1. Indianapolis Colts – QB Andrew Luck – Stanford

Not only is he the safer pick, but he also has more potential than Griffin. Griffin is no doubt a top QB prospect and more electrifying than Luck, but I don’t see how you pass up Luck. Even if he doesn’t live up to the ridiculous hype surrounding him, he should still be a very solid QB in the NFL.

2. St. Louis Rams – OT Matt Kalil – USC

No doubt they could use an offensive lineman, and I think that’s exactly what they will do to help out their young QB in Bradford. After a disappointing year for the former #1 pick, a dominating tackle like Kalil could be just what he needs, besides some WR’s of course.

3. Minnesota Vikings – (trade to Washington) QB Robert Griffin III – Baylor

I think that the Redskins have to jump ahead of Cleveland to draft Griffin, because there is no way he’ll be left at #6. Some might even take Griffin ahead of Luck, either way almost all consider him a top prospect. I know size wise he’s no Cam Newton, but there’s no doubt that Newton’s success this season as a dual threat quarterback helped RG3’s draft stock.

4. Cleveland Browns – WR Justin Blackmon – Oklahoma State

If they miss out on Griffin, then they no doubt need another dynamic offensive playmaker, and Blackmon can easily be that guy. With one of the worst WR corps in the league, Blackmon would not only be a good value pick, but also positionally needed.

5. Tampa Bay Buccaneers – CB Morris Claiborne – LSU

They could use an offensive tackle, but after a very disappointing season, I think they need to start by improving on the 30^th ranked defense. They have the offensive pieces in place, so why not improve the defense with the best corner in the draft.

6. Washington Redskins – (trade to Minnesota) OT Riley Reiff – Iowa

With this pick going to Minnesota after the predicted trade, the Vikings will have their OT of choice of either Reiff or Martin.

7. Jacksonville Jaguars – WR Michael Floyd – Notre Dame

Offense is the primary concern for Jacksonville heading into the draft. Even though right now this may be a little bit of a reach, I think Floyd’s stock will continue to rise heading into the draft, and there is no doubt Jacksonville could use a WR. Might be looking to trade down a little as well.

8. Carolina Panthers – DE Quinton Coples – North Carolina

Offense really took off after drafting Newton, and now it’s time to improve the 28^th ranked defense in opponent yards per game. Coples has great size and Carolina could fall in love with his high potential.

 Picks 9-16 >>>

>>>Sports Guide 2012 Mock Draft <<<

1. Indianapolis Colts – QB Andrew Luck – Stanford

This is a no brain pick.  Even with Peyton Manning still there they will draft Andrew Luck ensuring that they will have a franchise QB for the next 15 years.  I don’t know what they will do with Manning but I think they will need to release him and start a new future.  If they were to keep Manning and draft Luck they would have around $50 million tied up at the same position which won’t help improve the team.

2. St. Louis Rams – OT Matt Kalil – USC

Sam Bradford did not perform up to the standards he established in his rookie year but still has a bright future.  The Rams look like the favorites to land Coach Jeff Fisher whose first move will be to decide who to take #2 overall in the 2012 NFL mock draft.  I think it will be a pretty easy pick going with someone who can protect their franchise QB.  Kalil is head and shoulders above offensive lineman and would be a great tackle to add to the front line.

3. Minnesota Vikings – CB Morris Claiborne – LSU

I think that the Vikings have two choices here with the third pick.  They will have to choose between WR Justin Blackmon to help out Christian Ponder in the passing game or Morris Claiborn to help out a very bad secondary.  In my mock draft I have them going with Claiborne because they need a playmaker on the defensive side more than the offensive side.  Also seeing what Patrick Peterson did this year backs up the pick even more.

4. Cleveland Browns – QB Robert Griffin III

I don’t believe that Colt McCoy is the answer at quarterback in Cleveland.  Robert Griffin III is a very intelligent quarterback as well as a person.  He can make all the throws as well as very athletic.  Picking RGIII will be a great start with the 4th pick and they will also have Atlanta’s 1st round pick which I would have them adding another weapon to help their new QB out.

5. Tampa Bay Buccaneers – OT Jonathan Martin – Stanford

Another quarterback who didn’t live up to expectations was Josh Freeman and it was largely due to the lack of protection that he was given.  Last year they spent a lot of their first couple of round picks on the defensive line drafting two defensive ends.  In the 2012 NFL draft I expect them to turn to the offensive line and draft Jonathan Martin who will be a great addition and hopefully get Freeman back on track.

6. Washington Redskins – CB Dre Kirkpatrick – Alabama

The Redskins have established a very good pass rush by drafting two defensive ends in the past two drafts in Ryan Kerrigan and Brian Orakpo.  Now with that being said a good pass rush doesn’t mean much when the secondary leaves receivers wide open.  Kirkpatrick is an excellent cover corner as well as a returner so expect them to go with a cornerback instead of a quarterback.

