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December Mock Draft, Three Rounds

It's that time of the year again. With only a few weeks of football left for the teams that will miss the playoffs and the college season winding to a close, thoughts turn to next year's draft. For Bucs fans, it's perhaps understandable that our thoughts may stray there more than many others: we're all but eliminated from the playoffs and our current management's "build through the draft" mantra places added emphasis on fixing our team's issues via the draft.

It's very early, of course. We still don't have the final draft order or supplemental picks, free agency hasn't started, retirements haven't been announced, lots of juniors and sophomores haven't yet declared their intentions, and combines and team interviews always shuffle the big boards. In the coming weeks and months, I'll write assessments on our need positions and scouting reports for promising prospects. For now, here's a preliminary look at how I presently see the draft shaping up for the Bucs and the rest of the league.

A couple of notes:

  • I haven't included trades. They're notoriously difficult to predict, especially this far ahead of time.
  • Positions are based on a projection of the final five weeks of the season and the playoffs. I don't want to believe that the Bucs will finish 6-10 but until they prove me wrong, that's the objective projection based on the season to date. Tiebreakers are determined by strength of schedule.
  • There are a lot of players included who might stay in school. When mock drafting this early, I find it easier to presume that a player will be declaring until they have definitively stated that they won't.
  • Feedback is always welcome.

Star-divide

1. Indianapolis, Projected record: 0-16

Andrew Luck, QB, Stanford

Will they keep him? I think so.

2. Minnesota, Projected record: 2-14

Matt Kalil, OT, USC

Possibly the Vikings would look to trade down and get some extra picks. If they don't, I think that Kalil is the best value pick- a long term answer at LT.

3. St. Louis, Projected record: 2-14

Justin Blackmon, WR, Oklahoma State

In this scenario, with Kalil off the board, I think that the Rams put the O-line off for a round and take Blackmon. If Bradford can remain upright, he'll have an amazing new weapon.

4. Miami, Projected record: 3-13

Robert Griffin III, QB, Baylor

Miami won't hesitate to pull the trigger on Griffin, who's burned his way up draft boards due to a phenomenal season. With Griffin, the Dolphins would finally get their franchise QB.

5. Jacksonville, Projected record: 4-12

Alshon Jeffery, WR, South Carolina

There are several directions that Jacksonville could go with this pick, but at the end of the day their defense has actually been pretty good this year and they have less than nothing at WR. Jeffery's projects as the #2 receiver in the draft and has the physical gifts to be the #1 receiver for Blaine Gabbert on day one of he 2012 season.

6. Carolina, Projected record: 4-12

Morris Claiborne, CB, LSU

With the top two WRs off the board, the BPA that fits a need for the Panthers is easily Claiborne. Carolina's secondary needs a lot of help and the #1 CB in the draft is a great foundation.

7. Cleveland, Projected record: 4-12

Matt Barkley, QB, USC

The Browns are going nowhere fast with Colt McCoy under center. He's shown zero progress in his second year. Yes, I know they need a new starting RB, but QB is a much bigger concern in the long run and Barkley is the kind of talent you hope not to find yourself in the position to draft too frequently.

8. Kansas City, Projected record: 4-12

Jonathan Martin, OT, Stanford

I've previously projected Kansas City to take a QB, but with the top three talents off the board, I think that they'll opt to patch the massive hole at LT instead.

9. Washington, Projected record: 5-11

Landry Jones, QB, Oklahoma

One team that won't hesitate to take a chance on Landry Jones is Mike Shanahan's Redskins- he'd be an instant upgrade over both Beck and Grossman.

10. Seattle, Projected record: 5-11

Trent Richardson, RB, Alabama

With Seattle's QB woes, I could easily see them trading up (very possibly with Carolina or Jacksonville in this scenario). If they can't or don't and miss out on the top 4 QBs, Richardson becomes the BPA and would fill a key need with Marshawn Lynch entering free agency.

11. Arizona, Projected record: 6-10

Riley Reiff, OT, Iowa

Few teams are in as desperate a place for O-line help as Arizona. Reiff would provide them with solid protection for Kevin Kolb next year.

12. San Diego, Projected record: 6-10

Quinton Coples, DE, North Carolina

The Chargers have really struggled with pass rush and stopping the run this year. Coples has a massive upside and the potential to function well in either a 3-4 scheme or, if a new regime makes a change, a 4-3 scheme.

13. Tampa Bay, Projected record: 6-10

Dre Kirkpatrick, CB, Alabama

The Bucs need to start over in the secondary- they've been miserable against both the pass and rush this year, and tAqib Talib and Ronde Barber are both in doubt for next season. Kirkpatrick has the size, speed, and skills to match up with any receiver in the NFL. I know, the Bucs "like" Alfonzo Dennard; but I'm sure they liked him a whole lot more when they thought they'd be drafting somewhere in the 20s.

14. Philadelphia, Projected record: 7-9

Zach Brown, LB, North Carolina

The dream is over- and the poor play of the Eagles linebackers had a lot to do with it. Brown is a phenomenal prospect with blinding speed, and would be an immediate starter for Philly.

15. Tennessee, Projected record: 8-8

Michael Floyd, WR, Notre Dame

The Titans' season lost most of its promise when Kenny Britt went down with an injury. If Tennessee wants to make a playoff run next year, they'll need to get some more weapons for Hasselbeck and/or Locker. Floyd's off-the-field issues will drop him down the board, but sooner or later a team is going to find his talent too irresistable.

16. Buffalo, Projected record: 8-8

Courtney Upshaw, DE/OLB, Alabama

The Bills are in desperate need of pass rush. Upshaw is likely the top 3-4 OLB on the board and an excellent needs-value pick for Buffalo.

17. Denver, Projected record: 9-7

Alfonzo Dennard, CB, Nebraska

Champ Bailey can't play forever, and the Denver secondary is in need of some young blood. Dennard has been a standout at Nebraska and projects as the #3 CB on the board.

