Dunlap was a second round pick of the Cincinnati Bengals in the 2010 NFL Draft.  Many “draft experts” ranked Dunlap as the best Defensive End in the country going into the 2009 season and quite a few even pegged him as the future #1 overall pick of the 2010 NFL Draft.  He certainly had the talent and physique to earn himself a spot at the top of the draft.  But between being arrested and charged for driving under the influence and having a mediocre statistical 2009 campaign, he dropped to the second round of the draft.  He proved his skill in limited time with the Bengals in 2010.

The 6’6, 290lb DE racked up 9.5 sacks in his rookie season and even got himself a safety.  He also got himself a new agent in the form of Rosenhaus.  Dunlap was previously represented by Todd France of FAAM, who is no small fish in the agent world, himself.

On To The Next One: Carlos Dunlap from Sports Agent Blog - Sports Business, Sports Law, Sports Negotiations, NCAA Rules

My Big Board and Top 5 are both based soley off of my personal assessment of the players.  This Mock Draft is based on several factors;  the team’s draft history/style, management/coaches, team needs, as well as my assessment on the individual player and what I would personally do if I had the final say.  Follow me on Twitter for updates.

Round 1

1. Carolina (2-14) – QB Cam Newton ~ Auburn – Agent: Bus Cook – You know what they say, “New regimes means new quarterbacks.” Head Coach Ron Rivera and General Manager Marty Hurney both have been reported to really be enamored with the Heisman Trophy winner. This is a very risky move in my opinion, yet I can see where the Panthers would be coming from if they made this pick. Newton has everything you can ever want on paper (the size, athleticism, speed, college production), but that isn’t what is concerning about him. Being able to handle the responsibility of a franchise on his shoulders, with millions of dollars, and very few people he can trust around him is my biggest concern. Newton was in trouble once at Florida for stealing a laptop and then lieing about it, as well as allegedly cheating on tests. At Auburn we all know about his father being accused of basically pimping his son out to whichever University threw the most money at him. Which if it was actually true, it’s awfully hard to imagine Newton not knowing about any of it. At the end of the day, I see Carolina leaving the past in the past and selecting Newton #1 overall. This pick should be spent on more of a sure thing (Dareus, Peterson, Green) or traded down. I get the feeling both Newton and Blaine Gabbert are not worthy of the top 10 picks but will undoubtably go within the top 10.

2. Denver (4-12) – DT Marcell Dareus ~ Alabama - Agent: Todd France - Vice President John Elway and Head Coach John Fox have both said their goal of getting younger on defense is their main objective. Denver recently cut their two starting defensive tackles, Jamal Williams & Justin Bannan, leaving them with virtually nothing at the position. Dareus has the ability to come in and start right away as a 3 technique in the newly installed 4-3 defense. Picking Dareus here would fill the teams biggest need, provide excellent value, and make the transition from a 3-4 to a 4-3 defense much easier. One thing you can bank on with this pick is it being a defensive player to come in and improve the 2010′s 32nd ranked unit.

3. Buffalo (4-12) – LB Von Miller ~ Texas A&M – Agent: Athletes First - The Buffalo Bills switched from the 4-3 to the 3-4 defense last year without the proper personnel to do so. The Bills need to get pressure on the quarterback, period. They have QB Ryan Fitzpatrick, who is just 28. He was extremely productive last season and can be the team’s starter for another 2-4 years. I would feel very comfortable drafting a quarterback later in this draft or even waiting until the future. Miller addresses their biggest need; defense. The Bills ranked 27th last season in sacks with only 27. For rush linebacker in their 3-4 defense they have Aaron Maybin (who appears to be one of the biggest draft busts of all-time) & Chris Kelsay, who is nothing more then an average 4-3 defensive end. Miller fits the biggest need on the defense, especially with Dareus gone. Miller won the Butkus award as the nation’s top linebacker and has showed he is supremely athletic (running a 4.49 at his pro day), as well as productive (registering 28 sacks the last two seasons).

4. Cincinnati (4-12) – QB Blaine Gabbert ~ Missouri – Agent: Creative Artists Agency – The Bengals have been in off-season turmoil due to the fact that their franchise quarterback wants out and has demanded he get his wish, or he is retiring. With the implementation of a new Offensive Coordinator in Jay Gruden, it is time to find the signal-caller of the future. While WR A.J. Green is much more of a finished product, a receiver’s value pales in comparison with a quarterback’s; especially in today’s game. Gabbert has the tools and ability to fit perfectly into this west coast style scheme for the Bengals. WR Chad Ochocinco still has a decent shot at returning, plus I like the fact that they have young talent at receiver (Andre Caldwell, Jerome Simpson, Jordan Shipley) and a legitimate tight end (Jermaine Gresham) to act as a security blanket for the rookie.

5. Arizona (5-11) – CB Patrick Peterson ~ LSU – Agent: Patrick Lawlor – Arizona has the pick of the litter here with the two best overall players available for their choosing: CB Patrick Peterson and WR A.J. Green. While pairing Green with all-world WR Larry Fitzgerald is enticing and could bring them right back to where they were while WR Anquan Boldin was there, a player of Peterson’s magnitute at a more premier position should win out. The Cardinals do have a very good corner on their roster in CB Dominique Rodgers-Cromartie, although he can be inconsistent. This pick gives them two top flight, ultra-talented corners who would allow this team to go after a veteran quarterback once free agency begins. It also will allow them to find a much-needed pass rusher later in the draft. Peterson is too special to pass up here.

6. Cleveland (5-11) – WR A.J. Green ~ Georgia - Agent: Creative Artists Agency - Current Browns receiver Mohamed Massaquoi played with Green in college and knows what he can do on the football field. Green would come in from dot 1 and make an immediate impact to a paper thin receiving core. Cleveland has two young receivers in Massaquoi and Brian Robiskie, yet neither compare to the talent A.J. Green possesses. This pick would give new Head Coach Pat Shurmur’s offense a great addition, as well as a superstar in the making at receiver. This pick simply fills too big of a need, and holds too much value to not happen if Green were available. Keep an eye on Da’Quan Bowers here as well, if the Browns brass sticks with what they’ve seen on tape and if they love him (which I’m sure a few teams do).

7. San Francisco (6-10) – DE Robert Quinn ~ North Carolina – Agent: Carl Carey - The 49ers hired Greg Manusky as their defensive coordinator who comes over from the Chargers where he was linebackers coach. San Diego stockpiled pass rushers and he will want to do the same in the Bay Area.  As of now the team has average pass rushers at best, with LB Manny Lawson being their top option. The key to this pick is the fact that Lawson is an unrestricted free agent. Quinn is arguably the most gifted pass rusher in the entire draft (along with Von Miller) and projects as a dominant pro. If the 49ers can look past the fact that Quinn missed all of last season due to a suspension, don’t expect a potential sack artist of this level to fall past them. Keep an eye on CB Prince Amukamara here or the first trade of the draft.