7. Jacksonville Jaguars – WR Justin Blackmon – Oklahoma State

Justin Blackmon is a top 5 draft talent who has fallen due to other needs by the teams ahead of Jacksonville.  So if this scenario occures then the Jaguars won’t hesitate to pull the trigger on Blackmon.  Last year they drafted Blaine Gabbert with the 10th overall pick and he did not perform like the other rookie QB’s did but I believe that was due to the lack of playmakers around him.  He did not have any receivers that could separate from the defense.  Bringing in Blackmon with instantly spark that offense that is solely based around MJD.

8. Carolina Panthers – DE Quinton Coples – North Carolina

The Panthers are pretty much set on the offensive side with two great running backs and a great WR in Steve Smith.  I think with this top 10 draft pick they will need to look at the defensive end.  They finished 24th in total defense in 2011 and were tied for 25th in total sacks. Coples could fall farther from this spot but right now I have him going to Carolina and help put more pressure on opposing quarterbacks.

9. Miami Dolphins – DE Melvin Ingram – South Carolina

Jason Taylor said he is retiring after this season ending a Hall of Fame career spent mostly in Miami.  This will create a hole that Miami has to fill immediately.  I think they will go into this off-season looking for a franchise QB but I don’t think there is anyone worth of the 9th overall selection so they will have to go with the best available pass rusher.  That is where Melvin Ingram will come in and take over immediately.

10. Buffalo Bills – DE Andre Branch – Clemson

Like the Dolphins, the Bills will be looking for a franchise QB.  I think they need to cut Ryan Fitzpatrick so they can save some money on that terrible contract they concocted.  They could draft a QB or find a free agent to come in maybe Matt Flynn.  But like I said with Miami I don’t see anyone worthy of a top 10 selection so they need to turn to the defensive rush.  Last year they drafted Marcell Dareus who performed very well but needs someone on the end to help him out.  Branch will be a nice addition to that defensive line.

Mock draft picks 11-20 >>>

Mock draft picks 20-32 >>>

>>> Richie’s 2012 NFL Mock Draft <<<

First decision is whether to stick with Tebow as your QB, which I think they will despite how much of a joke he is. They could use a WR but none worth this pick, so why not improve their defensive line.

26.  New England Patriots (from New Orleans) – DE Andre Branch – Clemson

It’s no secret New England needs defensive help, and a pass rusher such as Branch would help greatly. A safety is also a very possible option here, or even trade down and get more picks like they love to do.

27.  Houston Texans – WR Kendall Wright – Baylor

Houston needs someone to compliment Andre Johnson, and Wright could be just the guy. Good WR, might be a little bit of a reach here, but it is a positional need.

28. Baltimore Ravens – OLB Kevin Reddick – North Carolina

Similar to Pittsburgh as the defense is aging, and Reddick is a very nice player from North Carolina. He’s a bit of an underrated player.

29.  Green Bay Packers – ILB Vontaze Burfict – Arizona State

Burfict is a fantastic player, and just like New England, Green Bay needs defense. He could be a steal here for a Packer defense needing some playmakers up front.

30. San Francisco 49ers – CB Janoris Jenkins – Northern Alabama

Great defense that finished as the 4^th best, and drafting Jenkins here would improve on that. Offense seems to be fine since they like Alex Smith, so another CB would be ideal.

31. New England Patriots – G Kelechi Osemele – Iowa State

New England with another pick, and a guard would help them. I know they need defense as I said earlier, but they should get value with one of these picks.

32.  New York Giants – CB Alfonzo Dennard – Nebraska

Thomas and Ross are going to be free agents, so depth at corner may be an issue. Dennard is a solid all-around corner who would be a great fit in the Giants secondary.

<<< Picks 1-8

<<< Picks 17-24 

>>>Sports Guide 2012 Mock Draft <<<

With Andy Dalton and AJ Green jolting a sluggish offense, it may be time to look at defense. Still would be a huge plug in the middle and is an interesting prospect. Cincinnati may also look for a RB.

18. San Diego Chargers – OLB Jarvis Jones – Georgia

The Chargers will be looking for a pass rushing OLB, and that’s what Jones is. San Diego will have many options so you never know who they’ll take, but skill positions on offense is definitely not a need.

19. Chicago Bears – WR Alshon Jeffery – South Carolina

I believe Jeffery would be a great pick here, as their WRs seem to get worse every season. Providing Cutler with a target such as Jeffery could bolster an already solid offense.

20. Tennessee Titans – OLB Zach Brown – North Carolina

Could look to add to their defensive line, but I think Brown could be a nice linebacker for them and a better value pick.

