Dolphins waive running back Richard Medlin

The Miami Dolphins came out of the 2012 NFL Draft and undrafted free agent signings with eight running backs on their roster, which is why it should come as no surprise the team has decided to trim the spot a bit.

The Dolphins waived second-year running back Richard Medlin on Monday, reducing the Dolphins' roster total to 79, which doesn't include the nine unsigned draft picks. The team still has two additional roster spots available on their 90-man offseason roster.

A standout at Division II Fayetteville State, Medlin was his conference's special teams player of the year as a senior in 2010. He was originally signed by the New England Patriots after going undrafted in 2011 and totaled two touchdowns in the preseason before being waived during final cuts.

The Dolphins signed Medlin to their practice squad on Sept. 21 to provide practice depth at running back after the short-lived stint of veteran rusher Larry Johnson in Miami. Medlin was signed to the active roster on a three-year deal in Week 17 after offensive tackle Jake Long went on injured reserve, although he was inactive for the season finale.

It's not surprising to see Medlin cut here, as the Dolphins had a bevvy of running backs on the roster and Medlin offers little more than potential special teams value. The small school project lacked elite athleticism and didn't really have an upside on offense.

Even with Medlin's departure, the Dolphins still have six tailbacks under contract, as well as rookie fourth-rounder Lamar Miller still to be signed. Along with Miller, starter Reggie Bush and 2011 second-rounder Daniel Thomas should be considered locks to make the final roster in 2012.

My initial guess is that veteran Steve Slaton, whose career has taken a lackluster turn since his impressive rookie season with the Texans in 2008, will not make the final roster with the arrival of Miller. Slaton obviously had some talent once upon a time, but there is no reason to keep a player who has had multiple chance to perform as your fourth running back.

Then you have the fresh blood in the form of CFL imports Jerome Messam and Marcus Thigpen and undrafted rookie Jonas Gray. A highly-touted prep prospect before arriving at Notre Dame, Gray is still recovering from a torn ACL suffered as a senior and as a result he seems unlikely to vie for more than a practice squad spot.

Messam is the intriguing prospect of this bunch, as the 6-foot-3, 245-pound bruiser excelled with the Edmonton Eskimos and has the ability to play in the NFL in the right situation. It will be interesting to see if he stays at tailback given the logjam at the position or if he'll be worked at fullback to have a better chance at making the final roster.


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Cameron Wake inks $49 million extension with Dolphins

The Miami Dolphins have inked Pro Bowl pass rusher Cameron Wake to a long-awaited and much deserved four-year, $49 million extension on Sunday with a reported $20 million in guaranteed money.

Entering the 2012 offseason and the final year of his first NFL contract signed in 2009, Wake was slated to make just $615,000 this coming season—or to put it another way, roughly 24 percent of placeicker Dan Carpenter's base salary in 2012.

Interestingly, the Dolphins' official website says the deal is through the 2016 season, which would mean this is a new four-year deal that will begin in 2013 rather than replace the final year of his original contract. Such a deal would keep Wake in Miami through his age 34 season.

This could have been done because the Dolphins have limited cap space at the moment, so his 2012 salary will remain the same with the new deal kicking in after the season. He certainly received some nice upfront money to appease him in the meantime.

Originally undrafted out of Penn State in 2005, Wake was out of football before heading to the Canadian Football League two years later and winning the CFL's Most Outstanding Player award in back-to-back seasons.

Wake's CFL production, which included 39 sacks over two seasons, drew vast attention from more than half the team's in the NFL. It was the Dolphins that won the bidding for Wake's services, inking him to a four year, $4.9 million contract during the 2009 offseason.

After racking up 6.5 sacks in his rookie season as a situational pass rusher behind Jason Taylor and Joey Porter, Wake erupted as a starter in 2010 with 57 tackles, 14 sacks and three forced fumbles to earn a spot on the AFC Pro Bowl squad.

Wake's production dipped to 8.5 sacks and zero forced fumbles in 2011, due in large part to being the only capable pass rusher on the Dolphins' roster and the attention gained around the league the season before. It certainly was not a lost season, however, as Pro Football Focus graded him as an elite run defender and pass rusher with 81 total sacks, hits and pressures.

The 2012 season will bring some change for Wake, as the Dolphins are expected to largely utilize the 4-3 defensive scheme under new coordinator Kevin Coyle. In such a scheme, Wake will move down to right defensive end, where he primarily played as a rookie in 2009, after spending the past two seasons at outside linebacker in the 3-4 scheme.

No matter where Wake lines up, however, there is little reason to worry about his production. He has routinely been one of the most hard-working players on the Dolphins' roster and his drive shouldn't change after this pay day. Despite his positive 2011 season, I'm sure Wake wants to bump that sack total up and I wouldn't put it past him to do it.

The pass rush position aside from Wake remains a concern, however, as there is still no clear-cut starter opposite him. Defensive tackle Jared Odrick could potentially play out of position, or the job could go to a free agent Jamaal Westerman—a career backup with the Jets—or rookie fourth-rounder Olivier Vernon, who has the physical tools but underachieved at the University of Miami.

Up next, one would expect the Dolphins to try and work out an extension with Pro Bowl offensive tackle Jake Long, who is entering the final year of his rookie deal and carries a $12.8 million cap hit in 2012. The first overall pick in 2008 would likely command a deal of equal or greater value to the seven-year, $84 million that Browns' tackle Joe Thomas inked in 2011.

The Dolphins have a number of other impact players with expiring contracts heading into the 2013 offseason, including Pro Bowl defensive tackle Randy Starks, cornerback Sean Smith and wide receiver Brian Hartline. You can check out the Dolphins' upcoming free agents by year here.


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Dolphins sign 16 undrafted rookie free agents

Reports of undrafted free agents signed by the Miami Dolphins began trickling out shortly after the 2012 NFL Draft concluded on Saturday, with numerous reports coming from the players themselves via Twitter.

However, I decided to hold off on writing about such players because of the tendency for some of the reports to be inaccurate. Players offered contracts and players simply offered a chance to participate in the rookie minicamp on a tryout basis often get mixed together, so you're never quite sure who was actually signed and who is merely tying to get signed.

With the NFL expanding offseason rosters from 80 to 90 this year, the Dolphins were able to sign more undrafted rookies than usual. In all, they signed 16 such players, which gives the Dolphins 80 players under contract as well as the nine unsigned draft picks for a total of 89.

Below, I take a brief look at each of the Dolphins' 16 undrafted rookies, as well as their long-term outlooks for a potential pro career, in Miami or elsewhere.

Also, be sure to check out my projected depth chart, which is updated through today to include all draft picks, undrafted rookies, and newly-assigned jersey numbers.


DT Chas Alecxih, Pittsburgh

Originally a walk-on at Pitt in 2007, Alecxih earned a full scholarship in 2009 while working as a reserve defensive tackle. He went on to start 13 games as a junior in 2010, recording 57 tackles (nine for a loss) and 7.5 sacks. As a senior, Alecxih again totaled 57 tackles while adding a team-high 15.5 tackles for a loss and 6.5 sacks.

A mountain at 6-foot-4 and 296 pounds, Alecxih receives high marks for his high motor and intensity, as well as his bull-rushing ability from inside. He struggles in space and needs to refine his technique and get stronger, but the talent is there. While I don't see him cracking the Dolphins' active roster as a rookie, he's a prime candidate for the practice squad.


C Terence Brown, BYU

A Utah native, Brown was a reserve at BYU during the 2005 season before heading to Brazil on an LDS church mission from 2006 to 2008. He returned to the playing field in 2009, starting all 39 games over his final three seasons. Brown earned honorable mention All-Mountain West honors as a junior and was name to the Rimington Trophy Watch List as a senior.