8. Tennessee (6-10) – DT Nick Fairley ~ Auburn - Agent: Brian Overstreet - The Titans would be in a great position here to add one of the top talents in this draft. Prince Amukamara or Julio Jones could go here, but I think at the end of the day, with the Titans style of play on defense, Fairley will be too good to pass up. In the beginning of the draft process this year, Fairley was said to be a potential top 2 pick. After time, character concerns have plagued the former Auburn Tiger. Tracy Rocker was Fairley’s mentor and coach at Auburn and is now the Defensive Line Coach in Tennessee. This would be the best possible landing spot for Fairley and he knows it. I have questions about his ability to hold up against the run and the fact that he had only one successful college season in his life. At the end of the day, his talent & potential merits top 10 consideration and the Titans may be the one team who can get his potential to rise to the surface on the next level.

9. Dallas (6-10) – OT Tyron Smith ~ USC - Agent: Lock, Metz, and Malinovic - The Cowboys biggest need is along their offensive line. Although drafting Smith here would be a considerable reach, the former USC Trojan has immense potential and could start on the right side before switching over to the left. I think J.J. Watt or Cameron Jordan are strong possibilities here as well. If Bill Polian’s draft strategy of “We’re assuming all of our unrestricted free agents will not be back” carries through the rest of the league, then this pick makes even more sense. If there is no CBA reached before the draft the Cowboys have several offensive lineman hitting free agency, including the team’s best tackle (Doug Free). Marc Colombo on the other side is a servicable player but the team is in desperate need of an upgrade. Smith has the flair, potential, size, and measurables that Dallas so highly covets. This guy would look good with a star on his helmet in 2011.

10. Washington (6-10) – WR Julio Jones ~ Alabama - Agent: SportsTrust Advisors - Jones is the absolute best player available, although DE J.J. Watt or Cameron Jordan are huge possibilities here as well. Jones has great size (6’3” 220 pounds), very good speed (4.38), a tremendous blocker, and is a warrior who battles through injuries. He also is very polished in his route running and would give the Redskins some much needed youth at the position. Starting receiver Santana Moss is past his prime, so there needs to be an upgrade here. The team likes WR Anthony Armstrong a lot, but they lack a true number one go-to guy and Julio Jones embodies everything that type of player is.

11. Houston (6-10) - DE/OLB Aldon Smith ~ Missouri- Agent:  - Creative Artists Agency – The 30th ranked defense from 2010 will be switching schemes (from a 4-3 to a 3-4) and lack a prototypical 3-4 pass rush specialist. Smith is an extremely intriguing prospect because of his lightning fast hands, daddy long legs he has for arms (35 3/8 inches), quick lateral movement, and an intense desire to hit the quarterback. His run defending has a lot of room for improvement, but this can be worked on by getting stronger and more technically sound. He is very young, and many say if he stayed another year at Missouri he would’ve been a top 10 pick in 2012. Newly hired Defensive Coordinator Wade Phillips (previously the Head Coach of the Cowboys) would love to have his own version of DeMarcus Ware in cross-town rival Houston.

12. Minnesota (6-10) – CB Prince Amukamara ~ Nebraska – Agent: Todd France – I have had QB Jake Locker going here for a while now, but hear me out first. With the 43rd overall pick the Vikings can surely have one of the top 6 quarterbacks in this draft, presumably – Andy Dalton, Christian Ponder, or Colin Kaepernick. If they absolutely love Locker they could trade up at the end of the 1st and get him. (Unless Mike Shanahan pulls a fast one and snags him at 10). With these being distict possibilities, Amukamara is simply the best player available, period. The team has aging/decling CB Antoine Windfield and the often injured/inconsistent Cedric Griffin. This is a team that is not in a rebuilding phase, so taking the player who can help them immediately would be a wise decision. It also helps that Head Coach Leslie Frazier is a former defensive backs coach who would love to mold this kid into a shutdown corner.

13. Detroit (6-10) – OT Anthony Castonzo ~ Boston College – Agent: Creative Artists Agency – The team knows it, the fans know it, I know it, and QB Matthew Stafford knows it; protecting their 41.7+ million dollar investment (that’s just in guaranteed money) is the team’s #1 priority this off-season. LT Jeff Backus could possibly fill-in for one more year while Castonzo plays the right side, althought he would start for my team at left from day one. Protecting the team’s only real hope at breaking out of the basement of the NFL is much more of a requirement then adding depth to the defensive line. Castonzo is a stout tackle who is equally skilled vs the run and pass. This pick is a no-brainer in my mind.

14. St. Louis (7-9) – DE Da’Quan Bowers ~ Clemson - Agent: BTI Sports Advisors - After the college football season people were talking about Bowers going #1 overall. This would be a gigantic drop for the nation’s leading sack artist from 2010, but has a high chance of happening. Bowers knee injury has teams majorly concerned. Head Coach Steve Spagnuolo is a defensive guy who cannot get enough of a pass rush. He built a defensive line empire in New York with the Giants, with depth all over the place. In St. Louis they are far from having this, and Bowers has potential to give them two bookends (the other being Chris Long). Right now, DE James Hall is the other starter who had a phenomenal year in 2010 with 10.5 sacks, but he is 34 years old. Defensive tackle is a bigger need for the Rams, but none of the guys available carries the value that Bowers does at 14. By selecting the ACC Defensive Player of the Year, the defensive line would all of a sudden have depth, and the chance of being truely special at getting after the quarterback.

15. Miami (7-9) – OG/C Mike Pouncey ~ Florida – Agent: Lagardere Unlimited – The Dolphins want to be a 60-40 running football team. They can’t do that without the big men up front to control the line of scrimmage. Pouncey has tremendous versatility, with the ability to come in at center or either guard position. The Dolphins also could go with the commonly mocked RB Mark Ingram here or even reach for a quarterback (Ryan Mallett?) but the wise move in my opinion would be to go with Pouncey. The possibility of him coming in alongside LT Jake Long and being anything close to his brother Maurkice could propel this offense to places they couldn’t imagine a year ago.

16. Jacksonville (8-8) – DE Ryan Kerrigan ~ Purdue – Agent: Athletes First - Jacksonville has soon to be 32 year old Aaron Kampman as their top pass rusher, who is also coming off a torn ligament in his knee this up coming season. Aside from him is a major hole, so defensive end is a huge need for the Jaguars. Kerrigan is one of the safest picks in this draft and holds tremendous value this late. He was one of the most productive players in Purdue history, and is the best out of this defensive end class at stripping the football once he reaches the quarterback Another factor that makes this position the likely choice for Jacksonville; their defense ranked 28th overall and 30th in sacks last year. Kerrigan can immediately help in both departments and Head Coach Jack Del Rio needs all the help he can get this year; time is running out for the former USC Trojan alum.