18. NY Giants, Projected record: 9-7

Luke Kuechly, ILB, Boston College

I could also see the Giants addressing O-line here, but with the talent left on the board at the position and their ongoing needs at LB, Kuechly seems like a natural fit.

19. NY Jets, Projected record: 10-6

Vontaze Burfict, ILB, Arizona State

Burfict is dropping down the boards quickly due to his benching and lessened production. Still, some team will take a chance on him due to his aggressiveness, speed, and intensity. The Jets seem like the ideal place for a guy like Burfict, and Rex Ryan seems like the perfect guy to take that chance.

20. Chicago, Projected record: 10-6

Peter Konz, C, Wisconsin

WR is their biggest need, but with the top three prospects off the table the Bears go for the conservative play and draft for the O-line again. With Konz at center, Garza can move back to guard and the whole line improves.

21. Cincinnati (from Oakland), Oakland's projected record: 10-6, AFC West champions, loss in wildcard round

Janoris Jenkins, CB, North Alabama

Jenkins may have serious off-the-field issues, but Cincinnati has traditionally tolerated antics in return for solid play. Jenkins has tremendous talent and the Bengals need a replacement for the departed Jonathan Joseph.

22. Detroit, Projected record: 10-6, 6th seed wildcard, loss in wildcard round

David DeCastro, G, Stanford

Detroit's O-line has been its Achilles heel for a long time now. With the top three OTs off the table, look for the Lions to snatch up the #1 guard prospect in DeCastro.

23. Cleveland (from Atlanta), Atlanta's projected record: 11-5, 5th seed wildcard, loss in wildcard round

Barrett Jones, OT, Alabama

Cleveland has so many positions of need, it's hard to pick just one. There aren't any WRs or RBs left who are a clear top 25 pick, and O-line seems like it's slightly more pressing than D-line for the Browns. Jones is a very solid talent with a lot of versatility- the Browns could plug him into pretty much any slot on their line and be better.

24. Cincinnati, Projected record: 11-5, 6th seed wilcard, loss in wildcard round

Kelechi Osemele, G/T, Iowa State

The Bengals will look to protect Andy Dalton with their second pick. The interior of their line is weak and Bobbie Williams will likely be gone after the season; Osemele can function well as either a right tackle or guard.

25. Houston, Projected record: 11-5, AFC South champions, loss in divisional round

Alameda Ta'amu, NT, Washington

Shaun Cody has been serviceable for Houston, but the Texans need a long-term true nose tackle to serve as the core of their D-line. Ta'amu would be an excellent match for them with a good needs-value ratio.

26. Dallas, Projected record: 11-5, NFC East champions, loss in divisional round

Chase Minnifield, CB, Virginia

In this scenario, Dallas has the bad luck to be picking after the top players at their positions of need (O-line, secondary) are off the board. I could also see them taking a safety like T.J. McDonald or an O-lineman, but Minnifield seems like the best match for them here, particularly as 1) they need to draft a CB high this year and 2) lots of other teams will take a CB as their second pick before Dallas picks again.

27. Pittsburgh, Projected record: 12-4, 5th seed wildcard, loss in divisional round

Manti Te'o, ILB, Notre Dame

It's tempting to mock Cordy Glenn to Pittsburgh, just because the guard position is generally acknowledged as their weakest. But if Te'o drops to them, the Steelers' doctrine of BPA and the possibility of Farrior retiring makes this a gimme pick. The rich get richer.

28. San Francisco, Projected record: 14-2, NFC West champions, loss in divisional round

Dwight Jones, WR, North Carolina

CB is arguably a more pressing position of need, but with the top five already off the board I think the Niners would address their biggest offensive need first. Jones has massive potential and at 6'4" and 215 lbs. he's a coverage nightmare for secondaries.

29. New England (from New Orleans), New Orleans' projected record: 13-3, NFC South champions, NFC championship game loss

Devon Still, DE/DT, Penn State

Andre Carter has helped the Patriots' pass rush, but a young defensive end is a huge need. Devon Still is a bargain this late in the first round and has the promise to develop as a long term solution for New England.

30. New England, Projected record: 13-3, AFC East champions, AFC championship game loss

Brandon Jenkins, DE/OLB, Florida State

New England is so tough to mock for, because they almost inevitably trade away one of their top picks for future picks. Nevertheless- I have to think they double-dip at defense this year. With that porous secondary I could easily see them taking Stephon Gilmore, T.J. McDonald, or Mark Barron. But Jenkins is too big a talent and the pass rush too much of a liability for the Patriots to pass on taking him. Until they trade away the pick, of course.

31. Baltimore, Projected record: 12-4, AFC North champions, AFC champions, Super Bowl loss

Dont'a Hightower, ILB, Alabama

There are several directions that Baltimore could go with this pick (O-line, pass rush, WR). But I think that the opportunity to draft a player to take over for Ray Lewis in a season or two is too good an opportunity to pass up.

32. Green Bay, Projected record: 16-0, NFC North champions, NFC champions, Super Bowl win

Ronnell Lewis, DE/OLB, Oklahoma

Eric Walden has been inconsistent and Matthews has been double-teamed, limiting his effectiveness. Green Bay could really use another playmaking OLB to line up across from him, and Lewis, who has been a physical force for Oklahoma looks ideal for their needs.

Second Round

33. Indianapolis

Mark Barron, S, Alabama

The Colts have so many holes it's hard to know where to begin. The secondary has to rate as one of the units in direst need though. Barron has higher value than the remaining CBs and could provide a linchpin to build around.

34. Minnesota

T.J. McDonald, S, USC

Two safeties in a row to start the second round. Again, McDonald has a higher value than the remaining CBs and the secondary is a huge concern.

