Bruno Boys Fantasy Football

- Written by Brad Berreman
- Edited and Intro by Allie Fontana

Although the NFL labor situation remains unresolved, football experts and fans alike can take comfort in knowing that the 2011 NFL Draft will go on as planned. Bruno Boys Fantasy Football will bring you the latest news and developments leading up to the main event that kicks off on Thursday, April 28. We’ll also provide our perspective on how the 2011 Draft will play out. We’re keeping up with the latest post-Combine buzz and Pro Day results, analyzing team needs and priorities and tracking hot news about this year’s prospects ranging from individual team workouts and interviews to positional rankings and ever-changing stock reports.

Our 2011 NFL Draft coverage continues in this multipart series of mock drafts prepared by Bruno Boys staff writers Brad Berreman, Cory Steger and James Ronstadt. Brad, Cory and James will provide individual predictions and analysis on each team’s critical first draft pick in Round 1 of the 2011 NFL Mock Draft. Don’t forget to check back regularly for updated mocks as you can be sure that what happens between now and Draft Day will impact the fates of this year’s prospects.   

Here is Bruno Boys Brad Berreman’s latest take on Round 1 of the 2011 NFL Draft, updated as of April 4:

 

1. Carolina Panthers - Cam Newton, QB, Auburn Tigers **PICK CHANGE**

While it’s possible that new Panthers head coach Ron Rivera may prefer to take a defensive player given his roots, he’s also been quoted as saying that the team has to have a franchise quarterback to lead them back toward competitiveness. Carolina has to decide whether to give second-year quarterback Jimmy Clausen another chance and focus their efforts on developing him or look to the draft for a long-term solution. Since the Combine, there has been increasing speculation that the Panthers will once again look to the draft to find their franchise quarterback. They’ll put aside concerns about his character and his ability to adjust to the next level and choose Auburn’s Cam Newton with the first overall pick. 

Previous Pick: Nick Fairley, DT, Auburn Tigers

Other Possibilities: Nick Fairley, DT, Auburn Tigers; Marcell Dareus, DT, Alabama Crimson Tide; Blaine Gabbert, QB, Missouri Tigers ; Patrick Peterson, CB, LSU Tigers

2. Denver Broncos - Marcell Dareus, DT, Alabama Crimson Tide  **PICK CHANGE**

Denver had one of the league’s worst defenses in 2010, a fact that new head coach John Fox will want to quickly rectify through the addition of a versatile player like Dareus. His ability to play anywhere along the defensive line only adds to his appeal While it’s possible that Dareus could go No. 1 to the Carolina Panthers and force the Broncos to go another direction here, it would be surprising if they do not take a defensive player with their first pick of the 2011 NFL Draft.

Previous Pick: Da’Quan Bowers, DE, Clemson Tigers

Other Possibilities: Nick Fairley, DT, Auburn Tigers; Da’Quan Bowers, DE, Clemson Tigers; Patrick Peterson, CB, LSU Tigers

3. Buffalo Bills - Nick Fairley, DT, Alabama Crimson Tide **PICK CHANGE**

Buffalo had the league’s worst run defense last season and Fairley seems to be a better than good starting point toward improvement. He is arguably the most physically gifted player in this draft, however his work ethic and maturity have been called into question with some problematic on field conduct. Some might also consider him to be a one-year wonder, given that his production increased dramatically last season. Still, Fairley is just too talented to fall very far in this draft, if he falls at all.

Previous Pick: Marcell Dareus, DT, Alabama Crimson Tide

Other Possibilities: Cam Newton, QB, Auburn Tigers; Patrick Peterson, CB, LSU Tigers

4. Cincinnati Bengals - A.J. Green, WR, Georgia Bulldogs

Update 4/4: Green’s low Wonderlic score–among the five worst of all draft prospects regardless of position – could hurt his draft stock if teams take it as a sign that he may not be able to quickly absorb the complexities of an offense. However the majority of decision makers should find his physical tools and great hands hard to overlook. Don’t expect Green’s Wonderlic score of 10 to put off the Bengals.

