2015 NFL Draft: Post-Week One of Free Agency Mock Draft
This year’s draft has already begun in a sense as picks have been changed via free agency; the most prominent of which was the Seahawks trading away their first round selection (along with Max Unger) to the Saint in exchange for Jimmy Graham. I suspect we may see several trades with year before the first round is over, which only adds to the draft’s excitement and intrigue.
Reflecting upon the first week of free agency, the league has seen a significant shake up. A flurry of trades look place on Day One and the news didn’t seem to slow down until recently. Even today, a two-time champion, and defending champion at that, Vince Wilfork signed on in Houston, so slowing down is a relative word.
After this period of intense change, the focus of several teams heading into April’s NFL draft has been altered. Acquired players are as much to blame as any team’s losses after such a wild Week One. And despite all the excitement and change, remarkably there are teams that haven’t changed much; this list amazingly does not include the Cincinnati Bengals who actually participated this year despite its reputation for seemingly forgetting that free agency even exists.
With all the change that’s taken place, it seems appropriate to see how the NFL draft has changed with respect to the league’s new landscape.
Jan 1, 2015; Pasadena, CA, USA; Florida State Seminoles quarterback Jameis Winston (5) passes the ball during the second half of the 2015 Rose Bowl college football game against the Oregon Ducks at Rose Bowl. Mandatory Credit: Jayne Kamin-Oncea-USA TODAY Sports
1. player. 48. Despite any improvements the team has made during free agency acquiring a quarterback is paramount to this team’s future. Winston has been regarded as one of the best quarterback prospects in recent history. Given he comes with some off-the-field concerns, the Buccaneers have made it clear they’re <a href=. Quarterback. Florida State. Jameis Winston
Southern California. Leonard Williams. 2. player. 35. After acquiring Brian Orakpo in free agency, the defense is on the up. Leonard Williams may be the best prospect in the entire draft and his presence within the Titans’ defense could help turn this entire unit around. The impact he, Orakpo, and Jurrell Casey could have when rushing the passer could be incredible. He’ll also ensure the team is prepared to deal with any rushing attack. With the team considering <a href=. Defensive Tackle
52. I remain convinced the Jaguars will seek to <a href=. Linebacker. Florida. Dante Fowler Jr.. 3. player
28. The Raiders may be making strides towards betterment after adding some intriguing pieces during free agency: Dan Williams, Lee Smith, Malcolm Smith, Rodney Hudson, and Nate Allen. Yet they still lack the receiving threat that will help Derek Carr mature. Amari Cooper is the draft’s safest pick at receiver. His strength and versatility will allow him to get open anywhere for his new partner in crime under center.. Wide Receiver. Alabama. Amari Cooper. 4. player
This pick also remains the same. With the installment of a new regime, the Jets are looking to revamp all over. Todd Bowles will continue to maintain their defense’s promise, especially with Darrelle Revis’ addition, but the offense needs a serious overhaul. Marcus Mariota becomes the offense’s new face and maybe it’s promise for the future.. Quarterback. Oregon. Marcus Mariota. 6. player. 30
Defensive Tackle. Washington. Danny Shelton. 7. player. 57. With Vic Beasley off the board, the Bears turn their attention elsewhere. John Fox certainly enjoyed the benefits of a dominant nose tackle in Denver with Terrance Knighton. Danny Shelton could be all that and more. He’ll help sure up the team’s rush defense while helping spearhead it’s transition to the 3-4 defense. Vic Fangio loves his linebackers, but I believe he’ll side with a nose tackle here.
The Falcons’ biggest need lies obviously in its lacking pass rush. Dan Quinn has taken the reigns in Atlanta and Gregory is a great prospect to start with. He’ll definitely need some work in the weight room to become a complete player, but he can help this team’s pass rush from Day One. Gregory seems like a good fit and will get the coaching he needs.. Defensive End. Nebraska. Randy Gregory. 8. player. 44
Next: Selections 9-16