35. St. Louis

Stephon Gilmore, CB, South Carolina

I could see St. Louis shoring up the O-line with this pick, but I think that Gilmore is a better needs/value pick at the top the second round. The Rams are paper thin in the secondary.

36. Miami

Mike Adams, OT, Ohio State

Mike Pouncey and Jake Long are a solid beginning, but the rest of the Miami O-line is awful. Mike Adams provides the Dolphins with a crucial missing piece.

37. Jacksonville

Whitney Mercilus, DE, Illinois

In this scenario, Jacksonville gets one of the first big steals of the draft with Mercilus, who is arguably a top 25 talent. The Jaguars have a huge need for a pass rush DE.

38. Carolina

Brandon Thompson, DT, Clemson

Although Carolina drafted two DTs in the third round last year, neither have shown enough in their rookie season to be considered a long term solution. Thompson is strong in both run and pass coverage, and could function as a DE/DT in Carolina's 3-4 looks.

39. Cleveland

Lamar Miller, RB, Miami

If Miller enters the draft after his sophomore season, look for Cleveland to snap him up in the second round (for their third consecutive offensive pick). Miller has enormous potential to be an every down back in the NFL, and Cleveland has a huge need at that position.

40. Kansas City

Vinny Curry, DE/OLB, Marshall

The Kansas City pass rush could use some upgrades- the Chiefs are dead last in the league for sacks. Curry would fit the Chiefs' needs admirably.

41. Washington

Cordy Glenn, G, Georgia

Washington's interior line is a mess- Will Montgomery is a backup at best. Glenn is an excellent value choice here both for supporting Washington's run offense and protecting their new QB.

42. Seattle

Nick Foles, QB, Arizona

Seattle misses out on the top 4 QBs in this scenario, but taking Foles in the second round isn't a bad consolation prize. Foles has the arm and pocket presence to develop into a legitimate NFL quarterback, though he'll likely end up sitting behind Tarvaris Jackson or Charlie Whitehurst for a good part of his first season.

43. Philadelphia (from Arizona)

Marvin McNutt, WR, Iowa

Philly would have loved for one of the top MLB prospects to fall to them, but the 5th receiver off the board fills a key need for them- a complement for Maclin. McNutt has excellent size, quality speed, and shows great downfield vision.

44. San Diego

Frank Alexander, DE/OLB, Oklahoma

San Diego's pass rush gets a second infusion with the addition of Alexander, who is rocketing up draft boards and possesses the exact physique the Chargers look for in a 3-4- rush LB. Like most picks where a new regime is possible, look for this to change if the scheme does.

45. Tampa Bay

Lavonte David, OLB, Nebraska

The Bucs may be sorely tempted to take an offensive playmaker here with so many good WRs, RBs, and TEs left on the board. But David is too good a talent to pass up, considering the lackluster play of Tampa's LB corps this season. He's improved every year that he's played at Nebraska, with 112 tackles, 3.5 sacks, 2 forced fumbles, and 2 interceptions so far this year.

46. Philadelphia

Jayron Hosley, CB, Virginia Tech

Asante Samuels isn't coming back next year, and Dominique Rodgers-Cromartie has disappointed. Odd as it seems to mock a CB to the Eagles after the preseason hype this secondary received, this is a needs/value choice that makes sense.

47. Tennessee

Mike Brewster, C, Ohio State

The Titan's O-line has been abysmal all season long. Drafting Brewster would give Tennessee a top talent in the middle and would allow them to shift Eugene Amano to left guard, effectively upgrading both positions.

48. Buffalo

Mohamed Sanu, WR, Rutgers

The Bills are in desperate need of a receiver besides Steve Johnson. Sanu, who has been the core of the Rutgers offense, would be a huge asset for Buffalo.

49. Denver

Chris Polk, RB, Washington

Denver's RBs don't have much tread left on their tires, and if Tebow's getting the start for the near future some buddies in the backfield are a necessity. Polk would be an excellent choice for the Broncos- he projects as an every-down back and he's played well without the benft of a quality line to help pad his stats.

50. NY Giants

D.J. Fluker, OT, Alabama

The Giants need help all along their O-line. Kareem McKenzie has bombed at RT this season. If Fluker declares, he could be an instant starter at RT and might even challenge Beatty for LT in the future.

51. NY Jets

Bruce Irvin, DE/OLB, West Virginia

The Jets need to address their pass rush if they want to get back their reputation for smothering defense. Irvin should go a long way towards washing the taste of Vernon Gholston out of the Jets' mouths if he pans out.

52. Chicago

Juron Criner, WR, Arizona

The Bears still lack a true playmaker at WR. If Criner is available late in the second round, they won't hesistate to jump- he has the size and skills to be their long term #1 receiver.

53. New England (from Oakland)

Casey Hayward, CB, Vanderbilt

One of these days, New England will use all of its picks. Why not this year? They need the help on defense badly enough to justify it- Hayward would help to prop up an incredibly impotent pass defense.

54. Detroit

Nate Potter, OT, Boise State

The Lions will thank their lucky stars if this scenario unfolds. Drafting two offensive linemen in the first two rounds isn't in the slighest bit sexy- but it will fulfill a huge need for Detroit. Potter might very well be their left tackle of the future.

55. Atlanta

Matt Reynolds, OT, BYU

I'm sorely tempted to mock Dwayne Allen to Atlanta, considering how much the imminent departure of Tony Gonzalez will affect their game. But that suspect O-line must come first with the team beginning its draft this late. Matt Reynolds may or may not have what it takes to be a left tackle in the NFL, but whatever he amounts to, it will hopefully be more than Sam Baker did.

56. Cincinnati

Montee Ball, RB, Wisconsin

Cedric Benson is close to finished in Cincinnati andthe Bengals need to find a new featured running back. Ball looks to be a prime prospect at the position and projects as the #4 RB taken in the draft.