21. Cincinnati Bengals – RB Lamar Miller – Miami

If Cincinnati goes defense with its first pick, expect them to look at a RB on their next. Miller has good explosiveness and could take over for Cedric Benson.

22. Cleveland Browns (From Atlanta) – DT Jerel Worthy – Michigan State

If they do indeed go with Blackmon with their first pick, defensive help would probably be the pick here. Jerel Worthy is a huge plug and would solidify the Cleveland defense which finished ranked10th last season.

23. Detroit Lions – OT Mike Adams – Ohio State

An offensive tackle would greatly benefit the Lions, but we all know the Lions love defense. Skill positions on offense seem to be filled, so expect offensive line or defense.

24. Pittsburgh Steelers – DT Brandon Thompson – Clemson

The Pittsburgh defense is aging so they’ll probably be looking there. An offensive lineman would also help, but Thompson would be a good pick here.

<<< Picks 1-8

<<< Picks 9-16

Picks 25-32 >>>

>>>Sports Guide 2012 Mock Draft <<<

Would have to give up a lot to trade up for Griffin which is why I don’t think they do. Martin is a great right tackle to compliment Long on the left side while they continue to try and figure out their QB situation.

10. Buffalo Bills – OLB Courtney Upshaw – Alabama

As much as I wish the Bills would try and find a quarterback, the Bills seem set on giving Fitzpatrick at least one more season as the starter after that huge contract. Number 1 focus of the offseason should be signing WR Stevie Johnson, then focus on the 26^th ranked defense. If they’re idiots and let Stevie walk, then drafting a WR such as Jeffery becomes a realistic possibility. Assuming they re-sign him though, expect them to improve on their pass rush somehow.

11. Kansas City Chiefs – ILB Luke Kuechly – Boston College

Definitely in need of an offensive tackle, but to me there’s none worth taking here. A solid ILB would be a great pick for the Chiefs who might surprise some people next season with Charles and Berry returning.

12. Seattle Seahawks – RB Trent Richardson – Alabama

Tavaris Jackson is not the answer at quarterback, but the question is whether there is one worth taking here. With Marshawn Lynch being a free agent however, I think this is the easy pick if Richardson somehow falls this far. Not a lot of teams need RB’s before them, so it’s certainly possible a top 5 talent such as Richardson falls here.

13. Arizona Cardinals – G David DeCastro – Stanford

Offensive line a major need for Arizona, but so is a pass rusher. I think they’ll take the offensive lineman though, and DeCastro is a very nice guard.

14. Dallas Cowboys – CB Dre Kirkpatrick – Alabama

No question about Dallas’s need in the secondary, and I think Kirkpatrick is a great CB and would be a great pick for the Cowboys. It will be interesting to see if they’ll take Kirpatrick’s teammate Mark Barron, a safety, instead of him.

15. Philadelphia Eagles – S Mark Barron – Alabama

The Eagles’ defense was not as bad as people make it sound, as they were 8^th in opponent’s yards per game. That being said, secondary is not as strong as thought, and Barron’s draft stock could see a rise.

16. New York Jets – G/T Cordy Glenn – Georgia

No offense to the rest of the QB’s available, but they’re not worth taking here to take over for Sanchez, as they’re just not that much better than Sanchez. The only QB I would look at this offseason for the Jets would be Peyton Manning. That said, offensive line help could be useful.

<<< Picks 1-8

Picks 17-24 >>>

>>>Sports Guide 2012 Mock Draft <<<

The Chiefs have been drafting on the defensive side for the last few years in the first round so I expect them to turn to the offensive line.  They will get safety Eric Berry back who missed the entire season and will also have Matt Cassell back who might have to compete for his job with Kyle Orton.  Whoever starts at quarterback they will need a strong tackle to protect him which would be Riley Reiff.

12. Seattle Seahawks – RB Trent Richardson – Alabama

If Marshawn Lynch doesn’t return next year they will need to find a workhorse running back.  Trent Richardson is a top 5 draft talent that may fall this far do to the other team’s needs.  Seattle could be a good landing spot for Richardson because they have a pretty good offensive line but do need a full time QB because Tavarius Jackson isn’t the answer.

13. Arizona Cardinals – G David DeCastro – Stanford

There may be a quarterback controversy going into the 2012 NFL season between Kevin Kolb and John Skelton.  It will probably be Kolb due to what they gave up for him as well as the money they paid him.  Whoever becomes Arizona’s starting quarterback they will need protection up front and David DeCastro has been protecting Andrew Luck all season long.  He would be a good addition to the Cardinals offense.

