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Chat with Mel Kiper
Welcome to SportsNation! On Wednesday, NFL draft guru Mel Kiper Jr. will be by to discuss the college football and NFL seasons.
Buzzmaster (1:00 PM)
We're getting Mel!
Nafis (SF)
Hi Mel, any way that Julio Jones could fall to the Dolphins at 15?
Mel Kiper (1:03 PM)
No, I don't think so. I don't think there's any chance that happens.
Mel Kiper (1:04 PM)
In fact, he could go as high as 6 to Cleveland.
Patrick (Alabama)
I know you don't put much weight on Pro Days, but since Greg McElroy didn't get to perform at the combine, do you think his personal Pro Day helped him any?
Mel Kiper (1:05 PM)
His big question will be lack of mobility and lack of arm strength. He's a smart kid, a winner. He has some ability. But any time you lack the arm strength and mobility, are you Danny Weurffel? He was incredibly successful in college, but how does he do in the pros. I do think McElroy could go in the 5th round area.
Shaka (Toronto)
Mel. Andrew Luck would have easily been the #1 QB this year had he come out. But am I wrong to think that even someone like Matt Barkley next year will be better than any of the QB's this year? If I was a team like the Bills or Panthers, doesnt it make sense to go defense this year and then see if you can land Luck/Barkley next year? Its not a sure thing, but at least you potentially could land a better QB next year?
Mel Kiper (1:07 PM)
Luck's going to have the higher grade than Barkley next year. Barkely will be a junior, we'll have to see what he decides to do. He did make a lot of strides this year. His completion percentage went up to 63%. And you don't know where you're going to be picking next year. Everyone thought Jake Locker would be the No. 1 pick this year. That didn't happen. Everyone thought Luck was coming out this year, that didn't happen. Your team can be better than you think and you won't pick as high. You can never worry about what happens next year.
matt (e-wing)
Could Carimi fall to the Pack at 32? Would he be a better prospect at LT than Bulaga?
Mel Kiper (1:08 PM)
No. I don't think Carimi is there at 32. I think he goes 21 or 23.
Matt (Cal)
Mel, what do you think the niners top 3 needs are, and could they go Julio Jones at #7?
Mel Kiper (1:09 PM)
The Niner need a 3-4 pass rushing OLB, CB, NT, WR. Those are their main areas of need. And also, QB. They could go Patrick Peterson in the first round. Second round, Dontay Moch at OLB. In the third round, Colin Kaepernick.
Will (Bismarck ND)
Mel, long time fan. I have a couple questions, if the season started today what would be the most glaring need for the Chicago Bears and can they fill with the draft alone? Also when is the Draft Guide coming out on PDF?
Mel Kiper (1:11 PM)
It's OT. And they need a little more interior help at C/OG. They could also use DT and a CB. If they came out of the draft with Nate Solder, then Marvin Austin and then Stephon Wisniewski.
Mikey (Lackawanna,NY)
Do you think the Bills are still considering a QB with the 3rd overall pick? I think Blaine Gabbert would be a great pick for Chan Gailey to Groom.
Mel Kiper (1:12 PM)
They certainly could, depending on if they want to go defense and wait on QB. Internally, from what I hear, they have a very high opinion of Ryan Fitzpatrick. Which means they could go with Von Miller and then go Martez Wilson and then Lance Kendricks in the third.
Brody (Al)
Would you draft Bowers if you were the GM?
Mel Kiper (1:13 PM)
The medical people will be determining a lot about him coming off of the knee injury this late in the process. If they give you the feeling that he's going to be fine. I would say that he would be the No. 1 or 2 player on my Big Board, even with the injury concerns. Even with that, he's still No. 6. I could see him dropping down to No. 12 to Minnesota.
carlos (dallas)
Do u think its smart for Cowboys to take the tackle from USC in 1st round?
Mel Kiper (1:14 PM)
If they took Smith, I would have no argument with it. It would be a pick that made sense, because he played RT so effectively. You have Doug Free there and you could move him or leave him at LT. The other possibility is Amukamara. They need another CB. Those are the two options. They also need a saftey, which I think they'll address in the third round.
Ryan (Daytona Beach)
Hey Mel,Who are some of the better 3-4 OLB prospects in rounds 2-4?
Mel Kiper (1:16 PM)
Good question. After the first round, you'd be looking at Brooks Reed, Arizona; Dontay Moch, Nevada; Chris Carter, Fresno State; Cheta Ozougwu, Rice; Jeremy Beal, Oklahoma.