57. Houston

Robert Lester, S, Alabama

Safety has been one of the few areas of softness with Houston's defense this year- I don't think that the Texans will pass up the opportunity to draft the #3 safety on the board with a late second round pick.

58. Dallas

Kevin Zeitler, G, Wisconsin

The Cowboys need to reinforce the interior of their line. Zitler provides excellent value in the late second round.

59. Pittsburgh

Ricky Wagner, OT, Wisconsin

Everyone knows that the Steelers are big believers in BVA. But with O-line such a pressing concern, I doubt they'll split hairs. Wagner's one of the top players available on the board and he fills a key need.

60. San Francisco

Ryan Miller, G, Colorado

The secondary must wait because no player meets value here- however, there's an excellent player available at another key area of need: Ryan Miller to help shore up the weak interior of the Niners' O-line.

61. New Orleans

Travis Lewis, OLB, Oklahoma

The Saints luck out by have a good pick at a key position of need fall to their first selection deep in the late second round. Lewis has been slow since coming back early after an injury, but he should help New Orleans stop the run.

62. New England

Ryan Broyles, WR, Oklahoma

New England needs more depth a wide receiver, and Broyles has proven he's got the abilities to apply to become Wes Welker's protege.

63. Baltimore

William Vlachos, C, Alabama

The Ravens need a new center, and the bottom of the second is an ideal place to grab Vlachos, the projected #3 center in the draft.

64. Green Bay

Billy Winn, DE/DT, Boise State

Again, the rich get richer. Neal's injury and Jenkins' departure have made depth at DE a priority for Green Bay.

Third Round

65. Indianapolis

Levy Adcock, OT, Oklahoma State

Triage continues in Indy as the Colts address their flailing O-line with Adcock, a solid prospect who's shuffled between LT and RT at Oklahoma State.

66. Minnesota

Cliff Harris, CB, Oregon

The second pick in a row to address Minnesota's secondary problems. Harris has some off-the-field issues, but his talent is undeniable and the Vikings need a new CB ASAP.

67. St. Louis

Bobby Massie, OT, Ole Miss

The Rams are swiftly realizing that Jason Smith is a bust. Drafting Massie would allow them to start him at RT, shift Saffold to the blind side, and see if Smith is any better as a guard.

68. Miami

Dwayne Allen, TE, Clemson

Remember Keith Jackson? Can you recall another notable Miami tight end since he left the team in 1994? The Dolphins snag a bargain with Allen, widely considered the best TE in the draft.

69. Jacksonville

Xavier Rhodes, CB, Florida State

Rashean Mathis is aging fast and will be a free agent this offseason. Jacksonville is almost certain to draft a new cornerback.

70. Chicago (from Carolina)

Andre Branch, DE, Clemson

Julius Peppers could use a partner on the other side of the line who gets consistent production. Branch is a quality prospect who could start in his rookie season.

71. Cleveland

Nick Toon, WR, Wisconsin

The offensive overhaul continues in Cleveland. Toon has excelled at Wisconsin and has the size and speed to produce in the NFL.

72. Kansas City

Ryan Tannehill, QB, Texas A&M

The Matt Cassel era may not be over yet, but there's certainly ample reason to recruit a developmental player to groom behind him, Orton, and Palko. Tannehill has a lot of potential.

73. Washington

Audie Cole, ILB, North Carolina State

London Fletcher is 36 and a free agent after this season. Washington needs to plan for his replacement, and Cole represents a good value pick-up in the third round.

74. Seattle

Andrew Datko, OT, Florida State

James Carpenter was the most inexplicable pick of the first round of last year's draft. Shockingly to no one outside Seattle, he hasn't flourished as an OT, and looks to be a better prospect as a guard. Datko has injury concerns but was projected to the first round before he went out for the season. The voices in Pete Carroll's head could do worse than to suggest Datko.

75. Arizona

Kendall Wright, WR, Baylor

Quick- name a Cardinals WR who's not Larry Fitzgerald! Yep. Arizona is in desperate need of a number two receiver. Wright's blinding speed and excellent hands have been a key aspect of Baylor's offense this season.

76. San Diego

Coryell Judie, CB, Texas A&M

The Chargers are thin in the secondary and whatever scheme their likely new coach chooses, they'll need some new d-backs.

77. Tampa Bay

LaMichael James, RB, Oregon

Some picks just make intuitive sense. James will likely fall this far because concerns about his size and past injuries will dampen teams' enthusiasm despite the electricity of his college production. Tampa Bay needs a speedy change-of-pace back to complement Blount's downhill power game. The reunion of these two Oregon Ducks in the warm waters of Tampa Bay could prove to be the resumption of a beautiful friendship. Thunder and lightning indeed.

78. Philadelphia

Ray Ray Armstrong, S, Miami

Safety has been a major concern of the Eagles for quite some time. As with all my Eagles' picks, this presumes that Reid remains in Philly- if he doesn't, look for a major revision. Armstrong has a ton of character red flags, but since when would that concern Philly?

79. Tennessee

Danny Trevathan, OLB, Kentucky

Will Witherspoon is on his way out and Barrett Ruud has been hopeless. Akeem Ayers and Colin McCarthy are the future of the Titans' LB corps, but they need a Will. Enter Danny Trevathan, number five in the nation this year in tackles despite playing for an SEC punching bag.

80. Buffalo

Josh Chapman, NT, Alabama

Injuries have depleted the Buffalo line this year. Regardless of Kyle Williams and Torrel Troup's respective futures with the team, depth at nose tackle is an obvious need. Chapman is a massive value (literally) in the third round and would be huge security pick-up for the Bills.

81. Denver

Jerel Worthy, DT, Michigan State

The edges are set, now Denver could use some help on of the interior of their line. Worthy could help plug that hole nicely.

82. NY Giants

Lucas Nix, G/T, Pittsburgh

Yet another O-line pick for the Giants, as their aging interior needs some fresh blood. Nix could step into the starting role at either guard position.

