Sports Al Dente Multi-GM 2018 NFL Mock Draft 2.0

Finally. Draft week is here! It has been a crazy offseason thus far, and April 26-28 should be no different.

There are thousands, if not millions of mock drafts out there on the web, but how many of those are completed by just a single person? 99% would be my guess. At Sports Al Dente we thought that we could give a much better depiction if multiple people, representing each partook in the festivities.

We put out our Pre-Free Agency Multi-GM mock out back in March, but now that the free agency dust has finally settled, and we are mere days away from the big day, its time to update our board and run the process again. As always, drop us a comment and let us know what you think!

Sports Al Dente Multi-GM 2018 NFL Mock Draft 2.0

1. Cleveland Browns

The best quarterback in this draft goes to the team that needs a future quarterback the most. The Browns cannot take a gamble with this pick and select Josh Allen because he is too much of a wildcard. Darnold is one of the most polished guys in this draft and has the highest floor of every QB in this class.

During his time at USC, he was 20-4 as a starter but what I liked the most was his leadership. Yes, he was very careless with the ball last year and he has to fix that but many of those early stumbles were because of injuries. Darnold dealt with a plethora of injuries on his offensive line and too many skill positions, and he kept pushing through. That is what I like about him with the Browns. When things break down, he keeps his head up and tries to make a play. His accuracy can improve, but a year to develop under Hue Jackson and behind Tyrod Taylor could be everything he needs.

– Tobias Estes, Contributor

2. New York Giants

After focusing on protection and defensive fortitude throughout the free agency period with pickups like Nate Solder and Alec Ogletree, RB Saquon Barkley is even more of an inevitable draft pick for the New York Giants. The Giants front office have hand-crafted a team that will allow Barkley to take advantage of opportunities on the field.

With a veteran quarterback and a reconstructed offensive line, the option to draft an energetic RB makes complete sense. Pat Shurmur and Dave Gettleman have mentioned the goal of expanding their depth with more running-options. Not only is it a nice fit for the Giants it’s also a nice fit for Barkley. There is the opportunity to grow. The front office and coaching staff are fresh and they have a veteran RB, Jonathan Stewart, to help mold Barkley. Don’t forget the influence of other young players like Odell Beckham Jr., Evan Engram and Sterling Shepard that feed explosive energy. Barkley and the Giants are a good combination.

– Brauna Marks, Contributor

3. New York Jets (From Indianapolis Colts)

Baker Mayfield is arguably the best quarterback in this draft class. His poise, leadership, and intangibles will translate to an NFL locker room and he could make an immediate impact for whoever selects him. The New York Jets gave up a lot to move up three spots from the sixth pick to the third, so it would be hard to imagine them selecting anyone but a quarterback. Over the past few weeks, Mayfield has been heavily linked to the Jets, and if the Browns do go with Darnold at number one, Baker Mayfield should be the next quarterback called in Dallas.

– Ryan Dyrud

4. Cleveland Browns

Arguably the best defensive player in this year’s draft, and unquestionably the best pass rusher. Chubb wreaked havoc on many offenses this year and pairing him with Myles Garrett would give the Browns a fearsome front four for at least five seasons. With the evolution of NFL offenses, the need for a pass rush is pivotal.

The greatness of those Seahawks teams was not their defensive backfield, but it was how great their defensive line was at rushing the quarterback. Michael Bennett, Cliff Avril, and company were a terror to teams and the Browns can copy that with Garrett and Chubb.

– Tobias Estes, Contributor

5. Denver Broncos

The Broncos have made it clear that they are open to shopping the number five pick, but if teams like the Bills and Cardinals are not willing to give up enough to move up then the selection should be obvious for Denver. During this simulation, a trade deal was in the works with Buffalo but never came to fruition.

There have been rumors that the Broncos really like CB Denzel Ward, and LB Roquan Smith, but if they are to stay at five, they cannot pass up on Quenton Nelson. Nelson is mean in the trenches and would be a day one starter and elevate the Broncos offensive line to a very formidable unit. A line with the likes of Bolles, Leary, Paradis, Nelson, and Veldheer could easily be a top 15 offensive line, and potentially even top 10. This would be a win now selection that would also solidify the line for years to come, something that is so important in the NFL.

– Ryan Dyrud

6. Indianapolis Colts (From New York Jets)

Ideally, the Colts would like to grab Nelson or Chubb at this spot but Edmunds isn’t a bad consolation prize. There is dispute on whether he is best utilized as an outside or inside linebacker which speaks volumes about his athletic ability and luckily for the Colts, they have a long-term need at both. Edmunds could be a Luke Kuechly type player for Indianapolis and give them a pillar on defense to build around in the coming years.

