in and give whatever QB the Chiefs go with time to process the play.

2) Jacksonville Jaguars (2-14): Damontre Moore, DE/OLB, Texas A&M

I hate dropping Jarvis Jones down, but his spinal condition, while not an issue during a stellar 2012 season, may be a red flag this high up in the draft. Jones may be a stud in the making, but Moore is also a ferocious pass rusher that the Jaguars desperately need, so he’s far from a bad pick.

3) Oakland Raiders (4-12): Star Lotulelei, DT, Utah

My, how times have changed. Manti Te’o was here for a while, but his off-the-field troubles cost him a decent amount of money. Meanwhile, Lotulelei may have turned down an invite to the Senior Bowl, but he’s by far the best defensive tackle prospect in the draft and he fills a massive need for the Raiders in the middle of a porous defensive line.

4) Philadelphia Eagles (4-12): DeMarcus Milliner, CB, Alabama

The Eagles desperately want to improve their offensive line, but Joeckel is off the board and no other lineman is of any value here unless you’re REALLY high on Eric Fisher (he’s a good prospect, but not #4-overall good). However, the defensive backfield could also use an upgrade, and the Eagles can address that need with the top defensive back prospect in the draft. If the Eagles really want Fisher, they can trade down to grab him later in the top 10 picks.

5) Detroit Lions (4-12): Bjoern Werner, DE/OLB, Florida State

Jones continues his slide. The last time around, I had him going here, but the consensus being formed is that Werner is the safer pick. While the logic behind that is debatable (with the new rookie contract caps, there’s MUCH less risk with players like Jones who may not have the longest careers), Werner is a very good prospect with room to improve off his stellar form at Florida State.

6) Cleveland Browns (5-11): Barkevious Mingo, DE/OLB, LSU

The pick here is either Mingo, Jones, Ezekiel Ansah, or Dion Jordan. Personally, I like Mingo best, although it’s a total judgment call at a position absolutely loaded with talent in this year’s draft. At any rate, the Browns need an edge rusher, and they can certainly address it here.

7) Arizona Cardinals (5-11): Geno Smith, QB, West Virginia

Larry Fitzgerald wasted one of his prime seasons thanks to three quarterbacks that couldn’t get him the ball, and Ken Whisenhunt is gone. Matt Barkley could also play his way into this discussion with a strong showing at the Combine, but for now, Smith is the top quarterback available in a weak draft class.

8) Buffalo Bills (6-10): Jarvis Jones, DE/OLB, Georgia

Geno Smith shouldn’t make it past #8 if Arizona goes in another direction, but in this mock, he’s gone. Personally, though, I feel like the Bills are getting a steal here. Jones is a premier talent who may be falling due to something that isn’t even an issue. There’s no denying he can wreak havoc in the backfield, and this should give the Bills another playmaker in the front seven.

9) New York Jets (6-10): Dion Jordan, DE/OLB, Oregon

Like Buffalo, New York needs an edge rusher. Jordan is an athletic freak who knows how to wreak havoc in the backfield. The lone hesitation with him is a torn labrum, one he’ll reportedly have surgery on before the draft, but he’s a very good fit for the Jets in this spot, and it shouldn’t affect him when preparations for the 2013 NFL season begin. If Darrelle Revis gets dealt, I could also see them drafting Johnthan Banks or Xavier Rhodes, or even moving up for DeMarcus Milliner, but for now, Jordan’s the pick.

10) Tennessee Titans (6-10): Johnathan Hankins, DT, Ohio State

The Titans had some pieces on defense, but nobody fearsome up the middle. That changes with this pick, as Tennessee grabs the top defensive tackle left on the board. Hankins, who’s coming off a very strong junior year at OSU, replaces Sen’Derrick Marks and has the potential to be a game-changer.

11) San Diego Chargers (7-9): Eric Fisher, OT, Central Michigan

As much as I'd really like to mock Matt Barkley or Landry Jones to San Diego, I can't do it. Philip Rivers somehow threw for over 3,600 yards this year, and despite being a turnover machine for much of the year, I don't think they replace him. Instead, I'll give them Fisher, who became the #2 tackle prospect in the draft once Taylor Lewan unexpectedly decided to return for his senior season at Michigan.