83. NY Jets

Jeff Fuller, WR, Texas A&M

Plaxico Burress is not the long term answer at WR for the Jets. Look for them to recruit a playmaker in the first three rounds. Fuller isn't a deep threat, but he's a big man with good hands who's excellent in short and intermediate passing situations.

84. Chicago

Winston Guy Jr., S, Kentucky

The Bears need an upgrade at free safety. Guy, one of the top prospects in the country at the position, would be an immediate shot in the arm to the Chicago secondary.

85. Oakland

Terrelle Pryor, QB, Ohio State (2010 supplemental draft)

Is he the future of the Raiders behind Carson Palmer? Outlook unclear, ask again later

86. Detroit

Micah Hyde, CB, Iowa

Detroit's secondary is crying out for help. Hyde is a natural playmaker at cornerback- if he stays in school, expect him to go in the first round of 2013.

87. Atlanta

Coby Fleener, TE, Stanford

Atlanta scores a coup with its second overall pick, landing a potentially heir to Tony Gonzalez's legacy.

88. Cincinnati

Brandon Boykin, CB/KR, Georgia

Jonathan Joseph left a huge hole in Cincinnati's secondary when he departed. Boykin might not be a Joseph-level corner, but he'll help to fill a part of that void.

89. Houston

Shea McClellin, DE/OLB, Boise State

Mario Williams is a free agent this offseason. No matter how that's resolved, developing more talent at his position is a necessity for Houston's long-term success.

90. Dallas

Brandon Taylor, FS, LSU

After addressing cornerback in the first round, the Cowboys will need to address the free safety position as well. Taylor's had a strong season at LSU and is moving up boards quickly.

91. Pittsburgh

Jared Crick, DE/DT, Nebraska

Crick's injury has obscured his draft position- if he's full-speed at the combine, expect him to move up. If he's still recovering, Pittsburgh might snag a deal here- they could use some depth at five technique and Crick's almost certainly the BVA here once he's healthy again.

92. San Francisco

Ben Jones, C, Georgia

The Niners need an upgrade at center badly, and Jones represents better value here than the remaining cornerbacks (their other so-far unaddressed high need position).

93. New Orleans

Kendall Reyes, DT, Connecticut

The Saints addressed the edge in the first round last year; with their second overall pick, they could very well address the interior. Reyes is a gifted athlete and a natural team leader.

94. New England

Melvin Ingram, DE/DT, South Carolina

The Patriots address the pash rush again by taking Ingram, who is already familiar with hybrid schemes and could function as either an end in a 3-4 or an interior spot in a 4--3. An excellent value pick at the end of the third.

95. Baltimore

Lonnie Edwards, G, Texas Tech

Both Ben Grubbs and Matt Birk will be free agents at the end of this season. If one of them departs, the Ravens will need to address the interior of their line.

96. Green Bay

Joel Foreman, G, Michigan State

The Packers don't have many pressing needs, but they could definitely use some depth on the interior of their O-line. Foreman is a solid choice to close the third round.

Poll
How did the Bucs do in the first three rounds of this draft?
Perfect! We addressed our biggest needs and got the best players available to us.
67 votes
OK. I wish we'd gone in a different direction, but I can understand why they picked the guys they did.
42 votes
Terrible! We addressed the wrong positions and/or took the wrong players!
10 votes

119 votes | Poll has closed

Comment 63 comments  |  0 recs  | 

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Nice job, and a good first story

I do think it’s likely the Bucs take a look at a wide receiver at some point, but I can’t really see where in this draft they’d do that. CB and LB are both big needs and both are the best players available at that point, and I think LaMichael James really would fit very well as a complement to Blount.

by Sander on Dec 1, 2011 4:16 PM EST reply actions  

Thanks Sander

I think that we’d probably pick up another WR or TE in the fifth round, but there wasn’t a WR who met the needs/value for any of our picks under this sceanrio.

A defense ranked #31 does not inspire confidence in one's defensive coordinator. Any head coach knows this: own up to it, Raheem- hire a full time DC and put your full focus on ONE of your jobs.

by RookTakesYou on Dec 1, 2011 4:19 PM EST up reply actions  

I think free agency will in large part determine their draft actions, too

Just like I think the draft determined what they wanted to do in free agency this offseason.

If they manage to find an explosive receiver in free agency, they’re unlikely to pick one up in the draft. If they manage to find a good cornerback, then they may not pick one in the draft. And the outcome of Talib’s court case will play a role as well, of course.

by Sander on Dec 1, 2011 4:50 PM EST up reply actions  

Of course

It will be interesting to see what Dominik does in free agency this offseason. If we make some moves and land some impact players it will obviously impact our draft. Cortland Finnegan, Anthony Spencer, LaRon Landry, and Dwayne Bowe are the players that I think we’d be smart to pursue.

The best possible scenario for us is that Talib’s case is dismissed. If it isn’t and it goes into a jury trial, it’s almost certain to be ongoing during the draft.

A defense ranked #31 does not inspire confidence in one's defensive coordinator. Any head coach knows this: own up to it, Raheem- hire a full time DC and put your full focus on ONE of your jobs.

by RookTakesYou on Dec 1, 2011 5:08 PM EST up reply actions  

I think the Bucs will likely have to live with Talib missing games due to suspension regardless

And they need an upgrade at cornerback anyway Barber is declining and could be gone, while Lewis and Biggers haven’t developed to a point where you’re comfortable with them.

by Sander on Dec 1, 2011 5:17 PM EST up reply actions  

True on all points

We need at least two new corners during the offseason.

A defense ranked #31 does not inspire confidence in one's defensive coordinator. Any head coach knows this: own up to it, Raheem- hire a full time DC and put your full focus on ONE of your jobs.

by RookTakesYou on Dec 1, 2011 5:19 PM EST up reply actions  

Uh, free agency?