Scotty (Ohio)
Does Cameron Heyward from Ohio state have a chance to be a star in the NFL? What kind of career do you think he'll have?
Mel Kiper (1:17 PM)
He'll have a solid career, not spectacular, because he's not a great pass rusher. But I think he'd be a good pick for the Jets at No. 30.
Chris (TX)
Do you think the Browns make a run in the 2nd round for Casey Matthews?
Mel Kiper (1:17 PM)
That's a little early. He's more like a 4th round pick than second round pick. He's not Clay Matthews. He's not as good a prospect as his brother.
Tim (Lancaster Ca)
Who are the homerun hitters in this year drafts at running back?
Mel Kiper (1:19 PM)
Jordan Todman, UConn; DeMarco Murray, Oklahoma; Taiwan Jones, Eastern Washington; Noel Devine, West Virginia; Da'Rel Scott, Maryland; Derrick Locke, Kentucky; Mario Fannin, Auburn.
John W (Pensacola, Florida)
Where do you see Christian Ponder and Rodney Hudson going in the draft? Do you see any other Florida State players getting picked?
Mel Kiper (1:20 PM)
Ponder goes in the second round, maybe to Washington. Hudson in the second, maybe to New Orleans. They have several other draftable players. The guy that's in the late round category is Markus White, DE.
Brad (Ann Arbor)
Do you think Denard Robinson has a future at QB in the nfl, or is he a Brad Smith/Randle El type prospect?
Mel Kiper (1:21 PM)
I think he'll switch positions. He's barely 6 feet tall. He just doesn't have the size to play QB in the NFL. I think he'll be a slot man/return man.
Dennis (CA)
What are the chances the Patriots trade up to 9 or 10 to pick Robert Quinn if available?
Mel Kiper (1:22 PM)
I think they could. They could move up to the top 10 to get Quinn. I think he could still be there at 11 or 12. If he's going to go in the top 6 or 7, I don't think it would present itself. But if he goes lower than that, it could happen.
Nick (Foxboro)
Where do you see Jordan Todman falling in this years draft?
Mel Kiper (1:22 PM)
I would say fourth round.
Jeremy (washington state)
Do you think Seattle should wait for a later round for a QB and maybe take a chance on Ponder and focus on OL in for 1st pick?
Mel Kiper (1:23 PM)
Ponder will go in the second or third round, so he won't be around late. But they have desperate need on the OL. They also have a big need at CB. They can't get everything solidified in the first. The problem is they don't have a third round pick either.
Ryan (Mt. Pleasant, MI)
Last year, Tim Tebow was the controversial draft pick. And now this year is Cam Newton, could you compare and contrast the two picks?
Mel Kiper (1:24 PM)
I thought Tebow would be a position change. I think Newton will be a QB. They're both winners. Newton is an intangible question. Tebow was off the charts with intangibles. If you could combine Newton's skill set with Tebow's intangibles, you'd have a hall of famer.
Robert (Washington, DC)
Mel, has Marvin Austin worked himself up into the 2nd round after his Pro Day performance?
Mel Kiper (1:25 PM)
Yeah, I think he's a solid 2. I thought about giving him to a couple of teams in the early to mid second round. There are several teams that would look at him there.
Mike (Storrs, CT)
Which linebacker from UConn comes off the board first?
Mel Kiper (1:25 PM)
Lawrence Wilson.
Mel Kiper (1:26 PM)
Slightly over Lutrus.
Jay (Brooklyn NY)
Whos the best return man and this years draft?, Return men have become a huge part of the game now a la hester, jackson, cribbs, and bryant
Mel Kiper (1:28 PM)
Lot of those kind of guys. You could argue Jordan Todman as a KR; Jerrel Jernigan, Troy; Niles Paul, Nebraska; Cecil Shorts, Mount Union; Jeremy Ross, California; Jeremy Kerley, TCU; Phillip Levis, Lousiana Tech. With all that said, the best return man is Patrick Peterson from LSU.
Brandon (Dallas TX)
Im surprise that people think that jj watts is a better fit than cameron jordan for 3-4 teams. what do you think?
Mel Kiper (1:29 PM)
I think that's true. I think Jordan could interest some 4-3 teams. That's why it wouldn't surprise me if he Jordan went in the top 10. He's not stuck in one role. Whereas Watt is a 3-4 end. I have Watt going to Washington and Jordan going to New England.
Adam (Winnipeg)
Since the top of the draft is so unpredictable, do you think this is the worst top half of the first round you have ever scouted?