The Bengals clearly need a wide receiver, with Terrell Owens gone after just one season and Chad Ochocinco getting older. Although Green didn’t have as impressive a workout as Alabama’s Julio Jones did at the NFL Scouting Combine, Green has tremendous upside and is still the top wide receiver in the 2011 Draft class.  Bringing Green aboard could be enough to convince quarterback Carson Palmer to continue to play despite his retirement threats. Well, okay. Maybe that’s a bit of a stretch.

Previous Pick: No change.

Other Possibilities: Blaine Gabbert, QB, Missouri Tigers; Da’Quan Bowers, DE, Clemson Tigers

5. Arizona Cardinals - Von Miller, LB, Texas A&M Aggies

Update 4/4: Miller is the lone rookie plaintiff in the NFLPA’s lawsuit against the NFL. While this could result in some teams shying away from him, Miller is not likely to fall too far down the draft boards. Most teams in need of an outside linebacker of his caliber will overlook his decision to join the lawsuit. There’s a huge drop off in talent at the position after Miller, with many of the top linebacker prospects having primarily played defense end in college. Miller also ran an impressive 4.49-second 40-yard dash at his Pro Day.

The Cardinals need a pass-rushing outside linebacker and Miller fits that bill (27.5 sacks over his final two collegiate seasons). He’s also capable in pass coverage, a skill that’s a must-have in 3-4 defensive schemes similar to the one that Arizona uses. The Cardinals could also target a quarterback of the future here as well, but Miller may be too tantalizing a talent to pass up. Some scouts think that he’s a “workout warrior” and has the potential to be a major bust at the next level.

Previous Pick: No change.

Other Possibilities: Ryan Mallett, QB, Arkansas Razorbacks; Blaine Gabbert, QB, Missouri Tigers

6. Cleveland Browns - Da’Quan Bowers, DE, Clemson Tigers **PICK CHANGE**

Bowers had surgery on his right knee to repair a torn meniscus in January and was unable to participate in many Combine drills. He participated in Clemson’s Pro Day on April 1 to prove to scouts that he’s healthy. Unfortunately the majority of reports classified it as a disappointing workout. Bowers was clocked by some scouts at nearly 5.0 seconds in the 40-yard dash, while others put him in the 4.8-4.9-second range. To be fair, some of his struggles can be attributed to rust. Private workouts in the coming weeks will allow him to prove himself to any team that is seriously considering him. If the knee is not an issue and reports immediately after the workout suggest it could be a big issue, the Browns would likely have a hard time passing on a playmaking pass rusher such as him.

Previous Pick: Robert Quinn, DE, North Carolina Tar Heels

Other Possibilities: A.J. Green, WR, Georgia Bulldogs

7. San Francisco 49ers - Patrick Peterson, CB, LSU Tigers

Update 4/4: Many consider Peterson to be the best player and the “safest pick” in the 2011 NFL Draft.  A report recently surfaced about a connection between Peterson and a Texas-based trainer who asked for money in exchange for his collegiate commitment to Texas A&M. In a statement issued by LSU, Peterson firmly denies that the trainer had any influence on his decision to attend LSU or any involvement with is recruiting process. While this story has no doubt caused Peterson a lot of aggravation, it shouldn’t impact his draft stock.

Peterson had an impressive showing at the NFL Combine, displaying impressive speed (4.34 second 40-yard dash) along with good size (219 pounds). The 49ers have a major need at cornerback with Nate Clements clearly in decline as a cover man and little else as far as proven talent at the position. Patterson is the best corner in the 2011 NFL Draft, and there’s a chance that he is gone by this pick. In any case, San Francisco could go defense with this pick even though quarterback should be considered an obvious need as well.

Previous Pick: No change.

Other Possibilities : Robert Quinn, DE, North Carolina Tar Heels; Cameron Jordan, DE, California Golden Bears

8. Tennessee Titans - Blaine Gabbert, QB, Missouri Tigers

Update 4/4: Some scouts have concerns about Gabbert’s arm strength and ability to transition from a collegiate offense to a pro system.  He may be more a sure-bet to become a productive NFL signal caller than his peers who have more upside and physical tools, as long as he is given time to develop.

