First Round
1. St. Louis Rams – Ndamukong Suh – DT – Nebraska

The Rams need a boost somewhere on the field this season. Ndamukong Suh is possibly one of the best defensive line prospects to enter the draft since Warren Sapp. He penetrates the backfield and gets a boatload of TFLs. He will be a solid fit in St. Louis.

2. Detroit Lions – Gerald McCoy – DT – Oklahoma

McCoy’s stock seemed to drop a bit after the combine but I think he is still a playmaker and worthy of the number 2 spot.

3. Tampa Bay Buccaneers – Eric Berry – S – Tennessee

The Bucs have an up-and-coming defense and can really use a showstopper like Eric Berry. Berry is an extremely instinctive player and is really physical. Sabby Piscitelli just isn’t cutting it for TB. Berry is a solid pick at 3 overall.

4. Washington Redskins – Sam Bradford – QB – Oklahoma

Believe it or not, Jason Campbell is done in Washington. He is very inconsistent and failed to spark the ‘Skins. The Redskins are going to have to pick the best quarterback in the draft. And in their mind, Bradford is him.

5. Kansas City Chiefs – Russell Okung – OT – Oklahoma State

The Chiefs just can’t afford to pass up on Okung at this spot. He has held the number one OT spot for a while and it’s for a reason.

6. Seattle Seahawks – Bryan Bulaga – OT – Iowa

With Walter Jones pretty much done in Seattle, Bulaga will come in to be a solid pass protector.

7. Cleveland Browns – Joe Haden – CB – Florida

The Browns have a fairly young secondary. Although young, they show promise. Haden is the next piece to the puzzle of having a solid defense. He is a very good coverage corner with great instincts and tackling ability.

8. Oakland Raiders – Derrick Morgan – DE – Georgia Tech

Derrick Morgan is the best running stopping defensive end in the draft, in my opinion. He, paired with Richard Seymour, will run the show on the D-line in Oakland.

9. Buffalo Bills – Anthony Davis – OT – Rutgers

The Bills need a pass protector who is quick and versatile. Anthony Davis is a no-brainer at number 9 for Buffalo.

10. Jacksonville Jaguars – Earl Thomas – S – Texas

Jacksonville needs an instinctive player in the secondary and Earl Thomas is just that. He has a huge range and has coveted eyes for the football.

11. Denver Broncos (from Chicago) – Rolano McClain – LB – Alabama

Rolando McClain is a beast of a linebacker. He will work well with the Broncos in an already talented linebacking corps. Very vocal team leader who will fire up the defense. It makes me shiver thinking of McClain and Dawkins on the same D.

12. Miami Dolphins – Dez Bryant – WR – Oklahoma State

Chad Henne needs a nice big target to throw to. Dez Bryant is a beastly specimen of a wide receiver and will do a great job in Miami.

13. San Francisco 49ers – Trent Williams – OT – Oklahoma

The 49ers need all the help they can get on the offensive line and Trent Williams is next on my offensive tackle rankings.

14. Seattle Seahawks (from Denver) – C.J. Spiller – RB – Clemson

The Seahawks need an every down running back since the black hole of turf swallowed Shaun Alexander a few years back. Spiller is an animal and could’ve started in the NFL in his senior year.

15. New York Giants – Brandon Spikes – LB – Florida

Brandon Spikes has been criticized for his lateral speed but Antonio Pierce really didn’t have any either. Spikes is tough and physical; great fit for the Gmen.

16. Tennessee Titans – Kyle Wilson – CB – Boise State

Saying that Kyle Wilson stepped up in the Senior Bowl would be a severe understatement. He came up HUGE and boosted his draft stock a lot. Wilson is physical and very good in coverage.

17. San Francisco 49ers (from Carolina) – Jason Pierre-Paul – DE – USF

Pierre-Paul is a freak of nature and is high on every team’s draft board. I’m convinced he can dominate as either a DE or 3-4 OLB.

18. Pittsburgh Steelers – Bruce Campbell – OT – Maryland

Bruce Campbell is a monster of an offensive tackle and he is diesel and quick. The Steelers will be very happy if they take Campbell.

19. Atlanta Falcons – Sean Weatherspoon – OLB – Missouri

Sean Weatherspoon, in my mind, is the best outside linebacker in the draft and the Falcons can’t afford to miss out on this opportunity.