17. New England – from Oakland (8-8) – DE J.J. Watt ~ Wisconsin – Agent: Creative Artists Agency - This pick seems to be a no-brainer if Watt were to fall this far. At 6’6” 292 pounds, Watt will remind the Patriots of a guy they are all too familiar with – Steelers DE Aaron Smith. Watt is able to fit right in on New England’s 3-4 base defense and he will provide an instant influx of youth and versatility to an aging defensive line. The Patriots have more draft picks then any team in the NFL this year, grabbing Watt first will set them up for a potentially fantastic draft class.

18. San Diego (9-7) – DE Cameron Jordan ~ Cal - Agent: Octagon - San Diego simply needs another defensive lineman for their 3-4 defense. Aside from Luis Castillo, the team has Jacques Cesaire, who is an unrestricted free agent and on the wrong side of 30. Jordan is 6’4″ 287 pounds and has the ability to get to the quarterback and take on the double team. He even has shown flashes of handling dropping into coverage, so you can see the tremendous possibilities he brings to a defense’s arsenal. This pick would solidify the Chargers front seven and allow them to address the rest of their team needs from here on out. San Diego would be wise to take a safe pick such as Jordan, but don’t be surprised if GM A.J. Smith takes a bigger risk, such as CB Jimmy Smith.

19. New York Giants (10-6) - RB Mark Ingram ~ Alabama – Agent: Lagardere Unlimited – The Giants can afford to take the best player available at this point and Ingram is exactly that. Ingram’s father played for the Giants at the height of his career as well. His bruising, between the tackle style suits the rugged NFC East to a tee. The team’s top two runningbacks are both free agents. RB Brandon Jacobs has had major attitude issues, while RB Ahmad Bradshaw has had injury and fumble issues while in New York. The former Heisman Trophy & National Champion brings the pedigree, style of play, and attitude as a runner that the Big Blue covets.

20. Tampa Bay (10-6) - DE Adrian Clayborn ~ Iowa – Agent: The Institutes for Athletes – Tampa Bay is lacking an edge pass rusher as bad as anything on their young defense. Last year they drafted two defensive tackles with their first two picks, this year they will be addressing the end spot early. Clayborn has questions about his Erb’s Palsy disease, which ironically has created zero problems for him since childhood. He has gained a reputation as a technician who gets by with superior effort and intangibles. He has overcome adversity throughout his young life and has been doubted a lot leading up to the draft. This sounds to me like the exact recipe for the kind of player Head Coach Raheem Morris loves.

21. Kansas City (10-6) – OT Gabe Carimi ~ Wisconsin – Agent: Premier Sports – Carimi is a classic Badger lineman; techniqually sound, mean, big (6’6″ 323), and very physical. He is also versatile and could come in from day one as a right tackle, solidifying a glaring hole on the Kansas City offense. Carimi fits the mold of a Scott Pioli type of player and is my favorite tackle in the draft. Keep an eye on NT Phil Taylor and LB Akeem Ayers here as well.

22. Indianapolis (10-6) – OT Nate Solder ~ Colorado – Agent: Athletes First – General Manager Bill Polian has built winning teams for decades and rarely makes a bad decision in the draft. Last season he passed on in-state product OT Rodger Saffold from Indiana and he went on to be one of the top rookie performers in the NFL last season for the Rams. Having also failed on a previous highly selected tackle (Tony Ugoh), you know Polian wants revenge in the worst way. Solder has the best size/athleticism combo of any tackle in this draft but is very raw. The team could ease him into things by putting him on the right or start him as Peyton Manning’s blindside protector from day one. There’s no way Polian can whiff on offensive tackle three times, is there?

23. Philadelphia (10-6) – CB Jimmy Smith ~ Colorado - Agent: Drew Rosenhaus - The Eagles desperately need someone to cover the opposite side of CB Asante Samuel. Smith is a great press man corner which would compliment Samuel’s zone brilliance very nicely. Smith is 6’2″ 200+ pounds and can matchup physically with anybody. His character concerns are legitimate, but his talent makes up for it, especially this far down in the first round. The potential of having two pro bowl caliber corners on the field does a lot for a defense, just ask the Super Bowl Champions.

24. New Orleans (11-5) - DT Cory Liuget ~ Illinois – Agent: Impact Sports - The Saints have one very good defensive end in Will Smith;  he’s been suspended for a banned substance before in his career, is going to be 30 by the start of 2011, and has also been arrested before. On the other side Defensive Coordinator Gregg Williams has gotten a pass rush by committee the last couple seasons. At defensive tackle the team has multiple free agents, including their #1 guy Anthony Hargrove. The line has more holes then swiss cheese and they need to fill one of them early in this draft. Liuget holds too much value at this point to be passed up.

25. Seattle (7-9) – QB Ryan Mallett ~ Arkansas – Agent: J.R. Carroll – Seattle couldn’t reach an agreement with veteran QB Matt Hasselbeck before the season ended and will most likely let the soon-to-be 36 year old walk. Mallett is a risk in a lot of ways, some of which are way overblown. His character concerns especially. It also is worth noting that Head Coach Pete Carroll is a risk taker who will do his homework on Mallett. Mallett has been one of the most productive college quarterbacks in the nation over the last few seasons and has incredible size and arm strength. Mel Kiper has said Mallett’s arm strength is in the top 5 over the last 30 years. Greg Cosell said on twitter that Mallett has the best NFL skill set in the draft. Not only does he have a cannon, he has tremendous touch on his passes. He will need a good offensive line to create a pocket for him to throw out of. His presence inside the pocket is also elite, but he cannot get away from much pressure very well. Seattle has his blindside protector already in place which they can build off of. Mallett could go as high as #15 to Miami as well.

26. Baltimore (12-4) - DE Cameron Heyward ~ Ohio State – Agent: SportsTrust Advisors - The Ravens need another starter along their 3-4 defensive line, especially with the rapid decline of Cory Redding last season. Heyward fits into what Baltimore is all about – extremely tough, hardworking, and a non-stop motor. Heyward can come in and start right away and start; bringing tons of versatility and NFL pedigree as well. GM Ozzie Newsome is one of, if not the best in the business. Newsome will not let Heyward’s ability and potential slip by, especially at such a big need.

27. Atlanta (13-3) - TE Kyle Rudolph ~ Notre Dame – Agent: Athletes First - The Falcons have the aging Tony Gonzalez who has considered retiring before deciding to return for one more run at it. The Falcons run two tight end sets as much as any team in the NFL, so Rudolph would be a stellar #2 for a year before stepping in the following season as QB Matt Ryan’s new security blanket. Rudolph had a great pro day; measuring in at 6’6″ 258, 19 reps of 225, 34.5 inch vertical, and running a solid 4.75. He is the real deal and has the intangibles that GM Thomas Dimitroff covets. Simply a very solid pick for a very solid drafting football team.