Heading into the 2011 season, the Titans will have a new head coach as Mike Munchak replaces Jeff Fisher. Expect the Tennessee to target their quarterback of the future as the franchise looks ready to move on from Vince Young once and for all. Gabbert is one the top signal callers available, and by all appearances, he does not have the significant downside of Cam Newton. Most people consider him the top-rated passer in this draft, and there’s a good chance that Gabbert will be the first quarterback off the board.

Previous Pick: No change.

Other Possibilities: Ryan Mallett, QB, Arkansas Razorbacks; Julio Jones, WR, Alabama Crimson Tide

9. Dallas Cowboys - Tyron Smith, OT, USC Trojans

Update 4/4: After not working out at the Scouting Combine, Smith’s natural athleticism was on full display during USC’s Pro Day.  His strong showing should only enhance Dallas’ interest in him, as owner Jerry Jones is almost certain to be enamored with his potential.

The Cowboys clearly missed offensive tackle Flozell Adams last season and Smith could be simply too talented for Jerry Jones to resist. He played right tackle in college, but is considered athletic enough to easily make the transition to left tackle at the next level. The fact that he dropped out of the NFL Combine early is a concern, however he said that he is recovering from a knee injury that caused him to miss one game in 2010. At 20 years old, he is one of the youngest players eligible in this year’s draft and might have the most upside of any offensive tackle in this year’s crop. 

Previous Pick: No change.

Other Possibilities: Prince Amukamara, CB, Nebraska Cornhuskers

10. Washington Redskins - Robert Quinn, DE, North Carolina Tar Heels **PICK CHANGE**

Despite being suspended for all of the 2010 season for taking improper benefits from an agent, Quinn’s character doesn’t seem to be an issue for most teams considering him. The Redskins clearly need playmakers on both sides of the ball. Quinn could form a dynamic pass rushing duo with Brian Orakpo for many years to come. He improved on his Combine numbers at his Pro Day, most notably running a 4.59-second 40-yard dash.  Although Quinn is a raw prospect, there’s little doubt that he’ll be able to make a seamless transition to outside linebacker at the next level.

Previous Pick: Cam Newton, QB, Auburn Tigers

Other Possibilities: Jake Locker, QB, Washington Huskies; Julio Jones, WR, Alabama Crimson Tide

11. Houston Texans - Prince Amukamara, CB, Nebraska Cornhuskers

Update 4/4: Amukamara is widely considered the second best cornerback available in this draft. Multiple sources (including Amukamara himself) reported that the former Cornhusker looked fluid and smooth in position drills on his Pro Day. While there’s a chance that he could be a top-10 pick, many of those teams have more pressing needs. A short fall is possible.

The Texans had the league’s worst pass defense in 2010, so it’s safe to say their biggest Draft Day need is the secondary. Amukamara has the size (6’0, 205 pounds) and speed (4.38 40-yard dash at the NFL Combine) to potentially become a starter immediately. In any case, Houston should be happy if they get the second-best cornerback available.

Previous Pick: No change.

Other Possibilities: Robert Quinn, DE, North Carolina Tar Heels; Cameron Jordan, DE, California Golden Bears

12. Minnesota Vikings - Jake Locker, QB, Washington Huskies

Update 4/4: Initial reports that Locker had a solid Pro Day workout seemed to solidify his status as a first-round pick His willingness to work at correcting his shortcomings was also considered a good sign.. However within the last week there’s been talk that Locker’s Pro Day workout was too easy and didn’t show all that much. There’s speculation that teams will use private workouts to better assess his skills.

The Vikings clearly need to address the quarterback position and Locker may qualify as the most talented option available at this pick. He played in a pro-style offense under head coach Steve Sarkisian at Washington, and appears to have the makeup and willingness to work on his perceived shortcomings. Locker’s poor showing at the Senior Bowl hurt his stock, however a nice showing at the NFL Combine certainly helped him bounce back. While Minnesota could go in another direction here – an offensive tackle is another option – the need for a franchise quarterback should supersede any others.