Mel Kiper (1:31 PM)
No, not at all. There is a lot of intrigue. 11 of the top 12 players drafted will be underclassmen. 16 of the top 19. This is a draft that without the underclassmen it would be terrible. Amukamara, Jordan, Miller, all defensive players, outside of that, the rest are underclassmen in the top 19. Right now, I have 17 of the top 21 are underclassmen, if you want to go one further. But by no means will these kids be undeserving. The two QBs will be reaches, but I don't think the other players are.
Tyler (Snohomish,Wa)
What about Mallett has scared off so many teams? Because a few months ago, many prople thought he would be for sure first round
Mel Kiper (1:32 PM)
The fact that he had some meltdowns at the end of some key games. He makes up his mind that he's going somewhere with the ball and he tries to throw through people. He has a long stride and needs protection from the line.
St Louis MO [via mobile]
Where is clayborn looking at going?
Mel Kiper (1:33 PM)
I have him going 27 to Atlanta.
Gerry (Walpole Ma)
Are there any 1st round guards, and can pouncey make the transition to guard?
Mel Kiper (1:33 PM)
I think some are looking at Pouncey as both C and OG. The potential late first, early second round guards are Denny Watkins from Baylor.
Jackson (Hillsboro, Oregon)
Mel:Who are the defensive linemen you think the Chargers will target in the first three rounds?Thanks!
Mel Kiper (1:36 PM)
They could look at Muhammed Wilkerson, Cameron Jordan, Allen Bailey, Christan Ballard.
Jay (DE)
What round do you see QB Pat Devlin being drafted. Has his stock gone up or down?
Mel Kiper (1:36 PM)
His stock has dropped. He's my 12th highest rated QB on the board. I think he goes in the 6-7 round or undrafted free agent.
Paul (Knoxville)
Mel..the Saints always seem to draft a position we NEVER expect...any chance on a LT?
Mel Kiper (1:38 PM)
I thought they could. Nate Solder, Colorado in the first round. I think they'll look more at DT. And then in the second round, they could look at Rodney Hudson. In the third, OLB like Chris Carter and then Kendall Hunter with their second third round pick.
Adam (Green Bay)
When looking at the Packers roster they seem set at everywhere except OLB. That being said do you reach for an OLB at 32 or take the best OL or DL available?
Mel Kiper (1:40 PM)
Ted Thompson has historically always looked at the best available player. They know because of the great scouting department that they can find late rounders or undrafted free agents. They have a lot of guys at OLB. That's not something they have to have. They could look at OT. In the second round, they could look at CB. They don't have a lot of glaring needs. If they got a LT, they could leave Bulaga, but if they got a RT, they could move him. I think they look at OL first.
Zach (St. Louis)
With Jones looking like he isn't going to drop to the Rams, who are they looking at now?
Mel Kiper (1:40 PM)
I think they could look at Liuget in the first round. In the second, Leonard Hankerson.
Mikey (Lackawanna,NY)
Where do you see Stephen Paea going? Can he play the 5 technique?
Mel Kiper (1:41 PM)
I think he goes in the second round, maybe to the Vikings at 43.
Richard (Greensboro, NC)
With Tyrod Taylor being intent on playing QB, do you see a team grabbing him and giving him his shot at QB or do you think someone takes him to convert him to WR?
Mel Kiper (1:42 PM)
I'd give him a chance early to be a QB. If he doesn't make it, then there's a natural conversion to slot receiver/kick returner.
John G (WI)
How deep does the OT class go? How many OT go in the first round?
Mel Kiper (1:43 PM)
First round OTs? You could see five in the first. You could see 3-4 in the second round. In the third round, you could see one or two. It's a drop off. There isn't a lot of depth at OT. A couple of under the radar guys at OT that I like are: Jah Reid, Central Florida, RT; David Mims, Virginia Union; Kevin Hughes, Southeastern Louisiana.
Mel Kiper (1:43 PM)
First round OTs? You could see five in the first. You could see 3-4 in the second round. In the third round, you could see one or two. It's a drop off. There isn't a lot of depth at OT. A couple of under the radar guys at OT that I like are: Jah Reid, Central Florida, RT; David Mims, Virginia Union; Kevin Hughes, Southeastern Louisiana.
jose (stockton)
do you believe the raiders will draft a qb if so who makes the best fit ?
Mel Kiper (1:44 PM)
I don't think the Raiders draft a QB early. They have big needs. They have not first round pick. They could use another OL. In the third round, they could look CB, like Chekwa. Late they might look QB.