Brown (6-3, 303) is your training camp center that offers little upside or versatility. He was solid at the collegiate level and gained plenty of experience at guard, but he's entirely limited to center in the pros due to lack of athleticism. My guess is that he's not going to make the roster or practice squad.


MLB Cameron Collins, Oregon State

Originally a safety for the Beavers, Collins moved to linebacker prior to the 2010 season. In 23 games at linebacker over his final two seasons, Collins made 13 starts and totaled 94 tackles (eight for a loss), one sack, two forced fumbles and four pass deflections. He was named to the conference's All-Academic Team each of his four seasons at OSU, becoming just the ninth person in Pac-10/Pac-12 history to do so.

Collins measures in at an athletic 6-foot-3 and 241 pounds—solid size for a middle linebacker in the Dolphins' new 4-3 scheme. However, his limited experience leaves him still developing as a defender and probably far from seeing a regular season NFL field any time soon. Like most linebackers, he'll have to make his mark on special teams before becoming a top backup.


OG Derek Dennis, Temple

A native of Queens, N.Y., Dennis started 10 games as a true freshman at right guard and started six more games as a sophomore in 2008, including some time at left tackle. Dennis was limited to just three games in 2008 and ended up redshirting with a knee injury before returning to the field in 2010. He started three games as guard and four games at tackle as a junior before starting all 13 games for the Owls at left guard as a senior in 2011.

The 6-foot-3, 315-pound Dennis is regarded as as fairly solid interior lineman prospect. While he has the versatility to play outside as he did in college, his lack of athleticism pretty much leaves him at guard at the pro level. His technique needs a lot of work, but there is upside here and reason to believe he could push for a roster or practice squad spot as a rookie, especially when you consider the lack of quality depth inside for the Dolphins.


WR Jeff Fuller, Texas A&M

After Fuller changed his commitment from Oklahoma to Texas A&M in 2008, he became an instant starter for the Aggies with 50 receptions for 630 yards and a school-record nine touchdowns. Despite missing four games in 2009, Fuller led the team in receiving touchdowns and ranked third in yards. It was 2010 that Fuller set school recorded for receptions (75), receiving yards (1,066) and receiving touchdowns (12). He turned in another strong season as a senior, totaling 70 catches for 828 yards and six touchdowns.

Of any draft prospect in this year's class, Fuller was the most obvious undrafted free agent candidate for the Dolphins with the presence of former Aggies' head coach Mike Sherman as offensive coordinator and first-round quarterback Ryan Tannehill. Fuller (6-4, 228) was even considered a draftable prospect by some.

Despite his connections to the Dolphins, it's important not to get carried away with expectations for Fuller. His size is impressive, but despite his college production Fuller's concerns include the ability to get open and dropping too many passes. The reality is that the Dolphins took two receivers late in the draft and neither one was Fuller, which means he's far from making the roster as a backup. His experience with Sherman and Tannehill is a plus, but special teams is where he'll have to shine to stick around initially and he has a long way to go to be a pro receiver.


RB Jonas Gray, Notre Dame

A Parade All-American and participant in the U.S. Army All-American Bowl as a prep prospect, Gray spent three seasons as a backup running back before starting as a senior. Gray totaled 791 yards and led the Fighting Irish with 6.9 yards per carry and 12 touchdowns, but a torn ACL in November cost him the rest of his season and hurt his draft stock.

Gray was a highly-regarded running back coming out of high school and had an impressive season before his injury, so there's talent there. However, he's buried in the Dolphins' depth chart right now and isn't fully rehabbed from his knee injury roughly six months ago. He should be able to participate in training camp, but the practice squad is the most realistic possibility for him and he might be worth developing there.


CB Trenton Hughes, Maryland

Hughes was redshirted in 2007 and worked on special teams for the Terrapins until the 2010 season, when he started all 13 games at cornerback and led the team with nine pass deflections. After a coaching change, Hughes was relegated to a reserve role as a senior before starting the final three games of the season.

Hughes (5-10, 195) spent three seasons with current Dolphins' cornerback Nolan Caroll at Maryland and also played with former Terrapins tight end Will Yeatman. He has 4.4 speed but lacks ideal cover skills and I'm not sure there is much upside here. The best he can hope for is replacing one of the incumbents like Vince Agnew or Marcus Brown on the Dolphins' practice squad.


OLB Shelly Lyons, Arizona State

Lyons spent four seasons as a linebacker for the Sun Devils, starting 12 games over his final two seasons including eight as a senior. After working primarily on special teams the first three years, Lyons opened eight of 13 contest in 2011 and ranked sixth on the team with 51 tackles. He also added 5.5 tackles for a loss, two forced fumbles and two interceptions, including one returned for a touchdown against Matt Barkley and USC.

Lyons is a solid athlete at 6-foot-2 and 238 pounds, but he doesn't offer a whole lot of upside or experience. His only shot to make he team is on special teams and that will be a challenge.


SS Kelcie McCray, Arkansas State

A teammate of new Dolphins' safety Tyrell Johnson at ASU in 2007, McCray started every game at safet for the Red Wolves over his final three seasons. As a senior, he led the team with 70 tackles while adding four interceptions and four pass deflections on his way to first-team All-Sun Belt honors.

The 6-foot-2, 208-pound McCray was regarded by some as a potential mid-round draft pick. He has 4.5 speed and significant experience at safety, albeit at one of the FBS' lower conferences. He'll start on special teams, but he's got a shot to make the roster if the team decides for younger depth at safety in lieu of Tyrone Culver or Tyrell Johnson.


WR Derek Moye, Penn State

During his first two seasons at Penn State, Moye worked with current Dolphins' quarterback Pat Devlin, who eventually transferred to Delaware. Meanwhile, Moye stayed behind in Happy Valley and established himself as a starting receiver during his final three seasons, where he totaled 141 receptions, 2,324 yards and  17 touchdowns in that span.  Moye left the Penn State as the school's third leading receiver of all time.

Listed at 6-foot-5 in college, Moye actually measures in at 6-foo4 and about 209 pounds. Adding and maintaining bulk has actually been one of Moye's biggest problems and could hurt his potential at the next level. That being said, he did display good red-zone ability in college and adjusts well when the ball is in the air. Cracking the 53-man roster will be a stretch, but the practice squad is within reach.


DE Jarrell Root, Boise State

A rotational defender at Boise State, Root spent much of his time backing up eventual 2012 first-rounder Shea McClellin at defensive end. In his four-year career, Root totaled 55 tackles (13 for a loss), 7.5 sacks, and one pass breakup.

Of the three defensive ends signed by the Dolphins this week, I'd say Root has the least upside of all three. He's more of a run stuffer than a pass rusher and doesn't really have the bulk to play inside or the athleticism to get to the passer often. My guess is he doesn't make the cut.


OG Josh Samuda, Massachusetts

After redshirting during the 2007 season, Samuda started 11 games as a freshman in 2008 and never looked back, opening all 11 games at left guard again in 2009 and the next two seasons at right guard. He earned third-team All-CAA honors as a senior.

There isn't much scouting report on Samuda, but being a third-team all-conference pick in the FCS doesn't exactly translate to great prospects in the pros. He has a ton of experience at guard but may very well have limited upside. I'd expect him to not make the final roster.


CB Kevyn Scott, Syracuse

A Plantation, Fla. native, Scott spent five seasons at Syracuse and was an on-and-off starter at safety and then cornerback, starting nine games his final season. In his career, he notched 87 tackles, half a sack and five interceptions.

A team captain as a senior, Scott battled injuries in college and doesn't have any tools that stand out from an NFL perspective. He'll serve as a camp body at cornerback, but the best he can hope to earn is probably a practice squad gig.