Previous Pick: No change.

Other Possibilities: Nate Solder, OT, Colorado Buffaloes; Julio Jones, WR, Alabama Crimson Tide, Robert Quinn, DE, North Carolina Tar Heels

13. Detroit Lions - Anthony Castonzo, OT, Boston College Eagles

Update 4/4: Castonzo continued to help his draft stock with a solid performance in front of representatives from 17 NFL teams at the Boston College Pro Day on March 23. While he doesn’t appear to have the big upside of some of his peers at offensive tackle,  he also doesn’t appear to have the big downside either–a quality that the Lions are likely to value.

With quarterback Matt Stafford proving to be brittle during his first two NFL seasons, the Lions have to make offensive tackle a priority with Gosder Cherilus coming off a knee injury and Jeff Backus not getting any younger. Castonzo is widely thought of as the top offensive tackle available. Plus he’s considered a high-character guy who seemingly has little downside and could play either tackle spot at the next level.

Previous Pick: No change.

Other Possibilities: Brandon Harris, CB, Miami (Fla.) Hurricanes, Tyron Smith, OT, USC Trojans

14. St. Louis Rams - Julio Jones, WR, Alabama Crimson Tide

Update 4/4: Jones recently shed the walking boot he had after his foot surgery in early March and has resumed working out. He’ll ride his excellent showing at the Scouting Combine all the way to Draft Day.

Jones had an excellent showing at the NFL Combine, as he ran a 4.39 second 40-yard dash, and then had surgery to repair a fracture in his left foot immediately afterward. The Rams need a go-to guy for quarterback Sam Bradford, and Jones may fall to them at this pick due to concerns about his durability. The dynamic receiver was often slowed by injuries during his collegiate career. His fall down the first round could be compared to Michael Crabtree’s situation in 2009 when the former Texas Tech star had a similar injury heading into the draft. 

Previous Pick: No change.

Other Possibilities: Aldon Smith, DE, Missouri Tigers, Cameron Jordan, DE, California Golden Bears, Corey Liuget, DT, Illinois Fighting Illini

15. Miami Dolphins - Mark Ingram, RB, Alabama Crimson Tide

Update 4/4: Although Ingram continues to be the consensus No. 1 running back in a thin draft class, a report surfaced that some teams are concerned the health of his right knee. Ingram had the knee scoped prior to the 2010 season and his production dropped significantly from the previous year.  

With Ronnie Brown and Ricky Williams slated to become free agents, there’s a strong possibility that one or both could be gone in 2011,leaving the Dolphins in dire need of a running back. Ingram’s build and lack of measurable speed reminds some of all-time leading rusher Emmitt Smith. Though this is obviously a lofty comparison, the 2009 Heisman Trophy winner at the very least seems more than capable of being a workhorse at the next level. His father is former New York Giants wide receiver Mark Ingram, so he has NFL bloodlines.

Previous Pick: No change.

Other Possibilities: Ryan Mallett, QB, Arkansas Razorbacks

16. Jacksonville Jaguars - J.J. Watt, DE, Wisconsin Badgers

Update 4/4: Watt’s stock continues to rise in advance of the draft and it’s entirely possible that he’ll be off the board before the Jaguars get a shot at him. He demonstrated tremendous fluidity in positional drills during Wisconsin’s March 9Pro Day, proving that he could play in virtually any defense in the NFL.

Jacksonville allowed the most points to opponents (419) in franchise history last season and common sense dictates that they really need pass rushers. Watt had seven sacks and 21 tackles for a loss in his final collegiate season and he has the size (6’6”, 290 pounds) to play anywhere along the Jaguars’ 4-3 defensive line. The Jaguars should use a second straight first-round pick on a defensive lineman, the only question might be who they choose.

Previous Pick: No change.