20. Houston Texans – Jahvid Best – RB – California

The Texans have been having some problems running the football as of late. Steve Slaton, in my opinion, still should be the every-down back in Houston. However, he needs someone to come in and relieve the pressure once and a while.

21. Cincinnati Bengals – Jermaine Gresham – TE – Oklahoma

Since signing Matt Jones, it looks as though the Bengals have secured a solid number 2 wideout. Tight end is the one position that Cincy really struggles with. Gresham is a very good TE and will prove to be an important part of the Bengals offense.

22. New England Patriots – Golden Tate – WR – Notre Dame

New England failed to give Tom Brady enough reliable targets this past season. Golden Tate is very instinctive and plays the position well. Look for him to flourish in NE.

23. Green Bay Packers – Mike Iupati – OG – Idaho

The Packers need that strong force in the middle of the offensive line to give Ryan Grant some running lanes. Mike Iupati is a beast and can turn the d-line into a highway.

24. Philadelphia Eagles – Brandon Graham – DE – Michigan

Brandon Graham is unstoppable. This guy is strong and has an extremely high motor to tear up slow offensive tackles. Him along side Trent Cole will be deadly.

25. Baltimore Ravens – Arrelious Benn – WR – Illinois

Arrelious Benn has great size and speed as well as solid route-running ability. He will be a staple in Baltimore.

26. Arizona Cardinals – Taylor Mays – S – USC

Taylor Mays is a beast. He ran a 4.40 at the combine and weighs 230 pounds. Although he misses tackles here and there, he could work on that and be dominant.

27. Dallas Cowboys – Sergio Kindle – OLB – Texas

Sergio Kindle dropped out from my number one OLB spot but he is still a number one contender. The Cowboys could use a guy like him.

28. San Diego Chargers – Carlos Dunlap – DE – Florida

Dunlap’s stock dropped after the combine. He looked a bit small and doesn’t seem to have the drive to succeed as much as the others. However, I think it is appropriate for him to be drafted at this position.

29. New York Jets – Everson Griffen – DE – USC

The Jets need to get a bit more rush on the quarterback and Everson Griffen will be able to provide for them the talent that they need. I’d like to see them take a CB at this spot but I feel like that position is deep enough for them to grab one in a later round.

30. Minnesota Vikings – Donovan Warren – CB – Michigan

The Vikes need a nice boost at the cornerback position. Warren is arguably the next best CB available at 30 and should give Minnesota some much-needed improvement.

31. Indianapolis Colts – Maurkice Pouncey – C – Florida

Maurkice Pouncey is as best as they come as far as centers go. He could definitely be a work in progress for Peyton Manning.

32. New Orleans Saints – Dan Williams – DT – Tennessee

This may be the steal of the first round. Dan Williams is an insane defensive tackle. He never stops and his motor is intensely high. He will wreak havoc for Nawlins.