– Tad Desai, Editor

7. Tampa Bay Buccaneers

Two months ago, many people said that Minkah Fitzpatrick was the most talented player in the entire draft. T.J. Ward has yet to be resigned and so the Buccaneers have some room in the defensive backfield. Fitzpatrick would be a day one starter, at his natural Safety position or even at Corner. Not only is he a playmaker against the pass, but he is very strong against the run and can get after the quarterback. Tampa Bay would be ecstatic if Fitzpatrick fell to them at seven.

– Ryan Dyrud

8. Chicago Bears

There is an argument to be made that outside of Bradley Chubb, Derwin James could be the most impactful defensive player in this draft. There is a lot to like about James. He is a natural born leader and he is the perfect size and speed to be an NFL safety. He is extremely versatile as he is able to play deep or close to the line of scrimmage. James can play a true safety or he could take on a hybrid role. Derwin James, in other words, is the full package.

The Bears already have a solid secondary with Eddie Jackson and Adrian Amos coming off great seasons. Jackson demonstrated tons of promise during his rookie season and Amos had a tremendous third season with the Bears, even sparking talks of Chicago potentially extending him. But even though Amos is a solid defender, he doesn’t have the playmaking ability of James and certainly doesn’t have the potential to be the type of impact player James could be. Bears need help defensively whether they trade up or down, so why not take the best defensive player on the board with the 8th pick.

– Bryan Hernandez, Editor

9. San Francisco 49ers

One of the best cornerbacks in the draft, he is great in coverage and a big hitter. He allowed 32% of completions against him in the past two years. While he only had two interceptions in 2017 this just indicates that quarterbacks were scared to throw in his direction. With Richard Sherman manning the other cornerback spot, the 49ers defensive backfield can look scary.

– David Hegler, Contributor

10. Oakland Raiders

In this situation, I was hoping that Derwin James or Denzel Ward was on the board, and when they went earlier, I attempted to trade back. In any trade back scenario, you need a partner and unfortunately, there weren’t any GMs looking to move into this spot. Raiders get their LB and potentially a star to go along with Khalil Mack for the next decade. Smith will solidify the second level for a Raiders defense that has struggled at the LB position for years.

– Keaton Ohara, Contributor

11. Miami Dolphins

I was looking at Smith in this spot but just missed. With the exit of Ndamukong Suh, the Dolphins have a big hole to fill along their D line. Vea could be an immediate difference maker if he’s able to maximize his potential and impress during training camp.

– Grassy Knoll, Contributor

12. Buffalo Bills (From Cincinnati Bengals)

The Bills have been rumored to be trying to move up into the top 5 of the draft to grab a quarterback. However, the football gods smiled upon Buffalo and they land the most NFL ready quarterback in the draft at spot 12.

– Talon Graff, Managing Editor

13. Washington Redskins

I know the Redskins need to address other needs for their team, but this was something they should jump on. Allen falling this far is a testament to how polarizing he is, but the talent is there. Alex Smith is not the long-term option and he is the perfect bridge guy. The Redskins know what they are going to get out of Alex Smith, and there is a ceiling with where he can take your team.

By drafting Allen, the Redskins can work on Allen’s mechanics and have him grow with the system. It would also bye some time for Jay Gruden because they will be showing plans for the future. Allen has a tremendous arm, but he has problems with being accurate on all of his throws. He is the most talented quarterback in this draft if we are looking at just arm talent. If Gruden can make him a consistent thrower then the Redskins will have their future franchise quarterback.

– Tobias Estes, Contributor

14. Green Bay Packers

Cornerbacks Josh Jackson and Mike Hughes are intriguing options here as the Packers have a glaring need at the position. However, the upside for Davenport is too good to pass up for a team that also lacks pass rushing firepower. With the amount of depth at the cornerback position versus the steep drop-off in edge rusher talent, this pick makes a lot of sense.

Marcus Davenport is extremely raw, but the kid is explosive and possesses all the physical attributes that scream future All-Pro. He has an insane size-speed combo with a 4.58 40 time paired with his 6’7, 255-pound frame. Davenport comes from a smaller school with a lower level of competition, but he consistently dominated leaving little doubt about his level of talent. Having the chance to play and learn the game from a future Hall Of Famer in Clay Matthews should only help in expediting his growth and polishing his skills. This guy has the potential to wreak havoc for years to come and Green Bay gets a steal of a value here.

– Ryan LaRock, Contributor

15. Arizona Cardinals

The Cardinals stayed put and selected quarterback Lamar Jackson out of Louisville. Analysts have Jackson moving up the draft board as the draft approaches. This situation could be ideal for Jackson because he can sit for a year and learn the ropes from Sam Bradford and the coaching staff. Jackson has the potential and Arizona can continue to build their offense along with Jackson and become a threat in the NFC West in the near future.

