Streaming the first round tonight with quick updates on each pick.  If you need someone to watch the first round of the 2016 NFL Draft with tonight, I'm your guy! --Mike B.

1. Los Angeles Rams.  Jared Goff, QB, Cal.  This pick is a huge gamble, but one that could pay off in the long-run if he develops.  He's one of the top quarterback prospects in this year's draft, and the Rams need a new quarterback to build around.  They have a nearly complete team, and have finished 7-9 regularly in recent years.  This is a safe place for a first year quarterback to fall.  Decent pick for the Rams.

2. Philadelphia Eagles. Carson Wentz, QB, North Dakota.  Part of me likes this pick, but then again, I don't get the move. Wentz is a fine player and will have a successful NFL career. The Eagles had a chance at numerous top tier players here, and take a dive on a quarterback even though they have Sam Bradford in the fold.  Still, Wentz could be the face of this franchise for years to come. This pick has a ton of upside, but is definitely a risk. Still, it makes sense.

3. San Diego Chargers. Joey Bosa, DE, Ohio State. WOW.  The Chargers just snagged one of the best defensive talents in the draft. This is an intriguing pick for them, and I think he adds another to piece to their defense. This could be a unit on the rise. I'd have prefered an OT or CB here, but Bosa will be a stud in the NFL. Nice pick.

4. Dallas Cowboys. Ezekiel Elliot, RB, Ohio State. Dallas just snagged the best offensive skill player on the board.  I'm surprised that they didn't grab Ramsey here, but Zeke gives them a clear upgrade in the running game.  Decent pick for Dallas.  Runningback value is back! Still, with the Cowboys signing Alfred Morris, should they have waited on one?

5. Jacksonville Jaguars. Jalen Ramsey, DB, Florida State.  The Jaguars already have some solid pieces on  defense, and just drafted one of the best defensive players (arguably the best player in general) in the 2016 draft.  I like this pick. The Jacksonville defense will be stacked in 2016.

6. Baltimore Ravens. Ronnie Stanley, OT, Notre Dame.  The Ravens need help at offensive tackle, and Stanley or Tunsil both make a ton of sense over here. The big surprise here is Stanley over Tunsil.  Then again, Stanley has no character concerns, and there are questions about Tunsil at the moment. Either way, a tackle makes sense here.

7. San Francisco 49ers. DeForest Buckner, DE, Oregon.  An Oregon guy for Chip Kelly. Last year they drafted his college teammate, Arik Armstead.  This pick confuses me a tiny bit because they need help on offense, but Buckner is a stud defensive talent who may be better than Bosa in a few seasons.

8. Tennessee Titans.  Jack Conklin, OT, Michigan State. Browns traded back, just like I projected. The Titans, on the other hand, trade up and skip Tunsil, the tackle they were originally targeting. Instead, they draft Jak Conklin, the Tackle from Michigan State.  Either way, the Titans upgrade at a position of need.

9. Chicago Bears. Leonard Floyd, OLB, Georgia.  The Bears get one of the best outside linebackers in college football with this pick.  He's a solid pick for Chicago.  A bit higher than anticipated, and a surprise over Myles Jack, but good pick that fills a need.

10. New York Giants. Eli Apple, CB, Ohio State.  This is a decent pick for the Giants; cornerback was an area I figured they might target in this draft.  Even though it might be a bit high on Apple, I think this will be a decent long-term pick. Apple should transition nicely into the NFL. He might be a reach here, but he has upside long-term and should improve. Still, Apple struggles with penalties, and Hargreaves might have been an option here. Still, I will trust the Giants to get their guy.

11. Tampa Bay Buccaneers. Vernon Hargreaves III, CB, Florida. After the Apple selection, the Buccaneers got the second best cornerback in the draft, following Ramsey. I know some teams didn't like Hargreaves too much, but he should be a good fit in Tampa. Solid, solid pick for Tampa. Trade back and still get your guy. He's inconsistent, but he has nice upside.

12. New Orleans Saints. Sheldon Rankins, DL, Louisville.  Great pick for the Saints. They were praying for Buckner to fall most likely, but Rankins is a great option here. This is a special defensive class, and Rankins is a special defensive player. Solid, solid pick for the Saints.

13. Miami Dolphins. Laremy Tunsil, OT, Ole Miss. The Dolphins jut got one of the best offensive takles in the draft to protect Ryan Tannehill. Tannehill can't throw touchdown passes and improve if he's picking himself up off of the turf every snap.  Tunsil gives them a lot of value here. Great pick for Miami.

14. Oakland Raiders. Karl Joseph, S, West Virginia.  Joseph was the best defensive back left on the board. I had him rated a bit lower, but he's a value at 14. Hard hitting safety, and the Raiders biggest needs are on defense. Decent pick for Oakland. They just replaced Charles Woodson.

15. Cleveland Browns. Corey Coleman, WR, Baylor.  I worry about this pick a little. I love Coleman as a prospect, but he needs a location where he can be coached up.  I worry about his lack of effort on many plays when he's not the #1 or #2 option. That being said, if anyone can fix him, Hue Jackson can. I worry about him as a surefire #1, but I do believe that Hue Jackson is a coach that can fix his problems. This will be either the best or worst pick in the first round.

16. Detroit Lions. Taylor Decker, OT, Ohio State.  Love this pick for Detroit.  I had them going offensive tackle because Matt Stafford needs help staying on his feet. He's not the best tackle in this draft but he is still a solid, solid option. I like this pick for Detroit.

17. Atlanta Falcons. Keanu Neal, S, Florida.  This pick surprises me a little; I expected linebacker. I think if he can improve his coverage skills, or transition to linebacker, he could be a value pick.  Definitely a lot of upside here. Do they move him to linebacker?

18. Indianapolis Colts. Ryan Kelly, C, Alabama. This pick makes a ton of sense for Indy.  Andrew Luck needs protection, and Kelly can play center and both guards. The Indianapolis Colts just became a way better football team.  Brilliant pick for the Colts.

19. Buffalo Bills. Shaq Lawson, DE, Clemson.  This is a Rex Ryan pick through and through. They pass up a quarterback and grab the best defensive line talent available.  I like this move; gives the Bills one more year to see whether they have an answer at QB, and Lawson will be an immediate upgrade.

20. New York Jets. Darron Lee, LB, Ohio State.  What?  I was expecting Paxton Lynch here. Lee is a good linebacker though, and upgrades the Jets defense even more. Granted, they still need help at quarterback, but this is an interesting pick. I'm unsure on it myself.

21. Houston Texans. Will Fuller, WR, Notre Dame. The Texans just got a huge big-play threat to pair with DeAndre Hopkins.  He struggles with drops at times, and that worries me. However, as a complementary receiver in Houston, he's not a bad option. He has a ton of speed, which helps.

22. Washington Redskins. Josh Doctson, WR, TCU. The Redskins just got arguably the best WR in the draft, and traded back a spot to get him. Great move for the Redskins. He's a superior player to both Fuller and Coleman if you ask me.

23. Minnesota Vikings. Laquon Treadwell, WR, Ole Miss. With this pick the Vikings got a top 2 WR in the draft. Great pick for the Vikings; they need help at WR, and Treadwell gives them that. He was the top WR on most draft boards heading into this draft process.

24. Cincinnati Bengals. William Jackson III, CB, Houston.  I'm mixed on this pick. Cincinnati had bigger holes elsewhere, but  Jackson fills a long term need at corner. I worry about it since they had other needs, but it's a decent depth move.  Jackson has a ton of upside at cornerback, so he offers long-term value.

25. Pittsburgh Steelers. Artie Burns, CB, Miami.  25th overall, and the Steelers get the guy they've been targeting all along.  I like this move a lot for the Steelers.  They need secondary help now, and Burns gives them it. Smart move.

26. Denver Broncos. Paxton Lynch, QB, Memphis. The Broncos trade up to get Lynch. This is a great move. They're a Superbowl team that just lost their starting quarterback to retirement. This is a decent move by the Denver front office. Lynch could be develop quickly in Denver.

27. Green Bay Packers. Kenny Clark, DT, UCLA. The Packers needed help on defense, and added a decent defensive line prospect here. While Jack may have been a better fit, Clark is a decent pick for the Packers here.  He's only 20, which gives him plenty of time to develop. Plus, Raji is taking a season off so he fills that hole.

28. San Francisco 49ers. Joshua Garnett, G, Stanford. The 49ers traded back into the first round to select  Garnett. I like the pick, but I don't like trading back into the first for him. This pick makes me worry a bit. Garnett has a lot of upside, but this is a really risky move. They reached for need here.

29. Arizona Cardinals. Robert Nkemdiche, DT, Ole Miss. This is the draft's biggest gamble pick so far. Nkemdiche has a ton of talent, but also a ton of question marks. If he pans out and stays clean off the field he's a steal. Nice gamble for Arizona.

30. Carolina Panthers. Vernon Butler, DT, Louisiana Tech.  Butler is a guy with a ton of upside from a smaller program. He's one of the better defensive tackle prospects in this draft and fits here. The Panthers have a better need at defensive back here, but Butler is a nice piece for them.  

31. Seattle Seahawks. Germain Ifedi, OT, Texas A&M.  Ifedi is an outstanding offensive tackle prospect who can also play guard in the NFL.  The Seahawks need offensive line help, and Ifedi is a guy that an be a stud when motivated. Pete Carroll is the type of coach that could help him develop into a stud guard or tackle in the NFL. Good pick.

Here are some bold predictions for the 2016 NFL Draft.  They may not happen, or they just might.  The goal here is to throw out some predictions that logically could happen, not necessarily to 100% accurately predict the future. Anyway, here they go. --Mike B.

We have not seen our last trade in the first round. A team like the Colts will swap first round picks with the Browns, and the Browns will grab Paxton Lynch after the Colts draft Zeke Elliot.

This is not so much a prediction as a near guarantee.  Russell Hansbrough, Jhurell Pressley, and Branden Jackson will all outplay their draft stock.

Mel Kiper got a haircut. You just haven't noticed it since it looks exactly the same.

At least five green room prospects will fall until day two of the draft.

Roger Goodell will be booed at least twice tonight.

Roberto Aguayo, the kicker from Florida State, will be a day two pick.

At least 20 players will illegitimately lose draft stock because of size. 

There will be four quarterbacks taken in the first round.

Ronnie Stanley could be the first offensive takle selected.

The Eagles may not go quarterback with their first round pick. Players to watch? Zeke Elliot, Jalen Ramsey, Larry Tunsill, and Joey Bosa.

Myles Jack's leg is fine.

Kenneth Dixon or Paul Perkins will be the second most productive running back in this draft class.

At least one undrafted running back will stun the league in the preseason, just like Zach Zenner did last season.

Paxton Lynch? Best quarterback in this year's class.

The Lions may not take a WR in the first round.  

The Cincinnati Bengals actually draft for need with their first two picks.

Jared Goff will likely be the first overall pick.  Eagles may go with Wentz, but expect the unexpected.

Dallas could come up into the end of the first round with a second pick for Paxton Lynch depending on where he falls, per rumors.

Not so much a prediction but a fact. Reggie Ragland's aorta should be fine. He'll require yearly monitoring, but it's not a major issue.

Matt K’s 7 round NFL Mock Draft:
Here is my 7 round mock draft. Rounds 1-3 will have draft input and reasoning. This will be based off of team needs and based off the head coach’s desires. I might have some players higher than other mocks because there are some undervalued players in this draft. An asterisks next to the trade means it was a trade that I had in my mock.
Round 1:
1. LA Rams (from Titans): Jared Goff – QB – California: The Rams offered a lot here for this spot moving up from 15 to 1. Obviously they are targeting a QB it is the only position a team would trade up for in this era of football. The Rams biggest need is QB and WR so this move makes sense because they need someone to get the ball to a WR. Goff is who they want the most though I believe Wentz is the more NFL ready QB.  

2. Philadelphia Eagles (From Browns): Carson Wentz – QB – North Dakota State: The Eagles gave up a lot for this pick and want a QB apparently even after signing Bradford to an extension. This move confused me but maybe they trade Bradford for a pick back in the middle rounds I am
not sure but Wentz is the best fit if they go QB because he is the best fit here.