DE Derrick Shelby, Utah

A four-year starter for the Utes, Shelby earned first-team All-Pac-12 honors as a senior in 2011 with 55 tackles (10 for a loss) and five sacks. He finished his collegiate career with 47 games played (40 starts), 169 tackles (28 for a loss) and 11 sacks. Additionally, Shelby was an all-conference academic pick every season at Utah.

The 6-foot-3, 266-pound Shelby certainly looks the part of an NFL defensive end has has a nice body of experience at the college level. He's not an elite pass rusher by any means, but he's a smart, hard-working that does a lot of things fairly well. I might consider him the most likely player in this group to make the Dolphins' active roster when you consider his college production, pro potential (at least as a backup) and the lack of depth at the position.


DE Jacquies Smith, Missouri

Smith saw extensive action all four seasons at Mizzou, including the final 2.5 as a starter. He was a second-team All-Big 12 selection each of his final two seasons, finishing his career with 159 tackles (26 for a loss) and 13 sacks.

You aren't going to confuse him with former Tigers' first-round pick Aldon Smith, as Jacquies Smith doesn't have ideal height or length for the pro level. That being said, he's a solid pass rusher and has a ton of experience at the highest level of college football, so there is some potential here as a rotational lineman. Like  Shelby (above) there is a solid chance Smith makes the active roster considering the Dolphins' lack of depth at defensive end.


OT Dustin Waldron, Portland State

Waldron became the Vikings' starting left tackle late in his freshman season in 2008 and never looked back, holding down the position until his collegiate career was completed. An honorable mention All-Big Sky in 2009 and 2010, Waldron earned second-team all-conference honors as a senior.

The 6-foot-5, 305-pound Waldron's biggest problem is his size, as he played most of college around the 280 mark. He's been working to get bigger and seems to have accomplished that, though we'll see how that affects his ability. A small-school prospect, Waldron is a bit of a project but has the experience, technique and smarts to make himself worthwhile. While I don't see the 53-man roster in his near future, the practice squad is a possibility.


Conclusion

As usual with undrafted free agent signings, you have the guys that have practically no chance of making the team and are merely around to serve as training camp bodies. Then there are the guys that do have the potential to develop into contributors at the pro level, and obviously those are the ones we are interested in.

Of this year's class of Dolphins' undrafted free agents, I'd highlight wide receivers Jeff Fuller and Derek Moye, safety Kelcie McCray and defensive ends Derrick Shelby and Jacquies Smith as the ones I think could crack the active roster in 2011. I'd also single out defensive tackle Chas Alecxih, guard Derek Dennis and running back Jonas Gray (recovering from a torn ACL) as potential practice squad candidates.

Fuller and Moye aren't perfect, but each carries certain intriguing aspects (namely size and experience) and they certainly have the ability to push Roberto Wallace, Marlon Moore and 2012 draft picks B. J. Cunningham and Rishard Matthews for a roster spot.

Meanwhile, Shelby and Smith both have the physical tools to develop as pro defensive ends, and this position remains pretty barren for the Dolphins. Aside from Cameron Wake and third-round rookie Olivier Vernon, the Dolphins only have backup types (Jamaal Westerman, Jason Trusnik, Jonathan Freeny) around as depth. Thus, it wouldn't surprise me to see one or both of Shelby and Smith crack the 53-man roster in September.


Tryout players

In addition the the signed players above, the Dolphins are also trying out a number of other undrafted players at this weekend's rookie minicamp. They are:

• G Kyle Bogumil, Rhode Island — Originally a tackle, Bogumil eventually landed at guard and that's where he'd project (if at all) in the pros. He was a third-team All-CAA pick his final two seasons.
• LB Cort Dennison, Washington — A two-year starter at middle linebacker for the Huskies, Dennison was a second-team All-Pac-12 selection as a senior after leading the team with 128 tackles. His lack of size and athleticism would limit him to special teams in the NFL.
• S Albert Evans, Purdue — Evans moved from safety to linebacker then back to safety at Purdue, starting every game in the secondary over his final two seasons. He doesn't have the speed to be an NFL defensive back, however, and his presence isn't much more than a favor from former Boilermakers' defensive backs coach Lou Anarumo, who now holds that title in Miami.
• G Joel Figueroa, Miami (Fla.) — Figueroa actually spent six years at UM and was a starter at right guard for most of 2009, but he spent most of his career as a backup with starts coming against the cupcake teams on the schedule. He's not a pro prospect.
• S Elton Ford, Arkansas — One of the more accomplished tryout players, Ford was a starter early in his career with the Razorbacks and finished his career with 185 tackles (six for a loss), one interception, eight pass breakups, two forced fumbles and one fumble recovery
• WR A. J. Guyton, Central Florida — Appearing in 51 career games, Guyton totaled 122 receptions, 1,582 yards and seven touchdowns. He missed the 2008 season with a torn ACL.
•  QB Jacory Harris, Miami (Fla.) — Easily the most high-profile tryout player in Miami but not a great pro prospect, Harris finished his career at UM with 8,826 passing yards (second all-time) and 70 touchdowns against 48 interceptions. 
• CB Justin Haulcy-Bateman, Cal Lutheran — A Division III prospect, Haulcy-Bateman starred at  corner, on special teams and as a returner but has a long way to go to make it in the pros.
• C Kreg Hunter, Ball State — A team captain, Hunter started 33 games at Ball State. He was arrested for punching a man at a restaurant in 2010.
• OT Addison Lawrence, Mississippi State — Started his final 37 games at right tackle for the Bulldogs, although he lacks ideal size for an NFL tackle and bulk for a guard.
• LB Ryan Lewis, Bethune-Cookman — A Pompano Beach native, Lewis started three seasons at linebacker and was named one of the top 10 linebackers in FCS by The Sports Network in 2011.
• TE Nick Mandich, Southern Connecticut State — The son of late former Dolphins tight end Jim "Mad Dog" Mandich, Nick Mandich totaled 37 receptions, 363 yards and four touchdowns in his career. It's a feel-good story, but Mandich isn't a pro prospect.
• OT Andrew McDonald, Indiana — McDonald served as the Hoosiers' starting left tackle each of his final two seasons. Of the tryout players, he's probably one of the better ones but he still has to earn a contract first.
• DT Justin Smith, Mississippi — Smith spent three seasons as a reserve for the rebels before starting as as senior, notching 44 tackles and 3.5 tackles for a loss. He's not a pro prospect.
• S Rick Volcin, Norfolk State — An HBCU All-Star, the Miami native totaled 30 tackles and two interceptions (including one returned for a touchdown) as a senior in 2011.
• LB Chaz Walker, Utah — The Utes' starting middle linebacker the past two seasons, Walker was a second-team All-Mountain West choice in 2010 and an honorable mention All-Pac-12 selection as a senior, ranking second in the conference in tackles with 118.
• CB Mike Williams, Miami (Fla.) — Redshirted at Wake Forest in 2007 and played two seasons before sitting out the 2010 season to transfer to UM. In his lone season with the Hurricanes, Williams started 12 games at corner and recorded 29 tackles, three pass deflections and a fumble recovery.

With the Dolphins having an open roster spot (if you count the 80 under contract and nine draft picks to be signed) then it's possible the Dolphins will sign one of these tryout players if one of them warrants it. In that event, I'd expect... However, the reality is most of these guys are not NFL prospects and are simply being used to fill the practice field, which is obvious when you realize many have ties to the area.

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Dolphins draft for need on day two, for value on day three

After taking quarterback Ryan Tannehill in the first round of the draft, many of us expected offensive line and defensive end to be among the team's top priorities on day two.

