2012 NFL MOCK DRAFT 4.0
By Joe Tufaro
Here is a quick look at the first round of the 2012 NFL Mock Draft for GMEN HQ. This is our fourth rendition, and having seen the NFL Combine, Free Agency is in full swing, it takes a few twists and turns. Take a look at our partner sites when you have a minute for more in depth coverage. DC Pro Sports Report, NFL Mocks , and Hailredskins.com
Andrew Luck, QB, Stanford: Peyton Manning is now a Bronco, and the Colts are in full re-building mode. They have parted ways with many players from previous years and look to start anew with Mr. Luck at QB. Hopefully they can fit a few pieces in around him to give him a hand replacing a legend.
Robert Griffin III, QB, Baylor: The Redskins, as we previously surmised, made the bold move up to number two for the opportunity to finally get themselves a young franchise QB. Having given up their number one picks for the next two years the ‘Skins need to be active in Free Agency and hit on all remaining picks.
3. Minnesota Vikings
Matt Kalill, OT, USC: Now that the move has been made to get ahead of them, they no longer have to ponder whether Christian will be their QB. He is the man now, and they need to start building their offensive line in front of him. The Vikings now have many needs, but this is a solid place to start.
Ryan Tannehill, QB, Texas A&M: It has been said that this player has performed so well in his off season workouts, proday, and combine that people are getting dangerously close to picking him ahead of Griffin and Luck. All joking aside, Tannehill has shown he will be worthy of this spot to the Browns.
Morris Claiborne, CB, LSU: Claiborne announced yesterday that he needs wrist surgery. This might put a crimp in the entire first round from here down. The Bucs could go with RB Trent Richardson, but I still maintain that this is way too early in this era of the NFL to take a running back. I think Tampa Bay stays with Claiborne.
6. St. Louis Rams
Justin Blackmon, WR, OK State: The Rams cash in the first pick thy receive from Washington here for the number 1 receiver they need desperately. Blackmon has some issues, but coach Fischer is the right guy to handle him. This will instantly make the Ram offense better, and keep them in the running in the weak NFC West.
7. Jacksonville Jaguars
Jonathan Martin, OT, Stanford: Another young QB in Blaine Gabbert that needs protection. Gabbert is now the future of this team after Tebow-Mania landed in the No Ring Circus in New York. Protecting the young man is paramount to any success.
8. Carolina Panthers
Michael Floyd, WR, ND: The window on Steve Smith is closing and the Panthers would love to get a kid with Floyd’s ability to learn a few things from Smith before he leaves. The compliment of Floyd to Smith, with Cam at QB could make this a very explosive offense. Floyd has been impressive this off season.
9. Miami Dolphins
Quinton Coples, DE, UNC: The perfect replacement for Jason Taylor. The Miami offense should be better with a new coordinator, head coach, and free agent QB. The defense gets a big lift with this young man, and a steal if he drops to 9. Cameron Wake has the other side locked down, and there is nothing better than two pass rushers to help a defense.
10. Buffalo Bills
Devon Still, DL, Penn State: The Bills need defense, and a force in the middle to stop the run and get inside pass rush will help them a great deal. After finding out their Qb can play and that they have some playmakers on offense, its time to start stopping people.