3. San Diego Chargers: Jalen Ramsey – CB/S – Florida State: The Chargers couldn’t defend the pass well and they couldn’t keep Weddle in the off season. This guy is my top player in this draft and I think he goes here because the Chargers will get the best player and address their biggest need right off the bat.  

4. Dallas Cowboys: Joey Bosa – DE – Ohio State: The Cowboys seriously need some help on the defensive line. They honestly need a pass rush and if they would grab anyone else besides Bosa with Ramsey gone they would be making a mistake.

5. Jacksonville Jaguars: Darron Lee – OLB – Ohio State: The best player at the position if healthy is Myles Jack, issue being his knee is causing some worries that are effecting his draft rank. Outside linebacker is their biggest need and they should address it early to get some real help.

6. Baltimore Ravens: Laremy Tunsil – OT – Ole Miss: This is the best pick available and honestly my 2nd best prospect in this draft. I really like him and the Ravens are terrible in front of Joe especially after losing Osemele.

7. San Francisco 49ers: Deforest Buckner – DE – Oregon: The 49ers need to build their defense. They need to get this team together because they have become a joke and if they aren’t going to address their QB issues then they should go defense here.

8. Buffalo Bills (Trade with the Browns through the Eagles)*: Paxton Lynch – QB – Memphis: I have the Bills trading up here to get Paxton because they really like him and they know the Jets would grab him if they traded up at some other point. The Browns know their biggest need could be WR and they can grab one later and gain even more picks for this move. It would be purely genius.  

9. Tampa Bay Buccaneers: Vernon Hargreaves – CB – Florida: The Buccaneers need to help finish off their defense here with this move and getting the top corner in the draft is a smart move. This kid has the potential to be something special.

10. New York Giants: Ronnie Stanley – OT – Notre Dame: The Giants must protect Eli and help their run game so why not kill two birds with one stone here and go with the big guy out front.

11. Chicago Bears: A’ Shawn Robinson – DT – Alabama: The Bears need to build their defense this year to even give their fans a chance of a good team to root for. I think Robinson is a very underrated DT in this draft and would be the best fit here for them.

12. New Orleans Saints: Sheldon Rankins – DT – Louisville: The Saints couldn’t play defense if their life depended on it last year. Rankins after losing Robinson is the best pick here and will be their best move.

13. Miami Dolphins (Trade with Eagles): Eli Apple – CB – Ohio State: Eli Apple is a beast and his talent is undeniable. I think the Dolphins need to go corner here and stop their defense from being walked on this season.

14. Oakland Raiders: Jack Conklin – OT – Michigan State: The Raiders are on the way up and they could use another piece to the O-line to protect Carr. I think this move makes the most sense here as they protect their franchise QB.

15. Tennessee Titans (from the Rams): Taylor Decker – OT – Ohio State: The Titans need to protect Marcus Mariota and they need to help their running game because it doesn’t exist. They would make a mistake if they missed out on an offensive lineman here.

16. Detroit Lions: Reggie Ragland – ILB – Alabama: The Lions defense needs a lot of help in the middle especially stopping the run. Reggie Ragland is the next Patrick Willis and the Lions would be lucky to grab him here.

17. Atlanta Falcons: Myles Jack – OLB – UCLA: The Falcons are a good team with holes on defense. Jack would build up their defense and get some pass rush with this pick. Jack is a top 5 talent but he has pretty bad knee issues.

18. Dallas Cowboys (Trade with the Colts)*: Ezekiel Elliott – RB – Ohio State: The Cowboys are going to trade back up here and grab their biggest need after grabbing Ramsey earlier. They grab one of the best RB’s in the past 5 years along with Gurley.

19. Cleveland Browns (Trade with Bills)*: LaQuon Treadwell – WR – Ole Miss: We have no idea what is going on with Josh Gordon and the Browns need to get RGIII or whoever they trust at QB a true target. Treadwell is extremely talented and will make a big difference. 

20. New York Jets: Leonard Floyd – OLB – Georgia: The Jets missed Paxton when the Bills traded up and need to address their biggest need with this pick. This pick makes the most sense and will truly help this defense and their defensive minded genius head coach.

21. Washington Redskins: Jarran Reed – DT – Alabama: The Skins just recently threw the bank at Josh Norman and will not build the front part of the defense with this pick. Jarran Reed is a good move here and will help build up the run defense for Washington.

22. Houston Texans: Shaq Lawson – DE – Clemson: Shaq Lawson on the opposite side of JJ Watt would be the best DE tandem in the NFL within the first year. Lawson is a monster and I seriously think this could be the best thing to happen to the Texans defense since JJ Watt and Kevin Johnson.

23. Minnesota Vikings: Josh Doctson – WR – TCU: Doctson is a great talent at WR and the Vikings need a good WR to partner with Stephon Diggs. They need to give Bridgewater more options.

24. Cincinnati Bengals: Corey Coleman – WR – Baylor: This pick gives them a replacement for Marvin Jones and Sanu which they need to do for Dalton’s sake. Coleman would go easier but he seems to have issues taking plays off and Marvin would prevent that from becoming a repeating issue.

25. Pittsburgh Steelers: Artie Burns – CB – Miami: The Steelers need to continue building on that young defense and adding pass protection makes the most sense. Artie Burns is a good pick with this selection and fits best.

26. Seattle Seahawks: Robert Nkemdiche – DT – Ole Miss: The Seahawks need to address their defense as it has fallen off over the past 2 seasons now and this will be a huge add here. Pete Carroll will keep Nkemdiche in check here.

27. Green Bay Packers: Andrew Billings – DT – Baylor: BJ Raji gone and the Pack will need to clog up the middle against AP and whoever the bears and lions throw at them. This pick is their biggest need after the signing of Jared Cook to help the tight ends.

28. Kansas City Chiefs: William Jackson III – CB – Houston: The Chiefs got Marcus Peters last year but William Jackson would make this team the best young secondary in the NFL. This addition would make this team so scary to face going forward.

29. Arizona Cardinals: Keanu Neal – SS – Florida: The Cardinals secondary needs some help and this pick would help them a lot in that department. I really like Keanu Neal and think he is being overlooked.

30. Carolina Panthers: Mackensie Alexander – CB – Clemson: The Panthers have to replace Josh Norman and he is the best player in this spot. He would fill a need and make in impact his rookie season. I really think this should be a no-brainer in this spot.

31. Denver Broncos: Connor Cook – QB – Michigan State: The Broncos can’t get Sam Bradford they couldn’t land Kaepernick, consider themselves lucky, and lost Osweiller to the Texans. They need a QB wether it be to battle Sanchez or just flat out take the job. Connor Cook has the potential to be special especially under Kubiak.

Round 2:

32. Cleveland Browns: Kevin Dodd – DE – Clemson: The Browns could take a QB but I think they give RGIII a shot and help keep this defense strong. This pick could be a steal outside the first round and would make a big impact for the Browns defense.

33. Tennessee Titans: Vernon Butler – DT – Louisiana Tech: The Titans got their offensive lineman now its time to fix that defense. Butler has first round skills and this would be a great grab at this point.

34. Indianapolis Colts (Traded with Cowboys)*: Cody Whitehair – OG – Kansas State: The Colts need to address their protection for Luck especially and maybe help develop their offensive line. They really need to protect their star QB.

35. San Diego Chargers: Ryan Kelly – C – Alabama: This pick would be fantastic for the future health of Rivers as he gets older and Melvin Gordon will have some protection finally in front of him. Kelly is a future superstar center.

36. Baltimore Ravens: Kamalei Correa – OLB – Boise State: The Ravens let Upshaw walk away and Suggs has aged and coming off another injury really has me worried about their future at this position. I think the Ravens will grab a pretty big need here with this pick.

37. San Francisco 49ers: Will Fuller – WR – Notre Dame: The 49ers need receiving help and this pick would be a great one to add here. Granted these receivers will spend most the game running after the corners as Kaepernick throws all the interceptions he will throw this year.               

38. Jacksonville Jaguars: Noah Spence – DE – Eastern Kentucky: The Jaguars could scare the AFC QB’s and every future opponent’s QB with this pick. Spence is a good player and to put him on the same line as Donte Fowler JR, Malik Jackson, and Telvin Smith behind them, it would change this defense for years to come.

39. Tampa Bay Buccaneers: Emmanuel Ogbah – DE – Oklahoma State: The Buccaneers need an edge guy on the line that can put pressure on the opposing offenses. I really love Ogbah in this spot and think he could make a big difference for this team.

40. New York Giants: Karl Joseph – SS – West Virginia: The Giants need to keep building on this defense because their defense has been a nightmare the past few years. I really think it would be a mistake if they miss out here.

41.  Chicago Bears: Jonathan Bullard – DE – Florida: The Bears just need to keep plugging away on defense and this pick would help them continue to do that. Bullard is a good player to keep building their defensive line.

42. Miami Dolphins: Derrick Henry – RB – Alabama: Derrick is the winner of the Heisman and the Dolphins have Ajayi I know that but they also tried to sign CJ Anderson which shows a lack of faith in Ajayi. Henry will go in this round and they could grab him to help build this offense.

43. Tennessee Titans (From LA from Philly): Kendall Fuller – CB – Virginia Tech: The Titans corners would build their defense even more and the additional picks are definitely nice to help do that. Fuller is a good player and can learn well and will learn well in this unit.

44. Oakland Raiders: Su’a Cravens – OLB – USC: The Raiders could help build a defensive unit even stronger. I like Cravens he brings a good energy to a young hungry team like the Raiders.

45. Tennessee Titans (From LA): Vonn Bell – SS – Ohio State: The Titans have the perfect amount of picks because this pick just like the other 2 before it in this round are going to make this defense stronger and have some solid depth.

46. Detroit Lions: Germain Ifedi – OT – Texas A&M: The Lions need to protect Matt Stafford and help their young RB’s. Germain is a good player who could be an instant starter on this line and help the ground game develop.

47. New Orleans Saints: Sean Davis – CB – Maryland: I could not stand watching the Saints last season soley because of their absolutely awful defense. They are a nightmare and the addition of Sean Davis could help slow down the passing game of the opposing offenses and give Brees a chance.

48. Indianapolis Colts: TJ Green – FS – Clemson: The Colts in my eyes have the 2nd worst defense in the NFL behind the Saints and if they want less pressure on Luck they need to be able to stop opposing offenses.

49. Cleveland Browns (Trade with Bills)*: Delon Jones – OLB – LSU: Delon is a good player and would be a nice addition to the Browns. They really need to keep building defense in the AFC North and that will make a difference for their young members.

50. Atlanta Falcons: Darian Thompson – FS – Boise State: This might be a slight reach but the Falcons need a safety. I really think Atlanta needs to build their defense and with Dan Quinn in charge they will build their defense soon.

51. New York Jets: Tyler Boyd – WR – Pittsburgh: The Jets can’t rely on Brandon Marshall to stay healthy and keep his numbers up forever. Their team is weak behind him and will need to grab a top notch WR here. Boyd is very talented and could be a good player.

52. Houston Texans: Hunter Henry – TE – Arkansas: Henry is a first round talent but the need isn’t really there for most teams except the Texans and Packers. I think Henry will make a big difference with this team and is one of the best talents in the draft.  

53. Washington Redskins: Shilique Calhoun – DE – Michigan State: The Skins will continue to build their defensive line in this draft and their first two picks will make a significant difference. They need to build a pass rush and this pick will help them do so.

54. Minnesota Vikings: Joshua Garnett – OG – Stanford: The Vikings O-line is pretty rough and this pick would help with that. It could also help AP and Bridgewater lead this offense.

55. Cincinnati Bengals: Kenny Clark – DT – UCLA: Kenny Clark is a great player and is a first round talent but the DT need isn’t there in the first round all the much. The Bengals need someone to go next to Geno that can actually make a difference in this defense.

56. Seattle Seahawks: Christian Westerman – OG – Arizona State: The Seahawks offensive line might honestly be the worst in the NFL right now. They better start fixing this immediately and solve it in the draft since they didn’t do much in free agency.

57. Green Bay Packers: Kentrell Brothers – ILB – Missouri: The Packers have a need for a linebacker and this is the 2nd best inside linebacker in this draft. Brothers could make a difference on this team and really help them improve.  

58. Pittsburgh Steelers: Chris Jones – DT – Mississippi State: This kid will be a need for the Steelers and he can plug up the middle well. He would be great to helping stop the run and help the edge rushers get to the QB.