Do you think that we will actually be active this coming offseason? If so, I would love to see us go after WR dwayne bowe over dexter jackson.

East Coast Fan

by Bucfan on Dec 1, 2011 8:49 PM EST via mobile up reply actions  

NO DEXTER!

Josh Freeman will be better than Matt Ryan, Cam Newton cant compete with FreeFive. Not so sure about Drew Brees.

by TruBuc1 on Dec 1, 2011 10:33 PM EST up reply actions  

I know its a far ways off,

but if the Bucs were able to get these players when the draft does happen, I would be excited. I think if James stayed healthy, he would help the Bucs offense big time in his rookie season.

No matter how much they are hyped, my teams always find a way to disappoint.

by thedudeofdudes on Dec 1, 2011 4:44 PM EST reply actions  

I love the Bucs picks

I like Travis Lewis too, even at our spot.

Yugly.

by aakks on Dec 1, 2011 6:54 PM EST reply actions  

dont agree with pick 89

the houston texans will not get another DE they already got JJ Watt

by jmigsantiago on Dec 1, 2011 7:28 PM EST reply actions  

Exactly

McClellin projects as a 3-4 rush linebacker, not a five technique 3-4 DE.

A defense ranked #31 does not inspire confidence in one's defensive coordinator. Any head coach knows this: own up to it, Raheem- hire a full time DC and put your full focus on ONE of your jobs.

by RookTakesYou on Dec 1, 2011 8:10 PM EST up reply actions  

What about Zach Brown in the first?

Wit the way our run defense has looked, we need talent upgrade at LB.

Oderint dum metuant

by jBen05 on Dec 1, 2011 7:34 PM EST reply actions  

If Claiborne and Kirkpatrick are off the board and Brown is on the board

That’s a no-brainer. I would rate Brown, Kuechly, and Te’o above Dennard, Jenkins, and the rest of the CBs available.

A defense ranked #31 does not inspire confidence in one's defensive coordinator. Any head coach knows this: own up to it, Raheem- hire a full time DC and put your full focus on ONE of your jobs.

by RookTakesYou on Dec 1, 2011 8:12 PM EST up reply actions  

Rah has that complex where he thinks he can coach up any DB, so he wouldn't want to pick a CB in the first round.

I’m thinking they might get one in the 2nd or 3rd, and get a LB in the first round. As of right now, our run defense is our biggest and most glaring weakness. Our passing defense is a secondary problem.

Oderint dum metuant

by jBen05 on Dec 1, 2011 8:27 PM EST up reply actions  

Let's hope that Dominik smacks some sense into him before that happens

If he could coach up any DB, Myron Lewis would be starting on a regular basis.

A defense ranked #31 does not inspire confidence in one's defensive coordinator. Any head coach knows this: own up to it, Raheem- hire a full time DC and put your full focus on ONE of your jobs.

by RookTakesYou on Dec 1, 2011 8:32 PM EST up reply actions  

Great write up Rook!

Would love to have Lamichael James in Round 3 but i sincerely doubt he’ll go lower than early Round 2. If we do go CB, OLB, RB in the first 3 rounds we will definitely need to add a WR or TE and an OT/C/G during free agency. Not that i don’t think we can add one of those spots during the other 3 rounds of the draft but i think we’re all in agreement that we need to find proven players to be competitive in the NFC South.

Still waiting for the day that the NFL comes back to LA...

by LABucsFan on Dec 1, 2011 7:47 PM EST reply actions  

Thanks LABucsFan

I think that at least four or five RBs will go before James does: Trent Richardson, Lamar Miller, Chris Polk, Montee Ball, and David Wilson. Most teams taking a running back in the early rounds are looking for a complete starting back, not a complementary role player.

A defense ranked #31 does not inspire confidence in one's defensive coordinator. Any head coach knows this: own up to it, Raheem- hire a full time DC and put your full focus on ONE of your jobs.

by RookTakesYou on Dec 1, 2011 8:30 PM EST up reply actions  

Your correct,

But BLOUNT may be the role player, not the new guy.

Bucs motto since 1996- No excuses, No explanations.

by Niko's Best Bucs Videos on Dec 2, 2011 5:55 AM EST up reply actions  

It's a possibility

But Blount’s been a bright spot for the offense when properly utilized. Our needs at the CB and LB positions are far more pressing than our needs at RB.

A defense ranked #31 does not inspire confidence in one's defensive coordinator. Any head coach knows this: own up to it, Raheem- hire a full time DC and put your full focus on ONE of your jobs.

by RookTakesYou on Dec 2, 2011 11:28 AM EST up reply actions  

Good points but Mark Ingram was never really a complete back either and look where he was drated.

I think James is a better back than Ingram too.

Still waiting for the day that the NFL comes back to LA...

by LABucsFan on Dec 2, 2011 1:08 PM EST up reply actions  

Good story

But you know i had to say it. So Seattle gets Trent richardson in the first round even though they got Lynch, but we cant get Richardson because we got Blount?? And we are 2 spots behind?

Get it to Winslow. He's open!!!!

by dcbucsfan on Dec 1, 2011 8:32 PM EST reply actions  

Lynch is entering free agency

If they resign him to a big contract, I’ll likely revise that pick.

A defense ranked #31 does not inspire confidence in one's defensive coordinator. Any head coach knows this: own up to it, Raheem- hire a full time DC and put your full focus on ONE of your jobs.

by RookTakesYou on Dec 1, 2011 8:33 PM EST up reply actions  

We did the same thing with Derrick Ward in 2009.

The numbers he put up in Ny he coulda been a starter anywhere. But we brought him in essintially as a back up.

Get it to Winslow. He's open!!!!

by dcbucsfan on Dec 1, 2011 8:42 PM EST up reply actions  

Naw caddy was the starter.

he was the second rb. we wanted to have that dual running threat but ward just sucked and we just cut him.