Other Possibilities : Ryan Mallett, QB, Arkansas Razorbacks, Jake Locker, QB, Washington Huskies, Ryan Kerrigan, DE, Purdue Boilermakers; Cameron Jordan, DE, California Golden Bears

17. New England Patriots (from Oakland) - Mike Pouncey, OG/C, Florida Gators

Update 4/4: Pouncey was the star of the show at Florida’s Pro Day. He was put through the paces–from his stance, to blocking drills, to how he snaps the ball and an assessment of his football IQ. By all accounts, he excelled in every area, a fact that should only bolster his status as a middle to late first-round pick.

Considering that guard Logan Mankins could potentially leave New England via free agency and fellow guard Stephen Neal’s recent decision to retire, the Patriots might take a hard look at drafting a guard with at least one of their two first-round picks. Pouncey took over as Florida’s starting center last season after the Pittsburgh Steelers chose his brother Maurkice in the first round of the 2010 NFL Draft. That said, Mike had a bit of trouble snapping the ball early last season and he might be best suited to play guard in the NFL.

Previous Pick: No change.

Other Possibilities: Mark Ingram, RB, Alabama Crimson Tide; J.J. Watt, DE, Wisconsin Badgers

18. San Diego Chargers - Cameron Jordan, DE, California Golden Bears

Update 4/4: Jordan could be off the board by now, as his versatility has the attention of many teams following a solid Pro Day.  The Chargers may run not walk to the podium if he is still available. 

The versatile Jordan had 33 tackles for loss over his final three collegiate seasons and he could go off the before this pick. Assuming that he’s still available when the Chargers make the first-round pick, Jordan would be an excellent fit as an outside linebacker if he dropped weight. Alternately he could keep his weight (285 pounds) and play defensive end in the Chargers 3-4 defense. His NFL bloodlines (his father Steve played tight end in the NFL for 13 seasons) should also be looked at favorably.

Previous Pick: No change.

Other Possibilities: Akeem Ayers, LB, UCLA Bruins

19. New York Giants - Martez Wilson, LB, Illinois Fighting Illini

Update 4/4: There’s talk that Wilson’s performance at Illinois’ Pro Day might jeopardize the first-round status that he earned following his superb Combine. While he still showed quickness, elite speed, explosiveness and good pass rush skills, Wilson was less impressive in position drills that required him to move in coverage and backpedal. Some teams might be put off by his lack of overall athleticism, however Wilson’s raw athleticism is what the Giants are looking to add to their linebacker corps.

The Giants need an impact player at linebacker, and Wilson could fit that bill. He had a productive season in 2010, with 112 total tackles and 11.5 tackles for loss along with four sacks. Wilson did miss the 2009 season with a neck injury, but that does not appear to be a major concern for NFL teams. Wilson played inside linebacker in college, but has the speed (4.49 40-yard dash at the NFL Combine) and athleticism to transition to outside linebacker in a 4-3 defense.

Previous Pick: No change.

Other Possibilities: Brandon Harris, CB, Miami (Fla.) Hurricanes

20. Tampa Bay Buccaneers - Aldon Smith, DE, Missouri Tigers

Update 4/4: Smith garnered mixed reviews for his performance at Missouri’s March 17 Pro Day, however his upside is still considered immense by most experts. It’s been reported that a scout from a 3-4 team “loved what he saw” from Smith, while a 4-3 evaluator had some concerns. Regardless of his Pro Day results, Smith has the pass rush skills coveted by many teams and the tools to be a superior NFL pass rusher provided his lands on a team that can develop his considerable raw talent.

Tampa Bay had just 26 sacks (tied for second-fewest in the league) in 2010, so defensive end is a clear priority on Draft Day. Smith does not have ideal size (258 pounds) for a 4-3 defensive end, however progressing to the next level of play could be the incentive Smith needs to add weight to his frame fairly quickly. Although his production was down last season (5.5 sacks in 2010 versus 11.5 sacks in 2009), Smith did miss three games with a fractured right fibula before he came back and played through the pain. He declared for the draft as a third-year sophomore, so there’s no denying that he’s a raw prospect. On the other hand, Smith’s upside is immense and he could be a nice fit at defensive end in the Buccaneers’ Cover-2 defense.