Second Round

33. St. Louis Rams – Jimmy Clausen – QB – Notre Dame

34. Detroit Lions – Ryan Matthews – RB – Fresno State

35. Tampa Bay Buccaneers – Jared Odrick – DT – Penn State

36. Washington Redskins – Charles Brown – OT – USC

37. Kansas City Chiefs – Brian Price – DT – UCLA

38. Seattle Seahawks – Dezmon Briscoe – WR – Kansas

39. Cleveland Browns – Colt McCoy – QB – Texas

40. Oakland Raiders – Vladimir Ducasse – OT – Umass

41. Buffalo Bills – Brandon LaFell – WR – LSU

42. New England Patriots (from Jacksonville Jaguars) – Chad Jones – S – LSU

43. Tampa Bay Buccaneers (from Chicago) – Eric Decker – WR – Minnesota

44. Miami Dolphins – Navorro Bowman – LB – Penn State

45. San Francisco 49ers – Reshad Jones – S – Georgia

46. Denver Broncos – Dan LeFevour – QB – Central Michigan

47. New York Giants – Morgan Burnett – S – Michigan

48. New England Patriots (from Tennessee) – Joe McKnight – RB – USC

49. Carolina Panthers – Corey Wootton – DE – Northwestern

50. Pittsburgh Steelers – Jonathan Dwyer – RB – Georgia Tech

51. Kansas City Chiefs (from Atlanta) – Rob Gronkowski – TE – Arizona

52. Houston Texans – Perrish Cox – CB – Oklahoma State

53. Cincinnati Bengals – Mike Johnson – OG – Alabama

54. New England Patriots – Syd’Quan Thompson – CB – California

55. Green Bay Packers – Anthony Dixon – RB – Mississippi State

56. Philadelphia Eagles – Myron Rolle – S – Florida State

57. Baltimore Ravens – Jon Asamoah – OG – Illinois

58. Arizona Cardinals – Sean Lee – ILB – Penn State

59. Dallas Cowboys – Nate Allen – S – USF

60. San Diego Chargers – Charles Scott – RB – LSU

61. New York Jets – Dexter McCluster – RB – Ole Miss

62. Minnesota Vikings – Jevan Snead – QB – Ole Miss

63. Indianapolis Colts – Larry Asante – S – Nebraska

64. New Orleans Saints – Aaron Hernandez – TE – Florida

Third Round
65. St. Louis Rams – Kyle Calloway – OT – Iowa

66. Detroit Lions – Selvish Capers – OT – West Virginia

67. Tampa Bay Buccaneers – Mitch Petrus – OG – Arkansas

68. Washington Redskins – forfeited pick

69. Kansas City Chiefs – Rennie Curran – OLB – Georgia

70. Philadelphia Eagles (from Seattle) – Montario Hardesty – RB – Tennessee

71. Cleveland Browns – Terrence Cody – DT – Alabama

72. Oakland Raiders – Jarrett Brown – QB – West Virginia

73. Buffalo Bills – Tony Pike – QB – Cincinnati

74. Jacksonville Jaguars – Tim Tebow – QB – Florida

75. Chicago Bears – Kyle Veldheer – OT – Hillsdale

76. Miami Dolphins – Jimmy Graham – TE – Miami

77. San Francisco 49ers – Amari Spievey – CB – Iowa

78. Denver Broncos – Zane Beadles – OG – Utah

79. New York Giants – Arthur Jones – DT – Syracuse

80. Tennessee Titans – Jerry Hughes – DE – TCU

81. Carolina Panthers – Taylor Price – WR – Ohio

82. Pittsburgh Steelers – Brandon Ghee – CB – Wake Forest

83. Atlanta Falcons – Patrick Robinson – CB – Florida State

84. Houston Texans – Shawn Lauvao – OG – Arizona State

85. Cincinnati Bengals – Major Wright – S – Florida

86. Oakland Raiders (from New England) – Eric Norwood – OLB – S. Carolina

87. Green Bay Packers – Tyson Alualu – DT – California

88. Philadelphia Eagles – Kareem Jackson – CB – Alabama

89. Baltimore Ravens – Dominique Franks – CB – Oklahoma

90. Arizona Cardinals – Jason Fox – OT – Miami

91. Dallas Cowboys – Ciron Black – OT – LSU

92. San Diego Chargers – John Jerry – OT – Ole Miss

93. Cleveland Browns (from New York Jets) – Marty Gilyard – WR – Cincinnati

94. Minnesota Vikings – Thomas Austin – OG – Clemson

95. Indianapolis Colts – Chris Cook – CB – Virginia

96. New Orleans Saints – Rodrick Muckelroy – OLB – Texas

Fourth Round
97. St. Louis Rams – Danario Alexander – WR – Missouri

98. Detroit Lions – Damian Williams – WR – USC

99. Tampa Bay Buccaneers – Greg Hardy – DE – Ole Miss

100. Washington Redskins – Toby Gerhart – RB – Stanford

101. Kansas City Chiefs – Demaryius Thomas – WR – Georgia Tech

102. Seattle Seahawks – Levi Brown – QB – Troy

103. Cleveland Browns – Ed Dickson – TE – Oregon

104. Oakland Raiders – Trevard Lindley – CB – Kentucky

105. Buffalo Bills – Geno Atkins – DT – Georgia

106. Jacksonville Jaguars – Darrell Stuckey – S – Kansas

107. Chicago Bears – Ricky Sapp – DE – Clemson

108. Miami Dolphins – Robert Johnson – S – Utah

109. San Francisco 49ers – Zac Robinson – QB – Oregon State

110. Denver Broncos – Matt Tennent – C – Boston College

111. New York Giants – Javier Arenas – CB – Alabama