John G (WI)
who is the 'workout warrior' that will be overdrafted in this draft?
Mel Kiper (1:45 PM)
Justin Houston could be. Martez Wilson. DeMarcus Van Dyke.
Mike (Reno)
What do you see the Chiefs drafting in the first round? It makes too much sense for them to draft Justin Houston given Scott Pioli's draft history and team need.
Mel Kiper (1:46 PM)
I think they could go two ways. Akeem Ayers, LB, UCLA. If they don't want to take Houston or Ayers, they could look at Gabe Carimi at RT.
Blair (MN)
Jimmy Smith has top 15 talent but he will fall, can you see him dropping to the second round?
Mel Kiper (1:47 PM)
I don't. I think he could end up at Baltimore at 26, Pittsburgh at 31. Those are two teams that would have to look seriously at him.
Gary (Boise)
Where do Pettis and Young get drafted?
Mel Kiper (1:48 PM)
Young, I think goes second round. I have Pettis in the late third.
Shaun K (GA)
If availale, do the Falcons draft WR Torrey Smith, or look somewhere else?
Mel Kiper (1:48 PM)
I think that's high for Smith. I have him going mid second round to Jacksonville. I have Atlanta in the second round looking at Jerrel Jernigan.
Tyler (WA)
Do you see the Vikings ending up with Jake Locker?
Mel Kiper (1:49 PM)
I think they definitely could. They could trade down from 12 and take Locker in that 20-25 range.
Shawn (MI)
Is Akeem Ayers a reach at 13 (Lions)? And do you see him as a 43 backer or 34 backer?
Mel Kiper (1:50 PM)
Slight reach, yes. I see him more in the 20-32 range. He doesn't have the great time with the clock, but I like him in the film evaluation. 13 is just a but too high.
Eric (Minnesota)
If Sidney Rice leaves in free agency Vikings will need a big WR target. Who are the 2-4 round prospects that would fit?
Mel Kiper (1:51 PM)
Yes. There are. At that point, Minnesota doesn't have a third round pick. 4-5 round WRs that fit that mold are: Niles Paul, Nebraska; Ricardo Lockette, Fort Valley State; Kris Durham, Georgia; Stephen Burton, West Texas A-M.
Darren (Newark NJ)
Why dont you think Vernon didnt work out for the jets he was taking very high, and do you think the jets will get another pass rusher like a brook reed?
Mel Kiper (1:52 PM)
With Gholston, he was a little stiff in the hips. The pass rushers have to be a little more fluid. If you had to isolate one factor that he didn't succeed is that he was a little stiff in the hips. The Jets need some help in the 3-4. Haywood would help there. If you're looking for a combo guy, then Houston could be there.
BRANDON (CA)
whats your feeling on the Cardinals taking A J Green @5 and wait on a QB untill Free Agency?
Mel Kiper (1:53 PM)
I don't think they'll take a WR. They have to get a QB at some point. They need help at OLB. They could use a CB, OT. Too many needs. WR is a strong area for them.
Jim (OR)
Who are you're sleepers in this year's draft?
Mel Kiper (1:58 PM)
Let's go through them...Taiwan Jones, RB, E. Washington; Chase Reynolds, RB, Montana; Edmond Gates, Abilene Christian, WR; Cecil Shorts, WR, Mount Union; Lockette, WR, Fort Valley State; Stephen Burton, WR, West Texas A-M; Courtney Smith, WR, South Alabama; OJ Murdock, WR, Fort Hays State; Andre Holmes, WR, Hillsdale; Joe Morgan, WR, Walsh; Julius Thomas, TE, Portland State; Schuylar Oordt, TE, Northern Iowa; David Mims, OT, Virginia Union, Kevin Hughes, OT, Southeastern Louisiana; David Arkin, OG, Missouri State; Brandon Fusco, C, Slippery Rock; Dain Taylor, DE, Drake; Marc Schiechl, Colorado Mines, DE; Justin Rogers, Richmond, CB; Korey Lindsey, CB, Southern Illinois.
Adam (CA)
What do you see available for the Steelers for their needs at 31?
Mel Kiper (1:58 PM)
I think Aaron Williams, the CB out of Texas would be a possibility there. If they get the CB in the first round and want to go OT/OG, Ben Ijalana. Those are their two biggest needs.
Mel Kiper (1:59 PM)
That was a good chat. We got a lot of teams/players covered. Next Wednesday, we'll only be 15 days away from the draft. My draft report just went to press today. That will be mailed on Monday. The first three round projection is up on ESPN.com.