Previous Pick: No change.

Other Possibilities: Ryan Kerrigan, DE, Purdue Boilermakers, Justin Houston DE/OLB, Georgia Bulldogs

21. Kansas City Chiefs - Stefen Wisniewski, C/OG, Penn State Nittany Lions

Update 4/4: Wisniewski stood on his Combine workout numbers and focused solely on positional drills during Penn State’s Pro Day. Although he reportedly impressed scouts with his versatility, it’s hard to move him very far up or down at this point.

Given that the interior of the Chiefs’ offensive line is aging (center Casey Wiegmann is 37 and guard Brian Waters is 34), using this pick on Wisniewski might not be as ridiculous as it sounds. Kansas City had the league’s best rushing attack in 2010, consequently maintaining continuity along the offensive line is important. Wisniewski is another prospect with NFL bloodlines. His father Leo played for the (then) Baltimore Colts for three seasons and his uncle Steve played guard for the Oakland Raiders for 13 seasons and was an eight-time Pro Bowler.

Previous Pick: No change.

Other Possibilities: Gabe Carimi, OT, Wisconsin Badgers

22. Indianapolis Colts - Nate Solder, OT, Colorado Buffaloes

Update 4/4: Solder took part in position drills during Colorado’s March 9 Pro Day, yet stood on his impressive Combine workout numbers. Though Solder’s size, athleticism, intelligence and other assets appeal to what teams look for in future NFL tackles, there is some concern about his lower body strength. He surprisingly weighed in at his Pro Day 12 pounds lighter (307) than he had in Indy just a few weeks earlier.

The Colts struggled to protect Peyton Manning in 2010 and incumbent offensive tackles Charles Johnson and Ryan Diem are not guaranteed to be back with the team. Solder is a converted tight end with imposing size (6’8”, 319 pounds) and significant upside in what looks to be a deep class of offensive tackles. He could step in right away as a starter and be a fixture for years to come.

Previous Pick: No change.

Other Possibilities: Danny Watkins OG/OT, Baylor Bears; Corey Liuget, DT, Illinois Fighting Illini

23. Philadelphia Eagles - Aaron Williams, CB, Texas Longhorns

Update 4/4: Representatives from all 32 NFL teams watched Williams and other prospects Texas’ Pro Day on March 29. Williams made the most of his second chance–running a fast 4.36-second 40-yard dash on turf as a follow up to his 4.5-second 40-time at the Combine. He also displayed stronger ball skills during position drills.

Philadelphia gave up a franchise-record 31 touchdown passes last season and the team no doubt recognizes the need for an upgrade opposite Pro Bowl cornerback Asante Samuel. Although Williams didn’t intercept a pass in 2010, he forced three fumbles and has the size (6’1”, 195 pounds) to be successful in man coverage for what is traditionally an aggressive Eagles defense. His style of play lacks physicality for his size, so he’ll have to improve upon that at the next level.

Previous Pick: No change.

Other Possibilities: Mike Pouncey, OG/C, Florida Gators; Danny Watkins, OG/OT, Baylor Bears

24. New Orleans Saints - Adrian Clayborn, DE, Iowa Hawkeyes

Update 4/4: Clayborn had a good showing at his Pro Day, registering a 35-inch vertical jump and looking good in all position drills. Moreover, the quality of his workout appeared to ease concerns about his chronic shoulder/neck condition, which should make Clayborn a lock as a first-round selection.

The Saints registered one or fewer sacks in seven games last season and an influx of youth along the defensive line could help turn that around. Clayborn’s sack production dropped off from 11.5 as a junior in 2009 to 3.5 sacks in 2010, leading to speculation that he was less aggressive as a senior to avoid injury. He suffered Erb’s Palsy in his right shoulder at birth, a situation that NFL teams will want to check out. The Saints could take him here and cross their fingers that he recaptures his 2009 form.

Previous Pick: No change.