14. Dallas Cowboys – S Mark Barron – Alabama

The Cowboys need help in the secondary.  Terrence Newman is getting older and Mike Jenkins did not perform like he did a year ago so they could be looking for a cornerback.  I would go with a cornerback as well but if Mark Barron is still on the board then I would have to draft him.  He is a great ball hawking safety which is another position they need.  Sensabaugh and Elam just don’t do it and aren’t playmakers like Barron is.

15. Philadelphia Eagles – ILB Luke Kuechly – Boston College

The Eagles’ defense got crushed in the running game this year partly due to their wide 9 style of defense as well as not having a big time linebacker in the middle.  Brian Rolle played pretty well but is not someone who should be the leader of the defense and holding up in the middle of that defense.

16. New York Jets – OLB Courtney Upshaw – Alabama

The Jets really regressed this year as did Mark Sanchez but I believe that they will stick with him and have to add younger weapons around him.  This position might be a good spot for Alshon Jeffery but Rex Ryan is a defensive coach who will want a playmaker in the linebacking core.  Bart Scott is getting old and barely plays on passing downs so they need someone who can play all over the field.

17. Cincinnati Bengals (Oakland) – DT Devon Still – Penn State

The Bengals are on the uptick and Andy Dalton has been a great addition.  They have speed all over the offense and now they need to look to some power in the middle of the defensive line.  Devon Still is 6’5″ and 307 pounds and full of muscle.

18. San Diego Chargers – CB Alfonzo Dennard – Nebraska

San Diego could go in a few directions but offense I don’t think is one of them. Rivers is a top QB with Floyd and Jackson as targets to throw to.  Now they will have to find someone to stop the pass.  Alfonzo Dennard is the top cornerback on the board and could go even earlier than this.

19. Chicago Bears – C Peter Konz – Wisconsin

The Bears offensive line has been terrible the last few years.  They drafted Gabe Carimi but he was hurt for parts of last year and could use another player protecting Jay Cutler.  Carimi was a teammate of Konz so it would be a nice fit to help the offensive line pass protect as well as run block for Matt Forte who will be coming back off injury.

20. Tennessee Titans – DT Fletcher Cox – Mississippi State

The Titans have been drafting pass rushers which have worked out pretty well but will now need to turn to the middle of that defensive line.  They haven’t had a solid defensive tackle since Albert Haynesworth so they will need to look for a big and physical player in the middle.

<<< Draft Picks 1-10

Draft Picks 21-32 >>>

>>> Richie’s 2012 NFL Mock Draft <<<

Cincinnati’s defense has been pretty good throughout the 2011 season but last year they lost Jonathan Joseph due to free agency and will need to improve the secondary.  Minnifield is a good cover corner who could step in right away on a playoff team.

22. Cleveland Browns (From Atlanta) – WR Michael Floyd

With their first pick I have in my mock draft them taking Robert Griffin III.  So to go with RGIII, the Browns will need to putt weapons around him.  Michael Floyd is a big aggressive receiver who will go really well with Greg Little who is more of a slot receiver and Floyd can man the outside.

23. Detroit Lions – OT Mike Adams – Ohio State

The Lions finally made the playoffs for the first time since 1991 and it was a lot to due with Matthew Stafford and Calvin Johnson.  Next year they will get back RB’s Jahvid Best and Mikel LeShoure so they will need to upgrade their offensive line.  Mike Adams has been a great player at Ohio State who will translate into a good tackle in the NFL.

24.  Pittsburgh Steelers – G Cordy Glenn – Georgia

The Steelers continue to struggle on the offensive line and should use another first round pick to upgrade the line.  Cordy Glenn has good speed to go along with his size.  It will be a good fit for the Steelers.

25.  Denver Broncos – OT Zebrie Sanders – Florida State

If John Elway decides to stick with Tim Tebow they will have to build a little differently than a normal pocket passer.  They will have to get a backup QB that plays a similar style to Tebow as well as build the depth of the offensive and defensive lines.  With this pick in the 2012 NFL draft I would go with Sanders who is a big and physical offensive tackle who can run block really well.

26. Houston Texans – WR Alshon Jeffery – South Carolina

The Texans finished with one of the best defenses this year because all their young talent that they have drafted is coming through.  Andre Johnson has been injury prone lately and it is a huge drop off when he is out.  Alshon Jeffery is a big time playmaking wide receiver who would be a great addition to go along with Johnson.

27.  Green Bay Packers – DT Jared Crick – Nebraska

Jared Crick played with the Lions’ DT Suh for a year and has been preforming as a first round pick ever since Suh left for the NFL.

28. Baltimore Ravens – OLB Kevin Reddick – North Carolina

Baltimore is getting older in the linebacking core and could use a young talent to mix in.  They could also look for a running back that could split carries with Ray Rice.  Currently they have Rickey Williams but he is old and doesn’t make the impact that a younger back could add to the team.