28. New England (14-2) - OL Danny Watkins ~ Baylor – Agent: Lock, Metz, Malinovic – The Patriots will have their eyes open early in this draft for Logan Makins replacement, or another player just like him. Watkins is one of the most intriguing prospects in the 2011 NFL Draft. He grew up in Canada playing hockey his whole life and was a firefighter before ever playing a down of football. He started at Baylor the last two years at tackle but projects best as a guard at the next level. He has great balance, violent hands, is able to anchor really well, and finishes blocks. Watkins is the type of player teams like because he doesn’t have many bad habits and is very coachable. He is 26 years old which can scare some teams, but he has only been playing football for two years. Sounds like a Bill Belichick player if I’ve ever heard of one.

29. Chicago (11-5) - DT Phil Taylor ~ Baylor ~ Baylor – Agent: All-Pro Sports – There aren’t many teams who will feel comfortable enough with Taylor, due to him being kicked out of Penn State for being involved in an on-campus brawl. The Bears are one team who are not afraid of bringing anybody in, as long as they have the talent to back it up. Taylor is a mammoth of a man at 6’3″ 334 pounds, who could come in and give them the vital centerpiece that this defense needs after letting Tommie Harris go this past off-season. I love the idea of Taylor being under the wing of one of the game’s greatest teachers – Rod Marinelli.

30. New York Jets (11-5) - DE Muhammad Wilkerson ~ Temple – Agent: Chad Wiestling – The Jets are one team who are not afraid of bringing anybody in, as long as they have the talent to back it up. Wilkerson is a small-school guy who is very versatile and productive at 6’4″ 315 pounds. Current NT Kris Jenkins tore his ACL once again last year and will be 32 during the 2011 season. Wilkerson is a lot like a young Trevor Pryce; who is currently on the roster. Drafting Wilkerson adds much needed depth and would ensure the Jets defense remains among the very best in the NFL for years to come.

31. Pittsburgh (12-4) – OT Derek Sherrod ~ Mississippi State – Agent: Bus Cook – The Steelers would love to add a starter at right tackle and part ways with the very old Flozell Adams. Sherrod is a versatile guy as well which the Steelers love in their lineman. He can come in from day one and solidify the team’s offensive tackle position, giving them bookend tackles (the other being Max Starks).

32. Green Bay (10-6) – LB Akeem Ayers ~ UCLA – Agent: Chuck Price – The former UCLA Bruin was simply one of the best all-around linebackers in the nation last season. He can play the run and pass with equal effectiveness and he possesses a very under rating pass rush arsenal. I love his size (6’3″ 254) and willingness to take on blocks. He has a high football IQ that you see when you watch him play. His workouts without pads on weren’t breathtaking, but that won’t matter as much as everyone says it will. Especially not for one of the very best in the business (GM Ted Thompson) at recognizing talent in overlooked places.

Round 2

1. New England – from Carolina (2-14) – LB Brooks Reed ~ Arizona – Agent: Priority Sports –  New England would love to have a guy who many scouts compare to Clay Matthews. If you remember, last season the Patriots passed on drafting Matthews, so this could be their revenge on the rest of the NFL. Reed plays with an outstanding motor, he possesses all the intangibles you look for, and has big-time explosion off the line. These are qualities that define a New England Patriot football player, so this pick just makes a lot of sense.

2. Buffalo (4-12) – QB Jake Locker ~ Washington – Agent: Athletes First – The Bills Head Coach Chan Gailey loves working with mobile quarterbacks and if Locker slipped this far they would jump all over him. Locker has a big-time arm, escapability that Gailey loves, and the intangibles to succeed in Buffalo. Plus he is used to playing in the cold. This would be a tremendous draft for the Bills if they could come away with Von Miller & Jake Locker with their first two picks.

3. Cincinnati (4-12) – CB/S Aaron Williams ~ Texas – Agent: Creative Artists Agency – The Bengals could go a number of ways at this point, although I’m not sure anybody presents as much value as Williams does. The team has a legitimate unrestricted free agent that they could easily lose this off-season in CB Jonathan Joseph. Selecting Williams here gives them a potential replacement for Joseph, or even a starting safety from day one, which is maybe the weakest position on the entire Bengals team.

4. Denver (4-12) – DT Stephen Paea ~ Oregon State – Agent: Athletes First - I have the Broncos selecting DT Marcell Dareus with the #2 overall pick and Paea would solidify the interior of their line. All of a sudden the team’s weakest link would be replenished and set for years to come. Paea is extremely athletic for a guy his size (6’1” 303). Paea is as strong as an ox (setting the combine record with 49 reps of 225) and is nearly impossible to move out of his position. Paea could possibly elevate the Broncos defense to another level.

5. Cleveland (5-11) – DT Marvin Austin ~ North Carolina – Agent: Maximum Sports - Cleveland is moving over to the 4-3 defense and they desperately need an achor in the middle of their line. Austin is a guy who has extremely impressive measurables (6’2” 309, 38 reps of 225 and a 4.80 40 yard dash). He also has made great strides in rebuilding his character during this off-season, with brilliant performances in all the events he has been involved in so far (Shrine Game, Combine, Pro Day).

6. Arizona (5-11) – LB Justin Houston ~ Georgia – Agent: Lagardere Unlimited – A guy who otherwise has been clean throughout his college career shouldn’t experience a gigantic drop in his draft status from one failed drug test. WR Percy Harvin failed his combine drug test and still went high, I expect Houston’s immense potential to weigh out here as well. The Cardinals desperately need to replace LB Clark Haggans & Joey Porter. Houston is 6’3″ 270 pounds and comes around the edge with scary speed. He could make a defense a whole lot better very quickly. Playing such a high value position in the 3-4 makes him too valuable, especially at this point in the draft.

7. Tennessee (6-10) – QB Andy Dalton ~ TCU – Agent: Select Sports Group – Dalton is a guy who teams have absolutely fallen in love with. In Tennessee, with a new regime, they are in desperate need of a leader the team can rally around. Only QB Colt McCoy has won more football games in Division I history then Andy Dalton has at TCU. Dalton would be the polar opposite personality of Vince Young, which is probably exactly what this franchise needs.

8. Dallas (6-10) – S Rahim Moore ~ UCLA - Agent: Impact Sports - Dallas has been dreadful at the safety position for years and will be seeking a ballhawk in this draft. Moore had 11 interceptions the last two years at UCLA and could finally give the Cowboys a reliable guy at safety. Moore also holds tremendous value at #40 overall.

9. Washington (6-10) – QB Colin Kaepernick ~ Nevada – Agent: XAM Sports -  Kaepernick is big (6’5″ 233) with an even bigger arm, and last year he became the only quarterback in Division 1 history to pass for over 10,000 yards and rush for over 4,000 in a college career. Head Coach Mike Shanahan could envision Kaepernick as being a blend of Jake Plummer and Jay Cutler – two players who fit his offense perfectly. Kaepernick could reap the benefits of going to this system, and this may be the best possible landing spot for the NCAA record setting QB from Nevada.