59. Kansas City Chiefs: Michael Thomas – WR – Ohio State: The Chiefs need help receiving and this is the pick that makes the most sense. They need a WR immediately and this pick is the best one available and Thomas is actually a really talented option for them.

60. New England Patriots: Shon Coleman – OT – Auburn: The Pats go boring here with their first pick and take an offensive lineman here to protect Tom as their line as some holes.

61. New England Patriots: Xavien Howard – CB – Baylor: The Patriots have back to back picks and should address their need at corner here. Bill Belichick is impossible to figure out and I have no idea where he will decide to go here.

62. Carolina Panthers: Bronson Kaufusi – DE – BYU: The Panthers need to address their needs at pass rushing if they want to return to the Super Bowl. He is a good talent and could make a difference in this first couple years with this unit.

63. Denver Broncos: Austin Johnson – DT – Penn State: The Broncos need to replace Malik Jackson. They are going to be smart here and realize that Austin Johnson is the perfect fit here in this situation.

Round 3:

64. Tennessee Titans: Joe Dahl – OG – Washington State: The Titans need to protect Mariota and continue adding depth on this line.

65. Cleveland Browns: Devontae Booker – RB – Utah: Booker is a good player not my 3rd best RB but realistically they are overlooking my third. Booker will be the best fit for Hue Jackson and the Browns running game.

66.  San Diego Chargers: Hassan Ridgeway – DT – Texas: The Chargers will look to help stop the run and Ridgeway will be a good fit here for them. This pick just makes sense.

67. Indianapolis Colts (Through trade with Cowboys)*: Nick Martin – C – Notre Dame: The Colts need help all over their O-line and they address it here with this pick.

68. San Francisco 49ers: Jalen Mills – CB – LSU: The 49ers are in need of a corner to help keep their defense growing. They need to slow down the passing game and make it happen a little bit more with this pick.

69. Jacksonville Jaguars: Max Tuerk – C – USC:  The Jaguars need to address their offensive line and their biggest hole on the line is center.

70. Baltimore Ravens: Carl Nassib – DE – Penn State: The Ravens really need help on their defensive line. The Ravens need to really keep working on this defense and Ozzie will make the right pick.

71. New York Giants: Sterling Shepard – WR – Oklahoma: I think Shepard could work with this team and he wouldn’t have much pressure to be a star in his first year which is the perfect fit for him.

72. Chicago Bears: C.J. Prosise – RB – Notre Dame: The Bears showed a lack of faith in Langford when they attempted to grab CJ Anderson in the offseason and this isn’t a NEED but it is a possible pick. Prosise is a possible fit here and they could have a backup if Langford didn’t pan out.

73. Miami Dolphins: Roberto Aguayo – K – Florida State: The Dolphins need a kicker, and is this guy is honestly the best kicker to come out since Janikowski.

74. Tampa Bay Buccaneers: Jerald Hawkins – OT – LSU: The Buccaneers addressed their need for defense and they now need to help keep Winston safe and open some holes for Doug Martin.

75. Oakland Raiders: Pharoh Cooper – WR – South Carolina: This kid has talent and with some time to learn a system he can develop into a great 2nd option receiver. He would truly help out the Raiders and make them a better team.

76. Tennessee Titans: Jordan Jenkins – OLB – Georgia: The Titans have already added some good defensive skills with their plethora of draft picks. This pick will continue to help them build their defensive unit and give them some serious depth.

77. Cleveland Browns: La’ Raven Clark – OT – Texas Tech: The Browns need help on their offensive line and this is without a doubt the best pick available here. I really love Clark and think he is honestly a franchise player.  

78. New Orleans Saints: Braxton Miller – WR – Ohio State: Braxton Miller is a good player just adjusting to an entirely new position. Braxton is a good player and could really help out the Saints in a position of need and bring some flexibility if the Saints need help at QB due to injury.

79. Philadelphia Eagles: Kenneth Dixon – RB – Louisiana Tech: The Eagles traded up for a QB when they need a RB more than a QB and this is their first pick since then. If they don’t shock the world and take Ezekiel Elliott with the 2nd overall pick then they will be looking at a RB with this pick. I think Dixon is a great move for them.

80. Buffalo Bills: Jaylon Smith – OLB – Notre Dame: This kid would be a top 15 pick if it wasn’t due to injuries. Jaylon is a good player with more skill than this draft pick will ever signify but if he is healthy we will see an extremely special player.

81. Atlanta Falcons: Austin Hooper – TE – Stanford: The Falcons could use help at tight end and Hooper is a decent player who belongs in the 3rd round. With Matt Ryan we never know he could actually be a good talent.

82. Indianapolis Colts: Javon Harvgrave – DT – South Carolina State: The Colts defense was a complete nightmare last season and it has been getting worse over the years. This team is in need of more defensive players.

83. New York Jets: Maliek Collins – DT – Nebraska: Maliek is a pretty decent player who could help develop the Jets defensive line. I think the Jets could go with a QB here but they might wait one more round to address their need at that position.

84. Washington Redskins: Tyler Matakevich – ILB – Temple: Matakevich is a decent player with some work and time to grow he can develop into a good 80 tackles a year player. I like him in this system as long term player.

85. Houston Texans: Christian Hackenberg – QB – Penn State: There is obviously no guarantee that Hack will fall this far but the needs at QB aren’t extremely strong in the NFL. Hackenberg is a decent player going forward and he could

86. Minnesota Vikings: BJ Goodson – ILB – Clemson: The Vikings could use some help in the middle of their defense. They need some good linebackers again and to finally be on track to having a top 5 defense again. Not saying Goodson alone will do that but he can help.

87. Cincinnati Bengals: Scooby Wright III – ILB – Arizona: Scooby in Marvin Lewis’ defense would be an awesome fit. This kid is very underrated and could make a big splash defensively. He honestly would be a special fit for them and Marvin would once again show his ability to find good defenders.

88. Green Bay Packers:  Joe Schobert – OLB – Wisconsin: The Packers get the defensive steal of the draft. This move would be the best thing to happen to the Packers since Randall Cobb in the 2nd round. I mean Schobert has been nothing but incredible in Wisconsin and just like Chris Borland, another Wisconsin defender getting forgotten.

89. Pittsburgh Steelers: Jihad Ward – DT – Illinois: The Steelers will continue rebuilding their defense. This pick would help their defense with depth and significantly change their rush defense. This pick will be right where Ward belongs in this draft though he could show some upside.

90. Seattle Seahawks: Caleb Benenoch – OT – UCLA: Caleb is a good player that could really help the Seahawks who have the worst offensive line in the NFL at this point. Beneoch is just going to need some time before he becomes a real upgrade in their offensive line.

91. New England Patriots: Charles Tapper – DE – Oklahoma: Tapper is a good fit in this defense and Bill will once again be hard to figure out. The Patriots lost Chandler Jones and I am not saying this pick is good enough to replace Chandler obviously but he will be some help.

92. Arizona Cardinals: Yannick Ngakoue – OLB – Maryland: The Cardinals need to make an improvement on their defense. Yannick is a good player with some good skills and in this defense he could actually exceed his lower end expectations of him.

93. Carolina Panthers: Will Redmond – CB – Mississippi State: The Panthers will need to add more depth to their corners and this could easily be a good fit for them. I really like Redmond as a fit in Carolina as a depth guy with time to develop.

94. Denver Broncos: Rashard Higgins – WR – Colorado State: The Broncos could use some help at WR and they need to give either their new QB a target or Mark Sanchez one. I really think they have to get some depth at receiver especially with the aging of Emmanuel Sanders.

95. Detroit Lions: KeiVarae Russell – CB – Notre Dame: Russell is going to be a good fit with a team who needs a corner pretty badly and they will go get him here. I like Russell a lot and would love to see him succeed here and help build their defense up even further.

96. New England Patriots: Jhurell Pressley – RB – New Mexico: Ok so according to the experts this pick is a reach, but if they WOULD WATCH THE FILM they would see that this kid is special. I honestly think he is the 2nd best running back in the draft this year and I hope someone gives him a shot to prove his true talent because it is there.

97. Seattle Seahawks: Kolby Listenbee – WR – TCU: The Seahawks need to continue adding some depth at WR and this pick is a good fit for them and the way they run their offense. This pick is actually a sneaky one because with Russell Wilson and Doug Baldwin this pick could really make this offense more explosive.

98. Denver Broncos: Jordan Howard – RB – Indiana: The Broncos need help at RB and this pick is a good one for them. He is a bit of a project but behind CJ Anderson in Kubiak’s offense would be the perfect fit for him.

Round 4:

99. Cleveland Browns: Nick Vannett – TE – Ohio State

100. Cleveland Browns: Dean Lowry – DE – Northwestern

101. Dallas Cowboys: Sheldon Day – DT – Notre Dame

102. San Diego Chargers: Ronald Blair – DE – Appalachian State

103. Jacksonville Jaguars: Jatavis Brown – OLB – Akron

104. Baltimore Ravens: Isaac Seumalo – OG – Oregon State

105. San Francisco 49ers: Willie Beavers – OT – Western Michigan

106. Chicago Bears: Justin Simmons – FS – Boston College

107. Miami Dolphins: Connor McGovern – OG – Missouri

108. Tampa Bay Buccaneers: Kevin Byard – SS – Middle Tennessee

109. New York Giants: Blake Martinez – ILB – Stanford

110. LA Rams: DeAndre Houston- Carson – FS – William & Mary

111. Detroit Lions: Leonte Caroo – WR – Rutgers

112. New Orleans Saints: Vadai Alexander – OG – LSU

113. LA Rams: Kenny Lawler – WR – California

114. Oakland Raiders: Ryan Smith – CB – North Carolina Central

115. Atlanta Falcons: Joe Haeg – OT – North Dakota State

116. Indianapolis Colts: Nick Kwiatkoski – OLB – West Virginia

117. Buffalo Bills: Matt Judon – DE – Grand Valley State

118. New York Jets: Cardale Jones – QB – Ohio State

119. Houston Texans: Jordan Payton – WR – UCLA

120. Washington Redskins: Miles Killebrew – SS – Southern Utah

121. Minnesota Vikings: Kyle Murphy – OT – Stanford

122. Cincinnati Bengals: Jason Fanaika – DE – Utah

123. Pittsburgh Steelers: KJ Dillon – SS – West Virginia

124. Seattle Seahawks: Evan Boehm – C – Missouri

125. Green Bay Packers: Jerell Adams – TE – South Carolina

126. Kansas City Chiefs: Adolphus Washington – DT – Ohio State

127. Chicago Bears: Victor Ochi – OLB – Stony Brook

128. Arizona Cardinals: Dak Prescott – QB – Mississippi State

129. Carolina Panthers: Alex Lewis – OT – Nebraska

130. Baltimore Ravens: Nick Vigil – ILB – Utah State

131. Green Bay Packers: John Theus – OT – Georgia

132. Baltimore Ravens: Cyrus Jones – CB – Alabama

133. San Francisco 49ers: Kevin Hogan – QB – Stanford

134. Baltimore Ravens: Keyarris Garrett – WR – Tulsa

135. Dallas Cowboys: DJ White – CB – Georgia Tech

136. Denver Broncos: Eric Striker – OLB – Oklahoma

137. Green Bay Packers: James Cowser – DE – Southern Utah

138. Cleveland Browns: Charone Peake – WR – Clemson

139. Buffalo Bills: Zack Sanchez – CB – Oklahoma

Round 5:

140. Tennessee Titans: Graham Glasgow – OG – Michigan

141. Buffalo Bills (From Browns)*: Avery Young – OT – Auburn

142. San Francisco 49ers: Paul Perkins – RB – UCLA

143. Oakland Raiders: Jonathan Williams – RB – Arkansas

144. Denver Broncos: Fahn Cooper – OT – Ole Miss

145. San Francisco 49ers: Thomas Durate – TE - UCLA

146. Jacksonville Jaguars: Adam Gotsis – DT – Georgia Tech

147. Miami Dolphins: DJ Reader – DT – Clemson

148. Tampa Bay Buccaneers: Malcolm Mitchell – WR – Georgia

149. New York Giants: Joe Thuney – OG – NC State

150. Chicago Bears: De’ Vondre Campbell – OLB – Minnesota

151. Detroit Lions: Willie Henry – DT – Michigan

152. New Orleans Saints: Anthony Zettel – DE – Penn State

153. Philadelphia Eagles: Rashard Robinson – CB – LSU

154. Oakland Raiders: Stephen Weatherly – DE – Vanderbilt

155. Indianapolis Colts: Stephen Anderson – FB – California

156. Buffalo Bills: Tyvis Powerll – FS – Ohio State

157. Denver Broncos: Sebastian Tretola – OG – Arkansas

158. Washington Redskins: Kenyan Drake – RB – Alabama

159. Houston Texans: Jonathan Jones – CB – Auburn

160. Minnesota Vikings: Kavon Frazier – FS – Central Michigan

161. Cincinnati Bengals: Maurice Canady – CB – Virginia

162. Kansas City Chiefs: Branden Jackson – DE – Texas Tech

163. Green Bay Packers: Alex Collins – RB – Arkansas

164. Philadelphia Eagles: Trevor Davis – WR – California

165. Kansas City Chiefs: Rees Odhiambo – OG – Boise State

166. Houston Texans: Jack Allen – C – Michigan State

167. Arizona Cardinals: Harlan Miller – CB – Southeastern Louisiana

168. Carolina Panthers: Jayron Kearse – SS – Clemson

169. Detroit Lions: Robby Anderson – WR – Temple

170. Arizona Cardinals: Austin Blythe – C – Iowa

171. Seattle Seahawks: Daniel Lasco – RB – California

172. Cleveland Browns: Dominique Alexander – ILB – Oklahoma

173. Cleveland Browns: Eric Murray – CB – Minnesota

174. San Francisco 49ers: Travis Freeney – OLB – Washington

175. San Diego Chargers: Ben Braunecker – TE – Harvard

Round 6:

176. Cleveland Browns: Landon Turner – OG – North Carolina    

177. LA Rams: Jared Norris – ILB – Utah

178. San Francisco 49ers: Aaron Burbridge – WR – Michigan State

179. San Diego Chargers: Daniel Braverman – WR – Western Michigan

180. Minnesota Vikings: Romeo Okwara – DE – Notre Dame

181. Jacksonville Jaguars: Aaron Wallace – OLB – UCLA

182. Baltimore Ravens: Vernon Adams Jr – QB – Oregon

183. Tampa Bay Buccaneers: Kevon Seymour – CB – USC

184. New York Giants: Brandon Allen – QB – Arkansas

185. Chicago Bears: Anthony Brown – CB – Purdue

186. Miami Dolphins: Davon Cajuste – WR – Stanford

187. Washington Redskins: Jacoby Brissett – QB – NC State

188. Philadelphia Eagles: Dominque Robertson – OT – West Georgia

189. Dallas Cowboys: Joel Stave – QB – Wisconsin

190. LA Rams: Beau Sandland – TE – Montana State

191. Detroit Lions: Dadi Lhomme Nicolas – OLB – Virginia Tech

192. Buffalo Bills: Matt Ioannidis – DT – Temple

193. Tennessee Titans: Elandon Roberts – ILB – Houston

194. Oakland Raiders: Darius Latham – DT – Indiana

195. Houston Texans: Boomer Mays – ILB – Northern Illinois

196. New England Patriots: Derrick Kindred – SS – TCU

197. Tampa Bay Buccaneers: DJ Pettway – DE – Alabama

198. San Diego Chargers: Darrell Greene – OG – San Diego State

199. Cincinnati Bengals: Delondre Hall – FS – Northern Iowa

200. Green Bay Packers: Demarcus Robinson – WR – Florida

201. Jacksonville Jaguars: Tyler Ervin – RB – San Jose State

202. Detroit Lions: Ron Thompson – DE – Syracuse

203. Kansas City Chiefs: Josh Forrest – ILB – Kentucky

204. New England Patriots: Kalan Reed – CB – Southern Mississippi

205. Arizona Cardinals: Anthony Fabiano – OG – Harvard

206. Chicago Bears: Nile Lawrence – Stample – DT – Florida State

207. San Francisco 49ers: Matt Skura – C – Duke

208. New England Patriots: Brandon Shell – OT – South Carolina

209. Baltimore Ravens: Greg Milhouse Jr – DT – Campbell0 

210. Detroit Lions: Tyler Higbee – TE – Western Kentucky

211. San Francisco 49ers: Tavon Young – CB – Temple

212. Dallas Cowboys: Deon Bush – FS – Miami

213. San Francisco 49ers: Kelvin Taylor – RB – Florida

214. New England Patriots: Connor Wujciak – DT – Boston College

215. Seattle Seahawks: Parker Ehinger – OG – Cincinnati

216. Dallas Cowboys: Roger Lewis – WR – Bowling Green

217. Dallas Cowboys: Tyrone Holmes – OLB – Montana

218. Buffalo Bills: Mike Thomas – WR – Southern Mississippi

219. Denver Broncos: Temarrick Hemingway – TE – South Carolina State

220. Pittsburgh Steelers: Stephane Nembot – OT – Colorado

221. New England Patriots: Chris Moore – WR – Cincinnati

Round 7:

222. Tennessee Titans: Ryker Matthews – OT – BYU

223. Cleveland Browns: Justin Zimmer – DT – Ferris State

224. San Diego Chargers: Glenn Gronkowski – FB – Kansas State

225. Seattle Seahawks: Russell Hansbrough – RB – Missouri

226. Jacksonville Jaguars: Bryce Williams – TE – East Carolina

227. Miami Dolphins: Antonio Morrison – ILB – Florida

228. Denver Broncos: Denver Kirkland – OG – Arkansas

229. Pittsburgh Steelers: Tom Hackett – P – Utah

230. Chicago Bears: Antwaun Woods – DT – USC

231. Miami Dolphins: Wendell Smallwood – RB – West Virginia

232. Washington Redskins: Henry Krieger Coble – TE – Iowa

233. Philadelphia Eagles: Akil Blount – ILB – Florida A&M

234. Oakland Raiders: Lawrence Thomas – DE – Michigan State

235. New York Jets: James Bradberry – CB – Samford

236. Detroit Lions: Kyle Friend – OG – Temple

237. New Orleans Saints: Ian Seau – OLB – Nevada

238. Atlanta Falcons: Tajae Sharpe – WR – Massachusetts

239. Indianapolis Colts: Code Core – WR Ole Miss

240. Minnesota Vikings: Daryl Worley – CB – West Virginia

241. New York Jets: Josh Ferguson – RB – Illinois

242. Washington Redskins: Trae Elston – FS – Ole Miss

243. New England Patriots: Moritz Boehringer – WR – Germany

244. Minnesota Vikings: Mitch Mathews – WR – BYU  

245. Cincinnati Bengals: Clayton Fejedelem – SS – Illinois

246. Pittsburgh Steelers: Terrance Smith – OLB – Florida State

247. Seattle Seahawks: Henry Krieger Coble – TE – Iowa

248. Green Bay Packers: Derek Watt – FB – Wisconsin

249. Kansas City Chiefs: Brandon Doughty – QB – Western Kentucky

250. New England Patriots: Will Ratelle – FB – North Dakota

251. Philadelphia Eagles: Alex Erickson – WR – Wisconsin

252. Carolina Panthers: DeAndre Washington – RB – Texas Tech

253. Denver Broncos: Tyler Marz – OT – Wisconsin    

- Matt Koontz 
​

The old adage that "history repeats itself" holds some truth when studying the NFL Draft.  Every season, there are some players who inexplicably get overlooked in the draft process.  Every year, some of these players wind up as late round picks or undrafted free agents and go on to have long and successful careers.  In order to look at long-term potential, sometimes it is necessary to look at historical success stories. One player who may become the NFL's next late round success story is Russell Hansbrough. Hansbrough is a player who's situation reminds me a lot of former NFL running backs Terrell Davis and Priest Holmes. Hansbrough was a dominant runner for Missouri in 2014 before a tough 2015 campaign marred by injury (an ankle injury from which he has fully recovered). Looking at Terrell Davis and Priest Holmes, both players had tough final seasons in college before excelling in the NFL. When you continue to look at both Davis and Holmes, their college film stands out.  If you want to properly analyze Hansbrough, watch the film.
 
If you want a glimpse of what Russell can do against NFL defenses, watch his legs and hips in the highlight reel linked above. He has extremely quick feet, great vision, and is able to make guys miss on every tackle attempt.  As a player, Hansbrough is a big play waiting to happen, especially behind a strong NFL offensive line. At worst, his upside is as an NFL 3rd down back, but I think the potential is there for much more.
 
Hansbrough's measurables are solid; his Pro Day 40 time was clocked at a fast 4.38. He also delivered a 9'06.5" broad jump, a 30 1/2 vertical jump, a 4.56 20 yard shuffle, a 7.36 3-cone drill, and 17 bench press reps. However, numbers do not define Hansbrough as a player.  We were lucky enough to interview Hansbrough (link here), and he stands out as an extremely high character player with a solid work ethic.
 
Let's take a look at the interview for a moment.  A few things stand out immediately.  First,  Hansbrough has been watching running backs his entire life. He grew up watching players like Walter Peyton, Marcus Allen, and Barry Sanders.  Perhaps it's not too surprising that Hansbrough is so adept at making defenders miss tackles on the field; while the game has changed since Barry Sanders and Marcus Allen, he has clearly picked up some tricks from them along the way. These moves will serve him well in the NFL.
 
More importantly, Hansbrough's character stands out immediately.  He's already been through adversity as a player, and comes into the NFL with a chip on his shoulder.  That should make him a very dangerous player in training camp and in the preseason as he works to secure a role on an NFL roster.  A young career can be defined by one big play in the preseason; Terrell Davis made a huge special teams play as a rookie 6th round pick and then played his way into NFL Hall of Fame consideration at running back. A player like Hansbrough, who comes into the league with the passion and drive to impress teams and coaches, has the same type of potential long-term upside.
 
What does Hansbrough bring to the table as a player? His elusiveness as a runner is perhaps his greatest asset. He has quick feet, loose hips, and can turn on a dime, throwing defenders and defenses off balance.  Like all running backs, Hansbrough is at his best when the offensive line in front of them holds together, but he can make a big gain out of a broken play or missed blocking assignment. Given the extreme depth of talent on both sides of the ball in the NFL, that ability will serve him well at the next level. He has solid hands as a receiver out of the backfield and can quickly analyze defenses. Especially in the right offense, Hansbrough is a first down or touchdown waiting to happen. He shows a deep knowledge of defensive gameplans when on the field, a knowledge likely garnered by hard work and close attention in the film room. 
 
Like many players I follow closely heading up to the draft, Hansbrough is a guy who projects as a later round pick, but one with a ton of upside. Every season, NFL teams find great talent at running back at the end of the draft.  Players like Terrell Davis and Priest Holmes stand out historically.  Guys like Arian Foster, Zach Zenner, and Alfred Morris stand out recently. I can promise you one thing. If used correctly as a player by an NFL coaching staff, Hansbrough will be an impact maker at the next level.  An SEC running back late in the draft with film that outshines his statistical numbers? It worked for the Broncos in 1995. Terrell Davis had limited statistical success in college, struggled a bit with injuries, and his best season in college was as a junior, followed by a senior year punctuated by struggles at times. Hansbrough has faced some of the same struggles as Davis successfully, and once he's on an NFL roster, he should blossom quickly as a player. He could be special.--Mike B

Russell Hansbrough is a 5'8, 192 pound running back from the University of Missouri. Although he was not invited to participate in the NFL Combine,  he has shown flashes of explosiveness with the ball in his hands. His Pro Day 40 time was clocked at 4.38.  He also delivered a 9'06.5" broad jump, 30 1/2 vertical jump, 4.56 20 yard shuffle, 7.36 3-cone drill, and 17 bench press reps.  Although he did not receive an invite to the NFL Combine, he is an extremely elusive runner who makes guys miss on the field; I've seen him make 4 or 5 guys miss on a single play (here's some film ).  He has the athletic ability to contribute both at running back and as a return man in the NFL. He has the speed and the hands to contribute immediately as a third down back in the NFL. We were lucky enough to spend some time interviewing Russell, and here are the results.  Questions in black, Russell's replies in maroon.