112. Tennessee Titans – Sergio Render – OG – Virginia Tech

113. Carolina Panthers – D’Anthony Smith – DT – Louisiana Tech

114. Pittsburgh Steelers – Kam Chancellor – S – Virginia Tech

115. Atlanta Falcons – Mike Williams – WR – Syracuse

116. Houston Texans – Barry Church – S – Toledo

117. Cincinnati Bengals – Jacoby Ford – WR – Clemson

118. New England Patriots –Anthony McCoy – TE – USC

119. Green Bay Packers – Devin McCourty – CB – Rutgers

120. Philadelphia Eagles – Jeff Byers – OG – USC

121. Baltimore Ravens – Dennis Pitta – TE – BYU

122. Arizona Cardinals – Garrett Graham – TE – Wisconsin

123. Dallas Cowboys – Akwasi Owusu-Ansah – CB – Indiana (PA)

124. San Diego Chargers – Jerome Murphy – CB – South Florida

125. Philadelphia Eagles (from New York Jets) – Rico McCoy – OLB – Tenn.

126. Minnesota Vikings – Lindsey Witten – DE – Connecticut

127. Indianapolis Colts – Lamaar Houston – DT – Texas

128. New Orleans Saints – Alex Carrington – DE – Arkansas State

For some more mocks, check out DC Pro Sports Report, hailRedskins.com Mock Draft Database, & NFL Draft Dog

-Stafford is the only player that makes sense here for the Lions. As crazy as it sounds the Lions do have some weapons on offense, now they need a long term signal caller.

2. St. Louis Rams: Jason Smith (OT, Baylor)

-With Orlando Pace’s career soon coming to an end, and Andre Smith’s situation Smith is the favorite at left tackle.

3. Kansas City Chiefs: Aaron Curry (LB, Wake Forest)

-Curry is an absolute stud and would be a huge upgrade to a very young defense. Not only can play the middle or outside linebacker, he also makes the most sense for the Chiefs.

4. Seattle Seahawks: B.J Raji (DT, Boston College)

Raji may have been this pick regardless, but with the recent signing of T.J Houshmandzadeh I believe we can pencil this in now. Let’s not forget they lost defensive tackle Rocky Bernard.

5. Cleveland Browns: Brian Orakpo (DE, Texas)

-While the Browns were one of the biggest disappointments last season, they have an offense that has the potential to put up a lot of points. With that said they’ll be looking for a defensive upgrade. Orakpo is the best pass-rusher in this draft and an absolute specimen.

6. Cincinnati Bengals: Eugene Monroe ( OT, Virginia)

-There was a point not so long ago when the tackle position was a strength of the Bengals. Well that’s no longer the case. Keeping Carson Palmer healthy is priority number 1.

7. Oakland Raiders: Michael Crabtree (WR, Texas Tech)

-While Crabtree may be a question mark, he’s a playmaker and someone Al Davis just can’t pass up on. Maybe this offense will finally be able to move the football.

8. Jacksonville Jaguars: Jeremy Maclin (WR, Missouri)

-While the Jags have one of the top running games in the NFL, they sorely miss a playmaking wide receiver. Not only can Maclin help the offense, but he would also improve their special teams.

9. Green Bay Packers: Everette Brown (DE, Florida St.)

-With the Packers transitioning to the 3-4 the Packers will be looking to add defensive playmakers that can fit into both the 3-4 or 4-3 defense. Brown is versatile and a very good outside pass-rusher.

10. San Francisco 49ers: Michael Oher (OT, Ole Miss)

-This pick can go in a few directions, but I’m pretty sure quarterback won’t be the selection. Oher is a versatile tackle who would fit in perfectly opposite left tackle Joe Staley.

11. Buffalo Bills: Aaron Maybin ( DE, Penn St.)

-Maybe isn’t the ideal pick here for the Bills but with some questions along the defensive line it makes sense. He should be able to step in as a pass-rush specialist.

12. Denver Broncos: Tyson Jackson (DE, LSU)

-This is without a doubt the wild card pick of the first round. With a new head coach, a new defensive coordinator, and a new defensive scheme the Broncos can go in numerous directions. They can go defensive end, outside linebacker, or middle linebacker. With that said, Jackson is not only the best player available, but an ideal fit at the defensive end spot.

13. Washington Redskins: Andre Smith (OT, Alabama)

-Jon Jansen and Chris Samuels are nearing the end of their careers and its time to add some depth along their offensive line. While Smith may have made a bonehead decision at the combine, he is still one of the top lineman in the draft and could sure up the tackle position for years to come.