12) Miami Dolphins (7-9): Justin Hunter, WR, Tennessee

The first gut-punch of the mock goes to the Dolphins, as they needed a high-quality tackle prospect in the worst way and won’t get one after Lewan took his name out of the prospect pool. I wouldn’t be at all surprised to see the Dolphins trade this pick for a move in either direction, but for now, I’ll give them Hunter. He’s undoubtedly a reach, but Miami needs playmakers in the passing game. Brian Hartline and Davone Bess are fine complementary players, but neither is a #1 receiver, and Hunter has the potential to be that kind of wideout.

13) Tampa Bay Buccaneers (7-9): Johnthan Banks, CB, Mississippi State

Word is the Bucs are extremely high on Banks, and there’s reason for that. He had an injury late in the season, but if he’s shown to have overcome it, he’s the second-best corner in the draft behind DeMarcus Milliner. That’s a welcome addition for Tampa Bay, whose secondary desperately needs playmakers.

14) Carolina Panthers (7-9): Sheldon Richardson, DT, Missouri

Carolina did its best to save Ron Rivera’s job, and he’ll return to the Panthers next year. However, their 4-0 surge to end the year cost them a shot at a high-impact defensive tackle, which they sorely need. Richardson, though, has been flying up draft boards. He was all over the field this year for the Tigers, and can rush the passer from the tackle spot, a rare quality that could push him into the top half of the first round.

15) New Orleans Saints (7-9): Manti Te’o, ILB, Notre Dame

I’m stopping Te’o’s free-fall here, and here’s why. Sean Payton said he wants to shift New Orleans to a 3-4 defensive scheme in the wake of firing his defensive coordinator. The Saints already have one very good inside linebacker in Curtis Lofton, and here, they solidify the middle of their new defense with a guy who has the best on-field skillset of any player left in the draft.

16) St. Louis Rams (7-8-1): Chance Warmack, OG, Alabama

St. Louis needs some help on the offensive line. Warmack isn't just the best guard available, he's probably the best offensive lineman left, period. He's assumed a leadership role with the Crimson Tide, and should be a very good pro.

17) Pittsburgh Steelers (8-8): Alex Okafor, DE/OLB, Texas

Okafor’s stock is soaring. He shined in the Alamo Bowl and has been tearing it up at the Senior Bowl, and as such he’s gone from a fringe first-rounder to the #17 pick. Pittsburgh needs new blood in their front seven, and Okafor’s versatility is a definite plus.

18) Dallas Cowboys (8-8): Sam Montgomery, DE, LSU

Dallas could use some reinforcements on the defensive line, especially in the wake of Jay Ratliff stupidly getting arrested for a DWI months after a teammate driving under the influence killed another Dallas player. Montgomery is one of the best players available and fits Dallas’s defensive schemes. I’ve had this pick set in stone for a while, and it makes a ton of sense.

19) New York Giants (9-7): Ezekiel Ansah, DE, BYU

This has become a cliché pick because people see a ton of Jason Pierre-Paul in Ansah. I don’t know if the BYU product has THAT much potential, and I’m not as high on him as a lot of other mock drafts are (several have him going sixth overall despite how raw he is), but he’s a fantastic athlete with a ton of room to grow. Plus, Osi Umenyiora is approaching free agency and may not be back with the Giants next year.

20) Chicago Bears (10-6): Keenan Allen, WR, Cal

Marc Trestman got the Bears job. This means a quarterback guru will be calling the shots in the Windy City, and as such, Jay Cutler may get another young target to take some attention off of Brandon Marshall. Alshon Jeffery had his moments, but was hurt for part of the season. Allen makes sense value-wise, and gives a talented offense another weapon.

21) Cincinnati Bengals (10-6): Alec Ogletree, ILB, Georgia

Te’o should not drop further than this, and if he’s not available (as is the case in this mock), Ogletree also presents a very good value. The only problem with Ogletree are some questions about his character, but the Bengals have shown that they don’t mind those issues as much as other teams.