Get it to Winslow. He's open!!!!

by dcbucsfan on Dec 1, 2011 8:50 PM EST up reply actions  

Ward was brought in as insurance if caddy went down and he could fill in as the starter.

and he was supposed to be the 3rd down back. so the point i was making was that blount would still be the starter, and lynch would be the 3rd down back as they did with caddy and ward

Get it to Winslow. He's open!!!!

by dcbucsfan on Dec 1, 2011 8:59 PM EST up reply actions  

Ward wasn't brought in to be the 3DRB.

Regardless of who started the game, Caddy came in on 3rd down, not Ward. You obviously won’t budge on the whole Richardson/Lynch as a 3DRB.

Oderint dum metuant

by jBen05 on Dec 1, 2011 9:12 PM EST up reply actions  

By the way guys, most teams don't really have a true 3rd down RB...

Most teams nowadays simply rotate the RB spot between 2 or more players at any given time which is what we should be doing. It keeps the defenses guessing which is what we should be doing instead of taking out Blount on 3rd which pretty much lets everyone in the world know :Hey, we’re going to pass!

Still waiting for the day that the NFL comes back to LA...

by LABucsFan on Dec 2, 2011 1:11 PM EST up reply actions  

Third-down backs are specifically for passing situations

Not for situations in which you could do both. Besides, you can use a third-down back as a regular runner too. It’s just a matter of emphasis in responsibility.

by Sander on Dec 2, 2011 1:14 PM EST up reply actions  

No, they brought him in as the starter

At that point Caddy was still rehabbing and it didn’t look like he’d be ready for the season. Plus, it was reasonable to assume that Caddy lost some skills because of two knee injuries.

by Sander on Dec 2, 2011 5:37 AM EST up reply actions  

Congratulations on your promotion and this article!!!

Well deserved. Very in depth and informative. I would love to see lamichael james in pewter. Thunder and lightning indeed.

Keep up the good work man….

East Coast Fan

by Bucfan on Dec 1, 2011 8:54 PM EST via mobile reply actions  

Thank you sir!

A defense ranked #31 does not inspire confidence in one's defensive coordinator. Any head coach knows this: own up to it, Raheem- hire a full time DC and put your full focus on ONE of your jobs.

by RookTakesYou on Dec 2, 2011 11:29 AM EST up reply actions  

Yeah congrats man

I like the way you think when it comes to drafting. I sure hope you are right about Kirpatrick. And about us not locking in on Denard, regardless of draft position.

by flash_kiley on Dec 2, 2011 12:11 AM EST via mobile reply actions  

Thanks

The rumor about Dennard was leaked back in September, when we all had lofty hopes about 10-11 wins this season. People are reading much too much into it, considering that management at the time was considering from the perspective of a late round pick.

A defense ranked #31 does not inspire confidence in one's defensive coordinator. Any head coach knows this: own up to it, Raheem- hire a full time DC and put your full focus on ONE of your jobs.

by RookTakesYou on Dec 2, 2011 11:32 AM EST up reply actions  

I don't see the Bucs going corner, Running back is a higher need

Especially since we have a few secondary players who have not come up yet, Gaitor, Assante, and others, but there is NO ONE at running back. With Free Agency finally going to be addressed by the Bucs in 2012, unless there is no one rated high enough, I think CB will be a second round pick.
Like you said, its so much guess work at this stage, that is some good work coming up with that list!

Bucs motto since 1996- No excuses, No explanations.

by Niko's Best Bucs Videos on Dec 2, 2011 5:53 AM EST reply actions  

We need a 3rd down back not a feature back

What is your problem with Blount? He’s excellent when we actually run him.

And the LAST thing I want to see is more high draft picks starting at corner. We have a ton of backup corners, but our only starting quality corners are Talib and Barber. Talib has been playing not that great this year until the last couple games and is likely to be suspended for a good chunk of next year. Barber is old and declining. After that we have Biggers and Mack. And you’re trying to tell me that we should start Biggers and Mack and let Gaitor, another 7th round pick, move into the starting lineup? No. Just no.

We need two GOOD corners and we need a 3rd down back and we need 2 good linebackers.

Yugly.

by aakks on Dec 2, 2011 8:12 AM EST up reply actions  

Blount is definitely going to be a featured part of the offense next season.

We don’t need a RB in the first or 2nd. Corner and LB are higher priorities. If we can snag James in the 3rd I’m all for it though.

"Few things are harder to put up with than the annoyance of a good example." ~ Mark Twain

by LeeCaz on Dec 2, 2011 10:23 AM EST up reply actions  

agree

James coming here and with Blount… does this remind anyone of Dunn and Alstott?
that would be beautiful

If I could wear a bucs shirt with a noles hat for the rest of my life, by golly I would be the happiest man in the world.

by cazmoney1 on Dec 2, 2011 10:43 AM EST up reply actions  

Dunn & Alstott

Exactly. I look at James and I see the new Dunn.

A defense ranked #31 does not inspire confidence in one's defensive coordinator. Any head coach knows this: own up to it, Raheem- hire a full time DC and put your full focus on ONE of your jobs.

by RookTakesYou on Dec 2, 2011 11:38 AM EST up reply actions  

Think Blunt is a better runner than Alstott, though

"I'm a little dysfunctional
You're the problem, Please don't awakin me
And I'm that way cause back in the day
Most have forsaken me"

by 4QB on Dec 2, 2011 12:41 PM EST up reply actions  

Agreed!

Blount is a way better runner than Alstott! Still miss the A-train though.

Still waiting for the day that the NFL comes back to LA...

by LABucsFan on Dec 2, 2011 1:15 PM EST up reply actions  

Thanks

It’s getting rarer and rarer for any running back to go in the first round- as good as Trent Richardson is, I’m still not sure he’ll go as early as I have him going. Look at how far Mark Ingram fell last year. There will be a lot of options available to the Bucs in the third round, and as much as people get frustrated with the offense, the fact is that the defense needs a lot more work right now.