Other Possibilities: Bruce Carter, LB, North Carolina Tar Heels; Muhammad Wilkerson, DT, Temple Owls

25. Seattle Seahawks - Ryan Mallett, QB, Arkansas Razorbacks

Update 4/4: Mallett has fallen out of the first round in many mock drafts due to character concerns and his 5.37-second 40-time at his Pro Day. Frankly, Mallet has never been known for his foot speed and that aside, a strong case could be made that he’s the second most physically gifted quarterback in the draft behind Cam Newton.

With Matt Hasselbeck nearing the end of his career, Seattle needs to identify a new franchise quarterback–and they’d better do it soon.  While Mallett comes with character concerns that require resolution, his size (6’6”, 238 pounds) and arm strength are hard to ignore. Comparisons to Ryan Leaf seem justified at this point, however the Seahawks might just think that Mallett is worth the risk this late in the first round.

Previous Pick: No change.

Other Possibilities: Jimmy Smith, CB, Colorado Buffaloes; Ryan Kerrigan, DE, Purdue Boilermakers

26. Baltimore Ravens - Jimmy Smith, CB, Colorado Buffaloes

Update 4/4: Smith performed with mix results during Colorado’s March 9 Pro Day. While he largely stood on his Combine numbers, Smith bumped up his vertical jump from 36” to 37” and ran a respectable 11.19-second in the 60-yard shuttle. Unfortunately he grew tired during his position workout and it was clear that he wasn’t in top shape. Smith didn’t help dispel questions about his work ethic and attitude, which could hurt his first-round potential. Good news for Smith: Baltimore has not generally shied away from players with character concerns if they feel that player is a good fit. There’s no denying his on field ability.

With cornerbacks Fabian Washington, Chris Carr and Josh Wilson slated to become free agents, the position could be the Ravens most pressing need on Draft Day. Smith has good size (6’2, 211 pounds) and ran a 4.42 second 40-yard dash at the NFL Combine. He had multiple brushes with the law and a positive drug test during his collegiate career, so he comes with some major red flags. Rumor has it that at least one team has taken Smith completely off its draft board due to his off the field issues, but the Ravens may see him as a perfect fit for their defense.

Previous Pick: No change.

Other Possibilities: Torrey Smith, WR, Maryland Terrapins; Aaron Williams, CB, Texas Longhorns

27. Atlanta Falcons -Torrey Smith, WR, Maryland Terrapins

Update 4/4: Smith is widely considered the next best receiver available after A.J. Green and Julio Jones. His standing as the third receiver off the board should not be in jeopardy as many teams picking in this part of the first round need a wide receiver. Smith participated in intense positional drills held indoors in front of 28 scouts during Maryland’s March 24 Pro Day.

Atlanta clearly needs to upgrade the wide receiver talent pool opposite Roddy White and fortunately, they should be able to find a solid option with this pick. Smith had an excellent showing at the NFL Combine, running a 4.43 second 40-yard dash and finishing near the top among receivers with a 41-inch vertical jump. His ability to return kicks may lead to Smith making an immediate impact as a rookie while he learns the finer points of playing wide receiver in the NFL.

Previous Pick: No change.

Other Possibilities: Danny Watkins, OG/OT, Baylor Bears; Ryan Williams, RB, Virginia Tech Hokies

28. New England Patriots - Ryan Kerrigan, DE, Purdue Boilermakers

Update 4/4: Kerrigan’s perceived ability to play in a 4-3 or 3-4 defense at the next level has the attention of many NFL teams.  Most mock drafts have him going in the last half of the first round regardless of who chooses him. Kerrigan has a full schedule of visits and workouts in advance of the draft. He’s already met with the Tampa Bay Buccaneers, Buffalo Bills, Jacksonville Jaguars, Baltimore Ravens and Atlanta Falcons. Upcoming visits include the San Diego Chargers, Washington Redskins and New York Jets.