The Dolphins certainly did not disappoint, as they took Stanford offensive tackle Jonathan Martin in the second round with the 42nd overall pick. They followed that with defensive end Olivier Vernon from the University of Miami and then traded down from No. 73 to No. 78, where they selected dynamic Missouri tight end Michael Egnew.

After not taking a single Miami Hurricanes player since Vernon Carey in 2004 coming into this year's draft, the Dolphins took one in back-to-back rounds this weekend as Vernon was followed by running back Lamar Miller in the fourth round.

Before the third and final day of the draft was in the books, the Dolphins would also add Oregon linebacker Josh Kaddu in the fifth round; Michigan State wide receiver B. J. Cunningham in the sixth round; and Texas defensive tackle Kheeston Randall and Nevade wideout Rishard Matthews in the seventh round.

Once signed, these nine draft picks will join the 64 players already under contract with the Dolphins, as well as a handful of undrafted rookie free agents, on the Dolphins' 90-man offseason roster.


OT Jonathan Martin

Martin turned down the opportunity to go to Harvard (as three generations in his family had before him) to play football at Stanford, where he protected the blind side of No. 1 overall pick Andrew Luck. Earning first-team all-conference honors each of the past two seasons, Martin started 37 of 39 career games on the blind side.

Considered by some to be a potential first-round pick, the consensus on Martin seems to be that he lacks ideal power. However, his experience in a zone-blocking scheme and a pro-style offense should help his transition to the Dolphins' new offense and he seems to be a solid right tackle prospect.

Although the Dolphins signed veteran journeyman Artis Hicks and some fans remain high on Lydon Murtha, I have to believe Martin is going to get every chance to earn the starting right tackle job as a rookie. I do not for one second believe the Dolphins would consider parting with Jake Long and keeping Martin at left tackle, as has been suggested by a member of the local media.


DE Olivier Vernon

A Miami native, Vernon was ranked as a top 10-15 defensive end coming out of American High School. After a six-sack season as a junior at the University of Miami, Vernon was suspended the first six games of the 2011 season for taking improper benefits from former Canes' booster Nevin Shapiro. He opted to enter the NFL Draft following his junior season, finishing his career with 82 tackles and nine sacks in 30 games.

Vernon is a bit of a project, as he never really lived up to his potential in college and his best tape came as a sophomore in 2010. However, he's a tough, physical hitter with natural pass-rush ability and the physical tools to grow into a productive player.

The Dolphins figure to go with a rotation at defensive end opposite Cameron Wake this season, including free-agent addition Jamaal Westerman. While I wouldn't expect Vernon to start uncontested as a rookie, he should figure into a situational role early on.


TE Michael Egnew

A high school wide receiver, Egnew played sparingly during his first two seasons at Missouri after converting to tight end. He broke out with a career year in 2010, catching 90 passes for 762 yards and five touchdowns as one of Blaine Gabbert's favorite targets. While his numbers fell to just 50 catches and 523 yards as a senior in 2011, he did post a career-best 10.5 yards per catch.

Egnew is certainly one of the new-age tight ends, as he offers little as a blocker but combined good size (6-5, 252) with elite speed for the position. While Mizzou has a poor track record of pro tight ends, Egnew certainly has the appeal of an Aaron Hernandez-type that could develop as a seam threat.


RB Lamar Miller

After leading Dade County in rushing as Miami Killian Senior High School senior with 1,749 yards and 22 touchdowns, Miller redshirted his first season with the Hurricanes in 2009. As a redshirt freshman, led the team with six rushing touchdowns and totaled 646 yards. Miller became the Canes' feature back in 2011, earning second-team All-ACC honors with 1,272 yards—the third-highest rushing total in school history.

While many of us were expecting a receiver here, Miller represented a good value as a consensus second- or third-round talent. Not only does Miller have little wear and tear with only one year of starting, but he also posted impressive acceleration to the hole and good vision.

A poor man's Darren McFadden, Miller joins a crowded Miami backfield but could end up pushing Steve Slaton off the roster entirely but likely would focus on special teams as a rookie. However, if Reggie Bush walks in free agency next ofseason, Miller could be the lightning to Daniel Thomas' thunder in a two-back offense.


WR B. J. Cunningham

After totaling 1,780 receiving yards during his first three seasons with the Spartans, Cunningham nearly doubled that number as a senior with a career-high 1,306 yards and 12 touchdowns as the eventual team MVP as voted by his teammates. He leaves Michigan State as the school's all-time leader in receptions (218) and receiving yards (3,086) while also ranks second in touchdown receptions (25).

It took a little longer than expected, but the Dolphins did draft a receiver and they certainly found one with an impressive track record. Cunningham isn't a good athlete and doesn't have great burst, but he normally has solid hands. He's a guy that will have to make his mark on special teams initially, but is also someone that could develop into a rotational receiver.


DT Kheeston Randall

The No. 3 defensive tackle prospect in the state of Texas, Randall appeared in eight games as a true freshman with the Longhorns in 2008. He went on to start 35 of his last 39 games for the team, finishing his career with 98 tackles (21 for a loss) and four sacks on his way to a second-team All-Big 12 selection.

Randall is regarded as a good student and active member of the community off the field and as an impact nose tackle on it. At 6-foot-5 and 293 pounds, I'm not sure he has the bulk for that position in the pros, but he should fit in nicely at defensive tackle in Miami's new 4-3 scheme. He'll be buried on the depth chart, however, and may need a good camp to crack the active roster as a rookie.


WR Rishard Matthews

After transferring from Bakersfield (Calif.) College, Matthews posted two impressive seasons for the Wolfpack with 879 yards and five touchdowns in 2010 and 1,364 yards and eight touchdowns during his senior season.

A good natural athlete, Matthews is still a work-in-progress as a receiver and needs to improve his technique and route-running before contributing at the pro level. He's probably a long shot to make the active roster out of camp unless he makes an impact on special teams, but he's a logical practice squad choice.

Be sure to check out the updated projected depth chart including all these draft picks here!


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2012 NFL Draft: First-Round Analysis

I always think it's silly each year with NFL Draft "experts" try to assign grades to teams' draft selections before any of those players have even set foot on an NFL uniform. But I don't see any harm in throwing out my initial two cents on each of last night's first-round picks. I mean it's only two cents. That's not even a nickel. It's nothing.

But it's also something that you should read, and then re-read to fully take in, then forward along to loved ones so they can share in the splendor of my analysis.


1. Indianapolis Colts select QB Andrew Luck, Stanford

The Colts made the obvious choice and the best one here. There are obviously no guarantees, but Luck has everything you look for in a pro quarterback and this franchise could not be more lucky to be able to transition from arguably the best ever in Peyton Manning to a very similar prospect in Luck.


2. Washington Redskins (from St. Louis) select QB Robert Griffin III, Baylor

Another great pick, RG3 has premiere athleticism and scrambling ability coupled with smarts and accuracy. He's a bit riskier than Luck due to playing style and the kind of offense he ran at Baylor, but he has the tools to be a franchise quarterback.


3. Cleveland Browns (from Minnesota) select RB Trent Richardson, Alabama

Richardson is certainly the best running back in this class and he fills a need for the Browns. That being said, I would have disliked this pick at No. 4 and I certainly hate it with the trade up. The Browns gave up three picks (a 4th, a 5th and a 7th) to the Vikings to move up on spot and select Richardson. I personally do not believe anyone else would have moved up to No. 3, which means the Browns got had and the Vikings' smoke-screening was executed beautifully. Combined the traded picks with the fact that running backs simply aren't worth top-five picks, and you have a boneheaded move by the Browns.