Mr. Hansbrough, you stand out as an extremely talented athlete on the film when watching film.  What, in your opinion, makes you stand out most as a running back prospect?

My vision and explosion or burst. 
 
You're a pretty explosive guy out of the backfield. What other positions have you played?

I have really only played running back.
 
What are some of your favorite offensive formations to work out of? What are your favorite defensive schemes to play against?

I have only played in the spread but it really doesn’t matter to me what formation. Defensive schemes I would say 3-4.
 
Tell us a bit about your past. How has your childhood and upbringing impacted the player and person you are today?

My dad would always talk about Walter Payton, Marcus Allen, and Barry Sanders. When he showed me their highlights when I was little I tried to take a little from Marcus Allen and Barry Sanders, and tried to practice and play just like them. 
 
Who is your favorite player in the NFL? Are there any specific players that you try to emulate on the field?

I don’t really have a favorite player, but I do enjoy watching Tavon Austin. 
 
Who is your role model?

My role models are my parents.
 
Safety has been a major concern in the NFL in recent years. What are your thoughts on the NFL's increased focus on player safety in recent years?

I like it because football doesn’t last forever and they want to make sure you are still healthy after you retire.
 
You suffered a sprained ankle early in the 2015 season, but appear to be back at full strength and just as explosive as you were before the injury.  Everything feel good?

Everything is healthy and I’m ready to go.
 
I read that you were able to visit a children's hospital while in Dallas for the Cotton Bowl. How was that experience?

It was amazing it makes you value life more and also motivates you to want to help people more. Those were some of the strongest kids I have ever met in my life. 
 
If you could choose to accomplish one thing in your career, what would it be?

I just want to be the best player I can be, I know the accomplishments will come with it. I don’t really have any accomplishments right now other than making a team. 
 
You unfortunately were not invited to the NFL Combine, but clearly have the talent to earn a spot on an NFL roster.  What points would you like to make to any scouts or coaches who may read this interview? What makes you stand out as a great prospect and player?

I would say stop watches don’t define what type of player I am. You can go back and watch my film and see what type of player I am. I am very competitive and want to play with the best, thats the reason why I went to the SEC. My senior year did not turn out the way I wanted it to, so I have a huge monkey on my back and I want to show everybody I can play in the NFL.
 
Thank you for taking the time to talk with us Russell. We look forward to watching your career unfold in the NFL, and best of luck in the draft. --Mike Bertasso and Matt Koontz, Matt and Mike Sports.
 
We would like to thank Glen Wallace from Peterson Sports for facilitating this interview. Glen has asked us to add the following statement, that Glen Wallace, James Peterson, Dave Thompson, and the entire Peterson Sports family are very proud of Russell.

Here it is! The final 7 round mock draft big board is here! I've got some light analysis for the first three rounds and then picks for rounds four through seven.  This year, the draft is harder than ever to predict, but I mocked assuming no trades will occur. Of course, the Cleveland Browns will likely ruin that; I expect them to attempt to trade down on draft night. Look for a team like the Colts to trade up with Cleveland for Zeke Elliot. The Browns fall back to the 18th pick, get some extra picks, and do something semi-obvious like draft Paxton Lynch. Not saying it's a given, but it could happen.  One thing is for certain, this is going to be a fun one! Read and enjoy, and may the odds be ever in your favor!  --Mike B.

1. St. Louis Rams. Jared Goff, QB, Cal.  The Rams are going to draft a quarterback here (unless Jeff Fisher surprises us all and drafts Joey Bosa due to his undying love of defensive talent....slightly joking, they're drafting a quarterback).  From everything I've seen, the rumors point towards Goff. I'm going to trust the rumor mill for now and put Jared Goff here. He's the safer option over Wentz in the eyes of most scouts.
 
2. Philadelphia Eagles. Carson Wentz, QB, North Dakota. The Eagles traded up for this pick and will likely use it to secure their franchise quarterback. With Goff off the board, Philadelphia will select Wentz.  A dark horse candidate for this spot is Ezekiel Elliot, but the pick is more likely Wentz, unless Goff is on the board at which point it is Goff.
 
3. San Diego Chargers.  Laremy Tunsil, OT, Mississippi.  Tunsil has some character concerns, but the Chargers desperately need help at offensive tackle. This pick came down to Tunsil and Bosa for me, but with Tunsil still on the board, the Chargers have an easy decision.  Tunsil becomes a Charger.
 
4. Dallas Cowboys. Jalen Ramsey, DB, Florida State.  Recent rumors have the Cowboys receiving a bad report on Ramsey's ability to transition to CB in the NFL, but that won't stop them from taking the #1 player on their draft board.  Ramsey is drafted by Dallas and sticks at safety.  Ezekiel Elliot could be a serious consideration here as well.
 
5. Jacksonville Jaguars. Myles Jack, OLB, UCLA.  The Jaguars have lots of options here. They could go with an offensive player, but given the extreme defensive depth available to them with Buckner, Bosa, and Jack still on the board, I think they go defense here. Jack is clear medically after false claims regarding his knee were raised recently; he should be entirely good to go. The Jaguars defensive immediately becomes better with the best linebacker prospect in this draft.
 
6. Baltimore Ravens. Joey Bosa, DE, Ohio State.  The Ravens could also go with Stanley or Buckner here, but Bosa has the talent to be worthy of the first overall pick and Baltimore needs to find an identity again on defense.  Bosa will go a long way towards helping them find it. Bosa is the pick.
 
7. San Francisco 49ers. Laquan Treadwell, WR, Mississippi. The 49ers could trade back or reach for Paxton Lynch here, but Treadwell fills an immediate need. The 49ers are in dire need of help at wide receiver, and barring a Kaepernick trade they appear stuck with Colin Kaepernick at least for this season. Treadwell is the pick.
 
 8. Cleveland Browns. Shaq Lawson, DE, Clemson. Both Goff and Wentz are off the board.  Treadwell is off the board.  Now the Browns are left to choose between help on the offensive or defensive line. Reports suggest that Cleveland is high on Lawson, so they may reach on him here.
 
9. Tampa Bay Buccaneers. Ronnie Stanley, OT, Notre Dame. The Buccaneers need help on the offensive line following the retirement of Logan Mankins.  Stanley fills an immediate hole for Tampa Bay, and comes with loads of upside.   A safe pick for Tampa Bay.
 
10. New York Giants. Vernon Hargreaves, CB, Florida. The Giants could easily select Ezekiel Elliot here, but rumors suggest that they do not have a big interest in him. The Giants clearly need help on defense, and could go with a series of defensive talents here. Hargreaves  gets the nod in my mock.
 
11. Chicago Bears. Ezekiel Elliot, RB, Ohio State. I know, the Bears need help on defense, and DeForest Buckner is still on the board. Rumors suggest that the Bears are in love with Zeke, and Jeremy Langford may not be an every down back in the NFL.  Elliot is a safe option with this pick.
 
12. New Orleans Saints. DeForest Buckner, DL, Oregon. The Saints are excited that the Bears drafted Elliot; they get a steal with DeForest Buckner at 12th overall. The Saints need defense every year it seems like, and Buckner gives them an elite talent on the defensive line.
 
13. Miami Dolphins. Eli Apple, CB, Ohio State. The Dolphins could definitely snag Zeke Elliot if he falls, but since he is off the board, they select Eli Apple, a player they spent tons of time on before the draft. He will help strengthen their defense as they wait until later in the draft to grab another runningback.
 
14. Oakland Raiders. Robert Nkemdiche, DT, Mississippi. Nkemdiche is a perfect example of a player with a ton of talent and a ton of red flags surrounding his character. He's clearly first round talent at DT, but he also has massive character concerns. The Raiders will look past those concerns and nab one of the biggest defensive talents in the draft.
 
15. Tennessee Titans. Taylor Decker, OT, Ohio State. The Titans miss out on Tunsil, but still grab a top tier offensive tackle prospect in Decker, making their trade back a profitable move. Decker is a hard working guy that doesn't miss games, and he will be a valuable asset for the Titans offensive line. They could also go Jack Conklin here.
 
16. Detroit Lions. Jack Conklin, OT, Michigan State. Conklin has been getting hyped up since the Combine, but I liked Decker a bit better as a player. At the end of the day, I think it's either Decker or Conklin here.  Conklin is the one left on the board, so Conklin it is.
 
17. Atlanta Falcons. Reggie Ragland, ILB, Alabama.  I'm not entirely sold on this pick for the Falcons, but they have shown lots of interest in Ragland.  This pick comes down to one of three players in my opinion; the Falcons will select either Darron Lee, Leonard Floyd, or Reggie Ragland here if the board falls like this. Ragland has more upside than Lee, who is consistently being mocked to Atlanta, and he could upgrade Atlanta's defense immediately.
 
18. Indianapolis Colts. Andrew Billings, DT, Baylor.  A bit of a reach? Maybe.  Would a center like Ryan Kelly help them keep Andrew Luck upright? Absolutely.  That being said, the Colts appear to be in love with Billings as a prospect, and he could be a fit for them in the first round.
 
19. Buffalo Bills. Kevin Dodd, DE, Clemson. Dodd is a player that can immediately come in and upgrade the Bills defense, helping to fill the void left by Mario Williams. They could also look at Paxton Lynch here but I think they hold out for another season until they make a final decision on Tyrod Taylor's future with the team. Dodd is my pick for Buffalo here.
 
20. New York Jets. Paxton Lynch, QB, Memphis. The New York Jets have drafted another quarterback! After missing on the big names last season and seemingly being unwilling to commit to Geno Smith, the Jets take another swing at a first round quarterback in Paxton Lynch. He's a project, but one with lots of upside.  He's the pick here.
 
21. Washington Redskins. A'Shawn Robinson, DT, Alabama. How young is Robinson? He just turned 21 on March 21st! He's a talented player with a ton of upside, and should be a stud for years to come in the NFL. He improves every season, and would be an asset to the Redskins.  A dark horse candidate here might be WR Michael Thomas from Ohio State, who the Redskins apparently view as the best wide receiver in the draft.
 
22. Houston Texans. Corey Coleman, WR, Baylor. Hunter Henry is also a strong possibility here, but Corey Coleman adds a versatile weapon to the Houston offense.  While Coleman does have a reputation for taking plays off, surrounding him with talented WRs like Jaelen Strong and DeAndre Hopkins should set him up to succeed. Will Fuller might be a better bet here, but Coleman would add a lot to this offense from day one.
 
23. Minnesota Vikings. Josh Doctson, WR, TCU. Doctson fills an immediate void at WR for Minnesota and would be a perfect fit here. While Mike Zimmer will be tempted by the defensive talent in this draft, I think Doctson is too good of a fit to pass up. Cody Whitehair could also still be a fit here.
 
24. Cincinnati Bengals. Michael Thomas, WR, Ohio State. I've seen Will Fuller, Treadwell, and Josh Doctson all projected to Cincinnati at 24 overall. I think the Bengals do draft a WR in the first, but I'm going a little different with it.  If Treadwell falls, he definitely winds up in Cincy, but he doesn't in this mock, which leaves Michael Thomas as the pick in my mock. Less big play upside than Will Fuller, but more consistency and fewer drops. He adds a nice piece to this offense.
 
25. Pittsburgh Steelers. Mackenzie Alexander, CB, Clemson. The Steelers need help at corner, and the Steelers get a steal at the position as Alexander falls in their lap with the 25th pick. Huge value pick for Pittsburgh here.
 
26. Seattle Seahawks. Cody Whitehair, OG, Kansas State. The Seahawks have a clear need for offensive line help, and Whitehair is the best offensive lineman available at this point in the draft. He fills a need, and although they might also go defense here, Whitehair is a clear value pick.
 
27. Green Bay Packers. Leonard Floyd, OLB, Georgia. The Packers could also go for Hunter Henry here, but Leonard Floyd might just be too much to pass up here. He's a proven defensive playmaker and would help fill out the Packers linebacking corps around Clay Matthews.
 
28. Kansas City Chiefs. Kendall Fuller, CB, Virginia Tech. The Chiefs are in dire need of a cornerback, and Fuller immediately helps fill this void. He's a guy scouts are torn about, but this late in the first round, he's a value for Kansas City.
 