29.  New England Patriots  (From New Orleans) – DT Jerel Worthy – Michigan State

Jerel Worthy is a big time player who clogs up the middle of the defense.  The Patriots experimented with Albert Haynesworth but bailed halfway through the season.  They need a young physical player to plug up the middle of the defense.  They also will need to look at the secondary which could come with their other first round pick.

30. San Francisco 49ers – G Kelechi Osemele – Iowa State

The 49ers had one of the best defenses in 2011 and should continue to improve on that.  But with their 2012 first round pick in the 2012 NFL mock draft they should look at improving the inside of their offensive line.  Last year they drafted two tackles but now they need to add a big time guard to help protect Alex Smith.

31. New England Patriots – CB Janoris Jenkins – North Alabama

The Patriots were among the worst in total defense but even worse in the passing game. They have average corners as well as a brutal pass rush.  They will look at both of these positions in the 2012 NFL draft.  With their first pick in my mock draft, I have them taking Jerel Worth which is a good start but now they need to look at cornerback.  The best available player now is Jenkins who has been having a great season in Division II who once played for Florida.

32. New York Giants – OLB Jarvis Jones – Georgia

The Giants squeaked into the playoffs this year by beating Dallas in the last regular season game.  They were decimated with injuries all year in the linebacking area.  Adding Jarvis Jones would be a good addition to add depth as well as toughness in stopping the run.

<<< Draft Picks 11-20

<<< Draft Picks 1-10

>>> Richie’s 2012 NFL Mock Draft <<<

Written by Richie Graffeo

1. Calvin Johnson – Lions

2. Andre Johnson – Texans

3. Roddy White – Falcons

4. Larry Fitzgerald – Cardinals

5. Hakeem Nicks – Giants

6. Greg Jennings – Packers

7. Mike Wallace – Steelers

8. Vincent Jackson – Chargers

9. Miles Austin – Cowboys

10. Brandon Lloyd – Broncos

Notes on the Top 10:

Calvin Johnson mans the top spot, edging out Andre Johnson. Calvin had 1120 yards and 12 TDs last season with Drew Stanton and Shaun Hill at quarterback for most of the season. With Stafford, I think Johnson could have a ridiculous year, with 1300 yards and 15 TDs a realistic possibility. Some might argue Julio Jones will steal some targets from Roddy White, which is true, but it can then be argued White will no longer be the focus point and be double-teamed by opposing defenses. With Kevin Kolb in town, Larry Fitzgerald should be able to easily improve off his mediocre 1137 yard and 6 TD season. Expect Vincent Jackson to rebound and have a solid season coming off his trouble-filled 2010 campaign, and Miles Austin should be good once again with Tony Romo healthy and starting. Brandon Lloyd, the top fantasy WR of 2010 comes in at number 10. I don’t see any reason why he shouldn’t be able to put up great numbers once again, and he could be a steal if you get him this late as a WR.

11. Mike Williams – Buccaneers

12. Reggie Wayne – Colts

13. DeSean Jackson – Eagles

14. Dwayne Bowe – Chiefs

15. Dez Bryant – Cowboys

16. Chad Ochocinco – Patriots

17. Stevie Johnson – Bills

18. Percy Harvin – Vikings

19. Marques Colston – Saints

20. Mario Manningham – Giants

21. Anquan Boldin – Ravens

22. Brandon Marshall – Dolphins

23. Santonio Holmes – Jets

24. Kenny Britt – Titans

25. Jeremy Maclin – Eagles

Notes on 11 – 25:

Mike Williams had a stellar rookie year with 964 yards and 11 TDs, and he should produce once again this year with even more experience. Dwayne Bowe had 15 touchdowns last season, and even though I don’t expect him to reach that total again this year, at least 10 TDs is more realistic, but that is till great for a WR. I think Brady will be looking to get Ochocinco some catches this season, which is why I have him at 16. Stevie Johnson and Brandon Marshall are in similar situations, both talented number 1 WRs with questionable quarterbacks and mediocre teams. Same could be said about Kenny Britt, but he’s not quite at their level yet. Manningham managed 944 yards with 9 TDs in Hakeem Nicks’ breakout season, and he could even put up Nicks like numbers this season.