22) St. Louis Rams (7-8-1, from Washington (10-6)): Kenny Vaccaro, S, Texas

I like Vaccaro a lot, and his stock has been rising because NFL GM’s like him, too. He may not be an athletic freak, but he’s a smart player with great instincts who can play against both the run and the pass. St. Louis has an OK pass defense, but it’s not great (15^th in the NFL), and Vaccaro is one of the best players on the board.

23) Minnesota Vikings (10-6): Terrance Williams, WR, Baylor

Many thought Terrance Williams would have a down year without RG3 under center at Baylor. All Williams did was catch 97 passes for 1,832 yards and 12 touchdowns. He has a ton of tools to like, and here, he gives a Vikings offense that desperately needs a playmaker opposite Percy Harvin a guy who can score any time he touches the football.

24) Indianapolis Colts (11-5): Johnathan Jenkins, DT, Georgia

The Colts have a ton of holes they need to fill in the middle of their defensive line. Jenkins is probably the best defensive lineman left in the draft at this point. He’s a huge presence at 6’4” and nearly 360 pounds, and he also has shocking agility for a man his size.

25) Seattle Seahawks (11-5): Cordarrelle Patterson, WR, Tennessee

The only thing missing from Seattle’s resurgence has been a top-tier receiving threat for Russell Wilson. Patterson is raw from a technical standpoint, but he’s got a ton of physical gifts you look for in a wide receiver. At #25, with some outlets now projecting him as a top-15 pick, this is a value Pete Carroll and company can’t pass up.

26) Green Bay Packers (11-5): Xavier Rhodes, CB, Florida State

Rhodes slipping this far is shocking. I personally think he might be the second-best cornerback prospect in the draft. He has good size and speed, and can also be very physical in coverage. Green Bay’s secondary isn’t getting any younger, but here, they may be able to fill that need with a tremendous value.

27) Houston Texans (12-4): Kawann Short, DT, Purdue

The Texans need to fill their need at defensive tackle with this pick. J.J. Watt is a beast, and Antonio Smith also had eight sacks, but they’ve got nothing up the middle. Short changes that, and also brings a unique ability to rush the passer from the nose tackle spot.

28) Denver Broncos (13-3): Barrett Jones, C/OG/OT, Alabama

I could also see the Broncos taking a running back like Giovani Bernard, but Knowshon Moreno’s finished the year well and probably deserves a shot at the starting spot next year. Besides, Jones, the most versatile lineman in the draft, is a great value at the back end of the first round who can play every position on the o-line.

29) New England Patriots (12-4): Tavon Austin, WR, West Virginia

New England has a big need at receiver, especially if Wes Welker does not come back. Fortunately, wide receiver is a deep position in this year’s draft, and with this pick, they get a playmaker who put up some big numbers in the WVU Air Raid offense this past season.

30) Atlanta Falcons (13-3): Tyler Eifert, TE, Notre Dame

Tony Gonzalez appears to be hanging it up following Atlanta’s loss in the NFC title game. Regardless of whether he does or not, Eifert is easily the top tight end in this year’s draft class. If Gonzalez retires, Eifert can start right away, and if he doesn’t, the Notre Dame product can learn from one of the best to ever play the position.

31) San Francisco 49ers (11-4-1): DeAndre Hopkins, WR, Clemson

Michael Crabtree quietly put together a very solid year, but no other wide receiver had more than 449 receiving yards. Randy Moss may retire, and Mario Manningham is coming off a knee injury, meaning that finding a high-quality wide receiver should be at the top of San Francisco’s off-season to-do list.

32) Baltimore Ravens (10-6): Desmond Trufant, CB, Washington

The newly-crowned champions still have a need at corner. The team had trouble defending the pass at times this year with a depleted secondary, and if Lardarius Webb isn’t 100% after a season-ending injury, Trufant makes a lot of sense at the back end of the first round.

SECOND ROUND

33) Jacksonville Jaguars: Matt Barkley, QB, USC

Anyone who still thinks Blaine Gabbert can be an effective starting quarterback needs to have their head examined. The Jags need to address that position in the draft, and if Matt Barkley is still on the board in the second round, this is a no-brainer.