29. Arizona Cardinals. Ryan Kelly, C, Alabama.  The Cardinals could go a number of directions with this pick, but Kelly offers immediate upside on the offensive line. If he's there, he's a guy that Arizona will think hard about and may wind up drafting.
 
30. Carolina Panthers. Artie Burns, CB, Miami. The Panthers will likely consider both a runningback and a corner here. This late in the draft, Burns might be a perfect fit. He's an underrated guy that should fall here, and the Panthers could snatch him at pick 30 to fill an area of weakness.
 
31. Denver Broncos. Connor Cook, QB, Michigan State. The Broncos could go a number of ways with this pick. With the top three quarterbacks off the board, they might opt to cut their losses and either roll with Sanchez for a season or try to make a trade for someone, and draft one of the top available defensive tackle talents like Jarran Reed or Kenny Clark. Or, they could snag Connor Cook, who was viewed by many as one of the top quarterback options heading into this season. He's a gamble, but this pick could happen.
 
31A. First Round Pick Forfeited by New England Patriots.

​ROUND 2.
 
32. Cleveland Browns. Derrick Henry, RB, Alabama. Unorthodox pick? Maybe. But rumors suggest that if Henry is available here, the Browns will take him.   Henry paired with Johnson in the Cleveland backfield could form a very strong run game.
 
33. Tennessee Titans. Karl Joseph, S, West Virginia Solid upgrade at safety with one of the best in the draft. This is a good move for the Titans.
 
34. Dallas Cowboys.  Sheldon Rankins, DT, Louisville. The Cowboys are praying that Rankins falls to them at 34 apparently. In this mock, they get their wish, and their guy.
 
35.  San Diego Chargers. William Jackson III, CB, Houston. In round 1, the Chargers snagged Larry Tunsil. Now they upgrade at cornerback since Weddle is gone.
 
36. Baltimore Ravens.  T.J. Green, S, Clemson. The Ravens need help on defense. They get one of the better safety prospects in this draft with Green.
 
37. San Francisco 49ers.  Josh Garnett, G, Stanford. Do the 49ers need a QB? Allegedly, but they are also allegedly sticking with Kaepernick. If they are, an upgrade along their offensive line will help.
 
38. Jacksonville Jaguars. Jarran Reed, DT, Alabama. A stud defensive tackle to add yet another piece to an up and coming defense? Yes please!
 
39.  Tampa Bay Buccaneers. Chris Jones, DT, Ohio State. The Buccaneers need help along the defensive line. Jones fits in nicely.
 
40.  New York Giants.  Darron Lee, LB, Ohio State. Lee falls a bit in this mock, but has the talent to immediately carve out a role in the Giants defense.
 
41.  Chicago Bears. Bronson Kaufusi, DE, BYU. Because the Bears need defensive help. Badly.  Kaufusi is a nice piece.
 
42. Miami Dolphins.  Devontae Booker, RB,  Utah. Because you didn't really believe that Miami didn't plan on upgrading their running game, did you?
 
43. Tennessee Titans.  Joshua Perry, OLB,  Ohio State.  Perry is a guy the Titans are high on.  I think they snag him early since they have a ton of day 2 picks.
 
44.  Oakland Raiders.  Darian Thompson, S, Boise State. The Raiders allegedly won't allow Darian Thompson to fall past this pick. Let's see if that happens.
 
45. Tennessee Titans.  Braxton Miller, WR, Ohio State. The Titans apparently love Braxton Miller, so yet another fit.
 
46. Detroit Lions. Vernon Butler, DT, Louisiana Tech.  Detroit has interest in Vernon Butler, and he has been considered as a potential first round pick for them. He's a steal for them in the 2nd.
 
47. New Orleans Saints.  Noah Spence, OLB, Eastern Kentucky.  Defensive upgrade, because the Saints need help on defense just as badly as the bears. Spence is a great value here.
 
48. Indianapolis Colts. Kamalei Correa, OLB, Boise State.  Defensive upgrade for another porous defense. They need help at center too. Will that come later?
 
49. Buffalo Bills. Christian Hackenberg, QB, Penn State. They passed on Lynch to upgrade their defense. Now they take a chance on one of the more controversial QB prospects, Christian Hackenberg. With Tyrod Taylor still under contract, if they miss, at least they still have a backup plan.
 
50. Atlanta Falcons. Vonn Bell, S, Ohio State.  Bell is a decent safety prospect and should immediately help out in Atlanta.
 
51. New York Jets. Jason Spriggs, OT, Indiana. They got their quarterback in Paxton Lynch. Now they need to protect him.
 
52. Houston Texans.  Hunter Henry, TE, Arkansas. Henry is the best TE in this draft class, and the Texans have a clear need at the position. Good pick for them.
 
53. Washington Redskins. Keanu Neal, S, Florida. The Redskins need defensive help, and Neal is a solid option.
 
54. Minnesota Vikings. Su'a Cravens, OLB/S, USC. Mike Zimmer loves versatile defensive players. Cravens will intrigue him.
 
55. Cincinnati Bengals. Jaylon Smith, ILB, Notre Dame. Top 10 defensive talent with massive injury concerns. The Bengals can afford to redshirt him for a season after signing Karlos Dansby. While they will more likely go DT here, this move makes sense.
 
56. Seattle Seahawks. Will Fuller, WR, Notre Dame. Fuller has big play potential but also struggles with drops. The Seahawks take a gamble on him here.
 
57. Green Bay Packers.  Tyler Boyd, WR, Pittsburgh. Here, the Packers add depth to a thinning WR corps that has struggled with injuries lately. Do they have other needs? Of course. But still, this is a value pick.
 
58. Pittsburgh Steelers. Jonathan Bullard, DT, Florida.  With this pick the Steelers continue to work on rebuilding their defense.
 
59. Kansas City Chiefs. Le'Raven Clark, OT, Texas Tech. Andy Reid loves drafting linemen on both sides of the ball. Here's another one.
 
60. New England Patriots. Javon Hargrave, DT, South Carolina State.  I could see the Patriots upgrading their defensive line in this draft. Hargrave isn't a bad option.
 
61. New England Patriots.  Paul Perkins, RB, UCLA. The Patriots haven't had a top tier running back in years. Perkins could give them that.
 
62. Carolina Panthers.  Carl Nassib, DE, Penn State. Nassib adds some bite to a defensive unit that was one of the best in the league last season.
 
63. Denver Broncos. Christian Westerman, OG, Arizona State. In the first round, the Broncos snagged their QB of the future. Now they work on protecting him.
 
ROUND 3.
 
64. Tennessee Titans. Emmanuel Ogbah, DE, Ole Miss. Another solid defensive talent to build their front seven.
 
65. Cleveland Browns. Leonte Carroo, WR, Rutgers. The Browns are in dire need of receiver help. Carroo will play immediately in Cleveland.
 
66. San Diego Chargers.  Pharoh Cooper, WR, South Carolina. The Chargers need playmakers in the twilight of Philip Rivers' career. Cooper is a good young talent at the WR.
 
67. Dallas Cowboys. Dak Prescott, QB,  Mississippi State. The Cowboys have talked up Prescott nonstop through the draft process. This match makes sense.
 
68. San Francisco 49ers.  Kevin Hogan, QB, Stanford.  Reaction move. The 49ers sense a QB run to come and make sure to snag someone to push Kaepernick and Gabbert.
 
69. Jacksonville Jaguars. Roberto Aguayo, K, Florida State.  The Jaguars snag the best kicker to enter the draft since Sebastian Janikowski.
 
70. Baltimore Ravens. Caleb Benenoch, OT, UCLA. The Ravens need offensive line help. Benenoch gives them that.
 
71. New York Giants. Kenneth Dixon, RB, Louisiana Tech. The Giants running backs are average at best. Dixon gives them an exciting weapon.
 
72. Chicago Bears. Scooby Wright III, ILB, Arizona. Wright might be a reach this early but in a thin ILB class he gives the Bears a strong talent at the position.
 
73.  Miami Dolphins. Joe Dahl, OG, Washington State. Ryan Tannehill can't complete passes if he can't stay upright. Dahl will help with that issue.
 
74. Tampa Bay Buccaneers.  Shilique Calhoun, DE, Michigan State. Calhoun is a steal this late.
 
75. Oakland Raiders.  Harlan Miller, CB, Southeast Louisiana. Miller helps Oakland continue to build on the defensive side of the ball.
 
76. Tennessee Titans. KeiVarae Russell, CB, Notre Dame. Russell is a solid cornerback prospect. Suddenly the Titans are looking pretty stacked on defense.
 
77. Cleveland Browns. Sterling Shepard, WR, Oklahoma.  Another wide receiver to try to rebuild an offense around RGIII.
 
78. New Orleans Saints. Kolby Listenbee, WR, TCU. The Saints could use help at receiver as well. Listenbee gives them that.
 
79. Philadelphia Eagles. Daniel Lasco, RB, Cal. Complementary running back for the Eagles to work into a committee.
 
80. Buffalo Bills. Antonio Morrison, ILB, Florida. Strong defensive playmaker for Rex Ryan. This is a pick he will love.
 
81. Atlanta Falcons. Shon Coleman, OT, Auburn.  Offensive line is one of Atlanta's weak points, so this selection makes sense.
 
82. Indianapolis Colts. Nick Martin, C, Notre Dame. The Colts need a center. Why not give them one of the top two in the draft?
 
83. New York Jets. CJ Prosise, RB, Notre Dame. The Jets get a playmaker with David Johnson upside.
 
84. Washington Redskins. Jihad Ward, DE, Illinois. A solid DE prospect, Ward will help upgrade the Washington Redskins' pass rush.
 
85. Houston Texans. Joe Schobert, OLB, Wisconsin. Schobert and JJ Watt in the same defense? Yes please!
 
86. Minnesota Vikings. Jordan Jenkins, DE, Georgia. Mike Zimmer, like Marvin Lewis, seems to like Georgia players. I'm going with my gut on this one.
 
87. Cincinnati Bengals. Jeremy Cash, S, Duke. This pick gives the Bengals some insurance alongside Iloka.
 
88. Green Bay Packers. Nick Vannett, TE, Ohio State. Good developmental TE prospect for the Packers. I like this pick.
 
89. Pittsburgh Steelers. Xavien Howard, CB, Baylor. Another defensive player for Pittsburgh.
 
90. Seattle Seahawks. Tyler Ervin, RB, San Jose State. Ervin could make a nice pair with Thomas Rawls. I'd prefer Jhurell Pressley or Russell Hansbrough here, but Ervin is a nice complementary piece.
 
91. New England Patriots. Ryan Smith, CB, North Carolina Central. Corner depth for the Patriots. They're tough to read, but this pick makes some sense, right?
 
92. Arizona Cardinals. Austin Hooper, TE, Stanford. Hooper gives the Cardinals a long-term answer at a position that they have struggled at recently.
 
93. Carolina Panthers. Jerald Hawkins, OT, LSU. This pick gives Carolina some insurance along the offensive line.
 
94. Denver Broncos. Joe Haeg, OT, North Dakota State. Most underrated offensive line prospect in the draft. Haeg is a top five tackle prospect in this raft.
 
95. Detroit Lions. Devon Cajuste, WR, Stanford. WR depth to pair with Tate and Marvin Jones.
 
96. New England Patriots. Kyle Fackrell, OLB, Utah State. More defensive talent for Belichick to work with.
 
97. Seattle Seahawks. Hassan Ridgeway, DT, Texas Ridgeway is a value at this point. Smart move for the Seahawks.
 
98. Denver Broncos. De'Vondre Campbell, OLB, Minnesota. Campbell gives Denver a nice developmental prospect at OLB.

ROUND 4.
 