– Danielle Herrera, Contributor

16. Baltimore Ravens

The Ravens’ recent history of wide receivers can be compared to a revolving hotel door. They have been in desperate need of offensive weapons, particularly on the outside, for what seems like since Super Bowl XLVII. The brass they have brought in since that season has been underwhelming.

Slated midway through the first round in this year’s draft, the Ravens need to pick a playmaker who can make an immediate impact. If Alabama WR Calvin Ridley is available at 16, this should be an easy pick. Even with this year’s wide receiver signings, Ridley would make a great addition to the offense. He is a disciplined route runner and once he has the ball in his hands, he can be very dangerous. He has solid footwork and knows how to change speeds well for a college receiver. Ridley may need to get better at using his hands for separation off the snap but he surely has the potential to be the number one receiver in Baltimore sooner rather than later.

– Ryan Bertrand, Contributor and Graphics Manager

17. Los Angeles Chargers

The Chargers were a game or two away from making the 2017 playoffs. Although many football heads will say it’s cause of their field goal kicking (which is true), I tend to lean towards their run defense, which was last in the league, as a reason for the 2017 failures. Unable to get off the field during crucial moments of a game, allowing teams to take over, and most importantly, forcing Philip Rivers and their talented offense to just sit on the sideline and watch.

Selecting Da’Ron Payne will add an immediate boost to the Chargers’ interior line since he is perhaps the best run-stuffing defensive lineman in the draft. At 6’2, 310 pounds, his natural strength complimented with his athleticism and body control is what will make him a day one starter. Plus having Melvin Ingram and Joey Bosa as the edge rushers, you’re now looking at the Bolts to have one of the best up and coming defensive lines in the NFL!

– Darius Jackson, Contributor

18. Seattle Seahawks

McGlinchey is the best tackle prospect in the draft. A probable top 10 pick if he came out in 2017, McGlinchey falls to 18 here and the Seahawks get a great piece to help protect their franchise QB.

– Roman Tomashoff, Contributor

19. Dallas Cowboys

The release of Dez Bryant creates an immediate need at the wide receiver spot. The defensive secondary is also a concern. However, Dallas addresses a more pressing issue at defensive tackle with pick number 19.

Taven Bryan is one of the most athletic linemen in this draft class. His combine numbers in the jumping drills and the shuttle are off the charts. He is quick off the ball and excellent at shedding blockers. Bryan’s talents are still raw and he needs some seasoning at the pro level. If he’s a quick learner, the Cowboys could have the penetrating force on the interior line that they’ve been lacking.

– Scott Silveri, Editor

20. Detroit Lions

With Marcus Davenport off the board, the Lions pick the next best thing in Harold Landry. Landry is a speed rusher off the edge with the size and footwork to back up his natural athletic talent. His second team All-American Honors in 2016 likely would have been duplicated or improved had he played a full 2017 campaign. Despite playing only 9 games, Landry still managed to earn Third-Team All ACC honors behind talented players such as Bradley Chubb and Duke Ejiofor. The Lions desperately need someone to harass opposing quarterbacks and will hope that an athlete like Landry can get the job done.

– Charlie Cairone, Contributor

21. Cincinnati Bengals (From Buffalo Bills)

Hernandez is a great pick to replace free agent losses to the Bengals offensive line. The former UTEP Miner was a second-team, AP All-American and a member of the All-Conference USA team. A four-year starter at UTEP, Hernandez consistently looked like a man among boys. Balance and immense strength have put this guy on the map as one of the top prospects in the draft.

Hernandez has no trouble blocking for the run or pass. He shows great vision by always looking for “extra work,” meaning he is excellent at getting to the second level in the running game and picking up extra lineman in the passing game. All in all, Hernandez is going to be a plug and play starter for Cincinnati and it won’t be long before he is regarded as one of the best linemen in the NFL.

– Amar Desai, Contributor

22. Buffalo Bills (From Kansas City Chiefs)

Buffalo needs to replace Preston Brown who was the team’s leading tackler in 2017. Vander Esch fills that void and adds a young staple at every level of the defense along with Adolphus Washington and Tre’Davious White.

– Talon Graff, Managing Editor

23. New England Patriots (From Los Angeles Rams)

Rashaan Evans at the 23rd pick is a no-brainer for New England. Some could argue that a lot of New England’s Defensive struggles from last year derived from not having a solid leader at the linebacker position. With Dont’a Hightower out last season, New England struggled to solidify a strong middle-defense.