10. Houston (6-10) – CB Brandon Harris ~ Miami - Agent: Infinite Sports Concepts – Harris is a guy who could sneak into the bottom of the first round. He had the best combine out of all the corners, especially in the drills. Harris plays with a big-time swagger and is fearless in run support. Houston had the 32nd ranked pass defense in the NFL last season and would be elated to fill such a huge need with excellent value in Harris.

11. Minnesota (6-10) – QB Christian Ponder ~ Florida State – Agent: SportsTrust Advisors – If the Vikings pass on QB Jake Locker early, then they will surely look for QB Brett Favre’s replacement with this pick. Of course a trade up for a quarterback is a distinct possibility as well, I won’t predict trades in this mock (shooting into the dark). Ponder is a very accurate quarterback who makes smart decisions. He also has great intangibles and has been called a leader by everyone who knows him.

12. Detroit (6-10) – DE Jabaal Sheard ~ Pittsburgh - Agent: Rosenhaus Sports - The Lions hit the lottery last year on drafting Ndamukong Suh and DE Kyle Vanden Bosch is solid but getting older. Sheard is a guy who had great post-season workouts, and would fit a big need for the Lions. This is about where many people expect Sheard to go come draft day.

13. San Francisco (6-10) – DE Allen Bailey ~ Miami - Agent: Terry Watson – Bailey is basically an athletic freak, he is 6’3” 285 pounds, ran a 4.76 at the combine, benched 225 27 times, and posted a 36.5 inch vertical. He also has 34 inch long arms, which he uses very well to keep offensive lineman off of him. He had so much hype at the “U” that it was nearly impossible for him to live up to it since teams focused so much of their attention on him. The 49ers need to upgrade their three man front badly, Bailey is an ideal fit for the 5 technique.

14. Denver – from Miami (7-9) – RB Mikel LeShoure ~ Illinois – Agent: Blueprint Sports Group – Denver needs a compliment to RB Knowshon Moreno (especially since he can’t seem to stay healthy), Leshoure ran a 4.56 at the combine and posted a 38 inch vertical. He has the ability to get to the edge and once he gets to the second level, it’s like a bowling ball hitting pins. In Head Coach John Fox’s offense, a power runningback is a must have, so Leshoure (6’0″ 227) makes the most sense here.

15. St. Louis (7-9) – WR Torrey Smith ~ Maryland – Agent: Drew Rosenhaus – The Rams would love to be able to draft Julio Jones at #14 but I don’t see that being a possibility unless they trade up to take him. Assuming they don’t and address a need along their defensive line, Smith could very easily be the pick here. The Maryland product has very good measurables (6’1″ 204, 4.43 40, 41 inch vertical) and does not drink or smoke. He is a high-character guy who will give future Pro Bowler Sam Bradford a much needed weapon to add to his arsenal.

16. Oakland (8-8) - LB Bruce Carter ~ North Carolina – Agent: Champion Pro Consulting – The Raiders went linebacker with their first pick last year and I see them doing the same again this year if Carter were to fall this far. At UNC, Carter was tabbed as one of the athletic freaks of the team and for good reason, this guy has sideline to sideline speed and at 6’2″ 240, the size/speed combo that Owner Al Davis loves in his linebackers. Carter can come in and have a starting position from day one because of the hole at outside linebacker. This would be one more piece to plug into one of the more underrated defenses in the league.

17. Jacksonville (8-8) -  WR Leonard Hankerson ~ Miami – Agent: Lagardere Unlimited – Jacksonville let their #1 receiver Mike Simms-Wallace go via free agency this off-season and they were already a weak receiving core. Hankerson is a legitimate red-zone threat and was one of the most productive receivers in Miami’s rich history. He could come in and give this offense a much needed presence to keep some pressure off the team’s best player – RB Maurice Jones-Drew.

18. San Diego (9-7) – WR Greg Little ~ North Carolina – Agent: Octagon - The Chargers have WR Vincent Jackson who isn’t guaranteed to be coming back, as well as other free agents at the position. Little is rising up draft boards with superior athleticism and strength, as well as some of the best hands in the draft. Don’t be surprised if GM A.J. Smith found a replacement for Vincent Jackson here and bid him farewell.

19. Tampa Bay (10-6) – CB Ras-I Dowling ~ Virginia – Agent: Sunny Shah – Ras-I Dowling is a special athlete at corner; he’s 6’1” 198, ran a 4.40 at the combine, and he is an extremely competitive player. The Bucs have Aqib Talib who is a supremely talented guy but simply can’t stay out of trouble and his chances could be running out (how haven’t they already?). CB Ronde Barber is close to being a senior citizen so the team needs to add depth and a likely starter sooner rather then later.

20. New York Giants (10-6) – LB Martez Wilson ~ Illinois – Agent: Professional Sports Planning – This could allow the Giants to not re-sign Chase Blackburn (who is an average starter at best) and go with the big (6’4” 250) fast (4.44) and athletic (36 inch vertical) Wilson. This kid could sneak into the bottom of the first based off his combine alone, but his tape isn’t as tantalizing. This is a perfect landing spot for him, giving the Giants great value, while filling a need as well.

21. Indianapolis (10-6) - CB Curtis Brown ~ Texas – Agent: Allegiant Athletic Agency - The Colts still need another corner to come in and play nickel. Brown was under the radar all season long but was very underrated at Texas and has great size. He could come in and give the team competition at a vital position. This pick allows them to improve their chances on competing against the tremendous passing games sprouting across the NFL.

22. Philadelphia (10-6) – OT Jah Reid ~ Central Florida - Agent: Derrick Fox Inc. – At 6’7″ 327 pounds, Reid has a massive body and the tenacity needed to succeed at this level. The Eagles need somebody to come in and compete with Winston Justice and potentially replace him. Reid is still a raw prospect and could sit on the bench for a year while developing. Andy Reid loves big, nasty offensive lineman and his staff could mold him into a solid starter.

23. Kansas City (10-6) – WR Jonathan Baldwin ~ Pittsburgh – Agent: Priority Sports - The Chiefs desperately need another playmaker across from Dwayne Bowe. Baldwin is a guy that I’m sure a couple teams have fell in love with and he could be a guy who goes much higher or much lower then people expect. With a stellar performance at the combine, running a 4.50 at 6’4” 228 pounds, he has the makings of a true #1 receiver.

24. New Orleans (11-5) – LB Mason Foster ~ Washington – Agent: Caric Sports – When you talk about poor linebacking core’s in the NFL, it doesn’t get much worse then what is in the Big Easy. Aside from LB Jonathan Vilma, this team desperately needs an upgrade. LB Scott Shanle is serviceable, but Defensive Coordinator Gregg Williams is tired of “serviceable” at this position. Foster is one of the best run defending backers in this class and was a leader at Washington. He would come in from day one and provide youth & a much needed upgrade to this aggressive defense.