Kerrigan is just the kind of defensive end/outside linebacker “tweener” with strong intangibles that Bill Belichick can get the most out of (Mike Vrabel anyone?). New England needs to upgrade their outside pass rush and with 25.5 sacks over the last two seasons, Kerrigan looks to be a good fit. Moreover, his work ethic and other intangibles are in synch with the “Patriot way” of doing things. If Kerrigan falls this far, it’s only because other teams view him as a player without the huge upside of others at his position.

Previous Pick: No change.

Other Possibilities: Akeem Ayers, OLB, UCLA Bruins; Gabe Carimi, OT, Wisconsin Badgers

29. Chicago Bears - Stephen Paea, DT, Oregon State Beavers

Update 4/4: The potential first rounder worked out for 15 scouts during his personal Pro Day on March 31 at OSU’s campus. Paea looked fully recovered from the surgery he had to his right knee in January, flashing mobility and recording a career-best 5.15-second 40-yard dash.

Paea set an NFL Combine record with 49 bench press reps at 225 pounds, making him the undisputed strongest player in the 2011 NFL Draft. He didn’t participate in the Senior Bowl because of a knee injury, however that doesn’t seem to be a concern now. With the release of defensive tackle Tommie Harris, the Bears could conceivably look to grab an offensive tackled with their first-round pick.

Previous Pick: No change.

Other Possibilities: J.J. Watt, DE, Wisconsin Badgers; Corey Liuget, DT, Illinois Fighting Illini

30. New York Jets - Akeem Ayers, OLB, UCLA Bruins

Update 4/4: Ayers had a better showing at UCLA’s Pro Day than he had at the Scouting Combine. First he improved on his disappointing 4.84-second 40-yard dash time at the Combine, running the 40 between 4.7 and 4.76 seconds. Ayers also improved on his vertical leap (35.5”) and 225 pound bench press repetitions (22). In addition to the Jets, the Baltimore Ravens, Kansas City Chiefs, New England Patriots and New York Giants are reportedly interested in Ayers.

The Jets need to secure an outside pass rusher to help quell the team’s blitz-centric approach to generate pressure on opposing passers. Ayers had 24.5 tackles for loss and 10 sacks along with six interceptions over his final two collegiate seasons, just the type of versatility that could make him an asset as an outside linebacker in a 3-4 defense.  The Jets might be a little leery of players like Ayers due to the monumental failure that 2008 first-round pick Vernon Gholston proved to be. However they have a pressing need and Ayers seems to have better all-around physical ability than Gholston.

Previous Pick: No change.

Other Possibilities: Brooks Reed, OLB, Arizona Wildcats; Phil Taylor, DT, Baylor Bears

31. Pittsburgh Steelers - Gabe Carimi, OT, Wisconsin Badgers

Update 4/4: Carimi reportedly looked good at his Pro Day, showing ability to play left tackle at the next level and further solidifying his status as a first-round pick.

The reigning AFC champions have a critical need at offensive tackle. Veteran right tackle Willie Colon, who missed the entire 2010 season after tearing his Achilles is a free agent and left tackle Max Starks also missed time with a neck injury. Flozell Adams, who replaced Colon, is clearly on the downside of his career. A four-year starter at Wisconsin, Carimi played through various injuries during his college career, including the H1N1 virus as a junior 2009. He seems capable of playing right or left tackle in the NFL, which suggests the type of flexibility that would appeal to the Steelers.

Previous Pick: No change.

Other Possibilities: Derek Sherrod, OT, Mississippi State Bulldogs

32. Green Bay Packers - Cameron Heyward, DE, Ohio State Buckeyes **PICK CHANGE**

With the continuing off the field issues of Johnny Jolly, the Packers could very well make the defensive line a priority. Ohio State’s Heyward seems best suited to play in the 3-4 defensive scheme that Green Bay employs.  While he’s not considered to be especially strong in one particular area, Heyward’s overall versatility and size (6’5’, 280 pounds) may be too much for the defending Super Bowl champions to ignore.

Previous Pick: Danny Watkins, OG/OT, Baylor Bears

Other Possibilities: Mikel Leshoure, RB, Illinois Fighting Illini; Danny Watkins, OG/OT, Baylor Bears