14. New Orleans Saints: Malcolm Jenkins (CB, Ohio St.)

-Drafting Jenkins could go a long way in trying to sure up a horrid secondary. Jenkins is versatile and could step in at corner or safety. He’s big, athletic and has the ball-hawking skills the Saints sorely lack.

15. Houston Texans: Clay Matthews (LB, USC)

-The Texans have sured up their defensive line and now it’s time to patch up the rest of their defense. Matthews has been screaming up draft boards with his versatility and motor. Of the three USC linebackers he may be the most complete.

16. San Diego Chargers: Rey Maualuga (LB, USC)

-The Chargers defense was not their typical defense of the past. While losing Merriman was a huge set back, adding a big, mean body in the middle like Maualuga could go a long way to bringing back that smash mouth style defense.

17. New York Jets: Darrius Heyward-Bey (WR, Maryland)

-This is one of the more difficult selections in this draft. While they currently don’t have a viable quarterback option, I believe they will sign a vet or even see Brett Ratliff win the job. The Jets defense is loaded and its time to add weapons on offense. Heyward-Bey, has size and tremendous speed, he could go a long way to helping out whoever the quarterback is.

18. Chicago Bears: Vontae Davis (CB, Illinois)

-The Bears seemed to take a step back from their physical, intimidating defense of the past. Davis is big, strong and plays the run well. He should be the perfect fit in the Bears secondary.

19. Tampa Bay Buccaneers: Mark Sanchez (QB, USC)

-I’m sorry but I’m not sold on Luke McCown or Josh Johnson, both dubbed quarterbacks of the future. Sanchez has the accuracy and poise needed to run the Bucs offense. Plus he’s a great value pick here at 19.

20. Detroit Lions: Percy Harvin (WR, Florida)

-The Lions got their quaterback, now its time to add some weapons. Harvin will fit right in at the slot position and is a game-breaker in every sense of the word.

21. Philadelphia Eagles: Chris Wells (RB, Ohio St.)

-The Eagles will be thrilled if Wells falls to them. Not only is he the best back in the draft, the Eagles sorely need that bruising running back to take pressure off of Brian Westbrook.

22. Minnesota Vikings: Peria Jerry (DT, Ole Miss)

-The Vikings really don’t seem to have any glaring needs, at least that can be addressed with the 22^nd pick. Jerry could be a nice rotational player on their line, plus there are still legal issues with the both Williams’ tackles.

23. New England Patriots: Brian Cushing (LB, USC)

-Cushing would be a great pickup for the depleted Patriots defense. Their linebackers aren’t getting any younger and Cushing is a perfect fit in a 3-4 defense.

24. Atlanta Falcons: Brandon Pettigrew (TE, Okla St.)

-To my surprise the Falcons come into this draft in great shape. The Falcons can go defensive tackle, safety or tight end. Pettigrew is the best tight end in this draft and would be a nice upgrade for the young Matt Ryan.

25. Miami Dolphins: Robert Ayers (DE, Tennessee)

-While the Dolphins were another pleasant surprise I believe they will look to add another versatile defensive lineman. Ayers could line up outside or play with his hand to the ground.

26. Baltimore: Alphonso Smith (CB, Wake Forest)

-The Ravens secondary has been banged up the past few seasons and it looks like they will be without both McAlister and Samari Rolle. Smith is the best corner remaining, and makes a ton of sense for the Ravens.

27. Indianapolis: Hakim Nicks (WR, UNC)

-With Harrison out, adding another receiver would be a good move. Not only Nicks big, but he’s fast too. Peyton would surely be able to take advantage of such a weapon.

28. Philadelphia: Eben Britton (OT, Arizona)

-The Eagles find themselves in the same situation as the Redskins at this pick. Runyan and Tra Thomas are aging fast and it won’t be long until the Eagles will need to replace them.

29. New York Giants: James Laurinitis (LB, Ohio St.)

-This is actually quite the lovely situation for the Gmen. Not only did they add two defensive tackles, but they also added a very athletic linebacker in Michael Boley. Laurinitis, is not only the value pick, but a pick that also completes the defense.

30. Tennessee: Darius Butler (CB, UCONN)

-The Titans don’t necessarily need a cornerback, but he’s the best players available and someone that should be able to find himself in nickel and dime situation.

31. Arizona: Knowshon Moreno (RB, Georgia)

-I think it’s fair to say Edge has talked his way out of Arizona. With that said Moreno makes a ton of sense here at 31. He’s a strong, flashy runner who when teaming with Hightower and Arrington would make a nice little trio. I would even go as far as saying as he’s an upgrade over James.