25. Seattle (7-9) – C/G Stefen Wisniewski ~ Penn State – Agent: Eastern Athletic Services – The Seahawks need to replace C Chris Spencer, who can’t stay healthy. Current OL Max Unger is a guy I scouted at the 2009 Senior Bowl and was a much better guard then center in my opinion. Wisniewski is a better suited center, so this pick fills a need for the Seahawks and gives them a pro ready lineman from the get go.

26. Baltimore (12-4) – OT Joseph Barksdale ~ LSU – Agent: Sunny Shah – General Manger Ozzie Newsome is one of the very best at what he does. He drafts guys based off of their tape, not letting their measurables carry too much weight. Barksdale has the size (6’5” 325) to match up in the supremely physical AFC North and the technique to start sooner rather than later on the next level. He is very sound against the run and pass and can play either tackle position. With current Ravens OT Jared Gaither’s health in question, this is more of a luxury pick that would solidify the Ravens offensive line.

27. Atlanta (13-3) – WR Randall Cobb ~ Kentucky – Agent: SportsTrust Advisors - Atlanta is letting WR Brian Finneran go, WR Harry Douglas has only been hurt & underachieved lately, and WR Michael Jenkins is painfully inconsistent. Opposing teams will begin to double team & rotate coverage more and more towards WR Roddy White’s side, making the offense more predictable. Before this happens, Atlanta has a chance to add a weapon opposite White’s side. Cobb is a dynamic playmaker who can turn on the burners and fly, make people miss, and go the distance anytime he touches the ball. His style of play would add another dimension to this offense and possibly elevate them to new heights next season. GM Thomas Dimitroff knows how to find the diamond in the rough prospects, Cobb is exactly that.

28. New England (14-2) – RB Ryan Williams ~ Virginia Tech – Agent: Malik Shareef – When you are as successful of a team as the Patriots are, come draft day, you are able to draft for value a little more then the average team who would have to address needs first. I love how hard Williams runs, his underrated hands, and willingness to block. Getting a guy like Williams here is a pure steal. New England always likes to have a stable of tailbacks and with Fred Taylor, Sammy Morris, and Kevin Faulk all unrestricted free agents this guy would be an upgrade over all of them.

29. San Diego – from New York Jets (11-5) – LB Quan Sturdivant ~ North Carolina – Agent: Athletes First –  The Chargers three middle linebackers (Kevin Burnett, Stephen Cooper, and Brandon Siler) are all free agents. San Diego will most likely re-sign one of them if not two. Sturdivant was a big-time playmaker at North Carolina and is a very intruiging prospect. He is 6’1” 241, and plays a hard-nose, downhill style football; a perfect pedigree for the 3-4 ILB position.

30. Chicago (11-5) - OG/OT Ben Ijalana ~ Villanova – Agent: Eastern Athletic Services – Offensive Line Coach Mike Tice wants a player to mold into a guy who can protect QB Jay Cutler for the future. Ijalana was a star at Villanova and offers tons of versatility. Ijalana would be a great addition to a struggling Bears offensive line who needs help at both guard and tackle.

31. Pittsburgh (12-4) – OL Will Rackley ~ Lehigh - Agent: SportsStars - Pittsburgh needs a versatile offensive lineman to add to the mix. Last season injuries once again desimated their offensive line and they need to add depth in this draft. Rackley can play multiple positions and has garnered tons of interest from teams at his pro day.

32. Green Bay (10-6) - WR Titus Young ~ Boise State – Agent: Pro Sports Planning - The Packers will be looking for Donald Driver’s replacement. Young is a burner who can bring a dimension to this offense that they simply don’t have (elite speed). This is a prime example of the rich getting richer and gaining pure value at the end of the 2nd round.

Mock friends: No Limit Sportsline | Da Bears and Bulls | NFL Draft Dog

The Sports Agent Blog 2011 NFL Mock Draft from Sports Agent Blog - Sports Business, Sports Law, Sports Negotiations, NCAA Rules

When news broke in July 2009 that Michael Johnson, the 3rd round pick of the Cincinnati Bengals, had signed before the team was about to report to camp, Richard Kopelman‘s name was listed as Johnson’s agent.  He negotiated a $863,000 guaranteed (with a total maximum value of $3.47 million) contract for his client.  Kopelman was also there for Johnson when the Cincinnati Bengal hosted his first “See it First…Vision for Success” youth football camp, which was an effort to give back to his hometown of Selma, Alabama.

Michael Johnson no longer sees Kopelman being a part of the picture, though.  He has dropped Kopelman for Alvin Keels of Corporate Athletic Mgmt.  Was Johnson’s mother, Thomasene, a part of that decision making process?  After all, she is Johnson’s business manager, who also took the lead in organizing and running his football camp.

It is a nice present for Keels, who must be on a high anyway after his client, Leon Washington, broke the San Diego Chargers special teams for two touchdowns in a Seattle Seahawks win this past weekend.

Someone might want to tell Johnson that Kopelman’s firm is still listed as a “Preferred Partner” on Johnson’s official website.

On To The Next One: Michael Johnson from Sports Agent Blog - Sports Business, Sports Law, Sports Negotiations, NCAA Rules