26. Sidney Rice – Seahawks

27. Wes Welker – Patriots

28. Mike Thomas – Jaguars

29. Austin Collie – Colts

30. Julio Jones – Falcons

31. Mike Sims-Walker – Rams

32. Malcom Floyd – Chargers

33. Santana Moss – Redskins

34. Roy Williams – Bears

35. Michael Crabtree – 49ers

36. Plaxico Burress – Jets

37. A.J. Green – Bengals

38. Danny Amendola – Rams

39. Braylon Edwards – 49ers

40. Jerome Simpson – Bengals

41. Pierre Garcon – Colts

42. Lance Moore – Saints

43. Jordy Nelson – Packers

44. Johnny Knox – Bears

45. Lee Evans – Ravens

Notes on 26 – 45:

Sidney Rice is clearly your best in this group, only concern is how good can a WR be with Tavaris Jackson as your quarterback. Mike Thomas in Jacksonville could become a very useful fantasy WR, same goes for Mike Sims-Walker down in St. Louis. I’m afraid to go near those injury-prone Colts WRs, which is why Collie and Garcon are ranked this low. Santana Moss and AJ Green will only be able to do so much with the team they have, and the same goes for Crabtree and Edwards in San Francisco. Some solid number 2 receivers could end up being decent fantasy plays, examples being Julio Jones, Malcom Floyd, and Jordy Nelson.

46. James Jones – Packers

47. Robert Meachem – Saints

48. Steve Smith – Panthers

49. Nate Burleson – Lions

50. Emmanuel Sanders – Steelers

51. Jacoby Jones – Texans

52. Jacoby Ford – Raiders

53. Mike Williams – Seahawks

54. Davone Bess – Dolphins

55. Steve Breaston – Chiefs

56. Jason Hill – Jaguars

57. Mohamed Massaquoi – Browns

58. Hines Ward – Steelers

59. Deion Branch – Patriots

60. Denarius Moore – Raiders

61. Greg Little – Browns

62. Earl Bennett – Bears

63. Steve Smith – Eagles

64. Andre Roberts – Cardinals

65. Eddie Royal – Broncos

66. Joshua Cribbs – Browns

67. Early Doucet – Cardinals

68. Danario Alexander – Rams

69. Terrell Owens – Free Agent

70. Devin Hester – Bears

71. Donald Jones – Bills

72. Titus Young – Lions

73. Arrelious Benn – Buccaneers

74. Anthony Armstrong – Redskins

75. David Nelson – Bills

Notes on 46 – 75:

Last year Steve Smith of Carolina was a complete joke, racking up a total of 57 fantasy points for the entire season. This year, expect the same. Nothing much has changed in Carolina, as Newton is still a few years away from doing anything throwing the ball. A few sleepers I like in this group are Emmanuel Sanders of Pittsburgh, Jacoby Jones in Houston, Mohamed Massaquoi in Cleveland, Jason Hill in Jacksonville, Donald Jones of Buffalo, and yes, Terrell Owens. I believe T.O. still has something left and can help a team make a playoff run. Even if he doesn’t get signed until a few weeks into the season, it’ll probably be by a team that’s had a WR injury or desperately needs one, and I think he’ll be able to make an immediate impact for that team. To me, he’s worth drafting as your 5^th WR and seeing where he ends up signing.

Quarterback Rankings >>>

Running Back Rankings >>>

Written by Richie Graffeo

1. Arian Foster – Texans

2. Adrian Peterson – Vikings

3. Jamaal Charles – Chiefs

4. Ray Rice – Ravens

5. Rashard Mendenhall – Steelers

6. Maurice Jones-Drew – Jaguars

7. LeSean McCoy – Eagles

8. Michael Turner – Falcons

9. Chris Johnson – Titans

10. Darren McFadden – Raiders

Notes on the Top 10:

As you can see, Arian Foster edged out Peterson for the number 1 spot in my rankings. Foster had a ridiculous year last season, and the only question is whether he can come close to those numbers again, and I think yes. He’s only 25 years old and is a powerful runner, so he should be able to take a beating for at least a few more years to come, giving him a real bright future. Jamaal Charles takes the number 3 slot, as I see no reason he shouldn’t have another great year. He’s super-fast, and despite his great season, he only had 8 total touchdowns. The aging Thomas Jones stole 6 from him last year, but I expect Charles to rack up a few more this season with Jones getting less touches. I’m also a fan of LeSean McCoy, who I expect to repeat his performance last year with an even better one. With teams focusing more on blitzing Vick, look for more of those short passes to McCoy to get him into the open field. Final note on the top 10 is addressing Chris Johnson coming in at number 9. Just because he didn’t live up to expectations last season doesn’t mean he didn’t have a good year, just not number 1 overall pick status. The two main things that concern me with him is this whole holding out and contract situation, and also that Tennessee is not a very good team.