Welcome to SportsNation! On Wednesday, NFL draft guru Mel Kiper Jr. will be by to discuss the college football and NFL seasons.
Buzzmaster (1:00 PM)
We're getting Mel!
Nafis (SF)
Hi Mel, any way that Julio Jones could fall to the Dolphins at 15?
Mel Kiper (1:03 PM)
No, I don't think so. I don't think there's any chance that happens.
Mel Kiper (1:04 PM)
In fact, he could go as high as 6 to Cleveland.
Patrick (Alabama)
I know you don't put much weight on Pro Days, but since Greg McElroy didn't get to perform at the combine, do you think his personal Pro Day helped him any?
Mel Kiper (1:05 PM)
His big question will be lack of mobility and lack of arm strength. He's a smart kid, a winner. He has some ability. But any time you lack the arm strength and mobility, are you Danny Weurffel? He was incredibly successful in college, but how does he do in the pros. I do think McElroy could go in the 5th round area.
Shaka (Toronto)
Mel. Andrew Luck would have easily been the #1 QB this year had he come out. But am I wrong to think that even someone like Matt Barkley next year will be better than any of the QB's this year? If I was a team like the Bills or Panthers, doesnt it make sense to go defense this year and then see if you can land Luck/Barkley next year? Its not a sure thing, but at least you potentially could land a better QB next year?
Mel Kiper (1:07 PM)
Luck's going to have the higher grade than Barkley next year. Barkely will be a junior, we'll have to see what he decides to do. He did make a lot of strides this year. His completion percentage went up to 63%. And you don't know where you're going to be picking next year. Everyone thought Jake Locker would be the No. 1 pick this year. That didn't happen. Everyone thought Luck was coming out this year, that didn't happen. Your team can be better than you think and you won't pick as high. You can never worry about what happens next year.
matt (e-wing)
Could Carimi fall to the Pack at 32? Would he be a better prospect at LT than Bulaga?
Mel Kiper (1:08 PM)
No. I don't think Carimi is there at 32. I think he goes 21 or 23.
Matt (Cal)
Mel, what do you think the niners top 3 needs are, and could they go Julio Jones at #7?
Mel Kiper (1:09 PM)
The Niner need a 3-4 pass rushing OLB, CB, NT, WR. Those are their main areas of need. And also, QB. They could go Patrick Peterson in the first round. Second round, Dontay Moch at OLB. In the third round, Colin Kaepernick.
Will (Bismarck ND)
Mel, long time fan. I have a couple questions, if the season started today what would be the most glaring need for the Chicago Bears and can they fill with the draft alone? Also when is the Draft Guide coming out on PDF?
Mel Kiper (1:11 PM)
It's OT. And they need a little more interior help at C/OG. They could also use DT and a CB. If they came out of the draft with Nate Solder, then Marvin Austin and then Stephon Wisniewski.
Mikey (Lackawanna,NY)
Do you think the Bills are still considering a QB with the 3rd overall pick? I think Blaine Gabbert would be a great pick for Chan Gailey to Groom.
Mel Kiper (1:12 PM)
They certainly could, depending on if they want to go defense and wait on QB. Internally, from what I hear, they have a very high opinion of Ryan Fitzpatrick. Which means they could go with Von Miller and then go Martez Wilson and then Lance Kendricks in the third.
Brody (Al)
Would you draft Bowers if you were the GM?
Mel Kiper (1:13 PM)
The medical people will be determining a lot about him coming off of the knee injury this late in the process. If they give you the feeling that he's going to be fine. I would say that he would be the No. 1 or 2 player on my Big Board, even with the injury concerns. Even with that, he's still No. 6. I could see him dropping down to No. 12 to Minnesota.
carlos (dallas)
Do u think its smart for Cowboys to take the tackle from USC in 1st round?
Mel Kiper (1:14 PM)
If they took Smith, I would have no argument with it. It would be a pick that made sense, because he played RT so effectively. You have Doug Free there and you could move him or leave him at LT. The other possibility is Amukamara. They need another CB. Those are the two options. They also need a saftey, which I think they'll address in the third round.
Ryan (Daytona Beach)
Hey Mel,Who are some of the better 3-4 OLB prospects in rounds 2-4?
Mel Kiper (1:16 PM)
Good question. After the first round, you'd be looking at Brooks Reed, Arizona; Dontay Moch, Nevada; Chris Carter, Fresno State; Cheta Ozougwu, Rice; Jeremy Beal, Oklahoma.