I hope that you’re right about free agency finally being addressed. If it is, our draft needs may shift accordingly.

A defense ranked #31 does not inspire confidence in one's defensive coordinator. Any head coach knows this: own up to it, Raheem- hire a full time DC and put your full focus on ONE of your jobs.

by RookTakesYou on Dec 2, 2011 11:37 AM EST up reply actions  

I agree

But Trent Richardson is the physical freak Mark Ingram never was. He’s bigger, stronger, and faster. He’s the most physically gifted back since Adrian Peterson. The main difference between the two is Adrian is a little faster, but Trent is a little stronger. Now will he be as good as Adrian? We’ll see.

by GradSchoolNole on Dec 3, 2011 3:59 PM EST up reply actions  

Running Backs are cheap

You don’t spend an early 1st round pick on a back unless he’s a physical freak like Adrian Peterson or Trent Richardson.

by GradSchoolNole on Dec 3, 2011 3:56 PM EST up reply actions  

Read the first round and looked at the Bucs picks in rounds 2 and 3

One of the better mock drafts I’ve read… Hope you’re right too…

Am I going MAD, or did the word "think" escape your lips?

by Kilgore on Dec 2, 2011 10:52 AM EST reply actions  

Thanks Kilgore

A defense ranked #31 does not inspire confidence in one's defensive coordinator. Any head coach knows this: own up to it, Raheem- hire a full time DC and put your full focus on ONE of your jobs.

by RookTakesYou on Dec 2, 2011 11:38 AM EST up reply actions  

It seems RB and S are starting to be drafted similarly

It’s gonna take someone special to be taken early in the first round (see Berry, Eric and P,A). Most will go late first/early second (see Ingram, Mark and Moore, Rahim).

by flash_kiley on Dec 2, 2011 1:01 PM EST via mobile reply actions  

I love good defense,

But I think the Jets and Steelers should actually focus more on offense than you project. I know Rex Ryan may be too stubborn, but he needs very good wide receivers to help Mark Sanchez out, and Pitt desperately needs depth along the offensive line and probably among the wide receivers. Defense wins championships; but unless it is flawless, balance is vital to win a Super Bowl now.

Jacksonville should draft a CB and a WR in the first couple rounds, in either order.

Very good analysis, I think the draft results will be very similar to your projections.

by Green Bull on Dec 2, 2011 8:47 PM EST via iPhone app reply actions  

Thanks Green Bull

In an earlier version, I had the Jets taking Michael Floyd. The Steelers seem to always go BVA, regardless of their needs.

A defense ranked #31 does not inspire confidence in one's defensive coordinator. Any head coach knows this: own up to it, Raheem- hire a full time DC and put your full focus on ONE of your jobs.

by RookTakesYou on Dec 4, 2011 12:09 PM EST up reply actions  

Great draft for right now.

Just realize that there will be tons of flux in the evaluated top 100 especially during the combine. Not to mention all of the hype and drama that will come out that will effect where a player is actually drafted. Also still have other factors that will come into play, like whether we can resign Zuttah or not. Free agency will also play a huge role. Not for sure but there doesn’t seem to be very many CB’s or LB’s of any real value that will be available in FA. So I would agree that those two positions will definately will be addressed in the first 4 rounds. Also I wouldn’t be surprised if we don’t take one of the top centers with our second rounder. Faine is not cutting it but still think that would depened on whether we actually get a LG in free agency or resign Zuttah. If we can’t bring Zuttah back I think we will take a C. Great article Rook.

by hulay23 on Dec 4, 2011 7:51 AM EST via mobile reply actions  

Thanks hulay

You’re right, of course- there’s an enormous amount of flux between now and then. I considered adding a center, but beyond the top three, there aren’t very many good ones in this draft class- -and there are several teams that seem to have more of a priority need for one.

A defense ranked #31 does not inspire confidence in one's defensive coordinator. Any head coach knows this: own up to it, Raheem- hire a full time DC and put your full focus on ONE of your jobs.

by RookTakesYou on Dec 4, 2011 12:11 PM EST up reply actions  

draft needs after todays game

good first article rook, do you think that todays game against cam changes our draft needs from CB to LB?0

i think there is enough talent in the FA CB’s for us to grab at least a no. 2 (assuming talib doesn’t go to jail, ownerships shows the $, and someone actually wants to play on this team) with guys like Grimes, Cortland Finnegan, Carlos Rogers, or Brandon Carr.

i only ask b/c after today i think LB became our biggest need, i am not looking forward to our LB’s facing Cam for 6-10 yrs 2 times a season w/out a lot of changes. also not too many good ones in FA to grab (they all went last season).

bucs fan landlocked in denver

by jjklein80 on Dec 4, 2011 7:50 PM EST reply actions  

Thanks jjklein80

Right now, I think that there are both cornerbacks (Claiborne and Kirkpatrick) and linebackers (Brown and Kuechly) who we should strongly consider in the first round. My primary concern is that we take the BVA at a position of need and not overreach for any particular player.

My major takeaway from today is that we may very well be headed for a pick in the #5 to #10 overall range, and that some teams with needs at QB (Miami and Seattle in particular) are playing themselves out of the range where they can make a play for RG3, Barkley, or Jones. I’m beginning to think that the smartest move might be for us to trade down and pick up an extra pick or two. One of the four guys listed above should still be available in the #12-#15 range, where we’d likely be trading down towards in the 1st, and it would be very nice to have some extra picks.

A defense ranked #31 does not inspire confidence in one's defensive coordinator. Any head coach knows this: own up to it, Raheem- hire a full time DC and put your full focus on ONE of your jobs.

by RookTakesYou on Dec 4, 2011 9:22 PM EST up reply actions  

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