ROUND ONE

1. St. Louis Rams – Sam Bradford – QB – Oklahoma (CAA)

2. Detroit Lions – Nndamukong Suh – DT – Nebraska (Maximum Sports)

3. Tampa Bay Buccaneers – Gerald McCoy – DT – Oklahoma (CAA/Kelli Masters)

4. Washington Redskins – Russell Okung – OT – Oklahoma State (All-Pro Sports)

5. Kansas City Chiefs – Trent Williams – OT – Oklahoma  (Maximum Sports)

6. Seattle Seahawks – CJ Spiller – RB – Clemson (Pro Tect Mgmt)

7. Cleveland Browns – Eric Berry – S – Tennessee (Allegiant Athletic Agency)

8. Oakland Raiders – Bryan Bulaga – OT – Iowa  (CAA)

9. Buffalo Bills – Anthony Davis – OT – Rutgers (320 Sports)

10. Jacksonville Jaguars – Rolando McClain – LB – Alabama (ProFiles)

11. Denver Broncos (from Chicago) – Dez Bryant – WR – Oklahoma State (Maximum Sports)

12. Miami Dolphins – Dan Williams – DT – Tennessee (FAAM)

13. San Francisco 49ers – Joe Haden – CB – Florida (DSI Sports)

14. Seattle (from Denver) – Bruce Campbell – OT – Maryland (Rosenhaus Sports)

15. New York Giants – Derrick Morgan – DE – Georgia Tech (CAA)

16. Tennessee Titans – Jason Pierre-Paul – DE – South Florida (Rosenhaus Sports)

17. San Francisco (from Carolina) – Mike Iupati – OG – Idaho (Rep 1 Sports)

18. Pittsburgh Steelers – Earl Thomas – S – Texas (Athletes First)

19. Atlanta Falcons – Sean Weatherspoon – LB – Missouri (Athletes First)

20. Houston Texans – Ryan Mathews – RB – Fresno State (Sun West Sports)

21. Cincinnati Bengals – Jermaine Gresham – TE – Oklahoma (CAA)

22. New England Patriots – Brandon Graham – DE/OLB – Michigan (BEST)

23. Green Bay Packers – Charles Brown – OT – USC (Premier Sports)

24. Philadelphia Eagles – Kyle Wilson – CB – Boise State (BEST)

25. Baltimore Ravens – Jared Odrick – DT – Penn State (All-Pro Sports)

26. Arizona Cardinals – Kareem Jackson – CB – Alabama (Impact Sports)

27. Dallas Cowboys – Vladimir Ducasse – OT – Umass (JL Sports)

28. San Diego Chargers – Devin McCourty – CB – Rutgers (PlayersRep)

29. New York Jets – Terrence Cody – DT – Alabama (Corporate Athletic Mgmt)

30. Minnesota Vikings – Maurkice Pouncey – C – Florida (BEST)

31. Indianapolis Colts – Brian Price – DT – UCLA (4^th and 9 Sports)

32. New Orleans Saints – Sergio Kindle – LB – Texas (BEST)

ROUND TWO

33. St. Louis Rams – Demaryius Thomas – WR – Georgia Tech (FAAM)

34. Detroit Lions – Dominique Franks – CB – Oklahoma (Octagon)

35. Tampa Bay Buccaneers – Golden Tate – WR – Notre Dame (Eastern Athletic Svcs)

36. Kansas City Chiefs – Rob Gronkowski – TE – Arizona (Rosenhaus Sports)

37. Philadelphia Eagles (from Washington) – Taylor Mays – S – USC (Pro Tect Mgmt)

38. Cleveland Browns – Colt McCoy – QB – Texas (Athletes First)

39. Oakland Raiders – Nate Allen – S – South Florida (FAAM)

40. San Diego (from Seattle) – Jonathan Dwyer – RB – Georgia Tech (Dow, Lohnes LLC)

41. Buffalo Bills – Jimmy Clausen – QB – Notre Dame (Pro Tect Mgmt)

42. Tampa Bay (from Chicago) – Brandon LaFell – WR – LSU (E. Overstreet Sports)

43. Denver Broncos (from Miami) – Reshad Jones – S – Georgia (BEST)

44. New England Patriots (from Jax) – Rodger Saffold – OT – Indiana (SportStars)

45. Denver Broncos – Jerry Hughes – LB – TCU (CAA)

46. New York Giants – Morgan Burnett – FS – Georgia Tech (Universal Sports)

47. New England Patriots (from Tenn) – Jimmy Graham – TE – Miami (Athletic Resource Mgmt)

48. Carolina Panthers – Arrelious Benn – WR – Illinois (Pro Tect Mgmt)

49. San Francisco 49ers – Everson Griffen – DE – USC (Pro Tect Mgmt)

50. Kansas City Chiefs (from Atlanta) – Carlos Dunlap – DE – Florida (FAAM)

51. Houston Texans – Major Wright – S – Florida (Impact Sports)

52. Pittsburgh Steelers – Jared Veldheer – OT – Hillsdale (Priority Sports)

53. New England Patriots – Jahvid Best – RB – California (Impact Sports)

54. Cincinnati Bengals – Patrick Robinson – CB – Florida State (Universal Sports)

55. Philadelphia Eagles – Tyson Alualu – DT – California (Priority Sports)

56. Green Bay Packers – Ben Tate – RB – Auburn (All Pro Sports)

57. Baltimore Ravens – Jon Asamoah – OG – Illinois (Lock, Metz, Mallinovic)

58. Arizona Cardinals – Tim Tebow – QB – Florida (Athletic Resource Mgmt)

59. Dallas Cowboys – Amari Spievey – CB – Iowa (PlayersRep)

60. Seattle (from San Diego) – Carlton Mitchell – WR – South Florida (Domann & Pittman)

61. New York Jets – Darrell Stuckey – S – Kansas (DeBartolo Sports)

62. Minnesota Vikings – Tony Pike – QB – Cincinnati (Rep 1 Sports)

63. Indianapolis Colts – Matt Tennant – C – Boston College (Athletes First)

64. New Orleans Saints – T.J. Ward – S – Oregon (Synergy Sports)

ROUND THREE

65. St. Louis Rams – Lamarr Houston – DT – Texas (Willis & Woy Sports Grp)

66. Detroit Lions – John Jerry – OT – Mississippi (BC Sports)

67. Tampa Bay Buccaneers – Chad Jones – S – LSU (Alliance Mgmt)

68. Kansas City Chiefs – Damian Williams – WR – USC (Athletes First)

69. Oakland Raiders – Matt Nichols – QB – Eastern Washington (N/A)

70. Philadelphia Eagles (from Seattle) – Zane Beadles – OG – Utah (Rep 1 Sports)

71. Cleveland Browns – Eric Decker – WR – Minnesota (FAAM)

72. Buffalo Bills – Marty Gilyard – WR – Cincinnati (PlayersRep)

73. Miami Dolphins – Dennis Pitta – TE – BYU (Athletes First)

74. Jacksonville Jaguars – Chris Cook – CB – Virginia (Enter-Sports)

75. Chicago Bears – Selvish Capers – OT – West Virginia (PlayersRep)

76. New York Giants – Mike Johnson – OG – Alabama (ProFiles)

77. Tennessee Titans – Javier Arenas – CB – Alabama (All-Pro Sports)

78. Carolina Panthers – Corey Wootton – DE – Northwestern (Priority Sports)

79. San Francisco 49ers – Mitch Petrus – OG – Arkansas (SportStars)

80. Denver Broncos – Aaron Hernandez – TE – Florida (Athletes First)

81. Houston Texans – Tony Washington – OT – Abilene Christian (Select Sports Group)

82. Pittsburgh Steelers – Joe McKnight – RB – USC (Maximum Sports)

83. Atlanta Falcons – Akwasi Owusu-Ansah – CB – Indiana (PA) (PlayersRep)

84. Cincinnati Bengals – Montario Hardesty – RB – Tennessee  (Impact Sports)

85. Cleveland Browns (from New England) – Cam Thomas – DT – North Carolina (Enter-Sports)

86. Green Bay Packers – Myron Rolle – S – Florida State (Steinberg Sports)

87. Philadelphia Eagles – Novorro Bowman – LB – Penn State (Rosenhaus Sports)

88. Arizona Cardinals (from Baltimore) – Kyle Calloway – OT – Iowa (SportStars)

89. Arizona Cardinals – Jordan Shipley – WR – Texas (ProFiles)

90. Dallas Cowboys – Larry Asante – S – Nebraska (Select Sports Group)

91. San Diego Chargers – Alex Carrington – DE – Arkansas State (Maximum Sports)