99. Cleveland Browns. Aldophus Washington, DT, Ohio State.
 
100. Cleveland Browns. Cardale Jones, QB, Ohio State.
 
101. Dallas Cowboys. Rashard Robinson, CB, LSU.
 
102. San Diego Chargers. Jerrell Adams, TE, South Carolina.
 
103. Jacksonville Jaguars. Charles Tapper, DE, Oklahoma.
 
104. Baltimore Ravens. Sebastian Tretola, OG, Arkansas.
 
105. San Francisco 49ers. BJ Goodson, ILB, Clemson.
 
106. Chicago Bears.  Victor Ochi, DE/OLB, Stony Brook.
 
107. Miami Dolphins. Jordan Payton, WR, UCLA.
 
108. Tampa Bay Buccaneers.  Daniel Braverman, WR, Western Michigan.
 
109. New York Giants. Landon Turner, OG, North Carolina.
 
110. Los Angeles Rams. DeMarcus Robinson, WR, Florida.
 
111. Detroit Lions. Will Redmond, CB, Mississippi State.
 
112. New Orleans Saints. Kevin Byard, S, Middle Tennessee State.
 
113. Los Angeles Rams. Matt Judon, DE, Grand Valley State.
 
114. Oakland Raiders. Kenyan Drake, RB, Alabama.
 
115. Atlanta Falcons. Tyler Higbee, TE, Western Kentucky.
 
116. Indianapolis Colts. Jhurell Pressley, RB, New Mexico.
 
117. Buffalo Bills. Joe Thuney, OG, NC State.
 
118. New York Jets. D.J. Reader, DT, Clemson.
 
119. Houston Texans. Rees Odhiambo, OG/OT, Boise State.
 
120. Washington Redskins. Miles Killebrew, S, Southern Utah.
 
121. Minnesota Vikings. Willie Beavers, OT, Western Michigan.
 
122. Cincinnati Bengals. Sheldon Day, DT, Notre Dame.
 
123. Pittsburgh Steelers. Vadal Alexander, OG/OT, LSU.
 
124. Seattle Seahawks. Thomas Duarte, TE, UCLA.
 
125. Green Bay Packers. James Bradberry, CB, Samford.
 
126. Kansas City Chiefs.  Willie Henry, DE, Michigan.
 
127. Chicago Bears. Ben Braunecker, TE, Harvard.
 
128. Arizona Cardinals. Jacoby Brissett, QB, North Carolina State.
 
129. Carolina Panthers. Jordan Howard, RB, Indiana.
 
130. Baltimore Ravens. Tyler Matakevich, ILB, Temple.
 
131. Green Bay Packers. Matt Ioannidis, ILB, Temple.
 
132. Baltimore Ravens. Fahn Cooper, OT, Ole Miss.
 
133. San Francisco 49ers. Connor McGovern, OG, Missouri.
 
134. Baltimore Ravens. Jonathan Williams, RB, Arkansas.
 
135. Dallas Cowboys. Malcolm Mitchell, WR, Georgia.
 
136. Denver Broncos. Josh Ferguson, RB, Illinois.
 
137. Green Bay Packers. Adam Gotsis, DE, Georgia Tech.
 
138. Cleveland Browns. Cyrus Jones, CB, Alabama.
 
139. Buffalo Bills. Rashard Higgins, WR, Colorado State.
 
ROUND 5.
 
140. Tennessee Titans. Yannik Ngakoue, OLB, Maryland.
 
141. Cleveland Browns. Nick Kwiatkowski, ILB, West Virginia.
 
142. San Francisco 49ers. Jatavis Brown, OLB, Akron.
 
143. Oakland Raiders. Charone Peake, WR, Clemson.
 
144. Denver Broncos. Chris Moore, WR, Cincinnati.
 
145. San Francisco 49ers. Bryce Williams, TE, Eastern Carolina.
 
146. Jacksonville Jaguars. Cody Kessler, QB, USC.
 
147. Miami Dolphins. K.J. Dillon, S,  West Virginia.
 
148. Tampa Bay Buccaneers. Maliek Collins, DT, Nebraska.
 
149. New York Giants. Graham Glasgow, G/C, Michigan.
 
150. Chicago Bears. Zack Sanchez, CB, Oklahoma.
 
151. Detroit Lions. Cody Core, WR, Ole Miss.
 
152. New Orleans Saints. Kevon Seymour, CB, USC.
 
153. Philadelphia Eagles. Brandon Shell, T, South Carolina.
 
154. Oakland Raiders. Dominick Jackson, G, Alabama.
 
155.  Indianapolis Colts. Max Tuerk G/C, USC.
 
156. Buffalo Bills. Dan Vitale, TE, Northwestern.
 
157. Denver Broncos. Beau Sandland, TE, Montana State.
 
158. Washington Redskins. Brandon Allen, QB, Arkansas.
 
159. Houston Texans. A.J. Stamps, S, Kentucky.
 
160. Minnesota Vikings. Ken Crawley, CB, Colorado.
 
161. Cincinnati Bengals. Isaac Seumalo, C, Oregon State.
 
162. Kansas City Chiefs. Glenn Gronkowski, FB, Kansas State.
 
163. Green Bay Packers. Kelvin Taylor, RB, Florida.
 
164. Philadelphia Eagles. Eric Striker, OLB, Oklahoma.
 
165. Kansas City Chiefs. Daryl Worley, CB, West Virginia.
 
166. Houston Texans. Tavon Young, CB, Temple.
 
167. Arizona Cardinals. Stephane Nembot, OT, Colorado.
 
168. Carolina Panthers. Drew Kaser, P, Texas A&M.
 
169. Detroit Lions. Dadi Nicolas, DE, Virginia Tech.
 
170. Arizona Cardinals. Tyvis Powell, S, Ohio State.
 
171. Seattle Seahawks. Tyler Marz, OT, Wisconsin.
 
172. Cleveland Browns. Jack Allen, C, Michigan State.
 
173. Cleveland Browns.  D.J. White, CB, Georgia Tech.
 
174. San Francisco 49ers. DeMarcus Robinson, WR, Florida.
 
175. San Diego Chargers.  Ronald Blair, DE, Appalachian State.
 
ROUND 6.
 
176. Cleveland Browns. Deiondre' Hall, FS, Northern Iowa.
 
177. Los Angeles Rams. Jonathan Jones, CB, Auburn.
 
178. San Francisco 49ers. Halapoulivaati Vaitai, T, TCU.
 
179. San Diego Chargers. Moritz Boehringer, WR, Germany.
 
180. Minnesota Vikings. Elijah Shumate, SS, Notre Dame.
 
181. Jacksonville Jaguars. Tajae Sharpe, WR, Massachusetts.
 
182. Baltimore Ravens. Briean Boddy-Calhoun, CB, Minnesota.
 
183. Tampa Bay Buccaneers. Matt Skura, C, Duke.
 
184. New York Giants. Ka'imi Fairbain, K, UCLA.
 
185. Chicago Bears. Vernon Adams, QB, Oregon State.
 
186. Miami Dolphins. Quinton Jefferson, DT, Maryland.
 
187. Washington Redskins. Peyton Barber, RB, Cal.
 
188. Philadelphia Eagles. Kyle Murphy, OT, Stanford.
 
189. Dallas Cowboys. Keith Marshall, RB, Georgia.
 
190. Los Angeles Rams. Darion Griswold, TE, Arkansas State.
 
191. Detroit Lions. Trevor Davis, WR, Cal.
 
192. Buffalo Bills. Alex Redmond, G, UCLA.
 
193. Tennessee Titans. Peyton Barber, RB, Auburn.
 
194. Oakland Raiders. Justin Simmons, S, Boston College.
 
195. Houston Texans. Kentrell Brothers, ILB, Missouri.
 
196. New England Patriots. Antwoine Williams, ILB, Georgia Southern.
 
197. Tampa Bay Buccaneers. Russell Hansbrough, RB, Missouri.
 
198. San Diego Chargers. Joe Licata, QB, Buffalo.
 
199. Cincinnati Bengals. Branden Jackson, DE, Texas Tech.
 
200. Green Bay Packers. Dominique Robertson, T, West Georgia.
 
201. Jacksonville Jaguars. Avery Young. OG/OT, Auburn.
 
202. Detroit Lions. Geronimo Allison, WR, Illinois.
 
203. Kansas City Chiefs. Josh Forrest, ILB, Kentucky.
 
204. New England Patriots. David Morgan, TE, Texas-San Antonio.
 
205. Arizona Cardinals. Harlan Miller, CB, SE Louisiana.
 
206. Chicago Bears. Marquez North, WR, Tennessee.
 
207. San Francisco 49ers. Gerald Dixon, DT, South Carolina.
 
208. New England Patriots. Romeo Okwara, DE, Notre Dame.
 
209. Baltimore Ravens. Aaron Wallace, OLB, UCLA.
 
210. Detroit Lions. Maurice Canady, CB, Virginia.
 
211. San Francisco 49ers. Jay Lee, WR, Baylor.
 
212. Dallas Cowboys. Tyrone Holmes, OLB, Montana.
 
213.  San Francisco 49ers. Greg Milhouse, DT, Campbell.
 
214. New England Patriots. Keenan Reynolds, RB, Navy.
 
215. Seattle Seahawks. Beniquez Brown, OLB, Mississippi State.
 
216. Dallas Cowboys. D'haquille Williams, WR, Auburn.
 
217. Dallas Cowboys. Jerald Hawkins, OT, LSU.
 
218. Buffalo Bills. Roger Lewis, WR, Bowling Green.
 
219. Denver Broncos. Hunter Sharp, WR, Utah State.
 
220. Pittsburgh Steelers. Wendell Smallwood, RB, West Virginia.
 
221. New England Patriots. Pearce Slater, OT, San Diego State.
 
ROUND 7.
 
222. Tennessee Titans. Kivon  Cartwright, TE, Colorado State.
 
223. Cleveland Browns. Ryan Malleck, TE, Virginia Tech.
 
224. San Diego Chargers. Mike Thomas, WR, Southern Miss.
 
225.  Seattle Seahawks. Ricardo Louis, WR, Auburn.
 
226. Jacksonville Jaguars. Ted Karras, OG, Illinois.
 
227. Miami Dolphins. Montese Overton, OLB, East Carolina.
 
228. Denver Broncos. Nick VanHoose, CB, Northwestern.
 
229. Pittsburgh Steelers. Riley Dixon, P, Syracuse.
 
230. Chicago Bears. Darius Latham, DT, Indiana.
 
231. Miami Dolphins. Robby Anderson, WR, Temple.
 
232. Washington Redskins. Juston Burris, CB, North Carolina State.
 
233. Philadelphia Eagles. Jalin Marshall, WR, Ohio State.
 
234. Oakland Raiders. Anthony Bilal, RB, Lake Erie College.
 
235. New York Jets. Kalan Reed, CB, Southern Miss.
 
236. Detroit Lions. Jake McGee, TE, Florida.
 
237. New Orleans Saints. Will Ratelle, FB, North Dakota State.
 
238. Atlanta Falcons. Alex Huettel, OG, Bowling Green.
 
239. Indianapolis Colts. Elandon Roberts, ILB, Houston.
 
240. Minnesota Vikings.  Alonzo Russell, WR, Toledo.
 
241. New York Jets. Trevone Boykin, QB, TCU.
 
242. Washington Redskins. Josh Atkinson, CB, Azusa Pacific.
 
243. New England Patriots. Trent Corney, DE/LB, Virginia.
 
244. Minnesota Vikings. Mehdi Abesmad, DL, Boston College.
 
245. Cincinnati Bengals. LaQuan McGowan, TE, Baylor.
 
246. Pittsburgh Steelers. Jonathan Woodard, DE, Central Arkansas.
 
247. Seattle Seahawks. Felix Faubert-Lussier, LB/WR, Laval Rouge et Or.
 
248. Green Bay Packers. Adairius Barnes, CB, Louisiana Tech.
 
249. Kansas City Chiefs. Stephen Alexander, TE, Cal.
 
250. New England Patriots. Taylor Fallin, T, Memphis.
 
251. Philadelphia Eagles. Jordan Swindle, T, Kentucky.
 
252. Carolina Panthers. Boomer Mays, LB, Northern Illinois
 
253. Denver Broncos. Darrell Greene, G, San Diego State.

Branden Jackson is a 6'4, 273 pound defensive end/edge rusher prospect out of Texas Tech. Throughout his career, he has generated 138 tackles 11 sacks, 24 tackles for loss, 3 forced fumbles, and two fumble recoveries (one returned for a touchdown). After a strong Pro Day with a  4.87 40, a 4.55 20 yard dash, and a 7.06 3 cone drill, which nicely augment his 31.5 inch vertical jump, 9.5 broad jump and 20 bench press reps at the Combine, Jackson has done a great job transitioning from linebacker to defensive end while at Texas Tech. He is a high-character, well spoken player who is a proven playmaker on the field (film here).  While Jackson has not yet made a huge splash on draft boards, he is a great late-round prospect who will easily outplay his draft position. He compares, in my opinion, to Michael Bennett. He is an extremely underrated player who has the talent to play multiple positions in the NFL. We were lucky enough to spend some time interviewing him, and here it is.  Interview questions in black, Branden's answer in maroon.
 