34) Kansas City Chiefs: Tyler Wilson, QB, Arkansas

Wilson made himself a lot of money despite missing the entire season. Unless you want to talk yourself into Mike Glennon (and I don’t) or aren’t scared about Landry Jones’s horrible Senior Bowl (and I am), no other QB makes sense at this point, and there’s no arguing that the Chiefs need one given their horrid passing game last season.

35) Philadelphia Eagles: Jonathan Cooper, OG/C, North Carolina

There’s no arguing Philadelphia’s offensive line needs improvement. Cooper isn’t a tackle, but he can play all three interior positions and provide an upgrade somewhere as Chip Kelly looks to give his quarterback time to make plays.

36) Detroit Lions: Robert Woods, WR, USC

Detroit released Titus Young, and even before that, they could have used a reliable receiver to take attention away from Calvin Johnson. Woods formed an explosive combination at USC with Marquis Lee, and could easily be part of another one in Detroit.

37) Cincinnati Bengals: Giovani Bernard, RB, North Carolina

I love Bernard, and I wish I could have mocked him in the first round, because I think he’s got the potential to be a big-time playmaker. This is a solid landing spot for him, though. BenJarvus Green-Ellis isn’t anything special, so he should battle for playing time right away.

38) Arizona Cardinals: D.J. Fluker, OT, Alabama

Arizona’s offensive line was probably the worst in the NFL last year, so the Cardinals should certainly use a high pick to improve it. Fluker is a decent value here, and was part of a fantastic line at Alabama that spurred the Tide to a national championship.

39) New York Jets: Bennie Logan, DT, LSU

The Jets were horrid against the run last season because they didn’t have much talent in the middle of their defense. Some mocks have Logan sneaking into the first round, so this is a very good pick from both a value and need perspectives.

40) Tennessee Titans: Margus Hunt, DE/DT, SMU

I had the Titans take a defensive lineman in the first round, but their line was abysmal at times during the 2012 season. They could use a ton of new blood, and Hunt’s ceiling is sky-high. He’s an athletic freak with versatility who may wind up being a steal if he goes this late in April.

41) Buffalo Bills: Mike Glennon, QB, NC State

I’m not a Glennon fan. He didn’t impress me in a loss to Vanderbilt in the team’s bowl game, and he was one of many QB’s who put forth dreadful performances in the Senior Bowl. However, Buddy Nix may be on the hot seat. As such, he may use this pick on a guy he sees as a potential starting quarterback.

42) Miami Dolphins: Lane Johnson, OT, Oklahoma

Jake Long may not return to Miami, and if that happens, they’ll be in need of a new tackle. Johnson was a reach at #11, but had a great Senior Bowl and is a steal in the middle of the second round.

43) Tampa Bay Buccaneers: Jamar Taylor, CB, Boise State

I have the Bucs doubling up on corners because their secondary is very, VERY thin. Taylor may be a slight reach, but assuming Tampa Bay doesn’t make a splash in free agency, they need new blood in their pass defense.

44) Carolina Panthers: Larry Warford, OG, Kentucky

While some of Carolina’s non-Cam Newton rushing woes were injury-related, it’s also true that the team’s offensive line has struggled at times. Warford is the best lineman available, especially after a very solid performance at the Senior Bowl.

45) San Diego Chargers: Sharrif Floyd, DT, Florida

San Diego has a very experienced group of linebackers, but their line is just so-so, especially at defensive tackle. Floyd has been soaring up draft boards as of late, and may very well wind up in the first round.

46) St. Louis Rams: Eddie Lacy, RB, Alabama

Daryl Richardson was very good in spell duty as a rookie, and if Steven Jackson doesn’t return, he could see a much bigger role. However, Isaiah Pead is an unknown quantity, and Lacy provides a power runner that the Rams wouldn’t have in this scenario.

47) Dallas Cowboys: Eric Reid, S, LSU

Reid, at one point, was a first-round prospect. Given that the Cowboys have needs at safety, this is an excellent fit. Reid could come in and compete for playing time immediately while also reuniting with former LSU teammate Morris Claiborne.