4. Minnesota Vikings (from Cleveland) select OT Matt Kalil, USC

Brilliant move by the Vikings, moving down one spot, gaining three picks, and getting the guy they wanted all along. I could have seen Claiborne here but Kalil is a good move and should start at left tackle as a rookie.


5. Jacksonville Jaguars (from Tampa Bay) select WR Justin Blackmon, Oklahoma State

Blackmon was an obvious target for the Jaguars and is good insurance with Laurent Robinson, who is iffy as  true No. 1 receiver. I like Blackmon a lot and he should be a nice weapon for whoever ends up at quarterback in Jacksonville.


6. Dallas Cowboys (from Washington via St. Louis) select CB Morris Claiborne, LSU

It took quite a move up to do it, but I can't fault a team for landing the best shutdown corner in the draft. Teamed with Brandon Carr, the Cowboys now have quite the corner tandem.


7. Tampa Bay Buccaneers (from Jacksonville) select S Mark Barron, Alabama

I'm a little surprised the Buccaneers opted to miss out on Claiborne, because that would have been a better pick. Safety was a need too, however, and he should do well in Tampa.


8. Miami Dolphins select QB Ryan Tannehill, Texas A&M

Only time will tell if this was the right move, but I'm glad the Dolphins took the risk of a first-round quarterback. If they truly believe he's the guy, then I'm on-board.


9. Carolina Panthers select LB Luke Kuechly, Boston College

I'm surprised they didn't go with Cox here, but you can't fault them for taking the safest defender in the draft class. Kuechly is an excellent linebacker and should be an anchor for that defense for years.


10. Buffalo Bills select CB Stephon Gilmore, South Carolina

It wasn't their most glaring need, but I applaud the Bills for landing a quality corner, and they are still in position to address offensive tackle in Round 2 with a handful of big names at that position still on the board.


11. Kansas City Chiefs select NT Dontari Poe, Memphis

One of my mocked picks, Poe gives the Chiefs the nose tackle they've been lacking since moving to the 3-4 scheme. If they develop him right, he's going to be a huge factor for them.


12. Philadelphia Eagles (from Seattle) select DT Fletcher Cox, Mississippi State

The Eagles coveted this guy all along and didn't have to move up into the top 10 to get him. The team tends to stockpile linemen, but Cox should be featured from the start.



13. Arizona Cardinals select WR Michael Floyd, Notre Dame

An offensive lineman like Reiff or DeCastro would have filled a bigger need, but Floyd gives the Cardinals another weapon and he'll have a great mentor in Larry Fitzgerald. Not what I would have done, but not bad either.


14. St. Louis Rams (from Dallas) select DT Michael Brockers, LSU

The Rams beefed up their defensive line in free agency with Kendall Langford, but Brockers will give them two legitimate starters in the middle while clearing room for James Laurinaitis to make plays.


15. Seattle Seahawks (from Philadelphia) select DE/OLB Bruce Irvin, West Virginia

The surprise of the first round, I'm not going to pan this pick because it seems a number of team had a first-round grade on Irvin and NFL Draft boards are typically much different than mockers expect. They think he's a Von Miller-type, but I have a hard time seeing it right now.


16. New York Jets select DE Quinton Coples, North Carolina

A controversial prospect due to elite physical tools and a questionable motor, I don't like Coples for the Jets because I think it limits his ability to rush the passer as an end in the 3-4 scheme. Coples was already risky, but wasting his best talents will just make things worse.


17. Cincinnati Bengals (from Oakland) select CB Dre Kirkpatrick, Alabama

The Bengals needed a second corner to pair with Leon Hall and Kirkpatrick was a potential top-10 prospect before the marijuana incident. It's a good value pick for them and fills a need.


18. San Diego Chargers select OLB Melvin Ingram, South Carolina

A mocked selection of mine, Ingram fits perfectly as a 3-4 outside linebacker and fills a hole they've had for a few years now.


19. Chicago Bears select DE Shea McClellin, Boise State

McClellin had reportedly been on the rise for a while now, but it's still surprising to see him go top 20 before Perry, Mercilus, Jones and Upshaw. He should do well opposite Julius Peppers, however.


20. Tennessee Titans select WR Kendall Wright, Baylor

A bit of a surprise with their needs at corner and on the defensive line, but Wright is a quality receiver and should solidify a group of underachievers.


21. New England Patriots (from Cincinnati) select DE Chandler Jones, Syracuse

The Patriots needs to address the pass rush with Mark Anderson departing in free agency and Jones is a fantastic addition to that line.


22. Cleveland Browns (from Atlanta) select QB Brandon Weeden, Oklahoma State

Weeden was an obvious pick for the Browns and I had him mocked there at No. 37. He'll be 29 years old this season and that's a concern, but he's a much better prospect than Colt McCoy.


23. Detroit Lions select OT Riley Reiff, Iowa

The Lions needed a long-term tackle to replace Jeff Backus. Reiff is a good value here and could start on the right side before moving over to the left.


24. Pittsburgh Steelers select OG David DeCastro, Stanford

The rich get richer and this is a great pick for the Steelers. They've had some trouble keeping their line healthy and DeCastro should slide right next to Maurkice Pouncey and provide a powerful tandem.


25. New England Patriots (from Denver) select LB Dont'a Hightower, Alabama

I don't particularly like this move, especially trading up to do it. Hightower might not be a three-down linebacker and they already have Brandon Spikes and Jerod Mayo. If their goal is the create the slowest linebacker corps in the league, they might have succeeded.


26. Houston Texans select OLB Whitney Mercilus, Illinois

The Texans' defense really turned a corner last year and Mercilus is an excellent 3-4 linebacker prospect that will help replace Mario Williams.


27. Cincinnati Bengals (from New Orleans via New England) select OG Kevin Zeitler, Wisconsin

I would've expected Courtney Upshaw or Cordy Glenn here, but guard was a need and this is a good move for the Bengals. Zeitler is sound and should be a rookie starter.


28. Green Bay Packers select OLB Nick Perry, USC

A pass rusher opposite Clay Matthews III was the Packers' biggest need, and Perry is an excellent fit. He has all the tools to stand up and get to the passer.


29. Minnesota Vikings (from Baltimore) select S Harrison Smith, Notre Dame

The Vikings basically moved up for free with the robbery of the Browns earlier, so you can't fault them for this. Smith is a good addition as the Vikes have had little luck with safeties lately.


30. San Francisco 49ers select WR A. J. Jenkins, Illinois

Another guy that most people didn't see this high, I was surprised the Niners took Jenkins with Randle and Hill on the board. But receiver was a need and Jenkins has the tools to be a good one.


31. Tampa Bay Buccaneers (from New England via Denver) select RB Doug Martin, Boise State

The Bucs were clearly looking to come out of this draft with a back and they got my second-favorite one in Martin here. Martin should start immediately and be a big producer.


32. New York Giants select RB David Wilson, Virginia Tech

The Giants have the luxury of being good enough to take any position they want. It wouldn't be my first choice, but Wilson is a good prospect and should team with Ahmad Bradshaw nicely.


Discuss this article in the comments below or on the forum here!

2012 NFL Draft: Friday Night Chat

Dolphins select QB Ryan Tannehill in first round of 2012 NFL Draft

For the first time since yours truly was negative four years old and some guy out of Pittsburgh took his talents ot South Beach, the Miami Dolphins selected a quarterback in the first round of the NFL Draft.

As many expected since the hiring of ex-Texas A&M head coach Mike Sherman as offensive coordinator in late January, the Dolphins selected former Aggies quarterback Ryan Tannehill with the eighth overall pick on the opening night of the draft Thursday.

Tannehill will become the fourth quarterback on the Dolphins' roster, joining incumbent starter Matt Moore, who led the team to a 6-3 record to close out the 2011 season; veteran free agent addition David Garrard; and 2011 undrafted free agent Pat Devlin, who spent much of his rookie season on the practice squad.