32. Pittsburgh: Alex Mack (C, Cal)

-Yes, the Steelers are Super Bowl champs, but they really need to sure up that offensive line. Mack is the top center in this draft and would be the first step to improving a decent offensive line.

For some more mocks, check out hailRedskins Mock Draft Database or FFToolbox – 2008 NFL Mock Drafts & Prospect Profiles.

• Alvin Keels and Joel Segal got DeAngelo Hall $54 million ($22.5 million guaranteed) in a 6-year deal with the Redskins.
• The Redskins have already spent a lot not only on Hall, but also on Albert Haynesworth.  Chad Speck got his client a 7-year deal worth a maximum of $115 million if he remains with the team all 7 years and meets all performance bonus clauses ($41 million is guaranteed, including $32 million in the first 13-months of the contract).  Is there still a salary cap in the NFL?  At least the Skins don’t have to worry about Jason Taylor taking money away from the cap (he was released).
• If he knew about this website, Sage Rosenfels would be a fan of our Shabbat Shalom: Friday Wrap-Up.  For the time being, he will be counting his money that the Minnesota Vikings offered him.  Rick Smith got his client a 2-year deal worth $9 million.  Not bad for a guy who does not have the starting job wrapped up in Minnesota.
• Kenneth Vierra did not instruct his client, Chris Kemoeatu, to sign with whatever team presented the most money to his client.  Instead, Kemoeatu accepted a $20 million, 5-year deal with the Pittsburgh Steelers (including $6 million guaranteed), and passed up a bigger offer from the New York Jets.
• Will Cedric Benson be the starting RB for the Cincinnati Bengals?  Who knows?  What we do know is that Eugene Parker was able to get Benson a 2-year, $7 million deal.
• The Bengals also agreed to terms with Laveranues Coles.  Roosevelt Barnes is happy to see his client join Ocho Cinco.  Barnes also helped structure the 4-year, $28 million contract.
• No one will be competing for the starting inside linebacker position on the Baltimore Ravens.  Ray Lewis tested the free-agent market and did not like what he saw.  Or maybe he just loves being a Raven.  He re-signed with the team, while teammate, Bart Scott, signed with the Jets.
• And last, but not least, some guy that goes by T.O. signed with the Buffalo Bills.  Terrell Owens and his agent, Drew Rosenhaus, accepted a 1-year, $6.5 million deal.  It is a little bit colder in Buffalo than Dallas.

1. Detroit Lions: Matthew Stafford (QB, Georgia)

-Stafford is the only player that makes sense here for the Lions. As crazy as it sounds the Lions do have some weapons on offense. Now they need a long term signal caller.

2. St. Louis Rams: Andre Smith (OT, Alabama)

-With Orlando Pace’s career coming to an end, the Rams will be looking for his replacement at the number 2 spot. While Smith may have some issue with his pass blocking, he is an absolute road grader with a ton of upside.

3. Kansas City Chiefs: Aaron Curry (LB, Wake Forest)

-Curry is an absolute stud and would be a huge upgrade to a very young defense. Not only can he play the middle or outside linebacker positions, he also makes the most sense for the Chiefs.

4. Seattle Seahawks: Michael Crabtree (WR, Texas Tech)

-The Seahawks are in dire need of a playmaker on offense, and Crabtree is just the player. He’s a consistent receiver who would give Matt Hasselback a much needed weapon.

5. Cleveland Browns: Malcolm Jenkins (CB, Ohio St.)

-While the Browns were one of the biggest disappointments this season, they have an offense that has the potential to put up a ton of points. With that said, they’ll be looking for a defensive upgrade. Jenkins has the size, and skill to play both corner or safety and would be a very nice addition to the Browns secondary.

6. Cincinnati Bengals: Eugene Monroe ( OT, Virginia)

-There was a point not so long ago when the tackle position was a strength of the Bengals. Well, that’s no longer the case. Monroe, is athletic and a superb pass blocker. The Bengals main priority is to keep Carson Palmer healthy.

7. Oakland Raiders: Jason Smith (OT, Baylor)

-While Smith may not be the Al Davis type of pick, he knows it all starts with the offensive line. The Raiders have weapons on offense, they now need to fix that dismal offensive line of theirs.