11. Steven Jackson – Rams

12. Matt Forte – Bears

13. Peyton Hillis – Browns

14. Frank Gore

15. LeGarrette Blount – Buccaneers

16. Ahmad Bradshaw – Giants

17. Felix Jones – Cowboys

18. Knowshon Moreno – Broncos

19. Ryan Grant – Packers

20. Benjarvus Green-Ellis – Patrios

Notes on 11 – 20:

Steven Jackson at number 11 may be a bit high for some people, but I still think he’s a very useful RB. Last season he played in every game and had double-digit fantasy points at least 11 times. He only had 6 touchdowns, but I expect to see a slight rise in that number with the continued growth of Sam Bradford and just the Rams offense in general. Frank Gore and Ryan Grant are the main injury risks in this group, but if Gore can stay healthy (which I doubt), then he could easily be a top 6 running back. I’m a believer in Tampa Bay’s offense, which is why Blount is so high. Same with Felix Jones in Dallas, as I think with Barber gone he’ll see more carries in a high powered offense led by Tony Romo. Forte and Moreno especially are on pretty weak teams, so that’s a bit of a concern for me, but they’re both solid RBs.

21. Beanie Wells – Cardinals

22. Jahvid Best – Lions

23. Shonn Green – Jets

24. DeAngelo Williams – Panthers

25. Cedric Benson – Bengals

26. Mark Ingram – Saints

27. Ryan Mathews – Chargers

28. Marshawn Lynch – Seahawks

29. Tim Hightower – Redskins

30. Mike Tolbert – Chargers

Notes on 21 – 30:

You might be thinking, DeAngelo Williams at number 24?? Actually that might even be a little high. Not only is he one of the biggest injury risks among all players, but he’s also on one of the worst teams in the league. With not much of an offensive line or stability at the quarterback position in Carolina, Williams averaged only 7 fantasy points per game in the 6 games that he actually played in. So not only does he have to stay healthy, but you have to hope for a huge bounce-back season which I think is too much to ask. Wells, Best, and even Greene have the opportunity to produce and have a top 10 RB season. If these guys can stay healthy, expect very nice years out of all of them, and are high risk/high reward kind of guys. Lastly I’ll mention the two guys out of San Diego, Tolbert and Mathews. Last year, Tolbert got 11 touchdowns and had just less than 1000 total yards, while Mathews was just over 800 total yards and 7 TDs in an injury filled season. I’m expecting Mathews to get more touches this season because the Chargers drafted him in the 1^st round for a reason and want to give him every chance to produce, which is why I have him slightly ahead of Tolbert.

31. Fred Jackson – Bills

32. Joseph Addai – Colts

33. Reggie Bush – Dolphins

34. Jonathan Stewart – Panthers

35. Michael Bush – Raiders

36. Brandon Jacobs – Giants

37. Pierre Thomas – Saints

38. Daniel Thomas – Dolphins

39. Willis McGahee – Broncos

40. Ryan Torain – Redskins

41. James Starks – Packers

42. Jerome Harrison – Lions

43. Rashard Jennings – Jaguars

44. C.J. Spiller – Bills

45. Montario Hardesty – Browns

46. Ben Tate – Texans

47. Danny Woodhead – Patriots

48. Ronnie Brown – Eagles

49. Jason Snelling – Falcons

50. Delone Carter – Colts

Notes on 31 – 50:

Fred Jackson is by far the best in this group, it’s just the Bills are so bad he will only be able to do so much this season. CJ Spiller looks worse and worse every day, so don’t expect him to do much, as he might just be the next Aaron Maybin. In Jonathan’s Stewart’s case, basically everything I said about DeAngelo Williams, but add in the fact he’s the backup to start week 1. A lot of these RBs this late are backups, and you should draft them based on playing potential. For example, Darren McFadden is an injury risk, so if he goes down at some point in the season, Michael Bush would then become the starter and have a starring role. Same goes for James Starks in Green Bay or Ben Tate in Houston. That being said, if you drafted let’s just say a Ryan Grant, you’re going to want Starks in case Grant gets injured.