Background

A Big Spring, Tex. native, Tannehill was rated as a three-star dual-threat quarterback by both Scout.com and Rivals.com. A lifetime Texas Tech fan whose father played football for the Red Raiders, Tannehill did not receive a scholarship offer from dad's alma matter. He chose to attend Texas A&M in lieu of offers from Houston, TCU, Tulsa and UTEP.

After redshirting in 2007, Tannehill finished third in a quarterback competition behind Stephen McGee (currently the Cowboys' third-string quarterback) and Jerrod Johnson (currently under contract with the Steelers). He was moved to receiver as a redshirt freshman, where he set freshman record for receiving yards (844) and touchdowns (five).

In 2009, Tannehill played all 13 games for the Aggies at wide receiver and totaled 46 receptions for 609 yards and four touchdowns to earn honorable mention All-Big 12 honors. He appeared in six more games as a receiver in 2010 before moving back to quarterback, throwing for 1,638 yards and 13 touchdowns with six interceptions.

Tannehill was the unquestioned starting quarteback for the Aggies as a redshirt senior in 2011, completing nearly 62 percent of his passes for 3,744 yards and 29 touchdowns against 15 interceptions. Using the athleticism that helped him excel as a receiver, Tannehill also rushed for 306 yards and four scores in his final season.

The first Aggies' quarterback ever selected in the draft's first round, Tannehill is currently the only player in NCAA Division I FBS history to throw for 4,000 yards and gain more than 1,500 receiving yards in his career. He's also the only FBS player to have single games of 400-plus passing yards and 200-plus receiving yards.

Prior to the 2012 NFL Draft, Tannehill posted a 40-yard dash time of 4.62 seconds at his school's pro day. He also scored a 34 on the Wonderlic test—second at his position behind Stanford's Andrew Luck. Tannehill was commonly ranked as the third best quarterback in this year's class behind Luck and Baylor's Robert Griffin III.


Analysis

There were many routes the Dolphins could have taken with this pick, but in the end they did the most predictable thing. And that's not necessarily a bad thing.

I've said time and time again this offseason that I wasn't opposed to drafting Tannehill if it was for the right reasons. If you were doing it solely to add a warm body at quarterback and/or to appease the unreasonable fan base (Matt Flynn sets you off, really?) then you're not making a good decision.

If, however, you truly feel like this guy can be your franchise quarterback down the line, then you should absolutely take him. There's no telling at this point what kind of pro Tannehill will become, but recent history has shown that most elite teams have a first-round quarterback at the helm and it was time for the Dolphins to role the dice on one.

Tannehill isn't a perfect prospect and some of the complaints and criticisms surrounding him are legitimate. He's fairly inexperienced for an incoming rookie quarterback, and I understand the worry or perception that he "wasn't good enough" to play quarterback his entire career. I would point out, however, that both the quarterbacks that preceded him did go on to have pro careers of some kind. I would also say that there is often a sort of seniority involved in these situations, so a freshman Tannehill not beating out a senior Stephen McGee doesn't concern me.

While his mechanics, footwork and decision-making all need to be fine-tuned, the raw materials are there for a successful NFL starter. Tannehill has all the smarts and understanding of the game you look for in a signal-caller, and the fact that he'll be reunited with his college head coach in Mike Sherman can only facilitate his adjustment to the pros. His above-average athleticism, arm and accuracy (especially on the move) are all pluses as well.

That is not to say I see Tannehill starting as a rookie, however. I think the Dolphins are obviously in rebuilding mode, and it makes the most sense to start a veteran like Moore or Garrard in 2012 while Tannehill develops and learns on the bench. The team will have a boatload of cap space in 2013 and can build a team around Tannehill then, when he should be ready to take the reins.


Day Two Outlook

General manager Jeff Ireland was quoted Thursday night as saying the team had multiple discussions with other teams about trading back into the first round, but nothing ever materialized. That being the case, the Dolphins' next pick remains No. 42 overall in the second round, and they will also have back-to-back third-rounders at No. 72 and 73 thanks to the Brandon Marshall deal.

As always with the second round of the draft, there are a handful of surprising players that are no longer on the board, and there are also many players that remain available despite first-round projections. There are a handful of players at need positions for the Dolphins still on the board, like offensive tackle (Cordy Glenn, Bobby Massie, Jonathan Martin, Mike Adams), wide receiver (Rueben Randle, Stephen Hill, Alshon Jeffery, Chris Givens) and defensive end (Vinny Curry, Courtney Upshaw, Andre Branch).

If I were to mock from the pick No. 33 to the Dolphins' No. 42 pick, I'd do it like this:
33. St. Louis Rams — OT Jonathan Martin, Stanford
34. Indianapolis Colts — OLB Andre Branch, Clemson
35. Baltimore Ravens (from Minnesota) — C Peter Konz, Wisconsin
36. Denver Broncos (from Tampa Bay) — DT Jerel Worthy, Michigan State
37. Cleveland Browns — WR Rueben Randle, LSU
38. Jacksonville Jaguars — WR Stephen Hill, Georgia Tech
39. St. Louis Rams (from Washington) — CB Janoris Jenkins, North Alabama
40. Carolina Panthers — DT Devon Still, Penn State
41. Buffalo Bills — TE Coby Fleener, Stanford

If that happens, the Dolphins will have a number of offensive line prospects to pursue, as well as my mocked second-rounder in Marshall defensive end Vinny Curry. I'd expect them to go with a pass rusher first, but if a top receiver like Hill or Randle is still on the board, or perhaps an offensive tackle like Massie or Glenn, then you'd have to strongly consider going one of those directions.

Needless to say, it's going to be another exciting day for the Dolphins as they will potentially add at least three more rookies to the mix for 2012 and beyond!

As always, check out the updated projected depth chart reflecting these transactions here.


Discuss this article in the comments below or on the forum here!

Final 2012 NFL Two-Round Mock Draft

Well, today is the day. The first round of the 2012 NFL Draft will kick off in less than eight hours, and there has been a much smoke-screening. Will the Vikings go with Matt Kalil as expected or pull a surprise? Is someone really going to trade up for Fletcher Cox or Mark Barron? How far will Mr. Questionable Motor a.k.a. Quinton Coples fall?

For reference, you can check out my Jan. 15 mock here, my March 13 mock here, my March 30 mock here. and my April 19th mock here.

1. Indianapolis Colts — QB Andrew Luck, Stanford
The Colts themselves have confirmed this is there pick, and it's been assumed for months. It's the right call.


2. Washington Redskins (from St. Louis) — QB Robert Griffin III
With Luck to the Colts, RG3 is free to go to Washington. This has to be the pick.

3. Minnesota Vikings — OT Matt Kalil, USC
I'm not buying the smoke-screening. I think the Vikings stick with Kalil and find someone to protect Christian Ponder's blind side.
4. Cleveland Browns — RB Trent Richardson, Alabama
Richardson is the best back in the draft, and though I don't value running backs this high myself, he seems like the Browns' pick.

5. Tampa Bay Buccaneers — CB Morris Claiborne, LSU
The Bucs have a big need at corner and Claiborne is the best one in this draft. It's a fit.

6. St. Louis Rams (from Washington) — WR Justin Blackmon, Oklahoma State
Fletcher Cox is a possibility, but I think in the end they'll pick up a weapon for Sam Bradford in Blackmon.

7. Philadelphia Eagles (projected trade from Jacksonville) — DT Fletcher Cox, Mississippi State
Brian Catanzaro projected this deal in our radio mock yesterday, and I've been sold on it. Cox would be a great fit for the Eagles and is definitely someone Andy Reid could move up for.