Scotty (Ohio)
Does Cameron Heyward from Ohio state have a chance to be a star in the NFL? What kind of career do you think he'll have?
Mel Kiper (1:17 PM)
He'll have a solid career, not spectacular, because he's not a great pass rusher. But I think he'd be a good pick for the Jets at No. 30.
Chris (TX)
Do you think the Browns make a run in the 2nd round for Casey Matthews?
Mel Kiper (1:17 PM)
That's a little early. He's more like a 4th round pick than second round pick. He's not Clay Matthews. He's not as good a prospect as his brother.
Tim (Lancaster Ca)
Who are the homerun hitters in this year drafts at running back?
Mel Kiper (1:19 PM)
Jordan Todman, UConn; DeMarco Murray, Oklahoma; Taiwan Jones, Eastern Washington; Noel Devine, West Virginia; Da'Rel Scott, Maryland; Derrick Locke, Kentucky; Mario Fannin, Auburn.
John W (Pensacola, Florida)
Where do you see Christian Ponder and Rodney Hudson going in the draft? Do you see any other Florida State players getting picked?
Mel Kiper (1:20 PM)
Ponder goes in the second round, maybe to Washington. Hudson in the second, maybe to New Orleans. They have several other draftable players. The guy that's in the late round category is Markus White, DE.
Brad (Ann Arbor)
Do you think Denard Robinson has a future at QB in the nfl, or is he a Brad Smith/Randle El type prospect?
Mel Kiper (1:21 PM)
I think he'll switch positions. He's barely 6 feet tall. He just doesn't have the size to play QB in the NFL. I think he'll be a slot man/return man.
Dennis (CA)
What are the chances the Patriots trade up to 9 or 10 to pick Robert Quinn if available?
Mel Kiper (1:22 PM)
I think they could. They could move up to the top 10 to get Quinn. I think he could still be there at 11 or 12. If he's going to go in the top 6 or 7, I don't think it would present itself. But if he goes lower than that, it could happen.
Nick (Foxboro)
Where do you see Jordan Todman falling in this years draft?
Mel Kiper (1:22 PM)
I would say fourth round.
Jeremy (washington state)
Do you think Seattle should wait for a later round for a QB and maybe take a chance on Ponder and focus on OL in for 1st pick?
Mel Kiper (1:23 PM)
Ponder will go in the second or third round, so he won't be around late. But they have desperate need on the OL. They also have a big need at CB. They can't get everything solidified in the first. The problem is they don't have a third round pick either.
Ryan (Mt. Pleasant, MI)
Last year, Tim Tebow was the controversial draft pick. And now this year is Cam Newton, could you compare and contrast the two picks?
Mel Kiper (1:24 PM)
I thought Tebow would be a position change. I think Newton will be a QB. They're both winners. Newton is an intangible question. Tebow was off the charts with intangibles. If you could combine Newton's skill set with Tebow's intangibles, you'd have a hall of famer.
Robert (Washington, DC)
Mel, has Marvin Austin worked himself up into the 2nd round after his Pro Day performance?
Mel Kiper (1:25 PM)
Yeah, I think he's a solid 2. I thought about giving him to a couple of teams in the early to mid second round. There are several teams that would look at him there.
Mike (Storrs, CT)
Which linebacker from UConn comes off the board first?
Mel Kiper (1:25 PM)
Lawrence Wilson.
Mel Kiper (1:26 PM)
Slightly over Lutrus.
Jay (Brooklyn NY)
Whos the best return man and this years draft?, Return men have become a huge part of the game now a la hester, jackson, cribbs, and bryant
Mel Kiper (1:28 PM)
Lot of those kind of guys. You could argue Jordan Todman as a KR; Jerrel Jernigan, Troy; Niles Paul, Nebraska; Cecil Shorts, Mount Union; Jeremy Ross, California; Jeremy Kerley, TCU; Phillip Levis, Lousiana Tech. With all that said, the best return man is Patrick Peterson from LSU.
Brandon (Dallas TX)
Im surprise that people think that jj watts is a better fit than cameron jordan for 3-4 teams. what do you think?
Mel Kiper (1:29 PM)
I think that's true. I think Jordan could interest some 4-3 teams. That's why it wouldn't surprise me if he Jordan went in the top 10. He's not stuck in one role. Whereas Watt is a 3-4 end. I have Watt going to Washington and Jordan going to New England.
Adam (Winnipeg)
Since the top of the draft is so unpredictable, do you think this is the worst top half of the first round you have ever scouted?
