Apr 25 2012
Predicting The 2012 NFL Draft: Picks 13-16
13. Arizona Cardinals: Luke Kuechly, ILB, Boston College
Stewart Bradley was a huge disappointment for the Arizona Cardinals as he did nothing of worth after signing with them last offseason. It’s likely that he won’t be in the starting mix this year. However , with no offensive tackle deserving of being taken with the 13th pick, it looks like Arizona will be looking to bolster their defense with the addition of Boston College’s Luke Kuechly. Kuechly could get selected a lot earlier in the draft, but if he is still available when when Arizona is on the clock then there isn’t any way they pass up a chance to take him. Kuechly led the nation in tackles for successive seasons in 2010 and 2011. He has superb instincts that you just cannot teach.
14. Dallas Cowboys: Courtney Upshaw, DE/OLB, Alabama
The NFC East was certainly the Dallas Cowboys ‘ to take last year, but they didn’t win the division due to their shortage of a solid passing defense. They did sign corner Brandon Carr in free agency, there is, however, still lots of work to be done. Ideally, if you want to enhance your pass defense, you need to put a little pressure onto the quarterback. DeMarcus Ware is among the best pass rushers in the game today, but you just can’t have enough players who have the talent to get to the quarterback. Anthony Spencer was paired up with Ware last year, but I just don’t think he is the answer. Courtney Upshaw is a player who can improve the Cowboys enough for them to take the next step.
15. Philadelphia Eagles: Fletcher Cox, DT, Mississippi State
To get back the top spot in the NFC East, the Philadelphia Eagles definitely need to improve against the run. They can certainly go several ways with this pick, as they can also take a chance on Alabama safety Alex Barron. I think they’ll address the defensive tackle spot, though. They could go with Mississippi State’s Fletcher Cox, particularly since Andy Reid is known for taking linemen in the first round. It just so occurs that he is also the best choice if they choose to go that direction. The big man is highly athletic regardless of his big frame. He recorded 14.5 tackles for loss and 5 sacks last year for Mississippi State.
16. New York Jets: Melvin Ingram, DE/OLB, South Carolina
Rex Ryan must be looking for methods to improve his defense, as it took a step backwards last season. The New York Jets really need a player who can put pressure on the quarterback. South Carolina’s Melvin Ingram is a great pick for New York at No. 16. Ingram is a special player who possess a rare blend of speed and agility for a person his size. Also he is a player who could definitely prosper as an outside linebacker in the Jets defense.
Want to find out who your team is eyeing in the draft this year Have a look at our NFL mock draft for a look at all 32 picks in the first round.
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