Mock drafts are a great way to see how things could turn out. I have decided to make one releasing it in 5-10 pick segments until the draft is complete.
1. Carolina Panthers: Marcell Dareus, DT, Alabama
For the most part, the consensus is that Marcell Dareus is the best player in this year's draft. Not only would he make a D-Line better after its production significantly dropped last year via Julius Peppers leaving, but last year the team invested a second-round draft pick on a Quarterback. The new regime may want to get "their" quarterback, however Marcell Dareus is not a talent you can just pass up.
2. Denver Broncos: Da'Quan Bowers, DE, Clemson
Bowers is a freak athletically, and was on top of big boards for most of the year. He is currently having some knee issues, but really, it's the NFL, players get injured, and it's nothing serious. I believe he can turn out to be the best pass-rusher in this draft. The Broncos need a pass-rusher, and Bowers is a better fit for their system than Von Miller.
3. Buffalo Bills: Blaine Gabbert, QB, Missouri
Ryan Fitzpatrick is not going to cut it if you plan on being successful in the NFL. Plaining on simple. The Bills need a Quarterback, and Gabbert is the best in this year's class. After years off sub-par play, the Bills do not need to take a risk on a guy like Cam Newton.
4. Cincinnati Bengals: A.J. Green, WR, Georgia
The Bengals love their Wide Receivers and A.J. Green has all the tools to become a great one. Carson Palmer is not happy in Cincy, and there are two ways to make a QB more happy: Give him better protection, or upgrade his targets to throw to. Seeing how there isn't a top-5 Offensive Lineman talent in the draft, giving him targets seem like the logical choice. Any Quarterback would be happy throwing to a talent like Green.
5. Arizona Cardinals: Von Miller, DE/OLB, Texas A&M
The Cardinals have lots of holes to fill on their team. Pass-rusher is on of them, and Von Miller has the tools to become a great one. He also fits into their system. Cam Newton could be another option Arizona has to choose from, but Miller seems like a safer pick at this point. When you have lots of holes to fill already, you do not want to set your team back by making draft choices that do not pan out.