Mel Kiper (1:31 PM)
No, not at all. There is a lot of intrigue. 11 of the top 12 players drafted will be underclassmen. 16 of the top 19. This is a draft that without the underclassmen it would be terrible. Amukamara, Jordan, Miller, all defensive players, outside of that, the rest are underclassmen in the top 19. Right now, I have 17 of the top 21 are underclassmen, if you want to go one further. But by no means will these kids be undeserving. The two QBs will be reaches, but I don't think the other players are.
Tyler (Snohomish,Wa)
What about Mallett has scared off so many teams? Because a few months ago, many prople thought he would be for sure first round
Mel Kiper (1:32 PM)
The fact that he had some meltdowns at the end of some key games. He makes up his mind that he's going somewhere with the ball and he tries to throw through people. He has a long stride and needs protection from the line.
St Louis MO [via mobile]
Where is clayborn looking at going?
Mel Kiper (1:33 PM)
I have him going 27 to Atlanta.
Gerry (Walpole Ma)
Are there any 1st round guards, and can pouncey make the transition to guard?
Mel Kiper (1:33 PM)
I think some are looking at Pouncey as both C and OG. The potential late first, early second round guards are Denny Watkins from Baylor.
Jackson (Hillsboro, Oregon)
Mel:Who are the defensive linemen you think the Chargers will target in the first three rounds?Thanks!
Mel Kiper (1:36 PM)
They could look at Muhammed Wilkerson, Cameron Jordan, Allen Bailey, Christan Ballard.
Jay (DE)
What round do you see QB Pat Devlin being drafted. Has his stock gone up or down?
Mel Kiper (1:36 PM)
His stock has dropped. He's my 12th highest rated QB on the board. I think he goes in the 6-7 round or undrafted free agent.
Paul (Knoxville)
Mel..the Saints always seem to draft a position we NEVER expect...any chance on a LT?
Mel Kiper (1:38 PM)
I thought they could. Nate Solder, Colorado in the first round. I think they'll look more at DT. And then in the second round, they could look at Rodney Hudson. In the third, OLB like Chris Carter and then Kendall Hunter with their second third round pick.
Adam (Green Bay)
When looking at the Packers roster they seem set at everywhere except OLB. That being said do you reach for an OLB at 32 or take the best OL or DL available?
Mel Kiper (1:40 PM)
Ted Thompson has historically always looked at the best available player. They know because of the great scouting department that they can find late rounders or undrafted free agents. They have a lot of guys at OLB. That's not something they have to have. They could look at OT. In the second round, they could look at CB. They don't have a lot of glaring needs. If they got a LT, they could leave Bulaga, but if they got a RT, they could move him. I think they look at OL first.
Zach (St. Louis)
With Jones looking like he isn't going to drop to the Rams, who are they looking at now?
Mel Kiper (1:40 PM)
I think they could look at Liuget in the first round. In the second, Leonard Hankerson.
Mikey (Lackawanna,NY)
Where do you see Stephen Paea going? Can he play the 5 technique?
Mel Kiper (1:41 PM)
I think he goes in the second round, maybe to the Vikings at 43.
Richard (Greensboro, NC)
With Tyrod Taylor being intent on playing QB, do you see a team grabbing him and giving him his shot at QB or do you think someone takes him to convert him to WR?
Mel Kiper (1:42 PM)
I'd give him a chance early to be a QB. If he doesn't make it, then there's a natural conversion to slot receiver/kick returner.
John G (WI)
How deep does the OT class go? How many OT go in the first round?
Mel Kiper (1:43 PM)
First round OTs? You could see five in the first. You could see 3-4 in the second round. In the third round, you could see one or two. It's a drop off. There isn't a lot of depth at OT. A couple of under the radar guys at OT that I like are: Jah Reid, Central Florida, RT; David Mims, Virginia Union; Kevin Hughes, Southeastern Louisiana.
Mel Kiper (1:43 PM)
First round OTs? You could see five in the first. You could see 3-4 in the second round. In the third round, you could see one or two. It's a drop off. There isn't a lot of depth at OT. A couple of under the radar guys at OT that I like are: Jah Reid, Central Florida, RT; David Mims, Virginia Union; Kevin Hughes, Southeastern Louisiana.
jose (stockton)
do you believe the raiders will draft a qb if so who makes the best fit ?
Mel Kiper (1:44 PM)
I don't think the Raiders draft a QB early. They have big needs. They have not first round pick. They could use another OL. In the third round, they could look CB, like Chekwa. Late they might look QB.