With Evans coming out of the draft, and the return of Dont’a Hightower, both Roll-Tide Alumnus can easily cause trouble for opposing teams. Not to mention, Evans was well trained by Nick Saban, whom also has a great friendship with Bill Belichick. Must I say more?

– Jamal Layne, Contributor

24. Indianapolis Colts (From Carolina Panthers)

The move to trade up began after the Lions passed on Guice. The Panthers, Steelers, and Patriots were all fits for him and the Colts need a running back they can consistently rely on so it was worth the asking price. Guice’s most valuable asset is his vision which is good enough that betting on him translating well to the next level is a good one. Marlon Mack is an asset in the passing game and a decent runner but Indianapolis needs to find their back of the future in this year’s draft and they found that in Guice here.

– Tad Desai, Editor

25. Tennessee Titans

The Titans hired Mike Vrabel to be their coach and he’s signed several key Patriots to help implement the Patriot Way. They built their secondary through free agency and now they need to bolster their pass rush. Hurst gives the Titans the kind of outside/inside pass rush that Vrabel ran in Houston and the Titans sorely need. He will fit in nicely alongside Jurrell Casey and Wesley Woodyard.

– Chauncey Telese, Contributor

26. Atlanta Falcons

After letting Dontari Poe leave in free agency, the Falcons are in major need of a solid defensive tackle. However, with Vita Vea, Da’Ron Payne, Taven Bryan, and Maurice Hurst all off the board, the Falcons turn to address another need in the first round.

Atlanta arguably hasn’t had a solid tight end since Alge Crumpler, and they can change that in 2018 by adding Hayden Hurst. Hurst is the most talented Tight End in this class. He is a tremendous route runner, has very good hands, and looks for contact after the catch. He will need to work on his inline blocking, but he would be a great weapon to add to Matt Ryan‘s arsenal.

– Ryan Dyrud

27. New Orleans Saints

Although the Saints have other needs on their team, mainly tight end and linebacker, selecting Jackson at this spot was too good to pass up on. Jackson is a long corner with excellent football instincts. He plays very physical and showed that he was a ballhawk for the majority of the collegiate season. Marcus Lattimore and Ken Crawley have shown that they are starting cornerbacks but with how the league is becoming more pass-oriented, you can never have too many quality defensive backs.

– Gared Watkins, Contributor

28. Pittsburgh Steelers

The Steelers have gone defense and specifically cornerback early and often the past few drafts. While standouts Artie Burns and Sean Davis will continue to grow into their roles, they can still use some help. Mike Hughes helped lead the UCF Golden Knights to an undefeated record in 2017-18, effectively shutting down his half of the field. Hughes is a strong, intelligent player with an instinct for jumping routes and getting to the ball. He also excels in the return department, which is a habitual weakness of the black and yellow.

– Charlie Cairone, Contributor

29. Kansas City Chiefs (From Jacksonville Jaguars)

The Chiefs have a pretty solid roster except for the secondary. The Chiefs do not own a first round pick in 2018 but trade away a couple of second round picks and a sixth-round pick to move up and grab one of the top corner prospects in the draft.

– Talon Graff, Managing Editor

30. Minnesota Vikings

At pick 30, the Vikings went the predictable route and snagged one of the top three offensive linemen on the board in Isaiah Wynn. He has the measurables you want in an offensive lineman, as well as the durability. He is likely an NFL guard, but has experience at tackle as well, which makes his development extremely versatile. He started 40 of his final 41 collegiate games, 23 straight at one point. This is an everyday player who can help protect the Vikings’ new toy, Kirk Cousins. He should be an above average player for close to a decade, with All-Pro upside.

– Josh Moeschl, Contributor

31. New England Patriots

New England has a knack for finding diamonds in the rough and that diamond could very well be Jake Campos. With the huge loss of Nate Solder, Campos has potential to fill big shoes (no pun intended). Coming in at 6’7 and 304 pounds, Campos may be the answer to the million dollar question: Can New England provide enough blockage for the aging Tom Brady? While helping Iowa State’s offense achieve 29.9 ppg as well as clearing the way for a 1,000-yard rusher, Campos provides enough stability to fit into New England’s mantra – Do your job.

– Jamal Layne, Contributor

32. Indianapolis Colts (From Philadelphia Eagles)

It is extremely aggressive for the Colts to trade up yet again and giving up Haeg was not an easy decision but there were two players who were falling that were probably not going to be there at 36: Courtland Sutton and Kolton Miller. Both fit pretty big needs for the Colts and there are enough guard prospects that Haeg’s replacement can be taken there and develop behind Matt Slauson for a year so Miller got the nod. Protecting Luck is clearly a priority after last year and Miller is a good step in the direction of fulfilling that goal.

– Tad Desai, Editor