8. Miami Dolphins — QB Ryan Tannehill, Texas A&M
There are so many options to go here, but if Tannehill is on the board, I think he's the pick. 

9. Carolina Panthers — DT Michael Brockers, LSU
Carolina used a handful of inexperienced linemen with limited ability last season and it didn't work. Brockers has intriguing physical tools and would be a monster in the middle for the Panthers.

10. Buffalo Bills — OT Riley Reiff, Iowa
The Bills filled their pass rush need in free agency, so they fill their other need here with Reiff.

11. Kansas City Chiefs — DT Dontari Poe, Memphis
Poe is all over the board in mock drafts, but I think KC gets its anchor nose tackle here.

12. Seattle Seahawks — LB Luke Kuechly, Boston College
David Hawthorne left in free agency and Kuechly might be the safest pick in the whole draft. He's a Day 1 starter and great prospect.

13. Arizona Cardinals — OG David DeCastro, Stanford
The Cardinals' offensive line has needed help for years and DeCastro is a potential perennial Pro Bowler at guard.

14. Dallas Cowboys — S Mark Barron, Alabama
A lot of people don't think Barron falls this far, but I'm not buying the hype. I think he's here and I think Dallas lands him.

15. Jacksonville Jaguars (projected trade from Philadelphia) — CB Stephon Gilmore, South Carolina
In a projected win-win deal, the Eagles get Cox at No. 7 and the Jaguars get a top corner prospect they desperately need in Gilmore.


16. New York Jets — WR Michael Floyd, Notre Dame
Santonio Holmes is not long for this team and there is little depth. Floyd would give Mark Sanchez (or the next guy) a legit receiving option.

17. Cincinnati Bengals (from Oakland) — OT Cordy Glenn, Georgia
A potential starting guard or tackle for a team that lacks talent up front aside from Andrew Whitworth.

18. San Diego Chargers — LB Melvin Ingram, South Carolina
A versatile pass rusher, Ingram could give the Chargers the impact outside linebacker they've been lacking for years.

19. Chicago Bears — DE Whitney Mercilus, Illinois
The Bears could use another pass rusher to complement Julius Peppers, and the local Illinois product Mercilus would be an great addition.

20. Tennessee Titans — CB Dre Kirkpatrick, Alabama
A potential top-5 pick before a rough pre-draft season, Kirkpatrick would be  nice value here and could help replace the departed Cortland Finnegan.

21. Cincinnati Bengals — DE Courtney Upshaw, Alabama
Word is the Bengals love this guy, so they should have no problem securing his services here.

22. Cleveland Browns (from Atlanta) — WR Rueben Randle, LSU
I've often had Kendall Wright mocked here, but I worry he's more of a slot guy than a true No. 1. That's why I have them going with Randle, who has all the tools to succeed.

23. Detroit Lions — OT Bobby Massie, Mississippi
Perhaps a bit of a reach, but Massie is a rising prospect and would be Jeff Backus' long-term replacement at left tackle.

24. Pittsburgh Steelers — OG Kevin Zeitler, Wisconsin
Aside from center Maurkice Pouncey, the Steelers have had trouble finding talent and health on the offensive line. Zeitler could help solidify that.

25. Denver Broncos — DT Jerel Worthy, Michigan State
One of the biggest holes on the Broncos' roster remains its defensive line, and Worthy would go a long way into shoring up that unit.

26. Houston Texans — WR Kendall Wright, Baylor
A perfect complement for Andre Johnson, the in-state product Wright seems like a natural fit here.

27. New England Patriots (from New Orleans) — DE Quinton Coples, North Carolina
A tremendous fall for a top-10 talent, Coples could be a great pass rusher if Bill Belichick can get him on track.

28. Green Bay Packers — LB Chandler Jones, Syracuse
The Packers have struggled to find another edge rusher to bookend Clay Matthews III. Jones is a well-rounded prospect with his stock on the rise, so he could be a fit here if he doesn't go earlier.

29. Baltimore Ravens — LB Shea McClellin, Boise State
Aside from Terrell Suggs, the Ravens lack any impact rushers. McClellin has been shooting up draft boards and could be a replacement for the departed Jarret Johnson.

30. San Francisco 49ers — WR Stephen Hill, Georgia Tech
Word is it's down to the Hill and the top guard in the Niners' board. I think they'll go with Hill, who has a lot of upside despite playing in the triple option in college.

31. New England Patriots — S Harrison Smith, Notre Dame
The Patriots clearly need secondary help and there is a big drop-off at safety after Smith.

32. New York Giants — OG Amini Silatolu, Midwestern State
A small school product with some big hype, Silatolu would project as a nice starter down the road for the defending Super Bowl champs.

33. St. Louis Rams — RB Doug Martin, Boise State
The Rams take Steven Jackson's heir apparent here in Martin, who is a do-it-all workhorse that should be a successful starter down the line.

34. Indianapolis Colts — DT Alameda Ta'amu, Washington
The Colts get the nose tackle they desperately need for their new 3-4 scheme.

35. Minnesota Vikings — WR Alshon Jeffery, South Carolina
People question his motivation and conditioning, but Jeffery can flat-out play. He'd be a nice target for Ponder.

36. Tampa Bay Buccaneers — RB David Wilson, Virginia Tech
I don't expect LeGarrette Blount to be the starter long-term and there is no depth in Tampa. Wilson would project as the long-term workhorse.

37. Cleveland Browns — QB Brandon Weeden, Oklahoma State
They pass on Tannehill in he first round, but get their man here in the second in Weeden, who could beat out Colt McCoy as a rookie.

38. Jacksonville Jaguars — DE Nick Perry, USC
After going corner in the first, the Jags address their pass rush with a nice value pick in Perry.

39. St. Louis Rams (from Washington) — OT Jonathan Martin, Stanford
Rodger Saffold had a rough 2011 and Jason Smith can't stay healthy, so it's time to add another tackle.

40. Carolina Panthers — CB Janoris Jenkins, North Alabama
A first-round talent marred by off-the-field woes, Jenkins would be a nice value if you can get him under control.

41. Buffalo Bills — TE Coby Fleener, Stanford
Scott Chandler had his moments in 2011, but the Bills lack a true play-making tight end. Fleener is the best pure receiver at his position and would be a nice target for Ryan Fitzpatrick.

42. Miami Dolphins — DE Vinny Curry, Marshall
After going Tannehill in the first round, the Dolphins need to turn their attention to a pass rusher to complement Cameron Wake. Curry's production at Marshall is quite impressive and he'd be a nice choice here.

43. Seattle Seahawks — DE Andre Branch, Clemson
The Seahawks could use a little more pass rush opposite Chris Clemons, so Branch would slot in nicely.

44. Kansas City Chiefs — LB Dont'a Hightower, Alabama
The best 3-4 inside linebacker in the draft, Hightower should fit nicely inside next to Derrick Johnson.

45. Dallas Cowboys — DE Devon Still, Penn State
A potential first-round pick, Still would be a nice value here and would move to end in the Cowboys' 3-4 scheme.

46. Jacksonvile Jaguars (projected trade from Philadelphia) — WR Chris Givens, Wake Forest
Even with the signing of Laurent Robinson, receiver is still an issue and Givens is the best route-runner in the class.

47. New York Jets — OT Mike Adams, Ohio State
Adams may fall this far thanks to a positive marijuana test at the NFL Scouting Combine and some inconsistent tape from his college days. However, he has the tools to be an elite tackle and could help replace the busted Vladimir Ducasse down the line.

48. New England Patriots (from Oakland) — C Peter Konz, Wisconsin
Dan Koppen was re-signed to a minimal deal and his career may be winding down nearing age 33. Konz is the best center in the draft and would be an excellent long-term replacement.