8. Jacksonville Jaguars: Jeremy Maclin (WR, Missouri)

-While the Jags have one of the top running games in the NFL, they sorely miss a playmaking wide receiver. Not only can Maclin help the offense, but he would also improve their special teams.

9. Green Bay Packers: Brian Orakpo (DE, Texas)

-Orakpo, or O-Sack-Po is a defensive freak. He combines an explosive burst with tremendous strength, and would be a very nice addition opposite Aaron Kampman.

10. San Francisco 49ers: Mark Sanchez (QB, USC)

-Sanchez may not have the experience most teams covet, but he does have great accuracy and presence in the pocket. The 49ers desperately need a constant at the quarterback position and he would be a nice pick at the 10 spot.

11. Buffalo Bills: Brandon Pettigrew ( TE, Oklahoma St.)

-The Bills have very quietly built a very nice offense around quarterback Trent Edwards. The one missing piece is a playmaking tight end. Pettigrew, would be a great selection for the Bills and can really open up the offense.

12. Denver Broncos: B.J Raji (DT, B.C)

-This is without a doubt the wild card pick of the first round. With a new head coach, a new defensive coordinator, and a new defensive scheme coming, the Broncos can go in numerous directions. They can go defensive end, outside linebacker, middle linebacker, running back or nose tackle. With that said, I believe nose tackle is the pick here for it’s arguably the most important position in a 3-4 defense.

13. Washington Redskins: Michael Oher (OT, Ole Mis)

-Jon Jansen and Chris Samuels are nearing the end of their careers and its time to add some depth along their offensive line. Oher is one of the top lineman in the draft and could sure up the tackle position for years to come.

14. New Orleans Saints: James Laurinaitis (LB, Ohio St.)

-A few years ago the Saints almost took A.J Hawk at number 2. This time around they have the chance to grab Laurinaitis at 14 and won’t pass him up. Their defense needs athletes and Laurinaitis would be a very nice upgrade at the linebacker position.

15. Houston Texans: Everette Brown (DE, FSU)

-People thought the Texans were crazy when they selected Mario Williams number 1 a few years ago. Well, Super Mario is a stud and now its time to find someone opposite him to rush the passer. Brown may be the best pure pass-rusher in the draft and would be a great pick here for the Texans. This may be the best value pick of the 1^st round.

16. San Diego Chargers: Rey Maualuga (LB, USC)

-The Chargers defense was not their typical defense of the past. While losing Merriman was a huge set back, adding a big, mean body in the middle like Maualuga could go a long way to bringing back that smash mouth style defense.

17. New York Jets: Percy Harvin (WR, Florida)

-This is one of the more difficult selections in this draft. While I think Tyson Jackson makes a lot of sense, I believe the Jets will have a new Qb next season and will look to add as many weapons as possible. Harvin can make plays in the slot, in the backfield and as a returner. Overall, I believe his intagables make him a New York Jet.

18. Chicago Bears: Tyson Jackson (DE, LSU)

-The Bears seemed to take a step back from the physical, intimidating defense they are so used to having. Jackson, is a big physical end who would really improve the Bears run defense.

19. Tampa Bay Buccaneers: Aaron Maybin (DE, Penn St.)

-While Maybin may be viewed as a pass-rusher in a 3-4 scheme, he would be a nice compliment to standout Gaines Adams. Maybin is a great athlete and has a knack for getting to the quarterback.

20. Detroit Lions: Vontae Davis (CB, Illinois)

-The Lions may have the worst secondary in the NFL, and adding a big, physical corner like Davis would be the ideal situation for the Lions. Finally, the Lions can walk out of the first round with their heads held high.

21. Philadelphia Eagles: Chris Wells (RB, Ohio St.)

-The Eagles will be thrilled if Wells falls to them. Not only is he the best back in the draft, the Eagles sorely need that bruising running back to take pressure off of Brian Westbrook. If Everette Brown to the Texans isn’t the value pick of the 1^st round Wells to the Eagles certainly is.

22. Minnesota Vikings: Darrius Heyward-Bey (WR, Maryland)

-I love this guy and receiver is really the only impact position the Vikings can grab here. While quarterback is a position of question, drafting Josh Freeman is not the answer. Heyward-Bey would make a decent receiver corp. only that much better.

23. New England Patriots: Brian Cushing (LB, USC)

-Cushing would be a great pickup for the depleted Patriots defense. Their linebackers aren’t getting any younger and Cushing is a perfect fit in a 3-4 defense.