John G (WI)
who is the 'workout warrior' that will be overdrafted in this draft?
Mel Kiper (1:45 PM)
Justin Houston could be. Martez Wilson. DeMarcus Van Dyke.
Mike (Reno)
What do you see the Chiefs drafting in the first round? It makes too much sense for them to draft Justin Houston given Scott Pioli's draft history and team need.
Mel Kiper (1:46 PM)
I think they could go two ways. Akeem Ayers, LB, UCLA. If they don't want to take Houston or Ayers, they could look at Gabe Carimi at RT.
Blair (MN)
Jimmy Smith has top 15 talent but he will fall, can you see him dropping to the second round?
Mel Kiper (1:47 PM)
I don't. I think he could end up at Baltimore at 26, Pittsburgh at 31. Those are two teams that would have to look seriously at him.
Gary (Boise)
Where do Pettis and Young get drafted?
Mel Kiper (1:48 PM)
Young, I think goes second round. I have Pettis in the late third.
Shaun K (GA)
If availale, do the Falcons draft WR Torrey Smith, or look somewhere else?
Mel Kiper (1:48 PM)
I think that's high for Smith. I have him going mid second round to Jacksonville. I have Atlanta in the second round looking at Jerrel Jernigan.
Tyler (WA)
Do you see the Vikings ending up with Jake Locker?
Mel Kiper (1:49 PM)
I think they definitely could. They could trade down from 12 and take Locker in that 20-25 range.
Shawn (MI)
Is Akeem Ayers a reach at 13 (Lions)? And do you see him as a 43 backer or 34 backer?
Mel Kiper (1:50 PM)
Slight reach, yes. I see him more in the 20-32 range. He doesn't have the great time with the clock, but I like him in the film evaluation. 13 is just a but too high.
Eric (Minnesota)
If Sidney Rice leaves in free agency Vikings will need a big WR target. Who are the 2-4 round prospects that would fit?
Mel Kiper (1:51 PM)
Yes. There are. At that point, Minnesota doesn't have a third round pick. 4-5 round WRs that fit that mold are: Niles Paul, Nebraska; Ricardo Lockette, Fort Valley State; Kris Durham, Georgia; Stephen Burton, West Texas A-M.
Darren (Newark NJ)
Why dont you think Vernon didnt work out for the jets he was taking very high, and do you think the jets will get another pass rusher like a brook reed?
Mel Kiper (1:52 PM)
With Gholston, he was a little stiff in the hips. The pass rushers have to be a little more fluid. If you had to isolate one factor that he didn't succeed is that he was a little stiff in the hips. The Jets need some help in the 3-4. Haywood would help there. If you're looking for a combo guy, then Houston could be there.
BRANDON (CA)
whats your feeling on the Cardinals taking A J Green @5 and wait on a QB untill Free Agency?
Mel Kiper (1:53 PM)
I don't think they'll take a WR. They have to get a QB at some point. They need help at OLB. They could use a CB, OT. Too many needs. WR is a strong area for them.
Jim (OR)
Who are you're sleepers in this year's draft?
Mel Kiper (1:58 PM)
Let's go through them...Taiwan Jones, RB, E. Washington; Chase Reynolds, RB, Montana; Edmond Gates, Abilene Christian, WR; Cecil Shorts, WR, Mount Union; Lockette, WR, Fort Valley State; Stephen Burton, WR, West Texas A-M; Courtney Smith, WR, South Alabama; OJ Murdock, WR, Fort Hays State; Andre Holmes, WR, Hillsdale; Joe Morgan, WR, Walsh; Julius Thomas, TE, Portland State; Schuylar Oordt, TE, Northern Iowa; David Mims, OT, Virginia Union, Kevin Hughes, OT, Southeastern Louisiana; David Arkin, OG, Missouri State; Brandon Fusco, C, Slippery Rock; Dain Taylor, DE, Drake; Marc Schiechl, Colorado Mines, DE; Justin Rogers, Richmond, CB; Korey Lindsey, CB, Southern Illinois.
Adam (CA)
What do you see available for the Steelers for their needs at 31?
Mel Kiper (1:58 PM)
I think Aaron Williams, the CB out of Texas would be a possibility there. If they get the CB in the first round and want to go OT/OG, Ben Ijalana. Those are their two biggest needs.
Mel Kiper (1:59 PM)
That was a good chat. We got a lot of teams/players covered. Next Wednesday, we'll only be 15 days away from the draft. My draft report just went to press today. That will be mailed on Monday. The first three round projection is up on ESPN.com.