92. Cleveland Browns (from NYJ) – Syd’Quan Thompson – CB – California (Octagon)

93. Minnesota Vikings – Trevard Lindley – CB – Kansas (GAME)

94. Indianapolis Colts – Donovan Warren – CB – Michigan (Rosenhaus Sports)

95. New Orleans Saints – D’Anthony Smith – DT – Louisiana Tech (BC Sports)

96. Cincinnati Bengals – Dezmon Briscoe – WR – Kansas (Premier Sports)

97. Tennessee Titans – Shawn Lauvao – OG – Arizona State (Athletes First)

98. Atlanta Falcons – Dexter McCluster – RB – Mississippi (SportStars)

ROUND FOUR

99. St. Louis Rams – Sam Young – OT – Notre Dame (Rosenhaus Sports)

100. Detroit Lions – Toby Gerhart – RB – Stanford (Athletes First)

101. Tampa Bay Buccaneers – Sergio Render – OG – Virginia Tech (N/A)

102. Kansas City Chiefs – Barry Church – S – Toledo (Rep 1 Sports)

103. Washington Redskins – Taylor Price – WR – Ohio (BTI Sports)

104. Seattle Seahawks – Arthur Jones – DT – Syracuse (Lock, Metz, Mallinovic)

105. Philadelphia Eagles (from Cle) – Sean Lee – LB – Penn State  (Priority Sports)

106. Oakland Raiders – Brandon Lang – DE – Troy (Enter-Sports)

107. Buffalo Bills – Dorin Dickerson – TE – Pittsburgh (PlayersRep)

108. Jacksonville Jaguars – Anthony McCoy – TE – USC (Priority Sports)

109. Chicago Bears – Perrish Cox – CB – Oklahoma State  (Willis & Woy Sports Group)

110. Miami Dolphins – Harry Coleman – S – LSU (Perennial Sports)

111. Tennessee Titans – Kurt Coleman – S – Ohio State (The Institute for Players)

112. Carolina Panthers – Adam Ulatoski – OT – Texas (Lock, Metz, Malinovic)

113. San Francisco 49ers – Dan LeFevour – QB – Central Michigan (ProFiles)

114. Denver Broncos – Ed Dickson – TE – Oregon (The NOVO Agency)

115. New York Giants – Brandon Spikes – LB – Florida (Watson Sports Agency)

116. Pittsburgh Steelers – Al Woods – DT – LSU (Elias Sports)

117. Atlanta Falcons – Jason Fox – OT – Miami (Rosenhaus Sports)

118. Houston Texans – Linval Joseph – DT – East Carolina (ProFiles)

119. New England Patriots – Kendrick Lewis – S – Mississippi (BC Sports)

120. Cincinnati Bengals – J.D. Walton – C – Baylor (ProFiles)

121. Philadelphia Eagles – Brandon Ghee – CB – Wake Forest (Octagon)

122. Green Bay Packers – Gene Atkins – DT – Georgia (ProFiles)

123. Arizona Cardinals (from BAL) – Andre Roberts – WR – The Citadel (XAM Sports)

124. New York Jets (from ARI) – Riley Cooper – WR – Florida (BEST)

125. Dallas Cowboys – Jacoby Ford – WR – Clemson (FAAM)

126. San Diego Chargers – Danario Alexander – WR – Missouri (Select Sports Group)

127. Seattle Seahawks (from PHI) – John Skelton – QB – Fordham (Schwartz & Feinsod)

128. Minnesota Vikings – Rennie Curran – LB – Georgia (Priority Sports)

129. Indianapolis Colts – Justin Woodall – S – Alabama (Corporate Athletic Mgmt)

130. New Orleans Saints – Ciron Black – OT – LSU (Athletic Resource Management)

131. Cincinnati Bengals – Kam Chancellor – S – Virginia Tech (Business Arena)

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

The SportsAgentBlog.com 2010 NFL Mock Draft from Sports Agent Blog - Sports Business, Sports Law, Sports Negotiations, NCAA Rules

-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.

Schackman’s 2009 NFL Mock Draft…….Part 2 from Sports Agent Blog - Sports Business, Sports Law, Sports Negotiations, NCAA Rules

• 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.

What’s The NFL Free Agency Word? from Sports Agent Blog - Sports Business, Sports Law, Sports Negotiations, NCAA Rules

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.

Schackman’s 2009 NFL Mock Draft – Part 1 from Sports Agent Blog - Sports Business, Sports Law, Sports Negotiations, NCAA Rules

The Jaguars’ displeasure with the Harvey holdout has been made pretty apparent. Harvey’s representatives want money similar to what the 7^th pick, Sedrick Ellis received. The Jaguars are reluctant to come close to such an offer.

Not only are the Harvey negotiations affecting the Jaguars, but it is seemingly affecting the Cincinnati Bengals as well. The Rivers’ camp is having a difficult time getting a deal done, for they are trying to gauge what type of numbers Derrick Harvey will receive.

As an agent, you never want to get your client what may turn out to be a low ball deal. But at the same time, you can’t sit on your thumbs waiting for another player to get signed.

I believe that in this situation, his representatives have to put a value on how important it is for Keith Rivers to start. The more camp he misses, the greater chance there is for Rivers to lose out on a starting position. Talent wise, there is no question that he can start for the Bengals, but he sorely needs to get his repetitions in.

Getting into camp on time and winning that starting position is worth a lot more than some may think. A perfect example of what can result from getting into camp on time is the season Patrick Willis had last year. Not only did he earn a trip to the Pro Bowl, but he was also named Defensive Rookie of the Year.

Going Down a Winding River from Sports Agent Blog - Sports Business, Sports Law, Sports Negotiations, NCAA Rules

• SBJ loves itself some Octagon [Octagon Named 'Sports Agency of the Year' by Sports Business Journal].
• Busy week for D-Mac…he was out house hunting while his agent secured him $26 million guaranteed [McFadden agrees to six-year, $60 million deal with Raiders].
• Seems like the Cowboys got T.O. at a bargain price [Cowboys give Owens new 4-year, $34 million deal].
• The Bengals locked up a rare diamond in their large rough [Big deal for Big Willie means more than big money].
• WMG’s 2008 NBA roster is starting to look straight-up scary [Augustin hires agent].
• O.J. Mayo expected to sign with Leon Rose next week [Word on the Street: Workouts, Trade Rumors Heat Up].
• Kevin Love is already thinking 401(k)s [The Love of Money].
• Tiger Woods is really, really, really wealthy [SI.com - The Fortunate 50].
• She’s hot, and her wrist is now icy [Ivanovic Signs With Rolex].
• It’s too bad I don’t own Deadspin.com [Top 50 Most Valuable Sports Social Networks According to dnScoop].
• Paul DePodesta has a blog…if you read Moneyball, you know exactly who I am talking about [It Might Be Dangerous... You Go First].

Shabbat Shalom: Friday Wrap-Up from Sports Agent Blog - Sports Business, Sports Law, Sports Negotiations, NCAA Rules

The MLB Steroids Situation Doesn’t Seem That Bad Anymore from Sports Agent Blog - Sports Business, Sports Law, Sports Negotiations, NCAA Rules