24. Atlanta Falcons: Jerry Peria (DT, Ole Miss)

-To my surprise the Falcons come into this draft in great shape. The Falcons can go defensive tackle or secondary here but Peria would be the value pick at 24. He’s a strong, quick tackle who can open things up in the middle.

25. Miami Dolphins: Hakeem Nicks (WR, UNC)

-While the Dolphins were another pleasant surprise they could use an upgrade at the wide receiver position. Nicks is a big, strong receiver who would be a very nice addition for Mr. Reliable, Chad Pennington.

26. Baltimore: D.J Moore (CB, Vandy)

-The Ravens secondary has been banged up the past few seasons and McAlister and Rolle are getting up there in age. Moore is a playmaking corner who would add much needed depth at this position.

27. Indianapolis: Alphonso Smith (CB, Wake Forest)

-Smith is the highest graded player remaining and with some free agents in their secondary this pick makes a lot of sense for the Colts. Though, ideally they would like to add a big body on the defensive line.

28. Philadelphia: Eben Britton (OT, Arizona)

-The Eagles find themselves in the same situation as the Redskins at this pick. Runyan and Tra Thomas are aging fast and it won’t be long until the Eagles will need to replace them.

29. New York Giants: Larry English (LB/DE, NIU)

-The G-Men could use help at linebacker or wide receiver, but at this point there may not be a receiver worth taking. English is a tweener, he can play end or linebacker and the Giants love players like for their defense.

30. Tennessee: Derrick Williams (WR, Penn St.)

-The Titans need receivers plain and simple. They have needed a receiver for sometime now, and while Williams may be a reach, he’s a playmaker. Last season the leading receivers for the Titans were a running back and a tight end.

31. Arizona: Knowshon Moreno (RB, Georgia)

-I think it’s fair to say Edge has talked his way out of Arizona. With that said Moreno makes a ton of sense here at 31. He’s a strong, flashy runner who when teaming with Hightower and Arrington would make a nice little trio. I would even go as far as saying as he’s an upgrade over James.

32. Pittsburgh: Alex Mack (C, Cal)

-Yes, the Steelers are Super Bowl champs, but they really need to sure up that offensive line. Mack is the top center in this draft and would be the first step to improving a decent offensive line.

For some more mocks, check out hailRedskins Mock Draft Database or FFToolbox – 2008 NFL Mock Drafts & Prospect Profiles.

The globalization of a sport is nothing new. The NBA has had teams playing exhibition games in Europe for a few years now. Reigning Euroleague champion CSKA Moscow, Spanish powerhouse FC Barcelona and Lithuania’s Lietuvos Rytas will face the Golden State Warriors, Los Angeles Lakers, Orlando Magic, Toronto Raptors and, possibly, the Los Angeles Clippers at undetermined NBA venues in the near future. Playing games abroad is great for the sport, increases league exposure around the globe, and is helping to increase revenues.

But what about the loyal fans back in the States? How about the season ticket holders, facing increasing ticket prices, and receiving a fewer amount of games for the price they are paying? Many fans in Buffalo fear that the playing of these games abroad might be the beginning of the end of Bills in west New York. Yet, Toronto says that the series of games is just an opportunity to showcase Toronto as a city that can host a permanent NFL franchise, and nothing more.

How about the players? Home field advantage is something that every NFL team cherishes. If you have been to an NFL game before, you have probably witnessed the effect of an entire stadium of cheering fans backing their team as they drive down the field late in the fourth quarter trying to win a game. In 2002, when Soldier Field was under renovation, the Chicago Bears played all their “home” games at Memorial Stadium two and a half hours south of Chicago at Memorial Stadium in Champaign, Illinois, home of the Illinois Fighting Illini. Most of the players felt like they played 16 away games that year.

I am in no way against the NFL trying to market and globalize the sport of football at all. I think it would be a great thing to expand the league and nurture an interest in football in countries outside of the United States. I just feel like if it is going to be done, the NFL needs to come up with a more effective way where the teams don’t have to play “home” games that could potentially decide the outcomes of their season (which Buffalo may have to deal with this year) outside of their actual stadiums. Under the current system, loyal fans of the franchises that must play a home game at an off-site venue suffer by losing one of only eight home games they can possibly see in person. The NFL must be able to effectively spread and expose the international community to their brand of football in a way that will not hurt an NFL team’s win/loss record and disappoint their fans.

Any Suggestions?