49. San Diego Chargers —  OT Mitchell Schwartz, California
The Chargers' offensive line has been decimated in recent years so it's time to rebuild.

50. Chicago Bears — WR A. J. Jenkins, Illinois
The Bears take their second Fighting Illini player in as many picks. Jenkins is a fast-rising prospect and would be a nice target for Jay Cutler, especially when Brandon Marshall burns this bridge too.

51. Philadelphia Eagles (from Arizona) — CB Josh Robinson, Central Florida 
The Eagles add a quality corner prospect to develop behind Nnamdi Asomugha.

52. Tennessee Titans — DT Kendall Reyes, Connecticut
The Titans don't have much talent at defensive tackle and Reyes is a good value here.

53. Cincinnati Bengals — CB Trumaine Johnson, Montana
It's a year late, but the Bengals need a long-term replacement for Johnathan Joseph (Texans) opposite Leon Hall. Johnson has a lot of upside and would be a nice choice for them.

54. Detroit Lions — CB Brandon Boykin, Georgia
The Lions get a quality corner prospect they desperately need and a dynamic athlete that could help out in other areas.


55. Atlanta Falcons — DT Brandon Thompson, Clemson
There is little talent at the defensive tackle position for the Falcons, so Thompson would help shore up the unit.


56. Pittsburgh Steelers — DE Jared Crick, Nebraska
A prototypical 3-4 end for the Steelers in need of some youth at the position.

57. Denver Broncos — QB Brock Osweiler, Arizona State
The Broncos are now instant contenders with the addition of Peyton Manning, but they have no depth and a high-upside project like Osweiler might be a nice addition to sit for a while and learn under one of the game's best ever.

58. New Orleans Saints — Pick Forfeited

59. Houston Texans — OT Jeff Allen, Illinois
With Eric Winston departing as a cap casualty, the Texans could use new blood at offensive tackle.

60. Green Bay Packers — DE Billy Winn, Boise State
The Packers have missed on a few defensive ends in the draft, so it's time to go back to the drawing board again. Winn is a perfect schematic fit.

61. Baltimore Ravens — RB Lamar Miller, Miami (Fla.)
A Darren McFadden type, Miller would be a nice complement and backup to Ray Rice.

62. San Francisco 49ers — OG Kelechi Osemele, Iowa State
After grabbing a receiver in the first round, the Niners take a much-needed interior lineman in Osemele.

63. New England Patriots — LB Bruce Irvin, West Virginia
A great athlete and versatile linebacker that Belichick would love.

64. New York Giants — TE Dwayne Allen, Clemson
After losing two tight ends to torn ACLs late in the season, the Giants might need to add a body here despite the addition of Martellus Bennett. Allen might be the most well-rounded tight end in the draft and should appeal to the Giant's offense.


Discuss this article in the comments below or on the forum here!

On The Fin Side 04/25 by Fins Radio | Blog Talk Radio

On Wednesday, I mocked the first round of the draft with Brian Catanzaro of On The Fins side radio. Take a listen!

Listen to internet radio with Fins Radio on Blog Talk Radio

Dolphins work out two linebackers; uniform numbers updated

Despite the signing of free agent Gary Guyton a week ago, the Dolphins' search for linebacker help continues. Reports Monday indicated the team hosted workouts with free agents Omar Gaither and Ernie Sims.

The ninth overall pick by the Detroit Lions in 2006, Sims seemed to be one of Matt Millen's better first-round picks early in his career after starting all 48 possible games and racking up 371 tackles during his first three seasons.

Ernie Sims

Those numbers were a bit deceiving, however, as Sims ranked fifth in the NFL among 4-3 outside linebackers with 20 missed tackles while allowing the fourth-most receptions, second-most receiving yards and the most yards after the catch.

In 2009, Sims started only eight of 11 games played but ranked as Pro Football Focus' worst 4-3 outside linebacker for the second consecutive year. He again struggled in coverage and had seven missed tackles on the season despite playing just 490 snaps.

Shipped to the Eagles prior to the 2010 season, Sims started 15 games and played 884 defensive snaps but incomprehensibly recorded just 55 tackles. He again struggled in coverage, although he did "improve" to grading out as just the third-worst linebacker in PFF's rankings.

After signing with the Indianapolis Colts as an unrestricted free agent in 2011, Sims started four of 13 games (406 snaps) and totaled 61 tackles. He graded out as PFF's second-worst 4-3 outside linebacker, marking the fourth consecutive year (which is the length of PFF's existence) he has ranked in the bottom three at his position.

Sims entered the league with a lot of hype out of FSU, but he's been a massive letdown thus far and I'm not sure there is anything to salvage. The 6-foot, 230-pounder is now 27 years old and has pretty much proved he can't be an NFL starter, and at this point I'm not sure you'd even want him as a backup. He's also pretty much a pure weakside linebacker and doesn't really play special teams.


Omar Gaither

A fifth-round pick out of Tennessee in 2006, Gaither spent five seasons with the Eagles (including 2010 with Sims) and was an on-an-off starter. He opened all 16 games in 2007 and totaled 102 tackles, but he saw his playing time and production each of the next three seasons. In 2011, Gaither signed with the Carolina Panthers and opened four of 10 contests, recording 31 tackles and a sack.

Gaither would come without the perceived "upside" Sims had, but has comparable starting experience in this league. The 28-year-old also does not project as a starter, but would certainly be a better depth signing than Sims because he's played all three linebacker positions and has more special-teams experience.

While no signing is imminent and the Dolphins may have just been kicking the tires on a few free agents, it's possible the team could sign one of these guys for depth at some point after the NFL Draft.


New Dolphins' receive jersey numbers, some players take new ones at Dolphins' minicamp

Here's a recap of the new/updated jersey numbers revealed today at the Dolphins' voluntary offseason minicamp, along with some notes:

• Quarterback Pat Devlin switched from No. 9 to No. 7 and free-agent addition David Garrard takes No. 9, which he wore with the Jaguars. Devlin's new No. 7 was worn by Chad Henne (Jaguars) for the past four seasons. Devlin wore No. 17 at Delaware so this is a little closer to that.
• Fullback/tight end Charles Clay takes No. 42 and new cornerback Richard Marshall takes No. 31, which he wore in both Carolina and Arizona.
• New numbers for imported CFL running backs are No. 35 for Jerome Messam and No. 34 for Marcus Thigpen.
• Newly-signed wide receiver Legedu Naanee takes No. 19, so get out those duct tape rolls and sharpies, owners of Brandon Marshall jerseys!
• Basketball player-turned-accountant-turned-tight end Les Brown will wear No. 87.
• Verteran lineman Artis Hicks, who is unfortunately projected to start at right tackle in 2012, is wearing No. 73.
• Jamaal Westerman might need to change his twitter handle of @JWesterman55 because he's wearing No. 52 for the Dolphins. Although he could just be waiting for Koa Misi to get released for his battery charge/being terrible at football. Also as expected, Westerman is working at defensive end in the Dolphins' new 4-3 after playing as a 3-4 outside linebacker with the Jets.
• Linebacker Gary Guyton is wearing the same No. 59 he did with the Patriots.
• Safety Tyrell Johnson is donning No. 26 for the Dolphins after wearing No. 25 in Minnesota. How No. 26 isn't retired in Miami for Lamar Smith is beyond me.
• Cornerback/kick returner Quinten Lawrence (a former receiver) has No. 36.
• Corner Jonathan Wade is wearing Will Allen's old No. 25. Wade initially wore No. 32 in a stint with the Dolphins in 2011, but that's fellow corner Marcus Brown's number, which he took on the practice squad last year when Wade was cut.

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