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Written by Richie Graffeo

Rank	Player	Bye	Note
1	Michael Vick	7	Understand there is an injury risk, but I'll still take my chances with Vick. Some people think all you have to do is blitz him and he'll struggle, but I think Andy Reid will counter against that and find ways to let Vick use his skills and rack up huge fantasy points once again.
2	Aaron Rodgers	8	Much safer pick than Vick and still was able to put up great numbers. Had over 350 yards and 4 touchdowns rushing, so he can steal some points with his legs too. Only thing is I think a healthy Grant will take away some of his passing attempts.
3	Tom Brady	7	Last season had 36 TDs and only 4 INTs. Add Ochocinco as a target and I think Brady will have another huge fantasy season.
4	Drew Brees	11	If he can limit his 22 INTs from a year ago, he could finish as a top 2 QB. He did throw for over 4600 yards and 33 touchdowns, but the difference between him and Brady right now is that he's a turnover machine.
5	Philip Rivers	6	One of the top QBs last year and led the league in Passing Yards, and with Gates healthy and returning, why can't he do it again?
6	Tony Romo	5	Obviously there's an injury risk here with Romo missing most of last season and having a mediocre offensive line, but there's still plenty of hope for a 30 TD season in a high flying Dallas offense this season.
7	Peyton Manning	11	Questions regarding health and offensive line give him a major red flag this season. Still was 2nd in Passing Yards last season so he still has plenty of skill left at age 35.
8	Matt Schaub	11	An up and down season for Schaub, but in the final 8 games he averaged just over 17 fantasy points per game in standard leagues. Expect teams to focus more on Arian Foster this season just like the second half of last year, which should open up more passing opportunities for Schaub.
9	Josh Freeman	8	When looking at the numbers, how can you not love this kid? 25 TDs and 6 INTs, not to mention 364 yards rushing in only his second NFL season. Should improve on his zero rushing touchdowns, which can only help his argument for having another very solid season for a rising Buccaneers team.
10	Ben Roethlisberger	11	After his suspension last season, he looked like he never missed a beat finishing 6th among QBs in fantasy points per game. Another solid year should be on the way for Big Ben.
11	Matt Ryan	11	If you want someone with huge point potential, Ryan's not your guy. He only scored more than 20 fantasy points 3 times last season, but was very consistent in putting up at least 10 points in 14 of his 16 starts.
12	Eli Manning	7	A pretty inconsistent year for Eli throwing 25 picks to go with 31 TDs, but still threw for over 4000 yards and has a nice pair of Widereceivers to help his cause.
13	Matthew Stafford	9	Perfect example of a high risk/high reward guy. Played in only 2 full games last year, but in each of those racked up 24 fantasy points. If he can stay healthy, which is a HUGE if, he can be a top 10 QB in my opinion with the weapons he has.
14	Joe Flacco	5	Not a bad season by any means for Flacco, who had 3622 passing yard, 25 TDs and 10 INTs. The addition of Lee Evans can only help, but doesn't get enough attempts to put up giant numbers.
15	Sam Bradford	5	Look for Bradford to improve on his rookie campaign of 18 TDs and 15 picks, but to think he'll be a top 10 QB is a little overboard. Nice year for a rookie, but still just a backup for fantasy.
16	Kevin Kolb	6	Even if you’re not sold on him like some people are, you can't deny he's got potential. Why not draft him as a backup and take the chance he has a breakout year? He only has upside if you take him this late at the Quarterback position, that is assuming he's your backup to start the year.
17	Jay Cutler	8	Not much to like with their offensive system and poor offensive line, but Cutler did score over 20 fantasy points four times last year, so not a terrible matchup play in some cases.
18	Matt Cassel	6	27 TDs and 7 INTs for Cassel who had a very respectable season. Solid backup for your team, but it's going to be hard to repeat his 2010 stats in 2011.
19	Kyle Orton	6	Despite what Denver fans want to hear, his job his safe as the starter to start the season. In the first 11 games last season, he averaged just over 18 fantasy points per game, so he's not a terrible option if you have to go to him.
20	Colt McCoy	5	Dominant preseason so far, but then again, it is preseason. Still, I think he's got some upside and could be a useful QB.
21	Mark Sanchez	8	17 TDs and 13 INTs throwing last season, so clearly not much of a fantasy option. Plaxico helps his stock a little, but he still lost Cotchery and Edwards.
22	Donovan McNabb	9	No doubt he will be better than he was in Washington, but unfortunately that's still not saying much for the 34 year old QB.
23	Ryan Fitzpatrick	7	More of a hit or miss guy, and expect a lot of misses this season. Had a nice fantasy year in 2010 with four games of 20 or more fantasy points, but only so much can happen on a Bills team who could have the worst offensive line in the history of football.
24	Chad Henne	5	Biggest thing is consistency. Showed some glimpses of his potential last year , but those glimpses were few and not often.
25	Alex Smith	7	Very similar to Henne. On the hot seat, but still has a tad of potential left before we all give up hope on the former #1 overall pick.
26	Jason Campbell	8	Last 5 games last year he averaged over 15 fantasy points per game, so you never know, a breakout could finally happen.
27	David Garrard	9	Actually had a decent year fantasy wise last year, but the reason I have him so low is because of Gabbert.
28	Cam Newton	9	I still think Jimmy Clausen gives Carolina a better chance at winning, but apparently not Carolina. Only reason he's this high is for his running ability.
29	Matt Hasselbeck	6	Basically no potential with him, but he's a starter, for week 1 anyways.
30	Tavaris Jackson	6	Not a good passer, decent wheels, but turnovers will be an issue in Seattle.
31	John Beck	5	Horrible offensive line. Horrible team. Horrible everything.
32	Andy Dalton	7	Rookie quarterback on what many believe is the worst team in the NFL. Not a good combination.

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