48) Pittsburgh Steelers: Jesse Williams, DT, Alabama

Pittsburgh will likely use this draft to fill a ton of needs in the front seven. Plenty of their core players are getting up there in age, including Brett Keisel, who turns 35 this year. Williams could have gone much earlier and has good potential.

49) New York Giants: Kevin Minter, ILB, LSU

Michael Boley was released to open up some cap room, and as such, the Giants now have a hole at linebacker. Minter has some issues in pass coverage, but is exceptional against the run and could be an asset in the right system.

50) Chicago Bears: Dallas Thomas, OT/OG, Tennessee

It sounds like a broken record at this point since we say it every year, but Chicago needs to improve its pass protection. Offensive linemen have gone like crazy in this mock, but Thomas is a good value pick here that fills a need.

51) Washington Redskins: Matt Elam, S, Florida

Washington’s secondary could use an upgrade. While there aren’t any cornerback prospects that make sense, Elam is probably one of the best players left on the board.

52) Minnesota Vikings: E.J. Manuel, QB, Florida State

In all honesty, I could see the Vikings trading down. They have a need in their back seven, but no adequate corners are left to fill it. Instead, though, I’ll give them Manuel. If Terrance Williams doesn’t help and Ponder is still a mediocre QB with Percy Harvin and Kyle Rudolph around him, maybe it’s time to groom a replacement.

53) Cincinnati Bengals: Datone Jones, DE, UCLA

Jones had a great Senior Bowl, and he fills a role in Cincinnati. Geno Atkins is a stud at defensive tackle, and the more talented players the Bengals can put around him, the more room he should have to operate.

54) Miami Dolphins: Sylvester Williams, DT, North Carolina

Another guy who had a great Senior Bowl, Williams could take up space in the middle of the defensive line and open up space for Cameron Wake. Maybe he doesn’t fit Miami’s scheme to the best degree, but he’s probably the most talented defensive player available.

55) Green Bay Packers: Joseph Randle, RB, Oklahoma State

The Packers get a steal, as Randle, at one time, was the top-rated running back on many boards. Green Bay doesn’t have a playmaker in the ground game. Maybe that’s not a huge need with Aaron Rodgers calling the shots, but Randle is a hard runner who can also block and catch passes out of the backfield.

56) Seattle Seahawks: Arthur Brown, LB, Kansas State

There aren’t many questions about Brown’s talent, but his size (6’1”, 228 pounds) may cause him to drop on draft day. The Seahawks aren’t shy about going against the grain with their draft picks, though, and as such, this pick makes a ton of sense.

57) Houston Texans: Quinton Patton, WR, Louisiana Tech

Houston has long been searching for a #2 receiver behind Andre Johnson. Patton didn’t play against great competition at Louisiana Tech, but made the most of his opportunity at the Senior Bowl with a solid performance.

58) Denver Broncos: Robert Alford, CB, Southeastern Louisiana

Another small-school player, Alford may be a bit of a reach, but he fills a huge need for the Broncos. Their secondary was awful against Joe Flacco, and 37-year-old Champ Bailey may finally be showing his age.

59) New England Patriots: Jon Cyprien, S, Florida International

29^th against the pass in 2012-13, it’s clear the secondary needs to be upgraded. Cyprien is a versatile player who shined at the Senior Bowl. He’s a hard hitter who can also assist in pass coverage.

60) Atlanta Falcons: Tank Carradine, DE, Florida State

There’s no denying Carradine has talent, and there’s also no doubt this is a need position for the Falcons. The question mark here is an ACL injury Carradine suffered during the 2012 season. If he’s healthy, though, he could be a huge steal.

61) San Francisco 49ers: D.J. Swearinger, S, South Carolina

San Francisco’s front seven is fantastic, but their group of safeties is just so-so. Swearinger, a captain for the Gamecocks and a physical presence, hits hard and covers well, so he should be an instant upgrade.

62) Baltimore Ravens: Kyle Long, OG/OT, Oregon

Bryant McKinnie’s comeback is a great story, but he’ll turn 34 in September and may be running out of quality years. Long is versatile, and adds depth all over the offensive line.