Mr. Jackson, you are an extremely talented player on the field, and seem like a very high character player both on and off the field. What, in your opinion, makes you stand out as a prospect? 
 
My mindset is my biggest gift. Not only am I a student of the game, but I also understand the concept of the game within the game. What I mean by that is I undestand the purpose of trash talk, the reason offenses use jet motion, why a hard count is being used, why a fake bubble screen is tagged to the end of the play etc. 
 
In 2013, you began to wear the number 9 to honor your brother,  Chauncey Williams, who was murdered that same year. What effect has that experience had on you as an individual and as a player?  
 
Losing my step brother was a hard pill to swallow. It was an even harder decision to stay at school and not attend his funeral. That whole experience was one that made me realize how strong my love for football is and how quickly it could be taken  away. Chauncey loved the game he wanted to use it as his way out of the neighborhood we were raised in. I changed my number to honor him and every other kid who was taken too soon. It's a way to remind myself to enjoy the game and play it as hard as I can.
 
Speaking of character, you have mentioned working to not become a product of your environment in other interviews.  Given the epidemic of players facing legal issues in the NFL, what can you offer to a locker room as a leader through your own experiences?  
 
As a rookie I would enter the locker room with the mindset of earning everyone's respect. That would be my first priority but after that in regards to leadership I would first lead by example. I would speak up when something needs to be said. I bring to any locker room a guy who practices what he preaches. 
 
While we are on the topic of leadership, who is your role model? Why? 
 
My biggest role model would have to be my grandmother Shelia Alston. She's birthed 4 kids and raised an additional 12 foster kids. As if that was not enough she contributed to raising more grand kids then I can't think of. Through it all I've never heard her complain despite her battle with diabetes and kidney failure. She is the rock of my family, she embodies everything that I am and strive to be. I believe that's where I get my core from, my grit and my toughness.
 
You have had a successful career at Texas Tech after transitioning from OLB to DE.  How does your experience playing OLB impact your play as a defensive end? 
 
My experience playing LB has helped me tremendously as a defensive lineman. The largest impact being instincts. As a backer it's not good enough to read and react. Eventually, you have to be able to feel what's about to happen or what direction a play is going. That's what separates you and that's what I was able to maintain while transitioning to a Defensive End. 
 
Who is your favorite player in the NFL?  Are there any players you specifically try to emulate on the field? 
 
My favorite player in the NFL is J.J. Watt. He and Michael Bennett Jr. are two players I try to emulate. 
 
Safety has been a major concern in the NFL in recent years.  What are your thoughts on the NFL's new focus on player safety? 
 
The NFL is doing a phenomenal job with protecting its athletes while still maintaining the game's physicality. I'm appreciative for their efforts  towards keeping  players safe.
 
What is your greatest strength as a prospect? 
 
My greatest strength as a prospect is my versatility. My ability to line up at multiple positions and still play effectively allows my future defensive coordinator  the luxury of playing multiple schemes without having to switch personnel.
 
If you could choose to accomplish one thing in your career, what would it be?
 
If I could accomplish one thing in the NFL it would be to receive the Walter Payton NFL Man Of The Year Award. I want to use football not only for my own enjoyment but to help unfortunate youth in my hometown of McKeesport, PA. and also raise awareness to diabetes. Accomplishing that specific award would mean that my efforts are not going unnoticed and I'm potentially contributing to saving someone's life.
 
What points would you like to make to any scouts who might be reading this interview?
 
I want all reading to know that stats don't mean the world. Turn on the film and evaluate critically. Look for positives and negatives. Pay attention to the number of positions I play and the number of plays I play. You won't find a defensive lineman playing more snaps or positions than me at a high level. Mathew 20:16 says "the first will be last and the last will be first". Pay close attention to the bible verse. Not only the meaning but "20:16". Ironic/Coincidence that it is the year 2016, maybe but nonetheless Branden Jackson will outwork, out grind, and at the end out shine everyone you believe can do what he does better than he himself can.
 
 
Thank you Branden, for your time.  We look forward to watching your career unfold in the NFL, and best of luck in the draft! --Mike Bertasso and Matt Koontz, Matt and Mike Sports.
 
Thank you very much for taking the time out to speak with me. Look forward  to doing more of this in the near future. 

We would like to thank Glen Wallace from Peterson Sports for facilitating this interview. Glen has asked us to add the following statement, that Glen Wallace, James Peterson and Dave Thompson and the entire Peterson Sports family are very proud of Branden.
​

Jhurell Pressley (RB, New Mexico) is one of the more underrated NFL Draft prospects at running back in recent seasons.  He has great vision on the field and scored 11 touchdowns in 2015, but he still does not get the hype that he deserves.  Much like players like Zach Zenner, who led the NFL in rushing last pre-season, Pressley is extremely talented, and can make a significant impact on an NFL team. Here's some film. He was one of the best players at the NFLPA Collegiate Bowl this season. He's a quick, athletic guy (4.38 40, 9-9 broad jump, 25 bench press reps, a 33.5 vertical, 6.92 3-cone L drill, and a 4.06 5-10-5 drill), and is great with the ball in  his hands. At worst, he's an NFL change of pace back. His ceiling is much higher than that.  We were fortunate enough to spend some time interviewing him.  Questions in black, Jhurell's answers in maroon.

Mr. Pressley, you have been an extremely productive college player.  In 2014, you averaged 9.5 yards per carry.  In 2015, you rushed for 907 yards and 11 touchdowns.  What are your strongest points as an NFL prospect?

The strongest points as an NFL prospect will be special teams and giving defenses change of pace by showing off my speed and explosiveness. 

Tell us a bit about your past.  How has your childhood and upbringing impacted the player that you are today?

My childhood impacted how I play now because since I was six years old I had my eyes on football and I always been very passionate about the game. It's not just a game, it's my life.

You overcame a pretty scary blood clot in your shoulder a while back. Tell us a bit about your experience. What impact has that had on you, both as a player and an individual?

I took on this blood clot like a fight. I lift my chin, plant my feet, and took a brace as I knew that this will be a long fight. As a player it put my life into perspective to know that any day can be your last snap.

Safety has been a major concern in the NFL in recent years.  What are your thoughts on the NFL's new focus on player safety?

I believe  that safety is very important. I appreciate the light that shines on safety in the NFL because if one teammate is out or hurt, it effects the whole team.

You were a pretty versatile player in college.  What positions have you played besides RB?

WILDCAT 
KR
GUNNER
KO
PUNT RETURN HOLD UP

Compared to other players at your position, what makes you stand out as a prospect?

What makes me stand out at RB is knowing what everyone has to do on the field to make a play work.

Who are some of your role models?

My brother James Pressley AKA Jel

Who is your favorite NFL player? Are there any players you try to emulate on the field?

Ray Lewis because the tenacity  Ray Lewis played with is how I want to play like.

What NFL player would you compare yourself to, and why?

I wouldn't compare myself to one player because I like to use parts of a lot of different running styles to make my game better.

What points would you like to make to any coaches or scouts who may be reading this article? What makes you a great prospect?

I want the scouts to know that I am a guy that is coachable and have hard work and dedication on my mind at all times.



Thank you for your time Jhurell, and we look forward to watching your career unfold! Best of luck in the draft process! --Mike Bertasso and Matt Koontz, www.mattandmikesports.com

We would like to thank Glen Wallace from Peterson Sports for facilitating this interview. Glen has asked us to add the following statement, that Glen Wallace, James Peterson and Dave Thompson and the entire Peterson Sports family are very proud of Jhurell.

Branden Jackson is probably the most underrated defensive prospect in the 2016 NFL Draft.  As a defensive end at Texas Tech, Branden Jackson did great things, both on and off the field.  Jackson is a phenomenal, versatile player, but his on-the-field accomplishments do not give a full picture of Branden Jackson as a prospect and as a man.  He is an extremely high-character player who will be an asset to any NFL team smart enough to draft him.
 
We had the privilege of interviewing Branden here at Matt and Mike Sports (interview available here).  Branden's on the field performance is out-shined only by his character and drive off the field.  Branden Jackson developed into an NFL-caliber defensive end while making the switch from OLB to DE in college. For many players, that is the most adversity that they will face throughout their college career. For Jackson, that challenge pales in comparison to the challenges off the field.
 
Branden Jackson lost his step brother Chauncey Williams in 2013, and had to make a tough decision to remain on campus rather than to attend his funeral. Following Chauncey's death, Branden changed his uniform number to 9, in his words to "honor him and every other kid who was taken too soon." Branden Jackson is a man who has faced some of the toughest situations that a young man can face, and he thrived. Rather than turn bitter following a childhood in a tough neighborhood, Branden worked hard to get an education and work his way out of his neighborhood.  He has emerged from his college career as a classy, hard-working, and extremely talented young man. Much like gold is perfected in the refiner's fire, Branden Jackson has thrived under pressure of the hardest kind.
 
Branden Jackson credits his toughness to his grandmother, Shelia Alston.  In our interview, Jackson described his grandmother as follows:
 
"My biggest role model would have to be my grandmother Shelia Alston. She's birthed 4 kids and raised an additional 12 foster kids. As if that was not enough she contributed to raising more grand kids then I can't think of. Through it all I've never heard her complain despite her battle with diabetes and kidney failure. She is the rock of my family, she embodies everything that I am and strive to be. I believe that's where I get my core from, my grit and my toughness."
 
She is clearly a special woman, and Branden Jackson has developed into a special man who any grandparent would be proud of. If he could choose one thing to accomplish in his career, it would be winning the Walter Peyton NFL Man of the Year Award, because, as he states in our interview, Branden wants to use his career to help unfortunate youth in his hometown of McKeesport PA and raising awareness for diabetes. For Branden, receiving that award would mean that his efforts are being noticed, and that he is potentially contributing to saving somebody's life. This is clearly a classy, extremely high character athlete that would be an absolute asset to any NFL roster.
 
But what about on the field? Branden has a deep understanding of defensive schemes, and is an extremely hard worker on the field and in the film room.  He is adept at reading offenses both on film and on the field. The instincts he has developed while playing linebacker show whenever he is on the field. Let's take a look at him as a player on the field.

Branden Jackson is an extremely intelligent player on the field and goes 100% on every play. Unlike some prospects who "take plays off," Branden Jackson plays every snap like it is his last.  His deep knowledge of offensive and defensive schemes make him a patient, saavy defender who waits for the perfect moment to strike.  Watching Branden Jackson, you see a player with a deep understanding of what an offense is doing.  His tackling skills are fundamentally sound, and he is a versatile player who is able to play multiple positions in a defensive front. This makes him an asset to defensive coordinators since he will be useful in multiple personnel packages.  Here's some film.

He has generated some nice numbers on the field as well. As a college player,  Jackson generated 138 tackles 11 sacks, 24 tackles for loss, 3 forced fumbles, and two fumble recoveries. One of those fumble recoveries was returned for a touchdown. His measurables are solid as well, and he tested well at his Pro Day and at the Combine; his top Pro Day numbers include a  4.87 40, a 4.55 20 yard dash, and a 7.06 3 cone drill, which nicely augment his 31.5 inch vertical jump, 9.5 broad jump and 20 bench press reps at the Combine.  At worst, he's a rotational player in the NFL as he continues to develop and a very strong locker room presence. At best, he's much much more.

Branden Jackson's greatest selling point as a player, however, is not his numbers. It is not even just his broad knowledge and understanding of the game. In "The Replacements," when coach Jimmy McGinty is asked at halftime what his team needs in order to turn around a game filled with adversity, his response is "miles and miles of heart." Branden Jackson can bring miles and miles of heart to the table every day of the week.  He is an extremely mature young man who has faced more adversity in 23 years than many people do in a life-time, and has emerged as a potential star. At the beginning of the highlight reel I posted earlier, Branden Jackson says that there is "nothing more dangerous than a man who's soul is on fire." Jackson has the talent, the passion, the character, and the drive to set the NFL on fire.  Here at Matt and Mike Sports, we're  rooting for him!

--Mike B.